14 Reasons You Need To Get An Outdoor Pool!

Swimming is something we all do as kids, and then as we get older a lot of us start to lose interest.  It’s not because it’s not fun, but as we get older we have other things to do.  We get hang-ups about our bodies in a way that few kids really do. That’s not to say it never happens to kids; regrettably it does.  But whatever age we are, we can all benefit from time spent in the pool.  Today, I’m sharing parenting tips on why families should purchase backyard pools.   

 

 

backyard pools

 

If you’ve already researched the pros of  backyard pools or just starting to get more use from the one you have, you’re on the right track.  There are so many reasons having a backyard pool is an excellent choice.  The reasons range from the obvious health benefits to many others.  Although it’s not cheap, the benefits will pay for itself.  Particularly if you have the climate to use it year round.

 

Swimming Is Some Of The Best Exercise You’ll Get

 

backyard pools

 

A lot of people talk about swimming as a low-impact form of exercise,  and in some ways it is.  It is an excellent way of getting aerobic and cardio exercise, which everyone needs.  It doesn’t put much pressure on muscles, and if you struggle with endurance time in the pool is a great way to build it.

 

Getting In The Pool Is A Great Way To Cool Off

It’s a fact that, globally, temperatures are on the rise, and are staying higher for longer periods of time.  It is also a fact that heatwaves are happening more often.  Heatwaves has its benefits for those who love the sun. However, anyone who says that it’s not occasionally uncomfortable is either untruthful or some sort of lizard. We’re not built to sustain heat indefinitely. Getting in the pool is heaven on hot, steamy days like these.

 

Swimming Is A Communal Form Of Exercise

 

backyard pools

Going to the gym has its place. We all benefit from running machines and exercise bikes, but it’s not for everyone. It’s certainly not “fun for all the family.” You don’t really get to have a fun chat as you’re pounding the treadmill. That’s not least because you fear being sling-shot into the weights machines if you pause for a moment.  Using backyard pools at your leisure makes it a family thing.

 

Helps In Recovering From An Injury 

As mentioned earlier, swimming in a pool is a low-impact form of exercise from a muscular point of view.  Doctors recommend backyard pools as a part of an injury recovery regime. To get back in shape you need to exercise.  With the support of the water, you can do it without over-exerting and aggravating the injury.  It will also strengthen muscle generally.

 

Perfect For Parties

Backyard pools can be an excellent venue. For grown-ups, they allow an outdoor space to enjoy good music, food, drinks and a place to cool off in summer. For kids’ parties where games are an absolute essential, they provide a great setting.  From the classics like Marco Polo, to Noodle Jousting and Octopus, all are a lot of fun and easy to monitor.

 

Enhances An Outdoor Space

When you move into a house, most of your time is spent thinking about the indoors. But the outdoor areas are in many ways just as important. A well-tended garden can make a house feel more like a home and increase its resale value. A pool and outdoor seating area can make it special too. When friends and family come to visit, you can be sure that they will appreciate the chance for a dip.

Each Pool Can Be Customized To Great Effect

It could never be said that when you’ve seen one pool, you’ve seen them all. What you do with your pool is up to you, but you can add a waterfalls,  put in a springboard or set up a hot tub and that’s just to start.  Even a waterslide is a possibility; however, unless you have a lot of disposable income you’re not going to challenge the theme parks.

 

Out Of The Pool Onto The Patio

Setting up a seated area on the patio is the perfect way to follow up a relaxing time in the pool. After you’ve had a bit of a workout and swum until you can swim no more – or if you feel like a change of scene – a few patio heaters will make a big difference. You’ve worked those muscles and now they deserve a rest. Get a towel wrapped around you and let the heat radiate and soothe any aches away.
As the temperatures drop and you’re still in your swimming costume, warming up by the pool is essential. Next to a heater on a comfortable patio chair, you can relax with a drink and carry on conversations begun in the pool. It’s worth checking sites like Hot Tub Advice to get a bit more information on what will suit you.

