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Lifestyle

BeautyBeauty & Style

6 Tips to Becoming Successful in the Beauty Industry

by LifeAsMama
written by LifeAsMama

The beauty industry is among the hottest ones out there right now with evolving trends, new methods, and pioneering techniques. As a mom intending to start her own business, this is the best career path you can choose. After all, you spend a great deal of time nurturing your children and taking care of the family. So caring for other people comes naturally to you and with lots of experience.

However, the inner strength is only a fuel that will help you take a leap into this new business endeavor. You will need to prepare for the ups and downs, as well as to build your own brand and clientele from scratch. And with these tips to be successful in the beauty industry, you can easily reach professional achievement while being an incredible mother at the same time.

become successful in beauty blogging

1.   Create a business plan

Everything starts with a plan. As a mom, you are used to making lists and organizing things that will come pretty handy when starting your beauty business. Taking care of the family budget has taught you how to organize your funds which will help with calculating your budget.

When creating a business plan concentrate on all the things you will need like space to work in, products, equipment, and furnishing. Also, don’t forget expenses for defining your brand, social media campaign and employees, as well as bills for services like electricity and the internet. This may sound like too much right from the start, but will actually help you determine your budget and seek out loans in time.

2.   Set your goals

While running a successful business is the main goal, getting there will take several smaller ones. Goals are essential parts of the business plans since they allow you to follow your progress and evaluate your steps. Use a corkboard or planner to divide your goals into milestones and start fulfilling one by one by setting deadlines and activities.

Since starting something from scratch is always challenging, surround yourself with inspiration and support from your loved ones. If you fail to reach a milestone, take a break and reflect on what led to that. And then start all over again. In business, just like in life, the best results come from learning on mistakes and constantly improving yourself.

3.   Define your brand

Defining a brand starts early on and consists of several aspects. You need to visualize your business by coming up with a logo and interior design of your salon. Also, you should think about uniforms and colors you want to dominate the space. All these elements will help you create an image on the market making it essential to your brand.

But most importantly, try to find ways to be distinguishable from the competition. Prices, style, and service will help you build a better brand that will create satisfied and loyal clients.

woman working beauty blogger

4.   Build your social media campaign

It’s impossible to be successful without a good social media campaign. It may sound like something that will take a lot of your time, but actually, you will enjoy doing it. As a mom, you will not only attract attention but also serve as inspiration for others to follow in your footsteps. Show your following how dedicated you are to your business and how much you love what you do. That will tell them you appreciate them as well and want to provide them with the best service.

Use photos and witty captions to create a welcoming atmosphere even before your clients come to your salon. Also, know where to find your target audience and how to charm them. And as time goes by, you will create brand ambassadors that will promote your services on their profiles.  

5.   Get professional training

Clients seek your services because they trust you to give them the best results. This is something you can do only through proper education at the beauty therapy academy and makeup courses. Starting with the basics may sound tedious, but it will help you expand your knowledge and focus your area of expertise later on.

Moreover, you will learn how to properly use the equipment and products to the satisfaction of your clients. Building your reputation on extensive knowledge and education is the key to create loyal customers and a trustworthy brand.

6.   Follow the hottest trends

Beauty treatments and makeup styles change so you need to keep up with all the innovations and hottest trends. You can do this by subscribing to magazines, attending lectures, following influencers and fashion icons. However, it’s always wise to keep an eye on your competition and see how they deal with the newest developments in the beauty industry. This way you will stay on top of the global trends and be able to offer the highest quality of service to your clients.

Final thoughts

Organizing the home and taking care of the family is a demanding job and an excellent experience to use when starting your own business. Being successful in the beauty industry requires a lot of dedication and proper knowledge, but all the hard work will pay off in the end. While being a mother is the priority, you can still have a successful business and feel accomplished. Especially when your family is there to support you along the way. 

About the Author

Nina is a lifestyle blogger, yoga aficionado and a travel enthusiast with a distinctive taste for home decor. She’s passionate about learning new things and sharing meaningful ideas. In her free time, she loves to design clothes and furniture. If you wanna see what she’s up to you can find her on twitter

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autumn make up tips beauty fall
BeautyBeauty & Style

7 Gorgeous Autumn Make-Up Tips

by LifeAsMama
written by LifeAsMama

Regardless of if you’re from Australia or America, Autumn is the most stylish month. Leaves turn colours and start to fall, the temperatures drop, yet everything seems warmer due to the colours. You’re no longer limited to tank tops and shorts when it comes to fashion, as the weather is comfortable enough for many stylish pieces of clothing.

Your spanking new outfit should be accompanied by the right Autumn make-up look. There’s nothing that spells fashionista more than fresh Autumn make-up that complements the whole ambience. If you’re not sure what colours and techniques to use this Autumn to make your make-up pop, feel free to stick around.

woman in autumn makeup tutorial tips

1. Just foundation

This fall, dare to be more natural. The colours around you will already contribute to the dramatic season, so why should your makeup? Instead of going for elaborate and overdone looks, aim for simplicity. Autumn can set you free and show you a you that you didn’t even know existed.

Applying just foundation to your face gives you the confidence you need to nail the day ahead without wasting your time on a long makeup routine. Fresh skin will always be in style, especially when everything around you seems to be falling asleep. You can show off your complexion in the soft Autumn sun easier than ever.

Use a radiance-boosting foundation formula so that your skin can shine through it. If you’re feeling extra daring, you can even only use coverage where it’s needed. With solid blending and a little patience, your skin will only show off your beauty.

2. Making red lips casual

We’re all used to the classic red lip look that’s so dramatic it can only be pulled off by movie stars or on special occasions. This fall, dare to make your red lipstick more casual by pairing with simple makeup. The rest of your face doesn’t need to be polished at all if you want a more casual red lip look instead of the classic and dramatic one.

