Child Learn & Play
Children learn by observing, experimenting and asking questions. Find out when to guide them—and when to step back and let them explore.

My child is having a boring summer and he loves it
Mostly he putters around the yard, plays with the hose, finds toads and bugs and locust shells and cool rocks, shimmys up the door frames, attempts to dismantle the house, and, admittedly, has way too much screen time. In other words, the same kind of summers I had as a kid.

How to keep your kids interested in learning this summer
Good news, mama: Avoiding the "summer slide" can be fun for everyone!

It’s science: Vacations make your kids happy long after they’re over
Whether you're planning a quick trip to the lake or flying the fam to a resort, the results are the same: A happier, more connected family.

Why unstructured play is critical for brain development
Critical and oh-so-fun—here are 5 reasons to let kids loose and watch them learn.

The important lesson I learned the day my daughter almost drowned
In a matter of seconds, my life changed.

Drowning doesn’t look like drowning—here’s what parents need to look for
Drowning is not the violent, splashing call for help that most people expect.

What all parents need to know about pool safety for kids
Water play is fun but safety is key.

11 outdoor art toys that will keep your little one creatively entertained this summer
Added bonus? The mess stays outside.

The ultimate summer bucket list for your family
If you're looking for inspiration for family fun this summer, check some of these off your bucket list!

10 books by Eric Carle to add to your child’s bookshelf
We're remembering the beloved author-illustrator, who passed away this week.

The 11 best bikes for your two-wheeling kiddo
If they're ready to cruise with the big kids, these are the rides to consider!

12 super fun (and safe) swimming pool games to try this summer
If you're tired of playing Marco Polo, check out this list of swimming pool games for summer fun.

Don’t toss your kid’s old toys—Mattel wants to recycle them instead
Don't throw away those old Barbies, Matchbox cars and blocks! You can now send them directly to Mattel.

This dad urges you to rethink mermaid tails for your kids this summer
Here's how his child's scare could prevent future accidents (and serves as an important reminder about water safety)

This is not a drill—the OG American Girl dolls are BACK
Felicity, Addy, Kirsten, Samantha, Molly and Josefina, oh how we've missed you.

20 picture books that celebrate Asian & Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Representation is important, and so is cultivating a diverse reading library for your child.

Teacher-approved tips for making virtual learning a success
Plus the learn-at-home products you need to set up the perfect virtual learning environment.

How to talk about war and other difficult topics with your children: An age-by-age guide
For 2-year-olds to teenagers.

Experts say these will be the must-have toys for summer
While an old-fashioned sprinkler is hard to beat, these must-have toys will keep your children entertained all summer long.

I want less for my children
I miss simple. I miss pure, innocent, naive and sheltered.