Ducks, Bucks, and Big Ol’ Trucks, written by Truitt Wieland and illustrated by Remesh Ram, tells the story of a young boy and his father on their daily “boy’s adventure.” Readers join them on a rural neighborhood walk as they attempt to spot the boy’s favorite things – ducks, bucks, and big ol’ trucks.

When a mallard crosses their path, the boy leaves his stroller to waddle behind the duck and join in its quacking. As the duck flies away, the search for a buck begins!

While the pair can only find some doves and squirrels at first, they soon spot a buck hiding behind a rock. As the buck “swooshes” away, his little white tail waving goodbye, the father and son are ready to find some trucks!

They’re initially disappointed to only find a motorcyle and a car on the road, but their patience is finally rewarded when they spot four “big ol’ trucks” driving in a row! In this fun finale, the trucks rev their engines, honk their horns, and wave to the excited young boy before the father-son duo return to their home.

First of all, I can say as an Iowan living in Texas that this book checks aaaaallllllllll the boxes for young boys who enjoy country living! You’ve got ducks, bucks, trucks, and lots of nature in between. I can tell you the exact children I know who would have lots to discuss and add to the story while reading this book.

I also loved that the book didn’t just spot animals and trucks, but taught a bit about them. Readers receive a little training on identifying mallards and bucks, and are educated by example as to how to respect wild animals and their natural habitats.

As always, I’m a sucker for books that speak to enjoying the simple things in life, and this book is no exception! There were no phones or screens, no big, flashy events, just a family enjoying a walk in nature. The author invites children to notice the details of wildlife and to appreciate the fun in simple activities, like watching for their favorite kind of car on the road.

And of course, who wouldn’t love the father-son bonding displayed in this book? Readers will appreciate that the pair didn’t have to make any complicated plans or spend money to enjoy one another’s company. The story highlights spending simple quality time together with your loved ones.

Overall, this is a sweet book with bright illustrations that kids and adults alike are sure to enjoy. You can find Ducks, Bucks, and Big Ol’ Trucks on Amazon.

Ducks, Bucks, and Big Ol’ Trucks Author Interview

Want to learn more about author Truitt Wieland? I did too! He was gracious enough to field a few questions and share what’s next for him!

Deb: Ducks, Bucks, and Big Ol’ Trucks offers a fun father-son adventure. What inspired you to write it?

Truitt: I wrote Ducks, Bucks & Big Ol’ Trucks during Covid. We lost all of our fitness locations and were forced to file bankruptcy.

Honestly, I wasn’t planning on writing a book. I was going on long runs and walks in my neighborhood with my youngest son to cope with everything we were dealing with. That spurred the book.

Deb: Your author bio in the back of the book mentions you grew up on your family’s ranch in Texas! What was your life like when you were a young boy?

Truitt: My life on the ranch was the most impactful thing in my life. In fact, my parents still operate it to this day, and I will be taking that over at some point.

Deb: I really loved that this book highlighted the simple pleasures that physical activity, nature, and quality time with family can bring, especially when combined! How do you help your children learn to appreciate the simple things in life?

Truitt: We spend a lot of time on the ranch, exploring and learning.

Deb: A lot of fathers find it difficult to bond with their kids at the same level that moms can. Do you have any tips for dads looking to create a more meaningful connection with their children?

Truitt: You are correct, a lot of fathers have a difficult time bonding. I am not sure I have this down, but I do two things: I show them how to work harder than anyone else, and I listen when they speak.

Deb: You recently released a book for men, Opereight: A Blueprint for the Modern Man! Can you tell us a bit about what inspired that book and what readers can expect to find there?

Truitt: I love helping others. OperEight was something I had been thinking about for years.

I shared a bit of my book I had been writing for a long time with a couple of people I saw struggling, just to help. They came back raving about how it helped them.

So, I decided to self-publish it. It has had no traction at all on Amazon, but I know it takes marketing $$, which I’m in no position to give at the moment.

Deb: What’s your vision for the future of your writing? Do you have more books in the works? Or any upcoming projects you’re excited about?

Truitt: I am almost finished with my second kids’ book. It is about my oldest son. 

I am doing my best to do what I love…speaking and helping people, businesses, and organizations. I have been speaking for many years, but would like to move into that much more.

Thanks so much for joining us today, Truitt!

You can pick up your own copy of Ducks, Bucks, and Big Ol’ Trucks on Amazon!

Disclosure: While all opinions are our own, we are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate advertising programs, designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites, at no additional cost to you.

The post Children’s Book Review | Ducks, Bucks, and Big Ol’ Trucks (+ Author Interview!) appeared first on Deb Preston.

The problem is that while most people agree on the main details – eating just fruits and vegetables for 21 days – things can get murky after that. I’ve heard questions like:

• What exactly can I eat and drink?
• Can I have coffee or tea?
• Are natural sweeteners like honey or stevia allowed?
• Does the fast have to be 21 days?
• Is it okay to eat ‘Daniel-friendly’ versions of junk food?

My intention with today’s post is to save you some googling by putting all of the info you need, all in one place. So let’s chat, shall we?

Understanding the 21 Day Daniel Fast

The Daniel Fast is a 21-day spiritual discipline that combines restricted eating with focused prayer and Bible study. This biblical practice involves eating only plant-based foods while avoiding meat, dairy, processed foods, and sweeteners.

Biblical Origins and Significance

The Daniel Fast comes from the Old Testament book of Daniel. In chapter one, Daniel and his friends were taken as exiles to Babylon, where they refused the king’s food and wine.

The king’s food likely included items that went against Jewish dietary laws. These young men wanted to stay faithful to God even in a foreign land and so, asked to eat only vegetables and drink only water for ten days instead.

In Daniel chapter ten, the prophet fasted again for three weeks.

During this time, he ate no rich food, meat, or wine. This 21-day period of fasting and prayer led to a powerful spiritual experience and even an angelic visitation!

Purpose of the Daniel Fast

The purpose of completing a Daniel Fast today is to draw closer to God through prayer and spiritual discipline. The fast helps you focus on your relationship with the Holy Spirit by removing the distraction and influence of food from your life.

Many people use this practice to seek clarity and understanding when facing an important, potenitally life-changing decision. The 21 days of prayer, combined with restricted eating, can help to create space for God to speak into your life.

Others use this fast to help break unhealthy eating habits and food addictions. Removing processed foods and sugar can reset your body while strengthening your faith.

21-Day Commitment and Key Principles

The 21-day Daniel Fast follows specific dietary guidelines. You eat only fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, and drink only water.

Foods to avoid include all animal products, sweeteners, leavened bread, caffeine, and alcohol. Processed and fried foods are also off-limits during the fast.

These restrictions, combined with the length of the fast, are going to require planning and preparation. After all, these aren’t standards you can easily meet in a fast food drive-through if you’re too tired to cook one night.

It’s important to remember that the 21 day Daniel Fast is about much more than what you eat! The commitment should extend beyond food choices to include equally-intentional prayer and Bible reading.

Planning and Practicing the Daniel Fast

A successful fast will require thoughtful preparation of both your meals and your spiritual disciplines. You’ll need to plan what foods to eat, schedule time for prayer and Bible study, and prepare for both physical and mental challenges.

Creating a Fasting Plan

Before your fast starts, take time to prepare your body and mind.

Consider gradually reducing the caffeine, sugar, and processed foods in your diet a few days before beginning. This will help to ease your transition into your new diet.

Set specific goals for your 21-day journey.

Write down your prayer request items and what you hope to gain spiritually. You might want to seek break-through in a specific area, grow closer to God, or develop better self-discipline.

Plan your daily schedule to include a dedicated time of prayer.

Many people find success scheduling their morning prayer sessions before eating breakfast. Others plan their time of prayer during lunch or evening hours. The key is going to be consistency and intentionality.

You might also consider reducing social media and entertainment during your fast. This can create more time and space for spiritual growth, plus help you avoid temptations related to food advertisements or posts.

Appropriate Foods and Ingredients

The Daniel Fast eating plan focuses on simple food choices that are plant-based and unprocessed.

You can eat all fruits and vegetables, whether fresh, frozen, or canned without additives. Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, oats, and whole wheat are other staples that will help you feel full.

Approved Foods:

• All vegetables and fruits
• Whole grains (brown rice, oats, quinoa, barley)
• Legumes and beans
• Nuts and seeds
• Quality plant-based oils (olive, coconut, avocado)
• Herbal tea and water

Foods to Avoid:

• All animal products (meat, dairy, eggs)
• Sweeteners and added sugars
• Leavened bread and baked goods
• Deep-fried foods, processed foods, and fast food
• Caffeine and carbonated beverages
• Choice food items like desserts and chips

You’ll need to avoid all animal products, including fish, chicken, beef, and dairy. Soy products like tofu and tempeh are generally acceptable.

Nut butters such as almond butter or peanut butter can make great protein sources, but be sure to check labels to find those without added sugars or oils.

Many packaged foods contain hidden additives or preservatives that won’t align with your fast. You’ll want to stick to whole, unprocessed ingredients whenever possible.

Spiritual Practices During Daniel’s Fast

When following the 21 day Daniel Fast, your physical fasting should always be partnered with intentionally seeking God’s presence.

Prioritize reading the Bible during this time to connect directly to God’s Word…the easiest and most trustworthy way to hear God’s voice!

Set aside specific times each day to read Scripture, pray, and reflect. Many people follow a 21-day devotional plan for easy reference to daily readings and devotions.

Start each morning with prayer, asking God to speak to you throughout the day. You should also spend time listening in prayer, not just talking.

Quiet your mind and create space to hear from the Holy Spirit. This practice of listening prayer during fasting can transform how you experience God. (Click here for help differentiating between God’s voice and your own thoughts.)

Journaling your thoughts, prayers, and insights can create a helpful record of your spiritual journey. Write down what God reveals to you and any answers to prayer you receive.

Maintaining Health and Overcoming Challenges

Even though you’re fasting for spiritual purposes, fasting is obviously a very physical act as well. That’s why it’s important to care for your physical body during a 21 day Daniel Fast.

Drink plenty of water throughout each day. Aim for eight glasses or more to stay hydrated and help your body adjust.

You might experience headaches, fatigue, or irritability during the first few days.

These symptoms usually come from caffeine withdrawal or blood sugar changes. Taking healthy doses of rest and staying hydrated will help your body adjust.

If you have health concerns like diabetes, pregnancy, or other medical conditions, consult your doctor before starting. The Daniel Fast can be modified to address specific needs while maintaining its spiritual focus.

What about all those questions?

Just in case you missed the answers, let’s address the initial questions above as directly as possible, shall we?

What exactly can I eat and drink?

This is the most frequent question. The general rule of thumb is “if it comes from a seed, you can eat it.”

• Allowed: All fruits, all vegetables, all whole grains (brown rice, oats, quinoa), all legumes (beans, lentils), all nuts and seeds, and high-quality oils (olive, avocado).
• Prohibited: Meat, dairy, eggs, sugar/sweeteners of any kind, leavened bread (anything with yeast), processed foods, and deep-fried foods.
• Drink: The only beverage strictly allowed is water.

Can I have coffee or tea?

This is often the hardest part for people. (I’m raising my hand right along with you!)

Technically, the answer is no. Since the fast is based on Daniel’s choice to drink only water (Daniel 1:12), coffee and tea are excluded.

Additionally, the fast aims to “deny the flesh,” and for many, caffeine is a daily crutch or a “pleasant” stimulant that the fast seeks to temporarily remove. Some people choose to drink herbal tea, but strictly speaking, water is the standard.

Are natural sweeteners like honey, stevia, or maple syrup allowed?

Ugh, I hate being a bummer, but…no. Even though honey and maple syrup are “natural,” they’re still sweeteners.

The Daniel Fast excludes all “pleasant foods” and “choice foods.” The goal is to eliminate the craving for sweets and to focus on sustenance rather than indulgence.

Why is the fast 21 days long?

The duration comes from Daniel 10:2-3, which says: “At that time I, Daniel, mourned for three weeks. I ate no choice food; no meat or wine touched my lips…”

The 21-day period is seen as a significant enough amount of time to break old habits, detoxify the body, and dedicate a concentrated season to prayer and seeking God.

Is it okay to eat “Daniel-friendly” versions of junk food?

