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A Splash of Color Makes All the Difference

April 16, 2018 by Painter Mommy Leave a Comment

The decision to paint your home is not one to put off. While you may believe that painting your house is a cosmetic treatment that can wait for another day, you might be surprised to discover exactly how a bad paint job can impact your mood. If your home is in need of a fresh coat of paint, then now is the perfect time for you to start exploring all of the reasons to get on top of this goal as soon as possible. You simply need to take a look at some exciting reasons to get a move on.

Explore some of these suggestions and see how acting now can transform your home in the most exciting ways. Before you know it, you’ll be ready to welcome a brand new look for your home.

Mood Boost

Right away, you need to understand how the appearance of your residence impacts your mood and psychological state. On the surface, it might seem like painting is a simple matter of aesthetics. In truth, the condition of your home says a lot about you as a person. When guests come to your house and notice the paint on the exterior has been cracking, flaking, or fading, they might assume you do not have the care or desire to improve the appearance. It can also create a number of problems when it comes to attempting to sell your home.

One of the best reasons to consider painting your home is to increase the curb appeal. Whether you are looking to sell your house in the near future or you want to consider the option in a few years, you need to make sure the outside is appealing to those who decide to pass by. When the exterior has fresh and appealing paint, it can draw attention and cause people to take notice. If you want to get the results you’re looking for and improve how people view your home, then now is the time to contact the experts.

Increased Protection

You also may want to think about painting the exterior of your home as a preventative measure. Time and the elements can easily take a toll on the appearance of your space. The longer you have lived in your home, the more likely it is that your house has taken a beaten from wind, sunlight, and other forces. By painting your home every few years, you are giving yourself the chance to add an increased layer of protection against any harmful agents that might be blowing about in the breeze.

There are plenty of simple reasons to think about hiring professional painters to take on the task of adding a new coat to your home. If you want to make sure you are always doing your part to improve the way your home looks to others and handles during intense weather, then reach out and contact the experts as soon as possible to get the process started. Explore your options and see how a little bit of paint can go a long way when it comes to how you feel about the place where you live.

Simple and Cost Reducing Tricks to Make Your Home More Stylish

April 5, 2018 by Painter Mommy Leave a Comment

Making your home look stylish may seem out of reach. However, it does not have to cost a lot of money to bring style into your home decor.

Mix and Match Sheer Curtains

Most people tend to stick with matching curtains. However, when they are sheer, they add an elegance to the room and the window when you mix and match two sets of curtains.

Tie Ribbons to Shower Curtain Rods

This gives the bathroom an elegant feel. You can add napkin rings and ribbons if you don’t like the look of ribbons directly on the rod.

Frame Your Television

For an elegant look in the living room, you can frame your television. Try using distressed wood or elegant looking pieces of trim cut to size. You can also hide all of the cords within a shower rod to give the room a simple and organized air.

Spray Paint Old Air Vents

Air vents tend to take on an aged look when they have been in place for some time. Give them a fresh coat of spray paint, and they appear like new.

Use Photo Frames to Accent Your Light Switches

Light switch frames do not have to be boring and light-colored. Instead, opt for a colorful picture frame, picked up at the dollar store or a yard sale, and frame the switch plate to make it look fresh and new. It adds style to the room in a way that you might not notice at first, but it is worth the effort.

Paint the Ceiling a Bright Color (Think Accent Wall)

Accent walls have been popular for a long time. Now, you can opt for a brightly colored ceiling to be the accent “wall” in the room. Instead, of choosing a wall around the room, draw the eye to the upper area. It brings style and gives the room a boost in energy as well.

Make the Room Look Bigger

You can opt for half-painted walls, which will make the room appear taller. You can also make the windows in the room appear bigger by using curved curtain rods. These can help give the room the illusion of more space, which can make people feel more comfortable and less cramped in the space.

Infuse Your Closet Doors with Style

You can purchase mirrors for reasonable prices. Opt to buy matching mirrors and attach them to the closet door. It is a good idea to paint the doors to match. Then, they appear built-in and very elegant.

Add Hardware to Tie Curtains

Tie-backs with a simple hook and ring connected to simple rope can give your curtains an elegant style. Meanwhile, you can opt to basket-weave the top of the curtains to provide another shot of elegance to the room.

