Carpooling Solution: Divide the Ride
Monday, December 31, 2007
If you have ever experienced a carpooling nightmare then you'll definitely want to use Divide the Ride this year.Divide the Ride is a free, online organizational system where you and your carpooling buddies put in your driving availability and all of your children's myriad activities and Divide the Ride will create a carpooling schedule and email it to everyone. And, if that's not miraculous enough, Divide the Ride will also send email reminders and text messages to everyone in your carpool to make sure every child gets picked up from his/her activity. Divide the Ride will also send reminders to everyone in your carpool should there be any last minute changes. That way everyone is on the same page, avoiding logistical mishaps and mix-ups.
Divide the Ride is the perfect carpooling solution for busy parents and it's free. Plus, it will also help you go green this year as you, your friends, and neighbors save on gas and emit less greenhouse emissions.
On the Net: www.dividetheride.com.
Labels: family
posted by Jennifer James @ Monday, December 31, 2007,
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Do You Live In One of America's Most Literate Cities?
Friday, December 28, 2007
How many bookstores and libraries are in your city? Do you know your local newspaper's circulation rates or how many Internet resources your city offers? All of that information has been tallied and presented in the annual America's Most Literate Cities rankings which measures the cultural resources in the nation's largest cities.Here are the top 10 literate cities in America.
1. Minneapolis
2. Seattle
3. St. Paul
4. Denver
5. Washington, D.C.
6. St. Louis
7. San Francisco
8. Atlanta
9. Pittsburgh
10. Boston
Cities with populations of 250,000 or more were evaluated on newspaper circulation, number of bookstores, library resources, periodical publishing resources, educational attainment, and Internet resources.
The study found that as Americans get more educated, we are reading less. Newspapers are decreasing as well as bookstores per capita. But online reading is increasing and magazines are on the rise once again.
To read all the study's findings, click here.
Labels: iblackparenting_reading
posted by Jennifer James @ Friday, December 28, 2007,
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Forging Family Resolutions
Thursday, December 27, 2007
As the new year nears families can benefit from making New Year's resolutions together. Here are a few our families will be working on to make 2008 a great year for all of us.Eat Together: We know we're not the only ones who eat dinner spread throughout the house, either in front of the TV, beside the computer, or on the run. It may sound horrible to say, but who sits down at the dinner table anymore?
Even though eating dinner together as a family seems as old fashioned as computers without the Internet or life before cell phones, we've resolved to do more of it in 2008. Dinnertime should be an occasion to sit down and share everyday happenings with your family, not a time to watch sitcoms or answer email.
Read More: Children love to be read to and there is no better time to share together time than with a book. Children are typically at attention when they are listening intently to a story and reading to your children gives you the opportunity to discuss important morals of the story, teach new vocabulary, and simply cuddle up.
Visit Family: So many of us live throughout the country these day that it becomes increasingly difficult to visit loved ones; your family is in one state and your extended family is in another. The one thing that remains constant, though, is we all won't live forever, so this year make an effort to visit family and friends no matter if they live across the country or across town.
Travel: While visiting family should be high on your list of priorities, you should also plan to travel more in 2008 with your immediate family. Families that travel a lot learn a great deal about the world around them and children are opened up to a world of new possibilities. When your children grow older they won't be afraid to hop a train to New York City or fly to London. Traveling is a great way to spend time as a family even if you only take one big vacation each year.
Talk Money: As your children grow older it is imperative that they understand how money works otherwise they are headed down a long road to financial ruin, especially when they get offered their very first credit card in college.
Instead of letting your children guess about money, open up their own checking or savings account. Buy stocks for them and let them see how their shares fluctuate day after day and teach them the value of a dollar. If you give your children an allowance, teach them early on that they need to save a portion of their allowance and can also use some to have a good time.
Labels: family
posted by Jennifer James @ Thursday, December 27, 2007,
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Winter Care Tips for Your Family Pet
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
As the weather turns frigid outside we have to make sure our family pets are just as comfortable and happy as we are this time of year. Dr. Susan Nelson, veterinarian and clinical assistant professor at Kansas State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, encourages pet owners to be alert to seasonal health issues, especially as the temperature drops.Dr. Nelson recommends that pet owners bring their dogs and cats inside during the winter. Dogs with heavy coats should be allowed to stay in cooler rooms or the garage to prevent them from becoming uncomfortable.