This is a common “grey area” question. For example, is it okay to make homemade potato chips fried in olive oil, or a “Daniel-fast pizza” with whole-wheat flatbread and no cheese?

Most spiritual leaders suggest that while the ingredients might be “legal,” the spirit of the fast is about simplicity and sacrifice. If you’re spending all your time trying to “cheat” the system by making healthier versions of junk food, you may be missing the spiritual focus of the fast.

I hope this guide helps you in your 21 day Daniel Fast!

Have any questions I didn’t answer? Or any tips from your own experience fasting? Be sure to share in the comments!

And friend? You’ve got this! I’m excited to hear what God does in your life during these 21 days!

P.S. Want to pray for someone in your family during your fast, but struggle to know what exactly to pray for them? Here are 10 meaningful things to pray for your spouse, 10 to pray for your children, plus printable reference cards to help you make prayer a habit! Get yours free HERE!

Disclosure: While all opinions are our own, we are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate advertising programs, designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites, at no additional cost to you.

The post 21 Day Daniel Fast | Your Guide to Prayer & Fasting appeared first on Deb Preston.

I mean, your computer’s always there, shifting your mind into work mode when you’re trying to relax. And people either believe you don’t work at all (Hello, friend inviting you to hang out during work hours!) or believe you’re on call at all hours. (I’m looking at you, coworker texting updates at 10:00 PM!)

And let’s not forget the constant struggle of attempting to juggle home-work double duty. A 15-minute break? I’d better start a load of laundry!

It all adds up to remote workers feeling tied to their computers, stressed out by constant overload, and never fully enjoying a real break. After years of trial and error, I can say with confidence that I don’t give work a single thought when I’m not logged in.

What’s the secret to achieving work-life balance while working from home, you ask? I’d love to share!

Designate a specific place in your home for working rather than “traveling” around the house.

One of the first ways to achieve work-life balance while working from home seems counterintuitive, doesn’t it? I mean, being able to work from your couch or bed or patio seems like one of the biggest perks for remote employees, right?

The problem is that when you move from place to place, you’re subconsciously associating each of those places with work. Now your bed is no longer a peaceful and sacred place. And your living room could be used for work or leisure. And when you’re in those places, your mind will more easily wander to work.

Instead, choose a place that can be associated with work and nothing else. It’s ideal if you have a traditional home office, but you can also create a dedicated workspace.

I work from a small desk in the corner of my bedroom and do nothing but work in that space. Doing this assures that when I’m on work time, I’m working and when I’m off, I’m truly mentally off.

Close the door (or your eyes) to your home life while working.

If you were working in a traditional office, would you spend your lunch doing dishes and laundry? Probably not.

Yet when you’re working from home, there’s always something that needs to be done. While this can feel like one of the benefits of remote work, it also creates an atmosphere where you’re constantly multitasking and always “on.”

My solution to this problem is to close my bedroom door while I’m working. Out of sight, out of mind. If you don’t have a door to close on your household tasks, you’ll want to work hard to close your eyes to them until you’re done working.

If you were driving to the office, no one would expect you to knock out laundry between meetings. So why should you be expected to do double duty because your office space happens to be located within your home?

Work when you’re “at work.” Take care of your home when you’re “home.” Your mind and body will thank you.

Set a regular work schedule and don’t deviate from it.

This one action can make a world of difference when it comes to achieving work-life balance while working from home. But it can be tricky!

I’ll always remember when a coworker invited four of us to a last-minute meeting that was outside all of our scheduled hours. I listened to the first three reluctantly agree to the time, understanding their thinking – “I’m here anyway, so I might as well log on for one more hour. After all, I don’t want to inconvenience anyone.”

I was thisclose to doing the same but then thought about how much I had been looking forward to my after-work plans. So instead, I said, “Sorry team, I won’t be able to make that time. I’m back in tomorrow at 9, though! Otherwise, maybe someone could catch me up to speed later?”

Then I cringed and waited. Would they all think I wasn’t a team player? Would I miss out on vital information?

Then, one by one, my coworkers each admitted that the following day would work better for them, too. And the meeting was rescheduled for a time we would all actually be “in the office.”

Set the expectation that you’re working hard during work hours, but that your job isn’t your whole life. People will only respect your personal life and plans as much as you do.

Don’t check work emails or chats outside of your set work hours.

This one is hard for most remote workers. After all, we’re often interested in what happens in some work situations. Or sometimes we want to know what we’ll be “walking into” on Monday morning.

But this is another slippery slope. First, because it violates your time “off.”

But secondly, because you’re setting expectations for your coworkers. After all, if they know you’re checking emails on the weekends or after hours, they’ll feel free to direct emails your way and expect your response during those times.

Because why wouldn’t you answer their simple question? It would take you less than a minute! And after a while, you’ll feel obligated to keep an eye on your emails every weekend because it’s the expectation you’ve set for others.

Slippery. Slope.

Instead, only check work emails and chats during your work hours. And don’t download email/chat apps onto your phone, which will only increase your temptation to check in periodically. If you must download the apps, be sure to turn off notifications and only use them for very rare emergencies.

Set healthy expectations with team members.

I manage a team of roughly 12 people at any given time, whose hours span anywhere from 10:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Whenever someone new joins my team, I set expectations right up front.

I tell them I’m here to support them in any and every way I can, but that I work hard to achieve a healthy work-life balance. That means I’m available in case of emergencies, but not on call at all hours for non-urgent matters.

I’m very honest that I also don’t carry my phone with me around my home or have it on at all times. So when they do text me, to please be patient for me to see the text, it might be an hour or two before I realize I left my phone in the other room.

Again, people will only respect your personal life and family time as much as you do. Don’t think of it as not being a team player. Think of it as explaining your lifestyle, so they know what to expect from you.

So what should they do if they genuinely need help when you’re not logged in? That brings me to my next point…

Let team members know what resources are available to them when you’re not.

As part of my getting-to-know-you chat, I don’t just tell my team members not to bother me when I’m not working. I drown them in available resources.

Do you have a question about your workflow? Your more senior peers are an excellent resource!

Do you have a question about benefits or your paycheck? Here’s the number to HR.

Do you need help with something only a manager can do? Here are the schedules of all of the team managers in our workplace, so you always know who’s here and available to help when I’m not.

If your question or issue isn’t time-sensitive, please email me, and I promise I’ll respond as soon as possible when I return to the office.

By designating some back-up options, you can set healthy boundaries without leaving others stranded.

Don’t so readily share your phone number.

Many remote employees include their personal cell numbers in every email they send. After confirming with my manager that it wasn’t a requirement, I chose to omit my phone number from mine.

The fact is that there are some people who, no matter how many other resources are available to them, will text and call you about every little thing. They’ll ask you questions that could have waited until Monday morning, but darn it, they were just curious and wanted to know now.

Or they’ll give you updates they think you might want. Some remote workers (and workers in general!) place themselves “on-call” at all hours and want to know everything happening with team members the second it happens. They’ll assume you want the same and so might contact you for the sake of being helpful.

Only a handful of people in my workplace (outside of the team I manage) know my phone number. And guess what? I don’t get loads of calls about work during my personal time.

Designate a time to catch up on emails when you return to your work schedule.

I designate the first hour of every day to catching up on my emails and chats. That means I schedule a meeting in my calendar that simply says “Emails” and blocks that time from anyone else adding to my schedule. If I’m returning from the weekend or vacation, I’ll designate several hours.

That gives me uninterrupted time to focus on catching up and proves to my team what I told them – that I’ll address their emails as soon as possible when I return to the office. If you tell your team you’ll answer their emails ASAP but don’t follow up on that promise, you’ll find they’ll slowly fall away from their promise to only text you for emergencies.

You are more than capable of nailing a healthy work-life balance while working from home! By designating your office space and work hours, refusing to multitask personal life and office work, and setting healthy expectations with coworkers, remote workers can achieve the peace and balance that we all crave. You’ve got this, friend!

P.S. Ready to break up with stress? Download our free guide to help you develop a game-changing stress management plan. Nab yours HERE!

Frequently Asked Questions

Remote employees often struggle with setting clear boundaries, managing energy, and creating physical separation between office space and living space. These unique challenges can lead to burnout if not addressed with clear strategies.

How can I set clear work hours at home without feeling like I’m always “on”?

If official work hours haven’t already been assigned to you, decide on specific start and end times for remote working. Write them down and share them with your team members and family so everyone knows when you’re available.

When the time arrives to shift from your work life to your private life, turn off work notifications on your phone and computer. This simple step can help your brain shift gears without any messy overlap.

You can also create a morning routine to begin your work day (i.e. shower, make coffee, check chats and emails, dive into work) as well as a set routine to end each work day (i.e. turn off notifications, close your laptop, turn off lights in your dedicated workspace). Having a daily routine can help you mentally set clear boundaries between work time and personal time.

What are some simple ways to separate my office space from my living space in a small home or open area?

If you don’t have a separate room, claim a specific corner of your living room or table as your dedicated workspace. Use this space only during work hours so your brain connects it with productivity.

Consider using a folding screen or bookshelf to create a visual barrier between your work environment and the rest of your room. Even a small divider can help your brain to differentiate your work zone from your living space.

It can also be helpful to put your work items away at the end of the day. Storing your laptop and papers in a drawer or basket removes the visual reminder of your work life and responsibilities during your personal time.

How do I avoid burnout when my job and personal life happen in the same place?

Besides your lunch break (which should be a non-negotiable!), take regular, short breaks throughout the day to step away from your office space. A five-minute walk or stretch every hour can help reset your mind, plus boost your physical health!

Set limits on your work hours and stick to them. Working longer hours because you’re already home is one of the fastest and easiest ways to experience burnout.

Plus, make sure you’re making time for activities that have nothing to do with work! Hobbies, exercise, and a healthy social life will give your brain a real break from work mode.

What boundaries should I communicate to my manager and team members for better work-life balance?

Communicate your work hours openly and often. I tell my team that I won’t be checking emails or chats once I log out of my computer so if there’s an emergency outside of my regular work schedule, they need to call me. Building in that buffer has caused them to think twice (“Is it an emergency?”) before reaching out.

I also send the message more subtley when I log out at the end of the day, saying goodbye in our shared chatroom and noting that I’ll see everyone back at 6 AM the next morning. Rather then saying, “Reach out if you need anything,” on Friday afternoons, I say, “Roger will be on call this weekend if any emergencies pop up!”

Explain your meeting preferences, like blocking out a proper lunch break or avoiding early morning calls. Most managers will appreciate being able to support you to do your best work.

Also, speak up when workload expectations don’t fit within normal hours. Although remote working sometimes lends itself to greater flexibility, it doesn’t mean available all the time! Clear communication can help prevent misunderstandings before they become issues.

How can I stay productive during the day and still have energy left for family, friends, or hobbies?

Focus on your most important task during your peak energy hours. Get the hard stuff done when you’re fresh so you’re not drained by evening.

Consider using time blocking to batch similar tasks together. This approach to time management has been shown to reduce the mental energy spent switching between different types of work.

And while this one can feel counter-intuitive to the world of work, stop working at your planned end time, even if you feel like doing more. Protecting your evening hours ensures you have energy for the people and activities you care about.

Does a flexible schedule actually improve overall wellbeing for remote workers?

A flexible schedule can help you (1) work when you’re most productive and (2) manage personal needs without ramping up stress levels. One of the most popular benefits of remote work is that you can schedule doctor appointments or run errands without taking a full day off.

However, a “flexible schedule” can also mean you feel obligated to work any time and anywhere you’re “needed”!

The key is using flexibility wisely rather than working all hours of the day. When you control your schedule, you can match work tasks to your energy levels and make time for self-care and personal interests.

Research shows that remote workers with flexible schedules report higher job satisfaction and fewer mental health issues. The freedom to design your day reduces stress levels and helps prevent burnout when managed properly.

Disclosure: While all opinions are our own, we are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate advertising programs, designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites, at no additional cost to you.

The post How to NAIL Work-Life Balance While Working From Home appeared first on Deb Preston.

As they get older, it’s tempting to make the shift to video games and phone screens. But becoming a tween or even teen doesn’t mean kids no longer need outdoor activities to keep them active and healthy.

While some teens are happy to continue riding their bikes, others are on the search for something new and different…which is where these speedy ride on toys for teens come into play!

