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Author: pmorris1620@gmail.com

  • Best Non-Toxic Sunscreen for Kids: A Florida Beach Mama’s Honest Guide

    Best Non-Toxic Sunscreen for Kids: A Florida Beach Mama’s Honest Guide

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    If you’ve ever stood in the sunscreen aisle at Target, squinting at ingredient lists while your kids asked for the fourteenth time if they could go look at the toys, I see you. I’ve been there more times than I can count.

    Living in Northwest Florida means we’re at the beach, the springs, or just playing in the backyard under that relentless Gulf Coast sun pretty much year-round. And when you’re trying to raise kids with fewer chemicals and more intention, finding the best non-toxic sunscreen for kids becomes one of those rabbit holes you didn’t know you’d fall down — but here we are.

    Let me save you some of the trial and error I went through.

    Why Non-Toxic Sunscreen Actually Matters

    I’m not here to fear-monger. But I do think it’s worth knowing what we’re slathering on our kids’ skin multiple times a day, especially during Florida summers when sunscreen application becomes as routine as brushing teeth.

    Conventional sunscreens often contain ingredients like oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate — chemical UV filters that absorb into the bloodstream (the FDA has confirmed this) and have been linked to hormone disruption in studies. Oxybenzone in particular has been shown to affect estrogen levels.

    For little bodies that are still developing? I’d rather not take the chance when good alternatives exist.

    Plus, if you’ve ever taken your kids to our beautiful Florida springs or coral areas, you’ve probably seen the signs about reef-safe sunscreen. Those chemical filters are devastating to marine ecosystems. Hawaii actually banned oxybenzone and octinoxate for this reason.

    What to Look For (and What to Avoid)

    The Good Stuff

    Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as their active ingredients. These sit on top of the skin and physically block UV rays rather than absorbing them. They’re considered safe and effective by the FDA, and they don’t absorb into your bloodstream.

    Look for:

    • Zinc oxide (my preference — offers both UVA and UVB protection)
    • Titanium dioxide (good for UVB, less comprehensive for UVA)
    • Non-nano particles (these are too large to absorb into skin)
    • Simple, recognizable inactive ingredients

    The Not-So-Good Stuff

    Avoid:

    • Oxybenzone
    • Avobenzone
    • Octinoxate
    • Homosalate
    • Octocrylene
    • Added fragrances (often hide other chemicals)
    • Retinyl palmitate (vitamin A that can be problematic in sun exposure)

    Our Favorite Non-Toxic Sunscreens for Florida Beach Days

    After years of testing (and yes, a few sunburns along the way when something didn’t work), here’s what actually performs for our active, sandy, sweaty Florida life:

    For Everyday & Beach Days

    Badger Sport Sunscreen SPF 35 — This is our go-to. It’s zinc-based, goes on smoothly for a mineral sunscreen, and holds up surprisingly well in the water. Yes, there’s a slight white cast, but honestly? I’ve made peace with it. My kids look a little ghostly for about ten minutes, and then it blends in.

    Babo Botanicals Sheer Zinc SPF 30 — A great option if the white cast really bothers you. It’s lighter and sheerer while still being mineral-based.

    ThinkSport Kids SPF 50 — When we’re going to be at Pensacola Beach or Gulf Islands National Seashore for a full day, I reach for this one. Higher SPF, water-resistant for 80 minutes, and my kids don’t complain about the texture.

    You can find great options when you search for non-toxic kids sunscreen — just always flip to the ingredients and double-check against the list above.

    For Faces

    Beautycounter Countersun Stick SPF 30 — Pricier, but the stick format is perfect for little faces, ears, and the back of the neck. No mess, easy reapplication, and my kids can do it themselves (mostly without getting it in their eyes).

    Real Talk: The White Cast Situation

    Let’s address the elephant in the room. Mineral sunscreens leave a white cast. There’s no way around it — the zinc oxide that makes them safe is the same thing that makes them visible.

    Some tips that help:

    • Apply in thin layers and let each layer absorb before adding more
    • Warm the sunscreen between your hands first
    • Don’t use way more than you need
    • Accept that your kids will look a bit pale and that’s actually proof it’s working

    I’ve seen some brands advertising “clear” zinc sunscreens, but be cautious — sometimes this means nano-particles (which can absorb into skin) or added chemical filters.

    Application Tips for Sandy, Sweaty Kids

    Florida beach days are their own special challenge. Sand sticks to sunscreen. Kids sweat it off. They “forget” to tell you when they need more.

    Here’s what works for us:

    Apply at home before you leave. Sunscreen needs about 15 minutes to fully bind to skin. If you’re applying in the beach parking lot, you’re already behind.

    Set a timer. Every 90 minutes to 2 hours, or immediately after swimming. I literally set my phone timer because I will absolutely forget otherwise.

    Make them stand still. I know, easier said than done. But a rushed application means missed spots, and those weird sunburn patterns are no fun for anyone.

    Don’t forget the weird spots. Tops of ears, back of knees, tops of feet, part line in their hair. Ask me how I know.

    Beyond Sunscreen: Other Sun Protection That Actually Works

    Sunscreen is just one tool. We also rely heavily on:

    • Rash guards and sun shirts — My kids basically live in these at the beach
    • Wide-brimmed hats — Good luck keeping them on a five-year-old, but we try
    • Shade during peak hours — We bring a beach tent and actually use it
    • Timing — When possible, we hit the beach early morning or late afternoon

    This layered approach means we’re not relying on sunscreen alone, which takes some of the pressure off.

    A Note on Spray Sunscreens

    I know they’re convenient. I really do. But most spray sunscreens are chemical-based, and there are concerns about inhalation, especially for kids. The ones that are mineral-based don’t spray as nicely and still need to be rubbed in.

    For us, the convenience isn’t worth the trade-off. But I’m not going to judge you if you use them occasionally — parenting is about survival sometimes.

    Making It Part of Your Routine

    We treat sunscreen like we treat everything else in our non-toxic home journey — as one piece of a bigger picture. The same way I’m intentional about our cleaning products from Grove Collaborative or the pest control we use around the kids and the dog, sunscreen is just another area where a little research goes a long way.

    It doesn’t have to be perfect. It doesn’t have to be expensive. It just has to be thoughtful.

    The Bottom Line

    Finding the best non-toxic sunscreen for kids — especially for Florida beach life — takes some trial and error. What works for your neighbor’s kids might not work for yours. Textures, scents, and white cast tolerance vary by family.

    But here’s what I want you to take away: good options exist. You don’t have to choose between protecting your kids from the sun and protecting them from questionable chemicals. You can do both.

    And if your kid ends up looking a little ghostly in the beach photos? Well, that’s just evidence of a mama who’s paying attention.

    Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to go reapply sunscreen on two sandy kids who swear they “just put some on” an hour ago.

    —

    What’s your family’s go-to sunscreen? I’m always looking to try new options — drop your favorites in the comments!

  • How to Predator Proof a Chicken Coop on a Budget: Real Tips from a Florida Backyard Flock Owner

    How to Predator Proof a Chicken Coop on a Budget: Real Tips from a Florida Backyard Flock Owner

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    If you’ve ever walked out to your coop in the morning with that knot in your stomach—hoping everyone made it through the night—you know exactly why predator proofing matters. When we first got our backyard chickens, I had this idyllic vision of the kids gathering eggs in the golden hour while our hens free-ranged through the yard. What I didn’t picture was the raccoon that showed up the second week, or the hawk that started circling like clockwork every afternoon.

    Here in Northwest Florida, we’ve got quite the lineup of critters who’d love to make a meal of our girls: raccoons, opossums, snakes, hawks, the occasional neighborhood dog, and even coyotes in more rural areas. But here’s the good news—you don’t need to spend a fortune to keep your flock safe. After a few years of trial, error, and way too many YouTube rabbit holes at midnight, I’ve figured out what actually works without draining the budget.

    Start With the Basics: Hardware Cloth is Your Best Friend

    I’m going to be honest with you—if you only do one thing, make it this: ditch the chicken wire. I know, I know. It’s called chicken wire. But here’s the thing: chicken wire keeps chickens in. It does almost nothing to keep predators out. Raccoons can reach right through those holes, and snakes slip through like it’s an open invitation.

