ParentDishhttp://www.parentdish.comParentDishhttp://www.parentdish.com/media/feedlogo.gifParentDishhttp://www.parentdish.comen-usCopyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only.Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Playdates: 5 Kinds to Avoidhttp://www.parentdish.com/2011/03/01/playdates/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/03/01/playdates/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/03/01/playdates/#commentsFiled under: , ,

playdates

Playdates we love and playdates we loathe. Credit: Getty Images

Let's face it. The life of a modern mom would not be complete without the playdate.

While at work, we get a voicemail from Playdate Penny who would love to pencil our child in for an afternoon of organized extracurricular activities and we "accidentally" forget to call her back for days. Then there are the times when the babysitter calls in sick and we're desperate to find the Post-It where we jotted down Playdate Penny's phone number.

For some moms, scheduling playdates has become a full-time job. They have it down to a science, organizing and planning everything from the kids to the carpool to the heart-shaped sandwiches they'll serve as snack. We applaud these women. They do an amazing job and are the queens of playdates. Now, for working mothers, it's a different story. We already have full-time jobs and are stretched so thin that we usually don't have the time, energy or sanity required to plan the perfect playdate. Let's call those two hour chunks of socialized, structured play what they really are -- all work, no playdates.

But the truth is, as much as we try to avoid them, the playdate is here to stay. For those of you new to the game, here's a simple guide to help you survive the pitfalls of playdating, the ones we loathe and the ones we love.

Because if you can't be with the one you love, playdate with the one you're with.

Playdates We Loathe

Playdate Desperado: A lonely mother who is new to the neighborhood will stalk you and your child until you agree to come over to play for an afternoon. The truth is, she's the one desperate for a playdate and is using her child as bait. Out of pity or exhaustion, you finally give in and accept the offer, only to find you have nothing in common with this woman. To add insult to injury, the kids get into a major brawl and before you can grab the doorknob to make your getaway, she's already asking you for a second date and you desperately search your library of excuses to think of a believable reason as to why you can never return. Incidentally, contagious skin rashes work like a charm.

Playdate Cliques: On the rare occasion you do drop your child off at school, you see them gathering in the parking lot. Sporting trendy workout clothes, hair tied back in a ponytail, light makeup application, the keys to their Lexus SUV in one manicured hand and their pig-tailed child's hand in the other. Meet the playdate clique or the "witches of preschool" as we like to call them, comprised of women who do everything together, be it coffee, tennis, gym and, of course, playdates. If you happen to take a day off from work and have a run-in with the witches, they'll be sure to pretend not to know who you are and will intentionally box you out of their conversation. While you overhear them chat about their plans to take their little princesses to an afternoon origami workshop, don't feel bad that you're not on the invite list. Smile to yourself because you know that tomorrow, while they're chasing their kids at Chuck E. Cheese, you'll be back at work lunching and laughing with one of your favorite clients -- who just happens to be a working mom just like you.

Peculiar Playdates: Your kids get along great and your child begs, pleads and moans to have a playdate with their newest friend. Only one problem, you find the parents kind of weird. It's like visiting the Addams Family. They were always friendly, but something was always just a little off-center. It's not like they've got "Cousin It" or that creepy hand named "Thing" bunking with them, but the mom is sporting that 1970s long-haired Morticia look, and the place seems to have a spooky Halloween feel to it, and its only March. The peculiar playdaters phone constantly and if you still don't have caller ID, run, don't walk to the nearest Radio Shack to pick one up or you're doomed.

Playdate Piranhas: Jimmy seemed nice enough, but after inspecting the bite marks on your son's left arm, you discover it might be best to keep your child away from Hannibal Lecter-in training. Biters, punchers, sword fighters and swashbucklers can be scary when your child -- a rule abiding, Raffi loving moppet -- enters their world. Suddenly, your peaceful pixie starts picking up those bad habits and the next thing you know, he's biting the dog. Rule of thumb for biters: if they break the skin during a playdate, they can't come back until they break the habit ... if that doesn't happen until middle school, then sorry, but it's been nice knowing you.

Playdate Paranoia: This is the most stressful playdate by far. The mother brings their child to your house with a laundry list of things the kid can't eat, wear, smell, swallow or touch.

Are you kosher? Is this a nut free environment? Are those crayons nontoxic and do you use pesticides on your lawn? Is that coloring book age appropriate? We don't believe in television, and video games are out of the question. What about the beverages? If you don't have 2 percent growth hormone-free organic milk then he'll just have water, not bottled, fluorinated tap water "that's been filtered, of course."

You smile politely and make a note of the checklist. But what you're really thinking is -- are you kidding us, lady? Are you intentionally raising your boy like John Travolta in that plastic bubble movie, or do you really want to allow him to have any interaction with our kid, whose favorite pastime is proudly proclaiming the booger he just picked is especially for you?

Playdates We Love

Playdate With a Pal: This is by far the best kind of playdate. In this scenario, you are taking your child to see one of his or her closest friends and their mom just happens to be one of your friends, too. Simple, enjoyable and as close to heaven as humanly possible.

This always happens after work. You bring your kids over in their pajamas and they proceed to try on about 40 different costumes. Arguments are kept to a minimum, your wine glass is continually refilled and you get to catch up on the latest neighborhood gossip. Husbands are also invited to these playdates, since they're the designated drivers.

Playdates in a Pinch: You're about to close the biggest deal of a lifetime when suddenly your cell phone starts buzzing in your suit pocket. You fumble for the phone and your megawatt smile instantly fades as your babysitter informs you she has to leave immediately to take her 6-year-old to the doctor.

You know you can't reach your husband because he's working late, too, and your mother-in-law has dinner plans with her colorist.

Who can you call? That's simple: the most reliable and by far the coolest mom in town who doesn't mind picking up your tots, bringing them to her house and serving them a well-balanced dinner. Big shout out to the moms who've been there for us in a pinch. Without you, our cats would be babysitting our kids. (Just joking ... we're not that nuts ... cats can't figure out how to stick a straw into a juice box or work the DVD player).

Palatial Playdates: Let's be honest. These are, hands down, our favorite kind of playdate. Who doesn't want to check out that gorgeous center hall colonial down the street that you've had your eye on since you moved into the neighborhood? Going on a palatial playdate is just like going to a real estate open house, but you don't have to worry about leaving a fake name and address because you know you can't afford to buy anything.

