Great Children's Literature: Hello Hello

Hello Helloby Dan Zanes and illustrated by Donald Saaf is based on Dan Zane's excellent children's song by the same name. The text/lyrics are very optimistic, speaking of the potential of each day and ending with a multicultural image and words for hello: konnichiwa, namaste, … [Read more...]

Recycled Tire Swings

One of my favorite things to do at the park as a child was swing on the tire swing. There was something about the shape of the tire and the way it swung that appealed to me. Our backyard was not big enough for a tire swing, but I always enjoyed tire swings at my friends' … [Read more...]

A Little Wooden Dollhouse

For my daughter's first birthday, we gave her Melissa and Doug's Deluxe Wooden Fold and Go Dollhouse. The recommended age rating is three years old, but we felt we could watch her closely and hide away small parts until she was older. Five years later, she still plays with her … [Read more...]

PlayGround Hazards: Sand and Pressure Treated Lumber

The weather is warmer, and children are spending more time playing outside and in parks. Just like many other products designed for children we have discovered, there are potential health hazards on the playground. Play sand contains carcinogenic dust, and wooden play structures … [Read more...]

Tin and Wooden Tea Sets for Children

Both male and female children love to play with tea sets as part of their dramatic play. We have previously owned a ceramic tea set, but inevitably cup handles, plates, etc. broke. You also have to be cautious when purchasing a ceramic tea set to be sure the glazes do not … [Read more...]