 

It’s An Incredible Way To De-stress

In the course of a day’s work, the stresses and strains can build up to the point where you feel like one big knot of frustration. Getting in a swimming pool and swimming or just floating for a bit can be a wonderful way of letting those stresses melt away. Think of it as being a big, gentle massage that encompasses your whole body. Can you think of anything more relaxing than that?

 

Strengthening Athletic Abilities 

 

summer activities, summer family activities

 

A child can demonstrate a talent for swimming or diving in the swimming pool. Maybe they’ll be great at water polo or synchronized swimming.  In any case, the chance to practice at home is something that could make things much easier for them.

 

Any Day Can Be A Holiday

Your familiar with the idea of a “staycation.” You do all the things that you would do on holiday (try driving a few towns over for some sight-seeing). The kicker is that you don’t have the travel costs to worry about. So if you like to spend a holiday by the pool, now you can do it at home. Weather permitting of course!

 

It’s A Great Convincer For Playdates

Let’s be honest, you’ll see your kids more.  Inviting their friends over to swim and play is a great way to get to know other parents too.  You can use the time for adult interaction. Having your own pool is a pretty useful card to have in the deck.  Kids like swimming and it’s good for them – and it could be good for your kid’s social life too.

 

A Pool Ups Your Resale Value

Having a pool in your garden compared to not having one can up the resale value on your property by 5% or more. If your house is currently valued at $500,000, you could add another $25,000 on to that.  The more you add around it – pool house, gas grill, diving boards – the more the value can rise. You’ll be sorry to leave it, but you’ll have the funds to do it again!

 

Do You Hate Bedtime? Not Anymore!

Having a backyard pool means that your kids are getting exercise all summer long.  You may not realize the full benefit that this gives you until a couple of weeks into the summer. At some point, you realize that you haven’t had to shout at your kids to go to bed.  They have tired themselves out swimming all day.  A sound night’s sleep is good for them and for you.

The initial outlay of a backyard pool may seem excessive; however, the fourteen reasons above is worth it.

When it comes down to it how would you like to spend the sunny days of the year?  With a meal and a drink, and relaxing swim, and than looking over the sparkling water of your backyard pool sounds like a winner to me. You’ll never regret making the choice to get a swimming pool.

Leave us a comment and let us know what your dream pool looks like.

6 Great Style and Beauty Tips for Busy Moms

beauty tips, skin care tips

Whether you’ve recently welcomed motherhood or are a parenting veteran, you know that time is a luxury. You can barely find the time to sleep, let alone put on makeup and look polished. Before you know it, your kids  and other responsibilities demand all your attention and you have no time for yourself. You’ve probably forgotten what it feels like to get a manicure or have a day at the spa.

But you don’t need to give up on looking good yet. Give yourself just 15 minutes every day and follow the tips mentioned below to look and feel great.

(Take a few minutes everyday to take care of yourself)

  1. Prioritize healthy skin

Taking care of your skin should be foremost on your list of priorities. No amount of makeup can cover up an unhealthy complexion. So find a skincare regime that works for you and follow this every day. Cleanse gently, tone and moisturize with a hydrating moisturizer. Always use a good sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Additionally, remember that what you eat has an impact on the health of your skin. So consume a diet full of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Vitamins are the building blocks of skin and hair, and a deficiency of these can cause many skin problems and infections. For more information on vitamin rich foods and their benefits, take a look at this infographic:

14 Potent Vitamins for Younger and Healthier Skin

This Infographic – 14 Potent Vitamins for Younger and Healthier Skin – Was Created By Fixyourskin.com

Also remember to drink plenty of water and get enough sleep. Motherhood may keep you up on most nights, so try to fit in naps throughout the day.

  1. Invest in Basics and staples

As a mom, you probably spend a lot of time in jeans, joggers and t-shirts. These are comfortable and perfect for running after kids or even doing the laundry. But you can stay comfortable and stylish at the same time. Invest in a great pair of jeans that flatter your shape or a classic shirt instead of spending money on cheaper clothes. These will get worn out in no time, and you’ll be back where you started. Investing in staples will save you time and money in the long run.

