Author Archives: Annie Alwine

How to pay for 3 seats and get 6

Flying 6 hours with a family of four including a lap infant who is big for his age squished into 3 seats does not sound enticing. ✈️ How did we get 2 rows/6 seats to ourselves from San Diego to Kauai on the departure AND return flight!? 💺 💺 💺 💺 💺 💺 Read below.Continue reading “How to pay for 3 seats and get 6”

 3 Must Know Tips on Taking Toddlers to The Library

I want my kids to love the library and not feel like there are a ton of rules when we go. I don’t want them to associate one of our favorite activities with getting yelled at for being loud or running in the halls. AND I don’t want them to do those behaviors when they’re there. I want them to be respectful of the other patrons reading and studying. 

Here are three tips I’ve used to help make sure our library trips are enjoyable for everyone!

Diversity & Inclusion Specialist

I am passionate about disability rights and diversity, believing it is important for all children’s books to show inclusion, not just ones that are specifically about multiculturalism. It was my dream to write these picture books where the illustrations show varying disabilities, sexual orientation, races, gender identities, body types and religions. I wanted children and families to be able to identify with characters while gaining exposure to a variety of cultures different from their own, encouraging acceptance and appreciation of others. 

Yet, as a white woman I know that I may inadvertently get it wrong and I didn’t want to do that. Enter Dhalia Balmir, an Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Consultant, Strategist, Writer and Speaker. She reviewed and edited The Peaceful Outing Series and I’m so grateful for her and her expertise. 

9 Tips on Flying with Kids, Toddlers and Babies for a Peaceful Flight

Any parent has been there. Screaming child in public. Feeling other’s eyes burning through the back of your head as they judge your parenting style. The last thing you want is that meltdown on a plane on your first vacation since the pandemic. It can be exhausting trying to make sure your little one isContinue reading “9 Tips on Flying with Kids, Toddlers and Babies for a Peaceful Flight”

5 Parenting Tools and Tips That Make Your Life Easier

For any profession we study, read up on the latest, and make sure we have the tools we need to do our jobs well. Computers, tractors, cameras, professional certificates, degrees, workshops, software, etc. Yet, so many of us don’t seek tools for our number 1 job as parents. Work smarter not harder applies to parenting too. Build your parenting toolbox.

6 tips to survive eating out at restaurants with babies, toddlers and children

Any parent has been there. Screaming child in public. Feeling other’s eyes burning through the back of your head as they judge your parenting style. Even if you’re at a kid friendly restaurant it can be exhausting trying to make sure your little one is quiet, not running around or disturbing other customers. You deserve a nice relaxing meal out. Here are six tips to get that fun family dinner.