Kids, Stay In School! The Importance Of Extracurricular Clubs

August 29, 2017 Leave a Comment

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While the summer is still in session, it is winding down to a close. In a short space of time, the kids will be back in school and ready for the fall term. If the summer break teaches parents anything, it is the importance of school. Yes, looking after demanding children is not easy, so education institutions are a godsend. But, there is a bigger reason: keeping their minds occupied. During their time off from school, kids can lose their mental edge and this can stay with them for the rest of their adult life. Here are four more reasons why extracurricular clubs are necessary for young children.

 

Guaranteed Activity

 

Recent figures show that childhood obesity is at an all time high. Since the 1970s, the number of children who are overweight has almost tripled. There is no doubt this is an epidemic which isn’t going to slow down anytime soon. Still, you kids don’t have to suffer from the problem as long as they eat well and get lots of exercises. With computers and modern tech, it can be hard to get them out of the house. Thankfully, after school clubs guarantee activities such as football, baseball, and badminton.

 

Daily Structure

 

Children, like the majority of people, love a routine. They like to know what they are doing and when to allow their brain to process everything properly. If they do different activities, The Hills Youth and Family Services center believes it can hurt their mental health. The good news is that a club can provide an essential support structure for children. Because they know they will spend an hour or two in the same environment, they are bound to be much happier.

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Safety Issues

 

One thing all parents struggle with is safety. Kids like to be independent, even if they aren’t as mature as they like to imagine. Getting the right balance is key because you don’t want to be overprotective and keep them cooped up, which can lead to health problems. But, you don’t want to let them roam the streets unsupervised. An extracurricular club is a compromise because it provides a sense of freedom without sacrificing safety. They can play, connect with others, and get out of the house while a teacher oversees them from afar.

 

Socializing Skills

 

It might be hard to quantify, but there appears to be a shift in social skills. As a result of the technological revolution, modern day children don’t seem to be able to interact in the same way. Why? It’s because they don’t get the same amount of practice that people did in the past. By attending a club, kids learn the social skills which become important in the future. Even if they don’t like it, attendance is crucial because these skills help grown ups navigate the real world.

 

Kids need extracurricular activities for a variety of reasons. Therefore, it is important to push the value of a club on them from an early age.

Filed Under: Educational

It’s Time For The Big Going-To-College Chat

August 28, 2017 Leave a Comment

If your kid is starting the last-year of high school, you need to sit down with them and have an eye-opening conversation about what it’s like to go to college. They will make their own mistakes and learn their own lessons, but you’ll worry a lot less if you warn them about the common dangers and risks of the student’s life. After all, the college years mark the beginning of their independence. Picture your kids diving into unknown and deep waters. They need your help to come on the other side safely.

Going to college

 

#1. College is expensive

First of all, after a life of the luxury of high school, it’s essential that you warn your child that the college life will need to be a little more frugal than what they’re used to. For a start, most students need to move out and find an accommodation on their campus, which means that they will need to pay for the room or the flat. Considering the cost of food, studies, and everyday essentials, it’s no wonder that most students struggle with making both ends meet at the end of the month. But https://consolidatestudent.loan offers a straightforward and applicable alternative to the student debt. By consolidating all student loans, you can reduce and manage payments towards a debt-free future.  

College expenses

 

#2. More freedom doesn’t mean less work

There is no denying it: Going to college might seem at first like a burst of freedom. Nobody is watching over your kid’s shoulder to make sure that they’ve done their homework, or that they’re getting their beauty sleep. Your role as a parent is to help them to get organized and plan for their college work efficiently. Some kids might even enjoy planning their everyday deadlines from essays to bills using a project management tool online. Others prefer a manual to-do list or a bullet-point journal. Whatever works for them will do the trick!

 

#3. You’re responsible for your own health

There’s another danger to the new wave of freedom, and it’s developing unhealthy habits. https://www.theodysseyonline.com lists up to 8 bad habits that people develop when they go to college, from not getting enough sleep to snacking all day. Unfortunately, bad habits tend to be difficult to get rid of, and that’s why most of these continue into adulthood. The result? An army of tired, over-caffeinated, and procrastinating young adults. Make it clear that your kid has their health in their own hands.