    What you want is 1/2-inch hardware cloth. Yes, it costs more than chicken wire up front. But it’s a one-time investment that actually works. Cover all openings—windows, vents, the bottom portion of your run. We bought ours on sale at the hardware store and installed it ourselves over a weekend while the kids played in the yard. Not glamorous, but effective.

    Budget tip: Check Facebook Marketplace and local farm groups. We’ve found partial rolls for half price from folks who overbought for their own projects.

    Secure the Bottom: Predators Love to Dig

    Raccoons dig. Dogs dig. Foxes really dig. If your coop sits directly on the ground, you need to think about what’s happening underneath.

    We created an apron around our run by laying hardware cloth flat on the ground, extending about 18-24 inches outward from the base. Then we covered it with dirt and let the grass grow over it. When a predator tries to dig at the base of the coop, they hit the hardware cloth and give up. It’s invisible, it’s effective, and it’s way easier than burying wire two feet deep.

    Another option is to set your coop on pavers or a concrete pad, but that’s a bigger investment. The apron method worked great for us on a budget.

    Lock It Up Tight: Latches Matter More Than You Think

    Here’s something that surprised me early on: raccoons have basically tiny human hands. They can open simple latches, turn knobs, and lift hooks. It’s honestly unsettling.

    You need latches that require two steps to open—like a carabiner clip through a latch, or a padlock on the coop door. We use simple spring-loaded barrel bolts with a carabiner as backup on our main door. Total cost: maybe $15 at the hardware store.

    One upgrade that’s been worth every penny for us is an automatic chicken coop door. I know, I know—we’re talking budget here. But hear me out. These run anywhere from $50 to $150 depending on the model, and they close at dusk automatically. No more running outside in the dark because we forgot to lock up. No more vulnerabilities during that window between sunset and when we remember to head out. For peace of mind? Worth it.

    Address the “Inside” Threats: Snakes and Rats

    In Florida, snakes are just part of life. Black snakes, rat snakes, even the occasional water moccasin if you’re near wetlands. And while most aren’t after your chickens, they will go after eggs—and small chicks don’t stand a chance.

    That 1/2-inch hardware cloth I mentioned earlier? That’s your first line of defense. Snakes can’t fit through those tiny openings.

    Keeping the coop area clean also helps. Don’t leave feed out overnight—it attracts rats, which attract snakes. We use a hanging feeder inside the coop and bring it up off the ground in the evening. For our waterer, we switched to a nipple-style chicken waterer that doesn’t create puddles or attract pests.

    I also sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth around the coop regularly. It helps with mites and other pests, and while it won’t stop a determined snake, keeping the overall pest population down makes your coop less appealing to predators looking for an easy meal.

    Daytime Dangers: Hawks and Roaming Dogs

    Hawks are bold here. Ours like to perch in the oak tree and scope out the yard like it’s a buffet. Free-ranging is wonderful for the chickens—and honestly, watching them scratch around is one of my favorite parts of this whole backyard flock thing—but it comes with risk.

    If you free-range, consider adding overhead cover to part of your yard. We have a covered run attached to the coop, so the girls always have somewhere to duck into. Old pallets leaned against a fence, a tarp strung between posts, even dense shrubs—all of these give chickens a place to hide when a shadow passes overhead.

    For dogs? Good fencing is really the only answer. We’re lucky that our dog (a mini labradoodle who’s more interested in belly rubs than chickens) grew up with the flock and ignores them completely. But I’ve heard too many heartbreaking stories about neighborhood dogs. A solid fence and latched gates are non-negotiable.

    Learning Together: Making Coop Safety a Family Project

    One of the things I love about our Charlotte Mason approach is finding learning in the everyday. Our kids have been part of the chicken project from the start—and that includes predator proofing. We’ve talked about food chains, animal behavior, nocturnal vs. diurnal predators. We’ve watched documentaries about raccoons and their problem-solving abilities (terrifying and fascinating).

    If your kids are interested in diving deeper, Storey’s Guide to Raising Chickens is an excellent family resource. For younger ones, A Kid’s Guide to Keeping Chickens covers coop basics in a way elementary-age kids can really grasp—mine love flipping through it.

    A Quick Budget Recap

    Here’s what actually matters, in order of priority:

    1. Hardware cloth on all openings – $50-100 depending on coop size

    2. Two-step latches on all doors – $10-20

    3. Ground apron or buried wire – cost of extra hardware cloth

    4. Automatic door (optional but so worth it) – $50-150

    5. Proper feed storage and nipple waterers – $20-40

    You can absolutely predator proof a coop for under $150 if you’re handy and willing to do the work yourself.

    It’s About Stewardship, Not Perfection

    Look, I’m not going to pretend we’ve never lost a chicken. We have. It’s part of this life, and it’s hard—especially when the kids are involved. But every loss has taught us something, and our setup now is solid.

    There’s something deeply good about raising animals alongside our children. Teaching them that these creatures depend on us, that our choices matter, that being a good steward means thinking ahead—these are lessons that stick. When my kids help me check the latches at dusk or refill the waterer, they’re not just doing chores. They’re learning responsibility, care, and the quiet rhythm of tending to living things.

    That’s the kind of childhood I want for them. A little dirt, a little responsibility, a lot of wonder.

    And hopefully, a coop full of happy, safe hens.

    —

    What about you—what’s been your biggest predator challenge? I’d love to hear what’s worked (or hasn’t) for your flock. Drop a comment below!

  • Outdoor Learning Ideas for Homeschool Florida: How We Make Nature Our Best Classroom

    Outdoor Learning Ideas for Homeschool Florida: How We Make Nature Our Best Classroom

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    If you’ve ever looked out your window at another gorgeous Florida morning and thought, “Why are we doing math inside right now?” — you’re my people. One of the biggest gifts of homeschooling in the Sunshine State is that we have a twelve-month growing season for curiosity. While families up north are bundled inside for months, we’re out there in January watching anoles do push-ups on the fence posts and finding wildflowers blooming along the trail.

    But here’s the thing — outdoor learning doesn’t have to be complicated or Pinterest-perfect. Some of our richest learning happens when I simply say yes to going outside and let the rest unfold. After years of homeschooling here in Northwest Florida with our Charlotte Mason approach, I’ve gathered a whole toolkit of outdoor learning ideas that actually work for real families. Not Instagram families. Real ones — with mosquitoes, humidity, and kids who sometimes just want to dig in the dirt.

    Let me share what’s worked for us.

    Why Florida Is Perfect for Year-Round Outdoor Learning

    I’ll be honest — when we first moved to the Pensacola area, I wasn’t sure how our nature-based homeschool would translate. I grew up with distinct seasons and worried Florida would feel… flat? But y’all, I was so wrong.

    Florida has more biodiversity than almost anywhere in the country. We have coastal ecosystems, pine forests, freshwater springs, wetlands, and everything in between — often within a short drive. Our backyard alone has become a living laboratory. Between the chickens, the visiting birds at our feeder, the gecko population that has absolutely claimed our porch, and whatever my kids find under logs, we never run out of things to observe.

    The trick is working with Florida’s rhythm, not against it. We do most of our outdoor time in the cooler morning hours, especially in summer. We’ve learned which months are best for tide pooling and which ones to avoid the love bugs. And we always, always have non-toxic sunscreen and water bottles ready to go.

    Simple Outdoor Learning Ideas That Actually Work

    Nature Journaling (Charlotte Mason Style)

    This is the heartbeat of our outdoor learning. Once or twice a week, we head outside with our journals and just… notice things. That’s it. No lesson plan required.

    The kids sketch what they see — a feather, a cloud formation, the pattern on a moth’s wing. Sometimes they write observations. Sometimes it’s just drawings with dates. Over time, these journals become incredible records of our year and their growth as observers.

    We use simple spiral-bound nature journals because they’re sturdy enough for outdoor use. I also keep our Faber-Castell watercolor pencils in a little zip pouch so we can add color without hauling a whole art kit outside. There’s something magical about painting a blue jay while actually looking at one.