We admit it, sometimes we are the proverbial nosy neighbors or as we like to call ourselves, the "decorating detectives." We'll jump at the chance to check out the home of our new neighbor who just moved into the McMansion down the road. "Of course, Rebecca would love to come by and swim in your gunite swimming pool ... No, we don't have any other plans," as you quickly pick up your cell phone to cancel a playdate with the "Peculiars."

Mentally taking note as you walk into the grand entrance hall, you marvel at the expansive floorplan, admiring everything from the dentil crown molding to the marble mantels to the custom-made mahogany cabinetry.

Unfortunately, our kids can sometimes sabotage our interior investigations before we've even had a chance to check out the master suite. In one memorable mansion, Beth's daughter launched into a screaming fit with her 3-year-old hostess, fighting over toys and pretty much ruining the playdate before Beth even had a chance to finish counting all the bathrooms.

Role Mommy Reality Check

Be careful what you wish for. While dialing up a playdate may seem like a quick fix for your busy life and your bored kids, proceed with caution. Make sure your child's companion has the pedigree of a UN Peacekeeper. Once the tables are turned, the last thing you want to do is host a devious troublemaker from down the street who manages to find the only markers in your house that aren't washable and decides to graffiti your playroom walls with the memorable phrase: Timmy wuz here.

Excerpted from "Peeing in Peace: Tales and Tips for Type A Moms" by Beth Feldman and Yvette Manessis Corporon. Copyright(C) 2007 by Beth Feldman and Yvette Manessis Corporon. Excerpted by permission of NK Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.

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]]>playdatethe editors at ParentDishTue, 01 Mar 2011 09:00:00 ESTGreat Birthday Party Ideas for Kidshttp://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/03/birthday-party-ideas/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/03/birthday-party-ideas/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/03/birthday-party-ideas/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

birthday party ideas

Choose a classic theme for your child's birthday party. Credit: Getty Images

While certain trends in kids' birthday party ideas come and go, there are some themes that never grow old.

Whether you enjoy being creative with decorations and invitations or you prepare to purchase everything ready-made from a party supply store, these three can't-miss ideas are easily adaptable to your own personal party-hosting style.

1. Princess Party
Invitations: Send out royal scrolls and make them as fancy and elegant as you wish. Decorations: A pink balloon archway entrance makes for a memorable first impression, and a throne for the birthday princess is an important detail. Metallic curtains in a doorway can lend a dramatic flair, and white Christmas lights can add to the magical atmosphere.
Games: Play princess-themed games such as Pin the Diamond on the Tiara or hold a musical princess walk. More games such as a royal dress-up relay and sifting for gems can be found on Coolest Kid Birthday Parties.

2. Superhero Soiree
Invitations: Want to send out homemade invitations for a superhero party? Just use the emblem and the mask of your chosen superhero. For mask invitations, use a variety of superheroes and ask guests to wear them to the party.
Decorations: You can make decorations using comic book pages, printed images from the Internet, and superhero posters. Another idea is to make action signs such as "BAM!", "POW!" and "KAZAAM!"
Games: Game ideas range from a superhero obstacle course to an X-ray vision game to costume contests to strength competitions.

3. Tropical Luau
Invitations: Cut out beach objects (palm trees, starfish, coconuts) from card stock for invitations, or you could even send the invites as messages in bottles.
Decorations: Leis, tiki lights, palm trees, hibiscuses and coconuts are good party props, and it's always good to set the mood with hula music. A bonfire in the backyard would add even more to the scene.
Games: Luau games include limbo, pineapple bowling, hula dancing contests and pin the coconut on the palm tree. Birthday Party Ideas has instructions for these games, along with other Hawaiian-themed games and activities.


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]]>birthday partiesbirthday party decorationsbirthday party gamesbirthday party invitationsBirthdayPartiesBirthdayPartyDecorationsBirthdayPartyGamesBirthdayPartyInvitationsevergreenSally WorshamThu, 03 Feb 2011 10:00:00 ESTHealthy Snacks: Tasty Ideas for Kidshttp://www.parentdish.com/2011/01/04/healthy-snacks/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/01/04/healthy-snacks/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/01/04/healthy-snacks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

healthy snacks

Healthy snacks are an important part of a kid's diet. Credit: Getty Images

As any plastic baggie-toting parent knows, healthy snacks are an important part of a child's diet.

Not only do snacks ensure that kids have enough energy to get through the day, but they also help kids get their daily nutritional requirements. That's why snacks should be as healthy as possible, says Mary Trotter, a dietitian with Nemours Health & Prevention Services in Newark, Del.

She encourages parents to prepare healthy snacks and serve them at the kitchen table.

"Snacks really should not be offered in front of the TV," she says. "It really is another meal -- a time to visit with parents or siblings."

If your children are reluctant to eat healthy snacks, tell them it will make a difference when they are playing soccer, tennis, baseball or whatever their interest is, says Elisa Zied, past spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association.

"Don't talk about it terms of health," says Zied, author of "Nutrition at Your Fingertips." "Tell them filling your body with a lot of foods that have beneficial things can help you perform better."

If your children have been in the habit of eating junk food, try offering them a similar -- but healthier -- alternative, says Trotter.

Substitute:
  • Granola bars for donuts
  • Popcorn for potato chips
  • Sorbet for ice cream
  • Dried cherries or mangos for Fruit Roll-Ups
  • Seltzer with a splash of juice for soda

Other healthy snacks ideas:
  • Fruit: Don't forget about canned, frozen and dried fruits with no added sugars. Try freezing grapes or buy frozen blueberries, strawberries, peaches, mangoes and melon. But be careful when offering fruit leather or snacks because some brands of fruit snacks are more like candy than fruit. You can also get kids to help make a fruit salad and use a variety of colored fruits to add to the appeal.
  • Vegetables: Serve with low-fat salad dressings, store-bought light dips, bean dips, guacamole, hummus, salsa or peanut butter. Also, try to make a salad or set out veggies like a salad bar and let the kids build their own salads.
  • Soy: Edamame are fun to eat and easy to serve. Heat frozen edamame in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes.
  • Healthy grains: Though most kids eat plenty of grain products, too many of those grains are cookies, snack cakes, sugary cereals and other refined grains that are high in sugars or fat. Serving mostly whole grains is a good idea. It provides more fiber, vitamins, and minerals than refined grains.

