3+ Clever Graduation Candy Party Ideas
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Fill jars with these clever candies! Here are the supplies you will need:
DIY Firepit Snack Kit
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This is a super fun gift idea for summer, Father's Day or just because! You'll need:
lighter/kindling
marshmallows
graham crackers
Fiddle Faddle
paper towels
Flipz chocolate covered pretzels
7+ Free and Cheap Summer Movie Options For Kids
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Stop by the Summer Movie Clubhouse at Cinemark Theaters.
From June 19 – August 10, participating Cinemark Theaters will be hosting an 8-Week Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse event every Wednesday. See kid-friendly movies for just $1.50 per ticket, and save on snacks, too, with $1 off kids’ snack packs and popcorn and drink combos during Summer Movie Clubhouse showtimes.
Head here for more details and showtimes, and to find a participating theater near you.
Regal Theaters Summer Movies for Kids Just $2!
Regal Theaters has announced that during their Summer Movies for Kids, their pricing will be $2, and Regal Crown Club members will get half-off popcorn on chosen dates! While there isn’t much information if we look at patterns from previous years, this promo will last longer than many others, with extended dates going all the way to September.
Visit their site for more details and to find a participating theater near you.
Summer Movie Camp Only $3 at AMC Theaters
Starting June 24th, AMC Theaters will kick off its own deal for families with its Summer Movie Camp. This sequence of films will run through Aug. 14th and tickets will cost $3!
Visit here for movie selection.
Catch a $2 movie at Classic Cinemas every Wednesday.
From June 5 through August 7, Classic Cinemas will show family-friendly movies for just $2 per ticket. You can get reserved seating tickets online with no convenience fee or buy tickets at the theatre. Doors open at 9 AM for entertainment and games, and the movie begins at 10 AM.
All locations will have a Wednesday morning showtime for guests with special sensory needs. Moviegoers can talk and move around with the lights turned up and the sound turned down.
Visit the Classic Cinemas site for the 2024 lineup and more details.
Take the kids for some inexpensive Harkins Summer Movie Fun.
A season pass for the 2024 Harkins Summer Movie Fun program costs just $8. This price grants admission to eight movies during the eight-week program.
The SMF Program is exclusively for children 13 and under, but adults can purchase season passes for the same price as long as they’re accompanying a child to each movie.
Harkins Summer Movie Fun runs from June 5th through July 28th with 9:45 AM showtimes. Check the Harkins Summer Movie Fun 2024 page for all the details!
See 10 movies for $25 at Megaplex Theatres.
Megaplex Theatres are showing one kids’ movie a week for 10 weeks and offering passes to see all 10 of the movies for just $25! Passes may be purchased online or at any participating Megaplex Theatres Box Office. Head on over to their website to see the summer movie schedule based on your location.
Take the whole family to Phoenix Theatres for FREE movies all summer long!
This summer, Phoenix Theatres will be showing family-friendly movies for FREE at 10 AM every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday morning. Doors open at 9 AM, and all age groups are welcome. Plus, they’ll have a special Kiddie Meal available! Find a location near you.
10+ Free Summer Reading Programs For Kids
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1. Get a free book with Barnes & Noble’s Reading Program.
The Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program welcomes children in grades 1 – 6 to join in the fun. Encourage your child to select eight books from their personal collection, borrowed from a library, or purchased from Barnes & Noble. They can then complete the provided printable reading journal. Once your child finishes reading, simply return the journal to your nearby Barnes & Noble store between July 1 and August 31, 2024. As a reward, your child will be able to choose a free book.
2. Participate in the Chuck E. Cheese Reading Challenge to get 10 free Play Points.
When your child reads every day for two weeks, they’ll earn 10 play points in the Chuck E. Cheese Reading Challenge! This one takes place year-round. It’s worth noting that you must make a food purchase to redeem your reading challenge worksheet for the 10 free points.
3. Earn $5 in Bookworm Bucks when you join the Half Price Books Feed Your Brain Summer Reading Camp.
Have your kids read and record their minutes with a reading log from Half Price Books’ website. After 300 minutes of reading, they’ll earn $5 in Bookworm Bucks that work just like gift cards. This one is open to all kids 18 and under. The program starts June 1 and reading logs must be in by July 31 to earn the $5 Bookworm Bucks.
4. Earn digital rewards through Scholastic’s Summer Reading Program.
From now until September 12, children can join the Scholastic Summer Reading Program. They’ll get exclusive access to Scholastic Home Base, filled with books, live events, and entertaining games designed specifically for kids.
As part of this program, young readers will be motivated to keep track of their reading streaks. The more they read (and the longer their reading streak) the more digital fun they can unlock and access. This program also helps donate books to kids who don’t have access to books in rural America.
Parents can download Scholastic Home Base or get the free app for iOS or Android.
5. Get a free baseball cap during the annual Books-A-Million summer reading program.
This year, kids can earn a free water bottle by reading four of the selected Summer Reading Adventure books from Books-A-Million. Choose four books from their pre-selected collection, fill out the printable log book, and return the log to your local BAM! store for your free baseball cap.
6. Local public libraries offer reading programs and prizes.
Most public libraries offer summer reading programs for kids and even activities like storytime.
