9 Cool Ice Cream Treats to Celebrate Your Kid’s Summer Birthday

Erica Loop
May 27, 2018

Your little love’s birthday is the event of the summer, and this celebration deserves desserts that go beyond plain ol’ chocolate chip cookies or a row of store-bought cupcakes. You probably don’t have all the time in the world to whip up a refreshingly light cake that’s infused with lemon curd and elderflower buttercream, but you can still treat your kiddo, and the party guests, to a few fab summertime treats. And yes, that means ice cream. Before you try to Cake Boss your way into a birthday dessert that’s well above your culinary skill set, check out these easy-to-make (and totally tasty) ice cream dreams.

1. Blondie Confetti Ice Cream Sandwiches: Nothing says “Party!” like confetti-colored sprinkles. These fun ice cream sandwiches certainly aren’t the standard. They’ll surprise, and delight, your guests while keeping them cool. (via Sprinkle Bakes)

2. Banana Ice Cream Sundae Cupcakes: Forget about boring cupcakes or messy banana splits. This summery treat combines both in a completely creative way. You can even let older kiddos drizzle the chocolate on top or add cherries! (via Baking Bites)

3. Hot Fudge Sundae Cake: Every party needs a cake. And if you’re all about ice cream, this one just can’t be beat. (via Smitten Kitchen)

4. Pretzel Strawberry Ice Cream Pie: The kids love pretzels. And they’re pretty much okay with anything that has ice cream in it. This rad recipe combines the two into one glorious pie. (via Brown Eyed Baker)

5. Two-Ingredient Vegan Chocolate Banana Ice Cream: Believe it or not, you can make your own ice cream. This recipe is incredibly simple, with only two ingredients to use. And bonus, it’s perfect for all of your vegan guests. (via Bowl of Delicious)

6. Ice Cream Pie with a Sugar Cookie Crust: Ice cream and sugar cookies? Yum. This easy option gives everyone the chance to dig in and get their chill on. You can even switch out different flavors of ice cream, making sure that everyone gets their favorite. (via A Beautiful Mess)

7. Toasted Coconut Fried Ice Cream: If you’re looking for something different, this recipe is your answer. There are more than a few ways to turn ice cream into a delicious dessert — and this one steps up the culinary game by frying it up. This beauteous little ball of ice cream goodness is something that your grown-up guests will enjoy too. (via The Healthy Foodie)

8. Saltine Crack Ice Cream Sandwiches: If you just can’t even imagine how saltines and ice cream could possibly go together, then check out this recipe. Your kiddo (and the party guests) will get both their savory and sweet cravings satisfied. (via Smitten Kitchen)

9. Rice Krispies Treat Ice Cream Cones: You need something to put the ice cream in anyway, right? Well, these Rice Krispies cones are totally unexpected, creative alternatives to the plain version. (via Aww Sam)

What’s your kiddo’s favorite ice cream treat? Share your pick and tweet us @BritandCo!

Move Over, Giant Pool Floats… This Summer’s Hottest Must-Have Doesn’t Require a Pool

Last year, we introduced you to the height of #extra entertaining: the giant pool float. Maybe it was hubris, but we were 100 percent certain that no oversized inflatable thing could ever rival the neon glory that was a 10-foot pink flamingo party raft complete with cupholders. How wrong we were. We quickly realized our mistake when we first laid eyes on what’s sure to be this summer’s smash-hit for backyard entertaining: the 6-foot-tall unicorn sprinkler inflatable from Target’s Sun Squad collection.

Where to begin? These irresistible, enormous inflatables hook up to your garden hose to become the centerpiece of any party, spraying refreshing bursts of water over your guests (in the case of the unicorn, directly from its magical silver horn). Unlike the status symbol pool floats of yore, you don’t need a pool to enjoy this infinitely ‘grammable new toy, making it a perfect pick for city-dwellers or those without much outdoor space. Just turn on the outdoor tap and let ‘er rip.

Choose from the aforementioned unicorn, a rainbow tunnel (we pity the six-year-old girl who has to contend with deciding between those two), a mischievous-looking T-Rex, or a purple gorilla. (Why a purple gorilla? We honestly couldn’t say.) No matter which one you pick, we’re certain that having one of these in your backyard will fast-track you to Instagram fame — and solidify your position as Best Hostess Ever for the rest of the summer.

