10-things-parents-say

Are you looking for advice for parents? Scouring the internet for tips on raising teenagers? Want to know what to say to your teen? Here are a few random things that parents should say to their teenagers.
"I'll always love you, no matter what."

Teenagers must receive the affirmation that their parents love them. They need to know their parents will love them unconditionally. Some teens may feel like they don't meet their parents' expectations, such as getting into a great school. This comment conveys your support for them.

Now, of course this statement doesn't mean you won't be angry or upset with them. You definitely want to let them know that while you may not like some of their behaviors, you will always love them. You should remind them that there will be consequences for their poor choices and misbehavior, but you will love them forever.

"If you are ever being bullied, please let me know."

One of the greatest problems that teenagers face today is bullying. And, unlike when you were going through adolescence, teens today may experience cyber-bullying. Bullying can lead to depression, poor school performance, low self-esteem and much more. It is crucial for parents to let their teens know they can tell them if they are being bullied. This includes sibling bullying. Read "What is Sibling Bullying?" for more details.

On the flip side, parents should also not tolerate bullying behavior. You should let your child know what bullying is, and that if they bully another child there will be serious consequences.

"If you ever feel like you want to harm yourself, please let me know, or tell someone else you trust."

Sadly, teenage suicide takes the lives of many teens every year. This tragedy is a horrific situation for everyone. It is important for parents to tell their teenagers that if they are ever feeling suicidal, they want to know. You can also add that if they do not feel comfortable telling you, to please tell a trusted adult such as a school counselor, minister, teacher, or even a friend's parent.

It is not too absurd to consider having your teenager sign a suicide prevention contract. Many schools have these for all students to sign. Read "Sample Suicide Prevention Contracts" for more insight.

"Choose a career you are passionate about."

Additionally, parents should provide their teenagers with some career guidance. This could be as simple as encouraging them to take career aptitude tests and read a few books on career choices. Ideally, it is best if parents can help their children find job shadowing experiences, attend career camps and more. Click here to read "Career Exploration Activities for Home Schooled Students" for advice. (These activities can be applied to all students, not just home schooled kids.)

"Don't do drugs."

As a parent, it is your responsibility to protect your child from harm. This includes protecting your child from the dangers of drugs. Obviously, you cannot control their actions, but you can try your best to help them make good choices. Read "Should I Let My Kid Smoke Weed" for more advice on this issue.

In addition to telling their children about the harmful affects of drugs, parents should avoid letting their children get in situations where drugs might be available. This might include not letting them go to certain parties without adult supervision.

"Don't drink and drive."

While your children are not allowed to drink yet anyway, the earlier you tell them this, the better. Tell your children that if they do decide to drink after they turn 21, they should never, ever drink and drive. For some examples to share, read "Non Obvious Reasons Why You Should Not Drink and Drive."

"I'm sorry"

Parents should learn to apologize when necessary to their children. For example, if they mess up and yell violently at them, they should apologize for their behavior. Now, of course, teens should never get off the hook, but parents should say "I'm sorry" when necessary. This will teach their teens to apologize when they have done wrong as well.

"Be picky with whom you choose to marry."

Even at the ripe age of sixteen, teens should receive some dating guidance. While obviously parents will not be actively involved in their child's dating life, parents can provide words of wisdom. You can start by encouraging your teenage daughter (or son) to read the book "Ten Stupid Things Women Do to Mess Up Their Lives" By Dr. Laura Schlessinger. You also might read "20 Signs You're Dating Mr. Wrong." for some advice to give your daughter on what not to look for in a guy. Please read "10 Relationship Red Flags and Bad Girlfriend Warning Signs" for some insight on what your son should be careful for.

"Do your homework."

Parents should always encourage their teens and children to do their homework and try their best in school. From ninth grade on, the grades they make can affect the college they attend. Obviously parents cannot force their children to do their school work. However, they can coach them to do their best. In addition, parents should encourage their children to stay in school and graduate on time.

"Get a part-time job."

One of the most beneficial things a child can do to help land future jobs, is to have a successful part time job while in high school. You should encourage, but not force, him or her to get a part time job if you feel he/she is mature enough. For some advice, please read "Jobs for Teens: How to Find a Part-Time Job if You're a Teenager."

These are just ten important things parents should always say to their teenagers. Parenting a teenager is not easy. You need lots of patience, resilience and love.

For more parenting advice, please read "7 Random Parenting Tips and Advice." If you are a step-mother, please read "15 Tips for Stepmoms: How to Handle Problems With Step Children." It might also help to find support through online message boards. Take a look at "Top Websites for Moms: Find Support and Resources Online" for some suggestions. Happy Parenting!

10-things-prenatal-care-provider-know

Birth is highly medicalized in today's society. The C-section rate is double what it should be, and our intervention rates are high. Most interventions are overused and abused, putting the mother and child at risk without necessity. Care providers may be motivated by ignorance, greed, or impatience--just like any other fallible human being. There are a few things that all women and care providers should know. Knowing these things decreases your risk of premature birth, an uncomfortable and painful delivery, unnecessary and dangerous interventions, and various other things.
A woman does not have to deliver within a time limit of going into labor. Too often care providers expect labor to progress within a specific time frame. Each phase is only supposed to last a set number of hours. If a labor is not proceeding fast enough for their liking, they will augment labor with pitocin. This can cause the contractions to become more intense and painful than natural ones that build gradually, and it increases risk of fetal distress and various other things. All women labor at their own pace. It is normal for some labors to be quick, some slow. It is also normal for labor to slow down, speed up, stop, start, and even regress. You do not need to deliver your baby within a certain time period of labor starting. This is true even if your waters have broken, as the placenta continues making amniotic fluid until the baby is born, and this steady trickle will prevent bacteria from entering the womb--unless it is aided by human fingers.

