How Parents Can Manage Free Summer Childcare Plus Teach Kids Accountability

Kids are rejoicing that "school's out for the summer" but parents who face three months without childcare may be singing a different tune. How do you juggle daycare if you can't afford a babysitter (which many work at home parents can't)? You think like a detective and ask who, why, where, when and what. Then based on your answers, you develop a plan for free and low-cost summer childcare.  How Parents Can Manage Free Summer Childcare, Teach Kids Accountability

Montessori Mom--at Home Preschool Science Learning Center

From 27 years in Montessori and special education, I've developed a learning center approach to parenting. From the time our kids were toddlers, I arranged their play area with learning stations. When I home schooled, I did the same with the school room. If you've got preschool age kids or are homeschooling, I highly recommend at-home learning centers. Here's how this Montessori mom set up a science learning center. Montessori Mom--at Home Preschool Science Learning Center 

Back to school: Online study aids and apps to motivate your kids

Back to school--three words kids hate and parents (let's admit it) look forward to. Too much unstructured summer vacation gets old (even for kids, but they won't admit it). But no parent looks forward to school homework battles. Got a "reluctant learner" (or in parent-speak--"lazy kid")? Here are free online study aids and calendar apps to crack the organizational whip, er., I mean to motivate students. The penny pincher in me loves that these apps cost nothing and save money on school supplies. There's even a financial planner app for kids. Read more at Back to school: Online study aids and apps to motivate your kids

Free Printable Back to School Organizers, Calendars, Planners, Family Activity Charts

It's that time again: back to school. Time for shopping, planning, organizing and getting the family back into fall routine. To help parents and children get back into shape for school, here are free printable chore charts, homework charts, activity planners, personal planners, schedules, calendars and family organizers. Click here!