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The Jan & Jul Blog

Keep up on the latest news. The Jan & Jul blog will feature product releases, our community support, the newest technologies and more!

Not All Sun Hats are Created Equal: Sun Hats: Sun Hats

Kid's Sun Hats An Honest Review

There isn’t any getting around the fact that my oldest child has a large head. The first time I really noticed this was when I embarked on an honest review search for a baby sun hat suitable for sun protection. None of them fit!

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easter basket ideas

Sustainable Egg Hunt and Easter Basket Ideas That’ll Last All Season

I know some people find Easter daunting with all the chocolate, candy and gifts that come into the house. For that reason, I love being very purposeful in the purchases I make. My three kids are 5.5, 4 and 1.5 years old, so with the varying ages, the Easter Bunny must get creative!

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Homemade Easter Baskets for Frugal Parents

Homemade Easter Baskets for Frugal Parents

Are you ready to turn your recycling into the MOST ADORABLE homemade Easter baskets? Hi, I’m Jackie from Sew Bright Creations ! I’m a DIY Blogger and mom of 2 living in Northern BC. In my corner of the internet, you’ll find all things creative, whether it’s a kid’s craft or renovating our home.

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benefits of getting outside

5 Benefits of Getting Outside More with Kids

“Every year around this time, families are starting their New Year’s Resolutions. We all know that there are countless benefits of getting outside! While fresh air works wonders on our mind, body and soul. But it’s not always easy to get outside, especially on cold and wet days. When the going gets tough, let’s take a collective deep breath and remind ourselves of our "why"…

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Get Outdoors in 2022

50 Ways to Get Outdoors in 2024

In 2024, many of us have high hopes of getting outside more, ranging from walking to school to 1000 Hours Outside. While daily walks have their merit, some days may take a little more creativity to inspire your kiddos to come outside. We asked our brand reps for their favourite ways to get outside year-round and compiled a list. Here’s 50 ways to get outdoors in 2024…

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Outdoor Winter Adventures for Kids

Outdoor Winter Adventures for Kids

Embracing outdoor winter adventures with kids may seem like a challenge, with extra layers and chilly weather to contend with. Yet, as a mother of three navigating Alaskan winters, I've discovered that ordinary places transform into magical wonderlands when blanketed in snow.

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Holiday Craft for Kids

A Nature-Inspired Holiday Craft for Kids

The holiday season is a great time to create memories with your children by making a Holiday Craft for Kids. One way our family does this is by making holiday crafts together. I have fond memories of making crafts as a child and I feel grateful to carry on that tradition with my children and family now. And let’s not forget, crafting isn’t just for kids! Being creative can be incredibly therapeutic for adults too.

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Choosing Snow Gear for Kids

What to Consider When Choosing Snow Gear for Kids

Hey fellow snow-loving parents! Winter is just around the corner, and you know what that means – it's time to gear up your little adventurers for some snowy fun! Choosing snow gear for kids is as important as finding the ideal hot cocoa recipe – it has to be warm, comfy, and oh-so-cozy.

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Mittens for a Cause

Mittens for a Cause

“Growing up in rural China, I know how it feels to go hungry.” Florence Luo, founder of Jan & Jul spent most of her childhood living in a small, poor village in China. People living in her village had no fresh water, no electricity and little education available to them. “Malnutrition and hunger were so common in our village"…

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kids stocking stuffers

Top 7 Kids Stocking Stuffers

You’re stumped on the kids stocking stuffers! What to do? Whether you’re looking for a couple little presents to beef up the stash or want to take a more minimalist approach this year with gifts, we’ve got you covered! Here are our Top 7 Kids Stocking Stuffers, featured in our Holiday Gift Guide. Let the inspiration begin…

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4 Tips for Choosing the Best Extracurricular Activities for Kids

4 Tips for Choosing the Best Extracurricular Activities for Kids

I’ve spent the last few weeks flipping through our family calendar and writing in everyone’s schedules. Figuring out the best activities for kids is hard, especially when you have three kids and are already busy parents. The family calendar fills up fast! To help you out, here are my tips on choosing the best extracurricular activities for kids. *Hint hint* there’s no one answer.

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warm kids Halloween costumes

How to Choose Warm Kids Halloween Costumes

As a mother living in Alaska, I have developed tried-and-true tips on choosing warm kids Halloween costumes for my family! For some, the end of October still flaunts warm weather, but for most, the weather has already turned chilly. For others like myself, Halloween dips into negative temperatures and even include snow! Whether you’re planning to purchase or DIY a kids Halloween costume this year, keep these points in mind!

