I love reading books to children.  And children love having books read to them.  It is a win-win activity for adults and children of all ages. Continue reading →

PB&J. BLT. Bologna. Ham & cheese. What are we talking about? Sandwiches, of course!  Did you know that National Sandwich Day, a day that celebrates one of America’s most popular lunch foods, occurs every year on November 3? Continue reading →

I have always been an avid reader and enjoy spending time drifting into the world of a good book.  I find reading to be relaxing, exciting and educational.   Two of my favorite authors are Kristin Hannah and Nicholas Sparks.  I enjoy their writing styles and always end up getting so lost in their stories that I have a hard time putting the book down. Just one more chapter, I always tell myself! Continue reading →

October brings the beautiful colors of fall leaves to Iowa.  The trees are changing colors, and a mixture of red, orange, yellow, green and gold can be seen and enjoyed wherever we go.   October is also Local Food Month.  In addition to enjoying the colorful leaves this month, be sure to enjoy the many colors and varieties of locally grown foods! Continue reading →

It’s mid-summer, which means gardens are starting to produce an array of colorful delicious vegetables.  Getting your children involved with gardening can develop into a wonderful outdoor family activity.  When children are active participants in the planning, growing and harvesting of garden vegetables, they are usually willing to eat them also.  The harvesting stage is usually what young children get the most excited about.   This is a great learning experience for children.  When you teach children to help with the garden harvest, there will certainly be fun times and laughter all around!  Here are some fun tips on how to make garden harvesting with young children a fun and productive activity. Continue reading →

It’s July in Iowa which means hot and humid weather. When we work, play and exercise outdoors, we sweat and LOSE essential water and minerals, and it is important to our health to replace it!  Between 70-80% of a child’s body is made up of water. Keep water handy and cold for your children by always keeping a pitcher of water or water bottles in the refrigerator. Continue reading →

Did you know that SWEET CORN has an even number of rows on each cob?

And on the average, an ear of SWEET CORN has 800 kernels in 16 rows? Continue reading →

Have you ever done rock painting?  It is a great way to spend time outdoors with your children.  The first thing you will need to do is to collect some rocks.  Part of the fun of rock painting is the hunt for the rocks.  Smooth flat rocks are best for most rock painting projects, but irregular shapes can also spark the imagination. Continue reading →

Bean bag toss is a popular outdoor summer game.  Besides the traditional adult bean bag toss, explore some of these games and activities you can play outdoors or indoors with your young children this summer. You can even make your own bean bags in any shape, size and color. Continue reading →