Thinking Beyond Sunscreen: 3 Ways to Protect Your Skin at the Beach

June 22, 2018 by 2 Comments

 

protect your skin

 

The 2018 summer season is expected to be hotter than normal in most parts of the country.  As a result, families will be finding ways to cool down and seek some relief from the scorching heat.  One way to do this is to go to the beach.  Not only do kids have fun playing in the sand and surf, but adults get to relax and work on their tan.  Additionally, they may take a dip every now and then to cool off.   However, while you’re having fun in the sun, it’s important to protect your skin.  Especially,  if you’ll be staying all day at the beach.

While most adults take active measures to protect their skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays, there are other things that you can do to care for your skin and keep it healthy while you’re outdoors.  You’ll need more than a bottle of sunscreen to protect our skin though.  So, here are the 3 things to bring to the beach to care for your and your children’s skin.

A Sweat-Proof Sunscreen Stick

Getting excited children to sit still while you reapply sunscreen can be a challenge.  As a result, stashing one or two sweat-proof sunscreen sticks in your tote bag is a must before heading to the beach.  With just a few swipes, you can get the entire face protected.  Furthermore, it stays on longer than conventional sunscreens.  This is ideal way to protect your skin if you’re going to play watersports or beach volleyball.

Apart from helping to avoid getting sunburn, applying a good coat of sweat-proof sunscreen also prevents you from getting Actinic Keratosis.  Actinic Keratosis is a pre-cancerous condition that appears as small, red, and flaky patches on the skin.  If you’ve been spending lots of days in the sun and see this type of spots, you can get professional treatment to restore the health of your skin. Skin care is important throughout the year, but when the sun’s out, the risks increase.

All-Natural Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe Vera has long been used as a natural way to soothe sunburned skin.  But, it can be difficult to bring to the beach.  The good news is that there are lots of readily-available Aloe Vera gels available on the market.  And, most of them cost less than $5 for a small tub or tube.  However, check the ingredients list first to see if what you’re buying is the real deal.  Make sure that Aloe Vera is the very first thing that’s listed.  Also, keep in mind that the first thing on the list is the most potent ingredient.

If you truly want pure aloe gel, you can make your own by pureeing the flesh of several aloe leaves in a blender. Add a teaspoon of Vitamin E if you want your gel to have additional moisturizing properties. Pour into a clean plastic container with a screw top lid and place in the refrigerator—the watery mixture will turn into a gel after a few hours.

A Lip Balm with SPF

That cherry-flavored lip balm might taste good, but you and your kids may be better off choosing a formula with SPF.  Especially, if you’re spending a day at the beach.  However, you don’t have to pick a plain variant.  A balm formulated with mint will feel soothing on the lips.  Also, a lip balm with a hint of tint makes you look healthy and naturally beautiful too.  Each member of the family should have their own lip balm as any product that touches the lips can be a source of infections such as the herpes simplex virus, which causes cold sores.

Keeping the entire family’s skin protected at the beach is a cinch.  So, make sure you have the right products on hand.  It’s imperative that you bring all three of these suncare staples to the beach to protect your skin properly.  You can have fun times under the sun without risking your skin health.

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

13 Fun and Healthy Apple Snacks for Kids

June 17, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing parenting advice on healthy apple snacks for kids.  So, finding healthy snacks that kids will eat can be daunting.  My granddaughter loves green apples.  She will eat red apples, but Granny Smith green apples are her favorite for sure.  Personally, I love Honey Crisp.

Unfortunately, kids can find food boring.  As a result, I try to make fun food.  I’m not an artistic person, so I look for healthy and happy foods that I can make without too trouble. Feel free to modify them, I do.

 

 

apple snacks for kids

 

 

Here’s my Healthy Apple Snacks:

 

Pair these healthy apple snacks for kids with my A is for Apple activities.  They’re a great way to entertain the kids this summer, and keep their education going.

