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Care Package Ideas – Themed Gifts by Mail

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October 6, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Crafts, Facebook, Frugal Living, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media

Take a look at these fun gifts to send in the mail including monthly and seasonal themes as well has punny phrases! Care package ideas for military members, care takers, college students, friends, girls, boys, and more.

Do you want to send some happy mail to someone you love? Are you looking for care package ideas that are more than just random gifts in a box? You’ve come to the right place! We’ve gathered 25+ care package ideas for nearly every occasion.

What are good things to put in a care package?

When putting together a care package, first consider the situation. Am I shopping for a holiday, a personal a way from home, someone sick, etc. Once you focus on the circumstance, ask yourself, what would I need in this situation? For example, are you creating a care package for a college student? Yes. They are away from home. What are some things they might be running out of? Is there an upcoming holiday in which I can help the decorate or be ready to celebrate. These things can all come together to create the best college care package.

Fun things to include in a care package

Holiday decorations
Candy
A blanket
Snacks
Something to ready
Fun trinkets
Gift card
Puzzle Books
Movie
Socks
Coloring Books
Water bottle
Thoughtful note

When creating a don’t feel like you have to splurge, though you can if you want to. A care package can be a small package with two or three items, or it can be an all-out party in a box type of package with everything on someone’s wish list. It’s up to you.

What should you not put in a care package?

Most package are sent via the USPS. It is important to focus on things that mailing services do not allow you to mail. Do not include knives or sharp instruments, liquids, powders, and odor-producing materials. Also make sure to ship quickly or include non perishable items. It is also wise to not include breakables, such as glass, as the a broken product could damage the contents of the entire package.

Care packages are a great way to show someone you care. Why don’t you take a look at this list of great ideas for some inspiration!

Who Do You Send Care Packages To?

While care packages are often sent to military and college students, there are so many ways to branch out to someone who may need a little cheering up from a friend, relative, or even a friendly stranger looking to brighten someone’s day.

Here are some people you may want to consider sending care packages to:

Military – All branches need a little extra love throughout the year, particularly on holidays that they’re spending away from family.
College Students – Send them at exam times or holidays when they can’t come home.
Caregivers – Taking care of others is hard work. Let them know you appreciate their sacrifice.
Nursing Home Residents – It would be especially nice to send a package to someone who doesn’t get mail or packages from family.
Family/Friends Who’ve Moved Away – This is self-explanatory. Let them know you miss them and are thinking of them!
Prisoners – You’ll need to check with the facility first to see which items are allowed in an inmate care package. When it comes to a care package for jail, you need to make sure you follow the guidelines strictly!
New Moms – It’s a wonderful and stressful time, so make sure the new mama has a few things to take care of herself. Most of the gifts she’s received lately will be for baby, after all.
Sick Friends or Family – If you know anyone who’s facing an extended stay in the hospital or recovery at home, a care package is a fantastic way to show you care.
Someone Who’s Grieving – Grief takes a lot out of a person. You may consider things like a book of prayers for those who are grieving, gift cards to restaurants, so they don’t have to cook for a while, etc.

Themed Care Packages

You’ll find care package ideas for college students, sick friends, caregivers, sick people, stressed out moms, and more. Basically, we have something here for everyone.

Care Package for Christmas

Target does it again! So does my friend Kristin. Look at this Christmas Care Package to a college student. Target sells the Prize Punch Advent Calendar Care Package which can easily be turned into a 12 Days of Christmas Care Package for anyone. So cute. Thanks for sharing Kristin!

Blue Care Package

First of all, you don’t need a special occasion to send a care package. Send one out of the blue! There’s even a theme for that—a box of all blue items. Oreos, Rice Krispie treats, Jolly Ranchers, Cool Ranch Doritos, and Extra peppermint gum are just a few examples of what you can include. | My Inspiration Corner

Care Package Idea for College

This Just Add Water care package from my friend Kristin is brilliant! Fill the box with items that only require water to make. Tea, mashed potatoes, cups of noodles, lemonade, and oatmeal are just a few terrific examples.

Birthday Care Package

Send a birthday care package when your loved one is far away. Just because you’re miles apart doesn’t mean that you can’t celebrate like this collage care package party in a box! | Frugal Coupon Living

Birthday Care Package for Her

And here’s another option for a birthday party in a box. It includes candles, a tablecloth, plates, some party decor, and of course, a mug cake mix. | Almost Empty Nest

New Baby Care Package

How about a care package for new mom? This could be perfect for a baby shower you can’t attend. Add cute items including onesies, baby accessories, but also add practical things like baby wipes, butt paste and more! | Finding Mandee

Care Package for Sick Friend

Sending a cold and flu care package in the fall or winter is such a terrific idea! You don’t even have to wait until someone’s sick; having things like cough drops, acetaminophen, cough suppressants or expectorants, Lysol wipes, and tissue on hand is just plain smart. | The TipToe Fairy

Care Package for Best Friend

April showers may bring May flowers, but they also bring a lot of smiles when sent in a care package like this one! It includes crocheted shower poufs, body wash, lotion, nail polish, and more. | Organized 31

Care Package for Chemo Patients

Chemo Care Basket from Pink Fortitude: Dealing with cancer is a difficult task, particularly when you throw chemo treatments into the mix. A chemo care basket (or care package) will go a long way in reminding a friend or family member that you’re thinking of her or him during this time. | Pink Fortitude

Care Package for Military

Don’t forget a military care package for our service members. Creative ideas from The Military Wife and Mom including One Day Closer, One Day Stronger. When I created a package for a military friend, I include things that were not commonly available where they lived. This truly included hitting the grocery store grabbing some beloved snacks and packages of candy.

Care Package for Female College Student

Send your daughter, friend, or girlfriend in college the perfect care package. You can’t go wrong with some candy, tampons or pads, lotion, razors, and more. You may want to also include perfume, lip balm, essential oils, and other “girly” things you know she’ll like. | Organized 31

Care Package for Boyfriend

And here’s another excellent care package for guys from Organized 31! It includes beef jerky, pumpkin seeds, outdoor toys, and study supplies, but add in whatever your favorite guy likes.