    Bird Watching and Identification

    Florida is a birder’s paradise, and kids take to it naturally. We started simple — just noticing who visits our feeders and learning their names. Now my oldest can identify a dozen species by sound alone, which honestly makes me a little proud.

    Our Sibley Birds East guide lives on our back porch. It’s gotten water-stained and dog-eared, and I consider that a sign of a life well-lived. We’ve spotted painted buntings, wood storks, and more cardinals than I can count. Each sighting goes in our nature journals.

    Backyard Science with Chickens

    If you’ve got backyard chickens (or you’re considering them), you already have a built-in science curriculum. Our flock has taught my kids about life cycles, animal behavior, nutrition, and responsibility in ways no textbook could.

    We observe molting patterns, egg production changes with daylight hours, and the very real pecking order. My kids have learned to check for mites, understand why we use food-grade diatomaceous earth in their dust bath, and can explain the anatomy of an egg. For families just starting out, A Kid’s Guide to Keeping Chickens is a wonderful resource that puts the learning right in their hands.

    Bug Hunting and Micro-Exploration

    Florida has no shortage of insects, and while some of them are pests (looking at you, mosquitoes), many are absolutely fascinating. We’ve made bug hunting a regular part of our weeks, especially in spring and fall when it’s pleasant to be out turning over logs and checking under leaves.

    A pocket microscope has been one of our best investments — the kids use it to examine everything from butterfly wing scales to sand particles to chicken feathers. Pair it with a bug catcher kit and you’ve got hours of engaged learning that costs almost nothing after the initial supplies.

    Making It Work in the Florida Heat

    Embrace the Morning

    Our school day often starts outside and moves in. By 7:30 AM, we might be feeding chickens, watering the garden, or taking a quick nature walk before the heat sets in. Then we come inside for read-alouds and focused work during the hottest part of the day.

    Have a Rainy Day Backup

    Florida afternoon storms are legendary. We keep rain boots by the back door so we can head out after the rain for puddle splashing and earthworm observations. Some of our best nature study happens in that cool, post-storm window when everything feels fresh.

    Don’t Fight the Seasons — Flow with Them

    Summer here is for water play, early mornings, and embracing slower days. Fall brings relief and renewed energy for longer outdoor sessions. Winter? That’s our sweet spot for all-day adventures at state parks and beaches. Spring is wildflower season and butterfly migration. Each season has its gifts.

    Florida-Specific Outdoor Learning Spots

    We’re spoiled here in Northwest Florida. Within an hour of our house, we can visit:

    • Gulf Islands National Seashore for tide pooling and beach ecology
    • Blackwater River State Forest for creek exploration
    • Local springs for observing freshwater ecosystems
    • Wildlife sanctuaries and nature preserves

    Many of these are free or low-cost, which matters when you’re homeschooling on a budget. If you’re using the Florida PEP scholarship like we are, some field trip expenses and educational supplies can be covered — it’s worth looking into what counts.

    A Word About the 1990s Childhood We’re Trying to Give Them

    I think about my own childhood a lot — the hours spent outside with no agenda, the freedom to be bored and figure it out, the way we knew every tree in the neighborhood. That’s what I want for my kids, and outdoor learning is how we get there.

    It’s not about rejecting technology entirely or being performatively “crunchy.” It’s about remembering that children are wired to learn through movement, exploration, and wonder. Florida gives us the perfect backdrop for that. We just have to walk outside and pay attention.

    Your Turn

    If you’re feeling overwhelmed about outdoor learning, start small. One morning this week, take your read-aloud outside. Let the kids find one thing to sketch or examine. Watch what happens when you give them space and time in nature.

    I’d love to hear what outdoor learning looks like for your Florida family — come find me on social media or drop a comment below. We’re all figuring this out together, one muddy adventure at a time.

    Now if you’ll excuse me, someone just spotted a turtle in the backyard, and that takes priority over everything.

  • Best Charlotte Mason Curriculum for Kindergarten: A Simple, Living Approach

    Best Charlotte Mason Curriculum for Kindergarten: A Simple, Living Approach

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    If you’re standing in your kitchen right now, coffee in hand, wondering how to homeschool your five-year-old without turning your home into a miniature public school — I see you. I’ve been there, scrolling through curriculum catalogs at midnight, overwhelmed by workbooks and wondering if Charlotte Mason is really as magical as everyone says.

    Here’s what I’ve learned after a few years of homeschooling our elementary-age kids the Charlotte Mason way here in Northwest Florida: kindergarten doesn’t need to be complicated. In fact, the best Charlotte Mason curriculum for kindergarten might be simpler than you think — and a whole lot more joyful.

    What Does Charlotte Mason Kindergarten Actually Look Like?

    Before we talk curriculum, let’s talk philosophy. Charlotte Mason believed that children are born persons — whole, capable, curious human beings. She didn’t think we needed to stuff them full of facts or drill them with flashcards. Instead, she emphasized living books, nature study, habit training, and short, focused lessons.

    For kindergarten specifically? She actually recommended very little formal academics. I know that might feel counterintuitive when you’re used to hearing about reading benchmarks and kindergarten readiness checklists. But trust me — this approach works.

    Our kindergarten days look like this: a little bit of reading practice, some math play, nature time outside (Florida weather permitting, which is most of the year), picture study, hymn or folk song, and lots and lots of free play. We’re done with “formal” work by lunch, and honestly? My kids are thriving.

    The Best Charlotte Mason Curriculum Options for Kindergarten

    Now, let’s get into the actual resources. I’m not going to give you a rigid boxed curriculum because that’s not really how Charlotte Mason works. Instead, I’ll share what we use and love — the pieces you can mix and match for your own family.

    Language Arts: Keep It Gentle

    At this age, Charlotte Mason focused on reading aloud to children, not necessarily teaching them to read independently. That said, many kids are ready for gentle phonics instruction around age five or six.

    We love starting with simple phonics readers and lots of living books read aloud. Picture books with beautiful illustrations, classic tales, and stories about real things — animals, seasons, children in other countries. Skip the twaddle (that’s Charlotte Mason speak for dumbed-down, junky books).

    For resources, I often browse Rainbow Resource for their phonics options. They carry so many Charlotte Mason-friendly materials, and I appreciate being able to see everything in one place.

    Math: Hands-On and Concrete

    Charlotte Mason wasn’t prescriptive about math curriculum, but she believed in concrete, hands-on learning before abstract concepts. For kindergarten, this means manipulatives, counting real objects, and playful exploration of numbers.

    We’ve used Math-U-See blocks for this stage because they’re so tactile and visual. My kids build with them, sort them, count them while we’re doing other things. It doesn’t feel like “doing math” — it feels like playing. Which is exactly the point.

    You can also just use what you have: count the eggs from the chickens, measure ingredients while baking, sort shells collected from Pensacola Beach. Math is everywhere when you look for it.

    Nature Study: The Heart of Charlotte Mason

    This is where Charlotte Mason really shines, and it’s where our family has fallen completely in love with this method. Nature study isn’t an add-on or an elective — it’s central to everything.

    Here in Florida, we’re blessed with year-round opportunities to be outside. We take nature walks at our local trails, explore the backyard (the chickens are always good for observation), and spend time just noticing. What birds are at the feeder? What’s blooming right now? Why do palmetto bugs appear after rain?

    For kindergarten nature study, you really just need a few things:

    We also keep Faber-Castell watercolor pencils in our nature bag. They’re easy for little hands and perfect for sketching flowers, feathers, or whatever treasure we’ve found.

    Art, Music, and Habit Training

    Charlotte Mason believed in exposing children to great art and music from a young age — not by lecturing, but by simply living with beautiful things. We do picture study by displaying a print of one artist’s work for several weeks and just talking about it casually. Same with composer study — we play classical music during breakfast and let it become familiar.

    Habit training is another huge piece of Charlotte Mason kindergarten. Things like attention, obedience, and truthfulness are cultivated through daily life, not worksheets. This is the stuff that takes the most patience (and prayer, honestly), but it matters more than any curriculum.

    What About the Florida PEP Scholarship?

