#Sensory Feel And Explore Mats

[uniqueanchordestiny]

Unlock Endless Sensory Fun for Your Little One - Sensory Feel And Explore Mats

Boost your baby's development with our sensory feel and explore mats Designed to enhance touch, sight, and motor skills, these mats provide a safe and fun environment for your little explorer.

[von-koopas-muse]

agere sensories - touchies!

Seeking

Get cuddles! From your friends, caregiver(s), family, stuffed animals, toys! You can wrap yourself in blankets to imitate a hug!

Let your hands explore whenever you travel. Snow, grass, leaves, rain, mud, sand, rocks, maybe dogs you pass by (ask the dog owners first for permission)

Kinetic sand, clay, slime, beads, crinkly plushies, textured books for babies, sensory mats, brushable toys

If you're an older little or even a middle, cooking! especially dough making, but handling food involves a lot of touching

Speaking of, play with your food! Eat with your hands, explore the textures in an approachable way

Toy cars and fidget spinners (anyone remembers these?)! Beyblades! I love when you can feel the spinnies!

Let someone brush you, or get a scalp massager as an alternative! Maybe you brush them, feeling your hands on the hair? Both are good!

Wear thick, warm clothes! Especially since it's already December (!). The heavy blankets and coats always make me feel regressy!

If you're still seeking touchies but not as overwhelming as hugs, hand holding! And its universal, it can be a person, a stuffie, a doll, Or even a hand warmer if you're closeted! something about my hands not being lonely is very comforting

Another subtle touchy are keychains! They don't leave a residue and come in a variety of textures, or can even stimulate other sensories (like holographic for eyes, or be electronic and make sounds for the ears)

Avoidant

Have your baby wipes on you, maybe a hand sanitizer in case a bad touchy appears!

If you're fem leaning, have a small box designated for the jewelry/hair things you're wearing, to have a safe spot to put them in whenever they overwhelm you

Invest in hair detanglers! Bonus points if they're designed for kids! it minimizes the pain of brushing your hair

Make sure your friends and caregiver(s) are aware of your boundaries, and settle on alternatives to display affection. They should want the best for you!

wear something to indicate your limits, ex. "no hugs", "ask before touching", "no touching". It can be a pin, a bracelet, or even a sign on the sunflower lanyard if you have one

be thorough while buying clothes. Sometimes it's one small detail that makes the clothing uncomfortable. Never rush yourself!

As tedious as it is, you may want to consider cutting out clothing tags (i recommend keeping them if they have irregular washing instructions), and tags on your stuffies too!

baby towels, baby blankets! They may be smaller but way less harsher than their adult counterparts

Keep track what textures you like and dislike, with other sensories! It makes looking after yourself easier if you know what to look for

It's okay if something overwhelms you and you retreat. It's your coping mechanism and nobody else's, you get to dictate your tempo

[woso-dreamzzz]

Camp III

Pernille Harder x Baby!Reader

Part of The Big Adventures Universe

Summary: Your first time at Denmark camp

"Well, well, well," Stine says with a smile," Doesn't this little lady look delightful?"

Pernille rolls her eyes fondly as she grabs the bags from the car.

She feels uncharacteristically nervous stepping back into training. It's her first camp since your birth and you're still tiny, just learning how to explore the world around you and still communicating in babbles.

You don't look nervous at all but that's probably because you don't understand anything at all.

That's okay.

Pernille can be nervous enough for the both of you.

Stine reaches out to poke you in the cheek, finger stopping inches away before she retracts it.

"Sorry," She says," That's rude. Can I touch her?"

It's nice that Stine has asked. Some people don't ask and just touch you out of nowhere.

"You can hold her if you want. She's fairly docile."

You're moved from Pernille to Stine and you blink in confusion at the strange woman that now fills your gaze.

"Well, hello there," Stine coos," Aren't you pretty in your jersey?"

You'd been put in one of Pernille's old Denmark jerseys for the flight over to sleep in. It's Pernille's size so it's massive on you but it's nice and warm and smells just like her so you didn't have much of a problem sleeping in it.

"Yes, you are! Denmark's so much better than Sweden!"

Pernille laughs, pulling the suitcase inside. "Don't let Magda hear you say that."

"It's a good thing that Magda isn't here then. No doubt she'll be putting this beautiful little girl into some horrific yellow shirt."

"I've tried to stop her," Pernille says," But she just won't let it go."

"You should have kept her as just a Harder," Stine says with a laugh," Because the Eriksson genes are already out in full force. We don't want her to grow up to play for Sweden."

Pernille laughs too. "I'm sure we'll see her in a Denmark jersey at some point."

The staff have been very accommodating to your presence, Pernille notes. That had been one of her worries.

You were much too young for her to feel comfortable separating from you for the duration of camp, even if you would have only gone to her parent's house to be looked after.

Perhaps it was a bit of separation anxiety from her side but Pernille didn't want to leave you for a second.

The staff were fine with it, placing a travel cot in her room for you to sleep in as well as a few stray bath toys for you to use during bath time.

There's kid's cutlery and bowls and plates for Pernille to choose from even though you're still breastfeeding and have no need for it. There's formula too and a range of bottles and a steriliser should Pernille need it.

There's a nice little shady spot on the pitch set up with you, complete with a travel pen and a sensory mat and one of the staff members stays with you the entire time just so Pernille can fully focus on training.

You're a hit with the rest of the team though.

Everyone seems to want to hold you and talk to you and most days there's a line going out the door of Pernille's room in the morning.

Most people think you're just delightful in the morning in a big fluffy onesie and your wispy hair all messed up and sleep-mussed.

It's actually a big help to have someone coo and hold you outside while Pernille goes through her own morning routine.

She's learnt how to do it all one-handed now but it's still nice to be able to go through it without a babbling baby hanging off her arm.

"She can't eat cake?" Sanne asks as Pernille pushes away the plate.

"She's a baby," Pernille laughs as you, fairly aggressively, suck at the bottle in your mouth," She can't digest it yet."

"But we're celebrating your return! How can she celebrate if she can't eat cake?"

"She's got a bottle," Pernille says as you kick your little legs in happiness," That's enough for her."

"But it's cake! How could you deny her this?!"

"You're almost as dramatic as Magda. She literally can't eat it. Leave it a few months and we'll try again."

"But-"

You bat the bottle away from you, legs still kicking.

"Oh! Are you done?"

Pernille frowns, looking at the way the bottle is still half full. She presses it back against your lips but you refuse to open them.

"What's up with you today? Huh?" Pernille laughs a little at the disgruntled look on your face, a perfect mirror image to the one that appears so often on Magda's.

"Maybe," Sanne says," She wants some cake."

[ohtoseni]

like real people do

chapter three

Bucky Barnes x Steve Rogers x OFC

read it on ao3

the government forces soulmates to be together, no matter what it takes.

it just so happens that eve's soulmates are two bisexual super soldiers.

or,

steve and bucky struggle with their eighteen-year-old soulmate who refuses to settle into her new life after being kidnapped by the government.

tags/warnings: soulmate mark au, forced throuple/poly relationship (f/m/m), extreme age gap, kidnapping, slow burn, dub con, mental health issues (ptsd, audhd, ocd, bipolar, ed), found family, emotional hurt/comfort, sensory overload and meltdowns, eventual smut, tooth-rotting fluff, power imbalance, domestic discipline (spanking as punishment), general teenage angst, daddy dom energy, oral fixation, praise kink, implied/referenced child abuse/csa, kink exploration, p in v sex, oral sex, non sexual age regression, lots of cuddles and snuggles and crying

<- previous | ch 1

Another empty bottle of beer hit the hardwood floor with a rattling thud. It rolled its way toward where Eve sat in the corner, coming to a stop at her naked foot. She gently kicked it, sending it rolling back at the pile of fellow empty bottles. A loud crash and an aggravated yell made the young girl jump, now sitting up straight against the corner of the wall.

“I told you, not a sound!” A freshly opened bottle was hurled at her, hitting and breaking against the wall next to her head. It soaked her body in its content, leaving her a wet puddle of piss and cheap beer. “I got a fucking headache because of you, and you just make everything worse.”

“Sorry…” Eve whispered an apology, averting her eyes back down to the dirty floor. The figure stood up from the armchair, stomping unsteadily toward the young girl.

“Didn’t I tell you to shut the fuck up?” A foot collided with Eve’s chest. All the air left her lungs while she tried to hug her body as if to protect it from another blow. Calloused hands gripped her matted brown hair, pulling her head forward before slamming it back violently into the corner of the wall.

