Parenting

Parents and Homework

March 2, 2015 by Painter Mommy Leave a Comment

This is a Sponsored Post…

I guess everyone has been to school and knows pretty well how hard is the path of studying. Therefore, the educational system of USA suggests that parents should help kids with their homework. So, Homework-desk.com decided to check out how parents manage to tackle their kids homework. It turns out that around 40% of parents deal with their kids homework. Others either are too busy for this or just don’t understand the materials their kids bring home with them. The most problematic subjects for parents turn out to be math and English.

There is evidence though that it is extremely good when parents are involved in their kids studying lives. In such families children are more successful at school and get more fun with the studying process.

There are various ways of how parents can help their kids with home assignments. Among them are 5 the most important: parents should help their kid to choose the right place for doing homework, as well as, the right time. They should help with preparing of all the necessary materials for studying and remove all the possible distractions. And the last but not the least – they should be engaged themselves, show interest, and be a vivid example.

Another point here to discuss if parents should help kids with studies at all. Is it more of a hindrance than a help? But the key aspect here is that everything should be done moderately. Parents shouldn’t do the whole homework, as can be seen in one out of six families. Small hints and the simple expression of interest will boost the kids’ motivation to study and develop. It is important to explain how important the knowledge gained at school is. It is a ground, a so-called platform, for the further deeds. Therefore, be a vivid example for your kid, be engaged, and everything will be just in order.

5 Lessons Learned from Pregnancy

January 22, 2015 by Painter Mommy 1 Comment

Pregnancy is that beautiful phase in your life when regardless of whom you know or don’t, everyone throws pearls of wisdom your way. Your mother becomes your doctor on call, your best friend becomes your personal mommy-stylist and the supermarket attendant, a dietary expert. Everyone will tell you what the journey to motherhood is going to be like – the do’s and don’ts as well as the good and the bad. Let me be honest here. No matter what anyone tells you, you can never truly be prepared for pregnancy with a known set of expectations. You need to experience it to know what it really feels like. Nobody can describe in words the magical moment of your baby’s first kick, or the irritation that morning sickness can cause. Well, here is a list of 5 life lessons that pregnancy (and not my well wishers) taught me:

The Importance Of Personal Relationships – Pregnancy will make you realize why you need to keep your loved ones close. When your husband rushes to get you your favorite flavor of ice cream in the middle of the night and your mom leaves her poker party only to be next to you when you make countless trips to the loo, you’ll see how blessed and loved you are! And hey, it’s not just your immediate family and friends who’re going to be nice to you! Everyone around you will go beyond their comfort zone to ensure you’re doing great. It’s the best feeling in the world and sure restores your faith in humanity.

The Art Of Patience – If you thought patience was a virtue you’d never master, wait till you get pregnant! I for one have seen my personality undergo this life transformational change after pregnancy. Right from your first pregnancy test results to the time you finally go into labor, you’ll await each milestone with equal amount of anticipation and enthusiasm. It’s probably God’s own way of preparing you for your impending motherhood, where patience is more of a necessity than an advantage.

The Power Of Being A Woman – One of my biggest realizations during pregnancy was that women are not the weaker sex! Women are much stronger, mentally, physically and emotionally than men can ever be. Can you imagine your husband going through 12 excruciating hours of labor? Would he manage holding a smile despite experiencing the worst case of morning sickness? Would he be able to carry off the pregnancy weight as gracefully as you? Probably not! Your husband is going to be your biggest pillar of support during pregnancy, but he surely wouldn’t be able to handle the phase with your level of strength and composure if he had to!

The Significance Of Good Health – If you grew up listening to your parent’s glorified lectures on the importance of good health but never paid any heed, pregnancy will teach you the hard way. Your journey to motherhood sure has many wonderful moments, but you can also fall prey to health complications if you don’t take care of yourself and the little one inside. Eat healthy foods like that are rich sources of protein, iron, calcium, and folic acid. Stay far away from smoking, alcohol and substance abuse. Exercise and stay active, but don’t over exert. Always remember, you’re looking after two people when you’re pregnant, so you ought to be extra cautious.

Loving Beyond Conditions – As arbitrary as the thought of loving someone you’ve never even seen may seem, being pregnant will make you believe in the possibility. My husband and I vowed that we’d never love anyone more than we love each other, but our little one came in our lives and changed that. Only being a parent can make you realize the love you are capable of giving. It’s the only kind of love that knows no bounds and expects nothing in return but a contented smile.