    If you’re a Florida homeschool family using the PEP scholarship, you might be wondering how Charlotte Mason fits. The good news is that it works beautifully. The scholarship allows flexibility in what you purchase, and most of the resources I’ve mentioned qualify.

    I love that we can use PEP funds for quality living books, nature study supplies, and hands-on math materials. It feels aligned with our values — investing in real learning, not just checking boxes.

    Do You Need a Formal Curriculum?

    Honestly? For kindergarten, you might not. If buying a complete curriculum gives you peace of mind and structure, Timberdoodle offers some wonderful Charlotte Mason-inspired options that you can customize.

    But if you’re the type who wants to piece things together yourself — a little phonics here, nature study there, lots of read-alouds, and plenty of outdoor time — that’s a perfectly valid Charlotte Mason kindergarten too. Maybe even more authentic to her original vision.

    The Real Secret to Charlotte Mason Kindergarten

    Here’s what I wish someone had told me when I started: the best Charlotte Mason curriculum for kindergarten is a mother (or father) who reads aloud daily, takes walks outside, and protects time for free play. It’s not about the perfect booklist or Instagram-worthy nature journals.

    It’s about slowing down. Noticing the anole lizard on the fence. Letting your kid dig in the dirt while you drink your coffee on the porch. Asking questions and wondering together.

    I think about how I grew up in the 90s — outside until the streetlights came on, building forts, catching lightning bugs, making up elaborate games with the neighborhood kids. That’s what I want for my children. Charlotte Mason gives us permission to prioritize that kind of childhood, even within our homeschool.

    So if you’re feeling overwhelmed by curriculum choices, take a breath. Start small. Read good books. Go outside. Let your kindergartener be little.

    You’ve got this, mama. And if you ever want to chat about any of this, I’m right here — probably refilling the chicken waterer and hollering at the kids to put their shoes on for a nature walk.

  • How to Use the Florida PEP Scholarship for Curriculum: A Homeschool Mama’s Guide

    How to Use the Florida PEP Scholarship for Curriculum: A Homeschool Mama’s Guide

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    If you’re a Florida homeschool family who just got approved for the PEP scholarship (or you’re thinking about applying), you might be staring at that account balance wondering… now what? How does this actually work? What can I buy? And where do I even start?

    I remember that exact feeling when we first got approved. I had all these curriculum dreams floating around in my head, but the practical side of navigating the scholarship felt a little overwhelming at first. Now that we’ve been using it for a while, I want to share what I’ve learned — because honestly, once you understand how it works, it opens up so many possibilities for your homeschool.

    What Is the Florida PEP Scholarship?

    The Personalized Education Program (PEP) scholarship is part of Florida’s school choice options. It provides funds for homeschool families to use toward educational expenses — including curriculum, instructional materials, and more. The scholarship is administered through Step Up for Students, and funds are loaded onto a ClassWallet account that you use to make purchases from approved vendors.

    The amount varies, but it’s genuinely helpful for covering the cost of quality curriculum. And if you’re like us — trying to build a rich, Charlotte Mason-style education with lots of living books and nature study materials — every bit helps.

    Understanding ClassWallet and Approved Vendors

    Here’s where it gets practical. Your PEP funds live in a ClassWallet account, and you can only spend them at approved vendors. The good news? There are a LOT of approved vendors, including many of the places homeschool families already love to shop.

    Some of my favorites include:

    • Rainbow Resource — This is basically homeschool curriculum heaven. They carry everything from Charlotte Mason materials to hands-on science kits, and their prices are reasonable. I’ve ordered nature study guides, art supplies, and read-alouds here.
    • Timberdoodle — Another great option, especially if you like curated curriculum kits. They carry quality manipulatives, thinking games, and lots of hands-on learning materials.
    • Amazon — Yes, Amazon is an approved vendor! You’ll shop through a specific ClassWallet portal, but you can find so much there.

    Before you make any purchase, always double-check the current approved vendor list in your ClassWallet account. Vendors can change, and you want to make sure your purchase will go through smoothly.

    What Curriculum Can You Buy with PEP Funds?

    This is the fun part. PEP funds can be used for instructional materials, which includes:

    • Full curriculum programs
    • Individual subject curriculum (math, language arts, science, history)
    • Workbooks and textbooks
    • Educational manipulatives
    • Art and music instruction materials
    • Nature study and science supplies

    For our family, this has meant being able to invest in the kind of education I really believe in. We’re Charlotte Mason-inspired, which means lots of living books, nature journals, and hands-on exploration. The PEP scholarship has helped us afford quality materials without stretching our budget too thin.

    Math Curriculum

    We’ve used our funds for Math-U-See, which my kids actually enjoy (I know, I was surprised too). The manipulative blocks make such a difference for my kinesthetic learners. It’s available through approved vendors, and it’s been worth every penny.

    Nature Study Supplies

    This is where my heart is, y’all. We spend so much time outside — even in the Florida heat, we find pockets of time in the early morning or late afternoon. Our PEP funds have covered things like the Sibley Guide to Birds, which lives on our back porch for quick identification when the kids spot something at the feeder.

    We’ve also grabbed a pocket microscope for examining leaves, feathers (our chickens provide plenty of those), and anything else the kids drag in from the yard. And a good nature journal is essential in our house — we go through several each year.

    Art Supplies

    Charlotte Mason believed in teaching children to really see the world around them, and art is a big part of that. We’ve used funds for quality art supplies like Faber-Castell watercolors, which hold up so much better than the cheap sets and make nature journaling a joy instead of a frustration.

    Tips for Making the Most of Your PEP Funds

    After navigating this for a while, here’s what I’d tell a friend who’s just getting started:

    Plan Before You Shop

    It’s tempting to go on a curriculum shopping spree (ask me how I know), but take some time to think through your year first. What subjects do you need to cover? What’s working and what isn’t? Make a list before you log into ClassWallet.

    Keep Records

    Save your receipts and keep notes on what you purchased and why. This isn’t just for compliance — it helps you remember what you have when you’re planning future years. I keep a simple spreadsheet with the date, vendor, item, and cost.

    Don’t Forget the “Extras”

    Some of the best learning doesn’t come from a boxed curriculum. A bug catcher kit might not look like “school,” but when your kids spend an hour observing insects and then research what they found? That’s real education. Don’t overlook hands-on tools that support discovery.

    Watch for Sales

    Homeschool vendors often have sales in late spring and summer. If you can plan ahead, you might stretch your funds further by timing bigger purchases strategically.

    What PEP Funds Can’t Be Used For

    Just as important as knowing what you can buy is knowing what’s off-limits. PEP funds generally cannot be used for:

    • General household items (even if you use them for school)
    • Food or snacks
    • Non-educational toys or games
    • Items from non-approved vendors

    When in doubt, check with Step Up for Students or look at the guidelines in your ClassWallet account. It’s better to ask first than to have a purchase denied.

    Our Family’s Approach

    I’ll be honest — we don’t use a boxed curriculum. Our homeschool is a little more pieced-together, based on what works for each kid and what aligns with our values. The PEP scholarship gives us flexibility to choose quality materials from different sources rather than feeling locked into one program.

    We spend a lot of time outside — watching the chickens, identifying birds, exploring the creek at our favorite park. Florida gives us the gift of being able to do that almost year-round (if you work around the summer heat and the mosquitoes). The scholarship helps us supplement that outdoor education with good field guides, nature journals, and science tools.

    Final Thoughts

    The Florida PEP scholarship isn’t complicated once you get the hang of it. It’s really just about understanding where you can shop, what qualifies as curriculum, and keeping decent records. And the payoff — being able to provide your kids with a rich, thoughtful education — is absolutely worth the learning curve.

    If you’re new to this, give yourself grace. You don’t have to figure it all out in one afternoon. Start with one or two vendors, make a few purchases, and build your confidence from there.

    And if you ever have questions, feel free to reach out. We’re all figuring this out together, one school year at a time.

    Happy homeschooling, friend.

