Best Of The Web: August 8-14

Mary Poppins may have been onto something with the whole “spoonful of sugar” deal, minus the medicine. Take a look at why experts are advising parents to steer clear of cough syrup and go straight to the pantry to soothe kids’ nighttime coughs. (Chicago Tribune)

We all know new parents tend to become sleep-deprived when a new baby is born, but what about during pregnancy? Here are some smart tips to help mothers-to-be fight insomnia so they can have sweet dreams with the baby bump. (Babble)

“School’s out for summer” may soon become, “school’s out for a couple of weeks,” as many institutions are choosing to extend the school year to optimize learning. Find out why more schools are downsizing downtime, and working through summer. (New York Times)

Feeling like a good pity party? Commiserate with this mom about having a horrible day. (Huffington Post)

Looking to shed those lingering post-pregnancy pounds? Who better to lend advice on the subject than an Olympian mother? Be sure to check out her training tips, here! (Huffington Post)

It’s time to get down and dirty! Read this mother’s confession on how her daughter’s favorite play-space is a germ emporium: McDonald’s Ball-pit. (Mommyish.com)

Teenage years may be even worse than the “terrible two”s, especially considering adolescents’ raging hormones. For parents raising teens, it may be wise to check out these tips on a sometimes awkward conversation: steering your children away from harmful porn sites. (New York Times)

Put a fresh, summer twist on your children’s favorite food: grilled cheese. Try these tasty and easy recipes for a new and yummy sandwich this August. (Lil Sugar)

We’ve all heard about postpartum depression, but what about the prenatal kind? One woman tells her story and makes a cry for help to bring attention to this very real issue. (Slate)

In China, the Olympics start at state-run facilities and kids are handpicked for medal-worthy glory. CBS gets a peek into the minds of tiny Olympic trainees. (CBS)

Magnets have a greater attraction for one woman than most. They are what saved her baby’s life when doctors performed an experimental surgery. (CNN)

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Treehouse Shakers

<div>Treehouse Shakers’ Branching OUT After-School program is for ages 12-14. This awarded program is for young people who identify as LGBTQIA+, or are seeking to become better allies. Branching OUT centers on discovering and exploring one’s story and identity through an intentionally artist-led format. During our community-based program, young people will explore and reflect on their own story to create a larger, more meaningful experience, while gaining self-empowerment and gathering with like-minded peers. Through the guidance of our awarded teaching artists, young people will create narratives that will be turned into podcasts, dances, songs or poetry. </div> <div> </div> <div>Young people have the opportunity to learn new art forms, work with professional artists, while building a meaningful community.</div>

Speakitaly NYC

<p>SPEAKITALY NYC offers stimulating and entertaining lessons for children 0 to 16 years through a wide combination of activities based on the communicative approach anchored in the Common European Framework of Reference: active learning (group work, role plays, etc.) and practice exercises aimed to improve listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Kids will start speaking and using Italian in a very natural way.  Small classes capped at 6 students to make sure each one gets the needed attention and facilitate learners' progress. </p> <p>Our method is driven by a didactic method that is the result of constant updates, professional certifications and more than 10 years of experience in working with non-native speakers from different native languages and levels of knowledge.</p> <p>Our aim is to develop a range of Italian language skills while improving accuracy that will enable the students and participants to interact without stress or feeling rushed. We want to help those in the community really embrace not only the true culture in Italy but the Italian culture within New York City… Who doesn’t love what Italy represents in the kitchen, in history & in the arts?</p> <p>Speakitaly wants to support multilingual families who want to learn a new language or pass along their ancestor’s heritage and culture. Raffaella, the founder said: "We see language awareness and intercultural sensitivity as the milestones for an inclusive society. Italian, like all other languages, is an enrichment and a growth in every way. Vi aspettiamo!"</p>

USC Gymnastics & Baseball Training Facility

<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;" data-sheets-value="{" data-sheets-userformat="{">We offer sports activities, after school programs, birthday parties & private lessons for kids ages 3–13 years! Our gymnastics classes are a great way to keep your child active and healthy. We strive to empower and challenge children through the sport of gymnastics.</span></p>