 

 

apple snack ideas

 

 

Apple Crab –  First, that apple crab is adorable.  Unfortunately, there was no link associated with it.  It doesn’t look difficult.  Slice a red apple in half.  Insert 2 chocolate chips or attach 2 raisins with peanut butter.  Slice the other half of the apple to make the legs.

 

kids apple snacks

 

Apple Snail – Unfortunately, the apple snail didn’t have a link associated with it either.  It does contain the directions on the Pinterest picture.  It looks like the most difficult task will be the design on the apple.

 

apple snacks for kids

 

Apple Ladybugs – Next, this apple is healthy and cute.  Red apples, pretzel sticks, raisins and peanut butter will have you on your way to creating this healthy apple snacks.

 

apple snacks for kids

 

 


Apple Boats – So, these boats are the perfect apple snacks for kids.  Apples, peanut butter, a cheese sail and a Rice Krispies boat is are all you need to turn snack time into fun time.

 

 

apple snacks for kids

 

 

 

Wise Ole Owl  –  Who wouldn’t want to eat this apple owl to help generate some brain power.  Furthermore, the green apples, a pretzel rod, marshmallows, chocolate chips and either cheese or oranges for the feet and beak are the ingredients for this adorable snack.

 

 

apple snacks for kids

 

 


Chocolate Covered Apples – So, these chocolate covered apples look yummy.  You can cover them with nuts, sprinkles, or crushed candy.  Use your imagine to make these healthy apple snacks for kids.

 

 

apple snacks for kids

 


Apple Cookies – My granddaughter loves green apples and peanut butter, so they will go on my snack list.  Add chocolate chips or raisins to the apples and peanut butter and you are good to go.

 

apple snacks for kids

 


Ant Apple – Ant Apple I think?  Whatever it is, it’s adorable.  Unfortunately, I couldn’t find a link for it.  It doesn’t look difficult to make.  Red and green apples for the body and wings and creativity for the eyes.  Large candy eyes would be perfect and black licorice for the mouth.

 

healthy snacks for kids

 

 

Peanut Butter Frogs –  So, what’s a summer vacation with an apple snack frog.  Easy to make too, green apples, peanut butter, raisins and a slice of strawberry.

 

apple snacks for kids

 

Ninja Turtle Apples –  Fun and easy to make.  My granddaughter is a big Ninja Turtle fan.  Ralph who wears the red mask is her favorite.  You can get the large candy eyes here (affiliate link).  Walmart has a great selection of Betty rocker’s Fruit by the Foot in Different colors.  I’ve seen purple, red, blue.  Not sure about the orange.

apple snacks for kids

Caramel Apples –  Try this caramel apple snacks for kids.   You can use red or green apples, caramel and nuts to make this yummy treat.  Reminds me of the carnival in my small home town during the summer.

 

apple snacks for kids

 

 

Cinnamon Apple Snacks –  If healthy snacks are high on your list, you kids will love these baked cinnamon apple slices.  Great snack ideas for big kids too.

 

apple snacks

Apple Nachos –  Who said nachos have to consist of chips and cheese?  These apple nachos are covered with peanut butter, caramel, and chocolate chips.

We hope that you find a few healthy snacks for your kids.  Be sure to check out our A is for Apple Activities too.

 

 

Filed Under: Meal Time, Parenting Tips Tagged With: , , ,

13 Places You Can Donate Old Books

June 4, 2018 by 6 Comments

Today, I’m sharing parenting advice on places to donate books.  If you have tons of books stashed in your basement or attic, this post is for you.  Especially, books that have been sitting in boxes collecting dust for years. If your children have outgrown many of their books, they can benefit others.  There are non-profit organizations that would love to have your used books.  Yes, they will send them to third world countries to under privileged children, Vietnam Vets and more.

