Black History Books for Kids – Part II

Today, I’m sharing my recommendations on black history books for kids.  This post continues my selection of books for little known contributors who have had a big impact on our country and around the world.

 

 

Black History Books for Kids

 

We hope that you will add a few of these picks to your homeschool curriculum or reading list for your child.  Again, Black History isn’t really taught in our schools, however, that doesn’t mean that our children can’t learn about African American contributions at home.

 

Black History Books for Kids

 

black history books for kids

 

 

Gordon Parks: Capturing Black and White America–  First, Gordon Parks’ white teacher told her all-black class that they would be porters and waiters. However, Gordon Parks proved her wrong.   He went to become a successful photographer and movie director.  He is known for the photo, American Gothic.  American Gothic is a portrait of a government cleaning woman named Ella Watson.  Parks was also famous for shooting a collection of evening gowns for Vogue. He developed the style of photographing his models in motion rather than poised.  He was also a Hollywood film director.  Ages 4 – 8.

 

 

 

black history month books for kids

 

 

Preaching to the Chickens  – Next, this book is about Civil Rights Leader and Congressman John Lewis. John wants to be a preacher when he grows up.  The family puts John in charge of the flock of chicken on the farm.  Instead of waiting until he grew up, he preached to the chickens.  John Lewis went on the become a civil rights icon, marching with Martin Luther King Jr.  Ages 7 – 10.

 

black history books for kids

 


Hidden Figures – Next, Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, and Christine Darden were good at math.  They were geniuses.  These ladies provided calculations for NASA and America’s first journey into space. They were known as NASA computers.  These ladies broke down barriers and became successful mathematicians at NASA and in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) career field.  Ages 4 – 8.

 

 

 

black history books for kids

 

 

 

A Dance Like Starlight: This book is about the first African-American prima ballerina, Janet Collins. Janet was born in Harlem in the 1950’s.  She dreamed of becoming a ballerina doing pirouettes and grande jetes.  She became the first African American prima ballerina and opened the door for African American girls across the country.  Ages 6 – 9.

 

 

black history books for kids

 

 

Take a Picture of Me James Van Der Zee –  So, James Van Der Zee decided to save his money to buy a camera.  He took pictures of his family, classmates and anyone who would allow him to take their pictures.  By the fifth grade, James became the school photographer and unofficial town photographer.  He eventually moved to New York City where there were more opportunities.  However, his boss told him that nobody would want a photo taken by a black photographer.  James proved him wrong.  He opened his own studio.  He became famous by taking photos of politicians such as Marcus Garvey, performers including Florence Mills, Bill -Bojangles- Robinson, and Mamie Smith.  Ages 7 – 11.

 

 

 

 

My Story, My Dance – Last, Robert Battle, artistic director of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.  Robert wore braces on his legs when he was a child.  With support from his family and teachers, Robert exceled in martial arts and ballet. He was motivated by Alvin Ally’s dance – Revelations.  In 2011, Robert Battle became the Artistic Director of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.  They have performed in seventy-one countries on six continents.  Ages 7 – 10.

 

Finally, we hope that you will expose your child to a few of these facts.  Furthermore, we hope that you add a few black history books for kids to their reading list or homeschool curriculum.  Additionally, you may also like: Black History Books for Kids – Part I.

 

 

5 Suitable Jobs for Teens

As your kid gets older, they are going to want more independence.  Today, we’re sharing parenting tips on finding suitable jobs for teens.  First their homework, then learning to drive, and before long a job.  Just because they are becoming more independent doesn’t mean you can’t help them out. Especially in recommending a job.  Offering a little guidance can make their job search easier.  Furthermore, it can help prepare them for a future career. If you’re unsure of suitable jobs for teens, here are some suggestions.

 

 

 suitable jobs for teens

 

 


Office Assistant

Kids these days have grown up around technology.  As a result, they are quite good with technology. Offices of all sizes are often looking for people who know their way around a computer and the internet.  Office assistants provide help on various tasks around the office, and your child will get a taste of what it’s like to work in that particular industry.  Additionally, if there is something specific your child has an interest in such as law, graphic design or politics try helping them find a job in  this area.


