Planning a Sweet 16 Birthday Party for a Girl

/

Send help, my daughter is turning 16 this year, and I must say I’m nervous. I’m excited but full of emotions. She’s my baby, and since you’re here, I guess you’re planning a 16th birthday party too. So let’s do this! 

A sweet 16 birthday is a momentous occasion that deserves a special celebration. It's a time to celebrate your daughter's transition into womanhood and to show her how much you love and support her.

If you're looking for some ideas on how to plan a Sweet 16 birthday party for a girl, here are a few tips:

  • Start planning early. The sooner you start planning, the more time you'll have to find the perfect venue, book the best vendors, and send out invitations.

  • Set a budget. It's essential to set a budget for your party so that you don't overspend. Be sure to include all of the costs associated with the party, such as the venue, food, drinks, decorations, and entertainment. Making a spreadsheet is critical to track your spending.

  • Choose a venue that fits your daughter's personality and the size of your party. There are many different types of venues to choose from, such as restaurants, banquet halls, and private homes.

  • Send out invitations at least 4 weeks in advance. Be sure to include all of the important information on the invitation, such as the date, time, location, and dress code.

  • Choose a theme for your party. This will help you to narrow down your choices for decorations and food.

  • Decorate the venue in a festive way. Use your daughter's favorite colors and add some personal touches.

  • Plan a menu that includes a variety of food options. Be sure to have something for everyone, including vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions.

  • Choose a DJ or band to provide music for the party. This will get the guests dancing and having fun.

  • Plan some activities for the guests to do. This could include dancing, games, or a photo booth.

  • Have a special cake made for the occasion. This is a great way to tie in the theme of the party or have mini cupcake options in a variety of flavors. 

  • Take lots of pictures! This is a day that you'll want to remember forever. If the budget allows, hire a photographer. That way, you’re in the photos instead of behind the camera! 

With a bit of planning, you can throw a Sweet 16 birthday party that your daughter will never forget.

Follow my Pinterest board for more inspo!

What if a party isn’t for her?

No worries, every kid doesn’t enjoy a big party or want someone to make a huge fuss over them. So there are ways to make this day special that’s uniquely their own.

Below are some options to get you thinking about having a sweet 16 without the party:

  • Special Trip - Choosing an experience over a party is nice, especially if your daughter enjoys travel. Check the budget and see how much a party would cost over a trip; you’ll be surprised!

  • Yes Day - opt for a day full of yes! Whatever she wants to do, you do!

Teaching Your Kids to Be Tech Savvy

/

We currently live in a tech-heavy world. It is near impossible to live as conveniently and have access to as many opportunities as possible, if you are not switched on to the digital world. Kids today, have to be connected. They’ll even teach you a thing or too. So, whatever your views on kids and tech may be, there is no denying that they need to be clued up on everything from internet safety to programming if they are to be safe and successful as they grow up.

That being the case, let’s take a look at some steps you can take to teach your kid to be tech savvy right now.


1. Start with the ABCs - Apps, Browsers, & Clicks

Before the deep dive, start with the basics. Show them how to open apps, use browsers, and, most importantly, the universal rule: not every shiny button needs a click! They’ll pick this up way faster than you think possible.


2. Safety First, Surf Second


Just as you wouldn’t let them swim without floaties, don't let kids surf unsupervised. Set up child-safe browsers and filters to ensure their cyber swims are in the shallow end.


3. The Great Scam Jam

Ah, our first detour into the shadier side of tech town. Teach them early that if something online seems too good to be true (like those "Win a lifetime supply of candy!" pop-ups), it probably is. Teach them how to prevent vishing by not even trusting authoritative voices over the phone and internet. Teach them to think critically and ask an adult if in doubt. Educating them on the telltale signs of scams can be both fun and protective.


4. Keyboard Kings & Queens

In this touchscreen world, don’t let the art of keyboarding fade away. Fun typing games can turn your little ones into speedy touch typists, giving them an edge in many future pursuits.


5. Pixel Art and Beyond

Encourage their digital creativity to flow and who knows where it may lead. From digital painting to simple video editing, there's an app for every budding artist, director, or music maker, and the sooner they learn, the more talented they are likely to be going forward.