A broken bag of waters can repair itself, and the placenta continues making water throughout the pregnancy. If your membranes rupture prematurely, you do not need to be hospitalized--unless they are going to monitor you to try to prolong labor. You do not need to give birth within 24 hours. Many times when the amniotic sac breaks too early, it will repair itself. There is no danger of having a dry birth, as the placenta keeps making fluid for the baby. The baby will not be in there without amniotic fluid just because your water broke. Moreover, while you do need to take precautions such as not bathing or allowing anything put into your vagina, you don't need to worry about infection. Even if your bag of water does not fix itself, the slow trickle will push bacteria out of the vagina so that it does not penetrate the womb.

A women does not need to gain a specific amount of weight during pregnancy. Many women have found that their weight gain had little to do with the size of their baby at birth. Some women will gain a lot with one baby, not much with the next. Some women regularly gain only 20lbs. Others will gain in excess of 50lbs. It is when a mother exhibits signs of malnourishment or Gestational Diabetes that she needs to worry about her diet. Her weight should not be fretted over, her caloric intake increased and decreased to meet a specific weekly goal. Do not try to gain weight; do not try not to gain weight.

Some people question the safety of Doppler. One minute of Doppler is equal to 30 minutes of ultrasound. As we have not had this technology long enough to know if there are long-term effects on fetuses, Doppler should be used sparingly. Doppler is the only way to detect the heartbeat up until 18 weeks. After that, a fetal stethoscope can be used. It is far less invasive and completely safe. They do make versions of these where two people can listen at once. There is no benefit to using Doppler instead of fetoscope.

Postdate pregnancy isn't dangerous until 42 weeks, and women can take to 44-45 weeks to go into labor naturally. While postdate pregnancy was once considered 42+ weeks, now women are considered overdue at 40 weeks. Most women go into labor naturally between 38 and 42 weeks, so there is no reason for a pregnancy to be considered post term so soon. It is at 42 weeks that risks of stillbirth, placental aging (and thus low amniotic fluid, oxygen and nutrient deprivation, etc), and meconium (baby passes a bowel movement in utero) increase. Even then, it isn't by much. Due dates are based on the first day of a woman's last menstrual period, but as all women ovulate at different times, due dates are never certain. Even ultrasound dating is not always completely accurate. Due dates can be off by a few days or even a few weeks. Some women will not go into labor naturally until 44 or 45 weeks! There is no reason to induce a postdate pregnancy until 42 weeks.

It is best not to induce labor or schedule a C-section prior to 40-42 weeks, except in case of emergency. Many times doctors expect the baby to be large or breech, so they schedule a C-section. Often this is scheduled for 37 weeks, the earliest a baby is considered term. This puts the baby at a huge risk of being born premature if the mother's due date is off even by a week. Scheduling an induction or C-section for non-emergency reasons prior to 40-42 weeks puts the baby at an unnecessary risk.

Doctors are advising now that breech babies and twins be born by C-section. The risks with vaginal birth are increased in these cases, yet the risks associated with C-sections are much higher. If you feel otherwise, you can of course chose a C-section for these deliveries. However, you do not have to do so. Your breech baby can possibly be turned, and even if not, he or she can still be born vaginally. Twins can also be born vaginally, especially if the care provider is experienced and patient. Do not let a care provider convince you that you absolutely cannot have a vaginal birth if you have a breech baby or are expecting multiples.

A mother's pelvis size is no indication as to how big of a baby she can deliver. The female pelvis is made to stretch apart to allow the passage of babies down the birth canal. Comparing her measurements to the baby's estimated size, which is often inaccurate even with ultrasound estimation, will not tell if she can deliver the baby. When a big baby is expected, even if the mother is very petite, there is no reason to assume it will not come out of the vagina. Even if shoulder dystocia is encountered, often by changing positions or corkscrewing the infant out, vaginal birth is still successful. A mother's pelvis opens far wider when she is squatting, sitting, standing up, or on her hands and knees than when she is lying back. There is no reason not to attempt a vaginal birth simply because your baby might be big. Big babies can be born vaginally, and often times doctors anticipate babies to weight 10lbs when they really only weigh 7lbs!

Never pull on an umbilical cord, as it can cause hemorrhage--not to mention extreme pain. If the placenta is taking "too long" to come out, patience is the best treatment. Certain herbs may help, as can breastfeeding. A shot of pitocin will also do the trick. A care provider should never pull on an umbilical cord to free the placenta. He should never try to dislodge it with his hands by sticking them inside the mother. This increases risk of infection. Both methods put the mother at risk of hemorrhage or of the placenta not coming out in one piece.

The baby's cord doesn't HAVE to be cut and should NOT be cut until it has stopped pulsating. Most providers cut the cord as soon as the baby is born. This is taking a risk. The baby continues receiving oxygen through the umbilical cord. Leaving the cord alone for a bit decreases risk of respiratory distress. Cutting the cord too soon increases risk of bleeding. The cord doesn't really have to be cut at all. You can leave the cord alone and let it fall off on its own within a few days. This comes with a lower risk of infection. The baby gets all the nutrients and oxygen the placenta has to offer. The baby can have a bath right away, and there won't be an ugly umbilical cord stump hanging around.