This look can also be used to awaken and complement other low-key makeup on your face. For example, it goes best with a little smudgy eyeliner to accompany it. Though you could wear this look on any occasion, it’s best for those long office days when the rain won’t stop falling and you want to feel more beautiful. As well as that, it goes best with the after-work drinks you’ll inevitably get after such a long and rainy day.

3. Subtle smokey eyes

We’re all familiar with the dramatic smokey eye, fit for all grand occasions. If you want a bit of drama in your everyday life but feel that the traditional smokey eye would simply be too much, you could always embrace the subtle smokey eyes trend. This is a perfect daytime look that doesn’t require a lot of work but gives the results you were looking for.

All you have to do is add a touch of shimmer to the inner corners of your eyes. Use a gold or silver shadow. For this to truly be a daytime look, make sure to keep the rest of your makeup simple. Autumn is all about choosing a focal point that will carry the whole look. Less truly is more, and you’ll get to see exactly why that’s true when you pair your new makeup look with the fashionable Autumn outfit you’ve come up with.

4. Natural eyebrows

Eyebrows have been the focal point of makeup trends for a while now, and this fall, you should definitely put your brows front and centre. Natural-looking brows are the perfect look for Autumn 2019, as this is the year where we embrace our own eyebrows instead of making them into something they’re not. Even if you don’t have enviable eyebrows, embrace them- they’re yours!

All this makeup look requires is for you to brush up your brows with a spoolie then will in the sparse spots with a brow pencil. Make sure to use small and feathery strokes. This way, you’ll only be enhancing the natural beauty of your brows instead of completely making them into something else. It’s a quick look that you can complete every morning before you head out.

If you don’t feel like doing the rest of your makeup- you don’t have to. The natural brow look works perfectly well by itself, making it ideal for those days when you just don’t have the time or the energy do devote yourself to your makeup.

woman fall make up tips

5. Accents

Adding accents to your look is always a good Autumn choice. When it comes to this season in particular, it’s best to use the mauve shade. It’s more dramatic than the summery shades yet it doesn’t have the heft of deep fall tones. Mauve is also one of those shades that looks good on everybody, regardless of skin tone.

If you want to experiment with mauve, you should go crazy with it. Instead of just applying it to your lips, cheeks or eyes, consider wearing it on all three features. Not only will this complete the look wonderfully, but it will also flatter your face more. As well as that, you’ll have a more formal yet casual fall look suitable for every occasion.

6. Achieve a rosy glow

A rosy glow is a look that never goes out of style, regardless of what time of year it is. The look is inspired by the flush you get from the chilly Autumn air. It’s especially popular in Australia where the air isn’t that cold even when Autumn knocks on the door. Instead, Aussie girls get to feel the magic of Autumn by adding a touch of extra blush along the cheekbones. For a more natural look, blend out toward the temples.

This look is also perfect from drawing away attention from your nose. In fact, some Aussie girls would argue that the technique works better than the best rhinoplasty in Sydney. It’s an easy everyday look, it makes you look cuter, it allows you to feel the spirit of Autumn, and it draws away attention from your nose while still looking natural.

7. Add some colour

Just because it’s autumn doesn’t mean that you have to stick to only the tried and tested fall colours. Instead of constantly opting for the basic colours that make you feel safe, why not experiment a little? Fall might be the time of year when nature starts falling asleep, but it’s also the time of year when society starts blossoming.

You should add some unexpected colour to your eyes and make your whole daily look pop. Instead of using black liner, why not use blue? This could easily be the focal point of your look, meaning that you don’t have to overdo the rest of your makeup. Simple natural lip gloss and a bit of mascara will work just fine. Because you’re only overstepping the rules of subtlety a little, this is a perfect day look for those days where you want to feel extra pretty. It could also be a great look for a casual drink with friends.

Conclusion

As you can see, it’s not impossible getting that Autumn make-up look you desire. The way you do your make-up will greatly affect your mood and the rest of your outfit. In that spirit, you should really put in some effort, as the results will definitely be worth it. Becoming the muse of a whole spectacular season like Autumn isn’t easy, but it’s definitely possible with the right make-up technique and colours.

About the Author

Mia Johnson is a writer with a ten-year-long career in journalism. She has written extensively about health, fitness, and lifestyle. A native to Melbourne, she now lives in Sydney with her 3 dogs where she spends her days writing and taking care of her 900 square feet garden.”

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HealthKidsLittle KidMotherhoodToddler

How To Get Your Child Ready For The Dentist

by LifeAsMama
written by LifeAsMama

Children should have their first dental appointment a few months after their first teeth come out. For most children this will be between 6 months and 1 years old. These very early dental appointments will usually just involve a quick check to make sure that the first teeth are coming through without problem, and will be more focussed on instructing parents on how to look after these early teeth.

The most important dental appointments for children occur at around the age of 3 or 4. This is for two reasons. Firstly, children at this age are starting to take responsibility for looking after their own teeth. Getting the right instruction and guidance from a dentist is vital at this point. Secondly, children can start to form meaningful associations, both positive and negative, with going to the dentist at this age.

Early negative experiences with the dentist can cause an avoidant pattern of behavior, as far as dental visits go. Avoiding the dentist in early adulthood is one of the biggest causes of serious dental problems down the line.

Therefore, in order to keep their teeth healthy throughout adulthood it’s absolutely vital that a child has positive early experiences with the dentist. Here are a few ways that you can make sure that this happens.

kid brushing teeth child dentist

Make sure that your child knows what to expect at the dentist

The reason why a lot of people dislike going to the dentist is that it’s such an unusual experience. Laying on your back with your mouth open while someone touches your teeth is not something that happens in any other setting.

