ParentDish http://www.parentdish.com ParentDish http://www.parentdish.com/media/feedlogo.gif ParentDish http://www.parentdish.com en-us Copyright 2010 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/How to Play: Valentine Puzzlehttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/02/01/valentine-puzzle-game-directions/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/02/01/valentine-puzzle-game-directions/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/02/01/valentine-puzzle-game-directions/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Cut up paper hearts to make puzzles. Credit: Ctd 2005, Flickr


What you need: To make the puzzles, you need five large hearts, cardboard, paste and scissors. Paste the hearts to the cardboard, and then cut each one into small pieces.

How to play: Set out each puzzle in a separate area and assign children to each puzzle. Each team tries to put the valentine together in its proper shape in a certain amount of time.

What are the rules: Players can also go from puzzle to puzzle to see who can put the most puzzles together.

How to win: The team who puts the puzzle together the fastest wins.

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]]>evergreenholiday gamesHolidayGamesvalentine puzzlevalentines daySally WorshamMon, 01 Feb 2010 12:00:00 ESTHow to Play: Hearts and Mittenshttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/02/01/hearts-and-mittens-game-directions/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/02/01/hearts-and-mittens-game-directions/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/02/01/hearts-and-mittens-game-directions/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Valentine's Day fun and games! Credit: D Sharon Pruitt, Flickr


What you need: Red and blue craft foam, scissors, string or ribbon and a basket.

How to play: Cut from red craft foam half as many hearts and mittens as you expect in your company. Out of blue craft foam, cut hearts and mittens for the rest of the company. Number them so every heart has its corresponding mitten. Attach strings or ribbons to each and place them in a basket. Each guest takes the end of a string and pulls out his or her heart or mitten, as the case may be. Each one then hunts for his or her partner.

The rules: When all are paired off, a circle is formed and someone strikes up a lively march. Whenever the music stops, all the girls stay where they are, and the boys move up one person. This goes on until everyone has had a different partner, and finally, when the original one comes back around, there is a grand march before the circle breaks up.

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]]>evergreenheart prickshearts and mittensholiday gamesvalentines-daySally WorshamMon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 ESTHow to Play: Heart Prickshttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/02/01/heart-pricks-game-directions/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/02/01/heart-pricks-game-directions/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/02/01/heart-pricks-game-directions/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Stick the arrow on the paper heart to win this game. Credit: anne.oeldorfhirsch, Flickr


What you need: A blindfold, a poster board-sized red heart, white paper arrows and poster tack.

How to play: Tack the red heart onto a wall. Line the players up across from the heart. Taking turns, each player gets a white arrow with poster tack on its back and is blindfolded, spun around and set towards the red heart to tack the arrow onto the heart.

The rules: If smaller children do not want to be blindfolded, they can simply close their eyes.

How to win: In this Valentine's Day variation of Pin the Tail on the Donkey, the player who tacks his or her arrow closest to the center of the heart wins.

Related: Hearts and Mittens, Valentine Puzzle


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]]>evergreenheart prickshearts and mittensholiday gamesvalentines daySally WorshamMon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 ESTHow to Play: Heart Hunthttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/02/01/heart-hunt-game-directions/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/02/01/heart-hunt-game-directions/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/02/01/heart-hunt-game-directions/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Cut hearts out of paper to play this game. Credit: helgasms!, Flickr


What you need: Using scissors, you need to make red, white, yellow, green and blue hearts of all sizes and shapes out of construction paper. Next, cut each heart into four broken pieces.

How to play: While players are out of the room, scatter all of the broken heart pieces. Invite the children into the room to hunt for all of the heart pieces. After a certain amount of time, ask each player to put his or her pieces together to make full hearts.

The rules: Count how many whole hearts each player has, and give points for each whole heart by color: white (one point), blue (two points), yellow (three points), green (four points) and red (five points).

How to win: Whoever has the most points wins the game.

What else you need to know: If a player only finds broken hearts, he or she could win some sort of booby prize.

