Thrift Store Shopping Tips for Families
Posted by Martha

I have a confession to make – I am a thrift store addict.  I don’t want help to overcome this addiction.  Actually, I’m recruiting others to this cause.

2013 017 001 300x228 Thrift Store Shopping Tips for Families

Some of my friends don’t understand my fascination with stopping at every thrift store I see.  And I can’t comprehend their reluctance to buy stuff cheap.  Quite simply, I can’t resist the thrill of the hunt, and the joy of discovering a bargain.  For example, I’ve found Ralph Lauren sheets for $3, my sofa and loveseat for $100 and antiques for far less than eBay bids.  I rarely have to buy clothes for my kids at retail prices, and I’ve built a great library of children’s books.

In addition to saving a ton of money, I support the idea of [...]

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Rainy Day Craft Tutorial: Broken Umbrella to Indoor Parachute
Posted by Martha

Looking for a fun rainy day activity? Here’s an easy way to re-purpose a broken umbrella into a mini-parachute game.

This fun, eco-friendly kids craft project also allows you to sneak in a little education. What better way to illustrate the laws of gravity? Follow these simple instructions, and you’ll have a 5 foot mini-parachute that folds up for easy storage.

2013 012 001 274x300 Rainy Day Craft Tutorial: Broken Umbrella to Indoor Parachute

Supply List:

Broken umbrella – the larger the better.
Scissors
Optional:
Low temp glue gun or hand sewing needle and thread
Small piece of felt

I just happened to have a broken Ikea umbrella that was perfect for this craft. However, if you don’t have a broken umbrella, you can easily pick up a used umbrella at a thrift store. [...]

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“The Moment I Knew…” Photo Contest!
Posted by Kiddie Academy

CS121225 Photo Contest Bump web ad 300x250 The Moment I Knew... Photo Contest!

There is a moment in every parent’s life where she witnesses her child displaying the behavior she’s been so desperately trying to teach them, such as an act of kindness or patience or appreciation. All of these also happen to be the values Kiddie Academy teaches through our Character Education program. This “moment” is the foundation behind our official Kiddie Academy Facebook Photo Contest, called “The Moment I Knew…”

 

The contest, which begins on January 2 and ends on February 28, encourages our [...]

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Homework Can Be Manageable?
Posted by Erin

homework bin stocked watermark 291x300 Homework Can Be Manageable?

The summer is over and it’s back to school again. Is the opening song from Grease 2 playing in anyone else’s head? No? Okay, just me.

With a new school year comes homework. I’m determined not to end up in the fetal position as I did last year after the countless arguments and struggles with getting my child to complete the homework task. Nope, not this mama bear. I have a new strategy and found some tips on making homework manageable.

Check out the Kiddie Academy Homework Checklist for ideas on homework, including making a homework bin!

Homework downloadable list5 Homework Can Be Manageable?

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Parenting Essentials April Newsletter
Posted by Auntie Em

Parenting Essentials April 2012 150x150 Parenting Essentials April Newsletter

Check out our April newsletter!

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