Real Life Solutions

With the warm summer weather, hopefully, just around the corner, now is a good time to start thinking how to keep your children entertained during the long summer holidays.  What you choose to do with them is likely to depend, to a degree, on the amount of money that you have available, but below are a few ideas for cheap summer fun for kids.

Profit from a Big Tidy

Kids hate cleaning and tidying up their rooms, and this can be a big source of frustration for the parents. You could even make it into a game with a time limit to sort the room. With the kids at home though, why not encourage them to sort through their old toys and set aside the ones that they no longer play with. Take these to a car boot sale and let them spend the money made from their sale on a visit to a toy shop.

Treasure hunt

This can be a great opportunity, not only for the children, but for the parents too. Get your kids to invite their friends around, along with their parents. Whilst you relax over a glass of wine and catch up with the adults, your children can enjoy figuring out the puzzles and finding the treats that you have planted around your garden.

Camping

There is nothing better than getting the children into the fresh air, something that is increasingly difficult in this day of modern technology. There are many camp sites in the country that have great facilities, and the kids love the freedom to run around. If you don’t have your own transport, consider camping in your own garden or even, indeed, inside the house; this can be great fun if treated as an adventure and can stimulate the imagination of young minds.

Make your own T Shirts

Let your kids make their own personalised t shirts. You can either do this by buying a kit, or why not simply allow them to paint on their t shirts with non-washable paints. You could suggest a few ideas to get them started or simply give them free reign to be as creative as they like.

As children, many of us loved to roam around our local park and discover things as we went along, whether it was the sighting of a squirrel or simply the discovery of an attractive leaf that had fallen from the tree. Buy them each a scrap book and suggest that they see how many different types of leaves they can find. After much running around in the fresh air, they are likely to be tired by the evening and give you a bit of peace and quiet too.

The Seaside

If you are fortunate to live close enough to the coast, then the beach is perhaps the most exciting place for a child. Of course, you will have to compete with the modern entertainment and copious amounts of junk food that is on offer; but once you get them on the beach, they will love building sandcastles, exploring rock pools at low tide and generally wearing themselves out running around.

The summer holidays don’t have to be filled with children hanging around the house, bored, there are plenty of ideas for cheap summer fun for kids.  You may also find that your will re-discover your own inner child too.

Kids grow fast, often faster than they can wear out their clothes. And their clothing can cost as much as an adult’s! What’s a frugal mom to do? Here are a few of my tried and true tips for saving money on kid’s clothing.

Buy Used

You knew I was going to suggest this first, didn’t you? Seriously, how many times have you bought something new for your kids at retail price only to find they’ve outgrown it by the time they get around to wearing it, or worse, it tears apart in the wash after a couple of wears? If you don’t want to take time to hunt at yard sales, try consignment shops. In my area, these are still a bit pricey, so I take advantage of discount days and frequent shopper cards to save a little. My favorite thrift store, in a nicer part of town, has half price days around major holidays. Several times a year I go and stock up. You can’t beat the prices, and if an item still looks good after being worn and washed, it’s likely to last.

Buy Ahead

If you’re organized, you may want to buy next year’s clothing at the end of this season, when everything is on clearance – and keep the off season clothing in marked containers in storage. Keep the buy ahead principle in mind when you’re out and about and see great deals.

eBay and Craigslist

I find that there are great deals to be had on clothing purchased used online. In fact, clothing purchased in “lots” on eBay are often cheaper than even thrift stores. A  major advantage of this approach is the time you save not driving around to stores. I have my daughters hunt for clothing they like on eBay, add it to my “watch” list, and later when I have time I buy it (or not). This is fun for them!

Cruising Craigslist for clothing is also a great idea, as sellers typically aren’t in business but are just clearing out clutter, and prices are low.

Simple Hacks

Try to think outside the box when it comes to kid’s clothing. Items that you think are outgrown may not be. For example, last winter’s jeans can become this summer’s cute cutoffs, and leggings or pants can turn into capris. A dress that fits an 18 month old will likely be a cute top when she’s 3. Once a toddler is potty trained, her old clothing may fit again once she’s not in a bulky diaper.

My 9 year old sometimes “shops” in her 6 year old’s discards – her old cardigans reappear as “shrugs”, and her big brother’s too short neckties give her a cute preppy look. A skirt too short? Put opaque leggings underneath and you’ve got a trendy look. Don’t be too quick to throw outgrown clothing out.

