Category Archives: Family

Family

Which parenting style is most encouraged in modern America?

Parenting is a strong part of our social existence and whether we like it or not, we have to give it the proper acknowledgment and concern that it deserves. Whatever a country becomes has a lot to do with how the individuals that make up the country were raised as kids.

Poorly raised children will always grow up to become poorly behaved adults unless acted upon by a moral force beyond the force of their upbringing. In modern America, parenting is a prevalent topic, and in this article, We will take a quick look at some of the parenting styles, and then we will look at the one that’s most encouraged.

Parenting styles in America

There are several parenting styles in America, and all of them serve their different purposes. To some, one is most preferred, and to others, the other. However, each one of the parenting styles below has various pros and cons.

1. Authoritative

The authoritative parent is the parent who pays a lot of attention to the actions and behaviors of the children but doesn’t give them the freedom to make mistakes or do all they want. An authoritative parent believes that what he says is what must stand, and any child that does anything contrary to that will be punished.

2. Uninvolved

The uninvolved parent gives the children too much freedom. Sometimes, this kind of parent doesn’t do it intentionally; they just naturally don’t have the time to pay attention to raising the kids.

3. Permissive

This parent allows the child to do what they want but not ‘all’ they want. The permissive parent is more reasonable and accepts that the child can err once in a while and gives them the privilege to do that while correcting them along the way.

As mentioned earlier, all the above parenting styles have different pros and cons, and each parent either naturally adopts one or they choose which one they think will help their children become better. Most of the time, it comes naturally.

The most encouraged parenting style in America

It might be surprising to find out that the most encouraged parenting style in modern America is the authoritative parenting style. There are so many reasons why that is so, and some of them include building up the child’s self-esteem, helping them create and build their social skills, and putting them on the path that is correct to society.

An authoritative parent is a disciplinarian. He ensures that the child always does what is right and doesn’t let any mistake slide. He takes the child through every societal process and ensures that they act right both in the eyes of the law and of society. There are, however, some downsides to this as this parenting style is strict and gives the children only very little chance to express themselves.

Conclusion

That this parenting style is the most encouraged doesn’t mean that it is the best for everyone. Different parents choose the parenting styles that work for them; however, the most encouraged is the authoritative style.

Family

Why music is important for child development

They say music is food for the soul; as true as that is, it also plays an important role in the development of a child’s mind if you notice, even as adults, sometimes, listening to music helps you to calm your nerves and put yourself in a good mood.

Parents, over the years, have been using music (lullabies) to keep the children quiet and in bed. They also use music as a means of showing their love and affection to their babies from infancy even till their teenage days. It begs the question of what music is to children and how it helps child development.

How does music help with child development?

Music can mean different things to different people and to your kids, it could mean a way of expressing parental love and affection. Below are some of the benefits of music to child development:

1. Mental development

The sooner you begin to take your kids through music, the quicker it is for them to understand words, rhythm, and actions. Mental development using music can come from different angles, and one of them is through music games, participation in musical activities, and so on.

2. Improvement of social skills

Music helps older kids to learn to socialize, make new friends, and express themselves better in the midst of their peers. If you are not sure what you can do to help your kids improve on their communication and expression among their friends, put them in a music class. The better they get at understanding music, the more developed their social skills.

3. It can boost self-confidence

It’s not just the music but the feeling that they can actually do something that others are interested in; something that makes people look up to them as experienced; something that makes them feel important. Playing an instrument or singing is a great way to express oneself, and the moment there is acceptance from others, self-confidence is boosted.

4. A new way to have fun

Music is fun. It is food for the soul as well as food for the body. Music can help to take a child’s mind off any destructive forms of play and focus it on the more rhythmic ones. 

5. Music helps the child relax

Different people have different genres of music that appeal to them, and no matter what their choice is, they will still be able to comfort themselves with it. Starting your kids early with music will help them find relaxation, calmness, and peace with it. This will help them focus on more important aspects of their lives, like academics and the likes.

