Julie asked recently:

"How do you teach a young child (6 year old) how to save his money for larger purchases instead of spending it at the dollar store every time he gets a buck?"

Here are some tips on the subject that the folks at DisneyFamilyFun sent me a while ago:

--Let’s Talk about Money: Conversations to Go: The Game That Questions Money, is a game offers a mix of nuts-and-bolts problems (“How much do you think it costs to have a dog for one year?”) and more philosophical inquiries (“Does money buy happiness? How long does it last?”)

--Members of the Bank of Mom: Keep a small notebook to record a running balance for each child’s allowance. Track deposits (allowance and birthday gifts) and deductions (expenses and purchases). The “Bank of Mom” will teach kids how to budget and be prepared for spending and saving in our cashless society.

--Raising Savvy Savers: Put the kids in charge of clipping coupons. As incentive, let them keep half of whatever money the family saves, whether it’s 50 cents on laundry detergent or 50 dollars on a theme-park admission. Kids will quickly becoming smart shoppers!

--The Value of a Dollar: Small change adds up fast in this quick game involving money and nice but no gambling. Players take turns rolling dice and taking coins from a pile in the middle of a table according to what they roll. As players amass money, they must trade in small coins for bigger ones; the first to collect one dollar wins.

--Go on an Imaginary Shopping Spree: Give the kids a handful of catalogs and a make-believe budget, and send off on an imaginary shopping spree. Finding a hundred ways to spend a hundred imaginary dollars is great practice in subtraction and budgeting.

--These free websites teach financial smarts through fun and games:

Funbrain.com: Virtual shoppers must act as their own cashiers in this change-making game. Correct math results in rewards for a pretend piggy bank! (funbrain.com/cashreg).

The Bureau of Engraving and Printing: Kids can try a funny-money, design-your-own-bill activity and a catch-a-counterfeit security game on a virtual visit to the money factory.

Themint.org: For bigger kids interested in bigger bucks. The site offers readings and quizzes on money habits, and for the parents, the Perfectcents newsletters share tips and activities.

Beyond Monopoly: Besides Monopoly, these five money games (thought for older kids) are winners in teaching dollars and sense:

PayDay:Players weigh the merits of borrowing and investing and even gets bills in their “mail” cards. Ages 8 and up. Winning Moves, $18.

Pit: This noisy, century-old card game requires players to corner the market on various commodities through boisterous trading. Ages 7 and up, Winning Moves, $10.

Ka-Ching!: A basic intro to the stock market – two players try to buy low and sell high in this fun, quick strategy game. Ages 10 and up, Gamewright, $15.

Acquire: Kids try to control the biggest hotel chains, all while learning terms such as “merger” and “majority shareholder.” Ages 10 and up, Avalon Hill, $30.

I'll add one more -- the Great Piggy Bank Adventure, a collaboration between Disney and T. Rowe Price, is a fun interactive way for kids to learn about money. It's designed for kids 8 to 14, but I think some 6-year-olds might be ready for it. KS.

(Photo courtesy of istockphoto.com)

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 6:37 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: The Monday Consult
        

Guest Dad Joe Burris takes on the eternal controversy over who has more influence on our kids -- parents or peers:

Recently, my two daughters and I took part in a daddy-daughter event in Washington, D.C., that was centered on the upcoming Disney movie, “The Princess and the Frog.” More than 500 people were present, and there were all types of festivities to make our daughters feel like princesses.

But what I remember most was that the event’s organizers had the fathers stand before our daughters and read a pledge to them. We vowed to keep them safe and secure, to be good listeners, to admit our mistakes and to help them grow as women capable of facing and tackling the challenges of life.

As we stood for the pledge, I quickly looked around the room at the hopeful eyes of scores of little girls, staring up at their fathers. When my 3-year-old daughter Onalenna decided to take time out from the moment to play on the floor, her 12-year-old sister Nyaniso made her stand up.

“Listen to what Daddy’s saying to us,” she said.

I thought about that moment this week when I came across a Time magazine interview entitled “Why Parents (Still) Don’t Matter.”

The interview centered on the 10th anniversary of the book, “The Nurture Assumption” by psychologist Judith Harris, who argued then, and now, that parents don’t have any long term affects on their children. She argued that the influence of peers has a much greater impact on kids than anything their parents can say or do.

Keep in mind, this year is also the 30th anniversary of a Time essay called “Wondering If Children Are Necessary.”

Giving both Harris and Time the benefit of the doubt, I fully believe that peer influence has a resounding effect on the type of adults our children grow up to be. I believe that at some stages of their lives (particularly adolescence), peers are arguably the greatest influence. And certainly, parents who fail to take an active role in their children’s lives won’t come close to having as strong an impact.

Yet I wonder: Did people who made such claims grow up as a homeless orphans? No parents, no surrogates who guided and nurtured as parents? No one who ever cared and sacrificed and taught right from wrong -- even when the lessons appeared to fall on deaf ears? No stable, nurturing home environment that helped foster a sense of security and made gaining a solid education (the kind that enables one to become a psychologist) possible?

I suppose that when these folks were unruly teens, and they got picked up by the cops, they called their BFFs to bail them out.

And I guess if I am looking for empirical evidence as to whether parents matter or children necessary, I’m probably spending too much time in thought -- and not enough time with my kids.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 12:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Father's Day Tuesday
        

Are you out there this Black Friday trying desperately to find the zhu zhu hamster?

If so, join the crowd. Reporter Jill Rosen tells us that every kid wants one.

Except, thankfully, for mine. Even after seeing Jill's story this morning, my son and daughter had not added the little pets to their long Christmas lists.

I always wonder what makes a certain toy that year's craze. And it's so interesting how crazy parents become in trying to fulfill their children's wishes, even when it's nearly impossible to do. What's that about?

(Photo by Baltimore Sun photographer Barbara Haddock Taylor)

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 10:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: School's Out
        

It's Sarah K.K., back with a Thanksgiving installment of Toddler Thursday ...

This week, for pretty obvious reasons, I've been reflecting on the things I'm thankful for, and moment by moment, the list has been growing. Here are some of the highlights:

-- I'm thankful for my amazing son, Isaac, whose adventures are often recounted here. He is my joy.

-- I'm thankful for getting the chance to see my husband be such a loving, caring, thoughtful and fun father and to have him as my partner in this thrilling challenge called parenthood.

-- I'm thankful for our parents and step-parents, who have given us so much love and support over the years and are all amazing grandparents. I just wish we didn't live so far away from all of them.

