What Tech Gadgets Do You Buy Your Kids?

2012-02-17T18:45:00.000-05:00

We live in a high tech society. Whether we realize it or not, a majority of our kid’s products are tech gadgets. What Tech Gadgets have you purchased for your kids?

1. SpongeBob Square Pants: Micro MP3 Player

This Micro MP3 Player is ideal for kids. It is easy to use and easy to load the music to it. It has limited volume and cannot harm your kid’s ear. That is great, because kids can sometimes crank the volume up. Amazon.com

2. Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Sweet Sounds Picnic

This New Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Sweet Sounds Picnic sells for $17.99. It is just adorable. It great for teaching shapes & colors, counting, and much more. It has 30+ responses. Ages 6-36 months. It includes sing along songs & phrases. Kids can laugh & learn at the same time. How wonderful. Kids will be captivated and intrigued by this game. It is just awesome. Amazon.com

3. On The Go Activity Set

This set can be found at Meijer Store, 4333 W. Pierson Road, Flint, Mi 48504. This Electronic Set includes a cell phone equipped with buttons, keys, remote control, and much more. For ages 3 month an up. It sells for $14.99

Meijer’s link is listed below:

http://www.meijer.com/home.jsp?cmpid=CASEM

Meijer official site

4. The Disney Princess Sing-along CD Boombox

This Boombox can be found at Wal-Mart, 4313 Corunna Road, Flint, Mi 48532. Sells for $39.97.

The music and microphone volumes can be adjusted separately. This is just adorable.

Their link is:

Walmart.com

5. Spider-Man Time Teaching Clock

This Spider-Man Teaching Clock is at Toys R Us, 3250 S Linden Road, Flint, Mi 48507. This is affordable and sells for $11.99. The lights turn and rotate every hour. It does require 2 AA batteries that are not included. What a great way to teach your child about time.

6. Sharp Shooter RC Helicopter-Silver found at Target Store, G3515 Miller Road, Flint, Michigan 48507.

You can get 8-10 minutes of flying time. It does require 6 AA batteries. You can take it anywhere, anytime, because it does not require a wall outlet. It sells for $36.99. Parents might enjoy this helicopter more than the kids. What do you think?

Their Link is listed below:

Target - G3515 Miller Rd Flint

More From This Author listed under this sitemap:

Fun For Toddlers

Do You Know The Importance Of Fathers?

Kids Technology (Omg)

Why Parents Say. . . .

2012-02-05T19:52:00.012-05:00

I remember my parent saying, “Fold your money up and put it in your pocket. I thought what difference does it make whether my dollars are just in my hand or folded in my hand? No one explained why. After I became an adult, I realized good reasoning for folding the dollars up or at least putting the money in my pocket. When the money is in your pocket, it is not visible to the naked eye. When the money is open in your hand, anyone can walk by and snatch it out of your hand.

When you carry or expose a large sum of dollars in your hands, it sometimes becomes very enticing to robbers that may be lurking and waiting to get their hands on it. That would explain why parents might say do not carry that much money on you.

How many have had their parents says, “Because I told you so.” Most children want a reason. Most children are constantly asking, “Why?” Some children may accept, “Because I told you so”, but then you will have children that do not accept it and are curious to find out why their parents are not giving them the reason that they want to hear. Many times this child will end up in a lot of trouble, because of that.

I have heard parents telling their child, “Your daddy is going to get you when he comes home.” The only problem with that is by the time daddy gets home, mommy probably forgets all about it. On the other hand, daddy may not think that was as serious as mom did. Then you have the conflict between both parents.

As your parent spanked you, you might have heard the saying, “This hurts me more than it hurts you.” A child might think, “That is easy for you to say.”

Some parents may say, “I remember when.” Most children will respond with, “There he goes talking bout the olden days.”

“Do you think money grows on trees?” I cannot count the number of times that I heard that.

“If you get put in jail don’t call me.” That sounds cruel, but I have seen parents that have said that. They stood behind those words.

“When the street light comes on come home.” Sometimes if I was really having fun I would think, “Oh what the heck, if I am going to get a spanking, I might as well stay and have a good time as long as I can.” Do you remember some of the things that your parents used to say?

More from This Author:

Kids Say The Dardnest Things (listed under Toddler Behavior on this side)

What Legacy Will You Leave Your Children (Listed under Family Roost)

Blue Eyed, Brown-Eyed Review (Listed under Prejudice)

How To Blog About Toddlers

2012-02-02T23:04:00.000-05:00

Your experiences

Start writing down your thoughts and experiences that you have had with your toddler. Remember there is someone out there that may need to hear about your experiences and what you did to overcome some of your problems, concerns, or issues. These are just a few blogging tips. There is someone just waiting for your word of relief. Possibly someone has a friend or relative that needs to be encouraged, enlightened, and informed, in order to make intentional decisions for their life.

You can look around you daily and observe how you solve problems or concerns that you have with your toddler. These can be great things to write about. Some examples might be “How you get your toddler to take a nap or possibly you have a child with asthma. You may want to share and write about what you have learned from those experiences to help other.

Blogging Sites

Decide if you want to find a free blogging site to start or to pay a small fee and start your own blogging site. Remember it is always your choice. You never know whether it will work, unless you try and make the attempt. Several free sites that you could choose from might include blogspot.com, 2 Create a Website Blog, WordPress.com, or Free blogspot.org. Also, remember you can create more than one blogging site. You may have several passions.

Learn from others

Research other blogs and other sites to see what they are doing and how they are doing it. These are just a few more blogging tips. Still stay true to your own writing though. The Perfect Site Guide is Here & Free - 2 Create a Website Blog by Lisa Irby is a free ebook. Lisa outlines very important information that you need to know. Lisa also has free videos available for those that prefer videos. She has made a full-time living with her videos and website. A great thing about Lisa is she is not afraid to share with you how she did it. She is an inspiration and a great motivational leader.

