Showing posts with label Home Activities. Show all posts
Wicker Storage Baskets
You can find wicker storage baskets in just about any department store but I like to check out my local arts and crafts stores first. Sometimes you can find great deals on this kind of product in stores that stock items like baskets and containers for decorative projects around the home.
I also like to shop online for these kinds of items because the selection is endless when using the Internet. I like a lot of options and when it comes to wicker storage baskets there are plenty of choices to make. Following are some different styles that may spark some interest.
The stair wicker storage baskets are cleverly designed to sit comfortably on your steps. The design makes the item appear as if it is a decorative feature. However, you can fill this container with nearly anything that has to be taken up the steps.
Instead of piling objects right in plain view you can collect them in a handy wicker storage basket for your next trip up the steps. The stair design is simple. The basket is actually shaped like a step so it rests perfectly on the stairs without wobbling or toppling over. A simple handle on top of the container makes it easy to move.
The main purpose of wicker storage baskets is to keep items organized in an attractive way. Some of the containers have lids that help to conceal items like office supplies and art supplies. You need to keep these things handy but also out of sight if at all possible. The wicker storage baskets that have lids make great camouflage and you always know where your things are.
Some of the containers have liners that add a little fabric. I love the look of brown baskets with eggshell colored liners. I liked the look so much that I decided to buy some wicker storage baskets for my daughter’s room. She fills them with toys and her room is a snap to clean.
I chose white wicker storage baskets with pink and white gingham lining. These useful containers add such great texture and color to the room that I bought matching gingham curtains to go with them. You know that you have found a great product when you begin to decorate around it.
Window Bird Feeders
After my father died it became obvious that my mother could not take care of the five-bedroom farmhouse that she and dad had shared for over forty years. The house was large and old and she was not safe trying to go up and down stairs to do laundry and to get to the upstairs bedroom area. We considered remodeling the house, but we were also concerned about her living out in the country by herself with a large yard and the need for snow removal services in the winter. She agreed to move into a senior high rise building in the small town that was located close to the farm. Moving from a five-bedroom house in the country to a one-bedroom apartment in town was quite an undertaking. She needed to get rid of many belongings. My mother loved being outdoors so the biggest thing for her to get used to was opening her door and being in a hallway. We wanted to give her some reminders of being of the farm so we bought window bird feeders for her to have in the living room and bedroom. She had always fed the birds at home so this was something that she could still enjoy.
The window bird feeders were shaped like a small house. They are made of clear plastic so they are lightweight and they suction cup to the windows. The roof of the house keeps the seeds dry. At first we were concerned that the window bird feeders would not stay on the windows, but the instructions that came with them worked. We were instructed to clean the space on the window where the suction cup would be with rubbing alcohol. We then put a very thin layer of vegetable oil on the suction cup and stuck it on the window. The suction cup fit very firmly. We filled the dishes with food and within a day the birds were coming to eat. We kept the bag of food in the closet and each time someone visited we would put more in the feeders. Mom gets a great deal of enjoyment watching the birds come to her window bird feeders.
Windows Cleaners
Dirty glass is an eyesore and there is nothing you can really do to hide the grime on this most unforgiving surface. The right window cleaners will leave your glass shining and clear. In some cases, the glass will look invisible, as promised by some trendy commercials that you come across on the television.
So how do you determine which window cleaners will work? To be honest, there are just too many options to choose just one. There are plenty of products that will do the job fine. Others do the job well and a handful of cleaning products for glass that really leave things gleaming with pride. Finding window cleaners for your home is a process.
Part of the process is figuring out what your preferences are. I personally like to use a squeegee for my windows. I am guaranteed a streak-free shine that is truly rewarding to see. The tool is inexpensive and I find that it saves me a lot of time in the window washing task.
However, there are weekly touchups that are just too miniscule to bother with a window washing tool like a squeegee. Window cleaners that are designed for maintenance between springtime and fall cleaning come in many different forms. The ideal one for you depends on your personal preferences.
You can always make your own window cleaners. The ingredients that are commonly used for these concoctions are really inexpensive. Vinegar, water and a dash of soap is all that it takes to leave windows sparkling. This do-it-yourself approach is great but it isn’t always convenient.
