
Reviewers Are Singing The Praises Of These 35 Genius Kitchen Products
An easily washable drip catcher to prevent the counter space between the back of your faucet and the wall from turning into a puddle after you wash the dishes. This absorbent mat sits snugly around your faucet so the back section of your sink area stays dry.
An onion holder for a more secure grip and more evenly sized slices of onions, tomatoes, lemons, eggs, potatoes, and fruits. You can even use it as a meat tenderizer! Two products for the price of one!
A time-saving fruit and veggie divider because pre-cut fruits and veg are expensive! Parents swear this thing saves them so much time and is pretty convenient because it's easy and safe enough for their kiddos to use — and the little ones find it fun to use, too!
A Le Creuset magnetic trivet if you're always dangerously juggling hot plates. This GENIUS invention allows you to simply hover a hot pot over the trivet and — BAM! — the trivet will stick to the bottom, and you can place the pot on any nearby, stable surface. Gone are the days of frantically shouting, "Can someone help me in here?!" when your hands are full.
A truly ~egg-cellent~ rapid egg cooker so you can enjoy an omelet (or a soft-, medium-, or hard-boiled egg as well as poached eggies — so many options!) in mere minutes. The best part = no supervision necessary, and you won't dirty a single pan.
A lasagna trio pan that'll help you prepare meals for everyone, regardless of their dietary restrictions. Mamma mia! *insert chef finger kiss*
A pack of foaming garbage disposal cleaners to deodorize your sink ASAP and get rid of the funk. Please, please, please do not stick your hand down the drain; let this do the work instead!
A spinning water bottle organizer for those among us with an extensive collection of jumbo water bottles. This lazy Susan-style water bottle holder can accommodate up to six 40-oz. Stanleys, Starbucks tumblers, and more.
A pack of carborundum sponges because these are the heavy hitters you'll want for stains and gunk that no other sponge is strong enough to handle.
A single-handed server if you hate needing two hands just to scoop some salad. And it gives you more control over your serve — because using a spaghetti server means you either have way more pasta that you're going to eat or you're spooning noodles one by one onto your plate.
A space-saving grater and slicer set so you don't have to invest in bulky and expensive individual versions. (You probs don't have the room in your tiny kitchen anyway!) It comes with a slicer, medium grater, and coarse grater, and the base serves as both a storage container (when it's in use) and a handy receptacle for sliced zucchini, grated cheese, etc.
A pack of towel clips that'll prevent kids and pets from pulling down the towel. Or, maybe you have neither of those things, yet your hand and kitchen towels always end up on the ground.
A 2-in-1 kitchen scale and measuring cup to reduce the number of dirty dishes you create and ensure your measurements are accurate.
A pancake batter mixer with a built-in BlenderBall wire for hotcakes and waffles as fast as you can shake it. Give your best bartender impression to mix the wet and dry ingredients. Breakfast will be ready in minutes *and* with fewer dirty dishes that require your attention.
A pair of meat shredder claws because pulling apart pounds of pork with two measly forks is not efficient or fun.
A set of toss-and-chop salad tongs if you don't want to waste time pulling out a whole chopping board (that you will have to clean later) to transform your romaine into bite-sized pieces. Scissor supremacy! Use these blades to slice your greens as well as your toppings: eggs, tomatoes, radishes, cucumbers, pieces of chicken, olives, apples, and more.
A set of refrigerator drip catchers so there isn't always a puddle in the water tray...and the floor in front of your fridge. They sit securely in the tray thanks to their magnetic design.
A pack of slow cooker liners that'll come in handy if you have a lot of hungry people to feed. With the disposable liners, you can cook different recipes at the same time, reducing your overall cooking time *and* saving you from having to wash a huge stack of dishes.
A cookware set with detachable handles to replace the pots and pans that are currently (and very inefficiently, I might add!) taking up basically all the storage space in your cabinets. The removable handle attaches to all pieces, and then you can pop it off and stick it in a separate drawer while you neatly stack the pots and pans in half the space your old set needed.
A pack of reusable toaster bags for when a 2 a.m. craving for a grilled cheese hits, but you don't want to dirty a pan. Just plop your bread and cheese in the bag and then in the toaster, and you're minutes away from ooey, gooey, cheesy goodness.
A plant-based cooking oil solidifier (you might remember it from Shark Tank!) because it makes getting rid of leftover grease easier than whatever method you're using right now. Simply sprinkle the powder in your remaining oil while it's still hot, let it cool, and then scoop it into the trash.
