How to Balance Motherhood and a Career

March 19, 2018 by Leave a Comment

The idea of a woman being a mom and having a career was looked at as pretty much impossible years ago.  Later,  the idea of a women working became more accepted.  However,  it was assumed that you had to make a choice between your career and having a family.  This idea was thrust upon women by society.  Having a career when you’ve got kids can be challenging.  But, isn’t that true for fathers too.  Here’s a few tips on empowering yourself on how to balance motherhood and a career:

 

 

 

 

If you want to start following your dreams you will need a starting point.  There will be obstacles and challenges while pursuing your career.  Teachers must complete the required college courses and on the job training as well.  If you want to become a social worker then you have things like lcsw reciprocity to consider.  This can applied to any career path.   Looking at your ideal career from a distance can be discouraging.  Especially, when you have little ones to look after.  But, being able to see beyond the potential steps makes it all seem less daunting.  Once you stop feeling intimidated, you will figure out how to balance motherhood and a career.

 

Get organized

Now that you have a family you must utilize your time wisely.  If you don’t have a clear routine as a parent, then you’re going to get overwhelmed.  Focus on how to get organized if you want to parent and have a career.  Organization is key.  Organization helps you to work towards your goals.  So, you need to have clear chunks of time mapped out for you to focus on. Perhaps it could be something as simple as “when the baby is napping, you’re working.”  Or you have a set period of time where you focus exclusively on work every day.

 

Figure out your priorities

When you have children, your priorities shift.  That is a fact.  As a matter of fact, the moment your kids are born your priorities change.  Your children become the focus of your world. Of course, that doesn’t mean that you forget about everything else that’s important in your life.  It just means that you have to be more selective about where you put your attention. For example, if you want to be able to take care of your kids and have a career; your social life might take a hit.  We don’t suggest that you stop talking to your friends altogether, but social time may be limited.

 

 

motherhood

 

 

Never stop pushing yourself

If you’re trying to raise a family and pursue a career, you are going to be burning the candle at both ends.  If you want to reach your goals you’re going to have to push yourself.  This means that you need to embrace being busy.  If you want to be a career woman and a mom,  you need to be self-motivated.  This is your life, and you need to be willing to push yourself every step of the way until you reach your goal.

 

Ask for help

There are going to be people around who will be able to help you. Your partner, your family, your friends, even your work colleagues will be around to support and help you when you need it.  The truth is, no one can get by without some help.  Your pride might take a bit of a bruising when you need to ask for help, but it’s better to ask than to take too much.

 

motherhood and careers

 

 

Be realistic

 

In life, there are always going to be sacrifices that need to be made. Because of this, you need to be realistic about what you can actually once you’re a mom.  The idea of working a job that takes you to all corners of the earth simply isn’t realistic when you have kids. Think carefully about whether or not your career goals are actually achievable.

 

Plan for the future

Of course, being a parent doesn’t mean the same thing forever. In reality, parenting changes as your kids get older. So, you might not be in a position to pursue your dreams when you’re knee deep in diapers.  However, as your kids get older you will be in more of a position to plan and set goals. When your children are at school, you can focus on you.  As a matter of fact, the older and more independent your children get, the sooner your can start focusing on your career.

Just remember, there is nothing wrong with wanting to dedicate your life to your family.  Remember, it’s your life, live it the way that you want!  We hope that you will find our tips on how to balance motherhood and a career useful.

 

Filed Under: Empowerment, Finances Tagged With: , ,

Tips for Creating a Kid’s Bathroom

March 18, 2018 by 2 Comments

tips for creating a kid's bathroom

Kids are in the bathroom forever, and they don’t have good bathroom etiquette. For some people, this is handled by giving children their own bathroom.  Additionally, children having their own bathroom gives parents a break.  So, if you’re considering creating a bathroom for your kids, here are a few things to consider when creating their space.


Make smart remodeling decisions

Sometimes creating a kids’ bathroom means remodeling your house.  Sometimes it simply means adding some kid’s décor and calling it a day. If you’re in the first category, it’s important to make smart remodeling decisions. For instance, remember that your child isn’t going to be young forever.  As a result, creating a kid’s bathroom that’s equipped with cartoon tiles and a small vanity means you’ll have to remodel that same bathrooms a few years later. So, select tile, vanities, and other permanent items that are neutral.

