Planning for family mealtime can be tough, but it doesn’t have to be. Take the stress out of planning and preparing family meals with these tips and begin reaping the benefits of more time together around the dinner table.

Does your family need some new book ideas for your nightly reading sessions? Explore the wonders of books with your child this fall. From infants to teenagers, here are a few suggestions to purchase or pick up at your local library.

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.

All school-age children, from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade and older, can register for this event that includes topics such as how to become a superhero (in school or life), money management, basic learning and character building skills, bully-free zone, and more. Free school supplies to all kids who register and gift bags for parents, too, while supplies last.

Discover the rich cultural history of the site during an afternoon of guided tours, informative displays, demonstrations and hands-on Native American activities, pioneer games, and live music. Feel free to bring picnic blankets or lawn chairs.

Goldfish Swim School in Fairview Park and Warrensville Heights is celebrating back to school with a pep rally at the pool. This is a great way to keep summer going and have some end-of-the-week fun. Sport your school's apparel and gain free admission.

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.

Play is an important part of a child's physical, emotional and social development, yet many external factors can quickly become barriers to active play, including busy schedules, technology and the cost of sports equipment. Turn play into opportunities to get active with the following tips.

It's a teen takeover as Makayla writes the CLE Mama column for mom Sara Carnes — morning show co-host at 95.5 The Fish and Northeast Ohio Parent columnist. She provides valuable information to parents — from her perspective — about the benefits of teens having part-time jobs, along with great tips on how to support their decision and search.

From allergies to anxiety, many issues can interfere with academics, creating a need for special accommodations. A 504 plan can ensure your child’s equal access to education when they aren’t eligible for services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).