Meet attachment parenting mom Dina Ridenour and learn more about how she balances the messy realities of day-to-day motherhood with her unique, natural and gentle parenting style.

Becoming a parent

Dina Ridenour, a certified public school teacher and attachment parenting mom of two beautiful girls, came into her parenting style by natural instinct. "My husband Don and I were married for 10 years, enjoying our time together when I found out I was pregnant with my first child. We did not plan to get pregnant then, but it was the best thing we ever did by accident! We love our role as parents. Our parenting style is kid-centered. They drive most of what goes on around here and we are perfectly fine with that."

Discovering attachment parenting

Becoming a mom by surprise at age 35 was an adjustment for Dina, but she soon realized that this was actually a benefit in disguise. "As I was meeting the many demands of motherhood, I realized at 35 that I was much more ready to do all the sacrificing that I believe good parenting requires. Don and I had our fun and we were both ready to concentrate our energies on being good parents.

I believe in attachment parenting because I believe in giving my children a firm foundation on which to stand so they can spread their wings safely and fly. I feel an accepting environment is created when children have their needs met and feel loved and cared for. I have joked that my children never really cried as babies. I was always there to meet whatever need they had, be it my milk, a hug, food or sleep. They came first. This taught them to trust and helped them become very caring and loving themselves. My proudest moments come when I am told how loving or kind my child has been or that my child sees an injustice and speaks out for the underdog. That's the kind of child we want to send out into the world."

The co-sleeping family

Dina and Don did not plan to co-sleep with their kids. In fact, they spent countless hours before their first daughter Chloe was born decorating a nursery, putting up a crib and even painting a beautiful mural on the wall. But after Chloe arrived, co-sleeping just felt natural. Now, nine years later, they're still all sleeping in the same room.

Dina says, "We love co-sleeping. We still co-sleep even now but we have four single beds going across the room. Everyone has their own space, but at the same time we sincerely love the closeness it allows. I love waking up hugging and snuggling with the girls. What better way to start the day? For those who joke and wonder if my kids will be bringing their spouses into the bedroom someday, I just laugh. Everything in its own time. When they are ready, they’ll go. My oldest says she is getting ready to go into her own room soon. She is beginning to want the freedom that being 9 brings. Most people would say she is a loving and confident young lady who has a great sense of herself. I feel the outcome is worth the investment.”

Choosing to homeschool

To those on the outside, it seems curious that a certified public school teacher would choose to homeschool. But for Dina and her family, the decision came naturally. “I believe there is a lot of good going on in public schools. I know because I was part of those good things for many years. But honestly, I homeschool because I am able. I was really dedicated to educating other people's kids for 10 years and now I want to educate my children -- it's as simple as that. I believe what makes the difference in a child’s life, whether going to public school or being homeschooled, is the involvement of the parents. If you are a diligent, loving parent and provide a safe, loving environment for your children, I believe they will thrive no matter where they are educated."

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Parenting under pressure

From talk shows and parenting magazines, to baby gurus and even the 50-year-old childless guy in front of you in the grocery store, everyone seems to have an opinion about how you should raise your kids. There’s attachment parenting, authoritative parenting, helicopter moms, tiger moms, elephant moms and well... you get the idea. Parenting has been so fractionalized and polarized that even if you do feel strongly about your parenting style, it's hard to know where you stand.

Hot-button parenting

But why is parenting such a hot-button issue? Perhaps it’s because, of all the things we will do in our adult lives, parenting is one of the most consequential. Our parenting decisions don’t just affect us -- they affect the lives of living, breathing little people who depend on us. They affect the future of the next generation. They affect the future of the world in which we live.

But even without the pressure of social responsibility, parenting is hard enough. Children are not born with instruction manuals and even the most concerned, sensitive parent is going to make mistakes along the way.

In the uncharted territory of new motherhood, it can be easy to feel confused and disoriented by all the conflicting advice you will receive. Is breast really best? Will my baby be in danger if I decide to co-sleep? Am I a bad mom if I can’t get my baby to stop crying? It’s not uncommon for new moms to feel overwhelmed when faced with the crushing responsibility of raising another human being.

How to cope with parenting peer pressure

If you are feeling pressured and judged about your parenting, here are some ways to cope:

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Discover multiple intelligences

Help your child tap into their strengths through multiple intelligences. This concept was coined by developmental psychologist Howard Gardner in an effort to change how we understand "intelligence." He described eight intelligences that people can possess -- linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, musical, interpersonal, intrapersonal and naturalistic. The idea is that everyone possesses all eight multiple intelligences in varying amounts, but that we are naturally inclined towards some more than others. For example, if you learn best while moving around, you are probably strong in bodily-kinesthetic intelligence.

While traditional schools often focus on linguistic and logical-mathematical intelligences, Gardner’s approach shows that this is not the only way to measure growth and learning. When you provide opportunities to engage all the intelligences, you can help your children to explore their full potential. Over time, you will discover which intelligences your child is drawn to most and you can tailor her learning to maximize her interests and natural abilities.

Stay engaged

The best way to nurture your child’s unique abilities is to stay engaged with your child. There are many people who will influence your child throughout the years -- including teachers, coaches, mentors and peers -- but no one’s influence will be as significant as your own. Play with your child. Go on adventures together. Watch to see what piques his interest. Be available to talk when your child has questions or just needs an ear to listen. In all these ways, you will be communicating your unconditional love for him as a human being and lighting the spark of self-empowerment and healthy self-worth.

Try new things

Children love to try new things. Use your imagination and take the time to expose your child to lots of new activities. Singing, dancing, cooking, playing an instrument, sports, board games, nature hikes… there are an infinite number of activities you can enjoy together. No one is great at everything, but you’ll never know what you are passionate about unless you explore.

Listen to your children

As a parent, it is sometimes hard to separate your own dreams from those of your children. It might be hard to swallow that your child just doesn’t like football when you live for Sunday nights. Be sensitive and listen to your children. When you believe in your children, it helps them believe in themselves. Follow their lead and you will help your children to blossom into the amazing, unique individuals they are destined to become.

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Motherhood and transformation

Sailing into the uncharted territory of new motherhood presents many new challenges. You have to face the enormous learning curve of figuring out how to care for a tiny, helpless human being, all while revamping your own identity and surviving on practically nonexistent amounts of sleep. It’s clearly a recipe for disaster, but somehow we moms make it through. But not without some stretch marks -- both literally and figuratively.

