Dealing With Parental Overstimulation: The 2 Key Techniques

 

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There are times when we just feel like our nerves are incredibly frayed. Having kids can be incredibly humbling, but it can also make us feel like we've taken on one task too many. Some kids can be forces of nature, and this means that we can struggle to unwind if they're pushing our buttons or they're not sleeping as much as they should and when they are awake, they are a whirling dervish that is a combination of Jack Black, Jim Carrey, and Sonic the Hedgehog rolled into one! So when we feel like this, what can we do to reduce that overstimulation and feelings of being frazzled?

Incorporate Well-being Into Your Life

If you are feeling overwhelmed and you're already doing what you can to relax, the solution is very simple: increase your well-being practices. Lots of people can go down the legalized medicinal route and buy Delta 8 products, but this isn't for everybody. If you are feeling like you're overstimulated or you are a bit worn out, you need to find the right relaxation tactics for you. 

We also need to remember that these things don't work overnight; we have to practice them. If you feel like it takes a long time to calm down long after your children have been battling with you at bedtime rather than going straight to sleep, find something that you can do within a quick 10-minute time slot. There are tools like heart rate coherence breathing, which very simply is about breathing in and out through your nose for 5.5 seconds, as well as learning to reduce your reactions to stress by stimulating the vagus nerve, which you can do through a number of different practices.

Find Quiet

This is very difficult to achieve when you have noisy children, but while you might not be able to seek quiet right away, there are little solutions that may be necessary at that moment. Earplugs may very well be the best solution for you at that time because it can reduce the noise levels. Of course, it's also essential to set a routine that involves quiet time. 

If there are siblings involved, one of the rules of quiet time is to be by themselves. Lots of parents don't like the idea of leaving children by themselves for a long period of time, but it's important to be age-appropriate here, especially if kids are more likely to argue. If your kids can go to their room or around the back garden for 20 minutes of quiet time, this can give you the opportunity to regain some sense of sanity.

When we struggle to find time to unwind, it's easy to feel overstimulated and frazzled. In addition to these, we should work at reducing overwhelming stimuli where possible, for example, by reducing our screen time and creating environments with fewer sensations, while also setting boundaries. By implementing some of these strategies, we can manage the impact of overstimulation on our daily lives as parents.

How To Foster A Culture Of Gratitude And Generosity In Your Family

 

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Many people go through life believing they are lacking something, whether it’s time, money, fun, or something else. However, these views usually start in childhood. People don’t automatically feel a sense of lack in their lives. It’s something that starts from an early age. 

Because of this, parents have an out-sized effect on how their children turn out. They are often the arbiters of whether they are generous and grateful people, or greedy and miserly. 

Most parents would prefer their children to be on the giving, rather than receiving, end of the spectrum but don’t know how to get there. Fortunately, this post can help. We share knowledge about how spiritual development can help to foster a culture of gratitude and generosity in your family and continues even as your kids grow up. 

Change Your Habits

The first place to start is with your personal habits. If you’re miserly, your children will copy that. 

The trick is to express generosity and gratitude in ways your children can see. Help people and less fortunate creatures in trouble, and your kids will follow your ways. 

Spend more time giving your time, money, and skill. Be a role model in your family, providing an example of how people should behave. 

Make It Stick

Once you change your behavior, the next step is to make it stick. When raising kids, displays of generosity shouldn’t be one-time events. Instead, they are things you should do daily to improve your life. 

Unlike generosity, gratitude is free. You can practice it all day, every day, without it interfering with your ability to make money or enjoy hobbies. 

Gratitude is powerful because it switches how your brain works. It’s hard to feel angry, depressed, or jealous when you feel grateful. 

Cultivate Compassion

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Another way to foster a culture of gratitude and generosity in the family is to cultivate compassion. Reading stories from sites like www.biblestorybooks.com or creating your own can help explain what empathy means to children in ways they understand. 

Archetypal role models in religious texts can help because they explain the virtues of compassion in various ways. Children often find it easier to internalize these than more abstract conversations. 

Volunteer Together

Another thing you can try is volunteering together. Spending time helping others as a family is a way to practically demonstrate your philosophy in action. If parents are giving people, children are much more likely to become those types of individuals themselves. 

Be Mindful Of Achievements

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Lastly, it’s worth being mindful of achievements, according to www.abctherapyclinics.com. When a family member completes something, like a driving test or an exam, throw a party. Create an atmosphere where everyone can be grateful for what’s happened. 

In our modern culture, we can sometimes get into the habit of dismissing achievements and immediately focusing on the next goal. However, that can suck the joy out of the process and make people feel less grateful. Taking time to reflect on achievements and celebrating them improves your kids’ enjoyment of their lives and reminds them that there’s always time to have fun. 