Whether you are birthing at home or in the hospital, you will benefit if you and your care provider know these things. You have a much higher chance of succeeding in vaginal birth if you know these truths. Your baby has a better chance of being born at term and healthy. There is no reason to allow a doctor to forbid you from vaginal birth for a large or breech baby, even a twin delivery. One of the best things your doctor can do for you is let nature take its course and intervene only when medically necessary. Moreover, he should keep his hands out of you to prevent risk of infection. If women and doctors knew these things, as most midwives do, then birth would be even safer for mothers and babies--and far more pleasant.

10-savvy-tips-follow-giving-driving-lessons

So you've been chosen as the designated patsy... er, no, parent to teach your teenage son or daughter how to drive? Congratulations! Yet, before you let Buster or Kitten get behind the wheel of the family car, there is some homework you need to do first that goes well beyond being sure you have enough aspirin on hand for your obligatory post-training headache. To teach your kid to drive, you need to begin by knowing more than your child if not even more than your teen believes he knows.
All jokes aside, training anyone to drive is a serious matter. How well they learn and how comfortable anyone becomes behind the wheel as he starts to train can be a strong indicator of how talented and responsible a driver he will be in later life.

Make your teen super nervous when parking or driving on a busy highway, and you may end up with an adult who grits her teeth before she ventures out to work or shop. But if you can instill a sense of patience and responsibility within a teen as a balance to the fun he or she anticipates, you can transform a potential speed-freak joy rider into one who watches carefully for potential trouble and responds accordingly at the same time they enjoy the task.

But, before your own set of nerves gets worked up at the very thought of the awesome task of teaching a novice to drive, let's get into 10 very savvy tips for handling driver education with the acumen of a pro and the care of a parent. Follow these recommendations and both you and your teen will not only survive the lessons, but perhaps feel far better about letting that teen drive on his or her own.

Tip #1: Know all the laws and rules before you start.

As the parent, you are responsible to obtain the necessary learner's permit with your teenager. But you also must know the laws of your state and community and you need to be sure your child knows them as well. Also be very careful that you do not pass along misinformation. A great example of this is the concept of right-of-way; many do not understand it and pass on wrong facts.

Tip #2: Research good places and situations to let your child practice driving.

You want to include as much variety and real life driving situations as possible but carefully metered out. This includes driving on wet pavement as well as on nice, clear days. You want to introduce a learning driver to traffic but not on the first trip out behind the wheel. Start out in low traffic situations and then gradually work up to more demanding ones.

Tip #3: Don't be overly critical.

Strike a balance between noting every tiny flaw in your teen's driving with failing to bring important issues to your child's attention. You didn't catch all the fine details at once and neither will your teenager.

Tip #4: Be patient!

As difficult as it sounds, strive to be as patient as possible, even if your teenager is wildly impatient to consider him or herself the world's best driver. After all, included in your driving lessons should be training to help your teen be patient as well as cautious behind the wheel. There are enough cases of road rage and joy riders out there already.

Tip #5: Carefully check the vehicle(s) you will use for lessons before you begin.

You want the vehicle to be safe and in proper operating order. But you probably don't want to perform early lessons on your best and/or most expensive family vehicle. Also be sure your insurance covers that vehicle and will cover a student driver.

Tip #6: Cover all bases.

Where possible, you want to train your teenager to handle both an automatic and a manual transmission so he or she knows both.

Tip #7: Plan to break your lessons into segments.

Each session should present a mix of new and repeated information as well as, again, a variety of driving experiences.

Tip #8: Be prepared to take the wheel.

If you spot that your teen is becoming overwhelmed or nervous, calmly ask him or her to pull over and assume the wheel yourself. Assure your child there will be a next lesson, but don't let a bad situation or a near accident turn worse by continuing when your teenager may already be past his or her comfort zone.

Tip #9: Don't give in to pressure.

Teens can be very persuasive. But you cannot afford to let your teen talk you into something you do not feel they are prepared to handle or you do not fully believe is a wise course of action.

Tip #10: Watch the car keys!

Teens learning to drive often begin to believe they know everything. They almost may be far more likely to borrow the family car for a ride or to drive friends around even when they are not yet licensed to do so. Keep a closer eye on the car keys throughout the training process.

Finally, here is a bonus tip that can make a lot of sense. Consider whether you should augment your teen's private lessons with you with a school driver education or private professional training program. Either of these options may polish what you have started. They can also give you a bonus of lower car insurance premiums for a better trained teen driver.

10-most-common-questions-families-ask

10 Most Common Questions Families Ask About Estate Planning, Wills, and Trusts
1. What is a Will?

A Will is signed writing in which a person (often referred to as the "testator") directs what is to be done with his or her property after death. Each state has its own very specific laws as to what is necessary for a Will to be valid in that state.

2. Who Can Create a Will?

Any mentally competent person who is at least 18 years old may make a Will. However, later proof of any fraud, duress, or undue influence by another person or the testator may cause the Will to be invalid.

3. Who Should Have a Will...and Why?

Every mentally competent adult should have a Will. Here are a few of the reasons:

• You can direct how you want your property divided at your death.

• You can name the person you want to handle you estate (called the "executor" or "personal representative").

