My house is stocked with cars and trucks, monsters and dragons, Stars Wars action figures and Lego in all shapes, sizes and colors. There’s not a pink anything in sight — no sparkly crowns, magic wands or frilly dresses in all of our 2,000 square feet of living space. I have two nieces, though, and [...]

Shoe tying is an important rite of passage for kids, but the practice is losing steam, thanks to Velcro. Yes, it’s easier, and if your kid is under the age of 5, then go ahead and Velcro your little heart out. But if your youngsters are between 5 and 7 — this is when dexterity [...]