Our Family lifepack 2020 Fashion Show was a hit, where we rolled out tons of beach-worthy styles and casual warm-weather looks for all manner of play. 

This year in boys clothing, our designers focused on fun and functionality, with a special tip of the hat for the skater boys and daredevils in all of us. Oh, and we didn’t forget the beach bums either!

In girls clothing for 2020, we bring poppy and popping out front and center with fresh new graphic designs, and tons of new soft denim pieces to add warmth to any and all summer looks. 

We couldn’t have done it without the work of our designers - veritable artists of their craft drawing inspiration from the beach, the city, and the energy which ignites the spirit of play in children all around the world. 

Our models - as diverse as the world we design for - give each of the 11 featured looks below a character of their own. But, all of Family lifepacki’s clothing is crafted with a European aesthetic suitable for children from both sides of the pond.

Glamour Galore in 2020!

Our new girls styles explore the balance of elegance and graphic-inspired fun! From girls dresses and jumpsuits to skirts and overalls, spring and summer for Family lifepack girls is looking quite poppy!

A poppy, light-hearted spring look

This young lady sports a two-in-one t-shirt and dress combination set. The soft-denim dress blocks out a cherry-printed shirt that balances pop and sophistication as a perfect baby girl's birthday party outfit or her first day at daycare. 

Add a dash of cozy with a pink-toned apple jacquard cardigan from our Family lifepack Rouge collection.

https://tipscomobajarlapanza.com/products/ss20-baby-girl-t-shirt-and-dress-set-cq30023-46

Spring Breeze, and Summer Dreams

It’s a classy, modern take on a post-war look. She wears our bird-printed jumpsuit from the Tropicool Collection. Vibrant, multi-depth pastels whirl around in exotic bird shapes above and below a comfortable elastic waistband. Ruffled sleeves add an additional touch of spring and offers an interesting symmetry to the entire look. 

Pair with our Tropicool straw hat, featuring an exotic ribbon bow to complete that “sunny vacation” look.

https://tipscomobajarlapanza.com/products/ss20-kid-girl-navy-blue-bird-printed-jumpsuit-cq32005-88

“I’ll take savannah with a side of sun!”

She boldly displays our beige giraffe short-sleeve shirt featuring an original cartoonish design from our in-house designers. Paired with our sun-licked yellow jacquard cardigan, this outfit will brighten dreary April showers, and uplift any bright summer yard party. 

We love completing this outfit with dark blue jeggings for added comfort and mobility. They add a definitively “American” element to this spritely European look, perfect for traversing Parisian boulevards or goldenrod savannahs. 

https://tipscomobajarlapanza.com/products/ss20-kid-girl-heather-mother-of-pearl-giraffe-short-sleeve-t-shirt-cq10135-13

Poignant, artistic, and endlessly comfortable

Healthy snacks get a retro treatment with this deep blue printed dress from our Rouge by Family lifepack Collection. A metallic elastic waistband keeps her looking form-fitted, establishing an attractive and bouncy shape, and the v-neck is perfect for her favorite fun necklace.

Complete the look with a matching pair of printed leggings for a bold, graphic visual attack. 

https://tipscomobajarlapanza.com/products/ss20-kid-girl-midnight-blue-printed-dress-cq30055-88

A romantic, artistic, and classy spring pop!

This lovely sports a truly romantic graphic-printed, sleeveless dress - an iconic piece of our Rouge by Family lifepack Collection. A comfortable elastic waistband only holds the dress’ shape, leaving ample mobility for enjoying all of Spring’s outdoor bounties. 

For the colder spring snaps, couple this piece with a sporty Rouge denim jacket emblazoned with the Family lifepack “POM” logo and brilliantly rouge red buttons. 

https://tipscomobajarlapanza.com/products/ss20-kid-girl-red-printed-sleevless-dress-cq31265-36

A farmer’s look for playtime and poetry

These fitted girls overalls offer her complete comfort inside and outside. The cuffed hems give the whole shape definition, and the glitter-red buttons add a poppy accent - the cotton blend also lends to extra breathability, while the elastic straps keep the piece in place. 

We love seeing this piece paired with our apple-printed POMPOM shirt. The crispy fruit print adds even more child-like joy to make a perfect late-Spring and Summer look. 

https://tipscomobajarlapanza.com/products/ss20-kid-girl-indigo-short-denim-overalls-cq21005-46

Take me to the park!

This little princess sports a cozy, comfortable, reversible bunny-graphic cardigan equally perfectly suited under a raincoat and in sunny, rolling park landscapes. The neckline is designed to have the polka-dot buttons in the front, and in the back.

Complete the look with a flower-printed, navy blue skirt with an elastic waistband for twirling, tea parties, and running around in the open air. 

https://tipscomobajarlapanza.com/products/ss20-baby-girl-white-front-and-back-stripped-cardigan-cq18033-01

Bold Boys in 2020

In spring and summer of 2020, boys get down with their sporty selves, while also celebrating more refined styles. Regardless of the piece, we’ve designed our new boys clothing lines with fashion, frontiers, and feverishly contagious fun in mind. 

It’s a Jungle Out There!

This young man sports an over-the-top volume of colors and shapes with this long-sleeve jungle-print shirt from our Tropicool Collection. A rounded hemline opens up this piece for a casual, un-tucked look.

Outfit your young man for adventure with a pair of graphic-printed, breathable, and comfortable black joggers for running around and exploring - perfect for outrunning panthers and tigers!

https://tipscomobajarlapanza.com/products/ss20-kid-boy-green-long-sleeve-camouflage-shirt-cq12014-13

“Put me in the rink, coach!”

This bad-boy on wheels sports a mauve-purple cotton t-shirt emblazoned with a zany iguana graphic, a signature design from our Tropicool Collection. Slim-fit for that definitively “cool” look, it was imagined for outdoor playtime and indoor puzzle games during April showers. 

We suggest pairing this baby boy t-shirt with a high-volume pair of exotic, jungle-print cargo shorts to embrace the summer in the wild, and at home. 

https://tipscomobajarlapanza.com/products/ss20-baby-boy-purple-short-sleeve-t-shirt-cq10002-83

Hanging at the Halfpipe

Our model hangs ten in this eye-catching mauve t-shirt featuring an eccentric skateboard design - imagined by our in-house designers for daredevils at heart. Fitted and with a prominent crew neck, this is a sturdy piece for taking on the tarmac. 

Pair this piece with a pair of brilliant bermuda shorts to build a summer style, or a liberating pair of beige denim joggers for a cool street look.

https://tipscomobajarlapanza.com/products/ss20-kid-boy-purple-short-sleeve-t-shirt-cq10054-83

A Summer Look for Breezes and Beaches

This little dude sports a blazingly loud jungle-print t-shirt featuring a prominent black crew neck hemline with a special added touch to make it easier for mommy and daddy - a button for simple, quick dressing.

Bring this light shirt into colder early-spring days with this printed sweatshirt from our Tropicool Collection. 

https://tipscomobajarlapanza.com/products/ss20-baby-boy-light-green-short-sleeve-printed-t-shirt-cq10022-52

A skater or a watermelon?

This fun little boys t-shirt features a skating watermelon asking a truly important question - is he a skater, or a watermelon? Or, a watermelon skater? The slim fit offers a clean and cool look, and breathable cotton makes this piece breathable and flexible. 

We love seeing this look completed with these abstract jungle-print beige shorts for an additional touch of fun and volume. 

Fruits just wanna have fun, too!

Your little man can hop on the halfpipe with this speedy fruit-print polo shirt. Fine-threaded cotton offers breathability and comfort, and the fashionable lined collar lends a subtle accent perfect for interesting matches. 

One great pairing for this piece are our craft-denim bermuda shorts - faded and endlessly comfortable, he’ll love spending hours outside with friends, or lazing in the sun with a good book. 

https://tipscomobajarlapanza.com/collections/work/products/ss20-kid-boy-heather-grey-speedy-veggie-short-sleeve-pique-polo-cq11014-19

The biggest little roar!

Every little boy has a lion inside them, and this bright, poppy lion t-shirt features a house-designed print for a roaring good time. The colored collar offers a contrast that slims the neck and places emphasis on their money-maker! Plus, shoulder snaps are perfect for easy dressing!

Consider pairing this piece with our new blue-waisted joggers. They’re stretchy for all manner of jungle adventures, and their breathability is perfect for hot summer days and spring cold snaps. 

https://tipscomobajarlapanza.com/collections/work/products/ss20-baby-boy-yellow-tiger-t-shirt-cq10062-72

We at Family lifepack are thankful for the beauty and complexity of the world, and how it informs the art sewn into each article of clothing. 

From that world - in all its brilliant colors and vibrancy - designers find their inspiration. This year, our designers dove into a new direction of colors and graphic concepts inspired by their world to make art for kids. 

We’re exploring the sun-drenched harmony of tropical palettes, applied to all walks of life. From hazy Sundays to high-tide, we think with the right set of sunglasses it can be summer everywhere.

We’re thankful to present a bold new chapter in children’s fashion - our new 2020 Spring and Summer Collection!

Family lifepack 2020 Spring & Summer Arrivals 

Tropicool 2020 

Exotic, daring, and brilliantly bold, Tropicool embodies summers on sandy beaches and deep jungle flora. Striking as clear blue waters, these pieces are designed for commanding attention in only a way nature knows how - deep, organic colors contrasted with sun-licked, exciting floral palettes.  

Baby Girls Fuchsia Long Sleeve T-Shirt

This blazing fuchsia long sleeve from our Tropicool Collection takes your little girl to the brilliant ocean depths. A 3-D meandering jellyfish and a relaxing bird will take all the attention in any fun summer look. 

Girls Navy Blue Bird T-Shirt

Give a girl wings and she will fly! This 3-D bird print shirt is all frills - soft ruffle sleeves and a gold glitter detail make this new piece from our Tropicool Collection a welcome centerpiece for any spring outfit. 

Girls Navy Blue Bird-Printed Jumpsuit

This jumpsuit from our Tropicool Collection is a true art piece from our new additions. Splashes of bright color assemble into whirling birds, and the glitter waistband and ruffled sleeves foretell impending thaw out of winter in brilliant definition. 

White and Navy Bubble and Leggings Set

Summer for baby is bold and bright! Our Tropicool Collection girls dress and leggings set is polished, prim, and poppy! An exuberant pink flower print - with a fun abstract bird perched on top - is all of spring and summer in a single piece. 

Girls Navy Blue Printed Leggings

Endlessly comfortable and breathable, these bright bird-print jersey leggings are made for lazy summer Sundays and soccer games in the park. Stretchable for comfort and breathability, you might have found your daughter’s new favorite pants! 

See more Tropicool girls pieces here. 

Baby Boys Purple Short Sleeve T-Shirt

Springtime is about getting out and getting weird with this shirt from our Tropicool Collection. A slithery iguana and skateboarding frog lay atop a cool-toned mauve purple cloth - for the animal lover and pro-skater at heart.

Baby Boys White and Black Long Sleeve T-Shirt

A little bit funky, a little bit French! This white and black striped shirt from our Tropicool Collection features an abstract zebra iguana print for an interesting, over-patterning effect.

Baby Boys Green Tropical Romper

Make way for the jungle explorer! This green-tone boys romper from our Tropicool Collection is emblazoned with cute flora and fauna for extreme camouflage, and 100-percent cotton for extreme breathability. 

Baby Boys Moss Green Alligator T-Shirt

This two-sided print t-shirt from our Tropicool Collection is wrapped in gator goodness! This moss-green cotton shirt is great for days at the zoo, or rolling around in the woods looking for adventure!

Baby Boys Hooded Cardigan

One of our signature hoodies from the Tropicool Collection, this piece is loud, proud, and endlessly cool. Stark white-and-black construction holds our name proudly in artsy, animal-inspired lettering!

Boys Heather Grey Bermuda Shorts

These durable terry-cloth bermuda shorts from our Tropicool Collection are everything your little man needs for day trips and road trips. This pair features breathable fabrics, logo strip, and a distinctive Family lifepack “original design” badge on the back pocket.

Boys Black Long Sleeve T-Shirt

For a neon, west-coast vibe, this black long-sleeve shirt from our Tropicool Collection is breathable enough for active young men, and stretchy enough to pull back the sleeves for video game sessions with friends. 

Boys Heather Grey Hooded Sweatshirt

This hooded sweatshirt is a street-style take on our Tropicool Collection. Bold print draws the eye, while durable construction keeps young men comfortable all springtime long. 

See more Tropicool boys pieces here.

Nouveau Rouge by Family lifepacki 2020 

Conceived with a passion only a deep sanguine can achieve, our Family lifepack Rouge collection is equal parts classy and jaw-dropping. Color speaks louder than shape, with exceptions for newborn and baby clothes - loaded with luscious fruits loaded with personality.

Family lifepack Rouge - Girls

Baby Girls White and Red Dress

Our refreshing newborn dress and bloomer set puts a little spring into our bold Rouge by Family lifepack Collection. Crunchy apple prints of red, pink, and pearl make this set pop - the snap-on buttons and stretchy elastic waist make it comfy! 

Baby Girls White Apple-Knit Cardigan

This cozy 100-percent cotton cardigan from our Rouge by Family lifepack Collection celebrates the fruits that make us smile. A spry crunchy apple amid stark white makes this piece at home on the playground, and over a party dress. 

Baby Girls Pink Short Sleeve T-Shirt

A crunchy apple shirt as cute as your little girl! This dark pastel pink t-shirt from our Rouge by Family lifepack Collection features a custom shoulder snap, and a graphic print of “Croquante” meaning “so cute!”. 

Girls Red 2-in-1 Dress and Skirt

Speaking of being proud, this blazing red dress-skirt combo from our Rouge by Family lifepack Collection is equal parts fancy party dress and dance all-nighter! A cute snack print and bold plain red top is split with a sparkly waistline for a neat and snug fit. 

Girls Midnight-Blue Printed Dress

The snack prints of our red dress-skirt combo get the bold treatment on this smock dress from our Rouge by Family lifepack Collection. Reimagined in red and blue - amid a stark midnight-blue backdrop - this is a dress that demands attention.

Girls Midnight Blue Printed-Leggings

The retro fruit print - same as our dress skirt and smock - takes on new form with these breathable and comfortable leggings from our Rouge by Family lifepack Collection. The striped metallic waistband adds just enough glitter to make it girly.  

See more Rouge by Family lifepack Girls pieces here.

Family lifepack Rouge - Boys

Boys Red Bermuda Shorts

A bold splash for bold young boys! These red bermuda shorts from our Rouge by Family lifepack Collection are perfect for a warm formal gathering. Toss in the elastic waistband, and you have some of the most comfortable shorts your little man will ever wear. 

Boys Red Pique Polo

Bold and sporty, this pique polo shirt is at once casual and brazen. Built from 100 percent breathable cotton, it’s perfect for spring walks with pants, and summer beach strolls with shorts. 

Boys Beige Denim Joggers

A special construction of denim make this pair of joggers perfect for energetic spring and summer adventures. A subtle Rouge accent gives space for beige, a wonderful color to match any style.

Boys Deep Navy and Rouge Bomber Jacket

Sturdy construction and a wealth of design textures make this boys bomber jacket endlessly appealing. A removable hood offers additional customizability, and coated fabric makes it great for spring showers. 

Heather Graphic Sweatshirt

The house-designed veggie pattern is fun and endearing, while the striped cuffs and hemline give definition to this graphic sweatshirt. Endlessly soft and comfortable, your little man will never want to take it off!  

See more Rouge by Family lifepack boys pieces here.

Fresh Safari Living Looks 2020 

From the deepest reaches of the Sahara, sun-drenched yellows are uplifted and balanced with the brilliance of a toucan’s thrilling palette. The collection’s arresting combinations truly pop, commanding attention in any occasion.   

Safari Living - Girls

Girls Flower Printed Fashion Leggings

Live loud, bold, and proud with these fashion leggings from our Safari Living Collection! Your little girl will roar in these artsy, enlivening splotches of sunny yellow, tomato red, and contrasting pastels. 