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Easy Halloween Costumes

Easy Halloween Costumes

Have you ever worried about sending your kids trick-or-treating in the cold? Or do you dread the last-minute rush to the dollar store for single-use costumes? It’s time to dress up, Jan & Jul style! We have lots of ideas for easy halloween costumes. Did you know? A 2019 study from the UK found that a whopping “over two thousand tonnes” of clothing waste is estimated each year solely from throwaway costumes…

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Kids Waterproof Winter Boots

An Honest Review: Jan & Jul's Kids Waterproof Winter Boots

The chill in the mornings has us pulling out our favourite kids waterproof winter boots for some rainy homeschool adventure! As a homeschooling parent, I place a heavy emphasis on being outdoors. I appreciate quality gear that supports our outdoor learning and doesn’t distract us from what we’re doing.

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parent teacher relationship

How to Nurture a Positive Parent-Teacher Relationship

Set your child up for success by building a strong parent-teacher relationship! Often, when we think about the year ahead, we think of back-to-school shopping. But, our work as parents doesn’t stop once the supplies are bought. In fact, some of the most important work we can do as parents starts with reaching out to our child’s classroom teacher and forging that parent-teacher connection.

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School Morning Routine: Tips for a Stress-Free Morning

School Morning Routine: Tips for a Stress-Free Morning

After a fun and relaxed summer, we’re ready to transition back to a more structured schedule and school morning routine. A tighter schedule can be an adjustment for kids, especially when paired with other big life changes like starting school for the first time. Here are a few things I do to help make that transition a little easier on them (and me!)

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How to Make Your Own DIY School Sign

How to Make Your Own DIY School Sign

School is starting soon and we are getting prepared by making a DIY school sign for my littlest. My family loves being able to document the memories created on the first and last days of the school year. It’s so special to look back on the photos and see their growth. In this post, I’m going to show you how you can easily create your own DIY school sign.

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pop-up shop

Fall & Winter Pop-Up Shop

Looking for some cute and practical kids clothing for fall and beyond? Add to your kiddo's wardrobe at our Fall & Winter Pop-Up Shop. From Fridays to Sundays 10:00am to 4:00pm, join us at our headquarters for an exclusive one-hour window. Explore a variety of fall and winter must-haves and get special discounts. Prep for the colder months by having your child's outfits ready to go.

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Family Photo Tips

Family Photo Tips: Beyond Saying “Cheese”

Are you looking for last-minute family photo tips or scrambling to find what to wear? I know the feeling! A family photoshoot can be the most stressful thing on your calendar this month. But what if it didn’t have to be that way? What if it could be a fun event that your family looks forward to each year?

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5 Back to School Skills to Practice During Summer Break

5 Back to School Skills to Practice During Summer Break

If you have a child heading to school after summer break, you can make your kids’ return to school easier by practicing back to school skills! I love the carefree days of summer break when we sleep in late and spend all day at the lake or beach. But the break can make the return to school a real challenge.

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Plane Activities for Kids

Plane Activities for Kids

Summer is travel season! If you travel with your kids, you might be worried about keeping them busy. The good news is that knowing the right plane activities for kids makes all the difference! Some entertainment worked for all of my children, while other activities were age-dependent. Let me share with you what worked for me when I boarded an airplane with three children in tow!

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No-Tie Kids Shoes

No-Tie Kids Shoes

What can parents and caregivers do help their child gain independence, and get out the door faster? Give no-tie kids shoes a try! In my parenting journey, one of my biggest goals has been to foster independence in my children. Something as simple as learning to dress themselves can have such an impact on their confidence and how mornings go.

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Water Safety for Toddlers

6 Tips for Water Safety for Toddlers

If you’re hitting the pool or beach with your little ones, you might not realize how important water safety for toddlers is until you have a close call! Last week, my husband and I were at the pool with our three kids. I’d just come back from a bathroom break with my youngest, so we’d taken off her floatie. Despite both my husband and I being there…

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Best Wide Toddler Shoes

The Best Wide Toddler Shoes for Every Occasion

As a mama of two with very wide feet, I'm passionate about finding the best wide toddler shoes! As you may already know, most shoes on the market have a narrow toe box. If your kid has wide, chubby or pillow feet, you may be tempted to always buy a size up. Unfortunately, this often results in your kiddo wearing shoes that fit better in width, but are too long.

