The first lady has put considerable effort into supporting wide-sweeping changes to school lunch programs. Calories have been restricted under the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010.

Why one-size-fits-all may not work

While the policy is intended to eradicate hunger or malnutrition and encourage healthy eating, some students are still hungry. Can you really mandate meals that will be appropriate for both an 80-pound girl and an athletic, 130-pound boy?

As long as there have been cafeterias in schools, students have been complaining about the food. What used to consist of meat-and-potatoes fare slopped onto a plate has morphed over the years into prepackaged lunch items that more closely resemble fast food. Complaints now center on the nutritional value of the meals, and whether or not students who eat on campus are eating healthy.

Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act

Supported by the first lady as part of her Let’s Move! Campaign, the act was signed into law by President Obama back in December 2010. According to the White House press release, “The Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 authorizes funding for federal school meal and child nutrition programs and increases access to healthy food for low-income children.” The bill provided for $4.5 billion in new funding for these programs over a 10 year period, with the dual goals of fighting childhood hunger and taking aim at the epidemic of obesity in children.

With almost 32 million students relying on lunches through the school lunch program, these meals need to not just taste appealing but be nutritionally sound. Many low-income students also eat breakfast that is provided for them at school, which means that most of their daily nutritional needs come from school-provided food. When President Obama signed this act, the hope was to provide increased access to healthier options for school children over the next 10 years.

This school actually banned home packed lunches >>

Calories: Guidelines or restrictions?

Under the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 there are specific guidelines for how many calories are allowed in each complete lunch. The USDA relied on recommendations made by a panel of experts brought together by the Institute of Medicine. Calorie amounts allowable per lunch were calculated based on the age of the child being served — using an average height and weight — and portion sizes were designed to maintain a healthy weight. The goal was to foster the same healthy changes in eating habits many parents are implementing at home.

Elementary school students in grades kindergarten through fifth are allowed 650 calories per meal. Moving into middle school, lunches served to children in sixth through eighth grades have a slightly increased calorie maximum at 700. By the time they are teenagers in high school, students are allowed 850 calories per meal — about one-third of the total calories they require per day. According to WebMD, active teens between the ages of 14 and 18 years require approximately 2,400 calories per day.

Many students and parents are complaining that the calorie maximums are too one-size-fits-all, and don’t provide enough food for larger, athletic teens who burn more calories. The USDA received an unprecedented 132,000 public comments regarding these proposed standards, and did make modifications where they deemed appropriate.

Students are hungry

Through YouTube videos and interviews, students are complaining that the calorie restrictions are leaving them hungry and unable to concentrate on schoolwork. The USDA has released a fact sheet on calories in school meals, to help school authorities answer public concerns. The fact sheet specifically mentions additional options for the very active students. “In addition to making available second helpings of fruits and vegetables at lunch, schools can also structure afterschool snack and supper programs to provide additional foods for those who need them. Many schools have previously found success with parent or school-run booster clubs and may opt to continue this practice.”

Bottom line

Students who eat school lunches can always bring snacks or extra items from home to supplement their calorie intake if they find themselves still hungry in the afternoon. It is difficult to make a one-size-fits-all calorie maximum for meals that works for everyone. Help your child find a healthier way to eat without making him starve by encouraging healthy eating at home as well.

More on healthy kids

How eating organic improves your child's health
How is sugar hurting your kids?
10 Healthiest foods your kids need to be eating

If you are expecting a baby in the month of November, you may be wondering who your child will share a birthday with. From American icons to Hollywood legends and current stars, check out the famous birthday names in the month of November. You can even click on the name to find out the meaning and origin of the names, as well!

November holidays and horoscopes

The most famous popular holiday in the month of November is Thanksgiving, which falls on the fourth Thursday of the month. All Saint’s Day and Day of the Dead fall on November 1, while All Soul’s Day is on November 2.

As far as horoscopes, if you are born between October 23 and November 21 you are a Scorpio. If you are born between November 22 through December 21 you are a Sagittarius.

More baby name ideas

Famous October birthday baby names
Thanksgiving inspired baby names
Preppy baby names

As millions of Americans struggle to recover from the devastating effects of superstorm Sandy, learn what your family can do to help with disaster relief.

How to help
families in need

Help your kids process their feelings about the storm by getting them involved with relief efforts.

With each passing day, the news from the aftermath of superstorm Sandy becomes bleaker. The storm is now blamed for over 80 deaths in the United States. Millions are without power and basic necessities. Children may become overwhelmed or anxious over news of the storm and loss of life. Help your children cope by involving them in positive efforts to relieve victims of the storm.

Raise money for relief organizations

In the immediate aftermath of a storm, dozens of relief organizations mobilize to assist victims. When you talk to your kids about the storm, focus on the ways that people are helping each other. Ask your kids to help you brainstorm ways to raise funds to donate to relief organizations. For example, younger kids can donate portions of their allowances, teens can consign clothes or babysit, and families can host bake sales. If you donate money online, walk your kids through the process and talk about what that money is being used for.

Give blood

While kids can’t personally give blood, you can involve them by talking about why it’s important to donate blood in times of need. If your kids are old enough to accompany you, bring them along to your local donation center or blood drive. This is a great chance to expose kids to a process that they may have anxiety about. If you’re afraid of needles or don’t handle giving blood well, go ahead and leave them at home during the process. Ask the blood drive staff if they have flyers or other promotional materials your children can distribute at school. Visit American Red Cross to find out where to give blood or attend a local drive.

Collect goods for storm victims

As you discuss the storm with your kids, talk about basic everyday goods that they may take for granted. Storm victims are in need of items like diapers, food and basic toiletries. In most cases, it’s best to donate money. Relief organizations have more experience distributing funds properly and buying the goods that are important. However, if you have contact with local relief groups asking for non-perishable donations, it’s perfectly fine to help them out. Help your kids organize a small drive through their classroom, your neighborhood association or place of worship.

