Preschool Workbook / A fun way to learn numbers 1-10 / Number Crafts

When my three kids were little, I always tried to make learning fun... and crafting was one of our favourite activities. Today, I'm sharing the NEW book I wrote which highlights the crafts we did when I was teaching them about numbers. It's like a 40+ page workbook with lots of photos and templates -- AND it's only $2.99 US. If you are interested in purchasing a copy, you can do it here.

Here are some examples of the ideas and crafts that are included in my book. You are going to love all the craft templates included!

This workbook is perfect for parents, grandparents, caregivers, and preschool teachers. If you are looking for an easy and fun way to teach little ones, grab your copy of my new book here.

♥
Gina Bell (aka East Coast Mommy)

8 FREE 4x6 Valentine's Day Prints

Holiday décor is a lot of fun, and it doesn't need to break the bank. In fact, today I am sharing Valentine's pictures that you can download absolutely FREE. Pop them into an inexpensive frame, and you're all set!

I designed 8 different pictures, so you can pick your favourites, download them below, print them, and use them any way you like. I think they look great in a grouping of three.

These pictures are also great to add to décor you already have. Here are a couple displayed with the pom pom wreath I made last year. (You can find the instructions for this simple wreath here.)

I framed my three favourites. Which ones do you like the best?

To download one (or all) of your favourites: click a pictures below, save it to your computer or phone, and print it like a regular 4x6 photo.

I have many more fun Valentine's Day ideas coming soon, so stay tuned!

♥
Gina Bell (aka East Coast Mommy)

Don't miss out on any of the fun... follow me on social media here.

     

If you are looking for more Valentine's Day inspiration, check out more than 30 Valentine's Day ideas here.

15 Winter HACKS You Need to Try!

Winter got you down? If you are finding it hard to deal with short days, cold temperatures and heavy snowfalls, I've got you covered. I'm sharing simple hacks that are guaranteed to make winter a little easier--and a lot more fun!

1) To make shoveling easier, spray your shovel with non-stick cooking spray. The snow won't stick to the shovel. It will slide off easily and the job will get done a lot quicker.

You can also use a broom to sweep off a porch or steps after a light dusting of snow.

2) If your boots or shoes are wet inside, speed up the drying process by stuffing them with newspaper, absorbent microfiber towels, or socks filled with rice. The moisture will get absorbed, and your footwear will dry out much more

3) To remove salt stains, dip a cotton ball in diluted vinegar (1 cup water to 1 tbsp vinegar), rub the stain, and allow to dry.

4) Get outside. Buddle up and take advantage of all winter has to offer.

5) Have a winter campfire. Gather around a warm fire, sing songs, and roast marshmallows and hot dogs.

6) Enjoy a cup of cocoa. And, for a touch of fun... freeze cool whip or canned whipped cream on a tray, cut with a fun-shaped cookie cutter, and pop into a cup of hot chocolate.

7) Make snow ice cream. It's a seasonal favourite in my house, and it's soooo easy to make! Put 8 cups of freshly fallen snow in a big bowl. Then, add 1 can of sweetened condensed milk and 1 tsp of vanilla. Stir until combined and serve immediately.

8) If you don't have a fireplace, turn on your television and search for a "faux fireplace" on YouTube.

9) Light candles or use battery operated candles to create a warm glow. The smell of scented candles will also add to the ambience.

10) Bake something. Fresh baked sweet treats taste delicious, and make your house smell delicious. And, as an added bonus, you can open the oven door when you are finished and get a free blast of heat. 😁

11) Put a hot water bottle or microwavable heating pad in your bed before you get tucked in. No more cold toes at bedtime!

12) Make sprayable snow paint for kids by filling a spray bottle with water and a few drops of food colouring.

13) Get crafty.

14) Throw glow sticks in a warm bath.

15) Have a movie night.

Check out this helpful video for a closer look at some of the hacks!

Winter can be a difficult season, so why not try a few of these hacks to make life easier and more fun!

