Batch Balance Bikes: The Best Way to Teach Toddlers to Ride & Why Outdoor Play Matters More Than Ever

As a daycare provider who has worked with children for years, I’ve seen firsthand just how powerful a tool the Batch Balance Bike can be. If you’ve never used one before, let me paint a picture: tiny feet scooting confidently, little eyes locked ahead, and huge smiles that say, “I’m doing it!” That’s the magic of a balance bike—and Batch makes some of the best.

These thoughtfully designed bikes skip the pedals and training wheels to focus on the foundation of riding: balance. And it works. I’ve helped countless toddlers transition from a Batch balance bike to a pedal bike—without ever needing training wheels—often within just a few months.

Why Batch Balance Bikes Are a Game-Changer for Toddlers

1. They Prioritize Balance Over Pedaling

Pedaling is easy once balance is mastered—and Batch bikes are built specifically to teach that skill first. The result? Confident little riders who are ready to hit the trails (or the driveway) in no time.

2. Confidence Boosting

With their lightweight frame and kid-friendly design, Batch balance bikes empower even the youngest riders. Kids as young as 18 months can start gliding on their own, building confidence every step (or scoot) of the way.

3. Supports Healthy Development

Balance bikes help children build coordination, core strength, and gross motor skills. They’re not just a toy—they’re a developmental tool disguised as fun.

4. Seamless Transition to Pedal Bikes

In my experience, kids who start with a Batch balance bike often skip training wheels completely when it’s time to move to a “big kid” bike. They’ve already mastered the hardest part.

5. High-Quality Construction

Batch bikes are well-built and designed to last through years of riding and multiple children. Their lightweight frames make them easy for little ones to handle, while their durable parts stand up to real-world play.

Designed for toddlers and preschoolers, the pedal-free Batch Balance Bike helps kids develop balance, coordination and confidence before transitioning to a traditional bicycle. The feather-light frame is made from durable 6061 aluminum, making it easy for little riders to handle. Puncture-proof EVA tires offer a stress-free learning experience (for parents :) And an adjustable, padded seat for growing riders ages 2-5 at an affordable $120.

Why Outdoor Play Should Be a Top Priority

While Batch balance bikes are a fantastic teaching tool, their real value shines in what they encourage: outdoor play.

We live in a time when screens are everywhere and structured schedules leave little room for free exploration. But kids thrive when they’re outside. They need fresh air, movement, and unstructured time to grow into healthy, happy humans. There are so many low cost activities you can do with your kids all year round that are outdoors. 

Here’s what outdoor play offers:

• Physical health: Running, scooting, and riding boost strength and endurance.
• Mental well-being: Nature and physical activity reduce stress, anxiety, and improve focus. You could start bike riding to go rock hunting and learn about geology, the possibilities are endless.
• Social growth: Kids learn to take turns, solve problems, and communicate while playing outside.
• Creativity: Outdoor environments inspire imagination and adventure in ways that indoor toys and screens can’t.

And learning to ride a bike? That’s one of the best outdoor experiences a child can have. It’s fun, freeing, and full of adventure—and it all starts with a balance bike like Batch.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a way to help your toddler learn to ride while encouraging more outdoor time and physical activity, a Batch Balance Bike is a smart investment. I’ve seen it work over and over again in my daycare—kids gain skills, confidence, and joy from the moment they hop on.

This isn’t just about riding a bike. It’s about confidence, independence, health, and connection with the world around them. Let’s raise a generation that plays more, moves more, and explores more. The journey starts with balance—and it starts with Batch.

Three Years of Love, Growth, and Resilience: Celebrating Our Wedding Anniversary

Today marks our third wedding anniversary, and my heart is overflowing with gratitude, pride, and love. It was one of the most amazing weddings that I am proud to say I planned all on my own. These past three years have been anything but ordinary — filled with highs, lows, laughter, tears, milestones, and more than a few lessons along the way. Through it all, we’ve grown stronger as a couple, more connected as a family, and deeply proud of the life we’ve built together.

Chris and I have weathered storms, celebrated victories, and stood firm through every twist and turn that life could throw our way. Our love has never been about perfection — it’s been about commitment, grit, and holding onto each other through the chaos. And today, we get to celebrate all of it — the messy, the magical, and everything in between.

We look at our family and can’t help but feel immense pride.