Food Delivery

Food delivery falls into the suitable jobs for teens.  Restaurants all over the country are always looking delivery personnel.  These jobs are usually part-time, or at late hours, making them perfect for teenagers.  Especially, on the weekends or in their free time. Usually all you need is a driver’s license and a reliable car.  Fortunately, your child will not need much experience or expertise to land the job.  Some restaurants post their open driver positions online.  However, your teenager could simply stop by the a restaurant they like and ask for an application.

 

Truck Driver

Maybe your teenager wants to drive, but is looking for something with more career prospects than food deliveries. If so, they might like becoming a truck driver. Truck drivers are an essential part of the US economy.  As a result, they are often compensated well with benefits packages.  Being a truck driver is not easy, but it is a great job if you have the right temperament. Your teenager will likely need some special driving certifications in order to land the job.  However, if they are willing to put in the time, they could have a rewarding career. So go ahead and suggest a trucking job for your teen, and let them thank you later.

 

Lifeguard or Camp Counselor

For many teens, they do not have time to work during the school year.  Instead they opt for a summer  job.  Other  suitable jobs for teens is to become a lifeguard or to work at a summer camp.  Lifeguards are responsible for making sure everyone remains safe at the ocean, local lakes, or community pools.  So, there is a decent amount of training involved, but it’s a great summer job that many young adults love.

The other option is to be a counselor at a kid’s camp. Counselors watch over the kids, plan out activities, and generally assure the kids have a safe and fun environment.  Depending on where you live, there might be some certifications needed in order to become a camp counselor. In addition, your teen should be comfortable being on their feet for long periods of time.  Especially in hot weather.  But, if your kid loves camps or or just loves kids, this is a great option.

 

Tutor

Finally, what better way for your child to put the information they learn at school to use than to pass it down to someone else.  If your teenager is particularly good at a certain subject, tutors are always in demand.  Tutors have some flexibility over their hours.  Most importantly, they can even set their own rates. Your teen can work with students in their local area or sign up for a site like Tutor.com.  Ensure they meet any requirements.  In addition, if your teenager has aspirations of becoming a teacher, being a tutor first looks great on a college application or resume.

 

While your teenager won’t be able to land just any job while they are young and inexperienced, there are still plenty of jobs available to them.  We hope that you have found our tips on suitable jobs for teens helpful. Have them think about the type of work they want to do, the hours they have available, and how much work they are willing to put in in order to get the job. This will help them narrow down their options.  Hopefully, between the two of you, they will be able to find something that is a great fit for them.

 

 

 

Kid’s Online Safety Tips for Parents

Today, I’m sharing parenting tips on kid’s online safety tips for parents. First, learning how to use the internet is an important part of growing up in today’s society. In addition to being a valuable source of knowledge, it’s one of the ways kids build and maintain friendships. Unfortunately, there can be threats.  So, it’s important to keep children safe while they’re online.  

 

 

kids online safety tips

 

 

 

Kid’s Online Safety Tips for Parents:

 

There are two kinds of online problems that can leave parents worrying.  They are inappropriate content and breaches of privacy.  Fortunately, there are a number of fairly simple precautions that you can take against these.


Filtering Online Content

The easiest way to deal with problematic content is through the programs kids use to access content online.  This could mean: 1) using specialized kid-friendly programs  or 2) altering the programs they use with either built-in settings or add-ons.

So,  specialized kid friendly programs is better suited to younger children.  Especially, those who are just starting out with online activities. There are several kid-friendly browsers and search engines that you could use to introduce your kids to the internet.  Some focus on specific age groups; however, finding one to suit your needs shouldn’t be difficult.

Also, if you have older kids consider parental controls or content filters.  They are available on most commonly-used browsers.  Most of them rely on online databases and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to filter inappropriate content.  This includes search engines as well as websites accessed directly.  Both will allow you to manually block or unblock websites according to your preferences.