7. Turn in a book report to Showcase Cinemas and watch a movie for free.
Bookworm Wednesdays is a reading program designed to inspire young children to read books throughout the summer. Kids receive free movie admission to a designated children’s film of their choice each week. All they have to do is present a printable book report at a participating box office of Cinema de Lux, Showcase, or Multiplex Cinemas.
Bookwork Wednesdays will return in July
Parents or guardians who accompany their children, as well as children under six years old, can enjoy free admission without the requirement of submitting a book report.
8. Tell your teachers about reading programs like Pizza Hut’s BOOK IT!
Pizza Hut’s Camp BOOK IT! is open to all families with PreK-6th grade students (ages 4-12). This parent-lead reading camp allows you to set goals, track reading, and reward your students, in a digital dashboard. When your child reaches their goal, they will receive a certificate for a free Personal Pan Pizza at participating Pizza Hut locations. Find out more information about the Pizza Hut BOOK IT! program, which starts October 1, 2024.
9. Teachers, enroll your students in the Panda Express Read With Me program.
Enroll your students in the Panda Express Read With Me reading program online. Each student will have a goal of reading five books. Once each child reaches their goal, they’ll get a coupon they can redeem (in the past we've seen free meal coupons) for freebies at Panda Express. This reading program is recommended for elementary school students who are reading, typically grades Pre-K/TK – 5th grade (ages 5-11).
10. Earn a free T-shirt with the Mensa reading program.
Mensa offers a free t-shirt when your child takes part in the Mensa Excellence in Reading Program. Your child can print the list that best meets the level of their ability or interest, regardless of age or grade level. Once printed, be sure to record the date the books were read and their rating by hand. Electronic logs will not be accepted. Once your child has read the entire list of books in their list, the reader and an adult will need to sign it and return it and the t-shirt order form to the Mensa Foundation at the address provided.
11. Choose a free book to keep or donate with Kellogg’s Feeding Reading Program.
From now until October 30, 2024 kids can earn a free book for every eligible Kellogg’s product you purchase with the Kellogg’s Feeding Reading program. Just purchase any participating product, upload each separate receipt (up to 10), and select a book of your child’s choice to keep or donate. Receipts must be uploaded by Oct. 30, 2024, and free books must be selected no later than Nov. 15, 2024.
15+ Free Summer Programs For Kids
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National Geographic's Summer Programs
The Planet Possible Family Challenge is a great way to make sure there's minimal summer brain drain. This series of projects and crafts from National Geographic hopes to inspire families to get outside, explore the habitats that surround us, and empower kids to understand why it's so important to protect them. Each challenge has three steps:
MAKE IT! A step-by-step DIY for a tool or craft that will help kids explore the microhabitat
TRY IT! Prompts or activities to encourage kids to explore and learn about biodiversity, using the Make It! craft
SAVE IT! Kid-friendly tips on protecting the microhabitat
Cost: National Geographic Premium With Disney+ is $10.99 a month. You get access to Disney+ in addition to a digital subscription to National Geographic.
Online: nationalgeographic.com/family/topic/planet-possible-family-challenges
Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program
If you need an incentive to get the kids to go screen-free every once in a while, check out the Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program. Print out the Summer Reading Journal and have your kids write down which books they've read and why they liked them. Once they’ve read eight books, bring the completed journal to your local Barnes & Noble between July 1 and August 31 to get a free book.
Cost: Free
Online: barnesandnoble.com/b/summer-reading
National Inventors Hall of Fame: Camp Invention
A new national summer program for kids in 2024, Camp Invention is for kids grades K-6. It's a week-long STEM camp where kids will build thinking skills with hands-on challenges and open-ended adventures, enjoy mind-teasing games, and meet new friends.
There are over 1,000 locations nationwide and there's even an at-home camp experience that can be mailed to your doorstep.
Cost: $270 a week
Online: invent.org/camp-invention
Outschool Programs for Kids
Outschool offers dozens of classes and courses for ages ranging from toddler to tween. Do they want to learn another language? There's a class for that. How about beginning hip-hop or even wilderness skills? You can find that too.
Cost: varies (some start as low as $14)
Online: outschool.com
Family Maker Camp
Get your whole crew involved with Family Maker Camp—it’s a great way to flex your imagination and create something new. Join in on one of their live streams or pick something that sounds interesting out of their project library. Before you know it, you’ll have built a hovercraft or a musical instrument.
Cost: Free
Online: makercamp.com
Numerade
If you’re worried about getting your middle or high school kids up to speed in the new school year, Numerade has a fabulous (and free) solution. They’re offering free STEM summer camps covering SAT test prep, pre-calculus, physics, and more.
Cost: Free
Online: numerade.com/summer-camp
Walk & Talk from Marathon Kids
Research shows that kids connect when they're participating in an activity with you whether it's cooking, playing outside or being creative. The non-profit organization Marathon Kids, which works to ignite the joy of physical activity in kids, is launching a free summer program in hopes of making this easier for parents. Simply walk a mile and talk while doing it. Each day you'll receive a new prompt, there's a special mileage tracker, and by the end, you'll have walked the length of a marathon (26 miles) while getting to know your child better.
Cost: Free
Get registered and get your daily prompts here.