Types of Ride On Toys for Teens

Ride-on toys for teens come in a variety of fun models that are perfect for outdoor living and developing coordination. Whether they prefer high speeds or rugged outdoor play, there’s a great big world of electric ride-on toys out there to match your teen’s interests.

Electric Scooters

Electric scooters have become immensely popular among teens. These scooters are propelled by electric motors, making them an eco-friendly and efficient way to travel short distances.

They typically feature rubber tires for a smooth ride and may even come with features like seat belts for added safety. Electric scooters can offer speeds that cater to the thrill-seeking teen while ensuring a balance between enjoyment and safety.

Quad Bikes

Quad bikes, also known as ATVs (all-terrain vehicles), are ideal for teens who love outdoor living. These four-wheeled vehicles are designed to handle a variety of terrains, from sand to trails.

Offering a more powerful ride with affordably fun high torque, quad bikes can provide an exhilarating sense of freedom and adventure. Remember to always wear a helmet and follow all safety guidelines while riding these powerful machines for the best possible experience.

Kids Car and Electric Cars

Kids cars and electric cars are scaled-down versions of real vehicles, providing an authentic driving experience for teens. These ride-ons often feature realistic details like working headlights, horns, and mirrors.

Opt for electric cars with rubber tires for enhanced durability and traction. With safety a prime concern, it’s also vital to choose kids cars that include essential safety features such as seat belts.

Driving a kids car can be both fun and a practical step toward learning the basics of driving.

Best Ride On Toys for Teens: Finding the Perfect Match for Fun and Freedom

Looking for more specific suggestions? We’ve got you covered!

We’ve searched high and low to curate a list of the best ride-on toys that are sure to bring smiles to any teen’s face. These picks promise the perfect blend of excitement, style, and safety, offering endless hours of outdoor adventure.

Whether they love the thrill of speed, the challenge of maneuvering, or just cruising around with friends, this list has something for every teen looking to add a bit more fun to their free time.

Nasitip 24V Go Kart

The Nasitip Go Kart is the perfect ride to offer teens outdoor thrills, complete with drifts and music for an engaging and speedy ride.

Pros

• Powerful dual motors provide a fun, high-speed experience
• Drifting capabilities add an exciting, sporty element to rides
• Spacious seat comfortably fits even larger teens

Cons

• A 3.4-star rating suggests some inconsistencies in performance or durability
• Slightly complex assembly required
• Limited customer service might be an issue for troubleshooting

The Nasitip Go Kart offers a solid balance of performance and fun.

The powerful motors and large battery make taking off down the driveway feel like launching off a racetrack. The high speed of up to 8 MPH is enough to get the wind blowing through your hair but is still within a safe limit for teens.

The thrill of drifting adds an extra layer of fun and skill, making every turn an adventure. Plus, the added feature of on-board music makes the ride that much more enjoyable.

NEWQIDA 2-Seater Kids’ Electric Ride-On

This ride-on car is a stellar pick for teens seeking adventure, combining fun features with the thrill of driving.

Pros

• Spacious dual seating can handle a companion or a sibling for shared fun
• Extended playtime thanks to a robust 24V 10AH battery life
• Versatile control options cater to different skill levels: manual or parental remote control

Cons

• Some parts may appear less durable, potentially affecting longevity
• Hefty price tag might not align with every budget
• Assembly can be tricky; it’s a task best tackled with patience

This car’s roomy seating means it’s inviting for friends to hop in and share the journey—seat belts included. Cruising up to a breezy 5.2mph, the sturdy wheels respond well to a variety of terrains.

Thanks to the meaty battery life, your teen won’t have to recharge as frequently as other kids cars. Plus, the parental remote control offers a real godsend for watching over younger kids or those just beginning to learn the ropes.

ANPABO 4×4 Ride On Car

The ANPABO 4×4 Ride On Car is ideal for thrill-seeking teens and offers a versatile outdoor adventure.

Pros

• Enhanced control with 4WD and 2 speed settings
• Adjustable and comfortable seat suitable for growing kids
• Durable metal frame and shock absorbers for off-road fun

Cons

• Assembly may take time and be challenging for some
• Heftier price tag compared to other models
• Some may find the maximum speed limit modest

This car’s robust wheels and shock absorbers make cruising over ruts and bumps feel like a breeze. The car’s ability to switch from 2WD to 4WD is particularly handy on varied terrain, showcasing its adaptability and power.

The adjustable seat is a game-changer. It’s rare to find a ride-on toy that can grow with your child, but this seat moves back and forth to accommodate different heights for kids in any age group.

The metal frame makes the car resistant to wear and tear. Plus, the bright headlights and ability to sync a smartphone to blast your favorite playlist just make it fun!

(Prefer a dirt bike? We’ve got you covered here!)

EzyRoller Classic

But not every ride on toy for teens need a motor, am I right? The EzyRoller Classic is the perfect ride for energetic teens who crave outdoor living fun without the hassle of pedals.

Pros

• Glides smoothly on various surfaces
• No batteries required for light-up wheels
• Adjustable foot bar for growing kids

Cons

• Can be challenging to steer for beginners
• Frame may flex with rough use
• Limited to riders under 150 lbs

Zipping around the neighborhood on the EzyRoller Classic is sure to be a blast. The smooth ride and flashy LED wheels not only catch eyes at every turn, but offer an added layer of safety when it comes to visibility.

Users appreciate the extendable foot bar and comfortable ride, but note that it could show signs of straining under more daring maneuvers. It’s a fantastic, speedy ride, just treat it with care for the best possible experience.

Ride on Wiggle Scooter

This is my daughter’s favorite ride-on toy! After riding one for hours at a time with her cousins on vacation last summer, she just knew what would be at the top of her Christmas list.

Pros

• Enhances balance and coordination without the need for batteries or complicated mechanics
• Durable build supports up to 220 lbs
• Can be used on any flat surface, versatile for indoor or outdoor play

Cons

• Movement can be a bit tricky for kids to master at first
• Limited color options may not appeal to all kids
• Some assembly required, which can feel a little complex

I love how this scooter encourages teens to stay active, as they have to twist and wiggle to propel themselves forward. Plus there’s no need to charge it or replace batteries, making it as easy and versatile as a bike, but with an interesting and fun twist.

The motion required to propel the scooter forward does take some getting used to, but once my daughter got the hang of it (after maybe ten minutes), she was gliding down the street like a pro. Although it’s advertised for teens, the weight limit allows for larger teens, adults, and kids of all ages to enjoy a ride too!

The Flying Turtle

This ride-on toy is a blast for kids who enjoy active play and offers a refreshing break from screen time.

Pros

• Encourages physical activity and coordination
• Durable build with high-quality materials
• Safe for indoor and outdoor use with non-marring wheels

Cons

• Limited to flat and hard surfaces
• Can be challenging to master the zig-zag steering
• Maximum weight limit of 150 lbs may not suit all teens

The Flying Turtle (what a name!) allows teens to swerve and glide across the ground, gaining speed with each twist and turn of the handlebars. The robust steel handlebars and sturdy seat assure riders of its quality and longevity.

What’s cool about this ride on toy for teens is that it’s small enough to bring indoors on rainy or even just oppressively hot days. The non-marring wheels mean no scuff marks on the floor, making it a win for teens and parents.

YBIKE Leap Drifter

For tweens, the YBIKE Leap Drifter is a complete blast.

Pros

• Encourages active play and exercise
• Adjustable and grows with the child
• Exciting drifting capability

Cons

• Learning curve may be steep for some
• No brakes, caution needed on slopes
• Limited to firm, flat surfaces for best experience

Let’s take a quick pause from full-blown teens to highlight a fantastic ride on toy for tweens.

The YBIKE Leap Drifter offers tweens an ergonomic design, complete with comfortable handles and a plush seat. It allows riders to switch between kneeling and sitting, making it a versatile ride to keep them entertained for hours.

The rear drift caster is a game-changer – it adds an element of excitement with controlled drifting possibilities that kids are sure to love. However, I will caution that this toy doesn’t come with brakes, making it important to ride far from hills and busy streets.

FLYING-ANT Hoverboard

What post about ride on toys for teens would be complete without a hoverboard shout out?! The FLYING-ANT Hoverboard is a blast to ride no matter what your child’s age, and offers great entertainment value with its built-in lights and Bluetooth speaker.

Pros

• Navigates effortlessly and offers a fun experience with flashy wheels
• Bluetooth connectivity enhances the ride with your favorite tunes
• Solid construction coupled with a safety-centric design

Cons

• Might be challenging to master for hoverboard newbies
• Limited use on wet surfaces; not for rainy days
• Instructions could be clearer to ensure optimal first-time use

This hoverboard’s responsive controls make it easy to maneuver around obstacles. Plus the flashing wheels aren’t just for show—they help increase visibility (of both the rider and those passing by) on evening excursions.

Durability and safety features are sure to impress, while the integrated Bluetooth speaker makes the whole ride more enjoyable.

However, all hoverboards come with a learning curve. This isn’t a product you can easily figure out without guidance, so be sure to review the manual carefully prior to using it for the first time for the best possible experience.

Aosom Teen Scooter

While electric scooters are enjoying their time as one of the latest trends, you can never go wrong with a classic kick scooter! The Aosom Kick Scooter for Teens offers the smooth and speedy ride your kids need for their outdoor adventures, striking a balance between fun and safety.

Pros

• Effortlessly adjusts to growing kids’ heights
• Folds in a snap for easy transport
• Solid grip on wheels ensures steady rides

Cons

• Carries a 110 lbs limit, not suitable for all teens
• Larger kids might find it less comfortable due to size

With an adjustable handlebar and easy-to-maneuver folding mechanism, this scooter is a breeze to enjoy at home or on the go. The wheels are a standout feature – gripping the pavement without any slips, providing a secure feeling while cruising.

The overall build is sturdy and promises longevity, but light enough to carry after a day’s play.

Hot Wheels Roller Racer

While not every teen will be on board with the branding, this Hot Wheels Roller Racer is the perfect ride for energetic tweens and teens seeking fun and exercise.

Pros

• Promotes physical activity through kid-powered operation
• Adjusts to fit a wide range of sizes, making it versatile for growth
• Durable grips provide secure handling for safety and comfort

Cons

• Limited to hard surfaces, which may restrict some outdoor adventures
• Lack of brakes may require extra caution for new riders
• Some assembly challenges noted, which could be a hurdle for less handy individuals

The Hot Wheels Roller Racer Go Kart brings the classic excitement of pedal cars into the modern age. Riders steer it by alternating the pedals, making this racer a full-body workout disguised as play.

Durability is a strong suit, and the extendable bar ensures it grows along with its rider. It’s a piece of equipment that can withstand a lot of use, promising long-term engagement and enjoyment.

However, it’s important to note that this is another racer missing brakes, making it a potential safety concern going downhill.

Considerations for Each Age Group

When selecting ride-on toys, your choice should cater to the specific age group of your child to ensure safety, enjoyment, and developmental appropriateness.

Older Kids

For older kids typically ranging from 13 to 18 years old, electric scooters and bikes stand out as popular choices for the best ride. These ride-ons offer a balance between fun and freedom.

Keep in mind that as they advance through their teen years, older kids might be interested in more sophisticated ride-ons that resemble their adult versions, such as electric skateboards or go-karts. It’s important to keep your family’s storage space top of mind as you consider your options.

Younger Kids

In contrast, younger kids within the 9 to 12 age group often require ride-ons that ensure safety while they continue to develop their motor skills. It’s crucial to ensure these ride-ons come with safety features such as stable designs, seat belts, and lower speeds.

Features and Accessories of Ride On Toys For Teens

When you’re choosing a ride-on toy for a teen, be sure to consider the details. From safety components to fun gadgets, these features help determine the overall experience your teen will have.

Safety Features

Your teen’s safety is paramount, so a grippy and/or leather seat isn’t just about luxury; they provide a sturdy grip compared to other materials. You’ll also want to ensure the ride-on toy comes with an adjustable handlebar, allowing for a comfortable and safe riding position as your teen grows.

• Leather Seat: Adds durability and comfort
• Adjustable Handlebar: Ensures a perfect fit for safety and control

Entertainment Options

Imagine your teen cruising with their favorite tunes. A built-in music player can make their ride more enjoyable.

For younger teens, a parental remote control gives you peace of mind, allowing you to oversee their journey.

