Category Archives: Family Fun

Active Indoor Game Ideas for Kids

10 Best Indoor Games to Get Kids Moving

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Many of us are looking forward to a 3-day weekend but for parents, a long weekend translates to three days with the kids and it’s easy to feel like a cruise director. January is an exceptionally chilly, blustery time of year and both kids and adults are mostly stuck indoors on the weekend. Whether you’re hosting a sleepover or a family game night, these fun indoor games will help your kids burn some of that excess energy. But don’t worry — no sneakers required. Your coziest flannel pajamas, as always, are perfectly acceptable attire.

Best Indoor Games for Kids

Jump around in these ‘Stay Cool’ pajamas by Big Feet.

Active Indoor Game Ideas for Kids

1. Race to the Finish. Use masking tape or painters to tape to create “lanes” on the floor. Create flashcards with different movements such as hop, skip, or crabwalk. Get creative and let the kids come up with ideas too. For example, one card could read “walk like a chicken” or “swing like a monkey” and have participants come up with their own interpretive movements. Draw a movement card from a hat at random. Players participate in a silly “race to the finish” with the chosen wacky movement.

2. Twister. The classics never fade. Twister is a still an uproariously fun game to play during a sleepover, family game night, or just a fun night in with friends! You’re more likely to topple over from laughing than from loss of balance. Just be prepared for your kids to mock your attempts at agility for the rest of the weekend!

3. Indoor Bowling. Stack plastic cups into a large pyramid. Stack them high and stack them deep. Use a 5-8” toy ball, or even a tennis ball, to roll on the floor at the pyramid. Players get a point for each “pin” they knock down. Just like bowling, the game becomes more challenging as more pins are removed.

4. Limbo! Remember this one? Limbo is a game best played in a group, so it’s a great choice for a sleepover. Grab a broom or mop and see just how low everyone can go! Remember, ‘Limbo’ is one part game and one part dance party, so have the kids help you come up with a killer playlist that everyone will enjoy.

5. Balloon Waddle. A less messy version of the egg-and-spoon race, Balloon Waddle is a silly game that’s perfect for little kids! Blow up some balloons and see if the kids can “waddle” from one end of the room to the other with the balloon between their knees, without dropping it. If it’s too easy or the kids are a bit older, set up a few obstacles for the kids to move around or hop over.

Active Games for Sleepovers

Sleepover-ready in these super comfy dinosaur pajamas by Big Feet.

6. Musical Chair Dance Party. A great group game that can be fun at any age with the right tunes! Simply gather a number of chairs that is -1 of the number of participants and arrange them in a circle, seats facing outward. Play upbeat music. The group must dance (not walk!) around the chairs until the music stops, then it’s a scramble for a seat! Whoever is left without a seat when the music stops is out. Subtract one more chair and keep playing until there’s a winner!

7. Charade-ercise. For the athletically-inclined crowd or a family of sports enthusiasts, create a game of charades that involves a little more movement than most. Create your own categories such as sports, sports-themed movies, and athletes (remember, swimmers, skiers, gymnasts, and dancers count!). Using flashcards, write down your own sporty subjects for participants to energetically act out.

8. *Lego Hunt. Treasure hunts are for more than backyard birthday parties. Perfect for sleepovers or busy little kids, create your own “lego hunt” inside your home. This game is a little more like an Easter Egg Hunt and less involved than a Treasure Hunt where you have to create clues. Simply hide Legos, or Duplo blocks for little kids, around the house. Assign each player or team a color to locate. Hide the same number of pieces for each color. See who can find all their pieces first. Play again and again to see if the kids and beat their best time!

*This game could be played a variety of ways if you don’t have Legos or Duplo blocks. Think about any toys that can be divided into categories, such as animal figurines (mammals vs. reptiles), action figures, cars, and dinosaurs (cars vs. dinosaurs, for example).

9. “Dunk” Competition. This one is surprisingly simple, yet amuses kids …and some adults… of varying ages. You can host an indoor “dunk” competition that doesn’t involve mounting a basketball hoop to your living room wall. Simply set an empty garbage can across the room and see who can make the most shots, either in a row or best out of 10. The perfect activity for a simple, sporty family game night.

10. Hide-and-Go-Seek. Don’t forget this one! Similar to a treasure hunt, a good old fashioned game of hide and seek will have kids running around the house for hours as they take turns being the “seeker.” This game is still a great hands-off way to tire out any child!

We hope these game ideas inspire you to get your family moving this weekend. For more tips and ideas for entertaining kids during these cold winter months, check out The Pajama Company Blog at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

Easy DIY Dog Treats

How to Make Holiday “Cookies” for Your Dog

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Winter is the time of year to get cozy at home. There is no better way to make a house feel warm and welcoming than with the smell of freshly baked treats. Throughout the holiday season home bakers are whipping up batches of cookies for family, friends, and neighbors — so why not your best furry friend?

Even if you’re not a baker, we promise that your pup won’t be as critical of your skills as your human friends and family! As with any changes to your dogs diet, we advise that you consult your vet first and consider possible allergies before feeding these treats to your buddy.

Lazy One Red Plaid Bear Cheeks FlapJack for Dogs

Matching pajamas for the whole family, including Fido! “Bear Cheek” FlapJack pajamas for dogs by Lazy One.

8 Incredible Homemade Dog Treat Recipes

1. Easy Peanut Butter Dog Treats

You’d be hard pressed to find a basic human cookie recipe that’s this easy to make! With only four ingredients and a few steps, your pup can be enjoying warm peanut butter goodness fresh from the oven! We’re willing to bet you have all or most of the ingredients in your fridge already. Get the super simple recipe from Damn Delicious here.

2. Peanut Butter Bacon Dog Donuts

If you give a dog a donut… These adorable treats are inspired by the children’s book by Laura Numeroff. If you’re worried about the sodium content in the bacon, opt for a natural, low-to-no sodium brand, or just skip it all together. He’ll be plenty happy with the peanut butter. Get the recipe from Sunny Day Family here.

