Tag Archives: children

Eye On Design: Geisel Library at UCSD


All Photos by Gail

Recently, while vacationing in San Diego, I made a stop at the University of California San Diego (UCSD) campus, where I discovered one of the most wonderfully unusual library buildings I’ve ever seen. Meet Geisel Library, a futuristic concrete-and-glass landmark that looks a little like a spaceship that has landed in the middle of campus.

The building is named for Theodor Seuss Geisel and his wife, Audrey. You probably know Theodor better by his pen name, Dr. Seuss, the legendary author and illustrator whose wonderfully strange, colorful and often surprisingly wise children’s books were a part of my own childhood. The library was renamed in their honor on December 1, 1995, following a $20 million gift from Audrey Geisel. Before that, it had been known as the Central University Library and, after a 1993 expansion, as University Library.

But the building itself is every bit as interesting as its namesake.
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Making Family Trips to Pigeon Forge More Fun When You’re Traveling With Kids

carnival rides lit up at night pigeon forge

Planning a family vacation to Pigeon Forge sounds exciting until you remember you’re traveling with kids. Suddenly you’re thinking about snack breaks, bathroom stops, tired little legs, and how to keep everyone entertained without turning the trip into a marathon. The good news is that Pigeon Forge makes family travel a lot easier than many destinations. Between its kid-friendly attractions, scenic mountain setting, and activities that appeal to every age group, it’s a place where families can slow down and genuinely enjoy spending time together. With a little planning and realistic expectations, your Pigeon Forge getaway can feel less stressful, more flexible, and full of the kinds of memories your kids will still be talking about long after you get home.
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How Play-Based Early Education Ignites a Lifelong Love of Learning

boy in orange shirt playing train toy on the floor
Photo by Pavel Danilyuk on Pexels.com

The early years of a child’s life are widely recognized as the most critical window for brain development. In recent years, the Australian educational landscape has undergone a significant transformation. We are moving away from traditional, rote learning in early childhood and embracing dynamic, play-based methodologies. At the heart of this shift is the understanding that young children do not just play to pass the time. They play to make sense of the world around them. By integrating intentional play into daily routines, educators and parents can lay down the complex neural pathways required for a lifelong love of learning and holistic personal development. Research consistently highlights that the architecture of a young child’s brain is highly sensitive to their immediate environment.

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7 Types of Books That Teach Kids About Being Creative and Brave

boy standing near bookshelf
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Every parent wants to raise children who are both imaginative and courageous. Books remain one of the most powerful tools for nurturing these qualities in young minds. Through stories, children learn to dream big, face their fears, and explore new possibilities in safe yet meaningful ways.

The right books can transform how children see themselves and the world around them. When kids encounter characters who overcome obstacles or create something beautiful from nothing, they internalize those lessons. They begin to understand that creativity and bravery aren’t mysterious traits reserved for heroes but qualities anyone can develop.
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Lighting the Spark: How to Inspire a Love for Learning in Your Child

little girl and teacher
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Every parent wants the best for their child — a safe neighborhood, good schools, and opportunities to grow. Some even move to areas like Princeton, known for its strong education system and low crime rate. But while location and resources matter, they’re only part of the picture. The real challenge lies in igniting a genuine love for learning — that inner drive that keeps children curious and motivated. In a world full of distractions and instant gratification, nurturing this spark takes thought and consistency.
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