Related: Initial Compliments, Heart Pricks, Valentine Puzzle


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]]>evergreenheart pricksholiday gamesvalentines daySally WorshamMon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 ESTHow to Play: Initial Complimentshttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/02/01/initial-compliments-game-directions/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/02/01/initial-compliments-game-directions/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/02/01/initial-compliments-game-directions/#commentsFiled under: ,

Start this game by writing your name on a slip of paper. Credit: henrybloomfield, Flickr


What you need: Pens or pencils, a box (or hat) and slips of paper.

How to play: Each player writes his or her name down on a slip of paper, puts it in a box or hat and then must draw another's name. Once a player draws a name, he or she must think of an adjective that starts with each letter of the child's name drawn.

The rules: Players read their adjectives to one another and vote for who gave the most creative adjectives.

How to win: Think of the most creative adjectives.

What else you need to know: This game can be adjusted for younger children by asking them to only think of one adjective that begins with the first letter of the child's name.

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]]>evergreenholiday gamesinitial complimentsvalentines dayValentinesDaySally WorshamMon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 ESTMake Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Meaningful for Kidshttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/01/18/make-martin-luther-king-jr-day-meaningful-for-kids/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/01/18/make-martin-luther-king-jr-day-meaningful-for-kids/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/01/18/make-martin-luther-king-jr-day-meaningful-for-kids/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Martin Luther King, Jr. in Washington, D.C. on August 28, 1963. King said the March on Washington was "the greatest demonstration of freedom in the history of the United States." Credit: AFP / Getty Images

Celebrated on the third Monday of January, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day can be a worthwhile learning opportunity for your children. Here are five ways to make the most of this occasion, honoring King's life and work.

1. Read a book. Take the time to read a book with your child about King's life. An excellent picture book for preschoolers to fourth graders is "I've Seen the Promised Land: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr." by Walter Dean Myers. It offers an overview of King's role in the civil rights movement and features powerful illustrations by Leonard Jenkins. Another good choice is "Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr." by Doreen Rappaport, which combines text from King's most famous speeches with his life story.

2. Watch a movie. The 1986 documentary "Martin Luther King Jr. - I Have a Dream" not only presents his famous "I Have a Dream" speech in its entirety, but also shows scenes from the crowd of more than 200,000 people who marched on Washington to support the civil rights movement and to attend the Aug. 28, 1963, event. For a more complete overview of King, the 1978 NBC miniseries, "King," is available on DVD, and remains a powerful dramatization of his life and message.

Continue reading Make Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Meaningful for Kids

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]]>evergreenMartin Luther King Jr.MLKmlk daynational holidaysSally WorshamMon, 18 Jan 2010 10:00:00 ESTBullying: How to Spot It and Stop Ithttp://www.parentdish.com/2009/12/10/bullying-how-to-spot-it-and-stop-it/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/12/10/bullying-how-to-spot-it-and-stop-it/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/12/10/bullying-how-to-spot-it-and-stop-it/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Bullying is a problem that has been around for years and is not going anywhere. Kids often do not tell their parents when they are being bullied because they are embarrassed or afraid that their tormentors will up their antics if adults get involved.

Realizing parents' limited experience with bullies, the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration has sponsored Stop Bullying Now!, a kid-friendly Web site that includes a section that helps parents identify when their child is being bullied.

Among signs to look for are kids coming home with unexplained bruises and cuts. They might also have torn or damaged clothing and books. Children who once liked school might lose interest if they're being bullied. Others might have trouble sleeping or suffer from headaches, stomach problems, a loss of appetite or symptoms of anxiety. A fear of school is also common among bullied children.

To stop bullying, parents have to find out exactly what is happening. They should ask direct questions like, "Are there any kids who tease you?" Parents can also ask indirect questions like "Who do you sit with at lunch and on the bus?" If the child still won't open up, parents should contact the school.

Teachers, guidance counselors and principals can often evaluate the relationship between a child and his or her peers. It might be hard for teachers to identify bullying outright; however, parents can ask questions like, "How does my child get along with other students in the class?"

Bullying can have dangerous side effects, including death, which is why it's important that parents pay attention to changes in their children's behavior.

Read more about bullying at ParentDish, including how bullies in other countries are fended off by bodyguards.

