Healthy Mom Life

Category: Stay-at-Home Moms

  • Ontario Moms Hospital Bag Checklist: What You Actually Need, What You Don’t, and C-Section Options

    Ontario Moms Hospital Bag Checklist: What You Actually Need, What You Don’t, and C-Section Options

    Every hospital bag list I found while prepping for my first two babies made it feel like I was packing for a week-long vacation.

    There are so many extra items included that it quickly becomes confusing and overwhelming to figure out what you’ll actually need—especially if it’s your first baby. If you don’t know what to expect, you might find yourself clicking “add to cart” for everything.

    I still have items from my first baby that I never used. They’re sitting in my bathroom drawer because I feel too guilty to throw them away. Anyone need some hemorrhoid pads?

    I’ve put together a realistic, minimalist hospital bag list for moms giving birth in an Ontario hospital. Not every hospital provides the same items, so keep that in mind as you go through the list.

    My biggest piece of advice before we dive in: you don’t need to overpack.

    Amazon delivers quickly, drugstores stay open late, and you’re not giving birth in the remote tundra. If you forget something, someone can grab it for you.

    You don’t need to pack “just in case.”

    If you’re planning your hospital bag and just want someone to tell you exactly what to bring (without overthinking it), I’ve linked a few of my go-to items throughout this post to keep things simple.

    Quick Hospital Bag Checklist (If You Need to Pack Now)

    If you’re like me and ended up delivering with very little notice. Hello, cholestasis at 37 weeks! Here’s what I’d recommend you pack:

    • ID + health card
    • Comfortable clothes
    • Toiletries (toothbrush, contacts/glasses, facewash, dry shampoo)
    • Baby outfit
    • Diapers + diaper cream + wipes
    • Phone + charger

    👉 Think trip to your parent’s house, rather than girl’s trip to Mexico. In other words, the vibe is relaxing on a couch with people bringing you food rather than you putting on a full-face of makeup and a cute outfit.

    Minimalist Hospital Bag Checklist for Ontario Hospitals:

    Here’s the full checklist with my suggestions. I’ve broken it down into 3 sections: For You, For Baby, and For Labour.

    For You:

    • Loose, relaxed-fitting clothes. During your stay you’ll most likely be closer to your pregnancy sizing. Try the clothes on before you head to the hospital and make sure you feel good in them. Draw strings and loose, breast-feeding friendly tops are your friend.
    • Nursing bra. You honestly really only need one or maybe nothing at all. You should aim for a bra that provides some more stretch than structure. Your milk will be coming in, and your breasts will grow with your supply. My favourite nursing bralette is from the LoveSteady Company. (I’ve linked it here in case you want to check it out). It’s especially great for the first few days post-partum. I would suggest sizing on the smaller side for this bralette if you’re on the fence about sizes.
    • Underwear, pads or diapers. You can bring some regular underwear, but I’d recommend bringing some disposable underwear to wear when you leave the hospital. The hospital does provide a mesh, disposable underwear for you to place a pad in after you give birth, and this can be reused with clean pads. However, I was only ever able to get one from my nurses. So, bring your own just for comfort and to avoid any awkwardness. You don’t need the expensive influencer ones (Frida Mom I’m looking at you). Something simple and comfortable will do. (These are similar to the ones I used if you want an easy option).
    • Toiletries. Unless you’re someone who really loves wearing makeup. You can pare down your products and focus on keeping a minimal face. Think make-up remover, face wash, lotion, tinted sunscreen, and mascara. I also had an IV for my pregnancies and for some reason felt like it gave me a nice, hydrated glow for the first few days and I did not feel like putting on makeup at all. Also bring deodorant. I use Routine deodorant and love it – it’s simple, clean, and actually works. (Linking it here in case you’re curious).
    • Dry shampoo. I am personally not taking a shower in the hospital unless I really need to. I’d rather use dry shampoo, wipes, and wait until I’m home.

    For Baby:

    • Going-home outfit.
    • Blanket. For the car seat.
    • Car seat. The hospital will not let you leave without showing a nurse that you can safely place your newborn in the seat.
    • Diapers, wipes, and cream. Many Ontario hospitals provide some diapers and wipes, but supplies and sizes vary, so I’d recommend bringing your own.

    For Labour (Vaginal and C-Section Prep): Pre and Post

    • Water bottle
    • A distraction. This can be a movie that you watch, or it can be games on your phone.
    • Pillow or blanket from home.

    This list is short for a reason. You really don’t need much for your birth. I’m sure there might be some women who disagree, but as long as you have comfy clothes and adult diapers/pads for leaving the hospital, you’re all set. During contractions you’re really just surviving so unless you have something super specific that you want to bring, you don’t need much here. If you are having a c-section, the main requirement is that if you wear contacts, that you swap them for your glasses during the surgery. Otherwise, you’re almost completely naked on the table, save for the surgical draping, for the approximately 1-hour long surgery.

    What You DON’T Need:

    • A birthing gown or special PJs

    This is a hill I will die on: you do not need a special birthing gown. I used the hospital provided gowns almost exclusively the entire time I was in the hospital with my first two babies, or I was completely naked under the hospital bed sheets. You really don’t need to spend money on PJs you’ll realistically only use once. If you’re someone that really values comfort, go for it! But buy something cheaper or get it from Winners/Amazon. Also, if your water breaks, it is breaking all over that gown. You’re going to want to change into a clean one asap, and that will be the gown provided by the hospital.

    • Grippy Socks or slippers

    This is something I didn’t have for my other births and I was fine. I was really only walking around my hospital room, and I felt fine doing so in my bare feet. Obviously, this comes down to your personal preference, but your stay won’t be ruined if you don’t have something fuzzy on your feet. Worst case scenario, pack Birkenstocks or sandals (something you already have).

    • Extra clothes for mom

    I found I wore the hospital gowns provided my whole stay and really only changed into real clothes when I was leaving. Again, this is personal preference and does come down to how long you’re staying. Also, you will want to dress for the weather that you’re having your baby in. In colder weather this means you might just need to bring a hoody or a robe. Generally, I’d pack max two outfits for mom and one of them you can wear to the hospital.

    • Extra clothes for baby

    My kids spent a lot of their early hospital time swaddled or pressed up to mom/dad naked under a blanket. At maximum, I would pack 3 onesies or sleepers, either long sleeve or short, depending on the weather.

    • Paperwork (*caveat is to not stress about this)

    Usually, your OB or Midwife will provide a hospital package if you’re giving birth at a hospital. This package gives an overview of your birth plan, and if you’re having a scheduled c-section, it will provide details about your surgery (date/time/location). Sometimes, it includes consent forms. If you forget this at home, please know that it will not be the end of the world. The hospital usually has these packages available, and you can fill them out in your room.