  • Non-Toxic Cleaning Products Safe Around Chickens and Pets: What Our Florida Family Actually Uses

    Non-Toxic Cleaning Products Safe Around Chickens and Pets: What Our Florida Family Actually Uses

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    If you’ve got backyard chickens, a dog who thinks she runs the place, and kids who track in more mud than seems humanly possible, you’ve probably stood in the cleaning aisle wondering the same thing I have: Is this stuff actually safe for everyone in my house?

    Because here’s the thing — when you’ve got laying hens producing eggs your family eats for breakfast, a labradoodle who licks literally everything, and little ones playing on the floors you just mopped, “kills 99.9% of germs” starts to feel less like a promise and more like a threat.

    I didn’t always think this way. But somewhere between starting our backyard flock and realizing my youngest was putting her mouth on the freshly cleaned kitchen floor (why do they do this?), I knew we needed a better approach.

    Why Conventional Cleaners Are a Problem for Chickens and Pets

    Let me put on my former-science-nerd hat for a second. Most conventional cleaning products contain ingredients that can be genuinely harmful to animals — especially chickens, who have incredibly sensitive respiratory systems.

    Here’s what concerns me most:

    • Bleach and ammonia release fumes that can damage chicken respiratory tracts (and honestly, aren’t great for any of us)
    • Phenols (found in many disinfectants like Lysol) are toxic to birds and can be absorbed through their feet
    • Quaternary ammonium compounds can irritate pet skin and paws
    • Synthetic fragrances often contain phthalates that linger long after the “fresh scent” fades

    In Florida’s humidity, these issues are amplified. We can’t always throw open windows to air things out when it’s 95 degrees with 90% humidity. So whatever we use needs to be safe enough to use in a closed house — and safe enough that I don’t worry when the dog drinks from a puddle near the coop.

    Our Go-To Non-Toxic Cleaning Products

    For Indoor Cleaning

    I’ve been using Grove Collaborative for a couple of years now, and it’s genuinely made switching to safer products so much easier. Their house brand concentrates are what I use for most everyday cleaning — counters, floors, bathrooms. I dilute them myself, which means less plastic waste and honestly, it’s cheaper in the long run.

    For floors specifically (where both dog and kids spend a lot of time), I stick to simple: white vinegar, water, and a few drops of essential oil if I’m feeling fancy. Nothing that leaves residue, nothing that off-gasses.

    For the Chicken Coop

    This is where I get really particular. Our girls give us eggs every day, and I want to know that the coop environment is as clean as it can be without introducing toxins.

    My coop cleaning routine:

    1. Regular maintenance: I scrape droppings boards and refresh bedding with plain pine shavings (never cedar — it’s too aromatic for chicken respiratory systems)

    2. Deep cleaning: A few times a year, I do a full scrub with white vinegar diluted in water. It cuts through the grime, helps with odor, and evaporates clean.

    3. Pest prevention: Food-grade diatomaceous earth sprinkled in nesting boxes and dust bathing areas helps control mites naturally. Just wear a mask when applying — it’s non-toxic but you don’t want to breathe in the dust.

    4. Fly control: Florida humidity plus chicken poop equals flies. We use Wondercide around the coop perimeter and it’s the only thing that’s worked without making me nervous about the flock.

    For Pet Areas

    Our labradoodle has her own set of concerns — sensitive skin being chief among them. I wash her bedding with unscented castile soap, and I use the same vinegar-water solution on her crate and food bowls that I use everywhere else.

    For outdoor pest control (because Florida mosquitoes and fleas are no joke), Wondercide has been a game-changer for us. We spray it on the patio, around the coop, and even directly on the dog before we head out for nature walks. It’s cedar-based and I don’t have to worry about anyone — feathered or furred — having a reaction.

    DIY Cleaners That Actually Work

    I’m going to be honest: I’m not a DIY-everything person. I don’t have time to make my own laundry detergent while homeschooling three kids. But these simple recipes have earned their place in our routine:

    All-Purpose Spray

    • 1 cup white vinegar
    • 1 cup water
    • 10 drops lemon essential oil (optional)

    Works on counters, tables, high chairs, and honestly most surfaces. Don’t use on natural stone.

    Coop Refresher Spray

    • 2 cups water
    • 1/2 cup white vinegar
    • 10 drops lavender essential oil
    • 5 drops peppermint essential oil

    I spray this on roosts and nesting boxes between deep cleans. The lavender is calming and both oils help deter pests naturally.

    Floor Cleaner

    • 1 gallon hot water
    • 1/2 cup white vinegar

    That’s it. I know it seems too simple, but it works and it’s safe for everyone who walks (or crawls) on our floors.

    What About Disinfecting?

    I know what you’re thinking — sometimes you actually need to disinfect. Chicken illness. Muddy dog situations. Kid-related incidents I won’t describe in detail.

    For those times, hydrogen peroxide is my friend. It breaks down into water and oxygen, so there’s no residue. I keep a spray bottle of 3% hydrogen peroxide for bathroom disinfecting and for any coop situations that need more than vinegar.

    Some people use Thieves or other essential oil blends for antibacterial cleaning. I’ve dabbled, but I’m careful with essential oils around the chickens — their respiratory systems are so delicate that even natural doesn’t always mean safe for them.

    Making It Work in Real Life

    Here’s the truth: transitioning to non-toxic cleaning doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. I didn’t throw out every product under our sink overnight. I replaced things as they ran out and paid attention to what actually worked for our family.

    If you’re raising chickens for eggs your family eats, if you’ve got a dog who sleeps in your kids’ beds, if your little ones are still in that put-everything-in-their-mouths phase — this stuff matters. Not in a fearful way, but in an intentional way.

    It’s the same reason we homeschool the way we do, and why we send the kids outside to play instead of handing them a screen. We’re trying to create a home and a childhood that’s a little slower, a little simpler, and a lot more connected to the real, natural world around us.

    If you’re raising backyard chickens and want to learn more about keeping them healthy naturally, Storey’s Guide to Raising Chickens has been my go-to reference for everything from coop setup to flock health. It’s practical, thorough, and doesn’t assume you already know what you’re doing.

    And if you’ve got kids who are curious about the flock, A Kid’s Guide to Keeping Chickens is perfect for getting them involved in age-appropriate care — including understanding why we keep things clean and natural around our feathered friends.

    The Bottom Line

    Finding non-toxic cleaning products safe around chickens and pets isn’t about perfection. It’s about making choices that let you clean your home without worrying about what you’re exposing your family to — all members of your family, feathered and furry included.

    Start with one swap. Maybe it’s your floor cleaner, maybe it’s what you use in the coop. Notice how it feels to not hold your breath while you clean. That’s the thing about this slower, more intentional life — once you start paying attention, it’s hard to go back.

    Now if you’ll excuse me, someone just tracked coop shavings through the kitchen and I’ve got a mop and some vinegar waiting.

    —

    What’s your go-to non-toxic cleaning solution? I’d love to hear what’s working for your family — drop a comment below!

  • Best Chicken Breeds for Beginners: Starting Your Florida Backyard Flock

    Best Chicken Breeds for Beginners: Starting Your Florida Backyard Flock

    If you’ve been dreaming about fresh eggs on the counter and kids who actually understand where their food comes from, you’re in the right place. Starting a backyard flock in Florida is one of the best decisions we ever made for our little homestead—but I’ll be honest, I wish someone had told me which breeds actually thrive down here before I got started.

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    Because here’s the thing: not all chickens are created equal, especially when you’re dealing with our Pensacola summers. The humidity, the heat, the afternoon thunderstorms that roll in like clockwork from June through September—your birds need to handle all of it. And if you’re like me, juggling homeschool and life with little ones underfoot, you want chickens that are low-maintenance and kid-friendly too.

    Let me share what I’ve learned after a few years of keeping a backyard flock in Northwest Florida.

    What to Look for in Beginner-Friendly Chicken Breeds

    Before we dive into specific breeds, let’s talk about what actually matters when you’re choosing chickens for a Florida backyard—especially if you’ve got kids involved.

    Heat Tolerance is Non-Negotiable

    Florida heat is no joke. When it’s 95 degrees with 80% humidity, you need birds with larger combs (which help them release heat), lighter body weights, and a general hardiness that lets them keep laying even when we’re all melting. Heavy, fluffy breeds that thrive in New England? They struggle here.