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]]>bullyingBullyingInSchoolsstop bullying nowStopBullyingNowSally WorshamThu, 10 Dec 2009 15:33:00 ESTDiaper Bags: A Buying Guidehttp://www.parentdish.com/2009/12/01/diaper-bags-a-buying-guide/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/12/01/diaper-bags-a-buying-guide/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/12/01/diaper-bags-a-buying-guide/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



A diaper bag is one of the baby essentials every new mom needs to keep her organized, but what should you look for when buying one?

First, consider your lifestyle. Are you most comfortable with a strap on your shoulder, or would you prefer a hands-free backpack?

Do you travel light or do you pack for every possible situation? Will your diaper bag replace your purse?

Check for quality construction, a stylish design with multiple compartments and zippers, outside or side pockets for bottles and a self-standing base to keep the bag from tipping over.

A highly visible lining to makes it easy to find items inside, and the liner should also be easy to clean in the case of spills.

Diaper bags range in style and price from basic to designer. Some popular options on the market right now, according to Amazon, are the Skip Hop Studio Diaper Tote Bag, the Gerber Stripe Nylon Diaper Tote, the Fisher Price Precious Planet 2 in 1 Diaper Bag, the Carini Bambini 5-Piece Diaper Bag, and the JJ Cole Mode. If money is no object, there is the Tod's Pashmy Mummy Baby Bag and the Louis Vuitton Monogram Mini Lin Diaper Bag.

In addition to carefully choosing the right diaper bag, you'll also have to make sure that you have the right equipment in it. Pack diapers, diaper cream and wipes, as well as at least one change of clothes (for baby and, possibly, you), bottles, food, a receiving blanket, toys and a first aid bag.

Not sure what else you'll need? Check out ParentDish's list of Baby Essentials.

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]]>buying diaper bagscarini bambinidiaper bagsLouis VuittonSally WorshamTue, 01 Dec 2009 18:32:00 ESTWooden Toys: A Brief Historyhttp://www.parentdish.com/2009/12/01/wooden-toys-a-brief-history/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/12/01/wooden-toys-a-brief-history/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/12/01/wooden-toys-a-brief-history/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Wooden toys have been around since the days of Ancient Greece and Egypt, as proven by the wooden and bone spinning tops found by archaeologists. Some of the most popular toys in 18th-century England were educational kids' wooden toys like alphabet blocks.

In the early 1900s, wooden construction toys such as Tinker Toys and Lincoln Logs debuted as part of that era's building boom, and both toys are still popular today. In fact, in 2001, the Toy Manufacturers of America named Tinker Toys the "Best Infant/Preschool Toy of the Year."

Some plastic toys have been recalled over the last several years because of their high lead content, which has helped wooden toys become more popular. Wooden toys are often viewed as safer, more durable and more economical than their plastic counterparts. Some people also believe that wooden toys are better at helping children focus and develop their educational skills.

An important feature of wooden toys is their environmentally-friendly status. Many manufacturers have been using sustainable wood in their toys, which reduces the environmental impact because the wood is used from quickly replenishing trees.

One of the most successful wooden toy companies today is Melissa & Doug, which publishes a large number of wooden puzzles and play food sets. Other popular wooden toys include the Walk N Roll from Plan Toys, Learning Curve's Talking Railway Series: The Great Discovery Set and Hape International, Inc.'s Quadrilla Rail Set.

Check out ParentDish's Toys & Games section to learn about the Top Robot Toys.

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]]>hape internationalHapeInternationalLearning-Curvelincoln logsLincolnLogsmelissa and dougMelissaAndDougplan toysPlanToystinker toysTinkerToyswooden toysWoodenToysSally WorshamTue, 01 Dec 2009 17:54:00 ESTBassinets: Buying Guidehttp://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/23/bassinets-buying-guide/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/23/bassinets-buying-guide/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/23/bassinets-buying-guide/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Bassinets, which are easy-to-move and can be located near you regardless of your location, are great places for your newborn infant to sleep during his first few months. There are many styles of bassinets that come with various features like canopies, mobiles, music and rocking systems.

