Parenting Archives - Page 3 of 4 - Nannies and Mommies

Hospital bag checklist

BABY, PARENTING

Congratulations on your impending arrival! It’s an exciting time filled with anticipation and preparation. As you approach the end of your pregnancy journey, one essential task on your to-do list is packing your hospital bag. Don’t worry—I’m here to help you navigate through this process and ensure you have everything you need for you, your partner, and your precious little one.

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First things first, it’s important to decide when to pack your hospital bag. It’s recommended to have it ready to go by around 36 weeks, just in case your baby decides to make an early entrance. Now, let’s dive into the checklist to ensure you’re well-prepared for your hospital stay.

For you:

Photo ID
Insurance Card
Any paperwork for your doctor
Birth Plan
Cell Phone
Cell phone Charger
Nursing Bra
Nursing Pads
Nightgown
Bathrobe
Slippers
Warm Socks
Extra Underwear
Going home Outfit
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Deodorant
Hairbrush
Shampoo and Conditioner
Lotion
Make up
Chapstick
Hairdryer
Hair clip or Hair tie
Sanitary Pads
Something to Read
Mints or Gums
Sugar hard candy
Snacks
Folder for any paperwork you will get from the hospital
Nursing pillow
WashCloths
Favorite Pillow

Amazon Find

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Amazon Find

Hospital bag checklist

For baby:

Amazon Find

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Love Language for Kids

LIFESTYLE, PARENTING

Understand your love language for kids . It can be the key to unlocking a deeper connection and happy, secure relationships. Let’s explore the fascinating world of children’s love languages, helping you understand your child’s needs. Discover the most effective ways to make them feel loved and valued.

Love Language for kids

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Inspired by the bestselling book “The 5 Love Languages of Children” by Gary Chapman, this article explores the concept of love languages: how kids experience and crave affection. We’ll unveil the different ways children perceive love, helping you to see your little one’s needs. From words of affirmations to playful quality time, discover the key to unlocking a deeper connection and showering your child with love in a way that truly resonates with them.

1. Words of Affirmation

Children who have Words of Affirmation as their love language need to hear encouraging and positive things from their parents. Simple statements such as “I am so proud of you” or “You did a great job” can go a long way to show your child love. You can also write notes for your child and leave them on their desk or in their lunch bag, as a way of showing encouragement and support.

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Some words of affirmation inspiration:

“I love the drawing you made, tell me about it”

“That’s a great question”

“I believe in you, you should try it”

2. Quality Time

Children who have quality time love language want you to spend time with them, doing activities that they enjoy. Turn off your phone and spend quality time with your child playing board games, baking, or going for a nature walk. Make sure you are fully engaged with your child and showing that you are interested in what they are doing. You will see their heart full with love.

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Some ideas for quality time:

Make plans with your child – plan a trip or create weekly family menu

Cook together – how about try new recipes or make old fashioned chocolate chip cookies

Let your children pick a game they like

3. Physical Touch

Children who have this love language touch need physical affection such as hugs, holding hands, and high fives. They need to feel the warmth of their parent’s love through physical touch. Create time in the evening to cuddle under blanket, watch tv with them on your lap, and don’t forget daily kisses.

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Tips for this language

Never let go first of a hug because you don’t know how long your child needs

Show appreciation with touch and kiss

Good night kisses are the best!

4. Acts of Service

Children who have Acts of Service as their love language feel loved when their parents do things for them. Examples include helping with homework, cooking their favorite meal, or doing a chore they don’t like doing. These acts show them that you care about them and are willing to put time and effort into making their day better.

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Act of service Ideas

Fix their favorite toy

Visit charity with their old toys

Clean their room for them

5. Gifts

Children who appreciate receiving gifts are thrilled by the thought and effort that goes into picking out a special item just for them. It doesn’t have to be an expensive gift, just something meaningful. They appreciate the thought behind a gift because they know when you were away, you were thinking about them.

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Gift ideas for kids

In the store allow them randomly pick an item with a budget of few dollars

When you travel surprise them with a gift that you thought of them

Pick their favorite fruit in the store

Love language for kids:

It’s important to remember that every child is different and may have a combination of these love languages. As parents, we need to understand that every child has individual needs and preferences when it comes to showing love and affection. By learning about the different love languages, we can show our children that they are loved, appreciated, and valued.

