There is something very special about receiving flowers. For generations, they have been seen as a traditional gift to make people feel better when they’re ill, to say sorry or simply as a sign of love and affection.

Of course, the giving of flowers on Valentine’s day is a well-publicized event. However, they are actually given throughout the year because it’s an easy and effective way of showing affection. It doesn’t matter if this is to a partner or a child; to celebrate a birthday, or even to simply show you care.

In fact, you shouldn’t underestimate the power of children giving flowers to parents, or other family members and friends. It doesn’t just make the receiver feel good, watch your child next time you do it; they’ll light up.

Whether flowers are a one-off gift, or you give or receive flowers every month, they spread happiness and a feeling of well-being. But, why is this the case?

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Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by PSECU, a Pennsylvania-based credit union.

Many parents erroneously believe that good money management skills develop after their kids leave the nest and have bills to pay. But psychological research indicates that children begin forming financial habits not too long after learning to talk, and by the time the littles start second grade, their attitudes toward money have become ingrained.

Given the early age at which kids begin developing attitudes about spending and saving, parents of any means do well to begin discussing money matters shortly after potty training is finished. Children who understand the value of money tend to save more and have healthier financial attitudes throughout life. Teaching them the value of a dollar early helps them make solid economic decisions for a lifetime.  [Read more…]

One feeling all first-time parents can relate to is fear.

The good news is that there is one way you can tackle that emotion before it gets the better of you: preparation. By making sure everything is in place to keep your child safe, you’ll be free to focus on the making the most of parenthood.

To help give your babyproofing a head start, we’ve come up with a list of ten items that every parent shouldn’t be without, below:

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