Articles Categorized: Parenting

Bicycle riding is fun, healthy, and a great way to be independent. But it is important to remember that a bicycle is not a toy; it’s a vehicle! Be cool – follow some basic safety tips when you ride. Safe Riding Tips Before using your bicycle, make sure it is ready to ride. You should always inspect your bike to make sure all parts are secure and working properly. Remember to: Wear a Properly Fitted Bicycle Helmet. Protect your brain, save your life. For more information see the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration publication “Easy Steps to Properly Fit a Bicycle ... More

Learning to ride a bike is a rite of passage. The thought alone conjures memories of Mom and Dad offering a supportive start with a gentle push on the seat; that unsure wobble from side to side; the shaky pedaling; the scraped knees and elbows; and of course, the feelings of happiness and pride when you finally succeed. But selecting a child's first bike starts way before the two-wheeler that he or she will ride up and down the street. From tricycles to balance bikes to trailer bikes, there are plenty of options for teaching young riders to put rubber ... More

Bigger Brain Size- Better Early Development In studies using rats, playing leads to bigger brains.  In human studies, playing enhances children's adjustment, language, and social and emotional stability by 33% to 67%. Smarter, Faster Learning and Better Memory In one study, children offered toys in infancy have higher IQ at age 3 and again at age 4.5. More Creative Free play enhances divergent thinking.  Pretend play requires imagining and encourages creativity. Better Communication, Vocabulary and Language Playing, especially pretend play, improves preschoolers' speaking and understanding. Greater Impulse Control and Emotion Regulation Self-regulation is essential for a child's academic as well ... More

If you think you’re busy, try being a kid. In addition to school, activities and family time, they’re learning how to take care of themselves and others in new ways every single day. One of those necessary life skills every child needs to learn is brushing his or her teeth. Helping your child get in the habit of brushing twice a day for two minutes is no small feat, but a little creativity can go a long way when it comes to his or her long-term dental health. Need to brush up on the basics of cleaning your child’s teeth? ... More

It is generally recommended that a child be seen by a dentist by the age of 1 or within 6 months after his or her first tooth comes in. What Happens at the First Dental Visit? The first dental visit is usually short and involves very little treatment. This visit gives your child an opportunity to meet the dentist in a non-threatening and friendly way. Some dentists may ask the parent to sit in the dental chair and hold their child during the exam. The parent may also be asked to wait in the reception area during part of the ... More