Kids

Scholastic Scholastic News Online
Yankees Win Their 27th World Series

The Yankees claimed their 27th World Series championship Wednesday with a 7-3 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies. They won four games to the Phillies'; two in the best-of-seven series.
Tribal Nations Converge on D.C.

President Barack Obama is holding a Tribal Nations Conference in Washington, D.C., on November 5. It is the largest summit of its kind in U.S. history and the first presidential meeting with tribal leaders in 15 years.
Supersized Ring Circles Saturn

Scientists recently discovered a new ring around the planet Saturn. It is the largest known ring in our solar system.
Fighting the New Flu

Along with the annual wintertime flu, the United States is fighting a new virus, the H1N1 flu. In an effort to halt the spread of the illness, a new vaccine will be offered to many children right in their schools.
President Barack Obama Wins Nobel Peace Prize

President Barack Obama has been awarded the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize. The Peace Prize Committee said they chose President Obama for this honor because of his "extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples."

The Kids Fun Factory
Keep Kids From Eating Too Much Candy After Halloween

Proud Parents OC

2 Nov 2009 | 3:04 pm

Keep Kids From Eating Too Much Candy After HalloweenWhile I love the cute costumes and the neighborly aspect of trick-or-treating, I sure don't love the giant sacks of candy that result from it. How do you keep your kids from eating too much candy, whether they've accumulated their loot on Halloween, Valentine's Day, Easter, or some other occasion?Keep Your Eyes PeeledMy little girl had a Halloween Sleepover last year. Even though I took all her and her friends candy away and made them play lots of fun games, they still managed to get all hyper on there camp out. Before they went to bed I…
HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS FOR TRICK OR TREATING

Proud Parents OC

30 Oct 2009 | 9:35 am

HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS FOR TRICK OR TREATING Trick or Treating should be one of the great adventures of Halloween for kids! They can get dressed in scary costumes and go door to door, begging "Tricks or Treats!" from neighbors or at the local mall. Lots of towns have a Harvest Festival so kids can Trick-or-Treat safely. But going door to door is the stuff of childhood memories! It should be a fun time, without trouble and pain, so following some easy tips can keep your child safe every Halloween. * Children should go out during daylight hours only unless accompanied by a responsible adult.*…
free pumpkin carving patterns | easy paper pattern for children Halloween pumpkin carving

Proud Parents OC

25 Oct 2009 | 9:17 am

We love carving pumpkins at home with the kids, something free to do with your kids. We'll free after you pay for the pumpkins. Trader Joes has pumpkins for $3.49 each - the best price around. Even Walmart sells them for $4.99.Here is a link to free pumpkin carving patterns | easy paper pattern for children Halloween pumpkin carving: http://paperpumpkins.com/patterns.htmHappy Halloween!
Cirque du Soleil™: Kooza at Orange County Great Park

Proud Parents OC

12 Oct 2009 | 12:49 pm

Cirque du Soleil™: Kooza at Orange County Great Park IN IRVINETickets On Sale Now!Opens on January 08, 2010 Under the Grand Chapiteau at Orange County Great Parkhttp://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/shows/kooza/tickets/irvine.aspx?d=41
Kidsfaire This Weekend - OC Fairgrounds

Proud Parents OC

30 Sep 2009 | 6:07 am

Tickets $5.00 for kids 2-12 and $8.00 for adults» DISCOUNT TICKETS «Click here to download discount tickets,benefitting Ronald McDonald House of Orange County http://www.thekidsfaire.com/pub/costamesa_tickets.htm ClownTownJoin us at the ClownTown big top and enjoy the zany antics of juggling, slapstick comedy, magic and lots of family fun. Character Central Features the World's Most PopularChildren's Television and Movie Stars!Meet SpongeBob, Dora, the Care Bears, Junie B. Jones, Curious George, Scooby Doo, Super Why and tons more special VIP guests! Don't forget to bring your camera for…

www.hellokids.com
PRINCE OF PERSIA: THE SANDS OF TIME

5 Nov 2009 | 1:37 am

From the team that brought the “Pirates of the Caribbean” trilogy to the big screen, Walt Disney Pictures and Jerry Bruckheimer Films present PRINCE OF PERSIA: THE SANDS OF TIME, an epic action-adventure set in the mystical lands of Persia. A rogue prince (JAKE GYLLENHAAL) reluctantly joins forces with a mysterious princess (GEMMA ARTERTON) and together, they race against dark ...
NEW ! Turtle and tortoise coloring pages

4 Nov 2009 | 6:16 pm

Great turtle and tortoise coloring pages. Print out these Turtle coloring pages, and you'll be coloring within seconds. This collection includes Turtle, Green Turtle, Galapagos tortoise, Aldabra giant tortoise, Hermann's tortoise, Leatherback turtle colorign pages.
Christmas around the world

2 Nov 2009 | 7:37 pm

Charles Dickens wrote the original story of A Christmas Carol in 1843, which was also the year that the very first Christmas card was sent and three years before Queen Victoria and her family introduced the Christmas tree to Britain.
Halloween Contest Winners

2 Nov 2009 | 6:21 pm

Check out the list of winners to see if you are one of the lucky winners who will
Drawing tutorials - Learn how to draw wild animals

2 Nov 2009 | 2:04 am

Helpful lessons on how to draw your very own animals. Check out easy step-by-step drawing tutorials to learn how to draw wild animals. You need a white sheet of paper, a lead pencil, a gum eraser and some felt-tips and colored pencils to color in your masterpiece!

About.com Children's Books
Picture That! - For Teachers of Tweens and Teens

5 Nov 2009 | 4:46 pm

Among other uses of children's picture books, author and educator Sharron L. McElmeel recommends, "Using picture books to introduce a topic, to build a schematic background for content-area studies, and to develop higher-level thinking skills..." In her book Picture That! From Mendel to Normandy, McElmeel encourages teachers of tweens and teens (grades 4-12) to use picture books across the curriculum and provides guidance as to which children's books to use and how to use them. Using picture books with older kids can be very effective in getting them interested in a topic. I have found that…
2009 Teens' Top Ten - Favorite Books

4 Nov 2009 | 4:01 pm

From August 24 through September 18, teens voted for their favorite books in the 2009 Teens' Top Ten online poll. More than 11,000 of them chose Paper Towns as their favorite book. Teens' Top Ten is sponsored by the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA), which is a division of the American Library Association (ALA). YALSA describes Teens' Top Ten as "a 'teen choice' list, where teens nominate and choose their favorite books of the previous year. Nominators are members of teen book groups in fifteen school and public libraries around the country. Nominations are posted online and…
The Three Snow Bears by Jan Brett

3 Nov 2009 | 4:01 pm

If you have children, you probably already know about popular picture book creator Jan Brett, who has more than 33 million books in print. Her picture book, The Three Snow Bears, is a retelling of "Goldilocks and the Three Bears," set in a traditional Inuit village. Brett includes accurate details about Inuit lives and customs in the picture book. I have long been a fan of Jan Brett's illustrations and her books. Does your family have a favorite Jan Brett picture book? One of my favorites is Jan Brett's Christmas Treasury a collection of her holiday and winter stories. To share your family's…
A Book About Alzheimer's Disease and More

2 Nov 2009 | 4:01 pm

Did you know that November is National Alzheimer's Disease Month? Alzheimer's disease affects the entire family. It's hard to explain to young children what has happened to their grandfather or grandmother when they are afflicted with Alzheimer's disease. The children's picture book Singing with Momma Lou might help. More than just a book about Alzheimer's disease, it also emphasizes family love and respect, family memories, and the importance of preserving and handing down family stories from one generation to another. Singing with Mama Lou is intended for the 4-8 year old child, but it…
Tsunami! - A Memorable New Book

1 Nov 2009 | 4:55 pm

The picture book Tsunami! is the dramatic story of a tsunami and one man's sacrifice that saves all of the people in a Japanese village threatened by the giant waves. Both the story by Kimiko Kajikawa and the striking artwork by Ed Young are strong enough to stand alone, but together, they create a memorable experience for the reader. I recommend Tsunami! for children six and older, as well as teens and adults. Ed Young's picture book Wabi Sabi, by Mark Reibstein, is on my list of the Best Illustrated Children's Books of 2008. (Cover art courtesy of Penguin) Tsunami! - A Memorable New Book…

Kids Lit
All of Me! A Book of Thanks

saecker

6 Nov 2009 | 11:51 am

All of Me! A Book of Thanks by Molly Bang A small child thanks each body part for how well they work. Fine feet hold you up, hands can grab and hold, arms to hug, mouth, eyes, nose, ears, and heart. Each bit of us is constantly supporting our life, allowing us to do what we need to do. Every day we feel so many different things, do so many different things. And in the end? We are part of the universe and alive! Bang’s art is so beautiful and simple here. The end pages of the book feature some of her work space and then some ideas for children to start…
Luv Ya Bunches

saecker

6 Nov 2009 | 11:04 am

Luv Ya Bunches by Lauren Myracle Yes, this is the book that was not included in Scholastic Book Fairs because one of the characters has lesbian parents. Sheesh! That has since changed and they will be carrying the title. This book though is so much more than the subject of that controversy! It’s funny, smart, and simply wonderful. It all starts with a big gesture in the hallway made by Katie-Rose, who slams into Milla, sending her backpack and everything in it skittering across the floor. Katie-Rose skulks away, so Yasaman is blamed for the event though she had…
Finn Throws a Fit!

saecker

5 Nov 2009 | 1:40 pm

Finn Throws a Fit! by David Elliott, illustrated by Timothy Basil Ering I was sold on this book from the very first page, which features a huge image of Finn hugging a peach. The look on his face of complete and utter bliss is the essence of joy. Then of course, the book changes… Today, Finn does not like peaches. He doesn’t like anything at all. He is just plain grumpy! He slams doors, yells, cries, stomps his feet. His temper is so huge that when he does these things they have disastrous effects. His tears flood the house. Lightning…
The Mitten

saecker

5 Nov 2009 | 1:24 pm

The Mitten retold by Jim Aylesworth, illustrated by Barbara McClintock This is a retelling of Ukrainian folktale made popular by Jan Brett whose beloved version is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. A little boy heads out to play in his new hat, scarf and mittens that his grandmother has knitted for him. While playing, he loses one of his mittens. The mitten is found by a squirrel, a rabbit, a fox, and a bear who manage to squeeze into the mitten and be nice and warm. But when a mouse comes by and begs to join them too, it is too much for even…
You and Me and Home Sweet Home

saecker

4 Nov 2009 | 11:06 am

You and Me and Home Sweet Home by George Ella Lyon, illustrated by Stephanie Anderson In poetic form, Lyon tells the story of a young girl, Sharonda, and her mother who have a Habitat for Humanity house built for them. The story moves from them living in a tiny room together in her Aunt Janey’s apartment and through the process of the home being built and completed. Beginning with the empty lot and hope, the story is built as sturdily and lovingly as the home itself. Lyon’s poetry does not rhyme and for most children will not read as a poem, but it is. Filled with…

Yahoo! Education: Word of the Day
acrimonious - November 7, 2009

6 Nov 2009 | 8:00 am

(adjective) biting, harsh, caustic.