 

Protecting Online Privacy

There are two kinds of online privacy.  First is privacy in the usual sense, which involves personal information and communication. The second might be called customer privacy.  It deals with how much of a customer’s information and activities a service provider is allowed to access and monitor.  However, each type needs a different sort of response:

Next, guarding personal information online is essential.  A good guideline is that anything you wouldn’t do offline, you shouldn’t do online.  For example, don’t talk to strangers or give away private information.  There are some useful tools available for teaching children how to stay safe online.  Check out Google’s “Be Internet Awesome” project.

In the case of consumer privacy, it’s important to pay attention to privacy settings.  Furthermore, different programs request or require different settings.  Most importantly, if a program is able to access your child’s location, others might be able to as well. This has caused quite a stir in the market for kid’s smartwatches.

Malicious software can infiltrate your devices or monitor your networks to gather information on you.  It’s best to turn to digital security software to avoid this problem. Antivirus programs block most harmful software and can provide other functions as well.

Meanwhile, you can further secure your privacy with a Virtual Private Network (VPN).  VPNs encrypt the communications coming in and out of your network.  Additionally, it prevents other parties from looking into it.  VPNs provide other benefits as well.

Most importantly, these kid’s online safety tips work best when paired with active parental supervision. So, foster an environment of trust with your kids.  Make sure your children know that they can turn to you with any questions about online activity.  Let them know that you will be able to guide them better in their virtual lives if you know who they’re interacting with.

Additionally, know what sites they are accessing on the internet.  The more you know about your kids’ online habits, the better you’ll be able to adjust your security options to match.  We hope that our kid’s online safety tips for parents will be beneficial.

Unique Black History Books for Kids – Part I

Today, I’m sharing parenting tips on black history books for kids. Unfortunately, many of our schools limit black history to Martin Luther King, George Washington Carver and Frederick Douglass. However, there are so many more African Americans who have contributed to our great country.  But, we know little or nothing of them.

 

 

 

 

This post focuses on little known contributors who have had a big impact on our country and around the world. Pick out a few books and add them to your homeschool curriculum or reading list for your child.  Because Black History isn’t really taught in our schools, however, that doesn’t mean that our children can’t learn about contributions at home.

 

Black History Books for Kids:

 

 

black history books for kids 1

 

 

The Youngest Marcher – Additionally, black history books for kids should include the story of 9 year-old Audrey Faye Hendricks.  Audrey was the youngest known child to be arrested for a civil rights protest in Birmingham, Alabama, 1963.  The book explains how Audrey Hendricks stood up to segregation, and how she marched with thousands of fellow students.  It demonstrates that you’re never to young to speak up.  Appropriate for ages 5 – 10.

 

black history books for kids

 

 

 

Ellen’s Broom – This book tells the history of Jumping the Broom.  Slaves were not allowed to marry until slavery was abolished. As a result, couples jumped over a broom together into marriage.  After slaves became free, they were able to go to the court house and register the marriage that took place in their heart.

Ella is the star in the book.  She heads to the court house with her parents, and brings the broom that had hung over the fireplace that symbolized their marriage.  They were free, and could legally register as husband and wife.  Ella wanted to hang on to the tradition, so her parents jumps the broom again.  Appropriate for ages 5 – 8.

 

 

black history books for kids

 

Between the Lines – Ernie Barnes was a child in the segregated South.  Ernie loved art; however, football was his ticket to college.  Ernie was 6-foot-3-inch frame in high school, so a college football coach took steps to recruit him.  Ernie visited museums for the first time when he was in college.  But, he noticed that none of the museums represented black artists.

Although Ernie was successful playing professional football, his true love remained art.  So, after his football career came to an end he approached the American Football League/National Football League about becoming their official artist. Ernie went on to become a renowned artist.  The television show Good Times showed many of Ernie Barnes paintings as J.J.’s.  Additionally, his paintings were shown on  Columbo, The Hughley’s, The Wayans Bros., Wife Swap, and Soul Food.  They were also used in the movies Drumline and Boyz N The Hood.  Appropriate for ages 8 and up.