 

Get professional help.

If your kid’s bathroom makeover requires any type of plumbing projects, consider a professional plumber to do the job.   According to Fix It Right Plumbing, even the smallest plumbing task could put your home at risk of mold, which has a very negative impact on your health.  Not only your health, but the structure of your house.  Using a professional can help eliminate unnecessary costs and fixes in the future.  Installing a faucet or putting in new pipes for the shower should be done by a professional as well.

 

Use technology to your advantage.

Kids are messy and they don’t pay attention.  This means you could end up with running water or bodily fluids sitting unflushed in the toilet.  Use technology to your advantage.  For instance, a touchless toilet will allow your child’s toilet to flush with just the wave of a hand.  Kids will have more fun saying goodbye to their waste. In addition, smart faucets turn on and off automatically with sensors.  You can be assured that your child isn’t wasting water while brushing their teeth or washing their hands.

 

Make it organized.

Bathrooms need organization.  Opt for towel racks or hooks that ensure each child has his/her own space.  Buy toothbrush holders or find other vanity organization options so your children know where things go.  If you have under-vanity storage, use it. If not, consider a small standalone bookshelf or behind-the-door organizer.

 

Make clean-up easy.

Kids aren’t going to clean up after themselves if you don’t teach them.  Invest in sanitizing wipes and keep them under the vanity.   Teach your child how to use the wipes to clean up excess toothpaste, water, soap, or whatever may have spilled.  Teach them to clean their space every day.

 

Use easy-to-clean options.

Last, when it comes to picking out the tile, vanity top, paint, and anything else that goes in your child’s bathroom, pick options that are easy to clean. For instance, a semi-gloss or high-gloss paint will allow you to easily wipe down walls. You will be able to remove leftover toothpaste, soap, or whatever your child manages to get on the wall. Bigger tiles with less grout will give you less grout to clean.  Also, vanities that wipe down easily and don’t react negatively to water marks (like marble) are always the best option.

Finally, giving your child his/her own bathroom is a great way to have a relaxing place for yourself. If you’re going to make this move, be sure to use these tips.

Filed Under: Life-Thoughts Tagged With: , ,

How to Care for Indoor Fountains

March 18, 2018 by Leave a Comment

how to care for indoor fountains

 

Indoor fountains are a great addition to any home.  They are a great conversation piece during parties or gatherings.  Furthermore, they enhance the interior design of any living space.  The sound of flowing water also helps soothe the mind.  It creates an atmosphere that is more conducive to rest and relaxation.  Flowing water is even considered good luck in Eastern cultures.

There are many indoor fountain designs to choose from.  There are tabletop fountains that are ideal not just for the home, but for offices as well. Wall fountains are a nice alternative to hanging a painting on a blank wall.  Floor fountains are freestanding and look best in idle corners.

To keep an indoor fountain looking its best, you need to give it a little care.  And it doesn’t have to be complicated or costly.  Here are a few tips on how to care for an indoor fountain:

Check the structural integrity of the fountain –  Indoor fountains can be made of materials such as glass, metal, and concrete.  As a result, examine the basin and other parts for any cracks and extreme wear and tear.  Any signs of compromised integrity should be taken care of immediately.  Also, it is important to make sure that the indoor fountain is strong and sturdy.  Check hoses for blocked debris or build-up.  Chemicals such as calcium and magnesium can also contribute to blocked hoses.

Also, make sure that the fountain is installed or positioned securely.  If not placed properly, they may fall or cause injuries. Similarly, ensure that wall fountains are securely installed.  As for tabletop fountains, avoid placing them on wobbly or uneven surfaces.

Check the mechanical and electrical components – Make sure that the motor is in proper working condition.  Check electrical parts such as wires and plugs too.  The submerged motor also tends to collect moss, grime, and mineral deposits.  So, make sure that it is also cleaned periodically. When unsure have a professional carry out the cleaning or motor maintenance process.  Most importantly, always unplug the fountain before cleaning it.