These tips, along with resources like The Stylish Splash, can be very helpful if your home needs a bump in the style sector. They can also be helpful for renovations to sell your home. You can make it look irresistible to potential buyers with limited investment.

Micro Managing – 5 Reasons a Microfinance Loan Might Be Right For You

March 19, 2018 by Painter Mommy Leave a Comment

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More people than ever are finding it increasingly hard to access bank loans. Perhaps you have a bad credit score or inconsistent cash flow, in which case, very few banks want to work with you. It could simply be because banks have moved away from small and personal loans ever since the 2008 financial crisis – which is probably for the best. Microfinance can be a better alternative to banks and unscrupulous payday lenders when you find yourself in need of cash in a hurry. Here are five scenarios where microfinance might be the right solution for you:

Car Trouble

Most people make use of their vehicle for their daily commute. A large segment of the population also relies on them for their very livelihood. But if that car were to break down suddenly and public transport wasn’t a viable option, a small loan would be a great solution in a tight situation. Likewise, if your car is totaled or you’re purchasing your first car, low-interest microcredit is likely what you need.

Home Improvements

Our homes can be a significant drain on our resources. Investing in energy efficient improvements can save you a lot of money over the mid and long-term. By simply replacing the five most frequently used light fixtures around the house with energy efficient light bulbs, you can save $75 per year. Plant several trees on the sunny side of your home, and you can reduce your annual air conditioning costs by as much as 50%. Alternatively, when things go wrong, repairs and maintenance can put a horrific dent in an already tight budget. Access to a ready source of cash can ensure that you can keep your home in shape without plunging yourself into unmanageable debt.

Life Cycle

The US, like most of the rest of the world, is experiencing an all-time low in the number of marriages per year. Primary amongst the reasons cited for couples delaying or deciding not to embark on marriage altogether is the spiralling costs, coupled with stagnant or shrinking real wages. Even modest weddings can still cost thousands that young couples simply don’t have. Accessing a small loan can allow you to have that wedding about which you’ve been dreaming.

Education Expenses

Spending money on your education is always a sound investment, no matter the age. Statistics show that the average college graduate with a 4-year bachelor’s degree earns twice as much money throughout his or her life as someone with a high school diploma alone. However, starting school does require some initial financial investment which can be prohibitive. This is one of those times when microcredit might just come in handy by helping to get you into the system so that you can pursue your goals and achieve your potential through higher education.

Unforeseen Expenses

Just like your car breaking down in the middle of the road, or a mind-numbing toothache in the middle of the night, or even a pipe bursting when you’re not at home, all can bring on some unforeseen expenses for which you might not have planned. And if you don’t have a rainy-day fund put aside, like 78% of all working Americans, then something seemingly as insignificant as a twisted ankle or a broken fridge can turn into a financial struggle.

Microfinance has been around for a very long time and with good reason too. Many are nonprofit organizations looking to help out the little guy wherever he may need some assistance. Do your research, and you may find that you qualify for that leg up that will help get you on financial track without trapping you in the high-interest debt cycle.

Exterior Design – How to Give Your Outdoor Areas a Stylish Makeover

March 19, 2018 by Painter Mommy Leave a Comment

Source: Shutterstock

Is your home outdoor area looking a little lacklustre these days? Are you bored of your current decor, or simply looking for a fresh injection of life into your space? If that’s the case, this is the article for you. Read on to find out a little more about how you can give your outdoor areas a stylish makeover. With a little know-how, you’ll be able to turn your space into one of your dreams.

Keep It Warm And Toasty

Summer has come and gone, but that doesn’t mean that your days of lounging out in your outdoor areas have to come to an end. A simple solution to keep your outdoor area warm and toasty all year long is to install some gas outdoor heaters into your space. These heaters look stylish, and ensure that you can continue to wine and dine outside, even in the colder months. The fun doesn’t have to stop just because the weather has shifted!

Dress Your Table

Your outdoor area is not complete without a large table where people can come together to relax or have a family meal together. We recommend purchasing wooden tables or tables made of natural materials so that the aesthetic flows with the earthy tones of the outdoors. Always keep your table well dressed, with a table runner, placemats, flowers and tea lights. This will truly breathe some new life and elegance into your outdoor area, and you’ll always be ready should company come knocking on your door.