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Spending quality time with family

FAMILY FUN, PARENTING

Spending quality time with family is essential for having a strong bond and closer relationship. It can help bring people together, strengthen the connection between family members, and create happy memories. Quality time with family can also be beneficial to overall mental health and wellbeing. Taking the time to spend time together can lift spirits, increase happiness levels, and even reduce stress.

Spending quality time with family

Volunteer

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As a parent, you have the opportunity to show your children the power of volunteering and create strong bonds with them. From soup kitchens to animal shelters, there are many ways to get involved and make a difference in your community. Whether it’s through short-term projects or longer commitments, volunteering is a great way for families to connect while teaching important values. Spending quality time with family for a good cause.

Set goal together

When you and your family set a new goal together, it can be an incredibly powerful way to strengthen the bond between you. Working together towards a common purpose helps create a sense of unity, loyalty, and dedication that enhances the connection you already have. Plus, it’s also very rewarding to experience accomplishing something as a team and good quality time!

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Take a silly pictures together

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Gathering the entire family for a fun and silly photo session is an incredible opportunity to create enduring memories. Whether it’s around the dining table or in front of an iconic landmark, photography brings people together, allowing you to capture and share those precious moments. Get imaginative with poses and think outside the box when it comes to creating the perfect picture. Consider choosing a theme or a favorite movie to capture those extraordinary moments.

Play Theater

Set aside dedicated time with your kids to create a play. Get your costumes ready, choose a scene, write a script, or even try improvisation moments. Encourage your kids’ imagination to flow and cherish the special memories that will endure for a lifetime.

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Time for picnic

Going on a picnic is also a great way to enjoy the nice weather and quality time together. Head to your local park or beach and pack a meal with sandwiches, snacks, and drinks. Have some fun playing sports, flying kites, or just lounging around while talking and enjoying each other’s company in the sunshine.

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Cook meal together

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Another awesome way to have fun together is cooking a meal as a family. This can involve each person taking on specific tasks like chopping vegetables or assembling dishes according to recipes. You could even make it educational by teaching kids how to measure ingredients precisely and explain why certain spices are used.

Let children rule the day

Giving children a chance to take the lead can be an exciting experience for everyone. It allows them to think creatively, collaborate with one another, and make decisions that affect their environment. Allowing children to rule the day can also help teach them important social and problem-solving skills as they learn to work together.

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No matter what your family decides to do for fun, make sure that everyone’s needs are taken into account so that everyone can have an enjoyable experience. Quality family time should be engaging and full of laughter! So take advantage of every opportunity you get to spend some extra special moments with your loved ones. Cheers to spending quality time with family!

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How to navigate being nanny with stay at home parents

PARENTING

Navigating being a nanny can be tricky when the parents are home and involved. It’s especially crucial to find balance with each other when you are in their work space and they are in yours. Here are some tips for navigating being a nanny with stay at home parents:

Being nanny with stay at home parents…

Expectations

Set expectations upfront when nanny with stay at home parents. Be sure to communicate your role and duties with the parents in advance, so that there are no surprises once you start. Be clear about what tasks they will need to be responsible for, as well as what is expected of you. This will help alleviate confusion and make everyone feel more comfortable.

Respect

Respect each other’s boundaries and personal space while engaging in clear communication about kids visiting the office or parents being in common areas, and how that might impact your interaction with children. Ask parents to kindly respect your space when you are engaging with children, particularly if you are working on a project or have an important schedule for the day with kids.

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Communication

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Engage in open communication with parents about discipline. It is crucial to work as a team and ask parents to allow you to handle the issues. Discussing discipline expectations ahead of time is also important to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Make sure that there is always an open line of communication between you and the parents. Regularly check with each other and make sure everyone is on the same page.

Ask

Don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed! Parents may not realize that you need assistance and will likely be more than willing to lend a hand if asked. They might not always realize you’re struggling, so don’t be afraid to ask for help!

Remember, asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness – it’s a sign of strength and a great way to build a strong, supportive relationship with parents!

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Flexibility

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Finally, remember to stay open and flexible with your role as a nanny in a household with stay at home parents. We know it is challenging but remember they also have challenging time working from home.

