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How to Encourage Your Child to Love Reading

Encourage your child to love reading by surrounding them with books.

Guest post by Jassica Mendez

You probably know by now that reading helps kids develop intellectually and emotionally. Benefits of reading include speech development, vocabulary building, and learning new things. The only problem is that most kids don’t develop a passion for reading naturally. On the one hand, this can happen because they are not exposed to it enough from an early age. This is why reading to them and telling them stories are considered some of the bedtime routines that are most effective for kids. On the other hand, this can be caused by the fact that we, as parents, and their teachers put too much pressure on them to read. As a result, we take all the fun out of it. But don’t worry because you’ve got options. Just take a look at these tips on how to encourage your child to love reading.

1. Start Early

As a general rule, it’s never too early to start reading to your child. Even if they are too little to understand the content, this promotes early language development. So, even if you have a newborn, you should make the time to read to them. As they grow, they will begin to observe the pictures, turn the pages, and recognize repetitive sounds. Finally, they will learn how to speak and, eventually, read independently.

black father reading to a baby
Start reading to your child early.

Therefore, reading to them is one of the simplest ways to encourage learning from a very early age. Thus, you must make a routine out of it. It doesn’t matter if you read to them right before bed or after dinner as long as you do it daily. To make things a bit more interesting for both of you, you can make comments on the characters in the book or make funny voices.

2. Create A Cozy Space

If you want to encourage your child to love reading, you should set up a cozy space for it. Pick a quiet spot in your home and get creative. You don’t even have to build a traditional reading nook if you don’t have too much space. You can simply improvise a tent using two chairs and a blanket. Then, to make it cozier, you can add pillows and blankets inside, together with a small lamp. Your child will love spending time there, making the entire reading experience more appealing to them.

A cozy tent
To encourage your child to love reading, set up a cozy reading space.

3. Surround Them With Books

By surrounding your child with books, you’ll inevitably pique their interest. After all, kids are very curious by nature. Therefore, you should stash books around the house to make them accessible to your child. You can even buy waterproof books for them to explore during bathtime.

Now, if you don’t want your child to lose interest, you should change the books regularly. While they are little, you can simply rotate the books every once in a while. But this will stop working as they get older. In any case, if you are planning to have another child, you should look for ways to keep your books safe until then. One of the best tips for storing books is to find a dry place with no exposure to extreme temperatures. Otherwise, they’ll get damaged.

4. Set A Good Example

Setting a good example for your kids is essential, as they usually take their cues from adults. Even from an early age, they pay close attention to your behavior and try to imitate it. Therefore, one of the best ways to encourage them to love books is to let them see you read often. By doing so, you’ll also encourage them to spend more time away from screens. So, it’s a win-win solution. Furthermore, you should also talk with them about the books you’re reading and why you enjoy them so much.

Woman smiling while reading a book
Set a good example for your child by letting them see you read often.

5. Match Their Interests

You should always inquire about your child’s interests and try to find books on that topic. This will make reading a lot more fun and exciting for them. It doesn’t matter if they are interested in magic or science because your goal is to encourage them to love reading. They have all the time in the world to read serious and challenging books. But for now, let them have some fun with it.

6. Discuss Every Book

When your child is very young, it’s important to ask them questions about the books you read to them to determine how much they understood and offer additional explanations, if necessary. This will make the entire experience more enjoyable for them and will keep their interest piqued. And you should make a habit of discussing every book even as your kid gets older to make sure they don’t lose interest.

7. Watch The Movie After You Finish The Book

One of the biggest concerns nowadays is that kids no longer read the classics because all those books have been turned into movies. So, if you want to prevent this from happening, you should show your child how much gets lost in the process. Just pick a classic and read it together with your kid. Afterward, watch the movie adaptation and discuss the differences. In time, they will come to realize that books are better than movies.

8. Start A Book Club

Kids don’t take their cues only from adults but from other kids as well. Thus, if you want to encourage your child to love reading, you should also involve other kids in the process. And what better way to do this than by starting a book club?

Don’t worry; you won’t have to coordinate a large group. You can simply ask your child to ask a friend. Then pick an age-appropriate book, and set a deadline for reading it. When the time comes, you can organize a get-together at your place, order pizza, and discuss the book with the kids.

Conclusion
Reading is very important for your child’s development. However, kids usually need a little push to develop a passion for reading. Just be careful not to go overboard and force it on them because this will have the opposite effect. Instead, use these tips on how to encourage your child to love reading and remember always to set a good example for them.

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Understanding the Impact of Stress on Diabetes

understanding the impact of stress on diabetes

By Jassica Mendez

How does stress impact diabetes? Stress is something that many of us experience at some point in our lives. It can be caused by several things, including work, family issues, money problems, etc. When we are stressed out, our bodies react with a surge of hormones.

The Impact of Stress on Diabetes

When it comes to diabetes, stress can affect your blood sugar levels by causing changes in the way your body processes insulin. Insulin is the hormone that helps control blood sugar levels. When you’re under stress, your body releases other hormones called catecholamines (adrenaline and noradrenaline) which increase blood glucose levels by encouraging insulin resistance or reducing sensitivity to insulin’s effects on cells throughout the body. This condition makes it harder for you to manage your diabetes effectively and trigger complications such as eye damage due to high blood pressure; one of the most common complications associated with diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2).

How Stress Affects Blood Sugar Control

Stress can have a big impact on blood sugar control, making it harder to manage your diabetes effectively. Stress can make you skip meals, overeat, or eat unhealthy foods. This can lead to weight gain and, in turn, increase your risk of developing diabetes-related complications. Stress may also cause you to feel unmotivated or fatigued while doing simple tasks such as taking your medication or going for a walk–and this will impact how well you manage your blood sugar levels.

cereal and various fruits
Chronic stress may increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Stress May Increase the Risk of Developing Type 2 Diabetes

Chronic stress may increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. According to some studies, the stress hormone cortisol may play a role in developing type 2 diabetes. Cortisol helps your body respond to stress by increasing blood sugar levels and releasing fat from storage sites to provide energy for running away or fighting against danger. But when cortisol levels remain high over time, they may cause damage to your pancreas which can lead to insulin resistance.