Host a Swap

Hosting a clothing swap is fun, easy and a great way to get rid of unneeded stuff as well as obtain great new-to-you clothing. Set a date, email your friends an invite, and “shop” each other’s stuff for free!

Carrie is a homeschooling mom of 7 who has learned a thing or two about raising kids frugally. Find more tips for natural family living at http://www.NaturalMomsTalkRadio.com

For many parents including myself, babywearing is practically synonymous with parenting. We can’t imagine life with babies without this convenient parenting tool. Is there reason to avoid babywearing? How can babywearing be done safely?

Last year the Consumer Product Safety Commission sent out an advisory about infant slings. This was in response to 14 deaths that occurred among babies worn in infant slings over the past 20 years. It’s important to note that the reason behind each of these deaths was due to improper use and positioning of the sling, rather than the practice of babywearing itself. In addition, we should keep this statistic in perspective. According to several sources, about 100 babies die in a crib or playpen each year because of: strangulation, collapsing equipment, entrapment and the like. These are tragic for sure, and caution as well as common sense is needed when using any baby gadget.

There has also been a recall on certain slings that are too soft for babies and can impede their breathing. These types of slings are not the norm when it comes to infant carriers and have been recalled for good reason. If you find a baby carrier at a yard sale or consignment shop or are given one secondhand, it’s a good idea to do a Google search of the name brand and style to see if there is a recall on it.

Instead of feeling fearful of infant carriers, you can learn the correct way to use them. When used correctly, infant slings, wraps and carriers are extremely beneficial. Carrying baby against your body for much of the day using a soft cloth carrier is a practice known as “baby wearing”. You baby will be able to mimic your breathing, hear your heartbeat and feel nurtured being next to your body. It is also a discreet way to breastfeed, a hands free way of holding your baby close and a safe and natural, not to mention convenient, alternative to strollers. Slings and wraps have been used in many cultures for generations and are still used today without any problems when used properly.

Start by using a sling or wrap that is made from durable fabric and wrapped according to the instructions it came with. (If you bought your sling used and there were no instructions, you can generally find them on the company website.) When positioning the baby, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The baby should be positioned similarly to the way you might hold them in your arms, which is an upright position where their head is higher than their feet. They should also be close enough to your face that you are able to kiss them. (If baby is in a ring sling, be sure it isn’t positioned too low so that baby is near your waist.) Their bodies should be stretched out with their backs straight, rather than curled up in a fetal position. The latter position can actually create suffocation as it limits the amount of oxygen the baby receives.

Check to make sure they have enough breathing space by making sure the baby’s face is not smashed into your body. There should be a finger’s worth of space or more between yourself and the baby’s face. It may be a good idea to position them so the side of their body touches your torso, rather than their body facing yours. The exception to this is during breastfeeding. In this case, the baby’s face should be up with the sling material away from their face. You can return them to the previous position after a feeding. The use of wraps, rather than slings can also be useful for newborns, who can be “lost” inside a ring sling’s pouch.

In addition to the positioning, it is important to pay extra attention in the case of certain circumstances. There can be special risk factors for babies under four months of age, those born prematurely and those with colds, congestion and other breathing problems. Younger infants can have trouble holding their necks, which can pose a threat if their head is in a position that limits oxygen. Babies who were born prematurely or have a low birth weight might also have breathing problems and can also be too weak to move their necks. When they have a cold with congestion or other breathing problems, they will need extra breathing room in order to breathe properly.

Following these correct practices can make for a safe and enjoyable babywearing experience for both yourself and your baby. Be sure to follow the guidelines every time in order to give your child the safest carrying position possible.

Carrie is a homeschooling mom of 6 (going on 7) who writes about natural family life at: http://www.NaturalMomsTalkRadio.com. Be sure to check out the free podcasts for interviews with experts in natural family living.

The concept of the family meal seems to be something that belongs in and to the past. Interest in this tradition, however, is reviving, especially as research continues to point to the benefits of family meals.

What is the big deal about family meals, anyway? Are they really important? The research would suggest yes, they are. Here are some of the benefits of having regular family meals, and some reasons why family meal times are important.