Videos

There are many utube tutorials that are available for those of you that learn visually. Some that I really like are as follows: Tips on making utube videos by Lisa Irby, Beginners Create a Website Here by Lisa Irby, or Blogging Tips To Help You Make Money by Darren Rowse. Daren Rowse is at ProBlogger.net. He is another motivational leader. Again, remember to stay true to what it is that you want to write about. Always see what others are doing successfully in blogging.

Passion

If writing about toddlers or children is not your passion, find out what it is that you are passionate about and start writing. Possibly you are passionate about weight loss, exercising, birds, flowers, or hunting. Whatever your passion is start writing.

Need To Know

Finally remember that people want to know. People have a thirst for knowledge. Remember people want to increase knowledge. You are a unique individual and have much to offer others. It is up to you when you will start doing that. So don’t wait until tomorrow, don’t’ wait until later, but rather start now.

7 Internet Safety Tips For Kids

2012-01-29T06:06:00.000-05:00

Boy Toddler

1.Antivirus and Spyware Protection

Let’s face it, the children of this generation are computer whizzes. They eat, drink, and sleep computers. They love their DSI, play stations, ipods, and texting on the phone. They may unawaringly click on a site that looks and appears harmless, but not knowing this site might be loaded with 30 or 40 Trojans. Possibly your child loves music and videos, it is so easy to catch a virus when downloading. It is of utmost important to have some type of Antivirus and Spyware Protection. Most times your antivirus protection will alert you before clicking on a site if it is not safe. So take heed if you receive such an alert.

An Apple Ipod

2.Chat Rooms

Above all talk to your child about the danger of chat rooms. Children tend to be gullible. If they are hearing online what they want to hear, they may be blinded to the fact that they could be talking to a pedophile, a killer, or sexual predator. So many times the predator’s sick mind thinks it is okay to talk to a 14 or 15 year old. The child may think they are talking to someone their own age. I have watched MSNBC where they show time after time sexual predators that are caught and prosecuted. Some of them get caught and go right back doing the same thing. That is why your child needs to be protected at all costs. That sexual predator so many times turns out to be a professional, a married man, or an old man (gizzard). They come in all shapes and forms.

3.Forward Email

Make sure that you nor your child click on forwarded emails from others. Even though you know the person that is forwarding you the email, you do not know the 10 or 15 others that had previously forwarded the emails to them. A virus can often hide in those forwarded emails.

4.Identify Theft

Children should not give out parent’s credit card information or any personal information. Sometimes when they really do not know who they are talking too, they might tend to divulge too much information.

5.Observe

Observe and see what sites your child is going to. No you cannot watch your child 24 hours a day, but possibly have your computer in a location such as a family room or living room, as oppose to their bedroom.

6.Parental Controls

These are features that can easily be set up on most computers. It s imperative to use them to help protect your children. If you have them and never put them in place, it does your children no good whatsoever.

7.Phishing Email

They need to be wary of phishing email scams that are used to get personal information. Or sad stories used to enlist your sending them money to help them.

Other Resources:

Identifying and Reporting Consumer Frauds and Scams

www.fbi.gov/scams-safety/e-scams

www.usa.gov/Citizen/Topics/Internet_Fraud.shtml

Internet Fraud Information: USA.gov

Photo Images: Wikipedia.com

How to Get Picky children to Eat

2012-01-23T04:36:00.000-05:00

Child sitting with several fruit choices before her

Unfortunately not all children are born with a great appetite. Not all will eat nearly everything that you set before them. There are those that have particular likes and dislikes. Also children sometimes may feel that there are not too many things in their life that they can control. To some degree they can control their eating. While some may overeat, there are others that will not eat, unless it is something they like or want.

1.First of all remember even though you want your child to eat healthy, eating involves emotions. When you sit down with children to eat, you want to make the experience pleasurable, fun, and appealing. Try not to discuss negative things at the table. Encourage all children to not bicker and fight at the table. Instead concentrate on some of the good things that your child has done, some of the goals that he or she have accomplished. Compliment them and let them know how proud you are of them. You may even recall funny events that have taken place in the family.

2.Next, although I do not encourage cooking separate meals for children, unless some may have allergies, I encourage offering several different types of foods. The key is variety. The reason for offering the different types is that it gives them a choice. Also, it makes them feel they have some control over their eating. For so long we have had parents making children eat all of their food whether they want it or not. America is known for having obese children at early ages.

3.A sample of what might be offered for breakfast is cereal, toast, and fruit. Possibly a choice between 2different types of cereal, and 2 different types of fruit. Possibly a choice between sausage or bacon for those that eat that. Orange juice and/or milk. The main thing is to have choices. This way your child can pick what he or she wants and not feel there are no choices available. Let’s face it, we all have certain foods we may like better than others.

4.A sample for lunch or dinner might me, chicken, baked potatoes, corn, rice, green beans, peas, or even pizza, ravioli ,salad or spaghetti. Pickles or cucumbers cut up in vinegar and sugar can be included in these choices. Raw carrots, celery, or strawberries can be included in these choices. Dessert might be ice cream and/or cake. You might want to put a little whip cream on the cake in the shape of a happy face. Just be creative. Again, we see choices, they may pick some of the items suggested. Pick several food choices. Finally remember there are times that we are just not hungry. Well there are times that children might not be hungry either. Usually they will eat when they do get hungry.

What Legacy Will You Leave Your Children?

2012-01-16T11:15:00.016-05:00

Some leave their family business as a legacy to their children. They will groom their children as they grow up so that they will eventually be able to take over the family business. This is great if the children want to do this, but if they want no part of it. The children might sell the business.

As I watched Donald Trump one day on television, I remember he mentioned his family came first. He also mentioned when his children were very young he would bring them into the office with him. His adult children then talked about how they enjoyed going to the office with their father as a child. There was an open door policy that they could call him anytime. I thought that was an excellent policy. Do you as a parent have that open door policy when you are at work? It is understandable that on some jobs that might not be possible. If it is not possible, do you possibly call and check on your child on your break?