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Baby Beach Day Essentials

Baby Beach Day Essentials

 
On the west coast we’ve been getting such hot weather – that means it’s time for a baby beach day! As a beach lover who is passionate about sun safety, I believe having the right gear is crucial to a fun and relaxing beach day with your baby! Here are some essentials that every parent should have when bringing their littlest one along to the beach.

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summer camps in vancouver

Summer Camps in Vancouver: 8 Things you should know

June is just around the corner! While my kids scream in excitement about their summer camps in Vancouver, it’s often filled with mixed emotions for parents. For some, filling up (or not) that time is exciting. For others, it’s daunting. However you feel about summer, it helps to have a plan! Here are my 8 tips to tackling summer camps.

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Best Women’s Waterproof Jacket

An Honest Review: Women’s Waterproof Jackets

Finding the best women’s waterproof jacket was such a challenge! Over the years, I’ve tried expensive name-brand jackets that always seemed to fall short. Either they weren’t actually waterproof, weren’t breathable, or didn’t fit well. I’ve always been a fan of Jan & Jul gear for my kids and had to give their women’s jackets a try. So, here’s my honest review and some tips in finding the best fit!

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Why PFAS Free Kids Clothing is Important

Why PFAS Free Kids Clothing is Important

Are you on the search for PFAS free kids clothing? When shopping for your family, there is a lot to think about. Quality, sustainability, value. But something that not everyone considers is avoiding toxic chemicals like PFAS. As a doctor and a mother, I am always trying to make healthy choices for my family. Finding PFAS free kids clothing has been at the top of our list!

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Unbreakable Kids Sunglasses

Unbreakable Kids Sunglasses: Put to the Test!

Gigi gets the most compliments on his Jan & Jul raingear and swimwear, but their unbreakable kids sunglasses are awesome! We've been fans of Jan & Jul products for a few years now and they definitely hold up to the test of time. I love how many fun colours the sunglasses come in, and they're also so durable! In fact, Gigi and I decided to put them to the test and see how well they would hold up!

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Stay Put Baby Booties

An Honest Review: Stay Put Baby Booties

Any parent who’s on the search for stay put baby booties knows… It’s almost impossible to keep socks and shoes from sliding off those tiny chubby feet! In anticipation for my first child, I purchased a wide array of adorable little socks and baby shoes – only to realize none of them would stay on my son’s feet. They’d slide right off after 5 minutes of squirming, or he’d pull them off while giggling at his own hilarity!

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The Best Kids Fishing Hat

The Best Kids Fishing Hat!

Since I started taking Lochlan, my son fishing with me, I knew I had to find the best kids fishing hat. He loves being outside, whether he’s reeling in fish or playing on the riverbank with his trucks. As we spend more time outdoors, I have to be extra mindful of his sun protection!

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How to Dress Baby for the Rain

3 Easy Steps: How to Dress Baby for the Rain

Getting outside in nature has been such an important daily habit for our family of four. But since it’s not always sunny and warm, figuring out how to dress baby for the rain can be tricky! Here’s some tips for how to get your baby ready for rainy outdoor adventures. I’ve broken it down into three easy steps, so here we go!

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Baby Barefoot Shoes

The Best Baby Barefoot Shoes for Every Stage

As a mother of two and barefoot shoe nerd, I’m always on the hunt for the best baby barefoot shoes for my one-year-old. Research shows that a child’s foot muscles develop best when barefoot. But we know that babies can’t always go barefoot! Those little feet need protection from getting hurt or cold when crawling or toddling around.

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The Best Puffy Jacket for Kids

The Best Puffy Jacket for Kids

Living in Alaska with multiple children, we’ve spent our fair share of time searching for the best puffy jacket for kids. Our winters are quite brutal and oftentimes if it's not snowing, it’s raining. After years of testing different brands, we have narrowed down the key components to what makes the best puffy jacket for kids!

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How to Choose Barefoot Shoes for Kids!

Jan & Jul's Barefoot Shoes for Kids!

As parents, we try our best to support healthy development in all aspects of our children’s lives. We make sure they eat fruits and veggies, encourage learning and take them outside to play. However, one frequently overlooked aspect of child development is their foot health! You may have heard the phrase, “barefoot is best…

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household routines for busy parents

5 Household Routines for Busy Parents in 2023

What are you most looking forward to in 2023? After the hustle and bustle of holiday gatherings, January is a great time to get back into nature, go on forest adventures, and explore outside. As a busy working mom, I love to free up my weekend time to adventure. But how? Here are 5 household routines for busy parents that work! These have helped us spend less time on chores, so we have more time to play!