• You can reduce the expenses of administering your estate.

• You can save taxes.

• You can nominate a guardian for your minor children.

• You may provide for a trust for the support and education of your children without the necessity of costly court proceedings.

4. Does a Will Need to Be Witnessed? Does a Will Need to Be Notarized?

Generally, most states require that the signing of a Will must be witnessed by two competent persons, who also must sign the Will in front of the testator. (An exception to the witness requirement is made if the testator writes out the entire Will in his or her own handwriting, and signs and dates it.)

Although the law does not require a Will to be notarized, it is a highly recommended practice, followed by most lawyers. If the testator's and witnesses' signatures have been notarized, the will is presumed to be properly executed and is accepted by the court without testimony from the witness.

5. How Long is Will Valid?

Your Will is valid until you revoke it generally either by physical destruction (tearing or burning it up, for example) or by signing a superseding Will or written revocation. However, if you get divorced after signing a Will, the law may consider the Will partially revoked. Also, if you are married, your spouse may have rights in your estate regardless of what is provided in your Will.

6. Can a Will Be Changed?

Your Will does not take effect until you die; therefore, it can be changed at any time during your life as long as you are mentally competent. Traditionally, Wills were changed by an amending instrument called a "codicil," but with the development of modern word processing technology, it is usually better and just as easy to sign an entirely new Will when you wish to make changes.

7. What Happens If You Don't Have a Will?

If you don't have a Will, a state statute directs who receives you property, regardless of your wishes. For example, in my home state of Virginia, if you are married, your estate generally passes entirely to your surviving spouse; however, if you have children who are not also the children of your spouse, your children divided two-third of your estate, and your spouse takes the other one-third.

8. Is Joint Ownership a Good Substitute For a Will?

In most cases, joint ownership is not an acceptable substitute for a Will. Contrary to popular belief, joint ownership of assets between husband and wife often results in excessive estate takes. Joint ownership between parent and child may foster disputes between family members and cause unexpected and unnecessary gift taxes.

9. Is a Trust (Also referred to as a Revocable Living Trust) a Substitute for a Will?

A properly funded Revocable ("Living") Trust can be a valuable and important part of the estate plan for many people, but it does not eliminate the need for a Will. If you have a Living Trust, you will still need a Will to dispose of those assets that have not or cannot be placed into the Trust.

As useful as they are, Living Trusts are not appropriate for everyone. Only your lawyer can tell you if you should consider one, and only you lawyer should prepare it.

10. Who Should Draft Your Will?

A person who drafts a Will must be familiar with the law in order to avoid the many pitfalls and to comply with the formalities necessary to assure the Will's validity. Only a practicing lawyer is professionally qualified to give you advice regarding your Will, to prepare your Will, and to supervise it's signing.

A Few More Practical Suggestions:

Planning your financial affairs, and coordinating this with your estate plan, is a very personal and individual matter. You should decide for yourself the general purpose you wish to accomplish, and then consult with a seasoned estate planning attorney, financial advisor, and CPA if you want to have a coordinated and comprehensive plan, which integrates and accomplishes all of your financial goals and objectives.

Four practical steps to save time and help assure a sound result:

1. Inventory you assets. List in reasonable detail all of your property, real and personal, life insurance policies, and retirement plans, with your best assessment of their values.

2. Inventory your liabilities. List all debts and obligations, including principal amounts, payees, and essential terms.

3. List your family members and any other persons whom you wish to participate in your estate. Decide who might be an appropriate executor, trustee, or guardian for your minor children.

4. Decide what you want to accomplish. Determine what your objectives are, and to whom you wish your assets distributed.

Getting Started is Easy:

It just takes five easy steps, where your only cost will be your time:

Step One: Spend some time with your existing financial advisor, or an experienced financial advisor in your local area, so you can review the basic details your "big picture financial plan" together

Step Two: Your financial advisor will review this information and help you assess confirm exactly what your estate planning needs and preferences are

Step Three: Once your financial advisor reviews your overall estate planning needs, they can help you understand exactly how Wills and Trusts work, as well as which one they feel fits your situation best

Step Four: After you are fully comfortable and confident with their recommendation, you can consult with a seasoned estate planning attorney who can help you properly draft these documents and details

Step Five: Arguably the most important step, and often overlooked, is making sure that your estate planning attorney, financial advisor, and CPA are all working together to ensure all of your estate plans and preferences are coordinated and working properly with your "big picture financial plan".

10-family-friendly-jokes

1.
One gray-haired dolphin says to another gray-haired dolphin: "Do you ever get tired of swimming?"

The dolphin says, "No, why?"

The other dolphin stops swishing his fins and says, "Oh, nothing."

His dolphin friend gets a fishy look in his eye and asks: "No, tell me why you would ask me such a crazy question!"

The gray-haired dolphin blushes and cries out: "One day, I would like to eat a roast beef sandwich!"

*****

2.

First person: Knock knock?

Second person: Who's there?

First person: Quack! Quack!

Second person: Quack quack who?

First person: I never heard a duck who talked like an owl before.

*****

3.

How do you catch a flying meteor?

Carefully.


*****

4.

One firefly says to another firefly, "I'm brighter than you." And the firefly says, "Too bad Thomas Edison didn't give you brains too."

*****

5.