Care Package for Sick

Make a get well care package for someone’ who’s sick or just had surgery. Tissues, hand sanitizer, juice, and snacks are just a few of the things you could include to make them feel a little better. | Mod Podge Rocks

Care Package for New Car

Teens, college students, or anyone with a new car will so appreciate a car care package. You can include so many fun things here, like a travel mug, ArmorAll wipes, an air freshener, a mini first aid kit, and even some snacks (that won’t melt in a hot car) to grab on the go. | Sweet Parrish Place

Small Care Package for Friend

This fall care package for a friend is so cute! The tag reads, “Thank you for bee-ing such a great friend,” along with Burt’s Bees hand cream and lip balm. It’s simple but thoughtful. | About a Mom

Care Package for College Students

Midnight Munchies strike us all at sometimes, but this is especially true for college students staying up late to study for finals. (Or students who are up late and out with friends, let’s be honest.) From Cheese Nips to JIF on the Go to Monster Energy Drinks, it has everything a starving student needs. Add trail mix, granola bars, chocolate, pretzels and more. | Creative Art Room

Themed Care Package Idea

College care package ideas are a must. Go with a theme. Send a space-themed gift basket like this one from my friend Kristin to someone you love to the moon and back! Include a space-themed shirt and some fun meals or snacks. You could even theme the snacks after space, such as Milky Way bars, Mars bars, Moon Pies, Starburst candies, Cosmic brownies, and more.

Care Package for Caregiver

Do you know someone who’s a caregiver for a terminally ill or severely disabled family member? They have hearts of gold! Let them know that you’re thinking of them with a caregiver basket with some goodies, gift cards, lotion, wipes, and drink mixes. You’ll also want to include crossword puzzles, coloring books, colored pencils, pens, Sudoku, etc. to help them pass the time during some of the quieter hours. | Cook Eat Go

Care Package for Mom

Frazzled moms everywhere would love a stress relief care package that includes a heating pad, Epsom salts for a good soak, brownie mix for a sweet treat, and a stress ball to help work off some of that stress when the moment strikes. Add face masks, socks, tea bags and other thoughtful gifts too. | Cutefetti

Care Package for Her

But don’t feel that you have to go all out on an expensive care package. It’s the thought that matters. Any friend would find this Tickled Pink package delightful! Fill it with all things pink, such as notebook, hand sanitizer, gum, nail polish, pens, etc. | Life Anchored

Yellow Care Package

Send some sunshine in a box to brighten anyone’s day. Include yellow items (yellow like the sun) such as Twinkies, apple juice, Lemonheads, and other snacks, drinks, or gift cards with yellow packaging. | Creative Art Room

College Care Package Before Exam

Encourage your college student to “stick with it” with a stick-themed care package. Include pretzel sticks, beef sticks, sticks of gum, Pocky sticks, Chapstick, etc. Anything that looks like a stick is fair game! | Michelle Paige Blogs

St Patrick’s Day Care Package

For St. Patrick’s Day, you only need to stick with the usual theme—all things green, gold, or rainbow. In addition to gum, candies, and the usual fare, send some Lucky Charms cereal and a shamrock charm or necklace for good luck. | My Inspiration Corner

Easter Care Package

Who wouldn’t love this Easter care package with eggs filled with money, yummy baked treats, and delicious candy? What a fun gift! | Wondermom Wannabe

Halloween Care Package

Give someone a Spook-tacular Halloween surprise by sending an unexpected care package. This one from Kristin reads, “We Miss You a Skele-ton.” Isn’t that adorable? There are so many great Halloween snacks and candies that you can easily find some to go with the theme, but don’t forget a shirt and/or mask just in case your recipient would like to dress up for the occasion.

October Care Package

Here’s another idea for Halloween in a box! Include caramel apples, candy corn, Pop Rocks, and all your other Halloween favorites. | Smashed Peas and Carrots

Christmas Care Package

College students or anyone who just moved out on their own in the past year could probably use a holiday decorating care package with a candy wreath, ribbon, jingle bells, a decorative wreath, and a few other bits and bobs to make a room look special. Don’t forget to add some cards from family and friends as a surprise. | Organized 31

Winter Care Package

We miss you snow much! How adorable is that message from Kristin for a Christmas or winter-themed care package?

What to Put Inside Care Packages

Snacks (popcorn, chips, crackers, cookies, nuts, protein bars, jerky, dried fruit)
Powdered drink mixes
Gum or mints
Scented candles
Books and bookmarks
Gift cards
Lotion
Shaving cream
Razors
Toiletries
Tooth brush
Soap or body wash
Shampoo and conditioner
Hand sanitizer
Meds like acetaminophen or cough drops for Get Well packages
Air fresheners
Laundry detergent pods (for college kids)
Homemade baked goods
Easy prep foods
Small, inexpensive toys for kids
Lip balm
Tissues
Nail polish or manicure sets
Scarves/hats/gloves in winter
Photos
Phone accessories
Puzzles
Entertainment books like Sudoku, crosswords, word searches, adult coloring books, etc.

There’s so much more you could include, but those items will get you started with some fantastic care package ideas.

Other Care Package Tips

Here are a few more tips to make your care packages extra-special.

Wrap each item individually if it’s a package full of gifts, especially for Christmas or birthdays.
If you don’t want to wrap each item, adding printable tags with fun notes makes each piece a little more thoughtful. | Skip to My Lou
Try to create a theme around the snacks, the color, or the decor for the care package box.
Adhere to any guidelines that the organization or facility may have for incoming care packages.
Include a handwritten note—it’s just more personal that way!

Where Can I Buy Care Packages?

If crafting care packages is not your forte, it’s okay. There are plenty of places where you can buy care packages. Look on Etsy for a number of Care Package ideas, many that ship quickly and directly to the receiver!