♥
Gina (aka East Coast Mommy)

Valentine's Day DIYs, FREEBIES and Dollar Store Finds

Valentine's Day is coming, and I have some fantastic, budget-friendly ideas you are going to love. I have easy DIYs, dollar store finds, and FREE Valentine cards. I made a video too, so don't forget to check it out.

1) Valentine for teammates - This is such a cute (and punny) Valentine to share with teammates. Let friends know they are "EXCEL" lent teammates with packs of EXCEL game and the cute printable tags you can download for FREE below.

 

To print the tags: click on the photo below, right-click, save it to your computer, and print it like a a regular 4x6 photo.

2) Chip Valentine - Little bags of chips make adorable Valentine's when paired with the cute tags I designed. Download the tags for free below.

To print the tags: click on the photo below, right-click, save it to your computer, and print it like a a regular 4x6 photo.

3) Festive t-shirts - I found this t-shirt for $4 at my local dollar store, and it will be perfect for Valentine's Day. Keep a look out for cheap Valentine's Day shirts.

4) A SPECtacular Valentine - I found these adorable heart-shaped glasses at my local dollar store, and I think they make the cutest Valentine when paired with the punny tag I designed. Download the "EYE think you are SPECtacular" tags below.

To print the tags: click on the photo below, right-click, save it to your computer, and print it like a a regular 4x6 photo.

5) Valentine for gal pals- How cute are these dollar store socks to share with a friend on Valentine's Day? I love them with this "You knock my SOCKS off" tag that you can download for free below.

To print the tags: click on the photo below, right-click, save it to your computer, and print it like a a regular 4x6 photo.

6) Glittery Heart Garland - I found this garland at my local dollar store, and I love it. It's cute on it's own... but I also like to use the the individual hearts in my décor. I add them to my Christmas garland to turn it into "Valentine's Day" garland. Check out my video (below) for a closer look.

7) Sweet Treats - Homemade and store bought chocolate treats make perfect Valentine's... and they are even better when paired with the cute, pink tags I designed. Download yours for free below.

To print the tags: click on the photo below, right-click, save it to your computer, and print it like a a regular 4x6 photo.

8) Valentine for people that aren't sentimental - This Valentine is perfect if you aren't into "lovey dovey" Valentine's. I think it's super cute! Download the tag for free below.

To print the tags: click on the photo below, right-click, save it to your computer, and print it like a a regular 4x6 photo.

9) Gumball machine Valentine - This DIY is simple to make with dollar store supplies, and it makes a perfect Valentine when you add the tag I designed. Find the instructions in the video I made here, and download the tag below.

To print the tags: click on the photo below, right-click, save it to your computer, and print it like a a regular 4x6 photo.

For a closer look at all these Valentine's Day DIYs, FREEBIES, and Dollar Store Finds, check out the video below.

Happy Valentine's Day!

♥
Gina (aka East Coast Mommy)

You may also enjoy the recipes here.

The Polar Express (Christmas Light Adventure)

For many years, our family has been going on a "Polar Express" Christmas Light Adventure, and it's one of my favourite holiday traditions. It's simple, but a lot of fun!!! (Note: Don't forget to download the UPDATED ticket I designed for you. Get if for FREE below.)

In order to embark on your own Polar Express adventure:

1) Print the tickets I designed for you.

2) Grab some hot chocolate, cookies, and popcorn.

3) Hop in your vehicle, turn on Christmas carols, and drive around looking at Christmas lights.

To print one of the Polar Express tickets I designed: right-click on the picture below, save it to your computer, and print it like a regular 4X6 photo.

Then, when the trip is over and you've chosen the winner of the "best lights in town", the kids find bells from Santa's sleigh on their pillows. Pretty fun, right?

This really is one of our family's favorite holiday traditions, and I highly recommend giving it a try.

♥
Gina (aka East Coast Mommy)

Find more ideas for easy and inexpensive Christmas family fun here.