Nov 1, 2022

Beyond making sure your entire family is ready to accommodate a new pet in the household, it’s prudent to watch for signs that your child is ready for a pet. Sometimes a child’s determination in getting a new pet does not equate with their determination in caring for the new pet. But if your child is ready, a pet can be a wonderful way to provide companionship, boost self-confidence, and encourage compassion. Here are a few signs your child may be ready for pet ownership.

Oct 25, 2022

The fall brings lots of excitement for families with children. School festivals, community carnivals and sports events and activities are all in full swing, but it’s hard to beat the excitement of Halloween. While dressing up and going out in search of candy is a lot of fun, safety should always be the priority.

Oct 18, 2022

Parents with young children know just how much advice lies around every corner. From the moment a new mom is pregnant, advice spills in from all directions–from child care employees, teachers, friends, family members and even total strangers. While their advice may come with the best intentions, it’s important to recognize when parenting strategies and recommendations may be outdated, or downright wrong.

Jul 26, 2022

Summer “brain drain” or “summer slide” has been studied for decades and asserts that children’s learning falls backwards during the months they are not in school. While it is real and happens, most education experts contend that it isn’t really a loss of knowledge, but rather a lapse, and most students catch back up successfully following break. However, there are several easy ways parents and caregivers help combat summer brain drain while at home.

Jul 20, 2022

The South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) is encouraging communities statewide to join in celebrating ABC Quality’s 30th Anniversary this year.

Jul 19, 2022

Most new parents and caregivers will reach for a pacifier at some point when it comes to settling an upset baby. While pacifiers go by many names, the goal is usually the same—to satisfy a baby’s natural need to suck and offer comfort to a fussing baby. Pacifiers are safe to use from birth and have shown some benefits for children, especially in the first six months of life. Long-term pacifier use, however, can come with complications. Here’s a look at how to introduce a pacifier to your baby, when and how to use it effectively, and signs it may be time to let it go.