6. Coding: The New Second Language

Spanish or French? How about Python or Java? Introducing kids to basic coding can be a game-changer. With a plethora of platforms like Scratch or Code.org, they can start creating mini-masterpieces while learning computational thinking.

7. Real Talk about Virtual Worlds

Many kids adore online gaming and virtual hangouts. This is a prime time to chat about online etiquette, bullying, and the importance of not sharing personal information. The more they know, the safer they will be.

8. The Money Lesson: App Purchases & Ad Traps

We’ve all heard of kids accidentally racking up thousands on in-app purchases. A simple sit-down about the value of money and the tricks some apps use to get you to spend can save many a future heart (and wallet) ache.

9. Device-Free Days (or hours!)

Being tech-savvy isn't just about knowing how to use tech, but also when to take a break. Establishing tech-free times encourages balance and ensures your kiddos appreciate both on-screen and off-screen fun.

Time to start talkin’ tech!

Cell Phone Safety for Kids | Gabb Wireless

/

Cell phones are a part of everyday life for many preteens. They use them to stay connected with friends and family, to play games, and to access the internet. While cell phones can be a great tool, teaching preteens about cell phone safety is important. My youngest daughter has wanted a phone for a while now, but I was worried. She’s extremely sociable, and all of her friends had phones, but I just wasn’t sure that was the route I was ready to take.

I finally caved once I discovered Gabb Wireless. They offered all of the features I was looking for in a phone for her: no internet, no social media, and no games. Gabb Phones offer a spam filter that allows certain words and phrases to be picked up over text. This offers me great peace of mind. While I can’t control everything, it does make me aware that if harmful or explicit content is attempted to be shared with her, it will be blocked.

She still has access to a computer and tablet with internet at home, so she won’t be missing out on her assignments or being able to play online games when allowed.


Here are some tips for cell phone safety for preteens:

  • Set ground rules for cell phone use. Talk to your preteen about how they can use their cell phone safely. Make sure they know that they should not give out personal information to strangers and that they should not use their cell phones while driving or walking.

  • Monitor your preteen's cell phone use. Check-in with your preteen regularly to see how they use their cell phone. If you have any concerns, talk to them about it.

  • Talk to your preteen about cyberbullying. Cyberbullying is a serious problem, and it's important to talk to your preteen about it. Make sure they know that they should not bully others, and that they should tell you if they are being bullied.

  • Teach your preteen about online predators. Online predators are adults who try to take advantage of children online. Teach your preteen about online predators, and how to stay safe from them.

  • Keep your preteen's cell phone in a safe place. Make sure your preteen knows to keep their cell phone in a safe place when they are not using it. This will help to prevent it from being lost or stolen.

  • Set limits on screen time. Just like with other screen time, it's important to set limits on how much time your preteen spends using their cell phone.


Following these tips can encourage cell phone safety and create a healthy relationship!

If you’re ready for your kid to have a phone you can feel safe with, then Gabb Wireless should be on your list. At an affordable cost and no contract, this is a great place to start and now you can use my code FREELYNAT to save on a new device. 



Affordable Valentine's Day Gift Ideas for Kids

/

Valentine’s Day is almost here, and I’m so excited! Yes, I’m that mom that wants to go all out for the holidays, but your kids are only young once. Do it! Check out a few affordable ways to make Valentine’s Day extra special for little ones. 

One tradition that has stuck with me over the years is the way my father celebrated Valentine’s Day with my sister and I. I’m not sure if it’s because he had girls, but nevertheless, I appreciated it and continue to pass down the traditions to my family. 

Are you considering celebrating Valentine’s Day with your kids? Then there are a few things you can do. Most people think this holiday is for couples, and while it traditionally is, everyone can get in on the fun! My dad would always make sure to leave a card, candy, and a rose for us on the days he had to work and then take us on a special dinner to a “fancy” restaurant when he was off. These small gestures helped to shape my feelings toward the holiday.

Small Gifts

I like to gift my kids with something small that fits their personalities. I start with their favorite candy, a card with a sweet note, and a trinket. My 4-year-old son will be getting a race car, he loves them, and it will cost me under $5. Maddy, my 9-year-old, loves art and could use a new set of coloring pencils, while my oldest loves all things makeup related, so a new mascara or lip gloss would be the best option for her.