Nutrition

Family meals are more nutritious than fast food, even if you use frozen vegetables and canned fruits in your food preparation. If you take a little time to research, you will find that healthy meals do not necessarily take any longer to cook than frozen, packaged foods. Healthy foods do not have to be very expensive, either.  Why not try to get a meal plan together and plan out some healthy meals for your family

Family meals help prevent spontaneous stops at unhealthy drive-throughs, and provide much better family nutrition.

Economics

Over and over the numbers show that eating at home is a lot cheaper than eating out. Even “cheap” food, such as $1 menus at fast-food restaurants, can be more expensive than an individual portion of a home-cooked meal. For the price of a fast-food meal – say $5 – you can buy (depending on local prices) a head of lettuce and a bag of potatoes, or a couple of pounds of apples and half a pound of cheese.  Click here for tips on saving on your grocery bill.

Communication

This is one of the key benefits to family meal time. Sitting around a table and talking is a way for families to engage each other and learn about what’s going on in each other’s lives. Experts agree that meal times should be as calm and peaceful as possible, so it’s not a good time to “grill” or pump your family members for information. It may be better just to let the conversation naturally grow from your time together.

Learning

If your children are engaging in the meal process – preparing the food, setting the table, helping clean up – then you are teaching them important skills. Children used to learn by helping grown-ups with chores around the house, and they still can! You are also showing them what’s involved in meal preparation, which may foster a sense of appreciation for those who prepare meals for them, both now and in the future.

Another important thing that children learn at family meals is manners. These important skills will serve your kids for their whole lives.

Validation and Security

When you take the time to have family meals, you are telling your family, “You’re worth it.” You are saying, in essence, that your family members are worth time, effort, and money. In fact, studies have shown that family meals can help boost children’s self-esteem, and may improve or prevent deviant behavior in teens.

Family meals establish a routine, too, that helps children feel more secure. Meals can provide a safe haven for youngsters who often find school, homework, socializing, and extracurricular activities overwhelming.

People on the run often choose a cold breakfast or no breakfast at all because it’s the quickest. In the colder months, however, a cold breakfast simply won’t do. Why not try one or more of these nourishing winter breafast ideas  to help you prepare for your day.

Winter breafast idea #1 – A big bowl of hearty oatmeal is a great choice for a cold winter morning. Oatmeal doesn’t have to take a long time to prepare. Get it started before you get dressed and it should be ready to eat when you’re done. Soak dried fruit such as raisins, cherries or cranberries before stirring them into the bowl to add depth of flavor. Cinnamon or nutmeg would also be good as additions.

Winter breafast idea #2 - Whole wheat bread is better for you than bread made with refined flour. Use whole wheat bread to make French toast or whole wheat flour to make pancakes. Instead of syrup to top your French toast or pancakes, warm up apple sauce and spread it over them.

Winter breafast idea #3 – Barley is a grain often used in vegetable soup but it can also be used to make a warm, nourishing breakfast. Bring 3 cups of water to a boil and then add 3/4 cup pearl barley and 1 teaspoon sea salt. Turn the heat down and cover, allowing the barley to cook for 45 minutes. While the barley is cooking, mix together 1/4 cup honey and 1 cup chopped walnuts. Spread the walnut onto a baking sheet and bake them in an oven set at 350F for 10 minutes. When the barley is cooked, add 1/4 cup brown sugar and 1/4 cup currants. Spoon the walnuts over four bowls of cooked barley.

Winter breafast idea #4 – You can’t find a heartier breakfast than an omelet when it has beans, seeds or nuts added to it. Sauté some onions, then add some precooked black beans and chopped almonds. Beat enough eggs for the number of omelets you’re making and pour that into the onion and bean mixture. Sprinkle fresh herbs and cheese over the top and allow it to finish cooking.

Winter breafast idea #5 – Don’t be afraid to try foods that aren’t traditionally thought of as breakfast foods. A thick, warm rice pudding with fruit can be just the thing you need to fill you up and keep you toasty on the inside. You can also use leftover rice from the night before to make rice with cinnamon and raisins. Heat up the rice in a saucepan and add enough milk to moisten it. Add cinnamon, nutmeg and raisins. Cook this over low heat until its warm and then enjoy it.

