Baby Names - The best stage?Filed under: Child Development, Moms, EmotionsThe days following

The best stage?

Filed under: Child Development, Moms, Emotions

The days following Nolan's birth are hazy, drenched with the confusing delirium and exhaustion of new parenthood. But I remember clearly sitting in his quiet, sun-filled nursery, feeding him and watching his hands make small circles on my skin. I remember thinking "Please stay like this. Couldn't you just be my tiny, O-mouthed baby forever?"

I have thought that a lot along the way: at 5 months, 8, 11, 14: This. This is it. My favourite stage.

But now that I have the wisdom of hindsight, I can honestly say that this is the best time now. Sure, there are toddler tantrums and sporadic strange behavior, but Nolan is such a little personality now. Almost everything he does borders on hilarious, and he has quirks (the shoes must be put away, sippy must be discarded in the sink, blankie must cover toes while reading The Foot Book) that make entire days entertaining. So, officially: 18 months is my favourite stage.

I'm curious whether it's different for everyone. Veteran parents, what was your favourite stage?

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Schools consider increasing hours

Filed under: Media, Teachers, Elementary school, Middle school, High school, Public school

Schools in the United States are pondering the merits of a longer school day.

When I first saw the headline, I was filled with the same sense of dread I had when I heard several years ago that local schools here were pondering a year-round school system. Don't kids work hard enough already? Must everything be so educational? What about fun?

But according to advocates, the slightly longer school day makes the pace "less frenzied" and allows for more down time and "fun" classes, as well as the traditional reading and math.

Massachusetts is leading the charge on the initiative, but lawmakers in 4 others states are also considering the extended hours.

The longer school day would cost taxpayers about $ 1300.00, with most of that money going toward paying teachers for the extended hours. Optional "fun" classes have included courses such as forensics and drama. Teachers say that once kids are engaged in the "fun" classes, they are more open to other learning. That makes sense to me.

What do you think? Would you be OK with a longer school day for your child?

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