Microsoft Kids Camp
Microsoft normally offers free kids' camps at their stores during the summer, but they've moved online for now. Kids can sign up for free online workshops to tour the Smithsonian, plan a virtual road trip, put their Minecraft skills to the test, and more. Ages range from 6 to 14, and while the camps are free, advance registration is required.
Cost: Free
Brain Chase
Give your kids an exciting and engaging adventure this summer with one of Brain Chase's 2024 treasure hunt programs. How does it work? Kids will race against other teams in a week-long competition of escape room puzzles and adventures. Each interactive escape room is filled with hidden clues, and there are physical challenges as well. The fun starts on June 3.
Cost: $129 and up. Click here for more information.
Online: brainchase.com
Scholastic's Read-a-Palooza
From May 9 - Sept. 12, 2024, as kids track their reading streaks, they’ll unlock fun videos, book excerpts, and other exclusive summer content when you download Scholastic's free Home Base app. Kids can play games, meet their favorite book characters, write fiction, and upload art, You can register here, and check out the info for parents here.
Cost: Free
Online: scholastic.com/summer
Ranger Rick Photo Contest
If you’ve got a budding Ansel Adams at home, the Ranger Rick photo contest is a great way to keep them busy over the summer. First, head for the great outdoors (or your backyard) and have them take nature photos. Then, select their favorite and send it in with proper sizing (2 MB or smaller, JPG format, at least 600 pixels wide or 600 pixels tall). If your kid doesn’t have a digital camera, no worries! Phone images are also accepted.
Recent winners (this is an ongoing contest) are entered into the running for Ranger Rick’s "Your Best Shots" Magazine Award and are selected three times a year. Each winner receives a certificate of achievement and copies of the magazine featuring the winning image!
Cost: Free
Online: rangerrick.org/photo-contest
Kids That Do Good Volunteer Program
It's never too early to instill the habit of giving to others. Have your little philanthropists sign up with Kids That Do Good this summer to spend time giving back to their local community. The online (kid-founded!) resource allows kids to get involved with a cause or charity of their choosing—or, if you’ve got real go-getters at home—create their own! Once you’ve created an account and found an organization, kids can track their service hours via social profiles and certificates.
Cost: Free
Online: kidsthatdogood.com
Apple Camp
Designed to help spark the imaginations of kiddos ages 8-12, this three-day workshop allows kids to explore and expand on their digital creativity. They’ll choose one of three tracks and spend 90 minutes of each day working on their project. Be sure to sign up here to get an email announcing open registration for the summer program for kids (it usually starts in June)—spots fill up quickly!
Cost: Free
Online: apple.com/retail/camp
Home Depot Maker Classes
The Home Depot offers workshops that are perfect for mini-makers. Simply pre-register online, and then show up on the selected Saturday to build fun projects like a picket fence planter. At the end of the two-hour workshop, kids receive a certificate of achievement, a workshop apron, and a commemorative pin while supplies last.
Cost: Free
Online: homedepot.com/workshops
Camp Creatology at Michael's
Does your artist dream of paint, paper, glitter, and glue? If so, Michael’s Camp Creatolgy is the perfect way to beat the summer brain drain. Information for Summer 2024 will drop in late May, but camps usually run from mid-June to mid-July and are for ages 6 & up. If you don't want to sign up for the in-store classes, online programs are also available.
Cost: The classes are free, but the required materials cost $40 for the entire summer.
Online: michaels.com/campcreatology
Kids Bowl Free
Budding bowlers can perfect their technique all summer long thanks to Kids Bowl Free, which allows them to play up to two games a day free of charge. All that's missing is a pair of those sweet bowling shoes. To find a participating bowling alley near you, click here.
Cost: Free
Online: kidsbowlfree.com
Kids Summer Movie Programs
Sometimes a dark and cool movie theater is the only way to beat the heat. Your kids can sign up for a punch card or show up at participating Megaplex, Cinemark, and Regal theaters to catch a fun, kid-friendly flick for just $1-$2. Even better, most movies show before noon, making it easy to catch a flick and head home for nap time.
Cost: $1-$2 per movie.
Online: megaplextheatres.com/i/kidsmovies, regmovies.com/movies/summer-movie-express (not updated for 2024) and cinemark.com/summer-movie-clubhouse
Kids Skate Free
Whether your kids like to skate or rollerblade, a few laps will get their blood pumping, and the cool, A/C-induced temps are a total bonus. The Kids Skate Free program allows families to take advantage of this offer once a week (during the summer months). Click here to find out if it’s happening at your local rink.
Cost: Free
Online: kidsskatefree.com
National Park Jr. Ranger Program
If you’ve got a National Park nearby, be sure to sign up your mini explorers for the NPS Junior Ranger Program. Each kiddo will be outfitted with a handy Junior Ranger guidebook that's filled with historical facts and cool tips about all the National Parks. Every adventurer also gets the chance to complete a series of activities, share answers with a park ranger, and receive an official Junior Ranger patch and certificate. Click here to learn more.
Insider Tip: Kids can earn badges at home by downloading activity books and information packets. Click here for more info.