“First you piss the bed, then you don’t fucking listen. What good are you? Can’t you tell I’m having a bad day because of you?” A harsh laugh broke through to Eve, drawing her back to the coarse voice. “You’re twelve years old and still wetting the bed. Really, what good are you?”

Tears prickled around her eyes as Eve rocked back and forth, still hugging her body in a tight grip. She tried to mentally leave the scene, regress into her head and thoughts, away from the abuse. But, as long as the figure loomed over her, she wasn’t safe to check out mentally. “I-I’m fifteen-“

“That’s what I fucking said.” Another beer bottle broke, this time above her head. The glass and alcohol showered her head, letting the tears finally flow free. “Did I give you permission to talk? Did I give you permission to cry?”

A soft noise drew Eve out of her thoughts.

“… Eve, baby?” Bucky gently shook the girl’s shoulder. Her eyes were trained on her cell phone, but nothing but a black screen was on the device. She stared at her reflection in the black void, lost deep in her head. The phone was taken out of her grasp, flinging her back into reality. She looked in the direction her phone went off in; Bucky’s hand to the very left of her. When did he get so close?

“Oh- Um- Sorry…” Embarrassed, Eve tried to sink further into the couch. She wasn’t sure just how long she was out of it for; she hoped it wasn’t too long.

“Are you feeling okay?” Steve asked as Bucky handed Eve her phone back. Her absence episode worried both of them, her thousand-yard stare into her phone wasn’t a normal state of being. As expected, Eve only nodded in confirmation, burrowing further in on herself. Steve looked toward Bucky, coming to a mutual agreement not to push it too far.

Bucky stood up slowly so as not to spook the ball of anxiety on the couch. Her eyes briefly flashed over to him, curious about his sudden movements, before falling back down to her lap. “We were talking about going shopping soon. You need clothes and stuff.”

Nodding, Eve remained silent, picking at a spot on the knee of her sweatpants. She wanted out. If Steve and Bucky took her shopping, she had an easy way to escape into the city. Sneaking off while they weren’t looking sounded like the best way to go about it. They were much faster than her, so outright running away from them seemed like a dumb idea. The point of running away was to not get caught.

The two men excused themselves to get dressed for the day, making sure to let Eve know if she needed anything, they would be in their bedroom. Eve remained seated until she heard a faint click of the door closing. She cautiously stood up, her eyes locked in on the hallway. Walking backward toward the door, she made sure to keep her steps light and slow, not wanting to alert Steve or Bucky about her movement.

The door was heavily locked- there had to be at least three methods of keeping the damn thing locked. Eve fiddled with all of them, unsure which ones were and weren’t locked. She kept twisting the doorknob, hoping that one combination was the correct one. When the door finally gave way, Eve gave one last look down the hall before slipping on her shoes hastily, making her great escape out the door.

Eve’s heart pounded in her chest as she bolted through the door, not bothering to close it behind her. She ran down the building’s steps, from the third floor to the ground floor, briefly tripping on the final step. Using the door to catch her balance, she pushed hard on the metal until she could slip out of the stairway.

The apartment building disappeared as she ran, taking random corners and alleys she was unfamiliar with. She had no destination in mind, no plan, just the instinct to put as much space between her and the suffocating walls of that apartment.

The streets of Brooklyn blurred past her; all she could focus on was running and her ragged gasps of air. Eventually, she could no longer ignore the sharpness in her muscles, the weight of the cold breeze on her face, and the pulsing of her ears to each of her rapid heartbeats. She slowed down as she turned one final corner into an empty alley, taking a moment to lean against the cool brick wall of some building.

The city seemed endless, and Eve honestly didn’t know why so chose now to run. She didn’t know anything about New York, or better yet the city layout. But now, she couldn’t find a way back to the apartment even if she wanted to. She sank to the ground, realizing she was lost and powerless.

Tears finally fell with loud, wrenching sobs. Eve continued to gasp for air from running too hard, with sobs and hiccups intertwined. She felt like she would puke from the combination of adrenaline, exercise, and crying. Now she was truly alone, with nothing but the world to face. No plan, no safety, just the endless, confusing unknown. And somehow, that felt worse than Steve and Bucky.

She wasn’t sure exactly how long she sat there, sobbing into her hands, but it felt like an eternity on her cold, aching body.

“Shit,” Steve mumbled as he did a double take down a nearby alley. Lo and behold, there sat Eve, curled up into a ball, sobbing and shuddering from the cold wind. He didn’t hesitate in running to her, kneeling and holding her in his arms. The tightness of the hug was more to lessen his own anxieties about losing his girl.

“Shh, honey. You’re safe, I’ve got you,” Steve kept repeating the words over and over to try and calm the young woman down as she choked on her sobs. Steve feared she would get sick as she dry heaved against his shoulder. Leaning back for a brief moment, he slid his black jacket off before placing it around Eve’s shoulder. She swam in the damned thing, looking even smaller than normal. Once her sobs died down to a more manageable level, Steve pulled his phone out of the jacket pocket to send Bucky a quick text.

‘Got her. Heading back now.’

Steve carried her the entire half mile back to the apartment, his hands locked together under her thighs. She would sniffle, rubbing her head back and forth on his shoulder to wipe away the tears and snot that built up on her face. He didn’t mind one bit. Occasional apologies fled from her lips, quiet enough that only Steve could hear. Of course, he immediately tried to put an end to the string of ‘sorry’s, reminding her it’s okay, she’s safe now, he’s here for her. Eve grew quieter, her breath evening out, falling into an exhausted sleep.

Turning the final corner, Steve saw his partner standing outside the building, pacing back and forth in worry. Once Bucky’s frantic eyes met his own, the brunette came running over to the duo.

“She’s out right now,” Steve said in warning, not wanting Bucky to accidentally disturb her slumber. “Poor thing is exhausted and freezing.”

Bucky reached a shaking hand out, brushing gently through Eve’s short matted hair, trying to calm his heart beating rapidly from pure adrenaline. Together, the two men sandwiched in the girl, causing her to squirm slightly in her sleep at the sudden new body heat. Steve and he shared a quick kiss, giving each other a silent look that said ‘Get Eve inside and safe’.

Walking up the stairs made Eve stir on Steve’s chest until the irregular movement woke her up. The first thing she noticed was that her head hurt, badly. It pulsated with her heartbeat, creating a ferocious tension in her temples. She pushed her face further into Steve’s shoulder until she saw colors, liking the light feeling it brought her. For now, she can forget where she is.

A hand brushing her hair back from her face broke her out of her trance. Eve turned her head slightly, looking face to face with Bucky with heavy, painful eyes. He looked sad but had a soft smile on his face. He asked if she wanted something, but Eve wasn’t listening to anything besides the pulsing of her head. Wanting to make him go away, she nodded her head just to appease him.

Eve was torn from her warmth as Steve set her down on the couch, wrapping her tightly in a quilt that normally rested on the back of the sectional. The blanket was warm and silky smooth, allowing her to melt into it. Resting her head against the back of the couch, she wiggled her cold toes that rested on the plush couch opposite her. They started to hurt from running in the cold and Eve tried her best to get blood recirculating to them.

Bucky returned with a steaming mug of hot chocolate. He sat down next to Eve, carefully lifting her legs up to not disturb her too much before placing them on his lap. Eve’s eyes were still heavy, blinking slowly as if every second she remained awake was a battle. Her focus shifted from Bucky to the white mug being offered to her, weakly lifting her arms to accept the warm offering. Bucky said nothing, too scared to startle her out of the gentle comfort she found.

Holding the cup in her hands, she didn’t even try to take a sip. The mug served as a hand warmer of sorts, Eve savoring the warmth radiating to her palms. She cradled it to her chest like a lifeline, smiling softly like a child.

Seeing how accepting Eve was to Bucky’s touch, Steve shuffled closer to her on the couch, allowing her to lean back onto his shoulder in silent comfort. Without thinking, Eve leaned her head back into him, exposing her neck. She felt safe for once. Reaching a hand up, Steve gently stroked her cheek, watching her heavy eyes flutter close as he touched her cool pale skin. Eve looked so vulnerable, yet so peaceful, cuddled in between her soulmates. Her head wasn’t entirely there, but she liked it that way.