3. Chicken and Biscuits Dog Treats

Deviating from the peanut butter theme for a moment, here is a simple dog treat recipe that would make great use of leftover scraps of meat from a roasted chicken. Be sure to read the author’s note on not including the skin because of fat content or heavily seasoned meat. We really love that the author simplifies the recipe further by skipping the cookie cutter process. Let’s be honest, the dog is going to eat them no matter the shape! Get the four ingredient recipe and instructions from Two Healthy Kitchens here.

4. Spinach, Carrot and Zucchini Dog Treats

If you’re already making a New Year’s resolution to eat more vegetables, let your dog join in on the fun! These DIY dog treats are easy, nutritious, and easy to make. Yes, your dog will devour them — vegetables and all! Get the unique dog treat recipe from Damn Delicious here.

Lazy One Moose Fair Isle FlapJack for Dogs

For pups who feel the winter chill more than most, “Moose Fair Isle” FlapJack pajamas for dogs by Lazy One.

5. Luxe Cheddar Bacon Dog Treats

Leave it to the folks at Good Housekeeping to develop a dog treat recipe that’s so over-the-top delicious that humans admit to snacking on them too. This recipe has the mouth-watering combination of bacon and cheddar along with a healthy punch of fiber and protein from rolled oats and eggs. Check out the recipe and video from Good Housekeeping here.

6. Chicken and Wild Rice Biscuits

Modeled after one of the more popular dog food flavors, this homemade chicken and wild rice dog biscuit recipe is going to be a surefire hit with your pup. Another great alternative to all the peanut butter and bacon-heavy recipes floating around on the internet. Get the recipe and instructions from Carrie’s Experimental Kitchen here.

7. Pumpkin Apple Dog Treats

This healthy treats are supposedly great for your pup. Canned pumpkin is recommended for dogs to settle stomach upsets. Apples are also good treats for dogs, loaded with fiber and vitamins A and C (just remember to remove the seeds!). Get the four ingredient recipe and step-by-step instructions from Three Little Ferns here.

8. Grain-Free Breath Freshening Dog Treats

Have you ever bought those pricey breath freshening dog treats before? It seems like the second you invest in a 10 lb. bag, suddenly your pup loses all interest. Not with this homemade version. The treats are not only easy to make, they’re also grain-free for dogs with sensitivities to wheat. Learn how to make these dog treats from Health Starts in the Kitchen here.

We hope your pup enjoys these tasty treats! If you really want to spoil your pup this holiday season, browse our collection of adorable pajamas for dogs. For more ideas for family fun this holiday season, check out The Pajama Company Blog at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

Best Christmas Gifts for Dog Lovers

Halloween costume ideas with pajamas

10 Best Halloween Costumes Made From Pajamas

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How is it already the end of October?! If you’re picking out a Halloween costume by fruitlessly searching for whatever is left in your size, or choosing your kid’s costumes according to whatever is still available with Amazon Prime’s 2-day shipping — you’re not alone!

Even though drugstores started rolling out plastic pumpkins and 20 pound bags of mini candy bars in August (not an exaggeration), those adults and parents who are just slightly less organized still manage to turn the event into a stressful scramble year after year. We’re offering up a solution to this madness: wear pajamas instead.

Why Pajamas Make the Best Last-Minute Halloween Costume

An overwhelming number of Halloween costumes for both adults and children these days are essentially overpriced, cheaply made onesies. Onesies themselves are supposed to be warm winter sleepwear and can be easily zipped over other warmer clothes for a great costume solution. So why not just use the real deal instead? Winter pajamas make great Halloween costumes because they’re semi-homemade, warm, and comfortable. Here are some fun ideas for pajama-inspired Halloween costumes for all ages.

Pajama Halloween Costumes

Easy Pajama-Inspired Halloween Costumes

1. The Lumberjack. Combine your warmest flannel pajamas with a hat, puffer vest, big boots, and a toy axe or faux beard and you’re done! Wear the plaid pajama top and bottoms, or just the top and your most comfortable pair of jeans. 

2. The Big Baby. Want to spend the night in a onesie? Pull on footed pajamas (they come in adult sizes!) and carry a teddy bear with a pacifier clipped to your pajamas. Easy and oh-so comfortable!

holly golightly halloween costume

Nothing says “do not disturb” quite like Holly Golightly’s stylish sleep mask.

3. Holly Golightly from Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Super simple and loaded with sass, adults can wear stylish and flattering pajamas, don a sleep mask, and some ritzy jewelry to play film’s most popular kept woman. Say what you will about Holly, but the woman knew how to lounge. 

4. A Ghost. Halloween and party supply stores may be out of costumes in your size, but they probably have a simple face paint kit or two left. Check out this basic ghost face-paint tutorial and put on a flowing nightgown or cozy white robe for an easy Halloween costume. If it’s chilly, you can wear pants or leggings under your sleepwear! 

5. The Hillbilly. Now is a great time to check out our super fun vintage-inspired flapjack pajamas, in both child and adult sizes. Made of incredibly soft, warm flannel, you’ll be comfortable on even the chilliest fall night. Pair flapjacks with a coonskin cap, boots, and a corncob pipe for a quick “hillbilly” costume.

where the wild things are costume

You have to admit, Max does look mighty comfortable in his pajamas during his adventure.

 

6. Max from Where The Wild Things Are. Yet another simple onesie costume courtesy of everyone’s favorite children’s book. Don a white onesie, purchase an inexpensive gold foil party crown from any part supply store, and find a pin-on animal tale like this one from Amazon.

7. The College Student. Perfect for adults with college-aged kids, dress up as a your son or daughter for halloween in soft, warm flannel pajama pants and and oversized hoodie from their alma matter. Bonus points if you use this pizza tote or takeout purse.

8. Tom Cruise in Risky Business. A super fun costume for both men and women. Slip into a nightshirt, white socks, and sunglasses. Warm up the look on a chilly fall night with nude-colored leggings.