Clean and sanitize the external surfaces too –  Once the electrical and motor components are working properly, the fountain exterior can be cleaned.  Drain the old water and disassemble the fountain if needed to clean hard to reach areas. Use the recommended soap or detergent to clean.  Delicate materials or surfaces like ceramic or glass should be cleaned with a mild detergent. Clean fountains made of concrete with a stronger cleaner. Dishwashing liquid and a good scrub is great for cleaning natural stone surfaces.

Indoor fountains are an investment.  Water features in a property increase its market and resale value. When homeowners flip properties and make a handsome profit, they usually enhance their homes with a water feature.

Therefore it is important to spend time maintaining your indoor water fountain.  Buying a high-quality indoor water fountain ensures that it lasts and will require little to no repairs.  However, inspecting and cleaning your indoor water fountain every month can guarantee years of enjoyment.

Filed Under: Life-Thoughts Tagged With: , ,

What to Do When You Encounter a Lost Dog

March 18, 2018 by Leave a Comment

 

When You Encounter a Lost Dog

 

It’s an unfortunate fact of life that many dogs do get lost or escape from their home.  Many dog owners have at least one story where we lost or encountered a lost dog. While it may be tempting to try and get a stray dog to safety, you may end up doing more harm than good.  To help you make helpful decisions about a stray dog’s welfare, we’ve put together a list of things you should do when you encounter a lost dog:

  1. Approach with extreme caution –  Depending on how long he’s been lost, a dog can easily pick up any number of diseases or parasites.  Furthermore, they can regress into a frenzied or feral state.  Unfortunately, there’s really no easy way to tell determine these factors when you encounter a lost dog.  So, it’s a good idea to approach any lost or stray dog with extreme caution. Watch for signs of aggression or anxiety.  Most importantly, make sure that you come off as non-threatening and as friendly.  It is recommended that you move slowly and use comforting language.  Also, make sure the dog has time to sniff your hand before you try to touch him.  You can also try offering food if he appears too aggressive. .
  2. Check the dog for a collar or dog tag – After you’ve managed to earn the dog’s trust, try to check for any source of identification.  Check to see if the dog has a custom or personalized dog collar on, and if his collar has any dog tags or ID attached to it.  Try to contact the owner as soon as possible if you find any number or name.
  3. Check the dog for open wounds or injuries – If possible, check for any injuries or open wounds. If you find any injury, take the dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Be gentle, careful, and considerate.
  4. Take the dog to the veterinarian – If the dog seems mal-nourished take the dog to the nearest veterinarian.  Additionally, you can also ask the veterinarian to check the dog for a chip.
  5. Spread the word through social media – If you are unable to take the dog home, leave him at a no-kill shelter.  Spread the word about him on social media platforms.  Take pictures of the dog, and include any distinguishing marks and spots.  Post the pictures your Facebook or Twitter with the date, time, and place that you found the dog.  Also, include his current location or a phone number where you can be reached.  Share on your friends accounts as well.  Try to reach as many people as possible.

These are just some of the things you can do when you encounter a stray dog.  Of course, you can always just call animal control if you don’t want to personally get involved. However, if you do nothing, then it’s a sure bet that the lost dog will never find its way back to safety.  So, make the right choice when you encounter a lost dog.

Filed Under: Life-Thoughts

The Night Dad Went to Jail: Recommended Children’s Books

March 18, 2018 by 1 Comment

Today, I’m sharing parenting advice on recommended children’s books.  The book is The Night My Dad Went to Jail.  First, while browsing through a list of books that I could purchase for my grandchildren, this book popped up.  My initial reaction was who would write a book about a child’s father being in jail and gear it toward children?  I felt uncomfortable about a child facing the fact that their father was in jail.  Would be uncomfortable if it was their mother, no.  When a parent is incarcerated is traumatic for any child.

 

 

recommended children's books

 

 

So, I opened my mind and read the book.  It was after all ranked among recommended children’s books.  Millions of children have parents that are in jail or prison.  I thought about the purpose of my blog and what I wanted to offer it to my readers.  Helping children face problems, and resolve them is one of the goals of Mother 2 Mother.  The book was perfect for any parent who was striving to help a young child through the trauma of a parent going to jail.  Not all of us have the same problems, but we all have them.  If you’ve never had a spouse or relative face jail or prison, you’re lucky.  Unfortunately, there are millions of children who must deal with a parent being in jail everyday.