More on giving back

8 Ways you can help fight hunger
Volunteering opportunities for teens
Ways to volunteer as a family

Keeping kids busy when the weather gets colder is no easy task. Round up a few fall leaves and keep the little ones entertained with this easy and fun Thanksgiving wreath craft for kids.

What you'll need:

• Fall leaves
• paper plate
• scissors
• glue
• tape for hanging

What you'll do: 

Use your scissors to cut out the center of a paper plate.

Cut off the stems of the leaves.

Add a dab of glue to the back of your leaves.

Begin gluing the leaves around the paper plate. You can alternate colors and types of leaves to make your own design.

Keep adding leaves until you are happy with the way your wreath looks.

Use a piece of tape on the back to hang the wreath.

More fun crafts for kids

3 Fall crafts for kids
Fall crafts from nature
Fun fall crafts: Leaf prints

Princess love

There’s something magical about each of the Disney princesses. Most of us find the stories of Snow White, Cinderella, Aurora, Ariel, Belle, Jasmine, Pocahontas, Mulan, Tiana and Rapunzel irresistible.

Without question, Disney has shown us time and again that they know how to pull us in with their princesses.

Don't miss these fun pieces to adorn your little Cinderella >>

A simpler kind of love

But in Walt Disney Studio’s recent all-new, original full-length animated film, Secret of the Wings, we experience another kind of love. Unlike the stereotypical Disney princess story, Tinker Bell is a brave, strong-willed and curious protagonist who isn’t interested in romance. The focus of Secret of the Wings is on a simpler, sweeter type of love.

Meet Periwinkle

In Secret of the Wings, Tinker Bell, along with her warm season fairy friends that we know and love — Fawn, Iridessa, Rosetta, Silvermist and Vidia — enter the Winter Woods, a mysterious and forbidden place. Instructed to remain in Pixie Hollow and never cross over to the Winter Woods because she and the other warm weather fairies wouldn’t survive the cold, Tinker Bell has difficulty resisting the pull and her curiosity wins out.

Once she crosses over to the Winter Woods, her wings begin to sparkle and in her quest to find out why, she uncovers a magical, life altering secret when she learns that she has a twin sister, Periwinkle, who lives in the Winter Woods.

Who can resist Disney magic and fairy sisters? >>

The joy of sisterhood

While the previous movies in the Tinker Bell series beautifully capture the closeness between Tinker Bell and her friends, in Secret of the Wings, we see her experience the joy of the bond that only siblings can know.

The audience watches and cheers as Tinker Bell, Periwinkle and their friends work together to find a way to overcome the obstacles that keep them apart.

Secret of the Wings, with its humor, stunning graphics and themes of sisterhood, friendship and teamwork, is a perfect addition to your collection of Disney movies and is now available on Blu-ray 3D, DVD and digital format.

More Disney magic

Disney's Cinderella inspires new products for kids and adults
Wise words from Cinderella's fairy godmother
Making Disney memories: Cruising out of Galveston

When you are preparing to bring a new baby into your family, the last thing on your mind is how to “read” her cries. Most parents just assume they will know what to do, but in reality babies cry — a lot.

Learn to read your baby's cues early

Being able to decipher between a “hungry” cry and a “tired” cry may save you a lot of stress.

Can you imagine only having one method of communicating with the people in your life? For newborn babies, crying is the only way they have to tell someone what’s wrong. Many new mothers are stumped for the first few weeks as they try and guess what Baby is trying to say. Simply cycling through the basic needs — eating, changing diaper, napping — will eventually bring an end to the crying but there is a better way. We checked in with world-renowned baby expert Amy Spangler, president of Babygooroo.com, for some tips on how to tell why your baby is crying.

Babies cry — a lot

Think of all the possible reasons your baby could be crying — she could be hungry, hot, cold, tired, sick, overwhelmed or simply want to be held. “When other behaviors accompany the crying such as sucking on fingers or pulling on an ear, it’s easier to identify the cause of the crying,” says Spangler. “But when crying occurs in the absence of other behaviors, parents usually embark on a process of elimination in an effort to identify the cause of the crying.”

Should you be letting your baby cry it out? >>

Learning the cues quickly

The best way to be tuned into your baby’s needs is to stay close in the beginning. “Parents of newborns are urged to keep their babies nearby during the day and at night for at least the first month after birth,” says Spangler. “This will ensure that sucking sounds, mouth movements, a finger caught in loose thread, a dirty diaper or skin that is warm to the touch doesn’t go unnoticed.”

The more time you spend with your baby, the more tuned in to her cries you will become. A soft, intermittent cry that starts slowly and builds in intensity may signal hunger, while a loud cry that comes on suddenly is more likely to signal pain. The quicker you are able to determine the cause of the cry, the sooner you can help your baby feel better. When there doesn’t seem to be a directly obvious cause for the crying, you can start checking for the common culprits — wet diaper, adding or removing a layer of clothing, feeding or burping.

What about colicky babies?

There are always those babies who just seem to cry all of the time. Babies who cry for extended periods of time for apparently no reason are often referred to as colicky. There is not one specific treatment for colic, which can be an added frustration for new mothers. How can you recognize a colicky cry? “What makes the colicky cry different is not necessarily the sound, but the parent’s inability to console their baby,” says Spangler. “Attempts to deal with colic can be exhausting, so parents are urged to take care of themselves as well as their babies.” If your baby continues to have periods of colicky crying, consult with your pediatrician for recommendations.

Check out these natural ways to help reduce colic >>

Babies will always communicate by crying — but with a little bit of effort, you can become fluent in their language.

More about your new baby

How to properly hold a newborn
Cloth diapering a newborn
4 Ways to sneak in exercise with your newborn

Tori Spelling

"I can’t believe it’s Hattie Cat’s first birthday!" tweeted Tori Spelling, who went all out for her daughter's Alice in Wonderland themed birthday party.