College party essential

 

#4. Taking on more responsibilities

Between managing expenses and wanting to build up a professional résumé, student jobs can be very rewarding for those who are ready to work hard. There are plenty of accessible jobs that students can take as part-time roles during their studies. From becoming a library monitor – which is the guarantee for them to be able to get their homework done – to assisting teacher, there are options that can act as a catalyst for their knowledge. Naturally, becoming a barista is also an option if they prefer to serve coffee!

 

Warning your kid about the things to come when they go to college is great to help both of you to get ready. While they are warned about the potential risk of their future life, you can be assured that you’re doing all you can to keep them safe. Remember to let go, though. It’s not the time for them to claim their independence!

 

Filed Under: Educational

Parenting The Post-Grad: Helping Your Son/Daughter Make That Next Transition

May 30, 2017 Leave a Comment

Even as your kids get older, they never stop being your little treasures. As a loving parent, you’ll want to provide as much as assistance as you physically can. That desire will still be strong when they approach the end of their undergraduate degree too.

 

Seeing your child collect their degree will feel you with immense pride, and it will also highlight that they are now an adult. Nevertheless, your help can still be extremely useful as they prepare to take the next steps in their life.

 

Here are just three ways you can continue to show your support.

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Help With Their Next Decision

 

Upon graduation, your son or daughter will be faced with a variety of potential pathways. While you should never force them into any decision, offering support throughout the selection process is key.

 

After years of studying, many will want to enter the working world, which is fine. Despite being an adult, they still have youth on their side. Continuing their academic progress is still an option. The John Monash Scholars 2017 show how it’s possible to complete a postgraduate degree while getting to see new parts of the world. If it encourages them to live their life while boosting long-term prospects, that has to be a positive step.

 

No two people are the same, and it’s up to your son or daughter to find what works for them. By providing them with the necessary support throughout the research stages, they’ll be set for far better decisions.

 

Teach Life Skills

 

The past three years have been a great opportunity for your child to start making the transition to adulthood. They’ve gained a greater sense of independence, and have started taking greater responsibility in their lives. However, those developments have been somewhat limited.

 

This might be their first chance to rent or even purchase a property of their own. Not a student flat, but a home that requires care and attention. These DIY skills should go a long way to helping your son or daughter create that homely environment on a budget. This is also the time for them to ditch the nutritionally substandard student meals for real cooking too.

 

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Money management will be another key skill, especially if they need to pay back student loans and other debts. Your child probably has a better understanding of the tech systems than you. But you can certainly have a positive impact on money-saving strategies.

 

Show Pride

 

This is one of the proudest stages of parenthood, so don’t be afraid to show it. Not only does it strengthen your bond, but it also breeds confidence for your child too.

 

As exciting as this time in their life is, it can be daunting. After all, even graduates face tougher employment challenges than ever before. Giving them that confidence to chase their dream job or advanced degree by standing out from the crowd could make all the difference. Missing out on those opportunities due to self-doubt would be a huge shame indeed.

 

You know that your son or daughter is capable of greatness. If your support can help them unlock that potential, you’d be a fool not to make the most of it.

 

Filed Under: Educational, Home Tagged With: , ,

6 Ways to get help with school supplies!! #helpchildren #schoolage

May 26, 2017 Leave a Comment

As a former teacher, I always found it difficult and sad for children on the first day of school who didn’t have the needed supplies. Usually, I would supplement what they didn’t have and try and ration what was brought. I began budgeting for those who didn’t have what they need as I am sure most teachers do.  Here is a list of ways parents can get help with those expensive supplies!