Bucky gave the two of them a soft reassuring smile. As Eve's breathing evened out, he reached over to grab the full mug. The hot chocolate was now lukewarm, having served its purpose. Her breathing became more rhythmic and slow, falling asleep in her cozy soulmate cocoon.

———

They decided to take Eve shopping later in the day when there would be fewer people in the store. Very few people did their shopping at this hour, Steve and Bucky included, which is why they chose it. They didn’t mind staying up later to make Eve more comfortable.

Eve wouldn’t take their hands to hold, opting to hold onto the side of the cart. She looked adorable holding on while Steve pushed it, her free hand playing with her bottom lip. After her two-hour-long nap, she had spent the rest of the day wound tight with her shoulders hunched, biting the skin around her nails raw. Bucky, walking behind Eve, reached over her shoulder to gently pull her hand away from her mouth. That lasted all of about ten seconds with her deciding to chew on her sweatshirt sleeve instead.

“Go crazy, doll,” Bucky said as they approached the women’s clothing section. Eve, however, didn’t make any indication of wanting to look at the clothes. She looked rather intimidated by them. Her eyes darted in between the various racks, never quite looking directly at the clothes. She tightened her grip on the cart as if its sole purpose was to keep her grounded. Eve wasn’t quite sure what she was supposed to do, the uncertainty gnawing at her with each passing second.

The overhead lights buzzed softly, dousing the store in an uncomfortable white light. It was too bright against the endless rows of fabric, too open, too exposed. The racks watched Eve, waiting for her to make the wrong move.

Steve and Bucky shared a glance, silently deciding to take the reins on this shopping trip. Bucky placed a gentle hand on the small of Eve’s back, guiding her toward a nearby rack. He felt her breath hitch, almost as if the very act of choosing something would kill her.

“Oh, this shirt is nice,” Steve said, pulling out a white top from a rack. “It has cute bows and stuff.”

“Very insightful fashion advice, babe,” Bucky deadpanned as he browsed around with Eve. It was more like they walked the aisles together, Bucky looking at the various clothes while Eve stared at her feet. Bucky felt her breathing grow more and more uneven, not missing her frantic eye movements between the floor, the cart, Steve, and the exit. She was on the verge of a panic attack.

Bucky quickly guided her back to Steve. The blonde looked up to see her teary eyes and shaking frame, immediately leaving the clothes behind to comfort her. Steve ran a hand through Eve’s hair, she seemed the like that kind of touch the most. The girl closed her eyes and leaned into his touch. She was trying so hard to be good, to keep calm, but everything was too much. The options, the bright lights, the static mixed in with the music.

Plus, the thought of her body and her size made her want to puke or pass out, she couldn’t quite place the feeling.

“I’m going to pick out some stuff here. You two can take a walk around for a bit until she calms down.” Bucky organized a game plan for the shopping trip. While Eve was distracted by Steve’s calming touches, Bucky subtly lifted the back collar of her shirt, checking the size on the tag. Small, not unexpected, but the shirt seemed too big on her tiny frame. He would have to eyeball the size apparently.

Steve nodded, slipping his hand from Eve’s hair to take her hand in his. She didn’t push back this time- they were making progress. “C’mon, sweetheart,” he murmured, giving her fingers a gentle squeeze. “Let’s go check out the books or something.”

Eve let herself be led away, giving one look back at Bucky. He already had some clothes piled in the cart- more than Eve herself had put in. Steve gently pulled her along, walking along the main path of the store, stopping to look at whatever caught Eve’s attention. Steve was a patient man, letting her look around curiously and lead him down random aisles.

They passed the home goods section and Eve made a beeline for the display of fluffy throw blankets. Steve couldn’t help but chuckle at her enthusiasm, watching her touch and stroke every blanket folded neatly on the shelf.

“You like those?” He asked gently. Eve hesitated slightly before responding with a tiny ‘yeah’. Without a second thought, Steve grabbed the one Eve was currently stroking- a baby pink blanket with strawberries- and draped it over his arm. “Alright, we’re getting it,” he said, matter-of-factly, as if there was no room for arguments.

Eve blinked up at him, unsure how to respond. It wasn’t something she asked for, but Steve just smiled down at her like it was the most normal thing in the world. She looked away, chewing on the inside of her cheek. It felt… nice.

They wandered further, eventually making their way back to the book section. Steve let go of her hand, trusting her enough to let her move at her own pace now. She hovered by a display of new releases, trailing her finger over the spines without actually showing interest in any of them.

“You can get a book, too, y’know,” Steve encouraged, “Or a couple.”

Eve bit her lip, shifting her weight from foot to foot. “I don’t…. I don’t have any money.”

Steve’s brows furrowed and he shook his head. “That’s not something you need to worry about, honey. We’ve got it covered.”

She glanced up at him with uncertainty in her eyes. She wasn’t used to people just buying her things. It made her chest feel tight- she wondered what Steve would want in return for it.

Seeing her hesitation, Steve decided to take a different approach. “Tell you what,” he said, running his hand through Eve’s hair again, pulling slightly to make her eyes meet his. “You pick a book, and I’ll pick one too. Then we can read together.”

That caught her attention. Reading had always been her quiet escape from reality, a comforting safety net. And the thought of reading with Steve, of having that shared moment, made the thought of picking something out a little less daunting. Eve looked at him, a smile spreading across her face, probably the first real, genuine smile Steve had seen from her.

She turned on her heels, going into the next aisle of books. Steve grinned, looking after her.

“That’s my girl.”

[mjrtaurus]

Dragon feeling guilty after taking Sabo in that he can't really provide a lot of toys for this kid. Not that the Revolutionary Army didn't have any, it's almost a necessity given how many displaced children they've sheltered over the years. But their tight budget is reflected in the limited offerings; chipped wooden blocks, stuffed animals with matted fur that have had to be mended multiple times, a toy ship that's constantly tipping over on its side.

Fortunately (or unfortunately depending on how you look at it), Sabo gravitates more towards training than playing. Instead of wooden blocks, he prefers to climb the rocky cliffs of Baltigo. Instead of stuffed animals, he clutches his pipe. Who needs a toy ship when you have a real one to explore every nook and cranny of?

That said, there is one thing that can keep him occupied for hours. The reliable, the classic, the oh so affordable cardboard box. He hops in and out of them like a cat every chance he gets.

His mother taught him many stitches to mend what he had whenever in a pinch, how to carve things into all manner of shapes to fill whatever need… but he never imagined he would be using these skills to breathe new life into battered children’s toys. You always hear stories of objects with a hard history becoming haunted with time, and he’s seen it firsthand through the eyes of the underworld. Mothers and fathers who linger long after their children have grown up and moved on, watching him stitch and carve and mend and shape.

They know he’s hurting. They know he’s pouring all the love he couldn’t give into every little bit of work he has the energy left over to do.

You never think of hauntings as things that can bring a living person comfort and closure, but sometimes they do.

And then Sabo comes along.

And he doesn’t much care for toys. No, he prefers to play the hard, rough and tumble way. Scrapped knees, dirty fingernails, and gap-toothed smiles.

Sabo played like a coyote pup. Lots of roughhousing and testing of limits. Lots of biting and trash-talking. Lots of learning those crucial skills that could save a life. And most of all of these skills, empathy.

Sabo… was very selective of who he extended his empathy towards in those first couple of years.

He didn’t really know when enough was enough. Didn’t quite know when play became a fight. And because of this, a lot of the other children didn’t really like to play with him. It was clear that he was willing to learn, but he just… couldn’t quite get it to click.

When Dragon took him on as an apprentice, that was the first thing they addressed. And it was a very hands on sort of lesson learning. Those first training sessions weren’t about watching your stance or running through drills… it was further back in the foundations.

Dragon was teaching him how to play in his understanding of it.

Because when a coyote pup plays with its siblings, he may learn that he might get hurt or might hurt his sibling, but he might not make that immediate connection that hurting is causing the same pain that he feels when he is hurt.

Thus the mother coyote would come in and correct this as she saw it happen.

So that was the role Dragon was taking here.

If Sabo would bite him- say, on the hand- Dragon would get a gentle hold of the boy’s between his own teeth in turn. But he wouldn’t bite. Not ever. Wouldn’t even give it the tiniest bit of pressure.

Pain for pain was not the lesson Dragon was teaching. Awareness that Sabo’s actions have consequences is the lesson he is teaching, and such lessons- when passed down from parent to child- should always come without pain. Always. No exceptions.