References:

http://women.smokefree.gov/emotions-relationships-dealing-with-the-tough-stuff/how-to-strengthen-your-relationships.aspx

http://www.momjunction.com/articles/pregnancy-complications-which-you-need-to-be-aware_0093000/

http://blogs.discovermagazine.com/d-brief/2013/12/23/why-womens-immune-systems-are-more-sensitive-than-mens/#.VLzB6C5RLYM

Author Bio:

Aradhana is an expert writer on parenting, wellness, health and lifestyle. As a regular contributor for sites like natural news, elephant journal, naturally savvy, curejoy, thehealthsite and MomJunction, she aims to motivate people towards healthy habits and a problem free life.

Top 5 Ideas to Stay Active with Kids

January 12, 2015 by Painter Mommy Leave a Comment

Living in a family with kids means they are always your center of attention. But should prioritizing kids come at the cost of your health and general well being? Not at all. As you will learn in this article, it is perfectly possible to take care of your growing kids without neglecting your physical (and psychological) well being. After all, the whole family suffers if your well being, physical or otherwise, is undetermined.

Typically, having a family with kid’s means you always find yourself overwhelmed with chores: taking kids to school, attending their school events and meetings, taking care of housework – all of this on top of your own work. Thankfully, with some smart planning, and lots of determination, you can make sure that your desire to live an active lifestyle isn’t compromised.

Follow the 6 tips mentioned below to start your journey towards a healthy and active lifestyle.

Transform your daily chores into exercise: One of the key reasons that prevents so many people from taking care of their physical fitness is lack of time. Having kid’s means you simply aren’t getting the time to follow through on a structured exercise regimen. The good news is that calories aren’t burnt only on a treadmill. Indeed, non-exercise activities are a bigger determinant of healthy lifestyle than time spent in gym. This means you can take small steps like going on a walk with your kid in the stroller, standing up and moving about ever so often, taking stairs instead of the lift on your way to work etc can help a lot.

Condensed workout: Your workout doesn’t have to last 60 minutes. Lot of evidence is emerging that shorter, but more intense, workout are in fact better in maintaining peak fitness. Go for a High intensity interval training for 15 minutes if you cannot find time for a full hour workout in your daily schedule.

Develop a social support network: This could be in the form of your relatives, or if that isn’t possible, then a support network of parents. Cultivate friendship with other parents and look after each other’s kids a few times a week – it will allow you some precious free time

Join yoga or dance classes: The time you spend in front of TV or surfing the web, or even the time you spend with your kid at home, can be better spent if both you and your kid can sign up at your neighborhood yoga, aerobics or dance classes together. This will ensure you not only get to spend quality time with your kid, but also take care of your fitness and inculcate a love for active lifestyle in your kid. A truly winsome proposition.

Plan outdoor or DIY activities with your kids: Nothing is quite as wholesome as a great family outing. Not only is it great for fun and entertainment, but also excellent for bonding and physical wellbeing. The outdoor activity could be anything – from a camping trip to a hiking or biking expedition. Similarly, do it yourself (DIY) projects are excellent both for you and your kid.

The internet is full of amazing websites and tutorials on DIY home improvement projects. Get your hands dirty with these projects and involve your kids in the same. Such projects challenge your mind, and bring out the creative best in you. CSA contact should be initiated if you find yourself in need of support for your kid’s needs and requirements.

Ruby Andrew’s author bio: Ruby Andrew, a visitor essayist and blogger by calling lives in Bristol, UK. Since for quite a while, she has an energy for composing and she could compose on any point. Her ranges of investment incorporates travel, Health, wellness, Automobile, Fashion, innovation and wedding. At present, she acts as a visitor blogger for CSA contact.

On The Move with Boys Scooters

October 29, 2014 by Painter Mommy Leave a Comment

Not long ago, scooters were considered a passing fad. But today, they are an ever-present fixture on pavements, in playgrounds and even at skate parks. Boys of all ages have gone mad for these push-powered modes of transportation thanks to their ease of use, range of designs and perhaps most importantly, street cred.