Your child is far more likely to have a positive experience at the dentist if they know what it will actually involve. It’s therefore important that you talk to them about what happens at a dental appointment, and why they do what they do. Have your child touch their own teeth to see what it feels like.

Getting used to the sensation of having their teeth felt will make the experience much less unpleasant when it actually comes to visiting the dentist.

Have your child practice having their mouth open

This may sound strange, but the experience of having your mouth open as wide as possible can be strange and unpleasant to a child. It can work muscles that are not used to being used, and can make the mouth feel dry and scratchy.

The best way to get accustomed to having your mouth open for several minutes is through practice. In the few days that lead up to the dental appointment, have your child keep their mouth open for a minute at a time.

This will both get your child used to the feeling of having their mouth open as wide as possible, but will also make the actual dental appointment run much quicker and smoother.

Plan out what questions you want to ask the dentist

Seeing the dentist is a great opportunity for a child to ask any questions about their mouth and teeth that may be worrying them. This could include questions about baby teeth becoming wobbly or any discomfort that they may be feeling when teeth come out.

In the vast majority of cases issues that your child may be worried about will be perfectly normal, and the dentist will be able to put their mind at ease. This reassurance can help build a positive relationship between the child and the dentist which will lead to a proactive approach to managing and preventing oral health problems as they get older

It’s also well worth thinking about what you want to ask the dentist about your child’s teeth before you go to an appointment.

child at the dentist

How to handle suggestions for improvement from the dentist

Perhaps the largest reason why people don’t like going to the dentist is because they associate it with lectures about how they are not looking after their teeth properly. Such criticism can particularly affect a child, leading to feelings of shame around their teeth and promoting a pattern of behaviour where teeth are neglected because of this shame.

Of course, if a dentist is overly critical to a child and their parents, that is poor practice and you should seek out a different dentist. 

However, if a dentist sees problems with a child’s teeth, it is their responsibility to suggest ways that these problems can be fixed. Usually these problems will boil down to a “brushing blindspot” namely a part of the mouth (usually at the back) which is being missed during brushing.

You should reassure your child that brushing is a skill that takes practice, and that they should not feel down if their teeth are not perfect. Work with your child to implement any advice from a dentist. When improvement is reported during your child’s next dental visit, praise and reward them for their hard work.

Treat your child after a dental visit

Going to see the dentist is a very healthy and responsible thing to do. It should be rewarded as such. Make sure that you do something fun with your child immediately after the dental appointment.

The more your child associates dental appointment with pleasant experiences (even if they only occur soon after the appointment), the more likely they are to be proactive about seeing the dentist in the future.

About the Author

 Ron Baise is a dentist with over 30 years experience. He is currently an Associate Dentist and 92 Dental in London, England.
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boy sleeping kid sleep apnea
BabyHealthKidsLittle KidMotherhoodPre-TeenToddler

Childhood Sleep Apnea: What Parents Need to Know

by LifeAsMama
written by LifeAsMama

According to the American Sleep Apnea Association, 1 to 4% of children in the United States are diagnosed with sleep apnea and most of them are between ages 2 to 8 years.

What is child sleep apnea?

Child sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where a child takes short pauses in breathing while sleeping.

What causes child sleep apnea?

Pediatric sleep apnea is often caused because the muscles in the upper airway relax while the child sleeps. This makes the muscles susceptible and allowsthe tonsils and adenoids to restrict the airflow in the upper respiratory system. This causes sleep apnea in children.

It can be genetic and can also occur in children who have large adenoids and tonsils. If sleep apnea is untreated or undiagnosed, it can pose behavioral as well as physical problems in children.

girl sleeping child sleep apnea

What are the sleep apnea symptoms in children you need to watch out for?

A child with sleep apnea may have the following symptoms:

At night,

  • Regularly snore loudly
  • Pause, snort or gasp and may actually stop breathing. Their own snorts or gasps may awaken them from their sleep.
  • Sleep in abnormal positions or be restless throughout the night
  • Sweat profusely during sleep
  • Tooth grinding (bruxism)

During the day,

  • Difficulty in waking up
  • Wake up with a headache
  • Get cranky, irritated or agitated
  • Fall asleep or daydream
  • Breathe through the mouth and speak with a nasal voice

If you see these signs in your child, talk to your pediatrician or a pediatric dentist. Consulting a pediatric dentist may seem an unlikely suggestion, but it is the right way to go about it because pediatric dentists are probably the first in line to detect sleep disorders.

If a pediatrician or a pediatric dentist thinks you are showing signs of sleep apnea, a sleep study may be conducted. 

How is sleep apnea medically diagnosed?

A test called polysomnogram may be conducted to assess whether a child is suffering from sleep apnea. The test is painless and requires you to stay overnight at the sleep clinic along with your child.

During the sleep study, the following is monitored:

  • Eye movement and muscle activity
  • Brain waves
  • Oxygen levels in the blood
  • Breathing
  • Gasping and snoring while sleeping
  • young boy sleeping kid sleep apnea

What are the treatment options?

If your child is diagnosed with sleep apnea, there are a number of treatment options available. The doctor may choose the treatment option that is best suited for your child’s condition.

Surgery: A widely accepted treatment for childhood sleep apnea is the surgical removal of tonsils and adenoids. This procedure is known as adenotonsillectomy.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): This therapy requires wearing a mask while sleeping. A tube connects the mask to a portable unit, which then applies pressure to open the throat muscles and prevent them from blocking the air passage, thus allowing regular breathing.

Diet and Medication:Some children may suffer from sleep apnea due to obesity. Doctors may recommend diet and weight loss programs to correct the sleep problem.Medication may be prescribed, which may include antibiotics (if surgery was done) or topical intranasal application of corticosteroids and anti-inflammatory medication.