I’ve had a brother go to jail twice.  My daughter was young, but she was old enough to understand jail. Furthermore, she understood that people who have broken the law go to jail.  Unfortunately, we have many who are innocent there too.  So, I had to explain to my daughter why her uncle was in jail.  It was difficult.  As a matter of fact, I wish that I had this book a that time.

It would have given me tips on what to say and how to handle things during that difficult time.  Well guess what, somebody was smart enough to write one.   It doesn’t take away the shame and embarrassment, but provide tips and insight on how to help your child.  Melissa Higgins is the author of the book.  And, educators highly recommended it.  It is on the list of recommended children’s books.

Next, Sketch’s is the main character in the book.  His father is arrested and taken to jail.  The flashing lights on the police car and his dad being handcuffed was scary for Sketch. The officer explains that his dad may have broken a law, so they needed to take him to the police station to ask him questions.

Later, Sketch’s mom explains that daddy had broken the law, and he would have to stay in jail.  One of Sketch’s schoolmates, Ava, teased him about his dad’s arrest and yelled to the other children, “Bailey’s dad got picked up by the cops last night.” Baily was Sketch’s given name.  Another classmate called Sketch jailbird.  Sketch let his anger get the best of him. He knocked Ava’s books on the floor.

Unfortunately, the principal’s office was Sketch’s next stop.  His mom gave the principal the details about his dad’s arrest. His dad would be in prison for 6 years.  Luckily, Sketch become friends with other kids who also had a parent in prison.  They could relate to his fear and anger.  Sketch understood that dad had made a bad decision and it was not his fault.  His dad had to pay for breaking the law.  Sketch was still angry, but he loved his dad.  He had to continue working on forgiveness.

Finally, the book answers questions that many children have when a parent is incarcerated.   It is appropriate for ages 5 – 8.  Among the recommended children’s books, this one is getting high reviews.  If you have a spouse, boyfriend or baby’s daddy in jail, purchase The Night Dad Went to Jail here.

 

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: Education, Parenting Tips Tagged With: , ,

Sunday’s Best Linkup – #166

March 17, 2018 by 8 Comments

 

Sunday's Best Linkup

 

Welcome to Week 166 of Sunday’s Best. We’re continuing our Hopping Down the Bunny Trail theme this week. So, we’re looking for all things relating to Easter.  Recipes, crafts, games, decorating ideas, egg dying techniques and more. So, blow the dust off those old recipes, crafts, and any other posts that will help us celebrate Easter.

Additionally, we also welcome other recipes, crafts, DIY, home makeover, gardening tips, SEO & blogging information, sewing projects, patio and deck makeovers, front porch makeover ideas, organization tips, ideas for backyard hot dog roasts, and more. Blow the dust off your old posts and share those on our linkup too. They’re are great for inspiration.
Anything goes, as long as it’s family friendly and you may linkup as many posts as you would like. Be sure to tell your friends, they will want to join the party too.

So, each week your hosts will select their favorite post. The posts will be featured the following week.  Also, an image from your post will be used on our linkup the following week along with a link back to your blog. As a result, be sure to check back to see if you’re a Sunday’s Best Featured Blogger. All Featured Bloggers will have their posts pinned to Rhonda’s Sunday’s Best Pinterest Board and Kim M. pins the weekly featured bloggers to her Sunday’s Best Pinterest Board too!

The post with the most clicks will be the Reader’s Choice post(s). We will be adding the winner to our Sunday’s Best Linkup featured bloggers.

All posts linking to Sunday’s Best Linkup will be promoted on Twitter. The Post With the Most Clicks will be selected. Additionally, a post for our Monthly Themes will be selected and featured each week as well.

Contact rhonda@mother2motherblog.com or email one of our other hosts if you are interested in co-hosting.

 

Your Sunday’s Best Linkup Hosts Are:

 

 

 

Rhonda at Mother 2 Mother Brittany at A Mama Tale Kim at Life in a House of Testosterone

Here are the rules, please connect with us on social media before you leave or subscribe to/follow our blogs:

Mother 2 Mother: Please like Rhonda’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter;, Google+, Pinterest, BlogLovin, or subscribe/join her blog on the right sidebar before you leave.