Cost: Free
Online: nps.gov/kids/become-a-junior-ranger.htm
Museums on Us
If you are a Bank of America or a Merrill Lynch cardholder, you can snag free admission at more than 150 museums, science centers, and botanical gardens across the country on two days every month just by showing your card. Find out if your favorite museum is participating, and on what days, by clicking here.
Cost: Free
Online: museums.bankofamerica.com
MarcoPolo World School
Keep the summer boredom away with this fun digital learning platform. Kids ages three to seven can learn STEAM concepts while watching videos and participating in interactive online activities. You can try it out with a seven-day free trial; after that, it’s $7.99 a month.
Cost: $7.99/month
Online: marcopololearning.com
Camp Bonkers
From the creative minds behind Angry Birds, Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Ice Age comes a free, interactive camp-style YouTube summer experience for kids. Every day is new, and activities include making food, doing science experiments, singing songs, and more. Counselors will be on hand to lead extra content and be on the lookout for special guest stars including Sparkles and Beaver and Scribbles the Cat.
Dates: Anytime on YouTube
Online: youtube.com/channel/UCezC6uWpNz8Mcx-DV7OO7SQ
Graduation Freebies + Deals 2023
/Pizza Hut
Towards the end of May, Pizza Hut gives one free medium pizza to each grad in the United States who orders through their Pizza Hut rewards account. All you have to do is fill out a form agreeing to the terms. You can also add a topping and choose between thin or original crust. Now this is the one you’re going to want to order with your college friends and stay up eating as you retell all the favorite memories.
Baskin Robbins
For Class of 2023, Baskin Robbins has brought out a whole new cake design. There are so many ways to customize the cake, and it could even mimic the shape of a diploma and include personal pictures.
Chipotle
The last graduating class of 2022 were rewarded with a free drink at Chipotle after showing their student ID. Now, the class of 2023 can use their student ID card for one last time before storing it away in a memory box.
Whataburger
Whataburger is selling Class of 2023 shirts and if you buy one, you can get a table tent in return. The small poster-like sign with the ‘23 in the middle as a reminder would be so cute.
Krispy Kreme
Now through the end of May, we can count on Krispy Kreme to celebrate this milestone with you with a box of dozen donuts for free. The only catch is that grads have to go in the store with their cap and gown.
DIY Watermelon Drink Dispenser
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This is cool!
Materials
1 large watermelon
Paper towels
Sharp chef’s knife
Cutting board
Large spoon or ice cream scoop
Apple corer
Power drill and paring knife (optional)
Tap kit (includes a shank and faucet — available at many hardware stores)
Waterproof plate
Instructions
Wash the watermelon and wipe it dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife and cutting board, cut approximately 1/2 inch off the bottom to keep the watermelon standing straight. Cut off the top of the watermelon, about 3/4 of an inch
Using a large spoon or ice cream scoop, hollow out the watermelon. Reserve the fruit for use in your favorite summer recipe
Using an apple corer, cut a circle through the rind about 2 1/2 inches above the bottom of the watermelon. (Choose the prettiest side for a party-worthy presentation.) Don’t have an apple corer? Drill a small hole, then use a small knife to widen the hole until it’s slightly smaller than the shank of the tap
Insert the shank into the hole; tighten hardware inside the melon. Attach the faucet to the shank
Place the watermelon keg on a clean, waterproof plate at the end of a table. Fill it with ice, then your favorite lemonade, punch or tropical drink recipe
Tip: Avoid beverages with pulp; they can clog the spout.
Tasty Summer Treats
Not sure what to do with the leftover watermelon? Try these fresh, fruity ideas:
Assemble Fruit Kebabs: Thread watermelon chunks, fresh strawberries, grapes and pineapple chunks on bamboo skewers to create kebabs. This is a great way to get kids to eat more fruit!
Make a Spritzer: Puree watermelon pieces in a blender, and then mix the pureed fruit with lemonade or sparkling water. Serve over ice.
Blend up a Smoothie: Cut watermelon into chunks and freeze. Mix in a blender with other fresh and frozen fruits — and a splash of juice — to create a tasty smoothie.
Chill Summer Drinks: Freeze small chunks or balls of watermelon to use as ice cubes in your favorite summer beverages.
Graduation Freebies 2022
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Celebrate your newest grad with a pack of mini cupcakes from Baked by Melissa. There are a variety of Congratulations Gift Boxes that range from 25 to 50 cupcakes. You can choose packs that have “Congrats” or “You’re Doing Great” messages written on them. They also offer gift cards as well.
Plus, through June 30, you can snag 9% cash back when shopping Baked by Melissa via RetailMeNot.
A classic treat, Baskin Robbins has graduation-themed ice cream cake. They offer a customizable School Spirit Photo Cake and a Diploma Roll Cake that’s topped off with a red ribbon. If you pre-order your cakes online or through the Baskin-Robbins app, you can use the code CELEBRATE to receive a free pre-packed quart of ice cream with your purchase of $30 or more.
Bertucci’s is offering a unique graduation party menu (available for pickup, curbside or delivery) for friends and family. There are two different Graduation Packages that feature fresh-baked rolls, salad, an entree or pizza, dessert and an extra dessert just for the grad.
Gift cards are always a safe and practical gift. Order a gift card at Chili’s online between through June 26 and receive a free bonus $10 card.