Correction, January 5, 2011: The original article incorrectly stated that Eliza Zied is the spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association. She is a past spokeswoman.

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]]>healthy snackhealthy snack foodhealthy snack ideashealthy snackinghealthy snackshealthy snacks for k...healthy snacks for kidsHealthySnackHealthySnackFoodHealthySnackIdeasHealthySnackingHealthySnacksHealthySnacksForK...HealthySnacksForKidsMelissa Kossler DuttonTue, 04 Jan 2011 13:30:00 ESTCelebrating New Year's Eve at Home, Family Stylehttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/12/28/celebrating-new-years-eve-at-home-family-style/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/12/28/celebrating-new-years-eve-at-home-family-style/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/12/28/celebrating-new-years-eve-at-home-family-style/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Celebrate New Year's Eve in different time zones. Credit: viZZZual.com, Flickr

As your family grows, wild New Year's Eve celebrations out on the town are likely to be passed up in favor of Dick Clark and quiet nights in. But staying home doesn't have to be dull. You really can have a fun time with the kids. Here's how:

  • Go international. Want to get little ones to bed early? Pick a favorite international city and create a celebration with food, games and decorations to celebrate New Year's Eve in Paris, Tokyo or Cape Town. Picking simple foods -- egg rolls, dumplings or sticky rice balls and tea -- can introduce your child to a new part of the world and allows you be creative, too. Let kids bang on pots and pans to celebrate "midnight" like they do in China, says New York City party planner Linda Kaye.
  • Get cooking. For older kids, try a Julia Child-inspired cooking night. Each member of the family can prepare one part of dinner, depending on their ability. Juice up the video camera and have each child describe what they are making, TV chef style. Meatballs and a veggie platter are easy and fun things for kids to prepare. At midnight, everyone can sit down to the feast and watch the video together.
  • Take a look back. For non-cooking types, try a newscast instead. The news set could be at the dining room table, and an "anchor" could interview each family member about what happened that year. Your daughter could describe the year in sports, and your son could remind everyone about vacation, the new dog, a wedding or school events. Use a tablecloth made of newspapers and serve a buffet of chicken fingers, chips and drinks. Watch the video at midnight as you sip sugar-rimmed glasses of lemonade.
  • Get funky. For a dress-up party, set up a nightclub in your home. Have everyone dress in festive clothing and decorate with silver and gold balloons, streamers and tablecloths. A karaoke machine will prompt most kids to sing, or play 'name that tune' with an iPod or stereo. "Bubble machines are another fun thing for kids on New Year's Eve," Washington, D.C.-based party planner Tony Scurry tells ParentDish.
  • Frost it festive. Children of any age will enjoy decorating cupcakes on New Year's Eve. Make cupcakes in advance for younger children and set them out with a variety of toppings. Let children dip their cupcake in different bowls of frosting and then top with crystal sugar, sprinkles and even sparklers. "Kids love dazzle and excitement," Scurry says. Have a contest for most creative, most festive or most bedazzled cupcake.

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]]>at-homeCelebrationEvergreenjulia childJuliaChildNew Years EveNewYearsEvewhole familyWholeFamilyEllen Rooney MartinTue, 28 Dec 2010 13:00:00 ESTTeaching Kids Good Manners: 5 Tips for Parentshttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/12/28/teaching-kids-good-manners-five-tips-for-parents/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/12/28/teaching-kids-good-manners-five-tips-for-parents/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/12/28/teaching-kids-good-manners-five-tips-for-parents/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

manners

Teaching kids proper manners starts at home. Credit: Philip Lim, AFP/Getty Images

We all want our kids to be polite people who treat others well, but young children are a fairly self-focused bunch, more interested in what they want than in saying thanks. How do we teach young kids the tangible skills and intangible instincts that make up good manners in our culture?

Child development experts Nurit Sheinberg and Lorraine Breffni, from the Early Childhood Studies Institute at Nova Southeastern University, say it begins with "realistic expectations and patience." Things such as good behavior in restaurants will come with practice and time, as kids gain self-control.

Preschoolers won't remember to say "please" or "thank you" after just a few reminders, Breffni says.

"From an operational standpoint, they're just not ready," she says.

But remind them enough, and eventually the lessons will stick. It helps to reward kids with positive words when they do the right thing. If a child shares a toy with a friend, point out how happy the friend looks.

"Make those connections between actions and reactions," Sheinberg says.

If a child is in daycare or preschool, find out how manners are approached there. Do teachers sit and talk with children at mealtime?

"Children should have multiple opportunities and contexts in which to see these skills demonstrated," Breffni says. Interaction with adults outside the family helps kids see and practice polite social behavior.

In addition, young kids watch and internalize, copying a parent's moves. Ramp up the politeness in your own behavior, and, over time, your kids will do the same.

Top five examples parents should set:

1. Share. Let another driver merge into your lane, hold the door for a stranger.

2. Don't interrupt. In the hustle of daily life, we may cut our kids off mid-sentence. Try not to sacrifice politeness for efficiency.

3. Pick up after yourself. Overbooked as parents are, making the bed is a luxury we don't always have time for. But children will learn from your examples.

4. Offer random acts of kindness. Watch a neighbor's kids or bake an unexpected treat for your coworkers. Your kids will notice.

5. Don't allow toys at the dinner table. This may be the toughest of all. Leave the BlackBerry and iPhone elsewhere, putting your focus on the food and the mealtime conversation.

Want more resources? Check out TV shows such as "Arthur" and "Cyberchase," which offer frequent lessons on patience, sharing and teamwork. Both Emily Post and Miss Manners have weighed in with books on good manners for kids, and a slew of children's storybooks explore politeness and courtesy.

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]]>developmentetiquetteevergreenmannerspolitenessMelissa RayworthTue, 28 Dec 2010 12:00:00 ESTBedwetting Usually Stops Without Alarms, Medicine or Parents' Helphttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/12/28/bedwetting-usually-stops-without-alarms-medicine-or-parents-he/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/12/28/bedwetting-usually-stops-without-alarms-medicine-or-parents-he/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/12/28/bedwetting-usually-stops-without-alarms-medicine-or-parents-he/#commentsFiled under: , ,

bedwetting

Don't fear bedtime. Credit: Getty Images

Although experts recommend discussing bedwetting with your pediatrician, parents don't usually need to worry. Sooner or later, a child's brain and bladder will develop further and communicate at night better.

