Photos: Ellingboe Photography
A new Excelsior business looks to make craft activities for young kids easier and more affordable for parents.
As a busy mom, Bryanna Schuette saw a need for quick and easy activities for her family. In response, she created Notes for Mama, a seasonal home learning and craft brand designed to keep young children engaged in hands-on learning through play. “My goal is to help caregivers feel confident and connected with their littles—without the stress of planning or hunting down supplies,” Schuette says.
Notes for Mama offers 10-week themed activity packs for summer, fall, winter and spring. Each activity pack includes the supplies parents and kids will need to get started. “Each craft or activity is organized, clearly labeled and includes simple, step-by-step instructions,” Schuette says. “It’s designed so caregivers can jump right in, whether they have five minutes or an hour, whether they’re naturally crafty or not at all. It’s about creating sweet, stress-free moments together—without the prep, pressure or Pinterest overwhelm.”
We caught up with Schuette to learn more about Notes for Mama.
How did your parental journey influence these boxes?
Bryanna Schuette (BS): My parenting journey played a huge role in creating these boxes. I have four kids, ranging in age from 2 to 13, so I’ve experienced every stage of early childhood—and I’ve seen just how much things have changed over the years. Thirteen years ago, I could pop into a craft store and grab a few things. Now, with so much shifting to online and bulk buying, it’s harder (and more expensive) to just get what you need for one simple activity. I created these boxes to take that stress out of the equation—giving caregivers everything they need, in just the right amount, so they can focus on enjoying time with their littles, not planning or shopping.
How do you come up with the themes for each box?
BS: I come up with the themes by drawing from a mix of real-life parenting moments, seasonal inspiration and what I know kids naturally love to explore. Being a mom of four, I’m constantly tuned into what sparks curiosity, imagination or giggles—from holidays and nature to colors, textures and sensory play.
I also think about what’s manageable for caregivers—keeping things simple, open-ended and flexible enough to fit into real-life routines. Each theme is designed to feel fresh and fun but also doable, using activities that build connection without feeling like one more thing on the to-do list.
What kind of learning and developmental goals are built into the activities?
BS: Each Notes for Mama activity is thoughtfully designed to support early learning and development—without feeling like “work.” Kids build fine motor skills, explore sensory play, practice early literacy and express creativity, all while bonding with their caregiver. It’s simple, fun and developmentally rich—disguised as play.
Notes for Mama is launching on May 15 with a 10-week summer program. What can families expect from the summer program?
BS: Families can expect a summer of fun and easy activities with the Notes for Mama program. Each box is filled with themed crafts, sensory play and engaging projects—everything is prepped and ready to go. For added ease, there’s a calendar that organizes the activities, so you can follow along if you prefer a set schedule or simply pick what fits your day. It’s all about making summer simple, joyful and stress-free for both kids and caregivers.
Are there any sneak peaks into the themes and activities in the summer box?
BS: Absolutely! You can get a sneak peek into the summer box themes by following me on Instagram @notes.for.mama. Right now, I have “promo mamas” sharing some fun previews during sneak peek week. This summer, we’re diving into themes like planting and gardening, fruit and vegetables, camping, nature, water and beach fun and, of course, ice cream!
Notes for Mama
Instagram: @notes.for.mama
