With so much entertainment easily available on the homefront (television, video games, computers, etc.), we often forget that the performing arts are alive and kicking in communities across the nation - and much of this is low cost or free. 

Take some time to search out what is available and get in the habit of going out to an event - live music, dance, theater...or other live performance - at least once a month.

Part of the fun is just the outing. Have you ever watched young children at an event? The learning is tremendous - tons of people, tons of language, tons of new information about the world.

We live in an amazing time in history, but sometimes fail to take advantage. We can speak face to face, through video, across the world, for free. This assumes you have a computer with a web camera and fast enough internet, but many of us have the tools and fail to act. 

Make today the day you break through that invisible wall, sign up for a service like Skype, and talk with a relative. 

Our youngest likes this so much he often will choose it when he has free time. This is a great way to encourage reading as he can read a book long distance to his aunt (for example). Making connections, building relationships, extending language skills ... what a great way to learn!

Storytelling is an incredibly powerful medium for sharing important values, transferring information, and building language skills. It also can provide a glimpse into your past that helps your child understand who you are and what makes you tick.

In many families, stories are what bond the generations together. Your children will surprise you with how well they remember these moments even months later. The honesty, the sharing, and the joy of story are important and could be a great part of your family time.