A pack of dishwasher cleaning tablets so you can clean as your machine runs — no need to spend your precious free time cleaning it by hand.
A set of magnetic air fryer cheat sheets that'll ensure your foods emerge perfectly cooked instead of still raw or burned to a crisp because you guesstimated the cook time.
A pouring chute to save you a lot of frustration when you're baking. Both wet and dry ingredients slide down seamlessly and into the mixing bowl instead of ending up on the counter...which you will now have to clean.
A set of oven liners for catching crumbs before they can permanently attach themselves to your oven and create a big freaking mess you'll spend hours cleaning. Raise your hand if you hate cleaning your oven. Great. Now, take that same hand and click the "add to cart" button.
A set of modular sheet pan dividers because no, you don't need to suffer through veggies that are burned to a crisp because you had to leave the pan in the oven to make sure the salmon was fully cooked. With this handy system, you can just remove individual trays when the ingredients are fully cooked.
A Souper Cube if weeknight dinners take you no less than an hour and a half to make (and that's not counting cleanup time!). This silicone freezing tray stores perfectly portioned soups, stews, sauces, and more so you can meal prep in bulk over the weekend and then freeze it in these trays. It's so easy to quickly grab them as needed and defrost them for an easy meal.
A space-saving ceramic folding griddle so incredibly well designed that you'll swear some magical wizard made it. There's a built-in drip tray for grease and two temperature zones, meaning you can cook at different temperatures! Eggs on one side, bacon on the other. Meat on one side, veggies on the other. You get the idea!
A box of cleaning K-Cups that'll get rid of residue in your machine and prevent flavors from transferring in just one cycle. Or have fun descaling it multiple times. Your choice!
A trivet tree to protect your table from a hot pot or pesky water rings. When the trivets aren't in use, they stack on the included wooden base and look like a cute lil' tree!
A microwave pasta cooker to save the day when you want soft, cheesy, noodly carbs but don't want the hassle of boiling water, cleaning a giant pot, and struggling to strain your noods without spilling hot water everywhere.
A time-saving Thaw Belt because you didn't remember to move your chicken from the freezer to the fridge, and now you're home from work, starving, exhausted, and seriously considering ordering takeout. This silicone strap keeps your meat submerged so it defrosts in minutes instead of hours.
A foil pan protector if your one job is to bring a dish to the family potluck, but your flimsy foil pans are doing their darnedest to leak everywhere. Enter the Fancy Panz. Simply plop your foil pan inside it (there's a riser so you can use it for both shallow and deep foil pans), and you'll have peace of mind knowing your pasta salad isn't sloshing around in the backseat, leaking dressing all over your car. You can even stack 'em — that's how sturdy they are.
A pizza storage container so you don't lose the *entire* second shelf in your fridge to a pizza box. This expandable container grows to hold up to *5* slices of 'za and creates an airtight lid that keeps your slice from getting stale or soggy. AND! The dividers prevent your pieces from sticking together while also serving as plates when you want to microwave your pizza.

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Boston Globe
14 hours ago
- Boston Globe
Home of the Week: On the pond in the Ocean State
Year built 1930 Square feet 1,906 Bedrooms 3 Baths 2 full Sewer/Water Public Taxes $5,923 (2024) In a sense, the main attraction of this Cape-style cottage is 22 feet deep. It's that close to The 1,906-square-foot home is the last house on the right before Lake Avenue comes to an end on the banks of the freshwater pond. The 4,008-square foot lot — which is protected by a chain-link fence — includes a private dock. The property includes a private dock. Michael Derr There's two ways to enter this home, and a preference may develop for using the second because it's closest to the pond and the backyard. Advertisement A short stairwell leads inside, where a two-person table is set in a perfect spot: just underneath a clear plate-glass window with views of the pond from the rear of the home. The view from a casual eating area. Michael Derr Heading toward the front of the house connects first to the kitchen and then to the dining room. The kitchen features purple and cream painted cabinets, a tile backsplash, and an electric stove. The countertops are Formica-like material and the flooring is vinyl. Colorful cabinets now line the kitchen. Michael Derr The kitchen flows into the formal dining room, which is positioned near a window with views of the pond. A light with a fan is in the center of the ceiling. The living room features a pellet stove with black piping that is backed by a brick-faced wall (the home has oil heat). The exterior wall hosts a three-paned window joining with a double-pane window on the other exterior wall. Advertisement A pellet stove, right, warms up the living room. Michael Derr The three bedrooms and the main bathroom complete this level. The primary bedroom has a pair of windows next to each other in the distant corner of the room; the other has a single double-hung window. The third is now used