 

 

places to donate books

 

 

 

Places to Donate Old Books:

 

  • Books for Soldiers – First, both Books for Soldiers and Operation Paperback connect volunteers directly with soldiers stationed overseas who have requested specific book titles or genres.  But, you are responsible for shipping the books overseas.  The average cost is approximately $20 per care package. Add in a few homemade cookies or letters, cards or pictures drawn by your kids.
  • Books for Africa  – Second, Books for Africa collects, sorts, ships, and distributes books to students of all ages in Africa with the goal of ending the book famine.  Children’s books are a perfect donation.
  • Kids Need to Read –  Fortunately, Kids Need to Read provides books to underfunded schools, libraries, and literacy programs across the United States.  The books provide reading opportunities for disadvantaged children.  Like new books are always welcome.
  • Donation Town –  Additionally, Donation Town helps charities and donors connect.  They pick-up your donations, and distribute them to charities in needs.  Just enter your zip code on the Donation Town website, and schedule a pickup. Pickup may not be available in all areas.
  • Day Care Centers – Contact your local day cares or After School Programs to see if they need books.
  • Vietnam Veterans of America –  Also, Vietnam Veterans of America is a non-profit organization committed to serving the needs of veterans.  Contact your local office for needs and pick-up.
  • Books to Prisons –  Next, volunteer-run nonprofits like Books Through Bars and Books to Prisoners connect your old books with incarcerated individuals across the country.  The program has hopes of fostering a love of reading behind bars and breaking the cycle of recidivism through education and empowerment.
  • Books Through Bars – In addition, Books Through Bars works to provide quality reading material to prisoners in Pennsylvania and surrounding states.  If you live in Pennsylvania or the surrounding area, this is a good charity to contact.
  • Women’s Shelters – Women’s Shelters always need donations.  As a result, contact your local Women’s or Men’s Shelters to see if they would like to receive old book donations.  Many Women’s Shelter’s have mothers who have their children with them.  So, they take children’s books too.
  • Goodwill – Next, Goodwill is one of my favorite stores.  I browse their book section to find books for my grandchildren.  I can always find a book or two for my thrift haul.  Most importantly, Goodwill provides job training, employment placement services, and other community-based programs.  The training helps people who have barriers preventing them from obtaining a job.
  • Salvation Army – Additionally, the Salvation Army is another one of my favorite thrift stores.  They have a great book section in their resell stores too.  Proceeds from their stores are used to fund Rehabilitation Centers.  The Rehabilitation Centers help people who are in the grips of addiction to find help, hope, and a second chance at life.
  • Habitat for Humanity – Habitat for Humanity has resell stores, so inquire as to whether they are in need of books.  Unfortunately, the Habitat for Humanity store that I visit always has a small selection of books. Donating could really help them out. Maybe your local store is in need too.
  • Local Libraries –   Last, most libraries have a Friends of the Library Society.  They accept Like New or Gently Used Books for fundraisers/resell for the local library.  So, contact your local library for information.

 

Finally, every charity needs certain types of books.  So,  you may have to donate to more than one organization to get rid of your entire stash.  Check with each charity to determine what their needs are before making a trip to drop the books off or arranging a pickup.

 

 

 

Filed Under: Organization Tagged With: , , ,

The Dangers of Trying to Be a Supermom

May 14, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing parenting tips on the dangers of  a supermom.  Are you the type of mother who tries to do and be everything for your children?  You nurture and love them, go to work to provide for them, and overlook your own needs?

Furthermore, you go broke to make sure they can have things they need and like.  You bend over backwards and do any and everything to ensure they’re shielded from danger.  Though this style of parenting may seem beneficial, it can hinder your child’s growth and development.  Most importantly, it will wear you down.

Super Mom Syndrome

 

Dangers of a Supermom:

 

 

The Supermom Syndrome

Being a good mother is one thing.  However, there are dangers of a supermom.  The supermom syndrome or complex is the belief that a woman can do it all.  We can, but it’s not accepting that we get tired or saying no is not okay that wears us down.  Below are a few consequences of trying to be a super mon and a superhero in your child’s eyes:

  • Exhaustion/Fatigue – After years of trying to do everything perfectly and without help you get exhausted. Most supermoms won’t say no when it comes to their children. They pile on responsibilities without taking a break. This will eventually lead to exhaustion and fatigue.