Lighting Is Key

Nothing transforms the mood of a space more than lighting does, and your outdoor area is the perfect opportunity for you to get creative with lights. You can consider hanging up affordable fairy lights, paper lanterns, or even go all out and install step lights, solar powered lights, spike lights and pathway lights into the area. Keeping the area well lit ensures that you have a great ambience even when the sun goes down, and makes your outdoor area look much more inviting in the evening.

Landscape, Landscape, Landscape!

Landscaping is essential if you want to give your outdoor areas a stylish makeover. Not only are they beautiful, but plants also help to breathe life into your space, beckoning you in to sit down and relax. There are a myriad of options when it comes to landscaping – from vertical gardens to shrubs to privacy offering hedges. If you are not confident in landscaping yourself, don’t fret, there are many professionals out there who will be able to offer you guidance and assistance.

Why Not Grow Your Own Produce?

Outdoor spaces don’t have to be all about just entertainment – why not put your space to good use by starting your very own fruit and vegetable garden? There is nothing better than growing your own food, knowing how it has been grown and enjoying the bountiful crops of your hard work. You can grow many cost effective veggies such as herbs, lettuce, tomatoes and beans in your outdoor area, saving you money in the long run as well. Aside from growing your own food, you can even compost, which is a way of recycling your organic waste and turning it into a nitrogen rich substance that will greatly improve the soil in your outdoor areas.

We hope that this article has given you some insight into how you can go about transforming your outdoor area. With a little know how and a trip to a DIY store or two, you’ll be lounging in your dream outdoor patio or backyard in no time.

Boys and Their Toys – 6 Manly Gifts for Your Manly Man

March 19, 2018 by Painter Mommy Leave a Comment

With Christmas behind us, many people will be rejoicing at being able to close their wallets and step away from the gift stores. However, it might be a little premature to stow away the Benjamins, for Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Then there are birthdays, anniversaries and plenty other opportunities to put further dents in the bank balance. If you want to get ahead of the game and treat the man in your life to a gift he’ll just love, we’ve included six options below. You may find you’ll hit the jackpot with any of these options.

LED Light Bars

If your man has a love for the outdoors and off-roading, you can do no better than LED light bars for his beloved truck. LED light bars are the perfect accompaniment to any outdoor enthusiast’s 4WD, and can light up the darkest back road for optimum safety. You’ll never be able to wipe the grin off his face if you purchased him some of these bad boys!

Sports Tickets

The football season may be drawing to a close, but with the NBA in full swing and MLB just around the corner, your significant other will love the chance to sport that big foam finger while watching his favorite team. Tickets to a big game will be the perfect memorable experience for the passionate sports fan.

Activewear

Believe it or not, attire makes an excellent option, and in today’s health and fitness-conscious world, activewear is the wearable gift of choice. Men make up a growing proportion of the estimated $178B global sports apparel market, so forget about the socks, underwear and ties and go for something that he will love, as well as being practical. However, not just any old Walmart tracksuit will do. Go for known brands such as Reebok, Nike, and Adidas that are sure to impress.

Workshop Sets

If your man is forever engaged in the next big project with his vehicles, or he just likes to spend time in the garage tinkering away, consider purchasing a workshop set for him. “I don’t need any new tools,” said no man, ever, so you really can’t go wrong with this one. That’s not to say you shouldn’t be selective. From now until Valentine’s Day or his birthday, pay attention to what he has, uses, and what he says he needs so you can be sure to hit the mark.

Accessories

How many times have you said to your boyfriend that he needs to get rid of his cracked and peeling wallet, or his tatty belt? Accessories, while important, often don’t feature highly on any man’s list of things to buy for themselves. Even though digital wallets are beginning to gain traction, guys are not showing signs of giving up their bulging monstrosities anytime soon. If left to his own devices, he will keep using it until it is five loosely bound wallet molecules, so it’s up to you to rip that bandaid off and get him a new one!