Balancing self and family

The early years of parenting are intense. Babies require huge amounts of attention and our lives naturally bend to provide what they need. But as the years go on and our babies become toddlers, preschoolers and then elementary school students -- we begin to get glimpses of a life that includes a little more focus on our adult selves again. However, finding the balance between “me” time and “kid” time isn’t easy and it can be one of the most guilt-producing aspects of motherhood. Need a little help finding the right balance between self and family? We’ve got some tips to help you keep all the balls in the air.

Mommies need "me" time

The messy realities of modern motherhood are many, and fitting in “me” time isn’t always easy. But it’s made so much more difficult when you live in a state of guilt every time you go to the gym, get your hair done or spend a night out with the girls. If you accept that time for yourself is essential to your well-being, you can relax and let go of the guilt. Instead of waiting to sneak in a little “me” time once you’ve reached the end of your rope, get out your day-planner and put it on the calendar. Think about what helps you recharge your batteries. Zumba class? A weekly massage? A monthly trip to the spa? Do the things that make you happy and you will have more to give to your family in the long run.

Take care of yourself

It’s natural for moms to put their children’s needs before their own, but over time, you can find yourself running thin. Don’t wait until you are catching every virus that passes by. Be proactive and take care of yourself. This might include things like:

1. Checking with your insurance provider to see what kind of wellness programs are available.
2. Joining a gym with childcare so you can work out regularly. 24 Hour Fitness and Lifetime Fitness are national clubs that offer terrific childcare that kids enjoy.
3. Hiring help for childcare or household chores. It’s okay to admit that you can’t do it all. Need a good reference for a babysitter, nanny or day care? Care.com is an excellent resource you can depend on.

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Game on!

Make sure there is plenty of kid-friendly entertainment in addition to adult fun. Toss diving sticks into the deep end of the pool for older kids and set up a kiddie pool for the little ones. Have old-fashioned contests like limbo and hula hoop — for the kids as well as the adults! Prepare a few silly and fun prizes for the game winners.

Need party game inspiration? Check out these 7 fun kids’ party games >>

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Keep it early

If your family friendly Labor Day party goes late into the night, you’ll likely have to suffer through at least a few meltdowns. Avoid such drama by adjusting your party time. Depending on the little partygoers' ages, start your party in the mid to late afternoon and plan on wrapping up around 8 or 9 p.m. Make sure guests know they are free to come and go as they please to accommodate their kids' nap or bedtime schedules.

Are your kids back on a school-time sleep schedule yet? Click here if you need help getting back to your back-to-school routine >>

Enlist the help of a teen

If you have a teenager or two among your group of party guests, enlist their help with organizing some play time for the younger kids while the adults mingle and relax. Throw some cash their way to show you appreciate the extra help!

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There is something so special about the grandchild-grandparent relationship... Why not celebrate it? Check out these unique ideas and activities to make Grandparents Day fun for everyone this year.

Do Grandparents Day family style

Make this Grandparents Day extra special for your parents and your children by planning a fun outing for the whole family.

Plan a picnic

Can you think of a better way to spend a September Sunday than at the park? Pack an inspired picnic basket filled with artisan sandwiches , fresh fruit and vegetables and a special dessert.

Pack the sand toys, Frisbee, soccer ball and croquet set for a fun-filled day in the sunshine with your kids’ favorite grandparents. Don’t forget a blanket and some books in case the grandparents and grandkids want to relax under a shady tree with a good read.

Split it up

If your daughter loves doing "girly things" with Grandma and your son is into strictly "boy things" with Grandpa, divide up the day. Send your son off to Grandpa’s with tickets to a baseball game and pre-pay an appointment at the local nail salon for your mom and your daughter. .

Then plan for the twosomes to meet up with you and your husband for a fun dinner out at a noisy, kid-friendly restaurant. Better yet, make a big comfort meal at home like healthy shepherd’s pie or whole-grain spaghetti with turkey meatballs.

Wish your kids were closer to your parents? Read 15 ways grandparents and grandchildren can bond >>

Make a grandparent-grandchild photo album

This craft require a bit of preplanning but with photo sites like Shutterfly you can create a special photo album replete with pictures of your children with your parents and parents-in-law that they will cherish forever. Have your children help you select special photos that they want to include in their albums for their grandparents.

Then, on the big day, sit down together as a family to peruse the completed albums and rehash the funny/sweet/sentimental/awesome memories that have been forever captured.

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Don’t forget…

Before the big day, explain the importance of Grandparents Day to your children — no matter how young or old. Any child is lucky to have a special relationship with his grandparents… and I don’t know a grandparent out there who doesn’t love to spend time with their little grandchildren. However you decide to celebrate, make sure to thank the grandparents in your and your kids' lives this year!

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How she balances it all

Elizabeth Banks is known for her flawless appearance on the big screen, but she's also Mom to 18-month-old Felix... and a former Girl Scout.

Elizabeth Banks is a chameleon on screen, going from her spotlight-stealing performances in 30 Rock to her practically unrecognizable, big-haired character, Effie, in The Hunger Games. But in real life, she's a wife, a mom and an actress who looks for the best projects to take on.

Banks is also co-producer of her latest film, Pitch Perfect, which comes out in October. In it, she plays an ex-member of an a capella group who commentates a competition. But no, we don't get to hear her sing.

Secrets of motherhood

Banks was unable to conceive. Her son Felix was carried by a surrogate using her egg and her husband's sperm — but she says that she's done talking about that part of her life. Now, she's more focused on being Mom.

Her secret to balancing her hefty workload and motherhood? "Build a good village," says Banks.

Banks admits that when her son was born, she had to learn to accept assistance when it's offered and that's made a big difference. "I slowly had to come to terms with that I can’t do everything. It’s very humbling raising a child," says Banks.

"Mostly having a child brings a lot of clarity to your life... I have to have a really good reason to leave him," says Banks.

But really, she actually doesn't do much leaving Felix. Instead, her 18-month-old comes on location with her. So in choosing what she works on, Banks considers how the location will impact his quality of life. "I am now deciding to travel with an 18-month-old," says Banks.

And while she puts in long hours, she says it's not much different than other jobs. "I think a lot of parents work long hours and raise their kids. I got great advice from other actors who are parents," says Banks. "I feel very lucky in that I have a great job for being a mom in that my kids can go to my job with me."

