by Lyn Lomasi; Co-owner of Brand Shamans & Write W.A.V.E. Media

Sure, card playing with kids is awesomely fun. But did you know that it also could be good for learning and emotional health? If you haven't played cards with your kids before, you may just change that routine soon.

According to ParentingScience.com, studies show cognitive benefits to play, which could include card playing. Kids who play often are proven to excel in academics. Frequent play also improves memory, problem-solving skills, math skills, and even language skills. This could be due to the fact that many types of play involve utilizing those skills.

Memory and Match-Up card games for kids are particularly beneficial. They can help improve concentration, train visual memory, improve vocabulary, increase hand-eye coordination, increase short-term memory, practice and increase attention to detail, help to classify objects, help to differentiate objects, and help to familiarize traits in specific objects.

The benefits are so strong that card playing is often used to help fight off memory and cognitive  conditions like dementia and Alzheimer's Disease.

Looking at card games in particular, see how many you can think of that involve using oral language skills, math, hand-eye coordination, problem-solving skills, and an emotional connection to other players.

Have you played cards with your kids lately? Which games are favorites?

by Lyn Lomasi; Co-owner of Brand Shamans & Write W.A.V.E. Media

Finding safe toys for babies and toddlers has gotten harder, with so many recalls happening. However, there are still many toys that are safe for children as birthday and Christmas gifts or for everyday use. Here are 10 toys for babies and toddlers that have been tested for safety. The toys listed below come from companies who have stated that all of their toys meet or exceed the requirements for toy safety, so with that statement in mind, feel free to browse  other toys made by the same companies.

*As with any toy, these toys do not replace the need for parental supervision. Accidents can happen, even with the best safety ratings. Always use caution and always supervise your baby or toddler.

**The author is a part of the Amazon Associates Program. This means she earns a small portion of sales generated from clicking on the links in this post and uses it to provide for her family. Said partnership did not influence the opinions on these products. See our full Disclosure Policy for more information.

by Lyn Lomasi; Co-owner of Brand Shamans & Write W.A.V.E. Media

Being a mom to 6, a parenting writer, as well as a former nanny I know just how important it is for kids to have a variety of good books. New and interesting books should be added often to keep kids interested. Here are a lucky 13 baker's dozen of must-have children's books for gifts or any occasion! Enjoy!