Brew Kit

The dog might be man’s best friend, but a brew kit is sure to be a close second. Not only can he enjoy a cold brew after a hard day’s work, but he can also enjoy the fruits of his labor. A brew kit can offer a sense of satisfaction, and may even open the door to a whole new hobby that you and his friends can also enjoy with him.

Choosing a gift for your man for Valentine’s Day, his birthday or other special occasion can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Opt for one or more of these six presents, and watch as his face lights up!

From Tasteless to Trendy – Ditching the Drab With a Decor Makeover

February 27, 2018 by Painter Mommy Leave a Comment

Whether your looking to carry out a complete makeover or just looking for some minor decoration tips to spruce up your decor, we have some great ways to revitalise your home. We’ve got decoration and style ideas from wallpaper trends through to beautiful leather lounge suites that won’t fail to brighten up any room.

Luscious Lavender is the New Millennial Pink

In 2017, we heard all about millennial pink, and although pastel pinks are still all the rage this year, lavender and lilacs are the new chic colour creeping into decor trends of 2018. Use these colours to create a comfortable space where you can relax. Why not add some textiles and accessories in these colours to really show you have your finger on the design pulse. Rugs, cushions and other decorative accessories are a great way to make any room shine.

Reconnect with Nature

Natural and rustic materials are gaining more and more momentum, raw wooden shelves are a great way to add extra storage space as well as some natural warmth. Earthy accessories such as terracotta plant pots featuring greenery really make a home feel welcoming and natural.

Organic and traditional handcrafted accessories are also a quick fix for more compact rooms, such as bathrooms, where you may be short on space. Try adding a beautiful woven hanging plant pot to add some freshness to smaller areas without taking up much too much floor space.

If you have the budget and are looking for a statement wall, why not look to see whether you can expose natural brick to add a focal point to your room. Combine natural brick with some bold pictures to really make the place pop.

Dark and Moody

As well as pastels moody tones are also going to be making a splash this year. Darker tones could be incorporated into artwork or used to create a tone on tone wall and furniture combo to add some variety to the house decor. Picking a bold armchair to offset a darker wall is a great way to have some fun with colour this season.

Moody blue tones are currently taking over the design world with their wonderful ability to be moody and inviting at the same time. Creating a tranquil place to relax and escape from the day-to-day hassles of busy lifestyles.

Bright Colours and Bold Patterns

Decorating with bold prints is a simple way to add a bit of life and vibrancy to your home. Why not play around with pictures and prints of different sizes on one wall. It will change the ambiance of any room without breaking the bank.

Another way to revitalise old furniture is to reupholster a signature piece to give it a new lease of life, or purchase some textured throws and cushions to add a bit of colour to your home.

Patterned wallpapers have exploded in recent years as they’re a great way to make any room breathtakingly beautiful. From bathrooms all the way through to your kitchen or bedroom, floral, geometric and even ornate designs can add a subtle updated or a bold splash of colour that can excite any guest.

Patterned wallpaper prices can vary dramatically though, therefore make sure you measure up correctly to avoid any unnecessary material wastage.

Deep Dark Woods

Dark wood will be a popular material this year with furniture moving away from lighter scandio style woods to deeper tones. These darker tones will compliment the moodier paint palettes detailed above and add a sense of luxury and glamour. Furniture designs with darker wood finishes will accentuate their metallic and copper finishings which will be much more visible in homes this year, combining the modern with the retro to create a new take on modern interiors.

What are you waiting for? Start searching for your home decor inspiration and make your home breathtaking this year.

Insightful Interiors – What Your Decor Says About You

February 27, 2018 by Painter Mommy Leave a Comment

Owning your own home is the great Australian dream. If you’re blessed enough to have a place to call your own, there’s a lot more to do than just pay off the mortgage. You need to maintain it, keep it clean, develop a green thumb to keep that garden look pristine as well as pay all the bills, rates and other expenses like insurance. And then there’s your interior to consider. Your home needs to be a direct reflection and expression of yourself and your unique personality. Let’s check out some interior insights and see what your decor says about you.

Dull Interiors are a No No

There’s nothing worse than a bland and lifeless interior. Well, maybe a few things, but it’s definitely up there. Your home space needs a spark of love, light and creativity to really bring it alive. There are lots of reasons why people suffer from dull interiors – lack of time, energy, motivation, money or taste. That’s why employing an interior decorator in Melbourne may be just the ticket. A local interior decorator can help transform a lifeless, dead space into one that’s just bursting with vibrant personality.