    • Peri-bottle or post-birth care products

    The hospital I gave birth at had a peri bottle available for me to use. Granted, it wasn’t free to keep, but it made me bringing my own unnecessary. Unless you’re super attached to your peri-bottle, you can leave it at home. I would also suggest avoiding bringing a lot of post-birth care products such as perineal spray, cooling pads, hemorrhoid pads, or anything else that’s recommended as a product to be used “down there” after a vaginal birth. Similarly, for a c-section, you don’t need scar cream, silicone scar tape, or a belly binder so soon after surgery. Often for any stitches or cuts, you’ll want to keep the area clean, dry, and bandaged. Further, given how unpredictable birth can be, with even the same mom having a different experience with each birth, I’d recommend waiting until after baby comes before requesting anything related to healing. Wait to see what you need.

    • Snacks or lots of food

    Some people might disagree with this one. But I really feel strongly that you don’t need to bring a lot of snacks or food with you. I found I hardly touched the food I brought and seemed to gravitate towards the vending machine or ordering food from outside the hospital. The whole experience is new and unless the hospital food and cafeteria are absolute garbage, you’re going to want to try it at least once. I also found shortly after giving birth, that the food I craved was healthy and nutrient dense. Think fruit smoothies and macro bowls. I was asking my husband and mom to order food out for me a lot.

    • Breast Pump
    • Nursing Pillow

    My Personal Recommendations

    • Nipple cream. Unfortunately, breastfeeding or chestfeeding can be uncomfortable and painful at first. Both you and your baby are learning what works and sometimes this can result in red, chafed, nipples. I found the Earth Mama nipple cream to be especially healing during those first few days. It’s a bit on the greasier side, but it works! (You can find it here if you want to try it out).
    • Gum. For those moms who will be having a c-section, a little-known side-effect can be trapped gas in your abdomen. It usually manifests as a very sore shoulder, and in some cases, difficulty breathing when you change positions. I know this from first-hand experience. Gum is often recommended as a tool to alleviate any trapped gases as it encourages movement in your bowels. Walking and walking often is another recommended option.
    • Beer or fun drinks. I’m not saying get absolutely plastered at the hospital, I’m only suggesting bringing something fun with you to celebrate your baby’s birth. This can be a fun mocktail or a seltzer. It just elevated the whole experience and made the mood more celebratory.
    • Book on post-partum care. I found I cared the most about what to do post-partum when I was immediately post-partum. I bought Postnatal Pilates: a Recovery and Strength Guide for Life by Anya Hayes and found myself going back to it constantly in those first few days. (Linking it here if you want something helpful to reference).
    • Movies or media. Watching a hospital TV is a similar experience to watching a hotel TV. It’s new and exciting to channel surf for the first few hours but gets old very quick. You’ll be up nursing your new baby very frequently (every 2 hours or less), so you’ll want to have something engaging to watch or focus on.

    Download this Checklist:

    If you want something simple and stress-free (without overthinking this), I created a printable version of this checklist you can follow step-by-step.

    It also includes a partner checklist and extra tips from my first two births.

    Click here to get my Minimalist Hospital Bag Checklist!
  • I Didn’t Expect This During My Third Pregnancy: Anxiety

    I Didn’t Expect This During My Third Pregnancy: Anxiety

    Is Anxiety During Pregnancy Normal?

    Anxiety during pregnancy is actually very common. Many expectant mothers experience moments of worry, racing thoughts, or feeling overwhelmed — especially if they’ve had complications in previous pregnancies. The challenge can be knowing when these feelings are normal pregnancy worries and when they might be signs of prenatal anxiety.

    I’m pregnant with my third baby! Since this is my third “rodeo”, a lot of things have felt very familiar, but what I didn’t expect this time around was the anxiety that came with it.

    We’re over the moon excited to be expanding our family and I daydream daily about the full table I’ll have filled with love. However, I’ve been struggling with moments of feeling overwhelmed and just a general sense of unease that’s making it hard to lean into the bittersweet moments of what will be my last pregnancy.

    My Experience with Pregnancy Anxiety:

    For me, I’ve had intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy for my first two pregnancies (let me know if you’d like me to write a post about my experiences with it!). Because I’ve had it before, I know I’ll likely get it again. That makes it hard not to be hypersensitive to every little itch on my hands and feet. One small twinge can send me into a thought spiral of “this is it, I have it again” and my brain refuses to listen to reason. I.e. like it’s pretty early to be getting it, your skin is just dry, the itching went away etc.. etc.. Also, I will be having a C-Section and the idea of another surgery and recovery is something that does scare me.

    And oh man, the number of “what if…?” questions that pop into my head have been really tough. There are so many horror stories online and there truly is a balance to staying informed versus being overburdened with the worst-case scenarios.

    Some days are really good, especially when the February sun is out and the birds are chirping. Other days, I’m a tightly wound ball of nerves that could have a little “menty-b” (mental breakdown) if a sad song comes on my playlist. Some country songs honestly need to be outlawed on public radio.

    In the evenings, after a long day of working full-time and running after my two littles, I also feel like the only thing my brain can focus on is worry. It’s like it says, “hey girlie, which worry from your suuuuuper long list do you want to tackle tonight? If you’re feeling up to it, we can cycle through 2! or even 3!”

    So, I’ve been asking myself, “is this normal?” And I looked into it.

    The short answer is: yes, it is.

    The long answer is: if it’s affecting you daily, there are solutions, and you’re not alone.

    So, if you’re experiencing something similar, please breathe a sigh of relief and take a relaxing nap or a bath, because everything will be ok.

    Normal Pregnancy Worry vs Prenatal Anxiety:

    Anxiety can be a big scary word that gets tossed around easily and it is a normal part of life even outside of being pregnant. But anxiety does exist on a spectrum with fluctuations being common. Pregnancy in particular, with all its hormonal shifts, sleep problems, birth anticipation, and work/life/family changes, can all contribute to feelings of anxiety and lack of control.

    However, normal pregnancy worry is often something that is transient. Meaning that it comes and goes. Today can be better than yesterday or even your afternoon can be better than your morning. Normal worry is often tied to specific triggers, like watching a particularly traumatic news segment or hearing your neighbor talk about their birth story. Further, this worry does get worse when you’re tired or stressed and you just don’t have the mental strength to overcome it or think clearly.

    Overall, normal pregnancy worry is just a small part of your day or week, it doesn’t feel like it’s consuming you or taking over your life. If you’re struggling with leaving your home, interacting with others, or ruminating for days, then it’s possible that you might have “prenatal anxiety”.