Winter breafast idea #6 – Prepare hot chocolate, tea or coffee to finish off your nourishing winter warming breakfast. If you start your winter days with hot food, you’ll provide your body with much needed warmth and give you energy you need for your day.

Using one or many of the great winter breakfast ideas above will be a great way to warm up your mornings and get you off to a great day.

Does your family have the winter blues? Get them moving with some fun outdoor activities! Here are some ideas for you to try:

Outside Workout

Gather the entire family and go outdoors for a family workout. Mom or Dad can lead the group in a fun outdoor exercise routine. Or better yet play a game of tag football.

Jogging/Power Walk

If you’re tired of being stuck inside, get outdoors for a good jogging or power walking session. Jog around the block or walk a mile or two. You can add light hand weights to work your arms while you’re walking.

Ice Skating

Ice skating is a fun form of winter exercise. When lakes are frozen, ice skaters come out of hiding and get out on the ice for lots of fun. Most kids really enjoy ice skating too.

Snow Shoeing

If you’re tired of jogging and walking, trade your sneakers for snow shoes. Snowshoeing works your leg muscles even more because you have to really lift your legs to be able to walk around.

Hiking

Many people associate hiking only with the summer months. However, winter hiking is a totally exhilarating fitness activity. Don’t forget to bring along your digital camera so you can take pictures of the beautiful winter scenery as you explore!

Here are some great family safety tips that will help to protect you and your family.

Ten tips for the active family to stay safe while on the go

(ARA) – Activities such as soccer practice, football games, student council meetings, volunteer events and parent-teacher conferences tend to fill family schedules in the fall, quickly replacing the lazy days of summer with extracurricular activities. While many find it refreshing for the family unit to get back into a routine, hectic schedules can often lead to miscommunication among family members and a relaxed attitude toward safety.

“Fall brings an abundance of schedule changes and families working to adapt to new routines,” says Rebecca Smith, vice president of marketing for Master Lock. “As each family member strives to balance various activities, it’s essential that families discuss security measures they should take to ensure they safely maintain their busy lifestyles.”

Here are some family safety tips:

1. Secure your home. With people coming and going at different times, each family member should understand the importance of locking all points of entry when leaving, including dead-bolting doors, windows, sliding glass doors and garage/shed doors to bolster your home’s safety.

2. Keep your home active. For periods of time where most members of the family will be away, schedule a dog walker to come over or ask a neighbor to retrieve your mail. This helps to ensure that your home still appears to have people coming and going regularly – a natural theft deterrent.

3. Utilize key safes. Whether you’re storing a house key for children to access after school or for your mother-in-law who baby-sits, a Master Lock key safe will allow them access to your home without the risk of losing a key in transit, allowing parties to enter safely, even if no one is home.

4. Establish a “home alone” routine. If your child gets home from school while you are at work, or if your family is involved in activities on weekends, it’s important to have guidelines for your children to follow when home alone. These include locking the door immediately behind them after entering the house, not spending time outside and not answering the door for any visitors.

5. No notes. Many families leave notes on their front doors to communicate a change in schedule. Communication this important should happen directly via phone call, text message or voicemail – not out in the open for everyone to see.

6. Share schedules. Be sure that your family is aware of each other’s schedules, including work, school and extracurricular activities. Keeping a calendar updated with everyone’s commitments in a common room such as the kitchen will prevent miscommunication about who will be home and when.

7. Create an emergency plan. Every family should have a plan that details what to do in case of an emergency. This should include a list of numbers to call and steps to follow should anything happen to the home while a member of the family is there alone.

8. Communicate with neighbors. Communicate your schedules with a friendly, watchful neighbor you trust and empower him or her as an extra set of eyes and ears, keeping watch on your home when you can’t be there.

9. Set social media rules. In today’s digital age, location-based services are growing in popularity with both kids and adults. Set a family social media policy to limit check-ins and location information being made too readily available online to ensure your family’s schedule does not become too predictable.

10. Secure items on-the-go. Whether you’re headed out for a walk or to a soccer game, odds are you are carrying several valuables including keys, a wallet and cell phone. Secure these items in a small, portable safe secured to a fixed item such as a fence, allowing you to relax and enjoy any activity.

For more security tips and solutions for families on the go, visit www.masterlock.com. Also be sure to apply the above family safety tips into your household

For more home safety tips, visit Real Life Solutions.