Children's Writing Web Journal
Jon’s Twitter Updates for 2009-11-06

Jon

6 Nov 2009 | 7:59 pm

Just posted: Jon’s Twitter Updates for 2009-11-04 - Just posted: Five Reasons Why You Can’t Be A Writer (And Why No… http://ow.ly/15ZJZm #
Jon’s Twitter Updates for 2009-11-05

Jon

5 Nov 2009 | 7:59 pm

Just posted: Jon’s Twitter Updates for 2009-11-03 - Fightin Bookworms:Hot young author Kaleb Nation on how he built… http://ow.ly/15ZuFu # Fightin’ Bookworms: Just posted - Audrey Carangelo’s Tips for Writing Easy Readers http://cbiclubhouse.com # Great deal on Amazon: ‘2010 Children’s Writer’s & Illustrator’s Market http://bit.ly/2uA8pI #
Jon’s Twitter Updates for 2009-11-04

Jon

4 Nov 2009 | 7:59 pm

Just posted: Five Reasons Why You Can’t Be A Writer (And Why None Of Them Are True) http://ow.ly/15ZeAC # Five Reasons Why You Can’t Be A Writer (And Why None Of Them Are True) http://is.gd/4MbUc #
Jon’s Twitter Updates for 2009-11-03

Jon

3 Nov 2009 | 7:59 pm

Fightin Bookworms:Hot young author Kaleb Nation on how he built an online fan base *before* getting published. http://cbiclubhouse.com # Fightin’ Bookworms: November’s “Children’s Book Insider, the Newsletter for Children’s Writers” is online! http://cbiclubhouse.com #
Five Reasons Why You Can’t Be A Writer (And Why None Of Them Are True)

Laura

3 Nov 2009 | 10:29 am

I have a very clean house. I vacuum almost daily, regularly dust my silverware drawer for crumbs, and organize my closets at least three times a year. What’s my secret? I’m a writer who works from home. Like many writers, when deadlines loom I circle my laptop, finding excuses not to get started. But because I do consider myself a writer (and my Mexico vacation depends on it), eventually I plant myself in the chair and get to work. And yet I’m one of the lucky ones. I hear from a lot of people who long to call themselves writers, but have generated all sorts of reasons never…

Science News for Kids
SCIENCE SNAPSHOTS: Junk food junkies

27 Oct 2009 | 9:00 pm

Rats on a junk food diet behave like drug addicts
SCIENCE SNAPSHOTS: Giant snakes invading North America

27 Oct 2009 | 9:00 pm

A new government study suggests the United States may see pythons in Pennsylvania by 2100
THE WEEKLY SCOOP: Batteries built by Viruses

27 Oct 2009 | 9:00 pm

Scientists use microbes to create tiny power supplies

Animal Jr
Cartoon Dinosaur Coloring Pages

Wendy Piersall

6 Nov 2009 | 9:37 am

Our cartoon dragon coloring pages are a big hit over at Fantasy Jr., so I figured we should put together some cute cartoon dinosaurs over here! And did you know that we have over 45 sets of animal coloring pages?! Some of the most popular are these zoo coloring pages, cute animal coloring pages, rainforest animal coloring pages and our animal masks to color. Cartoon Dinosaur Coloring Page Cute Dinosaur Coloring Page Cartoon Girl Dinosaur Coloring Page Winking Dinosaur Coloring Page Dinosaurs in Love Coloring Page Laughing Dinosaur Coloring Page Mom and Baby Dinosaurs Coloring Page Dancing…
Thanksgiving Printable Craft: Turkey Animal Masks

Wendy Piersall

5 Nov 2009 | 3:47 am

Just click on the images below to bring up the full size printable masks. Use our special “Click to Print” button to block the rest of the page and only send the image to your printer. Grab our Thanksgiving Turkey Mask and have some fun this holiday. You can choose one to color yourself, or print the full color printable mask on your color printer. Thanksgiving Printable Craft - Full Color Turkey Mask Thanksgiving Printable Craft - Turkey Mask Coloring Page More Printable Animal Masks More Thanksgiving Activities
Thanksgiving Coloring Pages: Turkey Coloring Pages

Wendy Piersall

2 Nov 2009 | 4:29 am

Just click on the images below to bring up the full size coloring pages. Use our special “Click to Print” button to block the rest of the page and only send the image to your printer. Thanksgiving Turkey Coloring Pages Turkey Coloring Page with Wheat Turkey Coloring Page with Wheat & Corn Turkey Coloring Page with Thanksgiving Decoration Happy Thanksgiving Coloring Page Eat Beef Thanksgiving Turkey Coloring Page Pilgrim Turkey Coloring Page Bonus – More Thanksgiving Animal Coloring Pages Thanksgiving Puppy Coloring Page Thanksgiving Dinner Thief Coloring Page…
Turkey Crafts for Kids

Wendy Piersall

1 Nov 2009 | 3:01 am

Thanksgiving holds a special place in our hearts here at Animal Jr – it was just one year ago that we launched our site with these printable turkey masks and our turkey coloring pages! We’ve grown into a whole kids activities network since then, and we are indeed grateful for all the blessings we’ve received in 2009!! Kids Thanksgiving Turkey Crafts Turkey Finger Puppet Craft Gratitude Turkey Thanksgiving Craft Printable Turkey Masks Turkey Pinecone Craft for Kids Turkey Handprint Paper Plate Craft Recycled Cardboard Thanksgiving Card Turkey Hat Paper Craft Tin Can Felt…
Mad Shark Game

Wendy Piersall

26 Oct 2009 | 1:26 pm

You are the mad shark, trying to escape from evil experimenters! See how far you can swim before you are terminated. Be sure to eat everything you can to keep up your strength! You might also like to play our Deep Sea Word Search online game!

School Kids Healthcare Blog
November is American Diabetes Month

skhc

3 Nov 2009 | 1:38 pm

For years the American Diabetes Association has used the month of November to raise awareness about the seriousness of diabetes and diabetes prevention and control. This November the American Diabetes Association will carry on this tradition but in addition they’re launching the national movement to “Stop Diabetes.” Stop Diabetes is a movement that will encourage people across America to take action against this disease. You can support this movement by sharing your personal story about how diabetes has affected your life with others. Spread the word about the Stop Diabetes…
Support the Pink Ribbon

skhc

16 Oct 2009 | 2:15 pm

When someone says October you may think of fall leaves bursting into color or the macabre of Halloween but have you remembered to think pink? October, as we all should know, is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among American women (the first is skin cancer). Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among women ages 35 to 54. Another breast cancer fact is that approximately one is almost every eight women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2009, approximately 192,370 women…
Recall of Select Heartstart Fr2+ AEDs

skhc

13 Oct 2009 | 12:26 pm

Official Press Release September 28, 2009 - Seattle - Philips announced today that it is voluntarily recalling approximately 5,400 HeartStart FR2+ automated external defibrillators (AEDs). This recall is being conducted due to the possibility of a memory chip failure that may render the device inoperable. Only certain HeartStart FR2+ AEDs (models M3860A and M3861A, distributed by Philips; and models M3840A and M3841A, distributed by Laerdal Medical) manufactured between May, 2007 and January, 2008 are included in the voluntary recall. The HeartStart FR2+ defibrillators are used by trained…
Swine Flu Vaccination – Are You Getting One?

skhc

9 Oct 2009 | 11:56 am

All over the internet press releases are surfacing about the availability of the swine flu vaccination. Will you be in line to get a swine flu shot or the nasal spray administered? What about your child? The CDC considers people 6 months to 24 years old at high risk yet according to an Associated Press-GfK poll 38 percent of parents said they were unlikely to give permission for their kids to be vaccinated at school. Adults seem to have very mixed feelings about the swine flu vaccination, regardless of what profession they’re in. Will there be side effects somewhere down the road? What…
Practicing the “Dracula Sneeze”

skhc

28 Sep 2009 | 12:33 pm

The “Dracula Sneeze” (raising your upper arm to cover your nose and mouth) makes sense but it may take some old-schoolers a little retraining before they catch on. Everyone (hopefully) understands they should cover their cough and sneeze however using your bare hand to do it is passé. If you use your bare hand to cover your cough and sneeze those germs are going to hang out on your hand and chances are pretty good you’re going to touch something before you are able to wash your hands or use hand sanitizer thus spreading germs. If you find the “Dracula Sneeze” method…

ART PROJECTS FOR KIDS
Snowman on Skis

Kathy Barbro

5 Nov 2009 | 10:40 am

I sometimes look at stock illustrations on websites like gettyone.com for inspiration. I found a simple drawing of a snowman on skis that I really liked, and remade with my glue and pastel technique. 1. Drawing lightly on black paper, make three overlapping circles, each getting a bit smaller as they go up.2. Draw simple stick arms, a face and buttons.3. Add stick ski poles attached to the hands, and a hat that sits on top of the head. Stripes are nice as they allow for extra color.4. Draw two skis below the bottom circle, and then a curved horizon line. Trace all lines with a thin line of…
Oil Pastel Snowman

Kathy Barbro

4 Nov 2009 | 9:03 pm

This is a little twist (literally) on the usual snowman drawing. It asks students to think about circles can become spheres and have a 3-dimensional shape to them.1. I started by giving studets a large black paper (12" x 17") and a cardboard circle template (5" diam.) They used the template for drawing the bottom circle, and then had to draw the middle and top circle themselves, in pencil.2. Next, they were to choose to draw their snowman as turned to either the right or the left, just not head-on as they probably have done in the past.3. After the pencil drawing was done, the lines were to…
Turkey Pinch Pot

Kathy Barbro

3 Nov 2009 | 10:09 pm

I found this in an Arts & Activities magazine, and it works great for any student that has already made a pinch pot. I'm saving it for 1st graders on up.1. Give each student a lump of clay about the size of a small apple. Tell them that softening the clay is an important first step, and this is best done by squeezing it and spreading water on it for at least five minutes. After the clay is warm, they are to roll it into a smooth ball.2. To make a pinch pot, they are to stick their thumb in the middle of the ball, and then pinch the sides until a bowl forms with walls that are about the…
How To Draw a Fall Tree

Kathy Barbro

2 Nov 2009 | 7:22 pm

I found this project on Artsonia.com, and I love how it makes students think of trees as a series of branches, and not just a fluffy shape that sits on a stick (not a bad place to start, but can be left behind at some point).1. Ask the students to draw a large "Y" on their paper.2. Show them how to add smaller "Y"s on each side, alternating as they go up each branch. To make the "Y"s the most realistic, they should be directed toward the sky somewhat, and not at 90 degree angles.3. When the lines are complete, they need to be thickened. The fattest part of the trunk should be at the bottom,…
Close Crop Snowman

Kathy Barbro

1 Nov 2009 | 9:56 am

Drawing closeup and cropping out what is unnecessary can make just about any artwork more interesting. The tendency is for students to draw small with lots of extra space. If you are trying for dynamic images for special uses like greeting cards, this approach will make a big difference.1. I started with a 9" x 12" sheet of black paper, and traced a ruler width in pencil around the outside to give the artwork a frame.2. I used an old CD to trace the bottom circle, purposely placing it so that it would go off the page on one side. The smaller head circle came from centering a smaller cup above…

Art Smarts 4 Kids
Halloween Pumpkin Carving

Jessica

27 Oct 2009 | 6:48 pm

I spent the weekend moving! Yes, again. I know. It was humid and rainy as we moved my things into my new place, but I’m happy and settling in nicely. While I was lugging boxes up and down stairs, my family was carving pumpkins. My family lives in a different state than I do, so they weren’t able to help with the heavy lifting, but my mom did offer to write a guest post about her pumpkin carving
The Legend of the Indian Paintbrush by Tomie dePaola

Jessica

16 Oct 2009 | 1:14 pm

The Indian paintbrush flower blooms in reds, oranges, yellows, and pinks throughout the Midwest as it does at the end of this story. There are many tales about where the flower came from, and Tomie dePaola’s retelling of The Legend of the Indian Paintbrush is an especially captivating one.Little Gopher is not like the other boys in his tribe. He’d rather draw pictures on rocks than run or ride
NaNoWriMo 2009

Jessica

9 Oct 2009 | 4:22 pm

It’s that time of year again! Dust off that imagination that’s been hiding in the closet since you exhausted it last November and get to work! That’s right: National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) is almost upon us. If you’ve ever read a story and thought I would have done it differently, there’s a writer in you looking for a chance to perform. If you make up characters and ask what they would
Tiny Art Director

Jessica

1 Oct 2009 | 6:16 pm

I almost forgot to share this site with you: Tiny Art Director. No doubt many of you have found this on your own, but it's new to me. The artist's young daughter is a is a harsh critic and her critiques of his work are hilarious.Return to main page.
Ms. Julie's Blog Carnival and More

Jessica

1 Oct 2009 | 1:54 pm

Ms. Julie, who you've seen mentioned here often, has begun a monthly blog carnival called The Gallery. The Gallery is a showcase of art projects for kids, and this month one of my projects was included along with projects from ten other bloggers. This month's offerings include a fantastic line drawing project based on Kandinsky's work, a palm tree silouette project, and a project meant for

Suite101: Children's & Teen Fashion Articles
Gifts for Girls

6 Nov 2009 | 10:33 pm

Give the little lady in your life a Christmas or birthday present she's sure to cherish for years to come.
Fashion Designer Video Games

26 Oct 2009 | 5:10 pm

Video games are a popular activity for children and teens. Fashion designer games can inspire and entertain any young fashion entrepreneur.
Stella McCartney Designs For GapKids And BabyGap

26 Oct 2009 | 2:19 pm

Stella McCartney has collaborated with American high-street store Gap to make affordable and stylish clothes for children.
How to Buy Snow Boots and Winter Boots for Kids

26 Oct 2009 | 1:52 pm

Keep a few simple things in mind when shopping for winter boots and snow boots for toddlers.
Little Toddler Winter Coats for Boys

24 Oct 2009 | 11:49 pm

Winter coats for toddler boys keep them warm, stylish and comfortable.

