Can playing music to your baby or young child make her smarter? That was the claim of the much-hyped “Mozart Effect” several years ago, but the truth isn’t exactly black and white. Certainly, music is a great complement for stimulating babies’ brains and teaching toddlers vocabulary, but the jury’s out…
There’s plenty to bond with other moms about, especially when your kids are the same age. But how do you make and retain those friends of yours who don’t have kids? Keeping things relatable on both sides is the key to retaining those friends who either don’t yet have kids,…
When it comes to what’s going on in your child’s school, does it feel like you don’t out those important nuggets of news until it’s too late? Whether it’s picture day, book fair, food drive or other events, you’re probably familiar with the feeling of finding out about it after…
Admit it – there’s nothing fun about rainy days, especially when there are kids in the picture. Within a few hours, it feels like everybody has come down with a serious case of cabin fever. There are ways to be prepared for the worst-case scenario. Arm yourself with these techniques…
Nobody wants to think about the unthinkable. But it’s important to have a plan in place if something happens to you, your partner or spouse, or both of you. If you have property, even if it doesn’t seem of much value, then you need to designate to whom it will…
The holidays only happen once a year so you want to make the most of them. That means never missing an opportunity to incorporate some Christmas cheer into your days or nights. What better way to get into the spirit of the season than with a heartfelt holiday movie? Make…
It’s sometimes amazing to watch what seems like an out-of-control child submit to a teacher’s bidding at school. Parents who are exasperated with their kids’ at-home antics can be really surprised when they watch their child interact successfully with their teachers away from home. How do teachers harness all that…
Sure, it’s nice to get all those lovely crayon-scribbled notes that say “I love you,” along with a soggy bowl of fruit loops and vase of dandelions in bed. But it’s OK to want a little more out of Mother’s Day. After all, consider what you do for your family…
Does the thought of bacteria give you the creepy crawlies? Well, you can be harboring this hazardous element in bath toys, toothbrushes, sippy cups and other places. Believe it or not, bacteria can be hiding in places you never thought it would be. Think your bathtub is in the clear?…
Taking a vacation with little ones can seem like anything but when kids are pulled out of a familiar environment and familiar rituals. But with a little planning and flexibility, you and your family can have a good time and keep everyone happy and well-rested. The first thing to consider…