Our Pandemic Babies Are Starting Kindergarten: Two Moms on Letting Go

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Two BUBS moms on sending their pandemic babies to kindergarten...  The letting go, and the hard first weeks From the BUBS community... These two stories were shared with us by moms in the BUBS community and published here with their permission. Their kids were born into the same strange year and are starting kindergarten now, one mom reflecting on the ache of letting go, the other on the tender, worrying first weeks when the friends haven't come yet. If you're somewhere in between, maybe their words will feel like yours too. Have a story you'd like to share? We'd love to hear it. I bought a backpack this week. A real one. Not the tiny toddler kind that holds a snack and a stuffed animal, but a big-kid backpack with a name tag pocket and straps I had to adjust down as far as they'd go. It's hanging by the door right now, waiting for the first day of kindergarten. And every time I walk past it, my chest does this funny thing...  part pride, part something I don...
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Halloween + Day of the Dead Safety Tips for Parents

Halloween + Dia de los Muertos

Hello BUBS Fam!

Halloween + Day of the Dead is here!
The excitement is real... costumes, candy, and all the spooky fun are just around the corner! The kids are ready to transform into their favorite characters, fill up their treat bags, and enjoy a night of adventure. With so much thrill in the air, it’s always good to keep a few safety tips in mind to make sure the night is both fun and safe.

Here are some top Halloween safety tips to help make sure everyone has a "spooktacular" (and safe) time:

Costume Safety 

Costumes are at the heart of Halloween + DOTD fun, but they should be safe too:

• Fit and Comfort: Make sure costumes aren’t too long to avoid tripping, and that shoes are comfortable for lots of walking.

• Visibility: Add some reflective tape to costumes and trick-or-treat bags, or consider glow sticks or flashlights for nighttime visibility.

• Mask-Free: Masks can obstruct vision, so if possible, use non-toxic face paint instead.

• Fire Safety: Double-check that costumes, wigs, and accessories are flame-resistant, especially if you’ll be around candles or jack-o’-lanterns.

Candy Safety 

Candy checks are a Halloween tradition! Here’s a quick guide to make it easy:

• Sealed Treats: Avoid anything that isn’t factory-wrapped, especially homemade treats from unknown sources.

• Inspect Wrappers: Toss any candy that has torn or tampered packaging.

• Allergen Awareness: If your child has allergies, read labels carefully to avoid allergens, and be mindful of cross-contamination risks.

Trick-or-Treating Basics 

Trick-or-treating can be distracting, but a few simple tips will help keep everyone on track:

• Stay Visible: Flashlights, glow sticks, and reflective gear are great for visibility.

• Stick Together: Kids should go out in groups and have a designated adult with them.

• Plan the Route: Stick to familiar neighborhoods and agree on a route in advance. Remind kids not to cut across yards or alleys to avoid hidden obstacles.

• Watch for Traffic: Stay on sidewalks, be cautious around driveways, and always check for cars at street crossings.

Safe Decor and Lighting 

Halloween decorations are half the fun, but they should be safe too:

• Jack-o’-Lanterns: Use battery-operated candles instead of real flames in pumpkins to avoid accidental fires.

• Clear Paths: Make sure pathways, steps, and yards are clear of tripping hazards, especially if you’ll have little visitors.

• Lighting: Keep walkways well-lit so trick-or-treaters can easily see steps and obstacles.

Home Safety and Stranger Awareness

With lots of new faces around, here’s how to keep things safe:

• Look for Lights: Teach kids that houses with outdoor lights are open for trick-or-treaters.

• Don’t Enter Homes: Remind kids to wait on the porch and never go inside a stranger’s home.

• Check In: If your older kids are going out on their own, establish check-in times and set up a way to stay in touch.

Have Fun, and Go With The Flow!

Most importantly, this weekend is all about the kids. Plans might change, candy may get swapped or tossed, and costumes might only last halfway through the night, but that’s part of the fun! Roll with it, enjoy the chaos, and embrace the joy of the season. Enjoy... 

Before we know it, our kids will be off trick-or-treating without us tagging along!

Whether you’re going out for trick-or-treating, hosting a spooky party, or just enjoying costumes and candy at home, let’s make this Halloween safe, sweet, and memorable for everyone.

Happy Halloween + Day of the Dead from all of us at Hello BUBS! 


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