  • Substance Abuse – Unfortunately, some mothers become so bombarded that they try to hide the stress by abusing substances.  They use everything from sleeping pills and painkillers to drugs and alcohol.  Unfortunately, they try anything to numb the pain.  Furthermore, they pills give them energy and helps them to maintain a “normal” life.  Their only out is a rehab center that offers outpatient services in Seattle or a destination near their families to get clean or sober.

  • Self-Doubt – The more you try to do it all and fail, the harder you are on yourself. You begin to talk down to yourself and feel like a failure.

  • Social Isolation – Outside of the mom circle for kid-related activities you begin to isolate yourself from your friends and family members.

  • Loss of Identity – The dangers of a supermom can cause moms who focus solely on their children eventually lose sight of who they are as individuals. When the kids aren’t around, they have no idea who they are, what they like, or what to do with their time.

  • Resentment – When you dedicate so much of yourself to your family, you can start to resent them. You become frustrated by the things you’ve missed out on to be there for them. Unknowingly, you take this out on your family.

Wanting to be great for your kids is an excellent goal. However, believing that this greatness can be done without error or all on your own is dangerous. If you’ve been trying to be everything for your family, it’s time to take a step back and regroup.   Learn to eliminate the stress in your life by getting help through rehab, counseling, or by relying on others to help raise your children is ok. Then get back to loving and being there for the person who matter too – you.
Filed Under: Health Tagged With: , ,

Unique Interior Design Features For Your Home

April 25, 2018 by Leave a Comment

 

unique interior design features

 

Any parent knows keeping the interior of your home spic and span is difficult.  It’s almost impossible when you have little ones running around.  However, that hasn’t stopped the population from adding uniquedoing home improvements.  The nation spent $152 billion last year remodeling their living areas.  More and more families are installing fun and unique features to provide entertainment.  Furthermore, they’re looking for a calming ambience and much needed storage space.  So, whether you’re looking to update your property on a budget or go all out, there’s a family friendly feature that’s perfect for you.

 

Indoor water features

Indoor water features for the home are a great way of creating a tranquil and peaceful environment.  It’s a perfect way for tired kids and tantrum throwing toddlers to relax and calm down.  Another option is to install a indoor water table for your offspring to play in. Water games and activities are particularly beneficial for a child’s development and can improve their gross motor skills.  Additionally, it helps with hand and eye coordination. It’s also an effective way for youngsters to get creative and have fun.

 Interior Design tips

Unique bookcase and storage 

Lack of storage is a problem in many households.  Children usually have toys, games, books and knick knacks which all need a home.  Installing clever storage options are the perfect solution.  Chairs and seating areas can be cleverly designed to incorporate storage within them.  Storage can installed in the arms and underneath the cushion.  Alternatively, the area beneath your staircase could be converted into a bookshelf.  Everyone can quickly and easily access a book when they wish.  Unique interior design features can be created for individual homes.

 

Fun & games 

Your home is where you and your family spend time together.  So, why not make it as fun and family friendly.   A useful feature to also add is a chalkboard wall.  Grown ups will find it useful to keep shopping lists and memos.  The little ones will love creating their own designs with chalk.  If you have room, an indoor slide and or swings are another option.  The swing and slide will keep the kids busy during bad weather.

It’s important to get the interior design of your home right.  Unique interior design features like water fountains, clever bookcases, and storage units are great for families.  Additionally, fun indoor items like slides are an excellent way to bring the whole family together as well.