Flexibility on both sides ensures a smooth-running household and a positive environment for the child. Think of it as a team effort – you, the parents, and the child all working together to create a nurturing and stimulating space. By fostering open communication and a willingness to adapt, you can build a strong, supportive relationship with the family and create a truly enriching experience for everyone involved.

By following these tips, you will be able to successfully navigate as a nanny with stay at home parents. With patience, understanding and communication, you can ensure that everyone is on the same page.

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5 Best Strollers on Amazon 2024

PARENTING

Looking for the best strollers? Keep in mind some key features that will make your life easier as a new parent. Look for easy maneuverability, adjustability, weight, a comfy seat, and other features that might be important to you.

Consider your lifestyle or your motherhood. Do you need a stroller that is easily foldable for frequent car travel with family? Or are you a jogger wanting a stroller that can keep up with your active lifestyle?

What are the Best Strollers on Amazon 2024?

UPPAbaby Vista V2 Stroller

This product is simply amazing! Offering a comprehensive set including stroller frame, reversible toddler seat, bassinet, infant seat and base, it provides a range of flexible options that never disappoint. And the convenience of having the infant seat clicking straight into the stroller frame cannot be overstated. All this for an unbeatable price!

Cruz V2 Stroller – Greyson

This stroller’s got all the bells and whistles! The storage space is fab, so pack all the toys and snacks. Your growing tot will love the piggyback/glider option and no bumps on the head! And, you can adjust the seat higher so they can explore the world while the stroller reclines nicely for nap times. Plus, it comes with two covers and a belly bar!

Chicco Bravo Primo Trio Travel System

This car seat/stroller combo is just great! Installing the car seat is a breeze, anyone could do it! Whether your car is new or old, just use hooks or a seat belt to secure the base. Then, click the car seat in place! It’s so easy to remove and snap onto the stroller. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with this one!

Chicco Mini Bravo Plus Travel System

This stroller is so convenient to use, with an easily foldable and openable frame that’s perfect for a small car trunk. It’s also super sturdy yet lightweight, and stands up by itself. The car seat has received fantastic safety reviews, and it just clicks into the stroller without any fuss. The wheels glide smoothly, and when you’re done, it folds up really nicely. And the best part? This “mini” stroller isn’t bulky like some others!

Graco Verb Travel System

This stroller is a complete game-changer! Folding and unfolding with just one hand is unbelievably effortless. And even while folded, it’s easy to pick up and move around. This stroller glides like a dream and steering it is a breeze. It’s ideal for smooth, paved surfaces but more than capable of taking on the occasional rugged terrain. Plus, it’s built to last – so durable!

What questions to ask when buying a best strollers?

How durable is the stroller?

What is your lifestyle?

Does it fold with one hand?

Is it light weighted?

What size of the family we are planning?

What is the cost?

Where do you store your stroller?

What are safety features?

With these tips in mind, you can find the best stroller to meet your needs!

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What I wish I said to kids when they were younger

PARENTING

Now that I’m older, I often look back and wish I had told my kids certain things when they were younger. Whether it was about the importance of school, following their dreams, or being more responsible with their time. There are so many valuable lessons that could have been imparted.

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Unfortunately, it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day stress of raising a family and forget to take those important moments to tell kids how much they mean to us. We may even be reluctant to push them too hard or put too much pressure on them.

If I could…

If I could go back in time, there are a few pieces of advice that I wish I said to kids when they were younger:

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Work hard now and be proud of your accomplishments

“Don’t let the present moment overshadow the incredible things you’re building! Work hard now, dig deep and push yourself further. The satisfaction of looking back on what you’ve achieved is a feeling unlike any other.”

“Remember, success isn’t a destination, it’s a journey paved with challenges and triumphs. Be proud of the small victories along the way – the extra hour you put in on a project, the skill you finally mastered, the goal you achieved. These moments accumulate, building a foundation for even greater accomplishments in the future.”

Don’t be afraid to take risks

“I know things might seem tough right now, but remember all the amazing things you’ve accomplished already! You passed that test last week, and remember how proud you were when you finally mastered riding your bike? Every challenge you overcome, every late night you spend studying, adds another sparkly gem to your crown of achievements.”

“Don’t be afraid to take chances, even if you stumble a bit. Remember how you learned to walk? Lots of little falls before you took off running, right? Every misstep is a chance to learn and grow even stronger. So keep reaching for the stars, my love. Mommy believes in you, and the feeling of achieving something you set your mind to – that’s the sweetest reward of all!”