  1. Get a Straightening or Curling Treatment for your hair

With a hectic day ahead, you won’t have the time to put together an elaborate hairdo. You probably barely have the time to run a comb through your hair. A simple solution to this is to have a permanent hair treatment done. Getting your hair straightened or curled, will give you gorgeous hair every day with no effort.

  1. Pick the Right Accessories

The right accessories can make or break an outfit. A great bag or some stunning shoes will transform your look completely. Like clothing, the same rule applies when it comes to accessories. Always invest in quality, classic pieces, rather than blindly following trends. Take care of your accessories and store them in dust proof bags to ensure that they last you many years. Great accessories can elevate any basic outfit and take it up several notches.

  1. Look after your nails and toes

Your days of hitting the salon regularly may be far behind you.  You want your hands and feet to look gorgeous in sandals or flip flops during the summer months.  You can still have soft hands, feet and polished nails. All you need are a few basic items such as a nail file, buffing brush, and moisturizer.  A little care every day and can give your nails that salon look at home.

  1. Take the natural route

Your path to beautiful skin and hair can begin right in your kitchen. You’d be surprised at the common ingredients that can be incorporated into your skin care routine.  However, you don’t have to spend valuable time mixing skincare concoctions in the kitchen to fix your skin.  Easily available ingredients such as olive oil can do wonders for your complexion. It acts as an excellent moisturizer and soothes dry skin and lips.  Additionally, rubbing lemon juice on your elbows and knees can lighten pigmentation. Don’t need to head to the store the next time you run out of moisturizer, head toward your kitchen. Just use the natural ingredients in your kitchen.

Conclusion

Most importantly, being a mom isn’t easy. It requires patience, stamina and an endless amount of energy. You may feel overwhelmed at times, and wonder if you will get any time to yourself ever again. Just remember that it will all be worth it and make sure to set aside a few minutes every day for yourself.  Most Taking care of yourself will help you feel more centered, relaxed and ready to take on the day. Try some of the tips mentioned, to feel your best even on the busiest days.  What’s in your skin care routine?  Do you take time to get a manicure or pedicure?  Tell us about your style or beauty routine.

Author Bio:  Hello, Amelia, here from FixYourSkin.com!  FixYourSkin has a lot of tips, health advice and DIY recipes which can give you great looking skin without any side effects!

 

15 Morning Habits to Make Coming Home Even Better

If you’re a working mom, your home can become a pretty complex place. Home is where you make memories with your family, and where you keep them safe.  It’s also where you relax and build your life with your husband or significant other. We all know that busy schedules can disrupt domestic harmony.  So, today we’re sharing tips on chores that you can perform in the morning.  Getting organized can put you on the path to empowering yourself and making coming home a pleasure.

 

 

house cleaning tips, kids chores

 

 

 You may prefer to leave cleaning and other jobs for the weekend. However, there are a few simple steps you can take on a daily basis to tweak your home.  For example, opening the curtains in the living room will fill the room with light and air.  Plumping up sofa cushions will make the room far more enticing.   Also, add flowers and/or a fragrance diffuser in the entry way.  Beauty and a fresh scent when you enter your home.  It’s a great way to unwind and have a positive attitude when you’re greeted by the children and your husband.
Another step is to make your kid’s beds in the morning or encourage your child to make their bed if they are old enough.  It will make their rooms feel tidy, and more appealing when bedtime arrives.  Don’t neglect your own bed either.  There’s nothing more comforting than the sight of a made bed and a fresh pair of pajamas.  Get in the habit of fluffing the pillows and decluttering before going to bed, and making beds in the morning.  You will find that it only takes a few minutes to perform these tasks.
If this already feels achievable, be sure to check out this new infographic which explores a handful of other tips for reviving your love affair with your home – without the burden of extra work.

15 Morning Habits to Make Coming Back Home Even Better

 

 

5 Ingenious Ways to Encourage Kids to Play Outside

There are many parents who would like to see their kids spend more time playing outside.  Modern children love their gadgets, but they must also  learn that the great outdoors is waiting to be discovered.  Today, I’m sharing parenting tips on encouraging kids to play outside.