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Natural DIY Holiday Decorations

4 Natural DIY Holiday Decorations to Make with Your Kids

One of my favorite memories from childhood was making our own natural DIY holiday decorations as a family. I remember feeling a deep sense of pride, accomplishment and belonging looking at my handmade items hanging among the decor each December. That’s why I’ve decided to continue this wonderful tradition with my own kids…

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Homeschool Winter Lessons: Bring the Classroom Outdoors!

Did you know? Studies have showed that academic performance rises when children are allowed to do their lessons outdoors! Homeschooling is a great way to encourage outdoor education. During warm, dry weather, it's quite easy to take homeschool outdoors – my family has a table on our back porch, and all our supplies on a rolling cart…

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Homemade Stocking Stuffer for Kids

Homemade Stocking Stuffer for Kids

Okay crafty moms: I've got you covered for a super easy homemade stocking stuffer for kids that they’ll love. We call them “story starters” – they’re great for playing with at home or on the go! We chose a nature inspired theme, but the options to get creative are endless. Kids have so much fun creating their own imaginative stories with these story starter rocks. This homemade stocking stuffer for kids will be one to remember…

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How to Dress Kids for Winter

How to Dress Kids for Winter

Once the temperature dips below freezing, many parents wonder what’s the best way to dress kids for winter! While good outerwear is very important for your little ones’ comfort, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Having the right layers that accommodate active movement is key! Living in South Central Alaska…

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How to Choose the Best Mittens for Kids! 

How to Choose the Best Mittens for Kids! 

Cold weather is right around the corner so we’re comparing the best mittens for kids, for any outdoor activity! Having quality gear can make or break time outdoors for your little one. My 4-year-old loves to play with all things in nature, even when it’s wet and cold out… 

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fall family photos

How to Take Outdoor Fall Family Photos

Ask any photographer and they’ll probably say they love taking fall family photos! With the changing of the seasons, rainier weather is also on its way. I always say, weather should not stop you from getting outside (most of the time)! So how should families prepare for rain and enjoy getting outside for some photos? Let’s talk about it…

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keep kids busy on weekends

Sensory Activities to Keep Kids Busy on the Weekend

Fall is here, once again bringing back our weekly schedules and rhythms. With your kids busy during the week with school or daycare, it may leave you wondering how to keep kids busy on weekends! When I need to catch up on housework or want something educational that will entertain them for hours, I always turn to sensory play activities…

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Newborn Shopping List

The Practical Mom’s Newborn Shopping List

When it comes to making a newborn shopping list, it can be overwhelming trying to decide what items are necessary and which are just plain impractical. Not to mention figuring out what to look for when choosing those items! Aside from some of the more obvious things parents might need, here are a few suggestions of items to add on your newborn shopping list…

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manage kids screen time

How to Manage Kids’ Screen Time

There are few topics more contentious for parents these days than how to manage kids screen time. Just the mention of screen time and people get their hackles up. Is it something we have to feel guilty or defensive about? Absolutely not! By consciously working to manage kids screen time in our routine, we can feel good about it.
For us, my partner and I sat down and discussed how we felt screen time would work best for our family…

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its all in the design

It’s All in the Design

What makes Jan & Jul special? It’s all in the design! We know how fast kids grow, and how hard they can be on their clothing. That’s why our thoughtful Gro-With-Me® designs not only allow your child to wear their gear longer but are made to last with quality fabrics and craftsmanship. From easy-on zippers to machine washable shoes, we factor in every consideration to make our designs practical for both kids and parents.

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kids bento box ideas

Kids Bento Box Ideas from @BowsAndBentos

Have you ever felt like you've run out of kids bento box ideas by the 3rd week of school and you have 9 more months to go? You're not alone. Here are some tips that can help prepare you and your kiddos for success this year and beyond. Please note the following suggestions come from my experience as a parent of neurotypical children.

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kids backpack

How to Pack Your Kid’s Backpack!

Have you got a little one starting school in the fall, and you have no idea how to pack your kid’s backpack? Or perhaps a big kid whose backpack is always a disaster, and you want to tame the chaos? From my years as a teacher, here are some tips on how to pack your kids backpack that will make everybody’s day smoother…

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Teach Your Child Independent Dressing

How to Teach Your Child Independent Dressing

As the weather turns cooler, not many parents get excited about bundling everyone up to go outside! One way our family has made getting out the door a little smoother is by teaching independent dressing to our children. At first, it might feel like this slows everyone down, but over time, the benefits definitely pay off…

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back to school shopping

Back to School Shopping: Save or Splurge?

