Today’s Top Gadgets That Make It Easier to Raise a Family

Parenting small children is such hard work, it is impossible for most parents to cover everything that needs their attention. Most of the time, you have no choice but to let a few things slide, and hope for the best. If you’d like greater control, you need more help. There are a number of inventions out there that make things smoother for the overstretched parent.

An accurate, baby-friendly thermometer

It’s proven hard to design a baby thermometer that’s convenient to use, safe for babies, and yet accurate. Manufacturers have tried every idea from contactless designs to ear-and bottom-temperature designs without too much success. These designs always leave something to be desired. The pacifier thermometer is an all-new take on the challenge, and it could be the best idea yet. It’s a thermometer disguised as a pacifier, with a digital readout at front. The main selling point is how easy this design makes it for the baby. Not having to undress the baby in the middle of the night can only mean fewer sleep disruptions for parents, as well. Even better, the pacifier design is a full-contact design that offers far greater accuracy than contactless designs.

An electric toothbrush

When your baby gets his first few teeth, you need to take good care of them. Cavities are not uncommon at this age. Yet, little children don’t understand what’s being done to them, and don’t play along. Electric toothbrushes are not only convenient, they are a lifesaver. Taking good care of your baby’s teeth can help ensure oral health much later in life. You should check out a few electric toothbrush reviews before you make a buying decision, however. The quality tends to be all over the map.

Make sure you know where every kid is

A GPS wristband for every kid is a great idea; you always know where your kid is. A tiny GPS tracking device slipped into your kid’s pocket, however, can be even better; your kid won’t know it’s there, and won’t take it off. Companies such as TrackR StickR make little GPS-enabled tabs that you can put into anything or stick on anything. You can use these to do more than keep track of your kids. With one of these tabs stuck on your wallet, for instance, you’ll never misplace it ever again.

Make those veggies more interesting for your kids

Children love Ramen. It isn’t the most nutritious food, of course. What if you could turn the veggies that they hate into Ramen, however? Appliances such as the Brieftons NextGen Spiralizer do exactly that. They shred anything from carrots to cucumber into thin and long spaghetti-like strings. It just could fool your kids into thinking that these are likely as tasty as noodles.

A pocket nanny

With the number of things that you need to stay on top of taking care of a baby, it can be particularly hard knowing what you’ve done at a given point, and what you’ve left out. A device that helps you remember every responsibility that you have — from diaper changings to feedings and baby naps — can be very convenient. Pocket nannies are a new product category that help with multiple alarms and reminder lists.

Get a baby monitor that’s really attentive

A regular baby monitor is useful, in that it helps you tell what goes on with your baby when you’re in another room. What if you want closer supervision? If your baby is a few months old and at risk of rolling over, you would have to worry about his ability to breathe. If this were to happen at night when you were asleep yourself, you would want to know immediately. A baby movement monitor can help. You clip the little device to your baby’s diaper; it sounds an alarm if there is no sign of breathing for 10 or 15 seconds. If there is a problem, you’ll know immediately.

With these useful gadgets helping you and your kid, you’ll find that you don’t need to be around for everything. You’ll have the gift of time.

Naomi Phillips writes about family life; the temper tantrums, technology, time management and so much more that each mother juggles daily in this modern world!

Totally Random

Having “That Conversation” with your Kids: It’s Time to Talk About Money

Anne Younger Leave a comment

You want to raise your kids the right way and make sure they are streetwise in many different things, but one conversation that too many of us don’t have with our kids, is a talk about money.

Making sure your children are financially literate and getting them to understand the importance and consequences attached to money could prove to be time well spent, and should help them avoid a few common mistakes and misapprehensions along the way.

Filling in the gaps

You children will get a school education that teaches them how to read and write as well as a good grounding in mathematics, but financial literacy is noticeably in short supply when you look at the curriculum taught by many schools.

