Child Learn & Play

10 picture books featuring neurodivergent affirming characters

These thoughtful titles build empathy through reflection and awareness of ourselves and others.

The World Cup got your kid asking for cleats. Two youth sports experts on how to pick the right program–no matter what the sport

In an effort to help parents parse this out, I went to Justin Hoeveler, President of US Sports Camps, and Madison Gates, VP of Marketing at i9 Sports, who together work with thousands of young athletes a year.

A professional babysitter’s no-cost fixes for summer boredom and bedtime battles

None of this is really about being a perfect parent. It's about the small stuff.

How to teach your kid to meditate — even if they can’t sit still for 10 seconds

Tai Chi master and children's wellness educator Leda Elliott has been teaching preschoolers to meditate for years. Her secret? Stuffed animals.

What does emotional maturity in children actually look like? A psychologist explains, age by age

It’s not about perfect behavior. According to psychotherapist Dr. Lindsay Gibson, emotional maturity is the unseen foundation under everything that matters — and it starts earlier than you think.

What every camp parent needs to know about safety — before drop-off and beyond

The road to my daughter’s favorite place in the world winds through…

How to raise a kid who gives a damn (without telling them what to think)

The entry point is simpler than it might feel.

Recess isn’t a reward. It’s a requirement. Here’s what the new AAP recess guidelines mean for your kid.

The AAP just made it official — here's what that means for your kid, and what to do if their school isn't getting it right.

The ACLU just made a kids’ civics show—and it might be the Schoolhouse Rock of our generation

There are moments when you sit down to watch something with your…

My son was denied access at school—now the system that protects him is being gutted

No parent wants to file a civil rights complaint. We simply want our children to learn, grow, and belong.

This DIY tablecloth playhouse put our expensive fort-building kit to shame

We made it two years ago and it's still going strong.

The best retro toys making a comeback (that actually hold up)

Stripped of nostalgia goggles and the haze of high-fructose corn syrup, a surprising number hold up.

6-Year-Old Stuns Mom with Heartfelt Valentine’s Day Gesture

Modeling small acts of kindness for kids can make all the difference.

What experts want you to know before buying AI toys for your kids

As an ’80s kid, I grew up with Cricket and Teddy Ruxpin.…

6 winter activities that keep babies and toddlers (and yourself) engaged indoors

Short days, chilly temps, and energetic littles can be a tricky combo. These research-informed, low-prep ideas keep tiny hands busy, brains growing, and you feeling calm and connected.

10 ideas for answering your child’s big questions

Big questions show your child trusts you. Here are simple, age-flexible ways to respond with honesty, calm, and connection while building critical thinking skills.

Letter writing with kids: Why penpals are making a comeback (and how to start)

The key is making it easy and lowering your standards dramatically.

9 childcare tips parents often learn the hard way, and how to make them easier

Child care runs smoother with a few small systems. These practical tweaks save time, protect your child’s health and make drop-off feel less like a sprint.

From nursery to family home: designing spaces that grow with your child

The most sustainable kid spaces are flexible, not fancy. Here is a plan to help you design once, then adapt as your child grows.

The quiet power of play: why 10 minutes on the floor changes everything

Ten focused minutes of child-led play can calm chaos, deepen connection, and support healthy development. Here is a simple, doable plan for busy families.