Do I need to add the babysitter to my auto insurance policy?
Are you planning to leave a car for the babysitter to shuttle the kids around in while you head out of town for the weekend, or to take them to and from camp while you're at work this summer? If so, you may be wondering if you need to add him or her to your auto insurance policy.

Easier CPR technique can help anyone save a life
Modern CPR celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, and "hands-only" CPR makes it easier for anyone to help save a life using only chest compressions and a call to 911.

Smart moves: Five tips that will make moving to college a snap
As summer winds down, college freshmen - and sophomores, juniors and seniors - are gearing up to move onto campus. Whether you're moving to college for the first time or the third, you'll find there are ways to make your move smarter and, believe it or not, more enjoyable.

Backyard grilling: Sliding into summer with savory sliders
The backyard barbecue grilling season is in full swing and hamburgers continue to reign supreme as one of America's favorite grilled foods. Whether you cook with gas or charcoal, nothing beats the flavor of a juicy burger right off the grill. And, whether you're into bold flavors or basic toppings, nothing tops off a burger better than a great glass of wine.

S'mores is the right activity for more than just camping
Americans have a love affair with that classic campfire treat, S'mores. The good news - S'mores are no longer reserved just for campfire cooking. Did you know you can enjoy the chocolate, marshmallow and graham cracker goodness every day, inside and out?

New moms working to save the environment and some money
Diapers. They are a way of life for new parents. But how many parents really think about their diapering decision? In these tough economic times, more budget-strapped parents are considering making the switch to cloth diapers to save money.

Feeding your baby's potential - supporting your baby's first milestones
Every milestone, no matter how small, is thrilling when you become a parent. Not only are these moments memorable and exciting, but they are also important indicators of your baby's development. Parents can follow these simple tips to support their baby's cognitive and physical development during their first year.

Tips for throwing a great baby shower - on a budget
There aren't many parties that are more exciting - or more necessary - than a baby shower. While you're celebrating the new life that will be coming into the world, you're also helping to prepare a new mom for the arrival of her baby. While brides and grooms might already have silverware and toasters, most new parents don't have car seats and strollers just lying around the house, so it's important to help equip them with everything they'll need.

Smart household savings start in the laundry room
For many families, household budgets are still tight in the wake of the recession. But whether times are tough or not, it makes sense to save money wherever you can. There are plenty of small ways to start cutting costs. One of the best places in your home to start saving is the laundry room.

Conquer your canine cleaning challenges for a pet-friendly home
Pet owners understand extra cleaning is part of the deal when bringing a puppy into their homes and lives. Cleaning up after a dog is enough work in itself, so the last thing any owner wants is a pooch that is agitated by the sights and sounds of cleaning. There are several techniques that can help your dog stay calm when you reach for your sponge.

Summer living: creating the perfect attic bedroom
For many people, the attic is where all of the "I don't know what to do with this" items go. However, homeowners forget that a finished attic can be usable living space. And, whether you're trying to increase the appeal of your home before selling, or simply adapting to a growing family, an attic bedroom can be an excellent upgrade to your home.

Fall grilling spices up family mealtime
The end of summer doesn't mean you need to head indoors to cook your meals. The ease of operating gas grills ensures that grilling is a great way to prepare a meal any time of year, and seasonal food can inspire grillers to try new recipes.

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

Don't throw away your child's art
Every day your child has a new "masterpiece" to show you. And while you do see his talent improving each and every day, you're running out of room and magnets to proudly display his art so that everyone who comes over can admire it and comment on his or her improvements.

Six signs a senior needs living assistance
By many estimates, two-thirds of older Americans will eventually become dependent on others to complete everyday tasks. But realizing that you need help or convincing someone else that they do is often more difficult than arranging long-term care. Look for these signs to help determine your elderly loved one's needs and the best ways to meet them.

Create lasting memories with a personal and visual memorial
From the Egyptian pyramids to the Vietnam Veterans Wall in Washington, D.C., the emotional importance of memorialization transcends history and cultures, and it satisfies a basic human need to remember and to be remembered.