6. Encourages memorization of language in toddlers

Toddlers learn most of the things they know from what they hear and repeatedly do. The more nursery rhymes you sing to them, the better they get at using words as they grow. Another known way to improve memorization is by using this multivitamin.

Conclusion

Music has several benefits to offer children of different age grades. Preschoolers, school-age kids, and teenagers alike. What matters the most is starting them up with it from their tender age.

Family

Quotes About Tough Love Parenting

Parenting doesn’t always turn out to be what you want it to be. At the time when you are expecting a baby, you picture a sweet little mini version of yourself running around the house and playing with toys. As they get older, you picture a great relationship with them. It isn’t always like that. Most times, it may even turn out to be the opposite. A lot of parents have difficulties raising their kids and bonding with them. Sometimes, it feels as though your child doesn’t love you. You’re not alone. It is a stage and several other parents have experienced it too.

Here are some quotes that relate to tough love parenting:

1. “If you have never been hated by your child you have never been a parent.” ~Bette Davis

This is quite true. You may have probably asked your child to do some chores or do assignments instead of watching TV, that child may momentarily not like you. That’s because you stopped him or her from having some fun. That’s all part of parenting as it is normal.

2. “Some people need to learn to be a parent and not a friend. Quit being scared of making your kids mad. They’ll get over it.”

3. “Loving a child doesn’t mean giving in to all his whims; to love him is to bring out the best in him, to teach him to love what is difficult.” ~Nadia Boulanger

4. “Just because I love you unconditionally does not mean I’m going to co-sign your behavior unconditionally. You are going to learn the difference one way or the other.”

5. “The bond between a mother and a son is a special one. It remains unchanged by time or distance.”

6. “I am a responsible parent and have always provided for my children. That fact cannot be disputed. I have made mistakes in my life, but failing to care for my children is not one of them.” ~Jamal Lewis

7. “When a child hits a child, we call it aggression. When a child hits an adult, we call it hostility. When an adult hits an adult, we call it assault. When an adult hits a child, we call it discipline.”—Haim G. Ginott

8. “Don’t worry that children never listen to you; worry that they are always watching you.”—Robert Fulghum

9. “If we don’t shape our kids, they will be shaped by outside forces that don’t care what shape our kids are in.”—Dr. Louise Hart

10. “Play helps build a warm relationship between family members and create a bank of positive feelings and experiences that can be drawn upon in times of conflict. Through play, you can help your children solve problems, test out ideas, and explore their imaginations.”—Carolyn Webster-Stratton

Parenting is fun and very rewarding. However, don’t forget that there will be difficult times. You may start wondering if you are a good parent or not. Children may exhibit behaviors that can be hard to deal with. With the parenting quotes above, you will be able to discover the right perspective of dealing with your child.

Family

Top Parenting Message Board and Helpful Parenting Websites

Parents, most especially new parents find it hard to do the parenting job sometimes. Parenting involves a lot of things. It involves taking care of your child or children, making sure that they are comfortable and lack nothing, sending them to a good school, helping them to do their assignments, playing with them, and so on. It may be frustrating at times, leaving you exasperated and without knowing what to do. However, it is something you must do and cannot run away from. This is why there are several parenting message boards and websites to help you out.

If you are at a loss for what to do, the internet is there to help you. Parenting message boards are a kind of platform where you meet other parents, experienced and inexperienced. Both share their experiences while experienced parents give tips to new parents. It is wholesome and worth it. Why? Because there is a lot to learn!

You can also participate in forums or look up parenting message boards on the internet. Here are some good ones for you:

1. ParentingForums.org:

Parenting Forums is a platform where you can discuss all parenting issues. Of course, other parents visit it too so experiences can be shared.

2. Baby Center Forum:

Here, you can find moms who will give parenting tips to help you as a parent. You’d get tons of advice as well as see experiences from other parents. Of course, growing a home isn’t easy but you will get a great deal of help as your kids grow up.

3. Mumsnet

If you need a platform to discuss everything related to parenting and raising kids, Mumsnet is the ideal place. You will get a lot of support from other parents like you, as well as little tips and advice.

