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Learn about a range of parenting topics, published monthly in our magazine and on our website

We have a kind, responsible babysitter... This is why we love him
Andres Flores Andres Flores

We have a kind, responsible babysitter... This is why we love him

I get a lot of raised eyebrows when I mention my babysitter is a dude. Some friends wonder out loud, “You’re comfortable leaving your kids with a guy?” Most of the sex abuse stories we see in the media feature a male perpetrator. But according to statistics, it’s not the sitter we should worry about. According to the National Statistics on Child Abuse, ninety percent of child abusers are either a parent or another relative.

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Tips for the Toddler Bed Transition from a Triplet Mom
Andres Flores Andres Flores

Tips for the Toddler Bed Transition from a Triplet Mom

The moment I have been dreading for months has arrived. I can no longer contain my triplet two-year-olds in their cribs. Two thirds of them are climbing out of them and destroying the room. The one child who cannot climb out has declared her crib as party central. The two monkeys go straight into her crib after they have destroyed their entire bedroom, with such fun activities as opening the shades, emptying drawers, and dumping diapers.

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5 Negotiating Tips I Learned from My Dad
Andres Flores Andres Flores

5 Negotiating Tips I Learned from My Dad

With Father’s Day fast approaching, I’m sharing some negotiating tips I learned from my Dad. He is the best negotiator I know and his wisdom has helped me save or earn thousands of dollars over the years for both buying and selling items.

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How to Take a Family Trip... On a Small Budget
Andres Flores Andres Flores

How to Take a Family Trip... On a Small Budget

Traveling is a great way to enjoy new experiences, learn about the world, bond with your family, and take a break from the monotony of daily living. But the cost of travel can be prohibitive. So many of families don’t get away as frequently as they’d like or miss out on places they’ve dreamed of visiting. Fortunately, there are lots of ways to travel and explore the world without breaking the bank.

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A Day for Dad: Make This Father’s Day One He’ll Remember
Andres Flores Andres Flores

A Day for Dad: Make This Father’s Day One He’ll Remember

Fathers play a significant role in their kids’ lives. They’re essential role models, influence children’s self-esteem and school performance, and make great coaches and fun-loving playmates. Once kids have grown and aged, fathers make great friends, confidants, and are there to lend a hand.

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A Therapeutic Summer Camp Alternative
Andres Flores Andres Flores

A Therapeutic Summer Camp Alternative

If you have a troubled teen, the prospect of summer break may fill you with dread. The school year provides at least some structure and support. But the long summer stretch leaves at-risk teens ample time and opportunity to engage in dangerous choices.

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What To Do When Your Kids Are Stressed
Andres Flores Andres Flores

What To Do When Your Kids Are Stressed

November 1 is National Stress Awareness Day, a great occasion to consider what you can do  when your kids complain about being really stressed. How do you help them cope with it? Experts agree on the following points

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7 Experience Gifts to Give Kids This Season
Andres Flores Andres Flores

7 Experience Gifts to Give Kids This Season

Does it feel like your kids already have more toys than they could ever want? Experience gifts are a great gift option that has benefits for kids, parents, and other gift givers.

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6 Things Your Teen Needs But Doesn’t Know How to Ask For
Andres Flores Andres Flores

6 Things Your Teen Needs But Doesn’t Know How to Ask For

Teens often don’t know what they need. Most kids don’t, but we step in more willingly when they’re young. Now that our babies are more at eye level we look at them expecting adult choices, forgetting that sometimes they don’t know how to figure things out on their own. Here are 6 things your teen may not have a clue he or she needs.

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Great Ways To Save Money On Your Vacation
Andres Flores Andres Flores

Great Ways To Save Money On Your Vacation

Taking the family on a vacation can easily end up being quite expensive. Thankfully, there are things you can do to save money on your trip. Based on my own experiences as well as conversations with other parents, I’ve pulled together a list of some great money-saving tips.

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Fun Birthday Parties for Busy Parents
Andres Flores Andres Flores

Fun Birthday Parties for Busy Parents

There’s something special about fall. Kids are getting back into school routines. The air is cooler but not too cold to be outside. And the scenery can be stunning. Spending time with the family is a great way to enjoy the season.

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Opportunities to serve with your kids
Andres Flores Andres Flores

Opportunities to serve with your kids

Kids who serve others are more likely to give of their time and treasures for a lifetime. When you choose a family service project, try to pick something that excites or interests your children because they are much more likely to become invested in the project

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Fun Birthday Parties for Busy Parents
Andres Flores Andres Flores

Fun Birthday Parties for Busy Parents

So your child's birthday is just around the corner, and you don't have time to plan and prepare the perfect party? Don't despair. There are plenty of fun places to hold kids' parties that'll save you time in planning, preparation, and cleanup.

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Birthdays on a Budget: Reuse and Repurpose Birthday Decor
Andres Flores Andres Flores

Birthdays on a Budget: Reuse and Repurpose Birthday Decor

Every parent wants their child’s birthday to be special but the cost of throwing a party can really add up, especially if you have multiple children. Is it really possible to cut party costs without losing the fun and excitement that parents and kids alike have come to love?

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Great Apps That Can Help Your Kids Stay Mentally and Physically Fit
Andres Flores Andres Flores

Great Apps That Can Help Your Kids Stay Mentally and Physically Fit

August is National Wellness Month, a great occasion to consider how you can help your kids stay mentally and physically fit in a way that’s both educational and fun. Encourage them to download an app – or three. Here are some of the very best apps available, and the best part is that they’re all free, so download an app – or three!

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5 Benefits of Multiple Extracurricular Activities
Andres Flores Andres Flores

5 Benefits of Multiple Extracurricular Activities

“I’m bored,” my 11 year old daughter grumbled as she collapsed on to the couch. It was a rare unscheduled moment in her life.  I cringed as I recalled what can occur when she has a spontaneous second. At the age of three, I assumed she was quietly playing with her toys only to discover the entire wall was covered with a new crayon drawn mural. We are both happier now she is enrolled in art classes.

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Lifelong Benefits of Science Fairs for Kids
Andres Flores Andres Flores

Lifelong Benefits of Science Fairs for Kids

Is your child considering participating in a school science fair? Are you wondering if the benefits are worth the time commitment? Participating in a science fair is a great way for kids to explore their world and how things work.

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