Author: Heather Vecchioni

Don't Miss Out: These Are The 38 Toys Every Kid Will Want This Holiday Season

Post author By Heather Vecchioni
Post date October 1, 2018

When it comes to holiday gift shopping, there’s no time like the present. Snatching up hot-ticket items before they run out can make the difference between a happy holiday and a downright debacle (we’re looking at you, Tickle Me Elmo).

Getting the inside scoop on what’s hot this gift-giving season can make you a hero in the eyes of the child in your life—instead of the only person who wasn’t able to score that perfect present. Fortunately, we’ve got our fingers on the pulse of the 12-and-under set. Here are the toys that will be in high demand on Amazon this winter:

1. Here’s a monster kids aren’t afraid of.

What has two eyes, a soft, huggable belly, and a mouth full of gnarly teeth? If you said a Fuggler, you’re right. With a mouth full of realistic adult-sized teeth and a face only a mother could love, these creatures are so ugly they’re cute.

The little one in your life will love snuggling up to these plush toys, regardless of the unconventional look. These adorable monsters even come with their own adoption certificates!

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Fuggler-Monster-Awkward-Deluxe-Creature/dp/B07GC7L6ZT”]Fuggler Ugly Monster Plush, $27.67 from Amazon[/link-button]

2. This game combines food and fun.

Looking for a fun game the whole family can enjoy? Look no further than Chow Crown. Children and adults of all ages can enjoy this food-friendly game. Simply put the crown on your head, stick pieces of food onto the forks, then try your best to swing the food into your mouth.

Whoever has the most empty forks when the music stops wins the game! Have a few belly laughs while watching your kids try to grab the food as it spins around their heads. Funny faces are guaranteed.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Hasbro-E2420-Chow-Crown-Game/dp/B0772229CR”]Chow Crown, $16.82 from Amazon[/link-button]

3. This interactive pup performs tricks—and leaves the occasional mess.

Take your gift game to the next level with this interactive toy dog. He eats, barks, licks his friends, and even performs tricks. Behold furReal Ricky, the Trick-Lovin’ Pup, a battery-operated dog that is almost as fun as the real thing, with a whole lot less responsibility required.

Not your average toy, Ricky’s a clever little guy. His tricks include flipping bones, shaking hands, and barking out his favorite song. He even eats treats! Of course, those meals may lead to an accident—but that only adds to the fun!

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/furReal-Ricky-the-Trick-Lovin-Pup/dp/B076QJHFF9″]furReal Ricky, the Treat Lovin’ Pup; $129.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

4. Bring the arcade to your home with this miniature working claw machine.

Kids love claw machines. Don’t believe us? Just wait until you see how much fun the kids in your life will have with the Original Claw Machine Playset from Moj Moj.

Use the three directional joysticks to grab your prize before the music runs out, or simply have fun grabbing the treats at your own pace. This miniature arcade staple comes with six single Moj Moj mystery packs that you can refill with surprises of your own. Earn some serious bonus points with this next-level present.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Moj-Original-Claw-Machine-Playset/dp/B07BMYP8M4″]The Original Claw Machine Playset, $49.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

5. Your feet may hate these blocks, but children sure don’t.

If your child loves to build—or you’d like to kickstart their creativity—this Lego Classic Medium Creative Brick Box is the perfect holiday choice. With 484 pieces in 35 different colors, kids can create just about anything they want with these easy-to-hold bricks.

This kit includes a base plate and other fun accessories like windows, eyes, and tires, so there’s no end to what kids can build. These Legos ship in a reusable storage box, reducing the chance that they’ll end up all over your floor.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/LEGO-Classic-Medium-Creative-Brick/dp/B00NHQFA1I”]Lego Classic Medium Creative Brick Box, $27.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

6. Put out fires during the holidays with this toy truck.

Calling all pups! If PAW Patrol is a favorite in your home, this Ultimate Rescue Fire Truck is a must-have. Your kids will have a ball saving the day with Marshall’s fire truck, which features an extendable 2-foot ladder, a working claw arm, and water cannons.

With flashing lights and sounds, this battery-operated truck looks like the real deal. Parents enjoy the hours of entertainment the truck provides, and kids love opening the compartments and pressing all of the buttons. Make your holiday lit with this exciting toy!

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/PAW-Patrol-Ultimate-Rescue-Extendable/dp/B07B83HP9Q”]PAW Patrol Ultimate Rescue Ultimate Fire Truck, $59.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

7. Even muggles will enjoy this coding wand.

With the Kano Harry Potter Coding Kit, kids can build a working wand straight out of the Wizarding World and learn how to code, all at the same time. Children create a wand that responds to their movements by following the step-by-step instructions.

Connected to a tablet or computer, this wand offers over 70 creative challenges that teach coding, as well as loops, logic, and variables. Combine magic and education with this interactive toy that’s perfect for ages 6 and older.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Kano-Harry-Potter-Coding-Kit/dp/B07C7X8LG9″]Harry Potter Coding Kit, $99.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

8. You can’t escape the fun of this game.

What should you do if you’re exposed to a virus that can turn you into a werewolf? Find out with Escape Room in a Box: The Werewolf Experiment.

Inspired by Escape Room experiences, this problem-solving game gives participants one hour to solve puzzles, crack codes, and find hidden clues in an attempt to defeat the virus. Work by yourself or in teams to figure it all out, and sync the game with Alexa to heighten the experience.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Escape-Room-Box-Werewolf-Experiment/dp/B0752PGG2K”]Escape Room in a Box: The Werewolf Experiment, $21.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

9. This is the house is where dreams are made.

Barbie has lived in some swank places before, but this just may be the swankiest. Introducing the latest Barbie Dreamhouse. Ken, Chelsea, and the rest of the gang can hang in this 3-feet-by-4-feet-tall, three-story home that comes equipped with a working elevator, office, bedroom, carport, and more.

Fill up the home’s pool with water and send Barbie down the waterslide for a serious splash. This posh pad even comes with transformable furniture and 70 accessories. All of that translates into more opportunities for fun!

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Barbie-FHY73-DreamHouse/dp/B079JCZMMK”]Barbie Dreamhouse, $179 from Amazon[/link-button]

10. You’re a genius if you get this fun and educational game.

Turn your child’s tablet into an educational tool that combines fun and learning. All you need is the Osmo Genius Kit.

Five award-winning games teach your child math, reading, language arts, physics, and more, all in a fun and engaging way. Foster creativity, problem solving skills, and critical thinking in an entertaining environment with this clever tool.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Osmo-Genius-Kit/dp/B071FN6KXK”]Osmo Genius Kit, $99.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

11. You never know what you’re going to get with this doll.

If your child likes surprises—and dolls— they’re sure to love what they find inside their first Hairdorables box. Kids discover this “hairmazing” doll by peeling away panels on the packaging, slowly revealing 11 surprises that clue you in to the character’s personality.

These dolls feature lots of long and gorgeous hair, so your child can have tons of fun creating endless amounts of hairstyles. For ages 3 and older, these mystery boxes are perfect for the kiddo who has a passion for styling hair.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Hairdorables-Collectible-Surprise-Accessories-Styles/dp/B07BS2Q2XJ”]Hairdorables, $12.88 from Amazon[/link-button]

12. Your child’s eyes will light up when they see this toy.

These loveable and wearable interactive pom-poms are soft, fluffy, and super smart! With over 50 reactions, Pomsies plush interactive toys are sure to keep your child entertained! Similar to a Hatchimal, this cute fluff ball’s eyes light up and it makes different noises to let you know what it needs.

Pomsies are kind of like Fingerlings, too, because they clip onto objects with their tails. Many who already own the toy suggest that you read the instructions thoroughly to discover all of the toy’s interactive features.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Pomsies-Snowball-Plush-Interactive-White/dp/B07DK842QC”]Pomsies, $14.82 from Amazon[/link-button]

13. Pony up an amazing present with this rideable toy.

If the child in your life wants a pony for the holidays, but taking care of livestock isn’t really your thing, consider giving this Rideamals Pony a try. Named Scout, this interactive ride-on toy makes over 100 unique noises and motions.

Your child can walk, ride, and feed Scout, as well as watch it perform a dance. This adorable horse also moves its head, ears, and eyes. It even makes eating noises. Make sure you have a lot of space before investing in this large toy; one reviewer warns it needs a lot of room to maneuver.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Adorable-Rideamals-Interactive-Movements-Including/dp/B07FQ9TW1W”]Kid Trax Rideamals Ride-On Pony, $537.91 from Amazon[/link-button]

14. Give a gift—and teach a lesson—with this toy pet.

Give the gift of philanthropy—along with a super-cute toy—when you present your little one with a Little Live Scruff-A-Luv. The Scruff-A-Luv is an abandoned animal that finds a home when it is adopted by your child. Dirty and matted, the toy needs a little TLC in order to tidy up and reveal its identity.

After you give the little guy a bath, you’ll find out if you’ve just adopted a kitty, bunny, or puppy! And when you purchase a Scruff-A-Luv, the manufacturer donates a portion of the proceeds to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Little-Live-30002-Scruff-A-Luvs-Blue/dp/B079FWWQDB”]Scruff-A-Luv, $31.09 from Amazon[/link-button]

15. This robot is both a friend and a teacher.

A toy robot that teaches kids how to code sounds like something out of science fiction, but that’s exactly what you get with Cozmo, the interactive toy robot.

Full of personality, this electronic sidekick comes with hundreds of emotions and a passion for learning. He loves to play games and can even teach your child how to code. Simply hook it up to your iOS or Android device and watch this cool toy come alive.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Anki-Cozmo-robotics-adults-coding/dp/B074WC4NHW”]Cozmo, the Interactive Toy Robot, $179.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

16. This play set is perfect for future veterinarians.

Give your little pet-lover a gift that is both fun and educational with the Melissa and Doug Examine and Treat Pet Vet Play Set. This 24-piece kit comes with a stethoscope, thermometer, syringe, tweezers, and all of the other tools needed to provide the best care for stuffed animals.

The set also comes with a pair of plush patients to get your veterinarian-in-training started. Examine, diagnosis, and treat stuffed animals with this collection that teaches kids medicine, as well as empathy.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Melissa-Doug-Examine-Treat-Play/dp/B074L8RV1F”]Melissa and Doug Examine and Treat Play Set, $27.56 from Amazon[/link-button]

17. Get glam, glitter, and more with this doll.

Who doesn’t love a super-cute doll that’s full of surprises? If the child in your life feels the same way, make sure you add this L.O.L. Surprise! Glam Glitter Series doll to your gift list.

The spherical package—which can also double as a carrying case—contains seven surprises, including a Glam Glitter doll, stickers, a fashion accessory, and more. Bathe or feed your doll to discover if she cries, tinkles, spits up, or changes colors.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/L-L-Surprise-Glam-Glitter/dp/B07BHQ14L9″]L.O.L. Surprise! Glam Glitter Series doll, $10.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

18. Color and science collide in this lab set for kids.

Excite your child’s inner colorologist with the Crayola Color Chemistry Lab Set. Kids ages 7 and older can try their hands at 50 different experiments and projects designed by Crayola scientists.

Watch as kids learn about technology, art, science, math, and engineering, all while having some colorful fun! Kids can make glow worms, erupting volcanoes, and more with this hands-on, educational toy.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Crayola-Color-Chemistry-Steam-Activities/dp/B07B958BPR”]Crayola Color Chemistry Lab Set, $24.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

19. Dinosaurs are no match for this off-road vehicle.

Present your young dinosaur-chaser with this Power Wheel Jurassic Park Jeep Wrangler for the holidays and you’re sure to get a high five—or high claw, if you’re not careful. This battery-operated four-wheel vehicle is safe, durable, and full of fun.

With a sturdy frame that supports up to 130 pounds and brakes that automatically stop the vehicle when the child’s foot comes off of the pedal, this functional electric car helps to keep all riders safe. And with a real working light bar and cool dinosaur and “chase” sounds, this toy is “roaring” with excitement!

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Power-Wheels-Jurassic-World-Wrangler/dp/B0751XSNXP”]Power Wheels Jurassic Park Jeep Wrangler, $287.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

20. This doll is so realistic it does the potty dance.

If your kid wants to take care of a doll that acts just like a baby, then this may be the hot ticket item you’ve been looking for. The Potty Dance Baby allows your child to help potty train the doll, while also creating a special bond.

This life-like toy does the “potty dance,” blinks, speaks, drinks water, and goes to the bathroom in the potty. The Potty Dance baby speaks 50 different phrases in English or Spanish and comes with a chart and sticker to mark her progress.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Alive-Potty-Dance-Black/dp/B076QV1MX3″]Baby Alive Potty Dance Baby, $48.82 from Amazon[/link-button]

21. Wear these pets as jewelry, play with them, or both.

Promote creativity, fun, and fashion with the Twisty Petz collectible bracelet set. Twisty Petz are glitzy and fabulous toy animals that can turn into bracelets, necklaces, and charms. Simply connect the animals together to create a one-of-a-kind statement piece.