Bassinets should be selected based on their durability, safety qualities and the ease with which they fit in your life. Sturdiness, especially in the bassinet's handles, is also important. If the handles meet in the middle it will be easier to carry from room to room without disturbing the baby. If the bassinet has wheels or folds down for storage and travel, make sure it has locking mechanisms to prevent unwanted movement.

Additionally, parents should consider the bassinet's bedding. Does it come with a mattress or pad? Is the bedding removable and washable? Can you easily buy sheets for the mattress or pad? Additionally, there are safety concerns like whether boys and decorative items might strangle the infant.

Like other baby furniture, parents need to consider safety more than decor. One of the first and most important things parents should look for is certification from the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association, a trade organization with stringent safety standards. Also, check Consumer Reports' recall warnings.

Babble, a parenting web site, has recommended several bassinets, including the Hushamok Dream, the Ooba Nest Bassinet and Offi's Ovum Bassinet by Heidi Newell.

Check out ParentDish's health and safety section to read about other concerns you might consider before buying your baby gea.

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]]>arms reachbaby furniturebassinetSally WorshamMon, 23 Nov 2009 18:09:00 ESTStrollers: Buying Guidehttp://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/23/strollers-buying-guide/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/23/strollers-buying-guide/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/23/strollers-buying-guide/#commentsFiled under: , ,


A stroller is one of the most important baby essentials that new parents purchase, so it's important to choose a model that fits your lifestyle. Urban-dwelling families need strollers that fold up easily and can get up and down subway steps. Suburban moms might need strollers that can handle different terrains. Be sure to test various strollers and realize that you might need more than one.

Try these tips from the Today Show to help you in your stroller-shopping frenzy:
  • Remember the details. Adjustable handles will be important if more than one person pushes the stroller. Cup holders, canopies and storage areas are important, too.
  • Make sure your newborn's needs are addressed. Newborns need to be able to lie down six months when they're able to sit up on their own.
  • Detach the car seat. You might consider a full travel system that will keep your child comfortable if she falls asleep in the car. Unfortunately, they can be expensive.
  • Choose a jogger or all-terrain stroller if you'll be off road a lot or if you're in crowded spaces because of their maneuverability and ability to make sharp turns.
  • Check to see if the company has had any recalls with the particular stroller your interested in. Also, remember that even safe strollers can be problematic if they're not used properly. Parents should never leave their children unattended in the stroller. Safety belts and harnesses should be used and overloading the stroller should be avoided at all cost. When the stroller is not being pushed, the stroller wheels should be locked. Additionally, parents should register their stroller with the company so that they receive recall alerts.
In July 2009, Consumer Search released a list of its top three most-recommended strollers, which are the Ingelsina Zippy (best overall), the Graco Quattro Tour Sport (best budget) and the Uppababy Vista (best luxury).

ParentDish has all of your baby needs covered. Check out our double stroller and exersaucer guides.

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]]>BugabooBeeBugabooStrollerschiccochicco cortinaChiccoCortinaConsumerReportsgraco quattro tour sportGracoQuattroTourSportingelsina zippyIngelsinaZippymicralitemicralite toroMicraliteToroquinny buzzQuinnyBuzzStrollerRecallstrollersuppababy vistaUppababyVistaSally WorshamMon, 23 Nov 2009 17:43:00 ESTSittercity: Find a Babysitter Onlinehttp://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/23/babysitter-found-online-sittercity/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/23/babysitter-found-online-sittercity/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/23/babysitter-found-online-sittercity/#commentsFiled under: ,

Sittercity is a popular web site for finding a babysitter. The site was founded by Genevieve Thiers, who worked her way through Boston College babysitting for over 30 families, after she witnessed a very pregnant woman wearily posting flyers for a babysitting job. Determined to create a better way for parents to find a good babysitter, Theirs built Sittercity.

Sittercity guides parents through a multiple-step screening process to acquire good babysitters. First, parents enter their ZIP code and what kind of services they're looking for (babysitting or nannying). The site then provides a list of prospective babysitters. Among the information in the profile are reviews and ratings on the prospective caregiver's profile. Contact information is also provided for Sittercity members.

