Sometimes I can be a very neurotic parent. Now, this doesn’t happen often. Normally I am not a worrier at all. However, in the last six months I’ve been worrying about my daughter’s talents in the art department. Yes, that’s right – art. You see, I am not a fabulous artist. I can’t draw a straight line, and all of the animals I draw seem to look like anemic cats. My daughter’s artistic talents seem to run in the same direction. When either of us is asked to draw a picture, we’ll scribble something on a piece of paper, say … Continue reading →

Think fast: What are you better equipped to handle on a 5-hour long Labor Day weekend road trip, a flat tire or a bored preschooler strapped to the backseat of the car? Most parents would rather deal with a flat than a car full of whiny children. If your vehicle doesn’t come equipped with a DVD player or you are embarking on a tech-free vacation, then you might consider the following classic car games to keep things running smoothly: Twenty Questions This car game favorite requires one person to think of a person, place or thing, while each of the … Continue reading →

Talking to your preschooler about the benefits of eating a healthy diet will likely do little to change his view on broccoli and cauliflower. However, if you invite him into the kitchen and allow him to work on recipes with you that include nutritious ingredients, your point will probably be better received. Kids love rolling up their sleeves and creating yummy treats so why not take advantage of their enthusiasm? The following tasty recipes are easy to prepare and the best part—-they are incredibly healthy. ORGANIC CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER BALLS Ingredients: 1 cup organic peanut butter 1/3 cup honey 2 … Continue reading →

Learning doesn’t only have to take place in a classroom. The following simple activities are designed to help educate your preschooler in a home setting. What’s more, the projects are so much fun, your child won’t realize he’s actually leaning important lessons in the process: SHAVING CREAM PAINT Materials: Shaving cream Sponges Paintbrushes Food coloring Popsicle sticks Small bowls Directions: Spray shaving cream into several small bowls. Add food coloring and mix with Popsicle sticks. Moisten sponges and paintbrushes. Allow your preschooler to paint with the shaving cream. Then, have him mix the colors and guess what the combinations will … Continue reading →

Preschools around here open a week after public and private schools do. For parents with children in multiple grade levels the staggered start means having to keep at least one child occupied while the others are in class. If you are looking for ways to pass time with your preschooler in the days leading up to the start of his new school year, then consider the following fun and educational activities: COTTON BALL SNOWMAN Find different size plastic cups or round containers (you could also use canned goods) for preschoolers to trace. You’ll need three different sizes. On paper have … Continue reading →

Instead of getting upset with your picky preschooler at mealtime, consider getting him involved in the preparation process. If you allow him into the kitchen instead of chasing him out in order to give you more space to whip up lunch or dinner, he’ll become invested in the meal, and consequently he may try new items. Start off by experimenting with old favorites. For example, instead of making the same ol’ PB & J sandwiches, consider creating kid-friendly fruit kabobs, pizza, and quesadillas. Kids love dipping, stacking and rolling up their food into fun treats. Purchase some mini bagels, flour … Continue reading →

If your preschooler’s room is ready for a makeover, but you don’t know where to begin, then consult with an expert—-your child. Spend an afternoon with your preschooler placing bedroom items where he or she would like to see them. Work together to place the bed, dresser, toys and other belongings in areas that will work for both of you. By spending time with your preschooler, you can get a good sense of what she values when it comes to design. Perhaps she sees something that you do not. For example, having the bed face the closet can be scary … Continue reading →