Tori was dressed as the Queen of Hearts , Dean McDermott was dressed as the Mad Hatter, Stella as Alice and Liam as the Mad Hatter as well. Too cute!

She also wrote about another cool party she threw for her Little Maven clothing line.

“Welcome 2 Camp Little Maven! Heres my picTORIal of the launch event 4 Little Maven,” tweeted Tori Spelling. “Now lets go Glamping.”

“Last week we threw the official launch party for Little Maven, my line of chic baby and kids’ clothing with JCPenney,” Spelling continued on her website. “The theme of the day was glamping at Camp Little Maven… Camp Little Maven included everything from a faux campfire, s’mores station, crafting tables , a fishing pond, and designer teepees plus so much more.”

She also tweeted an adorable photo of Hattie’s Halloween costume. “Here’s Miss Hattie, looking pretty edible in her #DIY #Halloweencostume!,” Spelling tweeted with a link to a photo of Hattie in her spaghetti-covered costume.

“The sneezing in my house began at 6am. Must be the morning after Halloween. They always get sick. #AtLeastWeHaveConsistency” she wrote Thursday morning.

Jessica Simpson

“Happy Halloween!!!” Jessica Simpson tweeted, with a link to a photo of her showing off her 60-pound weight loss in a milkmaid costume that showed off her slim waist and cleavage.

Her 6-month-old daughter Maxwell Drew was adorable as a chicken and fiance Eric Johnson dressed like a character straight out of Braveheart.

It sounds like Maxwell had a Halloween costume change that day! “Maxwell wanted to be a monkey too,” Simpson later tweeted.

It was one year ago that Simpson announced her pregnancy with a tweet in which she wore a mummy costume that showed off her baby bump with the caption, “It’s true…I’m going to be a mummy!”

Gwen Stefani

“Happy b day @GavinRossdale kisses,” tweeted Gwen Stefani to her husband, Bush frontman Gavin Rossdale. The couple was recently spotted holding hands at the pumpkin patch with their son Kingston, who was dressed as a vampire.

“Just voted! Do it!” Stefani tweeted, with a picture of her voting ballot.

“Really??!!” she later wrote, with a photo of her meeting President Obama.

Snooki

Jersey Shore star Snooki tweeted her concern for the place that made her famous.

“Seaside Heights suffered bad from the hurricane and my prayers go out to everyone affected! We are all fine here...love you JS,” Snooki tweeted.

“Still have no power & seeing pictures around the area is devastating,” she later wrote. “Ugh trying to change my son's diaper while holding a flash light is not easy. #nopower”

“At my moms In ny where there's electricity!! Baby & I are good!,” she later tweeted.

“Another movie night with my fam with candles & flashlights,” she said. “Halloween is postponed for us..but Happy Halloween to everyone!“

For those Sandy victims who love platform heels and leopard-printed tops, Snooki wrote, “Cleaning my closet today to donate clothes and whatever I can do the victims affected by sandy! I'm comin with clothes!!!!”

Vanessa Lachey

“Happy Saturday! What r y'all up to today?! We are getting ready for our annual Halloween Party! This years theme #LacheyBoneyard,” tweeted Vanessa Lachey.

“You know you're a new mom when you get excited about packages filled with nursing bras and nursing cami's... Thank You @leadingladybras!” she later wrote.

Check out my interview with Vanessa here in which talks about how they picked the name Camden for their son >>

“I think one of my favorite things to do is sing Camden to sleep. Babies don't judge, they just love your voice. Go for it Mom & Dad!!!” she later wrote.

Kendra Wilkinson

“Lil Hank was a firefighter for Halloween. We are sooo tired now. Zzzzzzzz,” tweeted Kendra Wilkinson. “Lil Hank was so cute while trick or treating. He ran inside the first home we went to looking for candy. Awesome Halloween.“

“We just took Lil Hank to the pumpkin patch. He didn't get the point of the hay ride... But I didn't either. Hahahaha,” she wrote.

From Gwen Stefani to Mariah Carey, check out more sweet, funny and whacky celebrity mom tweets here >>

Photos: Tori Spelling photo - Michael Simon/StarTraks; Gwen Stefani - WENN

The pumpkin is a classic symbol of fall and Thanksgiving. Your child can enjoy making a simple Thanksgiving decoration while practicing coordination and fine motor skills.

Materials:

• Sturdy paper plates
• Craft glue watered down to a paint consistency
• Paintbrush
• Orange tissue paper cut in small squares
• Green construction paper cut into a small rectangle

Directions:

1. Paint the wrong side of the paper plate with the watered-down glue.
2. Glue pieces of the orange tissue paper onto the plate.
3. Glue the green construction paper to the top.

Have your child gather some fall leaves and use them to make "feathers" on an adorable paper cup turkey. Once it's complete the turkey will be a cute decoration for your tabletop or mantel.

Materials:

• Paper cup
• Brown craft paint
• Paintbrush
• Fall leaves
• Glue
• White, orange and red construction paper
• Black pen
• Scissors

Directions:

1. With the paintbrush, apply the brown paint to the paper cup. Allow it to dry.
2. Turn the cup upside down and glue fall leaves to the back to make the turkey's feathers.
3. Cut out two small white circles with your scissors. Use your black pen to put a black dot in the center of each circle, then glue them on to the cup to create the eyes.
4. Cut out a squiggle from the red construction paper to form the gobbler, then cut out a triangle from the orange construction paper for the beak. Glue both pieces on to the cup.
5. Cut out two feet from the orange construction paper, and glue them to the bottom lip of the cup.

Use this craft to talk about our hands and how they can be helpful and kind to others.