Are you sending a care package to someone you love? Which one will you make?

Visit our Family Birthday Celebrations & Ideas – you might even see a birthday care package there! Pin to Pinterest.

Updated. Originally published 5/3/2020.

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.

How to Make Elf on the Shelf Bendable – 5 Minute Tutorial

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September 21, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Christmas, Crafts, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media, The Elf on the Shelf Ideas

The number one question we get in all of Elf on the Shelf Ideas is how to make Elf on the Shelf dendable? How do I make elf moveable? We have the answers! This poseable Elf five minute no-sew tutorial answers all your questions! See well over 100s of creative, funny, and original ideas for your Elf plus free printables.

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How to Make Elf on the Shelf Bendable

No to long ago, I was talking to one of our loyal Elf on the Shelf viewers and she asked “how did you do that?” Elf was bent a really funny way. I was shocked that she didn’t know how to make five minute bendable elf. If she didn’t know I wondered how many of you didn’t know.

To help her and other readers,, I reproduced and updated our original post No Sew Bendable Elf on the Shelf Tutorial into a new post – How to Make Elf on the Shelf Bendable – without sewing!

Are Elf on the Shelf arms bendable?

If you have purchased the original Scout Elf, Elf on the Shelf arms are not bendable. There is no wire inside the Elf doll. In fact, when Elf arrives arrives inside the box, Elf on the Shelf arms are sewn together.

If you plan to do a quick 5 minute Elf on the Shelf bendable craft, you want these hand detached. Don’t worry, you can detach sewn Elf on the Shelf hands easily using small nail scissors. Be careful not to cut the white Elf palms. While cutting Elf on the Shelf hands, also cut off your Elf doll tag.

How do I make my elf movable?

Asking if you can make your Elf move is a loaded question. The statement can mean so much! Let’s answer the many possible meanings of this question.

Can I move the Elf? First, according to the Elf rules, you cannot touch the Elf. If you are a parent that is part of the Elf moving committee, you will become aware of how to move the elf each night.

Can I catch my Elf moving on camera? There are many ways to track Elf on the Shelf moving on camera. Use Elf GPS trackers, Elf stop motion apps, and more.

How do I make Elf on the Shelf Bendable so he can move? As a parent and member of the Elf moving committee, you want an Elf on the Shelf that can bend or move it’s legs and arms. this will help you with your Elf on the Shelf Ideas. This bendable Elf craft takes only minutes and a few supplies. Don’t worry, sewing is not involved.

How do I make my Elf on the Shelf bendable without sewing?

The first year you welcome Elf on the Shelf into the home, you want to quickly create a bendable Elf on the Shelf. This will help with moving Elf around the home.

Supplies:

I can wait to help you get your special elf to bend, hang, hug, groove, jig and more!

Instructions:

Before you begin the steps for How to Make Elf on the Shelf Bendable, you need Craft Wire. If you don’t have it, hurry up and order it or run to your local craft store. The thicker the better but make sure it is able to be threaded through the seams of your Elf.

My craft wire was thin, so I doubled up by folding it in half before threading it under the armpits. Lift up the arm pit and slide about three inches of wire into the elf’s arm. Like I said, I folded my wire to thicken it and make Elf have a stronger bend.

Next, trim the excess wire. Repeat under the second arm pit.

Keep in mind, most of the Elf on the Shelf dolls have a seam at the knee so you will need to place a lower and upper craft wire (calf and quad) in each leg.

Go behind the Elf’s bottom, slide in a new wire. This one will only be around an inch and a half as you are only going the length of the quad. Repeat behind the second leg.

Next, slide a new wire into the toe seam to the knee. This is about an inch in length.

More Ways to Make Elf on the Shelf Bendable

There are two other ways to make a possible Elf on the Shelf. Use either paper clips which also is a no-sew quick and easy bendable Elf tutorial or use an Elf on the Shelf bendable kit which also includes magnets for move posable Elf ideas.

Elf on the Shelf Bendable Kit

This Elf on the Shelf bendable kit will be the most involved but will also allow you to create more complex bendable Elf on the Shelf ideas.

Upgrade your Elf, with the Elf Doctor Kit. Included in the bendable Elf kit are custom length 12 gauge wire for elf’s arms and legs, Velcro tabs for hands and feet, needle, thread, seam ripper and four magnets. Clearly this moveable Elf requires some sewing.

How to Make a Posable Elf on the Shelf with Paper Clips

You can also make a bendable Elf on the Shelf using paper clips. Follow our tutorial for this quick and easy no-sew posable Elf.

First, I find this way to not be as secure as if doing it with craft wire. Craft wire just happens to be more moldable, but it works fine if you are in a pinch and need to create a poseable Elf with paper clips.

Following the same stapes we used with bendable wire, create a posable Elf using paper clips.

Open a paper clip to form a straight line. Thread it underneath the armpit and again under the buttocks. YOu can also thread through the tip of the hand and tip of the toes.

Cut off extra wire (paper clip) using scissors or wire cutters. This will allow you to create many posable Elf on the Shelf ideas.

Elf on the Shelf Prop Stand

Not bendable but posable, take a look at this Elf on the Shelf Prop. Now the Elf on the Shelf can stand is using the Claus Couture standing prop. This of course includes no needle, thread, or sewing!

Elf on the Shelf standing up can change the potential of many of your standing Elf on the Shelf ideas. The Claus Couture Holiday Hipster standing gear includes Elf on the Shelf Shoes and plastic pants so that Elf on the Shelf can stand up.

Elf on the Shelf Printables

Now that your Elf on the Shelf can move, you need all the Elf props digital downloads you can get to make this the EASIEST and BEST Elf on the Shelf season.

Our most popular Elf on the Shelf printables can be found in our Elf Store. Shop Elf costumes, our Elf Twister board, Jokes for Kids, our Magic Shrinking Machine and so much more!