as a family room and also features the paired windows in the corner of the space. The primary bedroom has a hardwood floor. Michael Derr Flooring on this level in all but the kitchen and bath is oak hardwood. The 730-square-foot finished lower level has tile flooring and direct access to the backyard — and the pond — through a screened door with a clear glass window. Also on this level, there's a second full kitchen and full bath. There is also a second family room with space for exercise machines and a large bookcase. The finished basement has a second family room with space for exercise machines and a large bookcase. Michael Derr The downstairs kitchen is galley style and features white cabinets, a tile backsplash with accents, and counters that create a sitting space with an overhang. The flooring is white tile. There's a counter for food and drink in the downstairs kitchen. Michael Derr The full bath on this floor features a single white vanity with a porcelain inset sink, white tile flooring with accents, and a shower/bath behind a curtain. A two-car garage located across the street is being sold separately, but can be combined into one purchase, according to the listing agent, South Watuppa Pond — which is on the Massachusetts border and also runs past Fall River and Westport in the Bay State — totals about 1,460 acres. MassWildlife reports finding smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and chain pickerel among other fish species, but the Advertisement John R. Ellement can be reached at . Follow him . Send listings to . Please note: We do not feature unfurnished homes unless they are new-builds or gut renovations and will not respond to submissions we won't pursue. Subscribe to our newsletter at . The dining room has views of the pond. Michael Derr The basement bathroom has a long counter and a bath-shower combo. Michael Derr The main bathroom has a large sink and a shower-tub combo. Michael Derr


Buzz Feed
15 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
26 Parent-Approved School Year Essentials
A school supply essentials box in case that back-to-school list is just too daunting. This case has pretty much everything you'll need for the school year and almost anything that'll be on the supply list so you can enjoy summer rather than fight Hunger Games-style with another adult over the last glue stick. Each bundle includes a plastic pencil box, a 10-pack of markers, a 24-pack of crayons, a 12-pack of colored pencils, three glue sticks, a pack of #2 pencils, five pencil top erasers, a rubber eraser, a pencil sharpener, a pair of blunt tip scissors, two pencil grips, a 12-inch ruler, a wide-rule spiral notebook, a wide ruled composition book, and two 2-pocket folder with metal review: "As a busy working mother, this was a lifesaver! The kit had everything my third grader needed to start his new school year, and I didn't have to fight the crowds at the stores!!! 5 stars!!!" —Carolyn JacksonGet it from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in two other sizes). A gentle alarm clock that'll hopefully bring you much cheerier wake-ups than jarring beeping sounds. I recently started using this sunrise clock and THE CHANGE to my mornings. Even if your little one is too young for an alarm clock, just having one for yourself can make waking up so much more pleasant. Promising review: "This clock is a lifesaver! I bought one each for my three kids so they can get up on time for school, and it works perfectly! They love the ease of use and customization — and they are actually excited about getting up on time!" —KavinaGet it from Amazon for $32.88+ (available in three colors). A cereal dispenser so they can get themselves breakfast without a gigantic pile of spilled cereal on the floor. The added excitement of making every breakfast feel like a hotel vacation breakfast is simply a bonus. Promising review: "These keep my cereal fresh, my 6-year-old can use them on her own! It's truly a lifesaver!" —Allison MarieGet it from Amazon for $31.22. A breakfast sandwich maker to get you a hot and delicious breakfast rather than scavenging off of leftover cereal and cold toaster pastries. This machine makes amazing breakfast sandwiches in minutes — plus you can embarrass your brood by singing H-O-T-T-O-G-O every time you pass them a sando. Promising review: "This thing is a lifesaver. I'm a mother of four young kids, so I have resorted to eating cereal, Pop-Tarts, anything FAST in the mornings because I have lots of little people to take care of, too. For as little as one minute of prep time and five minutes to cook, I have a delicious and much healthier breakfast. I bought the single, but I am considering ordering a double as well." — it from Amazon for $29.95+ (available in five colors). A hard-boiled egg maker so efficient, it takes almost all of the time out of making hard-boiled eggs for your family. Quickly make up to six eggs at a time in about 10 minutes. Perfect for any family rushing through the breakfast chaos — or anyone who has found their batch of hard-boiled eggs sitting in a lukewarm pot of water six hours later. 