-- I'm thankful for all the little moments in Isaac's toddlerhood that make me stop and notice things and recapture my own sense of wonder. 

-- I'm thankful for my favorite sounds in the world: Isaac's hysterical laughter and his nascent attempts to say, "I love you."

-- I'm thankful for my fabulous moms' group, which has given me so much support and reassurance and many new friendships. It's been so fun watching the little ones grow from newborns to toddlers together; the coming years should bring even more of that joy.

-- I'm thankful for my circle of Internet friends, many of whom are also now parents, too, who have shared advice, support, laughter and tears for the past several years. 

-- I'm thankful for the caring teachers at Isaac's school, who provide him -- and us -- with comfort and knowledge and fun. 

That's just the start of the list of things that have made me feel so blessed this year, as a person and as a parent.

What are you thankful for?

Posted by Sarah Kickler Kelber at 8:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Toddler Thursday
        

This weekend, hopefully you're cocooning with kids and relatives. But once the turkey stupor wears off and you're at each other's throats ready for a change of scenery, here are some fun things to do:

Thursday, Nov. 26:

Are you kidding? Eat. Play board games. Nap. Watch "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving" at 8 p.m. on ABC.

Or, there are the YMCA's Turkey Trots in Belair and Towson. But hurry -- they start at 8 a.m. and 9 a.m., respectively.

Friday, Nov. 27:

Festival of Trees: The 20th annual Festival of Trees takes place at the state fairgrounds in Timonium, 2200 York Road, in the Cow Palace. Hours are Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for seniors and children 5-12; children under 5 are free. Call 443-923-7300 or go to festivaloftrees.kennedykrieger.org.

Around the World in 80 Days: Center Stage, 700 N. Calvert St., hopes to appeal to the kiddies in this co-production with Chicago's award-winning Lookingglass Theatre. Follow Phileas Fogg and see if he can make it around the world in 80 days. This show, which runs through Dec. 20, is recommended for ages 8 and older. This weekend, Friday and Saturday shows are at 8 p.m. Sunday shows are at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20-$55. Go to centerstage.org.

Saturday, Nov. 28:

"An American Tail": See the movie about a lost mouse free at 2 p.m. in Wheeler Auditorium at the main branch of the Enoch Pratt Free Library.

Miracle on 34th Street: The annual lighting of Hampden's Christmas street gets under way at 6 p.m. Festivities include a lighting countdown, after which visitors can stroll up and down 34th Street, between Keswick Road and Chestnut Avenue, and admire the over-the-top decorations that have become a local tradition. The lighting display takes place nightly through New Year's Eve. The event is free.

Phun with Physics: Kids 8-11 can learn about physics using ordinary items from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Anita C. Leight Estuary Center in Abingdon. $4.

Sunday, Nov. 29:

There are free kids' art events from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Walters Art Museum and at 2 p.m. at the Baltimore Museum of Art.

Stellaluna: King Cole Theatricals performs a musical version of the children's book at 3 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. at Smith Theatre, Howard Community College. $9 and $10.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 6:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Things to Do
        

This post sort of flies in the face of the fact that there is a shortage of pumpkin. We should be looking for other desserts. And it's true, at the Giant the other day, I saw just one little pumpkin pie in a sea of sweet potato pies.

There was a shelf of canned pumpkin, and I have to admit I grabbed a can. Even though I didn't necessarily need it. Just in case.

Is that wrong?

Anyway, since it's Dinner Together day on the eve of the biggest dinner we all usually have together each year, and we're clearly all going to try to eat pumpkin, I thought I'd leave you with some pumpkin recipes that don't even need the oven. That kids can even help with, which might possibly keep them from trashing the living room you just cleaned up for guests.

This peerless pumpkin pie from the Parenthood.com community sounds good, and is braces-friendly.

Libby's has a super-quick pumpkin pudding.

Or how about no-bake cheesecake pumpkin pie?

And if they looove chocolate with their pumpkin, here's something I haven't seen much of -- a vegan chocolate pumpkin pie.

(Associated Press photo)

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 6:39 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Dinner Together, Food and Recipes
        

Speaking of crib recalls and hazardous strollers...

Maryland Public Interest Research Group (known as Maryland PIRG) today released its annual report on "Trouble in Toyland" to keep you from picking up hazardous toys when you venture out for holiday shopping this Black Friday and beyond.

The worst dangers to look for, the group says, are choking hazards, noise, and toxins such as lead and phthalates. The group is also warning consumers about small magnets, sometimes in toys where you might not expect them, that if swallowed can cause serious infections or death in children because the magnets attract even in the body.

U.S. PIRG has a toy safety Web site designed for smart phone use with more tips on safe toy shopping. Here's the group's list of unsafe toys for 2009.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 12:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Child Safety
        

As the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announces yet another recall of a baby product -- this one targeting more than 2.1 million cribs made by Stork Craft with drop sides -- I'm starting to think it's a miracle my kids made it through their infancy and toddlerhood unscathed.

In an interview today, the chairman of the commission said she recommends against using any drop-side crib. Drop sides, which allow a parent to more easily lift a child out of a crib, can become detached, causing danger for the baby. And they often aren't installed properly.

Our kids slept in what we thought was a sturdy, well-made drop-side crib for years. They also rode around in a double Maclaren stroller -- the kind recalled just a couple of weeks ago.

I'm starting to think I was a bad mommy somehow for buying these things.

(Associated Press photo)

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 8:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Babies and Toddlers
        

It's Tween Tuesday! Liz Atwood talks Thanksgiving: 

Thankgsiving is upon us, and no matter how much we’d like our gatherings to look like something from a Norman Rockwell painting, they rarely do.

Something usually goes wrong with at least one of the dishes on the menu. (For me, it’s usually the gravy that turns out too thin, too thick or too greasy, despite many years of trying).

Many times there are issues that can arise in family relationships— crazy aunts and fuming inlaws or cranky grandparents. And let’s not forget the unpredictable tween.

Lapses in manners that might have been forgiven when they were younger are now not so cute or understandable. And behavior that might have been tolerated at the children's table is not acceptable when they move to the grown-up table.

Although I try to re-inforce good table manners every day, when the holidays come around, I feel a need to remind my boys to remember to say “Please” and “Thank you,” to chew with their mouths closed and swallow any complaints about the food. When we sit down to eat with relatives we rarely see, I’m always on edge, thinking my parenting skills are on display, not only with what I say and do, but in how my children act.