And like most parents, Banks and husband Max Handelman are just doing their best. "There’s always a balancing act but we just make it work as much as we can," says Banks.

Being sister, scouting and sweet treats

Banks grew up the eldest of four kids in Western Massachusetts. She was a Brownie, and later a Girl Scout, something that created many wonderful memories for her. "I did it with my sister and we were very competitive about our badges," laughs Banks, who recalls sewing on her own patches.

"I learned a ton of amazing skills. It’s a really tolerant organization and breeds great friendship and leadership skills," says Banks.

Through her involvement in Scouts, Banks learned to horseback ride and also to dive.

And her favorite Girl Scout cookie? Samoas.

Naturally, when talking about the new limited edition line of Nestle Crunch bars that were created using Girl Scout cookie flavors, Banks favors the Samoas version — called Caramel & Coconut. She suggests using the bars as a DIY sprinkle for ice cream. How? "Bang them up and sprinkle them on ice cream," says Banks. Sales of the bars support the Girl Scouts of America. Sounds decadent, right?

But since they are only here for a limited time, do as Banks says and buy them up and freeze them — that way you will have some to enjoy for a long time to come.

Photo credit: Ivan Nikolov/WENN.com

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A daughter's love

O’Connor’s words carried with them the love of a daughter who felt truly important as a child and spoke to the part of me that has felt distracted and pulled in a million directions lately: “When you were in the room talking to her, there was nobody else in the whole room… you had the feeling that she was just talking to you.” 

O’Connor remembered of her childhood, “When we came home, she was there. It didn’t matter how busy she was… she was there and she had cocoa or whatever and we would sit and tell a story and she and her mother, who had been the same, would hang on every word.”

And that's exactly how I want my children to feel.

A mother's important message

As her small audience of parents sat, entranced by her stories and watching her eyes sparkle as she spoke of her beloved mother, she explained, “I really think that the message [my mother] would hope that you take away from this is that her role was really to listen hard to people and pay attention to them and to see and hear what their dreams were and then to help figure out what they needed to make those dreams come true. She really wasn’t ever happier than when you were able to fulfill your own dreams… her belief in you really made a difference.”

After saying goodbye to O’Connor, I was left wondering what my children would say about me and how they would recall their childhood. I couldn’t help but wonder if they would speak of me with so much tenderness and admiration or if, instead, the days when I’m distracted would color their memories of me. Would they know how much I loved them? Would they know that they were the center of my world?

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A renewed commitment

And while I was immediately filled with regret for moments already lost, that feeling gave way to a renewed determination to live more intentionally and with more awareness, to show my children that they are my first priority, just as O’Connor’s mother had.

Because what greater gift can we give our children but the memory of a childhood in which they were truly appreciated and made to feel important?

This isn’t the first time that I’ve had to ask myself these questions and I’m fairly certain that it won’t be the last, but like so many things in life, a reminder from time to time helps to keep things in perspective.

O’Connor went on to share, “She always said to us, ‘remind people just to stop and listen to each other and believe in each other and encourage each other.’ She was afraid we weren’t doing so much of that these days.”

I am so incredibly grateful to Walt Disney Studios for the opportunity to meet O'Connor, to hear her stories and watch her face light up as she shared her childhood memories. Her words will remain in my heart as a beautiful reminder of what’s most important in this life.

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A timeless classic

On October 2, the Walt Disney Studios will open its vault to release Cinderella, in the highly anticipated Blu‐ray™ Diamond Edition Collection. This special edition is packed with bonus features that include an interview with O’Connor in which she speaks of her parents. I’m confident that like me, you’ll hang on her every word.

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Every year, the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association sponsors Baby Safety Month in September, and parents are encouraged to “take a second look at second-hand baby gear.” Hand-me-downs, garage sale finds and thrift stores are excellent places to find baby gear at an excellent price — but before you go snatching up that crib for $15, here are a few tips to keep in mind.

Second-hand gear

Second-hand gear has a huge appeal to a family having a baby. Brand new gear can give many expectant parents sticker shock, as the costs pile up — car seat, crib, stroller, play yard, high chair, bouncy seat, swing... the list can go on and on. Even buying the economy models can bring a hefty price tag, so those cheap finds at the vintage store can be very enticing.

What you can buy used

Don’t worry — there are plenty of items that you can buy gently used or can accept as hand-me-downs from friends and relatives. Maternity clothes, baby clothes, like-new toys, cloth diapers and baby books are all great options to look for when you’re out thrifting.

Budget-friendly tips

If you’re looking to keep on budget so you can buy a new car seat or baby crib, there are ways to save money so you’ll be less tempted to pick up a potentially dangerous piece of baby gear for your home. Breastfeeding and cloth diapering can save you tons of money, and you also might consider making your own baby food when the time comes, or look into baby-led weaning. If you’re creating a baby registry, don’t be afraid to add those big-ticket items. A generous relative may love to buy your baby a car seat, or your friends at work may want to pool their funds together to buy your crib.

What is baby-led weaning all about? >>

Keep your baby’s safety in mind as you prepare a nursery or look for a new car seat. Buy new when you can and register your new piece of gear so you can be notified of recalls. Your baby’s safety depends on it.

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This month we see famous birthdays from pop stars, stylists, TV personalities — and even a prince! For example, who knew that Gwyneth Paltrow and Lil Wayne shared a birthday? If you are expecting a baby this month, perhaps this list will inspire you when searching for the perfect baby name. If you have a birthday this month, find out who is your birthday twin.

September horoscopes and holidays

As far as September horoscopes, if your birthday falls between August 23 and September 22 you are a Virgo. If your birthday falls between September 23 and October 22 then you are a Libra. Holidays this month include Labor Day, Grandparents Day, Patriot Day and the Autumn Equinox.

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Gwen Stefani

Gwen Stefani, 42, looked amazing on the September cover of Harper’s Bazaar in a pink Oscar de la Renta gown.

”It's, like, the real deal, dude,” said Stefani, who is a busy mom to Kingston, 6, and Zuma, 4. ”It's superfun being a mom, but it's hard too. Finding that balance between work and family is the hardest thing I've ever done — by far.”

What is her secret to her fab looking bod after having two kids? ”There is no secret: You just have to eat healthy, work out and torture yourself!” admits Stefani.