Others may leave their house as a legacy. A great thing would be to leave a house that is paid off and your children could start their lives not worrying about a mortgage.

I watched the television show one day. I found this picture to be fascinating. There was a young man that had a rich father. The young man was used to having and getting whatever he wanted. When his father died he made stipulations before his son could receive any money from his estate. He stopped all of his son’s credit cards. The young man experienced what it was like to not have everything you want when you wanted it at your fingertips. He turned out to be a great young man and found a cause to believe in and also found love during that course of his venture. Can you relate to this? He started helping others that were less fortunate. So he did eventually receive the inheritance which was millions of dollars. He appreciated it at that point and used it wisely helping others.

Then I have seen those that are so materialistic that they argue amongst each other as to who will get what when their mother and father die. Their parents are not even dead yet and they are already claiming an inheritance that they are not guaranteed. That is sad as well as disgusting. Then there are even those that have gone as far as to murder, hoping to receive their inheritance that way.

I hope to leave a legacy to my children that people are important. That things are only material things. I hope that they will remember things can always be replaced. I want them to remember not to be so busy working and dong that they do not take time to enjoy the present. I pray that they remember to not keep secrets and communicate with each other, so there is no dysfunction in the family. What legacy will you leave your children? What legacy did your parents leave you?

More From This Author listed on this site:

Have you Shared Your Failures With Your Child Lately
(listed under Good Parenting)

How To Recognize If Your Child Is A Leader (listed under Good Parenting)

How To Identify The Signs Of A Good Mother (listed under Good Parenting)

Review Of Starfall Interactive Kids Site

2012-01-11T18:39:00.000-05:00

Kindergarten Class in Alanya

There are numerous activities and learning games that children love to play at Starfall.

Below are a list of some of the games and activities that children love to play. The good thing about this is that they can learn and have fun at the same time.

ABC'S

Here you can click on any letter. It sounds the letter out as it shows the letter. The vowels a,e,i,o, and u are listed below the alphabets. When you click on them there is singing to emphasize the phonics. I like the fact that when the child click's on the letters there are pictures to accompany the phonics that is emphasized with the words. The site also encourages the children to sing along. Children learn these songs very quickly. This is a fun website for kids.

Long words are emphasized as well.

Who Am I

Children really like the "Who Am I Area." Here they get to fill in the blanks. Answering questions whether they are a girl or boy, how old they are, choose a hairstyle, their hair color, color of their skin,color of their eyes, and much more characteristics about themselves. This is one of the best websites for kids.

Rhymes

This is an area where children can sing along songs such as Comin Round the Mountain, Happy and You Know It, and you will see many more songs here.
As they look under the area of songs, they will be able to sing songs such as A Hunting We Will Go, Five Little Chicadees, or Hens Are Marching.

Calendar

Want to teach your children the day and the month? Then the calendar will be ideal for that. There is a prompt to click on the month and today's date.
Once they have done that then there is a prompt to fill in the missing day's date. Then they are encouraged to enter special days on the calendar for that month including birthdays,stars, or happy faces. Then there are various pictures that they can choose between to put at the top of their calendar. These are all done by clicking and/or dragging the items to their correct places. When finished they are rewarded with a "hooray."

Let's Plant a Flower

This interactive area walks your children through step-by-step.
I like that it gives you choices of a variety of flowers to plant. Once your children click on the flower to plant, it lists a sequence from first, next, and last. There is emphasis on the steps used in planting a flower. When the children completes the task, they are rewarded by hearing "great job."

The link is listed below:

http://www.french-riviera-mag.com/outings/website-www-starfall-com_2747.htm

Another Article you might like written by Betty Asphy is: “5 Awesome Books To Read to Your Toddler.” It is listed on this site map under “Good Parenting.” Just click on “Good Parenting.”

Should It Be Illegal To Post Children Videos On Utube?

2012-01-05T20:07:00.008-05:00

YouTube For Dummies

According to Utube.com, Utube was founded in February 2005. It has billions of users. Some have asked are parents exploiting or abusing their children? When parents originally posted the videos, I am sure they had no idea that it would become as big as it did. What was posted originally may have been meant to be cute and shared with family and friends, but thousands of people apparently viewed the videos. Some parents have made up t-shirts of their children and are selling and promoting them on tube. They are treating it like a business. This seems to be the new wave; the Utube videos. Is this what the new generation is about? Some of the videos are definitely money makers. Will their children grow up and do the same with their children? Children are so cute as children, but are parents taking advantage of their children’s youth in order to make money? Is it greed? Are parents greedy for money? I see some of the videos having over so many thousand of hits. Do they hope that their children will be discovered for a TV show? Should it be illegal to post children videos? After all they are not adults yet. I can understand that parents are proud of their children. Parents want to share their pictures with the world. Where are the boundaries? Are they protecting their children like they should? When is it considered abusive?

Utube has many great uses such as how to videos featuring how to style your hair, or how to bake a cake, but are some of the children videos going just to far? I love some of the Utube how to videos, because it is one thing to read an article about how to do something. It is even better if you are a visual person to see how something is done. It is fascinating when I look at how advanced we have become in this century. We can also receive tips and strategies on Utube videos. So there are many good uses for Utube videos. If you have a great idea, you never know how many hits you will get when showing it on utube. There will probably be those parents that justify their children videos, but is it really fair to the children? Is it saying to them that this is okay? Some parents may even think that it is amusing. What are your thoughts on this?

How To Promote A Good Father Figure For Your Child

2012-01-03T20:41:00.002-05:00

Relatives can be great mentors.