    Prenatal anxiety is persistent worry that consumes most days of your week. Often, it can result in trouble sleeping due to worry. I know sleep can be elusive during pregnancy, but this is a sleep disturbance beyond the common aches and pains of pregnancy. It is feeling constantly on edge or keyed up. Generally, with prenatal anxiety, moms-to-be report extreme difficulty in enjoying their pregnancy.

    How to Cope with Pregnancy Anxiety:

    So, if pregnancy anxiety is normal—but still overwhelming—what can you actually do about it? You can:

    1. Name the feeling: simply acknowledging that you’re feeling anxious can help you work towards feeling better.
    2. Keep a journal or diary and write down the thoughts that are causing you worry. Sometimes putting them down on paper minimizes the impact that they have.
    3. Reduce your triggers. If a certain social media account just gets you spiraling every time, no matter how good-intentioned it is, maybe it’s time to mute them or take a social media break. Honestly, we could all do this.
    4. Create a routine that you follow when you feel anxious or create a list of things that you know make you feel good. This could be calling a friend/family member, listening to music, getting some movement in, or just walking outside and breathing fresh air. Find what works specifically for you.
    5. Give yourself permission to rest. This one is hard, especially if you have other young children that you’re responsible for. But maybe, you just request an evening to yourself if you’re able to do so. Perhaps your husband does bath time, or maybe your mother-in-law bakes cookies with them? Find an hour to yourself if you can and use that time to rest and recharge.
    6. Take something off your plate. Are you feeling extra overwhelmed because trying to cook dinner with your kids screaming and crying after school is just too much? Can you sign up for a meal service? Or try meal prepping on the weekend when you have more flexibility. Let go of perfection and maybe also lean into chicken nuggets and frozen peas for a little while. Similarly, maybe the laundry just doesn’t get folded. Your family will still be able to get dressed if their clothes are in a pile. Better yet, off-load your chores to someone else. You’re growing a baby for goodness sakes!
    7. Create a happiness list. I have photos of my kids, happy TV shows, rom-com audio books and feel-good music on my rotation that I cycle through when I want a boost of dopamine. It’s also a great way to remind yourself that good things exist outside of your racing thoughts.
    8. Lean into what you can control. I believe pregnancy is particularly stressful for me because I don’t have constant feedback on how everything is going in my belly. For my situation, what I can control is my diet, exercise, and mindset. I can avoid sugar (which I’ve read can exacerbate cholestasis), and I can say positive things to myself.

    When to Talk to a Doctor:

    If you’re finding that more often than not, you’re feeling like your anxiety is taking over and the strategies above just are not working for you, it might be time to reach out to someone who can help. It’s important to know that this is something that you should not have to struggle through, there is help available and while reaching out might be the hardest step, it does not mean there is anything wrong with you or that you are less than.

    Primary care providers (or your OB/GYN) are here to support you and can provide referrals to mental health services, therapists, and in certain cases can suggest medications or treatments that will make a huge difference.

    Please reach out if you or your family is noticing that:

    • Your anxiety is increasing and does not seem to be ebbing and flowing
    • Your sleep is consistently disrupted, broken, or just “not enough”
    • You are feeling like you’re unable to cope with daily tasks, you’re ruminating for days, and things that once brought you joy no longer do.

    Asking for help does not mean you’re weak or broken. It actually means you are strong and you care about yourself, your family, and your baby. No one should have to experience this, especially not alone, and there are solutions.

    Pregnancy Is Hard and You’re Not Alone:

    Growing a baby is tough stuff. And while a lot of it is viewed with rose coloured glasses, there are some aspects of pregnancy that are nerve-racking, scary, and confusing.

    Know that fluctuations in your mood are normal and that you’re not the only pregnant person who feels this way. But also know, that if you feel something is off and you’re really struggling or lacking support, there are people who want to help you.

    Pregnancy can be beautiful, but it can also be overwhelming and uncertain.

    If you’re feeling anxious, worried, or just not like yourself right now, please know that you’re not alone. Many moms experience this—even during pregnancies they deeply wanted and planned.

    Give yourself grace. You’re doing something incredible.

    Sources:

    • American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
    • March of Dimes – Mental health during pregnancy
    • Postpartum Support International – Perinatal anxiety information
  • In Defense of the Lazy Mom (Especially at Christmas)

    In Defense of the Lazy Mom (Especially at Christmas)

    Fa la la la laaaaa

    Every year around this time, my social media feed fills up with images of moms who seem to have mastered Christmas. Perfectly coordinated pajamas. Homemade hot chocolate bombs. Gingerbread houses that look like they were designed by professional architects. Elves on shelves living their best (and most mischievous) lives. And I love the idea of it all. Everything looks and seems perfect.

    But then I play the comparison game, and I realize I don’t even have an elf on the shelf. My Christmas gifts will most all likely be bought in the three days before Christmas. And the baking I do will be a Pinterest versus reality type situation.

    I’ve noticed that I start to feel the little mom-guilt itch kick in, and I keep thinking I should be doing more. As mom, aren’t I the one responsible for creating the loving childhood memories my kids will look back on fondly? What if everything I’m trying hard to do just doesn’t cut it?

    But I’ve decided that needs to change. I’m embracing my inner “lazy mom” — and I think she might be the best version of me yet.

    What Being a “Lazy Mom” Really Means

    Let’s be clear: when I say lazy, I don’t mean careless or useless. I mean calm. Intentional. Grounded.

    Being a “lazy mom” doesn’t mean you love your kids any less. It means you’ve decided to stop running yourself into the ground trying to prove how much you love them. It’s choosing presence over perfection, connection over chaos, and laughter over lists.

    Because honestly? Our kids don’t care about themed wrapping paper or hand-painted ornaments. They care about us — the tone of our voice, the way we smile when they show us something, the moments when we’re really there.

    The Pressure to Be the “Perfect Mom”

    Somehow, motherhood — especially during the holidays — has become a performance (and in some circles, a competition).

    We’re expected to create traditions that are magical, meals that are 5 courses, and memories that dazzle on camera. There’s this unspoken rule that a “good mom” goes above and beyond at Christmas. And does it all with perfect makeup, a bouncy blow-out, and the cutest clothes.

    Who are we trying to impress? My 3-year-old wears his pants backward and takes his shirt off the first chance he gets.

    I know behind every perfect Instagram photo or TikTok reel is a mom who probably hasn’t sat down all day. Who’s exhausted. Who’s trying so hard to make it special that she’s missing it while it’s happening. Who probably feels like she’s not being appreciated for all the work she’s putting in.

    And if we’re being honest — none of that pressure is what Christmas is about.

    “Why is this so important? Christmas is about more than just ribbons and bows.”

    Cindy Lou Who

    The Magic of Letting Go

    When I vocalized the permission to do less and be lazy, everything changed. A weight (one Santa’s bag of presents worth) I didn’t know I was carrying disappeared.