4. Parentchum

If you are seeking encouragement and support as a parent, here’s the right place to go.

Helpful Parenting Websites

There are a lot of parenting websites on the internet today. They have tons of tips and information to share with parents that are finding it difficult. While searching for one, it is important to find one that will deliver. A lot of them use clickbait titles and headlines. In the end, you don’t get what you are looking for. By reviews, here are some of the best parenting websites available:

1. Parent Toolkit

2. BabyCenter

3. Cafemom

4. Raising Children

5. Fatherly

6. Well Family

7. More4Kidas

8. Zero To Three

9. Parenting Teens

Whether you are a single parent or you are raising kids with your spouse, these websites are bound to help you. You can also talk to other parents in your neighborhood. Share experiences with them and get useful tips also. Parenting is a whole new journey. At times, you may find it fun while it could be stressful at other times. Have fun with your child and let them know they have such an amazing parent.

Good luck!

Family

Pregnancy versus Period Symptoms, how to Tell the Difference.

Different symptoms show uniquely to people that are pregnant and these are different from people that are expecting their menses. These symptoms include the following;

1.    Intense implantation pains.

2.    Metal-like taste in the mouth.

3.    Weird, Vivid Dreams.

4.    Intuition.

5.    Itching

6.    Frequent stooling 

7.    Increased and decreased in appetite 

8.    Forgetfulness 

9.    Extreme fatigue 

10.    Menstruation stops.

11.    Nausea.

12.    Typical PMS Symptoms.

13.    Tender Breasts.

14.    Abdominal discomfort.

15.    More Attention to smell.

16.    Food Aversions.

17.    Feeling dizzy.

18.    Bloat.

19.    Heightened emotions.

20.    Cigarette Aversion.

21.    Excessive stomach gas.

22.    Hair loss

23.    Headaches

24.    Mood disorders 

25.    Constipation

26.    Peeing often

27.    Hard to concentrate 

28.    Change in sex drive 

29.    Bleeding gums 

30.    Interested in a particular type of food 

31.    Acne

32.    Stunted hair growth 

33.    Vaginal  infections 

34.    Darker areas of the nipples 

35.    Increased intake of water

36.    Higher body temperature 

37.    Trouble  with Sleep

38.    Shiny hair 

39.    Colour Sensitivity

40.    Lower blood sugar 

41.    Letting out air from the mouth

42.    Shortness of breath

43.    Irritations 

44.    Heartburn

45.    Toothache

46.    Blackout

47.    Veiny breast 

48.    Tingling sensation in the breast 

49.    Coffee Aversion

50.    Leg cramps 

51.    Increased Allergies 

52.    Discolouration of the skin

53.    Flu-like symptoms 

54.    Urine smells like ammonia 

55.    Bitter taste in the mouth

56.    Sweating more 

57.    Backache 

58.    Stuffy  nose

59.    Haemorrhoids

60.    Vaginal Discharge

61.    Brittle Nails 

62.    Drooling

63.    Butterflies in your stomach

64.    UTI

65.    Heavy feeling in your stomach

66.    Dry Mouth 

67.    Nose Bleeds.

Similarities between Period vs. pregnancy symptoms and signs. 

The symptoms and sign that one could see usually with these problems include the following

1.    Constipation.

2.    Increased urination.

3.    Breast pain and tenderness.

4.    Cramping.

5.    Change in appetite.

6.    Fatigue. 

7.    Headache 

8.    Backache 

9. Mood changes ( irritability, crying, anxiety, etc.) 

Knowing the Differences between Period vs Pregnancy signs and symptoms.

Spotting or Bleeding 

Spotting or bleeding which might not be enough for a pad to get completely soaked in blood. This bleeding happens when a lady who is either pregnant or managing from her period is going through implantation. This is completely different from the usual thick heavy menstruation flow. 

Fatigue 

This is like what a lot of women that are pregnant go through and manage through the pregnancy period of nine months. But this happens with women that are yet to start their period. 