 

 

recommended black history books

 

 

 

We’ve all heard of Mozart, right?  Than Before There Was Mozart is a must read.  This inspiring story tells how Joseph Boulogne—a black man, the only child of a black slave and her white master, becomes “the most accomplished man in Europe.”  He was a master of the violin and went on to write his own operas.  He played first violin with a Paris orchestra and eventually became the conductor. By 30, he rose to star level , and was the first musician of color to play for royalty and a renowned composer.  Appropriate for ages 6 – 8.

 

recommended black history books

 

 

 

Fancy Party Gowns – Finally, another book that should be added to black history books for kids is the picture book about designer Ann Cole Lowe.  Ann Cole Lowe was a little-known African-American fashion designer.  Although she encountered personal and social problems pursuing her passion, she went on to make beautiful gowns and became one of society’s top designers.  Eventually she designed for the elite.  She created the dress worn by Academy Award winner Olivia de Havilland in 1947 and Jacqueline Bouvier’s wedding to John F. Kennedy in 1953.  Appropriate for ages 4 – 8.

 

We hope that you will expose your child to a few of these facts and add a few black history books for kids to their reading list or homeschool curriculum.   You may also like:  African American Inventions Word Search.

 

 

Kid’s African American Inventions Word Search

Today, I’m sharing a kid’s African American inventions in the form of a word search puzzle.  African American heroes and many others who have made a contribution to the country are celebrated during Black History month too.  We have parenting tips on how you can educate your kids on Black History Month using engaging printables. This African American Inventions printable is the perfect start.  

 

 

african american inventions

 

I think it’s important to shed light on the accomplishments of those who helped build our country.  Unfortunately, many were not recognized for their contributions.  Even now, some people believe that many African American contributions have been diminished.   There’s a debate as to whether or not we should continue Black History Month.

However, I will participate in the celebration as long as it’s being celebrated.  I just like to have a good time regardless.  In my opinion, children should learn about everyone’s contribution to our country.  Most importantly, they should not take things for granted.  Our country is great because of the diverse people who have made a contribution.

Finally, many African Americans have contributed to America’s history.  They invented the cellular phone, door knob, refrigerator, guitar and more.  I believe as parents and grandparents, it is our responsibility to teach our children about American’s history.

african american inventions

As a result, I created this word search on inventions made by African Americans. Its appropriate for ages 8+.  The kids may know the inventions, but they may not know that they were invented by African Americans.  Have them google the invention, so they can become familiar with the inventor.

This printable on African American Inventions is a great way to have a family discussion. If not in your home, than their grandparents home.  Turn it into a fun, educational game.  It’s perfect for a road trip too.  You can download the printable here.

Have fun with the kids.  Also, be sure to check back for additional Black History posts.  You may also want to visit the National Museum of African American History.

You may also like:  African American Inventors 

10 Amazon Prime Holiday Movies for Kids

Today, I’m sharing parenting advice on holiday movies for kids.  The holidays are here!  That means the kids will be home for the next two weeks, and we will need to occupy them.   It doesn’t take long for kids to lose interest and become bored.  If they’re not bored, it’s probably because they’re on an electronic device somewhere.  If you want them to take a break from the electronics, check out these Amazon Prime Holiday Movies for Kids.  They’re perfect for watching on Christmas Eve and anytime during the holiday season.  You can  you watch them on the Kindle, table or PC if you are a prime member.  So, check out our list:

 

 

Amazon Prime Holiday Movies

 

The holidays are here!  That means the kids will be home for the next two weeks, and we will need to occupy them.   It doesn’t take long for kids to lose interest and become bored.  If they’re not bored, it’s probably because they’re on an electronic device somewhere.  If you want them to take a break from the electronics, check out these Amazon Prime Holiday Movies for Kids.  They’re perfect for watching on Christmas Eve and anytime during the holiday season.  You can  you watch them on the Kindle, table or PC if you are a prime member.