If you’d rather show up with a bouquet of fruit than flowers, Edible Arrangements has an expansive list of graduation-themed gifts you can choose from. They even have gifts that aren’t solely fruits, like the Strawberry Cheesecake Indulgence Box or the Cupcake and Dipped Fruit Boxes. Of course, you can never go wrong with their vibrant fruit arrangements. Customize your gift by adding edible numbers to note the graduation year, too.
Insomnia Cookies has helped carry college students through thick and thin: especially through late nights. From now until June 29, high school, college and graduate school grads can get one free six-pack of Classic cookies with any $5 in-store purchase. All you have to do is show up to an Insomnia Cookie store in your cap and gown and mention the deal. If you don’t have the graduation attire, though, just show any proof of graduation!
Last year, Krispy Kreme gave high school or senior graduates a free “Graduate Dozen” for students who visited a store dressed in their graduation cap and gown or a class year shirt. Let’s see if they offer the special deal again for the Class of 2022. Meanwhile, use the code BESWEET until May 22 to buy any dozen and get a $1 Original Glazed dozen to share!
Who wants free cake? Head to Long John Silver’s. If you purchase a 10-piece family meal or larger, they’ll top it off with either their new lemon cake or their triple chocolate fudge cake.
This graduation season, get a $5 eReward online or a physical reward voucher for every $25 worth of gift cards you purchase. You can get this deal until June 19 and the $5 eReward can be used from June 30 to August 31.
Miller’s Ale House will be running a gift card promotion to treat grads until June 26. Purchase a $50 gift card and get a $10 bonus card, which is valid from July 1 to Aug. 31. If you’re heading to Miller’s for a sit-down meal (or delivery), they’re also offering three new chipotle BBQ pork specials for a limited time: Backyard BBQ Mountain Melt, BBQ Pulled Pork Tacos and BBQ Pork Nachos.
Use the code 2022GRAD (expires May 16) for 15% off graduation announcements. They’ll come with free custom envelopes and recipient addressing too.
Moe Reward members will receive $50 More Rewards for catering orders over $300 using the code GRAD22. The deal is available until June 30. There’s also a gift card deal where for every $25 in gift cards purchased, you’ll receive $5 Moe Rewards through June 19. So if you aren’t a reward member, sign up today!
Celebrate your grad with Potbelly Sandwiches. Order from the Grad Bundle for six or for 10. The bundles come with different types of sandwiches, soups and salads, an assortment of chips and fresh-baked cookies. You can also get 10% off catering with the code GRAD22.
From now until June 26, for every $50 spent on purchasing Red Lobster gift cards, you will get a bonus coupon of $10 off an order of $30. The coupons are redeemable from June 27 to August 31.
At Schlotzsky’s, you can get $5 for every $25 from now until June 20. Use it to try their new calzones or go for their classic sourdough-bun sandwiches.
Until June 19, buy $25 in gift cards to get $5 in Smash Cash in participating locations. Sign up for their rewards program online or through the app!
Source: Retailmenot
25+ Graduation Gift Ideas
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First, in the kit shown above, is the health/beauty kit. It includes Crest, Secret, Pantene, and more, all packaged in a carry tote, which all students need! You’ll want to customize your health/beauty kit to your student’s favorite products.
SWEETS KIT:
Your homemade cookies or the bakery, a care package isn’t complete without a sweet treat. Pack items tightly in a plastic container (fill in extra space with clean paper towels) and then wrap with bubble wrap. Boxed.com is also great for sending must-have snacks and more.
Consider snacks, like granola bars, microwave popcorn, and hot chocolate mixes, as well as more substantial mini-meals — such as instant oatmeal and soup — for rushed mornings and missed dining hall dinners. Mints and gum are always welcome in a care package too. Boxed.com is also great for sending must-have snacks and more.
Canva source
TOY/HOBBY KIT:
Pack up fun board games and cards, and they’ll be the life of the party at their dorm.
GIFT CARD KIT:
Send gift cards to stores and restaurants in a care package or email. Choose big-box retailers like Target or Walmart, coffee or sandwich chains like Starbucks, Subway, and Panera, and local establishments like the college bookstore.
HOLIDAY KIT:
Festive accessories are surprisingly welcome and uplifting for a kid away from home for the first time; this care package idea is also nice to send in anticipation of your kid coming home for the holidays. Keep items small, like a desktop Christmas tree, a mini-menorah, and Easter baskets or Halloween pumpkins filled with candy. Seasonally-themed lights, like orange for Halloween or green for St. Patrick’s Day, are also fun.
Author photo
GET WELL/ FIRST AID KIT:
Make a mini first-aid care package by filling a container with:
Band-aids
Antibiotic ointment
Advil
Gas X {dorm food makes this one essential}
Benadryl
Thermometer
Covid test kits
Instant ice pack
Pulse ox
Pepto
Throat lozenges
Cold medicine
Q-Tips
Nail clippers
Hydrogen Peroxide
An ace bandage
Cotton balls
Small pair scissors
Small pair of tweezers
Author photo
CLEANING KIT:
Dorms need to be clean. Pack some multi-surface spray, paper towels, dusting cloths, and electronics cleaner, and throw in a bottle of air freshener for good measure.