7 Practical Ways To Keep Your Teenager Healthy

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Raising a teenager can be fulfilling, with lots of precious memories. However, it’s not an easy feat. While thinking about various aspects of their lives, their health is most likely part of the top things on your list as a parent. Though your child may look healthy, it is critical to instill healthy habits that will stay with them throughout their life. These habits will keep them mentally, emotionally, behaviorally, and physically healthy. According to research, 75% of teens do not get the recommended daily exercise needed to maintain physical health. If you have been looking for practical ways to help your teen stay healthy, here are some tips worth exploring. 

1. Focus on mental health 

A healthy mind produces a healthy body. When your teenager is mentally happy, they feel happier and eager to engage in physical activities. They are also likely to have strong and loving relationships. That is why it is essential to inspire them to share their feelings by creating a safe environment. You can make time to ask them about their day. When there is conflict, acknowledge and understand their emotions and find healthy ways to resolve the issue. Paying attention to them will help you identify any mental health issues, so you can take them to a professional as soon as possible. 

Professional help can help them overcome these challenges before they develop into adulthood. The good thing is that there are lots of options to choose from. For instance, you can book an appointment with a psychologist, school counselor, occupational therapist, social worker, or psychiatrist. If your teen has trepidations about one-on-one meetings with these professionals, online teen counseling programs also exist. However, it doesn’t end here; several schools that cater to teen’s academic prowess and mental wellness are springing up. For instance, you can evaluate Eva Carlston reviews if you need an academic institution for your teenage girl with anxiety. 

2. Urge them to be active 

An active lifestyle is crucial for a healthy and quality life. It is common for teens to spend their time playing video games or texting their friends. A sedentary lifestyle can cause health problems like cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and sleep issues. To motivate your teenager to be physically active, you must lead by example. Watching you maintain a routine will encourage them to exercise, and inviting them to join you will be easier. You can also encourage them to join sports teams in school so they can find new friends. If your teen is still reluctant to stay fit, you can make things fun through activities like family dance-offs, hiking trips, and swimming. 

3. Maintain a balanced diet 

Your teenager's body is going through major changes. Besides an increased appetite, their bodies require sufficient nutrients too. Healthy eating habits will help ensure they get the necessary nutrients and avoid diseases. Encourage your teen to cut down on junk food, carbonated drinks, and caffeine. Include fruits and vegetables in their diet. For teenage girls who have started menstruation, consuming whole grain cereals and green leafy vegetables will provide their bodies with iron.

4. Educate them on the effects of bad habits 

It's no secret that teenagers can be curious and experimental. They can be easily influenced by peer pressure to pick up habits like smoking, drinking alcohol, and unsafe sexual practices. Teen vaping is prevalent, and while it may seem less dangerous, it also contains nicotine, which can be harmful. Please help your child understand that habits like smoking can cause lung disease and guide them to develop strategies to avoid temptation. Warn them about the dangers of alcohol and drunk driving if they are of legal age. You can also find out if they are sexually active. Give them adequate education and ask them to use protection if they are. 

5. Ensure timely medical check-ups 

Yearly or monthly medical check-ups with the best pediatricians ensure your child's long-term health. If there is a history of medical conditions in your family, a checkup or screening test will help you to put preventive measures in place or detect any health issues early. You can also take an opportunity to update immunizations. Vaccinations like the flu shot, HPV vaccines, and MMR vaccines protect your child when they are in public. If you skipped any of their childhood vaccinations, you could still get them, but seek medical advice first. 

6. Encourage good sleep habits 

Teens need a lot of sleep to help develop their brains and grow well. According to scientific research, you need eight to ten hours of sleep to stay healthy. Inadequate sleep, or the lack of it, can lead to learning problems, depression, or irritability. Encourage your child to get more rest after a long day at school. Let them know that caffeine is bad for their sleeping cycle and ask them to limit screen time before bed. You can also help them transform their bedroom into an oasis so they can feel relaxed whenever they are in there. 

7. Motivate them to have a social life 

Many young adults yearn to belong to a group during their teenage years. This could be the cool clique at school or a popular club. However, you must encourage them to develop the right relationships. Socially active teenagers enjoy mental and emotional health. 

5 Reasons Getting Your Child A Dog Is Good For Development

It's no secret that dogs have been man's best friend for centuries. They provide us with companionship, love, and security. But did you know that dogs can also positively impact your child's development? Here are five reasons why getting your child a dog is good for their development.

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1. Dogs Help Teach Responsibility

One of the most important things you can teach your child is responsibility. And what better way to teach responsibility than by getting them a furry friend that depends on them for food, water, and exercise? Caring for a dog will help your child learn how to be responsible for another living creature. This important lesson will stay with them for the rest of their lives.

2. Dogs Help Promote Exercise & Healthy Habits

Another great reason to get your child a dog is that it will help promote exercise and healthy habits. A dog needs regular exercise, so your child will need to get up and move too. Taking the dog for regular walks or runs is a great way for your child to get some exercise while bonding with their furry friend. And, as an added bonus, it's a great way to get the whole family moving and active!