🫠 Promising review: "Lifesaver! Quick eggs and do not need to be prepped that much. Helps a lot when you are getting kids ready to go to school." —DeepakGet it from Amazon for $18.99+ (available in two sizes and seven colors). A programmable coffee maker that'll help you set your coffee up the night before and wake up to your favorite aroma. If you're like me and have had too many mornings where you realize you forgot to brew your coffee until it was too late, it's time to treat yourself to a better system. Promising review: "What was I waiting for? I drink a lot of coffee. Now I've always had a glass pot coffee maker and briefly went down the Keurig road (hated it.) After breaking my third glass pot in the past few years, I started looking into getting a stainless steel pot. I saw a few with a water reservoir, but I decided against it. Good fresh water makes for good coffee. This one seemed to get good reviews, so I ordered it. Boy, am I glad that I did! The pot is huge (a lot of stainless steel pots were only 10 cups, this one makes 12.) The design is sleek and matches my kitchen so well. The auto feature is nice when I remember to actually prep it at night. There is a bold feature (yaasss!) The display will tell you how many minutes, up to two hours, have passed since it brewed. The best part, however, is the pot. It keeps the coffee warm for hours and hours. I have four kids and run a home daycare, so I don't always get around to getting my second and third cups until hours after brewing. And I hate microwaved coffee! This coffee maker has been a lifesaver. I can have my early morning cup. Get through my morning schedule and go back for another cup, and it'll be just as hot! No reheating! My only complaint is that I wish the filter were cone-shaped instead of a basket. Just a personal preference of mine. (I think the chance of grounds getting into the brew increases with a basket filter, that's all.) But other than that, this has been the best coffee maker I have ever bought." —JasmineGet it from Amazon for $65.99+ (available in three versions). A set of refrigerator storage bins to make getting lunches ready a much more streamlined process. Rather than digging through the fridge trying to find whatever snacks you have, keep them separated and at the ready. Promising review: "The bins were a lifesaver. Now I can reach things easily by pulling out bins. The entire family found that this works better than reaching in the back of the refrigerator for things that have fallen. Now it is simply pulling out a bin. Also, it avoids standing in front of the refrigerator looking for things. The bins have 'like' items in each. I also paired this with the rotating refrigerator carousel. My refrigerator is now very organized and maximizes space. The bins seem very durable and are made of sturdy material." —Gorbla2Get a set of four from Amazon for $16.76+ (available in two sizes). A pack of silicone dividers so foods in the lunch box stay separated and less soggy — because no one likes soggy crackers thanks to strawberry spillage. Promising review: "We love these! Every Sunday, we make homemade Lunchables. We put crackers in the rectangular cup, sliced cheese in the square, and salami or pepperoni on the round. They fit into an airtight container to go into the fridge until the kids pack their lunches each morning. It's been a life and time saver!!!" —Erin B. LeggGet a 36-pack of assorted shapes from Amazon for $9.99 (available in various shapes and sizes). A lunchbox with an option to send warm food for the kid who likes to mix up their lunch routine. The hot cup has a lid to keep food separate AND is removable — meaning you don't need two lunchboxes when your kiddo decides to take a cold lunch. So many more lunch opportunities are in your future. Promising review: "My daughter loves to bring a warm lunch to school every day. We have previously tried other bento lunchboxes, but none of them keep the food warm or fresh for very long. The OmieBox has been a lifesaver! This lunchbox has plenty of space and keeps the food warm and fresh all day. It is strong and has lasted despite all the times it has been bumped and banged up at school. It is easy to clean and does not leave food residue. I will be buying another one for my son this school year. Highly recommended!" —Jesus CastroGet it from Amazon for $49.95 (available in seven colors). An insulated Thermos for sending them with something hot along with their cold lunch items. Although some parents love sending pasta, many rave about the ability to send some dino nuggets that are still hot by lunch! Promising review: "My child doesn't like many cold lunch options for school. This has been a lifesaver! I've packed macaroni and cheese, chili and rice, soups, chicken and broccoli, and much more, all with success. The container keeps the food warm, doesn't leak, and seems to be enough food." —OH ReviewGet it from Amazon for $15.39+ (available in 30 designs). A freezable lunch bag with built-in ice packs to keep food fresh and at a safe eating temperature. Just toss it in the freezer the night before to keep food cool all day — because staying home with a kid with food poisoning should not be on your agenda. This is the brand I use for both of my kids, and I absolutely love these bags. They're so easy to store, and there's ice on both sides — ensuring safe food no matter when their lunchtime is. It's nice to be able to send a string cheese without remembering the room-temperature, rubbery-by-mid-day cheese stick of my youth. 