Parenting Magazine . . .

I started subscribing to Parenting Magazine back in September 2000. Since I was due to have a baby in October, I figured the magazine would be a nice addition to my reading collection.

Parenting Magazine can be bought in stores for $2.95 per issue, but I chose to subscribe to it. Currently, a 12 issue subscription is $12 and a 24 issue subscription is $18. If you plan on reading this magazine regularly, you will save a lot of money by subscribing.


~ What makes Parenting Magazine so good? ~

Well, first of all, it is a magazine geared towards parents. Whether you are a first time mom, or have 3 children, Parenting Magazine offers information on children's health issues, pregnancy, balancing work and family, how to budget or save money , traveling with children, craft and game ideas, quick recipes, and so much more! It's not just information on infants and toddlers either. There are many articles geared to older children as well.

This magazine is written more towards the female reader, but my husband does read several articles every month and finds them very informative and helpful. He is constantly asking me if I read a certain article yet, and if I haven't, he tells me all about it!


~ What's in EACH issue? ~

Parenting Magazine offers many topics in each issue, but here are a few that stand out . . .

My favorite part about Parenting Magazine is Ages + Stages. Every month, you can find information on stages Birth to 1 year, 1 to 2 years, 2 to 3 years, 3 to 5 years and 5 to 8+ years. There are tips on when infant should reach milestones, books, videos and music for their age, games to introduce, and funny articles relating to other's experiences.

There is also always an Editor's Note by Janet Chan. She often tells of a funny story pertaining to her and her family or another family.

Like most family magazines, you can respond to articles or ask questions. If they feel you're worthy of being published, you may find your letter on the Your Letter page.

And speaking of questions, another great article you can find in each issue is Answers From Dr. Sears. Dr. Sears is a well-known and trusted pediatrician, as well as a published author. In each issue, Dr. Sears answers questions pertaining anything you may want to know from a doctor. You can send your questions in by mail or online at www.parenting.com/experts/sears.

Then, just what every woman needs . . . a Beauty section! Want a new hairstyle? Wardrobe? How about a makeover? This sections gives helpful hints and updates on what's new and hot!


~ Yep, even Parenting Magazine has a website! ~

If you're not sure if you want to buy or subscribe to the magazine, you can go online and check it out first at
www.parenting.com

Not only is this a great way to try before you buy, but if you don't feel you need another magazine, but have a question, you can always look it up here. They offer information from their past and present issues online.


~ Ads that are WORTH reading! ~

One of the drawbacks to many magazines are the ads. I've bought several magazines (cosmopolitan for example) that are just FILLED with useless ads. Parenting Magazine's ads are actually pertinent and I enjoy looking at them. Being that this is a parenting magazine, their ads are filled with products geared towards children and even moms. Whether it's baby food, medicine or weight loss products, I've found most of the ads useful!


~ Should you buy Parenting Magazine? ~

I can't decide that for you, but I can tell you that if you've never read an issue, you may want to take a look. The articles are helpful, informative and even entertaining. I will continue to subscribe to this magazine for a long time.