Memphis Parent

Feeding an entire family can be difficult enough on its own with busy evenings full of hustle and bustle. One additional factor that can cause even more headaches is dealing with a picky eater, especially a child whose preferred menu ranges from hot dogs to candy. If you’re looking to widen the palate of your picky eater(s), consider these tips to start down a path toward a more expansive slate of family meals.

During a time when the economy is changing rapidly and shifting the landscape of work into uncertain territory, academic success is no longer enough to put young people on a stable path to the future. Once, a high school diploma was enough to land a well-paying job. Then a college degree became the gold standard. Now the roadmap has changed again, which means that smart students need to start taking steps in new directions.

New routines and rhythms are here again. Can you believe it? But don’t fret because this probably isn’t your first rodeo. While back-to-school season can be rife with stress and anxiety, preparation and planning can lead to a smooth and rewarding transition. For my family, this will be our first year where everyone is at different schools.

You’re going to need some things for back-to-school season. Not the children — they have parents to take care of that. It’s the grandparents that will have certain needs, along with open minds, and maybe an adjustment in attitude. As my sixth-grade English teacher would say as she glared at us: “A word to the wise.” Much will depend on what your duties will be as a devoted grand. If you’re dropping off and/or picking up, do make an effort to follow everything from instructions to traffic flow.

Are you a good steward? Not to be misconstrued with being a good citizen (conduct), samaritan (sacrificial help), or having integrity (morally sound). All excellent characteristics of being a valuable person. Stewardship (being responsible) should be the main character in the book of parenting. But are we missing the mark? We diligently empower parents to be leaders, go-getters, load-carriers, and capitalize on every opportunity to gain more knowledge and wealth.

Our Back to School 2026 issue is here! Check out some great features, including teen entrepreneurship and learning how to discover their leadership skills and voices. Plus, other stories on finding a back-to-school rhythm, meals and tips for picky eaters, products to help add fun and adventure to teaching and learning, how grandparents can hold the key to making going back to school cool, celebrating outstanding teachers, and more. Find copies HERE on newsstands across the Mid-South.

Turn up the volume with Memphis Botanic Garden during the grand opening of their imaginative play Fun Studio, a new interactive play space in My Big Backyard. Families are invited to celebrate the opening on August 8, 6-8 p.m. Inspired by the legendary Sun Studio, Fun Studio gives children a place to step into the spotlight, experiment with music, and let their creativity shine.

A healthy school year starts before the first day of class. The American Medical Association (AMA) is sharing six tips to help families prepare children for a healthy return to the classroom. Backpacks, notebooks and pencils are classroom essentials — but one of the best school supplies you can give a child is a healthy start,” says AMA President Willie Underwood, III, MD. “Prioritizing physical and mental health helps students arrive ready to learn, grow, and thrive all year long.” 1.

Who doesn't love chips and dip? Thanks to our friends at Church Health, they have shared a simple and nutritious recipe that can be made and shared in no time. Avocados—which contain healthy, plant-based fat—are the main ingredient in this versatile dip, which is great on burgers, quesadillas, or tacos.

Hot diggity dog, this year’s fourth of July was a blast. No, literally. Gaylord Opryland celebrated America’s 250th birthday during their All-American SummerFest, and it’s going on until September 2026.