The Mom Memo
The Mom Memo No. 22:
Cheap Neighborhood Thrills
Cheap Neighborhood Thrills
Hey Mama
Feels like our kids were literally just complaining about how cold it still was and now they’re complaining about the heat. (So. many. complaints.) When you’re trying to avoid those sunburn-causing peak daylight hours, but still want to remind your kids the outdoors exists, you might want to schedule some nature time in the early morning or very late afternoon when it’s a bit cooler. Unfortunately, that’s also when all the bugs are enjoying THEIR nature time, so prep accordingly.
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3 Tips for Taking a Summer Nature Walk
- Let them get dirty.
Yes, this might give a few of our neat freak mom friends a bit of an eye twitch, but the research shows that playing in dirt builds up little immune systems. - Leave your phone at home.
Or at least keep it on silent mode while you bask in the glory of your backyard. When your little ones see you staying involved, they’ll be more likely to follow suit. - Let kids take the lead.
Especially if your kiddos are a little older, let them suggest activities and directions for your time together. (Obviously within reason!)
Summer Days to Celebrate
When most days of summer seem to blend into one loooong, lazy hot day, break out of routine by acknowledging these fun “holidays.”
- National Donut Day, June 2. Donuts can be served for breakfast OR lunch, right? (Asking for a friend…)
- Hug Your Cat Day, June 4. Certainly depends on the temperament of your feline as to whether they’ll enjoy this, but give it a try.
- National Chocolate Ice Cream Day, June 7. We actually celebrate this one all year long.
- Best Friends Day, June 8. A great reason to get kids together with friends during the summer.
Things We Love
Melissa & Doug Sunny Patch Giddy Buggy Bug House Toy
Although you definitely won’t want them bringing their new six-legged friends into your house, while your kids are outdoors, this bug habitat will encourage outdoor exploration and an interest in the natural world. It’s made of sturdy wire-mesh construction and has a carrying handle.
Kinfield Golden Hour DEET-Free Repellent
Some bugs are good and other bugs are bad. (JK, most of them creep us out.) So, we kinda scoured the internet looking for a bug spray we felt good about spraying on our little kids’ sensitive skin but would also actually WORK. This one has natural ingredients that repel insects without all the chemicals you don’t want. Plus, it smells nice. You’re welcome.
Melissa & Doug Sunny Patch Flash Firefly Bug Flashlight
Light up your neighborhood night walk with this adorable firefly-shaped flashlight. It’s easy for little hands to grip, and hard to break – for when those little hands lose that grip.
Melissa & Doug Sunny Patch Giddy Buggy Binoculars
Binoculars just make any nature walk feel more legit and your pint-sized explorers will love having a pair of their own. Point out birds and bugs for them to focus on with these adjustable field glasses. They’re easy to use and the level of magnification is perfect for preschoolers.
Mom Jeans & Things
Eat Outdoors Without Regretting It
Mom Jeans & Things are product and service recommendations for you and your family that you’ll really use and love – because we have! Check out this week’s top picks.
Mothers’ Helpers: TMS Partnerships
Like our inner circle of mom besties, we’re partnering with companies offering products and services we know you’ll love. These are special deals and exclusive benefits for TMS members, so if you haven’t joined, here’s a great reason to get on that. As we develop these relationships, we’ll spotlight our new partners and give you the deets on how to make these rewards work for you! (Know a potential partner we should get to know, too? Introduce us on our Partnership page.)
Exclusive deal for TMS members: Get 10% OFF your first services of 50 units or more!
Hey ladies, we all know it’s what’s on the inside that counts, but if your outsides need a tweak or two (or three) Renewal Health, a concierge injection services company can help! They are partnering with the Moms Society for a 10% discount on all first services of 50 units of Botox or more for members only. So get excited! (Even if you don’t want to quite look like you are.)
You MUST be a TMS member to take advantage of this deal. Join today or log in to view.
Explore the City
TAKE THE KIDS
Sips & Songs in The District / Dueling Pianos & Dan Tedesco
June 2, 2023, 6-10pm | The District at Prairie Trail
Dueling pianos: like a dance-off but with instruments.
Park PALOOZA & Mayor’s Bike Ride
June 3, 2023, 9am – 1pm | Racoon River Park
Check out this FREE kick-off to summer with activities, music, vendors, and food trucks. Plus, you can join Mayor Russ Trimble for a 3 or 14 mile ride. The first 100 participants will get a free helmet, too!
Caitlin Clark Meet & Greet
June 3, 2023, 5pm | Principal Park
The National Player of the Year and hometown hero Caitlin Clark returns to Des Moines for a pre-game Meet & Greet. Have your autograph materials ready at 5 p.m. when gates open for your chance to meet one of college basketball’s biggest stars!
GET A SITTER
Zoo Brew
Most summer Wednesdays starting June 7, 5:30pm – 9pm | Blank Park Zoo
Getting tipsy with a bunch of animals is not just for keg parties. For those 21 and over – grab a drink and enjoy this fundraising event featuring live music and local brews. When you buy a brew, you support the zoo!
Yoga on Cowles Commons
June 4, 9am | Cowles Commons
Nourish your body, mind and spirit surrounded by 12,000 perennials and the bustle of Downtown Des Moines during this FREE yoga session.
First Fridays in the East Village
June 2, | 5pm – 8pm | East Village, Des Moines, IA
It’s happy hour times 2 (cocktails AND shopping!) First Fridays in the East Village is a sidewalk sale celebration that continues through the spring and summer with special events to be announced each month. Join local shops and restaurants and soak up the sales. Plus, parking is FREE in designated areas.
Moms love feedback (unless it’s complaints about the meals we’re serving) so send us your questions, comments, or suggestions about this newsletter!