With a variety of finishes and colors from which to choose, you can create jewelry that is perfect for every outfit and mood. And when you’re done wearing them, separate the animals for some adorable imaginative play.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Twisty-Petz-Marigold-Pupsicle-Collectible/dp/B07C9BWRY8″]Twisty Petz, $14.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

22. The toy that “attacks” with a push of its tummy.

If the Incredibles 2 movie is popular in your home, you’ll want to check out the Jack-Jack Attacks playset. Jack-Jack is a polymorph with multiple hidden abilities, and you never know what he’s going to do.

Touch his tummy to hear him laugh, and continue pressing it to see him change into his other personalities. Jack-Jack’s raccoon pal is included in the set, allowing your child to create an epic battle between the two!

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Incredibles-Jack-Jack-Plush-Figure-Features-Raccoon/dp/B0743LPYDH”]Jack-Jack Attacks Playset, $29.84 from Amazon[/link-button]

23. You’ll actually encourage your child to crack these eggs.

Ever wonder where baby Hatchimals come from? You can find out with the Hatchimal CollEGGtible Egg Carton. Look inside the sparkly carton and you’ll find 10 decorated eggs and two already-hatched Hatchimals waiting inside.

It is up to you to encourage the other Hatchimals to emerge from their shells, and you can do so by warming up the toy egg in your hand. Display, store, and carry the tiny toys in the carton.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Hatchimals-CollEGGtibles-Season-12-Pack-Carton/dp/B071F8W8RL”]Hatchimals CollEGGtible Egg Carton, $16.88 from Amazon[/link-button]

24. Crashing cars is encouraged with this play set.

It has twists, loops, and high-speed boosters. It creates the perfect backdrop for some of the most epic crashes. It’s the Hot Wheels Corkscrew Crash Track Set.

To get the fun started, launch your car from the motorized speed boosters, then watch it race through the three corkscrew turns at amazing speeds. Try not to crash out or collide with other cars on the track, although it could make things even more fun if you do! This large set allows you to launch three cars at the same time. It includes a drop-in ramp to add even more vehicles to the chaos.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Hot-Wheels-Corkscrew-Crash-Track/dp/B079KHS5S9″]Hot Wheels Corkscrew Crash Track Set, $48.88 from Amazon[/link-button]

25. Recreate a classic with this Lego set.

The child in your life can build their own ship in a bottle with this Lego Ideas set. Build a ship complete with master’s quarters, cannons, flags, and a mast inside of a bottle that features a buildable cork and wax seal element.

When it’s finished, display your piece of art on the included stand that has a nameplate and a compass. According to customer reviews, this 962-piece advanced building set is perfect for experienced Lego builders, but may be too difficult for those just starting out.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/LEGO-Ideas-Bottle-21313-Building/dp/B078VVLQ6J”]Lego Ideas Ship in a Bottle Set, $60.42 from Amazon[/link-button]

26. Food is life for this baby dino.

Take care of your own interactive—and hungry—baby dinosaur with the furReal Muchin’ Rex. Just like most youngsters, this little guy lives for food. Watch as he hops and begs for treats.

Be careful, though—he might chomp on your finger or spit the treats out. When waved at or fed, this baby dino responds with over 35 sound-and-motion combinations. This toy also makes cool dinosaur habitat sounds and comes with a bottle, treats, and instructions.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Fur-Real-Friends-E0387-furReal/dp/B076QJ95BB”]furReal Muchin’ Rex, $47.72 from Amazon[/link-button]

27. Encourage creativity and strong vocal chords with this karaoke machine.

Let your little one be a star with the Vtech Kidi Star Karaoke Machine. This clever device mutes out the main vocals in included songs or those you import to make your child the star of the show.

With a light-up disco ball, LCD screen, six built-in games, a voice changer that has five different voice features, fun sound effects, and eight original songs, this potential present is a real show-stopper.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/VTech-Kidi-Karaoke-Machine-Purple/dp/B07B737XBW”]Vtech Kidi Star Karaoke Machine, $49.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

28. They see you rolling, and helping, with this toy ambulance.

If the Barbie fan in your life also has a passion for medicine, you’ll want to get this Barbie Care Clinic Vehicle, STAT. Respond to calls and give care as needed with this fierce ambulance that also doubles as a treatment room.

Lift the lever in the back and watch as this rolling ambulance turns into a treatment center that features three distinct areas: a check-in station, a waiting area, and an exam room. With over 20 themed pieces, this ambulance is full of fun—and helpful—surprises.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Barbie-FRM19-Care-Clinic-Vehicle/dp/B079JBMVFW”]Barbie Care Clinic Vehicle $52.88 from Amazon[/link-button]

29. Super kids can become superheroes with this toy.

Why wait for a superhero when you can become one yourself? With the littleBits Avengers Hero Inventor Kit, your young one can train to become a formidable superhero. With fun and customizable activities, kids can unleash their creative potential and invent superhero identities and powers.

Hook the kit up to your smart device and use inventions like night vision, light powers, and a speed tracker to further enhance your training. And best of all, no adults are needed for this toy; easy-to-follow instructions geared toward youngsters are included.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/littleBits-Avengers-Hero-Inventor-Kit/dp/B07BDZZRR3″]littleBits Avengers Hero Inventor Kit, $149.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

30. This Pie Face game is a blast.

Take your pie in the face experience to a whole new level with the Pie Face Cannon Game. Instead of rolling the dial and inflicting whipped cream disaster on yourself, this game allows you to target your opponents, instead.

Use the cannon to send a wallop of whipped cream toward the other player. But watch out! Your challenger can stop the cream with a blocking hand. For ages 5 and older, this game is sure to provide hours of messy family fun.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Hasbro-E1972-Face-Cannon-Game/dp/B07722GWF3″]Pie Face Cannon, $19.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

31. No matter whose house you’re in, you’ll love this Lego set.

If your child can’t spend time in the Hogwarts Great Hall in real life, this could be the next best thing. The Lego Harry Potter Hogwarts Great Hall Building Kit allows children to create a significant piece of Harry Potter memorabilia all by themselves. With four levels and a spiral staircase, this Great Hall definitely lives up to its name.

Recommended for ages 9 and older, this 878-piece set includes house banners, a sorting hat, and 10 mini-characters, including Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, Draco Malfoy, and Hagrid. Reviewers say it takes around four hours to build, so pull up a chair and bond with the kiddo in your life while recreating movie magic.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/LEGO-75954-Potter-Hogwarts-Building/dp/B07BKPKT2X”]Lego Hogwarts Great Hall Kit, $99.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

32. This tiny robot proves that big smarts can come in small packages.

Help your child grasp the basics of coding with the Ozobot Bit Coding Robot. The pocket-sized robot teaches beginners how to code with two different methods. With the help of a special marker, the child can draw commands that the Bit will respond to.

Kids can also use the advanced program editor to create Bit code. This small robotic ball comes with an activity pack loaded with exercises that can help your child learn even more about basic coding and robotics concepts.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Ozobot-Bit-Coding-Robot-Blue/dp/B01M8F2QG5″]Ozobot Bit Coding Robot, $44.88 from Amazon[/link-button]

33. Surprise your real baby with these toy babies.

Join the L.O.L Surprise gals as they go on their latest undercover mission with this Biggie Pet Dollmation set. The L.O.L. team is searching for clues that will lead to the whereabouts of their kidnapped pets. Your child can help solve the mystery with the fun accessories included in this set.

Look for secret clues among more than 15 surprises included with the toy, including glasses, a necklace, and a wishbone. But perhaps the biggest mystery of all is how many babies are hiding inside your set. Find out and look for clues to solve this puzzling crime!

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/L-O-L-Surprise-Biggie-Pet-Dollmation/dp/B07BHPPT1W”]L.O.L. Surprise! Biggie Pet Dollmation Set, $34.88 from Amazon[/link-button]

34. This could be the best toy of the holidays, hands down—or should we say “paws down?”

If your child wants a puppy for the holidays but you don’t relish the thought of taking care of a real dog, give the Little Live Pets Snuggles toy a try. This soft, interactive puppy moves and feels like a real dog with over 35 sounds and six modes.

Feed the puppy its bottle, pat its head, and rub its belly to reveal the puppy’s responses. Watch the puppy’s tummy move in and out as it breathes, and take a look at how the eyes close when Snuggles is sleeping. Get the fun of a puppy—without all of the work—with this cute and cuddly canine.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Little-Live-Pets-Snuggles-Dream/dp/B01CTVWFHI”]Little Live Pets Snuggles My Dream Puppy, $44.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

35. This educational toy teaches compassion and care.

Help your favorite youngster provide the best care possible to their dolls by giving them the Disney Junior Doc McStuffins Baby All-in-One Nursery set. This baby nursery is loaded with everything a kid needs to take care of sick dolls.

Use Doc’s laptop to diagnose the problem. Check the doll’s heartbeat with the stethoscope, measure height and weight with special tools, and kiss boo-boos “bye-bye” with special doll bandages. Encourage your child’s empathy and love of medicine with this educational toy.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Disney-Doc-Mcstuffins-Baby-Nursery/dp/B072PXCXSL”]Doc McStuffins Baby Nursery Set, $64.88 from Amazon[/link-button]

36. You’ll want to race to get this toy.

Experience the rush of professional drone racing—without the high costs and danger—with the Air Hogs DR1 FPV Race Drone. Designed for children ages 10 and older, this racing set comes with a headset for your smartphone, a durable drone, and lots of fun the whole family can enjoy.

Thanks to the drone’s camera, you can watch it fly through the sky from a first-person perspective when you look through the headset. Capture thrilling footage you can share with your friends, or simply enjoy the feeling of soaring through the air without ever leaving the ground.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Air-Hogs-DR1-Race-Drone/dp/B01N41LVJ5″]Air Hogs DR1 FPV Race Drone, $42.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

37. Silly faces aren’t optional with this game.

What do you get when you combine a classic card game with adorable emojis? If you guessed the Mattel Games UNO Emoji card game, you’re correct. The rules are basically the same as the classic UNO, except you get to play with cards that feature popular emojis.

However, a few special emoji cards are thrown in that require players to imitate and capture their favorite emoji expressions! Perfect for two to 10 players ages 7 and up, this game provides fun and can help children with their memory and color skills.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Mattel-Games-Emoji-Card-Game/dp/B01IX1KIP4″]Mattel Games UNO Emoji card game, $6.97 from Amazon[/link-button]

38. Add your favorite scent to homemade nail polish.

What’s even more fun than wearing nail polish? Making it, of course! Let your little one’s creativity and imagination run wild with this Num Noms Nail Polish Maker toy.

With one nail polish base, three nail polish scents, glitter, and stickers, your little one can create the nail art of their dreams. After you apply the custom polish to your nails, use the finger rests for drying—they even double as booth seats for Num Nom toys. Make the child in your life’s next manicure even sweeter with this creative toy.

[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Num-Noms-Nail-Polish-Maker/dp/B0728L8V1H”]Num Noms Polish Maker Toy, $10.52 from Amazon[/link-button]

Tags Commerce, social

Favorite Finds Motherhood

38 Of The Best Books From Your Childhood That The Kids In Your Life Need

Post author By Heather Vecchioni
Post date September 26, 2018

You might say the books you read when you were a child are some of your fondest memories growing up. You may even go on to say these tales you enjoyed with loved ones or by yourself contributed to the person you became as an adult.
Either way, it’s a solid truth that reading to children and spending time with them creates a bond that can last for a lifetime. When you’re ready to begin your literary journey with the little one in your life, start with these time-tested classics.

1. Not all spiders are bad.

If you’re looking for a tale that warms you heart—and softens your feelings toward arachnids—give Charlotte’s Web a try.

Written by E.B. White of Stuart Little fame, this wholesome story follows a little girl named Fern who saves a runt piglet named Wilbur. While spending time in the farm’s barn, the lonely pig befriends Charlotte, a spider who made sending secret messages on the web cool before the internet even existed.
Using her stealthy web skills, Charlotte would create uplifting messages for Wilbur, proving that even potentially creepy eight-legged creatures have some endearing qualities.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Charlottes-Web-B-White/dp/0061124958″]Charlotte’s Web, $7.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

2. Size doesn’t matter when it comes to being brave.

When you’re the youngest and smallest girl living in a Catholic boarding school in Paris, you have to look out for yourself, even if it means going on mysterious adventures. Fortunately, the heroine of the book Madeline follows this life rule and doesn’t disappoint.

Written and illustrated in 1939 by Ludwig Bemelmans, this popular tale portrays the life of Madeline, a courageous 7-year-old who goes on hilarious adventures, including running off to join a traveling carnival.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Madeline-Ludwig-Bemelmans/dp/014056439X”]Madeline, $8.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

3. Let your imagination run wild with this book.

When it comes to children’s books, it doesn’t get much better than Where the Wild Things Are.
Enter the world of Max, a little boy who wears a wolf costume and was sent to bed without dinner after he caused havoc in his house.

Max’s bedroom is mysteriously transformed into a jungle environment and he finds himself sailing to an island inhabited by monsters known as Wild Things. Max becomes the king of the Wild Things but begins missing his family and eventually returns home, where a surprise waits for him.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Where-Wild-Things-Maurice-Sendak/dp/0064431789″]Where the Wild Things Are, $12.45 from Amazon [/link-button]

4. Be appreciative of every gift you get.

If you’ve ever received a birthday present you didn’t like, you may learn to value it after reading this book. The Indian in the Cupboard, written by Lynne Reid Banks, shows that even seemingly disappointing gifts can turn into something great.