Filed Under: Decor, Life-Thoughts, Parenting Tips Tagged With: , ,

Common Camping Injuries and How to Avoid Them

April 24, 2018 by Leave a Comment

Camping is a great activity and offers you the perfect getaway from a hectic routine. Camping makes a splendid family adventure and offers a fun-filled activity. Whether it is over the weekend or for a longer period, add a camping trip to your travel tips.  Living outdoors with basic amenities, cooking your own food, and sleeping in tents is more adventurous than you could ask for.  Not to mention the campfires and staring into the night sky with marvelous views that would take away all your stress and worries.  Today, I’m going to share tips on common camping injuries.  

 

 

common camping injuries

 

 

 

 While camping is a great activity and gives you a break from your routine life, it also exposes you to certain threats and dangers. Therefore, it is necessary to exercise reasonable precaution while you are camping to avoid discomfort and to maximize your enjoyment. If you are camping with your family, you are not only responsible for your safety but also for your family. Kids would play around and can often expose themselves to dangers, which is why you need to ensure their safety.

 You always need to carry first aid kits that can come in handy under dire circumstances, but understanding the risks and dangers you are exposed to would help in taking necessary precautions. Some of the most common camping injuries and ways to avoid them are:

 Burns

If you are not an experienced camper, you are bound to get burned a few times before you actually learn to start a campfire. Campfires certainly do not operate as your conventional stove, which has a gas controller. Therefore, you cannot control the flow of the flames and need to be cautious. Avoid placing the campfire too close to the tents or to other flammable stuff. When you sit around the fire, always sit in the opposite direction of the wind. Strong winds can direct the heat right towards you which can cause skin burns, choking, watery eyes, and discomfort. Second, when you start a campfire, do not add a lot of firewood immediately; let the fire settle in and add extra wood gradually to control the flame.

 

 

 

 

 

 Cuts and bruises

The most common injury on camping trips is cuts and bruises, if you are camping in a mountainous region with uneven grounds. When you are traveling with heavy backpacks, you might lose your footwork easily on uneven grounds that can cause bruises and cuts. While you go on a camping trip, always wear adventure gear and long boots to give your feed added protection and stability on slippery surfaces.

You also need to be careful while setting up the tent, handling sharp objects, and collecting firewood, as they carry the risks of being cut. Keep bandages and ointments for emergency and disinfectants to apply on wounds. For serious cuts, seek immediate medical help

Sprains and Fractures

Add slips and falls to the list of common camping injuries.  Slips and falls are likely when you are camping in uneven terrains or slippery surfaces. If you are camping in such regions or during rainy seasons, you can easily slip and sprain your leg. In worse scenarios, slip and fall can result in severe injuries, which would incapacitate you during the trip. Camping activities are supposed to be enjoyable and if you hurt your leg or sprain your ankle, it would be difficult to move around.

You always need to keep analgesics and wearable supporters for such situations. Moreover, you need to be extra careful in slippery areas. If you slip and injure yourself, do not put pressure on the affected area and seek immediate medical help. Often, what might seem like a sprain can turn into a severe fracture, which can only be confirmed by an x-ray. Therefore, always seek medical help immediately after you incur an injury.

 Now that most physicians have incorporated telemedicine into their practice, you can contact them using your smartphone or laptop.

 

 

 

 

Bug Bites

Bug bites are on the list of common camping injuries.  While camping is fun and adventurous, it can expose you to various bugs and insects that dwell in the wilderness. Bug bites such as mosquito bites can lead to complex health problems and would waste your trip. You need to be careful while you sleep as bugs often approach during nighttime. Keep bug repellant sprays with you and anti-bug body lotions; apply as and when required, especially during the night when bugs are highly active. Bug bites can cause you quite discomfort; mostly commonly itchiness. Certain bug bites are poisonous and require immediate attention to lower the risks of severe health conditions. If you are bitten by a bug and feel irritation, contact the closest doctor immediately. 

