I started Boston Mamas in July 2006. At the time I was living the life of a disgruntled postdoctoral fellow and a new mom. So much has happened creatively since I left academia in August of 2006. In addition to this blog, I have written a book, launched two design companies (graphic design, apparel) and two podcasts, and become a freelance writer, consultant, and creative director. I am so grateful for each and every experience. Over the years Boston Mamas has covered local events, travel, products, parenting advice, nonprofit spotlights, camps, reflective essays, and general lifestyle content ..read more

I adore reading and typically finish several books a month so it’s been — on the one hand — a little surprising that I have started and fizzled out on several titles and not finished a single book during the month of August. On the other hand, life is a lot right now and we’re amidst some pretty big transitions (including taking Laurel to college) so I guess it’s not surprising at all. I recently shared about my reading rut on Instagram stories and queried for page turners and wow, per usual, people SHOWED UP. Because I am a mega nerd, I also ran a poll to see if it would be more helpful to sh ..read more

I get a ton of questions about my green smoothies whenever I share about them (usually every Sunday, or otherwise Monday morning) and finally decided to measure and post an official recipe! I make 5 day's worth in one shot in my Vitamix and they do NOT split into watery/fruit layers. I think a key is low berry content and also addition of oat milk + yogurt. You will see that I amp up the protein with protein powder and hemp hearts, which I do because Laurel is a vegetarian and we are always looking for protein add-ons. Add to Vitamix: 3 cups liquid (I use a mix of oat milk + water) 2.5 cup ..read more

Stinky shoe season is here. Violet and I made these destink bags and the shoe area smelled dreamy in no time. Enjoy! SHOE DESTINK HACK: 1. Use 2 basket coffee filters per bag. 2. Add baking soda + essential oils of your choice. 3. Tie off with string. 4. Place in shoe area or inside shoes. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Christine Koh | she/her (@drchristinekoh ..read more

We didn’t travel for April vacation (we never do, LOL) but wow, my family leaned into puzzles! We completed three 1,000 piece puzzles and there has been so much conversation about my somewhat controversial technique (edges last) on Instagram Stories, and questions about what puzzles we did, that I thought it would be a good idea to re-up this post about puzzles. We love working on big puzzles as a family, but I admittedly still find it satisfying to snap together a 30-piecer! The following is a roundup of awesome puzzles, starting with toddlers and moving up to the 1,000 piece puzzles: Your Ne ..read more

This post is sponsored by Prevent Child Abuse America.  People are always surprised when they learn that I experienced a number of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) yet did not experience the negative health outcomes associated with ACEs. It was only a few years ago that I learned why; I had two things on my side: trusted adults (educators were key for me) who issued support and encouragement while I struggled, and a source of joy (playing music) to tap into. These two things can help buffer kids from toxic stress, the kind of sustained stress that can lead to negative health outcomes ..read more

Between changing the clocks yesterday and the milder temperatures this week, it’s definitely starting to feel like spring. The Spring Equinox on Sunday, March 20 serves up a perfect opportunity to get outside, play, and celebrate life. To that end, below you’ll find a few of the ways our family loves to celebrate the Spring Equinox. 1. Get Outside and Look for Signs of Spring Since our kids were wee, our family has loved heading to Habitat Wildlife Sanctuary in Belmont to look for signs of every season, which is exactly where you’ll find us on the Spring Equinox. We love looking for snowdrops ..read more

If you don’t have big plans for next week’s February vacation, don’t fret. Here are 11 fun—and sometimes free!—activities that caught my eye for next week. If I have missed an amazing event or series, drop it in the comments below! 1. Peabody Essex Museum Multicultural Festival (Salem) Kick off the week with the Peabody Essex Museum Multicultural Festival on Monday, February 21, from 10am –5pm. The festival will include music, guided play, and art making. 2. Institute of Contemporary Art (Boston) The ICA is offering free admission on Presidents’ Day (Monday, February 21) as well as an opportun ..read more

Today, Lindsey shares 3 easy Valentine's Day treats to make with your kids: I used to hate Valentine's Day, for all of its forced romance. But my children have made me love it: their enthusiasm for decorating the house, for hand-made Valentine cards, and for sweets is utterly contagious. It's that last category that they probably love most. What kid doesn't!? Red and pink is my favorite color combination, so I make sure that features on almost all baked goods. Here are three (super easy!) favorites that Grace, Whit, and I love; they all make for fun projects for the kids: 1. Chocolate-dipped p ..read more

February signals a lot of things — the blissful end to an interminable January, the groundhog’s verdict, and…the time for families to think about and lock in summer camp plans! We’re doing things differently this year and instead of producing a full summer camp guide, we are partnering with a select group of camps — here on the blog and via our social media and newsletter channels — to give you a more detailed look into some amazing ways your kids can learn, grow, and have fun this summer. We’re delighted to follow our first spotlight feature with three fantastic summer camps to check out! If ..read more