Omri’s friend gives him a plastic figurine of an American Indian for his birthday. Disappointed, Omri stores him in a cupboard that can only be locked with a skeleton key owned by his great-grandmother. The toy comes to life and Omri discovers a new best friend who he attempts to hide and keep as his own. Teach the kid in your life about not judging a book by its cover with this sweet story.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Indian-Cupboard-Lynne-Reid-Banks/dp/0375847537″]The Indian in the Cupboard, $5.59 from Amazon[/link-button]

5. Confusion and hilarity make this a kid favorite.

Introduce your little one to the delightful world of a gal who takes everything literally—and ends up creating hilarious disasters because of it—with the book Amelia Bedelia.

Coming from a family who takes everything at face value, protagonist Amelia does the same. She works as a maid for a wealthy couple and constantly misunderstands their instructions. Fortunately for readers, this confusion creates a variety of entertaining encounters for which Amelia is usually forgiven after she treats her unintentional victims with a tasty dessert. Go back to your own childhood with this classic story.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Amelia-Bedelia-Peggy-Parish/dp/0062209698″]Amelia Bedelia, $9.69 from Amazon [/link-button]

6. Entertain even the most energetic kiddos in your life with this inquisitive character.

What could be better than a mischievous monkey who lovingly drives his human companion crazy while getting into all sorts of trouble? After reading Curious George, the youngsters in your life will probably agree on the answer: not much.

The popular series begins with a story about how George, a monkey who lived in the jungle, was taken to America by the Man in the Yellow Hat. Naturally curious, George can’t help but find himself in a variety of sticky situations, from which he always comes out on top (and with a valuable lesson).
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Curious-George-H-Rey/dp/039515023X”]Curious George, $6.45 from Amazon[/link-button]

7. If you give a child this book, prepare for some giggles.

Hold on to your cookies—and milk—because this book gets little ones laughing in a hurry. If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, by Laura Numeroff, is a silly tale about a mouse who starts off by asking for a cookie but ends up getting a lot more.

The first of the If You Give… series, this sweet book contains an easy-to-follow, circular tale that children of all ages are sure to enjoy. And just like kids, this mouse shows that if you give him an inch, he’ll try to take a mile.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/If-You-Give-Mouse-Cookie/dp/0060245867″]If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, $11.49 from Amazon[/link-button]

8. Expand your child’s sense of culinary adventure.

If you’ve never been asked if you like green eggs and ham, are you even a kid? Ensure that the kids in your life don’t have to ask themselves that question by exposing them to the Dr. Seuss classic Green Eggs and Ham.

The book follows Sam I Am as he pesters his pal into trying this less-than-tasty-sounding treat. The list of possible places and people Sam suggests he could try it with grows longer and longer until his friend finally gives in. Show children that trying something new can lead to fun food adventures with this silly story.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Green-Eggs-Ham-Dr-Seuss/dp/0394800168″]Green Eggs and Ham, $8.59 from Amazon [/link-button]

9. Meet an unbearably cute mother and son duo.

The bond between a mother and son is one of the strongest connections there is, no matter what your species. Read about a perfect example of this type of genuine, innocent love in Little Bear.

Like most youngsters, Little Bear loves to go on lots of exciting adventures, like flying to the moon and playing in the snow. And fortunately for him, Mother Bear is always there to provide warm clothes, a hot meal, and lots of love. Strengthen your own bond with your little one by sharing this story together.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Little-Bear-Can-Read-Book/dp/0064440044″]Little Bear, $3.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

10. We predict a story that’s funny with a chance of silliness.

Imagine looking outside and discovering food is falling from the clouds instead of rain. Would this situation make you happy or leave you covered in a mess? Perhaps you can decide after reading Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs to your favorite kiddo.

Written by Judi Barrett, this edible weather story is sure to delight and spark the imagination of the little one in your life. Would blueberry rain drops be fun, or would hamburger hail be even better? Ponder the possibilities with this fun story.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Cloudy-Chance-Meatballs-Judi-Barrett/dp/0689707495″]Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs, $4.39 from Amazon[/link-button]

11. Classic fairy tales get a new twist.

What happens when you take classic children’s stories and give them a postmodern edge? The answer is The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales.

Narrated by Jack of Jack and the Beanstalk, the story features Little Red Riding Shorts, Chicken Licken, and other characters that may seem familiar—but not entirely. Take, for example, the eponymous Stinky Cheese Man, a riff on the Gingerbread Man who stays away from people for fear they will eat him. In reality, however, no one wants to get near him because of his offending odor. Silly and fun, this entertaining tale is sure to please.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Stinky-Cheese-Other-Fairly-Stupid/dp/067084487X”]The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales, $11.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

12. Be careful what you wish for.

Sometimes, having the power to wish for whatever you want isn’t always what it’s cracked up to be. Teach the kids in your life this valuable lesson by sharing the book Sylvester and the Magic Pebble.

Sylvester is excited to find a magic pebble that can make his wishes come true. Unfortunately, he ends up making a wish that comes with lots of consequences. After maneuvering through all the challenges, he finally makes it home to his loving family with some new adventure-filled memories and lessons learned.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Sylvester-Magic-Pebble-William-Steig/dp/1442435607″]Sylvester and the Magic Pebble, $9.94 from Amazon[/link-button]

13. Children’s books don’t get much more classic than this.

A stuffed rabbit is given to a little boy for Christmas. Because the bunny isn’t as fancy as the child’s more modern toys, the toys give him the cold shoulder. The lonely rabbit wants to become real and does so through his owner’s love.

Written in 1922, The Velveteen Rabbit has delighted children for almost 100 years. Introduce the kids in your life to this timeless tale that proves love conquers all.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Velveteen-Rabbit-Margery-Williams/dp/0385077254″]The Velveteen Rabbit, $9.59 from Amazon[/link-button]

14. Guess how much you’ll love this book.

What do you get when you combine the love of a father and son with a little healthy competition? The answer is Guess How Much I Love You.

Little Nutbrown Hare wants his dad to guess how much he loves him. When his dad asks, he wants to show him. He says he loves him as wide as he can reach and as far as he can jump. The problem is, Big Nutbrown Hare loves Little Nutbrown Hare just as much and is able to show him better. Watch as this cute duo tries to one-up each other when discussing just how much they care for each other.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Guess-How-Much-Love-You/dp/0763642649″]Guess How Much I Love You, $7.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

15. Make learning manners fun.

Your favorite little one will have the best manners on the block after you read Richard Scarry’s Please and Thank You Book.

Huckle Cat, Lowly Worm, and other characters discover the importance of manners in this beloved story that was written in 1973. The friends learn the appropriate way to behave in school, the importance of following safety rules, how to share, and more in this easy-to-understand story. Help your child learn the best way to react to everyday situations as you enjoy this book together.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Scarrys-Please-Thank-Pictureback/dp/0394826817″]Richard Scarry’s Please and Thank You Book, $4.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

16. A wardrobe can be full of adventure.

The first book in the series The Chronicles of Narnia, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, written by C.S. Lewis, will take you back to your childhood as you share this magical story with your youngster.

Set mostly in Narnia—a land filled with talking animals and mythical creatures—the book tells the tale of four English children who were relocated to an old country house due to wartime evacuation. The youngest child discovers a wardrobe in a closet that magically transports her to Narnia, and she eventually takes her siblings along. Discover adventure and witness the special bond between siblings in this fantasy book.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Lion-Witch-Wardrobe-C-Lewis/dp/0001720295″]The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, $12.39 from Amazon[/link-button]

17. This book keeps on giving.

One of the most thought-provoking children’s authors of all time, Shel Silverstein (who penned classics like A Light in the Attic and Where the Sidewalk Ends) created another iconic book with The Giving Tree.

This story begins with a young boy and a tree who develop a close relationship. The story follows the span of the boy’s life, beginning when he was a child until he is an elderly man. Watch how even though the relationship changes over time, the tree’s love never wanes. Help your tyke understand the importance of giving with this sweet book.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Giving-Tree-Shel-Silverstein/dp/0060256656″]The Giving Tree, $11.39 from Amazon[/link-button]

18. What do you see?

Help your little one learn about colors and animals with Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? Geared toward toddlers, this picture book asks various animals what they see. Brown Bear, Red Bird, Purple Cat, Blue Horse, and others talk to each other and take the reader on an educational adventure as colors and the meanings of objects are explored.

With colorful and unique illustrations by Eric Carle, this popular story inspired three spin-offs: Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What Do You Hear?; Panda Bear, Panda Bear, What Do You See?; and Baby Bear, Baby Bear, What Do You See?
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Brown-Bear-What-You-See/dp/0805047905″]Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?, $7.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

19. Explore the power of love with this classic.

The bond between a boy and a dog is tested in one of the most difficult ways possible in the heartwarming story of Shiloh.
Marty, a young child, finds a dog with whom he instantly makes a connection. He wants to adopt it, but unbeknownst to him, the dog already has an owner who isn’t kind to anyone—especially his pets.

The dog, Shiloh, runs away to be with Marty, who then has to keep Shiloh hidden and safe. See just how far Marty will have to go to save Shiloh—and if the two can stay together.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Shiloh-Quartet-Phyllis-Reynolds-Naylor/dp/0689835825″]Shiloh, $6.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

20. Here is where your child’s imagination can grow.

Written by Wilson Rawls, Where the Red Fern Grows is a gripping story about the love between a child and his animals.

When Billy has finally saved up enough money to purchase two dogs, he becomes a caring and dedicated owner to pups Old Dan and Little Ann. Soon, the threesome becomes the best hunters around. They face tragedy, however, and must learn how to carry on while still honoring the past.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Where-Fern-Grows-Wilson-Rawls/dp/0440412676″]Where the Red Fern Grows, $7.94 from Amazon[/link-button]

21. Even the smallest among us can handle big adventures.

When you’re a child who looks like mouse, was born into a human family, and is growing up in New York City, it’s safe to say you’re probably used to a little adventure. Pass on the meaning of friendship, family, and love to your little one by sharing the book Stuart Little.

Thoughtful and shy, Stuart lives with his parents, brother, and the pet cat and is always looking for his next great adventure. When his best friend disappears from her nest, it is up to him to find her. Get ready for belly laughs and entertainment reading about this clever character.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Stuart-Little-B-White/dp/0064400565″]Stuart Little, $6.98 from Amazon[/link-button]

22. Say goodnight to bedtime struggles with this story.

Introduce the child in your life to gentle and soothing poetry with Goodnight Moon.

Written by Margaret Wise Brown, Goodnight Moon has reached many generations and continues to be a favorite of both children and adults. This story features a little bunny who is tucked in bed and ready to fall asleep. But before he can, the bunny has to say goodnight to everything in the room, including socks, a picture, and the moon. Help your little one wind down, relax, and get ready for bed with this calming book.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Goodnight-Moon-Margaret-Wise-Brown/dp/0694003611″]Goodnight Moon, $8.94 from Amazon[/link-button]

23. The little one in your life is sure not to forget this book.

Forgetful days happen to the best of us, but you may prevent your child from having too many by reading the book I Just Forgot by Mercer Mayer.

Little Critter is having trouble remembering everything he is supposed to do one day. He forgets to turn the water off in the sink, he forgets to bring his lunch to school, and he even forgets to put on his rain boots. Have fun reading about Little Critter’s blunders while teaching your child about responsibility.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Just-Forgot-Little-Critter-Book/dp/0307119750″]I Just Forgot, $3.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

24. Connect with your youngster by sharing this 8-year-old’s story.

Life in an 8-year-old’s world can be tough; just ask Ramona Quimby. Join her as she navigates through life and overcomes some pretty major challenges in the book Ramona Quimby, Age 8.

While her parents are at work and school, Ramona is under the care of Mrs. Kemp. Along with having to behave while under the caretaker’s watchful eye, Ramona must also find the strength to juggle challenges in her life, like riding the school bus and dealing with kids at the play yard. Show a child you know who is experiencing these situations that they’re not alone with this fun book.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Ramona-Quimby-Age-Beverly-Cleary/dp/0380709562″]Ramona Quimby, Age 8; $6.39 from Amazon[/link-button]

25. Be true to yourself.

Help your child learn the importance of being themselves and feeling comfortable doing so with The Story of Ferdinand. Once upon a time, there was a young bull who was misunderstood. Instead of butting heads and playing with the other bulls his age, he preferred his own company, especially when under a tree, sniffing flowers.

When Ferdinand accidentally steps on a bumblebee, he runs about wildly and is mistaken for a fierce bull. People who observe this are convinced he’ll do well in the bullfighting ring, so they take Ferdinand away to compete, but what he does shocks and disappoints the crowd. Teach your child a valuable lesson with this endearing tale.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Story-Ferdinand-Munro-Leaf/dp/044845694X”]The Story of Ferdinand, $4.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

26. You’ll both love this book forever.

Watch a relationship between a mother and her son evolve in the touching book Love You Forever. The boy is an energetic and sometimes exasperating baby when the book begins, and his mother is always there to care for him and sing a nightly lullaby in which she promises to love him forever.

