Field Trip Tips

Are you getting ready to explore the idea of field trips? Here are some tips that I have learned over the years with little ones. Be flexible. It is fine to aim for a certain number of activities, but flexibility will allow everyone to enjoy the trip more. Be prepared to go home when the little ones are tired, to stop for diaper changes, to skip an activity or attraction in order to spend more time at the previous one. Bring snacks. Having some refreshing snacks available is so important. Many times on a field trip, toddlers and preschoolers are … Continue reading

Baby Blog Month in Review: July 2008

Two of my three children are summer babies. That is, they were born in the summer and had their first months surrounded by sunshine streaming in the windows, the sound of birds chirping, and days spent wearing nothing but a diaper and a “onsie.” I made sure that they had Fourth of July outfits ready, even though one of them arrived a week after the holiday. I guess he just wasn’t interested in the parade. Do you have a summer baby, too? We had a lot of new information to share this past month, such as recall notices and new … Continue reading

More Library Trip Tips

My last few articles have focused on taking trips to the library with your children. Young children of all ages can benefit from trips to the library. While some parents hesitate about taking a trip to the local library, it is an experience that all children should have. I also began offering some tips and advice for taking trips to the library with your child. Those tips will continue. Some parents find it hard to turn over the idea of checking out books to their child. However it is important that you allow your child to choose the books that … Continue reading

Tips for Library Trips

My last article began discussing the benefits of taking your child to the library. Even very young children can have positive experiences from trips to a local library. The previous article discussed some benefits for babies and toddlers. This article will continue benefits of library trips for other age levels. Preschool Story times for this age level will involve longer more detailed stories. Children may experience interactive activities such as flannel board stories, crafts, songs, and more. Children can learn skills to prepare them for school. Children must learn to share and interact with others their age. Even if you … Continue reading

Benefits of Trips to the Library

Reading is very beneficial to children. One way to encourage and inspire your child to read is to take him or her to the library. There are many benefits that children can gain from taking a trip to the library. Many are reluctant to take small children to a place such as a library because they feel that they have to keep the children quiet. However many libraries are now becoming more small children friendly than ever. They are equipped with small chairs, lower shelves, and puzzles and games. While libraries are still not a place for children to go … Continue reading

Tips for Selecting Books

Recently I discussed the concern that the number of children who read for fun is decreasing. It seems that the older children get, the less they enjoy reading. While many different factors may contribute to why children do not find reading fun, one problem that many children face is finding the right book. There are some things that both parents and teachers can do to help children when selecting a book to read. Before taking your next trip to the library, discuss with your child the importance of careful book selection and about book browsing before making a choice. Use … Continue reading

What Helps You Feel More Grounded?

We all have activities and coping mechanisms that help us feel more grounded—those things we can do when we start to feel restless, unsettled, or as though we would fly off the face of the planet if it wasn’t for gravity! What do you do to make you feel more settled and grounded? If you’re looking for some ideas to help you during those unsettling times, here are some suggestions: I tend to either clean house or sort and purge when I am feeling ungrounded. I have to admit that the feeling does not come to me as often as … Continue reading

More Ways to Save Money on Vacation

Growing up my family took two vacations per year. My generous grandparents always sponsored one of our trips; otherwise there would have been no way our family of six could have gone very far twice a year. Vacations are a huge expense regardless of the size of your family. Think about it; in addition to the cost of transportation and lodging, you have to factor in the price of meals, snacks, beverages, souvenirs, tips, admission fees to attractions, etc. Luckily there are ways to save on a family trip provided you plan in advance. In my previous blog I listed … Continue reading

Tropical Aquarium Tips

Here are some tips to help keep your aquarium running smoothly from start to finish. Starting an aquarium hobby isn’t easy — and it doesn’t happen quickly. You’ll need to take a few weeks to prepare the tank and water before you add any fish. Get the biggest tank you can afford — and the biggest tank that can fit in your space. A larger aquarium usually means the water parameters will be more stable. Water temperature also stays more stable in a bigger tank. Make sure you know and understand the nitrogen cycle. Always use your water test kit … Continue reading

Organizing Your Personal Library: Intro

How can you make the best use of space, find books when you need them and reduce the bookshelf clutter? By organizing of course! Keep reading for some practical tips that will help you keep your personal library of books organized and in great shape. Anyone who knows me knows that I love books. I visit the library every three weeks, I peruse used books stores and books sales and I take advantage of PaperBackSwap on a regular basis. I try to keep everything organize, because I value my books, and because organization also makes my life a lot easier, … Continue reading