While these are obviously a shoo-in for kids’ parties — we think the T-Rex and this even-taller Dino from PBkids would make for an awesome Jurassic Park setup — they’re pretty tempting for adults too. Picture yourself lounging beneath the rainbow tunnel, gentle mist cooling you and your pals, margs in hand. Sounds like a memorable summer to us. These inflatable sprinklers range from $50 to $100 and can be found at Target stores and online.

RELATED: 10 Pool Float DIYs To Keep Your Summer Going All Year Long

(Photos via Target)

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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25 Thoughts I Had After Watching 'The Family Stone' For The First Time

The Family Stoneis all over TikTok right now, with people dissecting left and right whether the 2000's Christmas movie actually good or actually bad. Until now, I actually hadn't seen this Sarah Jessica Parker and Rachel McAdams throwback film — and TBH, I was desperate to weigh in on the discourse, especially after watching the weirdness that was Love Actually (sorry not sorry!). But with the likes of Diane Keaton, Luke Wilson, and Claire Danes in this cast, it has to be pretty good...right? After streaming this 2005 film on Disney+, here's what I thought.

Here's everything I thought after watching The Family Stone for the first time!

20th Century Fox

1. Why won't Meredith sleep in her boyfriend's bed at his parents house?

While I could understand if Everett's parents didn't want them staying in the same room (sort of), I genuinely am so confused why Meredith makes that call on her own. Is she worried about being respectful? About seeming respectful? Do they genuinely not sleep together? A very confusing choice all-around.

2. Yeah, I mean Meredith is a little awkward for sure — but like WHY is she so uptight?

Anyone would get nervous to meet their potential future in-laws, but Meredith is definitely taking this to a different level. It feels like she's totally shut down, or something. I mean, I guess she had a bad experience with Amy back in the city, so maybe she's worried the holidays will end up the same? Regardless, I'm super uncomfy watching just about every exchange.

3. Why do they all act weird when she wants her privacy on the phone?

Okay, even though Meredith is acting a little weird, I don't think it's that weird that she would wanna take a phone call alone. They act like she just told them to buzz off when she asked for space to answer the phone.

20th Century Fox

4. I love how close this family is, but they're incredibly judgmental!

Listen, I'm all here for a quirky, close family dynamic. I have a kooky family of my own where my siblings and I all speak the same feral language! But these folks seem to take their closeness and use it to alienate and shut out others. It explains why Meredith is having such a hard time connecting!

5. Everyone was very nonchalant about Elizabeth breaking Meredith's nice shoes — I would be pissed!

I don't care if they were Louboutins or the latest Target special — if a child (and particularly one I'd never even met before) recklessly broke my shoes without a care in the world, I would be very upset. It's honestly off-putting that nobody in the family seemed to react to Elizabeth's inconsiderate behavior, and instead chose to look at Meredith like SHE was weird for being peeved.

6. It's honestly so weird how everyone keeps making light that they’re all talking about her?!

Ben literally told Meredith that they're all talking about her behind her back...who does that?! It would be one thing if there were lighthearted jokes and jests leading up to that, but the vibes are clearly bad already. Why make it worse?

20th Century Fox

7. IMO, Meredith's not “shouting” to be rude — she’s trying to be inclusive of Thad because he's hard-of-hearing!

The whole family keeps acting like Meredith is a jerk for speaking up and emphasizing things to Thad, but honestly I think she's just trying to keep him included in the conversation in the way she knows how. Maybe instead of silently judging and letting her look foolish, Everett (or literally anyone else around) could gently explain how to best communicate with his brother?

8. Meredith may be awkward, but she lights up when she talks about her life with Everett!

Amy said that Meredith never stops talking, but it seems like she loves to gab when she's talking about the person she loves: Everett. What's wrong with sharing that with people? So what if she's a little robotic — it's the liveliest she's been the whole time!

9. “I can see you beginning to look at me like they do” :(

Aw, this made me so sad for Meredith!

10. Ben is being so creepy, TBH...

"I had a dream about you," um...okay?! Why are you so clearly trying to mack on your brother's girl?!