Stress Can Make it Harder to Manage Diabetes Effectively

If you already have Type 2 diabetes, stress can make it harder to manage your diabetes effectively. Stress may cause you to get less sleep, miss a dose of medication, and exercise less. This can result in high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). If this happens regularly, it can lead to long-term complications such as heart disease or nerve damage.

In situations like moving to a new home, the impact of stress on diabetes can be very obvious. For people with diabetes, dealing with stress when moving can be emotionally and physically demanding. Luckily, there are many ways to reduce stress during this time, and one of them is to start making plans early on.

Taking steps to manage stress can help promote good health and healthy habits.

Stress is a common trigger for unhealthy habits, such as poor eating and sleeping, smoking, alcohol and drug use, and lack of exercise. Stress can also cause you to be less active in general.

Water bottle and green food
When stressed, your pancreas may produce more insulin than it normally would.

Managing Stress and Diabetes Through Exercise

Exercise is a great way to manage stress and improve your overall health. It can help you sleep better, lose weight, and even manage your diabetes.

If you’re not exercising regularly, start small by doing something daily. You can try walking around the block for five minutes or taking the stairs instead of the elevator at work. Combine this habit with some healthy snacks, and you’ll be on a good track to managing diabetes. You don’t have to spend hours at the gym; even small amounts of activity add up over time!

Stress Can Trigger Diabetes-Related Complications

Stress can trigger diabetes-related complications. When stressed, your body releases the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline. These stress hormones cause the release of sugar into your bloodstream, which can lead to high blood sugar levels. Your pancreas may produce more insulin than it normally would, resulting in low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Hypoglycemia can cause dizziness, shakiness, and fatigue, making it difficult to do daily activities such as exercise or work on a computer without feeling tired after only 15 minutes of activity.

The more often this happens over time, the more likely it will become difficult for your body to manage its blood sugar levels appropriately when under stress again in future situations where those same hormones are released. Studies show that chronic stress may not only increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, it can also increase your risk of developing heart disease and depression.

Raspberry on white sugar
Keep in mind that healthy alternatives to sugar could help with cravings.

When you’re feeling stressed or anxious about something that’s going on in your life, it can be tempting to turn to substances like food or alcohol for comfort. In fact, research has shown that stress promotes overeating. When stressed about something else happening in our lives, we tend not only to eat more but also to choose higher-calorie foods over healthier options. Stress can be a significant trigger in this situation, but there are ways you can minimize it and keep it under control. Keep in mind that healthy alternatives to sugar (like fruit and organic sweets) could help with the cravings.

Conclusion

What you’ll need to do is get more information about diabetes and learn how to live with it. The bottom line is that stress can be a major factor in managing diabetes. It’s important to understand the impact of stress on diabetes and what types of stressors affect you, and how they affect your body, so you can take steps to manage them. The best way to do this is by practicing mindfulness techniques, like meditation or yoga, which have been shown time and again as
effective ways to reduce anxiety levels without being dependent on drugs or alcohol.

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Navigating School Life With Type 1 Diabetes

Parents can partner with their school and plan to help kids manage school and type 1 diabetes.

If you are a parent whose child has been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, you know how overwhelming it can be. Once diagnosed, your child and the rest of the family enter an entirely new world. This world involves frequent blood sugar checks, insulin injections, and carb counting. Luckily, the good news is that, with a little ahead planning and preparation, your child can thrive at school and beyond. If you’re starting or changing schools, you must talk to your
child about their condition to make the transition as comprehensible and smooth as possible. Our article will guide you through the ins and outs of navigating school life with type 1 diabetes. Hopefully, we’ll succeed in giving you and your child the confidence to tackle any challenges that come your way.

Alt tag: A mother and daughter holding a diabetes sign and smiling to the camera as they're doing well at navigating school life with type 1 diabetes.

How To Do School Life With Type 1 Diabetes?

Moving homes and schools and starting a new life can be challenging, and it requires a little extra preparation and planning with kids. And, you would know, a tiny bit extra on top of that if your child has diabetes when packing extra snacks, glucose monitoring supplies, emergency supplies, etc. So, whether your child is starting a completely new school or moving up a grade, it’s crucial to ensure they have all the tools and support they need to help them go through the process and succeed. Therefore, make sure you get your child ready for what lies ahead – the packing and moving process, a new house, new friends, school, school staff, brand new doctors, and so on. To help you further in your journey, we consulted parents and professionals and provided helpful advice on navigating school life with type 1 diabetes. 

Work With The School Team

Working with your child’s school team is the first step in managing type 1 diabetes while at school. Teachers, school nurses, coaches, and administrators are included in this. They should be informed of your child’s condition and clearly understand their medical needs. That can consist of some of the following:
● An Emergency Action Plan
● Regular Blood Glucose Monitoring
● Insulin Injections During The School Day

A school teacher high-fiving a student.
The school’s staff should be informed about your child’s condition and aware of their medical requirements.

Also, it might be a good idea to encourage the school to hold workshops and training sessions on diabetes. This way, everyone will become knowledgeable and able to offer the required support. Furthermore, other parents and children experiencing the same situation might get additional help and maybe even feel less lonely on this journey. Ultimately, these workshops can be eye-opening to parents of children with undiagnosed diabetes.

Plan For Success

When it comes to managing type 1 diabetes at school, preparation is the key. That includes preparing for classwork and homework, as well as for physical activities and lunch. Also, it would be good to talk to your child about their daily routine and help them develop a schedule that works for them. 

Another crucial thing for you is ensuring they have all the necessary tools and materials. These might include:
● A Glucose Meter
● An Insulin pump
● Snacks

Along with this whole preparation, it will be beneficial in the long run to encourage them to take responsibility for their health and well-being and, therefore, to be proactive.

Collaborate With Cafeteria Staff

Unfortunately, eating in the school cafeteria can be a real challenge for kids diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. The best solution would be to talk to the school cafeteria. This way, you can ensure your child has access to healthy, nutritious, and low-carbohydrate food options.

Child eating in the cafeteria.
The school cafeteria is a significant challenge when navigating school life with type 1 diabetes.

