January 11th, 2008 by Audra
Now that the holidays have past it still seems there is always a reason to buy more gifts for children.
The only problem is finding a unique gift. Where to buy that special gift?
I found a place called Bits and Pieces. They have unique gifts. (Jigsaw Puzzles, Brainteasers, Banks & Money, Kaleidoscopes, Nesting Dolls, Remote Control Toys, Sudoku Games)
15% off all orders at Bits and Pieces! Use code W702090. Offer expires 1.31.08.
December 16th, 2007 by Audra
Do you have kids in school? K-12? I found a website that caters to parents with kids in public schools.
Do you want to find out how your school ranks among other local schools in your area?
Check out schoolmatters.com and do a side by side comparison of test scores, academic proficiency and more.
If you get a moment write a review of your child’s school.
This is a free service. SchoolMatters.com
December 12th, 2007 by Audra
The most expensive child care facility is not always the best.
So you have little ones and you have decided to find the best child care facility…
Here are a few helpful tips to remember when choosing the right childcare facility for you little loved ones.
- Make sure the child care facility is licensed or registered in your state.
- Check the caregiver to child ratios. How many kids per staff member…
- Ask for references from current and past parents of children attending the facility.
- Be sure to visit the facility during operating hours before you enroll your children. Make sure you can make unannounced visits after enrollment too.
- Check out the indoor and outdoor play areas. (no sharp objects, pinch points, ditches)
- Read the written policys: discipline and sick child related.
- Non-smoking facility?
- Make sure the staff is trained and qualified. (Child Development, CPR, First Aid Certification)
- Talking about the staff, ask about the turnover rate. How long do caregivers usually stay at the facility?
- Health and Safety concerns: age appropriate toys, diaper changing station with sink within reach, infants supervised while eating, adult supervised outdoor and indoor play areas.
This list is a good starting point. Be sure to do your own homework when choosing the right child care facility for your little loved ones.
For more resources about child care facilities in your local area, see Child Care Aware online at www.childcareaware.org or by phone at 800.424.2246
December 3rd, 2007 by Audra
It is said the best time to start teaching you baby sign language is around the age of 6-8 months.
Babies who learn sign language receive many benefits.
Peace of mind from being able to communicate a few basic needs and emotions. Eat, Sleep, Happy, etc. Baby communication can lead to a reduction in tantrums.
Babies who sign increase the development of the brain which can result in a higher IQ.
Babies who sign have been shown to have a larger speaking vocabulary.
Best of all, signing and learning to sign with your baby increases the bond between you and your baby.
For more information about getting started with Baby Sign Language go to www.BabySigns.com. Learn to sign with your baby.