Kids VT Family Newspaper
Magic for Fruits and Veggies

susan

30 Oct 2009 | 7:18 am

Middlebury-based Vermont Soap has a new product for health conscious families: A natural, certified organic fruit and veggie wash that makes foods - and better tasting! Called Produce Magic, it’s an eco-friendly way to avoid contaminated produce and food-borne illnesses. “Rinsing fruits and vegetables with water will remove loose dirt and soil, but not the harmful residues often found on produce,” says Larry Plesent, Vermont Soap’s Founder. “Pesticides used in growing produce are designed to be waterproof in order to remain effective after it rains. To…
Hope and Inspiration Come to Burlington

susan

21 Oct 2009 | 6:05 am

The Destiny Africa Children’s Choir is bringing their soul-inspiring singing to the North Avenue Alliance Church on Nov. 6. With traditional and contemporary song and dance, awesome drumming and a story to melt even the soniest heart, these kids (on their first US tour) are an inspiration. The choir is made up of orphaned Ugandan children who have found hope amid the desperate conditions in their homeland. The concert starts at 7pm; doors open at 6 and it’s open seating, so it’s probably a good idea to get their early. Admission is free, but donations to the Kampala…
Smart Trike Grows with Your Kid

susan

8 Oct 2009 | 6:57 am

As your child grows, so does the new 3-in-1 Smart Trike Recliner. It’s a stroller, a ride-on toy and, finally, a tricycle. For children, ages 10 months to 3 years, Smart Trike incorporates fun and learning - and it’s easier on the parents’ budget! But a picture tells a thousand words… check it out!
New Books and Inspiration

susan

11 Sep 2009 | 8:48 am

On Aug. 27, the Children’s Literacy Foundation (CLiF) sponsored a special literacy event for families who rely on the Committee on Temporary Shelter (COTS) for housing. All of the 64 children served by COTS were invited to participate in a fun and inspiring program featuring storytelling and new books, both for a shelter library and for the children to keep. CLiF brought hundreds of brand-new children’s books to the Fletcher Free Library in Burlington. In addition to donating $2,000 worth of new books for the three COTS family shelters, CLiF gave each child the opportunity to…
Breastfeeding at Work

susan

20 Aug 2009 | 9:26 am

Did you know that in May 2008, Vermont’s labor law was amended to include a requirement that employers provide a private space and break time during the day for breastfeeding mothers to express milk for their child? It’s a tough economy. Vermont workplaces need lower health care costs, lower turnover rates, lower absenteeism rates, and higher employee productivity and morale. Providing lactation support is a win-win situation. It’s obviously best for new mothers and their babies, but it turns out that it’s best for business too! Vermont’s Breastfeeding Network,…

Kids Reviews
The Black Book of Secrets

Niral Patel

27 Oct 2009 | 9:26 am

The Black book of secrets (written by F.E Higgins) is a suspenseful, appalling book that hooks the reader at the first sentence. The book is about a troubled City boy called Ludlow Fitch, who runs away from his drunken parents in the horrible ’Stinking City’ in which they live in. On his adventure he meets a mysterious pawnbroker who buys people’s darkest secrets and confessions named Joe. Ludlow begins to work for Joe, writing down the secrets the people tell him. But as he writes more and more secrets, dark things begin to happen and Ludlow’s own confessions begin to come into the…
Three Cups of Tea

Niral Patel

10 Sep 2009 | 9:04 am

In the book Greg, the main character attempts to climb K2, the world’s second largest mountain. He gets lost along the way trying find his way back to his partner who went with him. While he is recovering in a village near the mountains of Pakistan. He finds that the girls there don’t have a school building to work in. He then decides to stop climbing and build schools for the people instead. One of my favourite characters was Haji Ali, one of the local elders. He told Greg about things he should know,when he was there. Since I was reading a version for younger readers, the writing style…
No Time for goodbye

Niral Patel

10 Sep 2009 | 8:51 am

I’m doing my bookreview on No Time for Goodbye by Linwood Barclay. The book is about a girl, her family dissapears when she is 14. Now it is 25 years later and she has a husband and Daughter, but funny things are happening and the truth starts to unravel. This is a really good book, it is a thriller and the plot is detailed and perfect. If your looking for something exciting, this is it . No Time for goodbye Reviewed By: mary Location: fredericton, NB Rating: 5 out of 5
Silverwing, Sunwing, Firewing, Darkwing

Niral Patel

10 Sep 2009 | 8:44 am

These books r about bats. In Silverwing, Sunwing the main character is Shade, a runt bat who is desparate to prove that he has some kind of worth to his colony. In Silverwing, he gets separated from the colony during a storm while migrating. He ends up on an island with a exild bat named Marina. He tries to find his colony and finds canable bats (Goth and Throb) instead. When he finaly gets home he is much the wiser. He enbarks on a quest to find his missing fgather and win back the day for the bats. Sunwing finds Shade, Marina and a few other bats flying to a place where several bats have…
Major league baseball 2k9

Niral Patel

1 Sep 2009 | 9:09 am

Today I’m reviewing Major league baseball 2k9 or MLB 2k9 for xbox 360.The very first thing it will do when you play it is update the roster.That means if a player got traded yesterday he will be on his new team next time you play but this feutre requires xbox live so not every one will be able to use this feutre. The gameplay is amazing! The graphics make it seem like your sitting in the Rogers centre watching a Blue jays game.The pitching and hitting is both controlled by the RS (right stick).There are new commentars for this years version.One promblem for me is the throwing when your…

KIDS NEWS - Google News
Vegetarian kids - Los Angeles Times

Google Inc.

Los Angeles TimesVegetarian kidsLos Angeles TimesA photo illustrating kids and their turning to a healthier, vegetarian lifestyle, including a garden burger made of soy and vegetables, available at Whole Nutritional guidelines for vegetarian childrenLos Angeles Timesall 5 news articles »
Malia Obama's very public science test - Baltimore Sun

Google Inc.

MiamiHerald.comMalia Obama's very public science testBaltimore SunWith all the talk about privacy for presidential kids, this struck me as a potentially very sensitive matter for Malia. What child wants the world to know Obama holds own kids to high standards at schoolMonsters and Critics.comObama Shares Story About Malia's Test ScoresCBS NewsMax and RubyNick.comNew York Times -Newser -WND.comall 207 news articles »
'The Office' in hot water over suicide joke - Examiner.com

Google Inc.

E! Online'The Office' in hot water over suicide jokeExaminer.comHe then tells the children that "Kids, just remember, suicide is not the answer. It is the easy way out." Now it appeared to be fairly obvious that the joke "The Office" Episode Offends Suicide Prevention GroupsAHNWas 'The Office''s suicide joke over the line?Entertainment Weekly'The Office' Suicide Joke Offends Mental Health GroupsLimeLife (blog)Us Magazine -Film.com -Seattle Post Intelligencerall 291 news articles »
Stressed-Out Kids - Allentown Morning Call

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USA TodayStressed-Out KidsAllentown Morning Call"It's clear that parents do not fully appreciate the impact that stress is having on their kids," said psychologist Katherine C. Nordal in a statement about Helping Our Children With StressNew York TimesHow stressed are kids? More than we thinkUSA Today4 Ways to Stop Stressing Out Your KidsU.S. News & World ReportTown Hall -eMaxHealth -USA Todayall 116 news articles »
Mendota kids miss slain friend - Fresno Bee

Google Inc.

Mendota kids miss slain friendFresno BeeSome have begun walking their kids to the bus stop around the corner. Groups of kids who often played in front yards were nowhere to be found on a recent and more »

Kids News
Tips For Stress-Free Travel With Kids

7 Nov 2009 | 12:05 am

Whether it's a weekend trip or a cross-country road trip, travel with kids comes with its own set of unique challenges.
Poll: Only 1 in 3 who want H1N1 shot can find it

6 Nov 2009 | 7:42 pm

Hundreds of people waited for hours to recieve a free H1N1 shot during a vaccination clinic at Doctor's Medical Center on Nov.
Gay marriage opponents win with kid card

6 Nov 2009 | 3:24 pm

Frank Schubert, campaign director for Stand for Marriage Maine, claims victory on Tuesday nightA in PortlandA in the vote to rescind the Legislature's approval of same-sex marriage.
Heidi Klum's slimming struggle

6 Nov 2009 | 11:00 am

Heidi Klum is finding it hard to lose her baby weight. The German supermodel - who gave birth to daughter Lou last month - admits she has struggled more to get back into shape than she did after having her other children, Leni, five, Henri, four, and Johan, three.
Student Loan Debt Burdens Recent Grads

6 Nov 2009 | 6:35 am

Share + Nov 5, 2009 7:19 pm US/Central BOSTON It's a scary time to be a recent college graduate.

Kids Blog
New fiction for November!

bridget

3 Nov 2009 | 3:32 pm

Hello, This month we’ve got some new series books. There’s the new 39 Clues book, The Black Circle, the new Charlie Bone (Charlie Bone and the Red Knight), and the next instalment in the Rondo series by Emily Rodda (The Battle for Rondo). There are other interesting new books too, from monstrous saltwater crocodiles to werewolf warriors and a Viking adventure. Visit the My Library Children’s Fiction page for more descriptions!
Writing history: Do you have to tell the truth?

sandy

2 Nov 2009 | 11:17 am

Sandy our author says – ‘Yes you do. You need to be historically accurate. But that doesn’t mean you can’t use your imagination. Much of history is undocumented. We don’t know exactly what happened so we make realistic guesses. While writing Samurai Kids I spent days researching 17th century Japan. Many story features were determined by what happened in the past. I can’t change the clothes the samurai wore, their hairstyle or katana swords. History has a detailed record of the samurai way of life. But history doesn’t have a record of Sensei Ki-yaga or Niya – they…
Make your own cartoons….

ella

29 Oct 2009 | 8:29 pm

Hey guys I found this really cool site called Toondoo that you can make your own cartoons on. It’s quite neat to see how they turn out. Check out the one I made….Send me the link to yours when you have made one!
Introducing Sandy…..

sandy

26 Oct 2009 | 4:30 pm

My name is Sandy Fussell and I write historical fiction – books set in the past. Polar Boy is about a brother and sister who lived above the Arctic Circle 800 years ago and the Samurai Kids lived in Japan almost 400 years ago. I write about ancient history because I find it interesting. I like to imagine what it was like to live then. People had to be more resourceful, they couldn’t ring anyone for help. Kids, no older than you, had amazing adventures. In my stories a boy saves his people from a bear, a group of kids stop a war and in my next book Jaguar Warrior, a boy runs from one Aztec…
Galileo tomorrow!

ella

22 Oct 2009 | 4:44 pm

Hey Guys, don’t forget that tomorrow we’re celebrating 400 years since the famous astronomer Galileo first used a telescope to look at the night sky. You can join in with fun activities and science experiments at Central Library on Saturday 24 October from 2-4pm. Find out how to make a simple telescope and try out other fun experiments exploring things such as gravity and pendulums, just like Galileo did. All young astronomers who come along will also get to make their own special Galileo badge to take home (suitable for 5-12 year olds).

Global Kids' Digital Media Initiative
[I Dig Science] Dig It: Field Museum & Global Kids Team Up to Send City Teens on Virtual Fossil Dig

joyce

5 Nov 2009 | 11:36 am

One of the other recent MacArthur Foundation Spotlight on Digital Media and Learning posts, highlights a video about the I Dig Science Programs that Global Kids ran in partnership with the Field Museum in Chicago. You can watch the video below or view the original post here. I Dig from Spotlight on Vimeo. Teens in Chicago and New York went digging for fossils in Zambia this summer, without leaving home, thanks to a technology enhanced science camp run by Chicago’s Field Museum in partnership with Global Kids. Watch the video produced by Ben Wolff.
[Edge Project] Learning at the Edge: Transforming After-School Spaces into Learning Networks

joyce

5 Nov 2009 | 9:08 am

The MacArthur Foundation recently published a series of articles to the "Behind the Research" section of their Spotlight on Digital Media and Learning site which highlighted some of our programs both past and upcoming. Below you can read the article entitled "Learning at the Edge: Transforming After-School Spaces into Learning Networks" by Sarah Jackson, which brings up some of the focus of the newly launched Edge Project. Behind the Research: Learning at the Edge: Transforming After-School Spaces into Learning Networks Global Kids takes digital tools to kids’ hang out spaces to help…
[conf/teens] The Breakthrough Learning in a Digital Age Forum

Nafiza - TSL Intern/VVP

5 Nov 2009 | 8:30 am

Hi! This is Nafiza Akter, and I was one of the youth attending the Breakthrough Learning in a Digital Age Forum. This forum was put together, as far as my understanding goes, to look at how technology could be used and incorporated into the current educational system for the benefit of the students. The nine youth that attended, organized by Global Kids, all helped to incorporate actual youth voices into the forum since the entire event was based around how technology could be used in the educational system that we have been receiving and experiencing. The event was held at the Googleplex,…
Virtual World Capacity Building Program

Barry

4 Nov 2009 | 8:41 am

In August, Global Kids graduated its first cohort of nonprofit staffers who participated in the Virtual World Capacity Building Program, a four-week introduction to virtual worlds and their applications for civic and cultural institutions. These four organizations -- the Vera Institute of Justice, the Adler Planetarium, Architreasures, and the National Writing Project -- had almost no experience with virtual worlds prior to the program, but by the end of the four-week course were able to speak cogently and insightfully about how these digital tools fit into their larger institutional…
Introducing the Edge Project