This Thursday, we will be dining with just close family members, so I don’t have as much to worry about. But Christmas is just around the corner and that will bring together a much bigger crowd. I think I’ll use this week as a practice run up to the big holiday.

What’s your strategy for getting your kids ready for company? Does your tween dine at the children's table, or with the grown-ups?

Posted by Liz Atwood at 6:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

We've taken a vacation from watching this train wreck of a show, but we had to come back to witness the finale.

The show opens with Kate saying she "only saw the good" in doing a reality show with her kids. "This is a very bittersweet goodbye."

And here's Jon, in a trashy t-shirt, saying "I gotta stop being a kid."

Kate S.: "Couldn't he dress up for this?"

John: "Hey, that's one of his good t-shirts."

He says living in New York is great, because "it's like I'm working again."

Kate S.: "Except he's....not."

Kate up and says she doesn't envision Jon and his girlfriend Hailey having a future.

Jon is preparing a lemonade stand with the kids to raise money for the fire company. Cara and Mady are acting up, but the crowning blow is when one of them says they like doing things better with Mommy. Jon replies that their signs are "going in the trash can."

Kate S.: "Wow!"

John: "We're going to sell lemonade and like it, darn it!"

John: "You know what I'm really upset about? No more Sonic commercials."

After a few groupies come to ogle Jon, nobody's really buying lemonade. So the kids entertain themselves by watching the ladder truck in action.

John: "So what's with the 'Lies, Lies, Lies,' shirt he's wearing? Is he trying to make a statement?"

John: "They keep saying the same things again and again."

The kids are going on a walk with Kate, and all complaining loudly. But all is well when a gentleman friend appears with a truck full of hay.

More screaming children.

John: "Too much reality!"

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 9:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: John & Kate Plus 2 watch Jon & Kate Plus 8
        

On her Christmas list, my daughter has requested "the truth."

Should we give it to her?

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 12:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
        

A few weeks ago, Christina asked about how to handle controlling and overbearing parent volunteers. I put the question to Patrice Beverly, outreach manager for Volunteer Maryland, an Americorps program of the governor's office which works with many volunteers and nonprofits across the state.

Here's her reply:

First, congratulations to parent volunteers! What would our schools do
without them? As a parent, volunteering can be a great way to meet
other parents and connect with your children. Parent volunteers are
obviously interested in making a positive difference in their child's
life, so it can be challenging when you come across difficult
volunteers. While there isn't really any way to change someone's
behavior in a peer volunteer relationship, there are a few things that
you can do when met with this barrier to volunteering.

First, is there a volunteer coordinator within the school? If so,
connect with them! A volunteer coordinator is there to hear your
concerns and to help you find the best ways to volunteer within the
school community. Also, if a volunteer is negatively impacting the
work, a volunteer coordinator needs to hear that so s/he can coach that
volunteer, or reassign her to duties that may better fit her motivation
and passion.

Everyone has a motivation for volunteering, and when working with a
group it can get tricky to navigate those. In a classroom setting it
can pose a even bigger concern as there are students involved. Knowing
your own motivation is key here. If you are really interested in
working with students and enjoy interaction perhaps you can do
one-on-one tutoring, or become a guest reader. If you are all about the
tasks, maybe some help is needed with project preparation. If you are
interested in the long-term goals of the school, maybe a committee is
the right place for you. Volunteering is great! Being involved in your
child's school is fantastic! Knowing what fits your personality, and
talents will be a better help to teachers and administrators alike.
Consequently you may tap into a great network of other volunteers whose
motivation is similar to yours.

There's such value in volunteering. Independent Sector values a
volunteer's hour as worth $20.25 to the organization you volunteer with,
but there's value in what you gain from volunteering, too. In addition
to being a great role model and feeling good about engaging in your
children's lives, you know that your contribution is making a difference
to the school and community beyond the immediate, intangible, impact.
Don't let a parent-zilla sour you on being involved in your kids school.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 6:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: The Monday Consult
        

"New Moon," the latest movie in the "Twilight" series, is out. And despite some negative reviews, teenage girls are expected to flock to it this weekend.

This story from the Vancouver Sun says a study of "Twilight" fans shows that girls are actually attracted to the series because it celebrates a "traditional romance" in which the principal characters don't have sex.

Kristen Stewart, who plays Bella, feels her character is a good example for girls.

Do you?

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 2:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)
Categories: Movies
        

Sarah K.K. here, back with another installment of Toddler Thursday: 

That's how the old saw goes, right? "You've got to walk before you can run"? Someone forgot to tell toddlers.

When my son first started to walk (right around his 1st birthday), he was understandably pretty unsteady. They call walking a controlled state of falling, and when you observe a child learning the skill, you can definitely see that. Unfortunately, far before his sense of balance was ready, he turned into a wannabe speed demon, rushing around faster than his little legs (or his growing brain) could take him.

That began the bruised-forehead stage of his life, and it hasn't ended yet. A couple of weeks after those first unsteady steps, I got a call from daycare. Isaac had been running on the playground, totally misjudged the blacktop and face-planted. He scraped his forehead and his nose, and when I went to pick him up, they even warned me before I saw him, telling me that he had hardly cried. I, however, almost did when I got my first glimpse of his injuries, even though he was beaming at me at the time.

That healed, and since then, it's been a constant battle to keep him from bonking his head when he's rushing around. We don't always succeed, so there's been a bit of purple, green or yellow on his forehead pretty often since then.

My friends in moms' group were talking about this right around when everyone turned 1, and what a relief it was to discover that we weren't the only ones who couldn't stay a step ahead. That asuages the Mommy Guilt a little.

We also laughed when we noted that when the kids get tired, their balance seems to be one of the first things to go. As bedtime approaches, it sometimes looks like they've been throwing back a few too many at Happy Hour.

Now, at almost 17 months, he's much steadier on his feet, most of the time. But his confidence has increased, too, and so has his curiosity. So now the little daredevil has yet another bruise, just another piece of evidence that he's growing up and trying new things, and sometimes running into walls.

We'll see what the next step brings.

(Photo by me)

Posted by Sarah Kickler Kelber at 5:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Toddler Thursday
        

Susan Reimer's Garden Variety blog has the news of a pumpkin shortage that may affect our Thanksgiving tables. And this just after my daughter declared pumpkin pie a "must-have" at our meal.

Fortunately, I think we have a big can of Libby's squirreled away in the pantry.

And there's a kids' breakfast table crisis looming -- apparently there's a big shortage of Eggo waffles.