    Temperament Matters with Kids Around

    We wanted chickens the kids could help care for—collecting eggs, filling waterers, even just sitting in the run and watching. That meant choosing breeds known for being docile and friendly rather than flighty or aggressive. My youngest loves to name every single hen, and she needs birds that will tolerate her “gentle” three-year-old petting.

    Consistent Egg Production

    Let’s be real—part of the appeal is those beautiful eggs. You want breeds that lay reliably, even through Florida’s mild winters and hot summers.

    Our Top Chicken Breeds for Florida Beginners

    After some trial and error (and plenty of conversations with other Florida chicken-keepers), here are the breeds I recommend for families just starting out.

    1. Rhode Island Reds

    These are the workhorses of the backyard flock world, and for good reason. Rhode Island Reds are hardy, adaptable, and excellent layers—we’re talking 250-300 brown eggs per year. They handle Florida heat reasonably well and have calm, curious personalities. Ours follow the kids around the yard like little feathered puppies.

    2. Easter Eggers

    If you want to get your kids really excited about chickens, Easter Eggers are the way to go. They lay beautiful blue and green eggs that make every morning feel like a treasure hunt. They’re friendly, heat-tolerant, and each one looks completely different. My kids call ours “the rainbow chickens,” and honestly, they’re not wrong.

    3. Leghorns

    Leghorns are lean, active birds that handle heat like champions. They’re prolific white egg layers and do well in our climate. Fair warning: they’re a bit more flighty and independent than some other breeds, so they might not be the cuddly lap chickens some kids want. But for pure egg production in Florida? Hard to beat.

    4. Australorps

    These gentle giants are known for their sweet temperaments and beautiful black feathers that shimmer green in the sunlight. They’re excellent layers and surprisingly heat-tolerant despite their darker coloring. Ours are some of the friendliest birds in the flock—perfect for kids who want to interact with their chickens.

    5. Orpingtons (Buff Orpingtons Especially)

    I’ll be honest—Orpingtons are on the fluffier side, so they need a little extra shade and fresh water in the hottest months. But their temperament is so docile and sweet that they’re worth the extra care. They’re basically the golden retrievers of the chicken world. Our Buff Orpington lets my daughter carry her around like a baby, and she’s a reliable layer of beautiful brown eggs.

    Setting Up Your Florida Flock for Success

    Choosing the right breeds is just the beginning. Here’s what else you’ll need to keep your chickens happy in our Florida climate.

    Shade and Ventilation

    Your coop needs excellent airflow and plenty of shade. We positioned ours under a big oak tree, and I’m convinced that’s half the reason our birds do so well in July and August. Open-air coops with hardware cloth walls work great here—you don’t need the insulated structures they use up north.

    Fresh Water, Always

    This sounds obvious, but chickens drink so much water in the heat. We switched to a nipple waterer system and it’s been a game-changer—cleaner water, less mess, and the birds figured it out within a day. I add ice to their water on the hottest afternoons.

    An Automatic Coop Door

    This isn’t essential, but an automatic chicken coop door has made our mornings so much easier. The chickens let themselves out at dawn and tuck themselves in at dusk. One less thing to remember during our busy homeschool days.

    Pest Prevention, Naturally

    Florida bugs are relentless, and they love chicken coops. We sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth in the coop and nesting boxes to help control mites and other pests without chemicals. It’s gentle enough that I don’t worry about the kids being in and out of the run.

    Learning Together: Chickens as Nature Study

    One of the unexpected blessings of backyard chickens is how much they’ve enriched our homeschool. In the Charlotte Mason tradition, we believe in learning through living books and real-world observation—and chickens provide endless material for both.

    The kids keep a nature journal where they sketch our hens, note egg colors and counts, and record funny chicken behaviors. We’ve learned about life cycles, predator-prey relationships (thanks to our resident hawk who thinks he’s getting a free lunch), and the responsibility of caring for living creatures.

    If you’re looking for a good resource, Storey’s Guide to Raising Chickens is my go-to for all things chicken care. For the kids, A Kid’s Guide to Keeping Chickens has been wonderful—it’s written at a level they can actually understand and gives them ownership of the learning.

    A Word on Roosters

    Unless you’re planning to hatch your own chicks, you probably don’t need a rooster—especially if you have neighbors nearby. Hens lay eggs just fine without one, and roosters can be noisy and sometimes aggressive. Most Florida subdivisions have noise ordinances that make roosters tricky anyway. Something to consider before you accidentally end up with one (ask me how I know).

    Start Small, Learn as You Go

    My biggest advice? Start with 3-4 hens and see how it goes. It’s tempting to get a dozen different breeds right out of the gate, but a smaller flock is easier to manage while you’re learning. You can always add more later—and you probably will, because chicken math is very real.

    There’s something about watching your kids run out to the coop in their rain boots, gathering warm eggs and chattering to the hens, that just feels right. It’s the kind of childhood I wanted to give them—hands in the dirt, connected to the land, understanding where things come from.

    If you’ve been on the fence about starting a flock, I hope this gives you the nudge you need. Florida backyard chickens are absolutely doable, and with the right breeds, they’re an absolute joy.

    Happy homesteading, friends.

    — A fellow Florida mama, just figuring it out one egg at a time

  • Best Walkie Talkies for Kids Outdoor Play 2026: A Real Mama’s Guide

    Best Walkie Talkies for Kids Outdoor Play 2026: A Real Mama’s Guide

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    If you grew up in the 80s or 90s, you probably remember the magic of walkie talkies. That crackly voice coming through, the satisfying click of the button, saying “over and out” like you were on some kind of secret mission. My kids discovered this same joy last year, and honestly? It’s been one of the best investments we’ve made for outdoor play.

    Here in Northwest Florida, we’re blessed with weather that lets us be outside most of the year — though I’ll admit, those summer months require some creativity (and a whole lot of non-toxic sunscreen). Walkie talkies have become essential gear in our house, right up there with rain boots and bug spray. They’ve transformed our backyard adventures, nature walks, and even our homeschool days in ways I didn’t expect.

    Why Walkie Talkies Are Perfect for Outdoor Kids

    In a world where every other kid has a tablet or smartphone glued to their hands, walkie talkies offer something different. They’re technology, sure — but they encourage kids to go outside instead of staying glued to a screen. There’s no YouTube rabbit hole. No algorithm. Just two-way communication that gets little legs moving.

    My youngest will literally run laps around our property just to have something to report back on. “Mama, the chickens are in the garden again. Over.” (They always are. Those girls have no respect for boundaries.)

    Walkie talkies also support the kind of independent, adventurous childhood I’m trying to cultivate. The kind where kids can explore a little further, check on the chicken coop, or disappear into the backyard fort — while still being able to reach me if they need something. It’s that balance between freedom and connection that feels so right.

    What to Look for in Kids’ Walkie Talkies

    Not all walkie talkies are created equal, and after going through a few duds, I’ve learned what actually matters.

    Range That Makes Sense

    For backyard play and neighborhood adventures, you don’t need military-grade equipment. A range of 1-2 miles is plenty for most families. Keep in mind that advertised ranges are usually “ideal conditions” (read: flat, open land with no obstacles). In real life, with trees, houses, and Florida humidity, expect less. But for our purposes? A half-mile of actual range works beautifully.

    Durability for Real Kids

    If your kids are anything like mine, their gear takes a beating. Walkie talkies get dropped in mud, left out in surprise rain showers, and occasionally investigated by our very curious mini labradoodle. Look for models that can handle real outdoor play — rubberized grips, solid construction, and ideally some water resistance.

    Easy to Use

    For elementary-age kids, simplicity is key. Complicated channel settings and tiny buttons lead to frustration. The best walkie talkies for kids have intuitive push-to-talk buttons and simple controls that even my kindergartener can figure out.

    Battery Life

    Rechargeable is convenient, but I’ve found that good old AAA batteries are actually more practical for us. Nothing’s worse than dead walkie talkies when you’re heading out for a nature walk. I keep a stash of rechargeable AAAs ready to swap out.