Books

If you’re not big on candy, books are a great option! 

0-3 years old

Little Blue Truck's Valentine

Llama Llama I Love You

4-6 years old

The Dinosaurs Valentine's Day

Pete the Cat: Valentine's Day Is Cool

7 - 12 years old

The Berenstain Bears' Valentine Blessings

My Funny Valentine Jokes and Riddles for Kids

13 and up

Valentine's Day Doodles for Teens: Boys and Girls

Hey Girl! Self-Love Workbook For Teen Girls

Just As You Are: A Teen’s Guide to Self-Acceptance and Lasting Self-Esteem

Cook Your Child’s Favorite Meal

Have you considered cooking your child’s favorite meal? This is one of those times when I like to indulge just a little. When having multiple kids, this can get a little tricky, but with proper planning, it’s doable! My little ones have vastly different food palettes but some things they all love. 

Sweet Treats - Heart Cookies 

Making treats with or for my family is always fun! These heart-shaped cookies were so easy to do I couldn’t believe it - they would be a hit for the whole family.

Whatever you decide, have fun and remind your little ones that they are unique and deserve to be shown love too!

Ways You Can Be A More Understanding Parent

/

All parents care, but we might have different ways of showing how we care. However, we all care for and adore our children so much that we wish them the utmost growth and happiness. 

If you want to be considerate of their needs and show more love, you have come to the right place. You might get worked up and worry you are showing them too little or too much attention. However, don’t worry, as we will be worrying for no reason. All we need to do is better understand their needs and wants.


Here’s why it’s essential to get involved with your child’s hobbies to understand their needs during each new year and how to become a more caring and understanding parent.  

Recognize they need independence. 

Children will require new levels of independence and breathing space as they age. Although it can be tough to let go of your child’s neediness, it is suitable for them so that they can mature and develop into a self-dependent human.


For instance, recognizing 8-year-old milestones will ensure you understand that your child wants to be more independent and self-reliant. Giving them the independence they want will ensure they feel comfortable dealing with their responsibilities. If your child does not state they crave more independence, you should give it to them. Doing so will encourage their growth and self-reliance.

Allow your children to make mistakes. 

Every human makes mistakes; I know I’ve made a few. Whether failing an exam or being late to an appointment due to missing an alarm, we all do things we can’t help or control. When your child makes a mistake, it is important not to shout at them or make them feel bad. It can be upsetting as a parent to see your child sad because they failed at something. However, uplifting and reassuring them will encourage them to understand it is okay to make mistakes.



Mistakes can be our most prominent teacher. Allowing your child to make mistakes (without making it a problem) will ensure they develop problem-solving skills.


Keep up communication. 

To be a more understanding parent comes from communicating efficiently with your child. If you have communication, you might know how they feel and what they are going through. The lack of open communication could make them dismissive or show undesired behaviors. I believe it’s crucial to create a balance. Doing so allows them to think for themselves while sharing my opinions without being pushy. However, it is beneficial to communicate the rights and wrongs of life with your child, so they can understand how to be wise and safe. 



Furthermore, communicating with them by asking them if they are okay is another thing to be mindful of. You should always check in with your child. Refrain from probing or assuming anything is wrong, and avoid asking them the same question too many times. However, asking how they are doing and giving them a shoulder to lean on will ensure they open up about their feelings. They might not feel comfortable or safe at first - but who starts off that way with their parents? It could be the first time someone has asked them and seems caring. Hence, give them some time and ensure to be for them at any time of day when they want to chat.


Set boundaries and expectations. 

Although you will want to be a fun and lenient parent, it is vital to have boundaries. Setting boundaries and expectations will ensure your child knows how to behave. Does that mean they will always act the way you want them to? No! But this can become a teachable moment.

With boundaries and expectations in place, your children will be less likely to make mistakes and leave you feeling frustrated. You can ensure they will help you when you ask for it and make it clear that they can have responsibility at home. Although household responsibilities will feel monotonous to them at first, it will give them accountability and help them feel more involved. 


father and son on the beach

Spend quality time with them.