 

 

encouraging kids to play outside

 

 

Let Them Care for the Plants

Is there a chance that your little ones might be interested in caring for your plants?  Most children love to water plants, dig out weeds, and anything else to keep the plants healthy.

Many youngsters really enjoy looking after plants because it gives them a great feeling of responsibility. Why not try this out to see how much they enjoy doing it for a few days.

Eat Together Outside

Eating outside is something that most children enjoy doing when given a chance.  Put a lunch together, and eat at the picnic or patio table.  Can you imagine how much fun they would have.

By doing this you can introduce them to the pleasures of being outdoors. With a bit of luck they will then carry on playing out there once you have all finished eating.

Add Some Outdoor Toys

Possibly the simplest and most effective way of getting children to play outside is to add some outdoor toys in the garden for them. After all, they may simply not go outside because there is  nothing for them to do.

Some cool garden toys such as kids trampolines, balls, tennis nets and other exciting stuff will give them lots of new ways to have fun outside. You might even find  that some of the grownups in the family enjoy playing outside as well.

These toys will give them a terrific option when they have friends over or when you plan a birthday party for them at home.

Grow Vegetables

Another hobby that can get youngsters outside more often is growing vegetables. This is a wonderful activity that can bring the whole family benefits.  For example, healthier eating, lower shopping bills and the chance to live a more environmentally friendly way of life.

This is something that should be suggested rather than forcing them to do it. If they enjoy growing their vegetables then they will probably start to spend more time outside doing other things as well.

Get Some Pets

Some pets can also do a terrific job in getting the kids to stray outdoors more often. For example, a rabbit is the kind of pet that most youngster love to play with in the garden.

An alternative to getting your own pets could be to make your garden more bird or animal-friendly.   Encourage local wildlife to come and visit the property. The kids can then enjoy getting out to look for their little visitors.

There are many clever and practical ways of encouraging younger members of the family to put down their gadgets and head outside to play. Why not give a couple of these ideas a try and see how they work?

 

Katrina, is a proud mom of two gorgeous girls who loves writing about home improvement, decor and contributes regularly on various blogs and online publications like Mother2Motherblog.com

Sunday’s Best Linky – #89

fall, fall activities, autumn

 

Welcome to Week 89 of Mother 2 Mother’s Sunday’s Best Linky. This is the last week of our fall theme linky, A Season of Colors The days are getting a little cooler in my neck of the wood. The leaves haven’t turned yet, but I love the yellow, gold, burgundy, and brown colors.  Sweaters and boots come out the closet.  Marshmallows  and hot dog roasts are a favorite too.  We’re looking for crafts, recipes, makeovers, after school activities, homeschooling tips and more.

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 linky too. They’re great for inspiration.

Don’t have posts that fit into the theme, link up whatever post you would like to share. We would love to have parenting tips, DIY projects, homesteading, homeschooling, makeovers, cocktails, and your posts on family and life. Your linkups and giveaways are welcome here too. 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 festivities too.  Next week we will be starting our Boo, Scary Nights linky. 

Each week your hosts will select their favorite post and it will be featured the following week. An image from your post will be used on our linkup post the following week 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 Linkup 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 featured bloggers.

All posts linking to Sunday’s Best will be promoted on Twitter.

In addition to the Reader’s Choice and Host selections, a post for our monthly themes will be selected and featured each week as well.

If you are interested in becoming a Sunday’s Best host, please contact me for details at rhonda@mother2motherblog.com or email one of our other hosts.

Your Sunday’s Best Hosts Are:

mother 2 mother sunday's best co-hosts

Rhonda at Mother 2 Mother ~•~ Kim U. at Pinterested Parent ~•~ Kim M. 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.

The Pinterested Parent: Please like Kim’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, Bloglovin before you leave.

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

Snag a Button!

Last, please help us grow by placing our button on your sidebar. If you are selected as a Featured Blogger 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!