The low-carb food options will help regulate their blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of hypoglycemia. That is why working this matter with the cafeteria out and having them provide alternative options is vital. Ultimately, you can encourage your child to bring their lunch to school if you don’t feel satisfied with the cafeteria’s offer.

Foster good communication to navigate school life with type 1 diabetes favorably. When it comes to managing type 1 diabetes at school, good communication is essential. That is why you should encourage your child to communicate openly with their teachers and classmates so that they are aware of the condition and how it affects your child.

Another idea is to encourage and help your child in managing their diabetes. They should be able to speak up for their needs, especially at school. Moreover, having regular check-ins with the school nurse and teacher will help ensure that your child’s needs are met and that any concerns are addressed promptly.

Encourage Physical Activity

As we all know, physical activity is essential for everyone. However, this statement stands even more for children with type 1 diabetes, as it helps regulate blood sugar levels and improves overall health.

That’s why it’s vital to encourage your kid to participate in physical activities at school. But on the other hand, ensuring that their teachers and coaches understand the importance of monitoring their blood sugar levels during exercise is another must-do.

Two girls running as physical activity is crucial for navigating school life with type 1 diabetes.
Working with the school in providing a safe environment for your child’s physical activity is equally important as everything mentioned above.

Join Support Groups

Subsequently, there are numerous support groups and resources for families that have children with type 1 diabetes. Joining a local support group can be a great source of information, encouragement, and support. Alternatively, you can find many helpful websites and groups online and on social media platforms, such as Facebook groups.

These resources will help you navigate your and your child’s life with type 1 diabetes. Also, they will offer you support from people walking in your shoes. And, sometimes, words of support and encouragement are all we need to get going and succeed in this situation.

Final Words On Navigating School Life With Type 1 Diabetes

Navigating school life with type 1 diabetes can be a challenge. However, with the proper preparation and advice, it will make everything very doable. By following our advice, you will be able to encourage your kid to take care of themselves and know when to ask for help. While informing everyone at school will make you feel at rest in case there’s an emergency. That’s why your child can live a full life, including their school years, and thrive in all areas of life with the proper support and preparation.

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Bedtime Routines That Are Most Effective For Kids

A girl asleep hugging a teddy bear.

Grownups are all too familiar with the importance of rest for one’s body and soul. Whenever
offered some, they will take it as the nicest little perk life can provide us with. But children
are new to this world and always want to stay awake just a bit longer to explore. But to develop
properly, they must get enough sleep. Unfortunately, they are too young to put rest on their
priority list. So it’s up to parents to find ways to ease them into the proper sleep schedule that
will benefit their health. With that in mind, here are the bedtime routines that are most effective
for kids.

A Warm Bath Followed By A Warm Cup Of Milk

If you want to be scientific about it, showering 3 hours before bedtime enhances the natural
processes that lead to falling asleep. Namely, the body cools down as the time for bed
approaches. And showering at a certain time helps that. In the case of children, it is not much
different. Regular showering at the end of the day also helps them build personal hygiene habits that are among the important skills every child needs to acquire. The warm water will help relax their muscles and prepare them for comfy sheets and even more comfortable pillows.


After the shower, you can offer your kid a cup of warm milk. This soothing liquid adored by
millions has been proven to help kids and adults alike fall asleep for generations. And here’s a
fun fact about it. By giving a warm glass of it to your child regularly before bed, you will be
creating a healthy sleeping potion for them for the future. Adults that have been given warm milk
before bed as children unconsciously associate it with warmth and sleepiness in their adult years.
A cool trick, right?

A person bathing a child as part of the bedtime routine.
Give your child a nice bath a few hours before bed, which will speed up the natural processes of falling asleep.

A Bedtime Storytime

A child’s imagination has great potential and constantly seeks stimulation. That is why children
like stories. Besides, children love it when you focus your full attention on them, which you
certainly will by reading a story to them. Or tell them one you just made up, whichever works
better for you. As kids are not keen on going to bed, they will accept it more eagerly if they
know that bed is the place where you hear some beautiful tales. Those excerpts from the fairy
tale will fire up their imagination to develop the most amazing dreams.


Reading to your child before bed is not only one of the best bedtime routines but also an
excellent opportunity to introduce them to learning new things the fun way. You can read fun
facts about different types of animals or about other countries. That way, they would be learning
and falling asleep at the same time.

A woman and a little girl covered in a blanket are reading a story.
One of the most effective bedtime routines includes reading your child a story that will inspire nice dreams.

A Pre-sleep Massage

One study conducted a few years ago concluded that massaging a child for about 15 minutes as part of
the bedtime routine leads to it being more relaxed and falling asleep faster. Well, this is
probably not only true about children but let’s focus on them for the moment. If your child feels
restless and uninterested in sleeping, try this technique, it should work quite fine. Of course, we
are not talking about the actual muscle-squeezing, aggressive massage. It should be more like
scratching and cuddling, but it serves the same purpose.

A Relaxing Game

Some kids need gradual transitioning from hyperactive running around to falling asleep. To
achieve this, you can encourage a half hour of relaxing playing that includes board games or
something else that is sedentary.

Parents can also participate in this and take the opportunity to chat with the kid along the way.
If significant changes are coming, such as moving, this may be the perfect opportunity to gently
break the news to the child. That way, when the time comes to pack your kid’s room and get it
ready for transfer, it will be a less stressful experience. The child will be prepared for it.

A boy playing chess.
Active children can transition to sleeping by engaging in more relaxing activities that do not involve too much running around.

Turn Off Electronic Devices

Unfortunately, our children have become somewhat addicted to electronic devices of various
types. That comes with many consequences for their development, of which rarely any are
positive. In the context of falling asleep, staring at phones, tablets, TVs, and computers is hugely
detrimental. Introducing the period without these can make your child fall asleep much faster
and more soundly. How to do that? Well, one option is to lead by example. You can’t expect
your child to peacefully accept a no-phone period while you are staring at your phone at that
time.

Always remember that children learn from us even when we are not telling them what to do. For
them, we are the teachers of life, and we do everything right. Therefore, if a mom is on her
phone all day and holds it in her hand before falling asleep, the kid thinks that is exactly what
one should be doing. So, for the benefit of your children’s healthy sleep routine, control your
urge to indulge in the electronic device world.

