For parents of campers heading to sleepaway camp, spring can mean a whole lot of shopping, finding duffel bags, labeling clothes, packing… And then they’re off! And THEN it’s time to think about popping a little something in the mail so your camper can have the thrill of receiving a care package. But what to...
Kids spend hours having fun at day camp, their summer schedules brimming with swimming, boating and aiming for that bull’s-eye. Through all the laughs and memory-making, though, they’re also getting something else: a boost to their social development. “Because there is so much social interaction, you see an acceleration of kids’ friendship skills, conflict resolution...
Inclusion is a core value shared by many summer camps, and in recent years there’s been a lot of discussion in the camp community about how to help transgender and gender-nonconforming youth succeed. Tom Rosenberg, president and chief executive officer of the American Camp Association, says the group is doing more every year to support...
For thousands of teens, the ideal summer camp has nothing to do with roasting s’mores over a fire. It’s about devoting an intensive week or two — or maybe the entire summer — on a college campus, immersed in the world of policy debate. Researching and practicing arguments in a top-notch university library. Getting a...
Molly Coyle is playing Mom to the best of her ability as she and her husband, Tom, raise four girls, ages 8 and younger. She stays at home, as her mother was able to do. She is the disciplinarian and shares in getting the girls to their many activities. And she knows that, even though...
When her first baby was ready to eat solids, Briana Cushman turned to the same food many other parents have — rice cereal. Early on, though, the rural Dubuque mom began second-guessing her approach. Especially when her son’s iron count came back low. “I was already cooking from scratch for my husband and me, and...
When it comes to car travel, families know that keeping baby safe and happy is essential. Understanding the latest expert recommendations is one of the best ways to help keep children as safe as possible. The American Academy of Pediatrics recently updated its recommendation on how long children should ride in rear-facing car seats. The...
You are told to embrace your postpartum figure. Your body has done a miraculous thing by growing a new life, and the process of giving birth is even more incredible. This is all true, and I’ll be honest, in the immediate weeks following the birth of each of my four darling girls, I was not...
Bringing home a new baby is a big adjustment and can feel overwhelming for parents, particularly when it comes to safety. While certain statistics can be alarming — there are approximately 3,600 sudden unexpected infant deaths yearly in the U.S., according to the most recent government statistics — parents can take comfort in knowing that...
The pregnancy test came back positive. The gender announcement party has taken place. Now, it’s time to decorate the nursery and do some baby-proofing to welcome your new arrival. Room theme Do you need a theme for the nursery? It’s up to you. A newborn isn’t going to notice the theme until they are older....
Leo, Lincoln, Nora and Amelia topped the list of local baby names in 2018, according to data from Dubuque’s hospitals. Leo was the most popular boy’s name at MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center, and Nora, the most popular girl’s. Lincoln and Amelia were the top names at UnityPoint Health-Finley Hospital. “I think we’re seeing a trend...
January and February marked frigid and snow-covered months in the tri-states, with school delays, early dismissals and consecutive snow days. We asked moms on our Her — A Magazine for Women Facebook page how they were helping their kiddos pass the time. Here’s what they shared with us: “We’re spending time the best way: Playing...
For many parents, a pacifier is an essential product for soothing baby. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents consider giving a child a pacifier at night and for naps during the first year. But how can you be sure you are choosing the right type of pacifier? With so many options...
For children, social-emotional development is one of their most valuable aspects. Focus on toys for preschoolers that will build children’s empathy, communication skills and the ability to resolve conflicts and navigate challenges. Here are a few ideas: Experiential A petting zoo can be a great place for kids to learn about compassion. A puppet show...
Some people are content being single. But for those who are actively looking for a significant other, Valentine’s Day can be a frustrating and even depressing day because it reminds them they have not been successful in their quest. “Don’t fall for the illusion that the world was suddenly overtaken by loving, happy couples eating...
When it comes to celebrating their wedding, many couples are forgoing tradition to reflect their unique personalities. “There’s really nothing that’s the common way to do things anymore,” said Nicole Dempewolf, catering coordinator at Hotel Julien Dubuque. “Don’t be afraid to be creative. Do what creates a fun day and fun environment for you, and...