🤢Promising review: "These are amazing. I was having to put ice packs in my kids' lunch and was looking for an alternative when I came across these. It has been over 100 for the last two weeks, not counting the heat index, and they have been a lifesaver. They go in the kids' backpacks in the am and come off the bus still cold. This never happened with an ice pack. It actually stays cold and helps my kids to have cold food during the day, I wish I had found these years ago!!!" —BryanGet it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in eight designs). A visual timer to help keep things calm if your kiddo struggles with transitions. With a visual timer, "five more minutes until you need to brush your teeth" actually has some meaning as they watch the rainbow count down. I use this with my oldest on school nights so she knows when to stop reading and go to sleep. Promising review: "The Yunbaoit Upgraded Black Visual Timer with Protective Case has been an absolute lifesaver for managing ADHD in our household. The visual countdown is intuitive and easy to understand, making it perfect for staying on task and managing transitions. The durable protective case adds peace of mind, ensuring it can withstand daily use. Whether it's for homework, chores, or screen time, this timer has helped create structure and minimize distractions. It's simple to use, highly effective, and has quickly become an essential tool in our routine. I can't recommend it enough for anyone looking to improve time management!" —adudethatknowsGet it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in nine colors). A set of personalized labels so you can avoid the hassle of rummaging through the overflowing lost and found. I'm pretty sure my kids forget their lunchbox, water bottle, or sweater every day last school year — labels make things so much easier to find later. Promising review: "I've had these name labels for a while, and they're absolutely amazing. I can stick them on clothes, wash them, and they're still good. They've been an absolute lifesaver when it comes to school — teachers know when it's my child's, and it prevents it from being lost. I've stuck it on sippies, clothes, shoes, the outside of backpacks, it is RESILIENT and honestly, super underpriced for how high quality and the quantity you get. I'd only ever buy from this seller." — 130-pack from Amazon for $9.95 (available in 27 designs). An electric toothbrush that uses an app to keep your kid engaged and brushing for a full two minutes. Electric toothbrushes already keep teeth cleaner, but the addition of the app helps kids work through brushing without getting distracted or hurrying through the process. Honestly just being able to leave them to brushing without having to hover as the tarter police is worth it. Promising review: "We were having some struggles getting our 3.5-year-old to brush his teeth. This toothbrush and the app have been a lifesaver! He now looks forward to brushing his teeth and gets excited to see what 'present' he's going to get. Also, the app is actually way better than I expected." —Amanda P. Get it from Amazon for $29.96+ (available in two colors, two charging styles, and as a bundle). And a toothpaste dispenser and toothbrush holder to save you from trying to get out for the morning and hearing "CAN SOMEONE PASTE MY TOOTHBRUSH??" or the ever-dreaded "uh-oh" during teeth brushing. Promising review: "LOVE, LOVE this!! We previously had a different one similar to this, but did not have a toothpaste dispenser. I decided to try this one out because it matched and was more modern-looking. I am so happy with this! It fit on our wall exactly where the other one went, and we didn't even have to use the sticker. I love the four cops and how hidden and easy they are to access. The toothpaste comes out perfectly every time and does not make a mess!!! My kids love to make messes, so this is a lifesaver. I have already recommended this to all of my friends and family." —Lindsay SnackGet it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in four colors). A day-of-the-week clothing organizer so that choosing clothes for school doesn't become a daily battle in your household. Just check the weather report and choose outfits over the weekend — suddenly a (mostly) stress-free morning! Promising review: "This has been an absolute lifesaver! My kids put all of their clothes for the week in their 'pockets' on Sunday and there's no digging in the mornings anymore!" —CrystalWGet it from Amazon for $25.99. A fan-favorite Skylight calendar for keeping all of your family appointments in plain sight. Not only does it automatically sync to your calendars, you can set up chore charts for your family members and keep lists all in one place — making the school year so much less hectic for you. Promising review: "If you have a busy household, this family calendar is a lifesaver. Now everyone can enter their appointments, work schedules, classes, etc, into their own Google calendar, and it syncs to the family calendar. Everyone is aware of what is happening, and it avoids double booking. App is easy to use, as is the actual device." —NH CustomerGet it from Amazon for $269.99. A shoe organizer to hopefully avoid the every morning battle to find a missing shoe. Not only can you keep everything in one place, you'll also free up your entryway from a sea of mismatched shoes. Promising review: "With three small kids and a husband with lots of shoes, this shoe cabinet has been a lifesaver. I built it on my own in just a few hours. I love it." —KatieGet it from Amazon for $125.99+ (available with two, three, four, or six drawers and 10 colors). A car seat unbuckling tool so they can unbuckle themselves at in the morning, ensuring that you're not burying your face