Shop Elf Printables + Digital Downloads

Free Elf Printables

We also love sharing Elf on the Shelf free printables! Get all of our free Elf on the Shelf printables by entering your email address below. Look for an email to confirm you signed up. Once you confirm, look for a second email in your inbox with a link and password!

Free Printables Step by Step Directions

1.) Enter your email address here.

2.) Look for a confirmation email in your inbox and confirm you requested a sign up.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with link and passcode to all of our free printables.

4.) Enter your passcode at the top of the page here and click “Access Printables”

5. Enjoy your Elf on the Shelf Printables.

We love printables – especially free ones! Be sure to save these Free Elf on the Shelf Printables. Pin to Pinterest your Elf on the Shelf and Christmas Pinterest Boards.

Make sure you say good-bye. Look at these creative Goodbye Elf on the Shelf Ideas. Pin to Pinterest your Elf on the Shelf and Christmas Pinterest Boards.

Don’t forget all of our daily Elf on the Shelf Ideas. Pin to Pinterest on your Christmas and Elf Boards.

Online you can find ENDLESS Elf on the Shelf Accessories, Books, Games and Toys. We love some of the creativity coming from Etsy too! Be sure to Follow Frugal Coupon Living on Pinterest where there are many Pinterest Elf on the Shelf Ideas.

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.

Not Your Grandma’s Embroidery Crafts & Designs

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September 20, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Crafts, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media

Granny’s embroidery is the new tie-dye. Begin a new adult hobby and take a look at these free embroidery patterns, designs, crafts and ideas!

Embroidery Crafts & Designs

Hey millennials. Are you embracing things of the past? This millennial (points to self) has gone granny chic and is embracing unpacking heirlooms and buying heirlooms, I don’t have, from others. I have found, as well, so many people are getting rid of their grandma’s older things for next to nothing.

Embrace it for what it is. Embroidery is the new tie-dye. If you are looking for a new hobby or want touches of all things granny chic in your home, threads and stitchery is the way to go.

Get a hobby, but make it cool. Order and embroidery kit, and let’s take a look at these embroidery craft ideas!

Basic Embroidery Stitches

Before you begin crafting, it’s important to know some of the basic embroidery stiches.

Running stitch
Back stitch
Split stitch
Chain stitch
Stem stitch
Lazy daisy stitch
Fly stitch
French knot
Satin stitch
Long & short stitch

While there are many basic embroidery stiches images on the web, I find it best to watch a video. Adam at Love Crafts shows you these 10 basic embroidery stitches.

Fore embroidery inspiration, you can see some additional images of basic embroidery stiches on The Spruce Crafts.

Where can I get free embroidery designs?

If you are just beginning, The best places to find free embroidery ideas are from blogs, bloggers, and vloggers. Many of them offer free designs and step by step tutorials. You can also take a look at YouTube embroidery videos with ones that provide embroidery designs downloads.

These websites are also great resources for free embroidery patterns.

While an embroidery machine is fun, we are doing everything by hand. Join us as we take a look at some of the best hand embroidery designs on the web.

Hand Embroidery Designs

When you get good, began to look for things to embroider for gifts like this home is where I am with you quote. This free floral embroidery pattern is quite cute. | The Yellow Bird House

You can add embroidery art to clothing with Sulky Stick n Stitch. I love this berry embroidery pattern on jean shorts. | Crewel Ghoul

DNC is a common colored embroidery floss. It’s the thread we all made friendship bracelets with growing up. They have an amazing library of free embroidery designs. I especially love this leaf embroidery pattern. | DNC

You can’t embrace granny chic without granny’s china. Take on this beautiful blue and white chinoiserie china pattern through a needle and thread. Then hang it on your dish gallery wall! | DNC (also look at Country Living’s Ginger Jar Embroidery Pattern.)

How about this simple embroidery. It would be perfect for a baby’s room with a nature motif – evergreen trees free hand embroidery pattern. | A Lively Hope

This modern embroidery template features a hand holding the ASL sign, I love you. | Make and Do Crew

There’s just something enchanting about ferns, isn’t there? Perhaps I love it because it’s my father’s name. This beautiful ombré fern embroidery art looks beautiful featuring different shades of green, bleeding one hue to another. | Lolli and Grace

Southern girls love to monogram. Do your own monograming with this free Alphabet pattern for monogram embroidery. | The Spruce Crafts

Looking for a free Christmas Embroidery pattern? How about things to embroider for gifts? Stay with the timeless evergreen and red truck embroidery pattern. | Country Living

are you familiar with a Phenology Wheel? A phenology wheel is a circular journal or calendar that encourages a routine of Earth observation where you live. Follow Jessica as she creates a embroidered phenology wheel, observing nature each month. | Cutesy Crafts (get the Embroidered Phenology Wheel Here)

I love antiques. My favorite way to display antiques is with a Gallery Family History Photo Wall. I mix prints and textures. This antique dresser would do the trick! | Country Living

This beautiful piece reminds me so much of crochet. I love how this winter snowflake hand embroidery snowflake mandala appears to have tulips on the end. As if the winter snowflake is turning into spring flowers. | Stich Floral (so many beautiful designs)

Another beautiful embroidery to sell or gift is this deck the halls Christmas pattern. Download, print, transfer, and start stitching! | Cozy Blue Handmade

Since embroidery is your new hobby, learn this vocabulary word – redwork. Redwork is any type of hand embroidery that’s done in red thread on white or natural colored fabric. make your first red embroidery pattern with this free redwork embroidery roses pattern. | Sew French

I am a friend of the birds. We have have about 6 feeders so this beautiful robin egg blue embroidery pattern does not disappoint. Might need to add it to my bird prints gallery wall. | Country Living

Looking for more hobbies for adults? Take a look at the Free Circut Tutorials and Crafts. Pin to Pinterest.

Embrace everything your grandmother did! Enjoy these Granny Chic Grandmillenial Styles and Home Designs. Pin to Pinterest.

