School Years

Once, I saw a bumper sticker on a minivan while I was in the school drop off lane. It simply said, “I used to be cool.” Oh, mama... I feel the exact same way most days. And I was cool...

According to the American Pediatrics Association, over 90% of a child’s brain develops before the age of five. That is why it is critical that as parents and caregivers we invest in the best care and early childhood education...

I am a mom of five kids, aged 8-14. And I feel fortunate to live in a school choice state, where we can decide what is best for each child. Three of my children attend the nearby elementary school....

Initially, her response infuriated me inside. Relax? You’ve been handed an opportunity many children could only dream of, and you want to relax? Don’t you owe it to your teacher and school to represent them? Not to mention you’ve been given a gift, and we should share our gifts with the world. When I was growing up and an opportunity like this arose, saying no was not an option.

The other day, my ten year old son came home from school and he promptly asked to go outside and play with his friends. I asked the question I always ask, "Do you have any homework?" To which he...

Every fall, schools all across America hold parent-teacher conferences.  These conferences often strike fear or dread into the hearts and minds of parents of school-aged children everywhere.  However, it doesn't have to be that way!  Heading into parent-teacher conferences...

I still remember my first piano lesson. I was in the third grade and my piano teacher, Mrs. Robin, made the piano such an exciting and magical thing. I loved my piano lessons! But, I did NOT always love...

The hesitation is apparent, as I mull over the question again and again in my head.  Where is your favorite place to shop?  I laugh nervously. The small group of women and mothers I am talking to lean in closer, but my answer never materializes. Instead,...

If you’re like me, you’ve done time volunteering in classrooms. And sometimes you are in charge of events and have to come up with cute activities and crafts for the kiddos to create and enjoy. This little tasty treat...

This past year, even grandma got involved! My retired mother has extra time on her hands and ended up in my daughter’s class on a weekly basis. Having this extension of our family in the school and participating only strengthened our tie to the school. Now, grandma and grandpa have a better idea of what my kids are learning. This translates into more engaging conversation between them and a stronger bond.