20th Century Fox

11. Sybil may be “nice” but she’s incredibly overbearing — look at how she treats Amy about Brad!

In one of the greatest musicals of all time (Into The Woods), Little Red sings that "nice is different than good" — and that couldn't be more true here. Sybil seems nice and friendly, but really she's pretty overbearing and judgmental towards all her kids. I mean, truly who brings up that who daughter lost her virginity to in front of a total stranger unsolicited like that? She was clearly trying to manipulate Amy into fitting the mold she made for her.

12. There are clearly a LOT of strings attached with Sybil

Seriously though, this woman is a tough nut to crack. I mean, she rushed to conclusions about Meredith, making it very clear she's not "the one" for Everett to him and everyone else. It seems like she would be incredibly tough to please in any circumstance, let alone the one where you're picking your life partner (and requesting the family diamond).

13. Meredith keeps trying to be thoughtful, even though this family is awful to her.

Offering to make Christmas breakfast for everyone, even though this family continued to haze her to the point where she didn't even feel comfortable sleeping under their roof, was honestly really kind and thoughtful of Meredith. I don't know if I'd have that kind of grace and resilience in a similar scenario.

20th Century Fox

14. This race and sexuality conversation is SO CRINGE I AM CRYING WHY WHY WHY!

Oh my god, please make this end. I know I've been pretty apologetic for Meredith this whole time, but woof. This was uncomfortable and awkward and problematic. She definitely has a LOT to learn — even for 2005.

15. “I love the gays! Gay people!” Okay, me...

Honestly, tattoo this quote on my forehead.

16. Everett is being such a weirdo about the ring and Julie and everything — like what a WEIRDO!

I know he had a nice little evening wandering around with his girlfriend's sister, but it really seems like this man is ready to blow up his whole life so quickly. Like, Julie was so clearly uncomfortable by him asking her to wear Meredith's engagement ring, but he literally forced her to anyway! WHO does that?

20th Century Fox

17. Julie is honestly sus too...

I get that feels can come outta nowhere, but Julie was very clearly into Everett like...the whole time. There wasn't really any hiding that.

18. Meredith is an incredible gift giver — WOW!

Honestly, if someone gave me that photo of my dying mother, I would be beside myself. That is a gorgeous gift, and I hope to be half the gift-giver she is.

19. Meredith could really stand to tone down the "Karen" behavior

This family put her through a lot, but I am really starting to be over her victim mentality. You put your foot in your mouth multiple times, girly. Apologize and move on!

20th Century Fox

20. "Isn’t there anybody that loves me?!” is incredibly hilarious.

The way Meredith says this so earnestly is just too good.

21. Rachel McAdams slipping in the eggs is incredible

I can only imagine how many takes it took to get this scene! I would have been cracking up the entire time. 10/10 physical comedy across the board!

22. Is Brad the only normal guy (and person) in this story???

Okay, I know we're supposed to think he's some boring doofus or whatever, but Brad honestly seems really nice. He very earnestly shows up for Christmas morning (you know, the major freakin' holiday) to impress Amy, bringing a gift and being there throughout all the madness. Even when things get crazier and crazier, Brad doesn't bat an eye. A keeper, for sure.

20th Century Fox

23. TBH only this weirdo family could deal with the girlfriend swapping

Can you imagine? Like can you ACTUALLY imagine? I couldn't! These people are so strange.

24. Poor normal Brad being sucked into all this...

It seems like Brad is fully "in it" by the end. Best of luck to Brad!

25. Okay, so yes I did still cry!

As the weepy softy that I am...of course I cried. It's beautiful that these weirdos still celebrate and love each other after everything — including the passing of their mother. I mean, come on! Can you blame me?!

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How to Create a Magical Disney-Themed Slumber Party This Spring

Disney
None

You’ve sent out invitations, deep cleaned the house, and mentally prepared for an evening of minimal sleep and maximum giggles. Congrats! You’re well on your way to hosting the most epic slumber party *ever* to celebrate the kiddos being on Spring break. We’ve got you covered with a foolproof plan to ace your way through the rest of the festivities. Get ready to win maximum mom points ;)

Ready? We've teamed up with our friends at Disney to celebrate the launch of Mary Poppins Returns on Digital & Blu-ray by hosting an imagination-fueled slumber party! Sleepover success is just four practically perfect steps away.

A little bit DIY, a little bit expert styling of pillows and blankets, and the most colorful party treats around — let's do this thing!