1. Relatives.

Several children suffer from low self-esteem. If the biological father is not involved in a child’s life, sometimes an uncle, or grandfather possibly can become active with that girl or boy. This interaction can cause them to see what a man really is. This interaction can help promote a healthy relationship. The daughter can look at the type of father or grandfather to determine the type of husband she wants in her life.

2. Church.

Possibly there are not positive male role models that are relatives. In that case look to your church. Many times there are great male figures there.

Great mentors can be found in your church.

3. Mentors.

There are mentor organizations where men will help mentor your child for free. Mentors could take your child fishing, skiing, to the movies, or just out to eat.

Below is a video of Dr. Randal Pinkett on Judge Hatchett Show Mentoring a Teen. A very inspirational video.

4. Big Brothers or Peer Groups.

Big Brothers organizations have men that are available to help mentor your sons and daughters. Sometimes peer groups can be great mentors, because some children can identify with them more readily. Their hearts and minds are sometimes more open to their peer groups.

Tips:

There are men that make babies, but that does not constitute a father.

Below are resources for possible mentoring organizations:

http://www.wamentors.org/organizations?page=5

http://www.selu.edu/acad_research/colleges/gen_stu/stu_orgs/peer_mentors.html

Please feel free to comment in the comment area below. How would you promote a good father figure?

7 Signs Your Toddler Is Becoming Independent

2011-12-31T09:10:00.016-05:00

1. Sharing

When your toddler has started to share with other toddlers that is a key sign that your toddler is becoming independent. It is good to see your toddler interacting well with other toddlers. Remember there was a time when the only thing that you heard from your toddler was “Me, “Me, “Mines.”

2. DIY (Do-It-Yourself)

There may come a time when you hear your toddler say, “I can do it myself.” Toddlers will possibly will take the initiative to do something on their own.

3. Questions

When your toddler starts questioning things you know your child is exerting some degrees of independence. Toddlers may not just accept orders that are given to them. Toddlers may want answers as to why they are doing what they have been told to do.

4. Mimicking

When you see toddlers mimicking something that you have taught them, you know that your teaching has been successful. It is a good feeling to see this happened. You might think to yourself, “ My toddler is remembering some things.”

5. Clingy

Is your toddler really clingy? Does your toddler not want to leave your side in many instances? As your toddler becomes more independent, you will discover that your toddler no longer wants to cling to you, but to venture out into new territory.

6. Making Choices

When your toddler is making an effort to solve a problem, be creative, or volunteering suggestions, this is definitely a sign of becoming independent. It shows independent thinking that toddlers can use. Toddlers will exert their decision-making abilities to make choices.

7. Encouragement

It is nothing wrong with encouraging your toddler towards independence also. Teaching, showing, and practicing things that your toddler needs to know. Your toddler will still need to be supervised, but it will be amazing to see his steps toward independence right before your very eyes.

Also, even though they might fail at attempting to try and do it themselves, you can still be there encouraging your toddlers.

Note:

You will still need to set limits, because you don’t want your child in harm’s way.

More From This Author:

Blue-Eyed , Brown-Eyed Review (listed under Prejudice)

Does Your Toddler Like Preschool Puzzles? (listed under Toddler Learning)

Does The Teacher Give Lots of Candy To the Students (listed under Parenting Tips)

5 Top Parenting Mistakes

2011-12-28T06:56:00.000-05:00

A toddler crying

1. Child treatment

All Children are not created equal. You may love all your children. You may take into consideration the attitudes of your children. Children with poor attitudes or several behavior problems should not be treated the same as the compliant child, because there are consequences for bad behaviors. Those bad behaviors should not be rewarded. Because each child is different that child should be dealt with accordingly.

2. Punishment vs. Rewards

There will be times when punishment may be needed. In order to change behavior, rewards are needed. If there is a constant punishing this will not encourage positive behavior in your child. Pick your battles carefully. Try to find a common ground. For example think about the good qualities of your child. Compliment your child on these qualities. This can do so much to boost that child’s self-esteem. This is just one parenting strategy. Your parenting skills will improve as you practice this. Talking about building your relationship with your child, rewards can help to do this.

3. Listening

When your child talks to you, do you listen? Do you form a judgment before your children have finished talking? Sometimes children just need someone to listen to them. Several parenting issues and parenting problems can occur, because of not listening effectively. Everyone does not know how to listen. Sometimes you can be so much into getting your point across that you forget to listen.

4. Choices

Everyone need to have some choices. You cannot control your children 24 hours a day. Your children make choices everyday, but it is important that you allow them to make choices rather than telling them everything to do.

5. Hugs & Kisses

No matter how old they get, they need affection and touch. Honest, positive affirmations. I say honest because you don’t want to fake it.

6. Unrealistic Expectations

Evaluate and revaluate what it is that you expect from your child. Keep in mind that this is a child not an adult. Can your child achieve what you expect? Are you expecting too much? Sometimes if you push and expect too much from your child, you child will just give up and say, “ I just can’t please my parents.” “Nothing I do is ever enough.” Does this sound familiar? Have you ever heard anyone say this?

Benefits Of Children Playing Cards

2011-12-18T10:00:00.007-05:00

Uno Card Game

Uno cards are a simple game of cards that help children learn to count and identify color. It helps children learn just like flash cards do. It also helps with eye and hand coordination. Sometimes we never realize how important color and coordination is. Just like adults like to play cards, so do children. They get to use their decision-making skills by determining how many cards to give to each player and deciding when they will play a particular card.

After the cards have been dealt depending on what card is played, the next player will need to decide whether to play a red, yellow, green, or blue card. The player might need to choose whether to play a particular number as oppose to a particular color. The numbers range from 1-9. Sometimes a player might receive a card that tells them +4. This means they will need to pull 4 cards from the deck. Addition is used throughout the entire game.

Children’s decision-making skills are used when they receive a colorful card with all 4 colors on it. They are then given the chance to name what the new color will be for the next player to play.

