Mommy's little helper.
A good reason to seriously consider enrolling your kids in preschool: it seems that the skills that help workers gain better job opportunities are learned in preschool, according to economist James Heckman. Heckman found in his study that employee training programs for unskilled youth in their early 20s don't make an impact on job prospects, and in some cases are detrimental to the worker's quest Read more
Mommy Dearest, My town has a few preschools, but one is extremely competitive and I'd like my son to go there. The problem is, he's my first child, so therefore I don't have the "sibling in" and spaces are few and far between. I know a mom at the playground serves on the school's board and has a lot of clout there. Would it be wrong for me to befriend her just to give my child an advantage? Read more
These sweet Memorial Day treats may steal the show at your barbecue! What to do with all that stuff baby outgrows. These personalized baby gifts are perfect if you have any new babies in your life! Planning a birthday party for your tot? Don't miss our favorite birthday party themes — ever! Don't head to the beach this weekend without reading our guide to packing a beach bag for a Read more
The preschool brochure may have promised the world, but a New York City mama says it failed to deliver. After spending $19,000 a year for a preschool education, Nicole Imprescia is suing her daughter's Upper East Side nursery school for putting her daughter's future education at risk. According to the lawsuit, at 4-years-old, the tot was forced to learn shapes and colors with younger children, Read more
Graduating from preschool or Kindergarten may not be quite on par with high school and college, but for the little one who's finishing up in his or her first classroom, it's an occasion worth celebrating. Commemorate your child's very first graduation day with a special gift. We've rounded up 10 of our favorites to make shopping a breeze. Hats off to the graduate! Read more
Think America is the best place in the world to be a mom? Think again. According to the 2012 State of the World’s Mothers Report from Save the Children, America actually only ranks 25th, up six spots from last year. But shockingly, "When it comes to the number of children enrolled in preschools or the political status of women, the United States also places in the bottom 10 countries of the Read more
Blocks are a basic toy, but the wooden, cardboard or fabric cubes can inspire a love of learning for little ones. Kids use them to count, to read, to learn. The toy box staple also allows them to design, construct and work with their hands. Check out these five sets that will get your child building. Read more
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The three most common questions about big babies — Circle of Moms Béyonce laughs off surrogacy rumors — The Stir Did you experience second baby mama guilt? — BabyCenter Blog Rachel Zoe bundles up for a NYC walk with Skyler — Celebrity Baby Scoop AJ McLean is expecting his first child — Celebrity Baby Blog The no time, no excuses workout — FitPregnancy The best DIY birthday ideas Read more
Snuggle up! Most children require some daytime ZZZs at least through preschool — even if they fight it with all of their lil might. Here are some tips to help lil ones settle down for a snooze — or at least some quiet time — even in the classroom. Maintain a consistent nap time. If your tot's classroom has scheduled nap time for 1 p.m., stick to the same schedule at home — and that Read more