 

Sunday’s Best Featured Posts Are:

Kim U. selected International Bacon Day from Lazy Gastronome

 

 image-international-bacon-day

Rhonda selected Breakfast Potatoes from Anchored in Sweets

breakfast recipes, breakfast ideas, potato recipes

 

Kim M. selected 9 Fall Snack Ideas from Mother 2 Mother

 

snack ideas, kids snack ideas

The Post with the Most Clicks

The DIY Friendship Key Rings from Wesen Art

 

 DIY, friendship gifts,

Our Favorite Theme Post(s): A Season of Colors:

Welcome Fall Chalkboard from Across the Boulevard

 

chalkboard ideas, fall chalkboard ideas

and

Sunflower Screen Saver from Helen Fern Originals 

sunflower screen saver, screensavers, freebies

Congratulations to our featured bloggers! All of the posts were great, and we deeply appreciate each of you linking up. 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 … you could be selected 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!


4 Top Family Activities in Bali

Bringing kids along on an exotic vacation can be challenging.  Today, I’m sharing family activities in BaliBali is a province of Indonesia and the westernmost of the Lesser Sunda Islands.  Luckily, Bali isn’t just an exotic island.  I knew that it was the best choice for our first international family vacation because of its high standards for safety and adventure.  My 14-year old soccer-loving son (Aaron) and his 11-year-old sister (Olivia) would agree.  Check out my other travel tips before you leave.

 

 

 

Bali vacations, friendly vacations, vacations

 

 

Here are the top family activities in Bali:

Elephant Riding
First, Bali’s main asset lies in the island’s picturesque natural landscape. Gorgeous beaches are a plus too. We decided exploring nature by visiting one of the island’s top elephant safari parks. My kids love animals, so it wasn’t that hard of a choice.  We headed to a nearby rainforest where we took our sweet time admiring the endangered Sumatran elephants. The massive exhibit of a mammoth skeleton in the park’s museum is breathtaking. To top it all off, we had a tasty dinner at the nearby lakeside restaurant. Afterward, we returned home with several bags of souvenirs.

White Water Rafting

Next, White Water Rafting is a fun activity for the entire family.  However, I don’t recommend it for the squeamish. Olivia decided to stay on the sidelines on our first go-around. She relented after seeing Aaron having so much fun.  Consult experts before booking a ride, not every place is suited for children.   Kids 9 years old and above will love The Telaga Waja River. The Ayung River is slightly easier and is suitable for children as young as 5.

Waterparks

Bali has perfect spots for water fun.  Therefore, one of the most popular is Waterbom.  It’s a paradise of water slides that made me feel like a kid again.  Aaron and Oliva were screaming their heads off with joy the entire time.  Their water slides that made me feel like a kid again too.
I recommend paying a visit to Splash Waterpark if you have small children. It is smaller, which allows you to keep an eye on your kids across the whole park.  It also makes the children safer in the water park and the experience less dangerous.  Come fully equipped with swimsuits in tow.
Treetop adventures
So, after splashing around for some time we felt the need to cap off our vacation with a bang. We knew that Aaron was into sports and that Olivia would likely want to follow her brother’s lead.  As a result, we headed to Treetop Adventure Park.  It was filled with all sorts of circuits and courses, and old fashioned tree-climbing.  It was just what the kids needed.  Furthermore, your little ones will want to explore at length leaving you and your weary bones in the dust.  Also, the zip line we boarded at the end of our trips still makes my head spin.
Last, the island is remarkably kid-friendly.  My children were welcome in most places with open arms. Bali will always be at the top of my list for family vacation spots.  Finally, I encourage anyone to try it out and see for themselves what all the fuss about.

 

Image-Heather-GreenHeather is a accounting professional turned SAHM of two and a Midwest housewife.  Heather was born in England, but met the love of her life in Italy while studying abroad. In her free time she enjoys gardening, jeopardy, and planning family gatherings and vacations. 

