I received my Bachelor of Arts in Literature and Philosophy from Michigan State University in 1990. During that time, to make some extra money, I took a job at a local daycare center. I was an assistant teacher, so I went back and forth between the different rooms. It didn’t take long to get to know every child at the center, ages infant to five years old. Being with children all day, everyday, gives a much fuller perspective than any other interaction you can have with children. You become acutely familiar with the emotional and cognitive ecosystem, so to speak, of each child. I am deeply grateful to have been a part of so many children’s lives during their formative years. It was also my good fortune to get to know all the parents, because it was plain to see the profound influence parenting style has on the characteristics of a child. That proved an invaluable resource when soon after I was married and started a family.

An important part of maintaining your child's curiosity and enthusiasm for learning is to provide a fresh supply of games and activities.  Yet, often parents are reluctant to explore new games and act...

You want your child to know the magic and wonder that only reading can bring.  Here's 5 simple things you can do to improve your child's love of books. 

Here’s a kids' activity that’s sure to become a household favorite. It offers your child a fun filled opportunity to navigate a robot through the house without causing it to “malfunction.”  Don't worr...

Making a schedule goes a step further than having a schedule.  Making a schedule is aimed at restoring enthusiasm and cooperation.  It’s written down.  It lets your child know that every day is not a ...

Here's a little household science for kids.  It's very simple and lots of fun.  Pursue the advanced version of this activity and watch your child take charge of scientific procedures.

If you're short on kids' science activities, pick up some small magnets from your local hardware store.  They're inexpensive, easy to get out and clean up, and provide enough variation to stimulate yo...

You may have heard the terms ‘structured’ and ‘unstructured' play and wondered---which is better for my child?  This article explains both kinds of play and goes on to describe a much more important c...