 

Holiday Movies for Kids:

 

All I Want for Christmas Is You – First, this all-new movie features Mariah Carey’s music and narration in a story about little Mariah’s Christmas wish for a puppy.

If You Give a Mouse a Christmas Cookie – If it’s holiday time in Mouse’s house then, that means Christmas cookies (including a special one for Santa, of course), caroling…and one nearly-destroyed holiday pageant.  Can they save the holiday pageant?

The Elf on the Shelf Presents:  An Elf’s Story – Add this one to your list of holiday movies for kids.  Chippey is assigned by Santa to restore Taylor McTuttle’s belief in Christmas magic.  Can he restore Chippey’s belief as Santa asked him to do?

The Snowy Day – Furthermore, Peter goes on a magical, snowy walk to his Nana’s house to bring home their Christmas Eve dinner.  What will he encounter on his magic walk?

A Christmas Tree Miracle –  Next, a family learns that miracles do come true if you only believe! A holiday movie for the whole family.

Christmas in New York – Ari has vague memories of a decorated tree and the gifts exchanged on one particular day of the year. A wise owl reveals to Ari and his friends that it is all about Christmas!

Click, Clack, Moo:  The Farm Christmas  – Additionally, it’s Christmas time and the farm animals have a problem: how to buy Farmer Brown the present of his dreams – a Tumbletron 300 clothes dryer.  How will the solve the problem?

Operation Christmas List – 12-year-old Barney has got a plan to beat the Christmas rush and buy the entire stock of the most sought after gift, Crabby Mousie doll!  Barney and his friends sneak into the mall afterhours, but things don’t go as planned.

A Country Christmas – Last, Santa loses his magical powers and becomes stranded in a barn.  Two children from the  farming community help him save Christmas.

The Cabbage Patch Kids First Christmas – Last, the Cabbage Patch Kids leave their patch to search for the Christmas spirit.

Finally, we hope that you enjoyed our list of holiday movies for kids and will select a few for movie night in your home.  You may also like:  30+ Rich and Delicious Hot Chocolate Recipes and 21 Christmas Movies recommended by Cosmopolitan.

 

 

7 Christmas Items You Can Recycle

The holidays are upon us.  Today, I’m sharing tips on Christmas items you can recycle.  There’s food, music, carols, lights, Santa and reindeer. We spend hours trimming the tree, wrapping gifts, and preparing to entertain family and friends. Also, we spend days reading Christmas cards from family and friends and finding the perfect spot to display them.

Finally, Christmas day arrives! We find a mountain of ripped gift wrap and bows in the middle of the floor. The kitchen is filled with empty wine bottles and corks from the gathering, and you realize that you purchased too many candy canes for the kids. Not to worry, don’t throw any of it away. There’s tons of ideas to recycle all of it.

 

 

Christmas Items You Can Recycle

 

Check out our tips on Christmas Items You Can Recycle:

Christmas Cards – First, Christmas cards have beautiful scenery on them.  You can recycle and use them as gift tags, frame them for a vignette, or donate them to your local school.

Candy Canes –   Next, candy canes can be used as stirrers for hot chocolate.  Kids love them.  Also, they can be pulverized and used in sugar scrubs or cookies and brownie recipes.

Wrapping Paper –  So, piles of wrapping paper are sitting in your living room. A 33 gallon garbage bag should be big enough to hold it.  But, don’t throw it away.  Wrapping paper can used for crafts, book covers, scrapbooking, shreds, puzzles for kids and more.  Save the best pieces and get creative.

Wine Bottles and Corks – Paint the wine bottles and use them as vases or for seasonal messages on mantel.  Joy or Peace can painted on them for Christmas or BOO for Halloween.  The wine bottles are perfect for ring toss games.  Additionally, turn corks into wreaths, ornaments or other crafts.

