From the Blog / January 12, 2021

5 Winter Boredom Busters (No Screens Required!)

Winters in Maine are cold and long – add in a global pandemic, and if you’re like many parents, you’re hearing “I’m bored” a few times more than you’d like. But while boredom might feel inevitable – the benefits that come from it are actually plentiful. The truth is boredom is good for kids! Feeling… Read more »

From the Blog / January 8, 2021

Who Needs a Screen? #DreamBigStartSmall Challenge

The average American spends 5.4 hours a day on their smartphones, with some saying they spend 12 hours on their phone a day (TechJury). Including time at your computer, laptop, tablet, or TV – that’s a lot of time looking at a screen and not being present with friends and family. Can you challenge your… Read more »

From the Blog / November 8, 2020

Dream Big, Start Small: 5 Ways to Encourage Your Child to Think About Their Future

In a year that has been full of uncertainty, thinking about the future can feel…just plain weird. But research on children who have experienced traumatic events like disasters has shown that “encouraging children to have a positive future orientation can buffer against possible trauma,” says Michael Ungar, a family therapist with a doctorate in social… Read more »

From the Blog / October 15, 2020

Family Chore Chart (Printable)

Kids learn by example. Print off a sheet for each family member and make this an activity you can all do together. List the household chores, routine items, tasks, or everyday responsibilities that each person is responsible for. Your lists should include at least 2-3 tasks and 1 -2 activities that the family can do… Read more »

From the Blog / October 10, 2020

Healthy Eating & Hydration Chart (Printable)

Eating healthy and staying hydrated is important because it supports healthy habits, keeps their bodies energized, and helps them grow! But, often, your child doesn’t make it easy. Some ideas to consider: Trying new foods can be a challenge. Have your child pick out one “new” fruit or veggie each week. Does your child dislike… Read more »

From the Blog / October 10, 2020

Practicing Kindness (Printable)

The world needs more kindness. Learning how to be kind to others starts at an early age. The benefits of teaching kindness to your child will help them grow into happy, well-rounded kids with a greater sense of belonging, positive self-esteem, compassion for others, and many other things. And, the rest of us could use… Read more »

From the Blog / October 5, 2020

5 Steps to Check Your Child’s Alfond Grant Value

Did you know that if your child was born a Maine resident on or after January 1, 2013, they’ve been awarded a $500 Alfond Grant? The funds from this grant go towards supporting their future education. It’s never too early to start planning for your child’s bright future. Parents whose child has an Alfond Grant… Read more »

From the Blog / September 30, 2020

#DreamBigStartSmall What Will Your Kid(s) Say About Their Future?

Kids say the darndest things. We encourage you to talk with your kids about their future whenever you are able. This exercise is fun and can be a great way to get your kid(s) thinking about their future. As your child grows and learns, follow up with this series of questions to see how their… Read more »

From the Blog / September 4, 2020

#DreamBigStartSmall Photo Challenge

Contest has ended. Your child has a big future ahead of them, and we want to help you help them to #DreamBigStartSmall. Regardless of how your child’s school year is starting – at school, at home, or somewhere in between – this year will be a ride for everyone. Submit a back to school photo… Read more »