As they both get older, their relationship evolves, and even after he moves out, she still visits his room to sing the song. As time goes on, the boy is able to carry on the tradition of the lullaby with his own child. Create a new tradition with the kid in your life by reading this together.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Love-You-Forever-Robert-Munsch/dp/0920668372″]Love You Forever, $5.95 from Amazon[/link-button]

27. Oh, the lessons this book can teach the child in your life.

When the going gets tough, looking at the bright side is a helpful way to get through it. Teach the child in your world a positive approach to addressing life’s ups and downs with the Dr. Seuss book Oh, the Places You’ll Go!

With his signature style that combines humor, rhyme, and easy-to-understand language, Dr. Seuss creates a story that just about anyone can benefit from, regardless of their age. Toddlers, children, teens, and even adults can appreciate the message this tale delivers.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Oh-Places-Youll-Dr-Seuss/dp/0679805273″]Oh, the Places You’ll Go!, $12.76 from Amazon[/link-button]

28. The bears in this book know the real joys in life.

Get to know the members of a lovable bear family who are always there for each other in The Berenstain Bears and The Joy of Giving.

The holidays are coming, and Brother and Sister are getting excited about Christmas and all of the presents they are going to receive. During the Christmas Eve pageant, something unexpected happens, and the little bears learn all about the joy you can experience in giving. Teach your children this valuable lesson that can extend into a variety of aspects in their lives, not just during the holidays.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Berenstain-Bears-Joy-Giving/dp/0310712556″]The Berenstain Bears and The Joy of Giving, $3.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

29. Borrow this book and you won’t want to give it back.

The Clocks aren’t your average family. In addition to living underneath the kitchen floor of an old English country manor, they are also miniature. Go inside their small world in the book The Borrowers.

Parents Pod and Homily and daughter Arrietty comfortably reside in this small space that is decorated with minuscule furnishings they “borrow” from the average-sized people who live above them. Their secret existence is safe until Arrietty is spotted upstairs. Find out the fate of the tiny family with this imaginative book.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Borrowers-Mary-Norton/dp/0152047379″]The Borrowers, $6.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

30. Mice and rats join forces in this tale.

When Mrs. Frisby—a widowed mouse and mother of four—finds herself with a terrible problem, she learns that there are others out there who are willing to lend a hand in Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH.

The family must move to their summer quarters or else they likely won’t survive. The trouble is, one of the Frisby babies is sick with pneumonia and must not be moved. When Mrs. Frisby fears all hope is lost, the rats of NIMH—an extraordinary breed of highly intelligent creatures—come to her aid. See how Mrs. Frisby is able to return the favor to the rats in this Robert C. O’Brien classic.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Mrs-Frisby-Rats-Robert-OBrien/dp/0689710682″]Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH, $6.98 from Amazon [/link-button]

31. Increase your child’s appetite for learning.

With vivid pictures and an educational, yet entertaining, story, The Very Hungry Caterpillar has crawled its way into the hands of young and old alike since 1969.

As the title says, this green caterpillar is hungry. Ultimately, he takes readers on a tour of his culinary journey over the course of six days. On the seventh day, the caterpillar is done with his feast and surrounds himself in a cocoon. Two weeks later, he emerges as a beautiful butterfly who is ready to begin a new journey. You and your little friend can count how many apples, strawberries, plums, and other foods this fuzzy caterpillar devours.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Very-Hungry-Caterpillar-Eric-Carle/dp/0399226907″]The Very Hungry Caterpillar, $9.98 from Amazon[/link-button]

32. You’re never too young to help.

Meet a 10-year-old boy so talented at solving mysteries that even his local police department needs his help in Encyclopedia Brown, Boy Detective.

With a knack for trivia, Leroy (aka Encyclopedia) Brown solves neighborhood mysteries while running his own detective agency. Encyclopedia’s dad, the town’s police chief, also relies on his son’s uncanny ability to figure out some of the most baffling crimes. Collect evidence and clues hidden in the story to channel your own inner detective and see if you can solve the mysteries too!
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Encyclopedia-Brown-Detective-Donald-Sobol/dp/0142408883″]Encyclopedia Brown, Boy Detective; $4.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

33. Don’t waste any more time before sharing this story with your youngsters.

Imagine entering your kitchen for a midnight snack only to find yourself chatting with your eccentric neighbor about a supposed phenomenon, the very name of which causes your mother to faint. Well, that’s exactly what happens in the opening of A Wrinkle in Time.

Meg and Charles Wallace, the children of two scientists, go on an adventure with a classmate to find their father, who went missing when he began to research the scientific concept of a tesseract (or a wrinkle in time). Find out if the family is reunited and if this interesting theory is true in this thought-provoking book.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Wrinkle-Time-Quintet/dp/0312367546″]A Wrinkle in Time, $4.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

34. Word is this book is the best ever.

Help the kiddo in your life learn to read, identify objects, and work on letter and word recognition with Richard Scarry’s Best Word Book Ever.

This bright and colorful book has hundreds of clearly labeled objects you and your aspiring reader can go over together. And with cute characters to help introduce the items, youngsters are sure to enjoy this classic book, which has sold millions of copies worldwide.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Richard-Scarrys-Best-Giant-Golden/dp/0307155102″]Richard Scarry’s Best Word Book Ever, $12.79 from Amazon[/link-button]

35. It’s a safe bet your day will get better after you read this book.

Think your day is bad? Chances are it doesn’t compare with what goes down in Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day.

Alexander knows he’s in for a troubling day when he wakes up with gum in his hair. The hits just keep on coming as he encounters problems at school and back at home again. Let the special child in your life understand that bad days come and go, but they can get through them and even come out with a smile on their face.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Alexander-Terrible-Horrible-Good-Very/dp/0689711735″]Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day
$5.24 from Amazon[/link-button]

36. All pigs (and kids) should be themselves.

Olivia is a very special pig. She’s not afraid to showcase her talents (or lack thereof) and stand up for what she believes in, and she is always there to lend a helping hand to her family. Learn more about this sassy pig and follow her adventures in the book Olivia.

Never one to blend in, Olivia loves to wear clothes that make her stand out, especially if they have a splash of red. She also likes to follow her dreams, even if they get her in trouble. This top-notch picture book features author Ian Falconer’s minimalistic drawings that typically only contain the colors black, white, and red. Teach the importance of being happy with yourself and not being afraid to reach your goals with this fun book.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Olivia-Ian-Falconer/dp/0689874723″]Olivia, $10.94 from Amazon[/link-button]

37. You won’t want to keep this book a secret.

When orphaned Mary comes to live at her uncle’s house on the Moors, she discovers it is full of mysteries and secrets, including a hidden garden she wants to bring to life in The Secret Garden.

Uncomfortable in this 100-room mansion in which her uncle stays locked inside and she hears the sound of crying at night, Mary finds solace in a secret garden. Surrounded by walls and locked with a missing key, the girl must figure out a way to get inside and restore beauty to the enchanted space once again.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Secret-HarperClassics-Frances-Hodgson-Burnett/dp/006440188X”]The Secret Garden, $6.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

38. Never underestimate the power of helping.

Help can come in some of the most unexpected forms from the most unexpected people. Such is the case in The Family Under the Bridge.

Armand, a man living on the streets of Paris, befriends a mother and her three children who are also homeless. Reluctant to become friends in the first place, Armand overcomes his uncertainty and grows closer to the family. He invites them to share his living space under a bridge during the Christmas season and ultimately vows to find them a permanent home. Discover the power of helping others by reading this inspirational story.
[link-button href=”https://www.amazon.com/Family-Bridge-Natalie-Savage-Carlson/dp/0064402509″]The Family Under the Bridge, $5.99 from Amazon[/link-button]

Tags Commerce, social

Conscious Beauty Lifestyle

The #NoMakeup Selfie Movement: Is Less Makeup More Attractive?

Post author By Heather Vecchioni
Post date March 16, 2018

Beyonce did it. Chrissy Teigen, Carrie Underwood, Adele, Alicia Keys, and even Sofia Vergara did it, too. Heck, you’d be hard-pressed to find any female celeb who hasn’t joined in.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BZKOnU9AuXK/?taken-by=cindycrawford
And surprisingly, it isn’t a new exercise or plastic surgery that has musicians, actresses, models, and women in the public eye getting involved. Perhaps unsurprisingly, this recent trend involves appearances—but probably not how you think.
Rather than endorsing a new makeup or beauty product, scores of celebrities are encouraging others to embrace their natural beauty and go makeup-free instead. At least for the time it takes to post an Instagram selfie, that is.

Some of the biggest names in Hollywood have posted their #nomakeup selfies all over the social media platform. Recently, Christina Aguilera was brave enough to set her makeup-free face in stone—err, print it on paper—and her barefaced Paper magazine shoot quickly sent just about everyone into a tizzy.
The hope is that these makeup-less celebrities will encourage and empower all women to be happy and confident with their makeup-less faces—happy and confident enough to let the whole world see.
And although it’s obvious that many of these gals are gorgeous with and without makeup—especially with the help of camera and Instagram filters—it raises a question about beauty and attractiveness. Are these celebs—and people in general—better looking with or without cosmetic help?

Why do women wear makeup?

According to a study conducted by beauty retailer SkinStore, the average American woman spends about $300,000 worth of eye shadow, serum, mascara, foundation, powder, moisturizer, and other beauty products in her lifetime. She’s spending eight big ones a day to get her skin glowing, her eyes popping, and her eyebrows perfectly shaped.
Considering that women spend as much as the cost of a home on beauty products in their lives and that the makeup industry makes $18 billion a year, it’s pretty evident that women think that makeup is an essential part of their beauty routines. But the question is, why?
https://www.instagram.com/p/BgzT0ApBugr/?taken-by=papermagazine
When a woman looks in the mirror before applying her makeup, would she think she’s beautiful? If the beauty industry failed to exist, or at least didn’t plaster images of flawless, makeup-faced celebrities all over, would she really feel she needs cosmetics to be beautiful?
Although there will likely never be an answer to that question, we can come up with a few reasons for why women wear makeup and whether or not powders, creams, colors, and beauty makeup tricks (think contouring) actually do make them more attractive.
https://twitter.com/KardashianReact/status/971267006149414913
For starters, does a woman wear makeup to please herself, or those around her? Would she want to wear makeup if the opinions of others about her appearance didn’t matter to her?
Although some women may not want to admit it, what others think about their appearances does affect them.

“I think it’s a combination,” says Dawn Maslar, aka “The Love Biologist,” adjunct biology professor and author of Men Chase, Women Choose. “A woman may try out makeup to see how she looks, then wear it out to see the effect. If she seems to get more attention or comments with makeup, that gives her positive reinforcement. Therefore, she will more likely continue to wear makeup.”
Not only can makeup help women in the romance area, it can actually help them advance their careers.
https://twitter.com/SkSamantha/status/501050904288587776
Researchers Jaclyn Wong of the University of Chicago and Andrew Penner of the University of California at Irvine found that attractive people are favored in the workplace, according to their study published in the Journal of Social Stratification and Mobility. And we’re not just talking about Employee of the Month status here—they make more cash annually. For women, this means the choice of whether to wear makeup or go au natural could make the difference between a successful career or one that is only ho-hum.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BGuXGoMvwxz/?taken-by=beyonce
And of course, a woman may also simply just want to wear makeup. After all, who doesn’t want radiant skin and glam lashes?
“I think women believe they need it to look ‘better’ or ‘best’,” says Sue Weinschenk, PhD, chief behavioral scientist at The Team W, Inc. and adjunct professor at the University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point. “I think they want to because they think it improves their looks/makes them look younger. I think they do it both for themselves and others. Many, or most, women have a ‘self-story’ which is something like, ‘If I want to look my best, I need to wear some makeup.’
Wearing makeup is also often a way to enhance your appearance so that others may want to become romantic with you. One of the problems with this, however, is that women are often clueless as to what a man finds attractive—when it comes to makeup, that is.

Researchers Alex Jones at Bangor University and Robin Kramer at Aberdeen University in the United Kingdom conducted a study that focused on the preference of the amount of makeup a woman wears. In other words, they asked participants whether they liked more makeup or less makeup on a woman’s face.
The men in the study didn’t find too much or too little attractive; they typically liked it somewhere between the two. The women who participated thought that the men would prefer more makeup as opposed to a little or none. This means that women are often applying layers of beauty products, thinking that this is what a man wants. In reality, he might like makeup in moderation.

Why are we attracted to what we are?

By what standards are attractive people measured? Why are people attracted to some qualities but not to others? Turns out, it may be up to genetics.
“Genetically, we are attracted to people with opposite immune systems,” says Maslar. “This is called the major histocompatibility complex. The more opposite we are, the more attractive we find the other person.”
[pullquote align=”center”]“We are attracted to a combination of opposite and familiar.”
—Dawn Maslar, “The Love Biologist”[/pullquote]
The major histocompatibility complex gene helps the immune system detect invaders and is identified through a man’s scent. Typically, a woman is attracted to a man who has an immune system that is different than hers. It is thought that this is because children who have varied immune systems have a good chance of being healthier. Even though creating a hybrid immune system may have been more of a concern before the advent of modern medicine than it is today, it is still believed to play a role in who a person finds attractive.