He was still biting after the fact generally, yes, but those cases were more sensory related, and he’s been introduced to the relevant outlets like chewable pendants or- on particularly anxious days- his mentor and adoptive father’s arm, coated with just enough armament to prevent puncturing and bruising…

[mewpirate]

A few general starson headcanons !

I am SOOOO NOT NORMAL ABOUT him

- he really likes mac and cheese , it's one of the foods he only wants to eat .

- other foods that he really likes to eat is pudding, strawberry cheesecake , and bell peppers

- he's a picky eater , probably because of poor dieting from Milo because Milo was also a picky eater.

-blasian , specifically Jamaican and Chinese

- 6 years old

- he really picks things up from Milo, that includes swearing and picky eating , along with being a little abrasive .

- he does have a few nicknames given by the crew , like Chick pea , little cancan (a reference to the yellow canary bird) , Goldie , Sunny boy , swine (NAME GIVEN BY HORACE IM SORRY LMAOOOO) , Stella ( y'know how some parents misname you like that when they're busy? That's what Milo does) and Starsy

- unfortunately he finds Milo has a older - brother / father figure since he never had a father .

- he does view Sariah as a "substitute mommy" but nothing can top his real one

- speaking of parents , His mummy is a star goddess (I've posted about her before) . Starson talks about her A LOT but most of the crew thinks hes lying or showing off , right until in an unaired episode where the Jolly hounds went to space and explored the galaxy ( this was inspired by that one deleted concept of Snow White and the prince dancing on a cloud with stars)

- he crash landed onto earth as a baby . The crew took him in .

- I'll explain this as best as I can, his appearance is like a half-moon half sun . Idk just think of Sundrop .

- I took a little bit of inspo after hearing @candle-cove-character-requests 's headcanon that starson is similar to a starfish. I like the idea that starson literally HATES sea stars/starfish , he finds it uncanny valley . (Kinda like that one video where a cat gets scared of a badly made plush of said cat) He does calm down about their appearance in later seasons , but he still feels like really uncomfortable when they are mentioned . He views them as a distorted , ruined version of the night stars. He hates how they feel hates how they crawl (tbh he's right though they are genuinely scary when walking in full 2x speed and a buuuuunch of sensory issues . Milo calls him Starfish / little seastar to annoy him .

- since he is the only black crew member and the other crew members either don't know how to handle his hair type or they don't care in general his hair gets a little matted and tangled unfortunately 💔💔💔 he keeps it under his bandana

- he's a little sleepyhead from time to time during the day , he usually stares out into the windows at night , thinking of his home world.

- he and Kimothy are a silly goofy duoooo I cannot quit thinking about them this duo needs to be normalized they are toy-box coded especially the songs best friend and ET and that one " i am both beef bastard everyone knows I am the ultimate master !" Song by Neil cigara or whatever I can't spell

- after he was killed by Milo he woke up back into his homeworld with his mama 💔💔💔 but in a lil ghost form since star people come back into the sky after they died on earth (IF they are on earth) .

- poor boy barely knows about his culture because he's been stranded on earth for God knows who and has been taken in by a bunch of white/nonblack pirates 💔

- he has a pilled brown stuffed rabbit that Roger sewed him , he named it cosmic ⭐

[finishinglinepress]

FLP CHAPBOOK OF THE DAY: Somehow, here by Katherine Dizon

On SALE: https://www.finishinglinepress.com/product/somehow-here-by-katherine-dizon/

Somehow, here is a collection of #poems interested in looking back at the “here” then as well as the “here” now, and with the disorientation one feels in a new #place—whether that’s moving to a new state for college, or as a 30-something not recognizing the person you’ve become and wanting to trace the path back. The “here” also indicates a giving: through life’s challenges, we persevere and still have something to offer the world—ourselves, our stories, our talents. The collection contains imagery from #science, or the #natural #world juxtaposed beside #human #experiences of #loss, or transformation. The poems have a conversational tone, inviting the reader into narrative experiences that reveal lyric tensions, exploring the experiences of first falling in love with both a person but more importantly the creative life. These are poems of having, and losing, and ultimately finding one’s way back to herself.

Katherine Dizon is a California-born poet who now lives in Washington State. Her poems have appeared in journals such as Common Ground Review, Creative Colloquy, Gold Man Review, Cirque, and Clover. She has a BA in Creative Writing, MAT in Elementary Education, and MFA in Poetry from Pacific Lutheran University. Katherine loves mothering her three kids and cat, Dexter. She feels most at home anywhere near water. #poetry #chapbook #flp #here #nature #life #loss #experience #world

PRAISE FOR Somehow, here by Katherine Dizon:

In Somehow, here, Katherine Dizon intertwines a journey of love and self-discovery across two pivotal periods: a transformative college poetry class which includes falling in love with both a classmate and poetry, and a decade later, as a married individual feeling lost and seeking identity. More than just love poems, Somehow, here is a wonderful ode to poetry itself and the intangible forces of creativity that remind us how sometimes when we are seeking something outside ourselves, we find it resided within us all along. Honest and vulnerable, this book speaks with a tender, thoughtful voice and considers the complexity of our memories. With lines like bursting into the briefest bloom, and I paint with that silence… / Every night, Northern Lights. Colors of what we could have been, Dizon engages in the lessons of loss, love, and longing but also in the beauty of what lies within the bright brilliant hues of self-discovery and awakening. Her words bring us deep in the heart of it all.

—Kelli Russell Agodon, author of Dialogues with Rising Tides (Copper Canyon Press)

The poems in Somehow, here are a sensory invitation to take a U-Turn, to time travel, and to resee what’s slipped past into the periphery. With clear-eyed attendance to memory, Kat Dizon asks: “How does the paleontologist know she’s touched the last bone?” Love is at stake in this collection – reconnecting with a first love and concurrently finding language for the desires that shape us. Which is to say, this is ultimately a daring and passionate collection of poems about seeking and finding the self: “All along it was me, firefly /of the west, faintly flashing, / barely visible in the dark.”

–Jenny Johnson, author of In Full Velvet (Sarabande Books)

Please share/please repost #flpauthor #preorder #AwesomeCoverArt #poetry #chapbook #read #poems #poetry #chapbook #flp #here #nature #life #loss #experience #world #love

[twilighttunes]

Inexpensive yet adorable cute date ideas for couples on a budget

Cute date ideas are not only charming and enjoyable but also wallet-friendly. They allow couples to have memorable experiences without breaking the bank. By focusing on simple yet heartfelt activities, couples can nurture their relationship while staying within their financial means.

Picnic in the park

Looking for a cute and romantic date idea? Why not plan a picnic in the park? It's a simple yet delightful way to spend quality time together while enjoying the beauty of nature.

Picnics in the park have long been a classic date idea, and for good reason. They offer a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and create a cozy, intimate setting for you and your partner to connect.

When planning a picnic in the park, there are a few key elements to consider. First, choose a picturesque location with plenty of greenery and maybe a scenic view. This will set the mood and create a romantic ambiance for your date. Look for a park with a charming picnic spot or a quiet, secluded area where you can have some privacy.

Next, think about the menu. Pack a selection of delicious finger foods, such as sandwiches, fresh fruits, cheese, and crackers. Don't forget to bring a bottle of chilled sparkling water or your favorite beverage to toast to your special day. Consider including some sweet treats like chocolate-covered strawberries or cupcakes to add a touch of indulgence to the picnic.

Remember to bring a comfortable blanket or picnic mat to sit on and a cozy throw or pillows for added comfort. You can also pack some games or activities to enjoy together, like a deck of cards or a frisbee. These little touches can help create a fun and memorable experience for both of you.

As you enjoy your picnic, take the time to appreciate the beauty of nature around you. Listen to the birds singing, feel the gentle breeze, and soak up the warm sunlight. Engage in meaningful conversations, share laughter, and create lasting memories together.

A picnic in the park is a versatile date idea that can be tailored to your preferences. It's suitable for couples at any stage of their relationship, whether you're just starting out or have been together for years. It offers a chance to relax, reconnect, and enjoy each other's company in a serene and peaceful setting.

So, if you're looking for a cute and romantic date idea, consider planning a picnic in the park. It's a simple yet charming way to spend quality time together and create beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.

Explore a local farmers market

When it comes to planning a cute and unique date, exploring a local farmers market can be a wonderful idea. Not only does it provide a charming and laid-back atmosphere, but it also offers a range of activities that you and your partner can enjoy together.