3. Dogs Help Kids Develop Compassion & Empathy

Kids who grow up with dogs tend to be more compassionate and empathetic than those who don't. This is because dogs provide us with unconditional love and acceptance, which helps teach kids how to love and accept others, even when they're not perfect. This is an important lesson that will help your child as they navigate through life's ups and downs.

4. Dogs Can Help Reduce Stress & Anxiety Levels

Dogs can help reduce stress and anxiety levels in kids, especially during times of transition, such as starting school or moving to a new house. In addition, dogs can provide a sense of security and safety, which can be especially helpful for kids who suffer from anxiety or nightmares. Allowing your child the honor of working with a dog can help your child overcome any fears or anxieties they may have.

5. Dogs Can Help Kids Develop Social Skills

Another great benefit of having a dog is that it can help kids develop social skills. Dogs are natural icebreakers and can help kids feel more comfortable in social situations. In addition, they provide a way for kids to connect with others, which can be invaluable during those awkward pre-teen and teenage years. For example, owning a dog like the Ausmate Australian Cobberdogs will help your child to develop social skills and confidence, as they will need to take their dog out in public and interact with other dog owners.

Dogs make great additions to any family, but they're especially beneficial for families with children. If you're on the fence about whether or not to get your child a dog, hopefully, this article has given you some food for thought. So if you're looking for a furry friend who will love your child unconditionally and help them grow into a happy and successful adult, look no further than man's best friend – the dog!

Can You Give Kids A Wonderful Childhood?

Can you give kids a wonderful childhood? It’s extremely difficult to balance between friend and parent, but at the end of the day you have got to be their parent first and foremost. However, this does not mean that you need to curse them out or make them feel bad when things go wrong. There are certain things that kids need from adults and parents, and we’re going to be looking at them in this article. Keep reading down below if you would like to find out more.

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Love And Affection

Of course, all children need love and affection. These are things that should not be denied to any child, no matter the circumstances. If you do this, you’re going to end up with kids who are emotionally unstable, have no idea how to handle their emotions and feel as though withholding love and affection is how we deal with problems. Instead, you need to be able to tell your child when they are wrong, give them a solution and make sure that they know no matter how mad you are right now, you will always love them unconditionally.

There are studies that say that children that grow up without affection such as hugs grow up to be adults who are unable to give affection themselves, and often end up very angry.

Understanding And Compassion

Another thing that we’re going to be looking at is understanding and compassion. All children need the adults in their life to be understanding at times. It’s not always easy, and there are times where you’re likely not going to understand where your child is coming from in the slightest. Even when this happens, you need to be there and say that even though you don’t understand it personally, you understand that it is causing them to feel a certain way and find out if there is anything that you can do to help. 

Giving compassion where you could give anger shows that child that no matter what, there is always another side to a story and compassion goes a long way to helping.

Even Those Who Aren’t Yours

Even if someone is not your biological child, that does not mean that you cannot contribute towards them having a wonderful childhood. For example, it could be your kids' friends, or you could be fostering a child for a short time. If you’re not sure what this is, you can look up what is foster care online and get the answers you need. Our point is that even in that short time, you can make a whole load of difference if you offer them the same compassion, understanding, and love that you offer your children.

We hope that you have found this article helpful, and now see some of the things that you can do in order to give kids a wonderful childhood. Every single child out there deserves unconditional love and care, so if you can make this difference in even one child’s world, that is going to be more than enough. 

Fun Activities for Grandparents and Grandchildren

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There are many advantages to your children having a great relationship with their extended family. In particular, their grandparents. This relationship can help the children to feel safe and loved, increase their experience of the world around them, and help them to learn more from their grandparents own experiences and opinions. It can also help the grandparents to feel like they matter and to live a longer and happier life. Spending time with their grandkids could even help to prevent long term health conditions and keep them active and healthy for a lot longer.

While there are obvious benefits, grandparents often struggle for ideas of what they can do with their grandchildren. We all know how hard it is to keep up with children’s interests and fashions after all! Here are some great ideas of things grandparents and grandchild could do during their precious time together. 

Baking

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Who bakes better than granny? Cooking with kids is an enormously enjoyable experience, and grandparents have generally got more patience for the mess than parents, seen as they get to send them home at the end of it! Baking is a fun, cheap and safe indoor activity. Perfect for a rainy day at grandma’s. Check out Pinterest for some great ideas on baking with kids. 

Dancing

Dancing is a wonderful way of highlighting, and bridging, the generation gap! Get the kids and grandparents to show off their moves. They might even teach each other a thing or two. 

Crafts

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There are tons of crafts kids can have a go at with their grandparents. They could even spend the time making some cool gifts to take home to mummy and daddy. If at some point the grandparents struggle to get out and have Live in Care Services to help, this would be a great option. Some great ideas include:

• Papier Mache
• Sewing
• Knitting
• Scrapbooking
• Photo frame making
• Colleges

The messier, the better!