Barry

4 Nov 2009 | 8:32 am

“To transform the core, start at the edge.” -- John Hagel and John Seely Brown The Edge Project is part of Global Kids recent support from the MacArthur Foundation to expand the capacity of civic and cultural institutions to use new media as innovative educational platforms that engage youth in learning and promote youth civic participation. More specifically, the Edge Project is interested in civic and cultural institutions bringing cutting edge digital media into their youth educational programs. It is equally interested in where this type of programming - due to technology, its…

Woo! Jr. Kids Activities Network
Thanksgiving Cupcakes

Wendy Piersall

6 Nov 2009 | 10:18 am

I’ve been super busy this fall getting Thanksgiving activities together for the Woo! Jr. websites. I was even all set to spin off my creative recipes into a new food blog for the holiday season, but I had to put that idea on hold – too much is happening this year for me to take on yet another blog! I’m traveling a long way for Thanksgiving this year, so I’m going to have to live vicariously though all of you who get to cook up yummy stuff for the holiday. But I’m having Christmas Eve at my house, so get ready to be blasted with tons of Christmas cooking ideas…
Anise Cookie Recipes

Wendy Piersall

6 Nov 2009 | 9:56 am

I am the designated Christmas cookie maker every year. And my mom slyly depends on me to make her (and my!!!) favorite cookies – anise cookies. It doesn’t matter which recipe I use, as long as I show up at her house with anise cookies. This year I’ll definitely be breaking out my springerle molds, but I have my own anise spritz cookie recipe that is really both the easiest and my absolute favorite. I’ll get that up on the site soon! Springerle Recipe Glazed Anise Cookies Fennel Blackberry Cookie Recipe Pizzelle Cookies Crisp Anise Cookies Anise Star Cookies Anise…
Anise Cookie Recipes

Wendy Piersall

6 Nov 2009 | 9:56 am

I am the designated Christmas cookie maker every year. And my mom slyly depends on me to make her (and my!!!) favorite cookies – anise cookies. It doesn’t matter which recipe I use, as long as I show up at her house with anise cookies. This year I’ll definitely be breaking out my springerle molds, but I have my own anise spritz cookie recipe that is really both the easiest and my absolute favorite. I’ll get that up on the site soon! Springerle Recipe Glazed Anise Cookies Fennel Blackberry Cookie Recipe Pizzelle Cookies Crisp Anise Cookies Anise Star Cookies Anise…
Cartoon Dinosaur Coloring Pages

Wendy Piersall

6 Nov 2009 | 9:37 am

Our cartoon dragon coloring pages are a big hit over at Fantasy Jr., so I figured we should put together some cute cartoon dinosaurs over here! And did you know that we have over 45 sets of animal coloring pages?! Some of the most popular are these zoo coloring pages, cute animal coloring pages, rainforest animal coloring pages and our animal masks to color. Cartoon Dinosaur Coloring Page Cute Dinosaur Coloring Page Cartoon Girl Dinosaur Coloring Page Winking Dinosaur Coloring Page Dinosaurs in Love Coloring Page Laughing Dinosaur Coloring Page Mom and Baby Dinosaurs Coloring Page Dancing…
Thanksgiving Printable Craft: Turkey Animal Masks

Wendy Piersall

5 Nov 2009 | 3:47 am

Just click on the images below to bring up the full size printable masks. Use our special “Click to Print” button to block the rest of the page and only send the image to your printer. Grab our Thanksgiving Turkey Mask and have some fun this holiday. You can choose one to color yourself, or print the full color printable mask on your color printer. Thanksgiving Printable Craft - Full Color Turkey Mask Thanksgiving Printable Craft - Turkey Mask Coloring Page More Printable Animal Masks More Thanksgiving Activities

Play Library
Disney’s A Christmas Carol 3D For Kids?

Linette Gerlach

6 Nov 2009 | 6:03 pm

We went to see Disney’s A Christmas Carol in 3D today, and I have to say I was a little disappointed with the movie. The 3D effects were very good, you could definitely tell it was done by the same person who did Polar Express. I’m just not sure the movie was for kids. My son’s 10 and he covered his eyes and refuse to watch several times. He’s not usually scared by movies. Not sure if it was the 3D part that was getting him, or just the ghosts themselves. The ghosts were really bizarre. I did like the third one, but the first one looked like the flame on a candle and…
I See Me!~ A Christmas Bear For Me

Linette Gerlach

5 Nov 2009 | 7:50 pm

One of my favorite books I got for my son when he was younger was a personalized story that had the main character named after him, and had the names of his friends and other things to personalize it for him throughout the book. So I definitely have a soft spot for personalized books. We still have my son’s personalized story, it’s one of a few of his storybooks I’m definitely holding on to for a keepsake. I See Me! creates that kind of high-quality personalized book, a book you can share with your child. They’ll be delighted when they’re included in the story. I…
myWallaby Doll Carrier Review

Linette Gerlach

4 Nov 2009 | 7:50 pm

I’ve been checking out the myWallaby Agile bag for about a week now, the same myWallaby Doll Carrier we’re giving away here at Play Library, hop over and enter if you’d like to have one of your own. So what do I think of the myWallaby bag? I think it would make a wonderful gift idea for a little girl who loves to take her dolls along with her wherever she goes. There are several features I really like about the bag. It’s hard to tell by the photos, but the materials and fabrics the bag is made from are very nice quality. The shell is canvas, and the straps and bottom…
Christmas 2009 Toy Trends~ Bargain Toys

Linette Gerlach

3 Nov 2009 | 3:46 pm

This year retailers are focusing more on lower priced and bargain toys, instead of high end and expensive. Walmart is leading the way with their list of $10 toys, and other retailers are following the trend. There are still higher price tag toys out there, but the consumer is looking for a better bargain for their money. So if a toy has a larger price tag it needs to over deliver on value. Here are some of the great value toys for Christmas 2009: Zhu Zhu Pets are big this year, they’re low on price, but big on fun, if you can find them in stock! Invasion of the Bristlebots is another…
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade Tradition

Linette Gerlach

2 Nov 2009 | 11:08 am

I’ve been watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade every year since I was a child. I love checking out all the floats, and the big balloons floating down the street. It’s definitely a tradition at our house while we’re getting ready to head out to make our family rounds for the day. This year we will be watching the 83rd edition of the Macy’s Parade. This year’s parade will be setting another new milestone, it’s marched down parts of Broadway for 82 years, the 2009 procession will be the first to bypass Broadway during the route. Joining…

Printables4Kids
Veterans Day Printables

Char

4 Nov 2009 | 9:48 am

Honor your heroes on Veteran’s Day with one of our Veteran’s Day printables! Print, color and share the Veteran’s Day coloring page and word scramble as a way of showing your thanks to someone who has sacrificed and helped to defend our freedoms! Scroll down for answers to the word scramble. ANSWERS TO WORD SCRAMBLE: 1. brave 2. [...]
Sign Language Printables from Signing Time

Char

1 Nov 2009 | 7:43 am

Did you know you can teach your child to communicate with you using sign language well before they have the ability to talk? I had heard about using sign language with babies and small children but recently I met the team from Signing Time and had the opportunity to review their DVDs and flash cards [...]
Fall Math Worksheets

Char

1 Nov 2009 | 6:49 am

Make math more fun and meaningful with our fall math worksheets! These worksheets can be used for a variety of preschool or early elementary learning levels. Our instructions are simply guidelines. Click on the images below to view and print full size. Looking for more math worksheets? Check out our entire collection of math worksheets for [...]
Happy Fall Squirrel Coloring Page

Char

1 Nov 2009 | 6:29 am

Fall is here and the squirrels are having fun! Print and coloring this cute fall squirrel activity that is perfect for preschool age kids. Click image to view and print full size.
Time to Fall Back Time Change Coloring Page

Char

28 Oct 2009 | 11:02 am

Use this fun coloring page to help your kids, students, friends and family remember to “Fall Back” with the time change this weekend. After the kids are tucked in from their Halloween evening celebrations, you need to turn all the clocks back one hour (if your area had been observing Daylight Savings Time) to go [...]

Doll Diaries
The Perfect Gift for Girls Who Love to Teach

Char

4 Nov 2009 | 7:46 am

Yesterday while I was at Michael’s Craft Store trying to scope out the new American Girl Craft line (which they had in the back but hadn’t finished putting out yet) I picked up the Doll School: For Girls Who Love to Teach! (American Girl) set for my girls. They love these sets from American Girl, but this one has the best play value of any of them. As soon as we got home they immediately started setting it up and continued to play with it for another 2 hours until I said it was bedtime. It is a great companion for the desk set, too! The 34-piece set contains everything a girl…
The American Girl of the Year (GOTY) 2010 Will Be Lanie

Char

4 Nov 2009 | 7:26 am

As the release date for the American Girl of the Year – GOTY 2010 gets closer and closer, we are starting to get more clues as to who she is and what her stories will be all about. I think we can confirm that the name of the American Girl GOTY 2010 will be Lanie based on the screen capture of Chapters.ca website that was just sent to me by Hannah’s mom: Thanks to the fabulous Doll Diaries readers who help find all the best doll scoop!!
A Little More American Girl of the Year 2010 Information

Char

2 Nov 2009 | 7:11 pm

The American Girl site itself reveals a little bit of information about the Girl of the Year (GOTY) doll for 2010. From the Events page: Girl of the Year Activity Day Your girl can celebrate the arrival of our 2010 Girl of the Year during an event that’s inspired by a love of the outdoors! Your girl can participate in a scavenger hunt, and then make her own nature notebook and flower bookmark. Free and open to the public. For girls ages 8 and up. Event details by store Atlanta: January 1, 2, 3; February 28 Boston: January 1, 2, 3, 10; February 26; March 24 Chicago: January 1, 2, 3, 9, 16,…
American Girl Craft Supplies and Kits from Michaels

Char

30 Oct 2009 | 12:32 pm

American Girl has teamed up with EKSuccess Brands and Michaels crafts to launch a cute new line of craft supplies and project ideas for girls – www.americangirlcrafts.com. The projects range from bracelets and mini purses and the products include doll stickers – like Chrissa, iron-ons and craft kits. Based on the popularity of their previous craft kits and books, I think this is a natural progression and will give girls even more ways to express their creativity and connect with the American Girl Doll characters and stories.
Another Chance to Win a myWallaby Doll Carrier

Char

28 Oct 2009 | 5:17 am

If you entered to win an ultra cute myWallaby doll carrier/purse when we ran a giveaway on Doll Diaries and didn’t win, you are in luck! My friend Linette at PlayLibrary.com is running a giveaway for a myWallaby doll carrier right now!! Entering is easy and she gives you some ways to get bonus entries, too!! Go to the myWallaby Doll Carrier giveaway at PlayLibrary now. Even if you don’t win, the myWallaby doll carrier is the perfect gift idea for any little girl who loves her dolls and wants to take them everywhere she goes. You can get free shipping by using the code DDSHIP now.

