If your family doesn’t already have a furry friend – or your kids don’t get along with the pet – then the time may come when they start begging for a cat, dog, snake…who knows? Be prepared to field their requests by assessing first whether or not your family is…
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…
Children express emotions in a range of ways, and they may not always seem like appropriate reactions. Being scolded might turn a child into a wailing, hysterical mess, but the death of a close family member might be met with stoicism. This is because children model their behavior after what…
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…
Regardless of whether they’re stuck inside, on a play date or just feeling artistic, painting is just plain fun for kids. So if you hear the dreaded complaints of “I’m bored!” this summer, then just don some smocks and go to town to create some artistic masterpieces. Even the youngest…
Want to get a little something more out of your vacation than a sunburn or some souvenir mouse ears? Try taking the kids on an educational vacation this year, where they can supplement what they learn in school with some real family fun. Museums and zoos close to home are…
For many kids, summer fun just wouldn’t be fun without a big outdoor bubble party! But before you go out and buy a pricey bubble-blowing machine, why not give making your own bubble formula a try? It’s cheap, easy and may even make bigger bubbles than the storebought kind. You…
Pop Pop. Mom Mom. Papa. Nana. Grandpa. Grandma. They go by many different names, but their role is always the same – to spoil their grandchildren with hugs, kisses and everything in between. Every year, Grandparents Day falls on the first Sunday after Labor Day. When Marian McQuade founded National…
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?…
Summer means it’s time to enjoy fresh, locally grown fruits, veggies and other homegrown goodies. Take advantage of the season and make a visit to the farmer’s market fun and educational for the kids. As they have a choice in the foods they’re served, they’ll be more encouraged to get…