at drop-off as you hold up the line to unbuckle your kid. The car seat buckle desperately needs to be one less thing you fight with. Promising review: "We purchased two of these, one for each car, and it has been great for dropping off our Kindergarten student at school. We are not allowed to get out of the car, so I was worried how to get him unbuckled from his car seat/harness, but this has been a lifesaver. It took him only two practices to get it, but he really picked it up quick and now he really enjoys unbuckling himself once we get in car line. We love this product!" —Alicia RosenbauerGet it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in seven colors). A rolling backpack because backpacks are just SO HEAVY. These are great for littles and bigs alike, especially if you walk to school. Nothing like saving them a few extra years before back pain sets in. Promising review: "My kids have quite a walk after they get off the bus. so this has been a lifesaver!" —C. it from Amazon for $27.99+ (available in different colors). A wobble cushion if you have a kid who JUST. NEEDS. TO. WIGGLE. Desk seats were not made with wiggly kids in mind, so wobble cushions offer some much needed movement without leaving the seat and disrupting class. My ADHD kiddo pretty much lives on this cushion during the school year — LIFESAVER. Promising review: "My son has ADHD, and this was a lifesaver. Lucky for u,s the school approved it for use in the classroom. It's nice because it's lightweight and he can grab it and take it with him wherever he goes. The little nub-like fingers on it work wonders for him. It gives him something to keep his body busy and his little hands. Awesome find!" —LaKeishaGet it from Amazon for $23.74+ (available in six colors and in multipacks). A zipper binder to keep everything in place and zipped up so papers don't go flying. It even has a carrying strap in case their backpack is too small. Say good-bye to papers shoved down at the bottom of the backpack — they've finally thought of everything. Promising review: "This binder was a lifesaver for my middle schooler. The first binder we tried was NOT one of these. It was impossible to carry around, and papers were frequently lost. Then I found this. This binder changed everything and even eased my students' anxiety because it's so much easier to stay organized. The ring itself is sturdy and easy to open and close. There's room in here for work from different classes, and storage for pencils and pens, etc. There is a bonus section of accordion storage, which is excellent for take-home papers or other loose items. Then, it zips closed! This zipper is tough, and it seems to move with ease no matter what. And the icing on the cake is the handle on the spine. This makes it easy to grab the binder and stuff it in a backpack or walk between classes without having to cradle the binder in your arms. We never used the optional shoulder strap, but options are nice. This binder gets an A+." —Rachel WGet it from Amazon for $28.99+ (available in 20 designs and in multipacks). A pair of noise-cancelling headphones for your sensory-sensitive kid. These headphones are powerful enough to dull ambient classroom noise, but still allow them to hear the teacher. Even kids without sensory sensitivities love wearing these! Every teacher my kids have had has a basket for communal use. As the parent of a kid with sensory challenges, these are an absolute school-year must-have. Promising review: "Purchased this back in 2021 when my child was 5 years of age. He's now 9 and they still fit perfectly on him. This has been a lifesaver for him and the bus driver, recently, since there are other kiddos on the bus that scream throughout the bus ride and it frustrates my child. So it's one less kiddo to be frustrated about." —NRDGet it from Amazon for $15.27+ (available in 19 colors and patterns). A set of clothing labels to help you find your kid's Bluey sweater in a veritable OCEAN of Bluey sweaters. These labels are machine washable and cost-effective — two of my favorite words. Promising review: "These are great. I use a regular Sharpie to write my kid's name on the label and put it on every article of clothing he can take off at school. I have washed them several times, and they still look brand new. These labels are a lifesaver for kids who cannot remember to bring home their jacket, hat, and gloves." —Kaitlyn SwoapeGet a pack of 54 Amazon for $5.99 (available in five sizes and various pack sizes). A pencil sharpener for at-home use because there's nothing quite as humbling as realizing you have absolutely zero tools to help them do their homework, you know, at home. Promising review: "I am 5-star satisfied with this pencil sharpener that is for different-sized pencils. We use this at home as I have a daughter in Kindergarten, so this has been a lifesaver. Sharpens a pencil easily and quickly within ten seconds. Love it." —Brittany AnnGet it from Amazon for $27.99. A saline spray because your kids are going to be bringing home literally all of the germs. All of them. EVERY LAST FORSAKEN GERM. Saline spray can help clear nasal passages, making colds pass a little quicker. Anything for some relief from the onslaught of fall viruses. Promising review: "Kids always fought me in spraying their noses (we live in the desert) and this spray is so healing, they actually ASK me for it in the morning!!! A lifesaver!" —D DGet it from Amazon for $6.99+ (also available in multipacks).