Plus, here are more ideas!
Hometown newspaper
Magazines
Quarters for laundromats, bus fares, and vending machines
Scotch tape and scissors
Recipes for favorite dishes
Leather wallet (don’t forget to put a $20,$50 or $100 inside!)
Extra cell phone charger
Gum
Vinyl wall decals for decoration
Pillowcases
A memento from each family member
Digital picture frame with photos from home
Movie gift certificates
Air fresheners
headphones
Corkboard and thumbtacks
Apple Camp for Kids
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Apple stores are once again hosting their very popular Apple Kids Camps throughout this summer for kids ages 8-12!
These free camps will be a little different than past years. Instead of 1.5-hour sessions over three separate days, camps this year are one day only and last for two hours. Spots are very limited so you’ll want to check your store soon. Registration just opened on July 1st so we’re hopeful that you can grab a spot.
If you’re wanting to remain contact-free or can’t find an available time, Apple is also offering an at-home downloadable guide with 30 creative activities!
Mom's Favorite Scrambled Eggs
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The snack-heavy months of summer vacation can be a challenge. That’s why serving up a healthy breakfast is so important!
So between camp and a busy summer schedule, protein is a great way to start the day. I started out with Jimmy Dean products, you can't go wrong! Hearty and delicious, the sausage patties, stuffed hash browns and sandwiches are the perfect complement to scrambled eggs and more.
Here is my fave go-to scrambled egg recipe:
8 eggs
2 heaping tablespoons sour cream
1 tablespoon water
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 to 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
In a medium size bowl, beat eggs, sour cream, water, and salt and pepper until fluffy. Using a nonstick frying pan, melt butter and cook eggs over low heat, stirring occasionally. Stir in the cheese. Cook until you reach desired consistency.
I made Cam a big plate of scrambled eggs, Jimmy Dean sausage and a cup of strawberries and kiwi fruit. Cam said this had to be one of his favorite breakfasts ever!
For quick, healthy breakfast ideas include setting up a back to school breakfast bar. This makes breakfast a little more fun and makes sure the kiddos eat well before school:
Fruit on a Stick (Fruit Kabobs) – Try strawberries, blueberries & pineapple but any fruit would work
Waffle on a Stick – you could cook up some waffles in a waffle maker or use frozen waffles & then take half of it & wrap it around a stick with a bowl of syrup to dip their waffle into.
Cinnamon Rolls on a Stick – buy the prepackaged cinnamon rolls and cook those quickly in the morning & then put the cinnamon roll on a stick with a little bowl for frosting to dip their cinnamon roll in
Be sure to stop by Kroger and stock up before the school bell rings!
This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Jimmy Dean. All opinions are my own
BBQ Money-Saving Tips + Ideas
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Make your next BBQ a success with this check-list!
- First, go here to print off this helpful checklist
- Choose your venue! Will this be a backyard BBQ, a BBQ in the park or a beachside grilling session? If you’re holding your BBQ in a public space, be sure to reserve a grill ahead of time and check local Covid restrictions.
- Check out our Summer Pinterest board here
- Plan the guest list and maximize your available space.
- Set up a DIY Hot Dog bar, here's how!
- Send out the invites to get the ball rolling. Facebook invites make it easy and free.
- Buy the basic supplies: get cheap, bright, and patriotic paper plates, napkins, and cutlery.
- Consider hosting a Clam Bake instead of the typical BBQ
- Plan your decor: will your BBQ be specifically patriotic, or will you go with a summer-theme? For a patriotic event, buy mini flags, star-spangled garlands, and plenty of other red, white, and blue goodies. For a summer-focused event, go for a tropical vibe with tiki torches, mini umbrellas, and other island-centered decor! Balloons and streamers are great for any event.
- Plan your main course. Make sure to have a couple of meat options–hamburgers, hotdogs, ribs, chicken are all great options! Make sure to have vegetarian course as well. If you do choose to grill some veggies, make sure you grill them first, out of courtesy to the vegetarians.
- A Burger Bar with all the fixins is another fun idea
- Have some fun with side dishes. While some chips or crackers and cheese will do just fine, side dishes are your time to shine. Think potato salad or coleslaw, and help guests to remember your BBQ fare for years!
- Set up a condiment station with ketchup, mustard, BBQ sauce, pickles, and whatever else you think your guests might enjoy.
- Add a couple of ready made fruit platters and vegetable platters on the side.
- Fill your cooler with beer, soda and juice galore–but don’t forget the water bottles! We like filling those large plastic
- Brownies, chocolate chip cookies and make your own ice cream sundaes are always winners for dessert.
- Plan your server station: find a couple of tables, tablecloths, serving dishes, and serving spoons. Arrange your station so that guests can move in and out in an orderly fashion; buffet style does the trick.
- On the day of, slather up in some sunscreen, set up the stereo outdoors, and enjoy!
Freebies For Grads 2021
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Chipotle
This popular restaurant chain is offering grads a bonus “Buy 1 Get 1 Free Entree” coupon valid through July 8, 2021 for a single free entree with purchase of an entree of equal or greater value.