Until then, says Dr. Howard Bennett, a clinical professor of pediatrics at George Washington University Medical Center, there's not much anyone can -- or should -- do to speed up the process.

Bedwetting is common among young children, says Bennett, the author of "Waking Up Dry." Thirty percent of 4 year olds and 20 percent of 5 year olds are bedwetters. Each year, 15 percent of children who are older than 5 stop wetting the bed without parental or medical intervention.

Doctors typically don't intervene until a child is 6 or older and is motivated to stay dry during the night, he says. Until then, Bennett and Dr. Mark Wolraich discourage drawing too much attention to the problem. If a child becomes embarrassed about it, emphasize that many children wet the bed and that it's often a genetic condition, Bennett says. If a parent experienced bed wetting, he could share his experiences with the child.

Above all, children should never be punished for wetting the bed.

"If it's not creating a disturbance, it's helpful to wait it out," Wolraich, a professor of pediatrics at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, says.

While many doctors suggest limiting fluids in the evening, Bennett avoids this approach because it's not very effective and children may view it as a punishment. Instead, he recommends encouraging kids to drink more during the day, which creates more urine. By having to hold it during the day, children will practice controlling their bladders. Parents can wake their child for bathroom breaks during the night if it helps, Bennett says.

As children age, doctors may prescribe alarms to wake them when they start to urinate while sleeping. The alarm trains the brain to wake the child up when the body has to urinate.

Finally, as a last resort, some doctors prescribe desmopressin, a medicine that makes children create less urine. However, many kids relapse when they stop taking the drug, which is why the medication is unpopular except for vacations, sleepovers or other special occasions.

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]]>bedwettingevergreenpotty trainingwaking up drywetting the bedMelissa Kossler DuttonTue, 28 Dec 2010 10:00:00 ESTMaturity Plays Role In Talking to a Child about Deathhttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/11/28/maturity-plays-role-in-talking-to-a-child-about-death/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/11/28/maturity-plays-role-in-talking-to-a-child-about-death/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/11/28/maturity-plays-role-in-talking-to-a-child-about-death/#commentsFiled under: , ,

father and son picture

Death can be hard to discuss with a child. Credit: Getty Images

No matter your religious beliefs, death is a subject that, at some point, a parent will need to discuss with a child.

Maturity plays a part in a child's understanding of death, and a few suggestions may make it easier to let a child know about the death of a friend, family member or even a family pet.

According to Earl A. Grollman in his book "Explaining Death to Children," because young children see their parents leave and return, they often may equate death with this temporary departure. Slightly older children, between the ages of 5 and 9, start understanding death better, but tend to deny it can happen to them or people they know. Whereas, after the age of 9, children have a much greater understanding of death and its permanence.

If someone close to the family dies, be prepared to share your grief with your children. A child should be made aware that death can make people sad. Death, however, is a subject that should be handled with truth. An untruth -- that a dead person is just in a deep sleep, for instance -- creates difficulties when a child tries to equate an everyday event, in this case, sleep, with the tragedy that has occurred.

If possible, try to bring a child to a graveyard to facilitate a discussion of life and death, or try to bring this sometimes taboo subject into regular conversation. Seeing a grave helps to explain the question children often ask: Where does someone go when they die?

Although one should openly discuss death, the cause may not be appropriate. While a young child may be brought to understand that a person is not returning, if that person has committed suicide or faced a violent death, the child need not be told all the details.

Some experts believe that children as young as 7 should be given the opportunity to attend funerals to become a part of the family's rituals of healing and mourning. If the child does not want to attend the funeral, perhaps visiting the funeral home with a caring, compassionate adult who is able to answer questions might provide a compromise. Or, as the child moves through the mourning process, arrange a visit to the deceased's favorite spot or the grave.

Discussing death with a child is important, as is ensuring that the child has an opportunity to ask questions. Children should be free to express emotions and crying, if necessary.

There are three phases of a child's grief: Protesting a person's death; despair or pain; and hope. Keep in mind that life and death are two certainties, which can be used to explain each other. However, if you -- or your child -- are having difficulties surrounding someone's death, seek out counseling services or pastoral care. Utilize services that will help you and your child comprehend death, which is one of the most difficult elements of life.

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]]>childchildrendealing-with-deathdeathevergreenexplaintalk about deathElizabeth HumphreySun, 28 Nov 2010 19:52:00 ESTParentDish's Top 25 Albums for Kidshttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/11/28/parentdishs-top-25-albums-for-kids/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/11/28/parentdishs-top-25-albums-for-kids/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/11/28/parentdishs-top-25-albums-for-kids/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

kid music picture

Kids rock, too! Credit: Getty Images

There are thousands of choices when it comes to music for kids, but which CDs are the best for not only kids, but adults, too? These 25 selections provide musical enjoyment for both parents and their children.


1. Barenaked Ladies, "Snack Time": This collection of 24 original children's songs from the multi-platinum Canadian band was inspired by the group's own children and contains catchy pop songs the whole family will love.

2. Caspar Babypants, "Here I Am": Caspar Babypants is the alias of Chris Ballew of The Presidents of the United States of America, and he uses the same quirky sense of humor and sing-a-long style when writing kids' music.

3. Daddy a Go Go, "Come On Get Happy: The Best of Daddy a Go Go Vol. 1": This best-of collection from John Boydston includes alternative rock versions of classics like the "Scooby Doo" theme song and original tunes.

4. Dan Zanes, "House Party": This album from the former Del Fuegos rocker includes guest appearances from Bob Weir and Deborah Harry, to name a few, and is an eclectic mix of old folk standards and new originals.

5. Farmer Jason, "A Day at the Farm with Farmer Jason": Farmer Jason, aka Jason Ringenberg of Jason and the Scorchers, uses his rockabilly and cowpunk roots to make a hootenanny of a kids' album, singing songs about life on a farm.

6. Frances England, "Family Tree": Singer/songwriter England's soothing, dream-like voice gives these indie folk songs an almost hypnotic quality.

7. Various artists, "For the Kids": The first of this series of compilations of artists including Cake, Sarah McLachlan, Tom Waits and Billy Bragg and Wilco is fun for both kids and grown-ups. Love it? Two other volumes also are available.

8. Gunnar Madsen, "I'm Growing": Grammy-nominated songwriter Madsen's collection of inventive children's songs will never fail to put a smile on your family's faces.