Oral Appliance Therapy: This therapy has emerged as an alternative to surgery and CPAP therapy. This therapy makes use of a dental device that works as a mouthpiece moving the bottom jaw and tongue forward to keep the upper airway open for the child to breathe normally. The oral appliance therapy can be worked out under the supervision of a pediatric dentist.

Bottom Line

Dentists can detect the early signs of sleep apnea. Therefore, you must involve your family dentist in your child’s healthcare program. Get a regular dental check-up done to ensure that your child receives the right treatment at the right time.

About the Author

Shen Chao is part of Dr. Joshua Hong’s Smile Clinic. While working for the Smile Clinic, he’s gained first hand experiences into the questions and concerns that dental patients have. He has been writing to inform people about various dental topics to help his readers improve their oral health. When he’s not working, you can find him on a hiking trail with his dog or having a Sunday cook-out with friends.

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Baby and mother sleeping together in bed
BabyHealthMotherhood

The Link Between Depression in Mothers and Their Baby’s Sleep

by LifeAsMama
written by LifeAsMama

It’s common for newborn babies to not sleep through the night, as do their parents. However, research shows that the first six months of life are extremely important in the development of sleeping patterns (circadian rhythms) for the future. New studies show that babies whose mothers suffered from depression before they were pregnant or during their pregnancy are much more likely to having erratic sleep patterns in their first six months than other babies. We’ll explore in this article exactly what this link means for newborns.

mom happy holding baby sleep

The Background to the Study

This latest study comes from years of studying the link between sleep and depression and circadian rhythms, and finding that they were closely interlinked. At first, the research focused on adults and teenagers, before they moved on to looking at the link in newborns. This research is based on studies of sleep between two groups of newborn babies and their mothers. One group is comprised of mothers who suffered from depression during their pregnancy, and the other group is made up of women who have never suffered from depression in the past or present.

The Study Details

The women in both groups wore small devices on their wrists called actigraphs which evaluated how much sleep they got at night, how much light exposure, and their daytime routine including activity and naps. They started wearing them during the last trimester until their babies were eight months old. Two weeks after the birth of their babies, each child also received a small actigraph to wear for eight months.

Impact on Circadian Rhythm

The study showed quite conclusively that babies who were born to depressed mothers had nearly zero or zero evidence of an innate 24-hour circadian rhythm after birth, whereas the babies born to mothers without depression had this. This continued throughout the length of the study. As Nancy Kruger, a psychology writer at Australian help and Oxessays explains, “if sleep is constantly disrupted and there are no clear circadian rhythms, these individuals grow up to be much more likely to also develop depression. This is why it’s so important for all babies and new mothers to get the best sleep possible.”

Napping Patterns

One key connection found that babies born to moms who were depressed tend to nap more during the day, take more time to get to sleep at night, and also wake up much more often throughout their sleep. This is like insomnia in adults but starts much earlier. This creates more sleepless nights in parents but also means that those children may be more likely to suffer from depression later on in their lives. Researchers did reassure families that babies born to depressed mothers will not necessarily follow in their footsteps even if depression runs in families, while also warning non-depressed parents that they should still closely monitor their baby’s sleep.

Mom and baby sleep depression

The First Months

It’s very important for babies to be trained in the fist few months to sleep when it’s dark and be awake when it’s light out, so that their circadian rhythm can develop properly. Young babies that are two months or younger need 11 to 18 hours of sleep, so napping is also recommended, and for the next ten months 11 to 15 hours of sleep is required. Then, infants between the ages of 1 and 3 need 12 to 14 hours. That’s why it’s important to establish rituals around bedtime to help children understand the difference between nighttime sleeping and daytime sleeping, such as night clothes and day clothes.

Building a Schedule

It’s also important to build a sleep schedule around bright lights during the day to get your body’s circadian rhythm to associated light cycles with sleeping. Make sure you’re not shining the light in their eyes and they’re protected from direct sunlight. By four months old, the sleep schedule should be much more regular and centered on nighttime sleep with fewer breaks. In fact, Georgie Prince, a health blogger at Academized and Paper Fellows, adds that “during this time, it’s also important for the new mother to sleep on a regular schedule as well. The post-natal period is a high-risk time for depression in new mothers, even if they have no prior background of depression, and lack of sleep is a contributing factor.”

By making sure you’re monitoring your baby’s sleep patterns and building a natural schedule for sleep from the earliest age, you’re giving your child the best possible chances to have normal sleep patterns later in life and prevent depression.

About the Author

Ellie Coverdale, a health writer at Ukwritings and Essayroo, shares her insights on psychology and health in families. She is interested in the links between families and physical and mental health. You can also find her work at Boomessays. In her free time, she practices yoga and meditation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Kid playing in sandbox outdoors
BabyFamilyFunHealthHomeKidsLittle KidMotherhoodPre-TeenTeenagerToddler

Best Backyard Add-ons for Your Kids

by LifeAsMama
written by LifeAsMama

For a family with kids, younger or older, no backyard can truly feel like part of home unless it is adjusted to children’s needs and interests. If you want your child to fall in love with the outdoors and the endless variety of activities it offers, start by transforming your yard into a children’s fantasy world. Though the options are many, we can elaborate on a few favorites that certainly won’t let you down.

1 – Outdoor chalkboards and easels

Have you noticed that your child enjoys the magic that a paintbrush or a simple colored pencil can create? Don’t hesitate to get a couple of chalkboards for your yard so your son or daughter can continue to nurture their talent. Outdoor chalkboards (or canvas on an easel) are a highly convenient solution for parents who wish to keep their children entertained while also avoiding having a big mess inside the house. If you want to do something even more interesting, you can turn part of the fencing into a big chalkboard wall.