Some pets are not comfortable being inside and Dr. Nelson says animals who are prone to panic should be put in crates or animal carriers. "If their nervousness is severe, talk with your veterinarian about calming medication," said Nelson. "Make sure pets know their of food and water locations, too. If your pet is not housebroken, Nelson recommends keeping them on floors that are easily cleaned.
While inside your home animals should be kept away from toxic plants such as lilies, dieffenbachia and philodendron. Pets should also not indulge in table foods like chocolate, raisins and onions. "Some human foods, such as chocolate, raisins and onions, can be dangerous to pets," Nelson said. "Pets also may chew on electrical cords. In addition, candles and potpourri can be hazardous, so keep pets supervised while in the house and take appropriate precautions."
Labels: pets
posted by Jennifer James @ Wednesday, December 26, 2007,
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Tips For Holiday Travel Emergencies
Monday, December 24, 2007
The skies and roadways will be bustling with holiday travelers over the next week and you definitely want to be prepared if an emergency arises. Here is what AAA recommends for safe travel.
posted by Jennifer James @ Monday, December 24, 2007,
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Rounding Out the Weekend: Magazines for Kids, Part 2
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Yesterday we featured a few of our favorite magazines for children. Here are a few more we enjoy.
Highlights for Children Magazine
Sports Illustrated For Kids Magazine
Labels: children, education, entertainment, reading
posted by Jennifer James @ Sunday, December 23, 2007,
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Magazines for Kids
Saturday, December 22, 2007
We know our children love to receive their own mail and we know yours probably do, too. Even though Christmas is next week you can get your children a gift that will last all year: a magazine subscription. Here are a few of our favorites. Check back tomorrow for a few more children's magazine we love.
Ladybug (2-6)
1 Year, 12 issues - Ladybug Magazine opens the door to reading for children ages 2 to 6.
Nat. Geo. Little Kids (3-6)
1 Year, 6 issues - National Geographic Little Kids Magazine will help enrich preschoolers' early learning adventures"
National Geographic Kids (6-14)
1 Year, 10 issues - National Geographic Kids Magazine is packed with stories about science, sports, technology & more
posted by Jennifer James @ Saturday, December 22, 2007,
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Overweight Children Lose Weight Eating Peanuts
Friday, December 21, 2007
A new study published in the December issue of Pediatrics says overweight adolescents between the ages of 10-15 can lose a considerable of weight if they substitute the high calorie, low nutrient snacks they typically eat with peanuts or peanut butter along with a fruit or vegetable.The researchers used peanuts and peanut butter in the children's weight loss program because peanuts were well-liked among the students and peanuts are known to keep people fuller longer. The adolescents in the study lost weight over a 3 month period of time and were able to keep the weight off for six months.
Labels: children, education, health, schools
posted by Jennifer James @ Friday, December 21, 2007,
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Holiday Health Check: How to Avoid Alcohol Poisoning in Your Kids
Thursday, December 20, 2007
When you throw a party or get-together this holiday season be sure to throw away all alcoholic beverages that your guests leave behind and be sure to put all alcohol in a safe place where your children do not have access to it. Alcohol poisoning is common throughout the year, but tends to increase during the holidays."This often occurs when children drink the leftover cocktails after parties, or when adults allow them to drink from their glasses," said William Norcross, M.D. UCSD Family and Preventive Medicine physician.
As a rule you should make sure alcoholic drinks are cleaned up and out of reach during and after a party. Additionally, make sure products such as colognes, perfumes and aftershaves, which also have high alcohol content, are far out of the reach of small children because they may believe these products are consumable.
posted by Jennifer James @ Thursday, December 20, 2007,
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From Egyptology to Mega-Beasts: Our Holiday Book Guide for Kids
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Each year around this time children are inundated with the real possibilities of receiving a new video game system or even a brand new cell phone or iPod. Rarely do children look forward to receiving books for the holidays, but if they find these titles nestled under the tree on Christmas day, believe us, they will not be disappointed.