Kim from Life In A House: Please like Kim’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter;, Google+;, Pinterest;, Bloglovin;, or Instagram; before you leave.

Brittany from A Mama’s Tale: Please like Brittany’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter, or Pinterest before you leave.

Snag a Button!

Last, please help us grow by placing our button on your sidebar. Please let your readers and followers know by placing the Featured Blogger banner on your site.

Sundays Best Linkup Sundays Best Featured Blogger

 

Your readers may want to join the party too! For those who have a Link Party list/directory, please add us. We appreciate your help in promoting the linkup with Re-tweets and shares. Now, let’s party!


Rhonda selected Water Color Bunnies from Penny’s Treasure   

 

Easter Decor

 

Kim selected Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce  from The Bearded Hiker  

Spaghetti Sauce Recipe

 

 

 

Brittany selected Bunny Cinnamon Rolls  from Joyful Home Making  

Easter Breakfast Ideas

 

The Post with the Most Clicks

 

South Africa’s Sultana Yellow Rice from All That’s JAS  

  south african dishes

Our Favorite Theme Post(s) – Hopping Down the Bunny Trail

Tie Dye Easter Eggs from Chasing My Life

 

easter egg dying ideas

 

and

 

Deco Mesh Easter Wreath  from Across the Blvd.  

 

 

Easter Wreath Ideas

and

 

Easter In a Jar from Tschi Tschi 

 

 

Easter basket ideas

and

 

DIY Crochet Bunny Garland  from Sew Historically

 

 

Crochet ideas

 

Last, congratulations to our featured bloggers! All of the posts were great, and we deeply appreciate each of you participating on Sunday’s Best Linkup. We have so many great posts that it gets difficult to choose a featured blogger. Finally, your hosts would like to invite all of you back to link up your post(s) again. We could select your post next week!  Finally, while you’re here take a minute to visit these great blogs. It’s a great way to meet and connect with new bloggers. Be sure to PIN or share any posts that you like, we all appreciate a little love and be sure to connect with others on social media!

 


Filed Under: Sunday's Best Linkup Tagged With: , ,

How to Shop for Curtains and Drapes

March 17, 2018 by Leave a Comment

 

how to shop for curtains and drapes

 

One of the biggest things that can influence the look and feel of a room is the homeowner’s choice of drapes or curtains.  However, unless you’re an interior decorator by profession or have the services of one on speed dial, it can be very difficult to pick the perfect set for a room.

But don’t despair.  Choosing the perfect draperies is not impossible.  Knowing how to shop for curtains and drapes really isn’t difficult.  Here are a few tips on how to shop for curtains and drapes for your home.

Drapes or curtains?

A lot of people often advertise drapes and curtains as the same product. Although they may look similar and perform the same functions, drapes and curtains are actually considered different.

Curtains, for example, usually refer to lightweight window treatments.  The material is often sheer, which makes them perfect for framing or accentuating a window.  Furthermore, black out drapes, blinds, or shades fall into the curtain category as well.  Drapes, on the other hand, typically refer to products that are made out of stiffer and heavier materials.  They are usually lined on the inside and are great for blocking out light.  Additionally, the work well making an open-window room totally and completely private.

Another how to shop for curtains and drapes tip is the length. Curtains are usually cut short enough that they barely touch the floor.  They give the room a light and airy presence.  However, drapes are often tailored so they can puddle on the floor.  This is perfect if you want the room to feel more formal or grand.

So, before you start shuffling through color and pattern swatches, first decide whether the room decorating needs. Than consider whether you want curtains or drapes.

To match or to make a statement?

Another one of our how to shop for curtains and drapes tips is to think about the color and pattern of the fabric.  Curtains and drapes make a visual statement.  This means they can definitely influence the look and feel of a particular room.  So, the color or pattern that you pick for your curtain or drapes is essential.

Therefore, you have to decide what you want your curtains or drapes to do. Is the primary idea for them to match your currently-existing décor, or do you want them to pop out and make a statement?