• Music Player: For a personalized soundtrack while riding
• Parental Remote Control: To keep younger teens within safe bounds
• Rechargeable Battery: Powers the fun without constant battery changes

Shopping Guide for Ride On Toys For Teens

When shopping for the latest trends in the best ride-on toys, it’s crucial to know where to find top deals and how to make the most of shopping online today. You’ll want to prioritize a mix of value, fun, and safety to ensure you’re getting the best possible experience.

Finding Top Deals

To secure the best prices on ride-on toys, start by checking out special deals and clearance sections on ride-on toy websites. Look for promotions like free shipping to help maximize your savings on bulkier items.

Signing up for newsletters or alerts from your favorite retailers can give you a head-start on sales, ensuring you never miss a discount. Consider signing up for newsletters on a website prior to making any purchases on it to see if a coupon or discount is provided in your welcome email.

• Sign-Up Discounts: Some retailers offer a discount on your first purchase when you sign up for their email list.
• Seasonal Sales: Plan your purchase around major sales events, such as Black Friday or back-to-school promotions, for the top deals on ride-on toys.

Shopping Online

Purchasing ride-on toys online today is not just about convenience; it’s about having a wider selection at your fingertips. Websites also often feature customer reviews and ratings, which can help guide your decision.

Use filters to sort by price, age appropriateness, and the type of ride-on toy you’re interested in to quickly find the most suitable options.

• Comparison Tools: Use built-in comparison features to evaluate similar products side by side.
• Detailed Product Descriptions: Read through the product specifications to understand the features and safety measures of each ride-on toy.

Remember, the goal is to find a ride-on toy that matches your teen’s interests and provides a safe, enjoyable ride. Keep these shopping strategies in mind to navigate shopping online today.

Benefits of Ride On Toys For Teens

Selecting the perfect ride for your tween or teen not only boosts their physical development but also ignites a sense of adventure and creativity. Let’s explore how ride on toys for teens contribute to both.

Physical Development

Ride-on toys are more than just fun; they’re instrumental in enhancing your child’s gross and fine motor skills.

As your teen or tween navigates an adventure-ready pre-built red scooter or bike, they’re actively engaging their arms and legs, which builds strength and coordination. Steering, pedaling, or pushing—all these actions help in the development of motor skills that are crucial during these growth years.

• Strength: Core and limb muscle development
• Coordination: Handling steering mechanisms and balance

Adventure and Creativity

For the adventurous young riders out there, ride-on toys open up a world of exploration.

Teens can harness their creativity as they zip around on ride-ons designed for tweens & teens, inventing games, courses, and challenges. This form of play is not only thrilling but also aids in spatial reasoning and cognitive development.

A ride-on toy isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a gateway to imaginative worlds where every ride is a new story.

• Exploration: Encountering new environments
• Inventiveness: Creating unique riding challenges

So…which ride on toy will you get for your teen? Whatever you choose in the world of electric ride-on toys, they’ll be well on their way to enjoying physical activity, fresh air, and screen-free fun…and it doesn’t get much better than that!

P.S. Want to get more active in outdoor living with your teens? Sign up for instant access to our 28 Daily Goals to Kickstart a Healthier Life calendar. It’s the perfect tool to introduce you to some super simple ways to improve your health, and to help you transition into a healthier mindset in just 28 days. Best of all, it’s completely free! Get yours HERE.

Disclosure: While all opinions are our own, we are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate advertising programs, designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites, at no additional cost to you.

The post 10 Best Ride on Toys for Teens & Tweens in 2026 appeared first on Deb Preston.

So I pan-seared steaks to a dry, shriveled crisp, and served them up with boxed mashed potatoes, canned corn, and slice-and-bake cookies. No butter or seasoning anywhere…not even salt or pepper.

My poor, poor friends. When it came to life skills for adults, I had zero.

Before you move out on your own, or before you send your kids out to live on their own as young adults, there is a set of basic life skills young people need to have under their belt.

Learn them from your parents or the internet. But for heaven’s sake, learn these essential life skills if you want a safer, cheaper, smarter, smoother transition to adulthood and independent living.

Homemaking Life Skills For Adults

Some of the most glaring essential life skills needed by young adults involve their living space. Mastering grocery shopping, cooking, laundry, and cleaning skills will equip them with an optimal living environment within which they can conduct daily life.

Master Grocery Shopping

Learning proper grocery shopping will make the single biggest impact on your food budget and a huge difference on your overall budget. You’ll want a plan for keeping a running list of what you need, meal planning, and comparing prices at the grocery store.

Master Cooking Meals

Pinterest and other social media platforms are jam-packed with recipes with step-by-step tutorials that require only basic survival skills in the kitchen. Try to master at least five simple recipes, like spaghetti, tacos, or meatloaf.

Want to keep cooking meals as simple as possible? Then download our free collection of 40 stupid easy recipes, all with minimal ingredients and prep work.

Learn How to Do Your Laundry

This is one of those practical skills of daily living that will last you a lifetime. Learn how to read care instructions on clothing labels, separate clothes appropriately, and set correct washer/dryer settings.

Learn How to Keep Your Living Space Clean

Make a plan for dusting your living space, wiping down surfaces, vacuuming, washing dishes, and throwing away old food. Download our weekly cleaning plan to keep things simple and manageable, by spacing out cleaning to just one or two tasks a day.

Master Simple Sewing

This is one of the basic life skills that will save you trips to a tailor and prolong the life of your favorite clothes! You can either learn how to sew on a button, mend a hole, or hem your pants now, or you can kick yourself for paying someone to complete such a simple task later.

Educate Yourself on Basic First Aid

Not especially homemakey, but you’ll want to learn how to wash and bandage a cut, when to apply ice versus heat, and how to care for minor burns.

You also never know when you’ll need to use CPR or the Heimlich maneuver. Learning these essential life skills now will help you avoid panicking and/or freezing in emergency situations.

Home Maintenance Life Skills For Adults

While it’s important to learn homemaking skills, it’s equally important to remember that your living space will require maintenance and even occasional repair. These basic life skills will help ensure home repairs don’t cost you unnecessary time, stress, or money.

Learn How to Set Up Utilities

This is one of those independent living skills you’ll be tempted to pass over to your mom, but chances are good that you’ll move lots as an adult. And every time you move, you’ll need to set up utilities in your new home.

Learn how to find who services your home, contact them before your move, and plan to pay a deposit.

Master Basic Home Maintenance

You don’t have to know how to patch a roof. (Although that would be fantastic!)

But changing lightbulbs, fixing a running toilet, and knowing what to do in the event you lose power, are all necessary life skills that you’ll no doubt need and use often.

Learn How to Handle Basic Home Repairs

As long as you’re acquiring valuable life skills in home maintenance, consider extending your list of life skills to basic home repairs!

You’ll want to learn how to tighten loose screws on cabinets and furniture, and how to read the troubleshooting section of kitchen appliances. All young adults should strive to become comfortable with a hammer, screwdriver, wrench, and other basic tools to more easily navigate daily living.

Money Life Skills For Adults

Some of the most important life skills lie in budgeting, paying bills, and preparing financially for the future. Having a solid financial literacy plan in place will ensure not only a healthy bank account, but also the ability to more easily set your mental health at ease.

Learn How to Create (and Follow!) a Budget

One of the most important financial literacy skills, one that will either make or break your ability to effectively navigate daily life, is to master money management skills through the use of a budget. And I don’t mean understanding the basics of a budget or completing an example budget.

I mean, write down your actual income and expenses. Don’t forget to include rent, utilities, internet, phone, loans, credit cards, insurance, gym memberships, and any other monthly charges, as well as gas, groceries, toiletries, household items, pet supplies, entertainment, and savings.

Subtract your expenses from your income, and have a healthy expectation of, and plan for, what’s left. Dave Ramsey has some outstanding resources for building a healthy budget.

Learn How to Pay Your Bills (and On Time!)

It’s a terrible surprise to forget to pay a bill and incur obscene late charges, or to have three large bills show up at once. So write down due dates and amounts in one place, and set a regular day/time to sit down and pay those bills.

This is one of those stress management skills that will save your finances and your mental health!

Acquaint Yourself With the Dangers of Credit Cards

My mom, like Bobby Boucher’s, taught me that everything was the devil, including credit cards. One year and $15,000 later, I realized I should have listened to my momma.

Sure, lots of cards come with cash back and other perks, but those perks are only useful if you pay your full balance every month. Any financial adviser you talk to will tell you the perks aren’t worth the risks.

Practice Saving Money

Unexpected car repairs don’t seem so stomach-turning and life-altering when you have healthy savings to fall back on. That’s why learning to save money (and starting now) is one of the most essential life skills to help protect your mental health from the stressors of daily life.

Set aside money (ideally 10-20% of your income) every month into a savings account to help prepare for those inevitable emergency situations. And set it aside before you pay bills or go out to eat with friends. Future-you will thank you.

Learn How to Invest For Retirement

This is one of those basic life skills that’s relatively new. While our grandparents may be enjoying Social Security, those benefits will be long gone before we retire.

And time is on your side if you start investing at a young age. For example, if you were to start investing $100 every month at the age of 18, and you earned an average return of 8% per year, your investment would grow to nearly $600,000 by your 65th birthday.

Sock away $200 per month, and you could retire a multi-millionaire. So start now!

Know Your Insurance Needs

This includes health, car, renters, and life insurance. You’ll need to balance what premium you can afford to pay now against what you could afford to pay in the case of an ER visit, car accident, or burglary.

This is another stress management skill disguised as a financial literacy skill, since emergencies are stressful enough with financial stability, let alone without!

Learn How to Read a Lease and Other Legal Documents

This critical thinking skill won’t seem important until you move out of your apartment and are fined $500 for painting a wall. Knowing what you’re signing your name to now, will save you money and headaches in the future.

Car Maintenance Life Skills For Adults

Most young people either own a car or plan to own a car in the future. Building life skills to both maintain and repair your car can save you loads of money in the real world.

Master Basic Car Maintenance

If you own a car, or plan to own one in the future, car maintenance should be near the top of your list of essential life skills. Learn how to fill your wiper fluid, replace windshield wipers and headlights, and change your oil, and how often to do those things.

Learn How to Change a Flat Tire

Because roadside assistance can get expensive, and will take time to get to you. Ask me how I know.

Learn How to Jumpstart a Car

For the same reasons as above, this is one of those necessary life skills you need to learn before the need for it actually arises.

Research How to Get Your Car Repaired

If you own a car at all, part of your adult life is guaranteed to include major car repairs. For those things you can’t repair yourself, learn what shops do what work, and how to compare prices to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

Learn How to Buy a Car

This is one of those essential skills you won’t need often, but when you do, you’ll save yourself from overpaying or buying a lemon. (Again, ask me how I know.)

Learn where to shop, how to compare prices, and how to run a CARFAX on used cars.

Interpersonal Life Skills For Adults

No list of life skills for adults would be complete without including the mental, emotional, and social skills it takes for young people to not only survive young adulthood, but truly thrive at independent living. As a young adult, it is essential to develop emotional and communication skills to navigate every aspect of real life more effectively.

Cultivate and Practice Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence is a state of emotional health that involves knowing who you are, including your thoughts, beliefs, motivation, and emotions. It also involves learning to recognize those values in other people and understand how they perceive you, your attitude, and your responses to them.

Developing emotional intelligence is vital for young adults to be able to build relationships and social understanding. It allows you to connect with others on a deeper level and to more effectively work together.

Master Emotional Regulation

This is the ability to manage and express your emotions in healthy ways. It involves understanding and coping with feelings like anger, sadness, and joy, which can significantly impact both your emotional health and overall mental health.

Practice Active Listening

More than just hearing, active listening involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and then remembering what is being said.

Practice putting down your phone, social media, and other distractions, and engaging fully in the conversation. This skill is crucial for effective communication skills.

Master Effective Communication Skills

Speaking of effective communication, mastering communication skills requires fine-tuning both your verbal and nonverbal communication. Learn to articulate your thoughts clearly and to understand and use nonverbal communication cues such as body language.

Learn How to Resolve Conflicts

Mastering the communication skills required to resolve disagreements in a rational, peaceful way will be important in both your personal and professional life. These valuable life skills involve negotiation, understanding different perspectives, and seeking a mutually beneficial outcome.