One peek into this book and you will want to seriously claim it for yourself. Robert Sabuda and Matthew
Reinhart are masters at paperwork and it surely shows in this third book of their Encylopedia Prehistorica series. Children will be dazzled by the sheer size of the prehistoric beasts that pop up in the middle of every page and will be equally as intrigued by the pocket-sized beasts that flip out on the sides.We love that every prehistoric beast is folded to perfection and artistically drawn and colored with precision. The mechanics of "Mega-Beasts" are flawless, allowing even younger children the ability to flip the pages without ripping them to shreds. Most importantly to us, each beast is described in detail from how to pronounce their names to where they lived during prehistoric times.
Dragonology: Field Guide to Dragons
Children with wondrous imaginations and an early penchant for mystical creatures will cling to "Dragonology: Field Guide to Dragons". Each dragon that has been previously featured and massively written about in the seven original Dragonology books is brought to further prominence in this master reference book about dragons. And to top if off each of the twelve featured dragons, from the European dragon to the Japanese dragon, has a mini model that your child can easily assemble himself.
The Sleeping Beauty Ballet Theatre Your daughter will be twirling and jumping with delight and glee with this imaginative, fun, and interactive ballet theatre of "The Sleeping Beauty". Each box comes with a sturdy foldout theatre, beautiful backdrops and changeable scenery, nine twirling characters, the Sleeping Beauty book that tells the story and provides the stage directions, as well as an audio CD of Tchaikovsky 's eloquent score of the ballet.
"The Sleeping Beauty" provides an unique opportunity as a parent to introduce your children to theatre as well as to classical music and to push the value of reading instead of always receiving toys and electronics.
X-Men Pop Up
If you have a budding comic book enthusiast in your midst they will become instant fans of the "X-Men Pop Up" book. The "X-Men Pop Up" possesses all the workings of a traditional comic book but with the added surprise of superheroes jumping out at the reader on every page putting the fast action into 3-D. Not only will your child love the pop ups, they will also enjoy reading the pull outs that provide a personality profile on each of the classic X-Men characters.
posted by Jennifer James @ Wednesday, December 19, 2007,
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Discover Green Spaces After the Holidays
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
After the rush, anticipation, and celebration of the holidays finally subsides you'll probably need a heavy dose of fresh air and nature to set your senses back to normal and undoubtedly so will your children and visiting family.The National Wildlife Federation has teamed up with NatureFind to provide quick online access to green spaces in your area including regional, state and national parks. Simply log on to www.naturefind.com, plug in your zip code, and you'll instantly be taken to a treasure trove of great natural resources right in your backyard.
The Natural Wildlife Federation's web site, the Green Hour, also provides a plethora of easy-to-do outdoor activities for you and your children to get involved in and gain an appreciation for nature. Visit www.greenhour.org for more information.
For further reading:
Labels: children, education, entertainment, family
posted by Jennifer James @ Tuesday, December 18, 2007,
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Bye, Bye Cupcake: Schools Ban Traditional Treat for Better Nutrition
Monday, December 17, 2007
When I was in elementary way back in the eighties every child knew that holiday parties meant no classwork and plenty of cupcakes! Room mothers would bring in long boxes of the little sweet delights meticulously counted for every child in the class plus a few extra for the teacher and her assistant. Yes, it was good times then. Now, in this new era of fat kids and even fatter adults parents have banned cupcakes from classrooms in the hopes that children will not ingest unnecessary calories during a holiday party.It's funny because when I was a kid very, very few of us were overweight and even fewer of us were obese. We used to eat just as much junk during my day, but we also went out and played during recess and if it was too cold or raining out, the teachers let us run wild in the gym where we climbed roped or played hopscotch or ran away from boys who always tried to put something sticky on us. There was an unspoken balance then. People instinctively understood that children need to burn calories during an eight-hour school day, not simply sit latent in a chair and watch their teacher scribble on the blackboard.
