Play Boosts Emotional and Mental Health in Kids

Nov 21, 2022

Play Boosts Emotional and Mental Health in Kids It’s no secret that the amount of time kids spend playing has been declining. In fact, kids growing up today play an average of eight hours less per week than children did in the 1980s. The trend has prompted warnings...

How do we avoid meltdowns when turning off screens?

Nov 21, 2022

My kids (ages 3 and 10) often have complete meltdowns when I ask them to turn off their screens. What are your tips for a calmer transition away from devices? Erin Walsh Erin is a Minneapolis-based parent, speaker, educator, and writer. She is also the co-founder...

Closing the Play Gap

Nov 13, 2022

Closing the Play Gap In a world of distractions and busy schedules, kids need free time to play more than ever. Sheila Williams Ridge, co-director of the University of Minnesota Child Development Laboratory School, a nature-based early learning center, thinks parents...

Communication

Nov 3, 2022

Power of Play: Communication is how a child expresses thoughts and ideas, listens and responds to others, and engages in discussion.

(Self) Control

Nov 3, 2022

Power of Play: Self-control is a child’s ability to control how they express their feelings, desires and actions in ways that are safe and productive, particularly when faced with a temptation or a challenge.