Time For Breakfast

They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day since it fuels your empty body with the necessary energy to get it all going. For kids headed off to a long day at daycare or school, breakfast can mean the difference between learning or inattention. As important as it is, there is little time in the morning for cooking. We often turn to a quick bowl of cereal so here's some criteria for picking out a healthy one. Copy down the numbers and take it with you the next time you shop and see what you can find.

August 2012 Art Activity

I am having fun reading The Happy Hippopotami by Bill Martin Jr. to my grandkids this week. Can you imagine hippos on the beach?



Texture Rubbings

The kids can make a wonderful picture out of texture rubbings. Use lightweight paper, such as copy paper. Cut a standard 8 1/2 x 11 sheet into fourths. Using crayons, lay the paper on any object with an interesting texture and rub away! You can use shades within a color family or choose lots of different colors. Layer each one with a piece of card stock. When you get a few finished, arrange them to make a large picture or wall hanging. Use objects from nature like tree bark, leaves or sea shells. Use kitchen tools such as strainers or slotted spoons. Don't forget to use chairs backs or plates with raised decorations. You will find textures everywhere. Have fun!

All About Insect Bites and Stings

Is summer driving you buggy? All joking aside, insects can cause you and the kids in your life lots of problems. Here is a informative article that gives you the facts about bites, stings, allergic reactions and repellents.

Timeout!

Do you use timeout as a displine tool? Lots of adults do. Here are some things to consider to use it effectively.

Have a Sweet But Healthy Breakfast

Does that sound impossible? I thought so too, but here are some great recipes for guilt free breakfasts for kids that have a real sweet tooth!

Is It Bad Behavior or Hyperactivity?

As a teacher, I was asked that question often by parents. This helpful article helps you identify the difference.

June 2012 Safety Recalls

Here's the list for June. Check it out.

Top 5 Healthy Habits For Children

Teaching healthy habits to children starts them down the road of independence. But which ones are the most important for them to learn and practice regularly? Check out this list.

Infant Sleep Positioners Pose Suffocation Risk

Parents and caregivers often opt for those adorable bedding items and sleep positioners for infants. After reading this article, you will change your mind.

Tips About Sunscreen

Read what this dermatologist has to say.

2012 Father's Day gifts

Here are two ideas for you and the kids to make some father's day gifts. Both are recipes. One is for great and easy cookies. The other is for home made finger paint which the kids can use to make a card or a painting. Choose one or both to make. The kids will have so much fun. BOTH RECIPES REQUIRE ADULT SUPERVISION SINCE YOU MUST USE THE STOVE.

Finger Paint:
I envelope of unflavored gelatin
cold water
1/2 cup cornstarch
4 Tbsp dishwashing liquid
food coloring clean jars

1-Stir gelatin into 1/3 cup of cold water. Stir well. Set aside.
2-Add cornstarch to 2 1/2 cups of cold water. Stir until dissolved. Simmer until it starts to thicken.
3-Remove pan from heat and stir in gelatin mixture and the dishwashing liquid.
4-Allow mixture to cool, then spoon it into jars.
5-Stir in a generous amount of food coloring.
6-Store at room temperature in airtight containers.

Amazing Cookies-makes 3 doz
1 cup sugar
1 cup corn syrup
1 jar of peanut butter (I prefer creamy but you choose)
6 cups of corn flakes
3 oz chocolate for melting

1-Combine sugar and cornstarch. Cook over medium-high heat. Stir until it reaches a full boil.
2-Stir in peanut butter and mix well.
3-Add cornflakes and mix well
4-Scoop out dough and form into 1-2 inch balls
5-Place on a parchment or wax paper lined cookie sheet.
6-Melt the chocolate for 30 seconds in the microwave. Stir until smooth
7-Drizzle the chocolate over the cookies.
8-Serve them to Dad with kisses and hugs

May 2012 Safety Recalls

Here's the list. Check it carefully and share it with friends and neighbors.