Build a Family Tree

Who better to help the kids research their family and plot a family tree? Kids love finding out about their relatives and what they got up to, and it can be an excellent way to teach them more about history and the world around them. 

Play Video Games

Playing video games with grandparents can be hilarious, especially if they haven’t done it much in the past. Let the kids introduce all their favorites and find fun games that everyone can enjoy together. You never know, grandparents might surprise you all.

Go to the Library

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Going to the library with the kids is something we should all do. It’s a wonderful way of introducing them to new books and authors and getting them excited about reading. But, many of us don’t have time to do it as often as we would like to. Going to the library with nanny and grandad could become a weekly event, something they do together. 

Having a large, loving family is great for everyone and the older generation have so much to offer our kids, it’s important that we give them the chance. Encourage them to spend as much time having fun together as possible.

Garden Toys 

Finally, if you are looking for some wonderful things that your children and their grandparents can do together then invest in some cool garden equipment. Getting the children out of the house and away from television and technology is the best thing you can do for them. It isn’t healthy to be cooped up indoors all day. If there is nothing for them to play with in the garden then the grandparents will have a hard time keeping them engaged. All it could take is a simple ball to kick around or play catch with. You can go one step further with this and get the kids a goal if they enjoy football. If you have children with a vivid imagination then you could get them a playhouse. If you are wondering which playhouse to buy then there are some helpful guides online. You can put books and cushions in your child's playhouse so they have somewhere to escape the heat in the garden. 

How to Mentally Prepare for Having a Baby

When you are planning to have a baby, there is so much to think about. But one of the most important things to consider is how you will mentally prepare for becoming a parent. It can be a huge change, and it's important that you take the time to get ready for it. This blog post will discuss some tips on how to mentally prepare yourself for starting a family and also talk about some of the challenges that you may face and how to overcome them. So if you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant soon, make sure to read this post!

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1) Talk to other parents

One of the best ways to mentally prepare for starting a family is to talk to other parents. They can give you advice and tell you what to expect. You can also ask them about the challenges they faced and how they overcame them. This will help you feel more prepared and less alone.

If you don't have any friends or family who are parents, there are plenty of online forums where you can chat with other parents-to-be. Just remember, every parent's experience is different, so take everything with a grain of salt! Another great resource is your OB/GYN or midwife. They've seen it all and can answer any questions you have about pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting.

2) Do your research

In addition to talking to other parents, it's also essential that you do your own research. Read books, articles, and blog posts about pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting. This will help you understand what to expect and give you a better idea of what you're getting yourself into. It's also essential to learn about the different challenges that you may face as a parent so that you can be prepared for them. And don't forget to talk to your partner! They need to be on the same page as you when it comes to starting a family.

3) Make a plan

Once you've done your research and talked to other parents, it's time to make a plan. This should include everything from how you're going to financially support your family to how you're going to balance work and parenting. It's also important to think about the kind of parent you want to be and what values you want to instill in your children. Making a plan will help you feel more prepared and less overwhelmed when starting a family. You could also look into IUDs affect on fertility when considering starting a family soon.

Of course, even with all the planning in the world, things can still go wrong. So it's important to be flexible and remember that there is no such thing as a perfect parent or a perfect family. So just do your best and enjoy this special time in your life!

4) Seek professional help

If you're feeling really anxious or stressed about starting a family, it's important to seek professional help. There are many resources available to help you, including therapy, support groups, and hotlines. Also, don't be afraid to reach out for help if you need it.

Having a baby is a big change, but it can also be an amazing and rewarding experience. By taking the time to prepare for it mentally, you can set yourself up for success. So talk to other parents, do your research, make a plan, and seek professional help if needed. And enjoy this special time in your life!

What Does It Take to Win in Hollywood? These Child Stars Prove Their Mettle

You’d think that the life of a child actor is all glitz and glamour. It is a lot of hard work, especially on the child’s part. Between work and all their other responsibilities as a normal growing child, it can be too much even for a grown-up to take on. 

On top of their work, these kids need to make sure they’re performing well in school (most of them either have private tutors or are home schooled). They also need to make sure they take good care of their health and appearance. Many of them developed their careers into adulthood, which meant a life full of trainers, teachers and frequent visits to a doctor. Most of these regular trips are mainly for maintenance and checkups, such as checking in with a dentist in their area to ensure they would still have a smile worthy of a Hollywood star when they grow up.

And growing up in the limelight is tough! But this is what makes these kids all the more adorable and lovable because you realize they are extraordinary people that come in small packages. Here are some of child actors who succeeded despite living in the limelight.

1. Shirley Temple

Famous for: The Little Princess; Bright Eyes

America’s biggest little star, the dimpled pretty little girl, Shirley Temple, started her career in 1932 at the very young age of three. She starred in a slew of box office hits between 1934 and 1938 as America’s most popular and most famous child star.