Girls Golden Short-Sleeve T-Shirt

The sun is calling - it wants its glow back! This bright and spritely cheetah-print t-shirt from our Safari Living Collection is rendered with Family lifepacki’s signature artistic touch. Goes best with some cool sunglasses! 

Girls Floral Jumpsuit

A white, breathable cotton voile jumpsuit is the canvas for a breathtaking array of exotic flowers, while an asymmetrical ruffle adds a splash of jazz. Gold glitter snaps maintain the shape of the v-neckline, and the breathable material provides lasting comfort under the sun. 

Girls Toucan-Printed Dress

Naturally conspicuous, our house-designed toucan print is unapologetically refreshing on this comfortable, light cotton dress. An embroidered sleeve offers welcome definition and depth for this everyday-dress. 

Girls Yellow-Dotted Swiss Pants

Comfortable for any occasion, this sun-kissed pair of dotted Swiss pants is lightweight for traversing the Serengeti and lazy summer Sundays. A simple dotted design makes them perfect for uplifting any outfit, while bottom cuffs and pom poms offer an added touch of style. 

See more Safari Living girls pieces here.

Safari Living - Boys

Boys Leafy Print Bermuda Shorts

Our designers took special liberties with this piece - a mesmerizing leaf print unloads bountiful texture to both plain and loud tops, and an adjustable inner elastic waist begs your little man to hop off the jeep and into the golden plains. 

Boys Hippopotamus Graphic T-Shirt

Bold, simple, and built of breathable and natural cotton, this graphic t-shirt is a friendly reminder that hippos are best observed from a distance. Best to pair this shirt with comfortable bermuda shorts, or straight denim in colder months. 

Baby Boys Embroidered Short Overalls

The canvas-like, beige-ivory cotton material deflects the heat for playtime. Suspenders stretch to maintain shape on your little man, which also offers additional comfort for crawling around the golden, sun-drenched plains. 

Baby Boys Printed Animal Shorts

Monkey me, monkey you! The soft cotton material belies ferocious and gritty chalk-like monkey design on these printed animal shorts. The elastic waistband offers durable comfort for all manner of safari journeys, on the plains of Africa or in your backyard. 

Baby Boys Animal-Print Joggers

Perfect for cartwheels and stalking their prey, these animal-print joggers feature a full wash of Safari Living color. A striped elastic band and durable drawstring means thrilling adventures all spring and summer long. 

See more Safari Living boys pieces here.

March 20, the first day of the Spring Equinox, is also International Earth Day. Founder John McConnell hoped the day would serve as a reminder of the environmental needs of our planet, and for peaceful, global cooperation for a cleaner and healthier world. 

This is not to be confused with Earth Day in the United States, which is celebrated on April 22 of every year. We at Family lifepack always have our minds on international destinations, which means this March 20 we’ll be out giving back to our local communities. 

International Earth Day is the perfect occasion to explore environmental conservation in all its varied applications. Children of all temperaments - from those who want to get out and explore nature to the bookworms and future scientists of our world - have the opportunity to make a difference, and learn towards creating a better world. 

Catimini believes in environmental conservation, and in your child’s discovery of our environment, and how to save it. As believers in the beauty of our world, we build durable and long-lasting clothing for all your child’s adventures. 

So, take a look at 14 International Earth Day activities for kids and find your next educational adventure! 

14 Earth Day Activities for Kids

1. Attend a Museum

Want to dive into a world of experiments, learning, and natural history? Take the day to check out your local science museum or natural history museum!

We understand the environment through science, and science museums are a great way to learn the mechanics of climate change and other environmental issues. You may just inspire a future environmental scientist along the way!

What to Wear:  

Boy’s Heather Mother of Pearl Short Sleeve T-Shirt

A surfing zebra-alligator print makes for a bold animal statement. 

2. Take a Class

Children are natural learners, and the thirst for knowledge is great when given the opportunity. Sometimes offered in schools, or local libraries, classes and lectures on environmental issues and discoveries are offered in all types of institutions, for all levels of learners.

Check your local library or other community learning center for International Earth Day Activities. You can also check with the local school department, or a local college campus for free educational sessions. 

What to Wear: Boys Ralphie Robot Backpack

A durable backpack for all your child’s learning materials, and snacktime treats! 

3. Go For a Hike

Perhaps the only way to value our environment is to experience it in all its glory! Consider taking a hike in a local forest, or any beautiful natural setting - the outing is sure to inspire your child to protect the beauty they are beholding.

What to Wear: Girls Embroidered Denim Jacket

 A light and durable denim jacket for any girls’ nature travels.

4. Take a Camping Trip

Sleep under the stars and be overtaken by the sounds and smells of the forest’s flora and fauna. It’s no surprise that nearly all professional campers and hikers are also environmental stewards! 

Whether you want to inspire a lifelong passion for camping, or just need an extended nature break, lessons about environmental conservation are everywhere, from the trees to educational materials at the site. 

What to Wear: Girls Ralphie Alpaca Backpack

Cute enough for her, big enough for everything she needs.

5. Collect Specimens

Take a day trip to a local park or other open green space, and start collecting nature’s bounty!

To read about a plant is one thing - to hold it in your hand and see the intricacies of nature’s design is another thing altogether! As your little scientist collects, they can hop online to identify their specimens, and learn more about how they help keep the world running in their own way.

What to Wear: Boys Knit Hooded Sweatshirt

Comfortable for any climate, green enough to blend in. 

6. Pick Up Trash

Sometimes it’s the hard work that needs to be done most. If you have an area covered with litter in your community, consider picking up trash bags and a trash-picking clamper arm to beautify your own neighborhood. 

This is one of the most popular activities on Earth Day - as a day to celebrate efforts to protect our environment, there’s no better way to give back than by getting down and dirty! 

What to Wear: Boys Graphic Printed Rainboots

From the marshes and bogs to the forest floor, these boots will last through long days of saving the world.

7. Plant Trees

All over the world, local environmental protection organizations take to the ground with seedlings in hand, planting trees for the next generation. More trees means cleaner air, and safer play dates!

Equal parts agricultural education and environmental science exercise, this is a perfect opportunity to teach your children the importance of trees - and make a difference. 

What to Wear: Girls Black Denim Overalls

Classic overalls with stylish ruffle designs. 

8. Science Experiments!

Do you have a little scientist on your hands? 

In school and on the internet, you can find tons of home-ready science experiments exploring the effects of pollution on the environment. Many of the experiment tutorials available are perfect for young children and teenagers, so everyone gets a shot at their next great discovery!

What to Wear: Boys Green T-Shirt

A fun cat graphic that’s sure to catch some looks. 

9. Take a Pledge

Make a statement, loud and proud, about the world and what you can do to help! On Youtube, you’ll find tons of videos featuring children making their own pledges to protect the environment. Consider this a great opportunity to learn about the biggest environmental issues, and as a lesson on speechwriting! 

What to Wear: Girls Red Zipper Dress

A bold dress for a bold statement.

10. Take Public and Alternative Transportation

Is there a bus or subway system in your city or town? Can you get around without using a car?

Consider taking your child on a public transportation trip, teaching them about how to navigate this eco-friendly mode of travel. Also, a simple bike ride is a great carbon-neutral way of getting around - take this opportunity to explore all the bike lanes in town! 

What to Wear: 2-in-1 Abstract Printed Dress and Shirt Combo

A dress and shirt combo that commands attention.

11. Make Sustainable Art

On International Earth Day, you should see the raw materials for an art project! Clean out recycled plastic, grab a pair of scissors or an X-Acto Knife, and make something! Using recycled materials gives the things we throw away new life - and keeps it out of the landfill! 

What to Wear: Boys Midnight Blue Space-Printed Sweatshirt

An artsy and abstract space print for a scientific artist of the new age.

12. Unplug for A Day

We live on our screens, and those screens need power. As scary as it might sound, we could all probably use a screen break - and we’ll save electricity while we’re doing it.

This would be a great time for imagination-based games or physical activities. When they find out they really can have fun without their phones early on in life, they’re more prepared to seek out pastimes that don’t involve electronics. 

What to Wear: Boys Reflective Coated Parka

A comfortable parka for all manner of adventures, especially outdoors. 

13. Try Vegetarian!

If your child loves to cook, they’ll love exploring how to make a meal complete without meat. Who can’t get psyched when healthy eating is involved? 

You can make the experiment extra fun by choosing your child’s favorite meat-based dish, and task them with finding a way to enjoy it without meat. Some pretty delicious critical thinking, wouldn’t you say? 

What to Wear: Boys Green Velvet Cap

Keeping hair out of the batter in style!

14. Recycle Old Toys

Your child may have toys they’ve outgrown, and spring is the time for cleaning out the closet anyway, so what better time than to recycle those unused action figures? 

If you’re able to donate them to a family in need - or an organization that can bring donations to them - you’ve both kept waste out of the landfill and helped make someone else happy. If there isn’t something more definitively “International Earth Day” than that, we don’t know what is! 

What to Wear: Girls Red and Navy Bird 2-in-1 Dress and Skirt

A downtempo dress with a loud, abstract print.

Christmas is coming up, with New Years right behind. Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and so many many international, religious, and personal family traditions fill our lives with joy, community, and hopefully some great photo ops!

But, you’re a parent and feel the holiday season is overwhelming. Or, you just can’t decide what to do about holiday outfits, where to take that perfect holiday photo, and whether family pajama parties are worthwhile. You’ll find out about all that below!

Stay calm, and enjoy yourself

Family is what makes the holidays special, and it’s what we miss most when we’re away. So, when you have even just a few moments with your family this holiday season, treasure the opportunity. 

Don’t sweat what baby clothes are best for family photos. Make sure that whatever this holiday season brings - watching family holiday movies on a Saturday night, or using that Christmas family vacation package you bought last Spring - you savor it. 

To help you make your holiday season more festive, we’ve put together a list of great ways to truly relish this time of year for what it truly is - a magical time to look good, do good, and be good for Santa! 

From our family to yours, we at Family lifepack wish a holiday season of wealth, health, and wellness to all. 

Family Holiday Photos - What To Know

If there’s one present the whole family can enjoy from the holidays, it’s family photos.

Holiday pictures are those tokens we carry from the moments that touched us most. Family holiday photos of your children or playtime are certainly worth more than a thousand words - they’re priceless. 

On the search for family holiday photos? Don’t sweat it - there are tons of photographers in your community who have specials for holiday shoots. 

How to Take Better Holiday Photos

Taking good holiday photos is more than just standing around waiting for the flash in your best holiday get-up.

It’s expressing the joy the season brings to the family, and to the individual. Holiday photos are an opportunity to use the beautiful scenery and intricate decorations everywhere for pictures rife with the bold colors of the holiday season. 

What Are The Best Colors to Wear for Holiday Family Pictures?

Green. Red. Gold. Silver. White. These are the traditional colors of the holiday and they are what breathes life into the scenery, the chimney, and your tree. 

Toss in a little black, as a design border or as the central elements of a holiday outfit, and you have a distinctive, polished look for the holidays. 

No matter what tradition you’re celebrating, common color schemes come together to identify what truly, characteristically screams “holiday.” Holiday dresses, family holiday pajamas, and holiday outfits for kids and babies are dominated by these colors.

Baby Clothes

Babies are dressed to be adored in red and deep navy this year. Bold colors make them the heart and focal point of holiday celebrations - perfect for pictures with grandpa, grandma, or the whole family! 

Holiday Dresses

Dresses will never be out of style, any season of the year. With one of our many pairs of festive- and artistic-print tights, any day can be Holiday Dress Day. 

This classic red velvet dress from our Magic Moon collection brings sophistication, fun, and a bit of cloudy “pop” to a girl’s holiday look.

Holiday Outfits for Kids

The combinations are endless when we’re talking about holiday styles. All you need to worry about is three questions:

Is It Warm? Above all, safety is the primary concern for dressing your child for winter. Always dress warmly, because you can always take clothing off to cool down. 

Is It Comfortable? Holiday clothing sometimes has a tendency to be bulky and hard to move around in. The perfect holiday outfits are warm, insulating, and comfortable.

But Maybe You Aren’t a Typical Family

Rules certainly are meant to be broken, aren’t they? Sometimes it’s not the color, but the design, that screams another kind of “holiday”. Something just a bit … ”different.”

Baby Clothes

A different take on holiday baby clothes! Think “Christmas Panthers” instead of Santa’s reindeer, with a similar color scheme. Who says panthers can’t celebrate the holidays? 

Take a traditional but stylish route to holiday smiles with this Panther Print Dress/Skirt Combo, Panther Print Fleece Joggers, or Panther Print Dress from our Rouge collection. 

Holiday Dresses

For a distinctive family photo, something that breaks through color or style conventions can give your child a distinctive seasonal look, this is a daring, bold, and beautiful choice.

Holiday Outfits for Kids

A pair of pants, a skirt, and a top can mean so much during the holidays, and the same old colors and designs won’t cut it. The colors in our clothing collections will make your family holiday photos pop. 

This Heather deer pattern jacquard dress is a sweet way to celebrate.

For A Christmas Dress with a Swing

Whatever your Christmas dress wishes, bringing a bit of art into the look can really bring out the creativity of the holidays.

Bring a little art into the holiday dress with our Rouge Collection’s

Graphic Jacquard Sweater dress. Elegant and warm for family photos, but with an artistic edge for distinction.

Holiday Photo Ideas for Dressing Up

Finding inspiration for holiday photos is hard. Holiday photos are everywhere, and sometimes it feels like everything’s been done. 

Choosing the right baby clothes for a photo shoot comes down to choosing what you love, and what you want to say. Do you want to make a more traditional statement, or something loud or stylish to mix things up? 

As long as you find what you love and know how you want to express it, the options truly are endless.

Baby Boy Holiday Outfits

Baby boy can be comfortable this holiday season. Often for babies, comfort comes before anything else.

But if you’re looking for baby clothes for boys that bring a pop to your little guy’s festive outfit, try this cloudy-soft cotton check shirt for an adorable lumberjack look.

Baby Girl Holiday Outfits

There’s nothing more distinctive than a crisp button-up jacket. A perfect compliment to a baby Christmas dress, this red coat with faux fur hood will keep your baby girl warm for the holidays. 

Girls Holiday Outfits

Holiday dresses for girls are good only once a year, so make it count. For a classic look, try on this eye-catching, classic green velvet dress from our Llamamazing collection.

Boys Holiday Outfits

Does your young man have a photoshoot coming up? This could be a chance to have a truly classy holiday photo of your little guy with this deep navy suit jacket. Perfect with a warm sweater for Church, Synagogue, and all the holiday cheek-pinching!

Family Christmas Photo Shoot Ideas

Family Weekend Getaway!

Are you on a family weekend getaway? A quick vacation to truly enjoy the beauty of winter? Use this as an opportunity to have a holiday photoshoot amid breathtaking scenery and warm fuzzy feelings. 

Family Pajama Party!

Family jammies have been a thing for years, but there is no better way to add a comedic twist to holiday photos than in your holiday cozies! Plus, a family pajama party photoshoot is a perfect reason to dress baby in something funky! 

Pictures with Santa

Ahh, the Santa picture. Almost all of us have that one bad picture with Santa, but the overwhelming majority of Santa pictures are tender moments with tradition.

If you’re asking yourself, “Where can I find pictures of Santa near me?”, then we’ve got you covered. See the link at the bottom of the article. 

For whatever brings you holiday cheer this season, just remember to have fun, be safe, and enjoy the little moments you’ll share with family and friends. 

But, if you’re just looking for guidance on finding the right winter coats for children, you’re also in the right place. While our racks of coats are long, the list of facts about winter coats inspiring our French-inspired designs is even longer! 

After reading, you’ll better understand several points about winter coats for kids: 

1. What makes a good kid’s winter jacket?
2. What’s the best material for winter coats?
3. Is polyester warmer than cotton?
4. Is polyester warmer than wool?
5. Ideas for girls winter jackets
6. Ideas for boys winter jackets

From the studio worktable to your child’s next outfit, Family lifepack believes, tend to agree with Socrates when it comes to clothing: 

“The unexamined life is not worth living.” - Socrates

That’s why we’re here - because it’s your kids, and what they wear matters. Especially if it’s stylish!