We love her chic style and she explains how she keeps her picture-perfect look. ”I've always been a girl who loves to dress up,” Stefani says, of her signature blond hairstyle and red lips. ”I already put my makeup on twice today: I put it on to take my kid to school, and then I went home, washed my face, and put it on again to have lunch with you.”

Find out how to copy Stefani's cool mom style here >>

It sounds like her husband, Bush frontman Gavin Rossdale, also likes her glamorous look. ”I like to make my husband like me more,” she reveals, ”and he likes it when I'm wearing makeup.”

Next up Jessica Alba reveals how she stays hot on Self magazine

Photo courtesy of Harper's Bazaar

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Jessica Alba

“Bubble butts, like my dad and I have, run in my family!” Jessica Alba, 31, reveals to the editors in the September issue of Self magazine. ”To tone up, I do jump lunges and squat jumps. They make me want to vomit, but they’re the best for getting my legs in shape.”

In between her workouts and taking care of her two daughters , the busy actress has also found the time to start The Honest Company, which sells eco-friendly and non-toxic baby products. She said she decided to start the company after a scary incident with her daughter.

“I found my daughter Honor sitting in her crib, eating these tiny beads from the inside of her diaper. They were all over her face. It was a moment of terror,” she told the magazine.

She said that working on her company is a huge passion of hers. “It’s awesome — it really does feel like this is my third baby. It’s a deep passion of mine and I spend all my time at the office. I think it’s a nice balance to Hollywood because it’s so free and it’s so creative and so much of what you do is in someone else’s hands, essentially and this is something that I could actually control and I could see something from the beginning to the end and there’s something really wonderful and fulfilling about that. Especially when it was so hard to get it going for so long.”

Next up: Katie Couric talks about baby lust in Good Housekeeping

Photo courtesy of Self magazine

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Katie Couric

Katie Couric, 55, graced the September cover of Good Housekeeping and opened up about her new daytime talk show, Katie, menopause and her biggest regret.

“I love being around my kids. I’m not a particularly solitary person. I like a big, chaotic household — noise, commotion, laughter!” said Couric, who has two daughters Ellie, 21, and Carrie, 16.

Her biggest regret? “Sometimes I think I should have had six kids. Or I wish I’d had one [more] at 37, but I was busy. My career,” she revealed.

Couric told the magazine she is going through menopause and it has been a transition for her. “I think emotionally and psychologically, it’s weird to feel like, ‘Gosh, my childbearing years are over.’ And of course they’ve been over for a long time, but still, they’re officially over now. It’s kind of a head trip, to tell you the truth,” she reveals, admitting that she has ”total child lust when I see little kids.”

Couric is known for her bubbly personality and looks years younger than she is — so what is her secret? “I know it sounds corny, but I think the key to staying young is having joy inside you; being a caring, loving, generous person; and [having] a sense of humor.”

Next up: Jillian Michaels talks being a mom to Shape

Photo courtesy of Good Housekeeping

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Jillian Michaels

Former The Biggest Loser trainer Jillian Michaels was the Shape magazine cover girl for September — and this new mom is looking better than ever!

“My life is rich in ways I never thought possible,” says Jillian, who recently adopted a Haitian daughter named Lukensia; her partner Heidi Rhoades just gave birth to a son named Phoenix. “I feel like I can finally hone in on what truly matters to me.”

Check out the behind-the-scenes video shoot of Michaels at Shape >>

She said her priorities have changed since becoming a mom. “I used to tell moms that for the sake of their well-being they had to put themselves first,” she says. “But I know now that’s not always possible. The reality is, I work, but not nearly as much or as hard as I used to, and if we go out, it’s maybe once a week. What’s changed? After weighing the pros and cons — ’like, I could go to the gym or spend two hours with my kids; or I could take that job in Miami, but then I’ll lose a weekend with my family.”’

Michaels says she now calls herself M.O.M., or master of multitasking. “To save time and fit in exercise, I’ve learned to do several things at once myself,” she says.

Check out Shape's top 5 exercises for a better booty >>

Just because she is busy, however, does not mean you will find her letting her health go!

“So many people have said to me, ‘I can’t wait for you to have kids and find yourself at the drive-thru.’ Look, I’m far from being a perfect parent, but I promise that will never happen. And, honestly, I don’t understand why it does for so many.”

Check out the top 20 foods that can ruin your workout >>

Next up: Michelle Obama on Ladies' Home Journal

Photo courtesy of Shape magazine

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Michelle Obama

The First Lady of the United States Michelle Obama graced the September cover of Ladies’ Home Journal and spoke about the importance of having more women in leadership roles.

“We have to start with them while they’re young and instill in girls a sense of confidence. That’s why sports are so important. They teach you how to compete — how to fall down and get back up. And there are organizations like the Girl Scouts: They nurture self-confidence and give girls the chance to practice being in charge. We’ve got to give young women the opportunities to be leaders,” said Michelle, who has two daughters Malia and Sasha.

“We talk about this a lot, obviously. But it's not just about what we want for our girls... we also think about the girls who grew up like we grew up: In working-class neighborhoods where they didn't have sports programs. Or in a single-parent home. They need to be encouraged, too,” she said.

Photo courtesy of Ladies' Home Journal

From Mariah Carey to Mariska Hargitay, check out more celebrity mom cover stories here >>

In this digital age, you can't keep your child away from electronics completely — no matter how many warnings you read about screen time. So if your kids are going to be playing with electronic toys, games and computers, you need to make sure they are learning something along the way. These electronic toys for preschoolers are both fun and beneficial to their development.

MobiGo 2

The new MobiGo 2 Touch Learning System is a handheld system that's designed for kids ages 3-8. It's perfect for on-the-go play — like long car trips. With the MobiGo 2, your kids can learn and build on math, vocabulary, spelling, reading and other skills. Kids will love playing its games and programs, plus it also functions as an e-reader, photo viewer, art studio and more.

LeapPad2

The original LeapPad recently got an upgrade. The LeapPad2 educational tablet features improved battery life, a faster processor, front and back cameras, and a video recorder. Suited for kids ages 3-9, the LeapPad2 allows your child to play, learn and explore in a variety of different ways. With 4GB of memory and an app library of over 325 games, apps, songs, videos and more, it seems there are no limits to the learning and fun.