Materials:

• Orange, red, yellow and brown construction paper
• Scissors
• Glue stick
• Ribbon

Directions:

1. Trace your child's hand four to six times on each color of paper.
2. Cut out each hand print.
3. Alternate colors while gluing the palm of each hand print together, keeping the fingers pointed toward the outside of the wreath.
4. Cut a piece of ribbon, tie it in a bow and attach it to the top of the wreath.

This is a perfect way to document the amazing, funny and honest things that your child says. You'll be sure to keep this project for years to come.

Materials:

• Light blue cardstock paper
• Brown, orange and yellow construction paper
• Glue stick
• Black marker
• Scissors

Directions:

1. Draw a tree trunk complete with bare branches on the brown construction paper.
2. Write "I am thankful for... " on the tree trunk.
3. Cut out the tree and glue it to the blue cardstock.
4. Cut leaves out of the brown, orange and yellow construction paper.
5. Ask your child what he or she is thankful for and write one answer on each leaf.
6. Glue the leaves around the branches of the tree.

Find out how to preserve real autumn leaves >> 

Image credit: Amy Vowles

More Thanksgiving and fall crafts

3 Fall crafts for kids
Make a fall welcome sign
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Bullying is a hot topic with everyone from the playgroup moms to the middle school campus supervisors. The negative effects of a bully’s behavior affects not only the victim, but the bystanders and the bully as well.

new children's book uses science

What if there was a way to stop bullying before it even begins?

Harvard researcher and TED speaker Shawn Achor and his sister Amy Blankson wondered if they could apply Achor’s research on happiness and positivity and use it to teach young children about bullying behavior. They came up with the idea to write a children’s book called Ripple’s Effect that uses the scientific research and targets it toward younger children to see if they can use the power of positivity to battle bullying.

Positive thinking really works

In his research at Harvard, Achor has been able to see first-hand that while genetics may play a role, happiness really can be a choice. “By researching positive outliers — people who are above average for a positive dimension like optimism or intelligence — we learn that happiness is a choice, but it's also something that we have to work at,” says Achor. Teaching young children to use the power of positive thinking shows them that they have more control over their environment than they realize.

Why target such young children?

Ripple’s Effect is targeted toward children between the ages of 4 and 8 years old. Some may feel that children this age are too young to learn about bullying behavior, but Blankson disagrees. “As a mother of three young children, I have seen the issue of bullying emerge in a variety of settings — at school, on the playground, even at church,” she says. “As much as I want to protect my children, I have learned that ultimately they have to learn to use their ‘strong words’ to stand up for themselves and for others who may not have words yet.” The earlier children are taught that they can control their environment in a positive manner, the better chance we have of helping the next generation to be confident and bully-resistant.

What makes this book different?

Ripple’s Effect is not the first children’s book to address the subject of bullying. So what is different about this particular book? “Ripple's Effect is a unique character education book because it is actually based on science,” says Achor. “My work and research in the field of positive psychology has revealed how changes in our own brain due to mindset and behavior can have a ripple effect to a team and an entire organization. We applied the same idea to a fictional world of sharks and dolphins so that children can understand that these same principles are active in the world around them.”

Pairing scientific research with fun characters like Snark the Shark and Ripple the Dolphin helps readers relate to the story and the concept of positive thinking. The message throughout the book is that staying positive can transform situations and change lives.

Bullying is a problem that we all need to address. By targeting a young audience and teaching them about positive thinking, these authors are taking a big step toward tackling the problem before it begins.

More on bullying

How a bully can change your life
Taking a stand: Bullied teen rules homecoming
Why do kids bully?

Baby proofing your rental home is necessary to keep your baby safe and your sanity intact. Knowing your baby can play in a house that is safe will give you peace of mind — but what should you do if you live in a rental home, apartment or condo?

Pool fences options for rental homes

Protecting your child from drowning should be at the top of your baby-proofing list. A pool fence is a must and all apartments should already come equipped with a standard pool fence. If your rental home does not have a pool fence, talk with your landlord about putting one in — and be prepared to possibly split the cost or pay for it completely. You can also consider a kid-safe pool safety net. You cannot put a price on safety and the importance of putting a barrier around your pool cannot be stressed enough. At the very least, install alarms on all your doors so you know when they are open and place locks up high so children cannot reach them to open the door.

Here are some baby-proofing tips for your bathroom >>

Baby gates

Another concern for parents who rent is installing baby gates. If you want to gate a room off from the rest of the house, a pressure-mounted gate is easy to use and doesn't require drilling into the wall. If your rental home has stairs, you must install a permanent or hardware-mounted gate that is drilled into the wall for safety. Talk to your landlord about this and be aware that you may have to pay for any wall repairs once the gate is removed — but it is worth it to protect your baby from falling down the stairs. A permanent gate must be installed at the top of the stairs, however a pressure-mounted gate will be fine for the bottom of the stairs. Most experts recommend stair gates from ages 0-2.

Cabinet lock options for rental homes

It is a good idea to install cabinet locks in your kitchen and bathrooms, however some of these devices do require drilling into the wood. Talk to your landlord first for approval and be aware you may have to pay for repairs once the hardware is removed. Another option is installing drill-free cabinet locks, which often feature a handle lock that fits outside of the cabinet. Other options include putting a gate up to prevent your child from getting into the kitchen or bathroom — or simply remove all dangerous items and put them up and out of reach.

Outlet covers

Lastly, outlet covers are inexpensive, easy to install and are easy to remove when you move out.

Check out the top 10 baby-proofing mistakes >>

More on safety

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Child safety checklist for the home
Crib safety: Is your baby's sleep space safe?

With my first son, I couldn't bear the thought of going back to work and leaving him. So I didn't. Instead, I stayed home for a year and freelanced a bit. At the time, our bills were low enough that my husband and I could get by without two full-time incomes. But when my daughter was born, that wasn't an option. Between rising costs and increased expenses, I had to return to work.