Lost Boys Peter Pan Halloween

The ‘Lost Boys’ would make an adorable and comfortable family Halloween costume.

9. The Lost Boys. If you’d like to get into the Halloween spirit and reach from an obscure, but playful theme, look no further than Peter Pan’s ‘Lost Boys.’ This idea is perfect for a group or family costume. In the Disney original, the kids in the dreamlike world of Never Never Land wore playful animal-themed footie pajamas. Grab a friend with larger Halloween ambitions to be Peter Pan or Wendy.

10. “Sleeping Beauty.”  We know Sleeping Beauty as a princess locked away in a tower, waiting for Prince Charming in a full ballgown… but what if we took the phrase more literally? Wear a pajama set fit for royalty and top off the costume with a toy tiara and sash. Cheeky fun!

We hope you enjoy these fun and easy pajama-inspired Halloween costumes for the whole family! For more ideas for Halloween fun, check out The Pajama Company blog at thepajamacompany.com/blog. 

30 Easy After School Snack Ideas

30 Easy After-School Snack Ideas

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We love fall: warm sweaters, scarves, hot chocolate… but for families fall is an busy time of the year. While September is the one month out of the next five without a major holiday, it’s challenging because it’s a transitional month. Families switch gears from carefree summer days to tight school schedules packed with activities.

One thing all parents with school-aged kids hear after they pick up their kids: “I’m huuungryyyy…” Take some of the stress out of meal prep with these quick and easy after-school snack ideas. With a little snack to hold them over, parents can get dinner on the table, homework checked, and the kids to sleep just a little bit earlier — giving you that much-needed down time!

Easy Back to School Snack Ideas

Snug As A Bug ‘Flower Power’ Kids Fleece Footy

Quick and Easy After-School Snacks

1. Graham Cracker ‘Cheesecake’. Spread cream cheese on graham crackers and top with fresh slices fruit or berries for a “cheesecake” effect.

2. Hummus and Veggies. Baby carrots, sliced cucumber or red pepper, and whole wheat pita will make for a quick veggie infusion before dinner. An easy way to present them with new vegetables to try.

3. Ants on a Log. Cut celery sticks into ‘logs’, fill with smooth or chunky peanut butter and top with a row of raisins.

4. Popcorn. Short on time? Pop a bag of popcorn in the microwave. If you’re concerned about health, opt for plain popcorn and top with shaved parmesan, nutritional yeast (parmesan flavor with protein and without the fat), Italian seasoning, or chili powder.

5. Peanut Butter ‘Pizzas’. Spread peanut butter on whole wheat bread and offer an assortment of toppings for your kids to add: sliced strawberries, banana, or even a handful of dark chocolate chips.

6. Frozen Bananas. This snack involves some thinking ahead, but is great way to satisfy cries for “I want ice cream!” Cut bananas in half and stick popsicle sticks inside. Freeze overnight on a baking sheet then put in a freezer-bag. Serve as you would a popsicle.

7. Apple Blossoms. Blend a little chocolate hazelnut spread with almond butter. Put a dollop on a plate. Arrange thinly sliced apple slices in the dip to look like a flower. Sometimes presentation and a touch of chocolate is half the battle to getting your kids to eat produce.

8. Steamed Broccoli with Ranch. The tough, sometimes grainy texture of raw broccoli is sometimes hard for kids to get past. Lightly steamed broccoli, either on the stove in or in the microwave, creates a much more palatable texture. A side of ranch dressing for dipping never hurts.

9. Pita Pizza Pockets. Slice whole wheat mini-pitas in half, spread pasta sauce inside and stuff with cheese and thinly sliced veggies and melt in the oven for a healthier — and sometimes faster — alternative to frozen pizza pockets.

10. Cheese Plate. Inspire your kids to be adventurous with their snacking. Slice a couple different types of cheese (cheddar, gouda, and pepper jack are fun!) with their favorite crackers and let them try sometime new. They’ll learn that there’s an alternative to American cheese slices!

30 After School Snack Ideas

Lazy One Kids “Timberland Bear” Footy

11. Caramel Apple ‘Nachos.’ This is a super neat idea. Fill a plate with sliced apples. Drizzle a little bit of caramel topping, vanilla yogurt, mini chocolate chips, and crushed nuts for a fun treat.

12. Rice Cakes with Sliced Banana. Doesn’t get much easier than this. Spread rice cakes or multigrain cakes with a nut butter of your choice and top with sliced bananas. A sweet, healthful, crunchy snack.

13. Cheese Roll-Ups. Lay sliced provolone flat, top with turkey or ham, roll up and serve! Add a little dish of mustard for dipping if you’d like.

14. Yogurt Parfait. Layer berries and vanilla yogurt in a small dish, drizzle with honey, and top with crunchy granola.

15. Cheerios Snack Mix. Don’t have time to make homemade Chex Mix? Same here. Throw some regular cheerios, peanuts, raisins, and a handful of chocolate chips in a bowl. Toss and serve.

16. Avocado Toast. Whole wheat toast topped with smashed avocado and a sprinkle of salt makes for a satisfying snack. For older kids looking for kick, add some crushed red pepper or nutritional yeast for a protein-packed cheese flavor.

17. Pizza Bagels. Slice a bagel or mini-bagel in half. Top with tomato sauce, cheese, and let your kids add toppings from options like chopped veggies (whatever you have on hand), olives, or ham or pepperoni. Place in oven at 350 until cheese melts and bubbles.

18. Fruit and Yogurt Dip. Dip makes a difference! This trick does for fruit what ranch does for vegetables. Sweeten Greek yogurt with honey, mix together, and serve dip with an assortment of fruit. The kids will love it and it’s packed with protein — keeping the kids out the kitchen until dinner.

19. Pretzels and Chocolate Chips. Introduce the kids to the lovable combination of sweet and salty with a handful of pretzels, chocolate chips, and some roasted peanuts.

20. English Muffin Toasties. Slice whole wheat english muffins in half, top with a slice of ham and a slice of cheese, toast in oven until cheese is hot and bubbly.