Tip #1: Plan the ultimate DIY activity to bring the film to life. Between flying umbrellas and upside-down rooms, Mary Poppins Returns provides the ultimate inspiration for an evening of adventure. Start the fun by setting the kids up for a snug viewing of the movie that will bring the magic into your home. Set them up with an easy DIY project like whipping up their own stylish fascinator inspired by Mary Poppins’ hat.

Materials:

  • Pre-cut blue ribbon
  • Bird
  • Colorful feathers
  • Tacky glue
  • Scissors
  • Headbands

Provide the kiddos with the materials to attach the ribbon, feathers, and bird to make their very own hat. If necessary, Mom can always step in to help!

Tip #2: Create a cozy space that will transport the kids straight into a magical world. Just like our favorite nanny says, “Everything is possible! Even the impossible!” Create a whimsical, floating, umbrella light garland and uplifting quote wall to do the trick. For maximum comfiness, create a snuggly space in one, big, cloud-like bed. Finally, add the balloons and cherry blossoms for an extra touch of Mary Poppins.

We chose one of our fave phrases from the movie to adhere to the wall as an easy and inexpensive decor solution. We then added clusters of cherry blossom flowers and balloons around it. Ta-da!

Some string lights will add a twinkle to your house and serve as an easy way to also hang your umbrellas. Use a little fishing line to secure every umbrella in place. Bonus points for adding built-in night lights for the little ones.

Tip #3: Don’t forget to stock up on the snacks! Ready to impress your crew? Surprise the kiddos with the ultimate crowd pleaser inspired by Mary Poppins: cotton candy! For a little extra magic, you can add a sprinkle of edible gold dust!

For dinner, serve easy PB&Js in the shape of an umbrella using a cookie cutter. Pro tip: We like to semi-freeze our bread so we get the perfect cut and shape.

Polish the evening of excitement off with a special treat for the girls — sparkling flavored water.

Lastly, it’s no secret that popcorn is a must-have for any movie night.

In the spirit of keeping things creative, we're putting a whimsical spin on the slumber party classic with our confetti party recipe. Drizzle with a little white chocolate and sprinkles for a snack that all kids (including the Banks) will love.

Tip #4: Make a quick & easy photo booth. Every child deserves the opportunity to feel like they can fly above Cherry Tree Lane. Whip up this playful photo op with any balloon, string, and some tape. Attach the materials to the wall as if the balloon is floating and photograph each child holding onto the string as they “take flight.”

It’s official — you’re all set and ready to open the door for some Spring fun! The best part? You’ll get to indulge in all of your favorite Mary Poppins nostalgia throughout the night.

Mary Poppins Returns is on Digital and Blu-ray now!

What are your secrets to sleepover success? Share with us on Twitter by tagging @BritandCo and @Disney.

Production and Styling: Kayla Haykin & Cassidy Miller

Photography: Brittany Griffin


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Glen Powell Had The Perfect Response To Sydney Sweeney's Bikini Body Shamers

Sydney Sweeney just went viral for clapping back at internet trolls trying to body shame her, but the comments are just as incredible. ICYMI, after some bikini pics of Syd leaked (of the actress in her own backyard, BTW. Creepy!!), an unfortunate slew of hate comments decided to comment on her body. And like the true boss she is, Sydney responded, not with a notes app commentary, but by posting a video of herself training for the new Christy Martin movie.

From Glen Powell to Madelyn Cline, here are the best celebrity comments on Sydney Sweeney's latest Instagram video.

Sydney Sweeney's video of training for her Christy Martin biopic totally speaks for itself.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sydney Sweeney (@sydney_sweeney)

Sydney Sweeney's new Instagram video features the actress boxing and training for her new role, and it doesn't even have a caption — she doesn't need it! The video and photo montage speaks for itself, but that didn't stop her friends from showing her major support in the comments.

"You’re such a bad—ss. This movie is gonna be 🔥," Sydney's Anyone But You costar Glen Powell commented, while Outer Banks' Madelyn Cline simply said, "I truly love it here."

"The thing is these people would never say it in person," Isabela Merced, who starred with Sydney in Madame Web, said. "Too scared. But if they ever did? best believe it’s hands 😘" while Lili Reinhart commented, "It’s always wild to see people publicly out-themselves as pieces of sh—t with comments like that. You look incredible and your dedication to your project is very inspiring 💪🏻❤️."