New-age parents sadly have missed the boat on the cupcake issue. It's not about cupcakes. It's about society as a whole -- technology that fosters idleness plus a ready-made fast food meal waiting for families on every corner. Parents need to look at the bigger picture here. Banning cupcakes simply isn't the solution.
posted by Jennifer James @ Monday, December 17, 2007,
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Children Play More When Child-Care Center Provides Balls, Jump Ropes
Friday, December 14, 2007
If your children attend a child-care center ask their teachers and assistants if they have balls and jump ropes for the children to play with because a new study out of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill says children are more active when their child-care center provides jump ropes and balls for their charges. Being more active longer helps to fight against childhood obesity researchers say."Childhood obesity is an epidemic that threatens the future health of our nation," said Dianne Ward, director of the School of Public Health nutrition department's intervention and policy division and a co-author of the study. "We know that about 57 percent of all 3- to 5-year-olds in the United States attend child-care centers, so it's important to understand what factors will encourage them to be more active, and, hopefully, less likely to become obese."
The study also determined that children engage in more vigorous play when their child-care center has portable play objects around such as hoola hoops, mobile vehicles, jump ropes and balls.
To find out more about how to make sure your child does not become obese or to help them loose weight visit The Mayo Clinic and the Center for Disease Control.
FOR FURTHER READING
posted by Jennifer James @ Friday, December 14, 2007,
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Heavy Traffic Makes Breathing Hard for Children
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Children who live and go to school close to vehicular traffic are exposed to increased pollutants that increase respiratory problems and reduce lung function in children with asthma."Our results show that close proximity to vehicular traffic-related emissions, either at home or at school, can lead to chronic effects in the respiratory health of children with asthma," said Fernando Holguin, M.D., M.P.H., assistant professor of pulmonary medicine at Emory University School of Medicine, and lead author of the study, which appeared in the second issue for December of the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, published by the American Thoracic Society.
Living within 50 meters of high density traffic increased asthmatic problems in children by percent. "These results may have implications for asthmatic children residing in these conditions -- especially among those who may not be adequately controlled with medications -- for they may be more susceptible to vehicular emissions," said Dr. Holguin.
To learn more about childhood asthma visit the American Lung Association.
FOR FURTHER READING
posted by Jennifer James @ Thursday, December 13, 2007,
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Jump Start World, a Learning Adventure for the Younger Set
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
If you are a big fan of the latest software technology and exemplary educational tools, you will be highly impressed with Jump Start World First Grade. Jump Start World offers first graders the unique opportunity to choose a character and then race through a 3-D world full of educational adventures where they can steer a boat to hit a correct number in a math game or put together a crossword puzzle that challenges their thinking skills, for example. Jump Start World encourages youngsters to build their math, reading and critical thinking skills. It even helps young children become more advanced in correctly using a mouse and familiarizing themselves with the computer.If you are concerned about how Jump Start World can enhance your child's education at school, there is no need to worry. Jump Start World is curriculum based on both National and State standards. Plus, the software helps you keep track of your child's progress and also rewards them whenever they have mastered a level or completed an activity.
Jump Start World First Grade provides skills in math, including telling time and using fractions, reading where phonics are the building blocks of reading and spelling, as well as problem solving and leadership development skills.
Jump Start First Grade requires a broadband connection and retails for $9.99. Buy or download on JumpStartWorld.com.
Labels: children, education, technology
posted by Jennifer James @ Wednesday, December 12, 2007,
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Children and the Internet: Crucial Tips for Parents
Monday, December 10, 2007
According to a recent Pew Internet & American Life Project released in April 2007, nearly two-thirds of teens with profiles (63%) believe that "a motivated person could eventually identify them from the information they publicly provide on their profiles." How can we be sure that the information we post on our profiles isn't too revealing? How can we make sure our kids and teens are safe?
Omar Wasow, Internet analyst and co-founder of BlackPlanet.com, outlines these easy steps to ensure online safety.
1. Never post your last name, home address, phone number or social security number on your profile page. These types of personal details can be easily used by someone with bad intentions to identify you or members of your family.
2. Adjust your account settings on social networking sites so only people you know have access to any detailed information on your profile. By doing this, new friends can still send you messages and invite you to join their network, but you retain the power to decide whether or not to share your page with them.