Visiting a farmers market allows you to immerse yourself in the local community and support local businesses. You can stroll through the market hand in hand, admiring the vibrant array of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and homemade products. The sights, sounds, and smells of the market create a sensory experience that can be incredibly romantic.

One of the highlights of a farmers market date is the opportunity to sample an assortment of delicious and fresh foods. Many markets have food vendors offering mouthwatering treats, such as artisanal bread, freshly squeezed juices, or gourmet cheese. You can share these delectable bites and discover new flavors together, creating a shared culinary adventure.

Besides indulging in tasty treats, you can also explore the local crafts and artwork on display at the market. Many artisans and craftsmen showcase their unique creations, ranging from handmade jewelry to pottery and paintings. This gives you a chance to support local artists and perhaps even find a special memento to commemorate your date.

Another fun activity to engage in at a farmers market is to participate in a cooking class or attend a live demonstration. Many markets offer interactive cooking workshops where you and your partner can learn new recipes and cooking techniques using the fresh ingredients available at the market. This hands-on experience can be both educational and entertaining.

Additionally, farmers markets often feature live music performances, creating a lively and festive ambiance. You can sway to the rhythm of the music, creating memories of a shared dance or simply enjoying the melodies as you explore the market. The live entertainment adds an extra touch of magic to your date.

Overall, exploring a local farmers market provides a unique and charming date experience. It allows you to support local businesses, engage with the community, and indulge in delicious food and beautiful artwork. So why not plan your next cute date at a farmers market and enjoy a day filled with love, laughter, and local delights?

Visit a Museum or Art Gallery

Looking for a cute and unique date idea? Why not visit a museum or art gallery together? It's a perfect way to spend quality time with your partner while immersing yourselves in culture and creativity.

Visiting a museum or art gallery offers a multitude of benefits. It allows you to appreciate and learn about various art forms, historical artifacts, and exhibitions. You can explore different eras, styles, and perspectives, sparking insightful conversations and deepening your connection with your significant other.

As you walk through the halls filled with masterpieces, you can take the opportunity to discuss your thoughts and interpretations. Share your favorite pieces and explain why they resonate with you. This exchange of opinions and emotions can provide valuable insight into each other's preferences and personalities.

A museum or art gallery date also offers a chance to discover new interests and expand your knowledge. You might find yourself drawn to a particular art movement or historical period that you were not previously familiar with. This newfound interest can serve as a basis for future exploration and shared experiences.

Additionally, museums and art galleries often host special exhibitions or events that can add a touch of excitement to your date. From interactive displays to guided tours, these activities provide an opportunity to engage with the art in a more immersive and memorable way.

When planning your museum or art gallery date, consider researching the venue in advance. Look for any current or upcoming exhibitions that align with your interests or spark your curiosity. This will ensure that you have a meaningful and enjoyable experience together.

Remember, a museum or art gallery date doesn't have to be limited to traditional art forms. You can also explore science museums, historical sites, or cultural centers. The key is to choose an activity that both you and your partner will find fascinating and engaging.

So, the next time you're looking for a cute date idea, consider visiting a museum or art gallery. Immerse yourselves in beauty, culture, and creativity while deepening your bond and creating lasting memories.

[juuheizou]

heyyy I saw you're answering asks so i wanted to give you one of my own:: how exactly does juuzou feel about physical touch? how does he like it? is he into pda at all? how does he feel w people touching him in general or in a friendly way? at what point of a romantic relationship he feels comfortable w a partner surprising him with cheek, nose and forehead kisses? in what point does he feel comfortable seeking phisical comfort?🥺

Hey! Haha, yeah, I just don't get asks that often, so I can see how it might seem questionable whether I'm answering them at any given moment or not, but I can assure you I always am. Hope this one gives you the insight you're looking for!

how exactly does juuzou feel about physical touch?

Suzuya strikes me as a really touch-happy person trapped in the body of someone with debilitating tactile defensiveness and a long history of that touch-happiness getting him in trouble. His most natural way to show affection is through physical touch. He self-soothes primarily with things he can touch and feel. And, though we don't see as many examples in :RE as the original series, he was prone to solving perceived problems with more destructive forms of touch. His hands are an integral part of how he interacts with the world, and touch is up there with taste among his most important senses.

At the same time, I can see a lack of innately understanding what's considered normal and acceptable when it comes to physical contact getting him in trouble, especially when he was first rescued and integrated into human society. He has learned through bullying and people only seeing the worst in him that he touches things he's not supposed to, whether that be picking up and examining a pile of entrails with his bare hands or grabbing a highly decorated ghoul investigator for their attention over an idea that just popped into his head. That's not even counting the times in canon that he's physically lashed out at people.

I see the same indiscretion being taken advantage of by people like Big Madam. Snuffing out any inklings that something isn't right in their mother/child relationship with a treat like cuddling up together and reading about giraffes, or how her whole system of torture and corporal punishment worked so well with a young Suzuya to begin with. Of course her rewards are affectionate and good; it's some of the closest contact she gives him. So physical touch is something he craves strongly and often, but how he acts on it is somewhat tempered by his experiences as the series and his life go on.

On the purely physical side as well, anyone who explores my blog enough will know I strongly headcanon him as autistic, and think that while it might have affected and been affected by his past with Big Madam, his indifference to pain is one of his many sensory hypo and hypersensitivities that he has always had and would have still had without her influence. Some sensations, he will barely notice at all unless it's to an extreme that would be unbearable to other people, and he seeks some of those ones out both for self-regulation and enjoyment. Others, it doesn't matter how positive the context or how beloved a person they come from-- to him they feel more noxious than pain and may push him into sensory overload, if not a shutdown or meltdown depending on what it is, how much/how long it goes on, and the day he's having. Different kinds of touch fall into one of those extremes or the other.

how does he like it?

He likes deep pressure and firm touches, like a tight hug, being wrapped in a heavy blanket, or having a cat in his lap. Even things like falling from somewhere he likes to climb/perch, taking a hit in battle, or parttaking in extreme body modification can feel kind of good, because a lot of the sensations that would be masked by pain in most people are resistance and pressure. I think if he got to go to one of those trampoline parks with crash mats and foam pits everywhere, he would probably keep throwing himself at stuff until the place closed or he passed out from exhaustion.

When it's something he does to himself, like body stitching or self-injurious stimming, there's also the feeling of doing the act itself, such as the sinking of his needle into skin, which can also feel soothing or satisfying. Between liking the feeling of doing a lot of these things and not being sensitive to the consequences himself, this is also why he can sometimes squeeze too hard or be a little rough when he's on the giving end of affectionate touch, which is most of the time now that it's up to him. It's also why he likes throwing Hanbee so much.

Textures are also very important, even in everyday things like the foods he eats and the clothes he wears, so of course they're important here too. He's definitely a soft, plushy, and fuzzy things autistic. If you don't think he collects plushies to squeeze and snuggle with, you're simply wrong. He enjoys playing with someone's soft hair or squishing his cheek against a fuzzy animal or piece of a person's clothing, but trying to hug him while you're wearing one of his trigger textures is going to be a very disappointing experience. You might even get shoved away.

is he into pda at all?

Oh yes. Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on your perspective) Mutsuki is absolutely petrified of having attention drawn to him in public, and PDA sure feels like drawing attention to him in public. For Suzuya, however, it would be another layer of something he enjoys on top of a fun day or night out, and who doesn't want to double up on things they enjoy? There are rare occasions where PDA makes Mutsuki feel safe and protected, and Suzuya gets to indulge in it, but for the most part, it's a want that Suzuya keeps to himself, despite the name.

how does he feel w people touching him in general or in a friendly way?

When someone in his inner circle of people figures out how to do it right, he will pester them for more, but the former is a requirement. If Amon or any other macho man at the CCG gave him a stiff, half-assed clap on the shoulder because he did something cool and for a second they forgot he wasn't one of the guys they like, they're going to get their hand swatted away, or grabbed and twisted until it hurts if he doesn't like the person either. However, a clap on the shoulder from Shinohara, firm and hearty and committed to giving him that pressure he craves: he'll keep coming to Shinohara over and over to solicit an annoying amount of claps on the shoulder. He can't stand going to a hairdresser and cuts his hair himself to avoid it, but that doesn't stop him from bouncing up to Akira to see if she'll style his hair.