This doesn't affect our family, per se. (Now if there was a shortage of Special K or Fiber One peanut butter granola bars, we'd be in trouble.) But kids get so attached to routine, it might be a problem for yours.

I'd look on it as an opportunity to make some homemade waffles. Or at least some pancakes.

(Associated Press photo/Phil Coale))

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 10:49 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Food and Recipes
        

Santa's coming to Harborplace this Saturday at 4:30 p.m., with musical performances to welcome him. Here are some other family events slated for the weekend.

Thursday, Nov. 19:

Thanksgiving Craft: Make a turkey day craft at 4 p.m. at the Govans branch of the Enoch Pratt Free Library. For ages 3-12.

Family Game Night: Play your favorite board and card games with the Games Club of Maryland at 6 p.m. at the Pikesville branch of the Baltimore County Public Library. For all ages; kids under 6 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required; call 410-887-1234.

Anime Club: Teens can talk, draw and write about manga and anime from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Mountain Road branch of the Anne Arundel County Public Library.

Friday, Nov. 20:

Uncle Pete with Kids:Rainbow Theatre hosts a 10 a.m. performance of interactive children's music. Tickets are $5 in advance; $6 at the door. Call 410-730-3987.

Tot Shabbat The Jewish Museum of Maryland hosts a Tot Shabbat from 10:45- 11:15 a.m. for ages 6 months to 5 years; kids must be accompanied by an adult. 410-542-4900 ext. 347, www.jcc.org.

Saturday, Nov. 21:

“City Blocks”: As part of Santa's arrival at Harborplace, vote for your favorite structure built from Tyco blocks by teams of local architects, design professionals and grade school students on the second floor of the Light Street Pavilion. Awards announced at 3:45 p.m. There will be a play area where kids can make their own block creations.

Box Turtle Art: Use printmaking to create a turtle work of art, with stories and snacks, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Irvine Nature Center. $10 members, $18 non-members. For ages 4-8.

Kinderman: John Taylor brings his interactive family-friendly show to the Chesapeake Arts Center, 194 Hammonds Lane in Brooklyn Park, from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Kinderman combines original chants, story songs and audience participation in his crowd-pleasing shows. Tickets are $5 for children and $10 for adults. Go to chesapeakearts.org.

Open Hearth Cooking: A Thanksgiving open house at the Havre de Grace Maritime Museum features demonstrations of cooking over an open hearth from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., with children's activities, food samples and recipes. $3.50 for adults and older children; members and kids under 8, free.

Christmas Bazaar: Shop for gently used children's toys and books, along with other holiday items, from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at St. David's Church, 4700 Roland Ave. Kids' activities, refreshments, and a visit from Santa. For more information, call 410-467-0476.

Adrenaline Comedy: Brian Rudo, a Baltimore-based entertainer, will perform a 90-minute show to benefit the Franklin High School wrestling program at the high school's auditorium, 12000 Reisterstown Road in Reisterstown. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; show at 7 p.m. $10.

Heroes in Hackerman: Heroes are the theme all month of free drop-in activities from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at the Walters Art Museum.

Sunday, Nov. 22:

"The Jungle Book": Magik Theatre on Tour presents the children's play at 3 p.m. at the Gordon Center for Performing Arts. $10 adults and older children; $12 for adults on show day; $7 for children under 10. Appropriate for kids ages 5-10.

Free Family Sundays: Today's theme for family activities at the Baltimore Museum of Art is "Painted Portraits," part of "A Month With Matisse." Starts at 2 p.m.

(Photo of a previous Harborplace Santa by Baltimore Sun photographer Gene Sweeney)

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 6:39 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Things to Do
        

Today, Nov. 18, is apparently Mickey Mouse's 81st birthday. He looks pretty good for his age.

Here are ideas on how to give a Mickey birthday party. Here are some Mickey and friends coloring pages. And here are directions on how to make Mickey Mouse pancakes, which should be pretty easy.

(Photo courtesy of Disney Enterprises, Inc.)

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 11:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Things to Do
        

Gather round, boys and girls. It's story time!

Once upon a time, in a brick house in a Northeastern city, a family sat down to eat dinner all together. While the boy and the girl of the house did their homework without complaint, sitting side by side at the dining room table, their mother and father worked together in the kitchen on a healthful, colorful, tasty meal.

The meal took full advantage of farmer's market produce. There was roasted squash with a savory mix of cancer-fighting kale, apples and onion, with a bit of bacon added for crunch. It was quick to make and smelled wonderful.

The squash halves were so beautiful as they arrived at the table that the children practically swooned with delight. They put their immaculately done homework into their folders, washed their hands, and arrived back at their places without anyone having to call them a second time for dinner. They ate every bite of their squash and greens and made sure to tell their parents just how delicious it was.

Sadly, the recipe that follows is the only true part of our story...

I made it for myself one day for lunch. But in my dreams, one day my children will love it.

Acorn Squash Stuffed with Apples, Kale and Bacon
Serves 4

2 large acorn squash (about 1 pound each)

2 tablespoons butter

1/2 red onion, chopped

1 large apple, cored and copped

1 bunch kale, about 8-10 ounces, washed, stemmed and roughly chopped

4 slices bacon

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Coat a baking sheet with cooking spray. Split each squash in half and scrape out the seeds with a serrated spoon. (Reserve seeds for toasting later, if you like.)

Rub the inside of each squash half with butter. Place squash face down on the baking sheet. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until squash is tender but still holds its shape.

In the meantime, cook the bacon over medium heat. When bacon is crisp, remove it from the pan and set on paper towels. Drain all but 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat. Return the pan to the burner, turn heat to medium low, and add the apples and onions. Saute in the rendered fat until softened. Add the kale and saute until wilted. Remove from heat, crumble the bacon into the mixture, and toss until well mixed.

When the squash is ready, put half a squash on each plate, cut side up. Stuff the opening with the kale mixture and serve.

Note: Want to make this vegetarian? Saute the apples, onions and kale in butter, and add walnuts instead of bacon for the crunch.

Per serving: 239 calories, 12 grams fat, 6 grams protein, 6 grams saturated fat, 31 grams carbohydrate, 8 grams fiber, 25 milligrams cholesterol, 174 milligrams sodium. Analysis by registered dietitian Jodie Shield.

(Photo and recipe by me)

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 6:49 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

Liz Atwood is back with Tween Tuesday: 

These shorter late-autumn days are a headache when it comes to making sure my energetic sons get the exercise they need. By the time they get home from school, they have only an hour or so to play outside before it gets dark.