A healthy and happy relationship with your children will also derive from how much time you spend together. If you only see each other in the evening over dinner, after you have all had long days, you might often have half-hearted chats and never get to discuss more than what has occurred that day. 


Making an effort to spend more quality time together will ensure you can share more together. You could go for long walks, bake together, or vacation. Doing something you both enjoy will allow you to switch off from the world, wind down, and enjoy each other's company. When you have more than one child, it can but difficult but doable. Scheduling time with your children will assist you in making them a priority.

Give them time out. 

We all know how great a time-out can feel. If we don’t have alone time, we might deplete our social battery and feel so drained that our conversations are not true to what we think. 

Therefore, allowing your child to have time out as much as you do is essential. Although you might find it disheartening that they do not want to spend the evening watching TV with you, they might need a mental reset to recharge. During this alone time, you can also enjoy time off.


Think about your behavior. 

Your behavior will contribute to how caring and understanding you come across to your child. If you behave in a way that comforts and reassures them, it will prove that you want to be there for them and contribute to their growth. 


Be conscious of how you behave around and to your children, as it will impact your relationship and prove your understanding of their feelings and desires. As the old saying goes, “actions speak louder than words.” Those little eyes are always watching.


Be more understanding of their feelings. 

Sometimes you might argue with your child because you don’t take a step back and put yourself in their shoes. They might have missed a homework task and, as a result, received detention. If you don’t hear them out or put yourself in their shoes (and realize they haven’t been feeling well or didn’t understand the task and nobody offered to help), you could end up falling out. 

Taking a moment to put yourself in their shoes and be more understanding of their situations and feelings will help you better communicate with them and recognize that everyone makes mistakes and learns throughout life.

Be flexible with your child.

Flexibility is a great trait to have as a parent that wants to be more understanding. If you are flexible, you will put less pressure on your children. Although setting expectations is good, you must understand that expectations cannot always be met. Life isn’t perfect and will not always go as planned. Recognizing this and ensuring you are flexible with your children can prevent arguments and ensure they feel less overwhelmed when they do not meet your expectations. 


It’s terrifying for your child to fear how you will react if they mess up. If they know you are often flexible and understanding, they will tell you about their successes and failures without worrying and doubting themselves. 

The more you show your willingness to be flexible, the more likely your child will come to you with their issues and questions. They will recognize you want what is best for them and will do anything to help them succeed and grow. At the end of the day, you will likely be your child’s biggest role model and advocate.

Therefore, if you are understanding, flexible, and lack perfectionism, it will rub off on your child. It will show them that you want to understand and support them. Being a parent is one of the most challenging jobs because we don’t always get it right, but being willing to learn and make changes is a step in the right direction.





Toy Organization Idea | Toddler Room

/

My son’s toy collection keeps growing, and I needed to find a way to contain it (thanks, dad). He’s currently into all things Monster Jam + Monster Trucks since seeing a show a few months ago. With Clayton starting preschool, I wanted to find a way to keep his toys neat, organized, and functional. I researched for months on which kind of system I wanted to use and settled for the cubed storage solution. 


A cubed storage system can function in many ways, and I purchased this one from Target. It was under $50 and would work well in his room. You have the option to use the unit in a horizontal or vertical position. I wanted a way to display his larger monster trucks while keeping the smaller toys together. 

How you style the system is totally up to you. I like having a mix of open shelves and baskets. The unit takes an average of  30 minutes to build, and all you need is a screwdriver and hammer. It’s very straightforward; the cube organizer comes in two options, six cubes or nine cubes. The Y-Weave 11” baskets are my favorite; I prefer them over the original inserts; however, both will do the job. I have found that the weaved baskets hold heavier items better.

Organizing Tips

  1. Decide how you want the space to look.

  2. Declutter - remove broken toys and missing pieces.

  3. Choose your organization style (i.e., big to small, like items, etc.)

  4. Organize and teach your little one the system you’re using.


Remember to have fun and enjoy the process; this project can be completed in 1-2 hours! 






Why You Should Get More Involved With Your Child’s Sports Hobby

/

My family and I are not big sports fan but recently, my daughter has taken an interest in basketball and we are so happy for her. Learning a new skill has been proven to boost confidence and I’ve already seen that happen for her.


