Bombi offers eco-conscious strollers crafted from 100% recycled fabrics. Lightweight yet durable, these strollers are perfect for modern parents who value sustainability and style without compromise.
Wednesday, April 9, 2025
Caring Causes - BoatUS Foundation Kid's Life Jacket Loaner
Marinas, waterfront restaurants, boat clubs and other businesses wishing to make an impact on boating safety in their home waters can apply now to become a BoatUS Foundation Kid’s Life Jacket Loaner program site. Supported by BoatUS member donations, the program offers a simple way to help children and young adults get the right-sized life jacket when they go boating, sailing or fishing for the day or weekend.
“Sometimes boaters may not have a correctly-sized life jacket for every younger guest aboard,” said BoatUS Foundation program administrator Lynne O’Hearn. “That’s where local groups partnering with us can help ensure everyone has the right fit for safety. You want to avoid giving a child in a too-big life jacket, which they may be able to slip out of.”
There are currently more than 575 BoatUS Foundation life jacket loaner sites across the U.S. and becoming one is easy and free: Apply at BoatUS.org/Life-Jacket-
Approved locations will receive 12 children’s life jackets in a variety of sizes from infant to youth, as well as signage and a local publicity kit. Life jackets are replenished every year as wear and tear takes its toll.
What’s the catch?
In addition to requiring life jackets be stored in a secure, protected storage area, you must be willing to help the Foundation track life jacket usage with an easy clipboard sign-out system and help maintain the program by providing feedback when life jackets need replacement.
Going Green - KeaBabies Soothe Swaddle Wraps with Knot Hats
Introducing the newest addition to KeaBabies' sleep essentials: Soothe Swaddle Wraps with Knot Hats. It’s the same buttery-soft, breathable fabric parents already know and love, now paired with a matching adjustable knot hat for a complete and thoughtful set. Ideal for cozy snuggles, photo-worthy moments, and meaningful gifting.
The knot hats are designed to grow with baby, and the swaddles are crafted from KeaBabies' signature organic cotton and bamboo blend — soft, stretchy, and made with quality in mind.
Available in Fleur and Sage. KeaBabies is available on Amazon.com. Learn more at https://keababies.com/.
Pet Pointers - The Power of Pets: How Animals Help Young Children Develop Emotional Intelligence
Originally published at
The Power of Pets: How Animals Help Young Children Develop Emotional Intelligence
Animals have a special way of connecting with people, especially young children. Whether it’s a playful puppy, a gentle rabbit, or a curious cat, pets provide more than just companionship—they offer emotional support, teach responsibility, and help children develop essential social and emotional skills.
For parents considering adding a pet to the family, understanding the therapeutic benefits of animals and how they shape a child’s development can help determine if it’s the right choice.
The Therapeutic Benefits of Animals for Children
Children naturally form strong bonds with animals, and these relationships can provide emotional support in ways that human interactions sometimes cannot.
1. Emotional Regulation and Stress Reduction
Studies have shown that interacting with animals can reduce cortisol, the hormone associated with stress, while increasing oxytocin, the hormone linked to bonding and relaxation. This is especially beneficial for young children who are still learning how to manage big emotions.
A child who is feeling overwhelmed may find comfort in stroking a cat’s fur or watching fish swim in a tank. The simple presence of an animal can create a sense of calm and security.
2. Teaching Empathy and Compassion
One of the most significant benefits of pets is their ability to teach empathy. When a child learns to recognize when a pet is hungry, tired, or in need of attention, they develop a deeper understanding of others’ emotions as well.
This skill extends beyond animals—children who regularly interact with pets tend to be more empathetic toward people, showing greater kindness and patience in social situations.
3. Encouraging Social and Communication Skills
For children who are shy or struggle with communication, pets can serve as a bridge to social interactions. Talking to a pet, reading to them, or even making up stories about their adventures can strengthen a child’s verbal skills and confidence.
Many therapists use animal-assisted therapy for children with anxiety or developmental challenges, as interacting with animals encourages social engagement in a non-judgmental setting.
Meet Colonel, the therapy dog who helped a young boy find the strength and motivation to heal after a life-changing accident. A touching reminder of the incredible bond between children and animals. 
