Education doesn't end at the school building's doors. In fact, with the aid of these free websites, students of all ages can get extra practice, learn subjects in different ways and explore their own interests independently. These websites are just a few of the many that help kids (and adults) … [Read more...] about 12 great free educational websites
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Easy ways to give back to your kids’ school
As schools try to balance their budgets while keeping up with always-increasing expenses, they are looking more to families and parent-teacher organizations to help with school supplies, field trips and other programs. Doing a little can sometimes go a long way. Below are some funding ideas that you … [Read more...] about Easy ways to give back to your kids’ school
7 ways to cut costs of kids’ activities
This post is by Jennifer Saranow Schultz at Hint Mama.The cost of little kids’ activity classes can quickly add up. Just one semester of music class can run more than $200. Add in swimming, gymnastics, Gymboree, dance, sports and art classes and you could be renting a small … [Read more...] about 7 ways to cut costs of kids’ activities
Save on back-to-school shots, sports exams
The kids soon head back to school and you’ve already shelled out money for new clothes and school supplies. Now you need to come up with more cash for sports physicals and back-to-school vaccinations. Here are some tips that might help you save on those expenses. Visit your primary care … [Read more...] about Save on back-to-school shots, sports exams
16 life hacks using pool noodles and other summer clearance items
The bargainista part of me just loves all those end-of-season sales. I get bargain-priced holiday wrap, Halloween decorations and more. Summer's end brings similar deals — you know what I mean if you've ever walked through the pool/outdoor area of any Target, Walmart, Christmas Tree Shop, … [Read more...] about 16 life hacks using pool noodles and other summer clearance items
Back to school: Is it time for your student to have a phone?
With a son going into fifth grade, I’m one of the few holdouts among the class parents who hasn’t given into peer pressure and gotten my child a smartphone. I have my reasons, most notably among them, he hasn’t asked for one ... yet.Truth be told, I also don’t think he’s ready for the … [Read more...] about Back to school: Is it time for your student to have a phone?
Free and low-cost resources for homeschoolers and others
Homeschooling is the most rapidly growing educational segment in the United States. An estimated 2.5 million students were homeschooled in 2019, the year before the pandemic forced many students to learn from home. In 2021-22, the number was 3.1 million. A large number of families are choosing the … [Read more...] about Free and low-cost resources for homeschoolers and others
Throw a memorable kids’ birthday party for less
The birthday dilemma: Parents want their children to have great childhood memories – but is it necessary to dish out the big bucks for an expensive kid’s birthday party? The short answer is no. When I did an impromptu poll with my kids, my daughter piped in right away that her … [Read more...] about Throw a memorable kids’ birthday party for less
Sales tax holidays for back-to-school shopping
Some states have sales tax holidays every summer to assist families with getting their kids outfitted for school. Some states also have a sales tax holiday that focuses on hurricane preparedness items or energy-saving appliances. If you plan to make one of those purchases, and it’s not an emergency … [Read more...] about Sales tax holidays for back-to-school shopping
How to save money on kids’ sports and activities
If you’re a parent, you know just how expensive it can be to raise kids, especially once they reach the "age of activities" – sports, dance, cheer, karate, band. You name the activity, and there’s nothing cheap about it. The key is to pick and choose the ones that offer the right mix of enjoyment … [Read more...] about How to save money on kids’ sports and activities
DIY summer camp for kids
For many, summer camps have become as integral a part of childhood as school. They provide a safe place for the children of working parents, allow kids to explore new activities and retain and continue their learning, and so much more.If you do your homework and start looking early, it is … [Read more...] about DIY summer camp for kids
9 ways to take a bite out of road trip food costs
You’ve planned your road trip, mapping out a route, identifying campgrounds or affordable lodging and picking key attractions to visit. What will happen as soon as you pile into the car? Tummies will start rumbling, kids will beg for food and bathroom breaks will lead to the buying of snacks, lunch … [Read more...] about 9 ways to take a bite out of road trip food costs
How to keep kids busy at home and help them learn
Most parents learn about child development as they go. Moms, dads, grandmas and grandpas try to tailor plans that keep everyone happy — but anyone who has spent more than a few minutes around little ones knows that children's attention spans are short. Sometimes parents (and teachers) can run out of … [Read more...] about How to keep kids busy at home and help them learn
13 ways to save money on road trips
Sometimes a good old-fashioned road trip is just the vacation you need. Driving vacations can be as leisurely or as hectic as you want, and you never have to stick to a schedule. They also can be more affordable than trips involving flights and resorts.That’s not to say there aren’t expenses. … [Read more...] about 13 ways to save money on road trips
Top 10 DIY outdoor toys and summer activities for kids
Here are our best ideas for summer activities for kids that lets them spend summer as it was meant to be enjoyed — playing outside. These DIY activities give your kids the chance to be creative and make their own toys from common household supplies or very modest investment. You don't have to head … [Read more...] about Top 10 DIY outdoor toys and summer activities for kids