Navigating the waters of childhood friendships can be surprisingly difficult for parents. How do help your kids learn how to make friends? What if your child has a friend you don’t like? Should you intervene when a friend mistreats your child or let him resolve the situation on his own? Preschool and early elementary years…
Student engagement is the spark that lights a flame of interest, which can ignite a fire that grows into a passion. In order to engage a curious student, an educational program must attract children on a real level – stimulating their interests and helping them grow into lifelong learners, not just yearlong students. Our local…
Healthy competition in family sports fosters fun and skill development. It teaches children resilience, teamwork, and the value of effort. It also offers numerous benefits for children, enhancing their development in various ways. Let’s explore strategies to nurture a supportive atmosphere, address conflicts, and encourage skill growth, ensuring family sports remain enjoyable and beneficial for…
Burn some energy at Washington Township Recreation Raintree Pool –
Each year, around December 23rd, I find myself staring into my children’s closets, quickly realizing they have absolutely nothing to wear for Christmas. I know it’s coming, but I guess between the shopping, wrapping, cooking and normal everyday life, it drops to the bottom of the list. But this year, I was happy to plan…
A number of factors contribute to becoming overweight or obese. Genetics, lifestyle habits, or a combination of both may be involved. In some instances, endocrine problems, genetic syndromes and medications can be associated with excessive weight gain. However, regardless of genetics or health conditions, lifestyle choices play a significant role in determining someone’s weight. Much…
Binder Clips are inexpensive, come in a variety of sizes and colors, and are extremely versatile. They can be labeled for stacks of paper (think “To Be Filed” in the office) and the boxes or bins they are clipped to (think “Hand Towels” in the linen closet). They are especially useful when paired with pegs…
When my niece, Charlie, was two years old, she got a huge alphabet mat for her playroom. Before getting the mat, she’d learned a few letters (C for Charlie, M for Mama, etc.), but within days of having it, she became obsessed with letters and learned them all. I’d like to think it’s because she’s inherited all…
Protect and clean green spaces in honor of Earth Day during Five Rivers MetroParks’ 30th annual Adopt-a-Park from 9 to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 22. Register online by Monday, April 7, at www.metroparks.org/adopt. Groups are encouraged to register early to ensure space at available sites. A diverse crew of volunteers of all ages, accessibility…
Have you ever heard these expressions when it comes to explaining a child’s weight problem?“My son will grow into his weight.” “Food is just how we show love in our family.”“There’s just more to love when you’re bigger.” However well-intentioned these sentiments are, weight problems in childhood should not be glossed over. Children who are…