Listen To A Lullaby

Finally, one should never underestimate the simple old ways that have been effective for
centuries. For children (and adults alike, as a matter of fact), certain lulling melodies act as
relaxants that make them dreamy fairly quickly. You can sing if you can, and that is something
kids love. But a recorded melody will do as well. Furthermore, this technique is easy to perform.
It will bond you with your child and promote sweet dreams.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, the point of all these bedtime routines that are most effective for kids is to make
them relaxed enough to enter the world of sleep the best way possible. Your child will quickly
get used to it, and falling asleep on time will be a breeze. So good luck with it, and good night!

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Healthy Alternatives To Help Curb Sugar Cravings

By Jassica Mendez


Sugar is everywhere. In stores, our houses, and, apparently, our heads. The human brain
functions mainly on glucose, and it likes to demand it now and then, even if it doesn’t need it.
You’ve fantasized about a stuffed, creamy chocolate donut in an unreasonable hour? Don’t
worry; we’ve all been there. Let’s go over some healthy alternatives to help you curb sugar
cravings.

Ginger Is Your New Best Friend


If you’ve ever taken a ginger shot when you had a craving, you know what we’re talking about.
Ginger is one of the most powerful yet underestimated ingredients we have the honor to have.
What could possibly an ugly little piece of white roots do? Well, everything! It has amazing
active components that:

  • Stimulate Thermogenesis 
  • Reduce Cholesterol
  • Regulate Insulin Secretion (and glucose levels as a result)
  • Stimulate The Sympathetic Autonomic System
  • Increase Focus (as a result of a previously listed effect)
  • Help With Detoxing
a tea with ginger

Why Is It So Magical?


Our friendly neighboring ginger can help you in more ways than one. As for sugar cravings, we
recommend that you use them to curb cravings you feel in the morning or during the day. Those
cravings are mostly present because your brain feels like it needs more fuel to burn for the daily
tasks, or you’re stressed out. Whatever the reason behind it, a ginger shot or adding ginger to
your smoothie can make it all go away by regulating insulin and glucose levels.


Also, it will improve your focus, so it’s not a bad idea to make it your regular morning drink. But
wait – there’s more! The stimulation of thermogenesis and sympathetic regulation of the
cardiovascular system can be extremely helpful in any weight loss program, so you might use it
for that too. Also, drinking ginger juice in the morning can be an excellent substitute for sugary
drinks and help you decrease the risk of getting diabetes. If we had to pick one thing from this
list, ginger would definitely be our top pick.

Dark Chocolate Is Best


Many people mention eating chocolate when asked what they eat to satisfy their sweet tooth.
However, if you really must have chocolate, you may satisfy your appetite while still making
healthy food choices by selecting dark chocolate.

Any chocolate with a cocoa content of 70% or above is considered dark chocolate. It also has
polyphenols, which are beneficial plant components. There is preliminary evidence that these
polyphenols’ antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may assist boost cardiovascular health
indicators. Dark chocolate may satisfy a sweet tooth, but like milk chocolate, it’s also high in calories and fat, so moderation is key. You can set a great example for your kids and show them how to replace sugary milk chocolate treats with a darker and healthier solution on time.

Dark chocolate and berries.
A piece of dark chocolate a day keeps the doctor away.

Calm Your Nerves


Dark chocolate is also known to increase levels of serotonin when consumed. It can improve
your mood and help you relax in stressful times. This is the main reason why experts
at heavenlymove.com advise their clients to take a bit of dark chocolate to curb their cravings
during stressful moves. You can, of course, apply this knowledge to your personal use in any
way you like. 

Chia Seeds Are Next In Line


Seeds from the chia plant, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, soluble fiber, and other beneficial plant
elements, are nutritious. To be exact, soluble fiber makes up around 40% of chia seeds. This
fiber can quickly absorb water, expanding to a jelly-like consistency in the digestive tract. This
may help you feel fuller for longer and reduce your sugar urges. Since chia seeds are so
adaptable, you may use this recipe for chia pudding or come up with your sweet treat using chia
seeds. If your child has diabetes, you can use chia to make delicious snacks they can fully enjoy.

Schedule A Date With Dates


In today’s article, we won’t be talking about romance and relationships but about something
rather delicious and healthy. Dates are an excellent source of fiber, potassium, iron, and
beneficial plant components, even after drying. A handful of dates is a healthier alternative to
soda or sweets when you’re craving something sweet.


Consider mixing nuts like almonds if you want a sweet and crunchy snack. But remember that
dates are still quite sweet, so eat just a handful at a time.

What About Prunes?


Next in line with our healthy alternatives are dried plums (called prunes among their friends). They’re
highly delicious and nutritious, much like dates. They’re a better choice than sweets when you’re
craving something sweet.


And that’s not the only thing these can help you with! Constipation may be alleviated because of
their high level of fiber and containing natural sorbitol. Sorbitol, a sugar alcohol found in nature,
has a pleasant flavor, and your body absorbs it slowly. That’s why it is used on its own as a
sweetener too. You can use sorbitol to sweeten your homemade cookies without glucose, and
they’ll still turn out great!

Jars with dried fruit.
Keep a jar with prunes in your kitchen, and you’ll always have a healthy alternative to help you curb sugar cravings.

Final Thoughts


We shared our top picks with you, but there are many more healthy alternatives to help you curb
sugar cravings! Among others, you can consider yogurt, berries, and legumes. Another critical
thing to note is – to make sure to check the labels and ingredients on everything you buy. Sugar
may be hiding in unexpected places. You might think you’re not taking it when there is quite a
lot. The more you take it, the more you’ll crave it. So, try these healthy alternatives and lead your
life in a healthier direction, not ruled by sugar addiction. We root for you!

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Life Skills To Teach Your Child By Age 10

A child showing painted palms for 10 life skills to teach your child by age 10

When we discuss the hardest and most high-pressure jobs, we often mention police officers, firefighters, surgeons, etc. And while all that is true, one more “job” takes the top spot. And that it is being a parent. While they don’t run into buildings on fire or do difficult surgeries daily, parents are doing equally important jobs. They are raising the next generation, which comes with its challenges.

