School-age
Before- and after-school care, summer programs
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Friendship fights and first solo playdates: What to say, what to ask
How to coach kids 4–7 through friend fights, decide if they’re ready for drop-off playdates, and the AAP’s safety questions to ask the other family.
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Child care aid reopens in phases: What waitlisted families should do now
Massachusetts is reopening child care aid in phases. What to do if you’re on the waitlist, why not to call 211, and what early educators should…
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Daycare tour questions to ask, plus how to check a Mass. license
Your daycare tour checklist: safety, ratios, health, cost and inclusion questions, plus how to check a Massachusetts program’s license and record.
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Car seat, booster, front seat: The ages that matter in Massachusetts
Massachusetts law says car seat or booster until 8 or 57 inches. Here’s each stage, the 5-step booster test, the front-seat age and free car seat…
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How to teach your child to read at home: The science-backed plan
Skip the flashcard marathons. Here’s what the science of reading says works, games for ages 2 to 7, phonics at home and when to talk to…
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Help paying for childcare in Massachusetts: Aid just reopened
Massachusetts just reopened childcare aid with $31.2M for about 2,100 seats. Who qualifies, how to apply on MyChildCareMA and what you’ll pay.
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IEP vs. 504 plan: The real difference and how to get one
An IEP brings special education. A 504 plan brings accommodations. See the side-by-side, who qualifies and how to request an evaluation in Massachusetts.
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Childcare tax breaks 2026: The $7,500 FSA and 50% credit, explained
For 2026 the federal childcare credit hits 50%, the dependent care FSA jumps to $7,500 and Massachusetts pays $440 a kid. How to stack them right.
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How to find a good daycare in Massachusetts: 4 steps that work
Search the state’s free database, call your referral agency, check inspection records and work the waitlists. Find a good daycare in Massachusetts.
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Best tablet for kids in 2026: Fire Kids vs. iPad vs. Galaxy Tab
Fire Kids, iPad or Galaxy Tab? Compare kid tablets on ages, screens and parental controls, plus AAC tips for kids with autism or speech delays.
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Is Massachusetts banning phones in schools? Where the bill stands
Not yet. The Senate and House passed different phone bills, and a deal is stuck in conference. What each passed, the deadline and what parents can…
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Best first phone for kids in 2026: 7 safer picks, compared
Gabb, Pinwheel, Bark, TickTalk or Apple Watch? We compared 7 kid-safe phones and watches on calling, apps, GPS, parental controls and monthly plans.
Free every Tuesday
The weekly briefing
The week’s child care news for Massachusetts families, plus one new guide, every Tuesday. A 5-minute read.
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El boletín semanal
Una lectura de 5 minutos con lo que las familias necesitan saber esta semana.