What are drivers really doing behind the wheel?
The last time you were stuck in traffic, what kinds of things did you observe? Perhaps you saw the woman in the lane next to yours applying make-up; the man in the car in front of yours shaving; or in your rearview mirror you witnessed a mother screaming at the children bouncing around in the back seat. When traffic started moving again, you may have shook your head and said to yourself, "There's an accident waiting to happen!" Unfortunately, you were probably right. Distracted driving is one of the most significant hazards on the road.

Planning advice for creating the perfect reunion
Every five years your high school or college class has a good reason to celebrate - and you can celebrate with a reunion party.

Build up your 'momfidence'
Becoming a new parent can be a scary process. There is so much to learn and no easy way to practice until your new bundle of joy arrives. Luckily, there are easy ways that you can prepare yourself - and your home - to give you peace of mind and be able to enjoy the time with your new baby.

Simple fixes that will make your kitchen feel brand new
When it comes to your kitchen, details make all the difference. It's often the most used and best-loved room in the house, so having a room that meets your needs and expresses your personality is key. If your kitchen's design has been frustrating you by creating clutter and giving your home an out-of-date feel, it's time to make some changes.

Summer 'staycations' remain popular as recovery approaches
Have you heard about the new trend in family vacations? With the economy in rough shape, more and more families are opting to "vacation at home" to make the most of their budget. The savings really add up, since the cost of family vacations can be quite high. Airfare remains expensive, and while taking the car instead will save money, gas isn't cheap. And spending a day or two traveling each way dramatically cuts into everyone's time, to say nothing of its effect on attitude. Hotels are pricey, eating out for a week costs more than a month of groceries and tourist attractions like theme parks can put a real dent in the wallet. Instead, many savvy families are choosing a "staycation" to save money, or to put the money they do spend toward something of more lasting value.

How to keep your morning run healthy - for your feet
Physical activity like running, brisk walking and playing sports can be great for your body; exercise improves cardiovascular health, burns calories and builds muscle strength. Summer is a great time to stay - or get - active, but you still need to take precautions to ensure your exercise routine is also healthy for your feet.

What is 'wellness?' How to define your personal health
"Wellness" has become a buzzword among the public, health care practitioners and legislators alike. But what exactly does it mean, and how can people benefit from it? The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) defines wellness as "an active process that promotes health and enhances quality of life.

Ready, set ... grab your bike and help stop diabetes
Maybe you bike with your colleagues or friends, or perhaps you and your family cycle as a great way to spend time together on a Saturday afternoon. But did you know that by simply riding your bike you could help change the future of one of the country's deadliest diseases?

Hot tips for cool crops: Get growing on your fall garden
You might think the end of summer means bidding farewell to fresh, homegrown veggies. Not so - many cool-season crops hit their heyday as autumn temperatures drop, and some even taste better when nipped by a light frost. Here are some tips for growing a fall vegetable garden.

Choosing a bank that's right for you
The banking landscape has changed dramatically over the past year and a half. And whether you've been a banking customer for 30 years or are just looking to open your first account, you may find that choosing a bank - or knowing if you're with the right bank - is more difficult than ever.

Don't let fall asthma triggers foil your child's fun
Fall means back-to-school, cooler weather - and an increase in asthma attacks. In fact, childhood asthma statistics show that children with asthma are nearly twice as likely to visit the emergency department when school starts as at other times of the year. That's largely because autumn allergens and viral infections can unleash childhood asthma symptoms.

Stay safe while biking to work and for fun
Bicycling for fun, exercise and to commute to work is exploding throughout the United States. In fact, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the number of Americans biking to work has increased 43 percent between 2000 and 2008.

The secret to a stress-free vacation
Vacation is supposed to be fun and relaxing, but if your budget is tight and family members have different and multiple interests, it can be downright stressful. So what's the secret to having a vacation the whole family will enjoy? It's simple, really: Get everyone involved in the decision-making process, set a budget and do your research.

Moving? Don't forget to check car insurance off the list of things to look at
Moving to a new place can be exciting, but it's also hectic. Beyond the general packing and unpacking and getting used to your new home, a number of tasks go along with moving that must also be completed. Dealing with changes in your car insurance is one of them.