Parents have a huge responsibility to make sure their kids grow up to be good people who contribute to our society. They need to give their children love, care, and attention and lead by example. But emotional support and care are not the only things a parent must do to ensure their children have a promising future. They have to make sure their children acquire certain skills, and they have to start teaching them early. And that will be the topic of our article today. We will talk about the life skills to teach your child by age 10.

Our List Of Life Skills To Teach Your Child By Age 10


Some basic skills will be on our list, like cleaning and making a snack. But also emotional skills your child should know. Emotional skills shouldn’t be put aside. They are very important later in life. For example, if you are someone with a history of addiction, you want to do everything in your power to prevent your child from inheriting your addiction. And the only way to do that is to take actions to prevent this at an early age. You have to focus on teaching your child emotional intelligence and asking for help at an early age. Now check out our list:

  • Personal Hygiene
  • Introducing Themselves
  • Make A Snack
  • Making Decisions
  • Asking for help
  • Cleaning Their Room
  • Dressing Themselves
  • Being Focused
  • Money Management
a little girl brushing her teeth
Kids need to learn how to take of their personal hygiene

Basic Hygiene

Before your child turns ten, they need to know how to take care of their hygiene. When they are very little, you do all that for them. You bathe them, wash their hair and moisturize them. But there comes the point when they have to learn to do that for themselves. A normal ten-year-old needs to know when it’s time to brush their teeth, take a bath, etc. You can make a little colorful timetable to make this easier for your kids. There you can write down when it’s time to wash their teeth in the morning and evening, when it’s time to take a bath etc. And put that list in your kid’s room so they can see it. After a while, that will turn into a habit, and they won’t need the timetable to remind them anymore.

How To Introduce Themselves

Kids need to acquire certain social skills before they turn ten. If not, they could grow up to be isolated, socially awkward people. For some kids, this comes easy, and they don’t need much help. But some kids are naturally shy and need a bit more time. Start by teaching them how to introduce themselves to strangers. They need to learn to say hello and say their name. Also, teach them basic phrases like thank you, please, and sorry.

a little girl cooking with her mom. One of the life skills to teach your child by age 10 is making a simple meal
Kids should know how to make a sandwich or some toast

Make A Snack

They are still too young to learn how to cook but not too young to know how to make a simple meal for themselves. They shouldn’t have to call you every time they want a little snack. The first thing to teach them is to make a sandwich. You can also teach them to make toast or a healthy snack. But in that case, be very careful and teach them how to use the toaster carefully and not get injured.

Making Decisions

Too often, kids grow up to be dependent on their parents for everything, especially when it comes to decision-making. That’s an issue that most likely stems from their childhood. So that’s the time to start working on and preventing that. You need to allow your children to make their own decisions. And that starts with the simplest things. What toy do you want to play with? What color do you want the walls in your room to be? What do you want to wear? Those are simple minor issues, but they are very efficient in building your child’s decision-making skills.

Asking for help

It may not sound like it but knowing how to ask for help is also a skill. Sometimes if kids are not adequately encouraged to ask for help, they tend to keep things that bother them inside. This usually continues in their teenage years and adulthood and creates emotional issues. According to experts at brightfuturestreatment.com, children who don’t acquire basic emotional skills in childhood are more likely to have addiction issues later on.

little girl hanging clothes
Kids should know how to keep their rooms tidy

Cleaning Their Room

There comes a point when you need to stop doing everything for your kids, including cleaning their rooms. This is a great opportunity to start teaching them to be responsible and aware of their space. Kids like being dependable and letting you do all the chores for them. And you need to be very clear that this is unacceptable. Of course, you do this slowly. Don’t make the whole room their responsibility right away. Start by teaching them to make their bed. After a while, add picking up toys to their list of chores. Little by little, they will be cleaning their entire room by themselves.

How To Dress Themselves

One of the life skills to teach your child by age ten is to dress themselves. When they are very little and still in kindergarten, normally, you dress them every morning. But after that, it is time they start doing that for themselves. Picking out clothes that are appropriate for school should become their routine. And it shouldn’t be too hard to learn. They have seen you pick your clothes, and chances are they already know how to do it. By age 10, they should pick out and prepare their clothes the night before so they can get ready on their own in the morning.

Focusing On A Task

When kids are very little, they have a lot of energy and short attention spans. How many times did you give them a new toy, and they play with it for a short time and then just leave it? Well, that issue won’t magically disappear overnight. You have to teach them to stay on task and not put things off. Like doing homework or cleaning their room. And the earlier you start doing this, the better.

Kids should learn the history and role of money

Appreciate Money

Everybody knows that scene in a store when kids are running after their parents demanding they buy something for them. Kids don’t know the value of money yet. Teach them the history of money and how to buy things on their own. Practice by sending them to buy their favorite candy and giving them enough money for exactly that. That way, they will learn to appreciate money and be grateful when you buy them something.

In Conclusion

These are the life skills we recommend you teach your child by age 10. As you can see, there is nothing too extreme, just basic life skills every kid should know. You just have to be patient and encourage them to learn. We hope our list was useful to you and made being a parent at least a little bit easier.

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The Most Common Signs Of A Child With Undiagnosed Diabetes

insulin pen, diabetic measurement tools, and pills

About 283,000 Americans under age 20 are diagnosed with diabetes, making it the most common endocrine disease in children. Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the body either does not produce the pancreatic hormone insulin or does not use it properly. Insulin controls the level of glucose in the blood and the amount of sugar absorbed into the cells. Glucose is our primary energy source for all bodily functions. But, without insulin, glucose stays in our blood and can’t reach cells.

Although diabetes has no cure, there is a way to manage it and stay healthy. That is why it is essential to recognize the most common signs of a child with undiagnosed diabetes on time. Early treatment can prevent complications later on.

What are the types of diabetes?

Two types of diabetes can affect children. Both are rising due to numerous factors, such as pollution, poor eating habits, and lack of physical activity.

TYPE 1

The causes of type 1 diabetes can be genetic. Still, sometimes it occurs more often due to autoimmune damage to the pancreas during viral infections, so insulin is either reduced or not secreted. It can develop at any age but is most common in children and adolescents. It requires mandatory compensation for insulin because there is an almost complete lack of this hormone.

