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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The Wild Center

<p>The Wild Center, nestled within the breathtaking landscape of New York's Adirondack Park, offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature. As visitors approach the Center, they are greeted by the Adirondack Mountains towering in the distance, setting the stage for an immersive adventure.<br /><br /></p> <p>Upon entering the 34,000-square-foot exhibit hall, guests are enveloped in a world of wonder and discovery. Interactive exhibits like Planet Adirondack and Climate Solutions invite exploration, allowing visitors to delve into the rich biodiversity of the Adirondack region. The indoor experience also includes an opportunity to soar on Birdly--a one-of-a-kind VR experience. Also, get up close with an animal ambassador during one of many live animal encounters throughout the day.<br /><br /></p> <p>In addition to its indoor exhibits and programs, the Wild Center also boasts 115-acres of extensive outdoor amenities. One of the highlights in the award-winning Wild Walk. Visitors walk up a trail of bridges to the treetops of the Adirondack forest, 40 feet off the ground. Along the way, interactive exhibits provide insights into the flora and fauna that call the Adirondacks home, from songbirds to black bears.<br /><br /></p> <p>The rest of the campus features more ways to explore. Check out Patrick Dougherty’s Stickwork sculpture, an all natural installation of woven sticks that will spark your imagination and nostalgia. Immerse yourself in Forest Music, take a naturalist-lead canoe trip, or get your roll on with Raquette River Roll, a brand-new, oversized, all-natural ball run experience opening in June 2024.</p>

HudsonWay Immersion School

<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;" data-sheets-value="{" data-sheets-userformat="{">A pioneer in language immersion since 2005. After school language classes provide a fun and effective way for preschool and elementary children to learn Mandarin or Spanish language skills through project based learning and fun, engaging themes.</span></p>

The Tutorverse

<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #222222; background-color: #ffffff;">Join The Tutorverse for the highest quality in academic enrichment and test preparation! Whether your student is gearing up for the </span><span style="color: #222222; background-color: #ffffff;">state exams, ISEE, SSAT, SHSAT, or SAT/ACT</span><span style="color: #222222; background-color: #ffffff;">, their team of </span><span style="color: #222222; background-color: #ffffff;">experienced and local professional educators</span><span style="color: #222222; background-color: #ffffff;"> can help. Have your student join a </span><span style="color: #222222; background-color: #ffffff;">small-group class</span><span style="color: #222222; background-color: #ffffff;"> at our downtown or Upper East Side locations. Or, they can meet with a </span><span style="color: #222222; background-color: #ffffff;">private tutor when and where it’s most convenient for your family</span><span style="color: #222222; background-color: #ffffff;">. Does your student need help building study skills or improving grades? Whether your middle or high schooler needs help with </span><span style="color: #222222; background-color: #ffffff;">STEM or humanities</span><span style="color: #222222; background-color: #ffffff;">, The Tutorverse's patient and affirming tutors will teach them how to build </span><span style="color: #222222; background-color: #ffffff;">confidence and content mastery</span><span style="color: #222222; background-color: #ffffff;">. </span><a style="color: #1155cc; background-color: #ffffff;" href="mailto:info@thetutorverse.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Send an email</a><span style="color: #222222; background-color: #ffffff;"> or give them a call.</span></span></p>