30 Snack Ideas for Back-to-School

Munki Munki Kids Dino Bikes Long John Set

21. Hulk Smoothies. Throw frozen bananas, a couple handfuls of baby spinach, and milk or milk substitute into a blender. The kids will only be able to taste the sweet bananas in the smooth creamy texture of this fun green ‘milkshake.’

22. Lazy Loaded Nachos. Spread tortilla chips over a microwave safe plate. Top with sliced cheese (whatever you have on hand) and beans or veggies of choice. Microwave until cheese melts. Serve with salsa or sour cream.

23. Quesadilla. This is perfect if you have a fridge full of leftover chicken or steak. Warm a pan, place a large whole wheat tortilla in the middle, quickly top with leftover meat, sprinkle with cheese, top with another tortilla. Heat and flip until both sides are golden, crisp, and cheese is melted. Cut into wedges and serve as is or with sour cream or salsa.

24. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries. Dip a handful of fresh strawberries into a little bit of chocolate hazelnut spread. Serve on a plate.

25. No-Bake Oatmeal Energy Balls. A great make-ahead snack. You can make a variety of flavors and store in the fridge and serve throughout the week. Get the recipe at Bless This Mess here.

26. Baked S’Mores. Okay, so this isn’t the ‘healthiest’ treat — but everything in moderation! Make one s’more for each kiddo, but bake in the oven instead of heating over the fire. Slip in some sliced fruit or berries if you’d like.

27. Woven Wheat ‘Pizzas’. Place your favorite woven wheat crackers on a baking try. Top with cheese slices and a slice of pepperoni or a piece of ham. Bake until cheese is melted.

28. Protein-Packed Hot Chocolate. Soy milk contains 7-9 grams of protein per serving, making it a great snack if you want to beef up a beverage. Make a standard hot chocolate pack with soy milk instead of regular milk for a more satisfying after-school beverage.

29. Baked Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Chips. Here’s an after school snack that the adults might want to enjoy too. While it’s not as quick as some of the other options, it’s a relatively low-maintenance recipe. Get the recipe from Diethood here.

30. Banana ‘Nice Cream’. Blend frozen bananas in a food processor, add dashes of milk or milk substitute until you reach the desired consistency (think soft-serve ice cream). Top with a squirt of chocolate sauce, chopped nuts, cereal, or a dash of sprinkles for a healthier take on ice cream.

We hope you and your children enjoy these snacks or were inspired to invent your own! For more back-to-school tips and family-friendly recipe ideas, visit our blog at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

Kids Pajamas for Back-to-School

11 Best Summer Sleepover Ideas

11 Summer Sleepover Themes

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School is out and the kids are home! By now you have probably compiled a list of summer boredom busters or are desperately searching for easy ideas to entertain your kiddos. Whether they are at home or bouncing in between daycare or summer camp, you’re going to have to burn that energy every weekend!

The best way to get kids to wear themselves out is with each other. Why not team up with other parents and take turns hosting sleepovers throughout the summer? The kids will have a blast and the parents will get a break. Here are a handful of simple summer sleepover ideas for guaranteed pajama fun!

Big Feet Kids Pajamas for Sleepovers

Kids Dinosaur Union Suit from Big Feet Pajamas

Best Summer Sleepover Themes

1. Under The Sea

Do you have a “Little Mermaid” at home? If so, you can’t go wrong with a classic princess theme with an under sea twist. Strategically hung blue, green, and gold streamers will create a magical kelp forest. Play Caribbean music and games, like limbo. Give the kids crowns and tritons so they can pretend to have underwater adventures! Of course, when it’s time for a movie, only one will do.

2. The All-American

What’s more American than hot dogs and apple pie? Baseball. Set up T-ball for little ones in the backyard and serve up dogs, fries, and apple pie (store bought is great — we won’t tell!). After the kids put on their pajamas, pop in The Sandlot for evening entertainment. Good all-American fun.

3. Christmas in July

Kids love this surprising, topsy turvy theme! Great for a heat wave, pull out some Christmas decorations and embrace winter in July. Lower the A/C and pull out lots of snuggly blankets, twinkle lights, and hot chocolate. Have the kids watch Elf or Frosty the Snowman in their flapjacks — a guaranteed giggle fest!

4. Roughing It

Kids love to play pretend. Set up a tent in the backyard so they can “go camping.” Roast marshmallows over the grill to make s’mores. Play flashlight tag and tell scary stories. When movie time rolls around, have them bring their sleeping bags inside and watch Open Season.

5. Berry Bake-Off

Berries are finally in season! Take the kids strawberry or blueberry picking or just pick up a few cartons in the store. Look up an easy no-bake recipe for little ones to try, like whipped cream berry parfaits, or make hand pies with older kids. The goodies will be a fun treat to enjoy during an evening showing of Ratatouille.

Munki Munki Goldfish Pajamas for Sleepovers

Goldfish Long John Set by Munki Munki

6. Waterpark

Create a water park in your backyard using sprinklers and a slip n’ slide. The kids will wear themselves out quickly running around in the sunshine. They’ll be more than ready to curl up in their pajamas and watch Finding Nemo at the end of the day!

7. Garden Party

If there’s one thing kids love, it’s getting their hands dirty! Inexpensive pots, soil, plants, and seeds will provide lots of gardening fun! Pick up popsicle sticks and have the kids make and decorate tags identifying the name of their plant. Consider fall plants that the kids can start sprouting now and plant later at home. After they’ve washed their hands and put on their PJs, pop in Zootopia (the main character’s parents are farmers!) or James and the Giant Peach.

8. Moana Dance Party

Two themes in one! It’s hard not to boogie to the incredible Moana soundtrack. Create a Pandora station based on the music and the station will automatically play similar kid-friendly tunes. Throw in grass skirts, leis, glow bracelets (for bioluminescence in the “Realm of Monsters”) and you’ve got yourself a super fun dance party! Be sure to show the movie at the end of the day after the kids settle down.