If you want the draperies to make a visual statement, bring natural-light photographs of your room or décor.  As a result, you can more accurately pick the color that will match and compliment your room.  Be sure to take sample swatches of colors that you like home.  This gives you an opportunity to see the colors in your light

If you want your curtains or draperies to pop, then feel free to go as elaborate or ornate with the color or pattern.  Just make sure that the color doesn’t clash too much with the rest of your decor. You can prevent this by at least buying a pattern or color that fits the room’s theme. Even a potentially clashing color can surprise you if it matches the theme of the room.

However, if you just want a new set of curtains and don’t want them to be the main focus of the room choose a set in neutral colors.  This allows the curtains or drapes to gently blend into the room’s décor.  Furthermore, such colors can range from stark white to softer cream, beige, or a lighter shade of gray.

Fabric matters

Once you decided on the window treatment and the pattern or color, consider what material you want.  Additionally, your fabric choice should not only dictate how great your window treatments look , but how durable they are.

If you’re looking to maximize the look factor of your curtains, many designers agree that silk, faux silk, linen, and velvet make great choices. They will hang in luxurious and elegant ripples.

If your goal is to keep out cold weather or just blocking outside light and sound, then consider heavier materials.  Suede, velvet, tapestry, and tweed should be at the top of your list.

As for durability, organic silk has a tendency to degrade when constantly exposed to the sun.  So, don’t expect your silk curtains to last for too long if you don’t take care of them.  Additionally, you can counter this effect by using a liner or by choosing faux silk instead.  Faux silk is more durable than real silk.

Keeping the tips listed above foremost in your mind should help you get a much better idea of what you actually want and need.  Finally, make sure to research the products or materials you are considering.  Most importantly, buy only from trusted suppliers.

Filed Under: Life-Thoughts, Shopping Tips Tagged With: , ,

Providing Care When Your Child Has A Long-Term Illness

March 12, 2018 by 2 Comments

Statistics show that 3.2% of children aged 5-11 years who missed 11 or more days of school were either ill or injured. This may seem like a small number, but this is only one age bracket.  Even a few days off can be something that a lot of families have to  make adjustments for.  For example, if both parents are working who will stay home and administer care.  There’s also the concern about the time in school that has been lost.  Today, I’m sharing parenting tips on children with long-term illness.

 

 

children with long term illness

 

 

Furthermore, a chronic or potentially debilitating condition can even be more concerning. The entire family’s life will be changed.  If you a have a child that has a long time illness, we have a few suggestions that may help you make the situation easier: 

Explaining The Illness To Your Child

Naturally, as a parent, your first thought is going to go toward your child’s health.  When you explain the situation to your child, be honest.  Especially, if the condition will require long term care.  Explain the sickness and the type of care that will be needed. Hospital stays and various procedures may be scary.  But, explain to your child that it’s necessary so they can get better. Depending on the age of the child, it may be important to remind them that their sickness is not their  fault.  

In some cases, you may want to consider getting professional counseling if your child is having a difficult time adjusting.  This is even more important if mortality is a concern.  In some cases, this can lead to acting out emotionally.  Depending on the severity of the condition, this can be normal.  Furthermore, you may want to see someone for yourself as well. Studies show that stress levels in parents tends to spike when it comes to dealing with children’s health.  This can stem from the child’s condition as well as the lack of control that goes with it.  

Home Health Care

When your child has a long term illness, parents must avoid getting overwhelmed and stressed out.  As a result, consider home healthcare.  In general, home healthcare encompasses a series of procedures that can be done in your home for an illness or injury. Home healthcare can include a variety of procedures, including:

  • Monitoring what your child is eating and drinking.
  • Checking your child’s vitals, like blood pressure, temperature, heart rate, and breathing.
  • Ensuring your child is taking their medication and handling their health treatments correctly.
  • Teaching parents how to provide the needed care and making sure it done properly.
  • Coordinating care with doctors and hospital staff.

The intention isn’t to supplant hospital visits or appointments, but to take a little bit of pressure off of the family and patient themselves.  When you’re child has a long term illness, additional help is invaluable.  

Additionally, there are many resources you can go to for home healthcare assistance.  Providing care when your child has a long term illness is essential.  So, check out home healthcare providers, industry associations, and other experts in the healthcare field.  This includes sick children, the disabled, and the elderly. 