There will be times when they pull a card that will mean skip the next play or that the order of the card playing will be reversed to the right or left. Their hope throughout this game is to end up with no cards in their hands and to be able to holler “Uno.” When a player is down to 2 cards that player needs to remember to call Uno. So their memory is playing a great part in this game too. Someone might think, oh it is just a kid’s card game, but this card game helps them learn certain math skills and other eye hand coordination that are important for their development. Adults can play this game as well.

Uno Attach Game

Uno has become sophisticated with the new Uno Attack Game. With this game the player will receive several cards from the dispenser unit when another player receives the attack card.

More From This Author:

Does Your Toddler Like Preschool Puzzles (on this site listed under Toddler Learning)

Don’t Knock It, Til you Try It (listed under Fishing)

How To Encourage your Kindergartner to Read (listed under reading)

Are Parental Computer Controls Enough?

2011-12-13T11:27:00.017-05:00

Dora Saves the Crystal Kingdom

Parental controls on the computers are great, but may not be enough. No you may not be able to sit with your child each and every time they are on the computer, but have you sat with your child occasionally to watch your child play the games on the site? Every game may not be created equal. Even though a site or game received great parental ratings, you may discover it is not what you want for your child.

Have you ever watched a picture that said Parental guidance suggested and you had to turn it off because of the content? It is good if you can see a movie before taking your child to see it, then you know if it is something you want your child exposed to. It is good to discuss pictures and movies with your child. It is even better to explain why you don’t think certain picture or games are good for them. Boys tend to like the fighting, “shoot-em up games.” Possibly some of the games may contain too much violence and killing.

Remember children are very impressionable. Children will attempt to imitate and model after characters on the shows or games. You can encourage educational games. There are numerous of educational games available.

Sometimes you might just ask your child to explain a game to you that that they like. You will be amazed at how much they know about the game. They will love telling you about it too.

Just like parenting is an ongoing process, so are the parental controls on the computer. New games and new sites are developed everyday. Things change. You must make a decision to stay informed. You want to test and select the best options for your child. Evaluate whether that particular game serves the best interest of your child.

Stay involved with your child. Talk to your child. What games does your child like on the computer? What is it about that game that they like? Does your child play one specific game or does your child like new games each time they play? Are their specific characters in the games that your child identifies with? These are a few questions you might ask yourself.

More From This Author:

Kids Technology (Omg)

7 Internet Safety Tips For Kids Listed under Internet on this Site

6 Place To Get Help With Homework listed under Parenting tips on This Site

How To Find Out If a Sex Offender is Living Near You

2011-12-12T22:45:00.001-05:00

1. How to Find Out If a Sex Offender is living near you or near your child's school. There have been several cases reported of kidnapping of young victims by sex offenders. Some times the offenders are living right next door to you. To find out if a sex offender is living near you, click on the link below, or copy and paste to visit the site.

http://www.familywatchdog.us/Search.asp

2. When you get to the sight, search by location. Enter your street address, your city, your state, and your zip code. Then click on the search button.

3. A large map will appear showing all the areas where sex offenders are living. You will be amazed at the number. Then click on the list button in grey above the map slightly toward's the left. This will bring up a list of offenders on or near your resident. It will list the offenders name and address. Now click on the offender's name. It will show you the offenders picture. Below the picture is a grey button that says convictions. Click on convictions to see the convictions for this offender.

4. You can also request free alerts so if a new registered offender moves near you, you will be alerted. On the same map list page to the right is a box that says "get free alerts". Just enter your email address and click on go listed below it, and you are signed up for alerts. 5. If you would like to share information with a friend, just enter the box below the free alerts and enter your email address and your friend's email address below yours and click on send.

Tips. Be aware of your surroundings.

Remember it is your responsibility to keep your child as safe as you can.

How To Teach Your Toddler About Emergencies

2011-12-09T09:18:00.000-05:00

You may need to go to the hospital

There may be a day and time when an emergency may occur. You might become ill and there is no one else around but you and your toddler. This parenting advice will prepare your toddler and instruct your toddler what to do in the event of an emergency.

1. Make a list of emergency names and numbers, such as doctor, hospital, police dept. (911), fire department, your mother and father, daughter, or close relative, friend, toddler’s school, and other important numbers. Keep this list on your refrigerator or visible on a counter.

Keep emergency numbers available

2. Teach your toddler how to call on your cell phone or landline phone in the event of an emergency. Let your toddler know that the number is to be called only in an emergency. You might want to put the emergency number of the police (911) and a relative on speed dial on your phone. In that way your toddler would just have to push one number.

Toddler on cell phone

3.Let your toddler practice pushing the speed dial for your mother, father, or contact person so that he/she will understand about using the phone. Discuss this with your toddler every so often. Toddlers are very smart. Explain to your toddler if you become ill and you were unable to get help, he/she needs to dial the emergency number and tell them you need help your mommy or daddy is sick. Make sure your toddler knows your house address.

4. Make sure that your toddler knows where your purse or wallet is, so if an ambulance is needed and you are not conscious, they will be able to get your medical cards. Empowering your toddler with this information could save you and your toddlers life.

Captions: Fotosearch.com

Jesus For Kids

2011-12-07T11:55:00.000-05:00

Jesus

“You +Child+Tragedies” Do you seize the opportunity to share Jesus with your child?

Divorce

Sometimes people are faced with divorce, even though they do not want it or even though they fight it. If this has occurred with you, did you seize the opportunity to share with your child that you love him/her? Did you tell your child that, “Jesus loves you?” Did you let your child know that God will take care of both of you no matter what? Did you let your child know, you do not necessarily know about the future, but you know who holds your future, and that it is God?

Foreclosure

Have you ever been faced with foreclosure? Have you ever actually lost your house through foreclosure? That can be a painful and emotional experience. Loosing your house and having to find another place to stay can be devastating. Did you seize the opportunity to let your child know that God will make a way for you? Did you show your child that you did believe that God would never leave you nor forsake you? Did you share with your child that this situation was only temporary and that God will be giving you bigger and better things in life?

