by: Chris Yates
With the holidays quickly approaching, it's likely that you'll have some unscheduled 'down-time' with your child where you don't have anything actually planned. Just because you don't have any planned activities with your child doesn't mean that they have to languish on the couch in boredom. Take a look at these quick and easy anytime activities.
1. Make Paper Stuff: It doesn't take a lot of work or planning for children to create great paper crafts. You can simply make a lot of paper supplies available and let them go to town. Provide paper plates, construction paper, scissors, markers, crayons, glue, stamps, or stickers and let them make their own creations.
2. Paint Something: Kids generally love anything that has to do with painting. You could give them some finger paints and paper, provide water colors, or even let them paint up some scraps of wood or rocks. When given a choice between painting or carving their pumpkins each year, my kids always choose painting... kids LOVE to paint!
3. Pound Some Clay: There's just something about manipulating modeling clay that kids find appealing (grownups too!). Give you child a couple of cans of playdough or make up a batch of salt dough and they'll have a ball. Here's an idea... make some salt dough, create the figures, dry them out in the oven, and then paint them to combine painting and modeling!
4. Have A Puppet Show: You can make puppets out of just about anything you have lying around the house... recycled bottles, wooden or plastic spoons, paper bags, craft sticks, etc. all work as a good base, then add paper, felt, yarn, wiggle eyes, or other objects to make the puppet. Once the puppets are done, the back of the couch, a table, or even an old box provides a great puppet theater.
5. Play Dress-Up: Children love nothing better than dressing up and pretending to be someone else. We keep all our old Halloween costumes in our dress-up box, but you could also let the kids dress up in old clothes that you're going to throw out anyway. An impromptu game of dress-up is always a fun activity.
6. Outside Drawing: Give the kids a bucket of sidewalk chalk, turn them loose outside, and they'll play for hours drawing on the sidewalks, driveway, and just about anything else.
7. Make Contraptions: Older children will really love the idea of making inventions out of recyclable materials. You'll need recycled toilet paper tubes, paper towel tubes, wrapping paper tubes, plastic bottles, and other appropriate recyclables along with some tape, scissors, and marbles. Tape the tubes together to make a long runway that starts at some high point (like a chair) and eventually ends at the floor. When complete, roll the marbles through the tubes to test your contraption. You child may even think of other types of contraptions based on this idea.
8. Nature Walks: This may seem silly, but your kids will love spending time with you doing this... all you have to do is take your child for a stroll in your neighborhood or at a park. Spend time talking about things you observe as you walk and take your time. When you're done you could write about what you saw, draw pictures, collect found objects and make an art piece. Don't forget to bundle up in inclement weather.
9. Paper Airplanes: Gather up a pile of paper and make paper airplanes with your child. Take turns flying them and test out which techniques work the best. You could even take turns flying them off a balcony or deck to really add to the experience. Better yet, pre-purchase a book of directions for making paper airplanes and work your way through the book together.
10. Create An Obstacle Course: This idea may be a little messy, but your kids will love it. Create an obstacle course, inside or outside, using objects around the house, then take turns navigating the course for time. You could crawl under tables, over chairs, around objects, etc. all the way to the finishing line.
There are probably a lot of other great ideas that aren't listed here, but this should get you thinking. The REAL idea here is to spend some time with your child and let them be creative while you're doing it.
About The Author
Chris Yates
Kid Crafts Magazine makes it Easy to craft with children of all ages. To receive your FREE copy of "Little Kid Crafts Mini-Book" Subscribe Now at: http://www.KidCraftsMagazine.com
20 Haziran 2007 Çarşamba
Autism: Is There A Cure In Sight?
by: Lisa Hyde
Autism: What causes it, and can it be cured?
Autism is a disorder that is affecting more and more children. But many autistic children have been able to lead normal lives.
Autism is a developmental disorder that appears in the early stages of development of a child, mostly in the first three years of development. It is a neurological disorder that affects the proper functioning of the brain and affects the development of the social and communication skills of the individual.
Early diagnosis of autism is most important for the treatment of this disorder. However, there is no blood or medical test available which will help in the diagnosis of autism. Generally, it is delay in the development of language skills or lack of appropriate social development that causes parents or teachers to seek a medical evaluation. There are no racial or ethnic specifications for the occurrence of this disorder, although boys are three or four times more likely to have autism.
Autism is seen to affect each individual in different levels and so is considered a spectrum disorder. Generally, autism is seen to affect the verbal and non-verbal communication skills, leisure activities, and the all-round social interactions of the individual.
There is no standard treatment for the cure of autism. Different medical professionals have different philosophies and practices for treating autistic individuals. The results of the treatment of autism will also vary from individual to individual. However, autism cannot be completely cured; there can only be improvements in the abilities of the autistic person. Autistic children are seen to benefit greatly from treatment approaches that include special education and behavioral management.
An important strategy in the treatment of autism is to keep the diet of the autistic children gluten- and casein-free. A gluten- and casein-free autism diet is seen to produce a marked level of improvement in autistic children. This is because in their body system there is incomplete breakdown of the peptides in the food substances containing gluten and casein. This leads to an increased absorption of peptides causing disruption in the biochemical and neuroregulatory processes in the brain. Adding vitamin B6 and B12 to the diet is beneficial to the treatment of autism as it improves digestion, symptoms of allergy, and sociability in children.
Despite one child in every thousand being affected by this illness, the awareness and the number of support groups for this illness is negligible. Efforts are being undertaken to create an increased awareness and to generate funds to support research and treatment of autism.
Autism awareness bracelets and ribbons help spread awareness about this disorder. The sale of these bracelets supports many autism research foundations and also provides financial assistance to many parents with autistic children.
‘Autism walk’ is another novel fundraising effort for the support of those suffering from autism. The money generated from registration of the ‘Autism walk’ events is used to provide financial support to the parents of autistic children, or to establish support groups to facilitate their treatment.
About The Author
Lisa Hyde-Barrett, a registered nurse and wellness advocate, understands the relationship between good nutrition and good health. Visit on of her many health site here: http://www.autism-awareness-online.com
Autism: What causes it, and can it be cured?
Autism is a disorder that is affecting more and more children. But many autistic children have been able to lead normal lives.
Autism is a developmental disorder that appears in the early stages of development of a child, mostly in the first three years of development. It is a neurological disorder that affects the proper functioning of the brain and affects the development of the social and communication skills of the individual.
