Parenting

Whether you're taking the kids to a warm weather destination for spring break this year or visiting a local indoor pool, letting little ones splash and play in the water is a great way to spend some family time together. It also is the perfect time to strengthen water safety skills before summer arrives in Northeast Ohio. Learn water safety essentials and tips for improving your child's swimming skills. ...

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In what seems like the blink of an eye, tots become teenagers. Though some may be unwilling, parents now have to embrace their child’s new stage of development — teen dating. However, it doesn’t have to be a nail-biting experience for mom and dad when approached with curiosity and candid conversation. ...

After kids finish their homework and have eaten dinner, are they allowed to use their smartphones? The phone etiquette rules for during school hours and even after school are fairly clear, but where should parents draw the line at nighttime? Learn some helpful tips for setting reasonable expectations when it comes to phone use at night. ...

Ryan Craig, captain and left wing for the Cleveland Monsters, his wife, Jaydee, and the couple's three children have had a very busy year. Along with his hockey teammates, Ryan celebrated the Monsters winning the American Hockey League’s Calder Cup Championship last June — and his family was along with him for the ride. Find out how the Craig family celebrated the win and why they love living in Northeast Ohio. ...

Today, homeschooling involves interactive, out-of-the box approaches to education. Homeschooling parents found this to be their favorite part of being directly involved with their children’s education. Here are some ideas that make perfect homeschool lessons, but can be great learning experiences for traditional students, too. ...

Many area organizations offer educational experiences specifically tailored to homeschoolers and their families. Get outside the "classroom" and gain some hands-on learning at these Greater Cleveland events that are geared toward homeschool students. ...

It’s not clear at what age kids begin to dream, but even toddlers may speak about having dreams — pleasant ones and scary ones. Nightmares aren’t completely preventable, but parents can take steps to set the stage for a peaceful night’s rest. That way, when nightmares do creep in, a little reassurance and comfort from you can quickly restore your child’s peace of mind. ...

There's no need to buy the latest flashy, expensive toy that's touted as “educational” for the little one in your life. Find out what researchers learned when they compared electronic toys, traditional toys, and books — and learn how you can stimulate a baby's language development using these items. ...