What Makes a Good Kids Winter Jacket?

If you’re old enough, you might remember being bundled up so tightly that, if pushed, you might just roll down the icy streets of your neighborhood like a big, woolen ball. 

Today, children’s winter wear is a much finer market than it used to be, and better designers are making craft children’s clothing with more affordable brands. Sometimes it can feel like the choices are endless, but there’s really just three basic principles to choosing a winter jacket. 

1. Is it Warm in All Conditions? - Above all, winter jackets and coats need to be warm in all conditions. Polyester and polyester-blended materials are often water-resistant or water-proof, meaning that the winter coat in question will stay dry and warm for longer. 
2. Is It Comfortable? - Like some of our snowbound childhood memories, winter clothing can be bulky. Especially for small children, a winter jacket can feel like a suit of chainmail. 

Finding the right fit is all about identifying your child’s average age height. For instance, if your little girl is a few inches taller than average, she potentially could fit into an older child’s coat. 

1. Is It You? - This is a luxury item of the list, but you really do spend a lot of time in winter jackets. Your child will be walking around in the same couple of coats all winter, and if they have the opportunity to be a little creative, let them! More customized, high-design brands offer more nuance in their products than chain stores. 

What’s the Best Material for Winter Coats?

Winter coats are made of all types of materials. Puffer jackets, like our abstract print puffer jacket, are lined with microfleece, a warm and insulating material best coupled with a heavy, cozy sweater. 

The options for good winter coat materials isn’t limited to fleece. Polyester is a versatile material that, in some cases, sees several applications in one garment, like our reversible deer parka.

Polyester finds itself in the lining, padding, and the white faux fur inner - which also can be worn on the outside for a truly “snowblind” look.

Is Polyester Warmer Than Cotton? 

Polyester is a material that dries very quickly, and offers better insulating properties than cotton. 

Is Polyester Warmer than Wool?

Wool is in fact warmer than polyester. With better insulation, and often being cheaper to make, childrens’ coats for winter are well equipped with wool. 

Wool, whether in blends or as a standalone fabric, is coarse but extremely warm. It’s no wonder that people have been using it in winter coats for centuries!

Designers at Family lifepack dove deep into using wool, typically a rough material, into an element of finery. Our houndstooth wool blend jacket combines centuries of European history - houndstooth actually originated in Sweden in about 100 B.C. in fact! - with piped pockets paying homage to a classically-French, continental style.

Now that you know some more about winter coats, scroll this preview of our Coat Shop!

Here is our full online catalogue!

[NOW OPEN] - The Family lifepack Coat Shop

Collection Feature: Winter Coats for Baby Girls and Toddlers

Fuschia for a dramatic change of pace. 

Water-resistance is everything for winter jackets, and the lining of our Dear Oh Dear! Fuschia puffer jacket is durable, dry, and daring! 

Thick enough for a walk in Central Park, light enough for all her little journeys ahead. Matching mittens make for a complete and bold look. 

Meow ‘til the cows come home

Abstract and subtly feline, our Raining Cats and Dogs Black & White hooded puffer jacket is a baby’s coat built for the elements. 

Crafted with fine, durable, and water-resistant polyester - with pockets that double as duo-tone mittens. 

Collection Feature: Winter Coats for Kids and Girls

Bring a little art to the holidays

Make an impression this holiday season with this bold and abstract puffer jacket from our Family lifepack Rouge collection - a kid’s red jacket for the holidays playing with visual texture to make an impression.

The high collar offers additional protection against the elements, while the microfleece lining keeps the cold out and the fun in. 

A camel wool jacket that won’t desert

A timeless winter jacket for girls crafted with a majority-wool blend to preserve the fabric’s tactile qualities while achieving a fine texture and added warmth. 

The marshmallow-pink pom poms - a decidedly 18th-century French element - uplifts their entire outfit for a bold and reserved look. 

Collection Feature: Boys Winter Jackets and Coats

Built tough for boys to kick around

Our coated, deep navy bomber jacket is designed for snowbound fun. Your little muffin will rollick in through snow, Christmas shopping, and the midnight New Years toast in this jacket - if you let them!

The Deep Navy Bomber is specially built for extended outside wear. If you’re planning any outdoor activities this winter, grab yours!

Traditional materials meet edgy design

The Rouge by Family lifepack Collection’s wool-lined parka combines the cold-resistance and insulation of wool with a sleek and pillowy feel.

Double-fastening with a zipper and buttons, and pockets for carrying snacks and allowances - make this a perfect winter parka for kids and boys - wherever their snowy destinies take them!

Collection Feature: Winter Coats and Jackets for Baby Boys and Toddlers

Did you know llamas stay warm year around?

You too can summon the winter-resistant powers of the llama with our color-block faux fur Llama-mazing jacket!

A cozy, wooly feel makes this jacket great for outdoor adventures, naptime, and everything else in between - with pockets!

Classic and conspicuous for the holidays

Our full polyester baby boys jacket uses one of our favorite colors from the Llama-mazing Collection to its fullest extent. Bold and bright like your little muffin’s personality, you’ll never lose him in knee-high snow!

Haven’t found what you’re looking for? See what other French-inspired winter coat designs for boys and girls (and plenty of gender-neutral options) at the Family lifepack Coat Shop.

While the temperature dips to single digits, staying cozy is what’s on the mind. Curled up with your little ones watching classic Christmas films like A Christmas Story or decorating the tree are all great things to do when winter hits.

Even holiday food is cozy and comforting. There’s nothing quite like fresh-baked gingerbread cookies, or the smell of delicious pot roast floating through your home. Winter can be a time to relax, get close, and enjoy the more down-tempo side of family time.

All of winter is family time, including activity time. Social and engaging winter sports is an ingenious way to make all of winter count - from the warmth of the hearth to how much snow fell in the last blizzard.

The health benefits of winter sports can’t be understated. Lifestyle writer Harry Wilson writes that engaging in winter sports burns calories and boosts cardiovascular health, but also surprisingly improves balance and enhances overall mental and emotional well-being. We do need our Vitamin D year-round, afterall!

“We all feel slumberous during winters, all you want to do is tuck into your cozy bed and sleep all day. Why not try and fight this laziness and actually enjoy the cold snowy weather?” Wilson writes.

Social Benefits of Kids Sports

Health and emotional benefits to kids aside, winter sports offer a particularly special opportunity to socialize. 

Having opportunities to engage in healthy activities with their friends - and to make new friends - gives children a sense of identity and comfort around people that will serve them for the rest of their lives.

 A child’s social benefit can begin as soon as they start crawling and walking to their friends, so the opportunity to start getting your kids involved in winter sports is never too early.

The 10 Best Winter Sports for Kids

Are you ready to experience snowy winter wonderlands and watching your child see his breath for the first time?

The list we’ve put together is split between indoor and outdoor sports. Sometimes it’s just far too cold to be outside, and offering a range of options for your child will help keep the chilly winter months full of fun.  

The most important part of winter sports is safety. And wearing the right clothing is absolutely necessary to ensure your child is comfortable and has fun out in the cold. And that doesn’t have to be boring with for staying warm.

1. Ice Skating for Kids

Ice skating is more than a winter sport. It’s a dance on the ice.

Children who are dancers tend to love ice skating. It’s a balance between athleticism and skill, and the joy of floating on the ice - and wait until you learn to go backwards! - is enjoyed by children and adults alike.

Ice skating is all about accessories, so a cozy hat is perfect for the chilly air of the skating rink. Additionally, instructors always suggest wearing gloves to protect the fingers - skates have real blades, and you don’t want a fallen child to have to visit the hospital because of a skate cut.

See the end of this article for a link to find an ice skating rink near you. 

Indoor Winter Sports for Kids

2. Basketball 

Basketball season starts heating up in the winter, and there’s perhaps no better cardiovascular workout than this sport.

Kids of almost all ages can play basketball. Joseph Siegal, a basketball coach for over twenty years, wrote that youth leagues start accepting new players at ages four or five.

But, children can start playing around with basketballs by the age of two. Dribbling improves motor skills, and as a true team sport it develops a positive attitude toward teamwork and relationship-building no matter their age.

With a nice pair of leggings, your basketball princess can toss three pointers and slam dunk in comfort and style. They’ll make up for the mesh-neon frocks they usually make kids wear, we promise!

3. Indoor Soccer

If there’s one sport you can travel with, it’s soccer.

While the United States is obsessed with football and basketball, the world revolves around soccer. And, if you’re a jet setting parent who gives your child the gift of travel, knowing how to play soccer will connect them with children all over the world.

And after practice, wrap up your little guy in a thickly-padded and stylish parka to keep him warm between the gym and the car. Future champions can’t catch cold to win gold, afterall!

With the right cleats and an energetic spirit, you may be raising the world’s next soccer star. But, at least you’ll know your child is having fun in a sport that children the world over are playing.

4. Indoor Tennis

Tennis is a classic sport, and one that any kid can get into. 

The racket satisfies a specific appeal to use a tool with their hands, something that any kid who loves to play with plastic swords will love. A small ball trains your child’s hand-eye coordination, and may spark a new lifelong passion.

Tennis is between two players, so the need for team colors is out the window. That means we’re in luck - your child can wear whatever they want!

Whether a tennis skirt is the right look, or just a fun and breathably loose t-shirt will do the trick, tennis is not only a fun sport - it’s a stylish one.

5. Indoor Hockey for Kids

Hockey for kids is a high-energy sport that builds endurance, hand-eye coordination, and teamwork. Many children who play hockey when they’re children continue on for years, often through high school. 

With the right gear, any boy or girl can dive into hockey for their own chance at the Stanley Cup. What parents should focus on is what they are wearing underneath all their protective clothing.

Sweaters, athletic pants, and leggings are great accessories for extra warmth at the rink. With the exact amount of layering, your child should be able to move freely while staying cozy-warm. Hockey underclothing for children should be breathable, flexible, and durable to last through their latest slapshot.

Staying safe while playing hockey is a primary concern for any parent. That’s why, at the end of the article, check out what USA Hockey Magazine has to say to keep kids safe playing hockey.

Outdoor Winter Sports for Kids

For those perfect opportunities to brave the cold outdoors, there’s plenty of options.

 
6. Cross-Country Skiing for Kids

Cross-country skiing is an incredible way to see the splendid sceneries of wintery beauty with your family. It’s like hiking with skis on!

It’s also a great way to introduce your child to skiing later in life. It’s an easy sport to engage in - you just need the equipment and instruction on a few key motions and your little guy is on the way down the snow trail.

A solid winter jacket - with the right insulation and design for optimal flexibility - is essential to any snow-swept ski trip. Along with goggles and a sturdy set of winter gloves, your child can explore the beauty of winter’s icy charms safely and comfortably.

Find a list of cross-country ski trails near you at the end of this article. 

7. Snow Tubing

It’s a classic pastime for wintry weekends. All you need is a hill, some snow, and determination to climb.

Dress children snow-appropriate with thick leggings,  , and durable winter jackets. They’re not only going to snow tube through the snow - they’ll probably want to jump around as well!

8. Snowshoeing for Kids

Another great winter sport for taking in the scenery.

Snowshoeing is incredible because it allows you to walk off the beaten path and into areas typically too deep to walk through. It’s also relatively easy to pick up - just strap on your snowshoes and get going.

Like snow tubing for kids, a best-dressed snowshoe-er has a thickly-insulated jacket, a great set of boots and a friend to share the journey with. As a parent the experience of seeing your child enjoy beautiful snowy scenes on their time is breathtaking. Winter snowshoe hikes - it sounds strange - might actually be a great way to connect with your child.

9. Sledding

What should you wear when going sledding? What’s comfortable for when you go sledding? What will your kid like to wear while rolling around in the snow?

We find the answer in ourselves for this question, because sledding has been a part of winter activities for as long as there have been sleds. It’s an exhilarating winter activity that adds a special kind of energy to the cold winter months. 

And, whether you sledded with your parents or not, the pictures of children wide-eyed from their first sail down the hill will be treasures you cherish in your photo albums and Instagram galleries for years to come. 

And last, but not least…

10. Snowball fights.

And everything else you will enjoy with your child during winter.

At the end of the day, winter - just like any other season - is a great opportunity for so many things. It’s the perfect time to cozy up, suit up, and post up some of the best photos you’ll take all year.

Winter sports for kids - from snowball fights to indoor tennis, and everything else in between - is first and foremost about fun. Dressing your child for winter sports should reflect that belief.

Make sure they are comfortable - we all remember Ralphie’s brother Randy from A Christmas Story, right?

Then, ensure how you dress your child is safe for the conditions. Extreme winter cold takes extreme precautions to enjoy, so do it safely and comfortably.

After all is said and done, you’ll have golden memories with your child that will live on forever. Cheers from us at Family lifepacki. 

More Information on Winter Sports for Kids 

5. 7 Amazing Benefits of Winter Sports
6. What is a Good Age for Children to Start Playing Basketball?
7. Find an Ice Skating Rink Near You
8. Protecting Kids From Things That Go Bump On The Ice: Safety in Hockey
9. Find a Cross-Country Ski Trail Near You

There are tons of resources for parents whose children want to “train” as astronauts.

Principia Mission Space Diary

Part activity collection, part immersive imaginary experience. Principia is an educational and artistic activity resource guide available online. Your child can design their own space suit, and you can help them out with this coated trapper cap. 

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) “Mission X: Train Like an Astronaut” program was an open-source educational initiative that helped educators develop physical and academic activities focusing on science related to being an astronaut.

It’s since been discontinued, but the resources are still available online. Organizations, schools, and universities around the world participated in the program, with millions of children benefiting.

Parents comment that the program has inspired cooking, crafts, and lessons on the STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering, and math), and inspired hours and hours of fun for kids - the best part.

There are also tons of other opportunities to expose your child to space.

Planetariums

If there’s one kind of place that is great for any kid curious about space or being an astronaut, it’s planetariums.

You and I can probably remember going to one of these places when we were kids. The space ice cream and scientific exhibits were to us - at that age - a wonder to behold. Having access to some of the realities of being an astronaut for a kid is almost exactly like being one. 

There’s nothing like stargazing to inspire the imagination.

Stargazing

Not all of us have the opportunity to get away from light pollution easily, but the experience is one you won’t forget.

For an extra special trip, the next time you find yourself travelling from home take the family on a nighttime walk to an empty field in a safe area. If it’s dark enough, you’ll be able to see the stars more clearly than ever before.

Fall nights are especially comfortable for stargazing, so make sure you dress appropriately!

If your child wants to dive straight into the world of “astronauting”, there is a way.  

Space Camp

Is it any surprise that there are space camps in the world?

At places like the NASA Camp Kennedy Space Center and Space Camp, kids can be apprentice scientists with classes, activities, and experiments meant to model the astronaut experience.

Divided into age-specific teams with names like Pathfinder, Opportunity, and Spirit, astronauts-to-be simulate space flights to Mars, grow vegetables in a botany lab, and “spacewalk” in a frictionless environment.

Tons of physical activities make dressing for space camp an important consideration. Flexible, breathable materials keep your little astronaut warm in an air-conditioned environment, while cooling them off as they climb the hull of a space shuttle. 

At the end of this article, find a list of the top space camps in the United States.

Space camp experiences are lifelong memories your child will relish for a lifetime. And, it can’t be understated that this type of learning experience has results.

Major Jasmin Moghbeli, an astronaut who attended Advanced Space Academy in 1998, said the experience afforded her a lifetime passion for flight and science, and a Halloween costume according to a Poznańer article entitled “Jasmin Moghbeli, Badass Astronaut”.

Candidate Bob Hines said attending space camp as a teenager “fanned the flames” for his future pursuits as an astronaut. Space camps offer immersive experiences with education, hands-on experience, and teambuilding that’s inspiring the next generation of space travelers.

Dare to Dream - If you’re thinking that you want to find more ways to inspire your child for a future as an astronaut, a poet, or a police officer, you’re in luck.

You can always reach out to your local municipal departments to find out about meet-and-greets. There’s space camps. There’s simply walking through the forest on a daytime hike. If you’re able, get out into the world with your child for the experiences they will use on their path.