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Find something you’re passionate about and pursue it with all your heart

“You are capable of incredible things, and I want you to remember that. Remember the way your eyes lit up when you learned that new song on the piano? That’s passion, honey. It’s that spark that makes you want to learn, to create, to push yourself further.”

“Don’t be afraid to explore, to try new things, and to chase after what sets your soul on fire. You’ll surprise yourself with what you can achieve, and that’s something to be incredibly proud of. Now go out there and find your spark.”

Take responsibility for your actions

“It’s okay, everyone makes mistakes! But what matters most is how we learn from them. Taking responsibility for your actions is a big part of growing up.”

“When you take responsibility, you’re not just saying “sorry,” you’re showing that you understand what happened and why. It means thinking about what you could have done differently and learning from it. When you take responsibility, it shows everyone around you that you’re mature and capable of learning. People respect that and you’re working to be the best version you can be.”

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Stay positive, even when times get tough

“Being positive isn’t about pretending everything is perfect. It’s about knowing that even when things are hard, you can find a way through. It’s about having that little voice inside you whisper, “I can do this!”

“Sometimes, a positive attitude is all it takes to turn a bad day around. Maybe you can write down things you’re grateful for, or call a friend who always makes you laugh. Even a small smile can change your perspective. Keep that positive light shining, and you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish!”

One thing is for certain: My kids are my world and I want nothing but the best for them! So no matter what age, I will always strive to be there for them. Guide them in the right direction, and help them reach their full potential. That way, they can go out into the world with confidence and take charge of their lives!

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How to hire a good nanny

PARENTING

Time to hire a nanny? There are many things to consider. Before you start the interview process, it’s important to know what kind of person you’re looking for and how they will fit into your family. Here are some tips on how to hire the best nanny:

1. Look for someone with experience:

Finding the perfect nanny requires a thorough interview. Ask about their childcare experience, requesting references. Go deeper by presenting scenarios to understand their knowledge of child development and safety practices. Also focus on their personality and communication style for a perfect family fit.

2. Ask about qualifications:

Check to see if the nanny has any certifications or special training in child care. This can help you determine if they have the necessary skills to provide quality care for your kids. If you really like the nanny, you can also help her to get basic childcare course. Helping someone to grow creates trust and support.

Basic Childcare Course

3. Consider their personality:

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Everyone has a different personality and it’s important to hire a nanny who will fit well with your family. Look for a nanny who is warm, friendly, patient, and responsible. It’s also important to ask about their values and if they would be comfortable following your family rules. You want to create loving environment for your family.

4. Call personal references

Reference check is an important part of the hiring process, as it not only provides you with insight into the candidate’s work history, but also gives them a better understanding of their character. Ask questions to assess their communication style (clear, concise, adaptable?), work ethic (reliable, self-motivated, team player?), and approach to challenges (problem-solving, initiative, going the extra mile?).

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5. Pay attention to the interview:

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Observe the nanny’s interaction with your child during the interview is a fantastic way to find their natural connection with kids. A warm and engaging approach goes beyond qualifications on paper. Look for genuine smiles, playful energy, and efforts to connect with your child’s interests. This can be a strong indicator of their ability to create a nurturing and positive environment for your little one.

6. Comprehensive contract

A well-crafted nanny contract fosters trust and protects both you and your nanny. By clearly defining expectations for pay, hours, duties, and communication, you create a framework for a smooth and successful working relationship. The contract also serves as a safety net in case of unforeseen circumstances, ensuring clear guidelines for resolving any potential disputes. Investing time in a sound contract provides peace of mind for you and allows your nanny to focus on what matters most – providing loving and dependable care for your child.

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7. Trust your instincts.

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You may have done a thorough job of researching the applicant and their background, but at the end of the day, you will know deep down if they are right for the job or not. Listen closely to that inner voice and don’t be afraid to follow its advice. After all, you are the one who will ultimately be responsible for the success of a new hire, and your gut feeling is often more reliable than an impressive resume or even references. While it’s important to take into account all relevant information when making a hiring decision, don’t discount the power of your instincts. It could mean the difference between making a great hire or a regrettable mistake.