Building Responsibility Through Pet Care
Caring for a pet is a great way for children to learn responsibility, as even simple daily tasks can help them develop important life skills
1. Small Tasks with Big Lessons
Children as young as three or four can begin helping with simple pet-related tasks under adult supervision. These may include:
- Filling a water bowl
- Brushing a pet’s fur
- Helping to put away pet toys
- Gently handing out treats
These small but meaningful responsibilities teach children that caring for another being requires consistency, patience, and effort.
2. The Role of Parent Oversight
While children can participate in caring for a pet, it’s important to remember that very young children should never be solely responsible for an animal’s well-being. Parents should always oversee pet care to ensure tasks are completed safely and correctly.
Subtle reminders—such as asking a child to “help” rather than assigning full responsibility—allow them to build confidence while ensuring the pet’s needs are met appropriately.
Choosing the Right Pet for Your Family
Not all pets are suited for young children, and choosing the right animal depends on your family’s lifestyle, space, and level of commitment.
Best Pets for Kids and Their Benefits
Dogs – Loyal and affectionate, dogs can be wonderful companions and great for active children. They require significant time and training.
Cats – Independent yet loving, cats can be a good fit for families who want a lower-maintenance pet. They provide emotional support while requiring less hands-on care than dogs.
Guinea pigs – Gentle and social, guinea pigs are excellent for young children learning how to handle animals.
Fish – While not interactive in the same way as other pets, fish can have a calming effect and introduce children to the basics of pet care.
Rabbits – Playful and interactive, rabbits can form strong bonds with their owners but require careful handling.
Each pet comes with different responsibilities, so it’s important to choose one that aligns with your family’s capabilities.
Creating a Strong Bond Between Pets and Children
Once a pet joins the family, nurturing a positive relationship between the animal and child is key.
1. Teaching Respectful Interactions
Young children don’t always understand how to handle animals properly. Parents should guide them in:
- Using gentle hands
- Recognizing when a pet needs space
- Understanding that pets have feelings too
This helps children develop respect and awareness of others’ boundaries.
2. Making Pet Care a Fun, Shared Experience
Caring for a pet shouldn’t feel like a chore. Instead, it can be framed as a fun bonding experience. Turning daily pet care into a routine activity—like singing a song while feeding the fish or timing how quickly the dog can finish a game of fetch—makes the process enjoyable and engaging.
3. Encouraging Play and Companionship
Playtime is one of the best ways for children and pets to bond. Whether it’s a game of tug-of-war with a dog, a laser pointer chase with a cat, or setting up a small obstacle course for a guinea pig, play helps build trust and companionship.
Final Thoughts: Are Pets Right for Your Family?
The benefits of pets extend far beyond companionship. Animals help children develop emotional intelligence, learn responsibility, and build a sense of empathy.
However, pet ownership is a long-term commitment that requires careful consideration. Families should choose pets that fit their lifestyle and involve children in their care in age-appropriate ways—always with adult oversight.
At Little Sunshine’s Playhouse & Preschool, we recognize the special connection children have with animals, which is why we love to incorporate animal and nature themes into our curriculum. By engaging young learners with these topics, we teach curiosity, empathy, and essential life skills in a way that feels fun and meaningful.
For the right family, a pet can be a source of joy, comfort, and life lessons that shape a child’s development for years to come.
Keep reading here!
Money Matters - Child-Related Tax Benefits
For some parents, tax refunds aren’t just a bonus—they’re a financial lifeline, helping cover essentials like rent, car repairs, and medical bills. As the deadline approaches, a new data study reveals how child-related tax benefits vary across America.
For each state, researchers analyzed local tax return data from the IRS to find 1) the amount of child-related tax credits per return and 2) the percentage of returns claiming these credits.
Check out the link to learn more about the study
House & Home - Which States Are Winning Over Young Homebuyers
- Minnesota ranks as the most desired state among young people to buy property, with 50.8% of people under 35 owning a home.
- Utah stands out as the state with the highest income for young adults at $95,2K.
- West Virginia provides the cheapest houses for sale, with an average price of around $158K.
A recent study by Evernest identified the U.S. states where young people prefer to buy property. The analysis took into account the range of key factors, including homeownership rate for people under 35, average young adult income, house prices, and the number of houses with a mortgage. The states are ranked by the final score, which was calculated based on all factors described above but with the priority given to young people's homeownership.
You can access the full research by following this link.
The U.S. state where young people prefer to buy property the most is Minnesota, with 50.8% of people under 35 owning a home. Most of the homebuyers pay a mortgage on their house in the state but Minnesota provides high salaries for young adults which sum to $94.8K on average.