Teaching Kids Manners

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August 29, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Crafts, Facebook, Instagram, Kids, Parenting, Pinterest, Social Media

Teaching kids manners? This list of list of manners and etiquette will raise a child with discipline and good character. Includes teaching manners activities, manners for kids games, how to write a thank you note, cell phone etiquette and more.

Teaching Kids Manners – Essential Etiquette and Practical Tips

Teaching kids manners is extremely important. When a child is well mannered, he or she knows how to behave and interact with others properly. They can make friends easier, be more successful in school and work, have better relationships with adults, and feel happier and more confident overall. It’s never too early (or too late) to start teaching your children good manners—be it on a playground during recess or sitting around the dinner table with the family.

Why is Teaching Kids Manners Important?

Teaching children good manners isn’t just about teaching a few phrases – it’s often about giving them tools for social intelligence so they’re able to communicate well throughout all aspects of their lives.

Teaching kids manners teaches them how to interact with the world around them.
Manners are about treating others well, and teaching children this will help reduce conflict with others because they’ll know how to get along better in social situations.
Manners are about having respect for others and teaching children manners can help them see the world as a place where they’re respected too.
It’s not just about showing up on time or using your words, it’s also making sure that you’re conscious of how people feel in the way you act toward them.

Essential Manners to Teach Your Kids

For a quick overview of teaching manners to kids, refer to this handy Guidelines for Good Manners chart from Thirty Handmade Days.

Learn the Magic Words

When you were a child, your parents and teachers probably taught you that some words were “magic words.” These were please, thank you, may I, and you’re welcome. These are still essential phrases every parent should teach young children today. They never go out of style!

To practice these skills for an upcoming holiday dinner or staying at a friend’s house, play this Yes Please, No Thank You Meal Manners Game from Happy Home Fairy.

Say please and thank you to service workers after receiving services or goods. This is especially important for kids to learn, because those who work with the public deal with a lot. Good manners go a long way toward making them feel appreciated.

Write Thank You Letters

No matter how old you are, writing thank-you letters is a way to show appreciation for gifts and gestures. It’s always good manners to take the time out of your day to write grateful messages back in return.

Nicole from Coffee and Carpool offers tips on writing meaningful and thoughtful thank you letters. She recommends that parents take note of gifts their children receive as well as who sent them; taking pictures of the child using the gift; writing the note on the back of the photo, and keeping the number of notes you write at once to five or fewer.

Another handy idea is using templates to help your child get their thoughts organized and on paper. Fantastic Fun and Learning offers three cute thank you note templates for Christmas gifts—one is blank, one is lined, and one has three boxes for drawing and writing.

The Suburban Mom offers a cute thank you template for teachers where young children can fill in the blanks and draw a picture of their teacher. It’s a great way for kids to show their appreciation at the end of the year.

Setting the Table

Setting the table is a skill that every kid should know how to do. It’s not difficult, and it teaches kids about organization and etiquette. The goal is to create an attractive place setting for your family mealtime.

These table setting placemats from Positively Splendid are an excellent place to start to teach kids who are just learning to set the table. Of course, tea parties, wedding receptions, and formal dinners are fancier affairs, so here’s a nifty diagram of informal and formal place settings from Simply Sprout to use for such occasions.

Be a Good Hostess – Practice with a Tea Party

Hosting a tea party is an elegant affair. You’ll have the perfect gathering with these Tea-rrific Tea Party Ideas! We’ve got ideas for everything you need to make your next garden party extra special—tea finger sandwiches, floral teacup centerpieces, and vintage books for display.

Hosting such events helps kids practice many different types of manners, including sending out personalized invitations, accepting RSVPs from guests, and mingling at gatherings. They’ll also practice proper etiquette when setting the table, eating with the correct utensils, and using good table manners.

Phone Etiquette

Kids love answering the phone, but they don’t always use their best manners when doing so. Teach your child the proper way to answer the phone from an early age. You may prefer your child give a simple “Hello” or “Good morning” or a more formal “Hello, this is Chloe. To whom am I speaking?” response. Also teach children to answer the phone promptly, preferably before the third ring.

When it comes to teens and their phones, there’s a lot more cell phone etiquette that needs to be covered. This cell phone contract from Thirty Handmade Days is an excellent place to start. Teens must agree to always answer their parents, to never bring the phone to the dinner table, to never call or text anyone after 9PM, and other manners and responsibilities. Have your tween or teen sign the contract upon getting their first phone!

Don’t Interrupt Others

Kids are full of energy and curiosity, which is why they want to chime in on conversations. However, some kids have a hard time with self-control when it comes to interrupting others. More importantly, being interrupted can be frustrating for the person who was speaking, kids and adults alike. If you find yourself getting frustrated with your child’s interruptions, here are a few tips that may help:

Teach your children polite phrases like “excuse me” and “may I please?” so that when they want people’s attention, they will politely say those phrases instead of just jumping in with an interruption.
Wait to respond to their questions. Many parents tell their children to stop interrupting, but in the next moment, they respond to the child’s interruption anyway. This just makes it more likely for your child to keep interrupting. Wait for an appropriate pause in the conversation before you turn to your child and ask what they need.
Teach “the squeeze.” Let your child know that when you are speaking to an adult, she can gently squeeze your hand to let you know she needs you. Gently squeeze her hand in acknowledgment to let her know that you’re aware she needs you, and respond to her as soon as possible.
Take turns talking. Practice this skill with your children or have them practice with each other. No one can say a word until the speaker is finished talking.

Cover Coughs, Sneezes, and Yawns

Do you find yourself really grossed out when someone coughs or sneezes into the air? You’re not alone! Kids need to learn to cover their coughs and sneezes with a tissue or with their arm if a tissue is not available. This keeps saliva and germs off hands. Of course, this will take some practice. A simple way for children to remember is with this short rhyme: “Cough or sneeze—cover it please!” Don’t forget to encourage them to cover their yawns, too, as this is the polite thing to do in the company of others.