2 – Yard sandbox

If you think back to your own childhood, you are more than likely to reminisce of your own little sand haven you loved to play in. Not only do sandboxes help develop an outdoorsy spirit in kids, but they also have multiple other benefits. Set one in your own backyard and your children will get a chance to further learn and improve their social, motor, and practical skills, grow genuine curiosity and eagerness to explore their environment through direct physical contact, and also stimulate and enrich their own imagination. These add-ons are physically beneficial as well, as they help kids strengthen different groups of muscles, especially those in the arms and hands.

3 – Child-friendly swimming pool

Okay, this one probably should be the first item here—undoubtedly, almost every child wants to have a pool at home. Funwise and healthwise, it goes without saying that swimming pools are an absolutely fantastic add-on for a backyard. They are an endless source of entertainment, not only for children, but for adults, too.

It needs to be emphasized, though, that they do require a higher level of supervision and caution on behalf of parents, so children should not be left alone during their fun time in the water. Preferably, for extra safety, you could also add a fence around the swimming pool to prevent children from accidentally falling in if they do spend part of their time in the backyard unsupervised. Whenever we are talking safety measures, the best thing is to consult specialists and professionals. Exterior are a really wise choice if you want the perfect combination of adventure and safety in your children’s swimming pool.

4 – Swings

Swings sound like a great option for backyards with limited space and if you prefer to keep your child engaged in a single activity for a longer period of time. Even in a smaller area where there isn’t much room for running or playing sports, a nice swing can give your child a sense of freedom, movement, and spaciousness thanks to its dynamic nature. Even on a cold and rainy day, your little one will probably ask to go and play on the swing rather than stay indoors.

5 – Hammocks and silly spinners

If you have bigger trees in your backyard, you could also consider getting a sturdy hammock and/or a silly spinner. They are both excellent alternatives for standard swings, not to mention that they are just as much fun. If you are in a creative mood, you also have the option of making a silly spinner yourself instead of buying one. What is more, you can ask your child to contribute to the process of making the spinner, for example to paint it. This will only make your son or daughter enjoy it even more since they will know they helped bring this creation into existence.

6 – Slides

Slides are also a truly convenient add-on, being that both younger and older children find them a lot of fun. They also come in different shapes, sizes, and are made from different materials, so it is easy to find a slide which will be suitable to your child’s age and physical characteristics.

7 – Climbing tires

If you have some old tires lying about in the garage, here’s a great way to recycle them. Turn these eyesores into an attraction by transforming them into climbing tires. What makes them such an excellent addition to your backyard is that little kids in particular seem to find them irresistible when learning to walk and establish balance, while also strengthening their muscles at the same time. Climbing tires are budget-friendly and even more fun when painted in bright colors kids will easily fall in love with!

In conclusion…

For any parent who wants to inspire in their child an affinity and respect towards the great outdoors, smartly chosen backyard add-ons are the right call. Allow your little one to explore and grasp the world through a thought-provoking, inspiring, exciting corner of their own home where they will feel safe and taken care of.

About the Author

Ron Wolf is a freelance writer, hobby designer and DIY enthusiast.

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FoodLifestyle

8 Ground Turkey Recipes You Need To Add To Your Family’s Meal Plan

by Amber King
written by Amber King

Ground turkey is (in my opinion) the most underappreciated section of the meat department. It’s often eclipsed by ground beef that’s used for everything from burgers to meatloaf. But a lot of people don’t realize that ground turkey can do just about anything ground beef can do. And better yet, turkey is a lot cheaper than beef, and if you get the leanest option, it also has a lot less fat. So less money and less fat—it’s a win-win! I’m constantly using ground turkey in my cooking. In some recipes that would normally call for beef, you can’t even tell the difference when you switch to turkey. And in some of my favorite traditionally-beef dishes, I actually prefer the turkey version. Don’t believe me? Try out these ground turkey recipes for yourself.

1. Turkey Chili

Fall is time for roast turkey and mashed potatoes, but this cool weather also means it’s the perfect time for chili. I know some people that turn chili making into an art. There’s no doubt their creations taste delicious, but when I’m the one in the ktichen, I like to keep things simple. This uncomplicated turkey chili recipe is perfect. Most chili is made from ground beef, but substituting beef for turkey makes it healthier without affecting the taste. 

Maebells Simple Living has a ground turkey recipe that uses only a handful of ingredients you probably already have.

2. PF Chang’s Turkey Lettuce Wraps

Lettuce wraps are low in carbs, easy to make, budget friendly, and they taste delicious. If you don’t already include them in your regular dinner line-up, you’re seriously missing out. You can make lettuce wraps with just about any protein you want. Chicken and beef are popular choices, but Life As Mama editor, Modi Ramos, recently tried a recipe using ground turkey. It was a big hit with her family of five—even her three littles. The recipe she used is a PF Chang’s imitation that calls for chicken, but it was a simple switch to ground turkey.

You’ll find the tried-and-tested recipe with Damn Delicious.

3. Turkey Tacos

Why do Taco Tuesday when you could do Turkey Taco Tuesday? Tacos made with ground turkey are a lighter option compared to the ground beef tacos your family loves so much. Plus, you’ll save money on your grocery bill by buying ground turkey instead of beef. If your taco nights usually consist of browning beef and then dousing it with a packet of pre-mixed taco seasoning, all you need to do is use turkey instead. But if you’re looking for something special, you can use ground turkey and various spices to make something a little different.

Buns In My Oven has a great ground turkey taco recipe for you to try out. 

4. Baked Turkey Meatballs

If it takes less than 30 minutes to make, it’s always a winning recipe in my book. That’s why turkey meatballs show up on my table fairly often. I admit I’ll occasionally go even easier and heat up frozen meatballs I bought from the store, but they just don’t taste the same. I like to make meatballs in bulk, and then I have them for nights when I want a good meal but don’t feel like slaving away in the kitchen. And, let’s be honest, that’s most nights. You can use turkey meatballs for pasta or whip up some mashed potatoes and put it all together with gravy. 

