[Scheduling for 2 kids at different levels...]

If they have different preferences, then the best way is to spend time with each of them. Perhaps you can prioritize the younger one and then be with the older one at a later time.

[Any ideas for games that can be played at reunions?]

A relay game is fun and could involve the young and older ones. It can be any kind of relay so be creative. A sack race can be another option as well as simon says. Newspaper dance is great as it encourages dancing. I hope this helps.

[would you send your child to the classical school, if...]

Yes, I would consider especially if my child has an inclination towards music. But may be for part time only because I still want my child to attend regular school and the classical school would have to be for extra curricular activities only.

[3rd UTI in my 3 yo DD since March...]

It must be hard to see a little girl go through that but yes, you can try getting a second opinion if you feel like doing it. But right now, it’s best that you follow what the doctor prescribes and tells you to do. Just keep praying that your daughter will be healed soon.

[Times like these I wish I had a close friend IRL]

Sorry to hear about your situation but there’s one thing that you should not forget to do every day and that is pray. Yes, prayers can move mountains Barb so ask and you will be answered. Have faith and think positive. These trials are not given to us if we can’t overcome them so just stay strong.

[Art and Music Appreciation Resources Needed]

I don’t have specific resources to share with you but you can check out the musicmoz.org site because it has a long list as in A-Z of useful sites catering to elementary music resources. You just might find what you’re looking for there. Good luck!

[2 year old suggestions]

I know how tough it is to handle a 2 year old. They’re very restless at this age so I would suggest you get educational toys especially those that will require some mental and motor skills. I think the Montessori schools use this technique. Play nursery rhyme songs as well to expose them to music.

[Can we talk hysterectomies? Or Cystocele? Physical therapy?]

You should go with what your doctor suggests. They know the best for your health. My mother had a total hysterectomy way back then and post operative, one needs to take hormone pills as maintenance for several years. If I remember right, Premarin was prescribed to her.

[What is on your list of "ten classic books every child should read"?]

I would go for Winnie the Pooh, Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn, The Jungle Book, The Wizard of Oz, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Aesop’s Fable, Arabian Nights, Little Women and Robinson’s Crusoe, Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas. I would recommend the Harry Potter series for older kids.

[Anyone tried immersion at home with older kids?]

You can start with partial immersion because children can get bored especially if they don’t have interest in the language. But yes, you can always speak to them in French every day just so they get exposed to the language and at least learn little by little. Just don’t be too strict with them.

[Chinese]

I admire you for being a supportive mom and yes, you can let your kid learn Chinese. My nephews learned Chinese in school and I believe that it’s good to expose kids to different languages. Small children learn new languages fast so make sure to get a good Chinese tutor for your little one.