Temitayo Ifafore-Calfee

Spring break with toddlers isn’t always a vacation. Sometimes it’s parenting in a different zip code. Ask me how I know. These are my ride-or-die items — the things that make beach days smoother, pool time safer, and travel days less chaotic. From sun protection to backup stuffed animals (learned that one the hard way), this list is built from experience. Pack these and thank yourself later.

I have a major love-hate relationship with Emily Cooper. I’m not a fan of her cultural blunders, but her wardrobe? Magnifique. This list is for everyone who wants Emily's bold, colorful wardrobe without the designer price tag (or the questionable decision-making). I’ve sourced the best budget-friendly pieces to help you recreate her most iconic looks.

Valentine’s Day looks different when you’re parenting—but that doesn’t mean it disappears. This cherries and bows edit is for grown-ups who still like romance, whimsy, and still want to feel put together. Consider this your nudge to plan something just for the two of you—a kid-free escape, even if it’s short, to reconnect and keep the spark alive.

I don’t know if it was Clueless, Gossip Girl, or my New England boarding school years—but preppy style has me in a chokehold. This is travel prep meets prep. Or better yet… Prep-a-Porter.

I've loved Hello Kitty since I was a little girl. Hello Kitty has so many adorable and compact products that are perfect for travel.

Confessions of a Glitterati: I have a lifelong, unapologetic relationship with sparkle. Some people pack neutrals; I always pack something sparkly when I travel with my kids. This list is for the moms who believe glitter is a personality trait and who understand that a little shimmer can save a long travel day.

Kid-sized, mom approved cute suitcases. I have had to schlep my kids' bags around the world and curated my favorite pint-sized rollies.

Because DC is way more fun with kids than people give it credit for.