Sports can be a fantastic form of entertainment and exercise for our children. In fact, most kids will go through some kind of sports training in their life at school. They could play football, soccer, or even try swimming. These kinds of athletic pursuits may not result in a successful career, but sports can be a fantastic way to help children develop other aspects of their life.



But is there any way for parents to support their children in these hobbies, or should it be something that we avoid and leave up to them? You’d be surprised at just how many unique benefits there are to getting more involved with your child’s sports hobby.




Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/8lUTnkZXZSA (CC0)



It helps you understand what to cheer for at their games

If your child ends up playing for a school team then there’s a good chance that they enjoy it quite a lot. In fact, you’ll probably be invited to come and spectate their matches against other schools in the state. This is a great opportunity for you to show support for your child, but it can be tough to do so if you don’t understand the rules or the position that your child plays. Some sports are ultimately a lot easier to understand than others, but there are always nuances that you can identify which improve your understanding of the game. This can help you connect with your children and it allows you to show genuine support when you’re at their games.

If you find it a little challenging to understand the sport they play, then we’d suggest brushing up with articles on sports websites like https://sportnews.in/ or even reading a guide on how the rules work. This is a great way to help you get started with a sport that is unclear to you. Alternatively, you could also ask your child about the sport to create more conversation topics at home.

A common hobby can unite the family

Families tend to enjoy separate hobbies, but having something that everyone enjoys and follows can be a great way to unite everyone. This can provide endless conversation topics, it can put everyone on the same level when it comes to fashion like athletic wear, and it can also give your family something to cheer for when your favorite team is playing on television. It’ll make big sporting events more fun because it turns into a family occasion to watch it or even get tickets to see the game, and it gives you so many things to talk about.

Hobbies can be a great way to bring families together, but it’s even better when it’s a common activity that everyone understands and enjoys such as a sport. The more effort you put into understanding your child’s sports hobby, the more likely you can create this wholesome environment where everyone participates in the conversations and events surrounding the sport. Just don’t try to force this to happen and let family interest gradually grow.



How to Ensure Your Family is Protected No Matter What

/

No one ever expects bad things to happen, but sometimes they do. That's why it's crucial to have a plan in place for emergencies and disasters. Whether you're dealing with a natural disaster or a simple accident, you need to know that your family is safe and protected. This blog post will discuss some ways to keep your loved ones safe no matter what happens.


1) Ensure your kids know how to get a hold of you

Make sure everyone in your family knows how to reach you. In an emergency, it's important that everyone knows how to get in touch with you. So make sure each member of your family has your contact information stored somewhere safe and easily accessible.

If you have young children, it's also a good idea to have a plan for who will pick them up from school or daycare if you can't get to them. Talk to your child's teacher or daycare provider about their emergency procedures and make sure you understand them.

Also, be sure to keep a list of emergency contacts handy. Include numbers for local law enforcement, the fire department, and poison control, as well as any close friends or relatives who live nearby.


2) Have an emergency kit ready

In case of an emergency, it's important to have some supplies on hand. Put together a kit with essential items like food, water, first-aid supplies, and a flashlight. Keep it in an easily accessible place like a closet or a garage.

Your emergency kit should be able to sustain your family for at least 72 hours. Make sure to include enough food and water for everyone in your household, as well as any special items that someone might need (like diapers or prescription medications). You should also have a plan for where you will go if you need to evacuate your home. 


Choose a safe meeting place ahead of time and make sure everyone knows where to go. And finally, don't forget about your pets! Make sure to include food and water for them in your emergency kit as well.



3) Have a plan for dealing with financial emergencies

Bad things can happen at any time, so it's important to be prepared financially as well. Set up an emergency fund that you can use if you lose your job or have unexpected expenses.

Start by setting aside a few hundred dollars and then work your way up to having three to six months of living expenses saved. This will help ensure that you can weather any financial storms that come your way.

You should also make sure you have adequate insurance coverage. This includes health, auto, and homeowners or renters insurance. Be sure to review your policy limits and make sure they meet your needs. And finally, don't forget about identity theft protection. This is especially important in today's digital world. There are a number of different ways you can protect your identity, so find the one that works best for you and be sure to use it.