The appearance of reproductive health can also impact who we find attractive. Certain characteristics in women, like an ideal hip-to-waist ratio, long hair, odor, and youthfulness, are thought to be primal signs of a reproductively healthy woman and are often a factor in whether a man is attracted.

But as you likely know, attraction is usually about more than just the physical features. Personality also usually plays a major role in attractiveness, and what we find attractive is typically what we are used to, says Maslar.
“We are attracted to a combination of opposite and familiar,” Maslar says. “We are naturally attracted to people that are genetically different than us. However, we have to have a sense of safety, and that comes from familiarity. For instance, we are more likely to pick someone who resembles our opposite sex parent at that same age if we liked that parent. Women who were raised by older parents are more likely to pick a partner older than herself.”

When it comes down to it, the answer to makeup or no makeup is one that is highly individual. Everyone has different tastes, and determining what one likes best is based on genetic, primal, and environmental factors.
The point of the #nomakeup movement is to empower women to feel comfortable in their own skins. To feel confident in their appearance, even without a stitch of makeup.
However, let’s be real: How many of these “natural” selfies are actually natural?
https://www.instagram.com/p/BVctD1RAMXM/?taken-by=gal_gadot
When you factor in the amount of alterations the women in the pictures have likely made to their appearances, the no-makeup selfies are misleading. Yes, women are beautiful without makeup. But the average Jill may feel like her no makeup selfie can’t compare with a celebrity’s, who has probably had botox, lip fillers, microdermabrasion, or some type of beauty-enhancement procedure. She may feel her makeup-free picture pales in comparison to someone in the public eye because she believes the celebrity looks flawless, naturally. In reality, the celeb may only look that way because she paid to have that appearance.
The bottom line is, whether you’re team #nomakeup or team pile it on, just be happy and comfortable with why you choose what you choose.

Tags Commerce, social

Healthy Relationships Wellbeing

Why Women Are Blamed When Men Cheat

Post author By Heather Vecchioni
Post date February 16, 2018

When word got out that Brad Pitt cheated on his wife Jennifer Aniston with Angelina Jolie, the world reacted in a typical way: It blamed his wife and his mistress instead of him. Pitt spoke out that he was “wasting his life” while married to Aniston, and those around him thought that Jolie brought out a spark in him. As such, it seemed Pitt gained sympathy for having a wife who didn’t make him happy because naturally, it’s her job to ensure that he is satisfied. In the end, Pitt walked away from the scandal unscathed, yet Aniston was blamed for not being exciting enough and Jolie was labeled as a home-wrecker.

Why wasn’t the finger pointed at Pitt? Because he’s a man.

Why Women Are Blamed

In general, it seems that women are labeled as responsible for the quality of a relationship because they are seen as the upholders of them. But why?
“Historically, most women were dependent upon men,” says family, marriage, and sex therapist Georgia Nickles. “There was a division of labor. Men were supposed to concentrate upon providing food and shelter, whereas women were supposed to uphold relationships, offer comfort, compassion, and sexual satisfaction, as well as care for their home and children. These stereotypical positions are deeply rooted into our modern-day thinking, even though there are changes in attitudes happening as the stereotypical roles are slowing evolving.”

And even though women work outside of the home now, raise children on their own, and have worked hard to be seen as “equals” with men, they are still unfairly blamed when things go awry in the relationship. Instead of blaming the person who strays, the world would rather try to figure out why the cheating happened and then place blame. Often, that blame is placed on the woman, even when it’s wrong.

“The blame never falls on one person in the relationship,” says Christopher K. Belous, PhD, a sexological researcher and professor of couple and family. “Often, infidelity is caused by both partners pulling away and distancing themselves from the relationship itself—and is a symptom of larger issues.”
He says that many people think that because a woman is supposed to “make her man happy,” that any infidelity her partner commits is her fault and that she did something wrong.

“This is absolutely untrue, and a myth of our culture,” he says. “Women are not the only people responsible for relationships, sex, and emotional connection.”
And yet, they are often still told they are.

What Women Are Blamed For

It’s safe to say that when a man cheats, he does so on his own accord. His wife or girlfriend doesn’t ask or force him to stray, but when he does, the woman is usually looked at as the guilty party. People want to know what she did to make him cheat, instead of figuring out what changed in him to make him want to stray.

And although this is far from fair, or the truth, it happens.
“Often, women are blamed for the choices that men make when they break the contract of fidelity in marriage,” says Nickels. “The blame usually centers around such reasons as the following: the women were not interested in providing enough sex for the man, the women were never interested in pursuing the man, the woman had become sexually boring, the woman had let herself go physically, the woman had lost interest in the husband in general, or that the woman had become hyper-focused upon children or other interests.”
In other words, women are accused of not having enough sex, not giving their partners enough attention, or spending too much time taking care of their children when their partner cheats. However, if a person is questioning why the affair happened, it’s important for them to take a look at their partner, not just themselves, says Hilary Phillips, licensed professional counselor and certified sex therapist.
“When there has been an affair it is important for both partners to take a long, honest look at the relationship dynamics and the personality/behavior styles of each partner,” she says. “It is possible that the person who cheated has characterological issues, such as narcissism or even sociopathy—these are the people who will most likely cheat again.”

The Real Reason Men Cheat

Besides having an uncontrollable attraction to someone they just can’t resist, men cheat for a variety of reasons. And some of the reasons have less to do with physicality and are more about emotion, or lack thereof.

“There are so many reasons that people cheat in a relationship; my experience is that it is very rarely just one reason behind an affair,” says Phillips. “Some common contributing factors are poor communication and feeling disconnected emotionally and physically from a partner. It is common for those who have cheated to say they felt hopeless that things would ever feel exciting and connected in the relationship again.”
They may also cheat because they have unrealistic expectations of the relationship and then feel disappointment as a result, says Nickels.
“They often do not have the communications skills to deal with their disappointing partners,” she says. “Additionally, men fail to see their own part in the marital disappointments. Also, men often have intimacy and sex confused, or they have unrealistic expectations of what women are supposed to do. Unable to deal with disappointment, men, many times, do an end-run around problems, which means finding an affair partner.”

What Women Often Do When He Cheats

Although women will typically blame their husbands or boyfriends for the affair, they also tend to place the blame on someone else: themselves. They tend to question what they did wrong, and then believe that if they had behaved differently, their partners would be satisfied and faithful. Most of the time, however, this is wrong.

“I think this is directly connected to that historical perspective and social belief that women are responsible for the relationship,” says Belous. “As such, and because they hold that belief (falsely), they end up blaming themselves for the infidelity—subconsciously saying to themselves, ‘If I had been good enough,’ or ‘If only I were better at sex,’ then their partner wouldn’t have left. Of course, this is also completely untrue.”
And in addition to themselves, women will also point at someone else other than their partners: the other woman.
You’ve likely seen the trashy talk shows in which the girlfriend and other woman attack each other once the affair has been discovered. Instead of throwing punches at the man, the woman who has been cheated on takes her anger out on the mistress, which further contributes to women taking the blame for infidelity. But why go after the other woman when your partner is the one who hurt you?
“Affairs are devastating and can rock the foundation of everything we know our life to be” says Phillips. “This can be so overwhelming that a common defense mechanism is to blame external factors. Often, with time, people can take an honest look at themselves and their relationship to truly understand why an affair happened.”

What They Should Do

If you do find yourself in the nightmare of learning your partner had an affair, the first thing you should do is avoid blaming yourself. Your partner has a mind of his own and you did not make him cheat, no matter what he or others say. And if you do find others pointing the finger at you, consider the source.
“I think any woman who is being blamed for the infidelity of her partner needs to check the people who are doing the blaming,” says Belous. “Are those people who are truly necessary or actually a good part of your life? I recommend to every couple that I’ve worked with who are going through a monogamous infidelity situation, to consider being more open and public about their situation and experience. Why should we shame ourselves for making a mistake?”
It is also important to understand that marriage has evolved from what it used to be. Along with working together to build a life, partners also expect their significant others to be their best friends, support systems, co-parents, and passionate lovers. That’s a whole lot of expectation for one person, says Phillips.
“With open, honest communication couples can learn to manage these high expectations and learn how to get some needs met from other sources—and create a monogamy agreement that works for them,” she says. “With a little less pressure on the relationship, we may see the prevalence of cheating, which can have devastating effects, come down.”

Dealing with your partner’s infidelity is difficult enough, but when you’re being blamed for the affair, you may face an impossible situation.
“When a partner cheats or breaks a contract, it is simply a maladaptive choice,” says Nickels. “It is very difficult to be the victim who gets blamed or shamed. Individual therapy can be very helpful in order to develop the ego strength needed to deal with that blame and/or shame.”
https://twitter.com/WeNeedFeminlsm/status/951095285886877696
And it’s also helpful to realize that you are not to blame, no matter what anyone says and that you deserve to be in a relationship with someone who doesn’t feel the need to stray.

Tags 50038026, balance, hemingway, social

Wellbeing

Health State To State: Why America’s Health Problems Are Nationwide

Post author By Heather Vecchioni
Post date February 13, 2018

The United Health Foundation recently released its annual list of the healthiest and unhealthiest states in the country for 2017.
The study looked at 35 core measures covering behaviors, community and environment, policy, clinical care, and outcomes data in order to make its decision.
The biggest shock in the study is that there really aren’t any big shocks. As you may have guessed, the states that average the highest incomes in the country are generally healthier than those that are less wealthy. Additionally, the northern states of the country fared much better than the South, as per usual. Just about the only big difference this year is that the healthiest state in the country for the past five years was knocked out of its slot and replaced by one that has a high drug overdose rate. Can you guess who it is?

The Healthiest States

These healthy states are no stranger to the healthy list, as they’ve all been here before. The only difference is their order.

Massachusetts

With its cold weather and delightful accent, Massachusetts was ranked No. 1 as the country’s healthiest state. Thanks to the lowest percentage of uninsured at 2.7 of the population and a low prevalence of obesity, the Bay State was able to knock Hawaii out of the top position.

The good health of the state likely has much to do with the amount of health professionals available to those who live there. The state has about 200 primary care physicians per every 100,000 people, as well as 80 dentists per 100,000 people.
Additionally, smoking in the state decreased from 18.2 percent of the population in 2012 to 13.6 percent in 2017, resulting in a 25 percent drop. Additionally, the percentage of children in poverty has decreased from 38 percent to 11 percent, over the last two years.

But even the healthiest state in the country isn’t without some issues. According to the report, Massachusetts experienced a 69 percent increase in fatal drug overdoses since 2012. West Virginia, New Hampshire, Kentucky, Ohio, and Rhode Island have also experienced significant increases over the last few years in fatal drug overdoses as well. The state also has a high preventable hospitalization rate, as well as large disparities in health status due to education.

Hawaii

For the past five years, Hawaii was known as the country’s healthiest state. This year, it came in second. Known for its amazing beaches and picturesque outdoor scene, it makes sense that a state with this much access to the great outdoors is healthy, but the food available also plays a major part, says Hawaii-based nutritional coach Chelsea Newman.

“The weather, the surf, and the Aloha spirit all play a part, but in truth, Hawaii has the most expensive food in the United States, and the highest cost of living so it really contradicts the ‘poverty’ blame that often comes along with unhealthy eating,” says Newman. “But generally, here, people really take pride in living close to the earth, supporting local farmers, and they make a big fuss of food. Plus, we’re in bikinis all year round; that definitely helps you be healthy.”

The cost of food greatly affects the quality of nutrition a person receives. As such, people who don’t have a lot of money to spend on food tend to go for what is cheaper, and, typically, unhealthy.
According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, when income levels decrease, the amount of healthy foods purchased does as well. For instance, high-quality proteins, whole grains, vegetables, and fruit are purchased less often and replaced with low-cost, energy-rich starches, added sugars, and vegetable fats as they are the cheapest way to fill hungry stomachs.

And although Newman agrees that poverty levels definitely play a role in the types of foods purchased, she believes that buying healthy food may be more economical than most think.
“Learning how to store food properly, eat simply, and eat real food is the key,” she says. “If Hawaii is known as the (formerly) healthiest state and we have the second-most expensive bread in the world, the fifth-most expensive tomatoes, and the most expensive toilet paper in the world, then you can throw the whole notion out the window that you need tons of money to eat healthy.”

And, of course, it helps that Hawaii is known for its warm temperatures and gorgeous scenery, which make getting outside to engage in physical activity that much easier, she says.
“Weather plays a major part in it; in Hawaii we can get outside all year long,” says Newman. “However, even in really snowy states, there are outdoor activities, but SAD (seasonal affective disorder) is definitely a factor. Vitamin D makes people happier, healthier, and much more likely to have energy.”

The Unhealthiest States

Unfortunately, not every state in the country has the same kind of access to outdoor activity, quality healthcare, and affordable, healthy food. As such, states that are affected the most by this are commonly found in the unhealthy category.

Mississippi

Mississippi was ranked as the least-healthiest state in the nation in the report. A variety of factors contributed to the state’s unhealthy ranking, including the lack of accessible healthcare. For instance, Mississippi has fewer than 45 dentists for every 100,000 people. Compare that to Massachusetts and New Jersey, two of the healthiest states in the country, which have more than 80 dentists per every 100,000. You can see where this lack of dental care could make a difference.

