Author: Carolina Parent

Easy-to-Make Spinach Squares

These delicious squares are nutrient packed: spinach is a good source of protein, calcium, fiber, iron, niacin, zinc, and vitamins A, C, K, and B6.?

Reality Check: Amanda Sturner

Take a peek inside the life of local mom Amanda Sturner and get a glimpse of everyday parenting — from the madness to the mess-ups!

Good Gadget: Headchefs Pizza Posse Grande Set

Your kids are sure to have a blast using Lucy, Rocco, Tic Toc, Ginger and Pan to help in their pizza creation. ?

Books That Cook: Cook Your Way Through the S.A.T.

Children can follow step-by-step recipes while also mastering 1,000 of the most frequently asked words on the S.A.T. ?

Five Tips for Avoiding a Cesarean

You can influence the chances of a safe and healthy birth, and drive down the risk of surgery before delivery day.

Itsy Bitsy Pieces

Gear up for baby with these fun products.

Stuff those Stockings!

Out top picks for fun stocking stuffers.

Good Gadget: Rudolph Water Bottle

This school cafeteria- and Mother Nature-friendly water bottle is sure to quench kids' (and parents', too!) thirst for style and refreshment. ?

Reality Check: Jackie McFee

Take a peek inside the life of local mom Jackie McFee and get a glimpse of everyday parenting — from the madness to the mess-ups!?

NAPPA's expert judges and child testers have selected the most engaging DVDs, story CDs, books, magazines, apps, software, video games, websites and more – all to help you find the right gifts this holiday season.?

Holiday Crafts

Three crafty ideas for Christmas tree ornaments and other crafts that kids can make.

The Muppets Activity Sheets

Gear up for the release of Disney's "The Muppets" movie with these fun activity sheets!

Oyster Stew

For oyster lovers, this stew by local restaurant Forty-Six Chef Michael Venendaal is sure to please. A simple base of celery, yellow onion, potatoes, stock and spices can warm up the company on a chili November night.
?

Cooking with Local Greens

Bring the true essence of greens to your dinner table this holiday season?.

Warm Brie en Croute with Fig Jam

Young and old will love this easy-to-make Brie cheese and jam starter. ?

Creative Uses for Common Household Items

Recycle items around the house and save money over the long haul.

Good Gadget: Pasta Insert

Make your life easier with this stainless-steel pasta pot insert?.

Reality Check: Patrick Cannon

Take a peek inside the life of local dad and Charlotte Mayor Pro Tem Patrick Cannon.

Charlotte Chefs: Bourbon-Pecan Encrusted Sea Scallops with Roasted Beets and an Orange Infused Vinaigrette Arugula Salad

This beautifully presented Southern coastal dish from local Chef Carrie Hegnauer? will make your dinner party guests "ooh and aaah!"

Education Glossary

A little help with your ABC's.

Quick & Easy Halloween Crafts

Invite ghostly guests to your illuminated dinner table with these simple and festive Halloween crafts.

Disney on Ice Performer Q&A

Get the skinny on what it is like to be a ice skater with the "Disney on Ice Dare to Dream" show.

Reality Check: Robin Marshall

Take a peek inside the life of mom Robin Marshall and get a glimpse of everyday parenting — from the madness to the mess-ups!

Howling Halloween Fun Stuff

Get in the Halloween spirit with these books, movies and costumes.?

Good Gadget: Dremel Pumpkin Carving Kit

With the Dremel Pumpkin Carving Kit, your jack-o'-lantern is sure to impress the entire neighborhood!?

Books That Cook: Disgustingly Delicious

Add a twist to the traditional Halloween party with these recipes that will leave all your guests in shock.?

Reality Check: Muhsin “Moose” Muhammad

Take a peek inside the life of dad Muhsin "Moose" Muhammad and get a glimpse of everyday parenting — from the madness to the mess-ups!

Good Gadget: Drink-N-Plate

Ensure a spill-free meal with this combo plate and drink holder.

Neat Eats: Wushu Chicken Tacos

Make taco night extraordinary with these tacos that combine Jif creamy peanut butter with chicken, asparagus and squash.

Books That Cook: Slim & Scrumptious

Over 175 delicious, healthy meals your family will love.

Yo Gabba Gabba! Activity Sheets

Get excited for Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! at Bojangles Coliseum Oct. 28-29 with these fun activity sheets.

2011-12 Young Authors Contest: Official Rules & Guidelines

Read the Official Rules & Guidelines of the 2011-12 Young Authors Contest prior to entering. Entries that do not meet guidelines will be disqualified. Deadline: Nov. 4, 2011.

Homeschooling Multiple Ages

Advice from parents who homeschool on how to teach multiple kids.

Good Gadget: Kinderkitchen Kids Tools

Child-safe kitchen tools designed to make cooking tasks extra fun.

The ABC’s of Snacking

Snacks to get kids' bodies and brains ready for a new school year.

Back-to-School Home Organization

While parents are most concerned about what they need to get before the first day of school, they often don't think about what they need to get rid of.