 

  1. Check out Local School Supply Stores
    Organizations across the country provide free supplies to teachers from qualifying schools.  Kids in Need Foundation, which helps support the nation’s teachers and students.
  2. Try an Online Group
    Join a Yahoo Group or a Google+ community and post a request for the supplies you need. You can even use this group to promote your school supply drives.
  3. Utilize Your Community
    Contact local churches, charities and nonprofit organizations, and research local distribution projects. The American Red Cross usually holds school supplies drives at their local chapters. (Our church will band together to help any child in need! As I am sure most do!!!)
  4. Seek Out Backpack Programs
    Backpack programs — such as the Office Depot Foundation’s National Backpack Program, Schools on Wheels and School Ready Supplies — donate supply-filled backpacks to students.
  5. Go Online
    Craigslist doesn’t just sell items, it gives them away for free! Under the “For Sale” category, click on “free” and search for whatever supplies your child needs. You can also search Freecycle.org, a grassroots movement that connects people who are giving (and getting) stuff for free in their own towns.
  6. Check With Your School District
    Some states require public school districts to provide necessary school supplies to children. Certain districts are also required to provide books and school supplies for children whose parents cannot otherwise afford them.

I too was a single mother at one time and I know how hard it is making sure your child gets everything on that list. Don’t be ashamed to ask, your children only deserve the best!!!

Filed Under: Educational Tagged With: , , , ,

Operation #dontforget Don’t forget a child in the hot car!!

May 22, 2017 2 Comments

The summer months are sneaking up on us, it is already hot here in South Texas. I always stress this time of the year! As a Mimi of three grandsons, I can’t help but worry about making sure the kids are not left in a car.

I was coming home from the grocery store the other day and it dawned on me, I can’t forget my grandson in the back seat. This isn’t a usual thing for me to have him with me while grocery shopping so I began to think, how can I make sure to not forget when he or any of my grandbabies are with me….

So I came up with operation #dontforget, it is a simple concept. You add a clothespin to your AC vent I put my grandson’s names on them. When they are with you move it to your keys or even your door handle. This way before you get out of the car you are reminded to #dontforget.

This could even work with pets! I hate to see one left in a hot car.

I have come up with a printable list to place in your car until it becomes a habit.

 

 

I had to make my clothespins cute and of course get your kids or grandkids to help you. They will also remind you to move the pen! I made extra for my children to give out to anyone that may be picking up or keeping my grandchildren.

 

 

 

Please share how you #dontforget your loved one.

Email me at reviewsbykathy@gmail.com if you would like to place an order for one, with your child’s name and color. We will do them for $2.00 shipped anywhere in the US.

Check out this video, here is how I use mine!

 

Filed Under: #dontforget, Educational, Family Tagged With: , , ,

8 Gift Ideas for Father’s Day – Handmade Free Printable Memories!!

May 3, 2017 Leave a Comment

Father’s day is June 18th this year. I started wondering why we celebrate father’s day besides the obvious reason, we love our father’s and appreciate them! After a little digging I found this:

“On June 19, 1910, the governor of the U.S. state of Washington proclaimed the nation’s first “Father’s Day.” However, it was not until 1972, 58 years after President Woodrow Wilson made Mother’s Day official, that the day became a nationwide holiday in the United States.” (http://www.history.com/topics/holidays/fathers-day)

I know when my kids were little, the homemade gifts are what my husband wanted and are still around, and looked at from time to time. We are now grandparents and my husband still says I want a picture or I want to spend time with them. The older we get the more we realize memories are all we really want in life! The other gifts, even the expensive ones we tend to forget but those homemade with love gifts, we still have!

I have found some cute ideas that the kids can participate in for this father’s day and even a few printable ones!

Cute last minute gift ideas – https://www.pinterest.com/pin/124974958386141197/

Crafts for kids to make for father’s day – https://www.pinterest.com/pin/53761789273679729/

Cute photo for father’s day – https://www.pinterest.com/pin/178314466472615292/

Daddy’s Little Monster’s handprint idea –  https://www.pinterest.com/pin/431219733052606567/

Salt Dough Handprint Bowl – https://www.pinterest.com/pin/517069600954981033/

Keyring – Hand on Shrink Wrap – https://www.pinterest.com/pin/436075176405807502/

Free Printable Father’s Day Page – https://www.pinterest.com/pin/157555686941167955/

Free Printable Poems for prints – Father’s Day Poems

 

Filed Under: Children, Educational Tagged With: , , , , ,

Swimways Baby Spring Float Sun Canopy – National Learn to Swim Day May 20, 2017

May 3, 2017 18 Comments
  • This post was sponsored by SwimWays as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.

