Childcare Basics

No childcare situation is perfect. Here are some common complaints and possible solutions.

How to size up a child-care situation and pick the best one.

We've got the answers to the stuff you worry about most when it comes to childcare.

It's time to start thinking about daycare. Check out our list of the ups and downs for a variety of childcare options including family daycares, daycare centers and au pairs.

Six experts explain why one of the most popular discipline tactics is also one of the most misused.

Any object that baby can turn into a toy will teach him a thing or two.

What to ask when choosing a child-care facility.

An insider's guide to choosing a high-quality program for your child.

When meeting with day care directors or caregivers, don't be afraid to ask as many questions as you need to in order to feel comfortable. It's a good idea to have a written list with you so that you don't forget a key query.

Watch for these milestones to occur between 18-24 months.

With a little preparation, stepping out doesn't have to be a leap of faith.

Parents will give their babies names that are inspired by the classics, modern-day heroes, characters from TV shows, and more, according to the creators of Nameberry.

Slash your supermarket spending with meals so good your family will fight over the leftovers.

Essentials tidbits for getting your newborn baby to sleep.

Most babies are ready to sleep through the night by 3 to 4 months -- if their parents let them. Learn how these common mom-and-dad errors can turn your baby into a poor sleeper.

Everything you need to know about how to conduct a background check on a nanny or homesitter.

Colorful homemade cards will get your little guests in the party mood.

From the time of conception until the time you give birth, your body is going to go through some major changes. Find out what to expect with our week-by-week look at your changing body.

You've made the commitment to start potty training your child, but didn't realize how frustrating it could be. Take a deep breath, you're not alone. Real-life moms and medical experts share their knowledge for overcoming common obstacles.

Find out the best time to try sleep training with your baby.

You don't have to cry it out to eliminate your baby's nighttime wakings. Kim West, author of "Good Night, Sleep Tight: The Sleep Lady's Gentle Guide to Helping Your Baby Go to Sleep Must-Know Advice from the Sleep Lady" and "The Good Night, Sleep Tight Workbook", explains how to implement her Sleep Lady Shuffle -- and have the whole family snoozing better in two weeks.

An age-by-age guide.

Get your kids off to a good and healthy start -- without any fuss.

Toss out the junk food and start making snack time fun again! Check out these 20 kid-friendly ingredients that make great snacks, plus an easy recipe for each one.

These catchy little songs and poems are more than just entertainment.