Parental Wisdom® by Tina Nocera

Capitalizing on teachable moments

March 17th, 2008

A good reputation is more valuable than money.
– Publilius Syrus 100 BC Maxims

In the midst of our incredibly busy days, parents search for something called quality time. But time is time, and each week we are given exactly 10,080 minutes; no more, no less. Time is the great equalizer – it doesn’t matter how much or how little money you have.

How we spend that time is what matters. Interestingly, we often spend time in things we can document, quantify or measure, such as activities like sports, school, chores, and work. But what matters more are the things you can’t measure, such as the impact of teachable moments. We need to look at those opportunities as gifts and capitalize on them.

Thank you Former Governor Spitzer. Thank you for giving us the opportunity the explain to our children the difference between little and big mistakes. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to ask our children a simple but very important question,

“What do you think your reputation is worth?”

Since we are surrounded by popular culture, what used to be considered infamous is now immediately considered famous. We are in the parenting fight of our lives and need to find opportunities to reinforce our values despite the world’s perceptions of values imploding around us.

The young woman in the Spitzer case stands to make millions from the publicity. Again, discuss with your children what her reputation is really worth? A new show called Moment of Truth offers large money prizes for true answers. Unless you’ve lead a Mother Teresa-like existence, I would suggest not trading your reputation and family embarrassment for dollars.

Despite your best attempts, you can’t be around your children all the time, so the next best thing is to make sure they are thinking before they act. No doubt they will make mistakes, but have discussions that reinforce the values you want to instill so you can at least minimize that possibility. I know you think children sometimes don’t listen, but they do. After all, if we didn’t listen, how could you explain that when we grow up we all sound just like our mothers or fathers.

As you end your discussion, put this seed in your child’s head;

“Before you do something – think, would you be proud or embarrassed for us to learn about it?”

That will tell them all they need to know.

Tags: children, governor spitzer, parenting, reputation, values
Posted in College Age, Helping Families, Integrity, Media & Marketing, Money & Material Things, Parenting 101, Popular culture, School Age, Self Esteem, Teens | 6 Comments »

Limiting Marketing to Kids

March 15th, 2008

A few years ago I asked my nephew what he wanted for Christmas. He didn’t know. I asked him if he watched Saturday morning cartoons, because I remember when my kids were little that’s where they saw the toys they might like.

He told me there were no toy commercials, only food commercials. He was right. And the commercials bombarding our children promoted foods and beverages that were high in fat, sugar and salt.

Finally, consumer organizations world-wide will pitch a proposal to limit the amount of food marketing to kids. The group is calling for a ban of radio or television advertising of these foods between the hours of 6am and 9pm, and a ban on marketing the same kinds of unhealthy foods on social networks and other new media. Additionally, they are calling on a ban of promotion through toys and gifts and the use of celebrities and cartoon characters.

If you would like to hear about the new reality parents face, and actionable ideas, visit Parental Wisdom® and listen to our Park Bench® broadcast entitled Feeding Our Children to Death.

Tags: childhood obesity, junk food, marketing, media, parenting
Posted in Healthy Lifestyle, Helping Families, Media & Marketing, Money & Material Things, Parenting 101 | 2 Comments »

News at Eleven

March 12th, 2008

My daughter and I were in the parking lot of a Dunkin’ Donuts when we spotted a young child asleep in her car seat. No adults were in the car. I kept thinking how irresponsible this is, and how the parent would be hysterical on the 11pm news if something terrible happened.

As I read the story about the woman arrested for leaving her child in the car only for a few minutes I thought, why would you take that chance, even if for one moment.

There is nothing else to say.

Tags: cars, children, parents, Safety
Posted in Parenting 101, Safety | No Comments »

The History of Throw Blankets: From Functional to Fashionable

March 4th, 2008

Throw blankets, once seen as purely functional items, have become indispensable in the world of home decor. Today, they are not only practical for warmth but also serve as stylish accessories that can transform a room. This article delves into the rich history of throw blankets, tracing their journey from basic necessity to fashionable must-haves in modern interior design.