Mom on Timeout has a quick turkey meatball recipe. 

5. Ground Turkey Stir Fry

Stir fry is a go-to meal no matter the time of year. It’s so quick and easy, and you can use whatever ingredients you already have in the kitchen. A traditional stir fry uses slices of meat, but using ground meat makes the whole process a lot easier. And ground turkey is especially great for stir fry because the flavor is so versatile. You can use almost any vegetable you want and make it spicy or mild depending on your preference. There’s also the option of serving it with rice, noodles, or a low-carb alternative.

You can get started with a ground turkey stir fry with this recipe from Budget Bytes.

6. Ground Turkey Black Bean Enchiladas

Enchiladas take a little longer to make than simple tacos or stir fry, but they’re worth the wait. Enchiladas come in all kinds of flavors and proteins. Ground turkey enchiladas are lower in fat than other options, and they’re still packed full of flavor. Even picky eaters can get on board with an enchilada as long the sauce is  yummy and the level of spice is to their liking. I’m a big baby when it comes to spice, so I always make my Mexican food as mild as possible. But whether you like spice or not, you can make these ground turkey enchiladas however you want them.

Get started with this recipe from Diethood. 

7. Turkey Bolognese

Bolognese sauce is a staple if you love Italian food. It’s a rich, meaty sauce that is typically paired with broad, flat pastas like fettuccine or pappardelle. (But I won’t tell if you use a bolognese sauce over your kid’s favorite spaghetti.) Sticking with the theme of this post, most bolognese recipes call for beef. It’s just how it is. But like everything else, ground turkey will work just as well. It’s a slightly healthier option, and you can choose a whole-grain pasta to make an even bigger change in your diet.

Woman’sDay has the recipe. 

8. Turkey Sloppy Joes

This ground turkey recipe is for every family with a picky little eater on their hands. The classic sloppy joe is a big hit for kids. It tastes good, and I also think kids like this meal because of its name. I mean, what kind of name is sloppy joe? The kind that kids like, that’s what. A typical sloppy joe is made with ground beef, but you can lower the fat content of these messy sandwiches by switching to ground turkey.

You can also go the simple route and buy the pre-made sauce, or you can follow this recipe from Woman’sDay to make your ground turkey sloppy joes extra special.

Do you have a favorite ground turkey recipe to add to the list? Let us know in the comments. And don’t forget to share these dinner ideas with your friends!

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Easy Ways to Boost Your Kids’ Immune System

by LifeAsMama
written by LifeAsMama

As a parent, one of your biggest concerns is your children’s health. If you could, you would wave a magic wand to ensure they never got sick – but sadly, you can’t. The good news is, there are still things you can do to boost their immune systems – and most of them are easy!

We’ve compiled a list of some of the best and easiest ways to give your kids a boost in the health department without losing all your money – or your sanity.

boost-kids-immune-system

Let them get dirty! This may seem counterproductive, but hundreds of studies show that letting your kids be exposed to bacteria in things such as mud, dirt, and even on other kids will do wonders for their immune systems later on. While they may get sick at first, exposing them to the germs of everyday life will help train their bodies’ immune systems to fight off bacteria faster and more efficiently in the future. This isn’t to say you should purposefully expose your kids to dangerous illnesses, but when it comes to eating dirt or touching toys at daycare, relax and let your kid do what kids do!

Supplement with vitamins and probiotics. This is another cheap, easy way to keep your kids’ health in check with a simple pill or gummy each day. There are hundreds of different vitamins and mineral supplements for kids and teens, as well as probiotics that help keep their body systems operating as they should be by replenishing good bacteria that keep them healthy. Bonus: many vitamins come in fun flavors and shapes and taste more like candy than a health supplement, so you may find that your kids actually look forward to taking their vitamins each night. (Just be sure they don’t have access to them while unsupervised to prevent them from eating too many at once!)

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Make it a point to enforce a bedtime. Let’s face it: a tired child gets sick much easier than a well-rested child. This is because when their little bodies are run down, they are more susceptible to everyday germs, viruses, and bacteria. By enforcing an appropriately early bedtime, you can ensure that your kids will wake up in a better mood, more alert, and also in a better position to fight off sickness – and it will give you more quiet time at night!

Take antibiotics the right way. The rise of superbugs (infections that are resistant to antibiotics) are caused by 1) taking antibiotics when they aren’t necessary and 2) not finishing a dose completely. Antibiotics will not help a cold or sore throat unless there is an active infection such as a sinus infection or strep. Giving your child antibiotics they don’t need will not only not help them get better, but destroy the good bacteria in their systems and weaken their immune system’s ability to fight of what they do have now and in the future. In addition, if a doctor does prescribe your child antibiotics, be sure he or she takes the entire dose (even if she starts to feel better.) Often, children can start feeling better before the bacteria is completely dead. If the antibiotics are stopped, the bacteria can grow back stronger and even immune to said antibiotic – a scary position no one wants to put their child in.

boost-kids-immune-system

Encourage exercise. It’s no surprise that the immune system benefits from regular exercise and a healthy lifestyle. Exercise not only produces changes in white blood cells that fight disease, but the temporary increase in body temperature following a sweat session can help kill bacteria! You don’t have to take your kids on ten-mile runs to reap the benefits of exercise – simple games of kickball or jumprope with friends, or participation in sports can check this box for you and ensure your child’s heart and muscles are healthy, too!

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Don’t slack on fruit. Vitamin C is one of the most important vitamins when it comes to the immune system – there is a reason people take vitamin C drops when they are starting to feel sick! Not only does vitamin C help kill microbes, but boosts the immune system as a whole. The best part is, vitamin C is found in nearly every fruit, with high concentrations in oranges, cherries, kiwi, apples, and more. Fruit is a classic kid favorite because of its sweet and juicy taste, so chances are, you won’t hear any complaints from your tot when incorporating more fruits into his diet!