4) Have a lawyer on retainer

This might seem like an unnecessary expense, but having an Injury Lawyer on retainer can be a lifesaver. If you ever find yourself in legal trouble, you'll be glad you have someone on your side who can help you navigate the process. A lawyer can also help you create important documents like wills and trusts. These are essential for ensuring that your family is taken care of financially if something happens to you.

How to choose the right lawyer?

There are a few things to consider when choosing a lawyer. First, you need to decide what type of law they practice. This will help narrow down your search and make it easier to find someone who specializes in the area you need help with.

It would be best if you also considered their experience level. You want to find someone who has handled cases like yours before and knows what to expect. And finally, you need to make sure you're comfortable with them. This is important because you'll be sharing personal information with them, and you need to be able to trust them.

Once you've considered these factors, you can start looking for lawyers in your area. Start by asking friends and family for recommendations or searching online for reviews. Once you've found a few potential lawyers, set up consultations to meet with them in person. This will give you a chance to get to know them and see if they're the right fit for you.



5) Invest in life insurance

Life insurance is one of the most important things you can do to protect your family. If something happens to you, life insurance will give them the financial support you need to get by.

There are a lot of different life insurance policies to choose from, so it's crucial to find one that meets your needs. It would be best if you considered how much coverage you need, as well as how long you need it for. It would help if you also decided whether you want term or permanent life insurance. Term life insurance is usually less expensive and covers you for a set period of time (like 20 years). Permanent life insurance is more expensive but covers you for your entire life.



Once you've decided which type of policy is right for you, shop around and compare rates from different companies. Be sure to read the fine print and understand the terms of the policy before you buy.



6) Keep your home safe and secure

Your home should be a safe haven for your family. But in order to keep it that way, you need to take some precautions. Start by making sure all the doors and windows in your home are secure. Next, consider installing a security system or adding additional locks to your doors.


You should also create a fire escape plan and practice it with your family. This way, everyone knows what to do in the event of a fire. And finally, you need to make sure you have adequate homeowners or renters insurance. This will protect your belongings in the event of a burglary, fire, or other disasters.


Don't forget about online safety, either. Be sure to create strong passwords for all your accounts and never share them with anyone. You should also enable two-factor authentication whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of security to your accounts and helps protect you from hackers.


7) Update your will

If you haven't done so already, you need to update your will. This is a legal document that outlines how you want your assets to be distributed after you die. It's important to keep this up to date so that there's no confusion about your wishes.


It would be best if you also considered setting up a trust. This can help provide for your family and minimize taxes on your estate. However, trusts can be complex, so it's important to talk to a lawyer before setting one up.


Make sure your loved ones know where to find your will and other important documents. It would help if you also let them know who your executor is and what their responsibilities are. This person will be responsible for carrying out your final wishes, so it's important to choose someone you trust. Updating your will is an essential step in protecting your family, but it's not the only one.


These are just a few of the things you can do to protect your family. By taking these steps, you can rest assured knowing that you've done everything you can to keep them safe. No matter what happens, they'll be taken care of financially and emotionally. And that's priceless.


How To Improve Engagement While Homeschooling

/

https://unsplash.com/photos/zLW0l1NyrFQ

By now, you’re already aware of the myriad of homeschooling challenges that you and your kids face every day. From making adjustments throughout the day to defining what is and isn’t considered school time, homeschooling parents need to overcome these challenges to ensure success within the classroom. Still, as adept as you might be with some issues, others can continue to crop up. One major issue is student engagement, so how can you avoid this problem and keep your kids focused on their tasks throughout the day?


Keep It Fresh 

It is easy to fall into the same routine every day. But, as effective as this could be at first, your kids will soon become tired with it, and you may be as well. 


Keeping things fresh will avoid this problem and does wonders for keeping your kids engaged throughout the school day. Instead of following the same structure for every lesson, look at how you can uniquely introduce topics and concepts. 


It isn't just what you teach, though. The environment also plays a significant role in engagement. Many homeschoolers like to make the classroom a more vibrant place, so you can change up your classroom to match the subjects or modules you are covering. Displays and interactive activities can achieve this, and you can get your students to help decorate the classroom to make it more appealing. 


