Critical thinking is one of the most crucial life skills to have; it not only builds a strong character, but also creates a savvy and successful adult. Schools can only do so much to nurture critical thinking abilities due to a standardized syllabus, but you as a parent can encourage your children to think critically with some activities you can do at home. Here are some examples of activities to teach children critical thinking. 1.…
Read More »The advantages of small class sizes extend far beyond immediate academic improvements to create lasting impacts that shape students’ educational trajectories and life outcomes. Research demonstrates that students who attend smaller classes develop competencies and characteristics that serve them well throughout their academic careers and into their professional lives. 1. Development of communication skills. Communication advantages include: Public speaking confidence: Regular practice presenting ideas to classmates and authentic audiences Interpersonal skills: Active listening, empathetic responding,…
Read More »For parents, teens, and children alike, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by stress and anxiety in our fast-paced, ever-changing world. Chances are that everyone is dealing with stress and anxiety in their bodies and minds at one time or another. Thankfully, there are tips and techniques to help children and teens respond skillfully to stressful situations. Here are some techniques for dealing with stress for kids. 1. Getting active. Moving isn’t just good for physical…
Read More »in Events
There are many July events for families to enjoy in the Boston area this year. Check out our list of July events and activities happening in the Boston area. Bubbles & Books Storytime on the Seaside Lawn Wed, July 1, 2026 – Wed, August 26, 2026 Every Wednesday Morning in July and August, enjoy family-friendly mornings of storytelling, crafts, and seaside fun. Bubbles and Books is a bubble party featuring stories, music, a light snack…
Read More »in Technology
School phone bans. One-to-one devices. Class-time screen use. These hot-button issues are sparking debate in schools and households around the country as educators and parents grapple with how device use during school time impacts student focus, learning, and development. But what do we know about the effectiveness of phone bans, and what do experts recommend for device use in the classroom? A growing wave of education leaders and policymakers are adopting new cellphone policies, with…
Read More »You’ve signed up for classes, you’ve learned your way around the virtual course system — and now, you’ve got to make sure you survive all the way to graduation. Laptop or paper notes? Highlighter or flashcards? And does music help while studying? Here’s how to take better notes and study so that you remember what you’ve learned — without getting crushed by college stress. Plus: what to do if you do feel crushed. There is…
Read More »Every child will likely have trouble with homework at some point, but for children with ADHD, the problem can go beyond a few assignments. Students with ADHD often face challenges with focus, patience, and organization. These challenges can make it hard for students to perform to their full potential in and out of the classroom. With these ADHD homework strategies, your child can learn how to focus on homework, get better grades, and build their…
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You can enjoy the water in many ways at Massachusetts state parks, beaches, and pools! Accessible beaches have boardwalks and beach mats to get you out onto the sand. Beach wheelchairs with balloon tires can move you across the sand, and floating beach wheelchairs get you into the water itself. Check out our list of accessible beaches and pools in Massachusetts below. After you find some accessible beaches you like, please check with that beach…
Read More »Giving kids too much time with screens is easy to do, but not good for kids. Kids need limits on their screen time to protect much needed and ever-decreasing time for imaginative free play—the kind that leads to creativity, social skills, greater self-control, greater emotional regulation, and more. We can set up our environment to help limit screen time by making bedrooms screen-free and limiting our own time using our devices. Make sure you promote…
Read More »in Events, Summer Tips
Summertime in Boston means it’s time to splash in spray parks! There’s plenty of free water fun to be had all around the city, and we’ve rounded up some favorite spots. Frog Pond, Boston Common—Beacon Hill From the opening day festivities in late June through Labor Day weekend, children ages 12 and under can cool off in the Frog Pond Spray Pool, open daily at 11 a.m. Rose Kennedy Greenway — Chinatown Parks, Wharf District…
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