    This year, instead of baking four kinds of cookies, all iced with intricate designs. We’re making one batch — maybe it will be the pre-cut kind from the grocery store or maybe it will be homemade. We’ll see how we feel. My kids can overload, *cough*, I mean decorate them with so much icing they become inedible and I won’t be able to give them to anyone outside our family, but we will have the best time. This is what I want to remember: not everyone swooning over the pretty cookies, but the little giggles we had making them.

    Maybe we won’t wear the adorable matching Christmas pajamas, and everyone can wear what they want. For my son, that means clothing optional and my daughter will probably wear something with a unicorn or a cat. It will still be a cozy, messy, joy-filled Christmas morning that feels more us than anything.

    And here’s the thing I’m realizing when you stop chasing perfection or the approval of other, you make space for connection with those who matter the most.

    Your Kids Don’t Need the “Most” — They Need You

    Our kids aren’t keeping score or setting expectations. They won’t remember whether the wrapping paper and bow matched or if the tree was decorated just so. They’ll remember the feeling of the holidays. The warmth of being together, the laughter echoing through the house, the peace of a mom who wasn’t rushing, huffing, or worrying.

    So maybe being a “lazy mom” isn’t lazy at all. Maybe it’s brave. Maybe it’s choosing to step off the hamster wheel of comparison and say, “what I’m doing is enough. I am enough.”

    “Maybe Christmas doesn’t come from a store. I think maybe Christmas means a little bit more.”

    Cindy Lou Who

    This Christmas, Let’s Redefine “Lazy”

    Let’s choose rest and relaxation. Let’s choose joy. Let’s choose messy bun imperfection.

    Let’s buy the desserts, skip the matching outfits, and say yes to the perfectly imperfect real-life moments that make this season meaningful.

    Because at the end of the day, our kids won’t remember how picture-perfect it looked — they’ll remember how they felt.

    And if it felt calm, cozy, and full of love — that’s the kind of Christmas worth celebrating.

    Maybe being a lazy mom isn’t lazy at all — maybe it’s just a mom who finally knows what matters most.

  • 7 Ways I Stopped the Negative Self-Talk Spiral (And What I Want to Model for My Kids)

    7 Ways I Stopped the Negative Self-Talk Spiral (And What I Want to Model for My Kids)

    This post is going to be a little bit more vulnerable than usual.

    Recently, I messed up. I thought something was scheduled on a certain day, so I rearranged my entire work schedule around it. I made a big deal about needing time off and asked for an accommodation that ended up mildly inconveniencing others.

    Long story short: I thought my kids’ daycare had a day off when they didn’t. I still have no idea why I even thought that, and my husband and I have been joking that I must have dreamt it.

    Sounds pretty harmless, right? And it was. But what really stuck with me was what I said to myself after I found out I was wrong. I called myself stupid, a dummy, air-headed. I completely tore myself down.

    Try not to sweat the small stuff. Life is full of mistakes.

    Even writing this out now, I realize how ridiculous it sounds. It was such a small mistake. To quote Kourtney Kardashian, “Kim, there’s people that are dying.”

    What also bothered me was realizing how I was modeling that kind of self-talk to my kids. I’d be devasted if they spoke to themselves the way I just did.

    Once that clicked, I knew I needed to change something, and fast. I was on a one-way trip to “Ruminating-All-Night-Town”, so I had to stop the spiral.

    How I Turned My Night Around

    1. Wallow… then move on

    If you need to, let yourself wallow. Sit in your self-pity for 5-10 minutes. It’s like eating too much Halloween Candy. You have a bunch after trick r’ treating and you get it out of your system. Set a timer, feel the feelings, then move on.

    2. Stop the negative self-talk

    Catch yourself in the act. Would you say that to your best friend? No? Then don’t say it to yourself. Words have power.

    3. Talk to someone

    I always call my mom. She knows how to provide comfort and perspective. In this case, she laughed, which honestly, I needed. It helped me take myself a little less seriously. If you don’t feel like talking, try journaling.

    4. Give yourself grace

    You’re human. I have two young kids (I know, I mention it a lot), and I’m running on a pretty constant sleep deficit. Mistakes are going to happen. I will make more mistakes. My husband will make mistakes. Your coworker, your neighbour, your barista, your best friend etc… will make mistakes. Own them, learn from them, and try again.

    5. Go for a walk

    This one helped the most. Moving my body helped me process everything and literally walk away from the negativity. It gave my nervous energy a purpose and cleared my head.

    6. Ask yourself: will this matter in a year?

    In a week? In a day? Probably not. I realized that in 48 hours no one will care. Of course, it’ll be a funny story later… but no one will “care”.

    7. Reframe your mindset

    Is there a small silver lining? For me, I still took the day off, and clearly, I needed it. I got a bonus day to rest, catch up, and reset. I felt so much better afterward.

    I can be a person who has anxiety, but I don’t anxiety to have me. I want my kids to see that it’s okay to mess up. It’s how you recover that really matters.

    These small mindset shifts can really make a big difference when you’re dealing with disappointment or a wave of self-criticism.

    Have you ever spiraled over a small mistake? What helps you get back on track?

  • Hey Mom, get a hobby!

    Hey Mom, get a hobby!

    Why should kids have all the fun?

    A few months ago, I had an epiphany that changed my whole perspective. I’m enrolling my 3-year-old into all these fun sports and activities and he’s having the best time having something to look forward to during the week. Why am I not doing the same for myself?

    It was getting to the point where every day started to feel like a carbon copy of the one before: a mad dash to work, actual work, dinner, clean-up, the never-ending bedtime routine, then collapse into bed and repeat. One morning, I realized I really hadn’t done anything for myself in weeks. On a whim, I decided to sign up for a reformer Pilates class. My first in-person fitness class in over 2 years. And guess what? I LOVED it.

    I didn’t just love it because of the glute burn, I loved it because it was “me time”. It was something I had in my calendar that was just for me, no small children in attendance, no chores or to-do list involved. I walked to the class, listened to a podcast on the way, did the class, and came back refreshed, a little sore, and so ready to jump back into being a mom.

    I had been spending so much time focused on my kids and what activities they should be doing next, that I forgot I’m here too. I’ve enrolled my boy in soccer, gymnastics, skating, swimming, but had put my interests on the backburner.

    Once I realized that I could enroll myself in fun classes or try new things, I started brainstorming easy ways to do that, because afterschool/afterwork hobbies aren’t just for kids. There really are so many activities you can do to cultivate your “mom me-time” and get your spark back.