It seems that many schools simply don’t have a requirement to teach financial literacy and therefore it can often be the case that your kids could finish their education and head out into the world of employment, without having some of the basic financial skills they need as an adult.

This is why it is so important to talk to your children, answer their questions and give them some sort of grounding on how to handle money.

A lifetime relationship with money

It goes without saying that if you teach your children about money you are laying the foundations for a lifetime relationship with money, where they understand the significance and difference between earning, spending and saving the cash that comes their way.

Financial literacy is not something achieved overnight and it has to be age appropriate to a certain extent, but even at a young age, the simple concept of putting money in a piggy bank in order to save up for something they want, is a valuable lesson that they can carry with them in later life.

Teaching your teens

If you have teenagers, you will probably already be aware from their behaviour at times, that they are preparing for adulthood and testing the boundaries.

It is also the time where you can have a more adult conversation with your kids about money and actively involve them in some regular transactions so that they can see how it all works. Explaining to them about budgeting, even discussing the difference between short and long term loans, can all be useful guidance and definitely worth having a conversation with them about.

It is a good idea to talk to your teenage kids about things like credit cards, and answer any questions they have about the subject. Make no mistake, banks tend to target teenagers and offer them financial products as soon as they are old enough to apply, so you want to ensure that they know what they are getting into and how to handle credit responsibly.

There are several important conversations you should have with your kids, some of them are going to be awkward and even embarrassing, but if you want to set them on the right path when it comes to money, make sure you talk to them about it at every stage of their childhood.

Ben Head loves to share his money saving insights and research. With the economy the way it is there’s never been a better time to learn how to make savings in everyday life. If you find Ben’s content useful, you can read more of his work at https://www.everyday-loans.co.uk/news/

Shopping

Get Off the Hook for Forgetting a Birthday with These Belated Ideas

Anne Younger Leave a comment

Have you ever got yourself into a sticky situation for forgetting a relative or close friend’s birthday? It can happen to the best of us! And it tends to happen when you are really busy in life. Maybe you have had to deal with a very important conference. Or you have been distracted because one of your kids was ill recently. Whatever the reason, there are always plenty of ways to make it up to the birthday boy or girl! Here are some ideas that can help you get off the hook.

Facebook Birthday

Thanks to modern technology, there is one easy way to remember your friend and family’s birthdays: Facebook! However, the only downside is that you only find out on the day of their birthday! But at least you can always send your friend a quick message on Facebook as soon as you realize it is their birthday. At least that way, they may not realize that you had forgotten!

Send Them An Apology

One of the first things you should do is apologize. If possible, go round and see them to apologize in person. This gives you a chance to fully explain why you overlooked their birthday. Don’t worry if you don’t have the time for a visit, or they live too far away. A written letter always makes a nice apology. You could even write your apology note one of your personalized cards to make sure it is super personal.

Send Them Some Flowers

As soon as you realize that you have missed someone’s birthday, nip round to your local florists. Take a look at what flowers they have in at the minute and see if you can see your friend or relative’s favorite type. Then you can arrange to have a bouquet sent out to them. If you don’t have time to go to a florist in person, have a look online. There are now many online florists who can arrange same day delivery for you if you order online.

Organize Another Day Of Celebrations

So the birthday may have been and gone. But there is no reason why you can’t celebrate anymore! After all, your friend or relative’s favorite restaurant is only a quick phone call away. Why not book a table as soon as you realize that you missed the birthday. That way, you can surprise them with a meal out. And dining out gives you the perfect setting and atmosphere in which to apologize!

Buy A Gift

And just because you forgot, doesn’t mean that it is too late to buy a gift either. So run to your local mall before you see your friend next and pick them up a fantastic gift. Something that will make them forget that you forgot their birthday in the first place! Just like with the flowers, you can always take a look at online shops if you are rushed off your feet at work.

Forgetting a birthday isn’t the end of the world. Hopefully, all of these ideas will help you make it up to your friend!