She was a legitimate triple threat who can act, sing, and dance really well. This endeared her to American audiences and won their hearts over and over as she took on different roles throughout her career as a child star.

2. Dakota Fanning

Famous for: I am Sam

Hannah Dakota Fanning is an American actress and model whose performance in the movie I am Sam earned her recognition as one of Hollywood’s brightest young stars of her time. She was nominated for a Screen Actors Guild Award for her part, and being only eight years old at that time, it was no mean feat. This makes her the youngest nominee for the award to date.

3. Macaulay Culkin

Famous for: Home Alone 1 and 2

Perhaps one of the most unexpected child stars to break out in the 80s was Macaulay Culkin, who was famous for his uncannily natural and endearingly hilarious portrayal of Kevin McCallister in the first two Home Alone movies. He went on to do a few more movies but none come close to the success of his initial outing.

4. Emma Watson

Famous for: Harry Potter movie series

Paris-born British actress Emma Charlotte Duerre Watson stole our hearts as Hermione Granger in the hit Harry Potter movie series. She has proven to be an exceptional actress who can hold her own as a female lead, most notably in Disney’s live adaptation of Beauty and the Beast.

5. Daniel Radcliffe

Famous for: Harry Potter movie series

Just like Emma Watson, Daniel Radcliffe broke into the scene as the titular character in the Harry Potter series of movies. He owned and became Harry Potter that he became one of those actors who will forever be irreplaceable in the eyes and hearts of fans worldwide.

6. Drew Barrymore

Famous for: E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial

Way before she became the queen of romantic comedies, Drew Barrymore made us giggle with delight in one of her biggest roles ever as Gertie in 1982’s sci-fi movie E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial. She has since made a stellar Hollywood career and carved a name for herself as a legitimate movie star.

7. Gary Coleman

Famous for: Different Strokes

From the ‘70s to the mid-’80s, perhaps no other child star was as big as little Gary Coleman. The late actor gave us some pretty good laughs in the hit sitcom and left us in stitches. The memory of Arnold Jackson will forever be etched in our memories.

8. Haley Joel Osment

Famous for: The Sixth Sense; Pay It Forward

“I see dead people.”

This line became one of the most famous one-liners ever in Hollywood history. And it made Haley Joel Osment famous. Osment may have made his film debut in Forrest Gump and appeared in several other movies but his role as Cole Sear in the M. Night Shyamalan classic The Sixth Sense is what he will be fondly remembered for always.

9. Fred Savage

Famous for: The Wonder Years

Young Fred Savage took on the role of Kevin Arnold in The Wonder Years and showed us what it was like as a young boy growing up in the ‘60s and ‘70s. When the show ended in 1993, Savage took on several other roles in Hollywood and kept himself busy with projects here and there until today.

There are tons more highly-talented and adorable child stars that deserve to be on this list. Who are some of your all-time favorite child stars?

How To Bond Better With Your Teenage Daughter

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When you’re a mother, you’re always going to want to make sure that you’re able to bond well with your children. It’s one thing to have a child and a whole other thing entirely for you to build a healthy, lasting relationship with them. But if this is something that you’d really love to do, you can totally make it happen. And as a mother to a daughter, or daughters, you may especially want to make sure that you can bond with them well.

The mother-daughter dynamic can be a tricky one. You may find that it’s hard to navigate or that there seems to be a lot of friction. Or maybe you’re just worried about this happening and you want your relationship to be stellar? When that’s the case, you’ll want to work on your relationship proactively and intentionally. Even though parenthood can be stressful at times, it needn’t be hard work for you to make this work. Let’s take a look at how.

Be Calm

For starters, you have to stay calm. This is so important. Even though you might think that there’s friction between you or you’re easily stressed out, a good relationship starts with you being welcoming, open, and calm. If you’re worried about things, then find a company that offers options to help you reassure yourself. Then you can just focus on the relationship building at hand with other things off of your mind.

Want It

Next you’re going to want to make sure that you actually want it. Don’t force it or show stress. Instead, building a great relationship comes from you trying. You giving yourself and you looking to grow and compromise and learn. Even though “you’re the parent” this is important to know.

Find Common Ground

The next thing that you will need to do is try to understand her. Know what she’s going through and support her – but also find common interests. Know what you can do together and enjoy different things together. It can be a way to help you make sure that you bond.

Make It Your Priority

Finally, you’re going to just want to make this a priority. Don’t just assume that it’ll happen or worry if it’s harder than you thought. You know that parenting is a constant cycle of growth and it’s also very proactive. So to have a better relationship with your daughter, it has to be a priority. Make it something that you’re always working on. Make time for her or them and do things together. Make sure that she or they know that nothing is more important than them. It’ll allow you to make things happen.

Having a daughter is such a beautiful blessing. One that you’re definitely going to want to enjoy and make better. Bonding with daughters can be so much easier than you think when you approach things in the right way. So try these tips out and see how you get on.