 

Fun Halloween Crafts and Gifts for Children

halloween crafts, halloween

 

Now we are into the month of September; things are starting to look much more like fall. The kids are back at school, and the weather is starting to get a little cooler. The full season of fall will be here before we know it! There are so many fun things that you can do as a family during the season. It is a lovely time, where you can get snuggled with hot cocoa or bake lots of pumpkin spice treats. Of course, the exciting and fun time of Halloween will soon be upon us too. I don’t think that it is ever too early to start planning for Halloween. There are plenty of crafts that you can do with the kids, as well as give Halloween gifts. So if you are looking for some inspiration, you have come to the right spot.

halloween crafts, halloween gifts

image

Halloween Gift Ideas for Your Kids

Let’s face it; they will get plenty of candy when they visit neighbors or go trick or treating. So it might be nice to give them some things that aren’t candy related. I’m sure their dentist will be thankful! You could get some craft things for them together and create some cute labels. You could get some play dough and remove the normal label. There are lots of printables online, or you could always make your own. It could be a label to say something like ‘Boo Dough’ or ‘Witches Putty.’ If you choose the Halloween style colors, then it would make it even better. So look for orange, black or green dough.

You could even create some slime or putty of your own for them. The options are quite endless with this. It could be orange and pumpkin spice scented slime, or green witch or monster slime. There are lots of different recipes that you can find online. They are all quite straightforward to make and don’t need any crazy ingredients. Just pop it in a mason jar and print out a cute little label. It is a perfect gift for any elementary schoolers that you have. Who wouldn’t like some Halloween slime?!

 

halloween party ideas, halloween drinks

image

If you are a little short on time, then it might be easier to just get them a fall or Halloween themed gift from the store. How about a Halloween jigsaw puzzle from Stave, or a pumpkin scented candle or an actual pumpkin itself? Then they can spend time carving it or drawing funny faces on it. Instead of carving, you can also get some stickers or pins for pumpkins. Then they just stick things into and on the pumpkin. A bit safer for little ones, rather than having to get knives out to carve. Glow sticks are also a fun idea to put inside Jack o’lanterns, instead of candles. Much safer for our little ones.

Halloween Crafts for Your Kids

One fun little thing, which is still edible, though, could be making some sugar cookies. Get some leaf or Halloween shaped cookie cutters and then your kids can decorate them as they would like. It could be something that you give to friends or neighbors if you’d rather have someone else eat them!

I don’t know many children that don’t enjoy getting messy with paint. If you have got some green paint, then you can make some Frankenstein cards or decorations. Use the paint on feet and then print the feet onto cardstock. It is fun for everyone to get involved in. Then using some black finger paints, they can draw on some eyes, mouth, nose and of course, Frankenstein’s neck bolts. Then just cut them out to make some ‘bunting’ to display around the house.

Other crafts could be making some pasta skeletons. Glue dried pasta onto black paper or cardstock. They can make the skeleton bones with pasta, so get the penne style pasta or they could just use spaghetti. Quite a cheap but very fun activity. If your children are a little bit older, then making some pumpkin or ghost pompom could be a neat idea. You just get some cardboard in a circle, with a hole in the middle, to use as a frame. Then using the right color of wool, you can loop the wool through it. Keeping looping and pulling it tight. Then carefully cut around the middle of the loop, tie it up and you’ve got a pompom! Just stick on some eyes and it would make the perfect decoration this fall.

Have you got any favorite things to do with your little ones during fall?

Genius Children – The Dignity of Educated Parents

 

early childhood educatin, parenting

 

Have you taught your kid how to make the bed? You don’t need to wait until kids grows up to start encouraging them to develop good habits. Early childhood is the moment when the educational process starts. You start by teaching your child to make their bed in the morning and collect the toys at night. That’s not to be done with a bossy attitude, though. If you make a smart approach, the child will learn that’s the right thing to do, and they are doing it for their own good. Everything can start out as a social activity – you both make the bed and have a good laugh. With time, the child will learn how to do things without your help.

“But, it’s only making the bed,” – I hear you say. “I can easily fix it for him/her!” Of course you could do that, but what does that attitude teach your child? It’s okay to leave a mess behind, because mom and dad will take care of it. That’s not the right way to teach responsibility. When you preserve your dignity throughout the educative processes, you’ll be on your way towards raising a genius child.