Parents are required to vet all sitters, and the site encourages an in-person interview with the caregiver, reference check and background check. Sittercity does not screen its caregivers.

Since 2001, Sittercity has grown considerably. Babysitters and parents nationwide are now meeting on the site. Additionally, dogsitters, tutors, house cleaners and senior care providers can be found through Sittercity.

Users must pay to join Sittercity depending on how long you want to access the web site. Parents are given a free one-week trial, allowing you to test out the site's offerings. Memberships include unlimited access to the caregiver database and their comprehensive profiles, unrestricted access to posting jobs, customer service and free background checks.

Sittercity also provides an online rate calculator for members and non-members alike so that you can estimate an appropriate amount depending on her age, education and childcare experience. Content libraries provide tips on hiring caregivers, weekly blogs featuring news and trends and a monthly newsletter with exclusive offers and discounts.

Check out more childcare news on ParentDish.

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]]>BabysitterBabysittingnanniessittercitysittersSally WorshamMon, 23 Nov 2009 17:32:00 ESTBreathable Crib Bumpers - Are They Safe?http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/20/breathable-bumpers-for-cribs-are-they-safe/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/20/breathable-bumpers-for-cribs-are-they-safe/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/20/breathable-bumpers-for-cribs-are-they-safe/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Suffocation while sleeping is a huge risk for infants, but choosing the correct baby bedding can help. Professional organizations, like the American Academy of Pediatrics, have set standards to help reduce the rate of infant deaths caused suffocation. Among their recommendations: Keep cribs free from baby bumpers because of their association with infant deaths.

Some parents ignore this advice, which has made breathable bumpers -- bumpers created with breathable mesh that increases airflow and can reduce the potential of accidental suffocation -- a popular choice. The breathable bumpers' mesh keeps arms and legs from getting caught in the crib. Unlike traditional bumpers, the unsupportive mesh keeps older children from climbing up the sides of the crib.

Still, there are breathable bumper critics.

Consumer Reports experts in February 2009 stated that "bare is best," meaning that netting, sleep positioners or bumpers should not be used in cribs. They recommended that blankets, pillows or any other loose, soft bedding -- which can become molded around an infant's face and cause suffocation -- should be kept out of cribs, too. Instead, a typical baby's bedding should consist of only a firm, flat mattress.

Read about other Baby Essentials on ParentDish.

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]]>breathable bumpersbreathablebabycrib bumpersafetySIDSSally WorshamFri, 20 Nov 2009 14:00:00 ESTPopular Greek Baby Names and Their Meaningshttp://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/18/popular-greek-baby-names-and-their-meanings/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/18/popular-greek-baby-names-and-their-meanings/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/18/popular-greek-baby-names-and-their-meanings/#commentsFiled under: ,

Greek baby names are becoming increasingly popular in the U.S.

Though you might never meet a Hercules or Aphrodite, the names of Greek gods, goddess, heroes and heroines are steeped in meaning and often inspire Greek parents when they are choosing baby names.

There are many names that come from a Greek root, but are transformed after being passed down through many languages over years. Three of the 10 most popular baby boys names in America in 2008 were Greek names: Alexander, which means defender of mankind; Anthony, which means worthy of praise; and Christopher, which means Christ-bearer.

Baby girls haven't been left out of the Greek-name craze. Three of the 10 most popular baby girl names in the U.S. last year had Greek origins: Ava, which means like a bird; Chloe, which means verdant and blooming; and Sophia, which means wisdom,.

Parents who are looking for lists of popular Greek names and their meanings have various resources available. In addition to combing through Greek mythology books, they can also check out Baby Names Country, which has a list of the most popular Greek names and their meanings.

Other popular Greek baby boy names and their meanings are: Andrew (manly and courageous), Damian (sweet and harmless), Jason (healer), Nicholas (victorious people) and Thomas (twin).

Popular Greek baby girls names include: Irene (peaceful), Phoebe (bright, shining one), Stacey (resurrection), Vanessa (butterfly) and Zoe (life).

Check out more ParentDish coverage of baby names.