InnoTab 2

If your kids always want to use your iPad, give them their own tablet designed just for their age group. The InnoTab 2 is a durable multi-media tablet for preschoolers and young kids. Geared toward children ages 3-9, it features a 5-inch screen, photo viewer, video player, e-reader, MP3 player and much more. Kids can download more than 200 apps that include games, e-books and other learning activities.

SMART CYCLE Racer

With this toy, your kids can get physical while incorporating the gaming aspect too. The Fisher-Price SMART CYCLE Racer hooks up to your TV and then kids pedal and steer while learning numbers, letters, shapes and more. It comes with the Learning Adventure cartridge, and you can buy other cartridges as well. Recommended for kids ages 3-5, this is one learning system that keeps them moving too.

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Start with breakfast

Family mealtime isn't just about dinner. Breakfast is also essential. Kids who eat breakfast every day will be more alert, energized and focused at school — and the same goes for adults at work. A healthy breakfast doesn't have to be time consuming to prepare. Skip the sugared cereals and treats from the bakery. Opt for a combination of whole grains, lean proteins and fruits instead. Yogurt with granola or oatmeal with bananas and walnuts is a great way to start the day.

Sit down to dinner

Research shows that kids who sit down to dinner with their families are more likely to excel in school, stay out of trouble, communicate more openly and avoid risky behaviors. Dinnertime provides an opportunity to learn what is going on in your kids' lives. It's a terrific time to bond. While at the table, don't have the TV on or sit silently. Instead, ask your children about their day. Talk about their friends, their studies and their achievements, as well as upcoming events and activities. Together over dinner you can make family decisions — big and small. Discuss what movie to rent this weekend and where to go on vacation this summer. By talking with your kids while breaking bread, you can get to know more about them and strengthen your family bonds.

Teaching at the table

Family mealtime also offers kids an opportunity to learn about good table manners and a whole lot more. Start by preparing meals together. Kids can learn about fractions and math by helping cook from recipes. Incorporate unusual or foreign ingredients to your meals to help expand your children's knowledge about different foods and cultures. At the table, you can talk about where the foods come from and how they are grown. You can also grow your own vegetables in the garden and take your kids to you-pick-it farms or farmers markets so they can learn even more. This will help teach your kids to be thankful and appreciative of their meals.

Identify obstacles

Many families think it's impossible to find ways to sit down to eat together. Even though coordinating your schedules can be difficult, it's certainly not impossible. If your children are overscheduled with too many sports, clubs and other extracurricular activities, it may be time to cut back a little bit and make time for family. Make a commitment to share mealtime together as a family — it's worth it.

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Keeping it real

Kelly isn't just an awesome mom to two beautiful kids — she also co-parents with her husband, Ben Orum of the California-based metal band All Shall Perish.

We chatted with her to find out what unique challenges a closely-knit rock star family has to face.

Kelly is like many moms — she has two happy and healthy children and enjoys a wide variety of activities in her California home. One aspect of their lives is a bit different from most of us, however. Her husband has a unique job — he’s a guitarist for the deathcore metal band, All Shall Perish. How do their lives differ from the rest of us, and how do they make time for family.

Growing up Kelly

SK: Where were you born and raised?

Kelly: I was born in the Bay Area and raised in a little town called Danville, which is an affluent suburb about 35 minutes east of San Francisco. I mention "affluent" because my family was not. I wouldn't say we were poor, but we weren't crazy wealthy like many of the people around us, and I feel like this really shaped who I was as a teenager. Of course, looking back I can see how much we benefited from being in a town that was safe, and had excellent schools. Staying in Danville, despite the cost of living, is something my mom really fought for, and I thank her for that.

SK: What is one of your favorite childhood memories?

Kelly: My maternal grandmother only lived about five minutes away from us, so we spent a lot of time at her house. My cousin lived with her. Summers were filled with playing in the backyard; swimming, gardening, pushing each other around on dollies. It was a very happy time and place.

SK: What sort of music did you like as a youngster?

Kelly: I liked a lot of typical kid's stuff, like New Kids on the Block. However, I was also really into Cyndi Lauper. I thought she was the coolest, and loved her style. My love of Cyndi was kind of the first indication that I was going to be on the more alternative side. I was 8 years old when the Guns N’ Roses album Appetite for Destruction came out. I was really into all of the late ’80s hair metal like Guns N’ Roses, Skid Row and Motley Crue.

SK: And as a teenager?

Kelly: In my early teens I was really into grunge. I had a boyfriend who was in an industrial band, so we listened to a lot of Skinny Puppy, Babyland, Pigface. A lot of obscure stuff. Around 15 is when I started going to shows a lot in Berkeley, California. We went because that was where our friends were. Thinking back, a lot of the bands were awful, but they were our friends so it didn't matter.

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Meeting Ben

SK: How did you meet Ben?

Kelly: Ben and I met in high school. He went to one of the schools in our small town, and I went to the other. I had met a lot of people from his school through our local youth center, which also put on shows at a building downtown. So we had a lot of mutual friends, and what we all had in common was being "misfits," "punks," and being into music that was less than mainstream.

SK: Was it love at first sight or did it take a while to develop?

Kelly: We met when we were 17, but didn't start dating until we were 21. So definitely not love at first sight! We were acquaintances, who became friends, and friendship evolved into love.

SK: What was your first date like?

Kelly: It's hard to really pinpoint a "first date" since we had been friends for so long. Our first kiss was at midnight, January 1, 2000. We were at a party at a friend's house, we were both single, but we were still just friends. The day we started "officially dating," his band had two shows, so I went to two of his shows that day.

All Shall Perish

SK: Was Ben in All Shall Perish before you got together or after?

Kelly: Ben was not in All Shall Perish when we started dating — he was in a band called Antagony. They did a tour with two other local bands in 2002. All Shall Perish was kind of born from that tour, and had members from all three of those bands. They signed with Nuclear Blast in 2005, who re-released their self-produced album Hate. Malice. Revenge. Since then they have written and recorded three more albums.

SK: What bands have they toured with?

Kelly: They have done so many tours at this point that it is really hard for me to remember! Some that stand out to me are Bleeding Through, Caliban and Suicide Silence. They've also toured with Danzig, were on the Mayhem Fest tour with Megadeth, and are about to do a tour with Hatebreed.

SK: What was it like before Grey was born? Did you tour with the band?