Sports Girls Play
Golfing at Pelican Hill Resort, Newport Coast, CA

Char

1 Nov 2009 | 6:16 am

The third weekend of October I got the amazing opportunity to attend the affiliate network, ShareASale’s annual ThinkTank event held this year at the luxurious Pelican Hill Resort in Newport Coast, California. The ThinkTank event brings together a variety of merchants, web publishers and companies in the internet marketing space to help each other improve, grow and network in an exclusive small group setting. My entire weekend was paid for by ShareASale and all I can say is that it was probably the most fun and productive weekend I have had in ages. As a way to kick off the weekend,…
Cleatskins Help Keep Kids and their Cleats Safe

Char

28 Oct 2009 | 8:02 pm

This past weekend I attended a very cool event (and played great golf, but more about that later) and one of the products I saw that really caught my eye are Cleatskins. What are Cleatskins? They are super cool, easy to use cleat covers for all your busy kids cleats – soccer cleats, softball cleats, football cleats and even Mom’s golf shoes! The innovative, colorful Cleatskins are easy to put on over your child’s cleats making the trip to and from the field safer, cleaner and more efficient. They are made of a unique rubber compound that keeps you from slipping or falling…
Gear Up for Game Day in Pink

Char

28 Oct 2009 | 6:02 pm

The pink versions of the NFL, NHL and MLB jerseys are getting more and more popular – due to more and more women becoming sports fans and during October when Breast Cancer Awareness month has been receiving more media attention than ever. Where do you find the best deals on pinked out versions of your favorite fan gear? 50% off Reebok’s Entire Stock of Women’s NFL Tees with promo code NFL50. Hurry, offer ends 11/4! LadyFanatics.com has a huge selection of pink ladies NFL, NHL and MLB gear – only $4.99 shipping, any size order.
Jessica Watson Sets Sail on her Solo Voyage Around the World

Char

19 Oct 2009 | 6:40 am

Jessica Watson, of Australia, is one courageous 16-year old!! She set sail Sunday, October 18 from Sydney, Australia on her journey to become the youngest person to sail solo non-stop and unassisted around the World. You can read more about Jessica’s story and the journey she is taking at her official website – jessicawatson.com.au or follow her personal thoughts and updates on her blog.
Kayla Williams – From JO Champion to World Champion in 5 Months

Char

17 Oct 2009 | 9:03 pm

Six months ago, Kayla Williams was preparing for a pretty big meet in her gymnastics career – USA Gymnastics Junior Olympics (JO) Level 10 National Championships. The year before she had placed 2nd. In May 2009 Kayla was crowned the JO National Champion in her age division. Weeks later, Kayla made her Elite level debut at the US Cover Girl Classic – showing off her AMAZING and powerful tumbling and sky high vaults – enough to earn her 1st place on both events. Not too shabby… Later in the summer Kayla was crowned the US National Champion on Vault, made the US National…

FreeStuff4Kids
The FunPlace Database Launch Contest Giveaway

Randa

29 Oct 2009 | 4:25 pm

I’m excited to announce a new site recently launched called the FunPlace Database! This is a brand new resource designed by parents FOR parents to make it easy to find fun places to take your kids. We all need to get out of the house most days, but sometimes it’s just difficult to find places to take them! To celebrate the launch of the site, we’re having a great giveaway! There are two ways to enter and you may enter as many times as you like! 1. You’ll receive one entry for every FunPlace you add to the database, and it only takes a minute to add a playground, library,…
Meet Winter the Dolphin Essay Contest

Randa

25 Oct 2009 | 11:45 pm

Encourage your young readers to enter for a chance to win a visit with Winter the Dolphin at her home in Clearwater Marine Aquarium by telling Scholastic about their favorite animal hero. Download the contest details (PDF) here. ABOUT THE CONTEST Winter the Dolphin has been an inspiration and hero for children and adults alike. When Winter was just three months old, she was rescued from a crap trap which had seriously damaged her tail. It wasn’t clear that she would survive but she did. However, the damage to Winter’s tail was so extensive that it fell off. To everyone’s…
Bible Verse Christmas Printable Coloring Sheets

Randa

23 Oct 2009 | 9:17 am

‘Tis nearly the holiday season, and time for some holiday coloring and activity sheets! Click here to open and print the Jesus in the Manger coloring sheet And here are some printables from the Bible verse color sheet site: Luke 2:11 – Manger Scene Luke 2: 14 – Angel Also, don’t miss the Christmas activity sheets at Printables4Kids!
Inspirational Dolphin Story Nintendo Game and Prize Giveaway

Randa

30 Sep 2009 | 11:59 am

Ready for another giveaway? There is a new inspiring book out telling the story of how a dolphin overcame the loss of her tail called Winter’s Tail. When Winter, an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin, was found trapped with her tail badly damaged, she was not expected to survive. This is her miraculous story, from her rescue to learning how to swim again to her unprecedented success using a prosthetic tail. This is also a celebration of her indomitable spirit. One lucky winner will receive this awesome prize pack: Winter’s Tail game for Nintendo DS Dolphin Plush Dolphin Key Chain Copy of…
Free Halloween Stuff

Randa

18 Sep 2009 | 8:12 am

Halloween doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Here are some ways to make Halloween free or very easy on the wallet: Recipe to make free homemade fake blood and face paint – why go out and spend money on this stuff when you have the ingredients in your pantry? Make Your Own Halloween Costumes – huge list of ideas and resources here, including no-sew costumes, animals, creatures, cardboard box costumes, costumes for couples and more. Free Halloween Music – yikes, this was some creepy stuff. Would be great to play on your doorstep to scare the little trick or treaters.

Science teacher
Stemming STEM education

6 Nov 2009 | 3:37 pm

I am a science teacher; the STEM movement gives me job security. If I wanted job security, I would have remained a pediatrician in north Jersey--given the way we treat kids, especially poor kids, I would have always had business.STEM, of course, stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It has its own coalition, its own journal, and has endeared the folk in power (first Bush, now Obama). It puts the sexay into nerd-dom.But it's a farce.People in power (Presidents, Generals, CEOs) would like to remain in power--it takes a special kind of warped person to gain that kind of…
Electrostatic magnetic ion attraction: The ADE 651

5 Nov 2009 | 5:19 am

A story ran in the New York Times claiming that the Iraqis are using divining rods at checkpoints--a "small hand-held wand, with a telescopic antenna on a swivel" can apparently detect bombs.Since the device employs the principle of "electrostatic magnetic ion attraction," it must be effective.I'm still not convinced this is not an April Fool's prank with a calendar problem, but I guess if the world's leading expert on bombs (just ask him) tells you a divining rod can detect bombs a kilometer away (as well as ivory and truffles) and only costs $16,000, well, I got to have one!It's worth it…
"I am a molecule, I cannot stop moving...."

1 Nov 2009 | 7:10 am

Early in the year, I introduced a very simplified version of the kinetic theory, itself a simple (but powerful) idea. Something happened about 14 billion years ago, give or take a billion, and things have been moving ever since.This past week we've been working on diffusion.I get my kids up into a corner, then tell them to pick a direction, walk in that direction until they hit something, then ricochet as though you were a billiard ball.After a few moments, I ask them to stop and note their positions. I tie their motion to the "Whoever Smelt It, Dealt It" hypothesis of fart diffusion--silly…
Samhain

1 Nov 2009 | 7:05 am

(I've been running a fever the past couple of days...we'll return to our regularly scheduled programming once my complement system wakes up and starts kicking some H1N1 ass.)Despite whatever virus is playing tootsies with my hypothalamus (or maybe because of this), I found myself in thigh deep water on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean at dusk, trying to catch a striped bass. I spent the evening shivering under a blanket.The waters here are about 62 degrees, still plenty warm for wading. The air temperature wasn't bad, either, and the wind didn't bother me until the sun set. In my feverish…
Skunked, but it's OK

31 Oct 2009 | 5:23 pm

I've spent the last day or two fighting the flu--tiny nucleic acids have invaded my body and taken over the genetic machinery of millions of my cells. Life goes on.I fished under the moonlight. I felt the bump of a fish gnawing at the clam I shucked last week, then brined. The clam is dead, the fish now fed.Sand pipers chirped as they worked the beach where I fished, as though I was invisible--each time they truffled through the wet sand with their beaks, they killed a few more tiny lives. Life goes on.While wading out to cast, I saw a small fin slice through the foamy surf--likely a young…

Kids Computer Games Recommendations
Moshi Monsters – Educational Computer Games and More for Kids

Jenny Mannion

2 Nov 2009 | 1:34 pm

Moshi Monsters takes a very different spin on kid’s computer games and the recent inundation of interactive social networking sites for children. The games are educational and the environment silly, entertaining, safe and fun at the same time. For parents, they have a thorough description of their site and their commitment to education and safety of children on their site. This is a QUALITY networking site for children to play games and learn. As you might have guessed by the name – it is about monsters… but not scary ones – very cute ones that you adopt when you…
WhizzBall at Discovery Kids – A Kids Computer Game to Make them Think

Jenny Mannion

15 Oct 2009 | 2:03 pm

It has been ages since I reviewed any of the FREE wonderful Kid’s computer games at Discovery Kids! Their site is voluminous and offers many educational games for all ages. I had recommended Discovery Kids for Pre-schoolers but in the last two years it has become so much more. Whizz Ball is a prime example of a superb thinking game with a similar feel of one of my all time favorites, “The Incredible Machine“. Whizz Ball comes with many options and for the beginner and children under 10 — I highly recommend clicking on the “How To Play” and watching the…
Wii Sports Resort – Fun Gaming for the Whole Family

Jenny Mannion

8 Oct 2009 | 8:34 am

Wii Sports Resort is not just a kid’s computer game — it is a game the whole family will enjoy playing. Whether it is fencing, ping pong, basketball, wakeboarding, archery, skydiving or any of the other many games that are offered – there is truly something for everyone. The game play is so realistic and the addition of the Wii Motion Controller adds to the feel of you really being IN the game. I feel this game is appropriate for all ages but there are definitely some games where the controls might take some getting used to for the younger kids. It is a pleasure to…
Top 5 Educational Kid Friendly IPhone/ITouch Apps

Jenny Mannion

29 Sep 2009 | 9:50 am

In the last 2 months my family has discovered all new kids computer games. We have turned MAC. We had an IPOD we loved for years and recently have gotten a Mac Laptop, my husband and I switched to IPhones and my son received an ITouch for his birthday. There are so many wonderful Applications (Apps) for these products but it is good to know which ones are safe and educational before you download. Here are a few of my favorite games/apps to make you/your child think and have fun. They ALL have free (LITE) versions to try out and if you find yourself needing more levels – you can…
Jump Start Pet Rescue for the Wii

Jenny Mannion

23 Sep 2009 | 1:13 pm

As far as kid’s computer games go for the Wii – Jump Start Pet Rescue is one of THE BEST games I have found for 3-6 year olds. My children have played Jump Start Games since they were 3 and to see these characters come to life in a Wii game is WONDERFUL! From designing their own avatar, to adopting pets to playing educational and fun games — Jump Start Pet Rescue will keep children entertained and learning for a long time. My daughter, who is six loves this game. She is a very good reader so thought a couple of the games were easy but still enjoys them and running around…

Kids Computer Games
Moshi Monsters – Educational Computer Games and More for Kids

Jenny Mannion

2 Nov 2009 | 1:34 pm

Moshi Monsters takes a very different spin on kid’s computer games and the recent inundation of interactive social networking sites for children. The games are educational and the environment silly, entertaining, safe and fun at the same time. For parents, they have a thorough description of their site and their commitment to education and safety of children on their site. This is a QUALITY networking site for children to play games and learn. As you might have guessed by the name – it is about monsters… but not scary ones – very cute ones that you adopt when you…
WhizzBall at Discovery Kids – A Kids Computer Game to Make them Think

Jenny Mannion

15 Oct 2009 | 2:03 pm

It has been ages since I reviewed any of the FREE wonderful Kid’s computer games at Discovery Kids! Their site is voluminous and offers many educational games for all ages. I had recommended Discovery Kids for Pre-schoolers but in the last two years it has become so much more. Whizz Ball is a prime example of a superb thinking game with a similar feel of one of my all time favorites, “The Incredible Machine“. Whizz Ball comes with many options and for the beginner and children under 10 — I highly recommend clicking on the “How To Play” and watching the…
Wii Sports Resort – Fun Gaming for the Whole Family

Jenny Mannion

8 Oct 2009 | 8:34 am

Wii Sports Resort is not just a kid’s computer game — it is a game the whole family will enjoy playing. Whether it is fencing, ping pong, basketball, wakeboarding, archery, skydiving or any of the other many games that are offered – there is truly something for everyone. The game play is so realistic and the addition of the Wii Motion Controller adds to the feel of you really being IN the game. I feel this game is appropriate for all ages but there are definitely some games where the controls might take some getting used to for the younger kids. It is a pleasure to…
Top 5 Educational Kid Friendly IPhone/ITouch Apps

Jenny Mannion

29 Sep 2009 | 9:50 am

In the last 2 months my family has discovered all new kids computer games. We have turned MAC. We had an IPOD we loved for years and recently have gotten a Mac Laptop, my husband and I switched to IPhones and my son received an ITouch for his birthday. There are so many wonderful Applications (Apps) for these products but it is good to know which ones are safe and educational before you download. Here are a few of my favorite games/apps to make you/your child think and have fun. They ALL have free (LITE) versions to try out and if you find yourself needing more levels – you can…
Jump Start Pet Rescue for the Wii

Jenny Mannion

23 Sep 2009 | 1:13 pm

As far as kid’s computer games go for the Wii – Jump Start Pet Rescue is one of THE BEST games I have found for 3-6 year olds. My children have played Jump Start Games since they were 3 and to see these characters come to life in a Wii game is WONDERFUL! From designing their own avatar, to adopting pets to playing educational and fun games — Jump Start Pet Rescue will keep children entertained and learning for a long time. My daughter, who is six loves this game. She is a very good reader so thought a couple of the games were easy but still enjoys them and running around…

Ziggity Zoom Parents
Teaching Kids to Care for Pets - Whether It Is A Cat Dog Fish or Bird