As much as he enjoys the sensory aspect of touch, there is an emotional aspect too, and I think once he gets used to living his own life and not being Big Madam's pet, he would learn that he really likes personal space just because it's his. Having the choice is just so different and reminds him in a good way how free he is now, so when that control of his own space is encroached on, it might even surprise him how protective he's become of that space. Also, if you don't know him well, chances are you're not going to touch him right.

at what point of a romantic relationship he feels comfortable w a partner surprising him with cheek, nose and forehead kisses?

Probably not ever, honestly, because who knows what kind of day he's having or if he's one small push away from sensory overload and can't even handle things he would normally like. It will always be the safest to ask, verbally or by giving him the chance to meet the other person halfway or choose not to. As much as he would enjoy being on the giving end of surprise kisses, that doesn't mean he has to want the same for himself. And besides, why bother trying to surprise the master of surprises when you can just enjoy his surprises?

in what point does he feel comfortable seeking phisical comfort??

Opposite of the last one, pretty early on. Having something that's a good kind of different from the many ways he self-soothes would be a big motivator for him to let someone else into his life when he's just fine on his own. If they don't hug him better than he can squeeze himself in a nice blanket, why even humor the idea of compromising with someone else's needs and rules? He likes his freedom, after all.

[mass-convergence]

Blerg, wrote this in an hour because the inspiration hit.

-

Perhaps I’m a little fucked in the head.

I mean … Most people in my position would be horrified, depressed, angry, and despondent about having their humanity ripped away from them like this. To be reduced from a beautiful young woman, the fairest in the land, to a grotesque beast with oozing scales, blackened claws, and rows of gnashing, half rotted teeth. Actually I would wager that a significant portion of the population would certainly not be happy to be where I am right now.

And perhaps I’m not happy per se but maybe content would be the more accurate term for my feelings on my … predicament.

You see, I never really considered my humanity to be a thing to lose. I was sought after for my beauty -- men desired me and women envied me (though some also desired me quite fiercely; I do actually miss that if I’m being honest). I was more of an object, a statue of marble or a particularly shiny gold coin for someone to own and gawk at. 

I hated the attention.

I wanted to live my life, to explore the world and to have adventures beyond the city walls. I was considered too delicate, frail, and too valuable by my parents to give up. I mean, we were just a lowly merchant family after all and the Prince was looking for someone to marry. 

Why would I leave when I had a great future in store for me in a marriage I was categorically not interested in. It wasn’t like a situation where instead of the Prince, I only had eyes for the woodcutter’s son. It wasn’t a situation where I wasn’t interested in marrying the guy who’s heir to the most powerful seat on the continent because I fancied the baker’s daughter instead (though, and I do have to stress this, she is very pretty. She was a sunset after a storm with her fiery orange hair and blue-gray eyes that glinted like lightning).

I wasn’t interested in anyone or any type of relationship really. Yet I was having this foisted upon me like an unwanted sack of shit.

And trust my infinite luck that the parents of some lord’s daughter were pissed that I was on the short list for the Prince’s hand. And trust my luck that they had the funds to pay off some powerful witch who lived in the darkened swamps nearby to place this curse on me. I really must find her and give her a gift basket once I figure out the whole monster thing.

The night I turned was the night I felt like I actually gained some modicum of agency in my life. I ran from the city, of course, I wasn’t about to go on some rampage through the streets. Also any sane person, when confronted by the King’s Champion in full plate and wielding a sword taller than herself, is going to run for the hills. 

So perhaps I’m not as fucked in the head as I thought I was.

The first few days were rough; I didn’t know how to function as a monster. Like … What do I eat? Where do I sleep? How do I go to the bathroom? Do I have to clean myself like a cat or splash around in the water? Because I really don’t think whatever gunk is oozing from my scales should be there, my teeth shouldn’t be this bad, and the mats in my fur were becoming rather painful. At least the increased sense of smell and hearing didn’t bother me too much -- for once in my life I was able to actually process those sensory inputs easily. Perks of being a killing machine I guess.

So I went to the swamps to find the witch who cursed me.

She proved a bit harder to find than I thought. In fact it was damn near impossible to find anything in the vast, muddy, and sulfur-scented environs. Instead I was found, not by the witch, but by a pack of monsters just like me. I’m still not sure if they were also the witch’s victims or are actual creatures.

We communicated in our own way and they took pity on me. They showed me how to be a monster (technically we’re called the Uncommon Swamp Dragon) and the oozing in my scales stopped, the matting on my fur was worked out, and I learned that we’re omnivorous and eat a varied diet of berries, fish, small animals, and roots. As I got healthier, my rotting teeth fell out and were replaced by rows of strong, off white teeth. The bathroom thing still kind of grosses me out though, not going to lie. I’m not used to just … going. It was the first time in my life I actually felt like I belonged, that I was more than a thing to gawk at, and that I actually had a family. Here in the dark depths of the Forsaken Fen, I found the closest thing to happiness I’ve had in my entire life.

I’m not completely without human contact though, my pack is being monitored by a researcher from some far off university. They practically live with us, taking notes on our habits and the like. I go on walks with them as they explore the swamps, protecting them from the gators and other nasties while they inform me of the goings on in the kingdoms. I have the sense that they’re about to leave, something big is happening they tell me. Some dark force is rising and they’re anxious to discover what it is and how to stop it.

Perhaps I’ll go with them as my sense of wanderlust hasn’t abated since I turned. In fact now that I’m fully capable of defending myself, my yearning to go on a grand adventure has become almost unbearable. I would love to leave this swamp and travel the world with my newfound friend and fight for good like the heroes of old. I’m still also very serious about finding that witch and giving her that gift basket because she gave me the freedom I always desired.

I am a monster.

I have rows of gleaming teeth and glossy black hair. My iridescent scales are strong enough to turn a blade and the sharpness of my claws rival the swords of the best bladesmiths in the world. I feast on small animals, fish, berries, and roots. I sleep in mud and muck. My voice sounds like the mix of nails on a chalkboard and a dying songbird.

I relish running through the swamps with the wind whipping at my hair. I enjoy climbing the ancient trees just because I can. I love the freedom of my new life.

I’ve never felt more human.

----------

Stay tuned for the thrilling adventures of Uncommon Swamp Dragon and their companion as they go save the world from evils or something idk.

You were cursed by an evil witch to become a horrible monster. You know that she meant to destroy your life, but you have never been happier.

[babiesbasic]

Safe and Fun: Exploring Non-Toxic Silicone Toys for Infants

Early learning of your baby is most important if done via safe, toxin-free play toys. Babies prefer learning by touch and tongue-licking the environment, and so choice therefore has to be really quality and safety-focused. Silicone stacking toys, silicone teething toys, and play-chair produced baby-safe accessories provide the optimum combination of fun, safety, and longevity.

At Babies Basic, there is a specifically selected range of non-toxic silicone baby and toddler toys. They may aid sensory development, hand-eye coordination, and fine motor skills as well as give parents peace of mind.

Why Use Silicone Toys for Babies?

1. 100% Safe & Non-Toxic Materials

Unlike other plastic toys which are made with harmful chemicals like BPA, phthalates, and lead, these Babies Basic silicone teether rings and stackers are completely non-toxic. They are food-grade BPA-free silicone and are safe for chewing as babies can chew on them during teething.

2. Soft, Bendy, and Durable

Babies love to drop, throw, and chew on toys. Silicone teether rings and stackers are soft but durable, so they will never break, crack, or hurt.

3. Easy to Clean & Sterile

Silicone toys are antibacterial, water-resistant, and mold-proof. Silicone toys can be wiped, boiled, or easily cleaned to sterilize them, hence hygienic and long-lasting.

4. Sensory & Motor Skills Development

Ring to stack to teething toys, the silicone toys engage the baby's senses, grip, and hand-eye coordination.

5. Environmentally Friendly

In contrast to plastic toys that have been villainized as poisons, silicone is a hygienic playing substance which is recyclable and possesses a longer shelf life.

Best Silicone Toys & Babies

1. Stacking Silicone Toys

Stacking silicone toys are among the best development toys with the baby learning in balance, color, and form. They learn gross motor and may even utilize them as relief teether.

2. Reusable Silicone Colouring Mat & Silicone Colouring Mat

Great and paper-free fun for babies! Reusable coloring mats with rainbow so kids can color without paper. Easy to clean and reuse!

3. Personalized Pacifier Clips

Pacifiers are easy to use and remain clean with a customized pacifier clip. They are baby-friendly silicone beads and have cute designs.