It’s almost the time of year when all the ‘back to school’ displays start rolling out. Especially if it’s your first time doing back to school shopping, it can be a little overwhelming! With so many decisions to make, here are some tips on what items are worth splurging on, and where you can save your money.

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school readiness

4 School Readiness Tips to Practice Now from a Teacher

Ready for school? We don’t often think about back to school in the middle of Summer, but it’s a great time to start practicing school readiness! Often, we think school readiness means our kiddos can read, write, and count. But there are so many other important skills to develop first!
Summer is the perfect time to prepare for that transition. Here are 4 key school readiness skills and ways you can practice them over the summer…

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kids summer crafts

Kids Summer Crafts: Watermelon Fan Tutorial

Where are my crafty moms at? I know crafting isn’t everyone’s thing, but kids summer crafts are a great way to keep little hands busy. This one is SUPER easy! Just follow my easy step-by-step instructions below and boom – your kids just got a new fun craft and hours of entertaining with the fan when they’re done. I don’t know about you, but I call this a #MOMWIN! What are you waiting for? Let’s get going!

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get outside with baby

Adjusting Your Adventures to Get Outside with Baby

Whether you are brand new to spending time in nature or a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, adding a new baby to the family doesn’t mean your adventures have to stop. As a mother of a 4-year-old and 9-month-old in Minnesota, here are some tips that I have found helpful to get outside with baby!

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things to do on vancouver island

Things to do on Vancouver Island with kids

Living on Vancouver Island has given our family so many opportunities to explore beautiful places close to home. And whether you live here or are just visiting, I’m sure you’ll agree that there are lots of awesome things to do on Vancouver Island! I’ll be sharing my family’s favourite spots to explore around Victoria and the lower part of the island…

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Beat the Heat this Summer!

Last year we were in for a shock when an unprecedented heat wave hit Western North America from late June through early July. The heat wave was determined to be a once every 1000-year weather event! Where I live West of the Cascades, temperatures reached a whopping 111 degrees Fahrenheit (44 degrees Celsius) and stayed high for weeks.

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Hiking with Kids

Hiking with Kids – 3 Tips to Choose a Hiking Spot

Hiking with kids can be such a fun family activity. But with so many options, where should you go hiking? We are the mamas from Puddle Parenting, and here are our suggestions for things to think about when looking for a place to go hiking with kids…

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Camping with Kids

Camping with Kids

Camping with kids is fun… mostly. It is a lot of work, but the payoff is worth it! We’ve been camping since our eldest was a year old and have many trips under our belt now, with three kids and a dog in tow. We’ve learned a lot along the way.Here are five tips that have helped us make our trips smoother…

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Sun Safety Tips

Sun Safety Tips

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, so what better time than now to share some sun safety tips? My name is Kolby and I learned about the importance of sun protection the hard way. In my late 20’s, a trip to my dermatologist landed me in the operating room for skin cancer. Over the years, I’ve been through 4 skin cancer surgeries, and I continue to have my skin monitored and checked every 6 months…

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The Benefits of Cotton

The Benefits of Cotton

Cotton is a versatile, natural fiber that you likely see and use every day! There are many benefits of cotton over synthetic fabrics. Besides being comfortable and moisture-wicking, cotton is also a renewable resource that humans have been growing for thousands of years. At Jan & Jul, we are proud to make our cotton sun hats from 100% premium cotton with no harmful chemicals added…

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Things to do in Vancouver with Kids

10 Things To Do in Vancouver with Kids

We feel so lucky to call Vancouver home. Our city, nestled between mountains and shores, has endless amazing places to explore. The weekends never seem long enough to fit in all our adventures, but we sure try to make the most of them!
Here are 10 of our favourite things to do in Vancouver with kids…

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nature homeschool journey

Our Nature Homeschool Journey

Our nature homeschool journey began in 2020, during the pandemic. Though we had planned to homeschool long before, we began our journey as many others did! Living in Alaska, we found a thriving and active homeschool community. Though we tend to do most of our book work between September and May, we learn year-round. There are constantly opportunities for learning outdoors, if you just know where to look for them!

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mix and match kids clothing

Make Mornings Easier with Mix and Match Kids Clothing!