They often try to bring their games inside. I have to constantly tell them not to throw the football in the house and I’m tired of coming home each evening to find the livingroom furniture rearranged to make room for their ad hoc soccer matches. I’ve already lost one vase due to an errant kick. The older boy tried to tape it back together with packing tape, but the younger brother snitched on him and I soon found out.

Some parents are discovering that yoga is good exercise for kids, CNN reports. I’m looking forward to basketball season to help my kids work through their energy. Do you have other solutions?

Photo: Megan O'Malley, an eighth grader at Bonnie Branch Middle School introduces students to the yoga position, prayer mudra, during Wellness Day at Bonnie Branch Middle School last year.

Baltimore Sun photo courtesy of Shannon Lee Zirkle.

Posted by Liz Atwood at 6:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Teens
        

This is American Education Week, a week parents and grandparents are invited to observe children in action in the classroom. Are you going?

I've attended several years, and though I stayed only about an hour each time, I found it helpful to watch the teachers in action. I got insight into their methodology, especially in reading, and even started using some of the same language ("Say it fast!" I'd say, moving my finger across a word from left to right as the teachers did) when I helped my kids at home.

I'm not sure I will make it this year, and I am feeling guilty. I think it's important to show up regularly at school -- my husband and I were both there last week, making separate presentations. But having used some work time for that, now I'm not sure I can break free again so soon.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 12:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: School's In
        

PMom e-mailed me this question for the Monday Consult:

"I have a 3 yr old daughter who doesn't want to wear clothes with full sleeves in fall or different clothes. We have tried giving her candy, have taken her sleeveless outside. It's (an) everyday struggle to get her clothed."...

Local parenting coach Molly Brown Koch, who has advised us before on sibling wrestling matches, sent this answer:

"Some children simply do not adapt to change as quickly as we'd like them to. Sometimes it's just a matter of timing and they need some help in accepting "change" of any kind. So introducing new foods, new books, new toys might help her learn to adapt to all things new.

"There's also no way to know what her clothes mean to her. Is it a security issue? Then it helps to reassure her of her place in the family. Has there been a change in the family, a loss, moving away, new relatives, etc. Does she need comforting? Does she have difficulty making little decisions (what to eat, what to play with, etc.)? Then she may need more opportunities to make little decisions for her life rather than having someone make the decisions for her.

"But one thing is clear: taking her favorite clothes away, or insisting she wear other clothes, may backfire and make the clothes more important (and precious) than before. And finally, laying out different outfits and having her decide which one she'd like to try one day might take the pressure off her to 'change immediately.' Many children tend to cling to favorite clothes. Eventually they all outgrow it."

Photo: Getty Images

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 6:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: The Monday Consult
        

Guest Dad Joe Burris writes about a less-than-shining example for his sports-loving daughter:

When my 12-year-old daughter Nyaniso recently asked permission to play girls ice hockey, she was surprised at how readily I approved. That wasn’t the case among some other parents, she said. Yet while I did have some concerns about the sport’s physical nature, I could see her passion and interest and decided to allow her to give it a try.

“Just remember to protect yourself should you get checked,” I said.

“What does it mean to get checked?”

“You’ll find out soon enough.”

I’ve thought back to that moment often recently in wake of the controversy surrounding University of New Mexico soccer player Elizabeth Lambert, who has been suspended for rough play during a recent tournament game between New Mexico and Brigham Young.

Among Lambert’s most violent actions that day was grabbing an opposing player by the pony tail and pulling her to the ground with a force that could have caused a whiplash.

Taped footage of the incident has drawn millions of hits on video-sharing Web sites, featured on ABC’s Good Morning America and ESPN’s SportsCenter. It has been the talk of chat rooms and message boards everywhere.

One of the concerns I have about coverage of the Lambert incident is that it is by far the most attention given to a women’s team sport in a long, long time. In the absence of it, few of us would know -- and even fewer would care -- about Lambert or either team involved.

And that means that for plenty of young girls interested in playing sports, this might have been the first time they’ve seen women’s soccer in the mainstream media.

Imagine trying to get your son interested in playing baseball, and the first game he watches on television is Game 3 of the 2003 American League Championship Series, where the two teams staged one of Major League Baseball’s ugliest brawls ever.

What Lambert did on the field that day was despicable (she has since apologized) regardless of gender. The same could be said for the recent actions of University of Florida football player Brandon Spikes, who was caught trying to gouge the eyes of an opposing player during Florida’s contest against the University of Georgia.

The difference is that the Spikes incident barely stands out amid the plethora to time devoted to college football. The same goes for the 2003 ALCS with baseball coverage. Lambert’s incident stands alone.

I hope that there are enough girls playing sports -- particularly soccer -- to know that most have a physical side, and that the Lambert incident was an aberration.

They also should know that unless another player allows her emotions to get the best of her, women’s soccer probably won’t garner more national attention any time soon.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 10:24 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Father's Day Tuesday, Sports
        

Sarah K.K. here with the next installment of Toddler Thursday!

I mentioned a couple of weeks ago that my toddler son, Isaac, was just starting to imitate our intonation now and then. In the past couple of weeks, but especially the past few days, he's taken it to a whole new level. He's babbling all the time, and while most of the time, it's nonsensical, he's learning words and sounds like crazy. The cat says "mao," and "milk," "go" and "whee" are in the repertoire now.

He's a sponge!

But the big news of the week was that night before last, he said, "I love you." Well, it kind of sounded like, "I love the boo," but we'll take it. I, sadly, was on the phone instead of in person, but my husband got it on video, and I'm thrilled I got to hear it in real-time, too.

Sure, right now, it's just a repeating of sounds -- he apparently wandered around his class saying it again and again yesterday. But I know the meaning will sink in, too. No matter what, that was a moment for the highlights reel of my life.

Posted by Sarah Kickler Kelber at 12:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Toddler Thursday
        

"Polar Express" opens for the holiday season this weekend at the National Aquarium.

Thursday, Nov. 12:

Who Am I? Where Did I Come From?Learn about family history from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Harford County Public Library in Aberdeen. For grades 1-4. Reservation required.

Skills, Snacks & Yack Yack Yack Teens 16 and up can learn a handicraft "from yesteryear" from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Oregon Ridge Nature Center. $3. Reservation required.