6 Nov 2009 | 10:43 am

Most kids love animals and would like to have a pet. In fact, kids often beg for pets when they see them ... "Can I have a puppy ... please?" But parents need to think long and hard before introducing a pet into a household. And of utmost importance is the type of pet your family will be the happiest with and that the pet will be the happiest with and well-cared for. While some families can deal with a new puppy, others cannot plus puppies are a lot of work ... sort of like having a new baby. And that is not a joke. So, even though Susie is…
Parents Beware of Childrens Toxic Face Paint This Halloween

sharon

29 Oct 2009 | 11:06 am

It has just been brought to our attention that some children's face paints contain lead, which is a neurotoxin that can harm the brain at low doses. So, the face is the last place you would want to be applying this stuff ... and certainly not on our children! This info comes from a report by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, a national coalition of nonprofit health and environmental groups. In some of the paints tested, the lab identified the heavy metals nickel, cobalt and chromium, which are skin allergens, even in products labeled "non-toxic" and…
Rainy Day Fun with Holiday Crafts

29 Oct 2009 | 6:09 am

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Kids Cereals Have 85% More Sugar & 65% Less Fiber

27 Oct 2009 | 7:49 am

A new study has confirmed what many Parents have long suspected ... most breakfast cereals advertised to kids are filled with sugar and are low on fiber. Cereals marketed to kids have 85% more sugar, 65% less fiber and 60% more sodium than those aimed at adults. This comes from a report by Yale University’s Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity. The content of popular cereals were analyzed using a nutrient profiling system and data was reviewed on how cereals are marketed to kids. Findings released this past weekend revealed that: •The least nutritious cereals…
Smart Choices Food Labeling Program Halted by FDA

26 Oct 2009 | 6:51 am

We are extremely happy to announce that the FDA has stepped in and addressed the Smart Choices food labels that have been hitting shelves. A food industry group is voluntarily halting promotion of its "nutrition" labeling program after the FDA suggested that their labeling could mislead consumers. We informed you about this program when it first was introduced, with our grave concerns over this labeling. http://www.ziggityzoom.com/parentsguide/content/smart-choices-food-label... The Smart Choices program, which includes nine major companies such as Kellogg's,…

Teaching Tiny Tots
Nov 6, Toddler Travel Tips: Disney World Travel Tips

6 Nov 2009 | 12:30 pm

Toddler Travel: Tips for Travelling to Disney World, How to Plan a Trip, What to Bring, and more.
Nov 6, Toddler Travel Tips: Disney World Travel Tips: Things To Bring

6 Nov 2009 | 12:05 pm

Toddler Travel: Tips for Travelling to Disney World, Helpful Checklist
Nov 6, Toddler Recipes: Delicious Pumpkin Bread Easy to Make Muffins or Loaves

5 Nov 2009 | 7:24 pm

Toddler Recipes: Pumpkin Bread...Make Delicious Bread or Muffins that are Great for Any Occasion
Nov 6, Toddler Activities: Thanksgiving Tear Turkey Art

5 Nov 2009 | 7:20 pm

Toddler Activities: Make a turkey with just construction paper and glue.
Nov 4, Toddler Recipes: Haupia A Coconut Milk based Dessert Found at Luaus and Other Hawaiian festivities

4 Nov 2009 | 1:11 pm

Toddler Recipes: Sweet Refreshing Treat...Make Haupia to Celebrate Aloha Week or For any Hawaiian Theme Party

FunAdvice Questions in: Kids
What should I do today?

macsioux427

6 Nov 2009 | 10:11 pm

I don't know what I should do today.Can you help me?
How can I help my 6 year old son with self-esteem?

firediamond

6 Nov 2009 | 9:37 pm

One thing I learned in life is that self-esteem and a good attitude are very, very important. I do not want my son to feel like I used to as a child. Does anyone have ideas?
What is a good middle name that goes along with the name Nina?

psycho_tic

6 Nov 2009 | 3:22 pm

What is a good middle name for the name Nina? Nothing too exotic or too common, just a name that rings with Nina.
how do you throw the best sleepover in the world?

jlrocker1313

6 Nov 2009 | 2:56 pm

I dont want my friend to get bored
My daughter is almost 12 sore breasts

lisabeth65

6 Nov 2009 | 8:45 am

My daughter has sore breasts is this common in puberty or should I be more concerned?

SensoryEdge Educational Toys and Kids Furniture
Crossing the Midline: Bilateral Coordination

SensoryEdge

5 Nov 2009 | 8:36 am

One issue that can develop with young children is an inability to cross the midline. This means that a child will not take their hands or arms across the center of their body. For example, if you are holding something in your left hand and you want to pick something up off your desk that is on your left you generally use your right hand to reach across and pick it up. Children who have trouble crossing their midline will either not reach for it, scream, or if you are lucky they will simply change hands or put the original object down. It is good to encourage children to develop this skill…
A Trip to the Doctor Can be Fun!

SensoryEdge

3 Nov 2009 | 7:15 pm

The holiday season is here. Time for new toys, good food, and no school (we actually love school but the kids aren't always aboard with that sentiment)! Unfortunately, the winter holidays also coincide with cold and flu season. Not only are kids home all day anyway. Parents are more likely to take them to the doctor for even minor illnesses because nobody wants a sick child during the holidays. Over the last few years caregivers are also being more cautious due to the chance of contracting a serious flu virus. This means waiting rooms full of children who would rather be playing and stressed…
Fun Uses for Personalized Toys and Accessories

SensoryEdge

29 Oct 2009 | 10:09 am

You know your kids love seeing their names displayed proudly on their favorite things, but there are also lots of fun and practical uses for personalized toys and accessories. Not only will your child feel special and more in control of his own belongings, but you can also use personalization to avoid conflict between children and to enforce non-confrontational discipline strategies. First, the obvious. Personalized toys and other items helps to avoid confusion when multiple children have the same toy. This is true both for school where there are dozens of children sharing the same classroom,…
How To Avoid a Christmas Catastrophe: Batteries!

SensoryEdge

26 Oct 2009 | 1:21 pm

You know the scenario all too well. The kids wake up Christmas morning all smiles, anxiously tearing through wrapping paper to find out what each package has in store. They excitedly begin pressing buttons and pulling levers, only to realize where are the batteries? Mom thought Dad was going to get them, and he thought she picked them up last week. The ones in the remote control aren't the right size, and the ones in the junk drawer are, well, junk. No batteries in the entire house, no stores open, and no way to use those new toys. Sound familiar? Don't worry, you can avoid this…
Classroom Storage: Making Learning Fun

SensoryEdge

22 Oct 2009 | 3:43 pm

An organized classroom is a fun and efficient classroom. To maximize daily schedules, teachers need to organize their materials for easier reference so they can separate materials they use everyday from materials periodically. Storage can be exciting. Classroom storage can be a fun way to learn because you can use book displays as libraries and cubbies as mail boxes. Assign students jobs and they naturally become interested in the subject. You can have a cubby assigned to each student so they can have a place to keep their art supplies, assignments, & books. Teachers can also use the cubbies…

kookie girls clothing
'top of the class' dress giveway in time for thanksgiving day!

21 Oct 2009 | 4:30 am

DRESS Giveaway - Join or Suggest a friend to fan: www.facebook.com/thinkkookie and when they become a fan and POST A COMMENT on our kookie wall, you and your friend (please be sure to tell us who referred you!) will be entered to win a "top of the class..." dress. Winner will be randomly drawn on Friday 10/30. The winner can choose from fall flowers, mango trees, mango breeze or the grove. (dependent on stock)
kookie tee giveaway! let's get kookie!

29 Sep 2009 | 7:47 am

Tee Giveaway - Become a Fan or Suggest a friend to fan: www.facebook.com/thinkkookie and when you/they become a fan, you and your friend will be entered to win your choice of kookie tee (while supplies last). Winner will be randomly drawn on Tuesday 10/6. BE SURE to comment your name and friends name on our wall so you can be entered correctly in the draw!
end of season sale-o-rama

11 Sep 2009 | 7:58 am

Thank you all for a wonderful first season! We are having a HUGE sale with up to 60% off until all 2009 pieces are sold out. Skip on over and check us out at www.think-kookie.com. We are busy putting the finishing touches on our 2010 Spring Collection and we are so excited to show it to you all! We have expanded up to size 8 in some designs as well as adding lots of fab and fun new pieces! (for sneak peeks and daily deals and lots of cute pictures, join us on Facebook, too!) www.facebook.com/thinkkookie
kookie in august issue of earnshaw's

10 Aug 2009 | 8:11 am
yooo hooooo

11 Jun 2009 | 5:48 am

Happy Thursday! We are in full summer swing and working on new designs, ideas + lots of kookie hosted parties and e-parties. Which is why our blogging has been so limited lately. But, we will be back with lots of scrumptious new and fun entries soon...

BabiesRx
Fake H1N1 Products Harm More Than Help

27 Oct 2009 | 2:03 am

It's understandable that parents are concerned about the H1N1 flu virus, but it is not safe to purchase products offered for sale over the internet (or in stores) that claim to diagnose, prevent, or otherwise act against this virus. These products (shampoo that protects against the virus, dietary supplement to protect infants and young children from contracting the virus, a "new" supplement that
Happy National Pharmacy Week!

24 Oct 2009 | 3:08 am

How did I get interested in pharmacy? I didn't know I was going to be a pharmacist until I attended a college fair in Chinatown and went to the first booth listed alphabetically. There, a tall, friendly Dean and an Asian upperclassman (who actually finished pharmacy school and went to medical school) told me fascinating things about the profession of pharmacy. I applied to Albany College of
"Does she have allergies?"

11 Oct 2009 | 2:04 am

It is inevitable. Every time I put my daughter into a new aquarium of preschoolers (camp, play group, school), she gets a cold. I know better than to send her to school, or swim lessons in the summer, if she has had a fever overnight, or is lethargic and just not herself. This time, she just woke up over the weekend congested and she sneezed out a lot of clear "gook," but nothing else was
Helpful Videos From the FDA

30 Sep 2009 | 10:22 am

These are good quick (about 2.5 minutes, or less) consumer update videos from the FDA. For more information, go to www.fda.gov/consumer.FDA 101: Product Recalls (video) - This explains why products get recalled by the FDA.Avoiding Drug Interactions (video) - Foods are ok to mix, but medications and herbs may not be.Avoiding Medication Mistakes (video) - Wonderful tips on how to avoid medication
Recall of Certain Lots of Infants' and Children's TYLENOL Products

26 Sep 2009 | 4:52 am

Did you buy TYLENOL brand infant's or children's products between April 2008 and June 2008? Certain lots are being recalled by the company, McNeil, because when they examined the bulk raw material, they found that one of the inactive ingredients did not meet internal testing requirements. A type of gram-negative bacteria, B. cepacia, was found and isolated in this portion of raw material. NOTE:

Bedtime Stories My Kids Love
Can You See the Ghost?

24 Oct 2009 | 4:35 pm

This is a car advertisement from Great Britain. When they finished filming the ad, the film editor noticed something moving along the side of the car, like a ghostly white mist. They found out that a person had been killed a year earlier in that exact same spot. The ad was never put on TV because of the unexplained ghostly phenomenon. Watch the front end of the car as it clears the trees in the middle of the screen and you'll see the white mist crossing in front of the car then following it along the road....Spooky! Is it a ghost, or is it simply mist? You decide. If you listen to the ad,…
Where's My BIG Toe?