The Origins of Throw Blankets:

The history of throw blanket is as old as the need for warmth and protection. Early humans used animal hides and woven fabrics to shield themselves from the cold. These primitive blankets were rudimentary, focusing solely on function. The concept of a “throw,” as we understand it today, began to take shape with the development of textile production, which allowed for more refined and portable pieces.

During the Middle Ages, blankets were valuable possessions, often passed down through generations. They were typically made from wool, a material that was widely available and highly effective at retaining heat. These blankets were more substantial in size and weight, designed to cover entire beds or be wrapped around the body for warmth.

As trade routes expanded during the Renaissance, so did the variety of materials and designs available for blankets. Exotic fabrics like silk and cashmere began to enter European markets, reserved for the wealthy. These luxurious textiles introduced the idea of a blanket as a status symbol, laying the groundwork for the throw blanket’s evolution from mere utility to decorative accessory.

The Evolution into Home Decor:

The Industrial Revolution brought significant changes to textile production, making blankets more accessible to the general public. The mass production of fabrics meant that blankets could be made more quickly and in a wider range of styles and materials. It was during this time that the throw blanket as a distinct category began to emerge.

By the 19th century, throw blankets had started to appear in parlors and sitting rooms, draped over sofas or chairs. These smaller blankets were not just for warmth but also added a decorative element to the space. The Victorian era, known for its opulent and heavily decorated interiors, embraced throw blankets as part of the overall aesthetic. Throws were often made from rich fabrics like velvet and adorned with intricate embroidery, tassels, and fringe.

In the 20th century, throw blankets continued to gain popularity as both functional and decorative items. The rise of interior design as a profession further solidified their place in home decor. Designers began to use throws as a way to introduce color, texture, and pattern into a room. The throw blanket became a versatile tool for creating a cozy atmosphere, allowing homeowners to change the look of a space with minimal effort.

Throw Blankets in Contemporary Interior Design:

Today, throw blankets are an essential element of home decor, available in countless styles, colors, and materials. From chunky knit throws that add a touch of rustic charm to sleek, modern designs that complement minimalist spaces, there is a throw blanket to suit every taste and decor style.

In contemporary interior design, throws are often used to create a layered, lived-in look. They can be casually draped over the arm of a sofa, folded neatly at the foot of a bed, or even hung as wall art. The versatility of throw blankets makes them a favorite among interior designers and homeowners alike.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, throw blankets continue to serve their original purpose of providing warmth and comfort. In today’s fast-paced world, they offer a sense of coziness and relaxation, turning any space into a sanctuary. Whether used for a quick nap on the couch or as an extra layer on a chilly night, throw blankets remain a symbol of comfort and style.

Conclusion:

The history of throw blankets is a testament to their enduring appeal. From their humble beginnings as simple functional items to their current status as fashionable accessories, throw blankets have evolved to become an integral part of home decor. As they continue to adapt to changing tastes and trends, throw blankets will undoubtedly remain a beloved element of interior design for years to come.

Tags: college, parenting, Toddlers, toilet training, trades
Posted in College Age, Education, Helping Families, Parenting 101, School Age, Teens, Toddlers | 1 Comment »

Barack on Parents

March 2nd, 2008

I’ll give you an ‘Amen’ Senator. Yes, there are some simple things parents need to do before any government or education programs can be successful.

So simple in fact, one would wonder why we’re not doing them now. He suggests simple things:
• “When that child comes home you’ve got the TV set on. You don’t check the homework… So turn off the TV set, put the video game away, buy a little desk or put that kid at the kitchen table.”
• The Illinois senator also urged parents to teach healthy lifestyles. “Make them go to bed at a reasonable time, keep them off the streets, give them some breakfast, come on,” he said. “Can I get an amen here?”
• He also admonished parents to take responsibility for their children when they make mistakes at school. “Since I’m on a roll here,” he said, “if your child misbehaves in school, don’t cuss out the teacher. You know I’m right about that.”
His response sent the crowd into frenzied applause. “All right, all right, everybody settle down. We’re having too much fun here,” he said.