Totally Random

The Garbage Bin Challenge: Fast and Easy Ways to Reduce Household Waste

Anne Younger Leave a comment

Excessive waste is a problem for many countries around the world. While solutions are brought to attention, few are put into action. Nothing can rid the world of waste yet the best solution may start with the individual. Some are making great efforts to reduce the amount of waste they produce. Are you prepared to take the garbage bin challenge and reduce your household waste?

Think Smaller

For some, reduction starts with simplification. Perform an audit of your values and lifestyle. What motivates you? What do you value? What do you really need and which things are short term wants? As you begin to think smaller, you’ll find it easier to live with less and desire a fewer possessions. Prefer to invest in things that are reusable, fixable, and serve more than one function.

Stop Single Usage

Small changes can have huge impacts. Imagine if 10% of all Starbucks customers used reusable cups rather than got a new cup with each purchase? Similarly, imagine if a significant percentage of those who went to the grocery store brought their own bags? It would allow for a lot less waste. Stop single usage where and when you can.

Eat Whole Foods

How much food and package waste is produced by your household? Imagine living more like a farmer, getting fresh food daily and leaving little to no waste. You don’t have to live on a farm to incorporate more whole foods into your diet. Moreover, learning quick and easy recipes reduces the amount of utilities needed. Buying less packaged and processed foods is better for your body and the environment.

Buy Less But Better

As you think smaller, consider investing in better made products. For example, you may divorce yourself from fashion yet you’ll need to identify quality clothes. Buying higher quality clothing is not a salute to materialism but simplicity; buying better means that you can get away with purchasing less. Buying cheaper commodities increases the likelihood that you’ll need a replacement or will soon opt for an upgrade.

Supersize It

Some prefer to shop at savings clubs because it affords them savings. However, an added benefit of going to a wholesaler is the opportunity to buy larger sized containers, which is better than buying smaller packages more frequently. Identify the goods you repeatedly need and then supersize your purchases. Such buys may include laundry detergent, toilet paper, body soap, etc.

Use Rags and Handkerchiefs

How many tissues and paper towels are used throughout the household? Maybe you never thought about it, but you probably use more than you think. Can you use a handkerchief each time you need a tissue? Can you use old rags or t-shirts to clean the home, washing these items and then reusing? Consider how much waste you’ll reduce in one year’s time. It’s a minor change but it makes a big impact.

Compost Food and Yard Waste

Depending on your family’s habits and the landscape of your property, a large portion of your waste may derive from food and the yard. Food scraps along with yard debris and trimmings can be tossed in an outdoor compost bin. Composting is a good ideas for those with children who may make compositing a lifelong habit. For larger demolition and waste removal jobs, contact Dirt Cheap Rubbish Removal.

Stop Receiving Unwanted Mail

Tons of junk mail are discarded each day around the globe. Reserve a moment and discontinue receiving the Yellow Pages and junk mail. Like unsolicited phone calls, receiving junk mail becomes a nuisance. However, few know how easy it is to stop receiving unwanted mail. Go online, register, and reduce the waste.

Reuse Water Bottles

Ironically, the healthy act of drinking water bottles is pretty wasteful. Stop buying water bottles and start filling a reusable vessel with tap or filtered water. Generations have survived without consuming bottled water. Perhaps it’s become a preference but realize it’s not a necessity. Placing a filter on your faucet or buying a handheld model is easy and inexpensive.

Put a Price on the Grocery List

How many times do you go to the grocery store and purchase things you don’t use or need? Put a price limit on your shopping list so you’ll buy only the essentials. Also, the process will curb snacking and overeating. Alternatively, visit the grocery store each evening, buying only what’s needed for the next twenty four hours. This makes it easier to eat fresh, whole foods.

Matty has over a decade of experience in Sydney’s rubbish removal industry. He has built his business up from scratch and aims to make it as easy as possible for people to clean up and get rid of bulky unwanted waste, with on-site hand loaded waste removal.