Early diagnosis of autism is most important for the treatment of this disorder. However, there is no blood or medical test available which will help in the diagnosis of autism. Generally, it is delay in the development of language skills or lack of appropriate social development that causes parents or teachers to seek a medical evaluation. There are no racial or ethnic specifications for the occurrence of this disorder, although boys are three or four times more likely to have autism.
Autism is seen to affect each individual in different levels and so is considered a spectrum disorder. Generally, autism is seen to affect the verbal and non-verbal communication skills, leisure activities, and the all-round social interactions of the individual.
There is no standard treatment for the cure of autism. Different medical professionals have different philosophies and practices for treating autistic individuals. The results of the treatment of autism will also vary from individual to individual. However, autism cannot be completely cured; there can only be improvements in the abilities of the autistic person. Autistic children are seen to benefit greatly from treatment approaches that include special education and behavioral management.
An important strategy in the treatment of autism is to keep the diet of the autistic children gluten- and casein-free. A gluten- and casein-free autism diet is seen to produce a marked level of improvement in autistic children. This is because in their body system there is incomplete breakdown of the peptides in the food substances containing gluten and casein. This leads to an increased absorption of peptides causing disruption in the biochemical and neuroregulatory processes in the brain. Adding vitamin B6 and B12 to the diet is beneficial to the treatment of autism as it improves digestion, symptoms of allergy, and sociability in children.
Despite one child in every thousand being affected by this illness, the awareness and the number of support groups for this illness is negligible. Efforts are being undertaken to create an increased awareness and to generate funds to support research and treatment of autism.
Autism awareness bracelets and ribbons help spread awareness about this disorder. The sale of these bracelets supports many autism research foundations and also provides financial assistance to many parents with autistic children.
‘Autism walk’ is another novel fundraising effort for the support of those suffering from autism. The money generated from registration of the ‘Autism walk’ events is used to provide financial support to the parents of autistic children, or to establish support groups to facilitate their treatment.
About The Author
Lisa Hyde-Barrett, a registered nurse and wellness advocate, understands the relationship between good nutrition and good health. Visit on of her many health site here: http://www.autism-awareness-online.com
How To Throw The Best Baby Shower In 3 Easy Steps
by: Linda Harrison
Here’s a really simple way to throw the best baby shower possible and really wow your friends and family members. Throwing a winning baby shower shouldn’t be more work than it needs to be. However, there are 3 steps to follow to the letter to ensure that the baby shower is special for everyone involved. Sticking to these 3 steps will make sure that your baby shower goes off without a hitch and that you can sleep in peace knowing that you did everything right.
1. Use balloons to greet your guests. Get some nice balloons and attach them to the outside of your door. Humans are fantastically simple creatures that can be easily entertained by a festive atmosphere. For a lot of people, balloons symbolize a party or some other great celebration. Balloons can be picked up relatively cheaply and always add a great touch to a baby shower. After all, what’s a party without balloons? Pick some nice ones up and use ‘em. People like balloons.
2. Use written invitations. We live in an age of internet connectivity and cell phones. This technology is incredible and can be really be handy. However, a paper invite is permanent. Your guests will save them for years to come in their scrap books. The souvenir value of written invitations is immense. A cell phone call or email can’t really be saved, so spend the extra money and send out a decent paper invite. You’ll be remembered an admired for sticking to your guns in an age of high tech gadgets.
3. The first two points are helpful, however, the most critical point to ensuring your baby shower is a success is knowing what not to do. Etiquette absolutely needs to come first. Poor etiquette will ensure that all your research efforts have been in vain and you could potentially ruin the party you worked so hard to prepare for. There is an entire list of do’s and don’ts that you need to follow to the letter or your shower just won’t work.
About The Author
Linda Harrison is the Author of “Baby Shower Do’s and Don’ts.” Grab your free copy at http://www.learntobabyshower.com
Here’s a really simple way to throw the best baby shower possible and really wow your friends and family members. Throwing a winning baby shower shouldn’t be more work than it needs to be. However, there are 3 steps to follow to the letter to ensure that the baby shower is special for everyone involved. Sticking to these 3 steps will make sure that your baby shower goes off without a hitch and that you can sleep in peace knowing that you did everything right.
1. Use balloons to greet your guests. Get some nice balloons and attach them to the outside of your door. Humans are fantastically simple creatures that can be easily entertained by a festive atmosphere. For a lot of people, balloons symbolize a party or some other great celebration. Balloons can be picked up relatively cheaply and always add a great touch to a baby shower. After all, what’s a party without balloons? Pick some nice ones up and use ‘em. People like balloons.
2. Use written invitations. We live in an age of internet connectivity and cell phones. This technology is incredible and can be really be handy. However, a paper invite is permanent. Your guests will save them for years to come in their scrap books. The souvenir value of written invitations is immense. A cell phone call or email can’t really be saved, so spend the extra money and send out a decent paper invite. You’ll be remembered an admired for sticking to your guns in an age of high tech gadgets.
3. The first two points are helpful, however, the most critical point to ensuring your baby shower is a success is knowing what not to do. Etiquette absolutely needs to come first. Poor etiquette will ensure that all your research efforts have been in vain and you could potentially ruin the party you worked so hard to prepare for. There is an entire list of do’s and don’ts that you need to follow to the letter or your shower just won’t work.
About The Author
Linda Harrison is the Author of “Baby Shower Do’s and Don’ts.” Grab your free copy at http://www.learntobabyshower.com
Parenting Rules for Permissive Parents: Use These with Caution
by: Jean Tracy. MSS
I remember a childless couple who slept with their dogs. They were clearly uncomfortable with the situation. Yet every night their dogs crawled into bed with them.
During the day the two black labs ran through the house, climbed on the furniture, and regularly ate human food from the hands of their masters. Did you know some parents treat their kids like this couple treated their dogs? Let’s find out how.
Recently, my own Yellow Lab, Chum, had knee surgery. While sitting in the waiting room, I noticed this sign on the doctor’s wall.
Dog Rules:
The dog is Not allowed in the house.
Okay, the dog is allowed in the house, but Only in certain rooms.
Alright, the dog is allowed in all rooms, but has to Stay Off the furniture.
Well, okay, the dog can get on the old furniture Only.
