When we found out we were expecting our third child this spring, my husband and I realized we had a lot of things to do to get ready. But number one on our list of priorities was preparing our two children for the idea that they would soon have a new little brother or sister.

For a preschooler, adding a new member of the family can be an happy, exciting proposition. It can also one that makes them angry. Or jealous. Or indifferent. No matter what a child's reaction is to hearing they will be a big sibling, it's normal. But no matter how they may feel, there are ways you can help them learn to embrace the idea and adjust to the newest member of your growing family.

One method that is particularly successful with younger children is to give them a doll that they can "practice" on. That's part of the thinking behind the Little Mommy line of dolls from Mattel. The newest offering out this month -- the Scoot So Cute -- actually crawls, coos and giggles. My daughter thought it was terrific and excitedly pointed out to me how in due time we'll have our own real doll crawling around the house soon.

How did you introduce your preschooler to the idea of a new sibling? How did they react? What are your tried-and-true tips for telling a little one about a new baby?

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Photo Copyright © Mattel Little Mommy

Letting a child watch television on occasion isn't necessarily a bad thing. In fact, especially in the case of preschoolers, it can be a good thing, especially when you consider the amount of educational, family-friendly viewing that is on the air today.

That's why I was so glad when Carey Bryson, About's guide to Kids' Movies & TV, put together a list of the Top 10 Shows for Preschoolers. Chances are your child's favorite is on there and you may even find something new and interesting to watch. Carey also started a forum discussion on the matter, so please feel free to chime in and tell her what you think as well.

Obviously there are more than ten shows on the air for little ones, so for a more comprehensive look, check out this list of TV programs for preschoolers listed by subject.

What is your preschooler's favorite show? What is your favorite show that your preschooler watches?

Active and retired members of the United States military are invited to take a trip to the Mouse House, thanks to complimentary, multi-day admissions into Disney's U.S. theme parks.

"For so many of the men and women who serve in our U.S. military, time together with their families is cause enough for celebration," said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. "We are grateful for their service and hope 'Disney's Armed Forces Salute' will allow our troops to create wonderful, magical memories with their family and friends."

Program highlights:

• Through June 12, 2009, each active or retired member of the U.S. military can receive one complimentary three-day "Disney's Armed Forces Salute" Park Hopper ticket valid for admission to both Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure parks. During the offer period, active or retired U.S. military personnel also may make a one-time purchase of an adult or child three-day "Disney's Armed Forces Salute Companion" Park Hopper ticket for up to five family members (including spouse) or friends for the price of an adult 1-Day Park Hopper ticket. Special room rates are also available.
• Through Dec. 23, 2009, each active or retired member of the U.S. military may obtain one complimentary 5-day "Disney's Armed Forces Salute" ticket with Park Hopper and Water Park Fun & More options. This ticket is valid for five days of admission into the four Walt Disney World theme parks, plus a total of five visits to a choice of a Disney water park, DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park or certain other attractions. During this offer period, active or retired U.S. military personnel may also make a one-time purchase of up to a maximum of five 5-Day "Disney's Armed Forces Salute Companion" tickets (one theme park per day) for $99 per ticket, plus tax, for family members (including spouse) or friends.

More Information:

Walt Disney World | Disneyland

It can be difficult at times to explain history to a preschooler. They have no real concept of time yet and trying to put an important story in context can be tricky, especially when you are trying to explain a tough issue like segregation. But The Story of Martin Luther King Jr. by Johnny Ray Moore, does a wonderful job of explaining (in about 200 words to boot) the important role Dr. King played to our society, tracing his time as a child playing on a run-down playground, through his famous "I Have a Dream" speech.

With Martin Luther King Jr. Day falling right before the inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama, this is a great time to explore on a basic level with your preschooler the important lessons of the Civil Rights movement.

More:

Martin Luther King Jr. printables | Martin Luther King Jr. puzzles | Martin Luther King Jr. Day Lesson Plans

Book cover image © Ideals Publication