When I was growing up, moms always seemed to have the answers to life’s questions. Now our next generation of kids is turning to the all-knowing Internet. What can we do to keep up? A few weeks ago, my son couldn’t find his favorite jeans. Instead of asking me if I knew where they were, […]
Art is a creative act that cannot be taught. Creativity can be nurtured by providing open-ended activities that allow our children the freedom to experiment with a wide variety of materials. When children explore and use art materials, they are creating something new and unique. Sometimes we want “products” that are perfect or “right” as […]
What works during a fussy bath-time at your house?
What is the best piece of advice you can offer for traveling with small children?
When you drop your little one off with a new child care provider, you don’t have to hold your breath and cross your fingers that everything will turn out OK. Here are some steps to make sure you’re on the right path to developing a great partnership with your child’s caregivers: Do your research. You […]
Our goal is to help children cultivate a deeper understanding of how every person has the power to help. During this month of the Great Sprout Tuck-In Season of Giving, focus a little extra energy around the idea of gestures of giving. Throughout the month, talk with your children about a time you did something […]
Dear Friends, As both a mother and CEO of more than 900 schools committed to educating and caring for children across the country, my heart breaks for those impacted by the senseless tragedy that occurred in Newtown, Connecticut. Our deepest condolences go out to the students, parents, teachers and staff of Sandy Hook Elementary and […]
How are your children learning generosity at home? Tell us in a comment below.
For better or worse, my kids associate the holiday season with gifts. I haven’t even put away the Thanksgiving decorations, but I already know my boys would like their first electronic readers, some new clothing for our planned holiday trip and (obviously!) a replenishing of their beloved baseball equipment. While my kids will receive some […]
I’m not psychic, but I have a prediction. If your baby goes to daycare, chances are that one day, you’ll suddenly get a lot of protests and crying at drop-off – right around the time your baby starts to crawl. How can I be so certain? Scientists who study infants have discovered that a baby […]
Bringing home your first baby is spectacularly exciting, wonderful – and more than a little demanding. But baby No. 2 is a bigger challenge altogether, because your toddler is still a baby, too! Helping your toddler – who has suddenly become the Big Kid – get used to this big new change will help everyone […]
My friend Gina recently confessed her secret desire to abandon her extended family and escape on vacation for the month of December. Gina is a world-class cook, and she spends weeks prepping for an onslaught of guests who have come to expect gourmet meals, a decked-out house and a smiling hostess. For several years, Gina […]