Fine, the dog is allowed on all the furniture, but is Not Allowed to sleep on the bed.
Okay, the dog is allowed on the bed, but Only by invitation.
The dog can sleep on the bed anytime, but Not Under the covers.
Okay, the dog can sleep under the covers every night.
Humans Must Ask permission to sleep under the covers with the dogs.
So what’s the problem? Could it be that the Dog Rules, really meant that The Dogs Ruled? How does this apply to parents?
The inconsistent or permissive parent treats their kids a lot like these dogs. When parents state what they expect and then give in to the demands of their kids, parents trample their own authority and let their kids rule.
If this is happening in your house, you need to change and you can change! Why do you need to change?
Because being consistent gives your child:
A sense of being loved
A feeling of security
Respect for you
Self-discipline
A likable personality
How can you change? First, you must decide to change. Second, follow the 5 rules listed below.
5 Consistent Rules:
1. Think wisely before you speak.
2. If you say “No,” mean it.
3. Use a firm voice.
4. Use few words.
5. No arguing.
The Wrap-Up:
The couple with the black labs changed their own behavior.
The dogs went to the dog house.
The couple enjoyed sleeping in their bed alone.
Being consistent is one of the best ways to show love.
If you’re inconsistent, you can change.
By following the 5 Consistent Rules listed above, you'll be kind and firm, show love, and be a character builder too. Here's to your consistent success!
About The Author
Jean Tracy, MSS, Edmonds, WA, USA
Learn more about Free Parenting Newsletter
Learn powerful parenting concepts that you can use right now! Informative articles written by seasoned therapists with tips and tools you must use to raise your awesome kids with solid characters.
Sign up for her FREE Parenting Newsletter and download 80 FREE Bonding Activities when you subscribe at: http://www.kidsdiscuss.com
I remember a childless couple who slept with their dogs. They were clearly uncomfortable with the situation. Yet every night their dogs crawled into bed with them.
During the day the two black labs ran through the house, climbed on the furniture, and regularly ate human food from the hands of their masters. Did you know some parents treat their kids like this couple treated their dogs? Let’s find out how.
Recently, my own Yellow Lab, Chum, had knee surgery. While sitting in the waiting room, I noticed this sign on the doctor’s wall.
Dog Rules:
The dog is Not allowed in the house.
Okay, the dog is allowed in the house, but Only in certain rooms.
Alright, the dog is allowed in all rooms, but has to Stay Off the furniture.
Well, okay, the dog can get on the old furniture Only.
Fine, the dog is allowed on all the furniture, but is Not Allowed to sleep on the bed.
Okay, the dog is allowed on the bed, but Only by invitation.
The dog can sleep on the bed anytime, but Not Under the covers.
Okay, the dog can sleep under the covers every night.
Humans Must Ask permission to sleep under the covers with the dogs.
So what’s the problem? Could it be that the Dog Rules, really meant that The Dogs Ruled? How does this apply to parents?
The inconsistent or permissive parent treats their kids a lot like these dogs. When parents state what they expect and then give in to the demands of their kids, parents trample their own authority and let their kids rule.
If this is happening in your house, you need to change and you can change! Why do you need to change?
Because being consistent gives your child:
A sense of being loved
A feeling of security
Respect for you
Self-discipline
A likable personality
How can you change? First, you must decide to change. Second, follow the 5 rules listed below.
5 Consistent Rules:
1. Think wisely before you speak.
2. If you say “No,” mean it.
3. Use a firm voice.
4. Use few words.
5. No arguing.
The Wrap-Up:
The couple with the black labs changed their own behavior.
The dogs went to the dog house.
The couple enjoyed sleeping in their bed alone.
Being consistent is one of the best ways to show love.
If you’re inconsistent, you can change.
By following the 5 Consistent Rules listed above, you'll be kind and firm, show love, and be a character builder too. Here's to your consistent success!
About The Author
Jean Tracy, MSS, Edmonds, WA, USA
Learn more about Free Parenting Newsletter
Learn powerful parenting concepts that you can use right now! Informative articles written by seasoned therapists with tips and tools you must use to raise your awesome kids with solid characters.
Sign up for her FREE Parenting Newsletter and download 80 FREE Bonding Activities when you subscribe at: http://www.kidsdiscuss.com
What Parents Should Know About Teens And Teasing At School
by: Sintilia Miecevole
For most teens, going back to school means sharing classrooms and a building with many other students. Unfortunately some learners have to deal with inappropriate behavior such as teasing. Teasing is the act of harassing someone playfully or maliciously, especially by ridicule. It is hurtful and potentially dangerous.
Judy S. Freedman’s book "Easing the Teasing" is very helpful for dealing with children’s teasing issues. It specifically helps parents learn strategies to help their children deal with teasing. Some of the suggested strategies can also be used successfully with teens so it’s definitely a recommended title for parents and educators to peruse. This article is not going to describe the strategies so well explained by Freedman. The goal of this article is to impress on parents the reality of teasing in our school system and how schools in general undertake to deal with discipline and behavior management issues. From this understanding it is hoped that parents will be are more able to work collaboratively with their teen and school personnel should a problem arise.
Due to the differing sizes of elementary and secondary schools, it can generally be asserted that during the elementary school years there is more of a ‘handle’ on teasing than in secondary schools. That is certainly not to say that secondary schools are ignoring the problem. For example, secondary schools may have home room teachers discuss such topics with students; there may be the occasional guest speaker such as a police liaison who addresses the students on this or a similar topic and, faculty are surely expected to reinforce standards of appropriate behavior. Administrative personnel at many schools use an electronic system to track inappropriate student behavior - usually serious incidents. Grade-level meetings are also commonly scheduled to discuss student achievement, work habits and if relevant to the former, behavior. The main challenge in most secondary schools however, is that each teacher typically instructs over a hundred students daily so it’s understandably difficult to monitor, document and discuss student behavior with colleagues on a consistent basis.
Parents who notice a sudden change in their teen’s behavior should consider contacting the school counselor and home room teacher to investigate whether or not the student is having trouble at school. It is important to note that even if a student consistently earns good grades, all may not be going well for the young scholar; they may have other challenges at school. Because teens might try to hide a problem with teasing, parents need to be extremely vigilant in their observation, listening and conversation. Teasing is hurtful and potentially dangerous. It is a form of bullying. Low self-esteem, depression, eating disorders and in the extreme, teen suicide are possible results. Experiencing harassment in this form – whether it is done ‘playfully’ or maliciously, is clearly a serious problem that must be dealt with.