9. Pirates of the Caribbean

Kids love a scavenger hunt! Set up a pirate themed treasure hunt in your backyard. Consider small toys and chocolate gold coins as the big prize! “Capture the Flag” is another great option. The kids will have a blast swashbuckling in pirate hats with foam swords. When it’s time for bed, show Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean or for little ones, the animated classic, Peter Pan.

10. Pool Day

For the tween set who is “too cool” for themes, consider a “pool day.” There are many inflatable pool options that are great for lounging in. Set up magazines, sunblock, music, water guns, or nail polish for a relaxing day of fun in the sun. Depending on age, movie options could include Hotel Transylvania, Dunstin Checks In, or Blue Crush.

11. Frozen Karaoke Party

For the kids who can’t get enough music, how about a karaoke party with a Frozen theme? Kids karaoke machines are relatively inexpensive or you could just play fun Disney soundtracks on Pandora or Spotify. Once the kids are in their jammies and tucked in for the night, play Frozen for one more round of sing-along fun.

For more ideas for summer family fun, visit The Pajama Company at our blog, thepajamacompany.com/blog.

15 Summer Boredom Busters for Kids

15 Summer Boredom Busters for Kids

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“I’m bored!” says every child three days into their summer vacation. While it’s not our job as parents to be cruise directors, here we offer alternatives to the default response of “Go outside and play!” Unlike elaborate Pinterest-inspired activities, we tried to keep this list to activities that most children could do without too much adult intervention. Of course, please use your best judgement when selecting activities that are both safe and age appropriate for your kiddos!

Screen-Free Summer Activities for Kids

1. Water Balloon Fight

Why a water balloon fight vs. a squirt gun fight? Time! The kids will have a blast filling and making the balloons… which also incidentally kills more time. If you’re worried about clean up and the environment, know that you can find biodegradable water balloons — 500 for less than $10!

2. Sidewalk Chalk Obstacle Course

Have your kids devise an “obstacle course” with sidewalk chalk. It could be one that they skip, hop, and jump through or use with their bikes, trikes, or scooters. This activity is a great way to get them to use their imagination and get some exercise!

3. Sprinkler Fun!

Sprinklers are a classic summer boredom buster for kids! A great alternative to splashing in a pool, running through a sprinkler will amuse your kids for hours, especially when you combine the activity with others like water balloons and squirt guns. Inexpensive and quick to set up, apart from supervision, this activity takes minimal effort.

4. Sun Tea

Sun tea is a quick and easy activity that is especially amusing for the younger set. Select a tea with a vibrant color, preferably a fruit tea, like passionfruit, peach, or mango. Place several of the bags in a large, clear, glass pitcher or mason jar for a big batch. Fill it up with water and set it in the sun to “brew.” After an hour of playing, the kids will return to find a brightly colored pitcher of tea waiting for them — made by the sun!

5. Plant and Bird Identification

Plant identification is a great activity for younger children who are excited about reading and science. Give them a plant or bird guide that is specific to their region and encourage them to find and identify different birds, flowers, shrubs, or trees in either their backyard or a local park. Increase the “science” factor by giving them magnifying glasses or binoculars to examine their finds with more detail!

Summer Boredom Busters for Kids

Can’t go camping without the right gear! We love these matching Lazy One flapjacks!

6. Backyard Camping

Can’t drive out to the wilderness for the weekend? Camp in the backyard! Have the kids set up a tent, wear their favorite pajamas, and sleep outside in the great outdoors. Even if they’re not keen on spending the night outside, they’ll have a blast pretending to camp all day long. Perfect for kids who enjoy imaginative play.

7. Nerf Blaster Target Practice

If your kids love Nerf blasters, set up “target practice” outside. Give them plastic cups to stack and knock over. Another option is to have them draw and hang paper targets. If they’re of the age where they enjoy competition, encourage them to keep score and practice their math skills while they’re at it!

8. Dominoes

Another old school rainy day classic, find dominoes and teach your kids how to set up trails of falling dominoes. Look at YouTube videos of dominoes falling to get inspiration for epic examples of what people have created. Take videos of the final result and maybe post it on the web for other domino enthusiasts to enjoy!

9. Make Popsicles

Popsicle molds are pretty common these days and can purchased on Amazon or in stores like Target or Walmart. While there are a lot of “recipes” for popsicles that involve fresh fruit and a blender, simplify the activity by purchasing an armful of fruit juices. Have kids combine their favorite juices into fun new flavors!

10. Crayon Rubbings

Send your kids outside with pad of paper and a box of crayons. Show them how they can make “rubbings” of their favorite leaves and flowers to create fun and original artwork. Simply place the leave under a piece of paper and lightly add pressure with the crayon to create an imprint of what is beneath. Works best when you take the wrapping off the crayon and rub lengthwise.

11. No-Bake Baking

It’s too hot outside to turn on the oven! Search the web for “no-bake desserts.” Since these recipes don’t involve an oven, they’re often easier for younger children to make from start to finish. Great for building kitchen skills and confidence!

12. Make Collages

Drawing, coloring, and painting are a great way to pass the time. If you have a lot of magazines and junk mail, give the kids some age-appropriate scissors (or help them cut!) and encourage them to enhance their artwork by collaging.

13. Squirt Gun Painting

Using squirt guns, water, and food coloring, your kids can make paintings outside. Set up large pads of paper at a distance and fill various water guns with different colored water. Let them fire away and create!

14. Water Xylophone

Fill several tall glasses with various amounts of water. Using a spoon, tap each glass. Show your kids how filling the glasses with more or less water creates a different sound. This is a fun way to experiment with music in your kitchen!

Summer Boredom Busters for Kids

This goldfish pajama set from Munki Munki is perfect for playing in pillow fort!

15. Living Room Fort

In many regions, summer has no shortage of rainy days! When your kids are trapped inside, let them build the living room fort of their dreams: no chairs, bedding, or pillows are off-limits! They’ll have a blast building the cozy castle of their dreams. Later that night, host a family pajama party in their “new home inside of home.”