Is Your Child Ready To Take Care Of A Dog?

Have your children started asking you to get them a dog? A puppy is a big responsibility at any age, and it can be hard to know if your children are ready to take care of a dog. If you add a canine companion to the family at the right time, learning to look after a dog can improve a child’s sense of responsibility and caring, and improve their health. Buy a dog before they’re ready, and you’ll soon be stuck doing all the puppy care yourself, with children who have lost interest in the poor thing.

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If you’re going to buy a dog for your family, you need to be confident that you’re all ready for one, and that your children can be responsible enough to take care of the dogs’ needs and that they can interact with it safely. There are some good signs to look out for to help you decide whether the time is right for a furry friend. 

They’ve Put In The Research

Dog ownership isn’t always easy. There’s a lot to learn, and even adults can find raising a puppy very difficult, tiring work. Unfortunately, it’s not all cure puppy cuddles. You need to know that your children are aware of the responsibilities that are involved with owning a dog and aren’t just thinking about how cute puppies are and how fun they are to play with. If they’ve spent some time doing research about dogs, such as finding out what all the things are that the dog will need, this is a good sign that they’re thinking seriously about dog ownership. Have they done a bit of research about different breeds and thought about which might suit your family the best? Do they know where there are local breeders or rescues that you could get the dog from? Have they looked into the best food, beds, toys, and dog bowls? Have they spent time here learning about proper puppy training? You should do all this research yourself too, but taking an interest in it is a good sign that your children know that puppies need a lot of care. 

They Know How To Behave Around Dogs

Do you have friends and family who have dogs already? Take the children round to visit and see how they behave around the dog. Do they know how to safely introduce themselves by offering up their hand to sniff or do they just grab at the dog immediately? Do they leave the dog alone and wait for it to approach them or are they annoying the dog, trying to make it play? 

If you’re going to have a dog in the house, then your children will need to know how to interact with it safely and in a way that is enjoyable for them and the dog. Dogs are animals and can be unpredictable, and even the friendliest, best-trained pooch can react aggressively if it feels threatened, cornered, or hassled by your children or if the kids are not behaving in a safe way around the dog. Make sure they know how to behave with a dog before you bring one home. Assuming your new pet would never snap is a big mistake. 

Are They Responsible?

Depending on the age of your children, they could have different responsibilities to help to care for the puppy, such as feeding, walking and cleaning up after it. You don’t want to get stuck having to do it all by yourself when the kids are bored after a week and have realized that having a puppy isn’t just playing, cuddling, and petting. 

Do your children have chores they are responsible for at home already? If they’re good at getting through their chores without complaining or being nagged and are helpful around the house off their own back, this is a great sign that they will be responsible enough to take over at least part of caring for the dog. Depending on the age of the child, there will be something they can do to help look after the dog, whether it’s filling up their water bowl or taking them out for a walk after school. 

Remember that a dog is a family pet, and no child can completely care for one alone. The whole family needs to be responsible enough to make sure the dog is getting everything it needs and is being properly cared for. 

Are You Willing To Help?

No matter how responsible your children are or how much research they’ve done into the best puppy care, they will need some level of help caring for the dog. Don’t get a pet for a child if you’re not willing to be in charge of its care. Depending on how old your children are, you might need to accompany them on walks, walk the dog in the morning while the kids get ready for school, train the dog, or check the dog has been fed, walked, or groomed. 

Studies should still come first, meaning that if you’ve bought a dog for your older children, you might need to take over walks and other care during exam season. If nothing else, you’ll need to be prepared to cover any vet’s bills and expenses like food, training classes, and toys. 

Before deciding to buy a family dog, do your own research into the care they need, and the sort of dog that would best fit in with your family life. Make sure that you are prepared for the expense and responsibility of owning a dog, as well as the children. They might understand how much care a dog needs, but are you ready and willing to take that on?

Don’t forget to consider the future too. Dogs live quite a long time. If you buy a dog for the children, what will happen when they grow up and go off to college or move out? Are you willing to be left with the dog as the kids fly the nest? 

Future Planning: Tips On Giving Your Children A Brighter Future

As a parent, you’ll know only too well how much you worry about the future of your children. You find yourself constantly asking questions like “am I doing enough for their education?” and “are they getting enough nutrients in their diet?” and that’s completely normal! The truth is, the only time you should be worrying is when you’re not asking these types of questions. As a parent you also have to think of the future, both their future and your own, and you may be wondering if there’s anything you can do now to make sure their future is as bright as it can be. Luckily, there are a few things you can put in place, so check out these tips on setting your children up for life.

https://pixabay.com/photos/adult-mother-daughter-beach-kids-1807500/ 

Help them learn money management

Knowing how to handle your money is one of the most important skills you can have, and teaching your children this from an early age will help them understand that money doesn’t grow on trees. You can do this through allowing them to earn pocket money to spend as they please, but teaching them that once it’s gone, they will have to earn money if they want something else. For older children, encouraging them to put their allowance into a savings account will teach them the importance of saving money.

