GoodyBlog has spotlighted the ongoing Cupcake Wars that school districts are struggling with, i.e. to allow cupcakes in the classroom to celebrate a child’s birthday or to not.  The GoodyBlog points out the sincere concern parents have with sugary, sweet treats and the growing problem of childhood obesity.

The picture of cupcakes alone is enough to make my mouth water, think back to great school memories of special days of sweet treats.  I was recently at a huge party with a large buffet of fancy, homemade desserts.  The choices were truly endless, and what did I pick?  The sugary, sweet, store bought (even!) cupcake!

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It’s the season for sweet caramel coated apples.  Whether you are enjoying a family fun activity after a trip to the orchard or celebrating a birthday party this Autumn and want to serve these gooey treats at the party or as a take home goody…check out this classic Kraft recipe for Caramel-Dipped Apples. Very easy and very little time to prepare. 

Quick Tip: Instead of using the wooden popsicle sticks…to make them more authentically Autumnal, go outside and gather small but sturdy sticks, and use these as the handles for these sweet treats.  Easy, festive, and fun!  If the kids are making them with you, have them gather these up in your yard…another great party activity!

Should I limit the number of parties that my kids can attend each month or each year?  Is there a tactful way to turn down invitations so that the kids don’t get their feelings hurt?

It’s that time of year again…school has started (many have policies that all kids must be invited to the party), the kids are engaged in their after-school activities, etc.  Everyone is having birthday parties and inviting everyone to them.  You are likely to end up with a party each and every weekend or even a couple each weekend.  These parties are, of course, fun, but they do take up precious weekend time, as well as can stretch your budget buying party presents.  Unlike summer, it is difficult to NOT attend because it is not summer time when you may be on vacation or have other plans scheduled.

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Just For Fun: Check out this quick Cribsheet article on Babble…captures birthday party mania in a very unique list. 

Shout out to Sarah Sundberg for something really fun! 

Want a quick fun tip for your upcoming Halloween party invitations?  Attach a pair of fake teeth, fangs or a packet of fake blood on the actual invitation.  The kids will get excited and can bring it along to the party, and it makes it even scarier!

Did you say that you are inviting babies to the monster mash?  Well, check out Billy-Bob Pacifiers … they’ve got you covered.  Aren’t they over-the-top creepy and funny for your little one?  Add this Halloween pacifier to your Halloween invite with an orange or black ribbon…creepy times for the littlest ones.

For kids’ Halloween parties, a spooky party favor is an absolute must! Here is a crafty and easy idea to make for your departing ghouls:

Take empty toilet paper rolls, one for each guest. Cut out orange and black crepe paper and wrap each roll with the paper. Make sure to let the ends over-lap with the paper so the ends can be tied with alternating orange and black ribbon. You can also fasten the crepe paper around the toilet paper roll with a small piece of tape. Fill the roll with small candies, plastic spider rings, Dracula teeth, etc. Tie the other end with an orange or black ribbon.

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Check these out: Silly Feet Cupcake Holders from Wilton.  An easy way to add fun to your already frivolous cupcakes…these guys are so cute and colorful, and a really quick way to add some color.  Reusable too…they are $9.99 for a package of four. 

While you are there, you may want to scope out that recipe for Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes too!  Yummmm…

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