(Family Features) Long days of school, first trips to day care or even a return from a period of at-home care can be difficult or downright nerve-wracking for parents and children alike. This new adventure can bring challenges from keeping children healthy to supporting their nutrition and more. Sending a little one to day care can even result in maternal separation anxiety.

To help alleviate some of the anxiety and parental concerns, the childhood nutrition experts at Gerber teamed up with Dr. Whitney Casares – a board-certified practicing pediatrician and creator of “Modern Mommy Doc” – to share these tips for families preparing their little ones for child care.

Keep Important Factors Top of Mind
As part of appreciating the milestone of the first time at day care, Casares encourages parents to remember that, while daunting, day care means new experiences, new friends and opportunities for growth, fun and healthy development. As part of the transition, she suggests paying attention to critical factors like sleep, nutrition, illness prevention and emotional development.

Support Their Immune Systems
Offer little ones a diverse array of nutritious foods during the transition to day care. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains is essential for building immune systems. Additionally, iron-rich foods like iron-fortified baby cereals, eggs, beans and meat are critical for a strong body. Caregivers should frequently wash hands and focus on good sleep hygiene.

Put Nutrition on the Menu
When packing lunch boxes for a day of care, it’s important to keep nutrition in mind. Once children transition to finger foods, Casares recommends snacks from Gerber like Peach Puffs, Fruit and Veggie Melts and Wonderfoods Superfood Hearts, which come in a variety of flavors and include vital nutrients to optimize health.

Be Prepared for Separation Anxiety
Not all infants and toddlers experience separation anxiety, but many can, so it’s good to be prepared. Casares encourages parents to pack a familiar swaddle blanket in infants’ diaper bags to help ease those anxieties. Some toddlers benefit from having a beloved stuffed animal or blanket with them. Try introducing these transitional objects to little ones early so they smell and feel familiar when drop-off comes around.

Pack the Essentials
While nutritious foods, like Gerber Fruit and Veggie Pouch Blends, are certainly near the top of the list, there are plenty of other essentials to pack for each day. Don’t forget to add breast milk or formula, bottles and extra nipples alongside snacks and meals. Also remember to pack extra sets of clothes, diapers, wipes and those anxiety-soothing must-haves like blankets and stuffed animals.

Prepare for Appetite Changes
It’s common for children’s appetites to decrease during their first few days of child care as they may eat a little less while growing accustomed to their new environment and surroundings. There’s no need to worry – parents can adapt to these changes by understanding they’re often a natural part of the transition. While you may find little ones are hungrier before and after day care, this behavior should ease over time. If it doesn’t, schedule an appointment with your pediatrician to be sure babies stay on track.

To find more childhood nutrition advice, visit Gerber.com.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

SOURCE:
Gerber

(Family Features) Whether it’s gas prices, airline costs, limited lodging options due to high demand or a multitude of other factors, it can get expensive to travel. Depending on the destination and length of your stay, planning a vacation can take months of saving and research on everything from activities to accommodations and more.

However, these tips can help you keep travel costs down and get the most enjoyment out of your trip.

Stick to a Budget
After accounting for your transportation and lodging – the largest portions of most trips – set spending limits for the rest of the trip, including food, activities and souvenirs. If you have a set budget, you’ll be more willing to pass up spontaneous temptations, knowing you’ll otherwise have to cut back elsewhere. Also remember to track your spending during the trip to avoid going over your intended budget.

Take Advantage of Rewards Programs
Many retailers offer special perks, like discounts or exclusive coupons, to loyal customers to help encourage repeat visits. Taking advantage of these rewards programs, which are typically free to join, can be a simple way to save money on purchases you’ll likely make anyhow. For example, the global convenience store chain Circle K launched the free Inner Circle membership program, which rewards customers who download the app and sign up with instant access to save 25 cents per gallon on their first fill ups and five free beverages. In addition, members can save up to 5 cents per gallon on fuel and receive offers like buy five, get one free on select snacks, fresh food and beverages. There are also upgrades for customers who reach certain spending thresholds and opportunities to stack membership offers with Easy Pay to save an additional 10 cents per gallon on every fill-up, allowing the savings to build up while on the road.

Consider Alternative Lodging
While hotels are a tried-and-true option for vacation lodging, there are other options to consider, especially when planning an extended stay or traveling with a large group, that can help you save money. Booking a rental home or apartment unit may be a more cost-effective option despite the requirement of a deposit, which is typically returned at check out, assuming there is no damage and all cleaning requirements are completed. If the stay is shorter, you could also consider boarding at a hostel.

Limit Dining Out
While one of the biggest perks of traveling is often trying cuisines and restaurants you’re unable to at home, opting to make some meals yourself can provide considerable savings. If exploring the culinary scene for dinner is a must, consider a simple lunch like making sandwiches in your rental kitchen or hotel room and packing grab-and-go snacks to hold you over while exploring. If your hotel offers a complimentary breakfast, this is another easy way to save on food costs since it’s already rolled into your lodging.

Look for Free Activities
Even in more expensive destinations, there are typically no-to-low-cost activities. Some museums and zoos are free of charge to enter, but concessions and amenities can cost extra. Many major cities also offer free walking tours. Checking with your concierge if staying in a hotel may also lead to free or reduced cost passes to attractions.

Visit CircleK.com or download the app for more cost-saving ideas and to find the nearest participating location.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (mother in car)

SOURCE:
Circle K

PMI Ltd. is set to unleash a party of fun this fall with the highly anticipated Piñata Smashlings™ toy line. Developed in collaboration with Toikido, the line brings the beloved characters from the lively Roblox game into the real world, creating an unforgettable fiesta for kids across the U.S. and Canada.

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Toikido, the dynamic entertainment powerhouse, introduced the world to “Smashlings” – a mischievous bunch of creatures and playful Piñatas who are always on the lookout for the mysterious Rainbow Whale. Now, Toikido and PMI have transformed these beloved characters into an extensive toy line, including collectible figures, articulated pinatas, cuddly plushies, and engaging playsets.

The vibrant and inviting Piñataverse comes to life through PMI’s beautifully designed toys, extending the Piñata Smashlings world beyond the digital space into the realm of traditional play. Each toy in the collection features a unique QR code that provides access to exclusive in-game content, enhancing the interactive experience for fans.

The Piñata Smashlings™ toy line will be available at major retailers such as Walmart, Macy’s, Meijer, FYE, and Five Below, starting in late September ’23. This launch not only showcases the brilliance of the Piñata Smashlings™ brand but also reflects PMI’s commitment to delivering exceptional, imagination-fueled joy to children everywhere.

With a wide range of products, including blind pods, articulated pinatas, plushies, playsets, and deluxe boxes, the Piñata Smashlings™ collection is set to redefine playtime. With over 70 different characters to collect, kids will be captivated by the vibrant world of Piñataverse.

For more information on the exciting Piñata Smashlings™ toy line, visit www.toikido.com/work/pinata-smashlings, and follow PMI on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok.

PMI Ltd., with its dedication to creating high-quality, innovative, and affordable toys and collectibles, continues to bring the best children’s brands to kids worldwide. Rooted in the belief that every child deserves the delight of play, PMI’s commitment shines through in their extensive lineup of licensed intellectual properties.

As the Piñata Smashlings™ toy line hits the shelves, get ready to embark on a joyous adventure filled with endless fun and imagination!