I found that going back to work was something best done without thinking about it. In the weeks leading up to my return, I lined up a daycare, talked to my son a little about heading back to daycare and otherwise went about my daily business of caring for two kids. And when the day came, rather than stress about it, I just dropped the kids off, made sure they were comfortable and went on my way.

In the office, I was greeted warmly by my excited coworkers who said that they were thrilled to see me back. There were hugs and well wishes and requests to see the baby... but as an emotional new mom, it's hard not to read too far between the proverbial lines.

My coworkers really meant well as they welcomed me back. But even the most well-meaning comments can be hard for a new mom to take. Here are a few comments you might face, as well as some responses you can be ready with.

You want to say: Glad? I just left my two kids at a new daycare and came here. In heels. Of course not!

Real potential answer: It's not bad. It's nice to have adult company and conversations. But don't freak if I slip a ’goo-goo-cootchie-coo-coo’ into conversation.

You want to say: Are you freakin' kidding me? What do you think?

Real potential answer: Well, leaving your child is never easy.

You want to say: I gave birth to the sweetest little person who I've been cuddling on the couch with for the last three months — and watching all my favorite daytime shows too. Definitely not.

Real potential answer: Work is a fun challenge, so it's nice to be able to do it again.

You want to say: Thanks for the guilt trip.

Real potential answer: I know what you mean, it's not easy. But with the economy the way it is, it's a choice of return to work or go without food.

You want to say: Of all the stupid things to say! Are you trying to upset me?

Real potential answer: It's not easy, but I am doing OK so far. Thanks.

You want to say: Wow. Way to make me feel useful around here. Does that mean that I'm not necessary anymore? Do I need to worry about my job?!?

Real potential answer: That's good to hear. I'm glad to be back. What can I help with so that the duties are more evenly distributed again?

Read more about working motherhood

Labor after delivery: Working versus staying home
Back to work: Surviving the first month
Breastfeeding and returning to work

5 Tips for talking to kids about disasters

This week, we spent a lot of time — much of it sweetened by candy — celebrating a holiday that laughs in the face of fear.

Stranger than any horror movie or fake front-yard cemetery is that millions of people on our country’s East Coast have been dealing with the real fears brought on by a catastrophic storm and its aftermath.

Contributed by Gregory Keer, Family Man

In the wake of all this are questions and the continued worries of children. Those who endured Hurricane Sandy may have nightmares reliving the flooding, the howling winds, and the destruction of their homes, schools and parks. Still more children wonder if anything like that will happen to them.

So it is up to parents to rise from whatever wobbly state the physical and/or emotional devastation may have caused. We must answer the questions of those we have compacted to soothe and protect.

Will I be safe if this happens again?

For kids who were directly touched by the storm, a big question will be if the next disaster might hurt them even more. For young ones who only learned of the disaster, they will wonder if they will be safe if something like this happens to them. In both cases, parents should answer simply and directly — “I will keep you safe.”

While you know you cannot guarantee them safety, they need to hear that there is no doubt that you will do so. You may want to explain some of the ways you will protect them , but what counts most is that they know you are in charge of this basic worry.

Are you scared?

It’s important to acknowledge that being scared is normal for anyone, but this is more about your kid than you, no matter how fearful you were, are or will be. Make sure to remain calm so that your child does not sense your own fear. It’s especially hard if you are dealing with your own emotions of a disaster, so try to speak with other adults before you address your child so you can collect your thoughts. Hugs and comforting touch, sometimes more important than words but certainly in addition to them, will aid in soothing an anxious young person.

Why did this happen?

This is one of the most overwhelming questions because it involves trying to explain how nature works. Nature can give and it can take away. The essential thing is to point out that the vast majority of people do not die or get hurt by nature and, when bad things do happen, we rebuild and move forward. If you wish to get more into detail, this is a perfect teaching moment to research and explain the workings of such phenomena as hurricanes, snow storms and earthquakes.

Can I help the people who got hurt?

A great way for children to gain a sense of control is to lead them to help others. Guide them to charities , houses of worship that are acting to assist the affected, even neighborhood or school food or clothing collection efforts so they can take part in making others feel better in a terrible time.

Can I ask more questions?

If at any point you can’t fully respond to a question your child may have, tell him or her that you will get them an answer . If you choose to allow your kid to watch, listen, or read the news, do it together and in short amounts of time so they are guided and not overwhelmed.

Gregory Keer is an award-winning syndicated columnist, teacher and guest expert in national media. He and his wife have three sons. He can be reached at his fatherhood magazine, www.familymanonline.com.

More about talking to kids

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Talking to kids about strangers
Talking to kids about death

You love your family, but sometimes everyday business can drain the fun out of being together. Here are six easy ways to put the fun back in your family.

How to put the fun back in your family!

Take turns

One simple way to increase your family fun is to make sure each member of the family contributes equally. Why not give each person the chance to decide on the family fun activity? You may be surprised at the simple things your kids propose. Make sure you agree to participate fully! That means Dad may be leading a dance party or Mom might take first in the video game tournament — whatever it may be, respect each person's interest and definition of family fun.

How to plan a kids-in-charge day >>

Be present

Too often, we miss out on the fun of simply being together because of those less important distractions. Dirty dishes, emails from work and mentally planning the next activity in the day are things that prevent us from enjoying the here-and-now. Make an effort to 'turn off' and focus on the people around you. Try to focus on the moment at hand — you will realize how much fun simply being together can be!

Read Parenting challenge: Turn off the tech >>

Celebrate the small things

Everyone loves a party. Why not take the time to celebrate simple milestones with each other? A good grade on a spelling test, a pet’s birthday, the first day of fall — it doesn't have to be an official holiday to get out the balloons! Simply create a holiday for something that is important to your family — perhaps it is as simple as “family fun night.”

