How Xtend Barre Creator Andrea Rogers Makes Sure Her Daughters 'Fill Their Buckets'
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With so many of us on the cusp of deciding when and whether to venture out into the world again to work out, socialize, and work, we thought this was the perfect opportunity to get Rogers to tell us the essential things that help her remain a present mom for her daughters, who are 5 and 7 years old. In her Momsessed, Rogers showed us that she’s the type of person who’s always trying to learn about herself, but she’s not too serious to have nightly dance parties and Voice competitions in the living room.
Read on for more of her parenting essentials.
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The podcast I have on repeat
The Chalene Show. It’s a great resource for me as a working mom as she provides tips and practical steps for self-improvement and wellness while tackling some of the classic challenges of parenting.
The books my kids are obsessed with
Our absolute favorite book is Have You Filled a Bucket Today? by Carol McCloud. It’s a wonderful story showing kids the importance of being kind, forgiving, and protective of their own buckets. I introduced my girls to this concept years ago, and it’s one of the very first things we discuss when I pick them up from school: “How did you fill someone’s bucket today? And how did someone fill yours?”
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What I’m currently reading myself
Earlier this year I finished reading Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Hector Garcia. It’s a thought-provoking read focused on the purpose of living and how to unlock some of the simple secrets to living a life of meaning and joy. I am now on the second book of the series, The Ikigai Journey, which explores how to discover your purpose and lead a happy life.
The beauty product I never leave the house without
Pre-COVID, this would have been my lipstick, but since we are no longer showing off our smiles, I would say my new must-have product is my hand lotion and sunscreen. Since we are sanitizing our hands like crazy these days, I need to keep the dryness at bay and always have a great hand cream in my purse. I also like to keep a travel sunscreen on hand for those days we are out and about for hours!
The skin-care and bath products my kids love to use
We are big fans of sunscreen in this house and love Elta MD, as it goes on so smooth and doesn’t leave that chalk-white layer on our skin!
The apps that make my life as a parent easier
My Google calendar is everything! If it’s not on my calendar, it’s not happening. I rely on this to schedule everything from Zoom meetings, playdates, homework assignments, and more. We also LOVE our music apps. We have nightly dance parties and take turns playing DJ.
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A post shared by Andrea Leigh Rogers (@andreaxtendbarre)
The non-screen activity that keeps my kids occupied for hours
My kids are great at playing solo and are currently into creating movies. They set a theme, create the setting, plan costumes, write a script, and act out the scenes. I have to say, I am quite impressed with their imagination and editing skills, it always cracks me up to see their finished project. I remind them how much they will love watching these movies when they are adults and someday will show their little ones.
The TV shows I actually enjoy watching with my kids
Yes, we are big fans of American Ninja Warrior and The Voice. My girls try to create Ninja Warrior obstacle courses and test their skills, while we also do singing competitions. Any shows that promote movement and confidence are a plus in my book!
The kid-friendly music I don’t hate playing
Jack Johnson has some beautiful albums. One is called In Between Dreams the other Curious George, which was always playing in our home after having both girls and still plays on our favorite playlists. Sweet, soothing, good-vibes tunes that fill the entire house with warmth and love.
My favorite subscription for the kids
Bitsbox is a great coding subscription that the girls enjoy. It’s an introduction to the world of coding and creates a fun way for kids to explore the power of coding.
The clothing brands my kids love
I recently discovered a fabulous new Etsy shop ShopAndisList, which creates kids clothing racks (they are soooo gorgeous). I also am loving Only Little Once, where I just purchased the girls two adorable nightgowns!
How I keep my wardrobe on point
I am all about being cozy and active, so I have been living in my lounge wear and fitness styles these days. I love Phat Buddha’s seamless line. It’s so easy to move in and look put together while being super comfy!
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