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]]>baby namesBabyNamesgreek namesGreekNamesname meaningsNameMeaningsSally WorshamWed, 18 Nov 2009 15:20:00 ESTTop Christmas Gameshttp://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/17/top-christmas-games/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/17/top-christmas-games/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/17/top-christmas-games/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Christmas is a great time for families to have fun together by playing holiday-themed games. Though there are many games that can be be fun for your family, some stand out.

Give scavenger hunts a holiday twist by having kids find Santa's reindeer. Hide at least eight reindeer toy reindeer, or nine reindeer, which would include Rudolph. The person to find the most reindeer wins, and whoever finds Rudolph can win a special prize.

Santa's Christmas Puzzle Mystery, another treasure hunt, is based on the idea that Santa misplaced the presents he's supposed to give on Christmas morning. Children get clues that lead to their presents. Once they find their presents they can open them. Or, if you're playing on or they may place them under the tree to be opened in the morning.

Families that enjoy singing Christmas carols might enjoy Christmas Carol Pictionary Relay. In this game, children and adults get a Christmas carol clue and are asked to draw that carol. Their teammates try to guess which carol is being drawn. Once the carol has been correctly identified the person who is drawing the carol must sing the tune.

Young children can be kept entertained the Christmas Stocking Guessing Game. In this imagination-inspiring activity, parents put different holiday items -- like scotch tape, pine cones, holly or misletoe -- in a stocking. Children are then asked to feel the outside of the stocking to see if they can determine what is inside.

Find more Toys and Games for any occasion on ParentDish.

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]]>Christmaschristmas carolschristmas gamesChristmasCarolsChristmasGamesholiday gamesHolidayGamessanta clausSantaClausSally WorshamTue, 17 Nov 2009 18:18:00 ESTThe Grinch: Dr. Seuss' Star Characterhttp://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/17/the-grinch-dr-seuss-star-character/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/17/the-grinch-dr-seuss-star-character/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/17/the-grinch-dr-seuss-star-character/#commentsFiled under: ,

The Grinch, Dr. Seuss' star character in "How the Grinch Stole Christmas!", was created in 1957.

The Grinch lives on snowy Mount Crumpit, a mountain north of friendly Whoville. The Grinch keeps to himself, living only with his dog, Max. Characterized as having a heart "two sizes too small," the Grinch becomes annoyed by and later jealous of the Whos, who are busy preparing for Christmas.

In an attempt to ruin the Whos' Christmas and their cheery mood, the Grinch steals all of the presents and decorations the Whos have painstakingly prepared. The Grinch is shocked when, even after the presents disappear, the Whos are excited to celebrate Christmas.

By the story's end, he's discovered the true meaning of Christmas and returned all of the presents. As a result, his heart has grown three sizes bigger.

The popularity of the book led to its adaptation to an animated film in 1966 which is still shown on television during Christmas season. Over the years, the Grinch has become synonymous with the Charles Dickens' character, Scrooge, as a word to describe someone who dislikes Christmas.

While the Grinch may be grouchy, that hasn't slowed his adoration by the American public.

Encouraged by fans, Dr. Seuss wrote "Halloween is Grinch Night," a 1977 TV special that describes Halloween as the Grinch's favorite night of the year because he is can terrorize Whoville residents once the "Sour-Sweet Wind" rolls in. Dr. Seuss also produced "The Grinch Grinches the Cat in the Hat," uniting two of his most loved characters -- the Cat in the Hat and the Grinch. In this film, the Cat in the Hat persuades the Grinch to act kindly by reminding the Grinch that his mother would have wanted him to be nice to others.

Jim Carrey starred as The Grinch in a live-action film adaptation of the original book, "Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas," which was released in 2000 and was d directed by Ron Howard.

Check out ParentDish for more great kids' books.