For more ideas for summer family fun, visit The Pajama Company at our blog, thepajamacompany.com/blog.

9 Surprising Things That Are ‘Made in America’

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The Fourth of July is right around the corner! Celebrate America’s Independence Day with these fun ‘Made in America’ facts. Contrary to popular belief, there are many, many brands and products that are still manufactured right here in the good ol’ US of A. As an informed consumer, it’s a good idea to understand where the products you purchase come from and who they support. Take a look at the list below — we’re sure some of these brand names will surprise you!

Daisy Alexander Pajamas are Made in America

Daisy Alexander pajamas are Made in America.

Products You Never Knew Were ‘Made in the USA’

1. Crayola Crayons (and everything else!)

The crayons that you grew up with and love are still made in the USA. Crayola has expanded into thousands of other kid-inspired art supplies that go way beyond washable crayons, markers, and pencils. However, the company is still known for its iconic crayons — and Crayola certainly makes a lot! Crayola makes 650 crayons per minute and over 13.5 million each day!

2. Duraflame Logs

If you don’t have a fireplace or go camping, you might not know this, but Duraflame is the household name in the firelog market (yes… there is a firelog market). These handy logs are great for those of us who want to enjoy the warmth and beauty of a crackling fire without all the kindling, shredded newspaper, and sooty hands. Duraflame’s manufacturing plants in California and Kentucky employ 200 Americans, who make 14,000 miles of firelogs each year!

3. Post-Its

Post-Its that you buy in the US and Japan are 100% ‘Made in America.’ In fact, the Post-It became so popular that in 1985 3M, the company who owns the Post-It brand, ceased manufacturing copiers and overhead projectors to become the chief manufacturing plant for sticky notepads — talk about going all in! Today 3M sells more than 4,000 unique Post-It products in over 120 countries and employs over 35,000 people.

4. Pyrex Glassware

Corning, based in Corning, New York, started making Pyrex nearly 100 years ago. When the company sold Pyrex to another corporation in 1998, many feared that the American product would be manufactured overseas. Much to everyone’s surprise, World Kitchen ensured that Pyrex oven-safe glassware would continue to be manufactured in the same Pennsylvania plant where the product has been created since the 1940s.

The Cat's Pajamas Made in USA

The Cat’s Pajamas has been making products in the USA for two decades.

5. The Cat’s Pajamas

For 20 years, The Cat’s Pajamas, an eclectic California-based pajama company, has been making their fun and luxurious pima cotton PJs in the USA and shipping them around the world. Proudly “California Top to Bottom,” the company’s designers, textile artists, and the people who sew every stitch are based in California.

6. KitchenAid Mixers

Yes, the most iconic American kitchen appliance is still 100% manufactured in America. KitchenAid Mixers were known for their signature cherry-red hue, but are now manufactured in a rainbow of colors and shipped around the globe. The product has been made in the same Greenville, Ohio plant since 1941. The plant employs over 700 people and can turn out up to 7,000 mixers per day!

7. Sub-Zero Refrigerators

Another kitchen mainstay, especially in luxury homes, the Sub-Zero Refrigerator has been manufactured in Madison, Wisconsin since 1945. Since Wolf Appliance acquired the family-owned business, they kept the plant in Wisconsin and opened up two more in Kentucky, employing 1,000 more people!

8. Wilson Footballs

Does this get any more American? Wilson footballs, the American football, still makes its leather game balls at a dedicated facility in Ada, Ohio. The facility makes 700,000 footballs per year — all by hand! Wilson is the official game ball supplier to the NFL. Something to think about as your throwing a ball around during your Fourth of July barbeque!

BedHead Pajamas Made in America

BedHead pajamas have been made in California for 20 years.

9. BedHead Pajamas

Another 20-year old brand, BedHead pajamas founder Renee Claire has been personally designing each collection for the company since its inception. 100% made in the USA, BedHead pajamas are designed and sewn in California. The brand is fun, flirty, and relaxed. A perfect embodiment of the laid-back Cali lifestyle.

All of us at The Pajama Company wish you and your family a safe and happy Fourth of July! Like many Americans, we look for opportunities to support the American worker and American entrepreneur. We’re proud to tell our customers about the brands we carry that produce 100% of their merchandise in the United States.

For more inspiration for family activities, summer recipes, or fun gift ideas, visit us at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

Pajamas Made In America

What to Wear Camping

11 Must-Have Summer ‘Glamping’ Essentials

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“We should go camping!” exclaims your friend / roommate / significant other and before you know it (before you’ve had your coffee) you shout, “YES! We should TOTALLY go camping!” Three clicks and a rental car later, you made plans to spend the weekend in the great outdoors.

Sleeping under the stars… or on the ground in a hot tent surrounded by bugs… isn’t for everyone, but glamping certainly is. Glamping is short for “glamorous camping” and the concept inspires even the most hardened indoor cats to venture into the wilderness. The idea behind glamping is to make the experience as relaxing and restorative as a night in a hotel. Here’s how.

11 Must-Have Summer Glamping Essentials

Turn Camping into ‘Glamping’ with the Right Gear

1. Effective “Dry” Insect Repellent

If you’re not a fan of the outdoors, this is not the time to try an “all natural” bug spray made of essential oils and unicorn tears. This is the time to stock up on products like OFF! Deep Woods Dry. Bug spray may not sound like “glamping” gear, but the less time you spend tending to mosquito bites and swatting at gnats, the more time you spend enjoying the outdoors. Dry repellents last for 8 hours, aren’t greasy like typical sprays, and are safe to use on your clothing and tents! Make your weekend a bug-free zone.

2. Starter Logs

It’s cute that your partner wants to show you how they learned to make a fire in Scouts over 20 years ago… but on the off chance they’re a little rusty, pack starter logs. Starter logs will have you enjoying perfectly toasted marshmallows in a matter of minutes. Brands like Enviro-Log are safe for the environment and burn clean without all the chemicals.