    How We Use Walkie Talkies in Our Homeschool Life

    This is where it gets fun. Walkie talkies aren’t just toys in our house — they’ve become genuine tools for learning and adventure.

    Nature Study Communication

    When we’re doing nature walks along the trails near Pensacola, the kids often spread out to explore. Walkie talkies let them report sightings in real time. “Mama! I see a great blue heron! Over!” We’ll identify it together using our Sibley Birds field guide, then they sketch it in their nature journals when we get home. It’s Charlotte Mason-style nature study with a fun twist.

    Backyard Chicken Duty

    Morning chores are more exciting when you can radio in your report. “Chicken check complete. Three eggs. Henrietta was being dramatic. Over.” The kids take turns being the “field reporter” while I prep breakfast. It’s built responsibility and given them ownership over caring for our flock.

    Good Old-Fashioned Imaginative Play

    Some days, the walkie talkies turn our yard into a spy headquarters, a safari expedition, or a rescue mission. This is the kind of play I remember from my own childhood — the kind that doesn’t need batteries for a tablet or an adult directing every moment. Just kids, outside, making up worlds together.

    Hide and Seek, Upgraded

    We play a version where the seeker has to radio clues to the hiders. It extends the game, adds strategy, and keeps everyone giggling. Combined with other outdoor lawn games, we can fill entire afternoons outside.

    Best Walkie Talkies for Kids in 2026: What I Recommend

    After trying several options over the years, here’s my honest take:

    Look for a set specifically designed for kids — they’re lighter, more colorful (easier to find in the grass!), and have the simplified controls that actually work for little hands. The best kids’ walkie talkie sets in 2026 come with features like built-in flashlights (handy for dusk adventures), VOX mode for hands-free talking, and multiple channels so neighborhood friends can join in without interference.

    I’d also suggest getting a set of three if you have multiple kids. It prevents the inevitable “but I want a turn!” battles and means everyone can participate in the adventure.

    Tips for Getting the Most Out of Walkie Talkie Play

    Establish ground rules. We have a “walkie talkie code” — no screaming into the speaker, always say “over” when you’re done talking, and the walkie talkies come inside before dark.

    Store them where kids can grab them independently. Ours live in a basket by the back door, right next to the sunscreen and bug catcher kits. Easy access means they actually get used.

    Model the fun. Get a set for yourself too. Nothing delights my kids more than radioing me while I’m inside and hearing my voice crackle back. It makes them feel capable and connected.

    Use them for real purposes. Beyond play, we use ours for calling kids in for lunch, coordinating yard work, and checking on the chickens when I’m inside cooking. Practical use reinforces that these are tools, not just toys.

    A Little Old-School Magic

    There’s something about watching my kids run across the yard, walkie talkie in hand, that makes my heart full. It’s such a small thing, but it represents so much of what I want for their childhood — freedom, imagination, connection to the outdoors, and just enough independence to build confidence.

    In a world that’s constantly pushing screens and structured activities, sometimes the best gifts are the simple ones. A pair of walkie talkies, a big backyard (or a neighborhood trail), and permission to explore. That’s the stuff childhood memories are made of.

    Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m getting a report that the dog has discovered something suspicious near the compost pile. Over and out.

    —

    What’s your favorite way to encourage outdoor play? I’d love to hear — drop a comment below!

  • Non-Toxic Fly Spray Safe for Chickens, Kids, and Dogs: What Actually Works

    Non-Toxic Fly Spray Safe for Chickens, Kids, and Dogs: What Actually Works

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    If you’ve got backyard chickens in Florida, you already know — the flies are relentless. I’m talking the kind of fly situation where you’re questioning every life choice that led you to chicken keeping while simultaneously swatting bugs out of your sweet tea. And when you’ve got little ones running barefoot through the yard and a dog who thinks the chicken run is her personal kingdom, spraying conventional fly spray everywhere just isn’t an option.

    I spent way too long researching this, y’all. Because when my youngest wanted to help me collect eggs and came back inside covered in whatever I’d just sprayed in the coop, I knew we needed a better solution. Something that actually works on flies but won’t make me worry about what’s absorbing into tiny hands or getting into our dog’s system.

    Here’s what I’ve learned after three years of Florida chicken keeping.

    Why Most Fly Sprays Are a Problem

    Let’s talk about what’s actually in conventional fly sprays. Most contain pyrethroids (synthetic versions of natural pyrethrins), which can be neurotoxic — especially concerning for developing kids and pets who metabolize things differently than adults. Others contain DEET or permethrin, which I don’t want anywhere near our egg-laying hens or the kids who handle those eggs.

    The challenge is that flies aren’t just annoying around chickens — they’re a genuine health concern. Flies spread disease, stress out your flock, and in Florida’s humidity, they multiply faster than you can say “why did we move here again?”

    So we need something that actually works. Not just smells nice.

    Our Go-To Non-Toxic Fly Solution

    After trying approximately seventeen different “natural” solutions (some of which did absolutely nothing, if I’m being honest), here’s what actually makes a difference in our setup:

    Wondercide Outdoor Pest Control

    Wondercide has become my ride-or-die for outdoor pest control. It’s plant-based, uses essential oils (primarily cedar), and is specifically designed to be safe around children, pets, and yes — chickens. I spray it around the coop perimeter, on the exterior walls, and in the run area. It won’t harm your hens if they peck at treated surfaces, which was my biggest concern.

    The catch? You have to reapply more frequently than chemical sprays, especially after our afternoon thunderstorms. I do a full perimeter spray twice a week during peak fly season (basically March through November here in Northwest Florida) and it genuinely keeps things manageable.

    Diatomaceous Earth for Prevention

    This isn’t a spray, but it’s become essential to our fly management routine. Food-grade diatomaceous earth in the coop bedding and dust bathing areas helps control fly larvae before they become adult flies. It works mechanically — the tiny fossilized particles damage insect exoskeletons — so there’s no chemical exposure concern.

    I let the kids help me sprinkle it in the coop (with masks on to avoid inhaling the dust). It’s become part of our chicken care routine, and honestly? Teaching them why it works ties right into our nature study. We’ve talked about diatoms, looked at DE under our pocket microscope, and discussed how sometimes the best solutions come from understanding how nature already handles things.

    DIY Fly Spray That Actually Holds Up

    For a spray I can use directly in the coop and around animals, I make a simple mixture:

    • 2 cups water
    • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
    • 20 drops cedarwood essential oil
    • 10 drops eucalyptus essential oil
    • 10 drops lavender essential oil

    Shake well before each use. I keep this in a spray bottle in the mudroom and use it liberally. It won’t kill flies on contact like chemical sprays, but it’s a solid repellent that I feel completely fine using while the kids are in the coop with me. Our labradoodle has walked through freshly sprayed areas with zero issues.

    Managing the Source (Because Sprays Only Do So Much)

    Here’s the thing nobody tells you when you start keeping chickens: fly prevention matters more than fly treatment. No spray — toxic or otherwise — will solve a fly problem if you’re not managing what attracts them in the first place.

    In Florida’s heat, this means:

    Clean the coop more often than you think. I do a full bedding change weekly from May through September. It’s not optional here.

    Manage the water situation. Spilled chicken waterers create damp bedding, which flies love. We switched to nipple waterers and it made a noticeable difference.

    Compost strategically. Our compost bin is as far from the coop as our yard allows. Flies don’t need help finding each other.

    Making Chicken Care a Learning Opportunity

    One of the things I love about our Charlotte Mason approach is that these everyday problems become nature study. When we were dealing with our worst fly situation, we spent a morning learning about fly life cycles — which, gross, but also fascinating for elementary-age kids. Understanding that flies lay eggs in moist organic matter helped my oldest understand why we were suddenly so intense about keeping the coop dry.

    We sketched flies in our nature journals (from a library book, not live specimens — I have limits). We talked about food webs and why our chickens eating flies is actually a good thing. This is the stuff I remember from my own 90s childhood — figuring out how things work by actually working alongside the adults doing it.

    If you’re looking for a solid reference for chicken keeping in general, A Kid’s Guide to Keeping Chickens has been great for involving my kids more in flock care. It’s written at their level and covers everything from feeding to health issues.