About The Author
Sintilia Miecevole
If you want to know anything about schools, click on to http://www.yschools.com and find answers with your host, Sintilia Miecevole. You can find everything from public, private, Catholic schools, distance learning, curriculums and business to computer, culinary schools and much more. Visit http://www.yschools.com
For most teens, going back to school means sharing classrooms and a building with many other students. Unfortunately some learners have to deal with inappropriate behavior such as teasing. Teasing is the act of harassing someone playfully or maliciously, especially by ridicule. It is hurtful and potentially dangerous.
Judy S. Freedman’s book "Easing the Teasing" is very helpful for dealing with children’s teasing issues. It specifically helps parents learn strategies to help their children deal with teasing. Some of the suggested strategies can also be used successfully with teens so it’s definitely a recommended title for parents and educators to peruse. This article is not going to describe the strategies so well explained by Freedman. The goal of this article is to impress on parents the reality of teasing in our school system and how schools in general undertake to deal with discipline and behavior management issues. From this understanding it is hoped that parents will be are more able to work collaboratively with their teen and school personnel should a problem arise.
Due to the differing sizes of elementary and secondary schools, it can generally be asserted that during the elementary school years there is more of a ‘handle’ on teasing than in secondary schools. That is certainly not to say that secondary schools are ignoring the problem. For example, secondary schools may have home room teachers discuss such topics with students; there may be the occasional guest speaker such as a police liaison who addresses the students on this or a similar topic and, faculty are surely expected to reinforce standards of appropriate behavior. Administrative personnel at many schools use an electronic system to track inappropriate student behavior - usually serious incidents. Grade-level meetings are also commonly scheduled to discuss student achievement, work habits and if relevant to the former, behavior. The main challenge in most secondary schools however, is that each teacher typically instructs over a hundred students daily so it’s understandably difficult to monitor, document and discuss student behavior with colleagues on a consistent basis.
Parents who notice a sudden change in their teen’s behavior should consider contacting the school counselor and home room teacher to investigate whether or not the student is having trouble at school. It is important to note that even if a student consistently earns good grades, all may not be going well for the young scholar; they may have other challenges at school. Because teens might try to hide a problem with teasing, parents need to be extremely vigilant in their observation, listening and conversation. Teasing is hurtful and potentially dangerous. It is a form of bullying. Low self-esteem, depression, eating disorders and in the extreme, teen suicide are possible results. Experiencing harassment in this form – whether it is done ‘playfully’ or maliciously, is clearly a serious problem that must be dealt with.
About The Author
Sintilia Miecevole
If you want to know anything about schools, click on to http://www.yschools.com and find answers with your host, Sintilia Miecevole. You can find everything from public, private, Catholic schools, distance learning, curriculums and business to computer, culinary schools and much more. Visit http://www.yschools.com
Baby Bedding Buying Made Simple
by: Martin Smith
There is a near endless array of baby bedding on the market that includes sets that are gender specific and others that can be used for either a boy or a girl. You can buy each piece separately but if you really think about it, it is the most expensive way to go. Just as there are ‘bed-in-a-bag’ sets for adults they have them for your nursery as well.
A bed in a bag set includes sheet, pillow cases, a comforter, shams, and skirts for adult beds. Bed sets for the baby is the same way. If you are looking to have your bedding co-ordinate the theme of your nursery then purchase sets. You can purchase single sheets so that you can mix and match your bedding.
When you are shopping for be aware that the bedding will be separated by fabric, colors, and styles. Your preferences will no doubt influence your purchase. Do you want cotton, flannel, fleece, or silk? Many parents prefer the cotton or flannel fabric because they are less expensive than silk sheets and are easier to clean.
The advantages to buying your bedding in sets is that everything already matches. You won’t be mixing fabrics, colors, or themes. With everything in one bag you can actually change the atmosphere of the room buy the bedding sets you purchase.
It is important that you match your bedding with the gender of your child. You wouldn’t want to, for example, saturate your son’s room in pink. In a girl’s room however, it is ok to put blue. Most manufacturers are knowledgeable about current thinking regarding gender and what is believed to be acceptable or not. They tend to know what customers want. You most likely won’t have any trouble finding what you want.
Generally accepted themes for boys rooms include airplanes, trucks, or fire engines. Sports is another theme to look for boys. They are generally designed in bright colors - reds, blues, greens, and oranges.
Themes for girls could include ballerinas, faeries, Barbie, princess, butterflies, or flowers. Girl’s bedding generally comes in softer colors such as pink, yellow, mauve, blue, and teal among others. Girl’s rooms themes are not limited to the above mentioned themes.
Non-gender specific themes for bedding include animals, the solar system, favorite characters such as Barney, the Smurfs, Jimmy Neutron, Sponge Bob Square Pants, and others.
You also have the option of having your crib bedding custom made. There is a chance that you might not find just the right pattern you are looking for. If this is the case you can have someone make you bedding with your exact pattern. If you sew you can create your own bedding sets for your baby. There are even materials in gold and silver to use for your child’s bedding so they can sleep in the lap of luxury.
Crib bedding doesn’t refer to sheets only. You can get bed in a bag as mentioned earlier. You will find a sheet, a baby blanket, and a baby quilt in most sets. If you prefer to buy separate pieces you can still do that. Most stores have single pieces as well as bedding sets.
As you can see buying bedding for you baby can be a challenging task.
Keep your budget in mind as well as your preferences. You can create a theme in your baby’s room with the types of bedding you use. You can use character bedding but know that kids often outgrow certain characters and as your child grows you will likely have to change your themes.
About The Author
Martin Smith is a successful freelance writer providing advice for consumers on purchasing a variety of baby cribs, His numerous articles provide a wonderfully researched resource of interesting and relevant information. http://www.1st-babies.com
There is a near endless array of baby bedding on the market that includes sets that are gender specific and others that can be used for either a boy or a girl. You can buy each piece separately but if you really think about it, it is the most expensive way to go. Just as there are ‘bed-in-a-bag’ sets for adults they have them for your nursery as well.