8. Run Background Check

Ensuring your child’s safety is important when hiring a nanny. TrustLine, California’s official background check program for in-home caregivers, offers a comprehensive screening. TrustLine utilizes fingerprint scans to access the FBI and California Department of Justice databases, providing a more thorough review of criminal history. Additionally, it checks the California Child Abuse Central Index for substantiated reports. For peace of mind, verify your nanny candidate’s background and ensure a safe environment for your precious little one.

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Before hiring a nanny

PARENTING

So, you have decided that the right decision for your family is hiring a nanny? This is a big step for a family and there are often many decisions to make as you prepare to invite someone new into your life to help care for your little one. While this next step is exciting, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start! Here are our suggestions of where to begin when hiring a nanny:

Clearly Communicated Expectations

The first thing you need to decide is what exactly you want your nanny’s job to be. If you have a partner, take time to discuss and set expectations with them prior to meeting with potential nannies to ensure that you are on the same page. Think through expectations around caring for the baby, baby related household chores, how and to whom you would like the nanny to communicate with, expectations around discipline, and so on.

When meeting with potential nannies, it is important to clearly explain all the duties you are expecting of them as well as any ideals around discipline style and so on. Clearly articulating your needs and values will help prospective nannies know if they will be a good fit with your family.

Secondly, it is important to clearly communicate working hours to prospective nannies. This includes overtime, sick days, holidays, and time off, etc. Important part of communication is payment and should be something that is agreed upon together. Remember to consider things like annual raises, Christmas or other bonuses, and so on, so as to ensure no one is surprised later on.

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Contract/Trial Period

When these things are all thoroughly discussed and agreed upon, draw up contract This does not need to be an overly serious exchange, but something in writing that lists out job expectations, working hours and time off, and salary will suffice. This document is always signed by both parties, with each receiving a copy. A contract not only protects both parties, it can also be used as a tool to evaluate performance or discuss unmet expectations if the need arises.

Finally, set a trial period with your prospective nanny– and once that time has passed (whether it’s two weeks or one month or whatever time you have decided on) , really take the time to discuss how the partnership is working out – for both parties. Revisit the contract together to discuss how expectations are being met. Ask your nanny how the job is going and whether it seems like a good fit.

Safety

When it comes to our little ones, safety is our top priority. Once you have interviewed prospective nannies and decided on your top choice, get a background check done. Some nanny hiring agencies require all of their candidates to complete background checks. But if you are hiring a nanny without the help of an agency, consider using an organization such as Trustline is a California based database of nannies and babysitters that have cleared background checks.

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Alway call the references. Consider the values and expectations you have highlighted in your contract with your nanny. Ask previous employees questions about how your prospective nanny handled similar expectations in the past. Checking references can not only give you peace of mind, but also be a great way to get to know your new nanny on a different level.

Develop a Relationship

The last recommendation is – build a relationship!

Remember when you are hiring a nanny, you are inviting a person to partner with your family in the important task of caring for your child!

It’s important to try to take opportunities to build a relationship with your nanny. Of course it is easy to have conversations about them. Ask about their interests, their day, their significant others, and so on.

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As you develop a relationship with your nanny, keep the clear communication on-going. Give your nanny opportunities to share what is going well with your little one as well as what may be challenging.

Trust/Instinct

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Hiring a nanny can be a huge adjustment for some parents. It is so important for the parent-nanny relationship that a level of trust exists. Micromanaging can be very difficult for nannies when they are working with overbearing parents.

Remember to let go a little and trust your nanny to do a great job! And enjoy knowing that your little one (or ones) have the great privilege of having another adult in their life. Reflect on how wonderful it is for your child to have someone else to play with and to learn from. Consider how wonderful it is that your child has another adult in their life who cares for them.

And finally, when hiring a nanny, the most important thing is to trust your instincts. You know what you are looking for because you know what your child needs are. If you don’t feel good about the first nanny you interview, don’t settle. Listen to your gut until you feel happy and secure with your choice!

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Potty Training 101

CHILD, PARENTING

Potty training is one of the biggest worries among new parents. So many questions arise about when to start and how to do it. Well-meaning grandparents, neighbors, and childcare workers all want to offer advice, but the fact is – you are the parent and only you will know when you and your child are ready.

When to Begin Potty Training

There is no magic age when potty training should begin, but most children begin to show interest at around two years old. Forcing the child to learn before they are ready will just lead to frustration for you and them.

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Is My Child Ready?