Try Different Approaches 

Some approaches will work and some don't. This is an issue that many homeschooling teachers face, so you should show flexibility when introducing potentially complicated topics.


Similarly, what works for some subjects doesn’t work for all of them. Look at how you can approach different subjects to find the perfect balance of bookwork and interactivity. Depending on how your children learn, you can blend visual learning with traditional lecture-based approaches to achieve success. 


Let Your Kids Take Breaks 

Breaks are an important part of life no matter how old you are. It is impossible to work and work throughout the day without taking a break, so make sure you take breaks whenever possible. 


Other schools will have designated break times, such as lunchtime and even the small window between finding one class and starting another. You don’t need to stick to this schedule, and can instead use breaks whenever it seems like your kids are flagging or losing concentration.


Regular breaks will improve their focus and prevent them from becoming lethargic about the material. Whether you take a ten-minute break or a quick stand-up-and-stretch where they can switch off for a few minutes, you’ll see an immediate change in their attitudes towards the class, which also rejuvenates their passion for learning. 


Engaged 

Keeping your kids engaged throughout the day can be tricky which is why it’s so important to show flexibility in your approach to teaching. As you’re homeschooling your kids, you have plenty of freedom that traditional schooling methods lack. If you take advantage of this, you will see plenty of lasting engagement to help your kids thrive in their environment. 

Incorporate Online Learning Elements

In today's digitized world, online learning components have become an indispensable tool for many educators. Principal David Karkoff often discusses the advantages of online learning, especially in elementary schooling settings. He emphasizes that integrating online modules can not only break the monotony but also introduce students to various multimedia resources that can make challenging topics more comprehensible and engaging. Moreover, the internet provides a vast array of interactive exercises, virtual field trips, and educational games that can stimulate young minds. By incorporating these online elements into your homeschooling curriculum, you're not only diversifying your teaching methods but also preparing your kids for a digital-centric future. Remember, the key is to balance screen time with hands-on activities to ensure a comprehensive learning experience.




No matter what, keep things fun and light hearted. You want learning to be something they enjoy!

The Best Active Toys To Get Young Kids Moving

/

Every parent wants their child to grow up to be healthy and happy, and that means getting them into good habits from a young age. Making sure that they eat a varied diet and encouraging them to be adventurous with food is crucial. Getting them to exercise is also incredibly important and if you can make it a habit while they are young, they are far more likely to stay active when they are older. 


image Source - Pixabay CCO License



Unfortunately, this last one can be tricky, especially as kids often prefer to stay inside playing on screens. However, there are some great toys you can get for young children that encourage them to get outdoors and move around. These are some of the best active toys for young kids. 

A Bike

A bike is one of the best toys for kids because it gives them that sense of adventure and keeps them active. You can get some great bikes and trikes for young kids at Foryourlittleone if they are not ready for a proper bike yet. Teaching them to ride their bike is a great bonding activity and you can all go out on family bike rides together too, so everybody stays fit and healthy. 

Jump Ropes

Jump ropes are a fantastic and inexpensive piece of equipment to get your kids active. They don't need much space, so can be used in the garden or even indoors if you have enough room. Jumping rope is one of the best ways for kids to burn off excess energy during the day and it's a fun activity too. You can get cheap jump ropes so they're ideal if your budget is tight. You probably remember all sorts of different jump rope games you played when you were young, so why not teach some to your kids.

Jungle Gyms

Having a great place for kids to play is one of the best gifts you can give them. There are some great jungle gyms you can get made from plastic or metal, so they are incredibly strong and long-lasting too. If there is enough space in your back garden, buying your kids a jungle gym will give them hours of fun while they climb about and take in their surroundings. You should be able to find jungle gyms designed especially for toddlers too. Just make sure that you are always watching them while they are climbing because it can be dangerous.

Swingball Sets

Swingball sets are a fantastic way of getting your kids active and they can be used both indoors and outdoors too. It is one of the best games kids like to play because it's fun and it gets them moving about at the same time. It's a classic toy but it's had a few updates in recent years. You can get a soccer version as well as the classic tennis swingball, which might be better for young kids. 

If you are worried about keeping your kids active, you should by them these toys when they are young and make exercise fun for them.