Our Favorite Parenting News Stories Of The Week

Ugly holiday sweaters maybe a cold-weather cliche, but there are plenty of ways to bundle up that are just as stylish as they are seasonal. Check out these picks for your family holiday photo! (Elizabeth Street)

The benefits of reading to your child are widely acknowledged, but it is equally important to make time to tell your children stories from your own life. Children who grow up hearing family narratives often have higher self confidence and empathy. (The Atlantic)

Looking for the perfect holiday gift for your little one? Check out this list of the best children’s books of the year.  (Brain Pickings)

We lost one of the world’s most important leaders last week. Read about Nelson Mandela’s daughter’s memories of the last days that his family was able to spend together. (LA Times)

Snacking doesn’t have to be an unhealthy part of your diet (even during the holidays). By opting for nuts over other snack foods, you children and parents alike can maintain a healthy weight–and gain years of life. (The New York Times)

The case for limiting screen time continues. A recent study shows that children who are exposed to a lot of television have a difficult time learning to relate to other’s emotions. (Babble)

Ready to swoon as your heart melts (despite the cold temps outside)? One of our favorite celeb dads–Ben Affleck–spills about how his wife and mother-of-his-children, Jennifer Garner, provided him the at-home happiness he needed to be his best professionally. Who says Hollywood marriages never work? (People)

When social services swoop in to “save” a child, the assumption is that they always have the best interest’s of the child in mind. But what does it say when a flawed system holds ugly prejudices against a Muslim single mom? (The New Yorker)

So you may have to stay away from the spiked eggnog, but there are plenty of reasons that being pregnant during the holiday season is a gift in and of itself! (Mommyish)

Say “awww” and get some decoration inspiration as local mom and fabulous blogger Joanna Goddard decks the halls with her adorable brood. (A Cup Of Jo)

Relevant Directory Listings

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The Little Gym of Bay Ridge- Bensonhurst

<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;" data-sheets-value="{" data-sheets-userformat="{">At The Little Gym of Bay Ridge-Bensonhurt, we specialize in unique, educational classes that revolve around active play. We give children a safe and inspiring space to direct their energy, build confidence, and develop key skills. Explore the range of classes we offer at The Little Gym of Bay Ridge-Bensonhurst to find the one that’s just right for your child. </span></p>

Music Together

<p><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;" data-sheets-value="{" data-sheets-userformat="{">Music Together® is for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and their parents/caregiver. The classes include songs, rhythmic rhymes and movement, and instrument play activities that are developmentally appropriate for the children and easy for parents and caregivers, regardless of their own musical ability.</span></p>

Plugged in Band

<div>Plugged In is a nonprofit program that offers online programs to student musicians (Ages 10-18) in a non-competitive environment and provides band and individual performance opportunities in support of community and charitable causes.</div> <div> </div> <div>Our programs include:</div> <div> </div> <div>Rock Band Classes</div> <div>Private Music Lessons</div> <div>Summer Camp</div> <div>Digital/Audio Production</div> <div>Songwriting and Recording Workshops</div> <div> </div> <div>Oh and hey parents, we are now offering private music lessons and our rock band program for adults too. Reach out to us for more information. </div>