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What are kids learning? School assignments may give structure and a sense of the familiar, but what kids are learning comes from the crisis itself. And from you. They are learning whether they can trust you.

Adult reasons for assigning homework vary, but one big one that always comes up is this: Responsibility. "The purpose of homework is to teach students to be responsible as well as reinforcing school curriculum," quote many well-meaning grown-ups, teachers and parents alike.

The Griffins of Castle Cary has been in children's hands for a few weeks. I'm thrilled with the reception. Here's what people are saying: Action-packed. Spooky & charming! Fast-paced. Adorable.

I read a news story recently about two Americans who traveled overseas to climb mountains. They stopped to visit a group children's home while they were there.

Good books are good books. We shortchange boys and underestimate them when we don't expose boys to stories with girl main characters. And not just tough girl characters who fight and act like warriors.

I'm writing this during a day of student walk-outs to protest gun violence. Speaking up for something you care about can be scary. Staying silent is scarier still. When we speak up, or encourage our kids to speak up, we might make enemies.

I don't think I could parent without reading bedtime stories. I've always read to my kids, despite my oldest child who announced at a very young age: "You don't need to read to me anymore. I can read by myself now."

Sharing is about generosity, kindness, respect and awareness of others. All good things -- but we strive so hard to promote sharing, that our efforts to promote kindness and generosity typically backfire when we try to teach young kids.

Sometimes we forget how sacred "No!" is. Young kids say it a lot, and for many adults that's a word we'd rather not hear so much. But "No" and "Stop" are essential to healthy life, kindness and survival.

So excited! The book is being described as a charming, slightly spooky adventure story for elementary readers ages 8-12. You’ll meet the Griffin siblings, a couple of ghosts with big feelings, and a ginormous, drooly Newfoundland dog.