A bed in a bag set includes sheet, pillow cases, a comforter, shams, and skirts for adult beds. Bed sets for the baby is the same way. If you are looking to have your bedding co-ordinate the theme of your nursery then purchase sets. You can purchase single sheets so that you can mix and match your bedding.
When you are shopping for be aware that the bedding will be separated by fabric, colors, and styles. Your preferences will no doubt influence your purchase. Do you want cotton, flannel, fleece, or silk? Many parents prefer the cotton or flannel fabric because they are less expensive than silk sheets and are easier to clean.
The advantages to buying your bedding in sets is that everything already matches. You won’t be mixing fabrics, colors, or themes. With everything in one bag you can actually change the atmosphere of the room buy the bedding sets you purchase.
It is important that you match your bedding with the gender of your child. You wouldn’t want to, for example, saturate your son’s room in pink. In a girl’s room however, it is ok to put blue. Most manufacturers are knowledgeable about current thinking regarding gender and what is believed to be acceptable or not. They tend to know what customers want. You most likely won’t have any trouble finding what you want.
Generally accepted themes for boys rooms include airplanes, trucks, or fire engines. Sports is another theme to look for boys. They are generally designed in bright colors - reds, blues, greens, and oranges.
Themes for girls could include ballerinas, faeries, Barbie, princess, butterflies, or flowers. Girl’s bedding generally comes in softer colors such as pink, yellow, mauve, blue, and teal among others. Girl’s rooms themes are not limited to the above mentioned themes.
Non-gender specific themes for bedding include animals, the solar system, favorite characters such as Barney, the Smurfs, Jimmy Neutron, Sponge Bob Square Pants, and others.
You also have the option of having your crib bedding custom made. There is a chance that you might not find just the right pattern you are looking for. If this is the case you can have someone make you bedding with your exact pattern. If you sew you can create your own bedding sets for your baby. There are even materials in gold and silver to use for your child’s bedding so they can sleep in the lap of luxury.
Crib bedding doesn’t refer to sheets only. You can get bed in a bag as mentioned earlier. You will find a sheet, a baby blanket, and a baby quilt in most sets. If you prefer to buy separate pieces you can still do that. Most stores have single pieces as well as bedding sets.
As you can see buying bedding for you baby can be a challenging task.
Keep your budget in mind as well as your preferences. You can create a theme in your baby’s room with the types of bedding you use. You can use character bedding but know that kids often outgrow certain characters and as your child grows you will likely have to change your themes.
About The Author
Martin Smith is a successful freelance writer providing advice for consumers on purchasing a variety of baby cribs, His numerous articles provide a wonderfully researched resource of interesting and relevant information. http://www.1st-babies.com
Have a Familiy New Year's Blast!
by: Norma Schmidt
Believe it or not, you CAN enjoy a New Year’s Eve bash once you have kids – even if you CAN’T get a sitter!
PRESCHOOLERS AND KIDS IN THE EARLY ELEMENTARY GRADES LOVE GETTING INTO THE NEW YEAR'S SPIRIT.
To build excitement, announce a day or two ahead of time that you’re going to have a night-time New Year’s party with pajamas on.
Then, when you go grocery shopping, you can let your child pick out a party snack.
A trip to a party store for some inexpensive noisemakers will add to the excitement.
Or, create home-made noisemakers and decorations together. Visit familycrafts.about.com/od/newyears or http://www.enchantedlearning.com/crafts/newyear/ for ideas.
On the afternoon or early evening of December 31, sit down together with some oversized construction paper, glue sticks, markers, crayons and scissors and make party hats.
Now, here’s the sweet part: Young children don’t seem to mind at all if “midnight” comes at 9 PM – or even earlier!
All you need to do is put on your party hats, pick your time, count down from 10 and yell “Happy New Year!” with lots of noise and hugs and kisses. Then enjoy your party snack.
HAVE OLDER KIDS IN THE HOUSE?
You have even more fun choices as kids mature. You can:
Print out the words to “Auld Lang Syne” (“times long past”) from the Internet and learn to sing it as a family. You can get the words and hear the tune at http://wilstar.com/xmas/auldlangsyne.htm
Put into a box all the ticket stubs, souvenirs and photos you’ve saved from the year that’s ending. Take turns pulling items out of the box and sharing fond memories.
With adult supervision, let kids make home-made party snacks.
Rent funny movies or old sitcoms to watch together. Maybe Abott and Costello or “The Honeymooners” will tickle your family’s funny bone.
Invite everyone to write down on a strip of toilet tissue events from the year that they want to put behind them. Then ceremoniously (or unceremoniously!) flush away.
Play an old-fashioned game of charades. You might want to print out the special charades sign language from http://www.answers.com/topic/charades-2
Invite family members to write down hopes and intentions for the coming year on slips of paper. Each person can seal their paper in an envelope, to be opened the following New Year’s Eve if desired.
After your celebration, consider saving your noisemakers and decorations to use again. Kids enjoy rediscovering their old favorites from year to year.
As for you – Who knows? Maybe the kids will take you to a whole new level of New Year’s fun.
(c) Norma Schmidt, LLC
About The Author
Norma Schmidt, M.A., M.Div., helps busy parents create peaceful, connected, spiritually well-fed families. To get her free report, "55 Free and Low-Cost Ways to Have the Best Holiday Season Ever," click here or visit www.ParentCafeOnline.com
Believe it or not, you CAN enjoy a New Year’s Eve bash once you have kids – even if you CAN’T get a sitter!
PRESCHOOLERS AND KIDS IN THE EARLY ELEMENTARY GRADES LOVE GETTING INTO THE NEW YEAR'S SPIRIT.
To build excitement, announce a day or two ahead of time that you’re going to have a night-time New Year’s party with pajamas on.
Then, when you go grocery shopping, you can let your child pick out a party snack.
A trip to a party store for some inexpensive noisemakers will add to the excitement.
Or, create home-made noisemakers and decorations together. Visit familycrafts.about.com/od/newyears or http://www.enchantedlearning.com/crafts/newyear/ for ideas.
On the afternoon or early evening of December 31, sit down together with some oversized construction paper, glue sticks, markers, crayons and scissors and make party hats.
Now, here’s the sweet part: Young children don’t seem to mind at all if “midnight” comes at 9 PM – or even earlier!
All you need to do is put on your party hats, pick your time, count down from 10 and yell “Happy New Year!” with lots of noise and hugs and kisses. Then enjoy your party snack.