Aerosol window cleaners are wonderful and they are great to work with for a few reasons. They leave foam on the glass that is easy to see so you know what spots you have covered and what needs attention in a glance. The aerosol foam also never runs.
While the aerosol products are terrific, nothing but the traditional blue spray will do for some of us. I love these window cleaners because they are easy to use, clean and I find that other products just don’t stand up to this kind of cleaner.
Wireless indoor out door Thermometers
One of the most popular brands available is John Deere. This company has developed many different items over the years and it is well known for outstanding quality and enduring products. The wireless indoor outdoor thermometers developed by John Deere are truly top of the line.
I chose this particular product for my home and for camp as well. A cabin in the woods is a wonderful way to get back to nature. When we take a trip we don’t bring many electronics and television is definitely off the list of items to take along. However, my John Deere wireless indoor outdoor thermometer is always in tow.
This product was particularly appealing to me because I like to know what to expect when I go outside. Being prepared is very important especially when you are relatively far away from civilization. Information that we take for granted on a daily basis is extremely important when we are camping.
With the wireless indoor outdoor thermometers I can get a precise reading on the temperature both inside and outside of the cabin. In addition, I receive a weather forecast that covers the next 12 to 24 hours which comes in very handy when deciding what activities to choose for the day.
The unit runs on batteries and that is a convenience for me. There is no need to recharge the unit and I don’t have to worry about having an electrical outlet in order to get my daily readings. The only thing I have to remember is to keep a stock of batteries but the wireless indoor outdoor thermometer doesn’t seem to take up much juice.
One of the bet features on the wireless indoor outdoor thermometer is the clock. I have an accurate reading on the time as well. The unit also offers a great snooze alarm just in case I ever need it. While a watch is great, there are times when I just want to be free from wearing jewelry and camping is one of those times.
This product is a great item to have when camping but I use is everyday at home as well. I love that I can be dressed, ready and out the door without waiting for the daily forecast. The wireless indoor outdoor thermometer gives me all the information I need right when I need it.
Kitchen curtain pattern
One of the most particular things to choose while decorating your kitchen is the kitchen curtain. Several different curtains are available in the market these days, with different patterns to choose from. However, it still is a daunting task.
It is a great idea to make your own kitchen curtains and if you are the creative type, it will work well for you because it will add a personal touch to this room. Besides, you can be all innovative with the material and the patterns. There are a number of patterns to choose from and hence, it will only make your work easier.
Here are a few tips that you should follow to know more about curtain patterns for the kitchen.
Check out your local store
You can get some really great ideas about different patterns for kitchen curtains from your local fabric store. Usually, they have books with all their designs in them. Therefore, feel free to flip through the pattern book and you may find yourself flooded with ideas for various curtain styles for your kitchen. You do not need to go hunting for some particular design only. It is possible that you might not even get it. Instead, keep a few options in mind so that you can look for others if one is not available.
Internet will provide numerous options
The Internet is a great source of information of all kinds, which is true for kitchen curtain patterns as well. Therefore, do a bit of searching on the internet and you will find huge number of options for different patterns. You can also find information about the places that sell patterns for making kitchen curtains. Check out their official website and look about to see if you like something in particular. This can be a great way for you to obtain some great designs, simply sitting at home.
Natural Cleaning products you can make at home
�� To clean your oven, use a mixture of ammonia and water. The solution may be stored in a spray bottle. For tough stains, apply a mixture of baking soda and water directly to the stains, and let the mixture stand for several minutes before wiping.
�� To remove furniture polish build-up on your furniture, mix 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup vinegar. Moisten a soft cloth with the mixture and wipe furniture clean.
�� Baking soda can be used to remove crayon marks from walls and painted furniture. Sprinkle on a damp sponge and scrub gently so you don’t damage the paint or wallpaper.
�� To clean all types of woodwork, make a mixture of 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, 4 tablespoons white vinegar, and 1 quart warm water. Apply with a soft cloth and dry with a separate, clean cloth.
�� Window and glass cleaner: Mix 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice with 1 quart water, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1/2 cup white vinegar, and 1 gallon water.
