You know what's wild? Our son walked into his class with his arm in a sling after shoulder surgery, and suddenly everyone noticed him. The nurse waved to him to see if he needed any help. His classmates asked if he was okay. Even his teachers softened their tone, offering him extensions and reminding him to "take it easy."

But that’s not the case with dyslexia.

Our son had dyslexia since forever—but no cast, no crutches, no visible sign. And because no one sees it, it doesn’t seem to count.

What do you think squirrels, snacks, and storytime have in common?

At first glance, I am guessing you are saying "not much." But on a chilly afternoon, by chance, my grandson and I looked out the front window and saw a squirrel racing up the trunk of a barren oak tree, cheeks full, stashing its winter goodies in a hidden nook. Right there, with a busy squirrel, a simple snack in our hands, and a story waiting to be told, ordinary time turned into something unforgettable.

What do New Year's resolutions and an airport have in common?  You cannot “think” your way to the destination. Eventually, you have to board.

I am guessing that you are a lot like me; our New Year’s resolutions sound great in the safety of January. Drink more water. Lose 10 pounds. Walk more steps. Don’t get me wrong, those are good goals, but those resolutions that change you, really, really change you, are rarely comfortable.

The holidays are over, and by now you’ve probably seen that those precious, must-have toys start to break or be relegated to a closet shelf.

We know, stuff breaks. We also know that memories stick. So, if you’re a Modern Grand who wants fewer plastic parts and more sparkle-in-their-eyes moments, experience gifts are your secret super tool. The great part about it is that it’s affordable, easy to pull off, and doesn’t have to be tied only to “official” celebrations.

What?! It's December already! Where did those last 11 months go?

I know, I know, it happens every year—December sneaks in wearing a cozy sweater and carrying a mile-long to-do list. While our world rushes toward year-end sales, holiday menus, and half-finished resolutions, I have been thinking about what to do differently with my grandkids.

We could talk about homemade gifts and gingerbread houses, which we do every year. But what I really want to know from him is what made his heart beat faster this year? What did he learn? What does he hope for?

Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays—not just for the food (though Veggie Mornay might deserve its own holiday), but for the sense of tradition, family, and slightly chaotic joy that comes with it.

Naming stuffed animals might seem like child's play, but there’s a whole lot more going on beneath the fluff! From learning about animals and rhyming words to memory skills and emotional growth—this simple activity sparks big-time brain development.

Winter break: those endless days off school—back in our day, anyway. You have probably heard this a thousand times; our winters included the legendary walk "one mile, in the snow, uphill both ways." But if I have to be honest, winter break in 2025 is nothing like our rosy, frostbitten memories. This post is a blend of nostalgia, gentle ribbing, and serious advice for parents and grandparents alike—let's help kids today enjoy a break without the stress of social media, Zoom homework, or perfectionism.