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]]>Christmasdr seussDrSeussgrinchGrinchWhoStoleChristmashalloween is grinch nightHalloweenIsGrinchNightthe grinchthe grinch grinches the cat in the hatthe grinch who stole christmasTheGrinchTheGrinchGrinchesTheCatInTheHatTheGrinchWhoStoleChristmasSally WorshamTue, 17 Nov 2009 17:35:00 ESTSabrina Bryan: A Cheetah Girls Starhttp://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/17/sabrina-bryan-a-cheetah-girls-star/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/17/sabrina-bryan-a-cheetah-girls-star/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/17/sabrina-bryan-a-cheetah-girls-star/#commentsFiled under: ,

Sabrina Bryan was one of the original Cheetah Girls. Named Reba Sabrina Hinojos when she was born September 16, 1984, she is an American singer, actress, author, songwriter, dancer and fashion designer.

In August 2003, Bryan starred as Dorinda in the original Disney Channel movie "The Cheetah Girls," which broke ratings records as the most popular Disney Channel movie in history. The accompanying soundtrack sold two million copies and went double platinum.

In 2005, the Cheetah Girls released their first album, "Cheetah-licious Christmas," and toured the United States to promote the album.

The Disney Channel sequel, "The Cheetah Girls 2," was released in August 2006, breaking additional movie-rating records and beating premiere ratings of "High School Musical." The sequel's soundtrack and national tour were also wildly successful.

In September 2007, the Cheetah Girls released their official debut studio album, "TCG."

"The Cheetah Girls: One World," a third Disney Channel movie, came out in August 2008. The group's One World tour lasted from October 2008 to December 2008. Shortly after the tour, the Cheetah Girls disbanded so that the girls could pursue solo projects.

Bryan is also known for her appearance on the fifth season of "Dancing With the Stars." She and Mark Ballas, her dancing partner, were favored to win. However, the romantically linked couple was voted off the show in week six. She performed with the "Dancing with the Stars" U.S. tour in 2007.

Sabrina Bryan has also released an exercise DVD, "Byou," and is a Healthy Kids Challenge spokesperson. In November 2009, she was working with Kiely Williams, another former Cheetah Girl, on a talk show which has been described as "The View" for young people.

Check out ParentDish for more celebrity and entertainment coverage.

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]]>Cheetah girlsdancing with the starsdisney channelhealthy kids challengesabrina bryanSally WorshamTue, 17 Nov 2009 17:20:00 ESTTop Toy Robots For Kidshttp://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/16/top-toy-robots-for-kids/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/16/top-toy-robots-for-kids/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/16/top-toy-robots-for-kids/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Toy robots have come a long way since Japanese creators built Robot Lilliput, the first robot. Robert the Robot, the first American robot, debuted in the Sears Christmas book of 1954, and toy robots continue to be a popular holiday gift. So, what are the hot toy robots this holiday season?

Zhu Zhu Pet Hamsters have been flying off the shelves at retailers. The hamsters, which are recommended for kids ages 4 and up, crawl through mazes in their own playsets like real pets, but they can also drive toy cars that they park in their own garages.

Another popular toy is the D-REX Interactive Dinosaur. This dinosaur toy, recommended for ages 6 and up, comes with his own personality. Using robotics and proprietary software, the dinosaur is covered in leathery skin to look and act just like a real prehistoric reptile. The toy, which requires batteries, stands just more than 13-inches tall.

Another popular robotic pet is the FurReal Friends Lulu My Cuddlin' Kitty Cat. This robot, recommended for ages 4 and up, is the same size as a real cat and it can roll over, lick itself and even purr.

For kids craving a more typical robot, parents can check out the Transformers Robot Fighters Game. Thanks to the popular Transformers movie franchise, these toys are hotter than ever. The game comes with two robot Transformer action figures that are easy for little hands to hold and control. It's recommended for ages six and up.

When buying toys for small children, parents should remember that small parts can become choking hazards for children under age 3.

Check out more of ParentDish's favorite Toys & Games.

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]]>robotrobotic toysroboticstransformersSally WorshamMon, 16 Nov 2009 17:45:00 ESTHanukkah Games for Kidshttp://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/16/hanukkah-games-for-kids/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/16/hanukkah-games-for-kids/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/16/hanukkah-games-for-kids/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Hanukkah, from the Hebrew word for "dedication," marks the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem. According to the Talmud, there was only enough consecrated olive oil to fuel the eternal flame in the Temple for one day. However, the oil burned for eight days -- just enough time it took to press, prepare and consecrate fresh olive oil.