Friday, Nov. 13:

Teen Driving Program: Howard County police are offering a "collision avoidance program" to prepare teen drivers for various road hazards and driving conditions. There will be a four-hour classroom session and an eight-hour practical lesson for behind-the-wheel experience. TThere will be exercises in evasive maneuvers, emergency braking, cornering, backing, skid recovery, steering, acceleration and more. Participants must have a driver’s license and bring a car to drive. The class will be held from 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and 8 a.m.- 4 p.m. Saturday at the James N. Robey Public Safety Training Center, 2200 Scott Wheeler Drive, Marriottsville. $195. For more information or to sign up, call 410-313-3750.

Maryland Irish Festival: Grab a pint of Guinness, order up some shepherd's pie and say “slainte” to this celebration of Irish culture and tradition. The festival includes music and dance, traditional fare and vendors. It takes place at the Timonium Fairgrounds, 2200 York Road, from 6 to 11 p.m. Friday, noon to 11 p.m. Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. Go to irishfestival.com.

Wizard of Oz: Travel down the Yellow Brick Road one more time. This version of Dorothy and Toto's journey is a full stage production with costumes, lighting and classic songs such as “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” at the Lyric Opera House, 140 W. Mount Royal Ave., at 8 p.m. The event also runs Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m. and Sunday at 1 p.m. Go to lyricoperahouse.com.

Saturday, Nov. 14:

Tree of Thanks Learn how early Americans and Native Americans lived off the land from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Irvine Nature Center. There will be a reading of “The Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein, and kids can make a “Tree of
Thanks” to take home. Fee: $6 members, $10 non-members. Ages 5 and up.

Dino DayThe Maryland Science Center offers dinosaur activities from noon to 4 p.m., including the "Reptile Alive!" show. Free with admission.

"Polar Express" at the National Aquarium:The 4-D Immersion theater at the aquarium will show the holiday movie daily at various times between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Tickets to the theater are an extra $4 to the Aquarium’s admission price.

Santa Claus visits White Marsh Mall:The jolly old elf will be accompanied by Mrs. Claus and musical guests at the mall from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 15:

A Month with Matisse: The theme of this week's Free Family Sunday at the Baltimore Museum of Art is "Pattern Power." 2- 4 p.m.

The Puppet Co. Playhouse Presents Toyland - Bad ol' Mr. Barnaby (aka "the crooked man") is up to no good, and it's up to Mother Goose, Little Bo Peep and Tom the Piper's son to sing their way to a happy ending. This adaptation of Victor Herbert's musical fantasy includes such familiar pieces as "Toyland" and "March of the Toys," with costum The Puppet Co. Playhouse, 11:30 a.m., Ages: PreK- 10, Reservation required. Tickets Reqd. 301-634-

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 6:44 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Things to Do
        

For Dinner Together day, I thought we'd talk about some Sesame Street food, in honor of the big 40th anniversary this week.

Since there was so much talk here last week about Cookie Monster's eating habits, here's a recipe I printed in the early days of the blog for a stuffed baked potato. It's from the Sesame Street themed book "C is for Cooking."

This nutritionist suggested a recipe for "Sesame Noodles" for a Sesame Street-themed birthday party.

Cookie Monster’s ‘Me-Stuffed’ Potatoes

Serves 4

4 medium Idaho or russet potatoes (about 2 pounds)

½ cup low-fat plain yogurt

2 tablespoons butter, softened

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 cup (4 ounces) shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, or a combination (divided use)

3 slices crisp cooked turkey bacon, crumbled

Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Scrub potatoes and pierce in one or two places with the tip of a knife. Bake the potatoes directly on the oven rack until tender, about 1 hour.

In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, butter and oil. Stir in ¾ cup of the cheese and the bacon.

When cool enough to handle, slice the top off each potato. Carefully scoop out the potato flesh and add to the bowl with the cheese mixture, leaving a ¼-inch potato shell intact. Place the potato shells in a baking dish. Stir the potatoes and cheese mixture until well-mixed. Use a large spoon to stuff the potato mixture back into the potato shells. Sprinkle evenly with remaining cheese.

Bake the stuffed potatoes in a medium baking dish until heated through, about 15 minutes.

--From Sesame Street’s “C is for Cooking”

Per serving: 435 calories, 16 grams protein, 23 grams fat, 12 grams saturated fat, 40 grams carbohydrate, 4 grams fiber, 480 milligrams sodium, 66 milligrams cholesterol. Analysis by registered dietitian Jodie Shield.

Photo by me

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 9:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Food and Recipes
        

Liz Atwood writes about stress this Tween Tuesday: 

The economy is still in the doldrums and the holidays are approaching. It’s the perfect formula  for stress. And the kids are not immune.

For the first time the American Psychological Association's annual stress survey included kids 8 to 17, and it found that kids are more worried than their parents think they are.

Nearly half (45 percent) of teens ages 13-17 said that they worried more this year, but only 28 percent of parents think their teen’s stress increased. While a quarter (26 percent) of tweens ages 8-12 said they worried more this year, only 17 percent of parents believed their tween’s stress had increased.

Similarly, only 2-5 percent of parents rate their child’s stress as extreme (an 8, 9 or 10 on a 10-point scale) when 14 percent of tweens and 28 percent of teens say they worry a lot or a great deal.

“It’s clear that parents do not fully appreciate the impact that stress is having on their kids,” says Dr. Mary Alvord, public education director for the Maryland Psychological Association in a press release. “What we’re seeing with stress is in line with existing research about parents’ perception of their kids’ engagement in risky behaviors. Parents often underreport drug use, depression and sexual activity in their children. Now it appears the same may be true for stress.”

Other findings in the recent study include:

• Nearly 30 percent of youth worried about their family having enough money
• 44 percent of children report feeling worried about doing well in school 
• 17 percent of children report concerns related to getting into a college
•  36 percent of children report stress-related headaches
•  44 percent of children reported stress-related sleep difficulties

The Maryland Psychological Association reminds parents to make time to listen to children’s concerns and to be aware of any changes in behavior. There may be a lot more going on inside their heads than we think.

I know my stress level has increased as I wrestle with job demands and the kids' activities. And I have no doubt the kids are feeling it.

What about yours?

Posted by Liz Atwood at 6:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Teens
        

Maclaren, which makes trendy, beautiful and pricey baby strollers, has announced a massive recall of all its umbrella strollers sold in the U.S..

According to a statement on the company's web site, the affected models "include Volo, Triumph, Quest Sport, Quest Mod, Techno XT, Techno XLR, Twin Triumph, Twin Techno and Easy Traveller." Strollers sold as far back as 1999 are being recalled because children's fingers have been injured -- in some cases, the fingertips cut off -- by the stroller hinges.