Therefore, parents struggling to find the perfect present this Christmas don’t need to worry anymore, as boys scooters are available in abundance. But how did they come to be so popular and what are some of the best models on the market?

Scoot back in time

There is a good chance that any parents reading this probably had a similar toy during their childhood, as scooters date back decades. In the past, inventive fathers or imaginative kids would make them by hand using roller skate wheels and a board of wood or an old box. The handle was simply there for balance, as the rider had to lean one-way or another to make the scooter turn.

However, bicycle manufacturers soon recognized the need for a mass-produced scooter and started to introduce various products. Some of these featured chunky rubber tires, different sized wheels, foldable frames and even suspension. But it wasn’t until the late 1990s that scooters hit the big time, which was mainly down to their popularity in Japan. At first, commuters used scooters in an urban environment to get to work, but children soon adopted them everywhere else.

Scooting around today

Regardless of your kid’s age or ability, they’ll be a suitable scooter out there. Younger children will appreciate a scooter featuring graphics of popular children’s TV and film characters such as SpongeBob SquarePants, Hello Kitty and Disney’s Frozen.

However, scooters for older kids are built to incredibly high specifications in order to withstand outlandish tricks and stunts, just like the Ozbozz Torq Chaotic. Its aluminum construction and robust steering column means it will definitely stand the test of time. Full deck grip helps with balance while a large AI rear brake ensures the rider can stop quickly too.

But for something a bit different, consider buying the Razor E300 Electric. Designed with older teenagers and even adults in mind, this electric scooter can achieve speeds of up to 15mph. Its super-sized deck and frame along with extra wide tires make it extremely comfortable to ride, while the 24V battery system affords up to 40 minutes of continuous use.

So what used to be a fleeting trend is now a tremendously popular pursuit. Therefore, any boy would appreciate receiving a scooter this Christmas. Just be sure to talk to your kids about scooter safety before they step on board.

How to Choose the Right Baby Bedding for Your Child

April 9, 2014 by Painter Mommy 1 Comment

This is a guest post…

Baby bedding is essential for supporting your baby’s sleep. Quality sleep is important for any child, but it’s even more important for a baby’s development. They require upwards of 12 hours of sleep per day. Support them by purchasing the correct baby bedding.

If you’re not sure what this means, or how to do it, read through this article.

We show you what you need to look for and the various options available to you.

Supersets or Separate Pieces

Some companies sell crib bedding as supersets. They’ll contain covers, but they’ll also contain other items like bumper pads. You have to buy everything. This pushes up the price and means you pay more, even if you only intend on using some of the items.

A lot of companies realize this isn’t the right option. For example, The Stripy Company sells all of its products separately. If you have specific needs, avoid buying supersets where you can.

Soft and Washable

Whatever you buy, the bedding must be soft to the touch. It has to be soft to a baby’s skin. What’s soft to an adult’s skin may well irritate a baby’s skin. There are a number of options for soft bedding, such as:

Flannel sheets.
High thread-count woven cottons.
Knit cotton sheets.

Make sure the fabric washes relatively easily. If this is your first child you’ll realize babies make messes in their bedding all the time. Difficult to wash fabrics aren’t suitable for regular hand washing and spot treating.

Snug Bedding

The concept of snugness differs from what we know as soft. Cribs today are made to standard sizes. They aren’t made to measure your baby, unless you have one custom made.

In most cases, you’ll have a mattress slightly too small or too big for the crib. If you can’t get exactly the right size, you’ll leave too much room for your baby to move around.

The worst case scenario will result in trapped limbs between the mattress and the outside of the crib. Use the bedding to plug these gaps.

Crib bedding should give your baby some room to move, while constricting them to relatively small areas. This adds an extra layer of security and ensures the chances of an accident are minimal.

The Longevity

How long you want your bedding to last depends entirely on what you intend on doing with the bedding later on.

Within this industry you get exactly what you pay for. If you’re willing to purchase luxury bedding, expect to receive bedding to last for years. Families planning for more children will benefit from spending more now.

On a side note, make sure you purchase an extra load of bedding. Messes happen often and having a second set of bedding can make the switchover smoother.

Whenever you buy bedding, don’t worry about the style of it. The décor of bedding is irrelevant and should never become a factor in your purchasing decision. All that matters is your baby is warm and comfortable when they go to sleep for the night.