 
Most parents agree, getting out the door with young children is no easy task. From packing snacks and extra clothes to getting ourselves and the kids ready for the day… It’s enough to make anyone exhausted before the day has even begun! As the weather has been warming up, we’ve been taking advantage of Jan & Jul’s new mix and match kids…

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kids sensitive skin

Sun Protection for Kids Sensitive Skin

Confession: Before I had kids, I never really gave sun protection a whole lot of thought. I’d just slap on whatever sunscreen I had if I remembered and was good to go! I Learnt the Hard Way.Fast forward a few years. I was a new mom heading out on a beach vacation and tasked with protecting delicate baby skin from the sun…

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Outdoor Mom Essentials

Outdoor Mom Essentials That Every Mom Needs!

When thinking about spending the day outside with your little ones, do you picture what you’ll be wearing to stay comfortable? Whether it’s pouring or the sun is shining, quality gear for you is just as important to maximize our time outdoors and make it enjoyable! My list of outdoor mom essentials starts with a great jacket…

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Toddler Knit Shoes

An Honest Review: Jan & Jul Toddler Knit Shoes!

Hello! My name is Tanya, I am a motherhood blogger. I am excited to share with you my review of Jan & Jul’s Xplorer Knit Shoes!

As a mom of two boys, I look for the best toddler knit shoes for my boys. They need to be durable enough on the playground, kicking around a ball or splashing in muddy puddles because why not! We started purchasing from Jan & Jul a couple years ago…

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Kids Spring Activities for Sensory Outdoor Learning

As a parent, you’ve probably heard that playing outside is beneficial for kids. Fresh air and sunshine make us all feel good, and what better way to celebrate the incoming warm weather than kids spring activities? Nature is the perfect space for young children to start strengthening their seven senses…

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Kids Sun Hat Styles

A Sun Hat for Every Adventure!

Trying to choose the best kids sun hat for your adventure? With all the different kids sun hat styles we offer, it can be hard to decide, but we’ve made this guide to help you find the best sun hat for your baby, toddler or big kid…

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Adjustable Baby Hat

Our Family’s Favorite Adjustable Baby Hat

When Minnesota comes to mind, most people think of cold weather. While it’s true our winters are snowy, we also have hot summers to contend with! As the mother of two children under five (one of whom attends year-round nature preschool), my favorite adjustable baby hat is Jan & Jul’s Cotton Floppy Hat…

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mommy and me jacket

Getting Outdoors with Mommy and Me Jackets

Picture this with me if you will. You’ve got a house full of kids, packed to the gills with energy (wait… only two kids live here?! Because I swear it sounds like ten). You look out the window, ready to make a family escape outside to burn off some energy… And guess what? It’s wet. It’s raining. It’s cold. Frankly the weather couldn’t look worse!

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Kids Rain Hats

Aqua-Dry Kids Rain Hats for Rain or Shine!

Living in Alaska, we get an unbelievable 19+ hours of sunlight during the peak of summer, but quite a bit of rain as well. Plus, my kids are naturally drawn to water and always manage to get wet! With all the sun and rain, kids rain hats are a must-have in our spring and summer gear. Our favourite Jan & Jul Aqua-Dry Hats are functional not only in the sun, but in water or rain as well…

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Spring Kids Clothes

Gearing up for Spring: Kids Clothes for Springtime

The other day the most magical moment happened, I looked down to see crocuses pushing their way through the cold grass. Then I looked up and saw birds diving through the air, singing their songs.

You know what that means? Spring!! It’s near! And with the impending change of season, it means I need to get all our spring kids clothes ready to go…

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Rainy Day Activities

10 Outdoor Rainy
Day Activities

When the forecast is showing nothing but pouring rain for days on end, our rainy day activities can easily consist of staying at home and hiding out. While we love a cozy day at home, the truth is, my kiddo and I feel way better when we’ve spent some time outside in the fresh air. While you might feel discouraged at first when seeing rain, rain and more rain, here are some rainy day activities to inspire you to get outside…

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Jan & Jul Women’s Waterproof Jacket

An Honest Review: Jan & Jul Women’s Waterproof Jacket

As a nature program leader and mama of two in Minnesota, I love getting into nature as much as possible. When Jan & Jul released their first women’s waterproof jacket last year, I was beyond thrilled. After years of watching my oldest roll in the mud, stay dry in the rain and protected from harsh winter winds with Jan & Jul’s gear – finally, a high-quality waterproof jacket for me…

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Kids Splash Pants for the Wet West Coast

Living on the beautiful West Coast and being surrounded by forests and endless beaches, we try to get outdoors every day. With the notorious rain we get, good quality kids splash pants have been a total essential. Jan and Jul’s Cozy-Dry Rain Pants are perfect for our wet West Coast weather…

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winter baby boots

Winter Baby Boots for Crawlers and New Walkers

With so many baby booties out there, it can be surprisingly difficult to find winter baby boots that keep little toes warm and actually stay on! That’s why we’ve designed the Stay-Put Booties collection. With sizes from 3 months through 2 years, these are not your average sole-soled booties! They’re versatile enough to be worn…

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1000 Hours Outside: Our Top 4 Gear Recommendations!