9. Jack Johnson, "Sing-A-Longs and Lullabies for the Film Curious George": Johnson's version of "Three is a Magic Number" and his cover of the White Stripes' "We're Going to Be Friends" are the highlights of this assortment of groovy songs from the movie "Curious George."

10. The Jellydots, "Hey You Kids!": At first listen, you might not think this is a kids' album because the songs are so indie rock and grown-up sounding, but with subjects like blankets, race cars and cookies, these are some very kid-friendly tunes.

11. Justin Roberts, "Pop Fly": This album from established kids' music maker Roberts contains fun, peppy pop songs about stay-at-home dads, student crossing guards and the first day of school.

12. Laurie Berkner, "Rocketship Run": Made famous on "Jack's Big Music Show" on Noggin, The Laurie Berkner Band continues to inspire kids and parents to dance and sing along to her tunes with this CD.

13. Los Lobos, "Papa's Dream": The rock band Los Lobos, along with Mexican-American singer/guitarist Lalo Guerrero, give us a wonderful journey of a family traveling to Mexico in a hot-air balloon with catchy sing-a-long tunes.

14. Marlo Thomas and Friends, "Free to Be You and Me": This oldie-but-goodie from the '70s continues to resonate with children today because of its universal lessons of tolerance and self-confidence.

15. Medeski, Martin & Wood, "Let's Go Everywhere": This funky, jazzy assortment of songs is sophisticated enough for adults, but is still geared towards kids without talking down to them.

16. Ralph's World, "Green Gorilla, Monster & Me": Ralph Covert's collection of laid-back pop songs will make everyone in your family want to sing along and dance. The cover of Ray Stevens' "Gitarzan" is especially fun.

17. Recess Monkey, "Field Trip": The members of Recess Monkey are all teachers, and these catchy, upbeat songs were inspired by actual field trips they have taken. This album does a great job of translating the excitement of a field trip into music.

18. "Rockabye Baby: Lullaby Renditions of The Beatles": Sleep-inducing, lush instrumental versions of songs like "Across the Universe" will most definitely lull your little ones into slumber. Other Rockabye Baby CDs include tunes from Metallica, Led Zeppelin and even Nirvana and The Cure.

19. ScribbleMonster, "Songs with No Character": If there was such a category as alternative kids' rock, ScribbleMonster would be at the top of its charts. Billed as "music for grown-ups and their children," this CD gets the balance right.

20. Secret Agent 23 Skidoo, "Easy": Rap for kids! These positive hip-hop songs will get everyone's feet tapping.

21. Sesame Street, "Platinum All Time Favorites": This is the quintessential collection of all the best songs from "Sesame Street," including "Rubber Duckie," "I Love Trash" and "Bein' Green."

22. They Might Be Giants, "Here Come the 1,2,3s": The quirky pop band has become big-time players in the kids' music scene. This album comes with a DVD featuring videos of every song.

23. Trout Fishing in America, "Big Round World": Trout Fishing in America not only makes music of all sorts of styles, but the group's songs also teach kids important lessons -- just check out the song "Martin Luther King and Rosa Parks."

24. Yo Gabba Gabba, "Music is ... Awesome!": The coolest kids' show on television delivers an excellent compilation of songs from the YGG gang and bands including The Shins, Of Montreal and The Roots.

25. Ziggy Marley, "Family Time": Bob's son, Ziggy, wanted to make an album for the entire family, and this one fits the bill. Willie Nelson, Paul Simon and Jack Johnson all make cameo appearances on this reggae-heavy collection.

Related: Top 20 Christmas movies for kids

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]]>best kids cdsevergreenfor the kidskids-musicsesame streetyo gabba gabbaSally WorshamSun, 28 Nov 2010 18:21:00 ESTParentDish's 20 Top Educational Toys for Preschoolershttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/11/26/parentdishs-20-top-educational-toys-for-preschoolers/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/11/26/parentdishs-20-top-educational-toys-for-preschoolers/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/11/26/parentdishs-20-top-educational-toys-for-preschoolers/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Help your child learn with these toys. Credit: Getty Images

The kids are starting to outgrow the stacking blocks and are even getting tired of Candy Land (thank goodness). What to do? Here are ParentDish's 20 Top Educational Toys for Preschoolers:

1. Classic Etch A Sketch (Ohio Art Co., $12.67, at Amazon.com): Although it can be a little tricky at first, your child will soon learn to love drawing with two little knobs. Even better is the fact that they can just give it a shake and start all over again.

2. K'NEX Frontier Farm Lincoln Logs (K'Nex, $35.94, at Amazon.com): This old favorite has been around longer than we have -- your grandparents probably had a set. Among the many iterations currently available is this version, which comes with 51 wooden logs and a variety of cool accessories to make building time fun.

3. LEGO Ultimate Building Set -- 405 Pieces (LEGO, $24.54, at Amazon.com): When it's time to move on from Duplo, this is a perfect next step. The 405 pieces of assorted LEGO goodness equals hours, days, even months of plastic block pleasure.

4. Leap Frog Leapster2 Learning Game System (LeapFrog, $39.97, at Amazon.com): Yeah, we know. You hate video games. They rot your brain. Well, not these games. Leapster games actually teach kids math and spelling while they pretend to jump around and punch out bad guys. Just like in real life, right?

5. Learning Resources Ten-Row Abacus (Learning Resources, $16.99, at Amazon.com): From the hi-tech Leapster2, we move on to the low-tech Abacus. This toy is actually considered by many to be the first computer, although you probably won't be able to convince your preschooler of that.

6. Smart e-Bear (Kids Preferred, $51, at Amazon.com): He's cute! He connects to your computer to download music and games! No, it's not your teenage son. It's Smart e-Bear! Imagine if you had an iPod that was really cuddly and played educational games. Just plug him into your Mac or PC via the included USB cable to pick up some nifty software that will keep your child educationally entertained for hours -- years, actually, since you can upgrade the software as your child gets older.

7. Magic School Bus Going Green Experiment Kit (The Young Scientist Club, $14.25, at Amazon.com): This fun science kit is based on the wonderful "Magic School Bus" books and videos. Recommended for ages 5 and up, the kit offers a variety of fun learning activities. One of ParentDish's Top Preschool Toys of 2009.