Mississippi also has a large obese population at 37.3 percent, as well as many children in poverty. These factors can make living healthy in an area that doesn’t have many healthy options extremely difficult.

Louisiana

The tendency for citizens of Louisiana to engage in unhealthy activities is one of the reasons why it was ranked as the second most unhealthy state in the nation. Like Mississippi, smoking, poverty, and obesity play a factor in the health of those who live there.
“Louisiana is the second highest state for obesity, has a high amount of tobacco users and sugar-sweetened beverage drinkers, combined with lower physical activity levels,” says Louisiana-based registered dietician and diabetes educator Lanah Brennan. “With this, there are higher rates of diabetes, heart disease, and cancer in Louisiana.”
Brennan also believes that the lower income level of those who live in Louisiana plays a factor in their health.

“People with lower income often have less access to fruits and vegetables and are more likely to purchase inexpensive foods that are high in added sugars and fat,” she says. “They also may be more likely to skip meals and overeat when food is available.”
Generally speaking, the South is typically less healthy than the North. A variety of factors can play into this, but for Brennan, it’s all about income and the hot weather.

“The southern states have a lot in common when it comes to poverty levels, rich foods, tobacco use, hot summers, and lack of physical activity,” she says. And when you add the vibrant food culture of the state, you can have a recipe for disaster.

“It is hard not to think about festivals and rich foods like gumbo and jambalaya in Louisiana,” she says. “The norm for food portion sizes is large and there, physical activity is not always a priority. Hot, humid summers in Louisiana make it difficult for many residents to get regular physical activity outdoors.”

Why is the United States riddled with health issues?

You may have noticed that when it comes to health, the United States is lacking compared to other countries in the world. The quality of mental and physical health is poor as people are less able to pay for doctor visits and healthcare, author Roberto A. Ferdman wrote in the Washington Post.
But food also plays a pivotal role in the health of the country, and it is only making it worse for itself, says Newman.

“It is so clear to me that people don’t understand how to eat properly, but it’s not their fault,” she says. “The United States government has terrible standards for nutrition. So when you raise families like this, not close to growing food, not close to nature, and not understanding what real food is, then you have a massive problem.”
Newman also believes that the lack of a healthy food culture in the United States makes eating more about filling up on those empty calories than it is about spending time with those who are important to you, which can make choosing unhealthy food easier. Instead of enjoying meals with friends and family and taking time to select healthy and natural ingredients, Americans usually reach for what is fast and cheap, which is typically unhealthy.

“I grew up in the UK, and food had a very different meaning than in the United States,” says Newman. “We had big roast dinners with the family and the neighbors, home-cooked meals at school, and Hawaii has a lot of those values around food as well. We have a beautiful melting pot of cuisines and culture around food within the United States, but the states don’t have an overarching culture for food.”

“Cultural food traditions are a beautiful thing, even if they tend to be a bit unhealthy, but what we have now is a boxed food culture, and that’s not really even food that is just a science experiment resulting in a lot of money for some big wigs in suits who really don’t care about the health of people.”
“It is a huge problem that I see in moving forward for the United States in the battle for healthy food.”

Tags 50038021, body, hemingway, social

Wellbeing

I Deja Du: Etiquette For Your Second (Or Third) Wedding

Post author By Heather Vecchioni
Post date January 15, 2018

Americans are known for a lot of things, and one of them is getting back up after getting knocked down. Believe it or not, this is especially true when it comes to marriage and divorce.
Although recent studies show that anywhere between 40 and 50 percent of American marriages end in divorce, the brides and grooms in those dissolved relationships will probably enter new ones in which they marry again.
In 2013, two in five new marriages included at least one partner who had been previously married, according to the Pew Research Center. One in five new marriages involved partners who had both walked down the aisle before.
This means brides and grooms aren’t giving up on love if it doesn’t work out the first time, and they are willing to take the plunge again. What this also means is encore weddings—weddings that happen after one’s first—are happening all the time.

If you’re considering trying your hand at marriage again, or are invited to an encore wedding, you’ll need to know the etiquette.

For the Bride

Let’s face it: You’re the star of the show. And since all eyes are on you, it’s a must that you know encore wedding etiquette.

The Dress

Believe it or not, white wasn’t always the color of choice for wedding dresses. In fact, up until the 19th century, it was common for brides to wear red, as a symbol of fertility, or black, if the soon-to-be husband was a widower. But Queen Victoria changed all of that when she wed Prince Albert in 1840.
Instead of donning the same tired dresses that so many brides wore before her, the sassy Queen designed her own dress and decided she wanted to wear white.

Since then, the color caught on. Tradition states that white should only be used for the first wedding—the color has long been associated with purity and, well, virginity. But is that tradition really important? If you spot a gorgeous dress that happens to be white, do you have to forgo the fabulous frock because of your past relationship?
“Absolutely not,” says Jenny Orsini, owner and creative director of Jenny Orsini Events. “Gone are the days of traditional wedding dress colors and rules about second marriages and proper attire. In today’s day and age, brides should only follow one rule: Keep it elegant, classy, and fabulous! But following color-appropriate rules? That’s a thing of the past.”

And as for style? Encore brides tend to veer away from conventional dresses, says Kelly Heyn, owner of SociaLife, a wedding and event planning company.
“I have found that many brides tend to veer away from classic and traditional gowns completely,” she says. “Some choose to wear white but keep the style of their gown informal by wearing a shorter, cocktail-style dress.”
So it seems that encore wedding dress etiquette states that there actually isn’t any etiquette other than to feel comfortable with, and fabulous in, your choice.

The Bridal Activities

Let’s face it, part of the appeal of being the bride is all of the extracurriculars that come with the title. From bridal showers to bachelorette parties, brides get to have all the fun.
But does that mean you’re obligated to have all the pre-wedding hoopla again? Lots of brides don’t and choose a more low-key route, says Orsini.

“A lot of my encore brides choose to forgo the typical large bridal shower and opt for a more casual brunch or dinner with their closest family and friends,” she says.
So if that’s your style, do you. But if you want a big bridal shower and an even bigger bachelorette party, then go crazy with it. This is your wedding, and you should do what you want. Those who don’t agree can choose not to attend.

For the Guests

If we’re being honest, being a guest at a wedding is a pretty sweet gig. For the small price of a few hours of their time, they get free food, entertainment, and a chance to witness two people promise to love each other forever. But unless they know the rules for guests at second weddings, they likely won’t be invited back if there’s a third.

The Gift

From dowries to wedding chests, the idea of gaining gifts as a result of marriage has been around for centuries. And when wedding guests began giving the happy couples presents on their big days, deciding what to buy was the biggest question. Nowadays, the present predicament extends to whether or not guests are expected to bring gifts when it’s a second or third marriage.

Just because it is a second marriage doesn’t mean it is not as special or important.

Before you scoff at the idea of not bringing a present to the nuptials, consider this: Wedding gifts are expensive. On average, a person spends anywhere from $73 to $245 on a wedding present depending on where they live. The typical cash present also sets guests back by about $160.
If you’re attending a lot of marriage ceremonies, the cost of all these presents can add up to a shocking amount. Money becomes an even bigger potential issue when you go to multiple marriages for the same person.
So what is a wedding guest to do? Should they bring gifts, even though the soon-to-be-newlyweds have been through this before?
“Yes, guests should still be expected to bring presents and attend any other event that coincides with the wedding,” says Heyn. “Just because it is a second marriage doesn’t mean it is not as special or important. If someone is paying for you to be a guest and attend their event, then it is only proper etiquette to bring a gift.”

In all likelihood, however, you were invited to the wedding so that you could be there, not so that you would bring an epic gift. Chances are your presence is the only gift the couple wants, but you should still bring a little something anyways.

Bringing up the Ex

It’s probably not a secret to your guests that they are attending an encore wedding. They likely know that you had a life before the person you’re about to marry now, and that there may even be byproducts of that past life, like children. But because a wedding is all about the future, the past that involves an ex shouldn’t be brought up, right? Not necessarily.

Lol my aunt brought up the ex girlfriend in her toast at the wedding

— Pickleback (@hayveghead) January 1, 2016

For best results, survey the room before you risk the chance. Avoid talking about the ex if you know it will cause problems. However, as long as you’re respectful about the person, the room shouldn’t gasp in horror upon hearing their name. It’s perfectly appropriate to ask about them, especially if the person is still well-received among the guests. But you may not want to focus on them too much; a casual inquiry is fine.

For the Couple

Brides and grooms with previous marriages under their belts may be unsure or even cautious about what is appropriate for second and third marriages. Is having all the trimmings going overboard, or should you just do what you want?

Wedding Traditions

Wedding receptions are usually laced with customs and traditions. Dances, garter and bouquet tosses, and all kinds of reception rite-of-passages are typically seen at first weddings, but encore weddings often feature less of that, says Orsini.

“With most of our encore weddings, the couples tend to steer clear of some of the more ‘old school’ traditions such as the garter and bouquet toss,” she says. “They still cut the cake and have special dances, however.”
And when those customs do take place, they often involve what seems to be a staple at encore weddings: children.

“What we often see are the children playing a bigger role in the wedding,” says Orsini. “Brides and grooms having encore weddings often have older children, and they are very important on the wedding day. Brides often dance with their sons, or older daughters actually serve as maids of honor. I definitely see a greater emphasis on the children.”

Types of Weddings

Second weddings are typically known for being more low-key than first weddings. Perhaps it’s the stress, money, or craziness that planning and having these large nuptials can bring that makes some take their encore marriages in the opposite direction. But sometimes it’s the fear of what others think that makes some downsize their weddings.

When it comes to your special day, however, you shouldn’t care what others think, says Heyn.

So do what makes you happy, as long as it’s a good party!

“I think brides and grooms should pay attention to what is most important to them and how their personalities are reflected throughout the wedding day,” she says.
“If they are big entertainers and they love to throw extravagant parties, then why not have a large wedding? If they are more conservative and would never have had a large wedding in the first place, then they should choose to have a more relaxed and intimate wedding. They shouldn’t be looking back on the past but rather living in the present and celebrating this new part of their lives.”

Some brides and grooms may think that they’ll seem a little extra if they want a big wedding with all of the fixings, particularly if they already had a big event for their previous relationship. But this shouldn’t stop you from doing what you want, says Orsini.
“If they want the trimmings and a big blow out wedding the second time around, I say go for it!” she says. “I’m a very big proponent for clients getting what they want and not worrying too much about what people may think. We all know you’ll never please everyone! So do what makes you happy, as long as it’s a good party! Bottom line is, your guests just want to come and celebrate with you. Why not give them a big party, if that’s your vision?”

You’re likely not trying to upset anyone by getting married a second, third, fourth, fifth, or hundredth time; You probably just want to have a wedding the way you want. Guess what? There’s nothing wrong with that. Last time we checked, you and your fiancé(e) are getting married, not anyone who has something negative to say about your marriage. So do what you and your future spouse want to do, and if that includes having the wedding of your dreams more than once, so be it.

Tags 50037351, balance, hemingway

Wellbeing

The Pink Tax: Why Women Pay More Than Men For Similar Products

Post author By Heather Vecchioni
Post date January 9, 2018

Being a woman is pricey. Besides all the products that only women are told they need (think bras, jewelry, and cosmetics), it turns out they have the odds stacked against them when it comes to saving money on any product.
The truth is, products that are targeted towards women are often more expensive than products for men…even when the products are nearly identical. Women are charged more for the same stuff.
If you think this is a bunch of sexist bologna, you’re not alone. Read on to find out why the price gouging occurs, the ways sellers target women, the products women will pay the most for…and how they can save money in spite of this.

The Pink Tax

Frustrated by higher prices, ladies? Well, you can thank a little something called the “Pink Tax.” According to USA Today, the Pink Tax refers to the price markup for merchandise that is primarily made for women. Odds are that products geared toward women, as opposed to those that are gender-neutral or “made for men,” will be more expensive.

In 2015, the New York Department of Consumer Affairs conducted an analysis of 794 products across five industries. They found that, on average, “women’s products cost 7 percent more than similar products for men.”
The study even lays out an almost-laughable Pink Tax through the ages. As children, girls’ toys are 7 percent more expensive than boys’. Their clothes, meanwhile, cost 4 percent more, and when they grow up, that number rises to 8. They’ll also pay 13 percent more than men for personal care items, and when they reach their wonder years, “women pay 8 percent more for senior/home health care products.”

In some cases, companies actually do have to spend more money to develop specialized products for women. But other times, they’re just being greedy, and the female consumer is conditioned to overlook it, says Melissa Archpru Akaka, an assistant professor of marketing at the University of Denver.
“The cost of production might be similar to men’s products, such as razors, but because women are used to paying more for their specialized products, they may be less price sensitive and more willing to pay higher prices,” she explains. “In this case, companies are positioning these products as specialized products for women to increase profit margins.”

Srdan Zdravkovic, an associate professor of marketing at Bryant University, agrees that manufacturers do hike up the costs of their products simply because they can. But he also believes that women can do something about it.
“The difference in prices charged is probably driven by the fact that the female consumer is willing and able to spend more on the equivalent products,” he says. “In other words, the price of any product or service is somewhere between the cost of the product … and the maximum price consumers are willing the spend on the product … . If the female consumer segment refused to pay higher prices for these goods … the price [of the goods] would drop.”