    The social recharge: wine and paint nights, book clubs, walking groups

    The something new energy: pottery, paddle boarding, dance class, horse-back riding, singing lessons

    The solo reset: gardening, yoga, volunteering, painting

    The fresh air favourites: hiking, running, golf

    The energy boosters: sports clubs, fitness classes

    You don’t have to master any one thing. I’ve realized that just showing up counts. Sometimes the hobby isn’t the activity itself, it’s the permission to leave the house for yourself.

    Throw away the mom-guilt and ignore the little voice that says, “this is a waste” or “what if I don’t like it?” Any of these activities can remind you that you’re a person outside of your family, and help you come back refreshed, ready to tackle the dishes, the tantrums, or the laundry pile(s).

    Let me know if you give any of these things a try! I’m starting an indoor golf league next Monday, and I could not be more excited to have something to look forward to, something to get better at, and something where I can meet other people!

  • Mid-Week Pick-Me Up for Busy Moms

    Mid-Week Pick-Me Up for Busy Moms

    5 things you can do to get you motivated, back-on-track, and “present” with your family

    I don’t know about you, but sometimes I start to develop bad habits. I’m talking spending too much time on social media, eating too much sugar, and just genuinely being stressed out. These habits sort of snowball into each other and tend to get worse before I reach a breaking point (aka I feel exhausted and so guilty that I’m not on my best behaviour for my kids).

    A big reason this all happens is due to fatigue (being a mom is tiring!), not prioritizing myself, and just feeling a general sense of demotivation.

    So, here’s a mid-week pick-me-up list that will help you get out of a “funk”, cultivate healthier habits, and get you slowing down and appreciating the little things. January and Mondays aren’t just for starting over – let’s make Wednesdays our mid-week mood-booster!

    1) Find a fun drink and make it

    This can be fruit in water or a non-alcoholic drink. Make it something fun, hydrating or gut-boosting, and something that brings a little extra oomph over the usual.

    For Fall, I’m loving cinnamon everything. You can add sliced apples or pears, a little cinnamon, and a little maple syrup to water to have a fun hydrating autumn-themed water. Or you can make this non-alcoholic cocktail with me:

    Pumpkin Ginger Spice Spritz from Nourished with Jessica.

    2) Make a fun food/snack

    I love having a nice baked good to look forward to at work. For this season, I’m loving banana break, pumpkin muffins, pumpkin cookies, oatmeal cookies, and apple crisp. Basically, all the spicey, cozy bakes.

    I’m making these healthy pumpkin swirl brownies for this weekend.

    But I’ve also recently made these apple cinnamon energy bites and I’ve been OBSESSED:

    Ingredients:

    • 1 cup rolled oats
    • 1/2 cup peanut or almond or sunflower seed butter
    • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (I mixed the two)
    • 1/3 cup finely chopped dried apples
    • cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
    • mini white chocolate chips

    Add everything together in a bowl and mix. Form into tablespoon sized balls and store in the refrigerator. These taste like fall in a snack, and I love the texture of the apple pieces. I also love anything with chocolate chips in it.

    3) Prioritize 1 healthy habit

    Ok, so you’ve realized your healthy habits and goals have been slipping. Don’t stress, we’re all human. Choose one that’s going to make a big impact and make it your priority for the rest of the week. This can be drinking more water, walking more, or eating more fruits and veggies.

    For me, I’m going to make my habit putting my phone down when I’m with my children. And recognizing when I start to “doom scroll” and replace it with something better for me – like reading on my Kobo!

    4) Hit your step count

    Walking is so good for you. Just period. Straight talk. A few reasons to go for a walk:

    • you get fresh air if you walk outside
    • any kind of daily movement is good for you
    • it lowers your stress level
    • boosts your productivty and creativity
    • lowers anxiety and gets you out of your head
    • it can be used as a form of meditation and reflection

    I like to aim for 7,000 – 10,000 steps a day. Even just going for a quick 20-minute walk outside can provide you with so much benefit. For busy moms, wearing a step counter and just doing a general tidy around the house can really rack up your step count. Try to fit it in where you can, even bringing your kids with you on a walk after school or before bed can be a great way to incorporate it into your day.

    5) Schedule something for yourself

    If you take anything away from this list, I think it should be this: do something fun for you. You can schedule a nail appointment, a haircut, organize a girls’ night, go to a golf range. Just try to find something fun for yourself to do and schedule it in. Not only will you look forward to it (hello first dopamine boost) but you’ll get to have fun (hello second dopamine boost).

    I’m choosing to do a facial for myself. I haven’t been in forever, and after doing bedtimes by myself for the last week, I think I can treat myself especially well.

    Try it out!

    I hope you like this easy mid-week reset list! When you start to feel a little blah and unmotivated, it’s time for a bit of a brain re-set. Giving yourself these little wins and things to get excited about can really help your mood. It’s a micro-dose of romanticizing your life. These little things to boost your mood and well-being can make all the difference.

    You deserve it!

  • Golf Update #2

    Golf Update #2

    Golf is hard.

    As the end of the golf season approaches, I thought I’d do another golf update. First off, I know I’ve improved so much. Not just in my game, but my confidence. I’m no longer as nervous to play with other people, and I just have the attitude of going out there and having fun! I’ve learned a lot, and it’s been fun having a completely new hobby for me.

    What I’ve done since my last update:

    I’ve finished up my fall golf ladies league with Iron Ladies golf, and I had such a positive experience. Not only did I get to know some great women, but I also got out of the house and was able to enjoy the last remaining beautifully warm days of September. We had a games night, and I won the closest to the pin on a par 3. To me, that’s absolutely unreal and I never would have guessed I could do that if you had asked me at the start of my playing (just over 3 months ago).

    I did have such a great experience that I will be joining their fall indoor league. Mostly, to keep up what I’ve learned and to have something to look forward to as the days get colder and darker.

    I’ve also continued to golf a bit here and there with my husband when we have the childcare available. We just golfed the Homestead at Wolf Ridge Golf Course in Killaloe when we were visiting my parents for Thanksgiving and the colours of the leaves were breath taking.

    Not my best photo – I was just too dialed in to take anything. Also, my fingers were cold. But Wolf Ridge is one of my favourite courses!

    What I’m working on:

    My driver is my biggest work-in-progress. I’m slicing right almost every time. I’ve recently adjusted my grip (i.e. my husband suggested the grip change last week), and if that’s the magic key I’ll be a happy girl.

    I’m feeling good with my pitching and sand wedge. But me and my irons are not friends.

    So overall, I’ve got a bunch of things to work on over the indoor league and I’m feeling stoked for that opportunity.

    What I’ve learned over the last few months:

    I did want to put together a list of things I wish I had the opportunity to tell myself when I first started playing. Hopefully, they might help someone else who is starting out!