Since moving to Alaska, our family has been trying to embrace an outdoor lifestyle. I first heard about the 1000 Hours Outside challenge late in 2019. I love a good challenge and thought this would help our family get outdoors more! I’m proud to say that 2021 is our second year successfully completing 1000 Hours Outside…

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Jan & Jul Gives Back

Jan & Jul Gives Back

“Running this business from a tiny spot to a midsize company, I’ve been given a lot of support from the community. So, it’s a priority that Jan & Jul gives back”
Florence Luo, Jan & Jul’s founder has always known once she was able to, she wanted to help others.
“For me, I grew up in a rural village and I know how it feels when you have a lack of nutritious food"…

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kids sunglasses winter

Best Kids Sunglasses for Winter!

My number one choice for winter kids sunglasses are from Jan and Jul. My kids wear them in the summer, but in the winter it’s equally important for them to have sun protection too!Why Should Kids Wear Sunglasses in the Winter? Sunglasses aren’t just designed to make your kid look cool on the slopes…

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kids snow suit for winter

Cozy-Dry Suits – The Ultimate Kids Snow Suit for Winter!

If you’re looking for a kids snow suit for winter, finding what works best for you and your children can take a lot of trial and error! Where we live, in South Central Alaska, winter can last from September through May. We spend a lot of the year in layers and snow suits. For me and my kids, the one-piece protection that Jan & Jul’s Cozy-Dry Play Suits provide is perfect…

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Baby Walking Shoes

3 Reasons to Choose Soft Sole Baby Walking Shoes

would best support his little toddling feet. While studies show barefoot is best for healthy foot development, once the cold weather hits, parents need warm footwear to protect their new walker’s feet. Luckily Jan & Jul’s new Stay-Put Cozy Booties are the perfect option for developing feet. Read on to find out 3 reasons why…

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Outdoor Winter Activities

Our Favorite Outdoor Winter Activities

When the weather turns chilly it can often be difficult to get children excited to go outdoors. But living in Alaska and prioritizing outside time has introduced us to some fun outdoor winter activities! Here are three of our favourites…

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kids snow boots

Kids Snow Boots Put to the Test!

on, is that a good pair of kids snow boots are essential for your little ones. Why? Because it gets COLD here… I mean REALLY cold, like frostbite in minutes cold!…

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kids boots for three seasons

Toasty-Dry Booties: Kids Boots for Three Seasons!

And we’re off, September is here! School has started for the kids and just like that, the days are getting cooler with the winter weather fast approaching. This morning on the way to school drop off, when the grass was still dewy and the air crisp, my kiddo was wearing her Toasty-Dry Booties…

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Waterproof Baby Cover

Cozy-Dry Waterproof Baby Cover – From My Idea to Reality

For years I was searching for a baby cover that was truly waterproof, breathable, lightweight and warm, with no luck. Several years ago, my family connected with Jan & Jul for some photoshoots and I had to tell Florence, the founder, about my idea for a waterproof baby cover…

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Jan and Jul Boot Family

The Jan & Jul Boot Family – How to Find the Perfect Boots for You!

experience of all four seasons. We get lots of rain and mud during autumn and spring, and freezing temperatures and tons of snow in the winter. Luckily, the Jan & Jul boot family has just what we need to keep my kids’ feet warm and dry in all weather. Read on for how to find the ideal boots for your little explorer…

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Rain Gear Waterproof Technology

Rain Gear Waterproof Technology – How it Works!

At Jan & Jul we believe in the power and magic of getting little ones into nature, no matter the weather! That’s why we’ve perfected our rain gear to help keep your kids dry and protected. You may be wondering – what makes our waterproof technology so effective? For the first layer of waterproofing protection…

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bib pants extra protection

Bib Pants: Extra Protection and Flexibility All in One!

Chilly weather is approaching in many areas, and it has already arrived in ours. Our family lives in Alaska where waterproof clothing is a must for all seasons! I love rain suits, but sometimes a full body suit isn’t best for the occasion. Rain pants are also a great item to have; however, my children have been known to sit in deep water or go so deep into snow that moisture finds its way between where the pants and jacket meet. For these reasons, I am super excited about Jan & Jul’s new Bib Pants ….

