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Links of the Month Archive 2008

December

Choosing Charities Wisely

American Institute of Philanthropy

Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance

Holiday Giving Guide

Many individual charities allow you to set up a monthly donation plan. If this option is not offered by your chosen organization, go to:
http://www.networkforgood.org
This site offers such access to thousands of charities, schools and religious groups.

Avoiding Charity Fraud

Primer on Charity Fraud
Produced by the Federal Trade Commission.

Tips for Giving in Times of Crisis

November
Choosing the Best Toys

Best Toys.com
A growing website from an informed mother.

Doctor Toy
Award-winning toys from Stevanne Auerbach, PhD, Dr. Toy

Healthy Toys
The consumer action guide to toxic chemicals in toys.

Hot Toys 2008
This frequently updated commercial site lists the sometimes elusive most in demand toys. It compares prices and indicates if the item is currently in stock.

October
The Informed Voter

Docuticker Archive for Election 2008
“A  hand-picked selection of resources, reports and publications from government agencies, NGOs, think tanks and other public interest organizations.”

Political Fact Checker
Many statements are made by the presidential hopefuls. This site examines how truthful they are.

Politics1.com
Links to candidates, election results and political issues.

Project Vote Smart
Nonpartisan information about candidates and elections.

Vote by Issue
Take a quiz to determine who best represents your opinions on the issues.

September
Resources for First-Time Teachers

Advice for First-Time Teachers
Helpful advice from the 'Sophomores' who survived last year and several useful links.

New Middle School Teacher Guide
Scroll down for first time teaching advice.

Resources, Tools and Tips for New Teachers

August
The Digital Home

CNET Blog
Don Reisinger’s take on the tech closest to home.

Digital Home DIY
Features easy step-by-step home tech projects including home theater and networking.

Hanley Wood’s Digital Home Online

Yahoo Digital Home Blog

July
Preschool Activities: Getting Ready for Kindergarten

Countdown to Kindergarten: Monthly Activities
“Besides being fun, these activities introduce four-and five-year olds to the kind of learning skills they'll be developing further in kindergarten.”

Kindergarten Entry Skills
From the University of Illinois Clearinghouse on Early Education and Parenting.

Ready for Kindergarten?
In this article from Scholastic Parent & Child Magazine, five “kindergarten teachers from around the country ... share their insights on helping your child gain the right mix of kindergarten-readiness skills.”

Ten Tips for Kindergarten Preparation

June
Wedding Toasts

Wedding and Anniversary Toasts

Wedding Toasts and Speeches

Ultimate Speeches.net
Sample speeches, articles, tips and toast ideas for all members of the wedding party.

May
Green Housekeeping

Clean-it: Safer Housecleaning Methods That Really Work
This is a 28-page booklet showing how to clean with non-toxic household products published by the Bay Area Pollution Prevention Group.

EcoLiving Center
A site promoting earth friendly living.

NatureMoms.com
This is a comprehensive site that focuses on all aspects of natural family living. It includes natural recipes for alternatives to chemical household products.

Non-Toxic Home Cleaning
Provides formulas for making cleaning supplies and lists commercial products that are non-toxic.

April
Brain Fitness and Health

Brain Fitness, Health and Exercise Guidance

Brain Metrix.com
This site offers a variety of exercises to improve brain function.

Brainwaves

March

Crafting Decorative Eggs

Coloring Eggs Naturally

Decoupage Eggs

Ehow
Instructions for Ukrainian egg decorating in easy-to-read list form.

Learn Pysanky

Ukrainian Decorated Eggs
Links galore for inspiration and instruction.

February
Valentine’s Day

Handmade Valentine’s Day Cards

Holidays.net
Use old-fashioned art to express your heart’s desires.

History of Valentine’s Day
A fun exhibit from the History Channel.

Valentine’s Day at the Holiday Spot
Parties, recipes, cards and more.

January
Frugal Living

All Things Frugal
Home of The Pennypincher E-zine Tightwad Tidbits daily and the General Store
Browse by category or search for tips on saving money and spending it wisely on just about everything – cars and car loans, clothing, food, mortgages, and more. Also includes coupons and links to related resources.

Dollar Stretcher

Mommysavers
Moms living well on less.

Tightwad Central
Offers an e-zine, message board, links and more.
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