A clown is making balloon animals at a big birthday party. One boy asks for a balloon that looks like a puppy, and the clown makes a balloon that looks like a puppy. A girl asks for a kitten, and the clown makes a balloon kitten. Another boy asks for a balloon shaped like James Frey, and the clown makes a balloon that looks like James Frey. When he gives the boy the balloon shaped like James Frey, the boy says, "This James Frey has no mouth. I guess that'll keep him honest."

*****

6.

A frog hops onto a lily pad and announces, "One day I will be a prince again!"
Then, a beautiful girl kisses him, and he immediately becomes a handsome young man. The young man says: "Croak! Thank you for making me a prince again."
The girl frowns and says, "I thought kissing you would make me a frog!"

*****

7.

A girl is in a restaurant, and is playing with the ringtones on her cell phone. The first one is the Macarena, and all the waiters in the restaurant start to dance to the Macarena. The next ringtone she tries is the Hokey pokey, and all the children in the restaurant start to the dance the hokey pokey. The third ringtone she tries is the "Blue Danube," and all the parents begin to dance the waltz. The owner of the restaurant walks up to the young girl, stares at her cell phone, and says to her: "Do you do weddings?"


******

8.

Girl: What do you call a deflated basketball?
Boy: One big pancake.
Girl: If you eat that first thing in the morning, I'd hate to see what you eat for lunch.

******

9.

A woman is walking down Rodeo Drive and sees President Bush in a muzzle and Stevie Wonder in his sunglasses. The woman says to Stevie Wonder, "Too bad you're blind!" Stevie Wonder replies, "See no evil, hear no evil."

******

10.

One uptown lady: Where do they send fashion victims?
The other uptown lady: Straight to jail.
Uptown lady: Then where do you think they send criminals?
The other uptown lady: Bloomingdale's. It straightens everyone right out.

8-ways-survive-kids-summer-birthday-party

If you are as poor a planner as I am, perhaps you have a child who was born in the dog days of summer. If you are as ambitious a parent as I pretend to be, maybe you're determined to weather the heat and humidity and have your kid's birthday party out in the yard. If so, I'd like to extend a few pointers I've picked up along my way that might help you too avoid a big day meltdown.

1. Seek Shelter - If your backyard isn't blessed with enough trees to make a rain forest jealous, create some live-saving, sanity-preserving shade. Borrow if you can, rent if you must, but get your hands on a decent-sized canopy. Breaks from the sun are critical for both kids (physically) and parents (mentally). Bonus: a canopy allows you to keep all those dirty feet out of your house should it rain.

2. Invite the Parents - Entice them to stay with beer and wine and the rare opportunity to hang out with other adults for a change. Instant army of babysitters.

3. Water Down the Punch - Juice boxes are fun. Finding those little straw wrappers in the grass for the next six months is not. Bottles of juice and cans of soda may be handy but no kid will finish one before he sets it down, forgets about it, grabs another one, sets that one down, forgets about it… Combat the waste; pour a big bottle of fruit juice into a punch bowl, add ice and a few liters of seltzer water. Drop some grapes in there and you have a refreshing, healthy winner.

4. Cup Decorating - Get the kids to reuse their cups not merely by having them write their names on them but by letting them color and put stickers on them. They'll not want to lose their creations (probably); they might even take them home.

5. (Semi-)Healthy Snack Buffet - Have a table with munchies the kids can grab any time. I mix in as much good stuff as I can get away with: grapes, apple slices, tangerine wedges, maybe baby carrots and sliced peppers with dip, or even cucumbers in fun cookie-cutter shapes (labor-intensive I know, but anything to avoid a yard full of sugared-up kids). Reduce waste and clean-up time by not putting out plates for the snacks; just let the kids (and adults) grab and go.

6. Watermelon Smash - Called 'suika-wari' in Japanese, this is a candy-free, on-a-tarp-on-the-ground version of a piñata. Each kid, after spinning around three times and following the other kids' cries of 'Left! Right! Go straight! STOP!', gets one whack. Rarely does the watermelon split open before everyone has had a turn. This game helps nicely in tiring the kids out. Then everyone gets to eat some. (Hint: Watermelon is fantastically messy; instead of napkins have a big damp towel on hand.)

7. School Days - A summertime party is a great way to let your child catch up with his classmates from school. Capitalize on the theme by suggesting school supplies for gifts, and send his friends home with the same. Only those parents who like taking their kids back-to-school shopping will be upset about it.

8. Keep it Loose - I can't control my own three kids, I don't expect anyone to be able to manage a dozen or more. Have a water balloon toss when the snacks run low, otherwise let the munchkins run amok and get back to your adult conversations about the kids.

If you have a pool in the yard you have an easy way to keep the little creatures occupied, and with their parents there you have an entire team of lifeguards to watch them in shifts. Just be aware of the one dad who has been planted next to the beer cooler. Put some music on, set up a fan, keep the kids (and adults) hydrated, and you'll not only survive your kid's party, you might actually enjoy yourself.