Edible Arrangements
Edible Arrangements has many graduation-themed gifts to choose from for celebrating the class of 2021! I particularly love the Graduation Celebration Bundle, which has the perfect blend of fresh fruit and indulgent chocolate. It includes pineapple, plump grapes and fresh strawberries dipped in rich, semisweet chocolate to create a treat as sweet as the moment. Featuring mini sequin sprinkles, the succulent 2021-shaped pineapple slices complete this celebratory platter along with three joyful Congratulations! balloons.
Jack in the Box
Last year from May 20 through May 26, Class of 2020 grads could get two free tacos with any purchase made through Jack in the Box’s mobile app. Let’s see if they do this again in 2021!
Krispy Kreme
On Thursday, May 13, Krispy Kreme will offer one free “Graduate Dozen” to any high school or college senior who visits a Krispy Kreme dressed in their graduation cap and gown or “Class of 2021” swag (shirt, letterman jacket, etc.) no purchase necessary, while supplies last. The limited-edition dozen features a variety of fan-favorite doughnuts, spelling out “2021,” making it a delicious gift for the graduate in your life. It is also available for purchase May 10 through May 16 at participating shops across the U.S.
McAlister’s Deli
In honor of the graduation celebrations happening over the next few months, McAlister’s Deli has a buy $25, get $5 offering. From now until April 19 to June 20, for every $25 you spend you’ll receive a $5 off reward code that is redeemable online or in-store once unlocked. Customers can redeem the discount between June 30 and August 31. To redeem the discount, simply download the McAlister’s Deli app, tap “rewards,” go to “my rewards,” and enter your reward code then add items to your basket and apply at checkout from the “available offers and rewards section.”
Moe’s Southwest Grill
Every Sunday all locations nationwide will offer free meals for children under the age of 12. At Moe’s Southwest Grill, everyone can always customize their meal to their exact preference, so it’s the perfect place to take the whole family for celebrations as everyone will find something they love to eat!
Pieology
From now until June 30, purchase a $25 gift card and receive a $5 bonus
card for future use. Pieology is also offering a photo-worthy 2EN1ORS special—a ’21 Graduation Pizza—a single-topping pizza with a 21 on top made of pepperoni to recognize hard-working graduates and a great addition to use in any grad photos.
Pizza Hut
Last year, Pizza Hut was celebrating 2020 graduates by giving away 500,000 free pizzas. You can claim a coupon for a free, medium, one-topping pizza after signing up or logging into the Hut Rewards program. The offer will be available through May 28, or while supplies last, and coupons must be redeemed by June 4. They likely will do something similar this year!
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Through June 28, celebrate your graduate with one of their specialty cuts like the Tomahawk Ribeye or enjoy a Ruth’s Classic–a prix fixe meal featuring our chef’s favorite recipes like the Surf & Turf. Or send your grad a gift card!
10+ Summer Reading Programs For Kids
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1. Your Public Library
Make this your first stop for summer reading. Most public libraries will be kicking their summer reading program in May. They will often have the chance to get free books or prizes–even with the strange times in which we live. Hopefully, your local library will be open for storytime and other activities.
2. Scholastic Summer Reading
From April 26 through September 3, visit the Scholastic summer zone for stories, games, and community. Keep track of your books. Read e-books. MEet favorite characters and authors. Print reading achievement reports.
3. Barnes and Noble
Download and print a Reading Journal. Then, read eight books and record the titles in the printed journal. Once you’ve read the 8 books, take your journal to your local Barnes and Noble to get a free book. It couldn’t be easier. You can also find a printable parent’s guide with tips and fun literacy activities.
4. Amazon Summer Reading Challenge
This is a pretty lame reading challenge if you ask me– read 8 books, get a $1 coupon.
5. Half-Price Books Feed Your Brain
Read for at least 15 minutes each day. Download their free reading log to record your minutes. Once you’ve read 300 minutes, you can turn your completed log into your local HPB store and earn $5 Half-Price Books Bucks. You can also find tips and printable book lists.
6. KCEdventures Genre Challenge for Summer Reading
Challenge your kids to explore new areas of the library. KCEdventures has created a bingo-style printable that covers 15 different genres. Try to read at least one book from each and record them on the sheet.
7. Bookworm Wednesdays at Showcase Cinemas
Participating Multiplex, Cinema de Lux, and Showcase theaters will give kids free admission to a movie when they present a book report.
Mother's Day Restaurant Deals
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- Bahama Breeze: Pre-order a Mother’s Day Bundle for pickup on May 9. These bundles vary in price from $45-55, depending on location. They serve 4 and come with a variety of entrees (like Jerk Chicken Pasta and Seafood Paella), appetizers, salad, and dessert.
- Baskin-Robbins: Get $5 off any $30 cake purchase from now until May 15. They’re currently featuring a Cone Bouquet Cake.
- Bonefish Grill: Between 4/26 and 6/13, order a $50 gift card for Mom and get a bonus $10 to make her gift even better. They also offer Family Bundles starting at $29.90 for a group of 4. These include an entree, salad, fresh bread and pesto, and house-baked cookies. Bonus card must be spent between 5/17 – 7/18.
- Boston Market: Use their coupon in-store or online to get $5 off any Family Meal purchase for Mother’s Day. Good from 5/9-5/10 at participating locations.