Christmas Gift Bows and Ribbon – Furthermore, turn Christmas bows into wreaths or use them on next year’s gifts.  Save only those that are in good condition.

Cardboard Shipping Boxes –  Cardboard boxes make great craft material.

Gift Wrap Tubes – Last, these make tubes are sturdy and make great bases for kid’s crafts.

Finally, I hope that you will find Christmas items you can recycle.  So, if you’re a crafter put your creativity hat on and get to work next season.  You have plenty of time to find projects, and be sure to involve the kids!  You may also like: 7 Christmas Morning Tips You Need.

 

First Grade Christmas Activities Pack

Today, I’m sharing parenting tips on First Grade Christmas Activities for kids.  The holidays are around the corner, and the kids will be out of school soon.  Holiday movies, hot chocolate and movie night around the fireplace with the family will begin.  So, we’ve created a few printables to help keep the kids busy during their time off.  

 

 

 

first grade christmas activities

This time of year my granddaughter is excited and waiting for Santa to arrive.  However, I still want her to continue to learn and have fun with her education.  So, we created a Christmas activities pack that includes math, addition and subtraction, matching, spelling and word search and more.  We’ve included a few coloring activities too.  Who doesn’t love to color.  You can download the Christmas activities pack here.

 

 

Christmas activities for kids

 

 

So, our Christmas activities pack includes a word search that includes Christmas items.  Your child can search for words like sled, Santa and cookies.  Furthermore, we have also created an addition math sheet that encourages children to strengthen their math skills.  There’s also a math sheet that encourages your child to practice their subtraction skills.  Now that the serious work is over, let them color the Christmas tree and snowman.

 

 

Christmas activities for kids

 

 

We can’t leave out the importance of spelling out of our first grade Christmas activities.  Your first grader will practice spelling words like elf, present and cookies.  There’s also a matching activity.  For this particular activity pack, we also included pattern recognition activities.

 

Christmas Activities

 

 

Be sure to subscribe so you can receive other educational printables for kids. You may also 24 Winter Books for Kids. Reading is a fun and educational way to keep all of your children occupied this winter.  Our reading list is diverse.  We’re sure you can find something for all age groups.  Additionally, you may also like 30+ Hot Chocolate Recipes.   Our list include a crockpot recipe, polar bear, vampire and more.

30 Holiday Gift Ideas for College Students

The holidays are the most wonderful time of the year.  It’s the time of year that families gather for fellowship and great food.  This includes your child who’s away at college.  You’re excited that you will be able to spend time with your entire family.  So far, everyone has given you their Christmas wish list.  Except the college student.  Unfortunately, thinking about anything except finals is more than their brain can handle.  So, today I’m offering parenting tips on gift ideas for college students.

 

 

gift ideas for college students

 

Most of the items I sent to my own daughter throughout her four years of higher education.  All were appreciated:

 