8-factors-consider-paying-babysitter-

Determining how much to pay a babysitter can be tricky. I was started babysitting in middle school and hated it when people asked my rate. Many girls are reluctant to ask for a specific rate. The lack the confidence and business sense to set a price for their services. Asking around will get you a ballpark rate, but there are many other factors to take into consideration. These factors include:
How many children will she be responsible for? I only have one child and it makes perfect sense to me to pay less than my friend who has four. My go-to babysitter agrees. She shared with me that one of her clients, who also has an only child, once invited four additional children over without telling her and paid her the same rate as usual. She was too afraid to speak up and tell them it wasn't okay.
What are the ages and abilities of the children? I worked for a nanny services. Nannies received a higher pay rate for infants or with special needs. I once worked for a family that both had a baby and a child with autism. This was a very complex assignment and being paid extra for it was extremely appropriate.
Will they be awake? It may be appropriate to pay slightly less if your children will be asleep when she arrives, you will only be gone a couple of hours and she won't be there excessively late. This is especially true if you have more than one child or a very active child that is a bit of challenge during awake hours. Make sure to clear it with the babysitter in advance.
Will you be late? However, if you're going to be out very late, you shouldn't reduce her pay. She's there when you would otherwise be at home sleeping in the comfort of her own bed. Expecting her to stay up late should be compensated.
How old is she? It is appropriate to pay tweens and young teens less than older teens or college students. Older babysitters can easily get a job at a fast food place or the mall instead of working for you. Paying more than they would earn at those jobs will keep them available for you.
Does she have her own car? If you drives herself to and from your home, it saves you time, gas and inconvenience. Throw a few extra bucks her way in exchange.
How long as she worked for you? If she's been your sitter every Friday night for months (or years) on end, pay her a little extra to show your appreciation.
Are there special circumstances? I was on a babysitter registry at an exclusive social club. It was common for sitter rates to be double or even more on New Year's Eve. If you are taking her away from celebrating with her family, it is a nice gesture to pay a bonus. You should also do this if she was able to work for you at the last minute.
Hiring a babysitter can be expensive. It's understandable to want to pay a fair price. However, you also don't want to take advantage of a young girl. These factors will help you determine the right rate to pay for your situation.

7-ways-spend-more-time-kids

There are so many great ways to spend time with your kids, from playing with them, to teaching them and exploring new places. I make it a point every week to work in several activities, that way I know I am getting the most out of my time with my kids. Here are seven activities, one for each day of the week, that I always make sure to do with my kids. They love it and are always anticipating what the next week will bring.

Fun Food Day

This is an activity that has a chance at lasting the entire week. The fun food should be something that the kids can help make, as well as something fun to eat and something they don't get all the time. Pinterest is a great place to get recipes for yummy desserts. We have also made popsicles out of fruit juice; made ice cream sundaes complete with toppings, whipped cream, and cherries; brownies; cookies; and cake pops. The kids love helping make the food items and sampling as they are making it. In most cases there is more left over for the rest of the week, too!

Craft Day

Craft day can involve a big project, like a princess castle out of cardboard boxes, or something smaller, like an egg-carton caterpillar. Kids love making crafts, and they love spending the time with you. Get out the glitter and the glue, let them paint and put googly eyes on the animals. My kids get so excited for craft time that they jump up and down. Crafts are hands on and teach them a lot, but they are having so much fun they don't realize they are learning. Craft time is a great way to ensure you are having some good quality time with the kids, and you will all have fun doing it.

Game Night

Break out the board games or the card games. Most kids love games, even the little ones. Even my toddler can sit still and play games like "Cootie" and "Pop the Pig". My kindergartner likes these games as well, plus board games like Candy Land. So make an evening of it and have everyone get involved.

Outing Day

This is the day, most likely on a weekend, where you get out of the house and go somewhere fun. Anywhere is fine, as long as it's something the family will enjoy. Sometimes you will have enough money to go somewhere big, and other times you won't. Our outings have ranged from a day at Walt Disney World to a day at the park. The zoo is another fun idea. In all honesty, my kids seems to have about as much fun at the playground as anywhere else. They love the swings and slide, and love it when mom and dad play with them. So get out of your house. Go hiking in a park. Go have a picnic at the beach. It's good to get out every once in a while, and it's great to show your kids new places.

Movie Night

Have an all out movie night, maybe even a double feature. Rent a video from your cable company or Redbox. A 3D movie is even better. Sit on blankets on the floor and make popcorn and koolaid. Buy boxes of movie theater candy from Walmart. Turn out the lights and enjoy. My kids love movie night, and they love 3d movies more. They don't even mess with the glasses.

Cleaning Day

Yes I said it. When they are kids, cleaning is fun. Let them help. Sing songs while you help them pick up their room. Let them dust the furniture while you vaccuum. Dance around while you sweep the kitchen floor. Not only does your house get clean but your kids have fun and you are still spending time together.

Learning Day

Every day should be learning day to a certain extent. But block out some time on this day to really work with them on age appropriate materials. You can find activity books at the Dollar Store for preschoolers on math and writing. Toddlers can learn letters and numbers with flashcards. Get some easy reader books and work with them. You can even play school with them, because kids who aren't in school yet love to pretend like they are. My daughter loves the learning books, and my toddler son thinks that the ABC's are his "special song". Kids love to learn. They want to learn. So spend some time and teach them and you will all benefit.

There are many other ways to spend quality time with your kids. Hopefully these tips will get you started. Remember, they grow up fast. Appreciate their smallness and have fun with them before they get too big to play dress-up and color with you.

5-worst-trendy-names-boys

Logan
Mason

Jayden
Choosing your baby's name is a difficult task. This is what your child will be called for the rest of his or her lifetime. And making sure that it fits with your last name adds a whole new element to work with. Then it's being certain that the name won't make the child stand out in a bad way in school. Too often I think that parents go for a trendy name to make sure this doesn't happen. The worst part is when they become part of a horrible naming trend. For girls, we remember names like Tiffani not too long ago racking up the top ten lists. For boys, I submit my list of the top five worst trendy boy names, in no particular order.