Sickness

Have you ever been so sick that you thought you just might not make it? Have you ever been in so much pain that you found it almost unbearable? Pain and suffering can wear and tear on you physically and emotionally. Did you seize the opportunity to allow your child to see you praising God? Did your child see you praising God for keeping you through it all? Did your child see you praising God believing that He will bring you through this? Have things been so bad for you sometimes that all you could do is say “Jesus” or “Jesus help me?” Has your child witnessed this of you? This is a good example of Jesus for kids.

These are just a few of the tragedies you may encounter in life. I am sure there are many of you that have been through worse. Always keep in mind to seize the opportunity to share Jesus during those hard times.

Ephesians 6:10 Be strong in the Lord and His mighty power.

What are your thoughts on this?

Other articles published by Betty Asphy include:

“How To Know How To Teach Your Toddler To Memorize Bible Verse” listed under Bible on the sitemap. Just click on Bible.

“How To Know Your Child’s Spiritual Gift” listed under Spiritual Gift on the sitemap. Just click on Spiritual Gift.

Naps are Not Just For Toddlers

2011-12-04T20:48:00.000-05:00

Man Taking A Nap

1. The Brain

Taking naps can help renew the brain. Pushing yourself everyday and not taking a nap may not be in your best interest. Yes, you may have to work. Yes you may be a full -time mom at home, but when possible attempt to take a nap, if possible. While at work you might just want to rest your eyes while on your break.

2. Power Naps

Have you ever heard of power naps? Wikipedia defines them as, “ short sleeps which terminates before the occurrence of deep sleep.” They are the type of naps where you may sleep 10 or 15 minutes. Sometimes that is all it takes to help you feel refreshed and renewed. Sometimes when you take your break at work, just being able to rest your eyes for 15 minutes can really help you feel refreshed and have just a little more energy. Remember your body needs rest.

3. Stay At Home Moms

Moms when your toddler is napping, this would be a great time for you to try a power nap. You then may be just as refreshed as your toddler when he/she awakes.

I am not saying that you have to take a nap everyday, but if you are feeling tired or sleepy, don’t push yourself. Attempt to find a time when you can nap.

4. Nap Mats or Blankets

Below is a list of a couple of sites where you can find nice nap mats and blankets for toddlers, teens, and adults. Sometimes what you nap on can make all the difference in the world for a peaceful rest.

Links for nap blankets

http://napblankets.com/

Organic Nap blankets can be found below at Sewn/Natural

http://www.etsy.com/shop/SewnNatural?section_id=5786792

Does your toddler Like Preschool Puzzles?

2011-11-26T17:28:00.014-05:00

1. Melissa & Doug Wooden USA Map Sound Puzzle

This Wooden Map of the United States not only shows you the all of the states it announces the state and capital city. Your toddler can have fun while at the same time learning the names of the states.

2. Wooden Large Farm Jumbo Puzzle

This can be found at Target, G-3515 Miller Road, Flint, Michigan

This is a large wooden colorful puzzle that sells for only $19.99. This puzzle will include several of your farm animals such as cows, horses, and many more.

http://www.target.com/s/puzzle

3. 3D Sneaky Puzzle Lightning Bugs All Around 46-Piece Puzzle for only $11.99 will be found at Meijer, 4333 W. Pierson Road, Flint, Michigan 48504.

This colorful puzzle is amazing. When you put on the 3D glasses that come with it, you will see lightening bugs flying all around you. That is not all. There are hidden numbers and alphabets in this puzzle. How magnificent is that? There is not only 3D movies, but now 3D colorful puzzles. For ages 3 years & up.

4.BioKido Eco-friendly Wooden Double-Sided Alphabet Puzzle

You will find this at Walgreens Store , 502 S. Ballenger Highway, Flint, Michigan

This puzzle sells for only $19.99. Can you believe that the box is made of recycled materials? It is printed with soy-bean ink. Pieces can be stored in the box that comes with this puzzle. The wooden pieces are double-sided too.

More From This Author:

Blue Eyed, Brown-Eyed Review (listed under Prejudice)

Does Your Toddler Have A Learning Disability (listed under Toddler Learning)

Fundraisers for Your Child’s school (listed under Parenting tips)

Can too much praise for your toddler be a bad thing?

2011-11-19T21:54:00.011-05:00

Vanessa Bartlemus

Of course, to you every painting of your toddler's is a masterpiece, and every time she counts or says her ABC's she must be the smartest kid in the world. Children thrive on praise and it's definitely a helpful tool to teach your child right from wrong. But can too much praise be a bad thing for your child?

Overconfidence

One negative consequence of too much praise could be that your toddler begins thinking everything he does is the best, and consequently have a hard time accepting negative feedback. Similarly, it can also cause him to be a perfectionist.

Doing things just for the praise

Another implication of too much praise is that your toddler may start doing things just for the praise she receives, or not doing things when there's no one around to motivate her with praise. An example would be clapping for your child or saying, "Good girl!" every time she shares. Young children then sometimes start sharing just for the praise they receive; they hand the toy to their friend but then immediately look to you for the "reward" they'll receive. You want your toddler to share because it's the right thing to do, not because she gets a "good job!" or high five when she shares.

Don't overdo it

They key is moderation. Definitely make sure to praise your child when he does a good job, but don't make it something that he comes to expect from you. If he comes and shows you a drawing he did, point out how you like the colors he used or how he tried to draw a circle, rather than using an overarching and hyperbolic statement like, "Wow! That's the coolest drawing I've ever seen!" To encourage things like sharing, talk to your toddler about why he should share, rather than making him hand over his toy and then praising him.

Fun For Toddlers (Omg)

2011-11-19T21:38:00.000-05:00

1. Strawberry Picking

I remember having a small strawberry garden in our back yard. I would go pick the strawberries to eat. For some reason they tasted like the sweetest strawberries ever. Have you considered planting a garden and allowing your child to experience the fruit of it? Children just love this.