8. Crayola Crayon Town Large Mat Zoo Set (Wild Planet, $17.14, at Amazon.com): Crayon Town playsets take everything kids love about coloring and make it 3-D. Your preschoolers can not only color a picture, they can make that picture into a free-standing building. Another one of ParentDish's Top Preschool Toys of 2009.

9. Bob Books, Set 1: Beginning Readers (Scholastic, $6.99, at Amazon.com): You might scoff at these seemingly simple books when you first see them. That's until you notice your children reading these books by themselves. Imagine your preschooler starting kindergarten with the ability to read. Ha! Take that, other parents! OK, time to switch to decaf.

10. Moon In My Room (Uncle Milton, $19.59, at Amazon.com): This educational toy shows children the different phases of the moon, either naturally or on demand via a kid-friendly remote control. It also makes a great night light.

11. Learning Resources 12-Inch Inflatable Globe (Learning Resources, $6.42, at Amazon.com): A globe is great for learning about geography, but your preschooler may not be ready for the real thing. This version is basically just a ball, but it's a ball with the world printed on it. Watch them run around and get tired and imagine that they are learning where Guam is while doing it.

12. Blokus Classics Game (Mattel, $22.84, at Amazon.com): Blokus is a cool strategy game that you can play with your child. It's a board game where you won't get bored (get it?).

13. Big Deck Children's Playing Cards (Fundex, $8.27, at Amazon.com): Sometimes it's good to get back to the basics. Playing cards are great because of the huge variety of games you can play with them, including the ever-popular 52 Pick-Up. Use these larger-than-normal cards for a few hands of War, Go Fish or even Blackjack -- but don't play for money, OK?

14. Jumbo Lowercase Magnetic Letters (Battat, $19.95, at Amazon.com): More stuff to stick on the fridge. This set contains only the big letters -- no worrying about lowercase.

15. Little Tikes EasyScore Basketball Set (Little Tykes, $30.57, at Amazon.com): Your preschoolers will want to Be Like Mike -- well, Kobe, maybe -- as they hit layups and dunk the ball on Gramps. Bonus: It's adjustable, so it grows with your child.

16. Wonderworld Eco-Friendly Work Bench N' Box (Wonderworld, $29.99, at Amazon.com): Mommy and Daddy's tools are fun, but aren't exactly safe for little kids. Let your preschooler pound away to her heart's content with this set. Comes complete with toy hammer, screwdriver, wrench and all the "hardware" she'll need for a solid developmental playtime.

17. Dalmatian Vet Kit (Battat, $21.50, at Amazon.com): Let's play doctor! No, not that kind of doctor. Animal doctor! And not on your real dog -- this kit includes a toy puppy that kids can tweeze, bandage and tong as much as their little hearts desire.

18. Learning Resources Jumbo Dinosaurs (Learning Resources, $21.11, at Amazon.com): It's never too early to learn that dinosaurs are awesome. This set features a variety of dinos, all large enough to avoid being swallowed by your own little T-Rex.

19. Melissa & Doug Deluxe Wooden 27-Piece Lacing Beads in a Box (Melissa & Doug, $11.99, at Amazon.com): Some skills are trickier than they seem, and lacing is definitely one of them. This box includes 27 ginormous wooden beads and two extra-long laces.

20. Highlights Hidden Pictures 2010 (Highlights for Children, $6.95, at Amazon.com): Here's the latest and greatest edition in the Highlights for Children "Hidden Pictures" series. According to Amazon, "Teachers have found that working on them can enhance a child's attention to detail, reinforce good work habits, increase word knowledge and aid in developing self-confidence." Parents have found that kids really, really like finding hidden pictures.

(Note: Prices are accurate at the time of publication; Internet retailers change their prices frequently.)

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]]>educational toysevergreenpreschool-toyspreschoolerstoysBrett SingerFri, 26 Nov 2010 08:01:00 ESTHow to Play: Spooky Walkhttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/10/26/spooky-walk-game/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/10/26/spooky-walk-game/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/10/26/spooky-walk-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

spooky walk game picture

Print pictures of Halloween images to play. Credit: rkramer62, Flickr

What you need: A box, creepy Halloween music and cut-outs or printouts of Halloween images, such as pumpkins, witches, ghosts and scarecrows. You will need one image per player. You also will need to write down what each image is on slips of paper to draw out of the box.

How to play: Place the images in a circle on the floor. Have the children stand on the pictures, and then start the music. Have the kids walk around the circle stepping/standing beside or on the things you cut out. At random intervals, stop the music and everyone freezes by the image next to him or her. There should only be one child at an image.

The rules: Once everyone has stopped, draw the name of one of the images (such as a witch) from the box. The person standing on or next to the witch would be out of the game. The witch image would then be pulled from the game so there are only as many images left as there are children still playing the game. The game continues until only one person remains.

How to win: The last remaining player is the winner.

Related: More Kids' Games

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]]>evergreenhalloweenholiday gamesmusical-chairsSpookyWalkSally WorshamTue, 26 Oct 2010 07:00:00 ESTHow to Play: Halloween Cornershttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/10/20/halloween-corners-game/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/10/20/halloween-corners-game/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/10/20/halloween-corners-game/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Print Halloween-themed images to play this game. Credit: riptheskull, Flickr

What you need: Music, a room with four corners, a hat or box and two copies of four Halloween-themed images, such as a witch, a black cat, a ghost and a jack-o-lantern.

How to play: Place one Halloween image in each of the four corners. Let the players know that when the music plays, they can move around. However, once the music stops, they need to proceed to one of the four corners of the room. Once the players have selected a corner, the music operator pulls out an image from a hat and those players standing in that corner are eliminated from the game. Then, start the music back up, mingle and repeat the process.

The rules: The Halloween image you pulled from the hat is returned before the music starts again, so this game can have as many rounds as necessary.

How to win: The last player remaining is the winner.

Related: More Kids' Games

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]]>evergreenhalloweenhalloween cornersholiday gamesSally WorshamWed, 20 Oct 2010 11:00:00 ESTDealing With Separation Issues at Daycare Drop-Offhttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/10/11/dealing-with-separation-issues-at-daycare-drop-off/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/10/11/dealing-with-separation-issues-at-daycare-drop-off/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/10/11/dealing-with-separation-issues-at-daycare-drop-off/#commentsFiled under: , ,

child screaming picture

Be strong when your child starts crying. Credit: Getty Images

You're out of the house on time, with the whole family fed and dressed for the day. Now comes the hard part: Saying goodbye at daycare as a tearful toddler begs you not to go.