Twin Cities travel is even better with cheap flights
One of the best places to visit in the summer and take your family for some great fun is actually two cities bumping shoulders in the northern part of the United States. Known as the Twin Cities, Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minn., have an abundance of Minnesota charm, physical activities, historical sights, scenic beauty and the biggest shopping mecca of the world to keep any person entertained for a week, or even just a long weekend.

Technology tips for traveling with tots
Traveling with children can sometimes seem like a challenge, even for the most patient parents. Long stretches in car or airplane seats can easily leave kids bored and hungry. Packing plenty of snacks can fill the hunger need, but what's a parent to do when the Goldfish are all gone? Technology is a great tool to keep kids entertained while traveling.

The modern family (video) game night
Playing video games, once considered a "no parents allowed" activity, has become one of the most popular ways for families to have fun, interact and even stay healthy - together.

Summer fun at your fingertips
With summer around the corner, you might be thinking about a vacation or what to do to keep the kids busy. Luckily, you've come a long way from the days of guidebooks and day planners. Today, you have smartphones to help plan summer vacation activities with ease.

Is going green worth it?
You've stopped buying bottled water, opting instead for a reusable bottle you carry everywhere you go. When you go shopping, your list leans toward the organic and recycled. But when you get home, going "green" seems a lot more daunting.

Having a baby is not always as easy as it seems: What you need to know about infertility
Infertility - the inability to conceive after months, and sometimes years, of trying - affects more than 7 million people in the United States. Numerous studies have shown that a woman's likelihood of conceiving declines as she ages. The good news is, women concerned about their fertility are not powerless.

Tips to dress your tot without breaking the bank
Many new parents find the cost of keep their little ones comfortable and stylish can add up as quickly as the cost of diapers and formula. Budget-savvy parents should look for clothing sources that offer both durability and affordability.

Summer fun doesn't have to cost a fortune
Many American families will opt to save money this summer by foregoing a vacation at the beach, theme park or other destination. But deciding to stay home doesn't mean you have to give up summer fun altogether. You can have plenty of fun close to home - even right in your own backyard - with a modest cash investment and a little planning ahead.

Treat morning sickness naturally
For many women learning they're pregnant, shortly after the surprise and joy settle in, so does the morning sickness.

Ten tips on how to be a good neighbor - and avoid lawsuits
Treating your neighbor as you would like to be treated is wisdom that is thousands of years old. And it may be more important than ever in today's litigious society where a growing number of Americans - nearly 80 percent - live side-by-side in urban and suburban areas, in many cases separated only by a wall.

Ten tips to keep teens safe behind the wheel
Waiting for a teen driver to return home safely probably causes the most anxiety and lost sleep for parents. And with good reason - car accidents are the leading cause of death among teenagers, accounting for 35 percent of all fatalities among young people 15 to 20 years old, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration.

What you need to know to avoid - and treat - insect stings this summer
Stinging insects - they're as much a part of summer as pool parties and picnics. But beware, stings from insects - including honey bees, wasps, hornets, yellow jackets and fire ants - send more than half a million people each year to hospitals and cause at least 50 deaths, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI).

Summer dishes sweetened with Vidalia onions
It's Vidalia onion season and time to sweeten summer recipes. Summer salads, marinades, side dishes and grilled meats can all be given new dimension with the original sweet onion.

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

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

What to do if your child is being bullied
If your child is being bullied, she's not alone. About 160,000 children in the United States miss school every day due to fear of attack or intimidation by other students, according to the National Education Association.

Keeping kids safe this summer
For most families, summertime means outdoor fun. From day camp to the swim club to the playground, summer is a time for kids to let loose. But what about kids with chronic diseases that may require extra attention? Can they enjoy the same summer activities as their peers?

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

Practice summer safety in your own backyard
If you don't have the extra time or cash to take a summer trip, fun for you and your family can be as close as your own backyard. Just be sure to play it safe. Before summer is in full swing, make sure your backyard is ready for the season's get-togethers and activities.

Do you need more auto insurance than the state-required minimum?
When it comes to auto insurance, a lot of people try to get by with the bare minimum. They don't want to spend a lot on insurance, so they will purchase no more coverage than what is required in their state - their "Financial Responsibility Limit."