If they are sick, let them rest. While no parent wants to see their child sick in bed, encouraging her to get up and continue daily life when she’s still feeling down or just starting to feel better may open a door for the same illness (or another) to come back. Rest is the most important thing for the immune system while it is hard at work, so letting your daughter take that extra sick day from school and watch cartoons may be your best bet. Only send them back to school when they are feeling better and no longer contagious – you don’t want to make someone else’s baby sick!

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Employ basic hygiene practices like hand washing. Hand washing, while being the best way to prevent the flu, is also a champ at preventing other diseases, as well. Most germs end up on our hands, and then in our mouths, nose or eyes, which is where they infect us. Keeping clean by hand washing, taking regular baths or showers, and brushing teeth are a great way to keep germs off and prevent illness. Be sure to teach your kids how to do all these things properly, and you’ll have a much healthier, happier family!

There you have it! These are doubtlessly the best, most efficient ways to boost your kids’ immune systems without breaking the bank. The best part is, most of these tips are beneficial for other reasons, too, contributing to healthier child in every way. Comment down below with your go-to tips for keeping your kids healthy, along with which of these tips you’re excited to try!

Dani Fogel. is a Communication Coordinator at Brandable, based in Los Angeles, CA. She works on the Queen V brand within the company’s Digital and Ecommerce department.

 

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RecipesSeasonal

11 Delicious Fall Recipes Perfect For The Whole Family

by Amber King
written by Amber King

Leaves crunching under your boots, no humidity, a PSL or two (or twelve)—fall is finally here! It’s the best time of the year, if you ask me. It means kids are in school and the AC stops running. And as much as I’ll miss munching on a farm-fresh watermelon, there’s something to be said about fall flavors. The fall harvest brings so much to the table (literally). There are apples, pumpkins, squash, cranberries, sweet potatoes, grains, and a lot more. We’ve scoured the Internet looking for the best fall recipes that everyone in your family will love. From dinner to dessert and breakfast the next morning, try out these seasonal recipes to really get yourself in the fall mood.

1. Apple Cider Glazed Roasted Chicken

Apples aren’t only for dessert when it comes to enjoying fall foods. Apple cider glazed chicken is perfect for a chilly night in with the family. The subtle apple taste blends with the natural flavor of the chicken. You can use the apple cider you just bought at the orchard or pick up your favorite brand from the grocery store. Pair this fall recipe with fresh beans and rice to pull it all together.

Check out the recipe from Spicy Southern Kitchen

2. Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

Your family’s pickiest eaters don’t have to miss out on all the best fall flavors. Everyone loves mac and cheese, and this recipe using butternut squash is perfect for kids and adults alike. The addition of the squash adds a healthy kick to this creamy, melt-in-your-mouth side dish. You can use a fresh-picked butternut squash or find frozen cubes at the grocery store. It won’t take long to whip this up.

The Comfort of Cooking has the full recipe.

3. Creamy Pumpkin Chicken Chili

You can never have too much pumpkin in your life. This pumpkin chicken chili will definitely warm you up once the temperature starts to drop and leaves start to fall. It has a creamy texture and uses just the right amount of spice. Amy from Wholesomelicious has the recipe, and she even has two options to choose from. There’s the extra creamy version using cream cheese, and there’s also a dairy-free alternative using coconut oil. Why not try them both and see which one you like best?

Snag the full recipe here.

4. Pumpkin Soup

It can’t be fall without pumpkin soup. It’s good for you, deliciously creamy, and it’ll keep you and the family cozy for both lunch and dinner. Best yet, having this meal on the menu will give you yet another excuse to hit up that pumpkin patch/corn maze. Pick your favorite type of pumpkin or squash and get cooking!

We found this great recipe from Delish.

 5. Pumpkin Alfredo Pasta

We seriously can’t get enough pumpkin this fall. This fall recipe combines the pumpkin taste you love with a dish that’s already a family favorite. Alfredo pasta is what you make when you have mouths to feed and not a lot of time to prepare. And pumpkin Alfredo pasta is what you make when it’s finally chilly outside and you want to celebrate those fall feelings.

Check out this tasty recipe from Delish.

6. Chicken Stew

There is no better comfort food than chicken stew. This fall recipe includes fresh carrots, potatoes, celery, and thyme. It’ll cheer you up if the change in season gives you the sniffles, and it’ll fill everyone’s belly for multiple days in a row. I love making chicken stew for days I know the whole family won’t be sitting down at once. You can leave it warming up on the stove, and everyone can grab a bowl when they have the time. It’ll stay delicious, and the leftovers are always the best. 

You can get a great chicken stew recipe from Delish.

7. Acorn Squash

Not only does acorn squash scream fall, it’s also packed full of flavor and nutrition. Your first step will be buying your produce. Search through the bins to find an acorn squash that is deep green in color. Put it back if it’s too light or if it has cracks or soft spots. Once you have the perfect specimen, roasting an acorn squash takes less than an hour. And then you can scoop out the middle to serve. Your vegetarian and vegan friends will be especially pleased.

Spend With Pennies has a great recipe.

8. Apple Cranberry Bread

This fall recipe combines two of the season’s best fruits—apples and cranberries. You don’t even need a mixer to make this quick bread. It’s great for your holiday feast or bring it to dinner with your spouse’s new boss. It’s sweet in all the right ways and has a hint of spice.

Try out this recipe from Julie’s Eats and Treats.

9. Pumpkin Cheesecake Swirl Muffins

Sometimes you just need something sweet and tasty to get you through the day. That’s where this fall recipe comes in. Pumpkin cheesecake is already a classic fall favorite. Putting that flavor into muffin form makes it even better. You can grab one of these tasty little muffins on your way to work or bring them as a dessert to a friend’s party. We have to warn you though, these aren’t your healthiest option when it comes to pumpkin-flavored foods. But with bathing suit season behind us, it’s okay to indulge every now and then.

