Did you know that if you're a teacher, the US Government offers programs that can lower your monthly payments and even provide a path for debt forgiveness? The problem—like so many government sponsored programs—is that they're often difficult to understand and a total challenge to complete the necessary filing paperwork. TrustRight Student Loan Services has proprietary software that clearly explains all the options available to you along with a system that completely simplifies the … [Read more...]
room parent 101: 3 tricks to make the year rock (and free tools to stay organized!)
So, you're a room parent this year, huh? Whether you've been roped into it or whether you chose to take on this important role on your own free will, there are some things you must know: You will have a lot of fun. Really, you will. The kids are so cool. They are. And the parents appreciate you! You will be organized. From right now until the end of the year, friend, you must stay organized. You will need a team. So starting now, you may be the room parent, but you will have a … [Read more...]
hello teacher notes: let kids connect with teachers
Another one of our fave back-to-school traditions involves a little bit of writing, some decorating, and a wee bit of walking. Not much walking, really. Just to the mailbox or up to the school, depending on where you live. But for the last few years, we've rocked Hello, Teacher Notes to ease the transition from summer break to school year just a tiny bit easier for Maddy, Owen, and Cora. Okay, and me. We sent them: last year, when Owen went to Kindergarten, Maddy went to 2nd, and … [Read more...]
5 fun back-to-school rituals for busy families
This post was written as part of a partnership with Staples. Friends. There's no denying it. Back-to-school season is in full swing, so I thought I'd take a minute to share a few fun back-to-school rituals for busy families. I Here's the skinny. . . 5 Fun Back-to-School Rituals for Busy Families Family Camp-In No matter where in the world you live, the weather's always perfect for a Family Camp-In. A Camp-In is the opposite of a Camp-Out, of course! A Camp-In takes place in … [Read more...]
how to prepare your child for kindergarten — summertime prep
This time last summer, we were gearing up to send off my sweet boy to Kindergarten, and this year, it's my baby's turn. Cora will walk into those elementary school doors this time, and then it will just be me. I'll walk home by myself, to an empty house, with a happy dog, until the kids' day ends at 3 o'clock. I can't even begin to think about it, or I swear I'll bawl my eyes out. But what's been keeping me focused this summer, along with our crazy swim and dive schedules, trip to the … [Read more...]
create summer sparks with everyday acts of kindness
Sponsored by author T.A. Barron and the Spark Goodness Program. If you want my expert opinion, teaching our kids about the importance of being a good, kind person is the greatest lesson we could teach them. It's the absolute biggest, most important lesson ever. And it's not like we can just say, "You've got to be kind to others," and we're done. Nope. Teaching our kids about kindness is something we need to do nearly on a daily basis from the time they're toddlers until they … [Read more...]
how to teach kids the ABCs: 5 fun ways
Let's face it: the letters of the alphabet are the building blocks of the English language. They are. The ABCs are among the most important things our children will learn when they're young, and the good news is that they're something that families can very easily help children learn. But how should you teach kids the ABCs? Where should you begin and when should you start? What kinds of supplies do you need? How much time do you need? Really, it's pretty simple, friend. … [Read more...]
help kids stay in touch with friends when school’s out: autograph sheet
I can't even believe it, but school's almost out for my kids. Though I'm totally psyched to begin our Smart Summer Challenge this year, I'm also always a little sad when the school year ends. It means my kids are getting older and that time continues to move . . . quickly. This year, especially I feel like I'm having a difficult time as Maddy moves into the wilds of middle school leaving Owen and Cora behind in elementary school. It has been a true joy for me to have all three kids … [Read more...]
how we are saving for our kids’ college and how you can, too
When Maddy was born, we received a lot of parenting advice. She needs to sleep with you. . . . and She definitely shouldn't sleep with you. Babies must be nursed exclusively for the first year. . . . . and Babies must have rice cereal by six months. She needs to cry it out on her own so that she doesn't become a spoiled child. . . . . and Babies must be picked up every, single time they cry so that they know they're loved. Some advice was appreciated, and, well. . . some was … [Read more...]
two must-have freebies for families: books & more!
Books, a craft kit, and more--all bonus freebies for you! When I see a good deal, I want to share it, and this is one I must share. I'm thrilled to be a part of the Ultimate Homemaking Bundle this year. The Ultimate Homemaking Bundle sounds a little intimidating, but it's not--it's simply a "bundle" of eBooks, eCourses, and printables that cover everything you need to run a household, eat healthy, make time for you, and stay sane. Here's the skinny. . . Two Must-Have Freebies … [Read more...]
what can you do about gun control? start here.
Friends, it's time to stop talking and start doing. No matter which political party you stand with, the gun violence in our country has gotten way out of hand. It's time to really, truly do something. But before I get all nuts about things, I must be clear: this is not about gun control; it's about gun sense. I am by no means trying to take away anyone's 2nd Amendment right to bear arms. That's not my jam. Rather, I'm advocating for better gun sense laws--laws designed to keep … [Read more...]
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