Seven ways to get more money out of your garage sale
Ridding yourself of things you no longer need is something that requires periodic attention, but can be a cathartic experience. The next time you decide to purge your household junk, follow these easy tips to help make your garage or yard sale as profitable as possible. The extra space and money you'll gain is worth the time you put in.

Parents: Tips for giving kids a DIY summer camp experience at home
Many American families may still be tightening their belts this summer, as the economy continues its slow climb out of recession. If your family has decided to save money by foregoing traditional summer camps, you can still give your kids a fun summer - by staging a do-it-yourself summer camp at home.

Light eating for families: Experts suggest seafood
Health experts recommend young families, especially expecting moms, should aim to eat a variety of nutrient-rich foods -- those that, like seafood, are bursting with vitamins and minerals in every bite. Warm weather is the perfect time to learn light, delicious ways to make fish your family's new favorite.

Want to get kids into the kitchen? Start simple, encourage creativity
Experts agree that getting children involved with cooking has many benefits - from getting them to try new foods and learning about nutrition, to providing bonding time with other family members. No matter what age you begin introducing your child to culinary skills, keep in mind it's best to start simple and with foods that are already familiar to them.

Overwhelmed by debt? Know your options
If you find yourself in a financial hole you can't get out of, it's important to know you have options. Being in debt can cause people to continue to make payments that they can't afford or can barely afford without much hope of ever eliminating the debt. If you find yourself in this position, there are a few routes you can pursue to free yourself from overwhelming debt.

Five easy ways to create an active and healthier lifestyle
Outside of the economy, fitness and healthy eating are among the most critical issues facing Americans today. Only 31 percent of Americans are getting adequate exercise and 68 percent of men and 53 percent of women are overweight, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Health Interview survey released in March.

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

Three must-haves for your family road trip
The hassle of air travel and the pinch of tough economic times will inspire more families than ever to hit the road for vacations this summer. But is your car equipped to entertain passengers for the long haul? The right entertainment can make your road trip fly by as quickly as the scenery outside the car.

Kids' health: Getting the right nutrition at the right age
From the time you first bring your baby home, ensuring your little one is getting the nutrition he needs is critical. As your baby grows, those nutritional needs change, requiring different types of diets.

Teach your children about good money management
Children learn the basics - math, English and science - at school. But when it comes to learning about saving and spending money wisely, the lessons begin at home.

Disability insurance can save your (financial) life
Most people do not think twice about insuring their car or their home, but many overlook protecting an asset that is arguably many times more valuable: their paycheck. If you're injured in an accident or faced with a debilitating illness, not only will you have medical bills, but you also could lose your ability to earn an income. That's why it's important to protect your paycheck with disability insurance.

Is your baby cover model material?
Practically all parents are convinced that their little one's smile is worthy of gracing the cover of a magazine - or of winning a photo contest at the very least. Now, you have the opportunity to show the world just how cute your baby is.

Turn up the fun and turn down the heat this summer
Shirt sleeves are getting shorter and the days are getting longer, which can only mean one thing - summer is just around the corner. No matter how many fun summer activities you have planned for your family, as the summer wears on, you will eventually hear two things from your children: "I'm hot" and "I'm bored." Don't let that be the case in your household this year.

How to get the full NASCAR experience in your living room
As NASCAR hits its peak in the midst of the 2010 Sprint Cup Series, masses of fans will make their way to the races. But if you can't score tickets and sitting in traffic isn't quite your speed, why not try living the race experience away from the speedway with a group of friends?

Cut potential exposure to cancer-causing agents by filtering your water at home
Home water filtration is no longer just about taste. People increasingly rely on it for healthy home benefits. In fact, home water filtering devices should be used to decrease exposure to potential health hazards according to the President's Cancer Panel (PCP).

A wag is worth a thousand words
Ever get the feeling that your dog knows what you're thinking, without saying a word? Many canine parents report that they've had an entire conversation with their dogs despite the obvious language barrier. From "can I have a treat" to "let's go for a walk", dogs have a special way of sharing their feelings. According to a new survey, it's the wags, not words that tell the story when it comes to canine communication.

What kind of insurance do you need if you have more cars than drivers?
How many cars are parked in your driveway or garage? Chances are you have more vehicles than drivers. That seems to be the trend these days.