�� Window cleaner: 1 tsp. dish soap, 1/2 c. ammonia, 1 c. rubbing alcohol. Place mixture in gallon jug and fill with water.
No-wax floors can be cleaned with a solution of 1 cup vinegar per gallon of water for a shinier surface.
To clean wood paneling, use a mixture of 1/2 cup olive oil, 1/2 cup vinegar, and 2 cups warm water. Apply to paneling with a soft cloth. Dry with a clean cloth.
Remove stains from the toilet bowl by spraying with vinegar and spraying.
To remove stubborn stains from most surfaces, use a baking soda paste (3 parts baking soda, one part water). Apply, let stand, then scrub or wipe clean.
Children's toys can be cleaned using 1 / 4 cup baking soda in 1 quart warm water. Submerge in this mixture (or wipe with a cloth dampened in it), then rinse with clear water.
A home-based after school program
After school activities need not be taught in a school-like environment by professional teachers in a structured and timely manner. There is a lot YOU can do to support your child's academic, physical and social development. Do not be too concerned about formal programs, as many of our children are already over-scheduled.
Obviously, school is top priority for children. They need to go to school, and finish their homework. They should then do their daily reading or writing work etc. This may take about 30-60 minutes. In the course of his daily work, your child may develop certain academic preferences and interests. In that case, you can try and find a program in a college or a community center that will help him and encourage him. In the age of the Internet, information is really not a rarity. Allow him to use the net to find more information about thing that he likes. Encouraging the child to do independent research to gain in-depth knowledge is something that no formal program does.
If you are concerned about the lack of social life, enroll him or her in a club - a reading club maybe. Visit public libraries or even the theatre, if your child is interested. It is not necessary for your child to make friends with children his own age. A parent-child book club is another interesting option. If you can round up a number of like-minded children and their parents, you may well start your own after-school program.
When there is no organized group activity, look to your community. Many children love to get involved in social problems. They get their first real taste of suffering, charity and community help from such experiences. Volunteering for clean-up sessions, adult education programs etc could be a real eye-opener for your child. The lessons thus learnt are invaluable.
If physical activity or the lack of it is your major concern, enroll your child for some dancing classes. If organized sports are impossible to get, try to enroll her in a gym. She may find friends there and may take to the treadmill.
Your child does not necessarily have to be a part of an organized group to benefit from after-school activities. There are various avenues open in front of you. Roping in the enthusiasm of your children in daily household activities like cooking, cleaning etc can also provide them with a refreshing extracurricular experience. Moreover, it will improve family ties too.
After school safety - tips and reminders
Children are vulnerable when they are outside the classes. While going or returning, they should know the safest route to take. Many kids hang out with their friends just after these classes. Find out 'danger zones' from your neighbors and make the children aware of these.
The child has to know how to handle emergencies. It is better to discuss various scenarios with your child. Tell her what she should do in case the class is suddenly cancelled. Show her the first-aid kit at home and make sure she knows whom to call in an emergency. Post any important contact
information in a place that is easily accessible to the child. If the child will be alone at home, discuss a few unexpected things with her. Tell her to use the safety chain ALWAYS.
Relay on your neighbors and friends when needed. Let your child know who can be contacted at times of emergency. Ask your child to check in by phone. Above all, always tell the child to be in a group. Visiting toilets all alone or going home via isolated streets must be avoided.
After school program - recreational vs. educational
Educational activities aim at furthering the knowledge of your child. His general awareness, his understanding and his memory are targeted and he is given various techniques that will help him improve one or all of these. Programs such as intensive memory training and speed mathematics are educational after school activities. There are academic programs that will go over your child's homework and class work and help the child gain more in-depth knowledge in the various subjects. Thus academic programs have a definite edge over the fun and games, especially if parents feel that their child has a lot of catching up to do.
Recreational activities include sports and games, fine arts, painting etc. The main thrust here is to have fun. Of course, classes become more competitive as the child climbs up the ladder. Many sport events, competitions, stage performances etc are held to encourage the child.