I have 3 grandsons under the age of 3 and water is a big concern for our family. At our home, we have a huge pond in the backyard and at our condo, we have a pool. We realize the importance of our grandsons learning to swim asap!

We taught our 3-year-old grandson using the Swimways Baby Spring Float Sun Canopy baby float and are now working on the 20-month-old, Tanner. I love the fit and comfort of these floats and the assurance of the cover to keep him from getting those sun rays!

The canopy has UPF 50+ sun protection with easy to remove or add, on and off snaps. The sides of the Swimways have a mesh material so that you are able to see the child in the Swimways the entire time they are in it. This Swimways Baby Spring Float is for ages 9 months to 24 months, so you are able to use it throughout the swimming season. Tanner loved that he was able to splash around and kick with no fear of tipping over. He is a big baby and this wide seating fits him perfectly.

As a middle school teacher, on a couple of occasions, I was made aware of middle school students drowning. This devastated the whole community, as you can imagine. I always think back to my family and how important water safety is!

Mark your calendars for this important date!! Or start sooner but please make sure your children learn water safety!

National Learn to Swim Day will be held on May 20, 2017.

After I began using the Swimways baby spring float sun canopy, my grandson, Tanner, is no longer afraid of the water and has even moved on putting his head under and learning to hold his breath. Next, we are going to work on kicking to the side. But thanks to the Swimways we are well on our way

If you are looking for an amazing safe water float check them out at Target! They carry this, swim step 1, and swim step 2 & 3 if needed. They can help your little one become and independent swimmer.

Check them out on their social media:

Filed Under: Baby, Children, Educational Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

Top 15 Things Your Child Should Know Before Entering Kindergarten Free printable packet!

April 28, 2017 Leave a Comment

   

Be able to state first and last name when asked.
Be able to write first name with first letter uppercase and remaining letters lower case.
Use appropriate three-finger grasp when using writing instruments (pencils, crayons, and scissors)
Count to at least thirty and tells what number comes before or after a given number to 20.
Know all the letters in their first name.
Identify basic geometric shapes (triangle, circle, square, rectangle, oval, star, rhombus (diamond) and heart)
Know basic colors (red, blue, green, yellow, orange, purple, black, white, brown, pink)
Identify numerals 1-10 in random order.
Make most letter/sound matches.
Identify most upper and lower case letters.
Use finger to accurately touch count items to ten.
Knows concepts of print (front and back of the book, which page comes first, track words left to right).
Be able to rhyme words.
Retells simple stories in sequence.
When given a word (“man”) and a new beginning sound (/f/), creates the familiar word (“fan”)
Socially Your child should be able to…
Adjust own clothing before and after using the restroom.
Use restroom independently including washing hands without a reminder.
Take off and put on outer clothing
Sit for a story for 5-10 minutes
Clean up after themselves
Shares materials and toys with other children.
Attend kindergarten with a positive attitude
Be confident and ready to separate from the parent.
Be able to listen and follow 2-3 step directions.
Be able to solve problems without aggression.

Help Prepare Your Child by…

Going to interesting places such as the beach, park, zoo, airport, farm or lake. (Example: Use car rides to play I Spy, this encourages children to identify shapes, colors and helps develop their vocabulary in fun ways.)
Encourage your children to observe and talk about their experiences, as conversations with adults who care enrich a child’s vocabulary and understanding of the world.
Make eye contact with your child while listening to them speak, showing them that you value what they say.
Expose your child to many kinds of literature by reading to them daily.
Praise and encourage your child’s efforts and curiosity, knowing that from mistakes come learning and confidence. Criticism can discourage children from trying new things and lower self-confidence.

Here is a great free printable packet to help your little one get ready for that first day!