4. Silicone Plate Set with Spoon and Fork

As baby grows, he can entertain himself with solid food. A fork and spoon set in a silicone plate set for messy meals is ideal, and little fingers can learn to feed on soft, frightening eating utensils.

5. Silicone Bowl & Spoon Feeding Set

Infants experiencing weaning will get a silicone spoon & bowl feeding set which will make mealtimes simple, mess-free, and enjoyable. Non-slip base will offer stability to the bowl such that it won't shift and spill.

6. Pre Feeding Spoon Set & Silicone Spoon with Travel Case

Pre-feeding spoon set is ideal for starting stages of feeding and assists the infant in settling in with solid food, while travel case-friendly silicone spoon is perfect for traveling parents.

7. Stainless Steel Baby Spoon Set

Stainless steel baby spoon set is a sturdy, robust alternative to silicone when the infant can eat more solid food.

8. Baby Silicone Toothbrush

Early oral hygiene! A silicone baby toothbrush is so gentle on gums and ideal for brushing practices at an early age.

How Silicone Toys Promote Early Learning & Play

1. Development of Hand-Eye Coordination

Babies learn hand-playing. Silica toys, coloring mats, and silica feed sets promote problem-solving and hand dexterity.

2- Stimulation of Sensory Stimuli

Infants learn from the world by taste and sensation. Soft silicone toys feel pleasant to the touch on soft hands and lips.

3- Independence in feeding

Children learn while feeding independently. A silicone baby mat, a stainless steel baby knife fork and a baby tableware set made up of a silicone spoon and bowl promote independent eating.

Other Baby Practical and Comfort Needs

Along with enjoyable and safe toys, additional practical and comforting baby essentials:

Cotton Printed Long Sleeves Sleepsuit – Comforting and easy to sleep restfully.

Cotton Printed Long Sleeves Jumpsuit for Baby – Perfect for outdoor adventures and exploration.

Milestone Twin Blanket & Milestone Custom Blanket – Celebrate milestones with boom baby milestone cuteness blankets.

Silicone Baby Toothbrush – Maintain baby's gums and first teeth in tip and clean.

Conclusion

Selecting healthy, interactive toys for your baby is part of your baby's infancy and health. Healthy, long-lasting, and playful silicone toys and this is the reason why silicone toys are an essential product in today's modern parents. Silicone products range from Silicone stacking toys, Silicone Colouring Mat to feeding aids, providing a healthy and interactive exercise for babies.

✨ Get Safe, Non-Toxic Silicone Toys for Your Baby Today!

FAQs

1. Is baby silicone equipment safe?

Yes! Our baby silicone equipment is 100% food-grade, BPA-free silicone, 100% baby-safe to chew on, play with, and explore.

2. Sanitizing silicone toys

Silicone toys are water-resistant and easy to clean. Wash with warm soap and water, dry, and air out. Some even boil in boiling water.

3. Do silicone stacking toys contribute to development?

Yes! Silicone stacking toys challenge fine motor, hand-eye coordination, and brain development without compromising fun.

4. Are Babies Basics silicone pacifier clips safe for babies?

Yes, our own pacifier clips are safe because all of them are made of baby-safe silicone beads and non-toxic materials, which your baby can chew them safely.

5. How can one obtain high-quality baby products and toys that are made of silicone?

You can buy from Babies Basic a line of safe and non-toxic silicone baby essentials and products.

[snugglebubsonline]

How to Make Baby Bath Time Fun with Play (and Don't Forget the Towel!)

How to Make Baby Bath Time Fun with Play (and Don’t Forget the Towel!)

Bath time is more than just about keeping your baby clean—it’s a chance for bonding, giggles, and a whole lot of fun! With a little planning and some playful touches, you can turn bath time into one of your little one’s favourite moments of the day. Plus, with a soft, cozy baby bath towel ready for cuddles afterward, the entire experience becomes magical. Here’s a super-friendly guide to making bath time safe, playful, and oh-so-enjoyable!

Step 1: Get Everything Ready

Before you even fill the bath, make sure your setup is ready to go.

Use a baby bath or a sink with a non-slip mat to keep your little one safe.

Fill the bath with warm water—just the right temperature (37–38°C or 98–100°F). Test it with your elbow or a thermometer.

Keep everything you’ll need within reach: baby shampoo, washcloth, bath toys, and your soft baby bath towel for wrapping your baby up post-bath.

When you’re all set, it’s time to bring your baby in for some water fun!

Step 2: Start with Gentle Water Splashes

Ease your little one into the bath with some gentle water play.

Dip their toes in and let them feel the water—how exciting!

Splash a little water on their hands and legs for them to explore the sensation.

Use a cup or your hand to pour a gentle stream of water over their arms or tummy.

These little moments help your baby feel safe and curious while they adjust to the water.

Step 3: Bring In the Bath Toys

It’s playtime! Bath toys can take bath time from practical to pure joy.

Floating toys, like ducks and boats, are classics for a reason. Babies love watching them drift around.

Soft, squishy toys are great for tiny hands to grab and squeeze.

Stacking cups can double as pour-and-splash toys—they’re simple but endlessly entertaining!

Watching your baby discover how water works is always adorable.

Step 4: Add Music and Chatter

Babies love hearing your voice, so make bath time lively and interactive.

Sing a little tune (even if it’s just your own version of “Splish Splash!”).

Narrate what you’re doing—“Let’s wash your little toes!” or “Now we clean your tummy!”

Talk about the toys—“Where’s the yellow ducky?”

Your baby will be listening, learning, and giggling in no time.

Step 5: Splash Around Together

Once your baby is comfy, let them have fun making little splashes. It’s a simple activity that brings so much joy! Plus, splashing helps your baby practice their motor skills. Just be ready to get a little wet yourself—it’s all part of the fun.

Step 6: Create Fun with Bubbles and Textures

Make bath time extra exciting by mixing in some sensory play.

Add some baby-safe bubble bath to create a fluffy bubble wonderland. Show your baby how to pop the bubbles with their tiny hands.

Use a soft washcloth to gently massage their arms and legs—it’s relaxing and playful at the same time.

Bring in a waterproof mirror so your baby can see their adorable reflection.

These small additions can turn bath time into a mini adventure.

Step 7: Snuggle Up with a Cozy Baby Bath Towel

After all the fun, it’s time to get your little one dry and warm.

Have a baby bath towel ready—hooded towels are especially great for keeping their head snug and warm.

Wrap your baby up and gently pat them dry. Don’t forget to check folds and creases to keep their skin happy and dry.

The towel moment is the perfect way to transition from bath time to cuddle time.

Step 8: End with a Little Post-Bath Bonding

Wrap things up with some extra snuggles or a gentle baby massage. Use a bit of baby lotion to keep their skin soft, and let the coziness continue as you dress them up in their cutest pyjamas.

A Few Bath Time Tips to Keep in Mind

Safety first: Always keep one hand on your baby and never leave them unattended in the bath.

Keep it short and sweet: Bath time should last around 10–15 minutes to keep your baby from getting cold or overstimulated.

Clean toys regularly: Rinse and dry bath toys after each use to prevent mold and mildew.

Bath time can be such a special part of your day with your little one. With a few playful activities and a trusty baby bath towel for those post-bath cuddles, you can make bath time a fun, soothing, and memorable experience for you both. Enjoy every splashy moment! 💦🛁

[sensoryplayforkids]

Explore & Learn with Sensory Play Mats

Discover the ultimate sensory experience for your baby with our touch-and-feel play mats. Featuring 8 interactive textures that promote motor skills and brain development.

[hersheysmcboom]

headcanons for Maheen al-titikki and her relationship with Natasha Romanoff:

Character-Focused Headcanons:

Maheen finds comfort in maintaining her prayer schedule, and Natasha, despite not being religious herself, learns the prayer times and helps Maheen maintain her routine, even during missions.

Due to her autism, Maheen has a special interest in languages, which bonds her with Natasha who teaches her Russian alongside her native Arabic and the English she's learning.

She wears a weighted hijab that Natasha specially designed for her sensory needs, incorporating comfort with religious observance.

Relationship Headcanons:

Natasha helps Maheen maintain a digital diary in multiple languages to document memories of her siblings, promising to help search for them.

When Maheen has sensory overloads, Natasha creates a quiet space in every safehouse they visit, complete with stim toys and prayer mat.

They develop a special non-verbal communication system combining ASL, spy hand signals, and their own unique gestures.