Troy, our youngest, has shown incredible growth this past year. He’s learned to manage and embrace the parts of him that make him unique — his special features and abilities — and we couldn’t be more proud of the way he’s adapting and thriving. He’s becoming more independent, confident, and in tune with who he is. Watching him navigate the world with growing self-awareness has been one of the most beautiful parts of this journey.

Brooke, with a heart full of compassion and resilience, has conquered a school year that most adults would struggle to endure. Despite facing life-altering challenges, she’s pushed forward with bravery and grace. She’s stood up for herself, kept going when things felt impossible, and emerged stronger than ever. She is the definition of courage, and we’re in awe of the young woman she’s becoming.

And Tyson — our driven, passionate, and kind-hearted son — is stepping into a new chapter of his life. He’ll soon be working at The Modest Butcher, where he’ll continue chasing his culinary dreams. We already see the makings of a future master chef in him. His dedication, discipline, and love for food have lit a fire that we know will carry him far.

Through all of this, Chris and I have stood hand in hand, side by side. It hasn’t always been easy, but it’s always been worth it. We’re so proud of each other, of the love we’ve nurtured, and the home we’ve created. This anniversary isn’t just about our wedding day — it’s about every day since then. Every moment we chose each other again. Every time we showed up for our family and kept going, even when it felt hard.

Thank you to everyone who has followed our journey, lifted us with your love, and supported us through the years. We feel so lucky to have a village that cheers us on and walks alongside us. I hope to plan another amazing event together get our families together and enjoy some wild activities or wonderland themed adventures. 

Here’s to three amazing years of marriage, a lifetime of memories still to make, and a family that continues to grow in love, strength, and joy.

Chris and Mandy forever. 💍💗

The Perfect Toy for Busy Cats & Kittens

Cats are natural hunters—full of curiosity, stealth, and bursts of energy. Keeping my kitten busy when we are working all day can be a challenge so I have been looking for automatic toys to keep her happy. She loves to play all day long, so this ball is perfect for all her energy. Beans likes it as well which is awesome because I love to keep her busy as well. Beans definitely needs the exercise so this ball is perfect for her too. The Cheerble automatic ball taps right into these instincts, offering:

• Smart, move-itself action
  With 3 play modes—Gentle, Normal, Active, the ball autonomously shakes, rolls, and bounces, mimicking erratic prey and keeping cats chasing and strategizing  .
• Built-in safety/rest cycles
  The toy runs for ~10 minutes, then pauses for 30 minutes to prevent overstimulation and preserve battery life, automatically reactivating if nudged  .
• LED lights + bell option
  Bright lights and an attachable bell offer multi-sensory engagement—great for shy kittens or visually curious cats  .
• Soft, paw-friendly exterior
  Its faux-fur/synthetic fiber cover is gentle, satisfying to scratch, and won’t damage floors if used indoors  .
• Obstacle-avoidant intelligence
  Built-in sensors let it pivot when stuck, avoiding corners and furniture, which keeps playtime seamless and fun  .
• Quick recharge & long runtime
  Charges in about an hour and delivers hours of cumulative active play, making it reliable for daily use  .

Why It’s a Great Choice

Playing with the Cheerble ball helps cats:

• Get daily exercise—combats boredom and supports weight & joint health  .
• Stay mentally sharp, mimicking natural hunting behavior  .
• Relieve stress when left alone—owners report their cats stay entertained during long days away  .“Almost all mylove it! … keeps them entertained
  

Benefits At a Glance

• Self-rolling & reactive — no app needed
• Three diverse play modes to match energy levels
• LED lights + optional bell = sensory stimulation
• Soft, paw-friendly faux fur cover
• Automatic play/rest cycles to prevent overstimulation
• Obstacle detection ensures continuous action
• Quick charge with hours of uptime

Finding It Under $50 on Amazon

Good news—there are several Cheerble ball listings priced under $50:

• Cheerble Smart Interactive Cat Toy (mouse) — about $17.99–$24.99, includes LED lights, bell, and smart movement modes  .
• Cheerble Wicked Ball M3 (upgraded model) — roughly $27.99, with extended playtime (~3.5 hours) and enhanced obstacle alerts  .
• Promotional deals have even nudged prices down to $19.97–$26.90 during sales  .

That keeps all versions well within budget while delivering the full benefits of interactive play.

🛍️ Recommended Options

Below are top Cheerble balls currently available for under $50:

• Cheerble Smart Ball: Includes lights and bell, three speed modes, soft cover—around CA $33.
• Cheerble Wicked Ball: Enhanced alerts for getting stuck or low battery, longer runtime.
• Cheerble Snail: Classic version with full feature set under $35.