1. Logan - I have known some cool Logans in my time. But I dislike the name. It's one of those names that moved from being a last name to a first and subsequently became extremely popular. Unfortunately, it sounds like loogey. Nobody wants a name that will be made to sound like discharge from the nose when he's out on the playground at recess. According to babynames.com, it is an Irish name that means from the hollow.

2. Jaylen - This name is part of a rhyming trend with counterparts like Kalen. Babynames.com says it's an American name that is a combination of Jay and Allen. The problem is that when they were combined they came out sounding like a girl's name. I am not completely against names that can pass between the genders, but sometimes it's just not right to give a boy a girl's name. It would not be fun to be the only male Jaylen in class at school.

3. Keegan - This is another Irish name that means descendent of the fiery one, according to babynames.com. It's very popular, but it sounds like some sort of vegetable. "Please pass the keegan and potatoes." I can hear that being said around the dinner table. I don't think that it could be a good idea to have a vegetable boy.

4. Sebastien - Sebastien is a name that immediately calls to mind the movie The Little Mermaid. I could meet a little boy named Sebastien and see in my mind's eye a small singing crab. I believe that quite a few people roaming around in the population would do the same thing. However, it does mean venerable and is from the French, according to babynames.com.

5. Parker - Oddly enough, this name is English for park keeper, from babynames.com. It seems that it would force the poor little boy into a life's goal of working for the parks system. At the very least, it reminds one of Parker Posey, a woman. Once again, it is an androgynous name that could hurt his chances in school.

Of course, these are just my opinions. The actual children with these names are probably wonderful boys. However, I would suggest steering away from them. These boy's names are just too trendy for their own good. Try something more unique but not too unusual. In the end, think of your son's likely future preferences. These will help you to choose the best name for him.

5-ways-let-baby-feel-happy

The most important thing you must do for your baby is letting her know that she is loved. Babies are blooming when they are surrounded by a nice, relaxing, loving environment. Even small babies communicate with their parents, through gestures, sounds, touches, smells and facial expressions. Even if your baby is very little, it doesn't mean you can't show them just how much you love them.
A good way to show her you love her is to take her in your arms and to hold her as close to your body as possible. Small babies enjoy a lot of close contact with their parents. This type of body contact helps them relax and it even ease small pains, like cramps or toothaches, when the first teeth start showing. When your little one is agitated and in a bad mood, take them in your arms and let them feel the warmth of your body and your heartbeats. This will show the baby that the mommy and daddy are there for them all the time, loving and taking care of them.

Singing to the baby is another way to show to your child how much you love them. Even if you are not the best singer, the sound of your voice will make your baby happy and calm. Small babies react very well to the sound of their parents' voice.

Reading and talking to them as much as possible will also show the baby how much you love them. Talking to babies from a very early age is very important for their emotional and intellectual development. Babies learn to relate and to trust other if you speak to them from the moment that they were born. Also, if you talk a lot to your baby, they will learn the meaning of the words you are using and they will start speaking very early. You can start reading to babies very early in life. Your little prince or princess will live to hear the sound of your voice reading to them in the evenings, even if they are only five or six months old. The babies might not understand everything at that age, but they certainly pick up your voice, tone, and intonation. Creating an evening routine will help your baby to relax and to go to sleep happy.

You can show you baby you love him or her by spending as much time as possible around them. If you already started to work, try to relax once you get home and to enjoy the time you have left. Even if it's only a few hours, try to make the most out of it. Play with all of the baby's favorite toys, sing some songs, and give the baby a nice bath. Don't let the stress and the problems from the job to have a bad impact on the time you are spending with your little one.

A very important way to show your child you love them is to teach them to be sociable and independent. You can only succeed in this very important task if you allow other family members, like grandparents, uncles, aunts and others to spend some time with your little one. Most parents are afraid to do that especially with small babies, but it's very important to let her be independent.

Jamie Highland writes about events and parties, like weddings and baby showers. To find out more about great themes for a baby shower or to shop for love heart theme supplies or some baby shower favors, visit My Baby Shower Favors.

5-ways-childcare-provider-very-happy

Childcare providers are typically overworked and underpaid. I have worked in early childhood education my whole adult life. The typical salary for a daycare teacher in Florida is $7 - $10 an hour. Benefits and paid time off are extremely rare. A few courteous gestures go a long way in making childcare providers feel valuable. Here are some easy ways to show your thanks.
Smile and greet them with a warm "hello" or "good morning" each day.

Do this without talking or texting on your cell phone. It only takes a few minutes. They take care of your child for the majority of their hours awake - the least you can do is greet them with eye contact each day.

Take time to communicate.

Remember their name. Ask how they are doing and really listen to the answer. Tell them about your child's evening or morning so they know what to expect. Request information on how your child is doing and what you can do at home to help their development.

Make sure you keep your supplies stocked.

I was the director of a childcare center that focused on infants and toddlers. Parents were always neglecting to make sure their child had the diapers, wipes and formula needed to get through the day. Trying to reach a parent to bring their hungry, screaming baby food that they neglected to provide is very frustrating. Make sure your child has everything needed to get through the day (and some extra, just in case!)

Pick up your child on time.

