The New Dream Blog
In our blog, we feature stories, tips, and commentary from contributors around the world on topics ranging from
consumerism and parenting to how to live a fuller life with less. Enjoy!
Interested in contributing a guest post? Please review our submission guidelines.
Welcome, Shara!
by New Dream | July 20, 2017
Shara Drew has joined New Dream as the new Program Director for our Kids & Commercialism work.
Learning About Microfinance as a Family: The Gift That Keeps on Giving
by Suzita Cochran | February 10, 2017
We often hear about gifts that “keep on giving,” but in the case of a microloan, it really can. A Colorado mom shares her experience.
Give Less, Give More
by Julie Fathy | November 16, 2016
Mom and simple living expert Julie Fathy explains her "give less" approach to holiday gift giving, which honors the recipient, people, and the planet.
Why the Elf on the Shelf Is Not Welcome in My House
by Edna Rienzi | November 14, 2016
New Dream's Edna Rienzi offers tips to help parents avoid the "slippery slope" of this popular Christmas tradition.
7 Ways to Build Sane and Sustainable Money Habits
by Edna Rienzi | October 19, 2016
Help your kids stay on track with money management by having a clear, values-based plan.
How to Hook Kids into Civic Engagement
by Suzita Cochran | October 19, 2016
Looking for a way to get your kids more involved in the community? There's an easy place to start.
Welcome to the Walking School Bus
by Michaella | August 19, 2016
To combat childhood obesity, fight climate change, and boost community connection, walking school buses have become a new trend in both the United States and Europe.
10 Alternative Gift Ideas for Father’s Day
by New Dream | June 8, 2016
Alternative gift ideas for Father's Day that are green, family-friendly, and local (because we all know dad doesn't need another necktie).
Five Meaningful Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day
by Edna Rienzi | April 28, 2016
It’s not always easy to come up with a meaningful gift to show our moms how much they mean to us. Here are five gift ideas they're sure to love.
In Defense of Screen-Free Week
by Edna Rienzi | March 25, 2016
Some have called it "unrealistic," but Screen-Free Week can serve as an important opportunity for families to kick-start new habits.
Why the Toys You Choose Matter: 6 Tips for Combating Commercialism and Encouraging Creative Play
by Edna Rienzi | February 29, 2016
Choosing toys and accessories carefully for your children can help them grow up to become smart consumers.
6 Ways to Resist Kid-Targeted Advertising (and Save the Planet!)
by Edna Rienzi | December 30, 2015
Today’s consumer culture encourages materialistic values. Learn ways to fight back!
Embracing Letting Go: Unintentional and Intentional Simplifying
by Lisa Luken | December 28, 2015
Lisa Lukin realized that her unfulfilling life was only going to change if she intentionally created a new path. Here's her story.
How to Ask for the Gifts You Really Want This Holiday Season
by Edna Rienzi | November 19, 2015
Do you get too much "stuff" over the holidays? Here are three ways that New Dreamers have transformed their gift-giving traditions.
6 Ways That Parents Can Push Back Against Harmful School Commercialism
by Edna Rienzi | October 20, 2015
At school, ads can now be found on everything from team uniforms to cafeteria banners to homework folders. Learn some ways to push back.