Yahoo
a day ago
- Yahoo
14 Weird Behaviors That Actually Signal High Emotional Maturity
Emotional maturity isn't always what you think it is. A lot of the time, it's about behaviors that might seem a bit off at first. But these quirks can actually signal someone who's got it all together emotionally. Let's dive into some unexpected signs of high emotional maturity that might surprise you. 1. Embracing Awkward Silences It might feel strange to just sit quietly when you're with someone, especially if you're used to filling every gap with chatter. But when you can embrace those awkward silences, it shows you're comfortable with yourself and the other person. You don't need to fill the void with meaningless talk to feel at ease. This comfort with silence is a big indicator of emotional maturity. According to Dr. Susan Krauss Whitbourne, a professor of psychological and brain sciences at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, being okay with silence reflects a deep confidence in interpersonal relationships. Silences often make people anxious because they feel the need to constantly entertain or engage others. But when you're emotionally mature, you recognize that not every moment needs to be filled with conversation. Sometimes, just being together is enough. This acceptance can lead to more meaningful interactions because you're not forcing anything. You're just letting things flow naturally, which is a valuable skill in any relationship. 2. Laughing At Yourself We all make mistakes, and being able to laugh at your own blunders shows a strong sense of self-awareness. When you can chuckle at your own expense, you're not taking yourself too seriously. This trait helps you deal with setbacks in a healthier way. Instead of dwelling on what went wrong, you find the humor and move on. This adaptability is a key feature of emotional maturity. Laughing at yourself can also put others at ease. It signals to them that you're approachable and not prone to overreacting. This openness can encourage a positive atmosphere where everyone feels free to be themselves. It builds trust and allows for more honest communication. Plus, humor is a fantastic way to relieve stress and keep things in perspective. 3. Not Taking Everything Personally When you stop taking things personally, you liberate yourself from unnecessary stress. You realize that not every comment or action is a direct reflection of your worth. This mindset allows you to see situations more clearly and respond more effectively. According to psychologist Guy Winch, understanding that other people's actions are often about them and not you is crucial for emotional health. This attitude helps you maintain a sense of peace even when things don't go your way. You can engage with others without feeling the need to defend yourself at every turn. This doesn't mean you're indifferent; it means you're choosing where to invest your emotional energy wisely. Letting go of the need for constant validation frees you and helps you focus on things that truly matter. This is emotional maturity at its best. 4. Asking For Help When Needed Admitting you need help isn't a weakness; it's a strength. This behavior shows you understand your limitations and aren't afraid to reach out. When you're emotionally mature, you realize that asking for help can lead to growth and isn't something to be ashamed of. It's about acknowledging that you don't have all the answers and being okay with that. Seeking help also fosters connections with others. It shows people that you value their input and trust them enough to share your struggles. This can deepen relationships and create a supportive network around you. Emotional maturity involves recognizing that no one is an island and that collaboration can lead to better outcomes for everyone involved. By asking for help, you're showing that you're secure enough in yourself to admit when you need a hand. 5. Allowing Yourself To Feel Your Emotions Feeling emotions deeply and allowing yourself to experience them is a powerful sign of emotional maturity. It means you're not bottling things up or pretending everything is fine when it's not. Emotional maturity involves acknowledging your feelings without letting them control you. Research by Dr. Brené Brown emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and emotional awareness in fostering resilience and authenticity. When you're in tune with your emotions, you can express them in healthy ways. This self-awareness prevents you from lashing out at others or making impulsive decisions. It also helps you understand the root of your feelings, which can lead to more effective problem-solving. Overall, embracing your emotions is a sign that you're mature enough to handle whatever life throws your way. It's about being real with yourself and those around you. 6. Being Okay With Being Wrong Admitting you're wrong can be tough, but it's a crucial part of emotional maturity. It shows that you value truth and growth over being right. Accepting that you don't know everything is liberating and opens you up to learning new things. This attitude helps you grow as a person and improve your relationships. When you accept that you're not always right, you become more open to other perspectives. This can lead to better decision-making and more harmonious interactions with others. It shows that you're not rigid and are willing to adapt. Being wrong isn't the end of the world—it's an opportunity to learn and evolve. This ability to admit mistakes and grow from them is a hallmark of maturity. 