The company is reportedly providing a repair kit for stroller owners.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 11:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Babies and Toddlers
        

While I wait for experts to answer some questions for the Monday Consult, today's Consult is on a question lots of folks have around this time of year. How can my family make the holidays more meaningful by helping someone else?

The folks at Volunteerspot.com, a web site that organizes volunteers, sent these ideas. They all sound pretty easy to do -- a must during this busy season.

--Stuff new, warm socks with water bottles and granola bars to give to the homeless.

--Gather gently used children’s books and DVDs for kids in the hospital or military families.

--Rake leaves or shovel snow for an elderly neighbor.

--Decorate reusable grocery bags for the food pantry (deliver them full, even better).

--Sign up the whole family to participate in a fun-run or 5K for a cause you care about.

--Pick up litter and scrub graffiti at your local park.

--Host a hot chocolate or cider stand and donate the proceeds to a local charity.

If you have other projects to suggest, please add them in the comments.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 6:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: The Monday Consult
        

The other day, in a speech about his administration's education priorities, President Barack Obama revealed a very personal experience.

His daughter, Malia, had come home with a disappointing grade of 73 percent on a science test.

According to the president, the two had a conversation about what she could do better, and the moral of the story is that hard work pays off. Malia reportedly scored 95 percent on the next test.

I was driving to work when I heard this story on the radio, and I have to admit it sort of stopped me in my tracks. With all the talk about privacy for presidential kids, this struck me as a potentially very sensitive matter for Malia. What child wants the world to know she got a bad grade?

On the other hand, the story was inspirational. A lot of parents will probably cite it during nightly homework struggles with their own kids.

According to this piece on Politics Daily, the president departed from his planned text to tell Malia's story.

He may very well have asked her permission, to be sure. But as parents, what do you think about the president sharing his daughter's grades?

(Associated Press photo)

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 1:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (9)
Categories: School's In
        

Christina wins the "Waddle" book for her question about parent volunteering. Congratulations! And look for an answer to the question soon on Mondays.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 11:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: The Monday Consult
        

Guest Dad Joe Burris writes today about how for a family guy, the toilet inevitably becomes "the potty":

A couple of weeks ago, my wife and I were visiting a department store when she decided to try on a garment.

“Okay,” I said, while walking out of the store, “I got to go to the potty.”

I stood momentarily red faced, wondering if any of the other customers in the store had heard me.

Potty -- now there’s a word you rarely hear from anyone who doesn’t have kids. I scarcely uttered it before we had any. Now, in nearly 13 years of parenting, it has become one of the most used in my vocabulary.

I have had some of the most memorable experiences taking my kids to the potty. I’ve learned that there are many filling stations just off Interstate 95 in North Carolina that have some of the most disgusting looking bathrooms I’ve ever seen. But when your kid’s got to go, you’ve got to stop.

I still recall the first time I took my older daughter Nyaniso (now 12) to a crowded men’s room. And I remember taking my younger Onalenna (now 3) to an empty ladies’ room; the receptionist at the pediatrician’s office gave me the ladies’ key, and it was too late to return for the other.

A while back, Onalenna struggled with me closing myself off from her and the rest of the world when I went to the bathroom.

“Daddy, what are you doing in there?”

“I’m going potty, Sweetie.”

“Can I come in with you?”

“Er, are you sure about that?”

Unbeknownst to me, Onalenna often observed my bathroom traits. And now when she goes, she takes reading materials with her. Most are books that we’ve read to her at nighttime; she’s heard them so often that she now recites them. Sometimes she takes magazines or other periodicals.

The thing is, the bathroom has become, for her, best reading room outside of the local library. She’ll go in and sit and sit and sit and sit and sit.

At times, you would think she’s thumbing through the Christmas edition of “War and Peace.”

“Sweetie, what are you doing in there?”

“I’m reading on the potty.”

Before we had kids, I worried about potty training, having heard of trying accounts from friends. As it turns out, both of our children transitioned well from diapers. Yet both have had their share of difficult moments during potty time, and it is amazing how much they recall.

Last year, while we were seated in a doctor’s office, Onalenna walked over to a baby crying frantically nearby.

“Aww, poor baby,” she said. “Are you constipated?”

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 6:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Father's Day Tuesday
        

Today it's Cookie Monster who's getting all the attention on the Google Doodle as part of the big Sesame Street 40th anniversary celebration.

This had me wondering: With all the focus on the problem of childhood obesity these days, and with Michelle Obama -- a champion of healthful eating -- slated to appear on Sesame Street this season, where does Cookie Monster fit in?

Turns out Sesame Street has been trying to make the gluttonous blue monster more modest in his appetites for some time. This 2005 article from the Seattle Post-Intelligencer shows what Sesame Street was doing a few years ago to get Cookie Monster in line with the food pyramid. He has more recently been part of a public service announcement about healthy living, as the ladies on the View discussed:

As you can see in the photo above, Cookie Monster is now helping promote eggs with the American Egg Board.

Does making Cookie Monster an advocate of healthful eating spoil the fun?

(PRNewsFoto/American Egg Board)

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 9:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (28)
        

We're all in something of a Halloween hangover, but there's still fun stuff to do this first weekend in November. To wit: Pumpkin chucking.

Thursday, Nov. 5:

Harry Potter Potions Class: Scientists from the Edgewood Chemical & Biological Center at Aberdeen Proving Ground demonstrated how to make potions "straight out of the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry" from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Edgewood branch of the Harford County Public Library. For grades 3-8. Register by calling 410-612-1600.

Nature Storytime:Listen to a story about nature and make a craft at 11 a.m. at the Eden Mill Nature Center. Donation requested to cover the cost of the craft. Families are welcome to bring a picnic lunch to eat following the event. Registration required; call 410-836-3050.

Friday, Nov. 6

Whooo done it? Solve a mystery while looking for clues around the nature center and trails from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Irvine Nature Center. For ages 5 and up. $6 members, $10 nonmembers.

Fun with Pumpkins and Gourds: Learn about pumpkins with a master gardener, then make a craft at 2 p.m. at the Savage branch of the Howard County Library. Ages 5 and up. Reservation required; call 410-880-5978.

"A Christmas Carol" opens at IMAX:The IMAX theater at the Maryland Science Center starts showing the Disney version of the Christmas classic starring Jim Carrey. Tickets required.

New LEGO store opens: Kids can help build a giant Christmas tree with master builders to celebrate the opening of a new LEGO store at the Arundel Mills Mall. Building will continue until the tree is finished. Kids get a certificate for helping. Free.