 Skin Ailments

Your body can have various reactions to the atmosphere and weather conditions. If you have a sensitive skin, you are likely to face some sort of allergy and skin problems.  Unfortunately, they can ruin your trip and turn it into an unpleasant venture. If you understand your allergies and understand your skin ailments, keep necessary medications, skin ointments to mitigate the risks of skin rashes and irritation.

 These simple tips can help your discomfort during your overnight camping adventure and would allow you to make the most out of your trip. Always carry generic, over-the-counter medicines and painkillers for quick relief from the above conditions. Other critical injuries involve snake bites that are poisonous and can be lethal. In case of snake bites, never try to suck out the poison nor cover the wound. Relax and seek immediate medical help as snake bites can only be treated by an antidote.

We hope that you will use our list of common camping injuries to prepare and hopefully avoid them on your next camping trip. 

About the author: James Smith is a survivalist, who loves to write about survival skills and techniques. You can follow him at @JamesSmith1609

 

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                                                         

Filed Under: Parenting Tips, Safety, Travel, Travel Tips Tagged With: , ,

Best Tips On How to Potty Train Your Puppy

April 21, 2018 by 1 Comment

 

 

 

 

puppy training tips

 

 

Potty training is something that all puppies have to learn eventually.  It is a prerequisite if you wish your dog to stay within the confines of the home. Even if it lives in the backyard, you might wish to teach it a thing or two regarding where it is ok to potty and where it isn’t.

Potty training is very important not only for basic dog’s needs, but establishing a relationship between the two of you.  If you have issues with a dog during training, it can lead to some other negative things.  New dog owners may not be aware of how to potty train a puppy.  As a result, it leads to crucial mistakes and could alienate a dog from the owner.

Here are some step-by-step tips on how to potty train a dog.  It will help you make it through the training and ultimately, teach your dog where to potty and when:

 

how to potty train your puppy

 

  1. Establishing who’s the boss

This is something that is often overlooked and that is usually on the owners.  We are overprotective with puppies and cannot give them proper guidance when necessary.  You should allow puppies to show emotions, but you shouldn’t always react in a manner that is favorable for the dog. Basically, puppy needs to listen to you and not the other way around.

This is especially important during initial weeks.  An important tip on how to potty train your puppy is to explain and get the puppy to understand when to potty.  Furthermore, you need to create a walking and feeding routine so you can predict dog’s bowel movements.  You must train a dog and the way it behaves. When going out, it’s also important to stay for a limited amount of time. Otherwise, your puppy will want to stay as long as possible.

 

  1. Use love

What do I mean by this? Well, some inexperienced people think that dogs should be ruled with an iron fist.  Remember, you’re intimidating to little puppies as it is, so you won’t have to use much force for a puppy to obey your commands.

Dogs are very good at reading your body language so aggressive “persuasion” will not really be necessary. Still, you need to be vocal if a puppy messes the carpet.  Dog needs to get the message, but in a way so it understand it is still being loved.

The best way of handling a dog (and not only for potty training) is giving a positive feedback.   Treats are much more efficient than anything else.  And, they might prove to be a valuable ally during initial phases of training. Of course, a mild petting will also go a long way.

 

how to potty train a puppy

 

  1. Creating routine

Both routine and discipline are something that is necessary for a long-term success.  When you’re thinking about how to potty train your puppy, remember discipline will be important.  It presents a good structure for any future lessons.

When I mention routine, I am not only referring to taking your dog for a walk at the same time. Routine also includes dietary habits.  How to potty train your puppy should be based on planning and figuring out your dog’s metabolism.  There is no reason to go out if a dog doesn’t have to potty.

Feed your puppy around the same time each day. Similarly, you should go out around the same time each day. Dog needs to understand that these walks are not for their entertainment.  They are for exercise and so they can potty.

 

Conclusion

For some people, the first days of living with a puppy may seem infuriating (especially if you never had a puppy before). However, this is all part of the process.  You need to show patience, discipline, lead with an example and to make it easier on a dog by controlling its diet.