Five must-use sites for a recent grad
The Internet has morphed from a luxury to a utility in the last two decades, and it is now the premiere way to establish oneself as a desirable job candidate. It can be the best tool for college graduates entering the workforce, if you're using the right websites.

Keeping your hectic home stylish and family friendly
For busy families, finding ways to keep the home fresh, decorative and family-friendly can be a challenge. But there are ways to keep your home organized without sacrificing style and beauty in an active household, including stylish home fragrances to enhance the scent experience and ambiance of any room in your home.

Insurance changes to think about when you get married
With all the fanfare and happiness that goes along with getting married, sometimes it's easy to forget some of the little things that must be done after you tie the knot. Changing your insurance policies to reflect your newlywed status is one of them.

Consider long-term storage for the still-at-home college grad
For some parents, it feels like just yesterday when you were dropping your young adult off at college. You met the roommate, cleaned the dorm room from top to bottom, then played movers for a day as you hauled all their items into a tiny room for two. It was emotional. It was a breath of relief. And it made your house rather empty. Then four years later, you found yourself in the same situation.

Is your teen with diabetes hitting the road? Take these precautions
Any parent who's had a teen leave the house in the car alone for the first time knows that anxious feeling. But for parents of teens with diabetes, there are a few extra things they should make sure their child knows before they are handed the keys for the first time.

Soft water contributes to more comfortable living
Ensuring they drink enough glasses of water each day to be healthy is second nature for most people. But how many think about the advantages of soft water for their families?

Virtual schools 'clicking' for many students this school year
A record number of students are heading back to school this year - without ever stepping foot inside a classroom. A growing number of virtual schools (also known as cyber schools or e-schools), combined with booming parent (and student) demand for high-quality virtual education, have more students than ever logging on, instead of boarding a school bus, this back-to-school season.

Affordable ways to make your new house feel like home
Even though numbers are down, 35.2 million Americans changed residences in 2008, according to a report by the U.S. Census Bureau. There are many ways to make your new house feel like home sooner than later.

Five creative tips for packing healthier school lunches
It's that time of year again: back-to-school season. Amidst the jam-packed schedule of a child's school day, it's nice to know there is one area where parents make a difference - lunchtime. The mission is to create a nutritious lunch that your hungry kids will look forward to eating.

Tips to get a leg up on back-to-school shoe shopping
She lived in sandals all summer long and he barely took his cleats off, even to go to bed. Summer fun and casual style may leave your kids facing back-to-school season in serious need of some new shoes. Parents should consider these important factors before buying new shoes for their children.

Relieving your child's spring allergies
Spring allergy season is in full bloom across the country, and some say it's the worst in years. For the 40 percent of American children with allergies, both outdoor and indoor triggers can spark an allergy attack during this time of year. Here is some expert advice on relieving your child's allergy symptoms.

Amusement parks offer new thrills
In early fall, theme park thrill-seekers and amusement park aficionados prepare to flock en masse to these attractions across the country. While the big-name parks are always fun, don't overlook some equally exhilarating, but smaller, regional parks. You'll likely find smaller crowds and save on travel costs.

Five tips for cutting your kids' hair at home
Cutting your kid's hair at home is convenient and saves money. In fact, a majority of people say they are confident using a hair clipper in three haircuts or less, the same amount of time it takes for the clipper to pay for itself. Also, a family of four can easily save $500 annually when three or more family members cut their hair at home. Here are five simple tips from WAHL to use with your kids.

Moving? How to stay organized
Moving takes a lot of planning, especially if you're relocating to a new town or changing the size of your living environment. You need to plan for so many things such as self storage, a rental truck, scheduling friends or hired workers to help carry everything, completing the change of address notifications for all your utility bills, the post office, and your friends and family. That's not to mention the most time consuming part - packing up all your stuff.

Fight summer 'brain drain' with online summer schools for K-12th grades
Cash-strapped school districts across the country are cutting summer school programs in record numbers. In fact, more than a third of administrators polled in a recent American Association of School Administrators survey said they are considering eliminating summer school for the 2010-11 school year. The good news for parents is that the recent boom in online K-12 education means many high-quality, engaging online summer school programs are now available to students.