Can it be that simple? Actually, yes.

Tags: children, Education, government, obama, parenting, parents
Posted in Parenting 101, Popular culture, School Age | 2 Comments »

Conversation anyone?

February 28th, 2008

The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) at Columbia University has launched a parenting forum to engage parents in conversation about how to raise drug- and alcohol-free children.

Casa has given parents a method of approaching the important conversation of substance abuse prevention. When I have spoken with my own children about local abuse prevention programs, they didn’t think the programs were very effective. The large number of middle and high school students that are abusing drugs and alcohol would prove that point.

The best prevention is home, where good behavior is modeled and bad behavior, as often illustrated by popular culture and young Hollywood, is a great opportunity for a dialog on what not to do. Since we’re often uncertain how and when to start these conversations, Casa offers some great ideas.

The best times to talk are obvious; well before the problem begins.

Tags: parenting, substance abuse, teenage drinking
Posted in College Age, Parenting 101, Popular culture, Safety, Teens | 1 Comment »

Mom on Strike

February 23rd, 2008

As I read the article about the arrest of Melissa G. Dean, 33, Florida mother of 4 children ages 17, 16, 14 and 13 for leaving her children home alone, it quickly dawned on me that she was a child herself when she became a mother.

Even for those of us who waited until we felt ‘ready’ to have children, whatever ready means, I can’t imagine how challenging it is not only to be a teenage mother, but to be a teenage mother repeatedly.

Parents, please create a village for yourselves as a means of support. This job of parenting is too hard to do alone. We all need people to rely on and count on. For all of the daily parenting questions that arise, where you need to be your child’s advocate and not break any confidence, you can reach out to Parental Wisdom.

As Plato said, be kind for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.

Tags: children, Moms, parents, teenage mothers, village
Posted in Empathy, Family Friendly America, Helping Families, Moms | 9 Comments »

Birthday party gifts – keeping expenses down

February 20th, 2008

As with any kind of change, someone has to start. People who were previously following the crowd will now be happy to line up behind you. The problem is they just can’t be first.

Take the out of control spending on kids birthday gifts. If your child goes to two parties a month, you have to allow for that non-trivial expense in your monthly budget.

What if you stopped spending what is ‘expected’ and started spending what you could afford to spend. Taking it a step further, even if you could afford the $25 spend per gift, don’t do it. These children simply don’t need all these gifts, nor do they even appreciate all these gifts.

Simple is better so check this article about WHEN YOU JUST DON’T KNOW WHAT TO GET THE MAN IN YOUR LIFE for that special someone.

If the child likes to draw, get a blank sketchpad and some pencils or markers.
If they like taking pictures, then get them a book on photography and some nice photo quality paper.
If they to go the movies, then movie tickets with a few bags of candy tied with a ribbon will be just the ticket.

And for your own child’s party, you may want to bravely suggest – no gifts, and instead celebrate with friends.

Remind your child just how lucky he is to have friends.

Tags: birthday parties, children, kids, material things, parenting
Posted in Friendship, Media & Marketing, Money & Material Things, Popular culture | 80 Comments »

There’s a reason for everything

February 17th, 2008

An outbreak of the flu is hardly good news, but there is a reason for everything. We find that we can clear our schedules, slow down and cuddle up. Why do we need to wait for the flu or a snowstorm to do something that makes so much sense?

Our generation of parents is so involved in our children’s lives that we have taken on the role of ‘Julie the Cruise Director.’

Let’s take a look at where that has gotten us:

• When they are very little, we register for mommy & me gym classes. Reality check, you can do that at home for no cost at all. Mommy, are you the one that needs the play date here?
• When they are toddlers, we’re registering them for soccer and pee-wee tee ball camps. Reality check again, this costs money and more importantly children actually get less time to play than if the parents played with their kids at the park or in the backyard. Also, the kids aren’t learning how to form their own teams.
• In grade school, we add music and tutoring to the sports schedule which leaves no time for play or family. The mini-van is well stocked with food and beverages as we have no time for dinner. And, by the way, no time for conversation since the mini-van has DVD’s playing in the head rests.
• We check our calendars to find free time for play dates that we’ve selected.
• High school comes around and by this time the kids are burned out by the politics of sports so they’ve stopped playing. Since they never started a game on their own, they don’t know how. Technology has taken the place of making real friends, again something they’ve never had to do.

