Letter from the Editor
Enjoy your Information packed issue: But Wait, there's More!
By Gretchen Cook
"In this issue you will find concrete tips on how to do things better—from setting bedtime routines to grocery shopping. You’ll also find entries in our Family Fun Guide—letting you pick your family’s activities from among the many, many options available in the metro." (more)


Family Matters
A Glimpse of the Future through "Let's Play Pretend"
By Denise Pamudji
Observing my 18 month old daughter is a fascinating experience.  “Miqua thirsty. Have some juice?,” asks my daughter, whose name is really Sofia. Actually, we don’t know anyone named Miqua. It’s Sofia’s attempt at “Uniqua” – the name of a character on one of her favorite shows. (more)


It Figures
Back to School Miscellany
By Cynthia Washam
Interesting facts about activities both in and out of school. (more)


Parent Points
Organize Your Life, WellsFest, back to school, and more. (more)


What's Cooking
Mastering the Lunch Box Challenge
By Julie Paul
Along with pencils, construction paper, notebooks and 25 other must-have items, you have probably purchased a snazzy new lunchbox for your child. Along with a well constructed backpack, these insulated wonders are a great buy. Almost all are roomy and include a thermos and a pocket for pre-frozen gel packs. Buying the lunch box is easy. Filling them with foods your kids will eat – a bit more challenging. (more)


After-School Activities: How Much Is Too Much?
By Sissy Lynn
As a parent, you want to expose your children to a wide range of activities, but the daily routine of carting the kids from one place to the next leaves you—and your kids—physically exhausted. (more)


Featured Calendar Events
WellsFest, free back pack screenings, and Bright Lights Belhaven Nights. (more)


Feelin' Buggy? Head to the Audubon Insectarium in New Orleans
The Audubon Insectarium is the United States’ Largest Museum Dedicated to Insects and The first New Attraction in New Orleans Since Hurricane Katrina. They outnumber people 1.5 million to one and comprise nearly 90% of all the animals on the planet – they are insects. The largest freestanding museum in the United States dedicated to insects opened on New Orleans’s historic Canal Street this summer. Parents & Kids was invited along for the fun. (more)


Finding the right after-school care program for your child
By Randy Lynn
After-school care is essential for many working parents, and lots of studies have shown that they can help children develop new skills and interests, boost academic achievement and avoid risks such as teen pregnancy, substance abuse and violence. Fortunately, finding the right program isn’t hard. You just need to go into your search with a solid plan, and be sure to allow enough time to do your homework. To make the process a little easier, here are eight questions you should consider before making the big decision. (more)


Grabbing the Teachable Moment
Simple Things Parents Can Do Anywhere to Help Kids be Better in School
By Susanne Nika
"What can I do to help my child do better in school?" It's the number one question that parents ask us teachers. Of course, as teachers, we all have brilliant ideas. We've delivered mini-lectures on how to re-teach our new math program at home. Parents' eyes usually glaze over. Relax. Every minute spent with your kids is a chance to make them better readers, better mathematicians and better learners without them realizing they're doing "schoolwork." Teachers call it the teachable moment. (more)


Our Readers Write
When Mom Goes Back to School
By Lashanda Colbert
Going back to school can be a challenge for mothers, but particularly single moms. As a single mom, I decided early after my divorce that I needed a career to support my daughter. Luckily for me, I had a wonderful family who supported and encouraged me on this journey. (more)


P&K Book Shelf
Back to School & Grandparents' Day Books
Brief overviews of books Ready for the Day!, Ready for Bed!, Everybody Eats Lunch, and Penny House. (more)


Supermarket Stress-busters
Tips and Tricks to Save You Money
By Katie Shelt
With gas at $4 dollars a gallon and food prices rising accordingly, many moms are under stress in their quest to feed their families meals that are healthy and affordable. However, a little thought and effort makes it possible to economize at the grocery store. Reduce your monthly food bill with these simple tips. (more)


Parents & Kids Magazine Calendar
August-September 2008
Calendar of events for August through September 2008 (more)