  1. Gift/Gas Cards – All college students can use a gas and a special gift.  So, gift cards make a perfect gift.
  2. Snack Items/Cookies/Drinks – Next, chips, cookies, energy drinks and bars are always welcome.
  3. Instant Soup/Cans of Tuna/Chicken – Cans of tuna and chicken are great ways for protein.   Instant soups are perfect for a quick meal on a cold day too.
  4. Plates/Forks/Spoons/Bowls/Microwavable Dishes – These items will come in handy when ordering pizza, making sandwiches or eating salads in the dorm room.
  5. Paper Towels/Napkins – No matter where they are, there will be spills.  College student or not, they still need to wipe their mouth and hands.
  6. Keurig/Coffee/Coffee Mug/Tea/Honey – My daughter wasn’t a coffee drinker, but she loves honey and tea. The Keurig was perfect for making individual cups.
  7. Highlighters/Mechanical Pens/Notebooks/Folders – These items come in handy.  Eventually, highlighters dry up or get lost.  Also, folders bend and notebooks get used. Each semester brings a new need.
  8. Wrinkle Releaser/Febreze – Wrinkle releaser is perfect for those mornings when you don’t have time to iron.  Your college student will appreciate both.  Especially, Febreze on those days when they want to wear those jeans one more day before washing them.
  9. Tooth Paste/Floss/Waterpik/Mouth Wash – Taking care of your teeth is important at home and school.
  10. Shampoo/Conditioner/Flat Iron/Curling Iron/Detangle Comb – Students still like to look good.
  11. Body Lotion/Razors/Shaving Cream – Keeping the skin hydrated and smooth is still important.
  12. Loofah/Spa Items/Body Wash – To a college student, these are luxury items.  So, be generous.
  13. Bath Tissue/Air Fresher/Disinfectant – Next, having individual items can be heaven sent.  There’s no arguments about who used the last roll or emptied the last can of spray.
  14. Printer Cartridges/Compressed Air to Clean Keyboard – When your taking care of business, printer cartridges and computer cleaning products are always needed.
  15. First Aid Kit – Unfortunately, accidents happen.  It could be a cut, scrape, or burn.  Being prepared is important.
  16. Rolls of Quarters/Detergent/Dryer Sheets/Laundry Basket – Doing laundry doesn’t end because you’re in college.  Washer and dryers take quarters.  And, clothes can’t be cleaned with detergent and dryer sheets.
  17. Bed Sheets/Comforter/Pillows – Having a nice, clean bed is essential in getting a good night’s sleep.  This applies to dorms or apartments as well as home.  So, fresh sheets, a plum comforter, and heathy pillows are essential.
  18. Towels/Washcloths –  Towels and washcloths are essential items for a college student.
  19. Picture Frames and Photo Albums –  Making memories in college is important. I remember my daughter wanting special frames to house her dance team photos.  Additionally, specials nights out with friends, and with the love of life who is now her husband.
  20. Subscription to Netflix, Hulu etc. –  Cable in college is a luxury.  However, subscriptions to Netflix or Hulu is a perfect gift.
  21. Footbath/Nail Polish/File/Clippers/Manicure Items – I remember my daughter and her roommates giving each other manicures and pedicures.  They enjoyed painting each other nails and experimenting with makeup.
  22. Shower Caddy/Shower Cap –  Holiday gift ideas for college students should include shower storage items. A means to store shampoo, conditioner and body wash is important.
  23. Diffuser/Oils –  I replaced burning candles with essential oils, and I love them.  They’re great for relaxing, keeping calm and staying centered.
  24. Duct Tape/Screw Driver/Pliers/Wrench –  Although we may not want to think about things coming apart, they do.  Throw in some nails, picture hangers and screws too.  These are holiday gift ideas for college students that they won’t think of.
  25. Charging Station –  Charging Stations are great for charging a phone, tablet, Kindle or other items in one place.
  26. Fire Stick/Smart TV/Printing/Media Streaming Device –  All are great for the college student on a budget.
  27. Bed Pillow  – Great for Support while watching TV or Studying.
  28. Storage Crates – Great for  storing movies, papers or using as a table.
  29. Ironing Board/Iron – Purchasing an ironing board that can be used on a bed or table is a good idea.
  30. DSR Camera – Capturing memories throughout college years is important.  It only happens once, so encourage your son or daughter to capture as many memories as possible.

Finally, we hope you found our list of holiday gift ideas for college students helpful. Pick a few items from the list, and I guarantee your college student will be happy.  These items make great care packages throughout the year too. You may also like How to Decorate a Dorm Room On a Budget.

 

 

How to Decorate a Dorm Room On a Budget

 

how to decorate a dorm room

 

Student life is anything but easy.  Making new friends, checking things off your bucket list and living like there’s no tomorrow.  College life brings all this and much more.  However, it also brings financial difficulties. You are expected to survive on the allowance that you get from home.  As a result, you cannot afford everything that you desire.