17 Oct 2009 | 3:55 pm

The Ghoul is out of the Graveyard and tells a terrifying tale of a missing big toe! Hear this terrifying Halloween tale on today's Bedtime Stories My Kids Love.MP3 File - Click Here to Download Podcast GREAT DEALS FOR BEDTIME STORIES LISTENERS! Save 10% on all your pet's needs at PetMeds.com Up to 20% off on great athletic gear at Eastbay.com Get your own .com domain name for $7.49* bedtime7
The Text Message

10 Oct 2009 | 8:20 pm

It's October and that means we let loose the Graveyard Ghoul to spin some of his favorite spooky Bedtime Stories and today he brings a graveyard favorite, The Text Message. Enjoy our special Halloween edition of Bedtime Stories My Kids Love.MP3 File - Click Here to Download Podcast GREAT DEALS FOR BEDTIME STORIES LISTENERS! Save 10% on all your pet's needs at PetMeds.com Up to 20% off on great athletic gear at Eastbay.com Get your own .com domain name for $7.49* bedtime7
Adventures of Microscopic Man - Redefining the Creature

19 Sep 2009 | 1:11 pm

YaiYai is on the procedure table and waiting for the scientists of NanoFuture to bring back his lost memories. Will the process work? Will he survive the procedure?Find out what happens in today's episode of the Adventures of Microscopic Man.MP3 File - Click Here to Download Podcast GREAT DEALS FOR BEDTIME STORIES LISTENERS! Up to 10% off the coolest gear at Brookstone.comSave 10% on all your pet's needs at PetMeds.com Up to 20% off on great athletic gear at Eastbay.com Get your own .com domain name for $7.49* bedtime7
We Will Never Forget - A Tribute to 9-11

9 Sep 2009 | 7:50 pm

For one week, let's put aside the Adventures Microscopic Man and remember those who died for our freedoms on our own soil. MP3 File - Click Here to Download Podcast

Cute Potato
The Cute Potato Frugal Find

jenniferhazard

3 Nov 2009 | 12:51 pm

Team Cute Potato strives to be thrifty whenever and wherever we can. With the holidays fast approaching, we thought you might like to know where to find the best kids’ toys and clothing deals in Maine. So without further ado, we’d like to introduce the Cute Potato Frugal Find. Our favorite this week? Check out the just out of the box Green Toys Recycling Truck we found at Lots for Tots Children’s Resale Store in Falmouth. On Amazon.com, this eco-friendly truck is $21, but at Lots for Tots? $3.00 (score)! Eco-friendly Recycling Truck from Green Toys Have a Frugal Find of your…
Happy Halloween from Cute Potato

jenniferhazard

30 Oct 2009 | 12:32 pm

Maybe it’s the colder weather, but whatever the reason, the Cute Potato gang has been doing a lot of baking lately. Our favorite project to date is perfect for kids’ Halloween parties or neighborhood treats. Thanks to Grandma “Patty” Potato, we discovered the recipe for these super cute, super easy Candy Corn Cookies. All you need is a package of Betty Crocker Sugar Cookie Dough, one egg, butter, food coloring and chocolate chips. Candy Corn Sugar Cookies... yum! CP #1 and I packaged the cookies in clear, cellophane bags with yellow curling ribbon. They were a hit with…
Rediscovering (and Saving) a Gem

jenniferhazard

23 Oct 2009 | 12:27 pm

Fun at the Inside Out Playground in Waterville Discovering a great indoor play space during the winter months is nirvana for Maine parents. For 15 years, the non-profit, Inside Out Playground in Waterville has made the cold weather a little more bearable for local families. Kids will find cool climbing structures, craft projects, a puppet theater, tricycles, books, games and more fun to be had. And parents will love the price. For just $5 per child, and a $1 per parent, families can stay and play for hours. Have a playgroup of 6 or more? The price drops to just $3 a child. Year-round family…
Trains, and Goblins, and Ghosts, Oh My!

jenniferhazard

16 Oct 2009 | 1:41 pm

Team Cute Potato was introduced to the Boothbay Railway Village in August during the Day Out with Thomas the Tank Engine event. Our family was so impressed by the staff and the venue, but mostly, amazed by all the Railway Village had to offer. The village includes an eclectic mix of antique cars and trucks, trains, a one room school house and model railroad exhibit, to name a few. And nearly every exhibit offers something for little ones to try out for themselves. So it’s not surprising that we are excited about the Railway Village’s upcoming Ghost Train. The staff promises this Halloween…
The Great Costume Swap

jenniferhazard

9 Oct 2009 | 9:29 am

Let’s give credit to the super smart parents of Cumberland and North Yarmouth—they have some great ideas. Right after Cute Potato #2’s arrival, an army of moms from the Cumberland/North Yarmouth Family Network delivered meals to our home for a month. We were so impressed by their organization and generosity. And now, they’re hosting a Halloween costume swap at the Cumberland Congregational Church to help the local food pantry. Costumes can be dropped off at a bin outside the Cumberland Community Nursery School (located at the church) in advance, or you can bring them along the day…

Playground Confidential
Even Good Moms Pass Out, Right?

rebecca

6 Nov 2009 | 9:08 am

DAILY SNACK I was visiting my parents’ home yesterday afternoon with the kids, And was about to gather up our things And hit the road, When I somehow lay down on a couch for a moment And closed my eyes. When I opened them, My glasses were on upside-down, yes, But there was a hot cup of tea waiting for me. Thank goodness for brothers Who take care of wee children and make you tea When you pass out cold in the middle of the afternoon.
They Grow Up So Fast

rebecca

5 Nov 2009 | 8:03 am

DAILY SNACK Hey, get back here young lady! Just where do you think you’re going with my wallet and car key?
Fall, Head Over Heels

rebecca

4 Nov 2009 | 7:37 am

DAILY SNACK We had the park to ourselves yesterday. Must be flu season. But the lush canopy that offers cool shade in the summer Was all shades of orange and yellow, red and brown And the ground was a soft, sweet-smelling blanket of fallen leaves. We jumped and ran and rolled around. We frolicked. And it was amazing.
A Touch of the Swine Flu?

rebecca

3 Nov 2009 | 8:09 am

DAILY SNACK So last Friday night I started to feel achy, And tired and dizzy. My throat was sore And by the next morning I had a bit of a cough. Swine flu! Maybe. My symptoms were very mild and most definitely Not worth crowded, germ-ridden clinics. Today I feel almost 100%. By tomorrow I should be able to leap tall buildings in a single bound And maybe even catch up the laundry. (Because I know you’re wondering: The kids seemed to have low-grade fevers a couple days earlier, but have been in normal spirits with a tiny cough since. Ed has been fighting something off forever and…
Trick or Treat or Crêpe Pan?

rebecca

2 Nov 2009 | 9:13 am

DAILY SNACK Colum was going to be a ninja turtle for Halloween And Irene was to be a Lady Bug. Until, at the last minute, Colum decided to be a ninja wolf. Hmm. How about a lion? ROAR. We have a lion costume already. And so it was. The trick or treating was good, But not as magical as it was two years ago. (Or last year so I hear but I wouldn’t know because I wasn’t allowed to go because I just birthed a baby and no I’m not still moping.) I blame the swine flu. But there was the nice, sad old drunk guy who was giving out these: Candies for the kids And cookware for the…

Together Time 4 Families
Thanksgiving Books for Children

4 Nov 2009 | 6:16 pm

I can't believe that we are only a three weeks from Thanksgiving. I wanted to make sure you have a chance to review and choose some books to share with your children as you prepare for this holiday. Providing background information about what will happen on Thanksgiving Day helps your child know what to expect on this day. Involve your child in preparing for or on Thanksgiving day by assigning a "job" that helps in getting ready. When thinking about providing children with background information about Thanksgiving, I have divided it into 3 categories : Family Celebration, Historical and…
4 Sound Awareness Activities for Your Preschooler

4 Nov 2009 | 10:38 am

Around age three, your child is becoming more aware of individual sounds and syllables in spoken language know as phonological awareness. Some things he may notice are rhyming words in nursery rhymes and predictable books and commenting on familiar words in books. The following are 4 sound awareness activities to do with your child to nurture sound awareness:Make new rhymes for familiar rhyming pairs - hall/ball Say four simple rhyming words and include one word that doesn't rhyme - ask your child to tell you the word that doesn't rhyme - ball/hall/yes/tallClap syllable segments of familiar…
Journal Activity for "Ten Apples Up On Top by Theo. LeSieg (Dr. Seuss)

31 Oct 2009 | 4:59 pm

On my last post I included a journal writing activity for "Ten Apples Up On Top!" My grandson, Michael (4 1/2 ), accommodated my request to write a journal entry using the procedure I used when I taught Kindergarten. In this instance Michael said he wanted to draw a picture of himself with 4 apples on top of his head. He drew the picture and then he said what he wanted to write - "4 apples on top". We then said that together and I held up my fingers to count each word he said - 4 words - thus we made 4 lines - one line for each word. As Michael wrote the words he used his sounds and words he…
Suggestions for Using Prediction and Paired Reading Strategies with Ten Apples Up on Top!

30 Oct 2009 | 8:11 pm

I love this book! It is a great read aloud book.There are many opportunities to use reading strategies (paired reading and prediction) and phonological activities (rhyming, sound play, patterns in words) as you read.Here areliteracy strategies to do with "Ten Apples Up On Top! " by Theo. LeSieg (Dr. Seuss). This is a counting up to 10 book where the animal characters compete with one another to put one more apple on top of their heads as they hop, drink milk, walk on the tight rope, and skate. Some reading strategies I suggest are the following:Accentuate your voice when you come to the…
5 Little Pumpkins Poem and Literacy Activities

28 Oct 2009 | 8:03 pm

Halloween is almost here! And here are 5 little pumpkin puppets for you and your little pumpkin to enjoy! Make these from paper plates and tape wooden craft sticks to the back of the plates. (you might find the plates on sale right now) Here is the rhyme to go with the pumpkins:5 Little Pumpkins sitting on the gate.The first one said, "Oh my it's getting late."The second one said, "There are witches in the air!"The third one said, "I don't care." The fourth one said, "Let's run and run and run!"The fifth one said, "It's time to have some fun!"OHHHHHH Went the Wind, and Out (clap) Went the…

Madcap Logic Blog
Study Finds That Online Education Beats the Classroom

admin

12 Oct 2009 | 10:21 am

A recent 93-page report on online education, conducted by SRI International for the Department of Education, has a starchy academic title, but a most intriguing conclusion: “On average, students in online learning conditions performed better than those receiving face-to-face instruction.” Click here for the full story…
Giving Back…

admin

28 Sep 2009 | 4:07 pm

Madcap Logic donates Creativity Express to Accessing the Artist Within project to showcase artists using assistive technologies. Learn more here: Accessing the Artist Within
How Arts Training Improves Attention and Cognition

admin

18 Sep 2009 | 9:30 am

Does education in the arts transfer to seemingly unrelated cognitive abilities? Researchers are finding evidence that it does. Michael Posner argues that when children find an art form that sustains their interest, the subsequent strengthening of their brains’ attention networks can improve cognition more broadly. Check out this fascinating article at The Dana Foundation’s website - Click Here
Woodcraft Rangers Using Creativity Express

admin

29 Jul 2009 | 1:31 pm

Woodcraft Rangers’ Huntington Park Elementary After School program in Los Angeles using Creativity Express!
Creativity Express — User Artwork

admin

26 Jun 2009 | 3:30 pm

Special thanks to Mandy and her dad Steve for sharing with us: “My 6-year old daughter Mandy loves drawing and, she and I went through most of the Creativity Express lessons and plan to finish all of the lessons soon. She has learned a lot from them. Here’s some of her artwork.” -Steve

Chip Chicklets
Star Wars Guess Who Game

chipchick

5 Nov 2009 | 11:40 pm

Guess Who is one of those classic games that never gets old. Now there is a special Guess Who version that has been totally geek’ed out. The Star Wars Guess Who Game replaces the traditional Guess Who characters with Yoda, Darth Vader and all your Star Wars favorites. Use the force to guess the mystery face. The Star Wars Guess Who Game retails for $22.99 at Entertainment Earth.
Twilight Fans Can Meet at the Virtual Habbo Hotel

chipchick

5 Nov 2009 | 9:56 am

Hello Twilighters…looking to mingle with other Edward, Jacob, or Bella fans virtually? Summit Entertainment and Habbo Hotel will offer starting November 6th Twilight Saga: New Moon-themed rooms. You will even have the opportunity to decorate your online rooms with virtual goods based on the film, including a dreamcatcher, a piano, and the Volturi crest. Habbo Hotel is free and there will be surprises throughout and maybe even a special guest. You never know who may enter the Habbo Hotel.
Eco-Friendly Koala USB Flash Drive is Also Kid-Proof

chipchick

4 Nov 2009 | 7:53 am

Active Media has already come out with several eco-friendly USB Flash drive animals like a panda, polar bear and a penguin. Their latest little friend is the Koala USB Flash drive made of silicon rubber. The drive is both waterproof and shock resistant, and is available in capacities of 2GB to 16GB for $10 to $40. Active Media also claims that this USB Flash drive animal is more rugged than their previous releases, that makes this little guy more suitable for kids who are likely to drop it and have it get knocked around at school.
Sony AIBO Might Be Dead, But Long Live the Genibo Robot Dog

chipchick

2 Nov 2009 | 9:25 pm

Sony’s AIBO might be long gone, but there is still a very advanced, and very expensive robot dog out there for you to purchase. There is no doubt that the dASA Genibo Robot Dog took design cues from the Sony AIBO. For a ruff $1,650, the mischievous Genibo DOG will charm and entertain you. The pup does not like to have its sides touched, it loses energy and falls asleep when its owner does not pay attention to it for at least 5 minutes, it will cause trouble if “vigilance” is not kept, and it even acts like a true and faithful real dog by being able to recognize your family…
Princess and the Frog Digital Camera Doesn’t Turn into a Toad

Chip Chicklets

2 Nov 2009 | 12:08 pm

No kissing required but a snap of the shutter on this adorable Pix Micro Princess and the Frog Digital Camera. Princess Tiana is featured along with the frog prince on a background of lovely purple colors and flowers. Little girls can easily slip the camera in to their pockets and encourage those to smile for a pic. The digital camera holds up to 40 photos and retails at Amazon or Disney for $19.99.

