Magazine

According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, a family of four loses an average of $1,500 a year on wasted food. Whether your concern is for the environment or for the well-being of your wallet, here are some ideas to help you and your family reduce food waste. ...

When it comes to introducing solid foods to their babies, a growing number of parents are passing on purees and spoon feeding in favor of baby-led weaning. Learn more about the practice to determine if it's right for your family. ...

... ...

Cold weather is on its way, so now is a great time to swing into the autumn and winter seasons with some places for toddlers to elementary-age kids to learn and play. Check out our list of local spots. ...

While it’s understandable that your child might miss some school days, you want to make sure those sick days don’t turn into chronic absenteeism. If your child begins to miss multiple days of school, it’s important to consider why he or she doesn’t want to go. Are they truly sick, or is there another underlying reason? ...

While the constant glow of the screen might be harmful, in moderation, kids are engaging in skills they could use for the future. Parents can provide a variety of opportunities for play to help children use their minds in different ways. ...

Volunteering is a worthwhile family activity year-round. Right now, it provides a great opportunity to get into the holiday spirit and teach your kids the value of helping others. Find the cause your family will support with this list of volunteer opportunities. ...

... ...

We asked readers to nominate moms and dads who are going above and beyond — sometimes, despite challenges of their own — not just for their family, but for their community as a whole. Read their stories here. ...

When a family makes the decision to serve as foster or adoptive parents, there is a lot to consider in order to prepare for the addition of a young child or teenager. Agencies that support and assist families with this process share what parents — and other members of the family — can do to get ready before the child arrives home. ...