Kelly: I did go on a couple of tours before Grey was born. I did also go on a European tour after he was born. It was a really fun and exciting time in our lives. The band’s popularity was growing and each tour was getting bigger and bigger. The European tour was their first time playing in Europe, so it was really fun getting to experience that with them.

SK: What is it like being backstage at a metal show?

Kelly: Honestly, it can be pretty boring! Of course, there are days that are wild and crazy. There are always at least a few great stories from the road. For the most part, there is a lot of waiting around.

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Add in two kids

SK: Do your children understand that their dad is in a metal band?

Kelly: Grey is 6 years old, WinterRose is 2. Grey does understand that his daddy is in a band, but I don't think he understands that people actually listen to his band and come out to concerts to see him play.

SK: What does he think about it?

Kelly: He thinks that when the tour van comes, Daddy is going to be gone a long time. Kids have a very narrow and innocent view of the world, and that is his view.

SK: Have either of them been to a show?

Kelly: Yes. The have both been to shows. Not shocking that metal shows aren't the greatest environment for kids. Luckily, most people in other bands are very respectful of us and them when they are around. Despite how great everyone can be, I tend to get stressed out. Last time I took them to a show they watched the band play for about five minutes, got bored and wanted to go backstage.

SK: What influence have you and/or your kids had on the band?

Kelly: I am not sure that I have had any influence on the band, but Ben did write a song called "Greyson," after our son. It's an instrumental interlude and is very slow compared to the rest of the album it is on. Fans seem to love it.

SK: Have there been any unique issues with fans regarding you or your kiddos?

Kelly: We have had a few people tell us that they have named their child Greyson, either after our son, or after the song. It's kind of a trip, but is also flattering. Young metal parents, especially young metal fathers, tend to look up to Ben. We both think that is pretty cool.

SK: Do you ever worry about a fan becoming crazed and stalking you all?

Kelly: This isn't something I spend a lot of time being preoccupied about, but it is something I am cautious of. I don't tag my location on social media websites for this reason. A lot of my followers on Instagram are fans of the band. I'm sure 99 percent of them are harmless, but because of that 1 percent I don't tag my location or say the name of my kids' schools.

Going onwards

SK: What advice would you give to a mom whose partner is a hopeful in a band?

Kelly: You have to be supportive. You don't want to be the person who held your husband or boyfriend back. Ben has gotten to live his childhood dream. He's gotten to play at festivals in front of tens of thousands of people. All Shall Perish was the first American metal band to play in Siberia! Can you imagine if I had tried to squash his dream and his friends went on to have that experience without him?

On the flip side, don't become a doormat. I've seen guys let being a "rock star" go to their head. To me, Ben isn't a rock star. He is the father of my children, the guy I met in high school, the silly dude who loves Star Wars and silly cartoons. Playing guitar doesn't change any of that. It doesn't give you license to disrespect the woman in your life, or your children.

Lastly, you need be supportive of each other. You need to learn to communicate. It took many tours, and many tears for us to learn this lesson. I needed to learn to express my needs   and I had to learn what his needs were .

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Seeing well is important for kids — it’s how they learn, interact and grow emotionally as well as socially. If your child has a vision problem, you don’t have to wait for the school nurse to tell you. There are certain clues you can look for at home, and eye doctors recommend taking your child for a yearly exam, even in the absence of symptoms.

What clues to look for

It can be difficult to ascertain when a child might need glasses. Board certified ophthalmologist Niki Silverstein, M.D., knows how good vision is especially important in children entering school. "It's hard to know when your children need glasses because they think what they are seeing is normal,” she explained. “If they've never seen any way else, how would they know?” Silverstein adds that a good test for a parent to do, although by no means a replacement for professional testing, is to see if a child can read or see distant signs in the past while driving in a car. She states, "Every child should have an eye exam when school starts — or earlier if a problem is noted."

American Optometric Association spokesperson and optometrist, Dr. Andrea Thau, also provided us with a comprehensive list of signs that parents can look for that may prompt a visit to an eye doctor. “Parents play an important role in looking out for certain behaviors and warning signs that could indicate a problem that may have developed in between eye exams,” she shared. “Keeping a close eye on changes in their child’s behavior is the best way to detect warning signs that the child may suffer from an undiagnosed vision problem.”

When should a child get an eye exam?

Most school districts conduct annual eye exams courtesy of the school nurse, but Thau recommends that kids get screened well before they go to school. “Even in the absence of symptoms, the AOA recommends that all children have their first comprehensive eye examination with an eye doctor in the first year of life, again at age 3, and then every year thereafter,” she told us. “The AOA in partnership with Johnson & Johnson Vision Care created a national public health program InfantSEE® that provides no-cost vision assessments to every baby in this country in the first year of life.” You can find a provider at www.infantsee.org.

“Not seeing well can hinder a child's social and educational growth,” adds Silverstein. Vision impacts all areas of a child’s life, so if you have the slightest inkling that your child isn’t seeing well, make an appointment — and don’t expect her to come to you with complaints, as she may not know herself that she needs to get checked out.

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Adele

Life & Style magazine caught the first Adele baby bump photo as the singer cupped her tummy in a loose black dress paired with a cardigan. The 24-year-old singer reportedly went to dinner with her fiancé Simon Konecki and then had fun shopping for antiques and books on Fulham Road.

“Adele was relaxed and calm, and she and Simon looked really great together. She seemed very, very happy. She absolutely does have a pregnancy glow,” a bystander told the magazine.

She was wearing a gold band on her ring finger which caused many to speculate that she was married. She addressed those rumors via Twitter, writing, “I'm not married . . . Zzzzzzz.“

Adele has been keeping a low profile and has avoided being photographed since she made the pregnancy announcement in June. She reportedly is due very soon and has yet to announce the sex of her baby, however told People in February that she wanted to have three sons by the time she was 30!

Next up:  Holly Madison debuts her baby bump!

Photo credit: Celebrity Baby Scoop - Celebrity Mom and Baby News

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Holly Madison

Former Playboy star Holly Madison debuted her baby bump shortly after announcing her pregnancy. ”I’ve always wanted to be a mom,” Madison said, saying she is 12 weeks along. “But I thought it would take longer!”

Due in March, this is the first child for the 32-year-old Girls Next Door star and her party promoter boyfriend Pasquale Rotella. “Definitely being with the right guy has a lot to do with it,” she said. “My relationship is awesome. I’m happier than I’ve ever been in my personal life.”

