Lifestyle & Trends - Family Living

Create a kids room that inspires learning and creativity

As the cold weather approaches, kids spend less time outdoors burning off all that wonderful energy. There's an easy and inexpensive way to turn any room into an environment that fosters your child's learning and creativity. What's even better: You are very likely to think, "it's too quiet in there," while the kids play intently in their new space.

Smart online shopping tips to save Moms time and money

The average American mother spends nearly an hour a day purchasing products and services and more than two hours a day on household activities like housework, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Clearly, streamlining tasks like shopping can help mothers save money and make their lives easier.

Overdraft fee changes are on the way

There are new regulations going into effect this summer that could change the way your bank charges overdraft fees for debit card purchases. Are you ready? Officials hope the changes will help consumers avoid unexpected fees, but even after the new government rules go into effect on July 1, many banks will continue to charge a fee if you opt in to their overdraft service. It's important to know how these changes might affect you and your money.

Parents: Tips for giving kids a DIY after-school activity center at home

Many American families may still be tightening their belts, as the economy continues its slow climb out of recession. If your family has decided to save money by foregoing traditional after-school programs, you can bring the experience home.

Digestive health is top-of-mind for many, especially moms

New parents are often surprised by how much time they spend monitoring their child's digestive health - from sharing great details about the baby's latest diaper change to worrying about what foods will keep things flowing freely. There is no greater responsibility than keeping babies and toddlers healthy so they can thrive, and the digestive tract is the first line of defense for the body's immune system - whether you are 1 or 101.

Tips for planning a last-minute family vacation

Whether it's the sudden need to get away or the last chance to escape before the kids head back to school, many families find themselves in a position to book a last-minute vacation. With the fluctuating economy wreaking havoc on the airline and hotel industries, there is now a greater chance of finding availability and bargains for savvy researchers.

What you need to know to prepare for natural disasters

Whether it's a wildfire, hurricane, tornado, flood or another natural disaster altogether, your family should know what to do when in danger.

Help your kids turn your house into a green zone

As a parent, you'd like your home, community, and children's schools to be greener. Going green doesn't have to be difficult, time-consuming or expensive. In fact, a smart and savvy parent can go green and save green at the same time. Here are a few easy ways you can change the world for the better, and even have fun while you're at it.

Kids are using more and more electronic devices this school year

Kids are using more electronic devices throughout the school year than ever before. They're on cell phones to connect with friends and family, handheld computers for homework, downloading music videos and searching the net and carrying MP3 players for jamming to music.

The right car seat to keep your child safe

If you had to venture a guess, what would you think is the No. 1 killer of children between the ages of 1 and 14? If you said car accidents, you'd be right according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Lifestyle Trends