3. Be involved in your child's online life. Take time to talk to your children about the Internet, and the potential risks involved. Spend time surfing the Net with them and make sure they know what to do if someone solicits them online. The Internet is a wonderful place filled with information, potential friends, interesting news facts and entertaining videos; help keep it that way by protecting yourself and your children. The same old fashioned rules that applied to you growing up still work today: children shouldn't ever meet with strangers. Be sure your kids understand that even though they might think they are talking to other kids on the Internet they can never be sure.
4. Stick to reputable companies. A wonderful aspect of the Net is that there are a lot of different social networking sites available to meet different types of people. Whether you're looking for friends your own age, friends with whom you share a common ethnic heritage, or a place to meet people with like hobbies, do a little homework before joining a site. In particular, check with friends to make sure there are safe-guards in place to protect you and your family.
Omar Wasow is the Strategic Advisor to Community Connect Inc., the leading publisher of niche social networking sites.Labels: children, education, tips
posted by Jennifer James @ Monday, December 10, 2007,
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The Sneaky Chef | Tricking Your Kids to Eat Healthy Foods
Sunday, December 9, 2007
We're not quite sure how we feel about the new books The Sneaky Chef and Deceptively Delicious by Jessica Seinfeld. As parents, do we really want to trick our children into eating fruits and vegetables? We don't think so, but this parenting practice is such a phenomenon these days we decided we'd be a little remiss if we didn't talk about it just a little. We decided to let Missy Chase Lapine, author of The Sneaky Chef speak for herself.From Our Newsroom
Buy The Sneaky Chef: Simple Strategies for Hiding Healthy Foods in Kids Favorite Meals
Buy Deceptively Delicious: Simple Secrets to Get Your Kids Eating Good Food
Labels: books, children, health, obesity, tips
posted by Jennifer James @ Sunday, December 09, 2007,
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How to Ace a Parent-Teacher Conference
Friday, December 7, 2007
(Mom Logic) Educator and Mother of three gives us Cliffs Notes on how to make the grade.Most parents hate it. Teachers dread it. Why are parent/teacher conferences so uncomfortable? Teachers complain that parents are unprepared and talk about nothing. Parents complain they feel rushed. Lucille Kurtz, a Mother of three and teacher for more than 25 years, has some tips for us. She knows what it's like to be on both sides of the desk.
1. Do your homework. Come prepared with questions and concerns, and be specific. General questions will get you general answers. Also, try and ask about your child's curriculum if you're not clear. It helps to know what is expected of them.
2. Be courteous. Most parent-teacher conferences are by appointment, and other parents are scheduled before and after you. Stick to your time, and if for some reason you think you may need more, schedule it in advance.
3. Keep an open mind. As a parent, it's easy to become defensive when someone, anyone, criticizes your child. Remember, the teacher is there to help, so hear them out. Ask for suggestions that will help rectify whatever the situation, whether it pertains to academics or behavior.
4. Don't wait for a parent-teacher conference. If you have concerns about your child, contact the teacher immediately and set up a time to meet. Most issues are better addressed right away. And remember, contact the teacher first, don't go straight to the principal. Then, if you're unsatisfied with the results, include the principal.
Labels: children, education, schools
posted by Jennifer James @ Friday, December 07, 2007,
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Mothers' Fat Can Determine Child's Heart Attack Risk
Thursday, December 6, 2007
posted by Jennifer James @ Thursday, December 06, 2007,
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Parents Want Teachers Who Make Their Children Happy
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
A new University of Michigan study says low-income parents want teachers who stress student achievement, whereas families who have higher incomes prefer teachers who make their children happy.The findings appear in the new issue of the Quarterly Journal of Economics.
This study consistent with the belief that in high poverty areas since there is a lack of academic and financial resources parents prefer teachers who will bypass student's enjoyment for a more rigorous education. This is the exact opposite for higher income parents. In schools where academic and financial resources are abundant, these parents want their children to enjoy school and learning.
"The value of this study is that it helps education practitioners and policymakers better understand how factors such as family poverty can influence what parents are looking for in a school," Brian Jacob said, the study's co-author and director of the Center on Local, State and Urban Policy at the U-M Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy. "While all parents presumably want what is best for their children, this can mean very different things depending on the school and neighborhood context."