Exercise, Fitness

Sculpt and Shape: No Sweat Workouts for a Beach-Ready Body

Anne Younger Leave a comment

Being fit is a lifestyle. However, working out becomes a fad for many because they can’t stick with the routine. Unfortunately, some are at a disadvantage before they even get to the gym. When they think of working out, they envision hours of sweating and aching. Some are smart about working out. They’re able to attain a beach-ready body with minimal sweating and hard work. Here’s how to sculpt and shape your body without needing to work really hard for it. They used supplements like protein powders from Myfitnesshub to increase resilience and build muscle faster, so with each workout, you can extend the usual workout time without much pain.–

Roll It Out

You may be thinking there is little to do with a piece of foam. However, many have faith in its ability to provide a great stretch while aiding in building muscle. Firstly, myofascial massages are beneficial in relaxing the muscle. However, a deep tissue massage can be pricey, especially if you desire one often. Users position themselves on top of the foam tool and roll body parts over the upper surface. Rather than using your arms to support your weight, put pressure on the roller to get its full benefits. The roller does a lot more, such as serving as a yoga prop and push-up aid.

Go Isometric

It seems counter-intuitive; how can your body benefit from a stationary position? Yet, staying in place while putting stress on the muscle is highly beneficial. Holding a position helps the body learn better form versus doing repetitive motions. Also, the routine is convenient; you’re using your own body weight, so there’s no need to use those at the gym or buy them to use at home. There are plenty of positions to strengthen muscles and promote flexibility.

Try Yoga

A lot of men and women don’t go to the gym because they don’t want to use weights or particular equipment. It’s intimidating and confusing. However, yoga requires little to no equipment. Yoga requires strength, balance, and poise. It’s great for beginners because you’re only using your own body weight and only need to stretch as far as your tolerance allows. Also, you don’t have to spend hours doing it. A ten minute routine performed several times a week can do wonders. If you plan on buying a video series, it’s best to research.

Plan Pilates

Pilates creates longer, leaner muscle. The movements are easy on the body yet yield fantastic effects. Start doing a few maneuvers and gradually attempt more advanced poses. Try holding a towel while on your back. Bend the knees to the chest and lift your head and shoulders off the mat. Keep the knees pressed together and the toes pointed. Inhale and extend the arms and legs out into a large V shape. Exhale and draw your knees back into your chest and reach the towel over the legs to the toes.

Iron Out the Abs

Unfortunately, you can’t get a super six pack by doing abdominal workouts alone. A cut form requires bodybuilding, a good diet, and cardiovascular activity. However, you can burn calories and strengthen your core by devoting five to ten minutes toward an abdominal workout. Conveniently, there is a number of ways you can target your abs. You can do traditional sit ups, get on your forearms and do a plank, or get on your back and slowly raise and lower straightened legs.

Lift Slowly

You don’t have to adopt the “no pain, no gain” slogan at the gym. Actually, there are several ways to go about getting a workout while using weights. Rather than go for broke and lift as much as your muscles can handle, use light weights, yet lift in a slow and deliberate motion. Do a high number of repetitions. The routine will not make you sweat like interval training, but you will definitely break down and sculpt the muscles.

Dive In

Swimming is one of the best exercises. It’s totally low impact yet it’s an intense cardio workout. Even better, unlike running and working up a tremendous sweat, the pool water will keep you cool. Moreover, you can swim comfortably all year. Yes, you can run outside all year, but you may have to deal with cold seasons depending on where you live.

Rollerblade

Buy a pair of rollerblades and stroll along at your own leisurely pace. It’s a fun yet effective way to tone your legs and get a cardiovascular workout. Even better, ask friends and family members to join you. Go rollerblading in the park, in your neighborhood, and at designated skateparks.

Amber Pearson is a Mom who changed her attitude to exercise after the birth of her daughter. She is now encouraging other women to get in shape and has even started an evening fitness group in her home town.