Sharpen Your Mental Health Through Mindfulness

Practices such as mindfulness can help you maintain a moment-by-moment awareness of your thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and surrounding environment. It’s a way to stay grounded and centered, and to keep your mental health in tip-top shape.

These are some of the most important life skills for ensuring improved relationships, better mental health and personal growth, and greater success in personal and professional endeavors.

So don’t cook dry steaks for your friends. Don’t rack up $15,000 in credit card debt.

Don’t leave your car horn stuck on for four hours in the middle of the night because you don’t know how to disconnect the battery. (That made me super popular with my neighbors!)

You are totally capable of moving out on your own and rocking independent living! You just need a few key life skills for adults, in the areas of homemaking, home maintenance, money, and car maintenance. So go out there and show us whatcha got!

P.S. Miss those helpful free downloads in the post? No worries! Nab ’em here!

Weekly Cleaning Plan

Stupid Easy Recipes

Create a Morning Routine

Tame the Overwhelm

Disclosure: While all opinions are our own, we are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate advertising programs, designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites, at no additional cost to you.

The post 27 Life Skills For Adults: Know Before You Move Out! appeared first on Deb Preston.

And yet…my guests never seemed to feel at home.

Then I visited one of my close friends, Jenna, and her husband Joe to stay for a few nights, and immediately noticed my entire visit felt like a warm hug.

The decor invited me in. Things were clean enough to make me comfortable but not so spotless that I couldn’t relax and actually use items, like the throw blankets and pillows scattered about.

From the relaxed and unscheduled vibe, to the pile of clean towels in the guest bathroom, to the multiple areas arranged for visiting, I felt like I was being treated to a hotel stay.

As an introvert, I usually leave other people’s homes worn down and desperate for some alone time, no matter how much I love my hosts.

But this time? I left feeling more relaxed and refreshed than when I arrived.

And it left me wondering…what exactly was it that made me feel so at home there? And how could I recreate that same feeling for a friend or family member?

I collected my own thoughts on this topic and then opened up the conversation to you, our readers, on social media. And friends, you did not disappoint!

Whether you’re hosting close friends, a dinner party, a holiday season gathering, or overnight guests, here are the big and little things we all agreed on:

Be a Good Host at the Front Door

Invite others to visit your home.

It sounds like a given, but to be a great host, you have to first extend an invitation.

If you’ve never invited your neighbors over, don’t expect them to immediately feel at home when they step inside your door for the first time to ask a favor or return your escape artist dog. If your potential guest has to decline your invitation at the time, be sure to let them know that your door is always open.

Sincerely welcome guests.

Your facial expressions, words, and tone at the front door all send a message to your guest about how truly welcome they are. So even if you’re stressed out and covered in gravy from an explosive kitchen mishap (maybe that’s just me?!), take a deep breath and sincerely smile as you say your hellos.

Greet your guests with a warm hug (if you’re both comfortable with it).

One of the most popular reader requests was for hugs the moment they step in the front door.  The warm and welcoming tone of a hug helps set the stage for the rest of their visit.

Offer a place to set their things.

I know I often awkwardly scan a room to find an appropriate place to set my purse. I want it to be easily accessible, away from pets, kids, and feet, and also acceptable to my host.

Take the guesswork out of the equation by immediately offering guests a table or closet to safely house any purses, coats, diaper bags, or other belongings. This is one area where a little effort can go a long way to make guests feel welcomed from the moment they step through the front door.

Be a Good Host Entering the Main Living Area

Another popular request? Offering hot coffee, tea, water, or another drink.

Most guests will feel like a bother asking to drink something from your fridge if you haven’t offered. So eliminate that possibility as soon as they step in the door, and before you start visiting and forget!

Offer a snack.

You don’t necessarily have to make a special shopping trip to have your guests’ favorites on hand. (Although you can never go wrong with that approach, especially when food allergies are at stake.)

But I always try to keep some crowdpleasers at the ready. Think chips and salsa, cheese and summer sausage, break-and-bake cookies, or veggies with ranch dip.

I love making up a small tray of fruit when children come to visit. The sweetness makes it feel like a special treat to them but it’s still a healthy option, sure to please parents.

Want to class things up a bit? Consider making or buying a cheese board to snack from while you visit!

It’s truly the little things that count!

Bonus points: Show your guests where to find those drinks and snacks in the fridge and pantry, and tell them to help themselves whenever they’d like.

This makes your guests feel more like family.

Show guests where everything is and invite them to make themselves at home.

The single most repeated and requested phrase in reader comments was “make yourself at home.” This seems to be the magic phrase that sets people at ease and convinces them they really are welcome.

Don’t stop offering drinks and snacks.

Just because your guest wasn’t thirsty 30 minutes ago doesn’t mean they aren’t thirsty now. Or maybe they’d like to finish that cup of coffee but believe they’ll need to make it last.

Freely and frequently making those small gestures helps to sustain the welcoming feeling.

Invite guests to take a seat and relax.

Again, this seems like a given. I mean, they’re obviously going to sit for the majority of their visit, right?

But by ushering them to the comfiest chair in the living room and using that magic phrase, “relax,” you’re not only allowing them to sit, you’re inviting them to.

Be a Good Host By Tweaking Your Home

Keep things (just somewhat) clean.

Sure, a bit messier home might make your guests feel more like family. Buuuuut most people don’t want to have to relocate a pile of laundry to find an open seat…or navigate a pee-splattered toilet.

The general sentiment was that too clean makes your home feel almost unrelatable, but that a little spot cleaning will go a long way in making guests feel more comfortable.

Overnight guests? Ensure you provide clean sheets and towels and a guest room (or “pop-up” guest room in the living room) free from clutter.

(Want a handy cleaning schedule that breaks cleaning up into super short segments throughout the week? Nab yours free here!)

Make your house smell like home.

Whether it’s the crockpot roasting dinner, freshly brewed coffee, or a clean or yummy-smelling candle, be mindful of the scent guests will encounter as they walk through the door. (I love to burn seasonal scents like pumpkin or gingerbread.)

This is especially key if your home tends to smell like smoke, pets, or other strong scents.

(Want some extra help in this area? Check out How to Make Your Home Smell Good | Combat Odors & Create a Signature Scent.)

Provide a comfortable seat.

Unlike inviting guests to take a seat, this tip is all about making sure the seat is comfortable.

For example, if your guest is under five feet tall, don’t offer the high barstools on the kitchen island for her to climb up into. If they’re elderly, be sure the seat isn’t too low, making it difficult to get in and out of.

Most readers said they’d opt for a cozy couch and nothing so fancy they’d worry about ruining.

I’d personally add offering a pet hair-free place to sit. Your guests may not enjoy animals like you do, may not want to leave your home covered in pet hairs, and may even be allergic.

Offer guests a comfy blanket.

Of course, they aren’t planning to take a nap. But lots of people enjoy cozying up to a warm blanket or throw pillow while they chat, especially during colder months.

Keep a few nearby, folded in a basket, hanging on a ladder, or simply draped over the arm of the couch. Not only will it make guests feel at home, it will also help to contribute to that hygge home feeling.

Be a Good Host By Giving Guests Your Full Attention

Turn off the tv and put down your phone.

Judge me if you will, but I strongly dislike when family and friends come together to…all look down at their phones…or silently watch tv together. I don’t feel like we’re visiting much at all.

After all, I don’t want to interrupt someone’s Instagram feed with my conversation. And I’m not fully convinced my host is truly listening to me if they’re simultaneously checking notifications.

Eliminate technological distractions if you’re aiming to hold a conversation.

Make sure you’re listening as much, if not more than, you’re talking.

Have you ever had the feeling someone was talking at you instead of with you? To be a great host, one who makes guests feel fully heard, follow the old adage that we have two ears and one month…and try listening twice as much as you speak.

Be a Good Host to Overnight Guests

If you’re hosting overnight guests, consider going the extra mile to load up on their favorite beverages and foods.

One of the hardest parts of staying the night away from home is losing the ability to walk to your own fridge, filled with all of your favorite things. Providing this comfort to guests is an easy way to make your home feel more like theirs.

Stock the bathroom with toiletries and be sure to invite guests to use them.

Most guests will pack their own toothpaste and other toiletries, not knowing for certain if their host will provide those items. So making the extra effort to stock the bathroom with shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste, Q-tips, tweezers, and fluffy towels, will make their stay feel more like a treat than a necessity.

Stock their bed or guest room.

Pile your guest room high with extra pillows, blankets, and clean sheets so guests can choose as many or as few as they prefer. Leave a note with the WiFi password. And consider any personal touches they might enjoy, like a few bottles of water or fresh flowers at their bedside.

Let them know they’re welcome to the fridge, or to relax in the living room, even if you’re asleep or doing something else.

I can think of several times I’ve stayed in a guest room, trying to pass time reading or scrolling social media, because I didn’t feel comfortable hanging out in the living room or any other room when my hosts weren’t there. Verbalizing this to your overnight guests is incredibly helpful in putting them at ease to move about freely.

Give them a tour to show them where everything is.

Another popular request was to show guests where to find things, rather than simply providing them. After all, if overnight guests need another blanket in the middle of the night, they don’t want to be left with the choice of either waking you up to ask or rummaging through your hall closets uninvited.

Showing guests where to find what they need provides a clear and open invitation to truly make themselves at home.

Be a Good Host By Making Just-in-Case Plans

The best hosts prepare for the unexpected! By making a few “just-in-case plans,” you can help turn moments of potential discomfort into opportunities for connection and an enjoyable experience.

Facilitating Conversations and Activities

We’ve all experienced awkward silences, or even full-on stops, in conversation. One of the best ways to minimize this experience is to make a short mental list (or even jot one down on your phone!) of appropriate topics to fill the gaps if/when they pop up.

These could include asking about your guest’s family, hobbies, job, or even that delicious meal they posted on social media! Try to keep your conversation starters focused on your guest, keeping in mind the two-ears-one-mouth rule mentioned above.

Guest not a big talker? Combat awkward silences by bringing out a few board game options they might enjoy!

Kids experience lulls too! So help your child brainstorm a few different activity ideas you can have on hand when the inevitable “we’re booooored!” pops up with younger guests.

Handling Unexpected Situations

It’s highly unlikely that everything will go as planned with your visit. You might need to tackle a sudden spill on the carpet or a guest feeling unwell.

Be sure to keep cleaning and first aid supplies, as well as common medicines close at hand so that you can move swiftly and calmly to address any unexpected situations.

Hosting with Pets

Your furry friends add joy to your life but it’s important to remember that your guests might have allergies or feel uncomfortable around animals.

Ensure you establish a pet-free zone for those who might need it, and keep lint rollers or a small laundry kit handy for guests who may find pet hair on their clothing. Always check in advance if any of your guests have pet-related concerns, and plan accordingly.

By becoming more mindful of how you greet and invite guests in, arrange your home, and give guests your full attention, you’ll be one of the best hosts in no time.

Incorporate just a few of these tips, and you’ll already be a great host. Try half or even more of them, and your home will become a favorite destination of family, close friends, and even strangers.

Enjoy your company!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make sure my guests have a good time?

Ensuring your guests have a good time involves a mix of preparation, attention to detail, and hospitality. Here are some tips to ensure a good time is had by all:

1. Prepare in Advance: Prepare as much as you can ahead of time. This includes cleaning, setting up the space, and prepping the food. The more you prepare beforehand, the more time you’ll have to spend with your guests.
2. Create a Welcoming Atmosphere: Greet your guests warmly as they arrive. As mentioned above, a sincere welcome can set a positive tone for the event.
3. Serve Simple Yet Delicious Food: You don’t need to create a complicated main course and 20 sides. Simple, delicious dishes that can be prepared ahead of time will allow you to enjoy the company of your guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen. Of course, don’t forget to check with your guests for any food allergies!
4. Offer a Variety of Beverages: Provide a selection of drinks to cater to different preferences. This could include alcoholic options like wine or beer, as well as non-alcoholic choices like water, soda, tea, and coffee.
5. Engage Your Guests: Facilitate conversations and introduce guests to one another. Sharing stories, playing games, or even having dedicated entertainment such as music or a hired performer can help keep guests engaged.
6. Be Attentive: Pay attention to your guests’ needs. Make sure they have everything they need, such as refilling their drinks or offering them more food.
7. Create a Comfortable Environment: Ensure that the temperature is comfortable and that there is enough seating for everyone. Background music can also help set a relaxed mood.
8. Plan Activities: Depending on the occasion and your guests’ interests, plan some activities or entertainment. This could be anything from board games to a DIY photo booth.
9. Be Flexible: Even with the best planning, be prepared to go with the flow. Adapt to the mood of the gathering and be open to your guests’ suggestions.
10. Send Them Home with Something Special: A small party favor or a leftover treat for the road can be a pleasant surprise for your guests. This is one area where a little effort can go a long way!