Finally, long term illness affects each member of the family.  You not only have to adjust the child’s lifestyle, but your own, your spouse’s and other children. This is a massive undertaking on an emotional level as well being a financial burden.  It’s okay to feel overwhelmed every now and then. What you want to do is combat this issue by getting plenty of help and support for your family.  We hope that you find our tips on children on long term illness beneficial.  

Filed Under: Health Tagged With: , ,

How To Get Kids Off Their Phones

March 11, 2018 by 2 Comments

These days mobile phones are common place for children as young as 3 years old. The world is a completely different place from when we were younger.   Because of this, it can be hard to know where to draw the line with technology and our children.  Today, I’m sharing parenting tips on how to get kids off phones.  

 

 

how to get kids off their phones

 

 

There’s nothing wrong with letting your child watch peppa pig or play Final Fantasy 15 for an hour in the evenings.  However, when the hour turns into a large chunk of the day it should become a concern.  If you are struggling with how to get kids off their phones we have a few tips:

Go somewhere with no reception

How to get kids off their phones is a question many parents are pondering.  Another suggestion is to have them pay attention to the wider world.  For example, simply take them somewhere where there is no cell reception.  Of course, in towns and cities you will never find an area which is completely void of cell phone reception.  However, if you venture out to the countryside you should be successful.  Involve your children in nature for awhile.  You can benefit in several way by spending the day hiking in the countryside.  You will bond as a family and a hike contribute to your health.   Most importantly, you will be encouraging them to stop and look at the world around them.  Invite them to take photos of what will remind them of a family outing.  They will gain tangible connections to the world around them and gain an appreciation for nature.

Start a project

How to get kids off their phone you ask?  Offer additional things for the kids to do.  By doing a fun activity or starting a project as a family you will allow your child to focus on something other than their phone.  Furthermore, they will learn new skills along the way.  If you have smaller children build a tree or playhouse. Kids love to climb and play, and they also love to have their own space to do things.  By giving them the task of helping to build a treehouse, they will be much happier and learn new skills which they can use later on in life. They will learn about measurements, colors, and building materials.

 

how to get kids off their phones

Limit Apps

With the number of mobile games that exist, it can feel as if your kids will never get off their devices.  However, as a parent you have the power to control what they do.  Limit how much and what your children download per month.  Set a limit on what games they play and how long they play them. They may get bored and stop playing it all together.  It’s the perfect way to control their gaming habits.

Use Digital Currency

Before you panic we aren’t talking about letting the kids loose with bitcoins.  However, the idea of paying for what you get is actually a brilliant way on how to get kids ooto limit the time they spend playing on their phones. For example, if you were to allow your child a budget of $30 for a month, they would have to spend this money every time they wanted to watch a film on Netflix or play a game online. You can then control how much time they spend on their phone because an hour of use will cost them $1 each time. They will therefore only realistically be able to use their phone for 1 hour each day.

Phone Stack It

If you have never heard of phone stack?  It’s a way to stop people from getting distracted when they are eating dinner or out with family and friends.  The idea is to place everyone’s phone in the center of the table in a pile.  The first person to pick up their phone is the one who has to pay for lunch or do a forfeit. At home you can do this when you sit down for your evening meal. Whoever picks up their phone first will have to clear the table and wash dishes.  This will be a great way to stop your kids playing on their phones.  The last thing they want to do is chores!

Rewards for work

Another way to get your kids off their phones is to set up a reward system.  For example, when your kids complete their chores or homework, they will earn an hour to play on their phones or watch a show on Netflix.  Additionally, this can also apply to not picking up their phones during family dinners and movie nights.  By motivating your child to receive an award, they may be more receptive to cooperating.

Give them a fun outing

Finally, another idea of how to get kids off their phones is a trip.  It can a trip to a theme park, the zoo or even a day at the beach. You will reward your child for not spending more than an hour a day on their phone.  It will teach your child a valuable lesson about earning rewards.  Most importantly, it will teach your child to value the world and all that is has to offer.  Besides, it can be just as fun as playing on their phone.

 

Filed Under: Teens Tagged With: , ,

Sunday’s Best Linkup – #165

March 10, 2018 by 8 Comments

 

Sunday's Best Linkup

 

Welcome to Week 165 of Sunday’s Best. This is the first week of our Hopping Down the Bunny Trail theme. We’re looking for all things relating to Easter. We’re looking for recipes, crafts, games, decorating ideas, egg dying techniques and more.  So, blow the dust off those old recipes, crafts, and any other posts that will help us celebrate Easter.