Buyer Beware: Sneaky Tactics Marketing Companies Use

Marketing companies spend big bucks to grab the consumer’s attention. Often, this is done through specific techniques that are designed to attract one gender’s eye as opposed to the other.
The next time you take a trip to your local superstore, look down the aisles that sell hygiene products. Chances are you can tell if you’re looking at the men’s aisle or the women’s just by looking at the colors of the products. Soft tones for women, bold tones for men. Pinks and purples for women, blues and blacks for men.

But a lot more goes into marketing merchandise than just a color scheme. “To assume that women are targeted only by using female-friendly colors would ignore the number of other effective strategies marketers are using to appeal to this important consumer segment,” says Zdravkovic.
“Product and service providers target women with a number of things,” he continues. “Some include the quality of the good … , relevant offerings, appropriate packaging that appeals to women, partnership with female-friendly endorsers, convenient access to the product, and association with female-friendly causes.”

Women, says Zdravkovic, usually respond to socially responsible and environmentally-friendly marketing messages better than men. Marketing companies use this knowledge to their advantage and often feature packaging and causes that appeal to women in this way.
“… using pinks and purples [to attract the female consumer] could be perceived as sexist today,” says Zdravkovic. “In addition to responding emotionally to colors, women’s emotions can be influenced by symbols associated with the product. Shape of packaging has to be functional … [, and the] package has to be easy to store. Attractive shapes and symbols help extend the time women—or men—pay attention to our products in the store.”

Marketers don’t merely target women, either, but specific groups of women. And depending on the target group—professional women, moms, athletic women—the message may change.

Products That Get the Upcharge

As mentioned before, the New York DCA study showed that women see higher prices for products throughout their lives. Want specifics?
Let’s start with childhood: Toys, bookbags, bikes, scooters, and even helmets marketed to girls cost more than the same types of products that target boys.

In adulthood, women’s dress pants cost six percent more than men’s do; their dress shirts cost 13 percent more; their regular shirts, 15 percent more; their jeans, 10 percent; their socks, 3 percent; their underwear, a whopping 25 percent.

Some call this [the] ‘shrink it and pink it’ strategy—make it smaller for women but charge premium price for it.

Finally, adult diapers cost women two percent more than they cost men.
For good measure, here are a few other products the study found women pay more for:

Shampoo and conditioner
Razors
Lotion
Deodorant
Body wash
Clothing
Canes
Sports equipment

How do companies decide what they are going to charge more for? The answer depends on many different variables.
“Perhaps women are looking for outcomes that are very different from men—[like a] wrinkle-free, smooth face—and ingredients in … products that achieve that outcome are more expensive than ingredients in men’s products that only call for increased moisture of the face,” says Zdravkovic. “Higher cost of goods sold lead to higher prices if we want to achieve similar profit margins for men’s and women’s products.”

“On the other hand,” he continues, “many of the female products are actually smaller and use less material than equivalent male products, so the cost of goods sold is actually less for female products, but they end up being charged more. Some call this [the] ‘shrink it and pink it’ strategy—make it smaller for women but charge premium price for it.”

Why are women charged more when they make less?

And just when you thought women had it bad, this little bit of information makes it worse: The gender pay gap is a very real thing.

On average, a woman brings in 79 cents for every dollar a man makes. Add the Pink Tax, and that’s quite a constraint: Not only is there a gap in wages between genders, there’s a gap between wage and prices for women.
Why would companies kick women when they’re already down by hiking up their prices?
“… I don’t think there is one blanket reason this occurs,” says Akaka. “I’m also not sure that companies are conscientiously pricing their products with the wage gap in mind. Companies are continually trying to find ways to increase profitability and sometimes are not focused on the social issues related to their practices.”

Akaka believes that by bringing attention to the Pink Tax, women can draw eyes to the wage gap, as well.
“This situation is a symptom of a more systemic problem,” says Akaka. “It seems the underlying issue for those concerned with the ‘Pink Tax’ continues to be tied to valuation of women’s work in the workforce. Companies will probably continue to price based on profit margins and what they believe target markets will pay for particular products. This occurs with products that cross genders, as well; however, increasing awareness about the ‘Pink Tax’ draws attention to the wage discrepancy between men and women, which is the crux of the issue and should definitely receive more attention.”

How to Save Money

It would be unfair for a woman to pay more for her products simply because she has no choice. But the sad truth is that this situation happens all the time.
The easiest way to avoid this unfair upcharge is to purchase the male versions of the products, says Akaka. But she also encourages women to take a stand, particularly when they feel the weight of the gender wage gap.

“If women feel strongly about the discrepancy between costs and wages, they can voice their concerns in more public areas and collaborate with other women to initiate change,” Akaka says.
You may not feel like you have much power when it comes to the Pink Tax, but you do. Companies hear you when their bottom line takes a hit. So go ahead and buy the blue razor, grab the body wash that has a manly scent, and throw caution to the wind when it comes to buying lotion in a bottle that isn’t covered in flowers. Tell your friends about it; while you’re at it, tell the world about it. Not only will the products cost less and likely work just as well as what you’re used to, but you’ll possibly start the change that ends the Pink Tax for good.

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Lifestyle

Should We Be Cool With Taking Cold Showers?

Post author By Heather Vecchioni
Post date January 2, 2018

While the cold shower is long-known for its libido-stymieing properties, the topic of voluntarily lowering the temperature of your water has recently become, well, hot.
It seems that everyone from YouTubers to health bloggers, and even perhaps someone you live with, is testing the benefits of cold showers. Considering all of the acclaim it has received, it’s difficult not to jump in on this trend.
However, we’d be remiss if we forget the fact that it is a cold shower. Instead of spending a few minutes of your day basking in hot water and letting your cares slip away, you’ll be freezing, probably shivering, and cursing the water that’s traipsing around on your skin.

But are the benefits worth the terror? Here we examine if, just like champagne, showers are better on ice.

Hair and Skin Benefits

Cold water showers can make you glow so hard that J. Lo will be jealous. From its color-complementing abilities to its cuticle-calming charm, even harmed hair can get a heavenly helping from some hardly-heated H2O. And your skin can get a heaping of this help with a dash of cold to remedy some cold-weather woes.

Forget what you’ve heard, your hair likes it cold.

Looking to get your hair luscious, smooth, and fabulous enough to star in its own shampoo commercial? If so, taking a cold shower may be your ticket to stardom.

You may not have known this, but your hair loves cold water. It has a thing for the way the chilly liquid wraps itself around each strand, leaving it close to frozen. But it’s not because your hair secretly wants to be a polar bear; your hair likes cold water because of how it makes it look.
Cold water flattens ruffled cuticles—the outermost part of the hair shaft—and seals them, helping to keep in moisture. The result is hair that looks smooth, shiny, and healthy. And since warm water helps the cuticle to open, which allows the shampoo and conditioner to do their jobs, it’s a good idea to give your coif a final rinse with some cool water.

You’ll come out of the shower feeling a little more chilly than usual, but one step closer to landing a prestigious hair modeling contract. Well, maybe not, but it will still look pretty dang luxurious.

Cold water knows that color that good isn’t meant to fade.

Those who dye their hair have a love/hate relationship with warm water. Although it does a fantastic job of removing buildup and other material that can make your hair color look less than vibrant, it can also suck the hue right out of it. So along with your gorgeous color going down the drain, so will the money you spent on getting it to look that way.

Instead of using color-fading warm water, go for the cold, says long-time hair dye enthusiast Macey Milstead.
“Whenever any water touches my hair, it has got to be cold—and I mean freezing cold,” says the stay-at-home mother of two. “This prolongs the vibrant, unnatural colors I dye my hair with.”
Milstead has long been a fan of bright and bold shades and finds that certain colors are more difficult to maintain than others.

“Currently, I am a hot pink beauty,” the Atlanta resident says of her hair. “It is one of the fastest fading colors. If I use hot water, the colors bleed so fast. If I use cold, the water comes out virtually clear when rinsed.”
The chilly water also helps to keep her hair shiny and reduces the amount of damage it endures, says Milstead.

Cool water can stop your skin from being so extra and just chill out already.

If the idea of freezing cold water against your skin doesn’t exactly make you feel warm and cozy, you’re not alone. After all, the point of taking a shower is to be comfortable and surrounded by all that steamy goodness. But no matter how amazing that warm water feels, it’s not doing your skin any favors.

As our external barrier breaks down, the skin becomes more prone to irritation.

“Hot water tends to strip natural skin oils and moisturizing factors from the out layer (epidermis) of the skin,” says Tyler Hollmig, MD, director of Laser and Aesthetic Dermatology at Stanford Health Care. “After the hot shower water evaporates, the skin is left dry, flaky, and is prone to rashes and irritation. This is one of the major reasons that eczema often flares during the winter.”
But eczema sufferers aren’t the only ones who experience issues while using warm or hot water when bathing: Just about everyone is affected.
“A colder, drier ambient climate, coupled with the temptation to take a long, hot shower, reduces the skin’s ability to keep itself fit and moist,” says Hollmig. “As our external barrier breaks down, the skin becomes more prone to irritation.”

Instead, Hollmig recommends taking lukewarm or cold showers for 10 minutes or less, as the cooler water temperature is less likely to damage the skin’s external layers. And skip heavy-duty exfoliants and aggressive use of the loofah, as well. Although they work well at removing dead skin, they can wreak havoc on healthy skin, too.

Psychological Benefits

It may sound crazy, but taking a cold shower is thought to come with psychological benefits.

Bye, bye, blues.

After a long, hard day, one of the most enjoyable and relaxing activities a person can partake in is a nice, steamy shower or bath. But if you’re washing yourself with warm water, you might not just be washing away some stress.

The bad news is depression affects more than 16 million American adults each year according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. The good news, however, is that taking a cold shower may decrease the symptoms.
According to a study published in Medical Hypotheses, cold showers can provide anti-depressive properties because of the effect they have on the sympathetic nervous system and the chemicals that are released in the brain during the shower. And because of the cold receptors in the skin, the icy water will send electrical impulses from the peripheral nerve endings to the brain. This feeling, says the study, may counteract depression.

Who needs coffee?

Sure, warm showers in the morning feel good, but are they good for your energy level? Warm and relaxing showers cause you to do just that: relax. The steamy water makes your brain and body think it’s time to snuggle up and get your chill on (not temperature-wise). But when you’re just waking up, this is likely the opposite of what you want, as a relaxed body is more inclined to hop back into bed than to take the day on with guns blazing.

Cool or cold showers can be invigorating by releasing endorphins and increasing heart rate …

That shocking little wake-up call of cold water will cause your body to experience an adrenaline rush, which can result in an energy boost. And it can leave you feeling good, too, says Catherine Forest, MD, family medicine physician at Stanford Health Care.

“Cool or cold showers can be invigorating by releasing endorphins and increasing heart rate,” she says, “which some people find appealing.”
So, the next time you’re contemplating sleeping in and potentially losing your job, hop in a chilly shower instead.

Overall Health Benefits

Cold showers aren’t just good for your hair, skin, and mind. They can also improve the wellness of your entire body.

Your body + cold water = a match made in circulation heaven.

Having good circulation in your body means you’re getting enough blood, oxygen, and nutrients to all of your organs. When things aren’t running as well as they could, you may experience tingling, pain, muscle cramps, and numbness, which is a sign that certain parts of your body aren’t getting the amount of blood they need to perform optimally.

Cold or coolness can decrease inflammation from injury … by increasing blood flow in the body as a whole.

These issues, however, aren’t anything a blast of cold water can’t fix, or at least possibly improve. Poor circulation is actually a symptom of something else going on in your body. In order to completely eliminate poor circulation, you’ll need to find out the underlying cause. But until then, cool water on the skin may do the trick.
Treating yourself to a cold shower causes blood to surround your organs, which may improve your health. It also helps your arteries pump blood more efficiently, which is good for your heart and the rest of your body, as well. Cold showers may also help with inflammation and injury.
“Cold or coolness can decrease inflammation from injury—although site-specific cold’s usually recommended—or by increasing blood flow in the body as a whole,” says Forest.

Wash away excess weight.

And if cold showers haven’t already worked their way into your heart, this might do it: These potentially uncomfortable plunges may help you lose weight.
Oh yes, shivering in the shower can stimulate weight loss, but it’s not because of the teeth-chattering cardio you’ll endure. It’s because of your new best friend, otherwise known as brown fat.
Your body contains two types of fat: white fat and brown fat. White fat takes up real estate in your body when you take in more calories than you burn. It’s responsible for making your clothes feel too tight and problem areas on your thighs, neck, waist, stomach, and arms. Basically, it’s the bad fat.

Fortunately, there’s someone else in your body who wants to kick that white fat to the curb: brown fat. Just like with cholesterol, fat has a good form and a bad form. Brown fat is the good form, as it insulates your body. And just like goose bumps, this fat is activated by exposure to cold temperatures. This means that spending time under cold cascading water can encourage healthy fat to form.

Want to take the plunge?

Although we’d like to tell you that jumping straight into a bone-chilling shower is going to be a cake walk, we can’t if we’re being honest. If you’re not a “jump in and get it over with” kind of person, start by ending your wash with a short little blast, and increase the torture, er, time, with each shower.