    1. Golf is hard. Don’t fool yourself into thinking you can be as good as some people who have played for years. But the learning and the growing are the fun parts. You’ll make an amazing putt, drive or chip and that will keep you coming back.
    2. There is no one way to swing a golf club. There are obviously better ways, but often you have to be the one to find them for yourself. What works for the pro at the course might not work for you.
    3. Use each hole as a blank slate. The terrible putting you did on the last hole doesn’t have to follow you the whole game.
    4. Cute clothes make the biggest difference. If you feel cute, you’ll play better. It’s science.
    5. Practice. No explanation needed.

    I hope you all had a great golf season! See you on my next golf update!

  • How to Fight the Monday Blues

    How to Fight the Monday Blues

    I’ve taken a little bit of break since my last post just to soak up the last few days of summer before fall hits us full force. I’ve been busy with seeing family, feeling swamped at work, daycare transitions, and with trying to enjoy my own birthday.

    My daughter just transitioned from a home daycare to starting at the same care centre as my son. While my mom heart melts when I see them playing when I pick them up, and my husband reports that they hold hands when he drops them off, it’s still been a change for my little girl and something we’ve all had to adjust to. Small shout out to the runny nose and cough she’s had since the third day she started….

    Recently, I’ve been finding that I look so forward to the weekends, only to have those two precious days fly by in a blink. Then, on Monday morning I’m right back to counting down the days until the weekend and feeling a little blah. The weather getting colder and the sun rising later is also not helping.

    For this reason, I’ve decided to put together a little list on how to conquer the Monday blues and get yourself excited for the week!

    1) Designate Sunday as a “Prep” or “Reset” Day

    I like using Sundays as a planned “slower” day, and as a day to prep for the rest of the week. Some prep I like to do is:

    • Setting out clothes (the kids and my work clothes) for the week
    • Finally getting around to folding the mountains of laundry that have accumulated over the week
    • Do a light clean of the house, such as a general tidy. I like to focus on cleaning the toy room.
    • Write out a grocery list and plan some meals for the week
    • Brainstorm some activities or fun things to do with the kids

    For your Sunday, try to focus on having a calmer day. Maybe, end your Sunday night with some self-care or something relaxing before bed. My favourites are some light stretching, reading, journaling, or a lovely full body shower where you shave your legs.

    2) Allow Yourself a Reward

    I’m going to start practising “mini reward Monday”. I’ve decided that I’ll give myself permission to get that pumpkin spice latte or cold brew with pumpkin spice cold foam at Starbucks. Both absolutely awesome, especially if you get sugar-free syrup. For now, I’m just going to plan something small that gives me a little pick-me-up (or when it comes to coffee a little pep-in-my-step) to make the Monday a little brighter.

    You can also totally DIY your own versions of the Starbucks drinks pretty easily. I’ll post my own recipes later!

    3) Start with Easy Wins

    I love a slow Monday, and jumping into the hardest task on my to-do list is really hard to muster up the motivation for. I suggest tackling your easier tasks and then building up to your more involved tasks as you build momentum. Crossing easy things off your to-do list also provides such a dopamine boost that will not only lift your mood, but make you feel like you can accomplish anything.

    4) Move Your Body

    Getting up and moving is such a hack for resetting your mood and getting out of your head. You can either prioritize a work-out, stretch, or go for a walk. Since I’m lucky enough to be at home on Mondays for my job, my goal is to walk my beautiful cockapoo Abby at least twice during the day. It’s good for her and it’s good for me.

    Right now, the crispy fall weather is just starting, and it feels so cozy to go for a walk outside. I love a light jacket or sweater on my walks and it’s going to get even better when the leaves start to change.

    5) Mindset Reframes

    I love mindset reframing. It’s so helpful for your mood and your motivation. For your Monday, instead of focusing on the countdown to the weekend, or dreading the week-long slog, choose activities during the week that you’re excited for. Right now, I’m looking forward to my ladies’ golf night on Mondays and taking my kids to the library on Thursday for some new bedtime books.

    6) Reduce the Rush

    Weekends are the perfect environment to become a little lax with your routine. It can be so easy to sleep in or go to bed later when you don’t have a workday to plan around. It can be hard but try to keep your routine as consistent as possible during the weekends, though obviously an hour here or there won’t ruin things. Your Monday self will thank you when waking up for work on Monday is that much easier. No one likes a manic Monday, where you’re snoozing your alarm and rushing into work.

    Aim to give yourself at least 10 minutes in the morning to slowly start ease into your day and to get in the right headspace. Check out this post on my 10-minute morning routine for a slower, less-stressful start to your day!

    Make Monday Your Best Day of the Week

    Monday gets such a bad rap, but if you use it as a reset/mindset shift day, it can easily become your favourite day of the week. It’s an opportunity to set the tone for the week to come and to prioritize yourself.

    Let me know if you have any suggestions to help battle those pesky Monday Blues!

    Abby says “you can do it!”

  • The 10-Minute Morning Routine that Changed My Mom Life

    The 10-Minute Morning Routine that Changed My Mom Life

    With two kids under 4 and working full time, I find it so hard to incorporate time for myself, especially in the mornings.

    My mornings have often felt like a mad dash to get the kids dressed, fed, and driven to school. They’ve felt like Olympic sprints to beat the clock and getting myself ready and packed for work has turned into an afterthought. Man, what a way to start the day – who doesn’t love a solid dose of chaos in the morning?

    However, over the last few months, I’ve given my mornings a major overhaul and have prioritized a quick routine for myself that focusses on a slower, more relaxed start to my day. This has given me a solid foundation to be my best self to tackle whatever curve ball life throws later and I feel more organized with my family’s rush out the door.

    Read on for my life-changing 10-minute morning!

    Ground Rules:

    On Sleep: I want you to know that employing good sleep hygiene is key to a relaxed morning. This means going to bed at a reasonable time in order for you to wake up feeling rested and not like a walking zombie. There are a lot of supplements and tools, like a sunrise alarm clock, to help you fall asleep and wake up gradually. But focus on the fundamentals before spending money or time on those extras. Having a bedtime routine, reducing afternoon caffeine, and avoiding stimulating activities close to bedtime will go a long way towards improving your sleep.

    On Wake Time: If you want to have time for a 10-minute morning routine, you will also need to wake up at least 10 minutes before your children. If they’re 7am-ers, set your alarm for around 6:45am. Give yourself a buffer of at least 5 minutes.

    On Motivation: I also want you to find a motivator to wake up that truly resonates with you. Is it the alone time you crave? The first quiet sip of coffee by yourself? Or is it watching a few minutes of that highly child-inappropriate police procedural that has you excited to get out of bed? Having a good motivator is so important when the sky is still dark and it’s freezing everywhere but your bedsheets.