Conclusion: A Smart Buy for Happy Cats

The Cheerble automatic ball is more than just a toy—it’s a smart, engaging companion for your cat while you’re busy or away. It encourages exercise, staves off boredom, and taps into instinctual play—all in a safe, soft package—and best of all, most versions fall under $50 on Amazon. You definitely will end up going on some hide and seek adventures around the house when you lose site of the ball but with the bright flashing light and beeps it’s usually easy to find. 

You can watch my cats chasing their ball here on our Instagram!

Want help choosing the perfect model or comparing specs? I’d be glad to help! Cheerble also carries automatic dog toys as well. 

Navigating Child Support After Divorce

Navigating the intricacies of child support after divorce can be a daunting task for many families. The complexity lies in understanding the legal obligations and ensuring that the welfare of the child is prioritized. This article explores the essential aspects of child support, underlining why grasping these details is crucial for families undergoing this transformative phase.

Amidst the emotional tumult of divorce, child support emerges as a crucial topic to be addressed. Legal regulations, which vary by state, form the backbone of the child support system. Understanding these regulations can help ease the process for the family and ensure that all parties are working towards a common goal.

As families transition into new dynamics post-divorce, understanding child support commitments becomes necessary. This article delves into the essential facts, guidelines, and statistics that inform this important aspect of family law. By equipping yourself with this knowledge, the pathway to managing child support obligations can become more navigable.

Understanding State-Specific Child Support Rules

One of the key components of understanding child support is knowing that its stipulations vary from state to state. For instance, according to the Rhode Island Department of State, child support may continue until the child reaches 18 years of age. This provision could extend if the child remains in school, continuing for three months beyond their graduation.

For families, this means there's a need for tailored financial planning based on where they reside. Different states hold varying legal requirements that determine the duration and specifics of child support. Comprehending these differences is essential for families to strategize effectively for their children's futures.

The variation in state laws emphasizes the importance of being informed about local regulations. Each family must ensure they are complying with the law as it pertains to their specific circumstances. Being aware of these rules not only facilitates legal compliance but also aids in financial planning for the family.

The Role of Legal Professionals

Engaging with legal professionals is often indispensable when dealing with child support matters. According to the ABA Profile of the Legal Profession, the United States has over 1.3 million lawyers. This high number signifies ample availability of legal aid to assist families in resolving their child support concerns.

Lawyers play a crucial role in helping families negotiate child support agreements that are fair and equitable. Their expertise can ensure that all parties abide by the requisite legal standards and work towards the best interests of the child. Families benefit from the guidance of legal professionals who can tailor advice to suit their specific situation.

Accessing legal counsel can provide clarity and direction in navigating the child support landscape. By collaborating with lawyers, families can unravel the complexities of divorce settlements and child support obligations. Consequently, this enables them to focus on providing a stable environment for their children.

Financial Planning Post-Divorce

Financial planning becomes a significant component of family restructuring after divorce. According to Planned Giving, 34% of individuals initiate estate planning following the birth of a child. This statistic underscores the importance of proactive financial arrangements for families post-divorce, especially regarding child support.

With financial obligations to consider, families must assess their economic strategies carefully. Addressing estate planning can serve as a proactive step to ensure financial stability. This plan not only benefits the immediate family but also shelters future generations by providing a safety net.

Proper financial planning allows families to meet obligations while also preparing for unforeseen contingencies. Post-divorce, the financial landscape may shift considerably, necessitating a reevaluation of priorities. By engaging in thoughtful financial planning, families can establish long-term security and continuity.

Navigating the legal and financial aspects of child support after divorce is essential for maintaining family stability. With knowledge and preparation, families can maneuver these processes more effectively. Understanding state-specific laws, engaging legal professionals, and careful financial planning are vital components in this endeavor.