3. “Fold and Go” Propane Camping Grill

You won’t want to start a bonfire every time you want to enjoy a hot meal. Make mealtime easier with an inexpensive, lightweight “fold and go” propane grill. They pack away neatly, are easy to carry in a backpack, and simple to clean and maintain. These grills are the difference between eating a granola bar for breakfast or savoring a hearty meal of bacon and eggs.

4. Reliable Cooler for the Champagne

With the right cooler or ice chest, you can keep food cold for up to 4 days! Don’t limit yourself to canned food, dry goods, and water. Pack your favorite meats, cheeses, and beverages and enjoy them all at a refreshing temperature. You can’t go glamping without the mimosas!

Light Summer Pajamas

It’s heating up! We adore this cotton pajama set from The Cat’s Pajamas.

5. The Perfect Camping Pajamas

You won’t feel glamorous sliding into your sleeping bag wearing the the same T-shirt you’ve been wearing all day, smelling of sweat and bug spray. Drift off to sleep in a silky, lightweight pajama set that will breathe through even the most humid summer nights. Check out our most popular light, breezy summer pajama sets for inspiration.

6. Air Mattress, Blankets, and Plenty of Pillows

Even the cushiest sleeping bag won’t save your spine from the uneven dirt floor beneath your tent. Splurge on a battery-operated pump for an air mattress. Go ahead and bring sheets, blankets, and plenty of indoor and outdoor pillows to turn your tent into a cozy den of comfort. Don’t forget LED-powered lanterns and battery-operated fans for an extra-luxurious experience.

7. Dry Shampoo and Other Creature Comforts

If your campsite is especially “rustic,” you’re going to need to pack basic creature comforts to live your glamping dream. If there is no running water, bring plenty of moist wipes to freshen up between deodorant applications. Wash your hair with a luxurious dry shampoo before bed, so you can hit your pillow with that “fresh blowout” feeling.

Give a Bathrobe and an At-Home Spa Day for the Holidays 2017

Kashwere Super Soft Shawl Collared Robe

8. A Plush, Luxurious Bathrobe

Even without running water, you can feel instantly cozy in the soft, cocoon-like arms of a high-end bathrobe. Wrap up in your robe at the end of the day, while you read in your tent. Be comfortable during cool early mornings, snug in your robe, sipping coffee brewed over an open flame. The perfect bathrobe instantly elevates any outdoor experience from camping to “glamping.”

9. Entertainment of Every Kind

We know, we know. You’re outdoors, so you should be stargazing and hiking and frolicking in fields with fawns and singing birds… but two or three days in the woods can get a little dull. There’s nothing wrong with bringing a fully charged tablet and watching a movie in the comfort of your pillow-stuffed tent. Of course, bring plenty of board games, card games, books, or magazines for non-electronic entertainment too!

10. The Hammock

Can you really call it “glamping” without a hammock? Don’t forget this absolutely essential piece of glamping equipment. Hammocks are the best way to lounge outdoors. They are easily packed and easily installed between two trees at any campsite. You can even find folding hammocks that pop up independently, without screwing bolts into trees.

11. Elevated S’Mores

We have nothing against Hershey’s, but if you want to take your camping experience from rustic to elegant, start with the s’mores. Instead of the standard Hershey’s milk chocolate, try incorporating bars of artisan chocolate with your graham crackers and toasted marshmallows. Artisanal chocolates come in flavors like candied orange peel, spiced chili, cinnamon, and lavender. This is a simple way to add a touch of luxury to any gathering around a bonfire.

For more ideas for outdoor fun for the whole family, visit us at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

7 Father's Day Activities for the Whole Family

7 Father’s Day Activities for the ‘Fun Dad’

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This Father’s Day, we’re celebrating Fun Dads! There are dads and then there are fun dads. Fun dads have an extra cheesy dad joke for every situation. They make matching family T-shirts, show off their dance moves when they chaperone prom, and get overly competitive on game night (especially during high-stakes Candyland). There’s no rope swing too high, no rollercoaster too fast, and no such thing as too much ice cream for these “big kids.”

Show the ‘fun dad’ in your life how much you appreciate his willingness to go the extra mile to bring a smile to his kid’s faces. On Father’s Day, tackle these activities with same childlike enthusiasm that he would.

Father's Day Gift Ideas

Munki Munki Dino Bikes Matching Pajama Set

Fun Father’s Day Activities for the Whole Family

1. Cornhole Tournament

For the competitive dad who likes to spend time outside, spice up your father’s day BBQ with a cornhole tournament. A cornhole set makes a great gift for the dad who likes to host friends and neighbors while he grills. Invite other dads in the neighborhood over to celebrate. If cornhole isn’t his jam, consider other classic lawn games like ladder toss, horseshoes, or croquet.

2. Roller Rink

Give him the gift he really wants: the chance to embarrass his kids in public. Take dad back to middle school and plan a family trip to a roller rink. Cheesy pop music, bright lights, and a disco ball are all a ‘fun dad’ needs to get his roller-groove on!

3. The World’s Largest…

Is dad the one who can’t go on a road trip without stopping at every advertised attraction? Whether it’s a national historic site or the largest ball of yarn, indulge his childlike curiosity by finding your nearest, weirdest, wildest roadside attraction and take the family on a mini road trip. Get dinner in the town or city you’re visiting and toast his adventurous side!

Father's Day Activities He'll Love

Show your love for Star Wars in this matching Munki Munki R2D2 Pajama Set.

4. ‘Dad Movie’ Marathon

What’s his poison? Spaghetti westerns? 80’s classics? Die Hard? Cheesy horror movies? Show your love for dad by enduring three of his absolute “worst” favorites. In addition to popping popcorn, have a selection of classic movie theater snacks on hand like Milk Duds, Raisinettes, and Dots. If you want to really knock his socks off, present the family with matching pajamas so you can lounge in style!

5. Trampoline Park

For the families with little ones, trampoline parks are guaranteed to tire them out! Trampoline parks are large indoor spaces covered in wall-to-wall trampolines. Many have separate areas for adults and older kids and little ones. Take the family for a day of jumping around. You’ll be surprised by how much fun you have!