HAVE OLDER KIDS IN THE HOUSE?
You have even more fun choices as kids mature. You can:
Print out the words to “Auld Lang Syne” (“times long past”) from the Internet and learn to sing it as a family. You can get the words and hear the tune at http://wilstar.com/xmas/auldlangsyne.htm
Put into a box all the ticket stubs, souvenirs and photos you’ve saved from the year that’s ending. Take turns pulling items out of the box and sharing fond memories.
With adult supervision, let kids make home-made party snacks.
Rent funny movies or old sitcoms to watch together. Maybe Abott and Costello or “The Honeymooners” will tickle your family’s funny bone.
Invite everyone to write down on a strip of toilet tissue events from the year that they want to put behind them. Then ceremoniously (or unceremoniously!) flush away.
Play an old-fashioned game of charades. You might want to print out the special charades sign language from http://www.answers.com/topic/charades-2
Invite family members to write down hopes and intentions for the coming year on slips of paper. Each person can seal their paper in an envelope, to be opened the following New Year’s Eve if desired.
After your celebration, consider saving your noisemakers and decorations to use again. Kids enjoy rediscovering their old favorites from year to year.
As for you – Who knows? Maybe the kids will take you to a whole new level of New Year’s fun.
(c) Norma Schmidt, LLC
About The Author
Norma Schmidt, M.A., M.Div., helps busy parents create peaceful, connected, spiritually well-fed families. To get her free report, "55 Free and Low-Cost Ways to Have the Best Holiday Season Ever," click here or visit www.ParentCafeOnline.com
Reinventing Time-Out
by: Karen Alonge
Parents are often advised to put their child in time-out as a form of discipline. While this sure beats the old-fashioned method of spanking as a behavior management tool, it still presents a few problems. Not the least of which is … who’s gonna make him go?
If he refuses, and you pick him up or drag him over there, haven’t you just resorted to controlling your child using physical force? And how much different is that, truly, from spanking?
I have a proposition for you. Instead of giving your child a time-out, take one yourself! After all, YOU are the only person whose body you can easily move. And your attention is the ultimate goal of most misbehaviors.
Imagine this scenario:
Junior konks Baby over the head with a toy.
Giving him a time-out might look like this:
MOM: Junior, go take a time-out for that.
JUNIOR: No! No! I won’t go!!
MOM: Oh yes you will!
And she picks him up and spends the next 10 minutes trying to make him stay on his time-out chair in the corner, while Baby sits alone on the floor, watching.
Clever Junior just scored himself 10 minutes of his mother’s undivided attention. Sure, she might be yelling and angry, but she’s ALL HIS, and the intensity of her attempts to control him only make her more interesting. This is why you sometimes see a child smirk while being disciplined.
Now try this on for size:
Junior konks Baby over the head with a toy.
Mama, her voice filled with loving concern, scoops up Baby into her arms and says, “Oh my goodness, Baby! I can see it is not safe for you here. Let’s go play in your room for a while.”
And whisks herself and Baby off to have loads of fun in his room, while leaving the instigator alone with his toys. (Of course, she must still keep an eye on Junior, so she can’t go too far away.)
This time it didn’t work out so well for Junior, did it? He learned that if he wants attention and company, and of course he does, then he better not hit Baby. And Mama never had to say a word to him.
Your attention is THE most powerful reinforcer in your child’s world. Use it wisely! Lavish it on him when he behaves in appropriate or kind ways. And turn it to something else when he does not.
Think of your attention as a watering can – sprinkle generously on behaviors and attitudes that you want to thrive, and avoid watering the weeds. Instead of yelling or giving negative attention, which is still attention, turn your focus away from your child and on to something else until he is behaving appropriately again. If other kids are impacted by his behavior, take them with you. There is always something around at any given point in time that could benefit from your attention … a sink full of dishes, the laundry, phone calls, or a good book.
The inappropriate behavior will wither away in the drought, and sprouting in its place will be attempts to gain your attention through positive means, like apologizing or making amends. When this happens, water those gestures generously with praise, smiles, eye contact, and hugs.
This means the end of lectures, yelling, fighting, and arguing with your children. Say goodbye to that sinking feeling of helplessness when you feel out of control. You ALWAYS have control of your own attention! Harness it consciously, and it will serve you well.
Besides, disciplining in this way is so much more fun for a parent than yelling! And kids shouldn’t be the only ones in the family who get to have fun. You know the old saying … the family that plays together, stays together!
Copyright 2005 Karen Alonge
About The Author
Karen Alonge is an intuitive life coach and parenting mentor with 20 years of experience helping families with all types of challenges. She offers consultations by phone, email, and IM. Clients often notice dramatic changes in their daily experience after only one session. Please visit http://www.karenalonge.com for more information.
Parents are often advised to put their child in time-out as a form of discipline. While this sure beats the old-fashioned method of spanking as a behavior management tool, it still presents a few problems. Not the least of which is … who’s gonna make him go?
If he refuses, and you pick him up or drag him over there, haven’t you just resorted to controlling your child using physical force? And how much different is that, truly, from spanking?
I have a proposition for you. Instead of giving your child a time-out, take one yourself! After all, YOU are the only person whose body you can easily move. And your attention is the ultimate goal of most misbehaviors.
Imagine this scenario:
Junior konks Baby over the head with a toy.
Giving him a time-out might look like this:
MOM: Junior, go take a time-out for that.
JUNIOR: No! No! I won’t go!!
MOM: Oh yes you will!
And she picks him up and spends the next 10 minutes trying to make him stay on his time-out chair in the corner, while Baby sits alone on the floor, watching.
Clever Junior just scored himself 10 minutes of his mother’s undivided attention. Sure, she might be yelling and angry, but she’s ALL HIS, and the intensity of her attempts to control him only make her more interesting. This is why you sometimes see a child smirk while being disciplined.
Now try this on for size:
Junior konks Baby over the head with a toy.
Mama, her voice filled with loving concern, scoops up Baby into her arms and says, “Oh my goodness, Baby! I can see it is not safe for you here. Let’s go play in your room for a while.”
And whisks herself and Baby off to have loads of fun in his room, while leaving the instigator alone with his toys. (Of course, she must still keep an eye on Junior, so she can’t go too far away.)
This time it didn’t work out so well for Junior, did it? He learned that if he wants attention and company, and of course he does, then he better not hit Baby. And Mama never had to say a word to him.
