One our favorite family activities is hiking on a nice day. We started hiking as a family in Colorado when our boys were babies and haven’t stopped. If you are looking for a leisurely stroll or a more invigorating workout,...
  This summer we embarked on a parks challenge to discover our favorite parks in Ames. Challenges included zipping down a slide, swinging from the monkey bars, or pumping your legs on a swing. All of these things happen often...
Winter is definitely not my favorite season. From bitter, cold temperatures to navigating the roads in snow and ice, I would prefer to hibernate indoors or move to the South during the long, four-plus months we have of winter...
One of my favorite field trips our class took when I was a fifth-grade teacher was to the State of Iowa Capitol Building. I was able to do this tour five times and each time I learned new things....
Summer is a great time to set goals. What are some things you and your family want to learn or accomplish? Last year, my one-year-old dropped his binky, we went fishing, I planted some new flowers, and my daughter rode...
We’ve been virtual learning now for several weeks with our 2nd and 5th graders. One of the main challenges we’ve encountered is keeping my 21-month-old busy and engaged while still being readily available to help with learning.   Somedays, Blippi helps...
You’ve probably heard of sensory play, but did you know that this type of play is very beneficial for children? From birth, babies learn about their world using their 5 senses: seeing, smelling, hearing, feeling & tasting. As they...
Is anyone else finding it hard to believe that August is here and summer is officially winding down? Whether you’re bummed about summer winding down or still looking for ways to enjoy the warm weather and keep your little...
When we bought our house last year, one of the first things I wanted to do was plant a garden. We didn’t get it accomplished last year, but creating a garden was my highest priority this spring. Here are...
Today's post is sponsored by Apex Athletics: Taking cheerleading to the next level.   About Apex Athletics Director Nicole Gould shares: "We opened in 2009 with a goal to provide a great service to all of our customers whether they were 18...

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