As far as those pregnancy symptoms, Madison says she has been feeling good. “I’ve been lucky! No morning sickness, but I do get a little nauseous,” she said.

Madison wore a pink Disneyland T-shirt and pajama pants as she was spotted getting chips and drinks on her way to do her burlesque show Peepshow in Las Vegas on August 30. “If one more person says I "looked pregnant" when they saw Peepshow over the summer, I'm gonna go apesh**! Lol! #IGiveUp #115LooksPregnant,” Madison recently tweeted.

Next up: Wiz Khalifa’s baby mama, Amber Rose, shows off her maybe baby bump

Photo credit: Celebrity baby Scoop - Celebrity Mom and Baby News

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Amber Rose

Known for her skimpy outfits and body-hugging dresses, Amber Rose wore a loose fitting white gown while promoting Smirnoff Fluffed Marshmallow and Whipped Cream flavored vodkas in Philadelphia recently. Rose and her fiancé, rapper Wiz Khalifa, are reportedly expecting their first child together.

Even though she has been sporting a suspicious baby bump, she hasn’t officially confirmed the baby news yet, however she and Wiz were recently spotted going to the doctor’s office and she held a large Chanel bag over her midsection. The couple is reportedly going to pull a Beyonce and make the pregnancy announcement on the red carpet on Thursday during the MTV Video Music Awards.

The couple is rumored to be pregnant with... a baby boy!

Next up:  Carson Daly’s pregnant girlfriend, Siri Pinter

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Siri Pinter

Carson Daly holds his son Jackson James while arriving at the Malibu chili cook-off with his pregnant girlfriend, Siri Pinter. The couple is expecting their second child together, which is reportedly a girl! Pinter, 38, looked cute and colorful in a coral tank and purple maxi skirt paired with flip-flops.

Pinter recently shared her pregnancy cravings on her blog, Siriously Delicious. "Something about being pregnant makes me nostalgic for foods I loved as a kid, like cans of black olives and applesauce mixed with cottage cheese. I know it doesn't look appetising, in fact Carson makes me eat it far, far away from him. But it's delicious, trust me," she writes.

Also on her agenda? “Eating the famous 'Maternity Salad' at a restaurant in Studio City that is supposed to induce labor!” she wrote. “Apparently, pregnant women flock there everyday to eat this famous dish that is supposed to induce labor. The ingredients are basic: romaine, watercress, gorgonzola, walnuts AND their super secret special dressing that you can purchase online. It's the dressing that apparently does the trick. They claim it's made from natural ingredients, but if it truly does "work" I'm going to guess it's either laced with castor oil or pitocin.”

Next up: Tori Spelling’s last pregnancy photo

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Tori Spelling

Tori Spelling was spotted out at the Lunchables Team and Club Kids event with her daughter Stella and her son Liam just two days before she gave birth to her fourth child, a son named Finn Davey. Her little boy was born just 10 months after her daughter Hattie was born!

Spelling looked cute and comfortable in a printed maxi dress paired with strappy sandals and blue nail polish.

She announced the news on her website, revealing that Finn weighed 6 pounds, 6 ounces and measured 20 inches in length.

From Megan Fox to Anna Paquin, check out more cute celebrity baby bumps here >>

Photo credit: WENN unless otherwise noted

We have rounded up the coolest baby boy names with serious swagger. Seriously. These baby names are unique, edgy, trendsetting and stand out in a crowd. If you are looking for a popular baby boy name like Jacob or Mason, our list from the Social Security Administration’s top baby names might be for you. However, if you want a more unique name, check out our list below!

Underrated boy names

We love these boy names because they have serious swagger but are underrated, which is what we like!

Check out more baby boy names >>

Tough boy names

We love these names because they have a tough, confident air to them, which often happens when you add the letter “Z” or “X” to a baby name . Names like Hercules or King, however, would make it seem like you are trying too hard, while names like Rocco or Gunner stand out on their own as tough names. Check out our picks below:

Boy names with cool meanings

Some parents are looking for a baby boy name that also has a great meaning. We have rounded up names that have it all — these sound cool and have a great meaning.

Celebrity boy names

Celebrities always seem to have their thumb on the pulse of cool and unique baby names. Many recent celebrity baby boys have been given names that have a classic or old-fashioned sound to them. For inspiration, check out the following:

Check out the best and worst celebrity baby names >>

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Macromastia is characterized by excessive growth of the breasts that occurs spontaneously during puberty, pregnancy or while taking certain medications.

Physical discomfort isn't the only issue

The teen years are difficult enough, but for girls who suffer from this condition, the likelihood of eating disorders and low self-esteem are greatly increased.

Girls experience a wide range of growth and developmental changes during their teenage years. No two girls develop at exactly the same rate, but girls who develop unusually large breasts often suffer from low self-esteem as well as physical problems.

What is macromastia?

Also known as gigantomastia, this condition causes the breasts to grow unusually large and symptoms most often appear in adolescent girls. It is not known for certain what causes the abnormal breast growth, but it may be related to an increased sensitivity to hormones. Many women with the condition also have significant asymmetry issues, with one breast being larger than the other. Breasts may also grow quite rapidly, which can be painful in addition to embarrassing. Adolescent girls with macromastia suffer from more breast pain, back pain, neck and shoulder pain, eating disorders and low self-esteem.

Breast-reduction surgery is a commonly performed procedure that improves the physical health and well-being of patients with breasts that are too large, but both physicians and parents are wary of choosing to operate on adolescent girls. While approximately two-thirds of adolescent macromastia patients are overweight, typically weight reduction does not generally affect the size of their breasts.

Tips for buying the perfect bra >>

Studying the effects

Dr. Brian Labow is a pediatric plastic surgeon in the Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery at Children’s Hospital Boston. Each year, Dr. Labow performs about 100 surgeries on adolescent girls to reduce the size of their breasts. "I wondered, how do you measure the impact of the surgery?” says Dr. Labow. “And do adolescents benefit by waiting until they're older to get the surgery?" Conventional thinking has been to wait until adolescent girls are older before performing a breast-reduction surgery, which is the most effective way to improve the quality of life for these patients.

Dr. Labow was the principal investigator in a study of almost 100 patients between the ages of 12 and 21 who suffer from macromastia, but who had not yet had breast reduction surgery. The patients were followed through the Adolescent Breast Clinic at the Department of Plastic and Oral Surgery at Children’s Hospital Boston from October 2008 through August 2011. These identified patients were then compared to a control group of patients from the same age group who did not experience macromastia.