Your attention is THE most powerful reinforcer in your child’s world. Use it wisely! Lavish it on him when he behaves in appropriate or kind ways. And turn it to something else when he does not.
Think of your attention as a watering can – sprinkle generously on behaviors and attitudes that you want to thrive, and avoid watering the weeds. Instead of yelling or giving negative attention, which is still attention, turn your focus away from your child and on to something else until he is behaving appropriately again. If other kids are impacted by his behavior, take them with you. There is always something around at any given point in time that could benefit from your attention … a sink full of dishes, the laundry, phone calls, or a good book.
The inappropriate behavior will wither away in the drought, and sprouting in its place will be attempts to gain your attention through positive means, like apologizing or making amends. When this happens, water those gestures generously with praise, smiles, eye contact, and hugs.
This means the end of lectures, yelling, fighting, and arguing with your children. Say goodbye to that sinking feeling of helplessness when you feel out of control. You ALWAYS have control of your own attention! Harness it consciously, and it will serve you well.
Besides, disciplining in this way is so much more fun for a parent than yelling! And kids shouldn’t be the only ones in the family who get to have fun. You know the old saying … the family that plays together, stays together!
Copyright 2005 Karen Alonge
About The Author
Karen Alonge is an intuitive life coach and parenting mentor with 20 years of experience helping families with all types of challenges. She offers consultations by phone, email, and IM. Clients often notice dramatic changes in their daily experience after only one session. Please visit http://www.karenalonge.com for more information.
9 Quick Breastfeeding Tips
by: Susan Tanner
New mothers may find breastfeeding confusing at first. You may not know exactly what to do or how to do it. Hopefully these breastfeeding tips will help to get you started.
* Start Early - It is good to begin breastfeeding within an hour after birth if possible, when the baby is alert and the instinct to suck is strong. Although you will not yet be producing milk, your breasts contain colostrum, a thin milky fluid that contains important antibodies to disease.
* Feed Frequently - You should try breastfeeding your baby at least every two to three hours. This will help to keep your breasts soft and lessen or even prevent engorgement. Watch for signs that your baby is hungry, such as changes in facial expressions, sucking sounds or lip movements, and rapid eye movement or restlessness during light naps. If you keep an eye out for these signs, you can learn to anticipate your baby's hunger. Breastfeeding on cue will help stimulate your breasts to produce more milk.
* Good Positioning - Having the right positioning for breastfeeding will play a major role in reducing nipple soreness. Use you hand to support the baby's neck. The baby's mouth should be open wide with the lips puckered out like "fish lips", not folded in. The nipple should go back as far into his or her mouth as possible. If you need help finding the proper positioning, ask a nurse, midwife, or other experienced mother for some help breastfeeding.
* Nipple Upkeep - When you first begin breastfeeding your nipples may become very sore. After each breastfeeding session rub a small amount of breast milk on and around each nipple and allow it to air dry. This will help to prevent cracking which can lead to infection. In cases where your nipples do crack, coat them with breast milk, vitamin E oil, or lanolin to help them heal. Be aware that some babies may have an allergic reaction to certain moisturizing agents. Proper positioning while breastfeeding is very important to avoid sore nipples.
* Look Out for Breast Infection - If you experience a fever or painful lumps and redness in your breasts, you should seek medical attention immediately.
* Postpone Using Artificial Nipples - If you are going to be breastfeeding your baby, avoid introducing pacifiers or other artificial nipples too early. Artificial nipples require a different sucking action than the real thing and it can be easy for the baby to become confused. Try to wait until after a couple weeks of breastfeeding before introducing any sort of fake nipples.
* No Supplements Needed - There is no need to supplement breastfeeding with sugar water or formula. Neither of these come close to comparing with the nutritional complexity of your breast milk, and they may interfere with the baby's appetite for breastfeeding and lead to a diminished milk supply. Breastfeeding your baby more often will in turn cause you to produce more milk.
* Engorgement - When you first begin breastfeeding, you will be producing a lot of milk, which can make you breasts big, hard, and painful. You can help to ease this engorgement by breastfeeding frequently until your body adjusts to produce only as much as the baby needs. While your body adjusts, you can help to relieve the pain by applying warm, wet compresses or taking warm baths. Some over-the-counter pain relievers will help, but consult your doctor before taking any sort of drug, since it may be passed through your milk to the baby.
* Stay Healthy - A mother who is breastfeeding needs to eat a healthy diet in order to produce enough good milk. You should try and get an extra 500 calories a day, drink 6 to 8 glasses of fluids, and avoid drugs, alcohol, caffeine, and smoke. You should also rest as much as possible while breastfeeding, since breast infections are aggravated by fatigue.
About The Author
Susan Tanner is a wife and mother of three. She is also the editor of pregnancy-guide.net. Pregnancy-Guide is an online community for mothers to find support and valuable information. Please visit Pregnancy-Guide at http://www.pregnancy-guide.net
New mothers may find breastfeeding confusing at first. You may not know exactly what to do or how to do it. Hopefully these breastfeeding tips will help to get you started.
* Start Early - It is good to begin breastfeeding within an hour after birth if possible, when the baby is alert and the instinct to suck is strong. Although you will not yet be producing milk, your breasts contain colostrum, a thin milky fluid that contains important antibodies to disease.
* Feed Frequently - You should try breastfeeding your baby at least every two to three hours. This will help to keep your breasts soft and lessen or even prevent engorgement. Watch for signs that your baby is hungry, such as changes in facial expressions, sucking sounds or lip movements, and rapid eye movement or restlessness during light naps. If you keep an eye out for these signs, you can learn to anticipate your baby's hunger. Breastfeeding on cue will help stimulate your breasts to produce more milk.
* Good Positioning - Having the right positioning for breastfeeding will play a major role in reducing nipple soreness. Use you hand to support the baby's neck. The baby's mouth should be open wide with the lips puckered out like "fish lips", not folded in. The nipple should go back as far into his or her mouth as possible. If you need help finding the proper positioning, ask a nurse, midwife, or other experienced mother for some help breastfeeding.