7. Setting Boundaries Without Guilt Setting boundaries is essential for your mental and emotional well-being. It's about knowing your limits and sticking to them, which shows a deep understanding of your own needs. According to Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend, authors of "Boundaries," clear boundaries are the foundation of healthy relationships. When you're emotionally mature, you can set these boundaries without feeling guilty. Boundaries protect your time, energy, and values. They help you prioritize what's important and prevent burnout. By setting boundaries, you're communicating what you will and won't tolerate, which fosters respect in your relationships. You're showing that you value yourself enough to enforce them. This isn't about being selfish; it's about being smart and caring for your own well-being. 8. Enjoying Solitude Spending time alone can be incredibly rejuvenating, and embracing solitude is a sign of emotional maturity. It means you're comfortable in your own company and don't rely on others to feel complete. When you enjoy solitude, you have the space to reflect and recharge. This self-sufficiency is a powerful indicator of inner strength and maturity. Being alone doesn't mean you're lonely; it means you value yourself enough to spend quality time with your thoughts. This time alone can foster creativity and boost problem-solving skills. It's an opportunity to check in with yourself and figure out what you really want. When you're comfortable being by yourself, you're better equipped to handle relationships with others. Solitude becomes a gift rather than something to fear. 9. Taking Responsibility For Your Actions Owning up to your actions and the consequences that come with them is a cornerstone of emotional maturity. When you take responsibility, you show that you're accountable for your choices. This behavior builds trust and respect in your relationships. It demonstrates that you're honest with yourself and others. Taking responsibility doesn't mean blaming yourself for everything that goes wrong. Instead, it's about recognizing your role in situations and being proactive in making things right. This mindset leads to personal growth and improved relationships. By being accountable, you show that you're committed to integrity and authenticity. It's a sign that you're mature enough to handle whatever comes your way. 10. Being Present In The Moment Living in the present moment is a powerful aspect of emotional maturity. It means you're not dwelling on the past or worrying excessively about the future. Being present allows you to fully engage with the people and experiences around you. This mindfulness can lead to deeper connections and a more fulfilling life. When you're present, you appreciate the little things that often go unnoticed. You become more attentive and responsive, both to yourself and others. This focus enhances your ability to listen and communicate effectively. It's about being aware and grateful for what you have right now. By living in the moment, you're showing that you value the here and now and understand its importance. 11. Accepting Change Gracefully Change is inevitable, and accepting it gracefully is a true mark of emotional maturity. It means you're adaptable and open to new experiences, even when they're unexpected. This flexibility helps you navigate life's ups and downs with resilience. It shows that you're not stuck in your ways and are willing to grow. Accepting change doesn't mean you have to like it, but it does mean you handle it with poise. This attitude allows you to see opportunities where others might only see obstacles. It's about focusing on what you can control and letting go of the rest. By embracing change, you demonstrate strength and maturity in the face of uncertainty. It's a vital skill for thriving in an ever-changing world. 12. Practicing Self-Compassion Self-compassion involves being kind to yourself, especially during tough times. It's about treating yourself with the same understanding and forgiveness you'd offer a friend. This practice shows emotional maturity because it reflects a healthy self-relationship. You recognize that everyone makes mistakes and that it's okay to be imperfect. By practicing self-compassion, you build a resilient mindset. You're more likely to bounce back from setbacks and pursue your goals with confidence. This kindness toward yourself can improve your mental health and overall well-being. It allows you to move forward without being weighed down by guilt or shame. Embracing self-compassion shows that you value yourself and are committed to your growth. 13. Prioritizing Meaningful Connections Focusing on quality over quantity in your relationships is a sign of emotional maturity. It means you'd rather have a few deep, meaningful connections than many shallow ones. This prioritization shows that you value authenticity and depth in your interactions. You understand that true connection requires time and effort. By investing in meaningful relationships, you create a support system that enriches your life. These connections provide comfort, understanding, and joy. They help you navigate challenges and celebrate successes. This focus on meaningful relationships demonstrates that you're looking for more than just surface-level interactions. It's a mature approach that leads to lasting and fulfilling bonds. 14. Letting Go Of Grudges Holding onto grudges can be emotionally draining, and letting them go is a sign of maturity. It shows that you prioritize your peace and well-being over past conflicts. By forgiving, you free yourself from the burden of resentment. It doesn't mean you forget what happened; it means you choose to move forward. Letting go of grudges allows you to focus on the present and future. It helps you maintain healthier relationships and a more positive outlook on life. This doesn't mean you have to reconcile with everyone, but it does mean you're not letting past grievances dictate your emotions. Forgiveness is more about healing yourself than absolving others. It's a mature choice that leads to a more peaceful life. Solve the daily Crossword