6. Arcade

For the fun dad who is a gamer at heart, visit an arcade on Father’s Day. He’ll love getting competitive with his favorite little buddies. There are plenty of ‘Chuck-E-Cheese’ alternatives these days. For example, Dave and Buster’s is a chain restaurant and sports bar with a ‘Friday’s’ feel that also has arcade games. This way mom and dad can take a break from gaming and enjoy a drink while the kids keep themselves amused!

7. Outside-the-Box Mini Golf

Did you know that mini golf isn’t mini golf anymore? While the classic shoot-a-golfball-through-the-windmill is a blast, now there are a lot of variations on the family favorite. You can play indoor glow-golf, virtual golf, or go to a new kind of driving range called ‘Topgolf’ where you can rent a bay by the hour and enjoy cocktails, food, and games.

At the end of an exciting day of celebrating and family fun, dad’s going to want to relax. Surprise him with a new robe or a comfy pajama set before he settles in for the night. For more gift ideas or inspiration for family activities, visit us at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

Rainy Day BBQ Recipes for the Oven

Rain or Shine: BBQ Recipes for the Oven or Grill

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Barbecue season has officially arrived! What’s more American than grilling up thick juicy cuts of meat in the great outdoors? The key to hosting a stress-free outdoor bash is to create a backup plan for a rainy day. Unexpected showers are frequent during these temperamental spring-to-summer days and sudden thunderstorms are common in the thick of summer. Rained out barbecues are stressful for a number of reasons, the primary concern being: what the heck are you going to do with all that food?!

Take the pressure off your party planning and have oven-friendly barbecue recipes on hand. If you can move your party indoors or safely tuck your crowd under a tent, you can “party on” even if your grill is out of play. These are our favorite oven-friendly barbecue recipes that can easily be thrown on a grill if the weather lets up!

6 Oven-Friendly Barbecue Recipes for a Rainy Day

Moist Oven BBQ Chicken for a Rainy Day

Super Moist Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken by Heather Likes Food

1. Super Moist Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken by Heather Likes Food

This recipe delivers as promised: chicken so tender you could cut it with a fork and all that smoky BBQ flavor your guests are craving — minus the grill. The secret to Heather’s recipe is the killer overnight marinade. Just be sure you don’t marinade for more than 24 hours! Chicken has a sweet spot and the meat could get a little funky. If the sun decides to make an appearance you can easily change course and throw this flavor-packed meat on the grill instead. Get the full recipe from Heather Likes Food here.

Oven-Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs

Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs by AllRecipes

2. Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs by AllRecipes

We’re talking fall-off-the-bone, melt-in-your-mouth delicious pork ribs straight from the oven. Rain shouldn’t mean that you let all that flavor go to waste! The ground chipotle pepper is the key ingredient in this keeper from AllRecipes. Chipotle peppers have a smoky taste, so even from the oven the meat will taste like it was served fresh off the grill. Get the full recipe from AllRecipes here.

Juicy Oven Steak for a Rainy Day

Juicy Oven Steak by Weary Chef

3. Juicy Oven Steak by Weary Chef

Making steak in an oven sound sacrilegious, but when you’re without a grill and you have to feed a crowd: a host’s gotta do what a host’s gotta do. You can’t go wrong with this tasty steak recipe from Weary Chef. The beef comes out far more tender than it would from a grill and you can easily knock out multiple servings at once. Keep in mind with all of these recipes that the meat needs to rest for a period of 30 minutes before serving, so that gives you plenty of time to move various dishes in and out of the oven. Get the full recipe from Weary Chef here.

Garlic Shrimp Kabobs for a Rainy Day

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Kabobs by Damn Delicious

4. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Kabobs by Damn Delicious

We are huge fans of Damn Delicious over here and you will probably find one Chungah’s recipes in practically every food post from Pajama Company! If your barbecue is rained out and you have an ungodly amount of expensive jumbo shrimp burning a hole in your fridge, fear not! These flavor-packed Lemon Garlic Shrimp Kabobs are roasted in the oven to perfection. The best part is that they can be served up in a flash in between other oven-barbecue dishes like chicken or steak. If the weather clears up, just throw them on the grill! This recipe is super versatile. Get the full recipe from Damn Delicious here.

BBQ Pulled Pork in the Oven for a Rainy Day

BBQ Pulled Pork in the Oven by Taste of Southern

5. BBQ Pulled Pork in the Oven by Taste of Southern

Were you planning on firing up the smoker this weekend only to have rain ruin your plans? Slow cook that Boston butt in your oven with this delicious pulled pork recipe from Taste of Southern. The recipe includes a homemade dry rub called “Steves Butt Rub” — and you if you can’t get behind that… What we love most about this recipe is that it pleases both sides of the BBQ fence by including a recipe for homemade “NC Eastern Style Vinegar-Based Sauce.” Pull out the sliders and keep the party going. Get the full recipe from Taste of Southern here.

Crunchy Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks for a rainy day

Crunchy Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks by Sweet C Designs

6. Crunchy Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks by Sweet C Designs

Arguably everyone’s favorite: smoky, juicy, crispy drumsticks fresh off the grill. If Mother Nature has other plans for your barbecue menu, don’t panic! This simple recipe from Sweet C Designs will give you the juicy flavor packed chicken with a to-die-for crunchy crust — fresh from the oven. This recipe is loaded with BBQ-in-the-oven pro tips (“Don’t rush the magic!”) that you can apply to the other dishes on this list. Get the full recipe from Sweet C Designs here.

We hope you enjoy these recipes! All of us at The Pajama Company wish you and your family a safe and happy Memorial Day weekend. Like many Americans, we look for opportunities to support the American worker and American entrepreneur. We’re proud to tell our customers about the brands we carry that produce 100% of their merchandise in the United States.

For more inspiration for family activities or gift ideas, visit us at thepajamacompany.com/blog.

Pajamas Made In America