These are some of the best ways to create an enjoyable and memorable experience for your guests, ensuring a good time is had by all.

Where can I find dinner party menu ideas?

You can find dinner party menu ideas for any special occasion from sources like PureWow, which offers recipes for stress-free entertaining, or Food Network, which provides a list of impressive yet foolproof main course ideas. For those looking for affordable options, Taste of Home features recipes for dinner parties that won’t break the bank.

If you need a full dinner party menu including cocktails, appetizers, main courses, sides, and desserts, you might want to check out thekittchen. Again, be careful to review your guest list for any food allergies!

What are the essentials for throwing a successful house party?

To throw a successful house party, your essentials include a well-planned guest list, a comfortable setting, a selection of delicious food and drinks, and a fitting music playlist. Pay special attention that your space is prepared for the number of guests and that there are engaging activities or spaces for mingling.

What should I include in a guest room essentials basket?

Creating a guest room essentials basket is a thoughtful and easy way to welcome overnight guests and make their stay more comfortable. Here are some items you could include:

1. Toiletries: Stock the basket with travel-sized essentials such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, and a toothbrush. You could also add a razor, deodorant, and face masks for a spa-like touch.
2. Snacks and Drinks: Consider adding some light snacks such as crackers, chocolates, or fresh fruit. A few bottles of water or a selection of teas and coffee can also be appreciated.
3. Comfort Items: Items like cozy slippers, a soft throw blanket, or a small pillow can make your guests feel at home.
4. Entertainment: Include a couple of magazines, books, or a puzzle book. You could also provide the wifi password and any instructions for using the TV or other electronics in the guest room.
5. Personal Touches: A handwritten welcome note can add a warm, personal touch. You might also include a scented candle or a small bouquet of fresh flowers to make the space feel inviting.
6. Practical Items: Don’t forget practical items like extra chargers, an alarm clock, a small flashlight, or a nightlight.
7. Local Information: If your guests are from out of town, include a map, a guidebook, or a list of your favorite local restaurants and attractions.

Remember, the key to a great guest room basket is to tailor it to the needs and preferences of your guests. This will help to make their stay feel like less of a necessity and more of a special occasion.

Can you recommend any books with tips on hosting guests?

Yes! Consider reading books like The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker for innovative insights, or Entertaining by Martha Stewart for classic hosting etiquette. These books offer a wealth of tips on the best ways to host guests and can inspire you to create memorable experiences for everyone on your guest list.

What are some hosting tips shared by users on Reddit?

Users on Reddit often suggest personal touches like tailored playlists or home-cooked meals. Some hosting tips shared by Reddit users include offering a range of beverages to cater to all tastes and having a clear end time to manage expectations.

For hosting guests over an extended period, what should I consider?

When hosting guests for more than a day, you should consider their comfort and privacy.

Have clean sheets and linens, extra toiletries, and a space for their belongings. Plan for a mix of group activities and alone time to ensure they don’t feel overwhelmed.

What traits define the perfect host?

The perfect host is attentive, gracious, and adaptive, able to respond to guests’ needs while ensuring that the atmosphere remains welcoming and enjoyable for all attendees. They are well-organized, good communicators, and pay special attention to their guests’ experience, whether it’s their first time visiting or their hundredth time.

P.S. Need a new recipe sure to please guests? Then download our free ebook of 40 stupid easy recipes to save you major time and effort, so you can spend more time catching up! Nab yours here.

Disclosure: While all opinions are our own, we are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate advertising programs, designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites, at no additional cost to you.

The post Be a Good Host | Make Your Home a Guest FAVORITE! appeared first on Deb Preston.

Discover Trucks: Excavators, written by Karen Martin, helps young readers explore how excavators work, what their parts do, and how they help build the world around us. Through clear illustrations, simple explanations, and hands-on activities, children learn by looking, naming, and discovering.

The book starts by simply explaining what an excavator does and where you might see one, then takes a deep dive into the parts of an excavator and what each part does. The author then tests readers with a picture of an excavator, asking a few questions and challenging them to name as many parts as they can.

She then dives into how big and fast (or not fast) they are, what they can lift, and the types of things an excavator can help build. After exploring a few of the other trucks that excavators might work with, the book ends with a sort of I Spy, challenging readers to find six excavators on a construction site illustration that spans two pages.

This book offers a perfect introduction to excavators for truck-obsessed children ages 3-6! The language is simple, with sentences and paragraphs brief enough to keep their attention.

I also appreciated that the author placed the excavator in the real world, explaining what it could do and build, how its size compared to cars and houses, and a few other trucks it might work with. This helped to really bring the excavator to life, and to relate it to the lives of young readers.

The illustrations were simple, bright, and clean, making them ideal for catching young eyes and interest. There were enough small details (Hey, that excavator helped build a playground!) to create some great pausable moments, but not enough to pose a distraction.

The author managed to strike a perfect balance between education and interaction, which is exactly what I was looking for when my daughter was this age!

Overall, this is a fun book with bright illustrations that kids and adults alike are sure to enjoy. You can find Discover Trucks: Excavators on Amazon.

Discover Trucks: Excavators Author Interview

Want to learn more about author Karen Martin? I did too! She was gracious enough to field a few questions and share what’s next for her!

Deb: Discover Trucks: Excavators offers a fun exploration of one of children’s favorite construction trucks. What inspired you to write it?

Karen: Honestly, it was our unborn son. We wanted to create something he could enjoy growing up, and later on know that his parents made this book for him.

I also grew up really fascinated with trucks and big machines, so choosing trucks felt natural. We’re hoping he grows up with that same curiosity and excitement.

Deb: This is the first book in your brand-new Discover Trucks series! Why do you think it’s important for kids to not only play with toy trucks, but to also learn about how they’re made and what they do?

Karen: Playing with toy trucks is great and super important, but books take it a step further. When kids learn about trucks through a book, it deepens their interest.

So when they see an excavator in real life, it’s not just a toy anymore. They recognize it, remember things they read, and get excited seeing it in the real world.

Deb: Do you have a favorite construction truck? It’s okay, we won’t tell the other trucks!

Karen: Definitely the excavator (not very surprising). That’s exactly why we started the series with it.

Deb: This book seems so well-suited to children ages 3-6, with simple sentences and bright illustrations! Do you have any tips for parents who want to make storytime with this age group both educational and interactive?

Karen: One simple tip might be to pause and ask questions while reading, like asking kids to point to parts of the excavator, or asking what they think it does next. It keeps them engaged and helps them actually remember what they’re seeing.

Deb: You’ve written a lot of other children’s books, including an entire series highlighting different dog breeds! Can you tell us what initially inspired you to start writing children’s books and what your journey has looked like over the years?

Karen: We started with animal books because we noticed a lack of high-quality, short children’s books about animals, especially ones that were simple but still informative. I also grew up with dogs my whole life, so creating a dog breed series felt very natural.

There’s so much kids can learn from dogs, and learning about different breeds helps build curiosity and empathy early on.

Deb: What’s your vision for the future of your writing? Do you have more books in the works? Or any upcoming projects you’re excited about?

Karen: Yes, for sure. After launching the Excavator book, we’re already working on more construction trucks for the series.

We plan to keep creating books because we genuinely enjoy it, and we know other parents and kids get value from them too. Plus, it helps with bills and baby stuff, which doesn’t hurt either.

Thanks so much for joining us today, Karen!

You can follow Manolo and Karen’s printing press, Gazelle Children’s Books, on Facebook, and pick up your own copy of Discover Trucks: Excavators on Amazon!

Disclosure: While all opinions are our own, we are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate advertising programs, designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites, at no additional cost to you.

The post Children’s Book Review | Discover Trucks: Excavators (+ Author Interview!) appeared first on Deb Preston.

Have you ever wondered how to help the homeless? Your heart goes out to them, but maybe you’re not sure of how to make a real difference. Is it cash they need most? Food? A job?!

What is a homeless care package?

While there’s a whole host of ways of helping the homeless, I personally love to meet several of their needs at once by sharing homeless care packages. Homeless care packages (sometimes called homeless care boxes or a homeless care kit) are a small collection of essential items a homeless person might find useful.

How did I decide what to include in the care kits? I went straight to the source, gathering information from local shelters, soup kitchens, homeless ministries, and the homeless community themselves.

Here’s what I found out!

What do you put in homeless care packages? Homeless Care Kit Ideas

Before diving into our list, I’ll mention that it’s always a good idea to ask before you give.

Everyone’s circumstances are different and they may not need what you’re offering, even if you consider those items to be basic necessities. If they decline your offer, wish them well and save your care kits for those who do need them.

Clothing

Clothing wears out quickly when you’re wearing it every day. Clean socks and teeshirts were highest on the list of clothing needs.

Wondering which socks they prefer? I researched that too!

The most common answer was men’s white crew socks. Shoes are also in high demand, but more difficult to provide unless you know and plan for the person’s size.

Cold Weather Clothing Items (Homeless Care Packages For Winter Months)

Do you live in an area that experiences cold temperatures? Hats, gloves, scarves, coats, and other clothing items geared toward the winter months will help to shield homeless people from the elements.

Don’t have the money to go out and purchase new items? Gently used clothing items are appreciated as well! It’s a great idea to check your closet for any hats or coats you don’t use and give them to those who will.

Hand warmers are a fantastic help as well. Consider purchasing hand warmers in bulk and keeping some handy in your purse or car to give to others when you encounter a need.

Bedding

Blankets and sleeping bags are helpful, the more easily portable, the better.

Toiletries/Personal Hygiene Essential Items

Toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, feminine hygiene products (pads), disposable razors (for homeless men and women), shaving cream, lip balm, hand sanitizer/hand wipes are common essential items that are often foregone in favor of food.

Lotion is commonly needed during the winter months, when hands can become dry and chapped from constant exposure to the cold. Consider saving the small bottle of lotion from your hotel bathroom and including it in homeless care boxes to share with someone who could really use it.

Non-Perishable Food

Aim for food that is filling, easily transported and has a long shelf life, like breakfast/granola bars, tuna and crackers, crackers with peanut butter or cheese, or beef jerky. You can hand out individual food items or collect a few basic necessities together in a homeless care kit.

A plastic water bottle can also help to combat the dehydration that homeless individuals commonly experience.

Fast Food or Grocery Store Gift Cards

Gift cards provide them with not only with a hot meal but also a place to get out of the street for a while, use the restroom, etc., since many stores only allow paying customers inside.

Train or Bus Card

Many homeless people cite lack of access as their main deterrent to taking advantage of homeless services. Offer a means of transportation to nearby homeless shelters, ministries, soup kitchens, grocery stores, and more!

Resource Card

Use this website to locate local shelters, soup kitchens, and other homelessness assistance services in your area. Then jot down any helpful nearby services, along with addresses and phone numbers, on a notecard or piece of paper.

Many homeless people mentioned that homeless shelters and soup kitchens are most helpful to their needs but that they don’t always know where to find them. You can solve their lack of access with just a few minutes of internet research!

An Encouraging Handwritten Note

Homeless people are often denied basic dignity and even acknowledgment by others. Including an encouraging handwritten note with your care kits, telling them you care and that they matter, could be just the words they need to hear!

(Want this list of items, plus more ideas, in one handy guide? Be sure to download our free guide to creating a homeless care package HERE!)

Homeless Care Kit DIY

So what should you do…keep clean socks or toothbrushes in your car and hand them out to the homeless community as you meet them?

Possibly! In fact, many people do just that!

You can also create small care kits or “blessing bags” to keep handy in your car.

During my research, I stumbled upon the great idea to pack several essential items inside of a Nalgene or other wide-mouthed water bottle. This version of a homeless care kit provides them with several much-needed items, plus a durable water bottle. 