Greek Heritage Festival: Go Greek for three days at the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation, 24 W. Preston St. Festivities include live music and Greek dancing, folk dance performances, a European marketplace, children's activities and cathedral tours. There will also be plenty of Greek fare and a martini bar. The event is free and takes place from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday and noon to 7 p.m. Sunday. Call 410-727-1831.

Saturday, Nov. 7:

Drop-in Art at the Walters: From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at the Walters Art Museum, children can explore heroes and heroines found in the artwork of Japan, China and India by building their own armor, painting a scroll, and creating hybrid creatures that perform incredible tasks. Free.

Pumpkin Chucking Weekend:Sick of that pumpkin now that Halloween is over? Dispose of it in style -- via catapult -- Saturday and Sunday at Clark's Elioak Farm.

Sunday, Nov. 8:

A Month with Matisse: Model Magic The Baltimore Museum of Art's Free Family Sunday is all about using clay to sculpt like Matisse. 2- 4 p.m.

Second Sundays in Leakin Park - Last Sunday for the Leakin Park trains until spring! From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Leakin Park, 4921 Windsor Mill Road, 410-396-0440.

(Baltimore Sun file photo of pumpkin chucking at Clark's Elioak Farm)

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 6:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Things to Do
        

Sesame Street is gearing up for its 40th anniversary season in a big way. Not only is Big Bird featured on the Google Doodle today, but the show is saying it will be "updated" for the anniversary season, which starts Nov. 10.

The new season will reportedly feature lots of celebrities, including First Lady Michelle Obama.

It's funny -- as much as kids love Sesame Street, I think they also reject it pretty quickly as they reach the age of, say, 5.

Mine aren't even willing to be nostalgic about it. In fact, to tease them every once in a while, I talk in Elmo's voice and ask them to pleeeeeze come back. They have a great time running away from "Elmo" and up to their Pokemon cards and R.L. Stine books.

(Associated Press photo)

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 9:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (32)
Categories: Television
        

I love the idea in this video, which features chefs Cricket Azima and Dave Lieberman with several young helpers, of making customizable mini-lasagnas. They look so easy.

The video's a little longer than usual, but the kids can learn how to make a complete meal -- including easy breadsticks, salad, and dessert.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 6:26 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Dinner Together, Food and Recipes
        

Liz Atwood talks about friends with disabilities this Tween Tuesday: 

One of the things that's really neat about my 8-year-old son's circle of friends is the diversity I see; not just racial or ethnic diversity, but children with many different disabilities.

On Saturday, we went trick-or-treating with one of his friends who is diabetic, and I watched in amazement as the child nonchalantly checked his blood sugar level between knocking on doors and gobbling up candy.

In my son’s scout troop, there is a boy in a wheelchair, and another boy with one leg shorter than the other. My son loves playing with them all and is not fazed in the least by their disabilities.

But one disability that is not so obvious is autism. I know of one boy in his class and another in scouts who are autistic. Both are smart and do fairly well in the groups as far as I can tell. But occasionally their behavior bothers my son, who doesn’t know there is a medical reason behind their actions. I have told him that he needs to be tolerant and that everyone has behavior quirks, but I wonder if I’m not doing a disservice to him and his friends by failing to acknowledge the disability that cannot be seen.

I asked Carolyn Martin, admissions director at Hanah Moore School in Reisterstown, whether children should be told when another child in their group has autism. "I think it's important that classmates understand others' disabilities," she said. But she added that I shouldn't tell my son about his friends' autism unless their parents give their OK.

There are lots of questions about this subject.

Hanah Moore is going to offer a free community program Monday, Nov. 9, called “Hooked on Lemon Drops” to explain some of the implications of autism. Nancy Schmitt, the curriculum coordinator at the school, will lead the discussion, which will explore the pitfalls and pathways of interacting with children on the autistic spectrum. Her presentation identifies the differences between autism and Asperger Syndrome, provides tips and tactics for interacting with children on the spectrum, and more.

The program will be offered from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Hannah More School, 12039 Reisterstown Road, Reisterstown. Call 410-526-5000 to RSVP or for more details.

Posted by Liz Atwood at 6:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

It's time to give away a prize for questions for the Monday Consult. This week, you can win a copy of "Waddle," one of those cool "scanimation" books, by Rufus Butler Seder.

The rules are as usual: Ask a parenting question that an expert can answer for a future Monday Consult. Make sure to leave your e-mail address in the appropriate space of the comment form so that I can get in touch if you're the lucky winner.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 12:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: The Monday Consult
        

Sara wrote:

How to deal with ornery teenager while younger kids are home too? He curses, does not listen, and is not fun to be with. I see my younger kids 10, 8, 5 and 2 copying his behavior and words, help!

I asked Bonnie Compton, a parenting coach who has advised us on when a child is old enough for a cell phone, to tackle this one. Here's her answer:

"Living through the teenage years can be tough, especially if your teenager is disrespectful or out of control. It can be even tougher if you have younger children living in the house. Little ones often pick up on an older sibling’s behavior and try to mimic it, especially if they get attention by doing so.

First, it’s important to examine your teenager’s disrespectful behavior and try to determine if there could be any underlying cause for it. Certainly the teen years are not easy and can be filled with angst, but sometimes a teen exhibits oppositional behavior. Oppositional or aggressive behavior may indicate and underlying issue such as ADHD, a learning disability, or other possible emotional disorders. If you suspect anything of this nature, it would be important to consult with a professional.

A teenager’s role is to become an individual and separate from their family. This enables them to mature and live their own life as an adult. Some teenagers accomplish this a bit more easily than others. Some resist any control that they feel their parents might have over them, and are ready to fight their parents every step of the way.

To help your teen develop into a responsible young adult, it is important to:

-- Provide clear and consistent expectations
-- Allow them to have some control in their lives (a teenager who feels controlled by their parents will often rebel)
-- Send a clear message that no verbal or physical abuse will be tolerated
-- Reward appropriate behavior
-- Use logical consequences for inappropriate behavior
-- Model appropriate behavior for your teen
-- Respect is a two-way street…do not expect your teen to respect you if you are not being respectful of them

It is also important to send a message to your younger children that your teen’s and children’s behavior is inappropriate and will not be tolerated. However, your focus at this point should be on helping your teen change their behavior. There is an excellent program that you can purchase online, The Total Transformation Program, by James Lehman. Other parents have used this program and found it very helpful in turning their teen’s behavior around."

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 6:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: The Monday Consult