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kids fall jacket

The Perfect Kids Fall Jacket for the Wet West Coast

Growing up in a temperate rainforest on the West Coast, you learn early on that just because it’s raining outside, is no reason to stay home. The key to a successful adventure in the rain is to make sure you have everybody outfitted in the right gear. Last year, when I was looking for a kids fall jacket, we found Jan & Jul’s Puddle-Dry Jacket and have been super impressed with it…

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clothing for nature school

Back-To-School Clothing for Nature School

As a teacher at a year-round nature school in Minnesota (with my own toddler who also attends!) the changing of the seasons is always on my mind. After our summer season where not much gear beyond sun hats and sunglasses are needed, come September, the cold temperatures set in. And with it, a need to keep warm and dry with proper clothing for nature school…

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Shoes for Back to School

Breeze Knit Shoes: a back to school essential

You get the list from daycare or school. It’s a long list. Kiddo is starting school in September and you need to have everything ready and labelled. Gah!
One of the things on that list I had the hardest time finding were shoes for back to school. Most daycares require indoor shoes and they can be so hard to find…

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For all summer activities

Our Favourite Hat for All Summer Activities

Summer is here and it’s all about playing outside for our family! We keep a big bin for all our outdoor gear next to our door and in the summer. Our bin is naturally full of hats. Before we head out, I ask my son to pick a hat for all summer activities we’re getting up to for the day. He has many hats to choose from, but there is always one he loves to grab…

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Easy UV Protection

Easy-On UV Protection!

Keeping my children protected from the sun has never been simpler. Rather than covering them head-to-toe with lotion every few hours, Jan & Jul’s UV swim sets have been the perfect solution with easy UV protection – plus my kids love them too! They’re convenient and practical enough for all day wear…

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Importance of Sun Protection

The Importance of Sun Protection for Adults

We’ve all been there, you’re heading out for some fun in the sun and there you are lathering your little ones in sunscreen head to toe and digging through your bag for their sun hat. Parents know how important it is to protect their little ones from the suns harmful rays but what about YOU! Sun protection for adults is just as important as it is for our little ones…

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Kids Summer Shoes

The only kids summer shoes you need this year!

What if you could buy just one pair of kids summer shoes for all your adventures? Is there really one pair of shoes out there that can do it all?

My favourite part about summer is spending all-day outdoors with my son. We pack a bag first thing in the morning and stay out until sunset, stringing a few activities back to back…

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Kids sunglasses

Indestructible Kids Sunglasses from Jan & Jul!

Every parents knows that kids drop, step on, run over, chew, and occasionally purposefully destroy things! So, when you are purchasing a pair of kids sunglasses for your kid, you want to make sure they are as indestructible as possible. Good thing Jan & Jul Sunglasses are virtually indestructible, comfy, and healthy for children’s eyes….

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kids sun protection

Fuss-Free Kids Sun Protection

For Vancouverites, unreliable weather is the norm and this year’s unexpected April heat wave had us thinking about cute summer outfits, kid-friendly outings, and of course, kids sun protection unseasonably early. It’s always nice to be out in the sun, but little ones get affected by the heat and sun much easier than we do…

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kids outfits

Easy Kids Outfits to Get Out the Door Fast!

I think most parents can agree – getting kids outfits together and out the door can be a struggle. With all the snacks, sunscreen, extra clothes, toys, etc. that I already have to pack up, my 3 year old ends up picking out his own clothes for the day…

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The Kids Cap for Every Adventure

The Kids Cap for Every Adventure

With three kids four years old and under, mornings can be tough. Trying to dress my kiddos for our pacific northwest conditions is tricky. But the one accessory we always reach for is a kids cap…

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Mom Turned Entrepreneur

Mom Turned Entrepreneur: Founder Florence Luo’s full circle story

Florence Luo, founder of Jan & Jul, a Mom Turned Entrepreneur who grew up in a small, poor village in China. With very few toys and games, she spent much of her childhood playing outside in the dirt and mud…

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Aqua-Dry Sun Hats

Our Aqua-Dry Sun Hats are great for outdoor adventurers!

Aqua-Dry Sun Hats are water-repellent, treated with advanced Bionic Finish® Eco DWR coating, without the use of harmful chemicals such as fluorine. Our Aqua-Dry fabrics are also breathable and quick-dry, allowing inside moisture to pass through while keeping water off the hat.

All our Sun Hats are rated 50+ UPF. The long-lasting protection…

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