Many childcare workers have their own children to pick up once the center closes. You knew the hours when you enrolled. Don't be late.

Always pay on time.

Nannies and in-home childcare providers are counting on you to pay on time so they can pay their bills and provide for their own families. Childcare center owners depend on you to make your payment as agreed so they can pay their employees. As a center director, I had to hound people for payment on a regular basis. Childcare should be the first bill you pay each week. You can't work if you don't have childcare.

These gestures may seem like common courtesy - and they are - but they are often neglected. Make sure you are doing them and your childcare provider's job will be much easier. And that will mean she is able to provide better care to your child.

5-tv-families-we-wished-we-belonged-to

There's nothing stronger than the bond that a family shares, especially a T.V. family. Throughout the years we have peeked into the living rooms of the Huxtables and the Tanners, and after some time we began to feel as if we were a part of the family too. Even though we knew becoming part of these fictional families was partly wishful thinking, we didn't stop hoping that we would some day become honorary members.

The Brady Bunch.

The Bradys are the quintessential example of a blended family. Father Mike and Mother Carol each have three children. That's eight people, and that's not including the honorary member of the family, Alice. Each episode of the Brady Bunch leaves you with a feeling of comfort and warmth. This family is not one that we will soon forget.

Family Matters.

Who wouldn't want to be part of the Winslow family? The Winslows are the perfect version of a solid, nuclear family. There's a mom, a dad, a brother and a sister. Oh, and let's not forget Steve Urkel, the bothersome neighbor that we all love.

The Addams Family.

They're kooky and they're creepy, but we love them anyways. The Addams Family is hailed for their odd behavior and eccentricity. All through the knife throwing, head chopping, sometimes violent fun we know there's a family that truly loves each other.

Full House.

There is nothing more endearing than the heartfelt dynamics that occur between the Tanner family members. Single dad Danny Tanner is raising three girls with help from his brother-in-law and his best friend. Not only does this family tug at your heartstrings, but their unique family contributes to plenty of mischevious fun.

The Cosby Show.

For eight seasons the Huxtables enchanted us with their loveable family antics. We secretly wished that we were one of the Huxtables five children. Although, the show was largely comedic in nature this did not stop the influx of serious life lessons

5-tricky-christmas-gift-ideas-teenager

Long gone are the Days when a small Toy brought large responses, now we have electronic gadgets that can do everything but sleep for us. If you have a Teenager in your house you are probably worried about your Budget for the Holidays. Unless you are a Millionaire that can afford those 4 figure price tags, I hope you will enjoy these simple and easy to get Gift Ideas for your Teenager and best of all, you will have fun watching them open the presents.
A Box of Gift Certificates
Think it is too impersonal? Only if you don't know how to spice it up a little. I love to play tricks on my kid and it is so much fun to watch the facial expression as she opens a Present she didn't expect. Think back for a second, when you were younger, what did you hate above all else as a Christmas Gift. Underwear and Socks right? A sweater?

Ok, so here is the Trick. Get a nice sized Box, a couple of packs of Underwear, a pack or two of socks. Then go out and purchase Gift Certificates to: Best Buy or Circuit City (Music and Videos), McDonalds or any other Fast Food Place, the local Movie Theater, a Bookstore (if you have a Bookworm like me) and the closest Electronics Store for boys or their favorite Clothing Store for Girls. You can make this gift as cheap or expensive as you wish. I usually keep the Gift Certificates around $25 a piece. Then Stuff the Gift Cards and the Underwear, Socks in the Box. Make sure they will see the socks and underwear first. Fill out the rest of the space with grumbles up Paper. Wrap it up real nice and tag it. Make sure you have a camera at hand when they open the present on Christmas.

For your Sweet tooth

Once again you need a box. You might as well stock up on them, they come in so handy. This time you want to make sure the outside it nice and brown and then paint a big white Cross (like the Red Cross) on the Box. Inside you put everything you can think of that is Chocolate. Hershey Kisses, Hershey Chocolate Bar, Chocolate Band Aids... Make sure you put some Fruit Roll ups, hard candy etc in it. Then make a fun little list for what each item is good for. You are creating a Chocolate Aid Kit.

For your sleepy head
Do you have a Teenager that wants to do nothing but sleep all the time? Can't get her/him out of the House or out of the Bed? Well, here is a nice way of getting them to go out. Remember, this is a joke present. Gather everything that has to do with Beds, sleep etc. How about an invitation to a mattress demonstration, a year's supply of batteries for their portable CD player, we wouldn't want them to have to leave the house to go and purchase some new ones. A new Pair of PJ's. A box or two of NoDoz - replace the drug with sugar pills or candy. A Certification of Sleepy Head of the year!

For your Book Worm
A fake Pair of "birth control" glasses, a long stripped scarf they can wrap Worm style around their neck, a long sleep hat, a special mug that reads - don't disturb I am reading. A Bunch of pretty Book Markers and don't forget a larger Gift Card to the local Bookstore.

For the Teenager that wants a Car, but is not ready to have one.
Get them a Key that looks like a Car Key, a pair of driving gloves and a box that full of Matchbox Cars. You can put a Hobby Car in it as well. A little Note inside that reads, when you get responsible enough to drive you may be able to find the Car to the Key. Mean, maybe, but it will work.

Of course if you make joke presents you better be prepared for the backlash. Some kids can not take the jokes, but you should know your kids.

Have fun.