TYPE 2

Type 2 diabetes results from two interrelated causes. The first is insufficient secretion of insulin in the pancreas. Another reason is the inability of our cells to respond to insulin, which is why they can’t take in sugar properly. Commonly it is diagnosed in older adults, but its prevalence in children is increasing due to obesity, physical inactivity, and poor diet. It often has a slow, gradual onset that makes detection and diagnosis difficult in children.

What Are The Most Common Signs Of A Child With
Undiagnosed Diabetes?

The most common symptoms of diabetes in children we often call the 4 Ts:
● Toilet
● Thirsty
● Tired
● Thinner

Toilet

Under normal circumstances, kidneys absorb excess glucose from the bloodstream. But if there
is too much glucose in the blood, the kidneys will not be able to absorb it completely. Your
kidneys produce more urine to remove excess glucose from the body, which leads to more
frequent urination. This urge may be more prevalent at night. Any change in the frequency of
urination in your child, primarily if it occurs at night, might be a sign of a child with undiagnosed
diabetes. 

Little girl drinking water
A constant feeling of thirst is a sign of a child with undiagnosed diabetes


Thirsty

A constant feeling of thirst is associated with frequent urination. Excess sugar in the blood leads
to water withdrawal from the tissues and its transfer into the bloodstream, which causes
dehydration. As the kidneys remove excess water, the person becomes further dehydrated,
causing them to consume more water and feel thirsty.

Tired

A child with undiagnosed diabetes may feel constantly tired. The lack of sugar available to the
cell decreases energy production, which is why children feel fatigued. They may feel sluggish
even after a good night’s sleep. Parents should also pay attention to the ups and downs in their
energy levels during the day.


Thinner

Changes in body weight are regular before the diagnosis of diabetes. Weight loss occurs due to
the body’s inability to obtain enough nutrients from the food it consumes. If your child shows an
increased appetite and eats more but still loses weight, it is one of the signs that your child may
have undiagnosed diabetes. Keep in mind that type 2 diabetes can lead to gradual weight gain. 
If you notice any 4T signs, take your child to the doctor and insist on a blood glucose test.

Other Signs You Should Pay Attention To


There are other early signs that the child may have diabetes. Those are: 
● Blurred vision
● Nausea and vomiting
● Belly pain
● Irritability and mood changes
● Fruity breath and fast breathing
● Yeast infection in girls


How Can I Help My Child?


Diagnosing diabetes in a child can be a stressful experience for the entire family, both the parents
and the child. As a parent, you may wonder how you can help your child accept and take control
of their illness while still having all the carefree childhood experiences.

Learn To Control Diabetes

Learn how to control diabetes. Ask a doctor to tell you how to recognize the symptoms of low
and high blood sugar and what to do in these situations. Inform the kindergarten teachers or
school teachers about this, as well as others in constant contact with your child. Check your
child’s blood glucose level regularly. When your child reaches the required age, teach him to do
it independently and to give himself insulin injections correctly. There are several myths about
diabetes that are widespread. Get to know the facts.
 

A girl playing tennis
Physical activity is crucial in diabetes control

Build Diabetes-Friendly Environment

Quality of life is essential for keeping diabetes under control. Research has clearly shown a link
between pollution and insulin resistance, so it’s best to avoid such areas if possible. Physical
activity is one of the crucial aspects of diabetes control. Ensure your child has access to
playgrounds,  sports fields, and regular exercise. If you decide to change your current place of
residence and find one more suitable for you and your family, professionals from
cleancutmoving.com recommend hiring the best moving company to help you with this task.

Bowl of fruit and oatmealvegetable salad
Make a good meal plan

Eat Healthily 

Diet is important for diabetes control. Make a good meal plan. Try to get your child to eat foods
high in fiber, such as whole grains, vegetables, and foods with a lower glycemic index. Discover
new healthy recipes that will make meals more diverse.

Final Words

Early detection is essential in diabetes because early treatment can prevent serious
complications. That is why it is necessary to recognize the most common signs of a child with
undiagnosed diabetes and consult a doctor if needed. We hope this text can help you with that.

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Simple Ways To Encourage Learning

black father reading to a baby

By Jassica Mendez

Personality significantly shapes a child’s outlook on school and their general disposition toward learning. Every child can improve their learning abilities with the right motivation and a solid grasp of the fundamentals. It’s best to start fostering learning and engaging with the world from a young age. That is not as hard as it may sound. Here are a few simple ways to encourage learning.

1. Read To Them

The best way to help your kid learn is to read to them. It’s always nice to spend time reading to your kid. If your kids love their bedtime stories, try replacing a fairytale with a story about preserving the environment. Occasionally change out the type of stories you read them. You can introduce them to comic books and animated children‘s books or have them pick out a book they want themselves. If they enjoy being at the bookstore, you could even take out a library card for them so they may borrow books when they wish. Is a dinosaur the protagonist in their favorite work of fiction? Get a dinosaur-related nonfiction book from the library and read it together. Set aside time every day to read aloud to one another, whether before supper, at bedtime, or in the tub.

a mom reading a book to her toddler
Reading to your kids is one of the best ways to engage them in learning and an excellent bonding time for you.

2. Explore Their Passion

Consider what your youngster is into or excited about right now. Did they really like reading about space? Do they have a fascination with insects? If your kid loves cars, for example, you can take them on a weekly adventure and explore different forms of transportation around your city. You can take the metro, a city bus, then a shuttle bus around your area. Your kid would love to try out various rides. If you are moving soon, Master Moving Guide advises you to help them pack your trunk or moving truck. That’s an excellent opportunity to develop their spacial organization skill. A farm or environment center would be a great place to take your kid if they love animals. And if they appreciate art, discover a nearby art show. During field trips, their passions are elevated to the level of an adventure, and what we consider routine may seem extraordinary to them.