"It's pretty typical for children under the age of 2 to have separation issues during drop-off," says Erin Boyd-Soisson, associate professor of family science at Pennsylvania's Messiah College. But that actually can be "a good sign that they have a good attachment with their parents," she says.

Kids are usually fine within minutes of a parent's departure, but the experience can still be horribly guilt-inducing. Here's advice on minimizing the pain from Boyd-Soisson and Diane Strangis, child development specialist and assistant professor at Meredith College in North Carolina:

Create a routine. Kids are comforted by ritual, so plan a routine for your goodbye and stick to it. Maybe you'll read one short book, then hug goodbye. Or hug goodbye, then have the child wave from a window as you leave the building. "In some cases, a child walks the parent to the door and pushes them out, not shoving them, but patting them on the back, and gives them a little wave," Boyd-Soisson says. "It gives them control."

Don't rush, but don't linger. Some days, you're running late and drop-off is unavoidably rushed. When possible, take five minutes to let your ritual play out calmly. But there's a tipping point: Leave within 10 minutes.

Don't go back. It's tempting. But once you've said goodbye, returning reinforces the idea that crying brings you back. And don't sneak out: Strangis says the child may believe you're hiding and spend the morning anxiously searching for you.

Use familiar objects. Strangis suggests bringing something from home (family photos, a recording of a parent's voice). If the child is moving to a new room, try having an item on hand from her previous room at the daycare center. Bringing a favorite toy from home can work, but be sure to bring it home each night to avoid tears at bedtime.

Ease into transitions. If your child is starting at a new school or moving to a new room within his old school, visit the new space with him more than once. If he can spend time in the new room with you, he may feel more comfortable.

Separation issues may subside, then surface again periodically through age 4 or even 5, especially when stress pops up (sick grandparents, a parent out of town, etc.). With time, they'll subside permanently.

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]]>cryingdaycareDaycareWoesdrop-offevergreenpreschoolseparation-anxietyMelissa RayworthMon, 11 Oct 2010 17:03:00 ESTBeehives Wooden Toy a Buzzworthy Pick for Preschoolershttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/09/28/beehives-wooden-toy-a-buzzworthy-pick-for-preschoolers/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/09/28/beehives-wooden-toy-a-buzzworthy-pick-for-preschoolers/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/09/28/beehives-wooden-toy-a-buzzworthy-pick-for-preschoolers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Beehives wooden toy

A real honey of a toy. Credit: Moolka


Inspired by real bees and their natural habitats, the colorful and adorable Beehives from Plan Toys entertains children while helping them develop fine motor skills, coordination and concentration.

Beehives challenges preschoolers to return each bee to its color-coordinated home, using the included wooden pincers. The toy is designed using a modular system concept which allows for play using various configurations and at different levels.

Beehives also provides parents with a great opportunity to teach their children about the wondrous bee and its role as nature's hardest worker.

It's made of natural, chemical-free recycled rubberwood and finished with natural latex glue and non-toxic water-based paint.

Available at Moolka for $29.99.

Related: Innovative Bugaboo Convertible Stroller to Hit Stores Next Spring

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]]>beehivebeesplan toysPlanToyspreschoolersshoppingtoyswooden toysWoodenToysHoney BerkTue, 28 Sep 2010 14:00:00 ESTPlay Garden Lets Toddlers Grow Their Own Adventureshttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/09/17/play-garden-lets-toddlers-grow-their-own-adventures/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/09/17/play-garden-lets-toddlers-grow-their-own-adventures/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/09/17/play-garden-lets-toddlers-grow-their-own-adventures/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

play garden for kids really grows

No watering required. Credit: Glamma Toys


Mary, Mary quite contrary, how does your garden grow?

With magnets, of course, in the Zolo Play Garden.

Your tots can build a fanciful garden using their imaginations and the 11 magnetic creatures and plant pieces included in this activity set. The window box is magnetic, as well, so all the pieces stick and stack in lots of different configurations.

And when playtime is done, the window box doubles as a zippered carrying case, so everything stows away neatly for next time.

Available at Glamma Toys for $73.95.

Related: Puzzle Shows How the Body Works

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]]>gardeningshoppingtoysHoney BerkFri, 17 Sep 2010 14:00:00 EST4-year-olds Learn More Through Teacher Interaction Than in Free Play, Study Showshttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/09/16/four-year-olds-learn-more-through-teacher-interaction-than-in-fr/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/09/16/four-year-olds-learn-more-through-teacher-interaction-than-in-fr/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/09/16/four-year-olds-learn-more-through-teacher-interaction-than-in-fr/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Your child spends his hours at preschool happily building giant towns with colorless wooden blocks or sitting quietly in a corner, mesmerized by the pages of the book he's flipping through. This is how kids learn, right?

Actually, maybe not. A new study shows that 4-year-olds make more significant gains in early language and math skills when being guided by a teacher.

Researchers looked at more than 2,700 children in public pre-K programs in 11 states, and broke down their learning time into four categories: free play, individual instruction, group instruction and scaffolded learning (where a more capable adult or child engages the learner).

Some of the children spent most of their time choosing from a variety of educational materials they could play with, and others spent more time learning through teacher-directed activities that focused more on fine motor and early literacy skills. Some programs consisted largely in small- and whole-group instruction while, in others, teachers worked across a range of individual and group settings, according to a report in the journal Child Development.

Continue reading 4-year-olds Learn More Through Teacher Interaction Than in Free Play, Study Shows

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]]>freeplaypre-Kpreschoolpreschool educationPreschoolEducationstudyteachersMonique El-FaizyThu, 16 Sep 2010 12:00:00 ESTHappy 95th Birthday, Raggedy Ann!http://www.parentdish.com/2010/09/07/happy-95th-birthday-raggedy-ann/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/09/07/happy-95th-birthday-raggedy-ann/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/09/07/happy-95th-birthday-raggedy-ann/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Raggedy Ann

95 years, later, Raggedy Ann still makes a great BFF for little ones. Credit: Amazon


Help celebrate lovable, red-headed Raggedy Ann's 95th birthday today with a new edition of exclusive, vintage-inspired Raggedy Ann and Andy Anniversary dolls created by Applause by Russ.