* Nipple Upkeep - When you first begin breastfeeding your nipples may become very sore. After each breastfeeding session rub a small amount of breast milk on and around each nipple and allow it to air dry. This will help to prevent cracking which can lead to infection. In cases where your nipples do crack, coat them with breast milk, vitamin E oil, or lanolin to help them heal. Be aware that some babies may have an allergic reaction to certain moisturizing agents. Proper positioning while breastfeeding is very important to avoid sore nipples.
* Look Out for Breast Infection - If you experience a fever or painful lumps and redness in your breasts, you should seek medical attention immediately.
* Postpone Using Artificial Nipples - If you are going to be breastfeeding your baby, avoid introducing pacifiers or other artificial nipples too early. Artificial nipples require a different sucking action than the real thing and it can be easy for the baby to become confused. Try to wait until after a couple weeks of breastfeeding before introducing any sort of fake nipples.
* No Supplements Needed - There is no need to supplement breastfeeding with sugar water or formula. Neither of these come close to comparing with the nutritional complexity of your breast milk, and they may interfere with the baby's appetite for breastfeeding and lead to a diminished milk supply. Breastfeeding your baby more often will in turn cause you to produce more milk.
* Engorgement - When you first begin breastfeeding, you will be producing a lot of milk, which can make you breasts big, hard, and painful. You can help to ease this engorgement by breastfeeding frequently until your body adjusts to produce only as much as the baby needs. While your body adjusts, you can help to relieve the pain by applying warm, wet compresses or taking warm baths. Some over-the-counter pain relievers will help, but consult your doctor before taking any sort of drug, since it may be passed through your milk to the baby.
* Stay Healthy - A mother who is breastfeeding needs to eat a healthy diet in order to produce enough good milk. You should try and get an extra 500 calories a day, drink 6 to 8 glasses of fluids, and avoid drugs, alcohol, caffeine, and smoke. You should also rest as much as possible while breastfeeding, since breast infections are aggravated by fatigue.
About The Author
Susan Tanner is a wife and mother of three. She is also the editor of pregnancy-guide.net. Pregnancy-Guide is an online community for mothers to find support and valuable information. Please visit Pregnancy-Guide at http://www.pregnancy-guide.net
Educational Toys - Let Children Learn While They Are Having Fun
by: Bill Bradley
In today’s fast pace modern world, few parents manage to spend enough quality time with their children resulting in deprivation of some vital stimulation. This caused a lot of children to strive with learning problems at school. Most of these learning problems can be traced back to inadequate learning experiences during their infant, toddler and preschool years.
Everyone loves to play and children are no exception. Luckily Mother Nature cautiously planned it, so that children may learn vital skills by playing. Play is the most vital child activity, where learning actually occurs although unknowingly every time a child plays. However a parent must regulate the play so that it remains on an educational path. This is where educational toys, games and other activities come in.
During the last few years, parents started getting more interested in choosing smart toys for their children. These toys encourage the children to learn specific skills through a fun and enjoyable way, playing. The key lies in knowing which skill your child lacks that causes a particular learning or development problem.
Educational toys are specially designed to teach specific learning activities that children needs at various ages. Since children generally love to play, especially with kids toys, they receive lots of right stimulation at the right time.
There are also kids toys that are not educational for children and must be avoided. For instance toy guns and other such toys that tend to depict violence and other unpleasant behaviors and must. Although these toys may be a good quite enjoyable for youngsters, on the long term they will only causes harm.
Toys are one of the first things a child gets into contact with. Understanding how things work is the direct answer of solving problems that comes with choosing toys. Toys assist children in learning how to grab, pull, push, and synchronize the movement of the head with that of the hand.
Toys are essential when playing, and playing with a wide range of learning toys helps children to develop their imagination. It taught them to understand that different objects have different properties and to learn how to combine them to create other interesting objects.
Although parents can perform the stimulation job better, it would mean that the parent must personally spend countless hours during their child's formative years to give all of these stimulation and learning experiences. In turn that would mean that the parents have to sacrifice their other responsibilities and obligations. But with when the parents take the time to choose the appropriate learning toys they could serve as a buffer. During the absence of parents, smart toys could be used as substitutes so the child does not have to miss out on important stimulation that may cause them to under perform in school.
About The Author
Bill Bradley
Educational toys are a great way to stimulate a young mind and build self confidence while having fun. A free resource, product and reference guide is available at http://www.incredibletoys.com. No membership is required.
In today’s fast pace modern world, few parents manage to spend enough quality time with their children resulting in deprivation of some vital stimulation. This caused a lot of children to strive with learning problems at school. Most of these learning problems can be traced back to inadequate learning experiences during their infant, toddler and preschool years.
Everyone loves to play and children are no exception. Luckily Mother Nature cautiously planned it, so that children may learn vital skills by playing. Play is the most vital child activity, where learning actually occurs although unknowingly every time a child plays. However a parent must regulate the play so that it remains on an educational path. This is where educational toys, games and other activities come in.
During the last few years, parents started getting more interested in choosing smart toys for their children. These toys encourage the children to learn specific skills through a fun and enjoyable way, playing. The key lies in knowing which skill your child lacks that causes a particular learning or development problem.
Educational toys are specially designed to teach specific learning activities that children needs at various ages. Since children generally love to play, especially with kids toys, they receive lots of right stimulation at the right time.
There are also kids toys that are not educational for children and must be avoided. For instance toy guns and other such toys that tend to depict violence and other unpleasant behaviors and must. Although these toys may be a good quite enjoyable for youngsters, on the long term they will only causes harm.
Toys are one of the first things a child gets into contact with. Understanding how things work is the direct answer of solving problems that comes with choosing toys. Toys assist children in learning how to grab, pull, push, and synchronize the movement of the head with that of the hand.
Toys are essential when playing, and playing with a wide range of learning toys helps children to develop their imagination. It taught them to understand that different objects have different properties and to learn how to combine them to create other interesting objects.
Although parents can perform the stimulation job better, it would mean that the parent must personally spend countless hours during their child's formative years to give all of these stimulation and learning experiences. In turn that would mean that the parents have to sacrifice their other responsibilities and obligations. But with when the parents take the time to choose the appropriate learning toys they could serve as a buffer. During the absence of parents, smart toys could be used as substitutes so the child does not have to miss out on important stimulation that may cause them to under perform in school.
About The Author
Bill Bradley
Educational toys are a great way to stimulate a young mind and build self confidence while having fun. A free resource, product and reference guide is available at http://www.incredibletoys.com. No membership is required.
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