When we compare the merits of the two kinds of activities, I believe that the recreational programs have more meat. Firstly, children do not enjoy learning unless they themselves feel curious about something. Most academic programs are standardized courses that are not too flexible. They have a general purpose and a well laid out methodology. After a number of hours at school, the child may feel bored. Further study may overwhelm him and make him feel frustrated. Burnout is very much a possibility here.
Recreational programs provide a welcome break from the monotony of learning and studies. The mental challenge and the physical exertion make the child feel a renewed zest and a pleasant sense of fulfillment. Group activity teaches him social skills, discipline and patience. It is a proven fact that children involved in extra curricular activities get better grades than others. Sometimes closing the textbooks and playing a game may be the best way to handle your studies.
Whatever program you choose for your child, regular evaluation is the key to success. You will have to measure the child's progress. If progress is unsatisfactory, shift your child out of the program. The child should also have the freedom to reject an activity if and when he feels bored with it. Generally, programs that combine the educational with the recreational are best suited especially for younger children. This way, children can have fun while they learn.
After school activity for the hyperactive child
The first step while choosing the right after school activity for your child is to understand how ADHD affects him. Is your child interested in sports? Is he put off by the fierce competitiveness, or does he find it hard to get along with teammates? Does your child vocalize his feelings, or is communication a problem?
For a child suffering from ADHD, physical exercise is always beneficial. Exercise takes up the extra energy and helps to stimulate the brain. Team activities teach social skills and discipline. But, if your child shies away from team sports, you may want to look at activities like dancing, cycling, swimming or gymnastics. Martial arts not only teach techniques of self-defense but also teach self-control and patience.
If your child shows aversion to sport and shows inclination towards the fine arts, you may need to look at some other options. Acting classes are a wonderful form of creative exercise. It also provides the child with ample opportunity to develop his social skills. Music, art or dance can help the child to keep himself busy and entertained.
In case the child is not interested in any of the above, you may want him to join a Boy Scouts club or other community oriented clubs that take up social work. Cleaning a park, putting on a show, helping out in an old age home are various activities that may pique your child's interest.
Whatever form of activity you choose, make sure that you monitor your child's progress periodically. If you feel that there is no progress, you may need to change the activity. Anything that increases your child's self-esteem is good. You may enlist the help of the coach or teacher to assess your child's development.
There are certain activities that are detrimental to a child suffering from ADHD. Computer and video games are a definite NO. Since these games need no interaction, children will feel all the more isolated. These children also find it difficult to distinguish between the good and the bad messages. They may therefore show an inclination to stick to messages that are not needed. Games that need the child to sit and wait for his turn patiently tax his patience and will not be a success.
Although you would want these children to be as near to normal as possible, understanding their needs and limits will help you select the right after school activity - one that is fulfilling, tiring as well as challenging.
After school activities for the overweight
So, what's the alternative? Studies show that the number one reason for obesity in children is not junk food and colas. It's actually TV. Children tend to plop themselves on the sofa and munch away happily when they are in front of the TV sets. But, once the set is off, their natural buoyancy will lead the children to do stuff and to move their body. THey will then be diverted from eating.
Recreational after school activities are a must if you feel that your child is beginning to put on undesirable fat. It is better to begin these activities as early as possible. The more weight the child gains, the harder he has to work to shed it. Football, swimming, skating and Karate are just some activities he can participate in. Structured and disciplined exercise is possible only when one is put into a formal environment. That is why an overweight child simply HAS to be put into an after school program of this kind.
After school activities and burnout
After school is not baby-sitting:
After school activities thrive only if it is backed by sufficient parental involvement. What would a soccer match be without parents cheering their little heroes from the sidelines?.
Research and choose:
Instead of convenience being the decisive factor, find out things that will interest your child. Once you select a program, get the fine print and find out what you have to contribute.
Free time:
Many children attend piano classes, followed by ballet and squeeze in some time for play dates in between just before they rush home in time for bed. This rigor is too much for a child. So, go slow.
When to quit:
Often, parents enroll their child in an activity to discover that he may not be the prodigy they thought he would be. This is the time to let go. Your child may not become the next wonder-kid. But, let him cultivate an interest that he enjoys. Remember, happiness and fulfillment are all that matter.