Michigan ranks second in the list of U.S. states where young people prefer to be homeowners, with a score of 83.6 and 49.3% of people under 35 owning a house. The houses in the state are much more affordable than in Minnesota, averaging $236.6K but overall salaries are lower.
Alabama follows closely with third place and 49.1% of young people owning a home in the state. The average house price in Alabama comes to $222.5K and only 56.3% of homeowners pay a mortgage on their house.
Indiana takes fourth place, scoring 79.7. In the state, 47% of people under 35 own a house, which costs $231.6K on average. The income for young adults in Indiana is similar to Michigan.
Utah is fifth in the ranking of the U.S. states where young people prefer to buy property, with a score of 78.9. Closely following Indiana, 46.1% of people under 35 own a house here but the state has the most houses with a mortgage at 71.1%.
West Virginia comes in sixth, getting a score of 78.8. The state has the most affordable housing for sale which costs only $158.2K on average. More young people own a house in West Virginia than in Utah or Indiana, with 49.9%.
Delaware holds seventh place, earning a score of 78.6. Young people in the state have higher incomes with $90.1K and 46.5% of people under 35 buy themselves a home in Delaware. A lot of homeowners pay a mortgage on the house here, with 64.6% of all houses being attached to a mortgage.
In eighth place is South Carolina, scoring 77.6. The average house costs $292.5K here, while the income for young adults sums up to $72K yearly. With provided financial opportunities and mortgages, 48% of young people own a house in South Carolina.
Mississippi is ninth, with a score of 76.7 and 49.2% of people under 35 owning a house. The state has the lowest income for young people in the top 10 but the housing market is also one of the most affordable, with a house costing $174.2K on average.
Kentucky closes the ranking of the U.S. states where young people prefer to buy a house, with tenth place and a score of 75.7. Over 46.9% of young people already own a home here and the number of mortgages in Kentucky is lower than in Delaware or Utah, with more people being able to buy a home without a mortgage.
A spokesperson from Evernest commented on the study: “The emergence of non-coastal states like Minnesota as homeownership hubs for millennials and Gen Z signals a significant demographic shift. With over half of Minnesotans under 35 achieving homeownership—nearly double the rate in high-cost coastal markets—we're witnessing young Americans prioritize financial stability and space over traditional urban amenities. This trend correlates strongly with remote work adoption, which has freed younger buyers to seek both affordability and quality of life factors like education and healthcare access.”
Poste credit: https://www.evernest.co/
Enriching Education - Brooklyn Music Teacher Uses Hip-Hop and Hungarian Methods to Turn Middle Schoolers into Concert-Worthy Composers
When Ted Stafford moved to New York City in 1993 with the dream of becoming a rock star, he never imagined he’d instead become a transformative educator whose unique way of teaching music theory is changing how middle schoolers think about music, creativity, and themselves.
“Composing is the basis for my entire middle school program,” says Stafford. “By 4th Grade, my students can sight sing to some degree, and they know the basics of quarter notes, eighth notes, intervals of major scales, and so on. That’s when they’re ready to start making their own music.”
Stafford, who teaches music at Saint Saviour Catholic Academy in Brooklyn’s Park Slope, is formally trained in the Kodály method, a singing-focused approach to music education created in the 1930s by legendary Hungarian composer and musicologist Zoltán Kodály. But unlike the Austrian folk songs that formed the basis of Kodály’s method, Stafford teaches using music his students are more likely to resonate with.
“Kodály believed kids should learn to sing at a young age, and that popular folk songs were the best way to engage them. But this isn’t 1920s Austria, and since folk music really means the music of the people, in modern Brooklyn that means pop and hip-hop,” says Stafford.
Teaching songs they recognize gives Stafford a chance to connect with students on their own level while they also explore other musical styles and histories, including folk, classical, Native American, and African. By inviting them to identify melodies, chords, and other musical components in songs they’re familiar with, Stafford’s students learn how songs are constructed across cultures, which then leads to them composing their own songs, and eventually having their original songs performed live.
This year, Stafford’s 4th Graders are writing their own musical based on the Declaration of Independence, 5th Graders are creating pieces that use a 4-measure melody, 6th Graders learn to play ukuleles and master chord progressions while creating digital video game music, 7th Graders study hip-hop and film scoring, and 8th Graders incorporate everything they’ve learned into creating their own original choral movements and EDM tracks.
