WEEKLY COLUMN: March 2008 Archives

YA GOTTA EAT: The number of women in the workforce has declined slightly in the last decade, resulting in fewer families eating dinner at restaurants, according to a recent Wall Street Journal story. What are your eating-out habits? Vote in our poll at http://www.insidesocal.com/lamama/2008/03/sweet-temptation-of-taking-the.html

LAUSD BUDGET CUTS: I spoke to lots of parents last week about the $460 million in budget cuts facing Los Angeles Unified next year. If you want to vent about looming teacher layoffs or get into a dialogue with other parents about the issue, send a comment.

A LITTLE PERSONAL FINANCE: In the wake of the Bear Stearns meltdown and what's happening on Wall Street, it's a good time to reflect on handling your kids' questions and worries about financial security. What better time to educate your kids about money and personal finance? I found a product called KIDSCA$H, a $14.95 workbook on money management for ages 8-12. See www.kidscashmanagement.com. There's also free material at www.federalreserveeducation.org/teachers.

READING: The Elementary Education Department at Cal State Northridge will hold its inaugural Children's Literature Conference, 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. April 12 in the Michael D. Eisner College of Education Building. Stacia Deutsch, author of the "Blast to the Past" series, is among those scheduled to be there. See www.csun.edu/ua/publicrelations/ press-releases/Spring08/childrenlit.html

AND FINALLY: Scholastic is offering 25 percent off DVD series, including Curious George, Good Night Gorilla, and Knuffle Bunny. The coupon is available at www.newkideo.com. Enter code KIDSDVD at checkout to get the discount.
barbara.correa@dailynews.com 818-713-3662