Aversions and Food Cravings 

Different women typically have an appetite that is higher than usual. These Aversions and craving for more food are usually more extreme and specific for women before and during menstruation. 

Vomiting and Nausea 

Vomiting and Nausea are usually more common in pregnancies that are early and these are not gotten from the menstrual period.  So if you are pregnant or you think that’s what is causing this, you need to beware and get ready to be called mother.

Blog, Family, Health

How To Succeed At Dieting During The Holidays

The amount of food that’s always available during the holiday makes dieting during this period a Herculean task. This is because the members of your family are most likely going to be present to add pressure and have you consume more food than you would have wanted.

In some cases, the person involved may lack self-discipline hence they crave/need to take in every available substance that’s at their disposal. That’s often because the favorite meals and snacks are always in abundance. In this article, we shall discuss the several steps that you can take at dieting during the holidays.

How Can I Diet Successfully During the Holiday

1.  Give Yourself Prompt Reminders

One of the ways that you can do it for yourself is to always give slight reminders to yourself when you feel like you’re slipping. To do this, you have to let yourself understand why you started the dieting procedures. Also, know that you shouldn’t consume everything that you see. Even if you do, ensure to take them in smaller quantities remember you need to lose some weight and keep fit.

2. Do Not Stay Hungry For Long

Allowing yourself to stay hungry for long means that you should get ready to go against the dieting plan that you’ve set for yourself. So what do you do? Eat your ideal food at home before showing up at ceremonies. The foods that you lay focus on should be able to help you control your appetite. These include consuming more high fiber meals, healthy fats, and lean protein. Also, stay away from sugary foods, and drink lots of water. Instead of sugar, try natural sweeteners like Better Stevia Organic Powder by NOW Foods.

3. Bring Your Appetizer

Appetizers are “easy-to-carry” options that one can rely on before big meals. You should opt for an appetizer or dessert that’s able to provide your body system with lots of needed nutrients. Tagging a desert along helps you to have control of the rate at which you consume other meals. You can ensure this by getting yourself ready beforehand. Assemble all the things you may need during this time, for example snacks, nuts, and protein bars – they are all forms of healthy appetizers.

4. Opt For Fruits And Vegetables

The importance of fruits and vegetables during dieting cannot be underestimated. Ensure you get enough of them, as they help to improve the level of nutrients in your body system. They have low calories, high fiber, and essential nutrients. This means there won’t be any room to add unhealthy body fats. Fruit salads, carrots, vegetable salads, and more are the means through which you can get this nutrition.

5. Ask For Encouragement

Your family should be a source of support during this time. Let them understand your goals and ask that they serve as a reminder at all times, as well as their maximum support.

Do not allow the holiday stress to sweep you off your feet. Have your body goals in mind and ensure to stay on track.

Cheers!

Blog, Family

Top 10 Christmas Carols For The Whole Family

The Christmas season is a period of merriment. Lots of people will come together from different works of life to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. Many families use this period to bond and create beautiful memories with one another.

One of the biggest parts of every Christmas season are the carols and they tend to focus on different themes and titles. During this period, families want to have a collection of Christmas carols to choose from. So have a quick look at the top 10 Christmas carols for the whole family.

1. We Three Kings Of Orient Are

The birth of Jesus Christ paved the way for the three wise men to bring forth gold, frankincense, and myrrh as gifts. “We Three Kings” is a Carol that perfectly tells the tale of that night.

2. O Come All Ye Faithful

Although some say it doesn’t come off as very memorable, If you’re looking for a Carol that strikes the exact Christmas tone, then you should probably opt for “O Come All Ye Faithful” is that one.

3. 12 Days of Christmas

“12 Days of Christmas” is an all-time favorite Christmas carol. Almost everyone knows this and can vibe to this carol, because of its catchy lines and beats.

4. Hark The Herald Angels Sing

This carol comes along when you pay huge reverence to the season as it comes with a calm beat that has a way of warming up your heart.

5. O Holy Night

Composed and written in France, “O Holy Night” is a Christmas carol that is being used to celebrate the local church organ’s renovation. It also served as a sort of inspiration during Christmas.