We have several solutions when it comes to creating a comfortable living space.  So, it is not essential for you to ask for more money than you already get.  What matters is how you manage the resources that you currently have. You can adopt several money-saving techniques to ensure that your funds do not run dry.

One of the easiest ways to save money is to look for cheap student accommodations. Instead of living in an apartments, you could choose to live in homestays or shared dorms.  You would be able to split the rent and if lucky, even cover your meals in the rent amount.

Another important tip is to look for DIYs instead of purchasing everything retail.  For instance, instead of purchasing retail explore DIY options.  Check out our tips on how to decorate a dorm room on a budget:

1.     Thrift shopping

Scan through thrift shops or flea markets for out of the box household items like antique candle holders, scented dried flowers, hand carved bowls and even rugs. These items will not only be unique but will also come at a very reasonable price as compared to regular showrooms.

 

Thrift Store Ideas

Source

2.     Use Old Records

Get hold of some junky, old records from the flea markets and hang them on the wall. You could hang them all in a single line or create patterns. You could also add an extra edge to them by adding color or painting them. If you are a music lover looking to add a vintage touch to your room, this could be an excellent idea.

3.     Use Photo Collages

The idea of decorating your dorm room with photo collages can never go wrong. It adds a personal touch to your room, and helps you feel connected with your loved ones. Get a few pictures printed and simply tape them to your walls to create a collage.  Also, if you want to be more creative, use lights to create your own little space of happy memories.  You could even get personalized messages from friends and stick them adjacent to their respective photographs. Just looking at these pictures could help you de-stress after a long day at school.

4.     Hang a Tapestry

A tapestry prevents your room from looking dull as it occupies a lot of space. It often becomes the center of attraction. You could look for cheap options in a thrift shop or even create your own tapestry. So, what are you waiting for? Get your creative hat on and create a beautiful piece to hang in your room.

5.     Use Wrapping Paper

How to decorate a dorm room with wrapping paper you wonder?  First, know that wrapping paper is multipurpose. Choose to cover one of the walls of your room with wrapping paper to spice it up a little.  You could even create decorative items using wrapping paper. Use wrapping sheets to create photo-frames, DIY wall décor and lots more.

6.     Hang Maps

Maps can be bought from any stationery shop at extremely affordable prices.  When you’re thinking about how to decorate a dorm room, think about using maps.  They can help in decorating your room with minimum effort. Especially if you are a traveler or a geography-enthusiast, this idea should work wonderfully well for you. Just choose one wall in your dorm room to paste maps of different parts of the world on. You may use dart pins to point out places to visit on your bucket list. You may even hang pictures from trips made to places previously to show how much you have already travelled. Check out these cool DIY Map décor ideas.

7.     Canopy Bed

If you wish to add a majestic feel to your dorm room, a canopy bed can really up the game for you. Do not worry; we do not expect you to do away with your old bed for this. You could make a canopy for your old bed. We’ll tell you how. Go to a place that sells sheer fabric, you could choose the pattern as per your liking. Make sure it is wide enough to wrap around the perimeter of the bed. Stick the fabric to the ceiling such that it hangs down beautifully into a half canopy. You could even use 4 hooks and tie a string to connect them all. Then add the fabric to all four corners and Voila! You’re set. If you are in the mood to experiment even more, add fairy lights to create a magical appeal.

8.     Use Bright Bedding

One thing that can truly add color and flavor to your dorm room is a bright piece of bedding. Get your hands on unique yet affordable pillow cases. Use bed sheets that are vibrant and go well with the walls of your room. If you have a roommate, you could coordinate the beddings so as to help the dorm look bright and cheerful.

Finally, we hope that you find our tips on how to decorate a dorm room helpful.  Have searching for thrift ideas and be creative.

Author Bio:  Bella Williams

As an academic researcher & private tutor, Bella guides the new age professionals and students with their career. A graduate from Monash University, Bella organizes free coaching workshops and promotes free sharing of knowledge. You can also find her on LinkedIn. https://iambaker.net/sugar-cookie-christmas-wreath/