Check out these back exercises to support your breasts >>

What researchers found

The conclusions of the study suggest that macromastia has a substantial negative impact on girl’s self-esteem, health-related quality of life, physical well-being and eating patterns. Physicians and parents should be aware of the potential benefits of allowing early breast-reduction surgery on both the mental and physical health of adolescent girls. ”They are suffering,” says Dr. Labow. “If you wait about three years after menarche [when a girl's menstrual periods start], the breasts may grow slightly but not enough to necessitate waiting longer.”

While each patient’s situation is different, the data from this study show that adolescent girls who suffer from unusually large breasts may benefit from earlier breast-reduction surgery, rather than waiting until they are older.

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Must-have stroller accessories for parents

Most strollers come with a nice variety of practical features for Baby and parents, but some strollers need a little extra when it comes to accessories — especially accessories for parents. These must-have stroller accessories are universal and can be used on almost any stroller, but most importantly, they make life easier for parents while traveling or running errands. They're also helpful for shopping trips, daily exercise or general everyday use.

A sturdy cup holder is a must for on-the-go parents. The Valco Baby Universal Cup Holder attaches to most strollers and provides a firm grip to accommodate many different cup and bottle sizes.

While traveling it’s important to protect your investment with a stroller travel bag. A universal and heavy-duty stroller bag like the Stokke Pram Pack accommodates most strollers and keeps your stroller safe with the built-in reinforced plastic ribs and strong plastic plate. The Pram Pack is approved and recommended by most major airlines and can be wheeled behind you for easy travel.

While it’s likely you’ll carry your diaper bag with you while out and about, you never know how much you’ll need and love a parent organizer for the stroller until you actually have one. The Britax Stroller Organizer works with most strollers and collapses, allowing it to stay in position while folding and storing the stroller. With two flexible cup holders, front pocket for small essentials and a large middle pocket, you can easily store your phone, keys, a small baby toy, pacifier, bottle or sippy cup and a water bottle for you — for quick and easy access at a moment's notice.

A place to securely store your purse, shopping bags or memorabilia from amusement parks and attractions is important for those all-day adventures. The Mommy Hook frees up your under basket and securely holds your bags from the side of your stroller and helps to make trips from the car to the house a lot easier. Just make sure you use it with a sturdy stroller and remember to never compromise the stability of your stroller.

Whether you’re a leisurely walker or avid jogger, it’s nice to have a secure place to hold your phone. The Text Hook is the ultimate smartphone holder for parents with an active lifestyle. Play and be able to safely and quickly see your music choices for your baby and you while enjoying the outdoors.

Protect your stroller’s handlebar from the wear and tear of getting it in and out of the car, folding, sun exposure and normal, everyday use with a handlebar cover or covers. City Grips comes in two different styles — one for strollers with a single handlebar and one for strollers with a double handlebar. City Grips fit all strollers and keep your foam or rubber handlebar clean and protected.

Top strollers under $100 >>

Must-have stroller accessories for babies and kids

Make your child’s stroller even more comfortable with practical accessories made just for him. When Baby is happy, everyone is happy and a happy baby in a stroller is ideal for outings and traveling.

Keep toys close by, within Baby’s reach and off the dirty ground with a toy strap. The toy strap from Loopy Gear safely attaches to the stroller or Baby’s wrist to keep toys within a close range.

It’s a good idea to keep a second set of harness pads on hand — either in your diaper bag, in your car or at home. While most strollers come with harness pads, some do not. And even if your stroller comes complete with a padded harness, the pads are usually the first thing to get soiled or dirty from spit-up, drool and/or spilled milk from a bottle or sippy cup. The CushyStraps are machine washable, attach easily and fit on all strollers.

Adequate sun protection is important for the safety and comfort of your child. If your stroller doesn’t have a large sun canopy, a shade like the RayShade can be easily attached to any stroller and provides a generous amount of protection for Baby’s legs while seated and helps to darken the stroller while reclined when Baby is napping.

A stroller liner has many practical uses that are convenient to both Baby and parents. The Memory Foam Stroller Liner keeps your stroller clean and protected — extending the life of the stroller and making it easier to clean — and gives Baby a ventilated, padded seat for a more comfortable ride.

Some strollers are approved from birth, but not all of them come standard with an infant insert. The Head and Body Support Pillow is reversible and can be used in a stroller or car seat to cradle and support your infant’s head, neck and body.

Keep baby warm during the winter months or cool evenings with a stroller blanket. But not just any stroller blanket… The All-Weather Woobee securely attaches to the sides of the stroller to keep the blanket in place and covering your child, not the ground.

Don’t forget your older child! Long outings and travel can be hard on an older child. The Stroller Board attaches to most strollers and gives a preschooler or older sibling a place to rest his tired feet.

When using your stroller as a travel system , it’s important to protect your little one from the sun’s rays, unwanted germs and stranger’s fingers. The Oh Baby Chic Paparazzi Pod infant car seat cover securely attaches to most infant car seats and can be used while the seat is attached to your stroller, without interfering with the stability and attachment of the car seat.

Stroller snob moms >>

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While there's no denying that adding a puppy to your family is a huge commitment, a bit of prep work before you bring your puppy home can help set your family up for success.

Carol Campbell, DVM, shares what she's seen in her years as a vet: ”As veterinarians, it is all too common that we see families that are overwhelmed by the addition of a new puppy to the family. In order to be as prepared as possible, it is important to take into consideration the breed of the puppy. Energy level, size, exercise needs, grooming requirements, the amount of living space available, and whether or not they will get along with children are just a few of the issues that need to be considered.”

So, once you've done your homework and you've carefully chosen the best breed for your family, what else should you know? Here are five things that your children need to understand about their new furry friend.

If you haven't found your puppy yet, here's how to pick the right dog for your kids >>

One day, they'll be the best of friends: Kids and their pets >>

Hide your valuables

Children should know that all puppies chew and they will inevitably find your child's favorite toy and chew it beyond recognition if it's left within reach. To avoid heartache for your child as well as your new puppy, all prized possessions should be placed in a safe spot and your puppy should be provided with plenty of safe chew toys.

Teaching your children the basics on how to treat their new puppy will help them to form a friendship that will bring tremendous joy to your family and provide memories that will last a lifetime.

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