We all want our children to be successful in life, knowing how to support themselves when they grow up. Naturally a good education is important, but so is being allowed to be a kid. Keeping that balance can be hard at times when so much emphasis is put on competing. I think we have to keep in mind that being a loving and well adjusted person is even more important. And, to me, most important of all is spirituality, because that truly involves our future.

Without pushing our children we can encourage them to do their best and we can find ways to make learning fun. This doesn't necessarily mean, at least in my opinion, giving them all the latest toys - even educational ones. Things that help them to use their own imagination are best. How many have observed children having more fun with a cardboard box than with the expensive toy that came in the box!

I've observed that many of today's children and even young adults don't READ! Yet, that was something I always enjoyed and I have found that if you are in that habit you can learn almost anything all by yourself! Most people today seem to need to "take a course" just to learn how to bake a cake! Of course, you have to go to school as a child and you have to get those diplomas and degrees to prove to others that you are worthy of a job. But nothing can beat the habit of reading for enabling us to learn whatever we want or need at any time in life!

I've been in homes where there simply weren't any books and I find this hard to understand. Yet some of these same parents want their children to make all "A's" in school and succeed. If the family can't afford to buy books there is always the public library and the libraries at school. And used bookstores often offer great bargains too, as well as garage sales. And, one of the best educations a child can have is available in a book that is in almost every home - God's word the Bible! Who knows more about us and what we need than our Creator? I also know of some very good books that explain the Bible to children and youths that cost nothing.

For those that do have the financial means, it's best to be selective in buying books, toys and educational programs to use on the computer. And, obviously the ability to use the computer is a skill nearly everyone needs now and definitely will in the future. One place I have found that is good to check out is SmarterKids.com Homepage. You can search, by age bracket, for all sorts of computer software, books and toys, all designed to make education fun. They have a test you can take on line to learn what your child's learning style is and then search for things that will fit his style as well as his goals. There is even a free newsletter you can subscribe to, as well as free offers you can send for.

As I find links or interesting news items concerning ways to encourage or improve learning skills, both for children and us adults, I will add them. In today's world most adults find they need to be constantly expanding their skills and knowledge also. Besides, keeping the mind active and learning has been shown to be an important factor in keeping the brain YOUNG! Hey, we have to be able to keep up with the kids!

Experience and travel are also ways our children (and ourselves) can learn many things. And, family vacations can be a rewarding experience for all. For help in planning your vacation try going to the Welcome Page for Expedia Travel. You'll find a lot of great travel resources.

Once you get to the destination you will want to take in some local events - try a search and buy your tickets ahead of time online at