Even When the Kettle’s Bare

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Some paths are quieter than others—but walking them together makes all the difference. Today reminded me of the quiet weight that comes with being the one others turn to. I spoke with both of my daughters—separately, at different points in the day. One needed advice, the kind only a mother can give when life feels uncertain. The other’s voice held something heavier, and when I asked, she let it spill: relationship strain, financial stress, the kind of ache that’s hard to name out loud. I listened. I offered what I could—words, perspective, a little steadiness. And later, I followed up. Not because I had to, but because I know how it feels to be left holding something alone. They each thanked me. They each made a move forward. And I felt that familiar flicker of peace—the kind that comes from knowing you were able to help. But beneath that peace, there’s a quieter ache. The kind that surfaces when you’re still navigating your own storm, and yet you find yourself pouring from a cup that’...
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Creativity from the Cradle

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How to Inspire Artistic Expression at 10 Months

As caregivers, we don’t just watch children grow, we shape how they see the world. From chalk to paper, paint to crayons, creativity starts early, and your toolbox is the key to unlocking a child’s imagination.  

By 10 months, babies may not be Picasso yet, but they love color, texture, movement, and messy exploration. The goal isn’t perfect artwork—it’s joyful, unrestricted expression!  


1. The Must-Have Tools for Baby Artists

Whenever I care for a child, I’m always prepared with my trusty art kit:  

✔️ **Chunky Crayons** – Easy to grip and perfect for bold scribbles.  

✔️ **Non-Toxic Paints** – Let them explore color blending with safe finger paints.  

✔️ **Sidewalk Chalk** – Large enough for tiny hands, great for sensory play.  

✔️ **Textured Paper** – Thick craft paper, recycled cardboard, and even sandpaper for variety.  


**Pro Tip:** Keep an "Art Basket" ready—grab it whenever inspiration strikes!  


2. Messy Play is the Best Play

Forget clean lines—**encourage the chaos!** Creativity **thrives in mess** and exploration.  

🎨 **Squish Painting** – Smear baby-safe paint on plastic wrap and let them squish it with their hands.  

🖌️ **Chalk Scribbles on Cardboard** – A tactile way to explore movement.  

👣 **Feet & Hand Painting** – Let them stamp tiny footprints or handprints onto paper for sensory fun.  


3. Storytelling Through Art & Movement

Even before speaking, babies connect with images and gestures. Combine art with **early storytelling:  

📖 **Draw Simple Faces & Talk About Emotions** – Smiling, surprised, silly—let them "read" expressions through drawings.  

💡 **Hand-in-Hand Art** – Place your hand next to theirs, guiding them to "trace" movement and lines.  

🎭 **Act It Out!** – Scribble a sun and say "it's a bright day," then let them add their own mark to the story.  


4. Building a Daily Creative Habit

The secret to raising a creative child? Make art part of everyday life.  

✔️ **10-Minute Art Time** – Just a few minutes daily encourages exploration.  

✔️ **Let Them Choose Their Colors** – Even if it’s a wild mix, the act of choosing builds independence.  

✔️ **Celebrate the Process** – Instead of "What a pretty picture!" say "I love how you mixed those colors!"**  


Final Thought: Creativity Starts with You

By providing the right tools, freedom to explore, and encouragement, you shape lifelong artists, thinkers, and creators. It's not about the finished product—it’s about the joy of creating!


Enjoy a cup 🫖

Honey

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