For those of us who can visualize the end result - a plate of juicy, perfectly ripe heirloom tomatoes, for instance - it's easier to get excited about all the groundwork that goes into making one's garden great. For the little ones, though, who don't have the ability to see the end goal, it takes some guidance to get them in the gardening spirit (and keep them there!). Here's how to get the whole family in on the activity. 

Dance class. Gym class. Soccer practice. Swim meet. Music lessons. Play dates. How many activities is your child involved in on a weekly basis? When you remember your growing-up days, do you think blissfully of the unstructured summer days of freedom or the regular round of weekly activities?

Activities aren't bad for kids by any means. But, with so many options, it's tough to say no and leave some unfettered, unstructured, free time for our children so they can learn how to be active and creative without instruction from a teacher, coach or parent. Try rethinking the activities your child is involved in and encouraging some active, free play time instead.

Breakfast is a rushed time for most of us, and it's so easy to throw something pre-packaged at the kids just so they won't launch into their day hungry. So we may not have time to cook a three-course breakfast, but there are ways to serve something nutritious and homemade and still get out the door on time. Here are five make-ahead, kid-friendly recipes to help you save breakfast.

Kids need stuff (although they could probably use less of most of it): food, a bed, clothes, shoes, toys, art supplies, sports gear, school supplies, swimming gear, bikes, balls, musical instruments... The list is long and just seems to grow as they do. Keeping up with our own clutter is challenge enough. It is possible to keep toys both organized and accessible for your young children; here's how to do it.