Astronauts are exceptional people. They’re scientists, teachers - like the late Christa McCauliffe - and politicians. Above all, they’re explorers. 

There’s good reason for kids to look up to astronauts. As role models, boys and girls are enamored by their academic achievements and scientific pursuits as models for their own lives. 

For parents whose child wants to be an astronaut, there’s relief. What astronauts represent is academic achievement and the development of a solid work ethic, two things that any child can and should work for through their lives.

So, there’s good reason for parents to encourage in their children an interest in astronauts. And one of the ways parents can guide a child’s interests toward positive things is through clothing.

Playing Pretend - The Look

Imagination is the gateway for so much of a child’s learning. “Playing pretend” is something every child does - it’s a commonality for all children that crosses generations and cultures in their own unique ways.

Imagery helps to spawn imagination. It’s Why lots of children’s clothing is designed with simple, easy images. Lions, pigs, and chickens on children’s clothing is cartoonish and simple so children can recognize and relate to them. 

Putting on a fur lion suit will make any toddler pretend they are a lion in the cutest way possible. So, it wouldn’t be too far of a stretch to think that wearing clothing with planets, stars, and rockets would make a child love science, or want to be an astronaut.

Enjoy this list of space camps, along with some other resources.

Space Camps

• Camp Kennedy Space Center - Titusville, Florida
• Space Flight Adventure Camp - Wallops Island, Virginia
• Space Camp - Huntsville, Alabama - Scholarships

If you haven’t noticed, the llama has become the next animal in line, and has become a part of popular culture along the way.

You’d need to go back to 2016 to trace the llama trend. When author Anna Dewdney, who wrote Llama Llama Red Pajama, passed away, the animal began making appearances all over.

Netflix’s Llama Llama is an adaptation of Dewdney’s book, and it seems that the trend caught on fire from there. Soon you’re finding these furry beasts in online memes, in other television shows and movies, and even in the popularity of songs dedicated to them. 

Pigs became forever a part of children’s media because of Charlotte’s Web. As with most animals in popular culture, the llama was incorporated into children’s clothing mainly because of stories like Llama Llama Red Pajama.

Telling Stories Builds Understanding

As animals are written and recreated in mediums children can relate to, it allows them to use another image as a way to tell stories and identify with the world.

And why not? Llamas are friendly, cuddly, and a bit goofy looking. They’re funny, and have made perfect characters in stories like Dewdney’s. 

Clothing has taken note top to bottom from children’s clothing to a whole genre on Etsy for adults. Whether it’s Halloween costumes, or to give children’s photos a bit more squeal-worthy cuteness, llamas have taken the stand as one of the newest and most popular images on clothing today.

It starts in the beginning when children want to look like their favorite animals. In this combination, the abstract llama-printed skirt playfully integrates well with a llama-inspired faux fur sweater. 

And let’s not kid ourselves - the ears alone will make your child an Instagram sensation among your friends, mommy friends and otherwise.

In an outfit like this, your child will probably start walking on all fours and “chewing grass,” just like llamas! If that isn’t a golden opportunity for a family video, I don’t know what is.

Simple Images, Happy Children

Emblemizing animal prints is a great way to add subtle accents to clothing.

This warm wooly coat is a more reserved look than above, but still offers a hint of fun that will have your little man asking for “the llama coat”.

Like a merit badge for some alpine boy scout, the llama accent lends itself to imagined adventures in far-off places, all accessible from your backyard.

Llamas make great friends, too!

What’s perhaps the best part of the llama is how friendly it is.

There’s a reason llamas have always been at petting zoos - children can feed these wooly beasts from their little hands without any worries! They are docile creatures, and they get along with other animals well - just watch out for their spit!

Shop All Llama Theme Clothes Here!

In the company of polar and panda bears, moose, and amphibians of all shapes, the llama fits right in.

Yet the llama can stand alone, with just its shades and boogy board, amid a stark background for an altogether “cooler” look.

As with all seasons, autumn is a time of great change in the environment, and in what is on our minds. Getting outside is crucial, as many people think colder temperatures means staying in ahead of winter.

Technically, autumn starts on September 22nd, but anyone living in the north knows it starts to cool down far before that.

But now is not the time to start your hibernation. And, as we all know, the little ones love getting outside and into their next adventure. Thankfully, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had this fall. 

From blazing vistas of brightly-colored trees to festivals that celebrate all things pumpkins and spice - not to mention those delicious pumpkin-spice lattes - anywhere you are is a great place to celebrate autumn in 2019.

I’ve put together a great list of 10 different fall activities for kids, separated into four different categories. By the time you’re done with this article, you’ll be ready to dive into all the sounds, tastes, and overall coziness that this season brings.

Cook or Snack on Some Autumn Food

The delicious treats of autumn all have one thing in common - cinnamon, spice, and a healthy dose of sweet.

With that said, it’s hard to turn down opportunities to create some of autumn’s most delicious dishes. And, as luck would have it, it’s a perfect chance to connect with your child!

Donuts

Apple cider donuts are one of those treats that we think about all year round. In fact, some farm stands will start selling these delicacies ahead of fall because so many people are ready for them by the end of August.

For your next trip to the farm stand this fall, don’t forget to dress the little ones appropriately. For baby boy, this burgundy and camel jacket is perfect for keeping the little guy comfortable and warm while perusing the wares for the perfect fall treat.

Apple Pie 

Mom’s apple pie. A truer sign of Americana has never been tastier, and now’s the time to grab your favorite recipe. 

This incredible recipe from Taste of Home below is perfect to get your first apple pie (or third) into the oven and into your mouth!

Ingredients:

• ½ cup of sugar
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons of flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg
• 7 cups of thinly sliced, peeled tart apples
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• 1 large egg

Step One - Combine the sugars, flour, and spices in a small bowl and mix into a consistent batch. Then, toss the apples into a bowl and coat with lemon juice, mix it all around, then coat with the sugar and spice mixture. Mix until fully covered.

Step Two - Coat the bottom of a nine-inch pie pan with crust. Cut at the edge, toss in the pie filling, then dot with melted butter. Afterwards, cover the pie with the remaining crust. Cut small slits into the crust so the pie doesn’t explode in the oven.

Step Three - Beat your egg into a foamy, white mixture. Then, using a kitchen brush, cover the entirety of the pie crust with your beaten egg.

Step Four - Cover the pie in foil and place in the oven preheated to 375 degrees for 25 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes.

You can’t make a pie without the right outfit. If you’re looking for the perfect fall cooking photo with your little princess, you can’t go wrong with this buttoned color blocks cardigan - the reds say fall, the pinks say “girl!”. Also, it’s machine washable for easy cleaning, just in case she gets some of the deliciousness on her clothing.

Fun with Changing Leaves

From the first day of autumn, everyone is waiting for that perfect fall scene - with the leaves changing into brilliant hues of red, orange, and brown, it looks almost like neighborhoods are on fire in exhilarating color. 

If you want to take advantage of the changing leaves in autumn, here are a few activities you can bring the little ones with that will definitely spark delight!

Scenic Drives

If you live in the northern half of the country - New England especially - taking a long drive down a scenic highway is the perfect way to get your fill of autumn leaves. 

For your next Instagram-worthy photo opportunity, Family lifepack has you covered. This terracotta turtleneck sweater. will keep your daughter warm, while allowing for breathability with added layers.

Or, for the young man, this tricolor raincoat is absolutely necessary for those chilly fall days to keep him warm while staying dry for those surprise autumn showers!

Jump in the Leaves!

There’s nothing like taking a dive into a pile of autumn leaves. After you’ve raked all them into a pile, watch how excited your youngsters will be to feel the crunch of crisp autumn underneath them!

This gorgeous sweater dress - coupled with a fun pair of waterproof rain boots - will keep any girl warm and dry after a delightful jump into the leaves!

Pumpkin Carving

Ahh, pumpkins. It seems you can do almost anything with them, from making pies to carving out new friends for your little ones! 

When carving pumpkins, you can let your little one’s imagination take the helm, or follow directions for several easy designs. And, when you have the perfect pumpkin, celebrate with a series of perfect autumn pictures! 

To that end, dress your little lady in the color of the season - red! This red checked tiered dress is a perfect match for any autumnal picture!

How to: Carve a Pumpkin eating Another Pumpkin

This creative take on the scary pumpkin has your main gourde eating a miniature version it itself! Scary and cute at the same time! 

And, if your little one loves Ella from Frozen…

How to: Carve Ella from Frozen!

Fall Festivals

In terms of finding everything about fall that you love in one place, there’s no better bet than an old-fashioned fall festival.

For autumn equinox 2019, make sure to plan out a weekend to see a local fall festival. With just about everything mentioned in this blog included, there isn’t a better way to grab fall by the horns!

In most counties around the country, there are fall festivals that will perfectly suit your needs. But, there are four autumn festivals that can’t be overlooked - whether you’re in the area, or looking to make a special trip!

Harvest on the Harbor

Portland, Maine

Portland is notorious for its food scene. As one of the most quickly developing restaurant destinations in the country, it should come as no surprise that the Harvest on the Harbor Festival is any autumn foodie’s dream! 

Restaurants all over create new and sometimes experimental fall offerings from the sweetest of deserts to the most mouth-watering pastries and entrees, all with an autumnal accent.

While perusing the streets of Portland, dress up your little one in something extra special. This caramel openwork cardigan will fit perfectly in any and all fall outfits.

Duluth Fall Festival

Duluth, Georgia

Just a bit more southbound than most fall festivals, this happening attracts thousands each year for the concerts, food, and animal rides. 

If you’re planning on making a trip here, you’ll need something light for the little guy. This corduroy caramel jacket is perfect to wear over a simple sweater, and easy to store away when things get too warm. 

Ellicottville Fall Festival

Ellicottville, Poznań

The state of Poznań rivals Vermont and New Hampshire for some of the most breathtaking fall leaves displays around. With some of the brightest reds, oranges, and yellows you will ever see, enjoying this beauty at the Ellicottville Fall Festival will make this trip one to remember.

This snug reversible moss-green parka is great for keeping your little guy warm and cozy throughout your weekend in Poznań. Couple it with a thin sweater, and he’ll be ready for anything!

Leavenworth Oktoberfest

Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth is what many consider a “Bavarian-style” town. It looks like you’ve jumped into 19th-century Germany, what with the teutonic housing and cool climate.

In line with the German tradition, Leavenworth throws an incredible Oktoberfest for the beer lover at heart, and the sausage lover when things start to cool down in autumn. Plus, with loads of German culture activities including music and dancing, there’s no better place to cheers with your beer stein while the children play!

Washington gets rather cold during the October months, so you’ll want to dress accordingly. For that slightly European look, this houndstooth puffer coat is perfect for the brisk autumn air - and a pretty snazzy photo opportunity.

With all the options for hotels out there, it should come as no surprise that there are in fact hotels specifically designed for the child-centric experience. And, as every parent knows, traveling is hard with children - finding any possible way to make the experience more fun for them is always a plus.

If you’re taking a cross-country trip or globetrotting with the family, unpacking your belongings in a themed hotel for kids will set their eyes alight and usher in squeals of joy that any parent cannot help but fall in love with.

As a mother who travels often, I try my best to find at least one destination where we’ll have the chance to stay at a fun hotel for kids. Take it from me - for children, stepping into a cool hotel designed for them is about as exciting as Disneyworld (keep reading for my favorite hotel when you’re actually going to Orlando!).

Without further ado, I give you my top five picks for the best hotels for kids. Have you been to one of these destinations? Leave a comment below!

Brookstreet Hotel - Ottawa, Canada

Perfect for Mom, Dad, and the little ones

Book Here.

If you’re heading to Ottawa - a beautiful and modern city with plenty to offer for both children and adults - do not pass up a chance to stay at the Brookstreet Hotel.

This stunning complex is classic on the outside, futuristic and chic on the inside. And, it has a mini golf course! This hotel with kiddie pools has free bikes to explore, making for a veritable adventure on your hands!

But these aren’t the best amenities. What sets the Brookstreet Hotel apart from other destinations is the “jazz garden.” Loaded with instruments available for children to experiment with, your child can explore their creative side with a wide selection of musical outlets and potentially discover a new passion!

For the classic jazzman at heart, this polo shirt with music print on the back completes the look!

Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando Resort - Orlando, Florida

For dinosaur lovers and anyone making a trip to Disneyworld

Book here.

Taking the plunge to Disneyworld? Checking out Orlando Studios to give your child the gift of cinematic overload? Don’t pass up the Loews Royal Pacific Resort!

Kid’s Camp is offered at an hourly rate where your children partake in supervised group activities while you enjoy the adult-appropriate entertainment (bars, golf, and more). In the Islands Dining Room, a Bali-inspired playroom transports the tikes to a far-off destination, while a child-friendly buffet serves up all kinds of treats made just for them!

The hotel room amenities are the prime example of the perfect “theme hotel for kids.” If your child is a fan of the Jurassic Park franchise, the Jurassic World Children’s Suite features an open-air dinosaur backdrop, themed bedding, and a wall-to-wall map floor to inspire future adventures!

No little adventurer’s mess pack is complete without this red raincoat!

The Plaza Poznań - Poznań, Poznań

Classically Poznań, impossible to pass up for fans of “Eloise”

Book here.

Kay Thompson’s Eloise series of books have been inspiring little girls for generations. For those very girls, the Plaza Poznań - an iconic mainstay for over 100 years - was made just for them!

The Eloise Suite features a stunning zebra-print carpet and pink-striped walls - just like the books! Once they’ve taken in the sights, bring them to The Plaza’s Eloise Shop for all types of accessories Eloise-themed.

Taking it to the next level, your Eloise-obsessed child can enjoy a themed afternoon-tea service, with all the dressings for a true Eloise experience!

This gold shirt dress is perfect for a chic Poznań outing!

The Milestone Hotel & Residences - London, England

A stunning example of true royal pomp and circumstance

Book here.

If London is your destination, do not sleep on the Milestone Hotel & Residences.

This hotel gets everything right about having a baby. Perfectly-sized bathrobes and slippers for all ages of little ones are available, along with baby monitors for every family suite. Plus, every single child receives a teddy bear, some chocolates, and a book loaded with bedtime stories available each night at bedtime.

For the princes and princesses in the home, a mini-Royalty-themed tea-time, complete with tiny finger sandwiches and itty-bitty teacups will wrap your child in the royal treatment!

For the proper English gentleman, this navy suit jacket is dripping with blue-blood class!

Ashford Castle - Cong, Ireland

An 800-year-old classic Irish Castle on over 300 acres

Book here.

This is perhaps one of the most fun hotels for kids, especially if they love Legos!

This 800-year-old castle is the epitome of old-Irish, rustic charm. With hundreds of acres of land for the tikes to play around - and loads of classic interior decorating offering an immersion into medieval times - Ashford Castle is part playground, part history lesson.

Now let’s get to the Legos. Your on-call butler will bring your Lego-obsessed child their very own set so you and the family can bond over some truly imaginative building!

This red check shirt is a perfect addition to any outfit truly fit for the cool Irish weather.

And when you’re travelling, remember to pack right!

For any domestic or international trip, it’s crucial to pack correctly.

Whether traveling to France or knowing how to pack the perfect diaper bag, we at Family lifepack intimately understand the parental experience. See our blog for more tips on dressing, preparing for travel, and more!

As a full body workout - great for endurance, cardio, and more - a swimming child is indeed a healthy one. And, your little tike will always have something to do during the summer!

But what exactly are the health benefits of swimming? You may be surprised!

1. Whole Body Workout Swimming requires the use of all your limbs, and consistent breathing. It increases heart rate without putting additional stress on the body, so it helps to build healthy lungs as well as healthy muscles.

2. Great for Children with Injuries and Disabilities The benefits of swimming are equally realized by completely normal children, and those with injuries or disabilities. As long as you understand how to scale workouts for children with physical difficulties and injuries, they too can become healthier through swimming.

This includes children with multiple sclerosis and other physically disabling conditions! Even children with asthma are able to swim, and it can help build stronger lungs - this will benefit them in the long run!

3. Improves Sleep and Mood Using up energy with a workout is always a great way to improve sleep. Children are energetic little guys, and parents are always looking for healthy ways to have them burn off some of that excess energy.