Check out 50 family fun night ideas for families >>

Laugh

Do not underestimate the power of laughter! To increase the fun in your family, make sure you are laughing together. Author Liz Curtis Higgs says, “Laughing together heartily at the same thing forms an instant bond.” Be silly, watch a funny movie or chase your little ones around the house. Laughter lifts the spirits and is a guaranteed source and sign of fun!

Learn how to give your child the gift of humor >>

Do something good together

Doing good is a guaranteed way to increase positive feelings. Find something your family believes in and take action! Perhaps it's volunteering at the animal shelter or taking in a foster child — whatever your family values, put it to action. You will have fun as a family by making a positive contribution.

Volunteer with your kids: Projects to do together >>

Make the fun times last

Extend the fun by creatively documenting your family fun events. Use video, photographs or simply save souvenirs from your family events and activities. Mementos keep memories vivid, and making time to remember happy experiences together can even be a source of family fun.

Find creative ways to preserve family mementos >>

Read more about increasing your family fun

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Say yes to the season

Family fun can be cheap when you plan activities around the season.

• Spring: As the weather warms up, take it outside! Go hiking, biking and walking. Plan a stargazing potluck with your neighbors and take in great food and a great show!
• Summer: The weather is perfect for a family fun campout in the backyard. Or plan a staycation that includes city pools, picnics in the park and movie nights outside.
• Fall: Take the family fun to local farms that are in prime shape for visitors. Find one that offers free or cheap activities like mazes, animal viewing and apple picking. Avoid highly priced farms that bring in the bounce-houses and go-karts.
• Winter: Embrace the chilly weather by staying home. Focus your family fun on memory-making by creating family movies. Enjoy some belly laughs over homemade popcorn and hot cocoa. Participate in local events surrounding Christmas: Help with craft time at the senior center or volunteer with the local food bank.

Say no to tourist traps

One of the greatest ways to save money when planning family fun is to avoid large, over-priced tourist traps. You will save lots of money and loads of time. Stephanie Nelson, from Couponmom.com, says, “Go online. Visit your local city websites to find free events, fairs, festivals, sporting events and performances.”

Say yes to nature

One of the most enjoyable family fun activities is simply getting outside! Visit local playgrounds, as well as state or national parks. Or go on a treasure hunt together and join Geocaching.com.

Say no to fried food

One of the easiest ways to go over-budget is by eating out. For family outings, pack a lunchbox or cooler. Splurge on a few family favorites from the store to take along. Those small treats pale in comparison to a restaurant bill. Make the homemade eating experience just as exciting as eating out by packing food to fit your activity. If you are going to a baseball game, pack the peanuts and popcorn in fun little bags!

Say yes to DIY

From woodworking to water play and carnivals to card-making, there are now more online tutorials on how to do it yourself than ever before. Ask each family member what they would like to make, and go online to find out how! The opportunities are endless and the process will be just as fun as the product!

For more ideas on family fun on a budget

Budget-friendly summer vacations
10 Family fun nights under $20
10 Frugal family fun ideas

The classic card game UNO is easy to learn and provides endless hours of family fun. Many of us grew up playing UNO because it's simple enough that kids in a wide age range can participate and play together on a fairly level playing field.

The rules

A standard UNO card deck has 108 cards in colored suits: blue, green, red and yellow. There are also action cards: Draw 2, Reverse, Skip, Wild card and Wild Draw 4 cards. Each player is dealt seven cards, with the remaining cards placed face-down in the middle of the table as the draw pile, and only the top card turned over to form the discard pile. Moving clockwise, players take turns putting a card on the discard pile. The discard must have the same number, color or wording as the top card on the discard pile unless a Wild card is discarded — in which case the player who played the Wild card can choose the color of cards to be played next. If a player can't discard, she draws a card and discards it if she can. If not, it's the next player's turn. When a player discards a Wild Draw 4 card, the next player must pick up four cards. When an action card is played, the next player must follow its instructions: The player may have to draw an additional two or four cards, or even skip a turn. When you have one card left, remember to say "UNO" — because if you forget and are caught by another player, your penalty is drawing two more cards! The game ends when one player is completely out of cards.

Tally the score based on the cards left among the remaining players. Add the totals of all cards left in each player's hand by counting the numeric value of the cards — Action cards count as 20 points, and Wild and Wild Draw cards count as 50 points each. The winner of each round gets all the points! Play until someone reaches 500 points.

A new twist

The basics of this favorite game are the same in UNO Roboto, but the robot adds loads of fun! There's a cute robotic character that sits in the middle of the table, ready to throw interesting twists and turns into the classic game. Before starting, each player can record his/her name. UNO Roboto also lets players record silly "house rules," and even offers funny suggestions for these. Anything from "make a fish face" to "hop on one foot for 15 seconds" adds an element of surprise and brings on the giggles when the robot suddenly calls out instructions during the game. This makes the game more unpredictable and different every time you play. With this new twist, you'll have a faster pace and more variation in your game. UNO Roboto is suitable for two to six players.

More tips

10 Active video games for the family
Best electronic toys for preschoolers
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With whole life insurance for your kids, they won't be denied coverage in the future

If you buy a whole life insurance policy for your children now, they will be covered in the future as adults, regardless of their health, as long as premiums are paid. Just be sure that this is specifically stated in the policy — that your kid won't be denied in the future if they encounter health or medical issues.

If there is a family history of health issues that may make it more difficult for your children to purchase life insurance when they are in their prime income-earning adult years, it may make sense for you to get insurance for them now.

Life insurance can earn cash value

A whole life insurance policy can earn cash value — providing you and later your child money for college, a car or other purchases if needs arise. Before purchasing an insurance policy, be sure you understand about any penalties or fees for early withdrawal or for loans against the policy.

The rate can be locked in

By purchasing whole life insurance for your child now, you can lock in a low childhood rate for the life of the policy. Talk to the life insurance company about how your child can continue with the policy and even increase coverage when he or she becomes an adult.