Art Tells a Story

One way to let your individualism shine through inside your home is to invest in some art. You don’t have to rob the Louvre to acquire a few pieces that really speak to your innermost vibe. You may even find that scouring some op shops and second hand stores will suffice. All you need is something that resonates with you. Some people prefer soft pastels and oils while others like bright and bold modern pieces. You could even do some research online to find out what you like best.

Get Green

Did you know that indoor plants are a great way to both decorate your home and make a statement about yourself? There’s a wide range of indoor plants that all tell a story about the homeowner. If you’re careful and considerate choose something that requires a lot of care. If you’re more laid back then choose something that you can just water once a week and forget about for the rest of the time.

Paint Schemes

Your choice of paint palette says a lot about you as a person. If you’re bright, sparkly and colourful then choose some indoor paint colours that will perfectly reflect your personality. If you are more reserved, that’s fine, just pick a paint palette that doesn’t make a huge statement. Either one is fine, and that’s the beauty of modern individualism. And the best news is that if you ever have a change of heart and mind either way you can just paint again!

Minimalism

Do you think that less is more? Are you a bit fed up with clutter and chaos in your house? Then a minimal approach may be right for you. Minimalism essentially means living with less stuff, including home decor. It can be a tough road to travel, but a well-designed minimal interior is to die for. Having a lot of space in your home can mean that a few well-placed items really pop out and scream “this is my stripped-back, bare essence”.

Do it Yourself

If you’re a fan of DIY – renovations, crafting and artwork, then why not decorate your space with all of your own creations? They will look truly unique, and it’s a great bragging point when somebody compliments your decor.

There You Have It

Hopefully by now you’ve got a clear idea of how to make your personality shine out through your home. From getting creative and doing it yourself through to adopting a minimal approach, there’s a lot you can do. Consider hiring an interior decorator, choose your paint scheme carefully, invest in some houseplants and pick up some new or second-hand art. Enjoy your new found expression.

The Ant Almanac – A Guide to Common Household Pests

February 27, 2018 by Painter Mommy Leave a Comment

The planet Earth is filled with life. Creatures great and small inhabit its forests, oceans, springs, glades and oases. From great white sharks through to quokkas, there are so many majestic, magnificent, malicious and mighty creatures that are awesome to behold. And then there’s ants. And flies. And spiders. And all those creepy crawlies that just love to call your house their home. We’re going to take a quick look at the most common household pests and how you can avoid them.

Termites

Termites, or “white ants”, are tiny insects that are found on every continent of the planet except Antarctica. It’s probably too cold for them there. They love to eat dead plants, which actually makes them a vital part of our ecosystem. Unfortunately, dead plants include the timber that makes up the frame of your house. Once you have a termite infestation they can destroy your home within months. You may want to consider a termite inspection to ensure your home is safe and secure.

Spiders

Spiders. Ugh. Sadly, these eight-legged scary things love to live in your home. Especially in dark nooks and crannies like your garage or garden shed. The good news it that the humble huntsman and other non-venomous spiders help to keep the population of other pests, like flies and mosquitoes, at manageable levels. The bad news is that deadly species like redbacks, whitetails and funnel webs can also take up residence too. Do yourself a favour and take care when poking around your garden shed or garage.

Ants

Ants, like termites, play a vital role in the world’s ecosystem. But of course, when they invade your home that’s the last thing you think about. Ants tend to be attracted to stray crumbs and bits of food, especially sugar and sweet things. Did you know they can carry many times their own weight? Although that knowledge is no comfort when you find them crawling all over your stash of doughnuts. If your home is prone to ants, try to keep all sweet food sealed in tight containers so they can’t get in.

Bed Bugs

While we’re on the topic of creepy crawlies, bed bugs are another common household pest. Bed bugs actually live on the blood of humans and other animals. They tend to find their way into your home through infested linen, furniture or luggage. So, think twice before buying or accepting second-hand gifts of these items. Their bites can feel like mozzie bites. If you suspect a bed bug infestation, it’s probably best to recruit a professional to come and examine your home.

