I listen to the hushed murmurs of my youngest daughter, Jemma. Her small hands move her toy people as they “talk” to each other. The long hallway is a busy cardboard city. Currently, her attention is on the children in the school area. They’re busy rehearsing a play and festively attired in costumes of tape, […]

As parents, we realize quickly that there is no hard-and-fast rulebook that can prepare us for all the challenges that come along with day-to-day trials and tribulations. But there are occasionally moments that make us say “Aha!” and we realize the right answer is just as simple as we’d hoped. As both a mother and […]

With all of the debate about work/family balance lately, it’s hard not to wonder whether your personal solution is the “best” one. But there is no one-size-fits-all solution to parenting, and there are many paths to feeling successful as moms and dads.  That being said, there’s one clear route to feeling lousy about your parenting: […]

What is the best piece of advice you can offer for traveling with small children?

Our goal is to help children cultivate a deeper understanding of how every person has the power to help. During this month of the Great Sprout Tuck-In Season of Giving, focus a little extra energy around the idea of gestures of giving. Throughout the month, talk with your children about a time you did something […]

Dear Friends, As both a mother and CEO of more than 900 schools committed to educating and caring for children across the country, my heart breaks for those impacted by the senseless tragedy that occurred in Newtown, Connecticut. Our deepest condolences go out to the students, parents, teachers and staff of Sandy Hook Elementary and […]

For better or worse, my kids associate the holiday season with gifts. I haven’t even put away the Thanksgiving decorations, but I already know my boys would like their first electronic readers, some new clothing for our planned holiday trip and (obviously!) a replenishing of their beloved baseball equipment. While my kids will receive some […]

I’m not psychic, but I have a prediction. If your baby goes to daycare, chances are that one day, you’ll suddenly get a lot of protests and crying at drop-off – right around the time your baby starts to crawl. How can I be so certain? Scientists who study infants have discovered that a baby […]

My friend Gina recently confessed her secret desire to abandon her extended family and escape on vacation for the month of December. Gina is a world-class cook, and she spends weeks prepping for an onslaught of guests who have come to expect gourmet meals, a decked-out house and a smiling hostess. For several years, Gina […]

There is no one right way to be a good parent. Trust what’s best for you and your family! How do you celebrate being a parent?

We’re still enjoying the summer sun and fun, but a new school year is fast approaching!  Now is the time to start preparing to make the switch.  You can help excite your children about the school season and avoid a last-minute back-to-school frenzy by trying these tips. Talk it up!  Talk to your child about […]

Potty training is often a complicated, unpredictable adventure. One of the most challenging steps along the way is when your kiddo is dry during the day, but not at night. It’s very common. Genetics is one reason: Children with older-trained relatives have a higher chance of training later, and boys tend to train later than […]