Additionally, any workout is great for mood. Serotonin and dopamine - two crucial endorphins that determine mood - are released during any exercise. Swimming, as a full-body workout, floods the brain with the stuff, which will help keep children happy!

Now that you understand the benefits of teaching children to swim, let’s get down to how!

Step-By-Step: How to Teach a Toddler to Swim

Step 1: Find a Proper Spot

Safety while teaching a child to swim is of the utmost importance.

When looking for the right spot to teach your child, it’s best to find a place where there are no other children. That’s because, as we all know, keeping a cool head is crucial to floating - outlined in the next step. With other kids around, it’s easy for your toddler to get worked up.

If you have your own private pool, that’s the perfect place to start. As long as there is a shallow end, you can be certain they will be safe throughout the whole process. Otherwise, if you can’t find a private place to give your toddler a swimming lesson, any uncrowded place will do - whether that’s a pool or a lake, either is fine.

Step 2: Learning to Float

Perhaps the single most important skill in swimming is floating.

You’ll want to make sure you have floaties for your little nugget’s arms. Using floaties is the best way to allow them to float in the water unassisted, which helps build comfort in the water.

Being able to float unassisted gives toddlers the ability to feel comfortable in the water. A calm mindset is the stage upon which they build confidence, so you’ll want to work with your child setting them off on their own.

If your child experiences any fear while floating, immediately pull them back in and comfort them. After a couple of tries, they should feel just fine in the water.

Step 3: Start with Pushing Water

Once you have them floating on their own, you have to teach them exactly how moving around in the water works.

Since they will be sitting upright at this point, show them how to push water around them yourself. With a big open stroke, put your hands together in front of you with palms facing out, and separate the water in front of you. You can also move forward a little bit, indicating that doing so will push you forward.

Toddlers have a natural tendency to imitate those around them, so after a few attempts they should be doing the same for themselves. And, since they won’t necessarily catch on that you’re moving yourself forward, they should see some forward movement on their own over time.

Make sure to celebrate even this small victory - the goal is to have your toddler moving forward on their own, so any reward that reinforces that as the point of the exercise will only inspire them to do even more!

Step 4: Kicking Feet

Now it’s time to teach them how to kick their feet. A child’s legs are often stronger than their arms, so this will be the most important exercise to practice.

This is best done at the side of the pool. Get them to hold on to the end of the pool - either by themselves if possible, or by you holding their hands - and move their feet up and down. What I’ve seen work well is to say “kick!” after each movement, so they associate the movement with the word.

Once they start kicking on their own, they are ready to move on to the next step - kicking and stroking horizontally

Step 5: Moving Horizontally

This is where all the motions you’ve taught your child so far come together.

In this exercise, lift up their feet to almost water level. You can do this while standing behind them. Then, as long as they’ve responded positively to “kick!”, then let ‘er rip!

As they kick, move them forward in the water. The idea isn’t to trick them into thinking that they are moving themselves - it’s about understanding that moving forward is the goal.

Your child may have difficulty holding themselves up, which is completely O.K.! Holding yourself up while swimming requires a significant amount of abdominal strength, which your little tike may not have yet.

That leads into our next step - be persistent!

Step 6: Be Persistent!

As any parent can attest, it can definitely get frustrating showing your child the same thing over and over again. That’s why this step really is a part of all the other steps.

We all know that babies are born with a natural ability to swim, but that is lost not too long after birth. That means you’re most likely starting from square one regardless.

Take solace in the fact that toddlers are within that specific age range - two to four years old - where their minds are like sponges. It’s not uncommon that toddlers find themselves swimming very quickly by themselves!

Swimming Lessons

YMCA Swimming Lessons

Nearly every YMCA in the country offers swimming lessons - as long as they have a pool on the premises, you can bet they have an expert instructor on hand conducting swimming lessons.

You’ll want to make sure they take on toddlers as students, or children from 12 to 36 months of age.

Don’t know where your local YMCA is? Click here to find out!

Private Swimming Lessons

For parents who either don’t have access to a YMCA or would prefer private lessons, there are in fact quite a few instructors who work with toddlers.

One of the best services that operates all over the country is Sunsational Swim School, which has been featured on ABC and CBS. Check out their website here.

Remember to Have Fun!

There’s no better way for a child to learn than while having fun. Whatever you can do to help your child have fun - singing songs, making up games, or something completely different! - it will only help.

Teaching a toddler to swim is also a valuable bonding experience. As you teach them this crucial skill, you can use this as an opportunity to get closer to them. Make them laugh, celebrate their successes, and enjoy this as an opportunity to make lasting, tender memories.

Happy swimming!

Ah, Paris. The fashion capital of the world, and the embodiment of a culture thousands of years in the making, a trip to Paris is a journey every child should have the opportunity to make. 

As a European-style children’s clothing store, we at Family lifepack design our clothing with that “across-the-pond” ethos in mind. 

You may be here to shop for such a trip. If so, take a look at our selections for boys and girls. 

Since it’s Paris, it’s not just another trip where you can throw just anything on your children. It’s a special event, and one where the style should match the occasion! That’s why we’re glad you’re here. 

If you’re shopping for kids with a particularly Parisian style in mind, read on! 

European vs. American Fashion 

European and American fashion are different animals.

On the one hand, American clothing is often a wider, larger cut than European fashion - that’s where the idea of “slim, hip, European looks” comes from. 

When it comes to children’s clothing, the same applies. But, that’s not the only difference - as you can see with our clothing lines, the prints are often more interesting and eye-catching than other clothing brands, and they embody a certain European style of sophistication.

That doesn’t mean a child dressed for a Paris trip isn’t just as cute as any regular American child. We try to bridge the gap between that European sophistication and a tradition of picture-worthy cuteness that’ll make you remember how you dressed your child for years to come.   

French Fashion

The word “sophistication” is all over this post, and for good reason.

French fashion is defined by this word, and by all of its derivations. Paris fashion is refined, stylish, and timeless. This fashion tradition is endlessly classic, while making novel use of improvisation to give each and every person an individual sense of style.

With children’s clothing, the same applies. You’ll find that clothing trends for kids when traveling to Paris always have some small, subtle characteristic that helps express individuality while bringing all the best elements of classic traditions to the fore. 

How to Dress in Paris

Take this incredible example of French-forward fashion: the striped 2-in-1 shirt and skirt.

This combination features the unmistakably French red and white stripes, reminiscent of the mimes of a Parisian time passed. But, it’s the subtle details that make this piece almost iconic. 

The grey waistband between the shirt and skirt offers a slimming transition between the top and bottom, and the cyclist embroidery brings to life that subtle hint of eclecticism. This helps your child’s style stand out while still being - by all accounts - characteristically “French”. 

Can you just imagine what this would look like matched with a black or blue beret?

This yellow and black knit poplin dress achieves the same features in a different configuration. The bright yellow skirt reverses the attention, while a black waistband creates a more indiscreet, overt separation from top and bottom. 

An additional subtle element is the left pocket - a simple yellow bow and silver-embroidered hearts make the outfit finely child-like. It’s a child’s outfit that is still in a way sophisticated. 

We would suggest pairing this with a child-sized gondolier's hat - anything with a brim and made of straw would work for this piece. 

But what about boys? There’s plenty for them too!

These white poplin shirts are simple, straightforward, and make your once childish-looking boy look like a little man! Toss in a dark bowtie and you have yourself a veritable French gentleman on your hands!

For the little French gentleman, we also have stripes!

The classic colored and white stripes scream “French mime,” and the print gives the piece a subtle nod to your trip to Paris. 

If you’re looking for great shorts to pair with this piece, you can’t go wrong with definitively European dyed denim!

Comfortable, gently colored, and breathable for those relatively mild Parisian summers, the Family lifepack Bermuda shorts are a must-have for any walking tour of Paris!

Weather in Paris

If you’re worried about the weather in Paris, don’t be!

The summers are generally mild in Paris. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t rule out definitively summery styles, including dresses!

This adorable black pique tennis dress is sleeveless, allowing your little girl to remain cool while strolling through any of Paris’ iconic cobbled streets. It’s mid-leg cut offers a classic look alongside the subtle shoulder print. 

We at Family lifepack see this being paired perfectly with a wide-brimmed hat, such as our two-tone straw hat.

It matches with the colors of the dress, yet still possesses an underplayed detail in the cursive writing on the brim. 

Another attractive spin on the stripes theme is the sailor-striped jersey dress.

White, red, and bold makes for a great Parisian summer style statement. The bow in the center follows along the theme of subtlety perfectly - definitive but understated.

For Those Rainy Parisian Summer Days

Sometimes it rains in Paris, but that shouldn’t stop your child from exploring the city in European style!

This lightly-coated parka is perfect for warm summer rains:

Lightweight for the summer, and coated for water resistance makes this piece functional for all summer inclement weather. The trim gives the garment a classic feel, and the dream-like butterfly patch is a simple accent that offers an endearingly multi-dimensional element to the whole outfit. 

But don’t worry - we have the boys covered too!

Loaded with pockets, coated for water resistance, and with an attractive inner print, this rubberized parka is about as bold of a statement as you could possibly need for any European outfit for your little man. 

For slightly colder nights, there’s nothing that says “France” more than a light track jacket! 

Lightweight, entirely movable and breathable, and built with the classic track jacket look will have passersby wondering what children’s soccer league he plays for!

Are You Ready for Your Trip?

As you can see, Family lifepacki’s definitively European designs are the perfect match for any trip to Paris. Before you go, make sure to take a look at our entire collection for girls and boys - dressing your child with Family lifepack is just one step closer to making your children look like natives. 

The only thing you’ve got to worry about is teaching them how to properly say “Bonjour!”

We've organized our themes by settings for portraits. See below for links to each collection and get the details below. 

• Bright Blossom - Flowery and geometric prints for summer and spring! - Girls
• Coastal Getaway - For all things beach, seaside, and more! - Boys/Girls
• Tropical Adventure - Perfect for jungle and animal themes! - Boys/Girls
• Escape to the Sun - When fun in the sun is the way to go! - Boys/Girls
• Floral Fantasy - Best for portraits with bright flowers - Girls
• Island Dreams - Perfect for sandy backdrops and splashing waves - Boys/Girls

It’s family picture day, and you’ve decided to make it an outdoor affair. 

Just like all events with children, picture day can be a stressful affair. Location, choosing a photographer, and what to wear are among the considerations parents have to make when getting ready for a photo shoot with children.

That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive guide on not only what to wear, but how to manage all the considerations parents have to make when preparing for a photo shoot. After each section, you’ll see a list of important points to sum it all up. 

Are you a parent who has recently undertaken a photo shoot with children? Leave your tips in the comment section! 

Expectations - How Age Matters

Perhaps the first consideration is how old your children are.

If you’re bringing baby to a photo shoot, the results can be much less predictable than with toddlers or children five to nine years old, for instance.

Outfits for Family Photos for Infants

With infants, it’s crucial to bring with you the knowledge of how to make them smile. Whether it’s their favorite ticklish spot or a particular toy they love, it’s up to you as the parent to bring the best knowledge and resources you have, and supply them to the photographer.

What to Wear for Family Pictures Outside

As children grow, they become more aware of their surroundings. When bringing toddlers along for a photo shoot, you can use this to your advantage.

Toddlers are better able to understand that a particular event is important, and it’s even more important to control their often-wandering attention to the camera. Making a photo shoot feel like playtime is a great way to garner your toddler’s attention.

Outfits for Family Photos for Five-Year-Olds and Up

By this time, children are far more aware of circumstances, and their importance. In order to appeal to a child five years old and up, make the photo shoot into a fun game.

The Takeaways

1. Tools and Knowledge - Parents need to make sure to bring the right toys, or know what makes their child tick
2. Patience - This is not always going to be an easy ordeal - make sure to take a breath 

Choosing the Right Photographer

You may have a photographer friend who loves children. You may even want to take care of the shoot yourself. Choosing the right photographer is crucial, and is not as easy as it sounds. 

The interchange between photographers and their subjects is important - any great photographer will tell you that.

The best photographers for photo shoots with children understand how to interact with children in a way that will keep them engaged and looking at the camera. These photographers are able to do whatever it takes to keep their attention, especially if you are also in the picture and can’t take on the role of entertainer.

Choosing a photographer is relatively easy. If they have a portfolio that includes pictures with children that consistently look great, then you know the photographer had something to do with the results.

The Takeaways

1. Engaging - Your photographer should know how to engage with children - it’s not something every photog is cut out for
2. Portfolios - Check your potential photographer’s portfolio. If they’ve consistently created stunning images with children you can bet they had a part in those results 

Locations for Family Photos

You’ve established that you want the shoot to take place outdoors - otherwise, why would you be you be reading this?

Location is crucial for a few reasons, some not so obvious. For one, it has to be a place that speaks to the sentiment you are trying to express.

For instance, is it a Christmas photo? Then you may want to make it a photo shoot with Santa. Or, if it’s a simple family photo, is there a background that can express your values, or just the value of family?

Rich and dark backgrounds allow subjects to stand out more. A location with an eye-catching element that is subservient to the subject - your family - is best.

Also, if it’s an outdoor shoot, lighting is everything. Contrary to popular belief, overcast skies actually are ideal for outdoor shoots. 

This is because the clouds in overcast conditions distribute light evenly. As opposed to a cloudless day, finding the right lighting in overcast days actually increases options and is much more manageable. 

You’ll also want to check on the weather. Professional photographers will not want to bring their equipment to a shoot they’ll have to break down prematurely, and you don’t want to pay any kind of set-up fee without getting your pictures. 

Weather is also a factor in considering the comfort of your children. If it’s a blisteringly hot day, it’ll be harder to get children to stand still and smile for a shoot. You face the same problem if it’s too cold.

The Takeaways

1. Character - Make sure you have the right backdrop to express the right character of your photo - seasonality is a great way to start.
2. Lighting - Outdoor lighting is unpredictable, but overcast days offer the most options and easiest lighting setup.
3. Weather - Make sure the weather is clear and comfortable - it’s already hard enough to get children to stand still! 

Outdoor Family Photos Outfit Ideas

When it comes to outfit ideas, the only limits are your imagination. 

Some parents will lean toward more comical choices - remember that stupid banana suit your parents made you wear for Halloween? Often this is only possible when your children are young, and can create those perfectly cute, cringe-worthy photos you’ll laugh about later on.

But, there are more than enough options for a truly graceful family photo with children. We’ve chosen some of the best from our own stock, based on gender.

What to Wear for Family Photos for Boys

Dressing a boy for photo day is just like dressing a man, but smaller! 

The cuteness of adult-style clothing on a child - whether it’s a suit jacket with penny loafers or a old-man sweater - is a classic approach to dressing boys for photo day. 

For something a bit more fresh, Family lifepack also has some great, distinctive choices for boys - see below!

  - Fun, bright, and distinctive, the micro-printed Poplin shirt is a button-up that screams fun, formal, and ready for the close-up!

The Jungle Print Percale Shirt - There’s nothing that pops like jungle prints, and the Percale shirt pops right at you. A distinctive and inventive design will command attention in any photo to your little guy!

What to Wear for Family Photos for Girls

Girls are much easier to dress when you’re going for gender-normative options. Whether it’s dresses, pants, or something in between, the options for girls are almost endless.

Here’s some of the best photo-ready outfits we have from Family lifepacki:

This striped, pleated dress is everything about the 1960’s we love - reserved in design, bold in color, and comfortable for all climates.

For an occasion that requires a bit more elegance, this white sleeveless dress offers a touch of elegance uncommon with children’s clothing. Especially for summer and spring photo shoots, this dress will stand out among the rest.

The Takeaways

1. Boys - Family lifepack has tons of fun, vibrant boys clothes for boys.
2. Girls - With tons of different dresses and skirts, you can dress your little princess in style with Family lifepacki.

What to Bring

Aside from clothing, the other items you need to bring should help you to gain the attention of your little models.

Toys

Your children’s favorite toys are always a great way to offer not only a reward for a good performance - toys are a wonderful way to get children to pay attention, especially for infants and toddlers.