Get the full recipe from The Busy Baker.

10. Pumpkin Spice Krispie Treats

Pumpkin spice can be added to just about anything these days. It’s in your coffee and your cereal, so why not put it in your rice krispie treats? You and your kids already love this simple treat, and a little fall flavor makes them the perfect way to celebrate the changing of the season. As always, there’s no baking involved, and it only takes about 10 minutes to whip up this family-favorite fall recipe.

Visit Mom Makes Joy for the recipe.

11. Spiced Pumpkin Apple Pancakes

Last but not least, we can’t forget about the most important meal of the day. Fall weekends are full of leaf piles, pumpkin carving, and apple picking, and you can kick off the day with these spiced pumpkin apple pancakes. Once you have your apples grated, it doesn’t take long to put together this pancake mix. And if you’re feeling extra ambitious, you can add toppings like nuts or more chopped apples. Your kids will never want to eat cereal again.

Baked Broiled and Basted has the full recipe.

Which one of these fall recipes is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!

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FamilyLifestyleMarriage

7 Reasons Why You Should Discuss Your Career Before Marriage

by LifeAsMama
written by LifeAsMama

Your career is an important part of your relationship. 

While it doesn’t hold your hand or make you laugh, it does determine how financially stable you are, whether you’re equipped to start a family, how much free time you have with your spouse, and where you are currently living.

Needless to say, these are some pretty important factors in a happy marriage. That’s why it’s so important to discuss where you see your career paths headed before getting married – not after!

Don’t let your future career moves come as a shock to your sweetheart. 

Here are 7 reasons why you should discuss your professional goals with your spouse before you head for the altar.

  1. It’s Just Good Manners 

When you love someone, you want to be open and honest about your intentions – especially if they are considering sharing their life with you.

For example, perhaps you are working your way up to run the business you are in and need to devote extra time to your work for the next few months or years. This would require patience on behalf of your partner. Are they comfortable sharing you with your work for as long as you both shall live?

It is simply good manners to keep your spouse updated on where you see your life headed in the future so that they can plan accordingly. 

  1. It Gives an Idea about your Financial Future

There is no doubt that your career path will affect your standards of living. 

Do you plan on pursuing the life of an entrepreneur? If so, this will greatly impact how you and your spouse will live.

Statistics show that 90 percent of new start-ups will fail, meaning your decision to pursue your dreams will not be an easy one. Entrepreneurs often rely on their spouses to take care of the household financial needs while they are building their business.

The finances you share with your partner will also determine what you can do with your life. If you want to have children, financial stability is a must. The same goes for buying a home or traveling together.

  1. You May Not Agree

One big reason to discuss your future career plans with your spouse is that they might not agree with your goals and decisions. For example, your partner may not be as thrilled as you are about your taking on overtime every single week.

Or perhaps your spouse works days and you exclusively work nights. This may cause problems within the marriage as this schedule would not afford you an opportunity to have regular quality time together throughout the week.

Discussing your career moves gives you and your partner an opportunity to work through any disagreements you may have about where you see your futures going.

  1. Potential for Relocation

Your career choice has the potential to affect where you live. Whether it’s the nature of your job or due to a promotion, your work may involve regular travel or a complete relocation.

It’s important to share this information with your spouse before you get married. They may not be as jazzed about moving to a new country for the next five years as you are – or they may love it! The point is, you will never know until you discuss it openly.

If your spouse has agreed to marry you, letting them know about your potential plans for relocating would be the loving thing to do. After all, they likely have easy access to friends and family where you currently live. They probably also work in your current city. Springing a sudden move on your partner would not be respectful.

  1. Discuss Your Life Goals

When you get married you are blending two lives together. You are creating a new path to walk as a couple. But what will you do if you get married only to realize your futures don’t align?

This is why it is important to discuss where you see this path going before you’ve committed to one another for the rest of your life.

Discuss your goals regarding where you want to live, whether you want to buy or rent a home, how you plan to retire, share or separate debts, start a family, and more. 

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  1. Improves Trust

Imagine this scenario: You have just married the love of your life. You live together and have your lives planned out and firmly planted in your city. Now your spouse comes to you stating that their intentions all along were to move across the country for work, but they never clued you into their plans.

Would this be a loving situation? Of course not! You would feel left out of the loop of your own life. 

A marriage is a partnership. Couples should not make important life decisions alone, nor should they want to. They should want to openly discuss their goals and dreams with their spouse, as a team. By doing this not only do they show love and respect for their spouse, but they also improve trust.

  1. It’s Healthy to Communicate

If you know how to communicate with your spouse, you’re already ahead of the game. Studies show that communication leads to improved sexual satisfaction and greater relationship quality. 

This is no surprise. It has often been said that communication is the foundation of a great relationship. It helps couples get to know one another better and work as a team. Knowing how to communicate also helps solve arguments in a way that is fair and respectful. 

When you communicate with your partner about your career goals before you tie the knot is a way of preparing for marriage then you promote a healthy, satisfying relationship.

marriage

Your career can take you to many places in life. It can bring you to a new country or to a different socioeconomic class. Wherever your professional life takes you, you want your partner to be there by your side. Communicate openly with your spouse about your career goals before you walk down the aisle to ensure you’re on the same page about your future.

Author Bio:

Rachael Pace is a noted writer currently associated with Marriage.com. She provides inspiration, support, and empowerment in the form of her motivational articles and essays. Rachael enjoys studying about today’s evolving forms of loving partnerships and is passionate about writing on all types of romantic connections. She believes that everyone should make room for love in their lives and encourages couples to work on overcoming their challenges together.

 

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