Rodents

Mice and rats are another common household pest. They tend to live in between your walls or under the floor and love to feed on leftover food scraps, compost and other bits and pieces you may leave laying about. They can be a real hazard as they can chew through insulation and wiring, creating a serious fire hazard. Do yourself a favour and contact an exterminator if you find an infestation.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches are a really common household pest. They tend to thrive in your kitchen and other areas where food is prepared. They can actually spread salmonella and gastro to humans, as well as trigger allergies. It’s important to keep your house clean and tidy and free of food scraps in order to avoid visits from these awful critters.

In Summary

There are many other common household pests, but these tend to be the most common. From wood-devouring termites, ants and scary spiders to disgusting cockroaches, rodents and bed bugs – many creepy crawlies can come knocking. Try to follow some of the advice in this blog and your home will be a clean and serene haven.

Key Ways To Help Reduce Your Risk Of Bankruptcy In Business – Law Office of Ronald D. Weiss

February 7, 2018 by Painter Mommy Leave a Comment

Bankruptcy in business is a topic that isn’t often discussed by businesses, primarily because this is something that should be avoided. Unfortunately, this doesn’t mean that the threat to bankruptcy in a company isn’t removed. It’s important to be able to understand how bankruptcy is a real threat to a business so more measures can be undertaken to avoid it. Below are some key ways to help reduce your risk of bankruptcy in business.

Knowing how these tips could work to help you reduce your risks of bankruptcy will be able to allow to set up proper plans to secure the financial future of your company. Understanding bankruptcy may not be the easiest thing to do, but it can be an efficient way to ensure there is some degree of preparation on your end for all eventualities.

According to Intuit’s Quickbooks, risk of bankruptcy in business is always present in whatever kind of industry you choose to be in and in whatever form your business takes. There’s no sure way to stay in the market forever, which means you have to be constantly on the move to make sure your assets and resources are placed and utilized correctly in order to avoid chances of bankruptcy. Below are some key ways to help reduce your risk of bankruptcy in business.

Get Alternative Revenue

One of the biggest reasons businesses have to file for bankruptcy is because the revenue generated out of the business isn’t enough to support its operations. Without the appropriate capital, businesses have to resort to debt and, given the lack of capital in the first place, the cycle can continue into a deadly spiral. However, this doesn’t mean having to resort to debt or lacking a bit of capital so low sales expectations mean having to close down immediately. You might be in need for alternative revenue.

When you say “alternative,” you can actually borrow the money from investors or ask them to step up for now and help you finance some aspects of the company’s operations. Their contribution can help ensure you can get the business back on track as you just need that push to help it regain its stability.
You can also start assessing the kind of sales, budget, savings, and deficits your business is earning in order to check which areas are lacking in terms of performance. This is especially important when you look at your expenses as you can see which areas of the business are you spending money on that don’t necessarily matter for now. For instance, are you insured in areas of the business you don’t currently need, or do you have subscription services you’re subscribed to but don’t use? These might be removed for now in order to save money.

Get Managerial Changes

Sometimes, when you’re seeing a problem in your business, it might be a sign that you have to change leadership roles in-house. Humans are creatures of habit, and sometimes ideas fail to spark and appear because your staff have gotten used to a certain protocol that don’t necessarily help in the long run. Gather your teams’ managers together and assess the kind of problem you have and what can be changed in the management’s outlook in order to get more positive changes in the long run.

These changes can simply be about how management runs things overall, but if you think the kind of push needed is by switching around managerial roles, this might greatly help in the future stability of your company in the long run.

Get A Consultant

When a problem is being tackled, normally things are kept in-house. After all, a company has got to be able to solve its own affairs, right? When it comes to finances, however, sometimes a little shift in perspective counts. If you think you’re having a bit of trouble managing your company’s finances, perhaps hiring a financial consultant can help make the kind of positive change you want in the company.

Try to get someone who has training in “revitalizing” companies within your industry. This allows you to get a fresh take on the issues you’re having as an outsider can get a better look at your company from an outside angle. Solutions your consultant may present don’t even necessarily require you to replace your staff.