So I did just that, packing clean socks, hand wipes, hard warmers, snacks, and a McDonald’s gift card inside the durable plastic water bottle! I put a few in my car and a few in my husband’s, so we’d both be ready whenever we encountered a need.

You can also pack items into a gallon Ziploc bag or gently used purse or backpack to create a homeless care kit.

Tips For Useful Homeless Care Packages

• Don’t give the homeless your leftovers or worse yet, trash. While gently used items are appreciated, items with holes or heavy wear don’t send a message that the recipients are valued.
• Keep care kits small. Many homeless people carry all of their belongings everywhere they go. For this reason, it’s a good idea to offer just a few incredibly helpful items than 20 meh items.
• Consider their pets. Some homeless individuals adopt homeless animals, which may mean the food in your homeless care package feeds a dog rather than a human. Consider carrying small baggies of dog food to give alongside your homeless care boxes, to ensure both are fed.

What should you not put in homeless care packages? What not to give a homeless person?

Not every gift is useful! Here are a few items you should avoid including in your homeless care packages:

• Crunchy or hard foods. Many homeless people may be struggling with broken, rotten, or sensitive teeth or may be missing teeth altogether. That’s why it’s always a great idea to skip hard foods in favor of slightly softer foods that can be easily consumed regardless of dental health.
• Perishable foods. A hot meal, or those that require refrigeration, demand the recipient eat them right away, whether they’re hungry at the moment or not. Instead, opt for non-perishable foods with a long shelf life for those with lack of access to refrigeration.
• Gift cards for businesses beyond walking distance. Grocery store or restaurant gift cards for a store five or ten miles away will require the recipient to either walk a long distance or pay for public transportation to use them. For this reason, be mindful of each recipient’s location when you give them a gift card.
• Religious literature. We get it, you want homeless individuals to know that God loves them and cares about them. But sometimes including religious literature in homeless care boxes can come across as oblivious or insincere. If you want to share God’s love with the homeless community, use your own words and sincere conversation to do it instead of religious literature!

Handing Out Your Homeless Care Packages

More than food, clothing, or money, the most common needs expressed by the homeless are dignity, kindness, understanding, and encouragement. Most people avoid eye contact with the homeless, ignore their attempts at conversation, and/or act obviously uncomfortable with any interaction.

That means when you’re handing out your homeless care package, simply making eye contact and engaging in simple conversation, even saying “hello” or “good morning,” can go a long way in vastly improving their day.

Of course, be wise when engaging in conversation with strangers, homeless or not. Keep interactions contained to safe, public places where there are other people around.

Beyond Your Homeless Care Package – What else do homeless people need?

And finally, do you want to make a difference in the lives of more than one or two homeless individuals? Then consider donating your time and/or money to homeless shelters or ministries!

Check out this homeless shelter directory or your local church, and ask how you can help! These services have deeper pockets and more connections to provide the homeless with not just basic necessities but the training and assistance they need to get back on their feet again.

So now you know how to help the homeless! You are completely capable of making a difference in their lives, through homeless care packages and beyond!

Have you found a way to help and encourage the homeless in your area? Any tips or tricks you’ve learned to go beyond meeting their basic necessities? Be sure to share with us in the comments!

P.S. Want this list of items, plus more ideas, in one handy guide? Be sure to download our free guide to creating homeless care packages HERE!

FAQ

What are the best items to give to a homeless person?

The best items to give to a homeless person are those they want and need, rather than the fun or novelty items you enjoy.

For example, ordering two of your favorite frappucinos and sharing one with a homeless person, while thoughtful, may not be what they want or need. What if they don’t like frappucino? Or that flavor? What if they’re struggling to regulate their blood sugar or are hungry and would much prefer a cheeseburger?

Focus on choosing from a list of items that are universally liked and helpful.

What are 5 things a homeless person could use?

If you had to narrow the above list to just five items, I would choose one or two items from each of the following categories: food, clothing items, toiletries, and resource card.

What do you give homeless people instead of money?

Nothing on the list of items above involves handing out cash! The homeless community can also benefit from food, fast food gift cards, toiletries, socks, teeshirts, warm coats, and more.

How do you make a homeless person happy?

There are a load of things you can do to help bring a smile to their face! Besides blessing them with a homeless care package, you can also:

• Make eye contact and smile.
• Pay them a compliment.
• Strike up a conversation.
• Take time to listen to their story without interrupting (if they’re willing to share).
• Ask them if and how you can pray for them.
• Treat them like the valuable human they are.

What do you give a homeless friend?

If your friend is homeless, please give them your love and support! Help them find all of the resources available to them. Offer to go with them and help them to obtain those resources, if possible.

While it’s incredibly kind to share your own resources as you’re able, keep in mind that you want to help them find truly lasting solutions.

Disclosure: While all opinions are our own, we are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate advertising programs, designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites, at no additional cost to you.

The post Homeless Care Package | What Makes a REAL Difference appeared first on Deb Preston.

I used to attend every get-together. I used to host a steady stream of visitors, from close friends to new friends to family members.

But as my responsibilities and stress levels increased, I found myself saying no to my friends more often. I felt I had to, if not for my family’s sake, for the sake of my own mental and physical health.

And then it happened. Invites slowed down.

Then they stopped altogether.

Then I started overhearing stories, and stumbling across pictures, of the fantastic times my friends were enjoying together. They were smiling and laughing, in their homes, out at events.

It was the old gang…just without me. I hadn’t even heard they were doing anything that night.

And frankly, it stung. At a time when I needed support the most, when I winced every time I had to say no, longing to go but hating and bowing to my circumstances, when I had assumed they understood…what else could I do, right?…my group of friends moved on with their lives. 

The circle closed. And I wasn’t inside of it.

Maybe you can relate to my experience. Maybe you’re on the other side, insisting you deserve better than an endless chorus of no and maybe next time.

Whichever side you’re on, here’s why I strongly believe we should all keep inviting that friend who always says no.

Keep Inviting That Friend Because They Deserve the Benefit of the Doubt

You likely don’t know the full extent of their circumstances.

Spoiler alert: life isn’t all champagne bubble baths. We recognize that fact in our own lives, but do we acknowledge it in the lives of our close friends, too?

Sure, you know your friend is busy planning her child’s graduation.

Did she also inform you she’s developed severe anxiety over the thought of her baby leaving home? That it’s spilling out into every aspect of her life, and making it incredibly difficult to leave her house? Even if it’s to visit you?

Did she share she’s been seeing a psychiatrist, starting a new medication?

Sure, not every case of a friend saying no is so severe. But it might be. It’s okay to give close friends the benefit of the doubt, even if doing so inconveniences you.

You can’t usually say for sure it’s an intentional disrespect thing…so why assume?

You know what they say about making assumptions!

I once assumed a friend was mad at me when, in fact, her phone was lost in a river (the perils of Texas tubing). Another time, I assumed family members purposely skipped my daughter’s birthday…and they assumed they were purposely excluded…when it turned out the invite landed in their spam folder.

It’s important to remember, with friends and life in general, that there are a number of reasons something could come across as rude or intended in any given social interaction…but that doesn’t make it rude or intended. In fact, your friend might have a very good reason for declining your invitation…if you could just extend them a little grace.

The only way to avoid jumping to conclusions is to make sure you gather all important information, and try to view the situation through a different lens, before judging an alleged slight.

Your friend is not you, and can’t always be held to your standards.

I struggled with this myself, not understanding how a friend felt so overwhelmed by so few activities in her life. I knew if I were in her shoes, I could juggle her circumstances with ease…organize, make a plan, knock it out in a week or two, and move on with my life.

But I finally realized, after years of frustration, that she wasn’t me. We each possess our own unique activity tolerance levels, stress triggers, and coping mechanisms.

And the fact that I could juggle two jobs, homework, and more, didn’t give me any right to trivialize the stress and overwhelm she was experiencing at her one job. Our friends’ feelings are valid, even if we have a difficult time relating.

Keep Inviting That Friend Because You’re an Understanding Person

Solid friendships weather all seasons.

Between family, work, school activities, volunteering, and trying to squeeze in a hot second for themselves, your friend might sincerely be struggling to pencil you in.

And believe me, they’re not happy about that. They’re agonizing over how it might hurt you, praying you’ll understand, that you won’t pile guilt on top of the guilt that’s already drowning them.

Their life was obviously not so busy and overwhelming at one point, if they were spending more time with close friends or even a group of friends. And it will likely not be this busy forever.

Your friend’s unavailability could very likely reflect a season, rather than a lack of commitment to your friend group. And a real friend patiently trudges through winters, trusting that spring will return again.

Their family will, and should, come first.

I get it…you make time for the people you care about, right? But what if your time is incredibly limited?

I make no apologies when I say if it comes down to grabbing a coffee with a friend or spending that hour with my daughter, who’s having a heck of a time adjusting to her momma’s return to work, my daughter will win. Every time.

And she should. We cannot expect our friends (even amazing friends!) to neglect their family members in favor of a girls night out…not if we care about their family’s wellbeing.

Sure, there are times when their family members will just have to deal with it. But that’s your friend’s decision to make, not yours. We should not and cannot make even close friends feel bad for making their family a priority.

It’s what you hope someone would do for you.

If you’ve considered ending your invitations, it’s likely other people in their friend group are considering it too, or already have. Maybe you’re thinking that’s what they get for always saying no.

But try turning the tables for just a moment. Imagine you’re going through a difficult season.

You’re desperate for support, but have been physically and/or mentally unable to reciprocate your friendships the way you would like. And now you have no friends, no support system…in the middle of the hardest season of your life.

“Deserved” or not, how would you feel? If for no other reason, keep inviting that friend because it’s what you hope a real friend would do for you, were the tables turned.

Keep Inviting That Friend Because It’s Just Not That Hard

It doesn’t take that much effort to include them in larger get togethers.

How long does it take to send a text? “Hey friend, our group of friends is meeting up for ice cream at 9…wanna join?”

And if your friend declines the invite, or doesn’t see/answer it until 8? Will you weep into your tater tots? Probably not.

Leaving the door open for your friend requires less than a minute of your time. You know they’ll probably say no, so prepare your heart for that as you’re tapping send on those text messages.

But just knowing that you’re there? That you still care about them even when they can’t make it out? That knowledge alone could save a life.

At the very least, it could turn your friend’s day around. Is that outcome not worth 10 seconds of your time?

Expert Advice on Social Invitations

But…those are just my thoughts based on my own experiences. How do professionals, like etiquette experts and a master of social work, weigh in on this sensitive topic?

Tips from Etiquette Experts

Etiquette experts suggest always responding to invitations with grace, whether you’re the one inviting or being invited. When you keep inviting a friend, these professionals recommend spacing out your invitations to avoid overwhelming them.

Key guidelines include:

• Give your friend at least one to two weeks between invitations.
• Accept “no” without taking it personally or pressing for reasons.
• Vary the types of activities you suggest to match different comfort levels.
• Avoid last minute invites that will add another layer of stress to their decision.
• Pay attention to their enthusiasm level when they respond.

Research shows that people overestimate how much declining an invitation matters. Your friend likely isn’t rejecting you personally when they say no. They might be managing their energy or dealing with other commitments.

Ettiquette experts also recommend being clear and specific with your invitations. Instead of vague suggestions, propose concrete plans with dates and times.

Guidance from a Master of Social Work

Social workers and mental health professionals suggest asking yourself a few questions before extending each invitation:

• Is this activity a good match with your friend’s interests?
• Is this activity a good fit for your friend’s comfort levels?
• Have they expressed wanting more or less social time lately?

As an introvert, I can verify this makes a huge difference in my invitation acceptance. I’m happy to step outside my comfort zone once in a while for the sake of close friends or a group of friends, but if every invitation is to some place or situation I consider a nightmare, my sentiment will shift from genuine connection to obligation.

Asking these questions would have also been huge to me when I was single! I cannot state enough the awkwardness your single friends can feel when they’re part of a friend group composed primarily of married couples.

I felt a similar awkwardness when my husband developed a chronic illness and could no longer join me in our previously-established social life. Of course, I knew I was loved and welcome in our friend group, but it’s awkward to sit by yourself when everyone else is paired up.

Social workers note that healthy friendships require balance. You should create space for your friend to say no without guilt while also expressing that you value their company.

Navigating the Dynamics of Repeated Invitations

Knowing when to pause your invitations, accepting that people gon’ people, and staying open to new connections will help you maintain healthy friendships without experiencing emotional burnout.