What do you want from your child's teacher and school in general?
posted by Jennifer James @ Wednesday, December 05, 2007,
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Mama Mirabelle's Kwanzaa Episode
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
If you haven't seen Mama Mirabelle's Home Movies on PBS yet we definitely encourage you to check it out. It's one of the best kids shows on PBS in our opinion. Airing on Saturday or Sunday every weekend, depending on your local station, Mama Mirabelle shows home movies of the animals who live around them on the African savanna. Starring Vanessa Williams as the voice of Mama and using wildlife footage from National Geographic and the BBC the "home movies" teach preschoolers about African animals and their habitat.During the month of December PBS will air "A Savanna Kwanzaa". In this charming episode Mama Mirabelle teaches the baby animals all about her big Kwanzaa celebration and stresses the importance of family.
Labels: children, entertainment
posted by Jennifer James @ Tuesday, December 04, 2007,
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AmberWatch Tips for Kids This Holiday Season
Monday, December 3, 2007
When kids are out of school for the Christmas holiday many parents cannot be home with them during the day unless there is a parent who stays at home. The AmberWatch Foundation wants all children to be safe while their parents are away at work. Here are some tips you can discuss with your child to reiterate their safety during Christmas break.1) Know what emergency numbers to call if you're home alone and you need help.
2) Don't give out your name, age, address and phone number on the Internet.
3) Don't get close to any car that slows down or stops near you. If the car stops near you, run away and tell a trusted adult. Never get into a car with anyone you don't know.
4) Say "NO!" and run away if someone tries to touch you in a way that makes you feel uncomfortable or scared. Tell your families or trusted loved ones if this scenario occurs.
5) If someone tries to hurt you, yell for help, fight as hard as you can and run away.
6) Keep doors and windows locked and secured when you're home alone. Don't open the door or let anyone in without your parents' permission.
7) Stay with your parents or a trusted adult when you are in a public space. If you lose them, go to the nearest security officer or store clerk with a nametag and tell them that you're lost.
8) Never take shortcuts. Always walk along well-traveled streets and follow the route that your parents planned out for you.
9) Don't tell anyone on the phone that your parents are not at home. Just say, "They can't come to the phone right now" and take a message.
Labels: children
posted by Jennifer James @ Monday, December 03, 2007,
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Recipe Rescue | Thai Chicken & Vegetable Curry
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
12oz. skinless, boneless chicken breast halves or thighs
1 tsp. curry powder
2 tbsp. oil
1 can (14-1/2oz.) Del Monte® Organic Diced Tomatoes
1 can (14-1/2oz.) Del Monte® Organic Cut Green Beans, drained
1 can (14-1/2oz.) Del Monte® Organic Sliced Carrots, drained
1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper
2 cups hot cooked rice
Directions
1. Cut chicken into 3/4-inch cubes; toss chicken evenly with curry powder
2. Heat oil in large skillet; add chicken. Cook and stir over medium-high heat for 3 minutes
3. Add undrained tomatoes, beans, carrots and crushed red pepper. Simmer, uncovered, 5 minutes
4. Serve over rice and sprinkle with 1/4 cup peanuts or toasted coconut, if desired
Labels: recipe rescue
posted by Jennifer James @ Sunday, December 02, 2007,
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Recipe Rescue | Easy Corn & Black Bean Salsa
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients
1 can (15.25 oz.) Del Monte® Organic Whole Kernel Corn, well drained
½ cup organic low-sodium black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup mild, medium or hot salsa
Cilantro (for optional garnish)
Avocado (for optional garnish)
Lime Juice (for optional garnish)
Directions
1. Combine corn and black beans in medium-sized glass bowl. Stir in salsa.
2. Garnish with chopped cilantro, diced avocado, and squeeze of lime juice, if desired.
3. Serve as a dip with tortilla chips or as a colorful, delicious topping for grilled steak, chicken breasts, pork chops, pork tenderloin, burgers, or baked potatoes
TIP: This salsa can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Labels: recipe rescue
posted by Jennifer James @ Saturday, December 01, 2007,
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