From then on, the education of your children will continue, and you’ll be the main medium.

The Parent as the First Teacher

You can’t expect for teachers to teach your kids everything they need to know. You’re the one who has responsibility to discover their talents, awaken their imagination, and help them take their interests further. Before you can get in the role of an educator, you have to work on your own skills and knowledge. Sounds like pure logic, doesn’t it?

These simple tips will help you accept the role of an educator as naturally as possible:

  1. Understand what it means to be a teacher

You shouldn’t understand education as instructing and directing. If that’s what your parents and teachers were doing back in your childhood, they were doing it wrong. Efficient education is more similar to leadership. When you’re trying to teach your children, you have to earn their trust. They should see you as an example of dignity, intellect, kindness, and fairness in a single character.

In a popular TED talk, conductor Charles Hazlewood explained how the trust between the conductor and the orchestra occurred. “There has to be, between me and my orchestra, an unshakeable bond of trust, born out of mutual respect, through which we can spin a musical narrative that we all believe in.”

Consider yourself as a conductor of your children’s educational processes. You will not punish them for the mistakes, but you will inspire them to get better and better by developing the bond of trust. Only when they see you as an example of the person they would want to become, they will trust you.

  1. Meaningful conversations instead of lectures

“How would you like to talk about the stars today?” That’s a nice conversation starter. Your child knows nothing about the stars, so they will love hearing some explanations. However, you mustn’t forget that they have their own ideas, so get interested to find out what they are. “What do you think they are? Why do they shine?” You’ll be surprised to hear the answers that can come out of that little head with a genius mind.

Don’t expect your kids to repeat everything they hear; they are too young and that approach would suffocate their imagination. Listen to their answers, and then give your own answers, which will be educative, but not instructional.

  1. Use online tools to boost your children’s potential

Technology has a mesmerizing power over children. That preference can go two ways:

  • Kids can either get glued down to the tablet screen playing games, or
  • They can use technology to get motivated to learn and find all answers they need.

Of course you want the second option for your kid. That’s why you need to use technology the right way, so you’ll be a great example for them to follow. Here are few tips that will help you unlock the educational potential that technology has:

  • Find interesting educational games for kids

Funbrain is a great website that gives you access to games suitable for different ages. You need to set some rules, though. You can’t allow a kid to spend an entire day playing games, no matter how educative they are. However, if you limit the time to one hour per day, your children will have fun while expanding their learning potential.

  • Use online writing tools to teach them how to write

If you’re not a great writer, you need to start from yourself. Essay writing services, such as Australian Writings, can help you on that mission. If you need assistance and instructions to understand the format of academic writing, you can set the guidelines for the paper and work together with an author to achieve great results. Then, you can transfer those skills to your children.

  1. Set some boundaries

A parent should always maintain a friendly attitude with their children. However, you have to set some boundaries. You’re the parent, and they are the kids. You can keep those boundaries by teaching proper behavior and thinking of some consequences when your children don’t respect the limits. For example, you can decrease the period of time they spend playing games on the tablet.

A genius child will keep testing your limits. You need to forgive them for such attitude because their personality is too strong. However, you should also stay consistent with the consequences, which shouldn’t be too harsh in a way that would suffocate your child’s creative spirit.

A Genius Needs Education, Too

Genius children are not always born that way. They can educated by their parents from the moment of their early childhood. A parent has the responsibility to reveal the great potential and provide proper education, which will take their kid’s natural talents in the right direction.

 

Image-Jessica FreemanJessica Freeman is passionate about teaching and journalism. She finds her calling in making others interested in topics of education, children upbringing, and academic developments. You can follow her on Facebook and Google+.

Sunday’s Best Linkup – #88

fall, fall activities, autumn

 

Welcome to Week 89 of Mother 2 Mother’s Sunday’s Best Linkup. We’re continuing our fall theme A Season of Colors The days are getting a little cooler in my neck of the wood. The leaves haven’t turned yet, but I love the yellow, gold, burgundy, and brown colors.  Sweaters and boots come out the closet.  Marshmallows  and hot dog roasts are a favorite too.  We’re looking for crafts, recipes, makeovers, after school activities, homeschooling tips and more.

