Our Favorite Parenting News Stories Of The Week

Super kitty in charge! We’re loving this video showing a family cat’s reaction to a mountain lion outside its window. (Mashable)

Planning a road trip or even a long car ride with your family this summer? Big trips with little kids can be brutal, but these dos and don’ts will save you your sanity next time you hit the road! (The Stir)

New information on what causes miscarriages. (The Wall Street Journal)

It’s all groovy–one new study shows legalized pot in US does not lead to increased use among teens. (The Guardian)

It’s all about location, location, location–check out how baby names vary by state. (Science magazine)

Organic food is certainly healthier than products packed with GMOs, but sometimes the organic option is ten times the price. These ten tips for eating organic on a budget will help you learn to navigate expensive markets and get those great deals while staying healthy! (Healthy Child)

If you’re a mom (or a dad), feel free to use these excuses with impunity. (Babble)

Curious about how the common core has changed class reading lists? Check out this illuminating article. (The New York Times)

We love these 31 heartwarming pictures of new dads spending the first moments with their newborns. (Huffington Post)

Tired of adhering to the standard baby shower registries? Mix it up with a piece from this adorable collection of clothes and make that baby the most stylish kid in the stroller! (Cup of Jo)

BAMkids

BAMkids presents adventurous art and ideas for young audiences, igniting the imaginations of creative kids ages 3&mdash;11 with a fun and engaging lineup of workshops, movie matinees, and live performances from around the world. BAM Education connects learning with creativity, engaging imagination by encouraging self-expression through programs for students, teachers, and audiences of all ages. Explore the programs on their website to learn more about their opportunities for creative online engagement!

Laurissa Jane Music

Laurissa Jane Music Studio is a dedicated institution that offers a solid foundation for students to explore the captivating world of music and arts. With experienced instructors, we offer private and group lessons in piano, voice, and guitar, for all ages and skill levels. We provide year-round training for renowned programs such as NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association) and ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music). LJMS runs an annual Summer Musical Theatre Arts Program from July-August which offers a creative environment for young individuals with a passion for acting, singing, and dancing. We are proud to serve the vibrant communities of Jamaica Queens and can also provide classes virtually. At LJMS, we firmly believe in the transformative power of the arts. Call us today!

Speakitaly NYC

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.&nbsp; Small classes capped at 6 students to make sure each one gets the needed attention and facilitate learners' progress.&nbsp; 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. 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&hellip; Who doesn&rsquo;t love what Italy represents in the kitchen, in history &amp; in the arts? Speakitaly wants to support multilingual families who want to learn a new language or pass along their ancestor&rsquo;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!"