Baby and Parenting News Week of Aug. 10 to 16, 2014

1 READ: Curl up with your tot and begin reading a chapter book together

There is no bonding experience quite like reading to your kids. With every passing paragraph, you connect with your child through new worlds, crazy characters, and shocking plot twists. When they begin to progress from picture books to more complex stories, the themes found in literature become even more vital to your kids' personal development, so it's important to choose the right novels. To ensure an amazing time during your readings, choose books that entertain both you and your child: when both reader and listener are fully engaged, the valuable lessons found in literature become much more captivating! Here are the very best chapter books to read as your kids grow.

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2 WATCH: Robin Williams leaves a legacy of wonderful movies that your kids will love watching with you

Image Source: Disney

He played a grown-up Peter Pan, a former president, a genie who was a bit too happy to leave his bottle, the ultimate nanny, and pretty much everything in between. Robin Williams entertained multiple generations with his versatile comedic genius, which is why parents and children alike are mourning the loss of one of the greatest entertainers of all time. While adults can hold on to memories of Williams hits like Good Morning, Vietnam, The World According to Garp, and Good Will Hunting, our kids enjoyed a much lighter side of Williams — one that will continue to entertain new generations of movie fans for years to come. We have nine flicks to add to your kids' movie-night viewing lists.

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3 LAUGH: These photographers of moms-to-be just don't get it!

Image Source: Thinkstock / lekcej

As parenting writers, we turn to photo agencies for stock art to accompany our stories on a daily basis. And it's pretty amazing just how much of it exists — good, bad, and ugly. Today we're focusing on the latter two categories. These pregnancy photos left us feeling confused and shocked and, in many cases, in fits of laughter. Because let's be serious . . . is that what your pregnancy looked like? We think not.

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4 USE: Who knew coconut oil was so good for pregnant women?

From the beauty counter to the kitchen pantry, coconut oil seems to be the hot-ticket item on everyone's shopping lists these days. It's a great natural moisturizer, has myriad health benefits, and can be especially beneficial during pregnancy. Here, 10 ways to put that magical little jar to use on your expectant bod (and afterward, too!).

Source: Flickr user VeganBaking.net

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5 MAKE: These creative food hacks will make mealtime with your kids easier and cleaner

For me, mealtime is the biggest stress of parenthood. Getting my children to eat the same thing at the same time in an allotted time frame makes for some truly trying times. But leave it to some creative moms to come up with some great food hacks to make feeding your kids easier, faster, and yes, even neater! From Popsicle drip catchers and fun corn holders to a great way to hull strawberries without throwing out half of the berry, read on for 11 great parenting food hacks!

Source: Merry Maids

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