Plan for the worst

It’s a horrible thought, but one day you won’t be here for your children and they will be left with overwhelming decisions that are hard to make when you’re grieving. Thinking about this now and taking action will prevent them from any unnecessary stress and upset. Head to websites like Miller Funeral Home to get an idea on the types of things you could arrange.

You should also think about writing out your last will and testament in case the worst happens unexpectedly. That way, everything you’ve worked hard for will go to the people you love the most and most importantly, not end up in the wrong hands and cause any upset.

Set up savings

While you may be teaching your children the importance of being sensible with money, you can also set up a savings account in their name. Depositing funds as and when you’re available to will help build up some savings for the time they’re ready to leave the nest. Whether it’ll help with further education or a deposit on their own home, they’ll truly appreciate it for the rest of their lives, and you can rest easy knowing you’ve helped them build their dreams.

Teach them valuable life lessons

Finally, school is wonderful, but doesn’t always teach children skills that will help them in the real world. Skills such as cooking a nutritious meal, washing their clothes, and even learning how to do taxes (and the importance of them) are valuable skills you should begin teaching your children from an early age.

Being a parent is scary at times, but with these tips and your eternal love, your children are going to thrive!

What Makes a Great Preschool Teacher?

When looking for the best preschools in Jacksonville FL, you'll quickly find that the qualities of the teachers is usually what matters the most. While facilities and access to resources are also very important, a really good preschool teacher can make all the difference. Here are some of the top things to look for in a preschool teacher.

A Passion For Teaching

The greatest preschool teachers are the ones that have a burning desire to be an influence for good in young people's lives. Because the ages and attitudes of preschoolers can be difficult to deal with at times, a passion for teaching and caring for young children will be what drives the best teachers through. Children respond to people that genuinely care for them and want what's best for them.

A Dose of Creativity

With younger aged children, getting creative is the key. Preschool teachers that can not only make fun projects for their students but make the most of the resources and environment they are in will see the most success. Also, teachers that are creative in how they approach children from different backgrounds and learning levels will help all the children feel included and have confidence they can learn as well.

Ability to be Flexible

One thing that's sure to happen in a preschool classroom is that plans will get thrown out the window. While planning for lessons is key, a great preschool teacher is prepared for the unexpected. Being flexible in this way allows a preschool teacher to stay calm and adapt to whatever the situation calls for. Whether that's rain on an outdoor activity, or needing to adjust the curriculum because of a reduction in budget, flexibility is key. 

With creativity, flexibility and a passion for teaching young children, preschool teachers can really excel. Teachers that have these qualities tend to gain a reputation for their ability to work with children and word spreads around. Be sure to ask around to other parents when looking for a great preschool and find one that employs teachers of this caliber.

The Significance of Playgrounds

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Every individual has gone through the process of development since the day he was born. Physical and mental development varies from one person to another.

For children, the best way to develop the different aspects of their life is having the freedom to play. A child who experiences independence tends to become more responsible for his choices and actions. The freedom to go around and play gives every child the chance to explore his potential.

Children playing is one of the reasons for playgrounds and pocket park designs. These are great places where a child can move and discover the different things that he can do with other children who are in the same shoes as him. Within the corners of a playground, there is an unlimited opportunity for fun, games, and imagination.

The Role of Playgrounds in Child Development

1. Social, Brain, and Language Development

When a child has the freedom to play in a playground, he can practice his social skills, find solutions to his problems, and establish self-control during a conflict.

Playgrounds also improve the language development of a child since he tends to talk with other children. The interaction with different children will allow them to share and express their thoughts and feelings.

2. Physical Development and Good Physical Exercise

Since playground time can include different activities, it can stimulate the physical development of a child. Some common examples of these activities are slides and swings, which can improve balance and coordination, tactical panels for hand-eye skills, and climbing frames to strengthen the muscles. When a child achieved a difficult task, it can encourage mastery and physical strength.

3. Emotional Development and Positive Mental Health

Playgrounds can evoke different emotions for every child. Many kids feel excited about play since they can run around, shout, swing, slide, and climb. While playgrounds are associated with positive emotions, some kids might also feel anger and fear due to different situations like climbing too high or fighting with other kids.

The different things that they experience during play will help them learn to control their positive and negative emotions, which is vital to their mental health.

What Makes a Good Playground

Motion - a playground should encourage children to run, climb, jump, swing, slide, hop, throw, toss, and more. Hence, a good playground must have different moving parts, such as swings, balance activities, and activity panels.

Interesting to Look At - color, sound, and texture are important factors for a good playground. The place must get the interest of a kid.

Incorporates Nature - a fun playground must have a touch of nature. A green space with natural elements like sand and water can be more appealing to the kids.

Friendly Competition - a friendly and safe competition is an essential factor of a good playground. Children should be allowed to compete with each other in a fun way.

