“This summer my 11-year-old got involved in our meals,” writes Katy Elliott. “She started coming on my weekly grocery trips, and she’s learning her way around noodle bowls and the toaster oven. And she has started to bake, too.” One key way she built her confidence? Baking mixes. And wouldn’t you know, Trader Joe’s has some great ones. Katy’s family took them for a test drive and wrote up their favorites.

— Kelly Faircloth, Executive Editor

Katie McPherson gets it: “If you work from home or don’t have work some weekdays, it’s really hard to motivate yourself to put on regular clothes for a quick appearance at school drop-off.” Lace-up shoes? Forget it. So she’s rounded up some slippers and clogs to get you through your morning.