Month: July 2013

Feature Stories, Magazine Writing, Sample Work

Transitioning Your Kids Back to School

sphilpott

After a summer of swimming parties, outdoor activities and lazy play days, it’s natural for your child to dread the return to a more structured school schedule. Transitioning back to school doesn’t have to be a struggle, though. Prepare your child for the changes the school year will bring by discussing expectations and arranging fun activities to build the excitement.

Feature Stories, Magazine Writing, Sample Work

How to Keep Kids Sharp Over the Summer

sphilpott

Although kids often relish summer as a time of lazy days and fun in the sun, education doesn’t have to take a back seat to barbecues and swimming excursions. In fact, it shouldn’t, especially since research has shown that students lose several months' worth of knowledge during the summer, says Alexandra Mayzler, founder of Thinking Caps Group, a New York-based tutoring company. Educational activities are easy to incorporate into everyday summer activities so students remain sharp and ready for the return to school.

Feature Stories, Magazine Writing, Sample Work

Produce Guide: How to Pick and Prep Fruits

sphilpott

Fresh fruit brings seasonal color and taste to any meal or snack—a succulent peach smacks of summertime; a juicy red apple brings with it the flavor of fall. Whether you're picking from your own garden, a local market or the grocery store, make sure you're picking and prepping the freshest, most delicious fruits with helpful hints from gardening experts.

Feature Stories, Magazine Writing, Sample Work

Produce Guide: How to Pick and Prep Vegetables

sphilpott

When it comes to picking and prepping vegetables correctly, it’s important to know the growing method, signs of freshness and even proper color of your favorite veggies. Before mixing up that salad with greens, peppers, tomatoes and radishes, learn some harvesting clues—such as peak seasons of vegetables—to ensure your meal is fresh and clean.