- Bravo! Italian Kitchen: Make your reservation to join them for a Mother’s Day Brunch on Sunday, May 9th. Available until 3pm, the brunch menu will include Berries & Cream French Toast, Scrambled Eggs & Bacon and featured cocktails and entrée specials.
- Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.: Treat your mom to their Georgia Peach Tea (serves 2) and keep the souvenir flask. Or try the Mama’s Mule Madness with 5 limited-time mules and she can keep the camping mug.
- Carrabba’s Itialian Grill: Between 4/26 and 6/13, buy a $50 gift card for Mom and get a bonus $10 to make Mom’s gift even better. Bonus card must be spent between 5/17 – 7/18.
- Chili’s: From 5/8 – 5/10, guests can order their Mother’s Day To-Go Special. This 3 for $10 special includes your choice of 1 of 10 entrees, a non-alcoholic beverage, and an appetizer. For Mother’s Day weekend only they are adding a 6 oz Sirloin & lunch portion of Chicken Fajitas totheir entree choices. You can also get a $10 bonus card with any $50 gift card purchase.
- Cracker Barrel: Order their Sunday Homestyle Chicken Family Meal Basket To-Go (or their Family Pancake Meal Basket) and you’ll receive a free $10 bonus card for mom. Order now through 5/9 for pickup, curbside, or delivery.
- Eddie V’s: Enjoy brunch from 10 AM to 2 PM on May 9 for a special Mother’s Day. The brunch menu is $49 for adults and $15 for children. If you prefer to stay in, their take-home and heat-up four-course dinner Mother’s Day Bundles serve two people for $140 and four to six people for $250. Pre-order for pickup between May 7 and May 8.
- Fleming’s Steakhouse and Wine Bar: Opening at 11 AM on 5/8 and 5/9, Fleming’s has a 3-course menu featuring our hand-cut Filet Mignon paired with your choice of Crab-Stuffed Shrimp or Lobster Tail Scampi starting at $80 per person. You can also order for curbsie pickup to enjoy at home.
- Fogo De Chao: Dine in at Fogo for Mother’s Day, May 9th or Mexican Mother’s Day, May 10th and receive a gift of $25 toward two Full Churrascos for your next visit.
- Hooters: Get 10 free boneless wings when you buy any 10 wings on Mother’s Day, May 9.
- Joe’s Crab Shack: From May 7 – May 9, enjoy their 4-course pre-fixe menu for just $35.99.
- LaMar’s Donuts: They’ve been doing a free donut and a small coffee for moms at participating locations for years. This has not been confirmed yet, but we think they may do this again for 2021.
- Lucille’s Smokehouse BBQ: Moms who dine in or order take out on Mother’s Day weekend will receive a free $10 voucher to use on their next meal. Bonus cards must be used between 5/10 – 6/18.
- McCormick and Schmick’s: Available on May 8 and May 9, choose your meal from their Mother’s Day pre-fixe menu, starting at $39.
- Metro Diner:Available for dine-in, to-go or delivery from May 6 through the 9th, you can treat mom to Metro Diner’s delicious Crab Cake Benedict for just $13.49. You can also purchase $50 in gift cards and receive a $10 Bonus Card to be used on your next visit through 6/30.
- Miller’s Ale House: Specials will vary by location, but on Sunday May 9, you can search your location for Mother’s Day specials like a free 6 oz. glass of wine or sangria. Plus, Moms who dine-in at our House on 5/9 will receive a $10 Off $30 Coupon for use on their next visit.
- Morton’s Steakhouse: Take 10% off gift card purchases through April 30.
- Mrs. Fields: Take 20% off Mother’s Day Collection gifts with code MDAY2021.
- Outback Steakhouse: Now through 6/13, buy $50 in gift cards and get $10 e-gift card deal. The cards can be redeemed between 5/17 and 7/18.
- Pilot Flying J: For several years now, moms can enjoy a free cup of coffee (any size) during Mother’s Day weekend. This has not been confirmed for 2021, but we think there is a good chance moms will get this special again this year.
- Red Lobster: For every $50 spent on Red Lobster gift cards purchased in-restaurant or online, guests will receive a bonus coupon for $10 off an in-restaurant, To Go or delivery order of $30 or more during July and August. This promotion is valid through 6/30.
- Romano’s Macaroni Grill: Pre-order one of their Mother’s Day Meals to take home by May 9. Choose from their family size Lasagna Bolognese for $65 or their 3-course dinner (serves 4) for $100. Available for pick-up or delivery.
- Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse: Moms who dine in on Mother’s Day get a complimentary $25 credit to use towards a future purchase before 6/30.
- Shoney’s: Moms get a free slice of strawberry pie with a meal from their All You Care To Eat Mother’s Day Fresh Food Bar.
- Smoothie King: From May 1 – May 15, Smoothie King will be waiving delivery fees for order of $10 or more.
- TCBY: First 6 oz. for free for moms on Mother’s Day. Valid at participating locations on Sunday, May 9.
Free Bowling For Kids
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Head on over here to register for FREE Kids Bowling this summer! Each child can get coupons for 2 free games of bowling daily (shoe rental may not be included). Simply find your local bowling alley and register. If registration is not yet open for it, you can enter your e-mail to be notified when registration opens up.