2. Amusement Parks

Most children love amusement parks. There is something about the thrill of the rides, the food, and the bright colors. They love the excitement. I remember my first amusement park. I went with my former church Mt. Calvary Baptist Church. I thought that was so much fun. This is a memory that will last a lifetime. One of the popular theme parks now for the children to go to is Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio. I can remember taking my toddlers to Cedar Point. They loved the rides and I loved the food.

3. Birthday Parties

I remember having my first birthday party. I thought that was so much fun. I loved the camaraderie, the dancing, and the food. I was only 4-years-old at the time. Most birthday parties now will consist of karaoke, bouncy house, food , and dancing. These are memories that can last a toddlers’ lifetime. This is great fun for toddlers. All of this helps and aides in toddler development. I believe the toddlers love the bouncy house more than anything. There are so many different types of bouncy houses available. There is no shame in their game when it comes to bouncy houses. Some are designed with water and have Spiderman, Dora, or even Disney Princesses themes.

4. Talent Shows

Sometimes large families will have talent shows. This allows the young toddlers to showcase their talents. Many are so very talented. I once attended a Christmas Program of a large family. They rented a small community hall. All of the adult children organized the program and the little ones performed. It was amazing to see this from just one family. It was truly a blessing for me.

5. Parades

I remember going to Toronto, Canada every year and I would watch my aunt in the parades. She was a member of the Eastern Star Organization. I just loved parades. There are so many variety of parades that children can watch and be a part of also. There are Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day Parades, and many more. For a child to actually view a live parade will create many beautiful memories.

6. Carnival

Carnivals are events that the entire family can share. You have a variety of events in one central location. You will see colorful stuffed animals, cotton candy, and rides. there is an alluring excitement about carnivals.

7. Travel

Travel Is just another great way to create a lasting memory with your toddler. Because toddlers are so open to new experiences, their minds will just absorb the experience. It also helps them learn about other parts of the world. They can learn differences and realize what is norm in your state may not be the norm in another state. I remember we would travel to Battle Creek, Michigan and visit my cousin. Her and her husband was in the process of building a house. I thought that was so exciting. I remember them having a lot of land. I remember loving the wide open space. I remember the house that they lived in was so small, but the house they were building was oh so large. I liked that.

What type of memories have you built for your toddler? Prayerfully, they are good ones.

More From This Publisher:

How To Help Your Child That Has Bipolar- click on Bipolar under the sitemap

Self Esteem Builders For Children- Click on Self-Esteem Help under the sitemap

How To Teach Your Toddler to Save Money

2011-11-15T14:00:00.000-05:00

Money does not grow on trees.

Saving money can become a habit. That is especially good during this economy. Teaching your toddler how to save money will be one of the most important skill that you can teach your toddler. There is an old expression “Money does not grow on trees.“ Well money will grow if you save it and constantly add to it. Toddlers will value things more when they know that they paid for it, rather than it just being given to them.

1. Start out by deciding if you are going to give your toddler an allowance. Also, decide if you want your toddler to work for the allowance. If you determine, you want your toddler to work for the allowance by doing a chore around the house, explain to the toddler that you do not have to pay him/her. Explain why you are doing it. Starting early gives them a sense of having to work for what they will get. The chore can be something simple, depending on what you feel your toddler can handle. For example, you may have him/her help you dust, feed the dog, or water a flower.

Toddler watering garden

2. Next decide on a goal. Talk with your toddler about something that he/she might want to save for. It could be a toy, a special upcoming event, or maybe a game. You want to keep it simple. The main thing is to get your toddler motivated to save. You might be surprised as to what your toddler can do. Figure how many weeks it will take to accomplish that. Then double the amount that you agreed to save. The reason for this is so when the weeks have ended and it is time to make a purchase, he will not exhaust all of what he has saved, he will have something left in his bank.

Set goals

3. Each week when you give your toddler his/her allowance, tell him to put the amount that you both decided on in his/her bank. Once he/her has saved up the amount that is needed you can take that amount and spend it on the item that both of you agreed upon.

Toddler putting money in his bank

4. Now start over again with a new goal to save for.

Captions: Fotosearch.com

Does Your Child Have Eczema? (Atopic Dermatitis)

2011-11-12T20:13:00.000-05:00

Eczema

The first time that I heard about eczema was when I discovered my cousin had it. I did not quite understand it, except I knew she had special soaps that she used such as Ivory or Dial. I noticed her elbow creases were very rough looking. This is a condition that many people live with.

Although I was not aware of it then, I now realize eczema can occur on various parts of the body. It can appear on the crease of arms, knees, ankles, hands, legs, scalp, or even on the face. This is a serious condition and needs to be addressed and treated if you suspect that your child has it. Choose to learn how to treat your child’s eczema.

According to some doctors eczema is an allergy and is common in some children that have asthma.

1. Cleansing

I have discovered that it is very important to be aware of the type of cleansing soap that you use. If you have eczema, you cannot just use any soap. Usually Cetaphil soap, a special soap for sensitive skin is great and Ivory soap is quite mild on the skin. Also, Cetaphil lotion for sensitive skins works very well for some.

2. Prescriptions

Most times a doctor can prescribe special creams which will work well for the child that has eczema. Sometimes you may have to try several different ones in order to find the right one, but you will know, because the right cream will clear the eczema up. Everyone is different. So what works with some might not work for others.

3. Detergent

The detergent that you wash your children’s clothes in is very important. Dreft is very mild and pediatrician recommended for children with sensitive skin. There are so many irritants in regular detergent that can trigger the eczema and cause for itching.

4. Triggers

There are nearly triggers for everything. There are definitely triggers with eczema. Extreme hot and cold weather can trigger eczema reactions. Also dirt and bacteria are triggers. For that reason it is important to use special soaps and cleansers. These will clean, protect, and moisturize the skin.