Tips to make the most out of everyday family fun
If you thought a day of family fun would bust your budget and take a lot of time to plan, think again. Contrary to common belief, it is possible to plan fun, family-friendly activities without breaking the bank. Here are some valuable tips to get you on the road to celebrating, saving and offering your family more throughout the year.

Bring back the summer memories and share them with your kids
Remember the summer days when you held a camping adventure under the stars in your own backyard, played board games with your parents or enjoyed an ice cream bar on a hot night? Do you remember learning to ride a bike through the neighborhood, waving to everyone sitting out on the front porch or working on their landscaping? Now that you have children of your own, summer is a great opportunity to repeat those memories and share them with your kids.

Plan smart for your family's financial future
Few things in life trigger a sense of personal responsibility like having children. Part of that responsibility is ensuring both your own and your children's financial futures. However, a recent survey released by TD Ameritrade shows that many parents cite the expense of raising children as one of the top reasons why they have fallen behind in retirement planning. A good first step in getting back on track for retirement is determining what you need to do to secure your future, as well as your children's.

Family budgets stay on track with new and convenient coupon sources
Collecting coupons remains to be one of the best ways for families to save on everyday expenses - from cleaning supplies and health and beauty items to food and paper products.

Healthy habits: Boosting fiber in your child's diet
With a looming childhood obesity epidemic, many physicians and dieticians are emphasizing the importance of fiber in children's diets. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children who eat plenty of fiber are less likely to develop obesity, heart disease and gastrointestinal problems, including constipation.

Teens: Join Twilight's Nikki Reed to 'do something' good this summer
Are you a teen that is going to camp, hosting a neighborhood block party, or playing baseball this summer? Are you a parent who wants to encourage your child to do something good for others or get more involved in their community? This summer, join the Do Something 101 school supply drive: www.dosomething101.org.

College-bound? Do your homework on insurance
If you or your child is college-bound this fall, don't forget to review your insurance. Doing your homework now could save you money and headaches in the future.

Five things your kids should be doing this summer
In only a few weeks, school will be out and your children will suddenly have endless hours of free time at their disposal. Without proper planning, summer vacation can be a wasted opportunity for learning and growth in children of any age.

Worried about your tap water? How to fight drinking water contaminants
In many parts of the country, drinking water contaminants may be a real issue. Some drinking water contaminants may be harmful to your health. Others may simply be things you'd really rather not ingest or they could make your water taste bad. There are ways however, you can help to ensure that the water your family drinks is as clean and high quality as possible - without having to turn to bottled water that can be expensive.

Simple rules to keep family travel fun, affordable and stress-free
If you've watched any of the "Vacation" movies, you've seen what can go wrong on a family vacation. While hilarity is the end result of the mishaps in the movies, certain blunders aren't as funny in real life. Therefore, it's important to ensure that you and your children will remember your trip for the right reasons.

Work out your credit to get financially fit this summer
Just as you take care of your physical health in preparation for summer fun, you need to pay attention to your financial well-being as well - and not just when the weather's warm, but all year round.

Back-to-school safety: Follow these tips to keep your child safe and healthy
The back-to-school season can be both an exciting and anxious time. As a parent, you can teach your child a few lessons, and take a few precautions yourself, to put your mind at ease when children leave home to go back to the classroom.

Planning an outdoor adventure? Tips to stay safe and have fun
Outdoor adventures in domestic destinations can offer a plethora of entertainment and eye-catching attractions. Take advantage of some of the country's breathtaking natural beauty within driving distance and budget allocation. If you're considering an excursion to the great outdoors this summer, here's some advice to get you started, as well as keep your family safe, healthy and happy during your vacation.

Protect your family's future with the right level of insurance coverage
Whether you're just starting your family, the children are heading off to college, or you're enjoying your grandchildren, your insurance needs should be reviewed from time to time. As your situation changes, you may need to adjust your coverage to meet new needs or even drop coverage that no longer serves a purpose. You wouldn't want one of life's little surprises to catch you, or your family, unprepared.