Unlike more contemporary versions, these Anniversary dolls bring to mind illustrations of the original characters from the earliest Raggedy Ann books by author Johnny Gruelle, who created the character for his daughter, Marcella, in 1915.

But fear not -- though she may look a little differently than she did when we were young, Raggedy Ann still rocks those features we love most about her: Button eyes, yarn hair, triangle nose, rosy cheeks and -- most importantly -- a heart that says "I Love You" embroidered onto her chest.

Available at Amazon for $24.17.

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]]>dollsshoppingtoytoysHoney BerkTue, 07 Sep 2010 14:30:00 ESTFirst Day of School: What the Teacher Needs to Know About Your Childhttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/08/30/first-day-of-school-what-the-teacher-needs-to-know-about-your-c/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/08/30/first-day-of-school-what-the-teacher-needs-to-know-about-your-c/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/08/30/first-day-of-school-what-the-teacher-needs-to-know-about-your-c/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

first day of school

Send your kids off to school knowing you've provided their teachers with info your kids need to succeed. Credit: Getty Images


It's back-to-school time, when everything is shiny and fresh: New clothes, new notebooks, new backpacks, new teachers and, for many, new schools. The scrubbed-clean classrooms and empty desks are filled with promise.

To realize all that potential, though, schools need a little help from parents. For children to have their best chance at success, parents must make sure their kids' teachers and school administrators have all the information they need to give each student the best instruction possible.

"We have a partnership with parents and that partnership is to make sure that their children can be as successful in school as possible," Barbara Chester, president of the National Association of Elementary School Principals, tells ParentDish. "We need, as principals and teachers, the most accurate information we can get so we can best work together with the parents for their child's success."

Continue reading First Day of School: What the Teacher Needs to Know About Your Child

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]]>educationfirst day of schoolFirstDayOfSchoolparentingpreparing for schoolPreparingForSchoolprincipalteachersMonique El-FaizyMon, 30 Aug 2010 09:00:00 ESTWhat to Do When Friendships Become an Issue for Your Childhttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/08/26/what-to-do-when-friendships-become-an-issue-for-your-child/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/08/26/what-to-do-when-friendships-become-an-issue-for-your-child/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/08/26/what-to-do-when-friendships-become-an-issue-for-your-child/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

friendship issues with kids

Friends today, frenemies tomorrow? Credit: Corbis

For some kids, making friends is easy and natural, and for other kids it's ... not.

It isn't uncommon for kids to have occasional trouble making or keeping friends, so here's some advice on how to handle the situation.

Start by gathering the facts. If the problem is occurring away from home, get the lowdown from a teacher or caregiver. Does the child have at least one good friend? That can be enough, says Erin Boyd-Soisson, associate professor of human development and family science at Messiah College in Pennsylvania.

If the child doesn't have anyone to connect with during the school day, focus on helping to build at least one good friendship. Some strategies: Plan playdates for after-school or weekends, especially for kids who prefer one-on-one interaction. If weekends are hectic and hosting kids at your house is difficult, arrange to meet another parent and child at a playground for an hour. Bring a healthy snack for sharing.

Continue reading What to Do When Friendships Become an Issue for Your Child

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]]>evergreenFriend-CodesfriendsfriendshipplaydatesteamsMelissa RayworthThu, 26 Aug 2010 17:00:00 ESTCrayola Goes Green for Back-to-Schoolhttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/08/26/crayola-goes-green-for-back-to-school/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/08/26/crayola-goes-green-for-back-to-school/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/08/26/crayola-goes-green-for-back-to-school/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


crayola crayons

Crayola's fave color is green. Credit: Crayola


Are Screamin' Green, Granny Smith Apple, Asparagus, Fern, Mountain Meadow, Shamrock and Tropical Rain Forest among your favorite Crayola colors?

Well, it's time to take your love of green one step further this back-to-school season with the brand's new eco-friendly crayons, markers and colored pencils. Here's some of the new stuff to check out as you shop:
  • Crayola markers will now have black barrels instead of white, which allows more recycled plastic to be used and gives new life to more than 1 million pounds of plastic bottle caps.
  • Starting this summer a billion crayons will be made using solar power each year -- look for specially-marked boxes of Crayola crayons. And, during the crayon making process, any chipped or broken crayons are remelted in the mixer, so there's no waste.
  • All wood used in Crayola colored pencils comes from reforested trees and for each tree used, another of the same kind is planted.
Just another step in saving the planet. At most mass retailers and Crayola.com.

Related: Oh! The Places Your Sneakers Will Go

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]]>crayolacrayonseco-friendlygreenLesley KennedyThu, 26 Aug 2010 14:00:00 ESTOpinion: 'Imagination Playground' Lives Up to Its Namehttp://www.parentdish.com/2010/08/25/opinion-imagination-playground-lives-up-to-its-name/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/08/25/opinion-imagination-playground-lives-up-to-its-name/http://www.parentdish.com/2010/08/25/opinion-imagination-playground-lives-up-to-its-name/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


"Imagination Playground" at the South Street Seaport in Manhattan officially opened to the public this summer, with a press conference featuring New York City's Mayor Michael Bloomberg -- and a $7.5 million price tag.

The South Street Seaport has a long history as the city's maritime commerce center, dating back to the early 1800s. In 1983, through a city redevelopment initiative, the Seaport was opened to the public with dozens of shops and restaurants. Since then, it has grown into a major tourist area with a schedule of events and amenities that attract scores of visitors and locals to the area.

Imagination Playground was clearly built to honor and celebrate the area's rich maritime tradition, using design elements such as ship's masts and a crow's nest, and featuring water and sand as the two core play elements. It spans an entire city block, replacing a parking lot that had been used by one of the city agencies, which helped develop the project.

I heard of the plans for the playground about four years ago, when the concept was first announced by the city. Architect David Rockwell is well-respected and pretty well known in these parts, so the fact that he was turning his talents to design a playground for kids was certainly newsworthy.

Yet, when I read about the playground's opening and its hefty price tag, I have to admit I was outraged, as my thoughts turned to the battle of the budget fought this year by New York parents to ensure their kids still receive free transit cards for travel to and from school.

Continue reading Opinion: 'Imagination Playground' Lives Up to Its Name

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]]>new yorknew york cityNewYorkNewYorkCityplayplaygroundHoney BerkWed, 25 Aug 2010 17:00:00 EST