 

 

 

Filed Under: Educational Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

10 Letter activities to prepare your Preschooler for PreK / Kindergarten & Free Printables

April 27, 2017 18 Comments

As a retired teacher, I can’t stress enough the importance of helping your child be prepared for Kindergarten!

The advantages:

  1. They are confident, because not only have they heard this before but it is easy since it is familiar.
  2. They learn how to lead, other children look to those who already know for help.
  3. They can see that it is easy and are less likely to struggle later in school
  4. They can read earlier and quicker than the others.
  5. They will spend quality time with a loved one, one on one learning!

The Cons:

  1. NONE

I always felt sorry for the children who struggled in my classes, I taught middle school and a lot of times they were just moved up and couldn’t even hardly read. This was obvious when they didn’t want to participate and usually tried to get in trouble when they feared they would be called upon.

No child should have to experience this!

If you spend 30 minutes a day with your preschooler on activities you would be amazed how quickly they absorb the information.

Here is my top ten list of letter activities:

  1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hq3yfQnllfQ (Letters and sounds video extremely important for them to learn the correct letter sounds)
  2. http://www.worksheetfun.com/category/letter/letter-tracing/ Free printable letter sheets.
  3. http://www.notimeforflashcards.com/2013/05/sidewalk-chalk-4-letter-activities.html  (Sidewalk chalk fun!)
  4. http://www.learning4kids.net/2011/08/16/alphabet-sponge-letters-bath-time-fun-2/ (DIY Sponge Letters)
  5. Interactive Notebook – (This is very important for them to learn, they will use interactive notebooks in school, so teaching them early is a plus and they can get all their work in one place to show their loved ones!)
  6. https://www.education.com/games/alphabet/ (this is a free online interactive game, I would limit it to maybe 15 minutes a day).
  7. http://www.abc.net.au/abcforkids/games/ (another online free site)
  8. http://www.themeasuredmom.com/letter-recognition-activities/  (A variety of letter recognition games)
  9. https://www.pinterest.com/explore/dollar-tree-classroom/  (Dollar Tree finds to use for letter games)
  10. Write their name on everything, toys, cups, and even their clothes tags, they will learn to recognize their name!

Feel free to add some ideas that you have used, I really just want to stress the importance of doing some daily with your little one and given them a huge advantage in school!

Filed Under: Educational Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,

National Geographic Kids Leveled Readers #Momsmeet

March 12, 2017 11 Comments

I received this product from Moms Meet for review purposes, this is 100% my own opinion.

As a former middle school teacher, I can you tell you personally the difference between kids that were read to and kids that were not. Not only was their vocabulary a lot better, but they also showed a better understanding.  Children who are read to display a more curious mind and are more willing to ask questions. They learn from a young age that books tell stories and are informative.

Our grandchildren love when Mimi and Poppy read to them. They absorb everything we read. I can tell they listen because they take that information and use it later. Our oldest grandson is really interested in animals right now so we were excited to introduce the National Geographic Kids Leveled Readers to him.

The first thing they do when they come to visit is run find their favorite National Geographic for Kids Leveled Book for us to read. I usually end up reading several of them before their visit is up. They love the vibrant colors and how each book is so interesting. At the end of the book, it recaps what they learned, they love hollering out the answers, they even go to the page to show me they were right.

 

If you have a little one that loves to learn, or if you want to help them get ahead in school, reading is not only the best way but it will also help make wonderful memories with your little one! I recommend the National Geographic Kids Leveled Reading books. The are very reasonably priced! Their site also has free printables and also some very useful information, games, and videos!!

Filed Under: Book Reviews, Children, Educational Tagged With: , , , ,

Hasbro’s Joy for All Companion Pets Dog Cat #Hasbro #Joyforall

December 15, 2016 18 Comments

This post was sponsored by Hasbro’s Joy For All brand as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central. All opinions expressed in my post are my own.

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Growing up close to my grandparents was amazing. I was so fortunate to have had them right down the road. Now that I am grown, I feel like I appreciate them more. We lost our grandmother a few years ago and if it wasn’t for Bella, my grandfather’s black lab mix, my grandfather probably wouldn’t have dealt with her loss as good as he did. They were married for a long time.

