Improving your child's math skills with fun, educational programs

How do you tell the difference between an online game that is a valuable educational tool and those that are merely fun? It may be difficult to assess the educational value of computer programs aimed at children - especially those aged 4 to 9.

Creatively cut the fat: substitute with apples

Looking to eat better? Tried low-fat and reduced-sodium products, but they just don't taste the same? If you want to modify your diet without giving up the tastes you love, substituting natural ingredients, rather than modified versions of unhealthy ingredients, could do the trick.

Why it's never too early to start preparing for Christmas

If you stick your fingers in your ears at the mention of Christmas anytime before November, you might just be missing out. You don't need to be scouting for spruce trees or organizing your ornaments, but keeping Christmas in mind a number of months before it arrives can be helpful for your schedule, your stress levels and your bank account.

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.

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.

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.

Riding the social media wave: a user's guide to Web-based communication

People use social media for a variety of reasons. What role does social media play in your life? What role should it play?

Americans wising up about credit cards, studies show

Americans seem to be learning their lesson when it comes to using credit cards wisely, two new studies indicate. The average American has fewer credit cards, is relying on them less, and is trying to pay down their debt - which, in many metropolitan areas, still exceeds the national average.

Expert tips for brewing great-tasting coffee at home

Have you ever brewed a cup of coffee at home and wished it tasted as good as the cup you get from your favorite cafe? A lot of steps go into making the perfect cup of coffee, but they are all simple ones you can follow at home.

Getting there by motorcycle is more fun than you ever imagined

You may think of motorcycling as primarily a solo activity, but ask anyone who has ever done it and they'll tell you hitting the open road with a group of friends or riding with an organized motorcycle rally, is the epitome of the motorcycling experience. However, it's important to keep in mind that the rules of the road are a bit different when you're riding with a group.