Yes, it will probably be shocking, and yes, there’s a chance you may hate every second of it. But when you experience the potential health benefits that spending just a little part of your day colder than you care to admit can have, you will likely think it’s worth it.

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Lifestyle

Here's What To Know About Early-Onset Alzheimer's

Post author By Heather Vecchioni
Post date January 2, 2018

Bill Gates recently announced he will invest $100 million to help find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease. The degenerative brain disease has struck several men in the billionaire tycoon’s family, as well as around 5.5 million Americans.

“My family history isn’t the sole reason behind my interest in Alzheimer’s,” Gates wrote in his personal blog. “But my personal experience has exposed me to how hopeless it feels when you or a loved one gets the disease. We’ve seen scientific innovation turn once-guaranteed killers like HIV into chronic illnesses that can be held in check with medication. I believe we can do the same (or better) with Alzheimer’s.”

As such, Gates is dropping half of the massive amount of dough into the Dementia Discovery Fund, a private group that is working on identifying new targets for treatments and attempting to “diversify the clinical pipeline.” The other $50 million is going to start-ups working on Alzheimer’s treatments.

“There are plenty of reasons to be optimistic about our chances: our understanding of the brain and the disease is advancing a great deal,” he wrote. “We’re already making progress—but we need to do more.”

Alzheimer’s is categorized into three types: early-onset, late-onset, and familial. More is known about late-onset and familial Alzheimer’s, although 13 percent of early-onset cases are familial. Early-onset occurs in people who are younger than 65 and is rare, accounting for only about 5 percent of the Alzheimer’s population. Those with early-onset also experience more of the brain changes that come with Alzheimer’s than those who develop it later on in life do.

Alzheimer’s Disease 101

Alzheimer’s disease is most commonly known for its devastating ability to wipe out the memory of those who have it. Over time, however, it will also damage the person’s thinking skills, leaving them unable to perform even the simplest tasks.

Discovered in 1906 by Dr. Alois Alzheimer, the condition also creates significant changes in a person’s brain.

“Two abnormalities central to the disease are plaques and tangles,” says Heather M. Snyder, PhD and Senior Director of Medical and Scientific Operations at the Alzheimer’s Association.

“Plaques are formed by clumps of beta-amyloid protein that interfere with cell-to-cell communication in the brain. Tangles occur when tau protein in the brain—a key component in the brain’s transport system—twist into abnormal tangles, disrupting delivery of nutrients and other essential materials within the brain.”

“Researchers are working to better understand the precise role plaques and tangles play in the disease and how to prevent or slow their development.”

The damage begins in the hippocampus, the part of the brain that is responsible for holding onto memories. Over time, and as more neurons die, other parts of the brain are affected. Eventually, the brain can experience significant shrinkage and prevent people from engaging in simple tasks like eating.

Although it is listed as the sixth leading cause of death in Americans, the disease isn’t usually what kills. Rather, the complications that come with the disease are thought to cause death. For example, a person who is bedridden because of Alzheimer’s may develop a fatal blood clot. Weight loss and other complications can result in a weakened immune system, which can lead to problems that may end in death.

Symptoms of Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia, a syndrome that includes a combination of memory loss and the inability to perform simple tasks that is so significant it affects a person’s daily life. Alzheimer’s disease accounts for 60 to 80 percent of all dementia cases.

Early-onset Alzheimer’s differs from late-onset and familial in that it typically appears when a person is in their forties or fifties, as opposed to when they’re 65. And although memory loss and confusion happen to even the healthiest brains from time to time, it’s worrisome when it happens progressively more than usual.

But it’s more than forgetfulness that is a cause for concern.

Other symptoms of early-onset Alzheimer’s include trouble with time and place, difficulty completing familiar tasks, challenges in planning and problem solving, trouble speaking, misplacing things, withdrawal, and decreased or poor judgment.

Who gets Alzheimer’s?

Unfortunately, when it comes to Alzheimer’s, just about everyone is game. However, genetics do play a factor. Your chances of getting Alzheimer’s, either early-onset or late-onset, are increased if you have a parent or sibling who is affected, says Snyder.

Familial Alzheimer’s, however, is a whole different ball of wa
x. Just like early-onset, familial Alzheimer’s is rare, affecting only about 2 percent of the Alzheimer’s population. It is the result of a mutation that affects one to three genes that are known to aid in the development of Alzheimer’s: PSEN1, PSEN2, and AAP. Those who have relatives with familial Alzheimer’s are just about guaranteed to inherit the condition, as well.

Alzheimer’s is also more prevalent in certain groups, and researchers aren’t sure why that is.

“Current estimates indicate that African Americans are twice as likely to develop the disease,” Snyder says. “Hispanics are one-and-one-half times as likely. People living with Down’s syndrome are at higher risk, and two-thirds of Americans with Alzheimer’s are women.”

Researchers are currently examining what mechanisms and underlying biology may be contributing to why the disease targets certain people, including genetics, and variations in health, lifestyle and environmental risk factors, she says.

Is genetic testing worth it?

Since medical professionals have identified which genes affect Alzheimer’s, it makes sense to wonder if genetic testing to determine if you will develop the disease is beneficial. The problem is that the tests don’t provide a definitive answer, says Snyder.

“Unless a person has familial Alzheimer’s that guarantees Alzheimer’s (2 percent or fewer of all cases), a genetic test will only indicate if someone is at greater or lower risk for the disease,” she says. “The Alzheimer’s Association cautions against routine genetic testing for Alzheimer’s disease risk until an individual has received proper counseling and understands the information necessary to make an informed decision, including the social and economic factors that could be impacted by having this genetic information.”

In other words, you’ll need to ask yourself if finding out that you might have a greater chance of developing Alzheimer’s than the next guy does is worth the effect it may have on your life. Since you won’t receive a definite answer of whether or not you’ll have the condition, it may not be worth the what-ifs you’ll likely experience after receiving the results.

After the Diagnosis

Receiving a late-onset Alzheimer’s diagnosis isn’t a walk in the park. But finding out you have early-onset Alzheimer’s is typically worse.

It’s life changing, not only for the person receiving the diagnosis but for their loved ones as well.

Those with early-onset often begin experiencing symptoms while they are still working. This can create problems that people who develop the condition later on in life don’t usually have to worry about, says Snyder. They may find it gets increasingly difficult to perform their duties at the same level they did prior to the diagnosis and may also lose their jobs because of it.

As such, providing for their families, paying college tuition for children, and keeping up with the mortgage can become a struggle, particularly if the person with Alzheimer’s is the primary financial provider for the family. Because they are younger, they may not have the financial means to be able to retire. And since Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, it only gets worse and worse.

“It’s life changing, not only for the person receiving the diagnosis but for their loved ones as well,” Snyder says. “Following a diagnosis, it’s important for the individual and family members to educate themselves about the disease, available treatments, and care and support services that can help navigate current and future challenges associated with the disease, including the emotional aspects of coming to terms with a diagnosis.”

And although there isn’t currently a cure for Alzheimer’s, medications are available that can help to manage the symptoms. Participation in trials is also encouraged, as patients have access to treatment therapies that are in development that they may not otherwise.

What to do if you Think You May Have Early-Onset Alzheimer’s

Age-related changes in memory and thinking are expected. Experiencing them in your thirties, forties, or fifties, however, is a bit worrisome, and something you should definitely get checked out, cautions Snyder.

“Most everyone experiences occasional memory lapses, but when memory or cognition issues become more frequent and start interfering in your daily life—it’s important to be evaluated by a physician,” Snyder suggests. “Having trouble with memory does not mean you have Alzheimer’s. Many health issues can cause problems with memory and thinking.”

Joining the cause can help families facing the disease know they are not alone in their fight.

Thyroid problems, depression, drug interactions, excessive alcohol use, and certain vitamin deficiencies can all cause dementia-like symptoms, says Snyder. But the good news is that when the issues are caused by a treatable condition like these, the damage may be reversed.

Receiving an early-onset Alzheimer’s diagnose may seem like something you can’t come back from. Having a loved one find out they have it can also make your world feel like it will never be the same again. And although you may face challenges, you can provide hope by joining the fight against Alzheimer’s, says Snyder.

“You can volunteer at your local Alzheimer’s Association office, participate in fundraising events such as the Walk to End Alzheimer’s and The Longest Day, advocate for more research funding, or sign up to participate in a clinical study as a healthy volunteer through the Alzheimer’s Association Trial Match,” she says. “Joining the cause can help families facing the disease know they are not alone in their fight.”

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Wellbeing

7 Dental Myths You Probably Believe

Post author By Heather Vecchioni
Post date December 19, 2017

Did you hear the one about the fossilized teeth that were found in Germany that

According to research and interviews from National Geographic, the teeth were likely from a pliopithecoid, a member of an extinct superfamily of primates that predated the evolutionary split between Old World monkeys and apes, the latter of which later split off into another two categories, one of which contains humans.

Basically, these teeth are about as related to humans as your third cousin twice-removed’s roommate is to you.

Trying to find the cold, hard tooth, er, truth about teeth is a difficult task. And through the years, you’ve likely heard a thing or two about teeth that has left you scratching your head, making you wonder if you need to clean your ears or if what you were told is actually correct.

Here, we chomp down on some of the most common dental myths around and find out whether or not they have any real bite to them.

Myth 1: Pregnant women don’t have to worry about bleeding gums; they’re just sensitive because of the pregnancy.

Did you just floss, or did you turn into a sloppy vampire? If you’re not sure, there’s a chance you could be pregnant.

of the little guys are crawling around your mouth as we speak. And although that’s slightly more than a bit creepy, it’s totally normal.

“All of us share our mouths with thousands of species of bacteria,” Simon says. “Most of them don’t cause any problems, but some bacteria eat the same things we eat—especially sugar and carbohydrates—that get digested to become sugar.”

“As they consume the sugar, they produce acid that can create holes in our teeth, and thus, cavities are formed. Without the bacteria, sugar couldn’t form cavities; however, science hasn’t figured out a way to eliminate the bacteria that lives in our mouths!”

Until that fateful day, make sure to get your brush and floss on daily.

Myth 4: The more often and harder you brush, the healthier your teeth will become.

You know that feeling when your teeth are so covered in sugar that they seem to be growing hair? And to get rid of it, you brush your teeth until they are within a few inches of their lives? While it makes sense that scrubbing your chompers with some serious power is the best way to remove that icky film, it can actually do more harm than good.

Dentist told me that I brush my teeth too hard. Ah ma’am, pardon my biceps but you think I can control these pythons when I’m combatting gingivitis & tartar? Certainly not!

— Henry Dorgan (@HDtheTVman) December 1, 2017

“While brushing and flossing frequently is an important health habit, brushing with too much force can damage the gums and teeth,” Simon says. Instead, “always use a soft toothbrush, and don’t push very hard while brushing in small circles, angling towards your gums.”

Myth 5: You should brush immediately after every meal.

If you’re tempted to reunite with your toothbrush as soon as you finish swallowing your last bite of food, hold off for just a bit. Even if you think your food is attempting to make a lasting impression on your breath, it’s a good idea to allow it to marinate for a bit.

“You should brush after every meal; however, waiting a while immediately afterwards allows your saliva to restore the pH balance of your mouth and makes it less likely that you will remove layers of tooth enamel along with the plaque and bacteria,” says Simon.

If you can’t wait or just aren’t able to tend to your pearly whites anytime soon, Simon suggests chewing some sugar-free gum. It can increase the flow of saliva and help protect your teeth.

Myth 6: Poor dental hygiene alone is the cause of bad breath.

Sure, everyone has less than fresh breath after certain foods, but brushing, flossing, and mouthwash usually get the job done. If you find that you have a foul mouth more often than not, however, it may not have anything to do with your oral cavity.

“Bad breath can be a sign that you need to brush and floss, but it can also indicate more serious conditions,” Simon says.

“Mouth infections like periodontitis can cause bad breath, and so can medical conditions like liver disease or complications of diabetes. If you notice bad breath along with other symptoms, this can be an important thing to talk about with your doctor or dentist.”

Myth 7: You’ll eventually lose all of your teeth.

Getting dentures seems to be a rite of passage for most, and many believe that they are destined to a life of false teeth. After all, how many grandparents do you know that still rock their entire OG adult tooth set? You probably don’t know many, but this doesn’t have to be the case for everyone, says Simon.

“With proper care and regular dental visits, anyone can expect to have their teeth for the rest of their lives,” she says. “Losing teeth isn’t a normal sign of aging, and even people who are at high risk of tooth decay can work with their dentist to protect and keep their teeth.”

Dental care is serious business and is something you shouldn’t neglect. Not only can being a little lazy cause gum disease and problems with your teeth, poor dental hygiene can also result in serious problems with your health. In fact, cardiovascular disease, endocarditis (an infection in the lining of your heart), and premature birth and low birth rate are all linked to inadequate dental care.

So the next time you feel like skipping a flossing session or don’t want to brush, remember that your mouth—and your body—want you to stop being a slacker, and just do it already.

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Myth 2: Baby teeth cavities don’t need fillings because the teeth are just going to fall out anyway.

Myth 3: Sugar by itself is bad for your teeth.