A considerable portion of successful potty training depends on the child understanding the process and following instructions.

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Begin using words such as potty or toilet, pee, poo or BM.
Your child should be able to walk to the potty by himself for a few minutes.
The child should be able to pull down a training pant or diaper,
The child should be able to use words to voice their toilet needs
The child follows simple commands (i.e. pick up the blocks and put them in the box)

If your child isn’t ready, don’t stress. Children mature at different rates. Just because the neighbor’s two-year-old is using the toilet and your 28-month-old is not, that does not reflect your success as a parent. Also, don’t let well-meaning grandparents or childcare workers push you into starting before your child is ready. You know your child best.

Signs to Look For

Every child is different and accomplishes tasks at different stages, but there are certain signs that your child may be ready for toilet training.

Pulling off a wet or dirty diaper
Staying dry for 2 hours or more
Hiding in a corner to pee or poop
Following others into the bathroom
Flushing the toilet
Waking up dry from a nap
Telling you after they went pee or poo in their diaper
Specific body movements or facial expressions (i.e. the pee-pee dance)

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Not all children display all these signs, but you should begin talking to your child about the potty if you notice any of these behaviours.

How to begin

Let your child go into the restroom with you and talk to them about what is going on. (ie. I am going potty because I felt like I needed to pee.) Explain the need to flush and wash hands.

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Let the child flush the toilet. Have them stand on a stool and wash their hands while you wash yours.

Take the child shopping for training diapers and a potty chair. Let them help pick it out. Make a big deal about it.

Visit the library or bookstore for books about potty training. Many children’s authors have written about popular characters going through toilet training.

Purchase or make a potty training chart and choose stickers in the shape of favorite cartoon characters.

Encourage the child to use his potty words when you are changing his diaper.

Let the child sit on the potty with their diaper on while you read a story, or they play with a favorite toy. This eliminates the scary newness before toilet training begins.

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Once your child has become comfortable with the potty, begin by having them sit on it immediately after waking up in the morning or before nap time. If your child uses the potty, offer praise and add a sticker to the chart. If not, simply reassure them that you’ll try again in a few minutes.

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Remind your child about the potty every thirty minutes or so. Make sure he sits on the potty at least once every hour.

Always use verbal praise, even if they only sits there for a minute and does not go. Silly songs, hugs, high fives, and crazy laughs are all types of praise children respond to.

Helpful Tips

If you are training a boy, start out with him sitting down to use the potty. He will be ready to stand and urinate after he has control of when he needs to go.

Some children get off to a great start, then suddenly decide they don’t want to use the potty anymore. That’s a regular occurrence. Try new reward system or purchase some big boy underwear. Remember that it should be fun for the child.

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Be patient!! Accidents will happen. Children will mess on the floor. Clothing will be soiled.

Try potty training when it is warm in the house so your child can run around in just a shirt and a training diaper.

Make sure clothing is a little loose and easy to remove. Now is not the time for those cute overalls or a fancy party dress.

Always have the child try to go when you are near a restroom. Always!

After two weeks of consistent potty use with no accidents, go shopping for big kid underwear. Make a big deal out of selecting the ones the child wants.

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12 Amazing Icebreaker Games for Kids

CHILD, FAMILY FUN, GAMES, PARENTING

We as caretakers know how important first days are. Your children often feel nervous or shy. You want to set everyone up for success and start strong, and the best way to do that is with an icebreaker Games!

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An icebreaker is a game or activity that will “break the ice” for your learners. These game ideas don’t have to just be for the first days, either! You can use these any time. In fact, I’d recommend using these often. Routines are a great way to help children feel comfortable, and playing these activities regularly will be great for getting your kids warmed up.

You can’t go wrong with these 12 icebreaker games for kids that will wake them up and get them talking!

1. All My Friends…

This icebreaker is similar to musical chairs. All the kids will stand or sit in a big circle with one volunteer in the middle. The volunteer will say “All my friends…” and think of something that they enjoy! For example, “All my friends like to ride bikes!” or “All my friends like ice cream!”. It can be anything.

If they agree, the other students must stand up and find another spot anywhere in the circle. Whoever is left standing is the next volunteer. Repeat until most everyone has been in the middle.

