We all know that pets become part of the family when they enter our homes, but beyond simply being a loving pet, animals can also serve as therapeutic tools for children struggling with emotional issues like anxiety and depression. Such pets are referred to as...

  Feeling loved helps children overcome many obstacles, contributing to a feeling of well-being that will help them excel in school, friendships and all other areas of their lives. “Often, parents assume that their kids just ‘know’ they are loved, or that saying...

  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 long summer days. Since the cost of travel can be prohibitive, many families don’t get away as frequently as they’d like or...

How do smart parents determine the best time to give their child a smartphone? Is the “Wait Until 8th” approach best, or should the decision be based on factors other than age? No matter where you land in the debate, one thing is certain - smartphones are here to...

Austin has so much to offer families who want some summer fun, but what else is out there? Turns out that one hour north, east, south and west of Austin yield some great summer adventure zones, each with a slightly different appeal. Fill up your gas tank, pack your...

How many times have you yelled at your kids to clean up the mess in their bedroom or playroom? Believe it or not, that clutter isn’t just stressing you out because you are annoyed—it is stressing out the entire family because the sheer existence of clutter is linked...

    When it comes to kids’ sports, every parent wants to hear the coach say, “Your child has real potential.” With that simple praise of talent, visions of college scholarships and big-league contracts suddenly dance on the horizon. Before long parents are...

  You’ve received a positive pregnancy test, and it’s time to prepare for the new baby’s arrival. Expecting a baby is an incredibly exciting time. Over the next nine months you will arrange the nursery, buy a car seat, pick out baby clothes and purchase baby gear...

Welcome to Austin! We’re happy you’re here. Kick off your oxfords and slip on some flip-flops. Austin wears its laid-back vibe year-round and likes its fun al-fresco. It’s a family and pet-friendly city that embraces, food, music and little bit of the weird.  Read on...

For most parents and families, the holidays are a wonderful time to renew a sense of charity.  We consider what gifts to give family members and friends and how that gift will bring them joy.  The holidays are also an opportunity for parents to teach their kids about...

The doctor says your son has Celiac Disease.  Or you’ve finally determined that your daughter feels a whole lot better when she doesn’t eat dairy.  Or maybe you and your family are slated to share a Thanksgiving meal with friends who eat completely grain free. ...

One of my favorite memories of autumn is going apple picking with my family. I was so enthralled by all the hidden treasures hanging in the orchard. I loved tasting the different varieties of apples and deciding which was my favorite. I especially cherished the warm...