Lisa Piscatelli tries on armor at James Fort on a family vacation in Virginia. Daughter Karina, age 7, grinds corn at Powhatan Indian Village and son Aaron, age 13, hauls water in Colonial Williamsburg.

Children have a wonderful ability to make us laugh, a natural stress reducer. This edition connects the importance of play on child development and links health to student achievement. We are reminded of the value of preparing nutritious meals and of participating in physical activities, thus raising healthy children also addresses our own wellness.

We interviewed two pediatricians for guidance on the baby days and for insight on the adolescent years. We also interviewed two behavioral specialists for information on the signs of a child being bullied with solution suggestions.

How do we talk with our children about self esteem, avoiding drugs and alcohol, internet safety, and healthy relationships? Some great local resources are included.

While life has changed since the 17th-century, our basic needs are really the same: sustenance, safety, wellness, and family. E-mail sheshines@mac.com, your feedback is welcome. And good luck with getting your kids ready for back to school.

Take care,