Conclusion

Bankruptcy in business is something you have to avoid, but it’s a reality of business that has to be accepted. At one point or another, a business’s overall financial status will be too low to make a recovery, and bankruptcy can be an option. Understanding this reality can be the best way for anyone to work on a turnaround to be able to turn the tide and avoid bankruptcy altogether. This means knowing what goes on in business bankruptcy is perhaps the smartest approach in terms of finding ways to avoid it.

However, do remember that the ideas stated above shouldn’t be taken as legal or financial advice. It’s better to consult a legal and financial professional as they have the training necessary to answer your concerns on the subject matter.

Guest Post Author:

Monika Hall is a businesswoman and has been a law writer for the past 12 years. She is currently writing a new law piece and hopes to impart her knowledge to others in her writing. Monika is forever a creative spirit. She always expresses herself with creative pieces such as poetry whenever she has the time.

How to Instill the Love of Reading in Your Child

January 22, 2018 by Painter Mommy Leave a Comment

When does your child read? A) Every single day – he just loves learning and letting his imagination run free, B) Read? He uses his books to reach the TV dial or C) When I make him, come hell or Lambchops Play-along!

If your answer is ‘A,’ congratulations: Your child will grow pup with initiative, creativity, and knowledge needed in today’s competitive world. If your answer is ‘B,’ welcome to the club; many other mothers get the urge to throw the TV and computer games out the window. And if your answer is ‘C’ – well, it is a step in the right direction. Sort of.

Here are six ways on how to instill the love of reading in your child:

1. Get together with other mothers. Some kids, even if they grow to like books, might eventually abandon them because their friends want to play, or they cannot keep up with the neighborhood discussions on Barbie. Organize some reading group, or at least encourage other parents to fix their own children’s reading habits. Then you can throw back an argument your child has used for most of his life: “other kids are doing it.”

2. Don’t make reading a chore or a punishment. It is easy to tell a hyperactive or underachieving child to “Keep quiet for half an hour and just read a book.” Or “Your grades are low because you do not read enough…from now on I want you to keep books and not to play!” But this will give negative reading connotations that no amount of Brothers Grimm can erase. Separate the situation from the solution. If you do want your child to sit still, tell him to go his room, where books will be waiting for his quiet enjoyment. Or if his grades are low, limit his play, then at another time; gently explain to him how reading can help him in his studies. Books then become the friend, not the enemy, and friendship is the first step to love.

3. Do not criticize his reading. So what if he reads slowly, or if he reads the same books over and over again? The important thing is that he is reading, and if he needs correction, be sure to sandwich it with lots of his effort. “Son, I’m proud that you’re reading a lot, and writing stories of your own too! But don’t write on the books, okay?! Here, I bought you a nice notebook. If you want to write after reading, you can put it here so everyone can read your beautiful stories.”

4. Cultivate a general interest in learning. You have taught your child to love reading; now you have to teach him to take the initiative. Organize nature trips, collect bugs or flowers, or just place him in any situation that will expose him to new things. Now that his senses are stimulated, he will naturally turn to what suggestions number 1-9 have drilled into him day after day. “Hey, didn’t I read a book on that some time ago? I think I’ll look it up again when I get home.”

5. Make books available. Rarely does a child plan to read a book. It is spontaneous, like everything else he does, a hungriness that springs on a sleepy Saturday afternoon or after a wonderful discovery in the garden. So do not keep the encyclopedia set behind a locked glass case, or the fairy tale books on a shelf too high for him to reach. And most importantly, do not cripple him with the fear that he might “ruin the book.” Books are to be read, and if the pages get a little crumpled, then they are beautiful books indeed. Haven’t you read The Velveteen Rabbit?

6. Set him free. After you have instilled the love of reading in him, let him explore its realm for himself. You have given him the most beautiful gift possible, but he will never be able to know this until he discovers this on his adventuring own. If he likes Sherlock Holmes, well and good. If he prefers Ghosts and Goblins, then step back and let them be. After all, your child is A) reading every single day – he just loves to learn and allowing his imagination run free!

Author Bio: Sohail is a content marketer and a blogger, currently he is associated with Smiletutor.sg an online tuition agency in Singapore. His hobbies include writing, reading books, traveling and gardening.