In theory, giving kids household chores seems like a winning scenario for everyone involved — kids gain responsibility and parents finally get some extra help with the dishes, the dog and the never-ending piles of laundry. Kids aren’t always willing participants in this well-conceived plan. If you could use a little more help around the house, read on for ways to get kids to pitch in, from the pokiest preschooler to the most petulant pre-teen. ...

Lead, a toxic metal found in the earth, is poisonous to humans and particularly harmful to children ages 6 and younger. Reducing your family’s risk for lead exposure and its harmful effects includes adding key items to your diet, examining and cleaning your environment, and proper testing and treatment. ...

The start of the school year is a time filled with excitement and a little bit of nervousness, especially if your child is starting at a new school. Middle school can be a big change for many students and families. Real students reveal how the transition really works. ...

Homework may not be your child’s favorite part of the school year, but it’s no secret that completing those after-school assignments can lead to academic success. To help the students in your household develop good study habits and tackle their homework with confidence, set up at least one well-stocked study station within your home. ...

Don't miss the final event in the Lawrence School Eton Explorers Summer Series, brought to you by Northeast Ohio Parent magazine. Enjoy kid-friendly activities such as oversized Connect Four, bouncing in inflatables, face painting, balloon twisting, meeting characters, enjoying frozen treats such as sno-cones, and more! ...

Festivals bring good food, great music and family-friendly fun. They also offer a wide variety of learning opportunities, from culture and arts to community history. We provide a listing of festivals throughout the month of August. No matter what your family wants to do, we have a festival for you. ...

Water not only helps to quench your child's thirst, but also is good for their teeth. Drinking water can help cut your family's risk of cavities and dental work — it keeps mouths clean, but also, the fluoride in water provides structurally stronger, more decay-resistant teeth. ...

Families can come to First & Main Development in Hudson for a free carnival event from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. brought to you by Northeast Ohio Parent magazine and sponsored by Akron Children's Hospital. The event includes free activities such as balloon twisting, crafts, ring toss, bowling, fish bowl, duck pond, bean bag toss, entertainment, special guests, sno-cones and chances to win prizes. ...

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Water is an important player in keeping your child healthy. Among its many duties, water aids digestion, helps prevent constipation, normalizes blood pressure and helps stabilize heartbeat and more. It also helps keep weight in check. ...