3. Make It Fun

There are always ways to make learning fun. Think about those green smoothie recipes that taste nice enough that your youngster doesn’t notice the hidden spinach or kale. Even if our children don’t find a particular topic interesting, you can trick them (just like hidden spinach in the smoothie). For example, last week, my first grader informed me that he did not want to study on the weekends when I attempted to assist him with spelling. And he was really adamant about it. Then he saw I was engaged in a word game and politely requested to join in. He became so absorbed that he forgot he was also improving his spelling skills. This way, you are setting an excellent example for your kid, and as we all know, children can pick up on their parents’ habits quickly.

a family doing a project together
One of the simplest ways to encourage learning is to involve the whole family in doing a fun project.

4. Make It A project

If your kid enjoys dismantling items, you should gather damaged small appliances and give them a chance to do just that as part of a project. If your kid enjoys making things out of fabric and thread, let them be creative with it! Nothing beats the joy of building something with Legos or working on a family project together.

Even moving to a new place can be perceived as a family project. Besides all the activities it involves and many of which you can do together, you should take the opportunity to explain why the move and the change of school is necessary. To help them adapt easier, explain to your kids how important attending a good school is using the language they can understand. And tell your kid you think the world of them and that you have faith in them.

5. Bring Them Places

You don’t have to take them to a museum necessarily. Your youngster may learn a lot from a visit to a working post office or bakery or even just a stroll in the woods. Allow them to see the building process by stopping by several construction sites. While taking your kids to see plays, sports games, dances, and cultural events is fantastic, don’t forget that even the mundane things going on in your community might spark their curiosity and interest in learning. But be sure to be attentive and answer all questions they might have, even if they are silly, to the best of your ability.

a dad playing with his daughter outside
Kids can often find the littlest of things fascinating.

Alt: a dad playing with his daughter outside

Caption: Kids can often find the littlest of things fascinating.

6. Give Them Incentives

The pride your kid will feel after solving a problem, spelling out a word, or attempting something new is a great payoff for the time and effort you put into promoting their education. Make sure to reward them for their hard work, even when they struggle to find an answer. These simple ways to encourage learning are enough to spark an interest in them. Just remember to let them learn at their own pace. Encourage them to keep trying even if they get a poor outcome since the learning process is more important than the solution.

Make talking about learning a regular part of your interactions with your kid. You may help satisfy their insatiable need for information by discussing your ideas and theories with them or consulting reference materials together. Ask them free-form questions about topics that fascinate them.

People might lose out on learning opportunities when they focus too much only on mathematics, reading, and sitting still. You don’t want to risk stifling your children’s natural curiosity and enthusiasm for learning. If you set the stage for learning at every turn, you won’t even have to spend a lot of time sitting down and making them write for hours.

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Guide To Setting A Good Example For Your Kids

A father throwing his toddler into the air while the child is smiling.

Being a parent is the most important task you’ll ever have since you are in charge of shaping a member of the next generation. However, this is easier said than done. Even if you’ve read all of the parenting books out there, nothing can make you a perfect parent since such a thing does not exist. But by setting a good example for your kids, you will teach them core lessons they will take with them throughout their lives. Follow this simple guide, and you will see your child blossom by following in your footsteps.

Show and talk about your feelings

Although you should be the rock your children can lean on, you shouldn’t be afraid to show some weakness. Showing your feelings and being vulnerable with your children is incredibly beneficial for their growth since they will learn feelings are a normal part of life. This means you should share all sorts of feelings with them, whether it is about how difficult diabetes can be for you or how sad you are your family dog passed away. Be vocal about how you feel. However, do not burden them with your negative feelings to the point they’ll feel responsible for making you feel better.

Do not let emotions overwhelm you

Do you want your teenager to manage their emotions better? Well, then you should do the same! It is essential to start with this early on so they have a role model to go off of. However, it is never too late. Whenever you feel any emotion, be careful how you express it and how you act because of it. The child should learn that even though you may be angry, you are not responding violently or negatively. The same goes for any other emotion, even positive ones. Do not repress your feelings, simply manage them better for your and your child’s sake. This way, your kids will have a suitable guide to follow whenever they feel angry, unhappy, annoyed, or stressed.

Ask for their help whenever possible

Asking for their help whenever you can is a terrific method to teach your kids essential life skills and to let them know that it is ok to ask for help when necessary. The tasks you ask them to help you with should be adapted based on their age and capabilities. For example, if you are packing for a move, State to State Move advises you to ask your child for help. You could tell them you are stressed about the move and need help packing their room. Afterward, help them pack their items and teach them how to do so. Other tasks like cooking, cleaning, and organizing can also be thought of by giving them simple tasks they can achieve. However, always preface it by asking them for their valuable help.

Take care of your health

Your health is your wealth. This is why, starting at an early age, you must instill in your child the importance of caring for their physical health. The best way to do so is by teaching and reinforcing healthy habits. Do you want them to eat healthy foods? Then prepare yummy, healthy foods for the whole family. Do you want them to exercise daily? Then go on family walks and show them how much you value your health as well. Going to sleep on time, taking care of your hygiene, and having regular checkups are just a few things they can learn from your example.

A mother, father, and child cutting up fruits and vegetables in the kitchen.
Cooking healthy food with them is an amazing way of setting a good example for your kids.

Ask for their opinion

If you want to raise self-assured kids who will openly express their thoughts, it is crucial to teach your kids that their opinions count. Anytime you can get their viewpoint. For instance, if you want to remodel their room, find out what colors they prefer. Follow through with their decision or make compromises until you come to a reasonable solution that you can both agree on. You can ask them for minor or significant choices depending on their age. However, know that this means they will come to you with their opinions even if you haven’t asked. Moreover, since they are a unique person, you must accept them if they hold views that differ from your own.

Explain the decisions they may not like

No matter what, there will come a time you will have to make a decision they may not like. You might want them to brush their teeth before bed, sleep or have a doctor’s checkup. Whatever the case, you must talk to them and explain your reasoning behind these decisions. Tell them brushing their teeth will keep them healthy, they need their sleep so they can play tomorrow, and they will feel better when the doctor helps. They may not like the reasoning. However, you will be setting an excellent example for your kids by giving them the reasons behind your decisions.

Admit when you are in the wrong

Everybody makes mistakes; however, you must take accountability for them and admit when you are wrong. So, if you genuinely want to set a good example for your kids, you must tell them that even you can make a mistake. Furthermore, show them you are willing to become and do better. This will instill in them the knowledge that they should always accept responsibility for their mistakes and that doing so will help them grow as a person.