Clean Hands Often

Keeping your hands clean is as much about manners as it is good hygiene. Kids should also be encouraged to wash their hands frequently and thoroughly. This glitter germ activity from The Simple Parent provides kids with a good visual of how germs can cling to hands without thorough washing.

Manners may seem like a small thing, but they are key to making others feel comfortable and valued. With a little bit of guidance from parents or teachers, kids can learn the importance of good manners in everyday life.

After learning every thing about good manners, host a tea party! These Tea Party ideas are quite fun! Pin to Pinterest.

A to Z Letter Crafts for Preschoolers

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August 22, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Back To School, Crafts, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media

One of the best ways to teach the alphabet is through ABC Letter Crafts. These A to Z alphabet crafts create fun hands-on activities for preschool or kindergarten aged children. Teach the kids the ABCs through a fun, memorable, visual craft. Learning is fun!

A to Z Letter Crafts

Who knew there was an entire underground community of people who craft letters for kids. This hidden community is pretty crafty too. Whether you are a master spy and “of course you knew” or this entire craft idea is just as surprising and exciting to you, take a look at these letter crafts for kids when studying your ABCs.

Letter Craft Kits

Hey Ashley, I am not the crafter. That is okay! I have a solution for you too.

Guess what, you can buy an ENTIRE Uppercase Letters Craft Kits. Use embellishments to bring these letters to life! Each letter comes with enough pieces for 12 students!

Includes: A Is For Alligators, B Is For Bumblebee, C Is For Crabs, D Is For Dinosaurs, E is for Elephants, F is for Foxes, G Is For Giraffes, H Is For Houses, I Is For Ice Cream, J Is For Jaguar, K Is For Kites, L Is For Lions, M Is For Mice, N Is For Nests, O Is For Owls, P Is For Peacocks, Q Is For Queens, R Is For Robots, S Is For Snakes, T Is For Tractors, U Is For Umbrellas, V Is For Vegetables, W Is For Walruses, X Is For X-Rays, Y Is For Yaks and Z Is For Zebras.

Grab the Lowercase Letter Crafts Kids too or buy Both Upper and Lowercase Letter Craft Kits and save!

This A to Z preschool letter kit is perfect for young kids. The pieces are perforated and can be taken apart easily by an adult. The animals are very cute and colorful. The graphics and printing are nice. These sets come presorted, so each student gets their own bag. Also, each letter set comes with a little bag of extra pieces for the little pieces, so if you lose and eye or nose, no worries! (Oriental Trading Company things of everything!

Letter Crafts for Preschoolers

Ready to craft? Enjoy these letter crafts for preschoolers. Cute and creative ideas to help children learn their letters!

A is for Alligator – Fun With Mama

B is for Butterfly – A Little Pinch of Perfect

C is for Cookie – Frugal Fun 4 Boys

D is for Dinosaur – A Little Pinch of Perfect

E is for Elephant – Kids Activities Blog

F is for Flower – School Time Snippets

G is for Grass – No Time For Flashcards

H is for House – A Little Pinch of Perfect

I is for Insect – Fantastic Fun and Learning

J is for Jellyfish – STEAMsational

K is for Koala – A Dab of Glue Will Do

L is for Ladybug – School Time Snippets

M is for Mac and Cheese – Frugal Fun 4 Boys

N is for Night Sky – Fantastic Fun and Learning

O is for Octopus – Kids Activities Blog

P is for Penguin – STEAMsational

Q is for Quilt – School Time Snippets

R is for Road – Kids Activities Blog

S is for Snake – A Dab of Glue Will Do

T is for Tutu – Views From a Stepstool

U is for Unicorn – Fun with Mama

V is for Vase – School Time Snippets

W is for Web – School Time Snippets

X is for X-ray – A Dab of Glue Will Do

Y is for Yarn – I Heart Crafty Things

Z is for Zebra – School Time Snippets

See more Paper Plate Preschool Crafts. Pin to Pinterest.

Don’t forget our Five Minute Science Experiments for Kids! Pin to Pinterest.

Also save these Printables for (Back to) School. Pin to Pinterest.

Tide Pod Container Ghost Craft for Halloween

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August 20, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Crafts, DIY, Facebook, Halloween, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media

You will never guess the upcycled product that created this fun and exciting Halloween Ghost Craft. Print our ghost template printable and use with or without a Cricut machine. Taking only a matter of minutes and a free ghost face cut out printable, this makes a cute and ridiculously easy Halloween craft for adults or the kids.

Halloween is coming up, and it’s time to start thinking about how you’re going to make this year spooky. You could go the traditional route of telling ghost stories in front of a roaring fire or dressing up as your favorite character for trick-or-treating. But if you want to make something that is fun and easy to make, then this Tide Pod ghost craft is just the thing!

How to make a Halloween ghost craft

This upcycled craft is inexpensive to make and uses supplies you might already have in your home. Even if you don’t use Tide Free & Clear Pods, you can purchase the laundry soap and use it while repurposing the container for this Halloween ghost craft.

Materials needed:

An empty, clean Free & Gentle Tide Pod container
Ghost eyes and mouth template – download and save it to use later
Black adhesive vinyl for the ghost’s face – you can also use black Sharpie, construction paper or an adhesive printer label
Liquid glue (if not using adhesive vinyl)– to attach the eyes and mouth onto the ghost head. I found that regular craft adhesive works well but you can also use Modge Podge and it looks great.
Scissors (if not using a vinyl cutting machine)

Instructions:

First remove the top from the container and discard. We won’t be using the lid for this project.

Next I removed the label from the laundry pods container by soaking in hot water until the label softens. Then I scraped the label off carefully, using GooGone to remove it completely.

Tip: You can also use a heat gun to warm the label but the ease of this option varies based on the brand. For instance, I found using a heat gun to be easy on Gain containers but difficult on Tide containers.

Once the container is ready, print out the ghost face template and cut out the pieces. Place the ghost face pieces on the back of the adhesive vinyl and trace them with a pencil. Cut out the pieces.

