It's not uncommon for moms of kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder to feel limitations about the places they can and can't go with their special needs child. For a lot of these mothers, going to the movies with their kid is simply not in the question. Children with sensory issues can be overwhelmed by the lights, crowds and loud noises, and so some mothers of children with Autism don't even try. heidi1439 posted an encouraging news story in her journal recently about the growing trend to make special movie screenings for kids with autism and sensory disorders. Cities across the county are finding that moms and kids love these "judgement free" movie days. Check it out.

Chris Brown? Miley Cyrus? Rihanna? Who will it be? Don't know for sure yet but according to the Washington Post, some lucky, kid-friendly musical artist is going to rock the house on one of the most historic nights in American history.

photo by mom0f2swtgrls

As part of this series on winter holidays--a wonderful way to help your kids learn about other cultures and traditions--Cafe Amy proudly spoke with me about Chanukah and why it's one of her most meaningful celebrations. It's an observance steeped in rich Jewish tradition, one we should all know about. Happy Chanukah!!!

Back in my college days (no, I won't date myself), I went through a real transformation about self and identity. Some traditions that were a part of my past didn't seem to fit anymore; I had a new consciousness about what it meant to be a young black woman in America.

photo by islandwalker

You'll love this one. Adria71 asked a simple question, how can she get her 10-year-old daughter to clean up her sloppy room? Easier said than done, we all know.

A Yule Tree

photo by HogwartsHM

Who knows when "Happy Holidays" first became the "PC" thing to say at this time of year, but I for one, am glad about it. Although most Americans celebrate Christmas, the winter holiday season actually includes several social and religious traditions. It's lovely to send warm holiday wishes, but it's respectful to consider that not everyone celebrates the same thing, the same way. One of the most important things we can teach our children is tolerance for difference.

It's game day! And I don't mean the NFL. Yesterday's post about money and holiday depression got me thinking. So many of us are struggling, just trying to hold it all together. Shoot, the holidays are supposed to be a time of joy!

Friday night. "Hey mom, me and the girls are going to hang at the mall for a couple of hours." Sound familiar?

If it does, you wouldn't be the only mother of a tween or teen whose child spends an inordinate amount of time with friends at a shopping center. But teen mall congregation isn't exactly adored by retailers, like you might think. That's because bands of teens don't necessarily mean big shoppers, but instead sometimes violence and disorderly conduct.

Sure, we'll get to video games and all that you need for the Techno-saurus in your house, but first let's not forget the Board Gamer! Board games have been around for literally thousands of years--no not Monopoly, but that's a pretty enduring game too. In the spirit of gathering the whole family around the table for a good night of trash talk and competition, here goes!

Chutes and Ladders

Product: Chutes and Ladders (Retro)

Cost: $14.98

Where to Buy: Walmart.com

Extras: Comes in a collectible tin.

Why I Love It: Chutes and Ladders goes waaaaay back! The makers even knew to put "Retro" on the box, but the thing is, this game is just as good as it's ever been. It's perfect for younger kids (think 5 or so), because the concept is simple--good deeds move you forward, but naughty ones slide you back. You'll appreciate the flashback it gives you to your own childhood, but your little ones could care less about that--they just love the spin-the-arrow the action!

photo by iParenting

Last week I learned that as moms we are pretty much split down the middle when it comes to choosing between the fantasy of a few minutes with our children as newborns once more, versus flashing forward 20 years to spend a few minutes with them as adults. Now I'd like to know how you'd answer this...