    On Life Phase: Please note that if you’re in the phase of life where you have a very young baby and you’re waking up multiple times in the night, this might not be something for you. And that’s ok! That’s the era you’re in, and while it doesn’t seem like it now, it won’t be forever. Enjoy those cute baby snuggles with their sweaty little heads.

    Minute 1-2: Wake-Up

    Wake up and leave your bed as soon as you can. The longer you stay, the harder it is to leave. Scrolling Instagram can also eat your time without you realizing it and then your earlier morning will be gone.

    I do not set more than 2 alarms. The first one is the time I want to get up at, say 5:15am. The second is my backup alarm in case I oversleep the first, roughly 5:30am. For me, setting only the two alarms makes me take the first alarm more seriously. Like ok, if I don’t get up now, I’m sleeping in and missing out.

    Waking up earlier does get easier the more consistent you are with your bedtime and waketime. Also, being very gradual in moving your alarms earlier does help. If I want to change wake-times, I gradually move it by 10-15 minutes each week. This gives my body plenty of time to adjust and ease into earlier wakeups without much trouble.

    I love this podcast episode by Kaylie Stewart on her Hot Girl Energy Podcast – “become a 5am morning girly”. She gives actionable advice for waking up earlier and her motivational energy is infectious.

    Minute 2-3: Body Refresh

    Splash cold water on your face. Cold water does seem to help wake me up and I also use this opportunity to put sunscreen on so that I’m ready for the day.

    Minute 3-4: Hydrate

    Hydrate with a big glass of water. I add half a pack of electrolyte powder to my very cold water in the morning and it’s something I look forward to. I find it so refreshing after waking up and I feel more energized. Right now, I’m using LMNT electrolyte powder that I order from Amazon, but any brand that you love works!

    Minute 4-5: Eat Something

    This can be a few bites of yogurt, a banana, or cottage cheese (my personal favourite). If you’re feeling fancy, you can make overnight oats. Women do need to get calories into their bodies earlier in the morning as it helps with our metabolism and our hormone regulation. I’ve been making sure I have a few bites of food in the morning for the last couple months, and I truly feel a difference in my energy levels and my mood. I don’t get those caffeine jitters anymore and mornings seem less stressful. Try to prioritize food that includes protein or complex carbohydrates to start the day off strong.

    Minute 5-6: Breathing and Affirmations

    I absolutely love affirmations. They can really help to bring you into the right headspace for your day. Spend this minute breathing deeply and relaxing into your space while saying your affirmations out loud. Saying them out-loud is key, as I find I’m more likely to believe in them when I do that.

    I try and choose 2-3 monthly affirmations that I focus on. Choosing a smaller number helps me remember them throughout the day, not just in the morning. But if that’s not your vibe, you can always decide on a daily affirmation for what you’re currently feeling.

    Minute 6-7: Light Stretching and Posture Focus

    Some gentle neck rolls, shoulder rolls, and seated leg stretches are nice to incorporate in the morning. Ease into them and have them be very light – you’re just waking up, so the goal is to just get any sleep tightness out of your body. Focus on your posture and standing or sitting up straight.

    Minute 7-8: Journal or Verbalize Gratitude

    I love journaling. This is a great opportunity to thought dump or just plan your day. You can choose a journalling prompt, free write, or write down what you’re grateful for. Some moments of quiet reflection are great to help you be present in the moment and to “slow” your mornings.

    Minute 8-10: Choose Joy

    For your last 2 minutes, do something that brings you immense joy. It can be playing music that pumps you up – I’m personally a huge fan of Taylor Swift here. It can be drinking your tea or coffee uninterrupted. It could be sitting outside in the morning and listening to the birds. Choose something that resonates with you and brings that spark to your eyes.

    Some mornings, I enjoy having a little “touchpoint” chat with my husband. We talk about the kids (since little ears can listen and understand now), chores, work, house tasks, things to plan etc… It’s a nice opportunity to check in with each other while we’re able to dedicate our full attention.

    Find Your Slow Morning

    If you follow along with these 10 minutes, at the end, you’ve cared for your body and your mind. You’ve “filled your cup” for the morning and can jump into the day with both feet!

    Feel free to edit the order of the tasks and if it’s a good day, feel free to add give yourself more time! I like to jump into my daily work out straight from this routine, and afterwards, I feel like a million bucks. Hello Supermom!

    Click below to get the checklist version of my 10-minute morning routine that you can put on your fridge or use as your phone screensaver!

    Download Your Free Morning Routine!
  • 15 Healthy On-the-Go Snacks for Busy Moms

    15 Healthy On-the-Go Snacks for Busy Moms

    If your kids are anything like mine, then you know that the key to happy days and seamless transitions between tasks is to have your snack game be A++.

    I like to keep my snack list full of snacks that are minimally messy, don’t need a lot of prep beforehand, and for the most part, don’t need to keep cold. My other rule of thumb for when I’m packing snacks, is to include something with fibre, protein, or a healthy fat. Bonus if it’s all three! That helps keep bellies full for longer.

    Here’s a collection of my favourite on-the-go snacks to fill bags, strollers, and pockets with.

    1. Fruit with Skin or in Punnets

    Starting the list off with my favourite snack to pack: fruit that does not need to be cleaned or cut. Think bananas and oranges. I like how they travel pretty well and hold up in warmer weather. Obviously, the preference is to less ripe bananas (to avoid them turning into mush) and clementines/mandarins since they peel easier.

    I also like to pack blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries in their store punnets. When we’re ready to eat, it’s pretty easy to rinse them with water from a water bottle or to find a potable water tap. Also, kids love berries. My daughter goes bananas (pun intended) for raspberries!

    2. Fruit Snacks or Chews

    This is my next favourite snack to pack because we can choose more real fruit options. I like the “Fruit to Go” snacks by SunRype. They’re really tasty, almost like a treat, and they’re vegan. Some include added veggies, which is a bonus.

    I also like the Bear brand Real Fruit Snack minis. There’s no sugar added, and they come in cute little bear paw prints.

    My kids are also fans of the Bob Snail line-up. They have a variety of fun options, like leather strips, roll ups, and gummy disks. We’ve had the most fun with the Bob Snail “Eat&Play Bobnimals” that include a snail toy inside – like a better Kinder Egg. They work fantastic as rewards, and it makes you want to collect all versions of the snail inside.

    3. Cheese Puff Snacks

    I love popcorn and before kids, I used to make homemade popcorn weekly and buy fun flavoured bags from the grocery store as a treat. With kids, especially young ones, the choking hazard of popcorn is something I don’t want to deal with. I find that buying cheese puffs can scratch the itch of eating popcorn without you hiding in the closet to eat it.