For a Cricut Halloween project, if you’re using a cutting machine, open the template in your software and trace the pieces. Cut the eyes and mouth out of the adhesive vinyl.

Peel the backing off the vinyl and apply the face pieces to the side of the container.

If you’re using colored paper, trace the shapes and cut them out. Apply glue to the pieces and place them on the side of the container.

If you’re using printable labels, print out the template, cut the pieces out and apply them.

If you are using a black permanent marker, use the ghost face cut out as a guide to trace your own face.

Can I use a different container?

Although I used a Tide Free & Clear soap container, you can substitute a different brand that’s white or use a colorful one like the orange Tide container. Perhaps turn it into a fun pumpkin or spray paint it white.

Got milk? In our Halloween Hacks, we shared light up ghost crafts using a gallon milk jug for iSave A to Z. Just incorporate upcycled Christmas lights and you have a boo-tiful luminary. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

Ways to display your Halloween ghost craft

There are so many fun ways to display your ghost craft. You can place your ghost on a table or counter to set up as the perfect Halloween night scene. You might want to include other Halloween decorations like spiders, black cats, and witches hat bowls filled with candy for trick-or-treating.

This cute ghost would also be a great addition to your Halloween front porch décor with some pumpkins around him. Get a small hay bale from your local craft store and set up a spooky setting with spider webs that will impress your trick-or-treaters. Or use as fun Halloween lighting displaying up and down the staircase.

Ghost Template Printable

There are two formats you can get this FREE Ghost Template printable. Choose either a PNG for your Halloween Cricut Craft or download at a ghost PDF to use the ghost face as a template for tracing with a sharpie marker.

Download our free ghost face cut out printable. Subscribe and look for a link and password in your inbox. The password allows you to access and download all of our free printables.

1.) Enter your email address HERE.

2.) Confirm the email request in your inbox.

3.) Look for the link and passcode in your inbox.

By downloading you are accepting the terms that this is for personal, non-commercial use. Please contact Frugal Coupon Living with any questions.

I am happy to share printables. When sharing with others, please lead them to my website instead of emailing them the file(s).Thanks for visiting and thanks for sharing with others!

How to Print at Staples

Don’t have a printer? You an print at your local print shop or your Staples Printing Center. Watch this video for how I print my PDF documents at Staples.

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

More Halloween Ideas

I love a frugal low-cost Halloween Craft. Take a look at these affordable Dollar Tree Halloween Crafts too. Pin to Pinterest on your Halloween Board.

Every holiday needs amazing lighting. Take a look at these Spellbinding Halloween Lighting Ideas. Pin to Pinterest on your Halloween board.

First Day of School Teacher Gift Tag Ideas

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August 18, 2021 by Ashley Langston Filed Under: Crafts, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Printable, Social Media

These First Day of School Teacher Gift Tag Ideas are a great way to thank all the teachers. Print your Teacher Gift Tags with a printer easily, or use your Cricut machine as a printable option as well. Not only do you get a ton of options, but you’ll find options for an entire year of gift tag ideas for teachers. Look at the great gift tag options that are certain to make every teacher feel appreciated. These are perfect for teacher appreciation gifts.

Teachers are wonderful and one of the biggest components to your child getting a solid and great education. We love to spoil our teachers throughout random times of the year because gifts are a simple and easy way to let them know that they’re a valuable and amazing part of your child’s life.

Teacher Gift Tags

All you need to create these Teacher Gift Tags are a few simple supplies including our first day of school printable gift tags. We included two options in our Teacher Gift Tag Bundle:

Happy First Day of School! It’s going to be a great year!

Having you as a my teacher is the highlight of my year!

Make certain that if you’re going to use your Cricut to print, that you create them in Cricut Design Space and print with your Cricut Explore Air Machine.

Teacher Gift Tag Printable Supplies

We included two fun first day of school teacher gift ideas. Even though each gift tag is different, you’ll need the same supplies for all of them.

Cardstock or Paper
Ribbon
Hole punch
Teacher Appreciation Gift Tag Printables
Printer or Printing Service
Optional: Cricut machine

First day gift tags include “happy first day of school” and “highlight of my year!”

You can really pair them with any sort of small gift. Even a candy bar in the checkout aisle of the grocery store works. We find new highlighters are great for the “highlight of my year” highlighter gift tag.

Teacher Appreciation Gift Tag Printables with a Printer

These gift tags for teacher gifts can be created in a few different ways. To print off using a printer, follow the steps below.

Print off your Teacher Appreciation Gift Tags on cardstock using your printer.
Cut out the tags and use a hole punch at the top.
Use a ribbon to tie them onto your teacher’s gifts.

Teacher Cricut Ideas

Do you love using a Cricut? You can literally make so many great Cricut crafts with them! One of my other favorites using my Cricut is this Thankful Thursday – Thank You, Teacher! These are great for a home room parent to organize or do alone as no other parents need to participate. Do one Thursday a month!

We have many Circut Freebies and Tutorials you can use at all times of the year.

Teacher Appreciation Gift Tag Cricut Design Space Directions

Want to create your Teacher Gift Tags with a Cricut machine? I can help. It’s easy to get started in Design Space.

Get your Teacher Appreciation Gift Tags.
Upload the file to Cricut Design Space.
Make certain to choose the print and cut function.
Resize as needed.
Select your printer.
Load the paper into the Cricut machine.
Cut and then remove them from the mat.
Make a hole punch at the top and add a ribbon.
Attach to your gift.

What’s included in this bundle of Teacher Appreciation Gift Tag Printables?

This teacher gift tag bundle includes 23 pages of printable gift tags, a personal message from me, and gift idea directions.