The doctor below talks about Eczema

Will you share this article with a friend?

More From This Author listed on the sitemap at this site:

Jesus For Kids (listed under God)

How To Blog About Toddlers (listed under blogging)

How To Teach Your Children About Money (listed under money)

Blue Eyed, Brown-Eyed Review

2011-11-11T18:07:00.000-05:00

This experiment was used as a basis to help the children understand about prejudices and how they exist. Several years later the same group of children were brought together as adults to discuss the experiment that was done. They discussed how it affected them and how it gave them perspectives as adults.

This same experiment was done in a prison with adults. It was amazing to see that there were only a few prisoners that actually stood up and said, “That is a brunch of crap.” Then there were those that were actually believing and agreeing that blue-eyed people were better and more smarter than brown-eyed people by offering excuses to support their statements.

That is why it is so important not to pass your prejudices down to your children. Children are not born being prejudice. It is something that they learn. It is ultimately important to embrace your culture. So many times there have been those blacks that had tried to pass for Caucasian, because of the discrimination that existed. Discrimination does still exist, but in different forms. Blacks discriminate against blacks as well as Caucasians that discriminate against blacks. Because blacks come in a rainbow of colors, there were some blacks that where high yellow and would consider themselves better than a very dark black person. Which was and is still wrong.

I remember a young lady planning to go off to college. She had talked over the phone to several other young ladies. They were to share an apartment together. When they actually met to make the deposit the other young ladies changed their minds when they discovered she was a different nationality than they were. The young lady was stunned and very hurt as she had never experience this outright blatant prejudice. The apartment manager saw this and told the other young ladies he would not hold the apartment for them either, because they now had to come up with the balance of the deposit. Although this was a hard lesson in prejudice. I told the young lady, this might have been a blessing. Had she gotten the apartment with the other 3 young ladies, they possibly could have attempted to make her life miserable with their prejudices.

I remember hearing several in a discussion stating they would not want their child to marry someone of a different race. I don’t know why, but I was surprised and alarmed that they felt that way.

What are your feelings on this?

How To Encourage your Kindergartner to Read

2011-11-08T10:01:00.023-05:00

1. Posters in the bedroom

You can get posters from the Dollar Store for $1.00. Alphabet posters with the alphabets from A-Z. Or posters with the names of items such as apples, umbrellas, etc.

2. Magazines or Comic Books

Magazines can be colorful and exciting for kindergartners. Magazines such as Fun For Kidz Magaines, Highlights, or Kids National Geographics are just great. I was amazed to find some kindergartners that love comic books.

3. Children’s Bible

Possibly encourage your child to read a Children’s Bible. Do not forget to encourage your child to read scriptures. If you have been teaching your child about the love of God, this would be a good time for him/her to start reading about God.

4.

Sight Words (Flash Kids Flash Cards)

Sight words can be used to help your kindergartner increase his/her vocabulary as well as learning to read.

5. Computer

When your toddler is on the computer playing a game, why not have your kindergartner read the instructions aloud.

6.

Wooden word puzzles are another fun way to encourage your kindergartners reading. I love how colorful the wooden puzzles are.

7. Online Reading sites

There are online reading sites that help to make reading fun for your http://pbskids.org you will find many reading games for kindergartners such as Power Words, Comic Strip Capers, Word Play, Story Time, and many more.

8. Car Games

When riding in the car, ask your kindergartens to think of words that they already know and spell them. Ask them to be observant of signs that you pass. Encourage your kindergartner to read them. Also, this would be a good time to discuss and explain what the various signs might mean.

9. Television

When watching television, have your kindergartner read some of the program names that you are watching. Remember to have fun. Do not be so serious.

More From This Author on this site:

Fundraisers for Your Child’s School listed under (Parenting tips)

How To Help Your Angry Child listed under ( anger management)

7 Internet Safety Tips For Kids listed under (Internet)

How Kids Can Be Helpful In Your House (Omg)

2011-11-01T22:06:00.008-04:00

Melissa & Doug Deluxe Magnetic Responsibility Chart

Children can be helpful around the house. Kids want to feel that they have a contribution to the family. Parents just keep in mind that they may not do it perfectly, but they need to be given the chance to try.

Making the bed

Kids need to be allowed to try and make their beds. Will it be perfect and look like you made it? No, but in time they will improve on doing that.

Kitchen Table

Although kids may or may not wipe the entire table, after they eat illicit them to wipe the table or their kitchen mat on the table. No it will not be perfect, but in time it will improve.

Bedtime

Before children go to bed at night, ask them when they take their dirty clothes off to put them in the clothes hamper or basket in their room or near their bedroom door.

Laundry

Kindergartners can be shown how to fold their clothes when they come out of the dryer. They really seem to catch on quickly with folding bath towels. This will be a learning process for them.

Yes, you probably would say, it is much quicker and easier if you do it yourself. If kids are allowed to do these things, this will be a learning process for both of you. Depending on your house makeup, you can probably just look around and see several things that your kids could probably help you with around the house.

Dusting

Dusting was something that I loved to do as a child. You can have your kids dust the furniture with you. I love the knew lemon dust sprays that are available for only $1.00 at the dollar stores. You will be surprised at how much kids will remember after only showing them once how to do something.

Accountability

Kids should be held accountable for their actions. If They were playing with a game, it should be put away after they finish with it. If they are watching TV, it should be turned off when no longer watching. If they are playing house and have several toys out, when they are finished playing, toys should be put away. They are learning to clean up behind themselves and learning to be accountable at the same time. What ideas do you have for your kids helping around the house?

More From This Author:

It’s Not About You (Omg) listed under Good Parenting

Do You Know The Importance of Fathers? (Listed under Fathers)

How To Teach Toddlers To Clean Up (Listed under parenting tips for toddlers)