6. Joy to the World

Are you looking for a positive carol for inspiration? “Joy to the World” is one of the most popular and melodious carols of the Christmas season. Everyone loves to sing along, as it comes with infectious vibes.

7. Silent Night

“Silent Night” is a calm, sedative song. It’s suitable for a family that prefers less noise during Christmas.

8. Jingle Bells

Almost everyone who’s ever celebrated Christmas recognized “Jingle Bells” any day and anytime. It’s upbeat tone makes it more fun and exciting to sing.

9. Deck the Halls

The iconic “Deck the Halls” made it to this list because it highlights the themes of Christmas holidays – buying gifts, putting up decorations, singing to carols, and being all dressed up.

10. We Wish You a Merry Christmas

“We Wish You a Merry Christmas” serves as a subtle reminder of the whole activity that will take place during the holidays. This is great for every family time.

In some week’s time, Christmas would be here again, and when it comes, we’d start hearing the joyful sounds of jingles and clicking of spoons against plates that are known to accompany the season. This list is comprehensive, and we hope it gives you the guidance you sort.

Blog, Family

Best Disney-Themed Christmas Gift Ideas For Little Girls

In a few weeks, we’d probably be with our families commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. The Christmas season is a period where parents tend to make decisions that would positively benefit their children regardless of their gender.

If you’re a parent who has a little girl, then it’s time to start brainstorming as she’d start making demands soon. Do you know what’s more? You’re going to try and give her whatever she wants. Have you thought of Disney-themed Christmas gift ideas for little girls yet? Girls love Disney characters because of how beautiful and perfect they seem at most times. Well, if this is your case, then you should hang on, because shortly, we are going to discuss some of the Christmas gift ideas for little girls that you should probably consider.

1. Disney princess squad goals sweatshirt

You just have to bear the iconic Disney princess such as Jasmine, Snow White, Cinderella, Belle, Aurora, Ariel, etc, in mind then find a way to fix your little girl in the picture. She’s going to crave to be in the squad; the least you can do is to make it happen. The Disney princess squad goals sweatshirt is a perfect Christmas gift for your daughter.

2. Disney princess jewelry boxes

It’s about time to make a princess feel like a lady! You sure do not want to give out the impression that she’s just a little girl. This is more reason why the jewelry box is recommended for her! This particular gift item isn’t age selective. Also, it comes with a mirror that helps her to view her stuff from a closer angle.

3. Disney character socks

When thinking of the best type of Disney-themed Christmas gift items for your daughter, you should observe her closely and find out what Disney characters she loves most. After that, you can opt for customized socks that have her favorite character printed on it; she’s going to thank you for a very long time. This also a better way of having her mood lit up for the rest of the holiday!

4. Disney picture frame

Pictures hold memories and special events down for us. Getting a Disney-themed picture frame is not just a good idea, but it’s one that’s going to leave indelible footprints of your gesture in her mind. Purchase a picture frame and insert her most beautiful picture; she will love it!

5. Disney costumes

From “Frozen’s” Elsa to Belle from “Beauty and the Beast,” little girls love to dress up as their favorite Disney princesses! Order the costumes online, or pick it up during Halloween season at your local costume shop.

Daughters are considered treasures most times. If you have a little girl, then this guide is strictly meant to guide you to ensure her happiness. Christmas is fast underway and you don’t have any other option but make a child happy today!

Family

Fun Games that Parents Will Actually Enjoy Playing with Their Kids

Are you a parent looking to strengthen the bond you have with your kids? Have you tried several means, but none actually seem to be working out well for you? Have you considered playing some games that you and the kids might actually be interested in? Well, take a look at this article for some inspiration.

Sometimes kids don’t just want to run around with their friends playing, sometimes they just want to hang out with you, and it doesn’t even matter if you’re a fun parent or not. You don’t have to worry, most of these games aren’t unconventional. You’ve probably had to play them when you were much younger.

We’re going to look at them from two separate angles – board games and video games.