    I’m a big fan of Angie’s Boom Chicka Pop White Cheddar puffs. I like buying a big back of puffs and then using snack baggies or cups to portion out some puffs for on the go.

    4. Pretzels Plus Spreads

    Another fun and easy snack to keep kids occupied are pretzels plus a dip. I like this because you can buy a big bag of pretzels but still keep the snack fresh by cycling through different accompaniments. We pair our pretzels with:

    • Homemade cheese sauce, or a soft cheese spread like laughing cow cheese or cream cheese (can be flavoured)
    • Nut spread (sunflower seed butter, peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter)
    • Chocolate spread like Nutella, or Kraft Chocolate Peanut butter
    • Jams
    • Hummus (can even sneak in celery or broccoli to go with it)

    5. Energy Balls

    This is snack that you can make at home and with your kids. The recipe is very forgiving for little hands and it’s fun to customize. I love making energy balls with little chocolate chips and maybe a bit of protein powder.

    For a series of energy ball recipes from The Real Food Dieticians that I like: click here!

    6. Homemade Muffins, Cookies, or Loafs

    Nothing beats homemade items. I love baking with my kids because I feel like they’re more likely to eat what they make.

    We just made these strawberry muffins with some fresh Ontario strawberries, and I highly recommend it.

    We also just made banana cream cheese swirl muffins and those been a hug hit for everyone.

    7. Lunchables or Cheese and Crackers

    What kid doesn’t love Lunchables? It’s basically a cute little bento box. If you’re time pressed, there are some really great cheese/cracker options in the store that include healthier options like cranberries or dark chocolate. You can always make your own version with the crackers and cheese of your choice. Then, if you’d like, you can add a sweet treat like a Hershey’s Kiss or fruit gummies.

    8. Packaged Baby Snacks

    Don’t sleep on baby snacks! They are actually fun snacks to add into your snack rotation, especially if you have children of different ages. I really like yogurt melts as a sweet addition, or arrowroot cookies as something else to munch on. Baby stars are also a fun, eating activity if your kids are being pushed in a stroller. The stars can also be added to a toddler friendly “trail mix”, along with other fun finger foods. The bonus is that a lot of baby snack are very portable and easy to store or dispense.

    9. Cheese Snacks

    Cheese is a great option because it contains protein and fat which help satiate appetites. I like Babybel cheeses because they are coated with wax, pre-portioned, can come in spiral options, and sometimes have fun Disney characters on them.

    Cheese strings are another great pre-portioned cheese option.

    These may not last as long on a hot day and they can be a little pricier, but they’re great options.

    Also pairing sliced cheese with an apple or pear is another great way to achieve a healthy fat/protein with a fiber-full fruit.

    10. Nuts and Dried Fruit

    A classic charcuterie board combo which works for kids too! Nuts provide healthy fat and fibre with the dried fruit adding more fibre and nutrients.

    Dried apricots are great because they also provide a small source of iron, which for pickier eaters, can be hard to get.

    Cashews are a great starter nut option because they are a little softer to chew on. Pistachios are also great because they contain a little bit of protein. Be most cautious with smaller hard nuts, like peanuts, which are choking hazards for younger children.

    11. Applesauce

    Applesauce squeeze packs aren’t just for babies. They’re a great on-the-go source of fibre and carbohydrates. Essentially, they’re instant energy for when your kids are hitting an afternoon slump. They’re portable and come in a ton of fun flavour combinations.

    If you’re feeling ambitious, you can also make your own applesauce and portion it into these reusable dishwasher-safe pouches from amazon.

    12. Cereal

    Allegedly, my husband was obsessed with plain Cheerios as a kid. And honestly, it’s such a great snack. For younger kids, Cheerios are a great finger food, and they dissolve easily. And for older kids, the benefit is that they contain added iron and vitamins.

    Cereal is also another option that can be dispensed into smaller snack bags for travelling. There are also a bunch of cereal options in the store, where you can choose a variety of flavours to keep things fun and exciting.

    13. Granola bars

    Another classic snack on the go. Granola bars are great for when you’re in a pinch for snacks and they usually travel well. There are a variety of options at the store to choose from. I do like brand Made Good, which usually includes added fruit and veggies to their granola bars.

    You can also make fantastic granola bars at home. I really like this recipe by The Real Food Dietitians for making my own: Homemade Peanut Butter Granola Bars

    14. Yogurt: Tubes/Cups/Drinks/Parfaits

    I LOVE yogurt. I eat it almost every day. If it’s Greek yogurt, it can be a great source of protein as well as full of good gut probiotics. You can add cinnamon, vanilla, and nut butter to make a fruit dip. Or you can add spices or a ranch salad dressing spice pack to make a healthier veggie dip.

    On the go, I also love packing frozen yogurt tubes since they help keep other food cold and they’re just really tasty. The tube is also a great way to keep small hands less messy – watch the squeezing from the bottom though!

    Yogurt drinks are also another great snack, and some contain a good amount of protein. They’re a great option when you stop at the store for a snack before hitting the library or the beach.

    You can also quickly put together a yogurt parfait in a small glass lock container by layering chopped fruit and granola in the yogurt.

    Do monitor the nutrition labels as a lot of children’s yogurt products have been overly sweetened to make them more attractive to children.

    15. Sandwiches/Wraps

    Ok, this may seem boring to some. But sandwiches are such a great option to pack. Not only can you choose your own ingredients, but you can create the perfect snack: a mix of complex carbs, protein, and fibre.

    Use either homemade bread (who has time for that?), or healthier bread options like wholegrain and sourdough. Then you can go with the classic ham and cheese (maybe sneak some sliced cucumber or sprouts on there) or some fun flavour combos. If you make your own fruit jam (essentially mashed fruit, honey, chia seeds, and lemon juice) with natural peanut butter, you have a tasty, better for you PB&J. Maybe go crazy, and have a cream cheese, honey, and strawberry sandwich!

    The world is your oyster with sandwiches.

    Same thing with wraps! I love making little wrap pinwheels using meat and cream cheese. Changing up the format keeps things fun for young kids!

    Take-Away:

    Having snacks is a must! I hope you found some inspiration from my list.

    For snacks that require some cooling: a cooler bag or insulated bag works just fine. My baby bag has a small section for milk bottles that is insulated, and I use that for snacks that need some cooling. Often, my kids are eating these snacks within a half hour so sometimes, if I’m really pressed, I just put them in a regular bag. But you can find some fun backpack coolers on amazon like this one.

    Share in the comments if you have any fun snack options that you like to pack! I’d love to hear about them!

    Also, please always supervise your children when they are eating. Safe eating practices include having them sitting upright and not talking or laughing while chewing. Knowing what to do in the event of a choking emergency is crucial, so please update your CPR skills regularly.