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Family ballpark adventures

One of America''s favorite pastimes is attending major and minor league baseball games. Before you and your family head to the ballpark this summer, consider how to make it a more memorable experience.

 "If your child isn''t an avid fan of any particular team, choose one nearby that is having a good season or has several star players to keep it interesting," says Chris Kemple, spokesperson for the minor league. "Next get on the team''s website to see which games offer special promotions for kids - either in giveaways, pre- or post-game events or discounted tickets."

That''s what Deborah Rowe does. As former minor league team booster members, she and her husband have always enjoyed attending baseball games. "When our daughter came along, we wanted to give her that same opportunity," says the mother of her five-year old. "Hannah and I sit at the computer and go over which games have special promotions so she can pick the ones she wants to see."
 
To build excitement for attending games, play catch with your child, watch televised games together and discuss fundamentals of the sport. If your child hasn''t signed up to play in an area league, encourage participation.

Bill Mitchell has done this. By the time William was age three, his father was taking him to major and more often minor league games. "When our team wasn''t home we''d watch the major leagues on TV," says Mitchell of his now 11-year-old son. "He''d ask questions about the game and we''d discuss different players and their positions. Now he''s a newspaper and internet guy. He loves to read the stats and go online to see how different teams and players are doing."

Ready, set, preschool

As summer moves along, your young child may be gearing up to start preschool. The start of school is a big step for kids and parents alike, so here are some ways to make that transition smooth.

Quell first day jitters
Visit beforehand: Take advantage of an open door policy or orientation and let your new student get a good look at the place. Make sure to point out the stuff he''ll need to know, like where the potty is and where toys should be stowed once he''s finished playing. 

Prepare yourself: Grab a cup of coffee and settle in with whatever literature the school has provided, and really read through it.  Make notes and lists, and refer to them while you''re getting ready for the big day.

Dress for success:  Make sure your child is completely comfortable - not only in her clothes, but with manipulating them in the bathroom and during outdoor play.  Give her some time to practice putting on sweaters or jackets by herself, and beware of anything that has a difficult fastening mechanism.