Additionally, we also welcome other recipes, crafts, DIY, home makeover, gardening tips, SEO & blogging information, sewing projects, patio and deck makeovers, front porch makeover ideas, organization tips, ideas for backyard hot dog roasts, and more. Blow the dust off your old posts and share those on our linkup too. They’re are great for inspiration.
Anything goes, as long as it’s family friendly and you may linkup as many posts as you would like. Be sure to tell your friends, they will want to join the party too.

Each week your hosts will select their favorite post. It will be featured the following week. Also, an image from your post will be used on our linkup the following week along with a link back to your blog. Be sure to check back to see if you’re a Sunday’s Best Featured Blogger. All Featured Bloggers will have their posts pinned to Rhonda’s Sunday’s Best Pinterest Board and Kim M. pins the weekly featured bloggers to her Sunday’s Best Pinterest Board too!

The Reader’s Choice post(s) will be determined by the post(s) with the most clicks. We will be adding the winner to our Sunday’s Best Linkup featured bloggers.

All posts linking to Sunday’s Best Linkup will be promoted on Twitter. The Post With the Most Clicks will be selected. Additionally, a post for our Monthly Themes will be selected and featured each week as well.

Contact rhonda@mother2motherblog.com or email one of our other hosts if you are interested in co-hosting.

 

Your Sunday’s Best Linkup Hosts Are:

 

 

 

Rhonda at Mother 2 Mother Brittany at A Mama Tale Kim at Life in a House of Testosterone

Here are the rules, please connect with us on social media before you leave or subscribe to/follow our blogs:

Mother 2 Mother: Please like Rhonda’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter;, Google+, Pinterest, BlogLovin, or subscribe/join her blog on the right sidebar before you leave.

Kim from Life In A House: Please like Kim’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter;, Google+;, Pinterest;, Bloglovin;, or Instagram; before you leave.

Brittany from A Mama’s Tale: Please like Brittany’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter, or Pinterest before you leave.

Snag a Button!

Last, please help us grow by placing our button on your sidebar. Please let your readers and followers know by placing the Featured Blogger banner on your site.

Sundays Best Linkup Sundays Best Featured Blogger

 

Your readers may want to join the party too! For those who have a Link Party list/directory, please add us. We appreciate your help in promoting the linkup with Re-tweets and shares. Now, let’s party!


Rhonda selected Surprise Easter Bunny Cake  from All That Jas  

 

Easter Ideas

 

Kim selected New Spring Bedding and Spring Decor  from Penny’s Treasures  

 

spring decorating tips

 

 

Brittany selected Bailey and Chocolate Cupcakes With Whiskey Frosting from The Kittchen 

 

cupcake recipes

 

 

The Post with the Most Clicks

 

15 Easter Cookie Ideas  from Duct Tape and Denim 

  Easter Cookie Ideas

Our Favorite Theme Post(s) – Over the Rainbow

DIY Four Leaf Clover Hair Clip  from Janine Huldie  

 

St. Patrick's Day Clothing Ideas

 

and

 

Lucky Charms Marshmallows White Chocolate Bark from Home Cooking Memories  

 

St. Patrick's Day Treat Ideas

 

and

 

St. Patrick’s Day Word Search from Nepa Mom  

 

 

and

 

24 Things Under $15  – St. Patrick’s Day Gift Baskets from Saving Sarah

 

St. Patrick's Day Gift Ideas

 

and

 

Shamrock Inspired Cocktails and Mocktails from Life In a House  

 

St. Patrick's Day Drinks

 

Congratulations to our featured bloggers! All of the posts were great, and we deeply appreciate each of you participating on Sunday’s Best Linkup. We have so many great posts that it gets difficult to choose a featured blogger. Finally, your hosts would like to invite all of you back to link up your post(s) again. We could select your post next week! While you’re here, take a minute to visit these great blogs. It’s a great way to meet and connect with new bloggers. Be sure to PIN or share any posts that you like, we all appreciate a little love and be sure to connect with others on social media!

 


Filed Under: Sunday's Best Linkup Tagged With: , ,