Ten great food gifts for anyone
Food, it's been said, is the most personal of gifts. Whether the food-lover in your life is a kitchen veteran or has trouble boiling water, this list of 10 food gifts has something for everyone.

Layaway lets buyers plan ahead for purchases - from back-to-school season to the holidays
In decades gone by, layaway was a staple for budget-conscious customers in retail stores across the country, but its popularity waned as credit cards became more available and consumers sought alternate finance methods to buy clothing and necessities. With household budgets tighter than ever due to the recent recession, layaway is once again emerging as a viable shopping tool.

Safe driving when you have kids in the car
Whether you're heading out on errands or on a long road trip, having kids in the car can lead to catastrophe. The distractions they create, whether intentional or not, can be downright dangerous.

Create a playful kid zone on a budget
Nothing better sums up kids' personalities than their favorite spaces: their bedrooms or playrooms. And in today's design-conscious society, there's no limiting the ways you can create inviting, kid-friendly spaces that reflect your children's personal tastes while encouraging imaginative play and creativity.

The key to having a great family road trip
Want to make 2010 the year of your most memorable family road trip ever? If so, instead of planning the destination and activities yourself, turn a little bit of control over to your children. Getting kids involved in the planning process is a great way to get them excited about a trip.

Avoid 'lost' signs by tagging your cat
You've seen the posters decorating mailboxes, telephone poles and trees in your neighborhood. The picture of a cat - usually curled up in the sun or giving a curious look to the camera - with "LOST" in bold, capital letters and a contact number underneath. Sadly, less than 5 percent of lost cats make it home. Whether your cat stays inside or roams the outdoors, tagging is the best way to keep him safe.

Easy ideas to make summer celebrations sparkle
Summer's here, kids are home, the weather is warm and everyone is looking to celebrate the season with a party. Summertime party experts encourage hosts to take a fresh approach to party planning by creating themes that turn ordinary get-togethers into fun events.

Six ways to feel like a kid this summer
With summer here, the nights have gotten longer and the watermelon juicer. The kids are out for the season, so it's time to find ways to relate to them by bringing out your own inner child. Here are six fun-filled ways to feel like a kid again - all without the pressures of a looming school year looming or a pesky curfew.

Make your home your summer getaway
Summer is a time to take long weekends, enjoy the pleasant weather and make new memories with family and friends. It's also a time to take a moment for yourself and find ways to savor that relaxing vacation feeling.

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

Tips for treating a cough caught at school
Children catch six to 10 colds a year and coughing is the symptom that most commonly prompts a visit to the doctor. Here is some expert advice for parents treating their children's coughs.

Expecting? How to look your best
It's no secret that pregnancy does not always bring out one's inner glamour girl. As your waistline and bust balloon, it's easy to lose all sense of fashion and hide in baggy sweats, oversized button downs, or even your husband's jeans. Here's expert advice on maintaining your sense of style while waiting for your bundle of joy.

Riding escalators: a summer safety reminder
Whether traveling on vacation or staying home, the summer means more time spent out and about. With activities ranging from swimming at the local pool to attending festivals, amusement parks and sporting events, people are visiting new places and new buildings.

Your pool can be a safer paradise
As the weather warms, swimming pool owners look forward to relaxing around their pools with their family and friends. With "layers of protection" in place, pool owners can ensure their yard is a safer oasis of family pleasure and relaxation.

Creative fundraising helps to keep schools strong
Times are tough, as every parent is keenly aware. But while everyone knows how the economy is affecting household budgets, families with school-age kids are feeling an extra crunch that is being put on their children's schools.

Tips to talk money with your children
Kids are constantly bombarded with information from all directions on every topic imaginable - except how to manage money. Parents want to educate kids about financial responsibility, a survey shows. Here's some advice on how to do that.

Beat the heat: Tips for keeping your family safe and healthy this summer
The smell of the barbecue grill, the sounds of children playing and the feel of warm sun on the skin are all signs of summer. With increased outdoor activities, there also comes a list of precautions you should take to keep your family safe and healthy.

Life events that can affect insurance premiums
Recently married, widowed or divorced? Switched jobs and no longer have to drive as far to get to work? Have a child who is about to turn 16 and start driving? These are just some of the life events that can dramatically impact the rates you pay for insurance.