Our Favorite Parenting News Stories Of The Week

Photo by masiarpasquali.it
Photo by masiarpasquali.it

The assumption that all kids love Santa is—if these comical photo ops are to be believed—is apparently a myth. Cheer up about any awkward family holiday photos in your past by taking a look at these LOL-worthy snapshots. (Red Tricycle)

Based off a personal experience, columnist Ellen Goodman urges families to have “The Conversation” about end-of-life wishes early. She stresses that being prepared prevents confusing and emotional discussions in the heat of the moment later. (The Washington Post)

It is a common thought that the youngest children are babied more than their siblings, but this research on the “Baby Illusion” provides new insight into the matter. (LiveScience.com)

The Obamas have the holiday spirit, how about you? The first family recently attended a “Christmas in Washington” concert as a benefit for the Children’s National Health System. (New York Daily News)

In heartwarming holiday news, a history buff in St. Louis returned long lost photos of ancestors to families who were happy to receive them. (HLN TV)

It’s important to remind your children that the holiday season is also about giving back to those who are less fortunate. Here are nine ways to encourage your little ones to care about charity. (The New York Times)

For those parents who try to maintain an image of being perfect, this bold blogger is blowing your cover—and her own! A mother of two decided to come clean about her mediocrity and share the real story behind some of her seemingly flawless family photos. (Huffington Post)

When two deaf parents went to see their daughter sing in her school’s holiday concert, they were treated to a sweet surprise. The compassionate kindergartner cheerfully signed along to each song, allowing her parents to fully enjoy the performance. (Babble)

An Xbox isn’t an unusual Christmas request from a six-year-old, but this Long Island boy also asked Santa for a prosthetic arm that would allow him to play the video game system. When the local community heard about his gift wish list, they jumped into action to make it happen. (The Stir)

While holiday parties in the classroom may be a dream to little sugar plums, they’re often a nightmare for the parents volunteering at school. Get through the stretch between now and winter break with some hilarious solutions and timely GIFs. (Mommyish)

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Advantage QuickStart Tennis

<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;" data-sheets-value="{" data-sheets-userformat="{">A proven teaching method, customized by age and ability for ages 3 and up. Special kid-sized racquets and playing area, plus slower-bouncing balls, make it fun from day one!</span></p>

Play On! Studios

<p>Play On! Studios offers theater day camps and after-school classes on the UWS that are guaranteed to give kids a summer full of acting, music, and fun they won't soon forget! Young actors will rehearse and perform in a full production, work with professional NYC actors/teaching artists, build up their skills in a nurturing, non-competitive environment and play lots of drama games!</p> <p>Creative Drama Camps are perfect for kids entering grades K-4. Campers will work each week to put on a brand-new show! Each session, they will receive a script, rehearse a production, make a set and costumes, and perform their play. Kids will also play drama games, play outside (weather permitting), and have tons of fun!</p> <p>Musical Theater Camps are aimed at kids entering grades 4-9. In Musical Theater Performance Camp, campers put on a complete musical production in a professional NYC theater! Campers will stretch their skills with drama exercises and games, vocal coaching, field trips, and building a professional set. Our incredible teaching artists and campers come together to put on a truly remarkable show!</p> <p>During the school year, classes are great for beginners or more experienced actors - sing, dance, and put on a play! Whether your child is just starting out, or ready for Broadway, we’ve got the class for them. Classes are available for grades PreK-8, after school or on Saturdays! Come play with us.</p> <p> </p>

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>