Optional Add-Ons That Enhance Your Mini Kitchen

From corporate workspaces to compact apartments, small homes, and holiday rental properties, there are countless uses for mini kitchen units. Bridging convenience with practical design, and of course, an underlying commitment to aesthetic flair through various personalisable features, mini kitchens are a versatile solution for those homes and properties with limited space but a need for kitchen amenities. The starting point for every new client is choosing a standalone kitchen unit – with options starting at just 1m in width and expanding in both size and functionality. From there, the personalisation of your mini kitchen comes from the various optional extras and add-ons you choose…

Functional Add-Ons

The main purpose of a mini kitchen is to take a small area and inject it with functional facilities that ensure optimal use of the space. These units are not merely reserved for small apartments and studio flats but are also created with an eye to corporate use, creating office kitchens, and even spanning outside areas. A mini kitchen embodies all the necessities to prepare and cook food, keeping everything contained within a very small space, with clients then able to layer additional features on top of their unit. Some of the most functional and practical add-ons to explore include microwave cabinets, extractor fans, wall cabinets and shelving units, and taps. With standalone kitchen units able to slot into the available space with ease, each client has control over the position of these extra features and add-ons – whether they are mounted on the wall above the unit, on an opposite wall, or somewhere else completely.

 

Features Which Enhance the Look of Your Mini Kitchen

While practical design lies at the heart of every mini kitchen, it’s the personal touches and aesthetic features that really pull the unit together with the design and finish of the surrounding environment. This is where we look to the add-ons like splashbacks, extractor fans and their ventilation covers, additional worktop wings, and cupboards. From extending the worktop to create more of a spacious and minimalist look, to closing the entire kitchen unit behind tall larder doors, this is the part of the design process that gives clients more control over how their compact standalone kitchen looks in situ. We’ve seen branded splashbacks, integrated microwaves, coloured taps, and so much more – proving just how versatile these small but powerful kitchen units really are.

 

Choosing Your Mini Kitchen Design

Every mini kitchen starts as a basic unit, which is yours to tailor and adapt as preferred. With teams on hand to advise, offer inspiration and ideas, and help you bridge the practical requirements of your mini kitchen with the aesthetic finishes and features, we’re here to prove just how stylish a compact kitchen can be. Get in touch with your local supplier and mini kitchen design team to start building your perfect compact kitchen unit.

Snifty: The Nifty App That Transforms How You Store, Share, and Enjoy Your Photos

In a world where we’re constantly snapping pictures—from everyday moments to milestone memories—organizing and preserving those images can quickly become overwhelming. That’s where Snifty, the nifty new photo app, steps in to save the day. Whether you’re a proud parent, a social media maven, or simply someone who loves looking back at life’s sweetest moments, Snifty makes photo storage simple, beautiful, and fun.

📱 What Is Snifty?

Snifty is more than just a cloud photo storage app—it’s a memory-keeping experience. Designed with real life in mind, it lets users organize, personalize, and share their photos effortlessly, turning basic image storage into something special.

✨ Snifty’s Top Benefits

1. Beautiful Custom Frames & Themes

Tired of boring photo albums? Snifty allows you to wrap your memories in beautifully curated frames and story layouts. From seasonal themes to holiday fun and personal milestones, your photos look polished and purposeful without any extra effort.

2. Easy Organization

With Snifty, your photos are sorted automatically by date, event, or tags, so you can find that special picture in seconds. No more endless scrolling or digging through your camera roll.

3. Shareable Stories

Turn your favorite photos into mini slideshows and digital stories to share with friends and family. Whether it’s your baby’s first steps, a magical vacation, or your latest adventure with your fur babies, Snifty helps you tell the whole story in style.

4. Safe & Secure Cloud Storage

Never worry about losing your photos again. Snifty offers secure cloud backup so your memories are safe even if your phone isn’t. Plus, your storage is scalable, meaning you can start small and grow as your photo library does.

5. User-Friendly Interface

Even if you’re not tech-savvy, Snifty’s intuitive design makes it easy to upload, view, and sort your pictures. Just drag, drop, and go!

6. Collaborative Albums

Planning a trip with friends or throwing a party? Invite others to contribute their photos to a shared album, so everyone’s snapshots live in one beautiful place.

7. Memory Notifications

Snifty will remind you of your favorite memories with smart throwback alerts—perfect for those “Aww, remember this?” moments.

🧁 Who Should Use Snifty?

• Parents looking to document their children growing up
• Pet lovers wanting to capture every adorable whisker moment
• Travelers who collect memories from around the world
• Families who want a digital scrapbook they can all contribute to
• Social content creators needing an aesthetic edge in photo storytelling

🌟 Final Thoughts

In a world where our memories live on our phones, Snifty makes sure they’re never forgotten, just better organized and beautifully displayed. It’s not just photo storage—it’s memory keeping reimagined. Whether you’re reliving last summer’s beach trip or organizing baby’s first year, Snifty turns everyday photos into moments that shine.

Try Snifty today and see why this nifty little app is making a big impact on how we preserve our lives—one picture at a time.