news for moms

Make-believe is more than child's play. It's crucial to the development of creativity, empathy, learning and problem-solving, but it's being squeezed out of the lives of many children, says psychologist Susan Linn. In her new book, "The Case for Make Believe: Saving Play in a Commercialized World" (The New Press, $24.95), Linn says parents must limit their children's screen time and give them simple tools that encourage creative play. USA TODAY talks to her about the building blocks of make-believe.

Classes are out for children across the country, but the fight to boost fitness and curb fat among America's youth doesn't end with the school year, researchers and health advocates say. That's why they're encouraging parents to turn off the television and video games and find ways to get kids moving.

In "Great Books About Things Kids Love" by Kathleen Odean, the section on animals fills 65 pages. Whether it's fact or fiction, no other subject is more engaging to young readers. USA TODAY's Bob Minzesheimer looks at four new picture books whose casts of characters range from an affable Rottweiler to a cocky pig:

This could be the perfect summer for young readers. No schoolwork to cramp the schedule, no sun to distract from the pleasures of reading by flashlight -- at high noon.

Dads like to share stories of how rough they had it when they were kids. Now there's an exhibit proving them right, at least when it comes to video games.

There is no one-stop shop for autism in the Valley to provide diagnoses, medical, psychiatric and school services, leaving families feeling isolated and lost.

Entrepreneurial opportunities abound for youngsters over the summer. With a little guidance and encouragement, you can help your children turn opportunity into success.

Summer is here and you know what that means. School's out and moms (and dads, of course) are hustling the kids to and from camps and classes and games and play dates. The dizzying days, not to mention sweltering heat, are enough to make us a little crazy.

Fireworks are illegal in Arizona, but the fire marshal likely wouldn't frown on you launching a few rockets of your own if you use Diet Coke or Alka-Seltzer for fuel.

News that 17 girls at a Massachusetts high school became pregnant this year is raising questions about whether pregnancy has become something alluring to teens.