    What About the Dog?

    Our mini labradoodle is convinced she’s a chicken guardian (she is not; she just likes to supervise). Any spray I use has to be safe for her too, since she’s in and out of the chicken area constantly.

    The Wondercide spray is pet-safe once dry, which usually takes about 30 minutes in our Florida humidity. The DIY spray I’ll use even with her standing right there. For her specifically, I also use Wondercide’s pet-safe fly spray directly on her during summer since she’s a magnet for every biting insect in the panhandle.

    The Realistic Expectation

    I want to be honest with you: non-toxic fly control in Florida chicken keeping is management, not elimination. We still have flies. Some days are worse than others. After heavy rain, I’m out there respraying and adding fresh DE and reminding myself that this is still better than loading up my yard with chemicals.

    But the difference between what we deal with now versus when we first got chickens and didn’t have a system? Night and day. My kids help with egg collection without me worrying about what they’re touching. The dog drinks from the hens’ water area and I don’t panic. I can actually enjoy sitting outside watching the flock without feeling like I’m in a horror movie.

    The Bottom Line

    Finding a non-toxic fly spray safe for chickens, kids, and dogs is about layering strategies — good repellent products, proper coop management, and realistic expectations. It’s more work than grabbing a can of Raid, I won’t lie. But when my kids are out there at 7am, barefoot in the grass, checking for eggs and talking to our hens about their night, I’m grateful we took the time to figure this out.

    Your backyard shouldn’t require a hazmat suit to enjoy. And with a little intention, it won’t.

    —

    Have questions about non-toxic pest control with backyard chickens? Drop them in the comments — I’d love to hear what’s working for your flock.

  • Homeschool Co-ops in Pensacola & Northwest Florida: A Local Mama’s Guide to Finding Your People

    Homeschool Co-ops in Pensacola & Northwest Florida: A Local Mama’s Guide to Finding Your People

    If you’ve just started homeschooling—or even if you’ve been at it for a while—there’s a good chance you’ve found yourself Googling “homeschool co-ops Pensacola Northwest Florida” at some point. Maybe during a particularly long rainy week when the kids are bouncing off the walls and you’re wondering if other homeschool families actually exist around here. I’ve been there, friend. And I have good news: they do exist, and there are some really wonderful options in our corner of the Sunshine State.

    This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

    Why Co-ops Matter (Especially Down Here)

    Let’s be honest—homeschooling can feel isolating sometimes. Especially in Florida, where summer heat keeps us indoors for a solid chunk of the year and our schedules don’t match up with the traditional school crowd. A good co-op gives your kids consistent friendships, gives you a break and some adult conversation, and often fills in gaps in subjects you might not love teaching yourself. (For us, that’s anything involving group presentations. My kids need practice talking to people who aren’t chickens.)

    But beyond academics, co-ops create community. Real, show-up-for-each-other community. The kind where someone texts you when your kid is having a hard day, or drops off soup when you’re sick. That’s been one of the unexpected blessings of our homeschool journey.

    Types of Homeschool Co-ops You’ll Find Around Pensacola

    Not all co-ops are created equal, and that’s actually a good thing. Here’s a general breakdown of what you’ll find in the Pensacola and greater Northwest Florida area:

    Parent-Led Co-ops

    These are the most common and usually the most affordable. Parents take turns teaching classes based on their strengths or interests. One mom might teach nature study, another leads art, someone else handles history. You typically pay a small materials fee and commit to teaching or helping in some capacity.

    These work beautifully for Charlotte Mason families because you can often shape classes around living books, hands-on learning, and time outdoors—which is exactly how our family approaches school at home.

    Hybrid or University-Model Programs

    These meet one to three days per week with paid instructors, and students complete homework at home on off days. They’re more structured (and more expensive), but they can be great for middle and high school students who want a classroom experience without full-time traditional school.

    Special Interest Groups

    Not technically co-ops, but worth mentioning—these are groups that meet for specific activities like nature study, art, PE, or book clubs. They’re often more flexible and a great way to dip your toes into community without a big commitment.

    Where to Find Homeschool Co-ops in Northwest Florida

    Here’s the tricky part: most co-ops don’t have fancy websites or big advertising budgets. You have to know where to look.

    Facebook Groups

    This is where the magic happens. Search for groups like “Pensacola Homeschoolers,” “Escambia County Homeschool Co-op,” “Santa Rosa County Homeschoolers,” or “Northwest Florida Homeschool Community.” Many co-ops post enrollment info and events only in these groups, so it’s worth joining even if you’re not a big social media person.

    Local Churches

    Quite a few co-ops in our area meet at churches—whether faith-based or secular in their curriculum. Call around or check church bulletins and websites. Even if the church itself doesn’t host a co-op, the staff often knows of homeschool groups that meet nearby.

    Homeschool Curriculum Stores & Events

    If you’ve ever been to a used curriculum sale in the area, you know it’s basically a homeschool networking event. These are great places to meet other families and ask about co-ops. Word of mouth is still the best way to find your people.

    Florida Homeschool Conventions

    The annual conventions (like the one in Orlando or regional events closer to us) often have co-op leaders with booths or information tables. It’s a great chance to ask questions face-to-face.

    What to Look for in a Good Co-op

    Once you’ve found a few options, how do you know which one is right for your family? Here are some things I’d encourage you to consider:

    Philosophy Alignment

    If you’re a Charlotte Mason family like us, you might feel out of place in a co-op that’s heavy on worksheets and textbooks. Look for groups that value living books, nature study, hands-on projects, and unhurried learning. Ask what a typical class looks like.

    Schedule and Commitment Level

    Some co-ops meet weekly and expect significant parent involvement. Others meet monthly and are more laid-back. Think honestly about what your family can handle—especially if you have little ones at home, backyard animals to tend, or a rhythm that works best with flexibility.

    Class Offerings

    What do you actually need from a co-op? For us, it’s been nature study, art, and group read-alouds. If your child needs a lab science or a foreign language you can’t teach, look for a co-op that offers those. Some families cobble together a couple of different groups to cover all their bases.

    Culture and Community Vibe

    This one’s harder to measure but so important. Visit if you can. Are the parents friendly and welcoming? Do the kids seem happy? Is there room for your family’s quirks—whether that’s your strong-willed four-year-old or your obsession with identifying bird calls?

    Making the Most of Co-op Life

    Once you’ve found your people, here are a few tips for thriving:

    Bring something to the table. Even if you’re nervous about teaching, offer what you can. Maybe that’s leading a nature walk, organizing a field trip, or just bringing snacks. Co-ops work best when everyone contributes.

    Use it as an extension of home learning. After our co-op nature class, we often come home and sketch what we found in our nature journals. The kids love using their Faber-Castell watercolor pencils to add color to their sketches—it makes the learning stick.

    Don’t over-schedule. It’s tempting to sign up for every class and activity, but remember: margin matters. Leave room for slow mornings, backyard play, and spontaneous discoveries. That’s where the real magic happens.

    Give it time. Relationships take a while to build. If your first semester feels awkward, that’s normal. Keep showing up.

    What About the Florida PEP Scholarship?

    If you’re using the Florida PEP homeschool scholarship (formerly the Family Empowerment Scholarship), you may be able to use funds for certain co-op fees or classes—especially if they’re with an approved provider or tutor. It’s worth asking your co-op leadership and checking the current ClassWallet guidelines. The rules shift sometimes, so stay informed.

    A Few Resources We Love

    Whether you’re in a co-op or homeschooling solo, here are some tools that have served us well:

    You’re Not Meant to Do This Alone

    Homeschooling is a beautiful, wild, sometimes exhausting adventure—but it was never meant to be a solo journey. Finding a co-op or homeschool community in Pensacola or Northwest Florida might take a little digging, but it’s so worth it. For your kids. And honestly? For you, too, mama.

    So go ahead—send that email, show up to that park day, ask the awkward questions. Your people are out there. And when you find them, it changes everything.

    Now if you’ll excuse me, the dog is barking at the chickens again, and someone just discovered a lizard in the laundry room. Just another Wednesday around here.