C is for Caffeine Coffee Gift Tag
Looking Sharp Sharpie Valentine Gift Tag
Best Teacher Some Bunny Could Ask For Easter Gift Tag
Thanks to You, I’m No Fool April Fools Gift Tag
Thanks a Latte Coffee Gift Tag
Spread Love Not Germs Hand Sanitizer Gift Tag
Fan-Cactus Teacher Cactus Gift Tag
S’more Teachers Like You Gift Tag
I’m Glad I’m Stuck with You Gift Tag
Fa-Boo-lous Teacher Halloween Gift Tag
Thankful for the Hands that Teach Me Gift Tag
Fleece Navidad Christmas Gift Tag
BONUS: Happy First Day of School Gift Tag
BONUS: Highlighter Gift Tag
BONUS: Basic Thank you Gift Tag (not photographed)

It’s as easy as grabbing the gift tags for teachers here!

Our Pinterest community and I would love to see how this worked out for you. Share your adorable first day of school teacher gift ideas. Leave a comment and/or add a photo here on Pinterest!

Looking for other easy Teacher Gift Ideas? Check out our Year-Round DIY Teacher Gifts that are a ton of fun for the kids to help make! Pin to Pinterest.

Check out these other Circut Freebies and Tutorials. Pin to Pinterest.

Creative Dr. Seuss Crafts, Printables and Recipes

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August 16, 2021 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Crafts, DIY, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Printable, Recipe, Social Media

Creative Dr. Seuss Craft Ideas, Printables and Recipes. Great for Dr. Seuss Day on March 2nd or a Dr. Seuss Themed Birthday Party.

Creative Dr. Seuss Crafts, Printables and Recipes

Are you getting ready for your Dr. Seuss celebration on March 2nd? Maybe a themed birthday party? Well, you’ve arrived at the perfect place to begin planning your party filled with fun and whimsy! These creative Dr. Seuss crafts and food will be received with smiles. We love the Truffula Tree Cupcake Toppers, Horton Flower Pots and Green Eggs and Ham pretzel bites to bits! Don’t forget the printables that help your soiree come together in a snap. There are so many fun options to celebrate one of the most favorite Authors!

1.) One Fish, Two Fish Dr. Seuss Cupcakes from Frugal Coupon Living

2.) Green Eggs & Ham Pretzel Bites from Practically Functional

3.) Dr. Seuss Ocean Water Frugal Coupon Living

4.) Lorax Cookies from Embrace My Space

5.) Dr. Seuss Push Pops from The Country Chic Cottage

6.) Lorax Pasta Makeover from Toni Pilsbury

7.) Lorax Truffula Tree Cupcakes from Hank and Hunt

8.) Cat in the Hat Rice Krispie Treats from Frugal Coupon Living

9.) Horton Hears a Who Flower Pots from Suburble

10.) Dr. Seuss Activity Blocks from Sugar Bee Crafts

11.) Dr. Seuss Wall Art from Fancy Frugal Life

12.) Put Me in a Zoo Paper Plate from Surviving a Teacher Salary

13.) Dr. Seuss Oobleck from A Spotted Pony

14.) Oh the Places You Will Go Globe from Brass Paper Clip

15.) Dr. Seuss Decoupage Letters from Money Saving Sisters

16.) Dr. Seuss Hat Pencil Cup with Truffula Tree Pencils from Chica Circle

17.) Dr. Seuss Bingo from Circus Berry from Circus Berry

18.) Dr. Seuss Cootie Catcher from The Country Chic Cottage

19.) Dr. Seuss Party Pack from Frugal Coupon Living

20.) Dr. Seuss Coloring Pages from The Country Chic Cottage

21.) Dr. Seuss Lunch Notes from How Does She

22.) Dr. Seuss Reading Log and Bookmarks from 100 Directions

23.) Green Eggs and Ham Bag Tag from The Crafting Chicks

24.) Hop on Pop Charades Game and Dr. Seuss Birthday Party Ideas from Moms and Munchkins

Take a look at these Dr. Seuss Crafts and Activities for Preschool and Young Kids. Pin to Pinterest.

Make something tasty including these Dr. Seuss Cupcakes Ideas. Pin to Pinterest.

Want another Dr. Seuss Idea. These FREE Printable Dr. Seuss Bookmarks are great party favors or for Dr. Seuss Day. Pin to Pinterest.

What are good things to put in a care package?

Holiday decorations

Candy

A blanket

Snacks

Something to ready

Fun trinkets

Gift card

Puzzle Books

Movie

Socks

Coloring Books

Water bottle

Thoughtful note

What should you not put in a care package?

Who Do You Send Care Packages To?

Themed Care Packages

Care Package for Christmas

Blue Care Package

Care Package Idea for College

Birthday Care Package

Birthday Care Package for Her

New Baby Care Package

Care Package for Sick Friend

Care Package for Best Friend

Care Package for Chemo Patients

Care Package for Military

Care Package for Female College Student

Care Package for Boyfriend

Care Package for Sick

Care Package for New Car

Small Care Package for Friend

Care Package for College Students

Themed Care Package Idea

Care Package for Caregiver

Care Package for Mom

Care Package for Her

Yellow Care Package

College Care Package Before Exam

St Patrick’s Day Care Package

Easter Care Package

Halloween Care Package

October Care Package

Christmas Care Package

Winter Care Package

What to Put Inside Care Packages

Snacks (popcorn, chips, crackers, cookies, nuts, protein bars, jerky, dried fruit)

Powdered drink mixes

Gum or mints

Scented candles

Books and bookmarks

Gift cards

Lotion

Shaving cream

Razors

Toiletries

Tooth brush

Soap or body wash

Shampoo and conditioner

Hand sanitizer

Meds like acetaminophen or cough drops for Get Well packages

Air fresheners

Laundry detergent pods (for college kids)

Homemade baked goods

Easy prep foods

Small, inexpensive toys for kids

Lip balm

Tissues

Nail polish or manicure sets

Scarves/hats/gloves in winter

Photos

Phone accessories

Puzzles

Entertainment books like Sudoku, crosswords, word searches, adult coloring books, etc.

Other Care Package Tips

Where Can I Buy Care Packages?

How to Make Elf on the Shelf Bendable

Are Elf on the Shelf arms bendable?

How do I make my elf movable?

How do I make my Elf on the Shelf bendable without sewing?