Quinta Brunson simply left a fire emoji in the comments. (Which, TBH, is exactly how I feel about this whole scenario.)

And Sydney can't wait for fans to see the movie.

Sydney Sweeney has already teased what to expect from the Christy Martin biopic, and can't wait for movie lovers to see how she rose to the self-proclaimed "challenge."

“I grappled and did kickboxing from 12-19 years old," Sydney told Deadlinein May. "I’ve been itching to get back into the ring, train, and transform my body. Christy’s story isn’t a light one, it’s physically and emotionally demanding, there’s a lot of weight to carry. But I love challenging myself.”

That challenge definitely includes physical workouts (did you SEE the video above?!) but it also expands to emotional work too. “Over the past few months, I’ve been immersed in training to bring to life the story of an incredible woman — a true champion who fought battles both inside and outside the ring," Sydney writes in another Instagram post. "Her journey is a testament to resilience, strength, and hope, and I’m honored to step into her shoes to share her powerful story with you all. more to come soon."

We can't wait to see you kick butt Syd! In the Christy Martin movie AND in The Housemaid ;).

Read up on Sydney Sweeney, Jude Law, and Ana de Armas Fight For Survival In Their New Insane Thriller to hear more about Syd's upcoming projects.

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These $4 Trader Joe’s Holiday Cookies Have An Insane Cult Following: “I look forward to these every year!”

If you’re into all things Trader Joe’s, you probably already know what Joe-Joe’s are. Even if you’ve never heard of ‘em, you do know ‘em: they’re essentially TJ’s very own dupe for Oreos. They feature a classic layer of sweet cream sandwiched between two crisp cookies. In years past, they’ve come in all sorts of flavors like Vanilla Creme, Peanut Butter, and Pumpkin Spice.

Right now, the Joe-Joe’s flavor of the moment is centered around the holiday season, and its return has Trader Joe’s shoppers going bonkers, whether they’ve been enjoying it for years or have only just discovered it.

Read on to learn more about this highly-coveted, must-try Trader Joe’s holiday item!

Trader Joe's

The Joe-Joe’s in question are none other than the Candy Cane Joe-Joe’s. They are currently sold in two iterations: regular and gluten-free. According to the Trader Joe’s website, a box of the gluten-free ones go for $4.49. The regular version isn’t currently listed online, but has been available in stores for $4 for a hot minute.

The Candy Cane Joe-Joe’s feature two chocolate sandwich cookies and a peppermint-flavored creme that hosts tons of tiny candy cane pieces for a bit more crunch. Trader Joe’s calls them the “perfect seasonal variation” on classic sandwich cookies.

@traderjoesnew

Seasoned Trader Joe’s shoppers truly don’t play around with their Candy Cane Joe-Joe’s. There are plenty of people who’ve truly granted this product cult status!

One super fan recently took to Reddit to share their love for the holiday cookies – they’ve been enjoying them for a whopping 16 years!

“My FB memories just showed me that 16 years ago today I fell in love with my favorite TJ's product, Candy Cane Joe Joe's,” they wrote in the thread. “Every year I buy at least 5 boxes, eat 1 during the holidays, and stash the rest for the rest of the year. I only have one box so far this year and I need to get more!”

Reddit

“I've consumed at least 2 boxes of these every year since 2007,” another Reddit user wrote in a separate thread. I’m sold.

“I gain 3 lb every December because of these,” one more Redditor said.

Trader Joe's

The Candy Cane Joe Joe's are everything I love about the holidays. They have plenty of chocolate, but enough peppermint to balance out the bite. Plus, desserts are just huge in my household this time of year.

Whether I’m enjoying them solo with a cold glass of milk or adding them to my Christmas charcuterie board to share with the fam, I just know they’re going to be a hit.

As another Reddit user put it: ““They are so good. [It's] impossible to enjoy regular Oreos now.”

Trader Joe's

Cravings going crazy? Trader Joe’s most recent seasonal drop for the holidays includes so many more candy cane-themed items. Catch the Candy Cane Joe-Joe's Ice Cream (!), Candy Cane Green Tea,Candy Cane Baton Wafer Cookies, Dark Chocolate-Covered Peppermint Joe Joe’s, Dark Chocolate Dipped Candy Cane Marshmallows, and even the Candy Cane Body Scrub (and more!) in stores for a limited time.

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