Board games

Some board games that you’ll most definitely love to play with your kids will include the following:

1. Monopoly

It isn’t news that kids love the idea that they’re engaging in grown-up activities like buying and selling properties. Monopoly is one really fun game to play with your kids. As a matter of fact, if your kids don’t know how to play this game yet, you might want to consider teaching them how to.

2. Checkers

This is another really interesting board game to play with your kids, especially when they’re still quite young. The game is really easy to play, so you don’t have to worry about the stress of teaching them if they don’t already know how to play it.

3. Chess

This game is one of the most complicated board games to play or even learn, which is why it is even recommended that you start to teach them while they’re still quite young. Once they master it, they’d most definitely love to play it with you.

Video Games

Video games are among everyone’s favorite gaming options. There’s always a game for everyone. Below are some of the video games your kids would love to play with you:

4. Super Mario

It’s more than merely jumping bricks and getting coins; this game is funny, exciting, and somewhat challenging. You can tag with your kids and play as teammates. Teamwork just doesn’t get more fun than that.

5. Soccer

You’ll enjoy scoring against your kids in a soccer video game – that is if you play better than your kids, which is almost totally unlikely these days.

6. Battle of Two

If you and your kids are fans of action movies and games, then you would totally love this game. You both get to play as partners helping each other through every level of the game.

This game is recommended for kids that are more grown. The technicalities may be a little too daunting for really young kids.

7. Need for Speed

The list wouldn’t be complete without adding an interesting and fun car race game. Need for speed is one of the best speed racing games. You’d most definitely fall in love with the graphics and the gameplay. Your kids would be glad to play a face-off with you.

The list is endless when you talk about games you would enjoy playing with your kids; however, the ones listed in this article are definitely going to do a great job and get family game night started off right.

Family

How to Safely Gather with Extended Family During COVID-19

After the whole long months of being away from friends, family, and even close colleagues, it should be time to reunite with all the people we really care about once again. It’s been a really long period of lockdown, and it’s about time we took the time to love to them again.

Are you wondering how to safely gather with extended family during COVID-19? Do you still worry about their status, but you still want to meet with them? Don’t worry, in this article, I’ll show you some simple ways to have a really great time with family and the people you care about without putting yourself in harm’s way.

Inform Everyone Beforehand

If you’re planning or organizing a meeting with the members of your extended family, then it is only very wise to inform every single one of them of your plans preferably some days or even weeks before this time.

This isn’t only going to help you practice safety, but it’s also going to help you know how many people are coming so that you can better plan the gathering. It is going to end up a mess if you just suddenly give them an impromptu call asking them to come over.

Meet with Each Family Personally

If necessary and possible, contact every family in your extended family and discuss your plans with them. Hear their opinions about the coronavirus pandemic and share yours. You need to get everyone enlightened about how to get themselves safe.

Put Safety Measures in Place

You may argue that it isn’t possible to practice social distancing with your own family. Well, no one is asking you to do that, especially now that you’re all going to be sharing some things in the house. However, practicing safety outside the house must be of paramount importance.

Maybe at the time of the meeting, everyone was well but while there, they might have some friends over and that could be risky since you don’t know the status of their friends. This is where your safety measures will be needed.

Everyone should wear masks, gloves, and wash their hands frequently. Avoid touching your face, and stay at a safe 6-foot distance.

Initial Treatments

Now, we may all get a little bit concerned the moment we begin to see someone who lives with us coughing and/or sneezing. It’s normal to be a little bit worried about that. In fact, you should. However, it shouldn’t stop at being worried. You must ensure that you have some medicines around to cater for some symptoms. For starters, try Cough & Bronchial Syrup by Boericke & Tafel.

Coughing and sneezing are symptoms of COVID-19, but it could also be caused by something really mild and so you would need a really good and active cough syrup that sends the symptoms packing. If, however, the symptoms persist, then you can take the next step which is visiting a professional health practitioner.

Get Everyone in Safe and Sound

Now that you have put all the proper steps in place, and you’ve gotten the preventive measures ready, you can move on to bringing everyone into your without any worry whatsoever.