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

Investing In Education Is Investing In Our Children’s Future

April 18, 2018 by Leave a Comment

In recent years spending on education in America has decreased by 4%.  However, the average for the rest of the world is 15%.  We know that formal education can give children much more than just qualifications.  They learn socialization, teamwork and concentration skills.  We must invest in our children’s future.  Today, I’m sharing parenting tips on investing in education.  Education must be invested in and valued by all.

investing in education

Why The Lack Of Investment Matters

It isn’t only in the investment that America lags behind, but the education of our children has suffered too.  The Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) is an international gold standard for the comparative effectiveness of different education systems.  However, despite our country leading the free world by many measures we are falling sadly behind on PISA.  The United States results for Science and Reading turned out to be average.  But, they fell significantly below average for mathematics.  Out of the 71 countries measured, the United States came in 38th.

What This Means In Real Terms

For the past 3 years the United States has been suffering from a skill gap.  Unemployment remains relatively high.  However, the number of people being hired is lower than the number of job openings.  There are job vacancies, but there are not enough people with the skills needed for the jobs. Private investment (such as that of the Fullerton Technology Foundation) is beginning to provide schools with laptops, iPads, digital microscopes, interactive whiteboards and other similar technologies.  Education investors from entrepreneurs like Jason Sugarman is taking the pressure off school budgets.  As a result, funds can used for investing in education.

investing in education

Unless the Federal Government increases educational spending,  the gap between the United States and the rest of the world will only increase.  In the end American productivity and the economy as a whole will suffer.  So, investments from private individuals and companies are real solutions to the issue.  Long sighted individuals realize that an investment in our children is an investment in our future.

Our children deserve the best possible start in life.  We need to allow our children access to a solid education so they can understand the world around them.  Unfortunately, our teachers and schools spend to spend too much time and effort finding creative ways to deliver the curriculum without funding.  We should not have to rely on private investment to save the future for our children.  However, we should at least recognize that it represents a solution to the problem.  Most importantly, we should be investing in education so we can secure our children’s future.

Filed Under: Education Tagged With: , ,

Key Tips For Helping Your Child Get A Good Night’s Sleep

April 6, 2018 by 1 Comment

how to help your child get a good night's sleep

 

Do you may have trouble making your little one hit the hay at night.  Do you know the possible impact of having a poor night’s sleep?  If a child doesn’t get enough sleep, they could get cranky, have poor concentration or behavioral and memory problems throughout the day.

Here are key tips for helping your child get a good night’s sleep.

 

  1. Unplug

Do you know that exposure from blue light emitted on screens can be harmful to your child? It can greatly disrupt sleep because melatonin, the sleep hormone, can drop. Exposure to these screens isn’t advisable for children with developing eyes and brains.  Same as with video games.

In fact, a study published in Pediatrics showed that children who play video games at least an hour before bedtime causes disruption of overall quality of sleep.

 

  1. Check your environment

Next, another culprit as to why your child may not be able to sleep is the environment. Itching, congestion, allergies and overheating are just a few examples. Have your little one tested for allergies if your child is coughing, sneezing or itching.

 

helping children get a good night's sleep

 

  1. Turn the lights off

Unfortunately, most kids are afraid of the dark.  However, complete darkness is one of the healthiest ways to sleep.  In fact, bright lights can disrupt the regulation of hormones, overall sleep quality, and even function of the immune system.

 

  1. Make bedtime extra special

Last, make a predictable bedtime routine for your child that they’ll look forward to. One of the best ways is cuddling them for a bedtime story. This would help them relax and sleep more peacefully.

Finally, maintain healthy sleep habits and be sure to follow these key tips for helping your child get a good night’s sleep and fall asleep fast.  Most importantly, you have to be consistent about these tips so healthy routines can develop.

 

 

About the author:  Sandra Wells believes that one of the best ways to express one’s creative spirit is through experimentation and using one’s imagination, and this creative flair is seen through her works. As a contributor to Betterbed, Sandra Wells brings about the comfort of healthy living and lifestyle through her articles, which she hopes could constantly be a source of inspiration for others. She likes to paint when she has free time off work.