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 link those too. They’re great for inspiration.

Don’t have posts that fit into the theme, link up whatever post you would like to share. We would love to have parenting tips, DIY projects, homesteading, homeschooling, makeovers, cocktails, and your posts on family and life. Your linkups and giveaways are welcome here too. 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 festivities too.

Each week your hosts will select their favorite post and it will be featured the following week. An image from your post will be used on our linkup post the following week 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 Linkup 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 featured bloggers.

All posts linking to Sunday’s Best will be promoted on Twitter.

In addition to the Reader’s Choice and Host selections, a post for our monthly themes will be selected and featured each week as well.

If you are interested in becoming a Sunday’s Best host, please contact me for details at rhonda@mother2motherblog.com or email one of our other hosts.

Your Sunday’s Best Hosts Are:

mother 2 mother sunday's best co-hosts

Rhonda at Mother 2 Mother ~•~ Kim U. at Pinterested Parent ~•~ Kim M. 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.

The Pinterested Parent: Please like Kim’s Facebook Page, follow her on Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, Bloglovin before you leave.

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

Snag a Button!

Last, please help us grow by placing our button on your sidebar. If you are selected as a Featured Blogger 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!

 

Sunday’s Best Featured Posts Are:

Kim U. selected Halloween Party Punch from Embellishments

halloween ideas, DIY Halloween Glasses

Rhonda selected Boeufhaus Roast Beef Sandwiches from The Kitchen

 

sandwich ideas, game day sandwich idea

Kim M. selected 30 Minute Game Day Recipes from Frugal Foodie Mama

Check out these recipes for your next game day or tailgating party!

The Post with the Most Clicks

The Evolution of a Kitchen from Worthing Court

remodeling ideas, kitchen remodeling idea, kitchen makeover ideas

Our Favorite Theme Post(s): A Season of Colors:

Autumn Leaves Rice Krispies from Growing Up Gabel

after school snacks, fall snack ideas

 

and

Easy Fall Farmhouse Vignette from Old Time Pottery

fall decorations, fall decorating ideas,

 

Congratulations to our featured bloggers! All of the posts were great, and we deeply appreciate each of you linking up. 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 … you could be selected 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!

 

 


Home It Cordless Fabric Shaver Review

product review, fabric shaver reviews,

 

I received this product at a discount for an honest review; however, all opinions are my own.  This post may contain affiliate links.  If this item is purchased, I may receive compensation. Funds will be used to sustain Mother 2 Mother Blog.

I received the Home It Shaver, and with anticipation I opened the box.  I was pleased with the packaging.  It was nice to not have to retrieve scissors or a machete to open the box or remove the shaver from the packaging.  When you have items that are nailed down so tightly that you have to spend an hour getting it out the box, you become frustrated.  That may be an exaggeration, but you get my drift.

You will need a C battery.  It does come with a power cord if you don’t keep batteries on hand and a small cleaning brush.  When you have children around, keeping batteries on hand is important. I pulled a battery out of the junk drawer and inserted it into the shaver. Let the work begin.

My favorite sofa has a tendency to pill, so I decided to remove the fuzz from my cushions.  I love using the shaver without the cord. It makes cleaning so much easier.

20160831_203936

 

I purchased a shaver previously, and I like this one much better. The large tray catches more lint and fuzz, which is great.  It allowed me to complete the job without stopping to empty the tray.  Also, I love the longer handle on this shaver.  As a result, moving the shaver back and forth is much easier.  It’s important to be able to get a good grip. The shaver does an excellent job removing the fuzz.  The fabric looks as good as new.

 

20160831_203641

 

Finally, I highly recommend this item. It’s a quality product at a good price, and it does an excellent job.  I glad that I was able to give a positive  review for the  Home-it fabric shaver .  Head over and purchase yours today.