Recognizing When It Is Time to Take a Step Back

While it’s always kind to keep inviting that friend who always says no, you also want to watch out for signs that suggest your friend truly doesn’t want to be invited.

These signs can be used as a kind of guide:

• Direct requests to stop inviting them
• No counter-offers when they decline (i.e. “I’m busy this weekend but what about next weekend?”)
• Delayed responses or ignored messages
• Visible discomfort when discussing plans

The key is listening to what people tell you both directly and indirectly. Stepping back doesn’t have to mean ending the friendship, just adjusting how you connect.

People Gon’ People

People gon’ people means just what you think it does…that humans are complex and inconsistent.

Your friend might genuinely want to hang out but struggle with anxiety, depression, a crazy schedule, or an already-stressful social life thanks to family members. They’re not trying to hurt you; they might just feel overwhelmed!

Someone can also value your friendship deeply while still declining every invitation.

They might be dealing with financial stress, family obligations, or health issues they haven’t shared. This unpredictability is part of being human, not a reflection of what kind of friend they are or how much they care about you.

The most amazing friends learn to navigate the fine line between caring persistence and respectful space. So be that friend!

You can’t control their response, only your own expectations. Give people grace to be imperfect without taking it personally.

Welcoming New Friends

While you keep the door open for existing friends, don’t forget to seek out new friends! This approach can prevent you from feeling resentful or lonely when one friend can’t show up, and will expand your social circle instead of shrinking it.

New friends bring fresh energy and different perspectives. They also reduce the pressure on any single friends to meet all your social needs.

You’re not replacing old friends with new friends, but creating a stronger support network that works for your life right now.

I’ll say it again for those in the back – keep inviting that friend who always says no! You don’t know the full extent of their circumstances, so trust they’re doing their best.

Friendships are made to weather the seasons, you’d want the same for yourself, and let’s be honest…it just doesn’t take that much time or effort.

So what are your thoughts? Should you keep inviting that friend who always says no? Be sure to sound off in the comments!

Frequently Asked Questions

Friendships require balance and clear communication. Understanding when to keep reaching out and when to step back can help you maintain healthy connections with the people you care about.

How can you tell when it’s time to stop inviting a friend to events?

You’ll know it’s time to pause your invitations when your friend consistently declines without suggesting alternative plans. If they never follow up or show interest or desire to connect, that’s your cue.

Watch for patterns over several months rather than just a few weeks. Life gets busy, and people go through difficult periods where socializing takes a back seat.

Another sign is when your friend seems uncomfortable or unenthusiastic during the rare times they do accept. If they appear relieved when events end or check their phone constantly, they might not want to be there.

What are polite ways to decline an invitation without hurting the friendship?

What should you do when you’re on the flip side?

Be honest about your reasons without over-explaining. While you don’t have to share private details, giving some kind of reason will help keep your friend from filling in the blanks on their own (and usually not in your favor).

Suggest an alternative if you genuinely want to connect. You could say “I’m busy Saturday, but would you be free for coffee next week?” This shows you value the friendship even though you can’t attend additional events.

And always express gratitude for being included! Let your friend know you appreciate that they were thinking of you, even when you can’t accept the invite.

What could be some good reasons why a friend always invites but never gets invited back?

Some people naturally take on the organizer role, whether it’s because they have more social skills, enjoy spending time planning a grand gathering, or just love to rack up good “crazy night” stories. For a significant number of people, organizing gatherings is how they show love and friendship in a practical way.

They could also have more flexible schedules or larger living spaces that make hosting easier. This practical advantage might mean they default to being the inviter.

This doesn’t necessarily mean their friend group doesn’t want to reciprocate, but that they might not be at the same advantage when it comes to planning events.

How do you address unequal effort in maintaining a friendship?

Start with a direct but kind conversation about what you’ve noticed. You might say, “I’ve realized you haven’t been reaching out as much as I do, and I want to make sure we’re on the same page.”

Share your feelings using “I feel” statements instead of accusations. Try “I feel like you might not enjoy spending time with me anymore” rather than “I always have to do everything.”

Propose specific actions you’ll take to balance things out. Commit to initiating plans once or twice a month or taking turns choosing activities. 

What are the major red flags to look out for in maintaining a healthy friendship?

One-sided effort is a huge warning sign. If you’re always the one texting, making plans, and checking in first, the friendship likely lacks balance.

Consistent flaking without offering reasons or apologies can also demonstrate disrespect for your time. Everyone cancels occasionally, but a pattern of last minute cancellations usually indicates low priority.

Personally, I’ve also found that lack of support during difficult times reveals true friendship quality. Friends who only show up for the fun but disappear when you need help aren’t invested in the relationship.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed yourself? Be sure to download our free guide to stress, to help you develop a game-changing stress management plan!

Disclosure: While all opinions are our own, we are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate advertising programs, designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites, at no additional cost to you.

The post Why to Keep Inviting That Friend Who Always Says No appeared first on Deb Preston.

The fact is that when you understand eyebrow hair growth, you’ll realize there’s a way to work with it, rather than against it. And when you learn how to use growth in your favor, find your natural brow shape, and put just one minute a day into regular maintenance, you’ll ultimately train your brows to go where you want them to go and do what you want them to do.

So…let’s talk about exactly how to train your eyebrows!

Understanding Eyebrow Growth

Eyebrow hair growth follows a specific biological cycle that determines how your brow hairs develop, rest, and shed. The hair follicles in your brow area respond to various internal and external factors that can speed up or slow down the process of growing thick eyebrows.

Hair Growth Cycle

Your eyebrow hair growth happens in three distinct phases.

The anagen phase is the active growth period when new hair growth occurs. This phase lasts about 4 to 7 months for brow hairs, which is much shorter than the hair on your head.

The catagen phase comes next and lasts 2 to 3 weeks. During this transition period, your hair follicles shrink and hair growth stops. The hair detaches from the blood supply but stays in place.

The telogen phase is the resting stage that lasts about 3 months. At the end of this phase, the old hair falls out and the follicle begins growing new hair.

Understanding your natural eyebrow growth cycle will help you set realistic expectations for when you’ll see results.

Factors Affecting Eyebrow Hair Growth

Your age plays a major role in how quickly your brows grow. Hair follicles become less active as you get older, which can lead to thinner eyebrows.

Nutrition directly impacts the health of your brow area, too!

Your body needs enough protein and iron to support healthy hair growth. A diet lacking these nutrients can slow down or stop eyebrow hair growth.

Hormonal changes from pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid issues affect how your hair follicles function. Stress and certain medications also interfere with the hair growth cycle.

The Role of Hair Follicles

Hair follicles are small pockets in your skin where each eyebrow hair grows. Each follicle in your brow area contains a root that produces new hair cells during the growth phase.

The follicles need proper blood flow to deliver nutrients and oxygen for healthy hair production.

When follicles get damaged from excessive tweezing or waxing, they may stop producing hair permanently. This explains why some people struggle to grow back their eyebrows after years of over-plucking.

The number of active hair follicles you have determines the density of your eyebrows. Some people naturally have more follicles that produce thick eyebrows, while others have fewer follicles that create thinner brows.

Effective Methods to Train Your Eyebrows

Training your eyebrows involves encouraging healthy growth, using the right products, and maintaining proper grooming habits. These methods will work together to help you achieve fuller, better-shaped brows over time.

Best Way to Encourage New Growth

Growing out your eyebrows requires patience and consistent care.

The best way to start is by stopping all tweezing, threading, and waxing for at least 8 to 12 weeks. Yuck, I know! But this gives your hair follicles time to recover and grow back.

Your diet plays a big role in eyebrow health.

Eating foods rich in biotin, vitamins A, C, and E will help support hair growth. You’ll want to drink plenty of water too, to keep your hair follicles hydrated.

Avoid using harsh makeup removers or rubbing your eyebrows too hard. This can damage the hair follicles and prevent new growth.

Using Serums and Natural Oils

Eyebrow serums can help strengthen and encourage hair growth. These products contain ingredients like peptides and vitamins that nourish your brow hairs.

Apply serum once or twice daily for best results.

Castor oil is a popular natural option for eyebrow growth. It contains ricinoleic acid and omega-6 fatty acids that can help promote thicker brows.

Apply a small amount to your eyebrows before bed using a clean spoolie brush or cotton swab.

Other beneficial oils include:

• Coconut oil for moisture and strength
• Olive oil for conditioning
• Jojoba oil for nourishment

Remember that these products take time to show results! You need to use them consistently for at least 6 to 8 weeks before you’ll notice changes.

Grooming and Shaping Techniques

A brow brush and spoolie brush are essential tools for training your eyebrows to grow in the right direction. Brush your brows upward and outward each morning to train the hairs to follow your desired shape.

Apply a clear brow gel after brushing to hold hairs in place throughout the day. This will help retrain stubborn hairs that grow in unwanted directions.

Trim long hairs carefully using small scissors. Brush hairs upward and trim only what extends past your natural brow line. Never trim too much at once!

When you’re ready to shape, tweeze only stray hairs outside your natural brow shape. Avoid over-plucking, which can permanently damage hair follicles.

If you need help with especially difficult brows, consider visiting a professional brow stylist!

Styling and Maintenance for Beautiful Brows

Your eyebrows need regular attention to look their best. You can achieve polished brows by filling in gaps, controlling unruly hairs, and working with your natural shape.

Filling Sparse Areas

An eyebrow pencil works well for creating hair-like strokes in thin spots. You’ll want to pick a shade that matches your natural brow color or go one shade lighter for a softer look.

Start at the inner part of your brow and use light, feathery strokes in the direction your hair grows.

Ooooor you could try brow powder for a softer finish than pencil. It’s perfect if you have thick brows but want to add a little more definition.

Apply it with an angled brush using small, tapping motions to build up color gradually.

The good news for your wallet is that you don’t need both products! Pick the one that fits your needs and comfort level.

If you want more control and precision, stick with a pencil. If you prefer a natural, diffused look, choose powder.

For shaping and defining your eyebrows, blend the product with a spoolie brush after applying it. This will help everything look seamless and natural rather than drawn on.

Taming Stray Hairs

Stray hairs can ruin an otherwise perfect brow shape. You’ll want to pluck them right after a warm shower when your pores are open, and hair removes more easily.

Tweeze in the direction of hair growth to avoid breaking the hair or causing ingrown hairs.

Only remove hairs that fall below your brow bone or between your brows. Never pluck from the top of your brow unless absolutely necessary, since it can pull your eye shape down and make for a less natural brow shape.

A clear brow gel will help keep hairs in place all day long. Brush it through your brows in an upward and outward motion to lift the hairs and make them appear fuller.

Trim any extra-long hairs that stick out after brushing. Use small scissors and be sure to cut carefully so you don’t create gaps.

Regular eyebrow maintenance will help prevent wild, unruly brows and keep them looking neat.

Creating a Natural Brow Shape

Your natural brow shape is the shape that will work best for your face. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t enhance it!

The inner part of your brow should align with the inner corner of your eye.

Your can find your natural arch by holding a pencil from your nostril through your pupil. Where it crosses your brow marks your highest point.

Your brow should end where an imaginary line goes from your nostril to your outer eye corner.

Key measurements for natural brows:

• Start point: Inner corner of eye
• Arch: Above the outer edge of pupil
• End point: Outer corner of eye

Don’t make your brows too thin or too thick compared to your features. They should balance with your eyes and not overpower them.

The space between your brows and lash line matters too! Keeping this area clean makes your eyes look bigger.

Training your eyebrows takes patience but gets easier with practice. Brush them daily in your desired direction and they’ll start to grow that way naturally over time.

And there you have it…how to train your eyebrows!

Have any tips or ride-or-die products you swear by? Be sure to share in the comments.

And happy training!

P.S. Ready to make wellness and self-care a habit? Sign up for instant access to our handy dandy calendar, 28 Daily Goals to Kickstart a Healthier Life. It’s the perfect tool to introduce you to some super simple ways to improve your health, and to help you transition into a healthier mindset in just 28 days. Best of all, it’s completely free! Get yours HERE.

Disclosure: While all opinions are our own, we are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate advertising programs, designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites, at no additional cost to you.

The post How to Train Your Eyebrows to Grow Thicker AND Tamer appeared first on Deb Preston.