A mother talking to her toddler while her baby is strapped to her chest.
You will build a stronger bond with your children if you admit when you are wrong.

Be kind to others

The last thing you must remember to do when setting a good example for your kids is to be kind to others. Show them how you care for others around you, compliment others sincerely, listen to others, give gifts to those you care about, and always be kind. They will learn from your example, and this will help them in everyday situations such as meeting new people or adjusting to a new school. If they are at the right age, you may even show compassion by volunteering together and helping others in need.

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6 Habits That Increase The Risk Of Diabetes

Be aware and try to avoid these 6 habits that increase the risk of diabetes.

Let’s face it; it can be hard to maintain a healthy lifestyle when you’re surrounded by temptation. And there’s something to satisfy every taste: sweets, salty snacks, fast food, etc. Plus, they are everywhere. You see them at the supermarket, at the pastry shop near your office, in the hands of the person sitting next to you on the bus, and so on. Of course, nobody is forbidding you from indulging every once in a while. However, please don’t fall into the trap of making a habit out of it. And it’s not just because this can cause obesity, but it can also cause diabetes and many other health issues. So, it’s time to renew your vow to stay healthy and try to avoid these 6 habits that increase the risk of diabetes.

No. 1 Skipping Breakfast

We’ve all heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Unfortunately, when you’re in a rush to prepare your kids’ lunch boxes, get them to school and get yourself to work in the mornings, you usually end up skipping breakfast. But no matter how hard it is, you should make time for this. 

When you skip breakfast, you are much more tempted to eat fatty foods or overeat at lunch. On the one hand, this can cause weight gain. On the other hand, it causes an imbalance in your blood sugar and insulin levels. This, in turn, can result in diabetes.

Recent studies have shown that eating a healthy breakfast can reduce the risk of diabetes by 30%. So, don’t underestimate its importance. If you have no other option, at least make a healthy smoothie and drink it at the office. However, it is highly recommended to take the time and eat right. Consider eggs, fruit, and whole-grain for a rich breakfast.

A healthy breakfast consisting of whole-grain and fresh fruit.
Skipping breakfast is one of the top 6 habits that increase the risk of diabetes.

No. 2 Making Unhealthy Food Choices

We all know the theory that an unhealthy diet causes a lot of health issues. But unfortunately, many people still ignore this warning. You should know that research shows that eating highly processed foods can increase the risk of diabetes by up to 15%. And the same goes for refined carbs. All of these products are easily absorbed by your body, so you feel hungry sooner. Thus, you end up often snacking, which causes weight gain. This, in turn, can lead to insulin resistance and an increase in your blood sugar levels.

Therefore, having a healthy diet is essential in preventing diabetes and other health issues. So, focus on non-starchy vegetables (spinach, tomatoes, broccoli), whole grains (oats and brown rice), and fruit (cranberries, blueberries, strawberries). Apart from including these ingredients in your main courses, you should also include them in your snacks. Some great healthy snack ideas are out there, such as homemade protein bars or chia seed pudding.

A tomato and spinach salad.
To prevent diabetes, opt for a healthy diet that includes non-starchy vegetables such as spinach and tomatoes.

No. 3 Drinking Too Many Sugary Drinks

Studies have shown that sugary drinks are one of the leading causes of obesity in America. Moreover, they can increase the chance of diabetes by 26%. And the reason for this is that they contain empty calories that have absolutely no nutritious value. So, when you are thirsty, you should stay clear of them. Instead, opt for water. And if you still long for juice, go for fresh fruit juice or unsweetened ice tea.

A person holding a glass of water.
Sugary drinks can cause obesity and diabetes, so drink water instead.

No. 4 Going To Bed Late

The side effects are just as harmful whether you’re losing your nights partying or working. And don’t be fooled into thinking that those 8 hours of sleep during the day compensate for the night. How long you sleep is just as important as when you go to bed. Research shows that this bad habit causes an imbalance in your blood sugar levels and low insulin sensitivity. Furthermore, poor sleep also disrupts your metabolism and affects your body’s production and use of insulin. A good piece of advice is to stay away from screens for at least one hour before going to bed and read a book instead.

No. 5 Emotional Eating

Emotional eating is a significant concern. The main problem is that you tend to overeat when you’re feeling depressed. And it’s not just that, but you also tend to crave unhealthy food. All of this leads to weight gain and disrupts your blood sugar levels. Of course, everyone goes through rough times; you can’t avoid that. However, you should rely on your family and friends to get you through those rough patches to prevent emotional eating.

However, emotional eating is not only liked to depression but also stress. And the problem goes even further than that. When you’re stressed, your body releases more cortisol, which increases glucose production, leading to high blood sugar levels. 

So, to decrease the risk of diabetes, the advisors at homegrownmoving.com recommend avoiding stressful activities as much as possible. One option here would be to delegate. For example, to avoid a stressful move, hire some professionals to help you. Or ask your colleagues at work to help you with the workload.

No. 6 Being Inactive

One of the top 6 habits that increase the risk of diabetes is being inactive. Sitting all day at the office, then in your car, and finally in front of the TV at home is extremely unhealthy. Apart from causing weight gain and diabetes, it can even cause heart disorders and mental health issues. So, you shouldn’t take this lightly. Try to make time for a bit of exercise. For example, the American Diabetes Association advises everyone to walk or exercise for at least half an hour every day. You can do this even if you’re stuck at the office. Take short breaks to move around and do a bit of stretching.

A Piece Of Advice

Avoiding these bad habits will decrease the risk of diabetes but won’t eliminate it. So, besides having a healthy lifestyle, you should also get tested regularly. Furthermore, look out for the early signs of diabetes. These include fatigue, increased hunger, extreme thirst, blurred vision, and mood swings. So, make sure you contact your doctor if you have any concerns.

Conclusion

An unhealthy lifestyle can cause many health issues. And two of the most common issues Americans currently face are weight gain and diabetes. This is not at all surprising when you bump into delicious unhealthy treats at every corner. However, you should do your best to avoid them as much as possible. Plus, there are other contributing factors as