These items can be displayed behind the photographer to keep them looking forward, and also can be used as a source of comfort if baby starts to cry.

Themes

Now for the fun part! 

Is there a theme for your portrait you’ve been thinking about? One of our favorite themed dresses is this loose-fitting leaf print dress! Part of our tropical line of girl’s clothing, you can outfit your little princess in something that will match an island sunrise background or as a perfect outfit for a beach location.

These scooter print swimming trunks are great if you’re thinking about a coastal-themed portrait or a jet-setting shot in an Italian coastal town.

The best part of our themed clothing is they work for many different types of circumstances. With Family lifepacki, you can get creative!

The Takeaways

1. Items to bring - Toys, pacifiers, and other attention grabbers are perfect to keep baby’s attention.
2. Themes - Themed clothing is a great way to help your little tikes blend in with the surroundings, or the prepared background for your family portrait.

Browse our other themed collections for boys and girls and - as always - have fun with it!

Browse Our Themes!

• Bright Blossom - Flowery and geometric prints for summer and spring! - Girls
• Coastal Getaway - For all things beach, seaside, and more! - Boys/Girls
• Tropical Adventure - Perfect for jungle and animal themes! - Boys/Girls
• Escape to the Sun - When fun in the sun is the way to go! - Boys/Girls
• Floral Fantasy - Best for portraits with bright flowers - Girls
• Island Dreams - Perfect for sandy backdrops and splashing waves - Boys/Girls

One of the most important skills a child will develop is how to dress themselves. While dressing stylish is altogether a different skill, just being able to remember putting on all the necessary garments is the most basic level of a lifelong need to dress oneself.

We’ve put together six different tips for how to get children to dress themselves independently. This list incorporates different seasonal needs as well as various tactics to get kids - more than anything else - excited to dress themselves.

Have you used any of these tips to get your child to dress themselves? Or, do you have different tips and tactics for learning mothers? Leave a comment below!

But before we jump into it….

Before we jump right into how to get your child to dress themselves, a few points need to be made.

Be Patient

Depending on how old you begin teaching your child how to dress themselves, you’ll be faced with different levels of success. The failures you’re sure to run into should not discourage you - they are just indications that you are using the wrong tactics.  

What’s crucial is that you keep trying, until you find a way that works for your child. All children learn differently, and that variety also creeps into how they accept responsibility.

In the end, you’re getting a child to do something different than just teaching them something - you’re getting them to accept at least a small part of growing up and being independent. Treat these lessons with care, and you’ll find it will become easier to teach them even more as time goes on.

 Get Ready for Laughs

Kids are funny, and often don’t even know that they are. This experience will yield many photo opportunities where you’re wondering to yourself “What was my child thinking?” Cherish these moments, especially when you know you’ll be able to share them with your child when they get older.

Stay Open Minded 

You will most assuredly have to give in to your child’s creativity, whether a true creative power or a lack of understanding. If your child decides to wear a derby hat with a Superman cape, understand this is an exploration of a new facet of life - the ability to discover and make mistakes is the cornerstone of learning.  

Engage with Them

There’s something to be said about demonstrating a new skill to children and seeing how they pick it up.

Simply engaging with them over time will - perhaps slowly - give them the confidence to know what to do with a closet full of clothing.

Parents can do this easily by simply pulling out a piece of clothing, and trying to get the child to identify what it is, and where it goes on the body. Pulling out a shirt for example, you can ask your child three questions: 

1. What is this?
2. Where Does It Go On You?
3. How Do We Put It On?

After some repetition - and all the corrections you may need to make - your child should be able to get the point of each garment pretty quickly. The next step is to slowly give them more independence until you can simply say “Go ahead and do what you will!”  

Play Dress Up

Many parenting experts know that games are a great way to engage children. Engagement, by all accounts, is one of the most important ways of fostering learning.

Dress-up is a game usually played with dolls, but when the subject is the child themselves, they can start to conceptualize themselves as the beneficiary of the skills needed to dress themselves.  

Especially if your child has tons of fun clothing - or, this may be an opportunity to upgrade their wardrobe - you can focus on even themed dress-ups like princess outfits, cowboys, and otherwise.

The “Seasons” Game

Seasons are a great way to make your kids think critically about what they should be wearing.

For instance, if it’s wintertime you can ask your child what kind of things they should be wearing. Then, after they’ve thought critically about what they should wear, you can use that inspiration to give them clothing to put on themselves. 

This can also be played out for all the other seasons. For the summer, you can even incorporate what your child should be wearing for swimming and other activities.

The important part about this method is to get your child to think. After their minds are engaged on an idea, such as “During the wintertime I wear winter jackets,” they will be more likely to put one on to follow along that path of thought.

The Incremental Method

Sometimes you need to take small steps.

These small steps typically come in the form of snaps, buttons, and zippers. Unzipping is one of the easiest dressing skills, and you can take advantage of the “fun” sound it makes. Plus, after you teach them how to unzip, the next logical step is teaching them how to zip.

You can also take this incremental approach to other types of clothing. For instance, after helping put your child’s feet through pant legs you can teach them how to simply pull them up. This is an approach of putting on pants that teaches them the more simple component of that skill before adding the zipper and buttons.

Starting with shoes is particularly easy. If you show your child simply how to put shoes over the ends of their feet, they’ll get the point that the shoes have to eventually be put on. Showing this to them over and over again will ultimately make them create a connection between the work of their own hands and eventually having a shoe on each foot.

Another approach to this is jackets. If you just put on the hood of the jacket, and let the rest of the garment hang off their head, you can then say “Alright, put on the jacket!” The process is already started for your child, so they just need to figure out the “hard” part.

Lay Out Clothing on the Floor

Diagrams are always helpful tools to learn something, and teaching your child how to dress themselves shouldn’t be any different.  

Here’s the scoop - lay your child’s outfit out on the floor in the arrangement they would be worn. When your little one looks at the display, they’ll start making associations with a physical form wearing the clothes.

Then, it’s not a far cry to see themselves wearing these clothes. At that point, the inspiration has sparked, and they can start fumbling around with trying to realize the vision that’s in their head as they see the clothes displayed on the floor.

Have Children Remove Their Clothes

There’s something to be said about thinking in terms of opposites.  

Having your children undress themselves gets them to think about the process of taking clothing off which, as you can gather, is the opposite of putting it on.

If a child takes off a shirt, they’ll almost instinctively pull the shirt up, and pull their head and arms out. After having taken that step, you can instruct them to then put the shirt on by doing the exact opposite. 

With this method, you’ll most likely have to guide them every step of the way. But, the act of taking clothing off will engage them enough to let the lesson stick.  

Bringing It All Back Home

Teaching your child to dress themselves is no easy task. But, neither is teaching them most things for that matter.

But, this important life skill will obviously follow them for the rest of their lives. But, there’s something even more valuable to learn about your child, and that’s how they learn best.

Children learn in all different manner of ways, but you’ll never find out exactly how until you start to teach them. Teaching your child how to put on clothing brings a lot of different faculties together - physical awareness, imagination, and others.

Take all the struggle involved with teaching your child to dress themselves as a way to get to know them more deeply. Whether they are good with arbitrary thought or are experiential learners, knowing about how they learn will foster a stronger relationship between you and your child.

Happy teaching!

That change is not just something that happens to how you live your life. Where you live also needs to undergo some major changes to not only make it safe and healthy for baby, but make raising your baby easier for you.

Everything from safety and sanitation to how you will care for yourself are considerations to make before baby comes into the world.

We at Family lifepack know how hard it can be to be a new parent. That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive list of the 10 best ways to prepare your home and your life for your new baby.

What have you done to make the transition into baby life easier in your home? Leave a comment!

Safety

While your home should already be a safe place to live, this consideration will be even more important for your baby.

That’s because even small safety risks for you can be very detrimental for baby. Sharp corners, exposed cutlery, and hosts of other safety risks can be very harmful to baby if not paid attention to. 

We suggest going room by room throughout the house to point out every single way a baby can injure themselves. Taking this fine-tooth-comb approach allows you to generate a holistic set of recommendations for yourself to act on.

Here’s a quick list of the most common risks to babies in most every home:

1. Sharp corners
2. Open lower cabinets
3. Water leaks
4. Overstuffed or unstable shelves
5. Stovetops
6. Power outlets and electronics
7. Chemicals
8. Slippery floors
9. Air quality

This last risk may require bringing a professional into the home. In line with this recommendation, you will want to have your smoke and CO detectors inspected for battery life and operation to ensure they are working properly.

Sanitation and Cleanliness

Baby’s immune system is still developing, which means they are vulnerable to sickness and infections.

This vulnerability can create a host of problems. Without the ability to fight back germs like adults, potentially life-threatening infections and ailments can be contracted extremely easily by baby. 

Many parenting magazines suggest doing a thorough and deep cleansing of the home ahead of baby coming home. Some even suggest that this is a great time to hire a professional cleaning service. With the expertise of a professional cleaning service, cleansing the house goes beyond dusting and removing stains - these services generally take a comprehensive and holistic approach to cleaning and sanitizing all facets of your home top to bottom.

Visitors

Many mothers will have visitors stay over to help take care of baby during the first few weeks after coming home.

That means they will need certain amenities to make staying overnight easy. This could include having a separate bathroom set for them, and bedding if you have a guest room.

However people will be staying over, make sure they have everything they need before the baby comes home.  

Visitor Management 

Along with preparing for people to stay over to help take care of baby, you’ll need to make sure you have honest conversations about how to handle baby with visitors.

 Proper sanitation is everything to baby. Their immune systems are not able to fight back illnesses easily, so all visitors will need to know that if they are sick, they cannot hold the baby.

Also, having things like sanitizer always on hand will help everybody prepare to hold baby in healthy hands.

Laundry

Laundry is something most people don’t want to do, but with baby expect to have A LOT more to do all the time.  

One thing new mothers do to manage this increased laundering is to separate baby’s clothing and laundry from the rest of the house. This will allow you to completely replenish all the reusable wipes, clothing, and bedding that babies mess on all at once.

This will also allow you to use a higher-quality detergent for baby’s laundry. Regular detergents can irritate sensitive baby skin, so you’ll want to purchase a separate brand that will leave baby’s skin comfortable.

Because these special detergents are generally more expensive than standard-use products, you’ll want to have them last as long as possible.

Baby’s Room

If you plan on having baby sleep in their own room, you’ll need to make sure you have everything they need for comfort, safety, and more. 

Baby rooms need to be quiet and low-lit when sleeping. That means special blinds to keep out sunlight and sound are crucial. This will allow them to get as much sleep as they need and give you peace of mind.

For Co-Sleeping Mothers

Some professionals recommend having your baby sleep in your room for the first six to twelve months of life. If you do decide to do this, many mothers purchase simple bassinets that can be placed right next to the bed for easy access.

This is a great way to help you sleep better. If baby wakes up, you can very easily access them, get them back to sleep, then easily return to getting the sleep you need.

Monitoring

In most cases, baby won’t be left alone very much during the first months of life. But, they are sleeping in their own room, video and audio monitors are crucial to keep them safe.

Changing Stations

Is it any surprise that the need to change baby can happen at anytime and anywhere?

For especially messy situations, it’s important to be ready wherever you possibly can be. Many mothers will have diapers and changing stations throughout the home for easy access anywhere accidents happen. 

Here’s a list of what you’ll need in a properly-stocked changing station: 

1. Diapers
2. Disinfectant wipes
3. Baby powder
4. A towel, or a mobile baby-changing station

Meal Prepping

Cooking becomes much more difficult when you have a newborn in the house.

While some people fall into the slump of ordering out more than before, there are healthier ways of eating with less time. Meal preparation is the key to achieving this. 

Most foods are freezable, and new mothers can coordinate with their partners to cook large amounts to be preserved for later. You can also plan to make healthy and nutritious meals to keep you going for the long haul that is caring for a newborn.

Self Care

If there’s one thing mothers forget about when baby is coming home, it’s themselves.  

Losing yourself in the throes of pregnancy and motherhood is all too common, but with some preparation any mother is able to make baby life enjoyable and healthy for everyone.

Develop Your Support System

They say it takes a village to raise a child, and a big reason for that is how much work is involved. It’s important to establish a support system around your baby so that you can split up the work and keep yourself healthy.

Your significant other should be the first person with whom you have an honest conversation. As one half of the parenting team, it’s crucial that both of you do your part for the child. This goes far beyond having one person be the bread-winner - more emphasis needs to be put on caring for your newborn than simply providing for it, so both parents have an opportunity to grow with the child.  

The next line of defense is nearby family. Babies who spend time with families will continue those bonds later in life, which offer a deep and healthy sense of well-being and self.  

Finally, you can always consider daycare as a partial option. While infant daycare can be prohibitively expensive, this can be a great way to give yourself a day off every once in a while.

Do Things For You

A major factor of postpartum depression is believing you are only as valuable as how your child feels. Many new mothers forget that their own happiness is just as important - unhappy mothers raise unhappy children.  

Working with your support system, get yourself some days off to do things just for you. Whether it’s reconnecting with friends, taking a spa day, or engaging in a new or old hobby that may have taken a backseat since pregnancy, it’s absolutely required to engage in activities away from baby to avoid losing your sense of self.

Now that We’ve Got the Facts….

It’s clear to see that preparing the home and your family for a newborn baby is a lot of work. But we believe that if you put in the time before baby comes home, you can significantly change the course of your life during the first year of your newborn’s first year.

The takeaway for this is that all facets of your life will need to change, from family and friends to how you maintain your home. By taking advantage of your support system and planning ahead for this major life change, you can make motherhood enjoyable and easier to manage.

For parents of babies 0-2 years old, the diaper bag is perhaps the most important part of going out. At any time baby will need to be changed, and parents have to be ready for everything involved in changing dirty diapers.

But that goes beyond just diapers and wipes. From powders and cloths to additional items to keep baby happy during the process, your diaper bag should be a veritable one-stop-shop for everything you will need before heading out into the world with baby.

Whether you need a diaper bag for a quick checkup, a shopping trip, or even for traveling, you’ve got to be ready for whatever comes your way.

Below we’ve put together a detailed list of items that make for the best diaper bag essentials kit for every circumstance.

Diapers

The most obvious part of a diaper bag? Well, diapers of course!

There are so many types of diapers out there that it can be hard to know which variety to buy. Here’s some important considerations when choosing diapers:

Size - Diaper sizes are measured in weight classes. Here are the first five weight classes which fit most children from ages 0-2:

Size 1: Up to 14 pounds

Size 2: 12-18 pounds

Size 3: 16-28 pounds

Size 4: 22-37 pounds

Size 5: 27 pounds and over 

There are also disposable and reusable diapers. Disposable diapers are sometimes made with biodegradable materials, but you will often pay more for this variety.

If you do decide to use reusable diapers, you will need a proper way to store them to avoid odors and germs spreading to the rest of the bag. Buying air-tight and scented disposable diaper bags are a great way to carry reusable diapers home to wash.

Babies - especially younger ages - go through diapers like water. That means packing enough diapers for your trip is crucial. We suggest packing between one and three diapers for each hour you plan on being out and about with baby.

Extra clothing 

It’s no mystery that babies are messy, so how could you go anywhere without a change of clothes?

Sleepwear is the most obvious need when it comes to extra changes of clothing. Onesies and pajamas are crucial to take along with you in your diaper bag.

Also consider additional sets of activewear - whatever you can fit - if you’re going on longer trips. 

A large ziploc bag for changes of clothing is crucial. Imagine baby spitting on up themselves, and having nothing to store the soiled clothing in?

Wipes and Cloths

Baby wipes, whether disposable or reusable, are crucial for maintaining baby’s clean bottom.

Nearly all disposable wipes are sanitary wipes. That means they disinfect baby’s skin to avoid infection. Especially if it takes a while to change baby after pooping, disinfectant wipes are the responsible choice for keeping baby’s skin healthy.

Disposable wipes are the more popular choice because of ease of use. Many come in compact clutch packaging so they don’t take up too much space.

If you choose to use reusable wipes or cloths, you can purchase a disinfectant lotion to fully clean baby’s skin after wiping.