We all plan on outliving our children. However, if something did happen to your child, a life insurance policy would cover funeral expenses — though peace of mind and funeral costs aren't the only benefits of life insurance for kids.

Choose the right policy

Many insurance companies don't offer high-quality life insurance that makes sense for both you and your children. Consider purchasing from a reputable company that has a proven track record with their children's policies. For example, Gerber Life Insurance Company offers different insurance options that may make sense for your family.

More about family finances

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Please note: Articles and other information included on this website are intended for the general interest of our readers, and are not intended to provide, and do not constitute, legal, financial, health or other advice. Gerber Life makes no claims, representations, or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or appropriateness of the general interest information for your particular circumstances. If you need legal, financial, health or other services, you should contact a duly licensed professional.

No matter what method you use to save money for your child's college education, start as early as you can for the best growth potential. Investigate all your different options and determine the right plan for your family. By having the payments deducted automatically from your checking or savings account each month or pay period, you'll be able to assure that you won’t miss a payment.

More about family finances

Mom vs. Dad: The allowance debate
Talking to kids about financial struggles
Teaching your kids about money and debt

Please note: Articles and other information included on this website are intended for the general interest of our readers, and are not intended to provide, and do not constitute, legal, financial, health or other advice. Gerber Life makes no claims, representations, or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or appropriateness of this general interest information for your particular circumstances. If you need legal, financial, health or other services, you should contact a duly licensed professional.

Trip of a lifetime

Cruising on the Disney Magic

October was a big month in our household. We finalized our son's adoption and the next day, we left Galveston aboard the Disney Magic for a magical family adventure to the Caribbean.

When I was first approached about the opportunity to take a Disney cruise, I was beyond excited. I mean seriously, who wouldn't be? I grew up on Disney and my children were developing that same love for Mickey, Minnie and the rest of the Disney gang. As the day of departure approached, I showed the kids photos and videos about what to expect on the vacation. The concept of a cruise isn't easy for toddlers to understand but they knew one thing — we were going on the Mickey Boat.

Cause for concern?

As my kids got more and more excited, I started to worry. Would it be difficult to handle four young children on a cruise? Sure, my husband would be with me but the kids can get rambunctious. Would the trip be more exhausting than fun?

The moment we stepped aboard the Disney Magic, my fears subsided. Everything about the cruise was spectacular. The itinerary was awesome and the ship's activities and amenities were through the roof.

I could write all day about all the amazing adventures we had, but that would take a book not an article, so I'll highlight some of the most magical.

Meeting "Mimi"

My youngest daughter, who just turned 3, was placed with us when she was 6 months old. And though she's healthy now, she was very small and sickly at the time. In general, she was pretty miserable in those early weeks, maybe months. The first night in our home, she sobbed and sobbed. We tried everything to calm her down and then I remember that we were told that she "loved her Minnie." Her Minnie was a lovie — a small fleece blanket with satin trim but with a character head — Minnie Mouse.

When my daughter learned how to talk, she referred to Minnie as "Mimi." So when we embarked on the Disney Magic, her one goal was to meet Mimi. And meet Mimi she did.

On the Disney cruises, the characters are much more accessible than they are at the theme parks. All day long you can find scheduled appearances around the ship where children can get their photos taken with their favorite characters. Then, on top of that, there are dance parties and other special events where the kids can interact with the Disney princesses, Mickey, Minnie and the other characters.

Not only did my daughters have their photos taken with Mimi a couple times — they also got to dance with her — actually hold her hands and dance with her. Never have you seen happier little girls.

Little things that matter

Aboard the Disney Magic, there were a lot of spectacular activities and events — from the complementary kids' clubs to the magnificent Broadway-caliber shows. And all those things add up to one magic adventure, but it's truly the little things that matter the most.

The verandah — OK, maybe this one isn't so little. Our staterooms had private open-air balconies. They were safe and roomy enough for two chairs and a table. We spent many a morning gazing over the beautiful waters.

The robes — Oh my gosh, the robes! I don't know if everyone had incredible robes hanging in their stateroom when they arrived, but we did. And they were oh-so-soft and wonderful. If you wanted more pampering than a soft robe and slippers, you could head to their world-class spa for everything from massages to pedicures to haircuts.

The food — In addition to terrific rotational dining in three different themed dining rooms, Disney cruises also offer a number of other food options. From an adults-only restaurant to a pool-side grill to a soft-serve ice cream stand to 24-hour room service, we never had to worry about finding something yummy any time of day .

The towel animals — I can't help but mention that the stateroom hosts on the Disney Magic clean up your room not once but twice a day... and they do a wonderful job. One of the small touches is that they create animals and other characters out of towels and leave them on your bed every evening during turndown service . The kids loved opening the door to find a different creation every night.

It's the people

When asked about the difference between Disney Cruise Line and the others, cruise director Peter Hofer said, "It's the people" and I couldn't agree more. The people who work for Disney are top-notch. From our waiters to our stateroom host to every single person who assisted us along the way, the people are what made our trip special.

As I mentioned, I was a little wary about traveling with a 2-year-old son, two 3-year-old daughters and a 4-year-old son. I knew there would be tantrums and breakdowns along the way, but the Disney people made it so easy.

When my daughter cried for pickles at dinner, the waiter brought her a large plate of them. When my son fell asleep at the table, Nathan and Andrae tied two chairs together and made him a make-shift bed so we could continue to enjoy our meal. When my kids were bickering in line while we waited for the princesses, the Disney photographer scooped up my youngest daughter and played with her on the side. When my husband and I wanted some time together as a couple, the staff at the Flounder's Reef Nursery watched my three younger kids while my 4-year-old played safely and happily in Disney's Oceaneer Club.

The Disney staff doesn't just a put on a happy face. They are actually happy to serve you and to get to know your family, and to make sure each passenger has a trip of a lifetime. And we did!