Today, families celebrate the holiday through ceremonies, songs and games. One of the most popular Hanukkah games is the Dreidel Game. To play this game, each player gets 20 pennies at the beginning of the game. Before each turn, players put two pennies in a pot, and one player spins the dreidel, which is much like a die, except instead of numbers each side has a different letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Whatever letter is facing up when the dreidel stops determines what action will be taken.

If the dreidel lands on "nun," you do nothing. If it lands on "gimmel," that player takes all of the pennies in the pot. If it lands on "hey," that player receives half of what's in the pot. If it lands on "shin," that player must put one penny in the pot. Whoever has the most pennies at the end of the game is the winner. Instead of pennies, you can also play using chocolate gelt coins, which are a traditional Hanukkah food.

Pin the Candle on the Menorah is a variation of Pin the Tail on the Donkey. In this game, blindfolded children attempt to pin nine paper candles to a paper menorah (a nine-branched candle holder). Children who get the closest to each correct place for the candle win.

The game Hide the Chocolate Gelt is a twist on a scavenger hunt. Parents hide chocolate gelt coins around the house and kids then look for them. Try customizing the game by giving kids clues as to where to find the coins.

Find more activities for the holidays and more games for any occasion on ParentDish.

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]]>dreidelhanukkahhanukkah gameholidayholiday gameSally WorshamMon, 16 Nov 2009 17:30:00 ESTThanksgiving Arts and Crafts For Family Funhttp://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/16/thanksgiving-arts-and-crafts-for-family-fun/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/16/thanksgiving-arts-and-crafts-for-family-fun/http://www.parentdish.com/2009/11/16/thanksgiving-arts-and-crafts-for-family-fun/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Thanksgiving is a time for families to express gratitude for the good things in their lives, so why not use arts and crafts to help communicate that message?

Move beyond the trace-your-hand turkeys with ideas like the Thanksgiving Tree from Preschool Education. To create the tree's base, you insert a tree branch into plaster of paris. Next, using construction paper, make red, yellow, and orange autumn leaves. Throughout the month, ask your child to write things he or she is thankful to have onto the leaves. Hang them on the tree. Once Thanksgiving arrives, you will have a beautiful symbol of gratitude for your family. The tree doesn't have to be a holiday-only craft. -- you and your family can use the tree to give thanks at any time of the year.

Preschool Education also has Stained Glass Turkeys that kids can create. Kids attach red, brown and orange tissue paper to the birds' paper-plate bodies to create beaks, feet and feathers.

Another fun craft is Fingerprint Turkeys from DLTK. Place brown, red and orange paint in separate containers and give your child a piece of paper. Have your child place her thumb in the brown paint to make the turkey's body. If her thumb isn't big enough, use a paintbrush to draw a large, oval body for your turkey. Once the body has been created, have your child dip her index finger in orange paint. Place a finger print around the turkey body to create feathers. Repeat with the red paint. Once the paint dries, use a black marker to add in details like a beak, eyes and feet.

Your child might be too young to cook, but get her involved in Thanksgiving preparations by making tabletop decorations. Make a Mayflower centerpiece from Disney Family Fun for the dinner table with a milk carton, a paper bag, skewers and white paper. Tape the empty, clean milk carton shut. Then parents should cut a hole in the side of the carton. Next, kids can glue strips of paper, cut from the paper bag, to the carton to create the ship. Place skewers with flags cut from white paper in the boat. Gluing items to the bottom of the carton that you can stab the skewers into should help your flags stick. Once the boat has been created, your family can write the things they are thankful for on slips of paper and place them in the milk carton.

Corn Candles from Moms Today are another great addition to your Thanksgiving table. To make these candles purchase several 4- to 5-inch candles in various colors. Help your child find ornamental corn cob kernels or other small items to decorate the candles. Glue the ornamental corn cob kernels to the candles.

Read more ParentDish coverage of Holidays and Fun & Activities to get you through the holidays.

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]]>arts and craftsholidaythanksgivingthanksgiving arts and craftsSally WorshamMon, 16 Nov 2009 17:15:00 EST