Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in seattle, WA

The Public LIbrary: What All Does It Have To Offer?

by Bethany Dunn

May 12, 2009

There are only six weeks left of school for my kindergartner, and the end of the year paper work has begun to make its appearance in his backpack. A recent letter home from the principal listed summer information and resources. What jumped off the page to me was that, on average, children loose two grades in terms of their reading skills during the summer.. Which essentially means that my reading-at-an-almost-second-grade-level kindergartner would soon be reading as a (GASP) kindergartner.

We can't let that happen - so I see lots of trips to our library in our future to keep up interest in reading. And since we're used to simply using thelibrary to check out books, I figured we might need to take our library usage to the "next level" to ensure no loss (and, dare I say, INCREASE?) in skill level.

Summer reading challenges. Keep up your reading this summer by participating in one of the many summer reading challenges available at our local libraries.

Librarian approved web-links. The internet is so vast - so let the experts guide you in the right direction.

Story times. The value of reading to children is clear, but sometimes it's nice to have someone else do it for you! Check out your local branch's story times - it's a great way to meet new friends and expand your author knowledge.

Online resources. Looking for a hard to find book? Want to ensure a book will be available at your library branch? Most library systems allow you to reserve and hold books. This is a resource I use all the time - my kids and I enjoy searching online for books together. It's a great option for weeks that we have trouble making it to the library. I can just stop quickly in to pick up the books and my kids still get the books they want.

Ask a librarian! Got a preschooler who is interested in bugs? Your local librarian can help you navigate the racks of books to zero in on the best bug books to mesmerize your child - and maybe you, too.

So next time you head out to the library, remember there is more to the library then books. Well, it's mostly books, but the rest is pretty cool, too.  Read more...

Is Your Preschooler Ready for Classes and Lessons?

by Bethany Dunn

March 09, 2009

Because my husband and I work and our children have been in daycare since they were babies, we haven't gotten into signing our children up for classes or lessons. They had music and art at daycare, and once we gave a half-hearted attempt at daddy-and-me swimming lessons right before our oldest child turned two.

We felt a real need to have our home time be somewhat sacred; we wanted to spend evenings and weekends just being together, not rushing from class to class.

But, then the kids got bigger. They got more energy, they wanted to throw the ball around, they danced and danced and DANCED.

About nine months ago, our 5-year old started taking Taekwondo classes at an academy recommended by a friend. I was so nervous about how he would do in classes (there were, in fact, much younger children in his class), but my worries were for nothing - he did great. While it's been a great experience, we will be shifting our time to tee-ball this spring. And swimming classes as well.

My 3-year-old daughter asked to take Taekwondo. While I know she, too, would love the class, I though that ballet might be a better fit (you know, on account for her love of dancing and all things sparkly).  The same worries have crept up - how do I know she's ready to concentrate and pay attention for a 45 minute class? Will she be scared and cling to me rather than joining the class? Will she throw a tantrum if something doesn't go her way?

Here's some advice I've found to help me figure it out AND do a better job helping my child meet their potential in classes and lessons. Maybe it will be of help to you, too.

• Pay close attention to the age range for the classes - they are recommended for a reason.
• The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends waiting until age 6 to introduce team sports - but general skill classes are still great (like Kidz Love Soccer or Little Kickers).
• Some kids do better if their parents remain out of sight or at a distance during the class - that way they aren't constantly "checking-in" and are better ableconcentrate. 
• Don't be afraid to speak with the teacher or coach about your concerns; most likely they have been working with kids for a while and may have some great insights.
• And lastly, if your child doesn't seem to be enjoying themselves or has trouble waiting for their turn or following the instructors directions, you may feel it's best to drop out of the class and try again in a few months. No two kids develop at the same rate - what your older child was able to do at 3, may take your younger child an extra year.

In the kitchen with your preschooler: Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Cauliflower.

by Bethany Dunn

January 21, 2009

Macaroni and cheese - out of a box - is a favorite of kids everywhere. While there are worse things for them to eat - there certainly are better. This recipe is a updated and dare I say - more nutritionally sound - version of this kid favorite. I'm betting you'll like it, too. I sure do. (Recipe adapted from Cooking Light.) Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Cauliflower 12 ounces while grain  Read more...

Best places to play indoors in winter (or anytime for that matter).

by Bethany Dunn

January 20, 2009

While the snow may be gone (for now, anyway), it's still cold (and rainy) outside. With the official start of spring still three months away, we're all still looking for places to play and socialize indoors to stay out of the elements. But where to go and what to do? My MOST FAVORITE indoor option is to choose from the plentiful options of indoor playground sites around Puget Sound. Here,  Read more...

New year, new habits?

by Bethany Dunn

January 01, 2009

The new year always seems to inspire a little "winter cleaning" spree (is there such a thing? I think I'll start a trend) in me. Today, I cleaned out and rearranged my closet - I even organized my tops my color (not my fault - the internet told me to do it ). Next up? KID CENTRAL. It's always liberating to start off the year with a clean slate - I bet it will lift your spirits, clear you  Read more...

Last list of the year: I PROMISE.

by Bethany Dunn

December 31, 2008

At the end of 2008, I'm feeling a bit reflective. This doesn't always happen, but alot has happened in 2008. My son started kindergarten. My daughter started preschool. We bid a bond farewell to diapers. My son learned how to read. My daughter and I took a trip together. I wore my jeans tucked into boots. BIG STUFF, people. So, after much reflection, here's my list of parenting  Read more...

While the parents are away, the children will play!

by Bethany Dunn

October 01, 2008

My husband and I are not fortunate enough to have relatives living in close proximity who are available to watch our children (a 3 year old and a 5 year old) on a regular basis. My children do, however, have a beloved aunt who lives about four hours away and will happily watch her niece and nephew during her semi-regular weekend visits so that we can get a "parent's night out". Less  Read more...

The social life of Seattle parents.

by Bethany Dunn

September 16, 2008

The days go by like clockwork. Breakfasts are made. Lunches are packed. Butts are wiped. Laundry. Bills. Dinner prep. Carpool. Lather. Rinse. Repeat. While we as parents give our all to our kids each and every day, there is something to be said for taking time for ourselves. Time to reconnect with ourselves AND our friends. Here's the best ways to break out of the house and enjoy some  Read more...

How to avoid the first week of preschool burnout.

by Bethany Dunn

September 05, 2008

Friday is finally here and that means two things; 1) the weekend is just around the corner, and 2) you made it through the first week of skill relatively unscathed (hopefully). This first weekend of the school year is a great time for resting and reconnecting, and here's some ideas to make sure that happens. Take cues from your preschooler - are they ready for a full weekend  Read more...

The best places for your preschooler to learn to swim.

by Bethany Dunn

August 12, 2008

August is the month of water and seas here at Savvy Source. Last week we looked at the best beaches around the Sound , and this week, we'll examine the best swim lesson possibilities for your preschooler from Tacoma to Everett. So, in the spirit of full disclosure - I can admit to my Savvy Seattle readers that my five-year-old son has taken a total of ONE set of swimming lessons  Read more...