Recently we lost Bella to old age, this has been really hard on my grandfather. When I stop by to visit, some days he will ask me to let Bella out. Some days he will talk about missing her so much. We are moving him soon to a retirement villa where we can keep a better eye out on him so getting another dog is just not an option.

I was so relieved and excited to have found the Hasbro’s Joy for All Puppy. I took it to my grandfather and he was so happy he cried. It made me feel good knowing that he has a purpose again. Therefore he will continue to live a happier life. The puppy is so much like a real dog that he kept saying I hope they let me keep him at my new home. I wasn’t sure if he realized it wasn’t a real dog. He talked to it and was holding it and petting it. I love the fact I don’t have to worry about him forgetting to take the dog potty or feeding him.

 

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I love knowing this dog will be around a long time because Hasbro has a long tradition of creating the world’s best play experiences, and the Joy For All brand represents an extension of that tradition, striving to bring happiness and fun to aging loved ones and their families. They are amazing at not only make toys that last but making items that even my grandfather can play with.

I taught him how to mute the dog for night time, and how to turn him on and off. This is a perfect companion for those aging love ones that don’t really need the responsibility of a pet, but long for one. He started calling him Buddy, saying he is my bud now. Of course, he calls me my sister’s names but he can remember his new companions name.

You can talk to the dog and it will respond so you feel as though it is real, especially with its soft fur! The batteries are already included and can be used right out of the box. Of course, we have always been a dog family but they have the cutest Cat Companion also just in case your loved one prefers a cat!

• Joy For All Website: http://joyforall.hasbro.com/en-us
• Joy For All Pet Pup: http://joyforall.hasbro.com/en-us/companion-pup
• Joy For All Cat: http://joyforall.hasbro.com/en-us/companion-cats
• Joy For All Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/hasbrojoyforall/
• Joy For All Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/joyforall

Hurry and head to JoyForAll.com to purchase your very own JOY FOR ALL COMPANION PET today and use JOY2016 for 10% off your purchase!

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We wanted to see what our own dog thought of him, and he thought he was real, we had to hide him!!

#JoyForAll #IC #AD

Filed Under: Baby, Christmas, Educational Tagged With: , , , ,

Free Printable #Educational Thanksgiving 2016

November 16, 2016 2 Comments

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As a retired teacher, I spent most of my time trying to find some entertaining fill in worksheets. With limited time, this was a hard task especially free ones! I have composed over 10+ sites that offer free printable worksheets that you can use. I can’t wait to do them with my grandsons!

  1. http://hubpages.com/holidays/Free-printable-Thanksgiving-Mazes-for-kids
  2. https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&ved=0ahUKEwiQv6nL9q3QAhVJYiYKHU2HCkcQjhwIBQ&url=http%3A%2F%2Flbartman.com%2Fworksheet%2Fthanksgiving-activities-for-4th-graders-free.php&psig=AFQjCNFvLi_iUUg74iZR7wLHWGddLSUnvg&ust=1479407659217917
  3. https://www.pinterest.com/explore/thanksgiving-worksheets/
  4. http://www.enchantedlearning.com/crafts/thanksgiving/
  5. http://coloring.danninglawyer.com/math-coloring-thanksgiving-worksheets/
  6. http://www.jumpstart.com/common/find-the-words
  7. https://www.lifewire.com/thanksgiving-coloring-pages-2260651
  8. http://simplelivingmama.com/2014/11/color-number-cornucopia/
  9. http://coloring.danninglawyer.com/math-coloring-thanksgiving-worksheets/
  10. http://www.mediastockblog.com/gallery/thanksgiving-worksheets-for-first-grade.html
  11. http://www.free-coloring-pages.com/  (type in what you are looking for like Thanksgiving)

There are over 1000+ worksheets to choose from. These would be great for spending time with your family and helping little ones learn the meaning of Thanksgiving!

Fill free to comment below with any other links you may know of. I look forward to them!

Filed Under: Educational Tagged With: , ,

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