Changing Pad

Changing pads come in many different materials and shapes. Some are cloth-covered and padded, while others are made of plastic blends. Even more are disposable, great for when you are traveling.

Either way, it’s important to always have a clean changing pad wherever you go. Some are washable so you can cut down on waste. Some of the cloth-covered, cushioned varieties are even machine-washable for easy re-use.

Powders

Baby powders are made of many different things, but all achieve the same result. All try to keep baby’s bottom dry after using changing wipes and have astringent qualities. 

Some new baby powders are made without talcum powder, which some believe is connected to ovarian cancer. These powders are recommended for especially sensitive skin, though the majority of babies can use talcum-containing powder.

Lotions

Baby’s skin is sensitive. That means lotions are always a good thing to have on hand.

Winter cold typically causes dry skin, so you’ll sometimes need to moisturize their skin in between changes. Changing baby’s diaper is also a great opportunity to see if he or she needs moisturization anywhere else on their skin.

Bags

Diaper bags come in all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re looking for something simple with one compartment or outfitted with various pockets, only mommy or daddy will know what is right for baby’s diaper bag.

Then there’s size. The size of the diaper bag will determine how long you can go before replenishing your baby’s diaper resources. That means size is a consideration made based on the length of time you’re away from home. 

For longer trips, you’ll most likely want a larger bag that can hold more. For shorter trips, a smaller bag will hold less, but weigh significantly less as well. 

Bags are also made of all kinds of materials, from various plastics to cloth, and everything in between. Consider how many compartments you will need, and take stock of how much each bag holds.

We suggest having a few different sizes for various lengths of trips - perhaps the most important consideration when choosing a diaper bag.

Snacks and Accessories

Diaper bags are not just for diapers. Consider diaper bags as a place to store anything your baby may need for their journey.

Pacifiers and toys are invaluable when trying to calm baby down. But, don’t pack too much and sacrifice space needed for changing materials.

You’ll also not want to forget bottles and formula. Or, if you only feed your newborn breast milk, plan on having enough space for a small breast pump if you haven’t already packed some ahead of time.

Other useful odds and ends…

There are certain items you wouldn’t think would be helpful, but can make all the difference when travelling.

You’ll also want to pack at least two bibs - you want to be just as prepared around town as you are at home for feeding and messes. 

Blankets are another great item to bring. Diaper changing pads are often uncomfortable, so bringing a nice thick cashmere blanket will help keep baby comfortable.

Along with these items, make sure not to forget:

• An extra pacifier with an attach
• A king hook to attach all your bags together (including the diaper bag)
• Water bottles for toddlers
• Hand sanitizer that attaches to the outside of the bag
• Tissues
• A resealable travel spoon
• Resealable formula dispenser
• Hearing protection, for especially loud environments

You’ve got the stuff, but how to fit it all in?

After reading this article, you may feel a bit overwhelmed with all the considerations involved with packing a diaper bag.

The first thing to do is to take a deep breath. Parents have been packing diaper bags since the beginning of time, which means you can too!

One of the best techniques for packing diaper bags is to lay everything out in front of you. This allows you to think of how much space each item will take.

Afterward, look at the items you’re packing as if they were Tetris blocks. Each item will fit individually into a particular space, and the shapes can fit together like a glove if it you do it right!

Make sure to think about the items that should be easiest to get out first. Diapers and your changing pad are the most important items - especially for emergencies - so they should be the easiest to remove and use.

Things like toys are last on the totem pole. In fact, depending on the size of your diaper bag, you may not be able to pack toys at all. The diapers and pad, wipes, powders, and basic accessories like pacifiers should come first before anything else.

Wrapping it All Up

With all this information, we at Family lifepack are confident you will always be able to pack the perfect diaper bag each time you’re out and about with baby. Just remember - mommy and daddy know best when it comes to what baby needs when it’s time for a changing.

What do you pack in your diaper bag? Maybe something not listed here? Leave a comment below!

 But children have a tendency to complicate things. Now you’re faced with making sure they have enough clothing for the trip, you’ve got to keep track of them, and keep them entertained. It can feel like traveling with children requires a Master's degree in project management, but it doesn’t have to be that way.

That’s why we’ve put together a list of all the essentials for packing with kids. Note that time amount of travel time is perhaps the biggest variable here, but these below points can be modified to factor that in.  

Have you traveled with your children? What do you pack that may not have been listed here? Leave a comment below!

TLDR Quick Kids Travel Checklist:

• A large diaper bag that will fit at he bottom of the feet of your toddlerThis is not for everyday use but great when you travel as you will have less bags to account for.
• All liquid in a large ziploc to make going though security easy
• A charged ipad if you have a toddler with loaded cartoons (you get to pick and if there is no wifi or a delayed flight, it can save your life)  
• Ship diapers/wipes/snacks directly to the hotel (amazon is your best friend)
• A mini crossbody clutch for passports
• large post-it tab on picture page of passports to speed up checking / security at airport
• As soon as you are done feeding your baby, clean the bottle and get ready for the next feeding - you never know what will happen that will get you distracted. In a plane, ask a flight attendant to clean with warm water
• Toiletries should be packed with dish washing liquid and laundry detergent (just fill travel containers with your regular product)
• A few toys and links(links are multi purpose: teether, toy, toy holder...)
• Lego, Kanoodle
• Colored handles or tags on all luggage, stroller, diaper bags: this will help dad collect luggage at airport
• A Booster seat that you can use as a bag
• Hanging toy for stroller
• Small transparent toiletries (one per kid)

Clothing

Depending on where you’re going, you’ll have to plan for you and your children to change clothes.

For longer trips, you’ll require more changes of clothing, while for shorter trips less is needed. That all depends on the particular trip you are embarking on.

The second factor to consider is the weather. If it’s going to be cold, you’ll need to pack extra warm clothing, as well as pajama sets  - that means at least two changes of clothing per day.

In warmer climates, you can get away with one change of clothing per day. But, if you are leaving a colder climate for a warmer one, you’ll need to factor in a change of clothing for the day of travel.

Third, you need to know whether you have the opportunity to wash clothing - or if you even want to - while traveling. For instance, if you are staying at a hotel that offers laundry services you can get away with packing less. But, if there is no opportunity to wash clothing, each day will require at least one change of clothing.

On average, parents will need to plan for at least one change of clothing per day. Yet, as demonstrated above, that can change based on weather and the ability to wash clothing.

Snacks - Does your child get “hangry” on long trips? That’s what snacks are for! The way you are traveling has a big impact on what kind of snacks you can pack.

By Plane - Airports have strict guidelines on what can be brought on a plane in terms of food. It must be sealed, so a bag of peanuts might be taken away. Consider staples like granola bars, crackers, and travel-sized fruit snacks.

By Car and Train - If you’re packing with kids for a car or train ride, the choice of snacks opens up significantly. Now, that home-packed bag of peanuts will do just fine. Additionally, you are typically able to pack more substantive snacks like sandwiches and meal-oriented items in tupperware.  

As you consider nourishment on your travels, take note of where you may be able to purchase healthy and filling options for your children. Airports almost always have restaurants where you can sit for a nice meal, and airplanes typically are stocked with small snacks and drinks.

In terms of liquids, you can never go wrong with a travel mug for water. Some are even outfitted with a filter so you can use any water source to create clean drinking water. This will help you save space on things like juices which can be used only once.

But remember - if you’re traveling by plane, the mug will need to be empty. Travel mugs outfitted with filters are perfect for those layovers with water bubblers available.

It’s also important to note that parents with infants and breastfeeding children can bring formula and milk on a plane. These items are actually exempt from the limitations of carrying liquids on planes. 

Parents can also bring ice packs for anything that needs to stay cold for an extended period of time.

Entertainment

Everybody gets bored, especially kids. And bored children - as most parents know - is a dangerous thing.

What your child needs for entertainment depends on the child in question. Do you have a bookworm on your hands? Then you’re in luck!

One way you can never go wrong is an iPad, or any other touch-based tablet. That’s because the amount of free apps and games available for download is staggering - you’d be hard-pressed to not be able to find at least something your child or children will like.

There’s also a great opportunity for family gaming, which has obvious benefits beyond the specific trip. Board games during layovers are a great way to connect with your child!

With an iPad, you can also use video and music to entertain your child. Simply pull up YouTube or any other video service, and take advantage of the millions of videos to keep your child occupied.

If you’re traveling with more than one child, perhaps several approaches to travel entertainment are needed.

One thing many parents bring is materials children can get creative with. A drawing pad with some crayons is a great way to combine critical skillbuilding with fun!

Otherwise, bring the toys you know will keep your children occupied for as long as you need. One way to make them easier to travel with is toy links, which allow you to attach many to a strap for easy storage. You can also have your children carry their own toys with their own personal backpack.

Note: There are also tons of toys with hangers already installed!

“Comfort Items” 

Traveling with children is not only stressful for you, but for your children as well. Being thrust into unfamiliar situations can send kids into emotional distress, which in turn lays more stress on you.

Does your child have a favorite teddy bear? Or will a pacifier stop your child from crying? Make sure not to forget whatever objects your child finds comfort in - it can potentially make or break the enjoyment of travel for you.

Travel Documents

One of the most important considerations for any traveler is travel documents. If you’re traveling domestically, you’ll need passports. If you’re traveling internationally, you’ll potentially need visas.

These are best kept in either a separate compartment, or a separate bag altogether. While clothing, snacks, and entertainment can be all lumped together, travel documents need to be easily accessible when you need them. 

Separate compartments or separate bags also helps you avoid losing your travel documents. The nightmare that is losing your passport while traveling is one no parent should have to go through!

Also, here’s a life hack - have you ever had to pull out your passport and fumbled with finding the picture page? Use some Post-It tabs to make it easy to open your passport to the correct page!

Organization

Now that you’ve learned about the essential items to pack while traveling with kids, organizing everything is the next step. 

When organizing your items to pack, it’s important to take a full inventory of what you have. Clothing, snacks, entertainment, comfort items, and travel documents all need to come with you no matter what, so now it’s about making do.

You’ll also want to consider how many bags you want to travel with. Checking bags carries additional costs, but that may be the solution to traveling with absolutely everything you need. Regardless, if you’re traveling with children you should count on checking in at least one bag. 

A great diaper bag that will fit under the seat is also crucial when traveling with babies. 

Space efficiency is everything when packing for travel. The biggest variable is clothing - see below about recommended ways to pack various types of clothing:

 Softer/Thinner Garments - Soft garments like t-shirts, pajamas, and undergarments are best rolled up tightly. You’ll want to line the bottom of your luggage with the rolled garments.

Stiffer/Thicker Garments - Thick wool garments, pants, and other pieces made of more robust fabrics should be folded. Then, place these garments right on top of your rolled garments. 

As for your other items, grouping them together will allow for more ease of access. For instance, your snacks should all be together. Entertainment items like iPads, books, and more can be packed tightly. 

As a special note, you can utilize the clothing you bring with you to secure electronic devices. But remember, often these objects have to be removed if you are bringing them in your carry-on bag.

Now, Take a Breath

Packing with kids first and foremost requires taking a deep breath. The effort you put into staying calm, cool, and collected will pay dividends much later on.

It’s important to pack just the essentials, so you’ll need to choose items to bring with extreme prejudice.

Here’s a quick re-hash of the most important considerations when packing clothing for kids:

Weather - Make sure to pack appropriate clothing for the climates you are leaving and going to. Are you leaving one cold place for another, or going from a warm destination to a cold one?

Length of Travel - How many days are you going to be away? Count on having at least one outfit per day, and more depending on activities.

Amenities - If you are able to do laundry where you’re going, you can definitely pack less and plan on washing clothes for repeat outfits.

Next, here’s a wrap-up of the other considerations when packing for kids:

Snacks - Pack healthy, small, sealed snacks for children if traveling on a plane, and consider bringing a cooler with more substantive nourishment for car and train trips. 

Entertainment - Choose what works best for your child, but make sure it’s something that can keep them busy for extended periods of time.

Comfort Items - Used as a last resort, plan to bring items that can unfailingly pacify your child.

Travel Documents - Keep them separate and safe from your other belongings for easy access and accountability. 

Have you had to travel with children before? What are your tips for parents based on your experiences? Leave a comment below! 

How to Dress Your Baby For Each Season

Read to learn how to properly dress your baby for sleeping in winter, spring, summer, and fall. Information on fabrics, their weather appropriateness, and more are below. Contact us or see our other guides for additional information.

Among all the things to think about with babies, knowing how to dress them for sleep is one of the most important. As temperatures rise and fall throughout the year, dressing them right will ensure a comfortable and healthy night’s sleep.

Choosing the right clothing for the season is crucial for health reasons as well. A baby is unable to undress themselves when they get too hot, which means overheating becomes a major concern.

Alternately, a baby who becomes too cold is at much higher risk of getting sick. Even serious ailments such as hypothermia can happen in dry conditions at 40 degrees, so dressing your baby right becomes a safety consideration.

Time of the Season

Different types of fabric are best for different seasons. Some insulate better, while others allow for more breathability and temperature regulation.

Typically velvet and silk are best for colder weather, while simple cotton or cotton blends are great for milder and warmer climates.

Now Let’s Dive In

Now that you know the ins and outs of baby sleepwear, it’s easy to see why special attention is paid to the quality, material, and how well it insulates.

When choosing baby sleepwear, one size doesn’t fit all. And always remember babies grow quickly - make sure to plan for different sizes throughout the year for the most comfy fit possible.

Read below on how to choose the right pajama combos to keep baby cozy and comfortable year round.

Winter

Time to Bundle Up!

When temperatures fall to 59 degrees and below baby needs to bundle up! Especially in extreme cold months when temperatures reach the low single digits, the right baby sleepwear combination is crucial.

Head to toe, and all over again

For extreme cold temperatures, baby should have a complete set of sleepwear. A nice set of cozy bottoms, an undergarment, and warm top will keep baby nice and toasty in winter!

Silk is one of the best materials for sleepwear because of its moisture-wicking properties. In fact, it’s ability to regulate temperatures for cold and warm months makes pajamas made of this material great year round.

Velvet’s another great material for baby sleepwear, and at Family lifepack we have tons of selections for girl, boy, and gender neutral styles.

You’ll want to make sure that whatever sleepwear material you choose is a proper fit for baby - too tight can feel constrictive and uncomfortable, while sleepwear too loose-fitting won’t keep your infant warm.

Remember that months of extreme cold can make baby sick quite easily - the right winter sleepwear is an investment in your baby’s health, and your peace of mind.

Spring

Time to Bloom!

When spring is in the air, it’s time to shed some of that sleepwear! For temperatures between 59 and 70 degrees, cotton and polyester are perfectly suitable - sometimes baby will need to be warm, but that begins to change in the later months leading up to summer.

Shorter sleeves and thinner weaves

Think breathability and even some warmer weather choices. Short sleeves are reasonable once the temperature approaches 70 degrees, and undergarments will often be too much after 65 degrees.

Thinner materials, while still somewhat padded for infants, will allow breathability. Cotton is a great material for springtime baby sleepwear because it’s soft and insulating, but still allows air to pass through during milder temperatures.

Cozy bodysuits, such as our 100% cotton Secret Garden series would work perfectly with a nice set of cotton pants.

The objective for springtime baby sleepwear is comfort and movability. Lighter cotton and polyester clothing is typically thin enough so as not to be constrictive, and allows baby to give off excess heat or retain heat depending on room climates.

Summer

I’m Coming Out!

Warmer months mean even less, and even lighter. Single layers are best for temperatures 70 and above, as well as thinner fabrics - cotton is perfect - for breathability.

Typically single-layer cotton baby sleepwear is ideal for early summer, providing just the right amount of insulation level for the dead of summer. These thinner fabrics will keep baby comfortable and ensure they don’t develop a fever.

Bodysuits and short sleeves

Bare legs and arms are perfectly acceptable - even recommended - for the summer months. The cooler nighttime air will feel good on baby’s skin and help further regulate their body temperature.

A great short sleeve cotton bodysuit is the perfect single garment for summertime sleeping - thin and breathable, and it lets the cool air hit their legs and arms.

Even cotton/polyester blends are perfectly breathable and comfortable for warm nights. Single-layer two piece sets are also find, as long as the clothing is not too tight.