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

Tips on Teaching Teens About Rules

March 28, 2018 by Leave a Comment

So, today I’m sharing parenting tips on teaching teens about rules.  Obeying the law can’t start soon enough for teens.  Parenting teens takes skill and forethought.  Teenagers are complex individuals.  Especially, if you take into account that they are finding their place in the world.  This can lead to all sorts of experiments.  You remember when you were a teen, right?  As a result, you have an idea of the influences your teenagers may be exposed to.  

 

 

teaching teens about rules

 

 

 

Parenting teens requires parents to teach them to understand rules and the law.  Understanding the rules and laws help them understand the freedom and privileges they enjoy.  Teaching teens that they are responsible for their actions can help them be better adults.  However, this can be tricky.  It’s a big responsibility as a mom, but it’s not impossible to achieve. These tips on teaching teens about rules and obeying the law can be just the helping hand you need.

 

Teaching Teens About Rules:

 

Rules and the Law

In an editorial in the Huffington Post, Joel Cohen of Talks On Law emphasized a couple of reasons why educators should start teaching law to children at a young age.  Education is starting to shift to a more digitally inclined environment.  As a result, curriculums are now open to a lot of suggestions and modifications.  Parents should at least make children are aware of how rules and the law work.

 

The Importance of Rules

It’s helpful to remember that teenagers are at a time in their lives where they are experiencing many changes.  Things have piqued their curiosity.  Breaking the law, for some, can be tempting.  It gives them a perspective of how it feels to be “above” what they normally have to follow. So, it’s important to make sure teens understand why there are rules.

  • This is why when teaching teens about laws and rules, you should try not to be imposing.  If possible, make it a dialogue so your teens are free to ask questions.  Additionally, do your best to explain things to them as much as possible.

Try to help your teen to understand that rules are important.  Rules allow everyone to enjoy freedom. If someone abuses the rules, someone else loses a privilege.  Likewise, if someone abuses the rules, your teens can lose the freedom to do something they appreciate too.

 

 

teaching your teens about rules

 

 

 

 

What About Consequences

Perhaps another incentive of teaching rules to teens is to help them understand that breaking them has consequences.  There are punishments because those who are expected to follow the law  should have an equal opportunity to benefit from the perks these laws provide.

  • Explaining how certain rules have certain punishments because there are people that were inconvenienced because others didn’t follow the rules.
  • Use examples to demonstrate how certain rules that are broken at home have punishments such as being grounded.  Be sure that your teen understands that rules like this are in place to benefit them.

 

Teaching By Example

Perhaps another helpful concept when teaching teens about rules and obeying the law is to lead by example. You should be the kind of example that allows your teen to see that you are constantly learning about how to be a better citizen by following rules everyday.

  • This extends not just to following road signs, or being a good motorist, but also at home.  When rules are established, you should follow them as well. You should be able to explain why a certain rule is important.  Let them know that rules aren’t there to punish them.
  • If they have doubts about why they should follow rules, perhaps it can be helpful to openly communicate with law enforcement officials who are in the area. Have your teen talk with law enforcement officials so they can freely ask questions.  Make arrangements with a local police officer so your teen can have a conversation with them.

 

A Basic Understanding of Rules and Consequences

When it comes to rules and laws, it’s more or less hit or miss when teaching teens about rules and obeying the law. After all, the complexities of laws can make it quite difficult for them to understand.  These tips on teaching teens about rules and obeying the law could hopefully give you a better perspective on how to approach the issue.  If you’re looking into the legal implications of the subject, please click here.

 

teaching teens about rules and obeying lawsAbout the author: Thalia Mott

Thalia Mott has had a decade of experience as a law writer, which she hopes to share through her works. She is an avid sports fan and loves watching games if she has free time.

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