Emotional/Background Headcanons:

Maheen struggles with survivor's guilt, but finds strength in Natasha's own story of overcoming a traumatic past.

She keeps a small prayer rug that belonged to her mother, and Natasha helps her preserve it while teaching her spy craft techniques.

During Ramadan, Natasha adjusts her entire schedule to fast alongside Maheen, making it feel more like a family tradition than a solitary practice.

These headcanons explore the unique dynamic between an autistic Muslim child finding stability with a spy-turned-guardian while maintaining her cultural and religious identity.

[johnhopper]

The Best Way to Use an Acupressure Mat and Pillow Set for Deep Sleep

If you're struggling with sleepless nights, an acupressure mat and pillow set might be the solution you've been searching for. These tools can help promote deep, restorative sleep by targeting pressure points across your body.

In this blog post, we'll explore how to use your Acupressure Mat and Pillow Set effectively, how it works, and how to pair it with additional products like 8 Sheep Organics for a more relaxing experience.

How Acupressure Mats Promote Deep Sleep

Acupressure mats, like those from Bed of Nails, are designed to mimic the benefits of acupuncture without needles. These mats feature hundreds or even thousands of tiny plastic spikes that stimulate pressure points on your skin. When you lie on the mat, the spikes activate acupressure points along your back, neck, and feet, encouraging relaxation and improved blood flow.

The gentle pressure from the spikes can release endorphins—your body's natural painkillers—and oxytocin, a hormone responsible for feelings of calm and happiness. These effects help reduce stress, ease muscle tension, and promote deep relaxation, all essential for quality sleep.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using an Acupressure Mat and Pillow Set

To get the most out of your Acupressure Mat and Pillow Set, follow these steps:

Choose the Right Setting

Find a quiet, comfortable space where you won't be disturbed. Place the mat on a soft surface, such as a yoga mat, a carpet, or a bed. It's essential to be in a relaxed environment to maximize the benefits of acupressure.

Start Slowly

For beginners, it's best to use an acupressure mat easily. Start by lying on the mat for 10–15 minutes to allow your body to adjust to the pressure. Over time, you can gradually increase the duration of your sessions.

Focus on Breathing

Deep, mindful breathing will help you relax while using the mat. As you inhale and exhale slowly, your body will release stress, helping you feel more comfortable on the mat.

Use the Acupressure Pillow

The Acupressure Mat and Pillow set typically includes a pillow to target pressure points in your neck and shoulders. While lying on the mat, place the pillow behind your neck, allowing the spikes to soothe tight muscles and reduce tension. This can enhance your sleep quality by addressing the areas of your body that carry the most stress.

Incorporate Relaxing Scents

To make your experience even more soothing, pair your acupressure routine with a calming product like 8 Sheep Organics. Their all-natural sleep lotion is formulated with lavender and other essential oils that promote relaxation and deep sleep. Apply the cream before lying on your acupressure mat for a multi-sensory relaxation experience.

How Long Should You Use the Mat?

Aim for 20–30 minutes of use before bedtime for optimal benefits. This allows your body to relax and fully prepare for sleep. While some people may feel deeply relaxed after just a few minutes, others may need a bit longer to unwind.

Final Thoughts

Incorporating an Acupressure Mat and Pillow Set into your nightly routine can be a game-changer for improving your sleep. It helps alleviate tension, calms your mind, and prepares your body for a restful night. Consider pairing your acupressure practice with soothing scents like those found in 8 Sheep Organics products for enhanced relaxation. With regular use, you'll soon enjoy the deep, rejuvenating sleep your body craves.

[gourmetgust]

A Taste of Japan: Iconic Flavors and Recipes to Try

Japanese cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its balance of flavors, seasonal ingredients, and artful presentation. From bustling cities to rural villages, the food reflects a deep respect for nature and tradition, offering a sensory experience that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. With its diverse range of iconic dishes, Japanese cuisine invites food lovers to explore a tapestry of flavors and textures. Here, we take a closer look at the essence of Japanese cuisine and some recipes you can try to bring a taste of Japan into your home.

The Foundations of Japanese Cuisine

At the heart of Japanese cuisine is the concept of balance—between flavors, textures, and colors. This philosophy is evident in the traditional meal structure, often referred to as ichiju-sansai (一汁三菜), meaning "one soup, three dishes." A typical meal includes rice, a soup (such as miso), a protein dish, and a variety of side dishes like pickled vegetables or seasonal greens. This arrangement provides not only a nutritional balance but also a harmonious dining experience.

Rice (gohan) is the cornerstone of Japanese cuisine . Its subtle flavor makes it the perfect canvas for accompanying dishes. Meanwhile, soy-based products like soy sauce, miso, and tofu enhance dishes with their umami-rich flavors, a defining characteristic of Japanese cuisine.

Iconic Japanese Dishes to Savor

Sushi Sushi is arguably the most famous Japanese dish globally, combining simplicity with artistry. It features vinegared rice paired with fresh seafood, vegetables, or eggs. Varieties like nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and chirashi (sushi rice bowls topped with assorted ingredients) showcase the versatility of this dish.

Recipe to Try:

Make sushi rice by seasoning cooked short-grain rice with a mixture of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt.

Prepare toppings like sliced fish, avocado, cucumber, or egg.

For maki, roll the rice and fillings in a sheet of nori (seaweed) using a bamboo mat. Slice into bite-sized pieces and serve with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi.

Ramen Ramen, a steaming bowl of noodles served in savory broth, is a comfort food beloved by people worldwide. Broth variations include creamy tonkotsu (pork bone), soy-based shoyu, and light shio (salt). Toppings like sliced pork (chashu), bamboo shoots (menma), and soft-boiled eggs (ajitama) add layers of flavor.

Recipe to Try:

Use pre-packaged ramen noodles or make fresh ones if you're feeling ambitious.

Prepare a broth base using chicken, pork bones, or miso paste.

Add your favorite toppings and a drizzle of sesame oil for a rich finish.

Tempura Tempura showcases Japan’s ability to elevate simple ingredients. Vegetables like sweet potatoes, mushrooms, and zucchini, along with seafood like shrimp, are lightly battered and fried to golden perfection.

Recipe to Try:

Mix a light batter using cold water, flour, and a touch of cornstarch.

Dip your ingredients into the batter and fry in hot oil until crispy.

Serve with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, dashi, and mirin.

Okonomiyaki This savory pancake, often called "Japanese pizza," is a versatile dish made with cabbage, batter, and a variety of toppings such as pork, seafood, and mayonnaise.

Recipe to Try:

Create a batter using flour, dashi stock, eggs, and shredded cabbage.

Pour the mixture onto a hot griddle, add your desired toppings, and cook until golden brown on both sides.

Drizzle with okonomiyaki sauce and Japanese mayonnaise, and sprinkle with bonito flakes.

Miso Soup A staple of Japanese meals, miso soup is light yet flavorful, often served as a starter. The soup is made with dashi broth and miso paste, with tofu, seaweed, and scallions as common additions.

Recipe to Try:

Heat dashi broth (or water with dashi granules) and dissolve miso paste.

Add diced tofu, rehydrated wakame seaweed, and chopped green onions.

Serve warm as a comforting accompaniment to any meal.

Japanese Sweets to Delight Your Taste Buds

Japanese desserts, or wagashi, are just as exquisite as their savory counterparts.

Mochi These chewy rice cakes can be filled with sweet red bean paste, strawberries, or even ice cream.

Matcha Desserts From matcha-flavored cakes to cookies, green tea lends a slightly bitter yet aromatic flavor to sweets.

Dorayaki A delightful pancake sandwich filled with sweet red bean paste, perfect for tea time.

Bringing Japan to Your Table

Cooking Japanese food at home is an exciting way to experience the culture and flavors of Japan. To get started, stock your pantry with essential ingredients like soy sauce, miso paste, mirin, rice vinegar, and dashi. Fresh vegetables, seafood, and high-quality rice will elevate your dishes, allowing you to create authentic flavors.

Experimenting with recipes like sushi, ramen, and tempura opens the door to Japan’s rich culinary traditions. Each dish tells a story—of harmony, simplicity, and a connection to nature. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a beginner, the journey through Japanese cuisine promises to be as rewarding as it is delicious.

By bringing a taste of Japan into your kitchen, you not only enjoy incredible food but also gain a deeper appreciation for a culture that treats every meal as an art form.

Web:- https://gourmetgust.com/