The variety of music knowledge his students absorb mirrors Stafford’s own musical background: he’s a guitarist with piano training who played trombone as a kid, performed tenor and alto sax and french horns at gigs, and even got really into bluegrass. He says his greatest love of all is heavy metal, but that might be changing: “Growing up, I didn’t really like hip-hop. Then I started teaching it to get in good with my 7th and 8th Graders, but I realized I didn’t know it well enough, so I needed to go deeper. Now I love hip-hop as much as metal.”
As for his own musical dreams, Stafford says he’d love to help music become as vital a part of education as English.
“If I’m being honest, I’d love to see composing become as common in education as writing paragraphs,” says Stafford. “If kids can learn to write essays, why not symphonies?”
Going Green - Nuna Baby Gear
Nuna is where luxury design meets effortless functionality—elevated, modern, and trusted by the most stylish parents in Hollywood (Jessica Alba, Chrissy Teigen, Kylie Jenner, and Shay Mitchell, to name a few). It’s the brand redefining what it means to travel, stroll, and parent in style.
With spring here—bringing travel plans, sunny strolls, and weekend getaways—Nuna’s sleek collection is the perfect companion for design-savvy families on the move. From the ultra-light TRVL™ stroller that folds down with one hand (yes, really) to the elegant PIPA™ series car seats and versatile MIXX™ next, every Nuna product is a masterclass in clean lines, smart features, and refined materials.
Designed and crafted with premium, eco-friendly fabrics, Nuna gear looks as good as it functions—think minimalist silhouettes, luxe leatherette touches, and soft, breathable textiles in sophisticated, neutral tones.
Consumer Critique - Colorful Spring Gifts from TOSY
If you're looking for some festive non-candy gifts this spring, here are some great options my family has enjoyed!
- TOSY Magnet Pyramid (Glow & Stone) // Starting at $27.99 – With 243 rare earth magnets, this shape-shifting toy allows for over 1 billion transformations and encourages imaginative play. The Glow version comes with a UV flashlight to illuminate holographic stickers, while the Stone version offers a sleek, modern finish.
- TOSY Magnet Cube // Starting at $11.99 – A unique, smooth-turning puzzle cube featuring 64 rare earth magnets, perfect for fine motor skill development, stress relief, and endless creative configurations.
- TOSY Flying Disc // $39.99 – This flying disc displays over 16 million color variations created from 36 RGB LEDs as it soars through the air. It’s the ultimate fusion of technology and outdoor fun for both kids and teens alike, plus it’s waterproof, making it fun for the beach, pool, and more!
- TOSY Flying Ring // $19.99 – Engineered for performance and durability, this waterproof flying ring is easy to toss and soars up to 100 feet. As it’s thrown, it offers an eye-catching light show with 16.7 million color variations.
Area Attractions - Twin Cities Spring Babies at the Twin Cities Festival
The 9th Annual Twin Cities Spring Babies Festival will take place from Saturday, April 12th to Sunday, May 4th.
**Spring Babies Are Arriving at the Twin Cities Festival!**
**What:** Join in for the arrival of baby farm animals at the Twin Cities Festival’s Spring Babies event. Purchase a ticket to hold and pet baby goats, sheep, ducklings, chicks, and more! Your ticket includes access to the animal area, hayride, and a play area featuring a corn pit, kiddie corn pit, straw bale maze, pedal tractors, trikes, and more! Additional activities available for an extra cost include food trucks, a gunny sack slide, corn kernel dunk tank, various inflatables, mini-golf, hayride, face painting, and caricatures.
The event will be held outdoors in large tents, rain or shine. Masks are not required, but we ask visitors to follow CDC guidelines on physical distancing and handwashing.
**Open Hours:** 10 AM – 5 PM on the following dates:
- Saturday, April 12 – Sunday, April 13
- Friday, April 18 – Saturday, April 19 (Closed on Easter Sunday)
- Saturday, April 26 – Sunday, April 27
- Saturday, May 3 – Sunday, May 4
**Location:** Twin Cities Festival 8001 109th Avenue N. Brooklyn Park, MN
**Cost:** Tickets can be purchased for $14 online, $14.50 on-site with a credit card, and $14 on-site with cash. Children aged 23 months and under are free.
**More Information:** To learn more or to purchase tickets, please visit https://www.
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