How To Keep Your Kids Happy, Healthy & Safe

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As a parent, you want what’s best for your kids and to keep them out of harm’s way. It’s your responsibility to ensure they are nurtured and well taken care of while under your roof.

There are ways for how you can make sure they’re not only happy and healthy but also safe. Be an involved and active parent so that you can build a stronger bond with your children and protect them as they grow and explore. Try your best but also don’t be too hard on yourself when you make mistakes. Instead, use these moments as learning opportunities to do better the next time around.

Wear Your Seatbelts

You can keep your kids healthy and safe by requiring them to wear their seat belts. Model good behavior by doing so yourself and reminding them to wear it each time they enter the car. If an accident should occur, then they’ll be more likely not to get injured. However, misfortunes happen, and you may find yourself in an impactful car crash. If your child ends up in the hospital with severe head injuries, then find a lawyer who specializes in traumatic brain injury law and can assist you with your case.

Know Their Whereabouts

Another opportunity to keep your kids happy, healthy, and safe is always to know their whereabouts and when you can expect them home. Make sure you have them check in with you frequently when they’re out and about and get to know their friends. If they’re old enough, you may want to equip them with a cell phone so that they can call or text you in case of an emergency. Remind yourself that keeping tabs on your kids isn’t being nosy; it’s you being a good and responsible parent.

Maintain A Clean & Organized Home

Having a clean home will not only make you happier, but your kids will enjoy it more as well. You can keep them healthy and safe by removing any dirt and grime frequently and decluttering your rooms and closets. You want to avoid having belongings out in the open that are a tripping hazard or that your kids can get into and hurt themselves. Assign each member of the family tasks so that you don’t have to do all the work yourself and you can teach them some responsibility at the same time.

Have Conversations with Them

Directly talking to your kids more can help you to ensure they’re happy, healthy and safe. Open up with them and ask questions so that you can better understand their perspective and what’s going on in their lives. You can also use these discussions as a chance to teach them new information and healthy habits. For example, explain to them the importance of getting decent grades, cleaning up after themselves, and treating others with respect. You have a lot more experience and knowledge as the parent, so don’t be afraid to share your viewpoints and perspectives with them and see what they have to say. 

How To Hire a Nanny

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Once children come into the picture and it is time to get back to the office, it is always a difficult decision choosing between a parent staying home, touring day cares or hiring a nanny. If you may be interested in hiring a professional to come to your home and look after your kids, keep reading. Here are a few tips on how to bring a nanny into your household. 

Use a Nanny Resource

There are many perks to using a nanny staffing agency to hire a nanny, but there may also be Facebook groups available in your area, specifically put together to connect families with potential caregivers. If you have friends and family who have used similar services, it doesn't hurt to ask around for recommendations.

Conduct Many Interviews

It is always a good idea to bring in many applicants in for an interview to help find the right person for the job. From there, you can narrow down the list and invite a few options to come and meet your children. You can then base who you want to hire on how they interact with your family. Your intuition will likely be a huge deciding factor during this process.

Better To Be Safe Than Sorry  

Once you have your very own Mary Poppins, it is highly recommended to order a driving record background check. It is always better to be safe than sorry in a situation where your loved ones are involved. Another great reason to use a nanny agency is that all applicants sent from these services will be pre-screened. References are also a great way to get an idea of a candidate's relationship with previous families.

If everything is done the right way, bringing a nanny into your household can be a positive and beneficial experience. There is nothing wrong with taking your time to find the right person for the job. With the tips above, you will be well on your way to doing so.   

Signs That Your Child Is Becoming a Pessimist

It’s often said that the world can be defined by two types of people; optimists and pessimists. Both of them have their own strengths and weaknesses, and it’s arguable that a good balance is required for a healthy lifestyle and mental well-being.

But what do you do if your child only displays negativity? Is it just a phase they’re going through, or is there something more concerning under the surface? Whatever the case is, here are a couple of signs to take notice of if you think your child is going through a pessimistic phase.

They give up early when approaching something challenging

Pessimists will typically give up on something before putting in the effort, often stating that the outcome isn’t worth the work it takes. If your child tends to struggle and give up with something, it’s a good idea to console and encourage them.

They don’t take pride in their successes

Many negative children will find it hard to celebrate something they’ve done, even if it’s an impressive feat. This can mean that they’re never satisfied and want to keep pushing themselves, which can be a good thing. However, it’s also commonly associated with a pessimistic attitude.

They’re suspicious of others

It can be difficult for your child to trust others, especially if they’ve had a bad friendship with school friends. Situations like this are common even in adulthood, so finding ways to cope with this and begin trusting people again is a good way to counter it.

While occasional negative thoughts aren’t a massive problem, it can eventually lead to problems in the future. That’s why we’ve included an infographic below on how to encourage positive behavior in your children. It’ll teach you how to inject a bit of positivity into your child’s life and also the benefits that it comes with.

Infographic: Regis College