Papa's Grow Sticks are a truly beautiful family heirloom in-the-making to record those little marks of children's physical growth that are so often painted over or left behind on a doorframe of a childhood home.

In response to the ongoing debate in my daughter's school district about whether it is appropriate to make Native American costumes and re-enact what is generally known as the First Thanksgiving, I decided to do some research on what is at the root of those who object to these traditions.

The National Park Service Junior Ranger Programs are a great way to enhance both the fun and educational experience for families visiting U.S. National Parks, Monuments and Historic Sites.

The iPhone/iPad app and website, MyFitnessPal (MyFitnessPal.com) offers a useful tool for mothers of young children to manage calorie intake for weight management. My husband and I have had success with this easy to use program.

A visit to a tea garden or tea parlor can be a great way to spend some quality mother-daughter time for children around age 5 and up.

Modeling good manners and courtesy is the most important way to teach our children these important life skills.

The Melody Harp is an absolutely fantastic gift for a young child who wants to instantly create recognizable music in the home. Great for children from about age 4-5 or up.

Melanie Ann White, my daughter's music teacher, offers outstanding music for children. If you have children, or know someone who does, consider giving them the gift of Melanie's music.

There are two discrete issues in every tantrum – the cause of the tantrum, and the problem of the tantrum itself. Before you (or your child) can deal with the former, you have to move away from the latter.

The first step of managing public tantrums is assessing location. Only then can parents focus on changing the communication and moving towards addressing the cause of the tantrum.