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2. Two Truths, One Lie

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Many great icebreaker games, the following one is a classic one for kids. Have the learners think of three sentences: two are true, one is a lie. For example, it could be something like:

My favorite subject is English
I like dogs more than cats
I went to New York this summer

The other kids then have to guess what two are true and what is the lie. This icebreaker is great for introducing children to each other.

3. One Rose, One Thorn

If you’re coming back from a long vacation (or just a weekend), you can have your learners share what they did. They’ll give one “rose” = best part of it and one “thorn” = worst part of it.

Usually kids will love talking about their lives. Plus with this icebreaker game, you’ll get them thinking about the positives and negatives of something they did.

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4. The Human Knot

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For this one of the next icebreaker games split kids into two teams. They will start in a big circle. Have everyone lift their left hand, reach across, and shake another person’s hand. Then have them raise their right hand and take a different person’s hand. Make sure no one is holding hands with the person directly next to them.

They must figure out how to untangle the knot and become a circle again without ever letting go of hands! First team to finish wins. This icebreaker is great for getting them to communicate and cooperate with each other.

5. Inside-Outside Circle

Have the kids form two circles with an equal number of members. One circle will be on the inside, the other will be on the outside. Each kid in the inside circle will pair with a student on the outside. Then, the leader (can be the teacher or another child) will come up with a topic, such as “favorite foods.”

The children will have ten seconds to share their favorite foods. When the time is up, they’ll move clockwise to the next person and repeat with a new topic until they’re back at the beginning.

This icebreaker game is a great way to have children familiarize themselves with each other, and they have to think fast on their feet.

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6. Pass the Ball

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Children will start in a big circle sitting on the ground. They’ll have a big beach ball or similar fuzzy one and you’ll play music. They must pass the ball quickly (no throwing!) around the circle until the music stops.

When the music stops, you can have them say whatever you like! For example, they can introduce themselves, say something they like or don’t like, or review the material they’re learning. A child with the ball can then stay in the circle or leave–your choice. Then, they keep playing.

7. Four Corners

Start by labeling each corner of the room with Strongly Agree, Agree, Disagree, Strongly Disagree. Children will start in the middle of the room.

Adult will read out a statement, such as “I love pineapple on pizza” or “I think P.E. is better than art.” The children will then move to the corner that represents their opinion best. Add timer and gets the kids making decisions fast!

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8. Find My Partner

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Write out matching names on index cards. For example, “Ariel” and “Prince Eric” or “Peanut butter” and “Jelly”. Tip: Disney, Marvel or other popular movies and tv shows are good to use!

Then give each child a card. They can hold it up to their forehead or you can tape it on their back. They’ll stand up and ask the other kids yes-or-no questions so they can find hints as to a) who they are and b) who their match is.

Some questions they can ask are:

“Am I a cartoon?”
“Can you eat me?”
“Am I a boy?”
“Do I have magical powers?”

Once everyone is matched up or time is up, you can ask who they think they are. Then they can reveal their cards and see who got it right!

9. Who Started It?

Pick one child to leave the room. Pick another child to choose a motion, like rubbing their heads, jazz hands, or clapping. All the other kids will copy their movement.

Then, have the first child come back into the room. They will have three chances to guess who started the movement. Repeat until several people get the chance to guess who started it!

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10. Tell Me A Story

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Have children get into a big circle on the floor. One child will start the chain story by saying 4 words, such as “Once upon a time,” or “Last weekend I saw.”

The next child will repeat what they said and add one word. Then, the next child will repeat everything and add another word. This will keep going until someone messes up and can’t remember the sentence! Create some really silly stories.

11. Silent Line

Children must organize themselves in a line silently and as quickly as possible. The line can be based on any criteria, like height or birthday. They must do all of this without talking, but you can allow them to use their hands or whisper.

You can make this more competitive by having them face off against another classes’ time. This is a great way to get them working cooperatively even on the first day!

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12. Silent Interview

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The last one of our icebreaker games is a little like charades. Start by pairing off children. They will then have 3 minutes to tell their partner three things about themselves, like their favorite movie, food, or sport without talking, mouthing, or whispering. They can only use their body!

After the time is up, call everyone back and ask the other children to introduce their partner and tell the class about their three things.

This game is best played with older children because it can get a little challenging. You can also play it as a whole group instead of pairs if you want to make it easier for younger children.

12 engaging, thought-provoking icebreaker games for kids

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