Little Food Junction
4 Nov 2009 | 2:34 am

4 Nov 2009 | 2:34 am

~ Happy B'Day Sesame Street ~Nothing can define entertainment better than the kids favorite program - Sesame Street . The longest running children's program in the world celebrates its 40th B' Day ( premiered on Nov 10,1969).The model urban community in which the world is presented to its preschool audience with lovable characters , songs n dance remains the most influential n educative classic
2 Nov 2009 | 9:38 pm

2 Nov 2009 | 9:38 pm

~ The Buggy Mania ~My little one is learning about insects these days n she seems to be totally influenced by the brightlycolored Ladybirds. After picking up a ladybird shaped xylophone , a ladybird rug and magnets she still wanted some more buggies !!!! So I decided to treat her with a ladybug salad .......The Ladybug ..tomato, olives , corn
24 Oct 2009 | 4:11 am

24 Oct 2009 | 4:11 am

~ Hello Halloween ~Halloween is incomplete without draculicious foods. These creeeeeepy delicious treats for little ghouls n goblins are easy to make n healthy too ........ And free from artificial colors n preservatives !! Coffin Sandwiches Coffin- Brown n white bread , Wreath- cucumber slicespinach n tomato .Wreath- to make fancy edges- cut small circles all around the cucumber slice
21 Oct 2009 | 2:17 am

21 Oct 2009 | 2:17 am

~ The Hungry Caterpillar ~ The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle ( click the link for the animated version )was one of my favorite books when I was a kid, & now being a mom I love reading it to my little one . The caterpillar who munches his way through a variety of edibles before metamorphosing into a pretty butterfly is the inspiration behind this edible creation........The Veggie
14 Oct 2009 | 8:28 am

14 Oct 2009 | 8:28 am

~ Happy Diwali ~Hope the festival of light enlightens your home and heart with peace and prosperity .A very Happy Diwali to all !!!! Diwali is certainly the biggest and brightest of all Indian festivals.It symbolises the triumph of the good over evil . This festival of lights is marked by five days of celebration. Clay lamps , gifts, Sweets n savories ,holy chants , colorful rangolis n

The Soft Landing Blog
BPA-free Sippy Cup Guide

Alicia

5 Nov 2009 | 9:20 am

2009 brought an amazing number of new BPA-free products to the market, so we’ve updated our BPA-free Sippy Cup Guide. You can find the complete list with background info on bisphenol-a on Squidoo (you can easily print the page for shopping trips on the go). Be sure to let us know if we missed any of your favorite BPA-free sippy cups and we’ll add them!
Twitter Tuesday Giveaway: Kids Konserve Stainless Steel Round Container

Alicia

3 Nov 2009 | 9:29 am

Folks are ditching plastic containers by the droves and stainless steel has become the trusty standby. Kids Konserve was at the forefront, providing common sense products before the shift even began. So today we’ll be giving away one of their most versatile products – the round stainless steel container with BPA-free lid. Our Favorite Features Its perfect 8oz size can handle many different kinds of food: tuna, pasta, chicken salads, veggies, pretzels, grapes, strawberries, yogurt, applesauce, crackers and more! Heavy duty non-toxic plastic lids keep food fresh and…
Skip the Chemicals this Christmas and Save Some Dough Too

Alicia

29 Oct 2009 | 8:01 am

We love Christmas and we’re celebrating in big style this year! We called a family meeting and hatched a plan to offer you 8 weeks of healthy Christmas savings with a little added bonus – FREE Shipping Fridays throughout November and December! You’ll find a unique code on the homepage of our store each Friday morning. We’re offering a HUGE 30% discount on various styles of eating gear, toys and gift certificates. Each weekly code is valid from Monday through Wednesday. Download the whole schedule now to plan for your shopping needs! Just click on the image…
Twitter Tuesday Giveaway: RiNGLEY Natural Ball Teether

Alicia

27 Oct 2009 | 8:43 am

Organic cotton + Canadian Maple wood = a truly chemical-free teether by RiNGLEY! The original RiNGLEY teethers have been such a hit with babies, that the company recently introduced two new designs to their teething arsenal: the Ball and the Junior. Both boast a new velcro features which allows you to remove the cloth and throw it in the washer without the wood teether! Our Favorite Features RiNGLEY’s Newest innovation allows you to un-velcro the cloth and throw it in the washer Shape allows your child to easily grip the ring and cloth Can be used wet or dry and easily reaches…
Is it Safe to Wash Plastic Bottles and Dishes in the Dishwasher?

Alicia

23 Oct 2009 | 9:52 am

Have you ever wondered if it’s okay to wash plastic food containers in the dishwasher, even if they are BPA-free? That’s a great question that requires a two-part answer, because not all plastic containers the same . . . Most Reusable Bottles and Dishes are Dishwasher Safe Many plastic containers are specifically intended for reuse and are usually clearly marked. The dishes in this category come from two main categories: Heavy duty everyday reusables (dishware, utensils, baby bottles, sippy cups, etc.) are dishwasher safe and will withstand heat and detergents for many years.

NurtureShock
Is Ft. Hood Like Columbine? By Columbine's Dave Cullen

Ashley Merryman

6 Nov 2009 | 4:37 pm

Today, like many other Americans, Po and I have been thinking about the tragedy at Ft. Hood – and how it brings back the memory of similar events such as the massacre at Columbine. But that raises a question: while the events feel similar, are they actually? It was a question I directed to Dave Cullen. Dave was a reporter at Columbine, on the day of the shooting, and he's been covering its aftermath ever since. The result of ten years of research was his haunting New York Times bestseller, Columbine. Here are Dave's thoughts. ___________ Is Ft. Hood like Columbine? That’s…
Why Teenagers Are Growing Up So Slowly Today

Po Bronson

5 Nov 2009 | 5:59 pm

Here’s a Twilight Zone-type premise for you. What if surgeons never got to work on humans, they were instead just endlessly in training, cutting up cadavers? What if the same went for all adults – we only got to practice at simulated versions of our jobs? Lawyers only got to argue mock cases, for years and years. Plumbers only got to fix fake leaks in classrooms. Teachers only got to teach to videocameras, endlessly rehearsing for some far off future. Book writers like me never saw our work put out to the public – our novels sat in drawers. Scientists never got to do original…
Responses to Post on US School Kids Doing Better

Ashley Merryman

4 Nov 2009 | 1:12 pm

On Monday, I wrote a post that argued that the constant focus on the failures of American school system is misplaced. Because there are many indicators that success, not failure, is the norm of the school system. I was delighted to see, both here, and elsewhere, a number of thoughtful responses and questions, so rather than just post short comments in response, I thought I'd use today's post to substantively respond to a few of the comments that particularly piqued my interest. (A couple of other questions I will answer in comments on yesterday's post.) Reader Comment: In My Experience,…
Can Happiness and Parenting Coexist?

Po Bronson

3 Nov 2009 | 1:28 pm

A new analysis from the UK, just published in the Journal of Happiness Studies, concludes that kids make married couples happier. The first child only barely improves happiness, but the second child takes married parents to a new level of bliss. A third child makes them even happier. The curious thing is why this seemingly obvious finding is considered newsworthy. In what possible way is it pushing the frontiers of science?Well, it actually contradicts all the happiness research that’s come before. And that prior happiness research got a lot of mileage, and media attention, for saying that…
US School Kids Are Doing Better Than Ever – But You Never Hear It

Ashley Merryman

2 Nov 2009 | 5:42 pm

There is a constant drumbeat heard that America's education system is failing the nation's children. Everywhere we turn around, you hear that traditional public schools in shambles; the teachers are failing and so are the kids' scores. (The only saving grace seeming to be charter schools, which operate outside of the traditional model.) School drop-out rates are said to be stratospheric. And if, by some miracle, kids do make it to college, they don't have any real academic prowess when they get there – since we frequently hear about college students having to take remedial courses.Last…

TrendyBrandyKids Boutique
DEALS OF THE DAY NEW ARRIVALS UP TO 30% OFF UNTIL 11/13/2009

6 Nov 2009 | 10:04 am

DEALS OF THE DAYNEW ARRIVALSUP TO30% OFFUNTIL 11/13/2009WOW!!!Jean Bourget Edition limitee black mini skirtonly $ 55.00Jean Bourget Attitude Kid tee shirt top only$40.00Jean Bourget Authentic Kid dark orange striped tee shirt only$33.00Jean Bourget Casual Kid jeans w/embroidery design only$58.00 Catimini Urban green turtleneck shirt only$31.00Catimini Spirit Denim capri jeans w/embroidery design only$53.00Catimini Labo striped tee shirt only$33.00Catimini Urban black pants w/ embroidery desiginonly $55.00
TRENDYBRANDYKIDS BOUTIQUE GIVEAWAY

2 Nov 2009 | 7:52 am

TRENDYBRANDYKIDS BOUTIQUE GIVEAWAYWant to win 2 pieces from the TATIRI collection?Here's How to Win:Contest will end on 11/13/09 at 11:59 pm CST. U.S. residents only
CATIMINI SPIRIT DENIM KHAKI DRESS W/ STYLISH DETAILS, CATIMINI SPIRIT DENIM BLUE TIGHTS W/ LEG WARMERS AND CATIMINI SPIRIT ETHNIQUE PINE GREEN TIGHTS.

28 Oct 2009 | 8:23 am

As we have suggested, Catimini Spirit Denim khaki dress w/ stylish details becomes a top seller at our Boutique and it is not by chance, but because you can't help buying it. If you have a daughter at the age up to 4T, you will certainly want to have it for this fall-winter season. At first, it seems it is a set of a jumper dress and a tee, actually, the jumper is connected to tee, thus being more convenient and less time-wasting while dressing your child. There are some convenient button- fasteners at the back which will also make the dressing of your child much easier. This outfit has a…
20% OFF ANY ORDER NEW ARRIVALS FALL/WINTER 09/10 ONLY

26 Oct 2009 | 7:04 am

TRENDYBRANDYKIDS COUPON CODE20% OFF ANY ORDER NEW ARRIVALSFALL/WINTER 09/10 ONLYCOUPON CODE: CMSRYIEXP. DATE: 11/02/2009
ME TOO COLORFUL KIDSWEAR FROM DENMARK.

19 Oct 2009 | 10:20 am

It seems, Me Too Company wants to make gloomy fall days cheerful and bright having decided to make fall-winter 09/10 collection colorful and joyful full of lots stylish details, embroideries, appliques and trimmings. At once, it seems that there is a borrowing of styles, designs and fabrics from such Dutch brands as Oilily and Cakewalk also featuring of brightness and a variety of colors. As we have said before, our customers are attracted by original designs, a high quality and available prices of Me Too kidswear. At our Boutique you can find colorful tunic dresses made of cotton and velour,…

MyBrownBaby
Help MyBrownBaby Support the Greening Youth Foundation

5 Nov 2009 | 9:01 pm

It’s no secret that I’m a total stan for my sister-in-law, Angelou, and not just because she’s smart, accomplished, passionate and fly. I can’t say it enough: She’s an inspiration (and she lets me rock all her shoes, purses, and cute tops!). An attorney by trade, Angelou founded a little over a year ago her own non-profit environmental education program for kids, GREENING YOUTH, to help encourage
The MyBrownBaby Beautiful Mind Writing Contest

4 Nov 2009 | 9:01 pm

The written word is sexy as hell to me. I mean, I adore writers and their turns of phrase like a car lover does the fine, sleek lines of a Porsche—like an art lover does the passion and intricacies of a Romare Bearden collage. When I worked in an office, I used to clip magazine articles, quotes, and turns of phrase by some of my favorite writers and hang them up on my wall for inspiration. They
Wordless Wednesday: The Cousins In a New York State of Mind

4 Nov 2009 | 5:31 am

This is, for sure, one of my favorite pictures of Lila, Miles, Mari, and Cole—taken in the middle of Times Square on the first day of one of our family vacations to New York City. We're native New Yorkers, and when we were living there, it was way too hokey to get caught doing the touristy thing. That's for, like, tourists. But then we all moved South, and when we visited home for the first time,
Check Out MyBrownBaby On The Rachael Ray Show!

3 Nov 2009 | 8:28 am

Exciting news! Today, I'm one of four mommies kicking it with the celebrated chef/author/magazine editorRachael Ray on her fabulous afternoon gabfest, The Rachael Ray Show. I joined Rachael, actress Rikki Lake, and three other moms via Skype to talk about all things motherhood—and, true to form, I gave my own unique perspective on what it means to be a mommy in 2009.To get a sneak peak, click
A LETTER FOR MY FATHER: A Daughter Reaches Out to the Dad Who Never Was

1 Nov 2009 | 9:02 pm

By KAREN MARIE MASONDear Daddy,Mama told me your were dead. Except that was way before you actually died. But when I started acting up around age 16 or so—you know, the age when girls start “feeling their oats,” as Mama used to say—you suddenly came alive again, and next thing I knew, I was talking to you on the phone and not much later, I was on a plane to see you. I’m not mad at Mama any more