Disney Magic: Overcoming fears and making new friends>>

Cruising out of Galveston

Galveston is a new departure point for Disney Cruise Line and I couldn’t be happier about it. It’s about a 4-1/2 hour drive from our home in San Antonio and a great starting point for anyone in this part of the country. As I mentioned earlier, we had three amazing stops on our cruise. We visited the turtle sanctuary in Grand Cayman. We shopped and relaxed in Costa Maya. And we spent the day at a breathtaking exclusive beach club in Cozumel.

Since we've been home, my kids can't stop talking about their time on the Mickey Boat. Hopefully, we have another opportunity to go on a Disney Cruise again. With so many activities and amenities that kids and parents can enjoy together , cruising with Disney is truly a magical experience.

Disney Cruise Line offers wonderful itineraries to Port Canaveral in 2013 with a day at Castaway Key and even a day to see Walt Disney World! Also, kids sail free from Galveston for a limited time.

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Be ready for the storm

Hindsight is 20/20, but if we didn't learn anything from natural disasters like Hurricane Sandy, they'd be that much more disastrous. Here are some disaster preparedness tips and considerations that can help in light of any future hurricanes or emergencies.

In sports they say, "the best offense is a strong defense."

Boy Scouts claim: "Be prepared."

Seeing the trend?

Mother Nature ultimately calls the shots, and although she's not out to get us, we do have to play by her rules.

You can prepare your home , but — and excuse the pun — that all gets tossed to the wind when the reality of a hurricane is on your doorstep.

In light of Hurricane Sandy and the inevitability of future natural disasters, it's invaluably important that you have prepared yourself and your family to the best of your abilities.

Depending on where you call home, you are surely exposed to different elements and possible dangers. Regardless, basic human needs transcend all circumstance and an extra 20 minutes of preemptive disaster preparedness on a slow afternoon can make for a world of difference in the event of a natural disaster, particularly a hurricane.

That being said, weather is a wildcard and we recognize the pain and hardship these events have caused.

Find a common, easily-accessible area of your home to stockpile some crucial keys to survival. Water tops the list. To be safe, gather about three gallons of water per family member along with approximately three days' worth of non-perishable easy-prep foods. . That being said, you should also store a set of matches, a lighter, a flashlight, candles, a battery-operated radio and extra batteries inside a plastic bag to protect them from water damage and to keep everything together and mobile. You will also want to store extra layers and blankets to maintain warmth in case the power goes out. We strongly suggest a working multi-tool as well.

Rehearse with your family. This shouldn't stray too far from your childhood recollections of a fire plan. In an emergency situation, it is important to have already discussed a meeting place and plan of attack to ensure your greatest safety. Practice this routinely, and quiz the kids in the car. "Be prepared." Again, this will be different depending on the emergency at hand, but at the least, remind your family where to meet so you can take account for everyone and stress that although items may hold significant sentimental value, wasting time to salvage things is exponentially less important than saving lives.

As parents, this is your time to shine. You are the head of the household and your children will look to you for direction. Assure them you will all stay together and that you have taken precautions to prepare for an event like this. Furthermore, the canned goods may not be the ideal meal, but you've already stockpiled everything they'll need to ride this thing out.

We're not saying be a hero. Desperate times call for desperate measures but you must not do anything drastic. Work with what you've got. Shoelaces make great tourniquets. Compact mirrors can be used for reflective signals. Chapstick, hand sanitizer and many common purse items are great fire starters. You have to be creative and think on your feet, making the most of what you have in your immediate shelter. Furthermore, there is no cut and dry plan for a hurricane or any other natural disaster. Make decisions and act accordingly when time is of the essence.

Weather is unpredictable. That's never going to change.

You'll never cover all the bases, but this is a start.

Again, SheKnows sends our prayers and condolences to those affected by these recent events and Hurricane Sandy, and would like to open this article up for discussion below.

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Focusing on what's missing

There are moments after you step onto an elevator when the Muzak begins to wash over you and you can’t quite place the song.

It’s familiar… you’ve heard that melody before. You can almost hear the lyrics and you're suddenly playing Name that Tune.

Is it Billy Joel? No, maybe it’s Paul McCartney? Elton John? Air Supply? Fleetwood Mac?

While you stand there in the elevator, wracking your brain, trying to piece it together to identify who’s not singing before you have to exit the elevator, something shifts and you can’t help but begin to notice the piano or the guitar or the drums.

You hear all of the things that you wouldn’t hear if the vocals were in place and you were singing along.

And as much as you would love to place the song, you recognize that the music is actually rather lovely on its own.

This is what life has felt like for me since sending my daughter Katie off to kindergarten this fall.

One of my greatest challenges was letting her go and now she's facing kindergarten>>

Finding my footing

For days, I was lost in all that was missing. I missed her laughter, her curiosity and her enthusiasm for everything. I missed the way she changed her clothes three times a day or requested breakfast for lunch.

But, as the days passed, I began to notice things about her little brother Matthew that had been crowded out by the lyrics that are Katie.

Though we have always treasured him for who he is, unlike his older sister, he has never had the spotlight completely to himself.

Don't miss these 10 reasons to appreciate the time you have with your kids>>

Listening to the beautiful music

I have come to savor the tiniest details about him… the way he says vegetable, the way his eyes sparkle when he dares you to chase him and tickle him and the sound of his quiet breathing when he’s reading books.

Those little things make up the music and without the lyrics, I’ve been better able to get lost in all of the beauty there. I’ve had time and space enough to let him shine on his own.

Now, on the weekends when Katie is home, I hear the lyrics, but the music is somehow brighter, more magical.

The combination of lyrics and instrumentals makes for beautiful music and there's no better sound.

But, oh how lovely they each are on their own.

And I am so incredibly grateful for the opportunity for the time to listen to the sweet music.

More on enjoying the moment

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