Welcome to Parenting Squad’s weekly Best of Parenting roundup!  We have tips for staying out late under the stars with your kiddos, costume ideas that won’t break the bank, ways to get along with your mother-in-law, and some rather pointed observations of “Toddlers and Tiaras.”  Sit down with a fresh batch of blueberry muffins, and take it all in! 

How to Be a Good Daughter-in-Law – Kids pick up on everything, especially a strained relationship between Mommy and Grammy.  With a few pointed tips for keeping the peace (and maybe even developing a beautiful friendship), this list lays it all out.  My faves?  Don’t gossip and don’t take everything so personally – things we should be doing anyway.  Telling It Like It Is 

Thing to Pack for Family Backyard Camping with the Kids – Not going anywhere exotic this fall?  Backyard camping can get the kids excited about the experience of sleeping outdoors, without the hefty fuel and food bills that often come with camping far away.  Here are the basic supplies you’ll need for a fun evening out under the stars.  Q Family Adventures Travel Blog 

25 Incredible Kid’s Costume Ideas and Resources for Parents – I love the idea of kids costumes.  They provide hours of play, encourage imagination, and leave very little mess.  Instead of plunking down $50 or more for a commercial cape and mask, why not give your little superhero (or princess) a variety of low-cost or free options for every season?  Star Costumes 

Saturday Morning Blues… Blueberry Muffins, That Is – Perhaps one of my most favorite breakfast foods, blueberry muffins are perfect before-school, rush-out-the-door, eat-‘em-in-the-car meals.  Get a great recipe and some extra special tips for a getting a good stock going in your breakfast pantry!  High Impact Mom 

Sponge Ball Toy – When DIY meets cute plaything, we have to applaud.  These adorable toys are perfect for girls and boys, and cost so very little to make!  Make It from Scratch 

Top 10 Things I hate about Baby Pageants – Love them or hate them, but the parents behind the pageants are definitely discussion-worthy.  This list spits out opinion like Chuck E. Cheese tickets.  Top10Mama 

Surviving the Busy Antics of a Preschooler with Autism: Part 1 – Parenting a child with unique needs can be a challenge, and these suggestions help equip you for the task.  (They are excellent for all parents, as well.)  The Adventures of Mr. Busypants 

A College Student’s Guide to Credit Cards – This is perhaps the most comprehensive starting guide for college and credit (or for anyone needing a primer in how credit cards work.)  Dough Roller