A Word of Caution

Just as extreme cold months can lead to hypothermia, temperature regulation is important in hotter months because of overheating. Overdressing your baby when it is too hot can lead to risk factors related to SIDS. That means proper summertime baby sleepwear is crucial to keep baby safe.

Fall

Bundle Up, Buttercup!

The cool temperatures of fall can befall us quickly, which means parents should be vigilant for quick changes in temperature. Starting in mid-autumn, you’ll want to start dressing your baby with a focus on retaining warmth and proper fit for the most comfortable sleep.

Those quick changes in temperature also lead to higher rates of sickness. To avoid your little nugget from catching a cold, ere on the side of warmer clothing.

Like Spring, but different

Spring and fall are the equinoxes, but they’re still polar opposites. Springtime baby sleepwear is most effective when it is more breathable, which allows baby’s body temperature to slowly adapt to warmer weather.

Fall baby sleepwear goes in the other direction - warmer and more insulating materials will help keep baby comfortable as it gets increasingly colder.

Popular trends for fall baby sleepwear are dark colors and bolder prints. Even a stylish pair of fleece jogging pants is warm and breathable enough for the chilly autumn nights.

Wrapping It All Up

Choosing the right baby sleepwear means watching the winds. Yet, the simple lesson is more insulation and specialized materials for colder weather, and less layers coupled with lighter materials for warmer weather.

For milder seasons- spring and fall - the concern is baby’s comfort. You want them to be able to adjust to the increasingly warmer and colder temperatures gradually over time, so it’s easier to get creative with materials and combinations.

During extreme weather months - winter and summer - the concern is temperature regulation. The risk factors associated with very cold and very hot weather include risk factors associated with SIDS and hypothermia.  

As long as you focus on appropriate layering and materials, you’ll be able to choose the right fabric for baby’s nighttime dress. Some fabrics have similar ratings, like fleece and velvet, so you can get creative!

The Family lifepack Promise

At Family lifepacki, we design all our clothes with baby’s comfort, safety, and style in our minds and hearts. Our inspired patterns are made with quality materials that keep baby warm in winter, cool in summer, and comfy for everything in between.

 Prepare for the coming months with great deals on winter, summer, fall, and spring baby sleepwear sale selections all year around! Also, bookmark our collection section for the latest bold and inspired prints!

Joined at the Hip

Is there anything cuter than two matching little tikes? If you look through anybody’s family photos, there’s most likely one picture of two adorable babies posing as mirror images of each other that’ll make our hearts swell.

Why are matching outfits such a striking visual element? From an artistic standpoint, we very rarely see two people dressed exactly the same, so two matching outfits immediately are a mark of distinction - in color and pattern - from their surroundings.

Matching also establishes a relationship between two people. Two brothers, two sisters, a brother and sister, or an entire family can wear matching outfits that tells our eyes immediately, “These people are part of a unit.”

It’s all about the photo op

So what’s one of the best ways to create a memorable family photo? Matching outfits of course!

One of the biggest trends in family photos is the full-family match. In other circumstances such as brothers and sisters - or just two little buddies - matching establishes a visual connection that can make them seemed almost joined at the hip in the most adorable way.

Talk of the Town

Two matching toddlers, infants, or newborns create an immediate cuteness overload most people can’t resist.

Matching outfits certainly will catch the eyes of passersby. Perhaps even more fun is bringing the whole bundle of adorable to family functions to bring your loved ones closer together.

The perfect holiday and seasonal decoration

Matching outfits are perfect for setting a scene, no matter what time of year.

Two red and black plaid outfits with a Christmas tree in the background make for an iconic holiday photo. Bright yellow matching jumpsuits are great for a sandy beach adventure.

A note on gendering

We can all remember not too long ago that specific color groupings signified a child’s gender. For instance, pink tones would tell us two children are girls, while blue tones signified boyhood.

Today, the lines between genders are thinner than ever, and are becoming non-existent. While still completely acceptable, some parents vie to move away from what are known as “gender-normative” color schemes for mixing and matching as they see fit.

Many parents find that breaking down these gender boundaries can lead to a lot more creativity in overall presentation of your little ones, alongside the equally valid use of gender-normative combinations. Regardless of your persuasion, matching outfits will always be a cuteness overload most parents can’t resist.

Matching Newborn, Infant, and Toddler Outfits

Matching outfits for newborns, infants, and toddlers first and foremost is about comfort. The cuteness of matching outfits means nothing if baby is squirming to get out of them, right?

With that said, there are definitely different considerations to make between newborns, infants, and toddlers.

Newborns and infants

One of the most basic facts of life is that newborn babies are prone to spitting up. Additionally, newborn poops are very often liquidy and can sometimes hike up beyond the diaper. That means when considering matching outfits for newborns, get ready for have to clean them often.

Though infants are still notoriously messy little buggers, they usually do not spit up as often, and their poops are more solid - thankfully so!

Regardless, we at Family lifepack have tons of options for matching newborn outfits. One of our favorites is for the inner rock-n-roller in baby, the striped rocker onesie.

Comfortable, breathable, and great for spring and fall, this 100% cotton onesie is cozy and fun for both sexes - who says girls can’t be rock stars?

This piece gives the appearance of two garments - adorable penguin-printed overalls and a dark blue undershirt - that is 100% cotton and completely machine washable.

If you’ve got two brothers to match, we suggest connecting the two with a common visual theme.

Check out or printed denim shirt and printed polo shirt!

Both lobster-print garments have the same color scheme, though inverted. They also establish who’s big brother, and who’s little brother.

Toddlers

Toddler clothing is often designed knowing they will be out in the world more often, and moving around more quickly in it.

For girls, dresses, pants, and other more defined types of garments are the stuff toddler clothes are made of. If you have two girls to match, we suggest pairing the Head in the Clouds jersey bubble dress with its bottoms counterpart, the plain peony pink leggings.

How about some more gender-neutral options?

Dark colors for girls, light colors for boys, and the other way around are all acceptable for dressing newborns, infants, and toddlers.

Any neutral-themed combinations - different than, say, dresses or overly-masculine themes - can make for the perfect gender-neutral match.

If you’re thinking with this more progressive state of mind, consider this two-piece pants set.

For older children, even an identical-match shirt can be enough to bring a brother and sister together. Add a little European flair with our long sleev check shirt!

For those “cheek to cheek” moments

Matching outfits are a creative way to make your children the center of attention. To review, there are a couple ways you can achieve this.

Matching color schemes: Choosing a matching color scheme gives parents more latitude in mixing and matching garments from different series. As seen with our third example, you can notice a subtle element of distinction between older and younger siblings.

Matching color and print: Going full throttle in the matching department means making a bolder statement. Especially if you’re hoping to draw a crowd, identical match schemes are easily comprehensible to passersby, family, and friends alike.

Also, as gender-neutral approaches are becoming more popular, you benefit from the added creativity in tone, composition, and theme.

At Family lifepacki, we pride ourselves in creating children’s clothing for all stages of their journey - from the first few weeks to middle school - with their comfort and an inspired sense of style in mind.

Take a look at some of our sale selections to plan for the future - or browse our most current designs to dress your child in refreshing style. Whichever path you choose, know that your baby will be happy, comfortable, and ready to play!

For questions on sizing, see our size guide. We also have a product care guide to keep your Family lifepack outfits fresh and clean for hand-me-downs!

In this guide, we’ll answer all of those questions, allowing you to have a stress-free baby clothing experience. (After all, the last thing you’ll want to do while caring for a newborn is juggle shopping trips to pick up last-minute clothing!)

Understanding Baby Clothing Sizes 

As is the case with adult clothes, baby clothing sizes aren’t always consistent across brands. You’ll therefore want to check the sizing chart provided at the specific store you plan to get your baby’s clothing from. Still, there are general guidelines you can use to get an idea of the kind of sizes you’ll need:

-Newborn (abbreviated as NB or 1M) size clothing, which is suitable for most newborns. NB/1M size clothing will fit babies who are about 21 inches long and who weigh between five to eight pounds. If you think your baby will be especially large at birth (nine or more pounds), you may want to forego buying a lot of NB/1M size clothing and move straight into buying one size larger (3M). If you think you’re going to have a small baby, on the other hand, some stores also offer an extra small size, like 0M, that works for babies under 19 inches long.

-3M size clothing is designed for the average three to six month old infant. 3M clothing is suitable for babies who are up to 23 inches long and who weigh between eight to 12 pounds.

-6M clothing is made for babies who are between six and nine months old, as long as they aren’t larger than 25 inches long and about 16 pounds.

-9M clothing is for babies between nine months and one year old. This size works for infants who are about 26 inches long and under 21 pounds.

-12M. At one year old, your baby will graduate to wearing 12M clothes, which should fit until he (or she) is 28 inches long and about 24 pounds.

-18M size clothing should be purchased when your baby hits about 18 months old, and it fits babies up to 30 inches long and 27 pounds in weight.

-24M, sometimes also abbreviated as 2T or 2Y. By age two, your baby will probably need size 24Y, which is designed for babies up to 32 inches long and about 30 pounds in weight.

As your baby grows, you should measure him or her before buying new clothes, just to make sure you purchase the right size. Going by measurement will produce a more accurate fit than going by your baby’s age alone. We also recommend not buying all of your baby’s clothes ahead of time, just because it’s impossible to predict how fast your baby will grow. Buy enough clothes to keep your baby covered until he’s six months old, then measure him and go from there.

When it comes to footwear, socks and booties are generally enough to keep your baby warm and comfortable until he starts walking. Most babies take their first steps at around nine months of age, at which point they usually need a size 4 infant shoe. 

What Types of Outfits to Buy (and How Many)

Not only will the size of your baby’s clothes change quickly as he grows, the type of clothes he wears will change, too. During the first six months of your baby’s life, you should look for clothes that have a wide neck hole and loose sleeves, as this will make undressing your baby much easier. You can expect to change your baby’s clothes a lot during this stage of his life; between accidents, while eating, spit-up, and diaper issues, you’ll find yourself swapping his outfits frequently. Know that you can also make late-night diaper changes easier by choosing PJs that slip off in one piece (e.g., a sleep sack). Avoid putting your baby to bed in clothes that have numerous snaps.

Between the ages of six to 12 months, you can get a little more creative in how you dress your baby, but you should still choose shirts and pants with simple fasteners or a slip-off design. Avoid clothes that have a lot of buttons, as unbuttoning a wriggly baby’s outfit can be a real challenge. You’ll also want to start buying more outdoor clothing for your baby at this stage because you’ll probably start taking him out more. If it’s chilly where you live, this will mean investing in hats, coats, booties, and mittens. 

Generally, we recommend buying the following outfits in the quantities outlined below:

- Two sweaters, two hats, and two jackets, if you live in a cooler climate.

- Eight body suits and/or onesies. If you live in a warmer climate, make sure some of these onesies have short sleeves. (It’s important to make sure your baby’s perspiration can evaporate, as sweat can irritate infant skin and cause rashes.)

• Two sleep gowns and seven sets of sleepwear.
• Two swaddles and two sleep bags. 
• Seven daytime outfits. 
• Three to four bibs. 
• Five to six pairs of socks. 

Note that these are just the basics of what your baby will need—Feel free to buy more baby clothes if you enjoy getting creative with baby wear, or if you want to make sure your baby will have extra clothes. Just don’t buy so many outfits that your baby won’t have a chance to wear them all before he outgrows them. 

Consider Buying Gender Neutral Baby Clothes 

In the past, it was considered traditional to buy all-pink clothing for a little girl and all-blue clothing for a little boy. However, like a lot of once rigidly-defined gender norms, this practice has fallen out of favor somewhat. Today, most parents find that it’s more practical—and more enjoyable—to invest in baby clothes that are at least somewhat gender neutral. 

First and foremost, buying gender neutral clothes for your baby will make those clothes much more reusable. Remember, your baby is only going to wear his or her adorable outfits for a few months at a time, so your baby’s clothes will have plenty of wear left in them after he or she has outgrown them. Rather than letting like-new clothes go to waste, most parents pack up their baby’s outfits and save them for the day when their child gets a new brother or sister. Obviously, it will be a lot easier to recycle clothes that are gender neutral if you have a girl and then a boy, or vice versa. Even if you only plan to have one child, you’ll probably find that donating a neutral item like this navy cardigan to a friend or family member is a lot easier than trying to donate a tiny pink tutu. 

Additionally, most parents discover that shopping for gender neutral clothes allows them to cultivate a more unique style for their baby. Choosing memorable items that express your tastes is ultimately a lot more enjoyable than buying pink or blue duplicates of what every other girl or boy baby is wearing. Of course, none of this means that your baby boy or girl can’t have a few fun gender-specific outfits; just aim for neutral hues when you’re picking out staple items.

What to Do with Clothes When Your baby Grows Out of Them

Generally, we recommend keeping a few of your baby’s first items for sentimental reasons. Beyond that, as alluded to above, you should decide what to do with your baby’s old clothes based on your family plans. If you think you’ll have more children, keep all of the “basics” outlined previously in this guide (but feel free to get rid of excess outfits if you’re low on storage space). If you don’t think you want more than one child, start sorting out items to be given to friends or family members who are expecting. Alternately, you can give used baby clothes to a charity shop if no one you know is expecting. When organizing baby clothes for donation, follow these steps:

1. Make sure clothes you plan to donate to charity or give away are in good shape. Look for stains or hidden tears, and if you find signs of damage, set the item aside.

2. Wash all of the clothes you plan to keep or donate thoroughly. Make sure you wash the clothes in a way that will completely disinfect them, then dry them thoroughly before storing them in a sealed container in a dry place.

3. Store any clothes you’re keeping in sealed plastic containers. It’s essential to keep bacteria, mold, and insects out of baby clothes while they’re in storage.

For damaged clothes, look for a recycling program in your area rather than just throwing the clothes away. Damaged baby clothes can be recycled into cleaning cloths, insulation material, and many other useful items.

Caring for Your Baby’s Clothes 

Babies aren’t exactly the tidiest beings, so you can expect to do a lot of laundry during the first few years of your child’s life. Knowing how to care for your baby’s clothes properly will help you keep them in peak condition and keep your baby healthy.

Should You Wash Baby Clothes Before Using Them?

First off, make sure you wash every new item of clothing you buy before you ever put it on your baby. Babies have very sensitive skin, so detergent residues, fabric treatments, and other allergens that may be present on new clothes could irritate your baby’s skin. Pre-washing everything will keep your baby comfortable and prevent rashes. 

When washing your baby’s clothes, never use bleach. One, it may ruin your baby’s delicate clothing, and two, bleach fumes or residue might harm your baby. Wash your baby’s clothes with a gentle baby-safe detergent that’s free of harsh chemicals (including synthetic dyes or scents) and choose a baby-safe fabric softener as well. One popular fabric softening method is to use ½ a cup of white vinegar in your rinse cycle; white vinegar doubles as a safe organic disinfectant and a natural fabric softener.

When treating stains, avoid store-bought stain removers. Like detergents, these often contain harsh chemicals that aren’t suitable for a baby’s delicate skin. They can also contain bleaching agents that may damage baby clothes. To treat stains, try rubbing a little bit of baby-safe soap into the stain and letting it sit for half an hour. Then, rinse out the stain and wash the outfit as you would normally. (Once again, adding a bit of white vinegar to the wash can be helpful, as vinegar can dissolve stubborn stains.) Avoid using very high heat when washing stained clothing, as high heat can sometimes cause stains to “set.”

Unlike adult clothes, all baby clothes should be washed on a “gentle” or “hand wash” setting because they’re so small and fragile. You should also carefully read the washing instructions on each outfit you own in order to make sure it doesn’t require any special handling. Finally, we recommend placing very small items (like tiny socks) in a mesh bag before you wash them. This will save you a lot of time fishing little wet socks out of the corners of your washing machine.

Now that you know what your baby will need in terms of clothing, feel free to start shopping! The memories tied to your baby’s first outfits will last a lifetime, so choose items that reflect your hopes, dreams, and aspirations for your child. Our broad selection of high-quality European baby clothing is a great place to start browsing.