Back to today’s lesson. Parents – do less and you’ll do more.

Tags: kids, marketing, media, Play
Posted in Family, Healthy Lifestyle, Media & Marketing, Money & Material Things, Play | No Comments »

Too Many Toys

February 12th, 2008

Consideration for Potential Side Effects or Interactions While taking Weight loss pills

While these over-the-counter alternatives offer convenience, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects or interactions with other medications. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

To summarize:

Compare different brands and formulations based on ingredients and dosage instructions.

Evaluate recommended usage duration for each alternative.

Highlight unique features or selling points of specific alternatives.

Discuss potential side effects or interactions with other medications. Try Alpilean weight loss pills

By considering these factors, you can find the best OTC phentermine alternative that suits your needs and supports your weight loss goals effectively. Remember to prioritize your health and consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

Cost and Savings Tips for Phentermine Alternatives

Finding affordable options for OTC phentermine alternatives is crucial, so let’s dive into some cost-saving tips without compromising quality or safety. Here’s what you need to know:

Overview of pricing variations among different OTC phentermine alternatives

Compare prices: Research various brands and compare their costs to find the lowest price.

Generic vs. brand-name: Consider generic alternatives, as they often offer similar benefits at a lower cost.

Online vs. in-store: Explore online retailers that may offer competitive prices compared to brick-and-mortar stores.

Tips for finding cost-effective options without compromising quality or safety

Read reviews: Look for feedback from other customers to ensure the product is effective and safe.

Consult healthcare professionals: Seek advice from doctors or pharmacists who can recommend reliable and affordable alternatives.

Utilize discounts and promotions: Keep an eye out for special offers, such as buy-one-get-one deals or discounts on bulk purchases.

Suggestions for utilizing discounts, promotions, or bulk purchase offers to save money

Check manufacturer websites: Many companies offer coupons or promotional codes on their websites.

Sign up for newsletters: Subscribe to newsletters from health supplement companies to receive exclusive discounts and savings opportunities.

Join loyalty programs: Some retailers have loyalty programs that provide additional discounts or rewards points that can be redeemed later.

Exploring potential insurance coverage or reimbursement options

Contact your insurance provider: Inquire about any coverage options available for OTC phentermine alternatives.

Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) or health savings accounts (HSAs): Check if these accounts can be used towards purchasing these supplements.

Remember, while considering the cost-saving aspect, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each alternative carefully. Prioritize your health needs alongside saving money when making a decision.

By following these tips, you can find affordable OTC phentermine alternatives that meet your requirements without breaking the bank. So start exploring and save money while working towards your health goals!

Coupons and Discounts for OTC Phentermine Alternatives

Looking to save money on your OTC phentermine alternatives? We’ve got you covered! Here are some great ways to find coupons, deals, and discount codes that can help you get the best prices on these prescription-free weight loss aids.

Where to Find Offers

There are a few websites and platforms you should check out. These sources often have exclusive discounts and promotions that can save you a bundle. Here’s where to look:

Online Retailers: Many online retailers offer special deals and discounts on OTC phentermine alternatives. Websites like XYZPharmacy or ABCSupplements often have ongoing promotions or limited-time offers.

Manufacturer Websites: Don’t forget to visit the official websites of the manufacturers themselves. They may have exclusive coupon codes or loyalty programs that can help you save.

Coupon Aggregator Sites: Websites like CouponCrazy or DealFinder gather all the latest coupons and discounts from various retailers in one place. Simply search for “OTC phentermine” or related keywords, and you’ll find a list of available offers.

Loyalty Programs and Rewards

Some manufacturers of OTC phentermine alternatives offer loyalty programs or rewards systems that can provide additional savings. By signing up for these programs, you can earn points with each purchase, which can be redeemed for future discounts or even free products.

Seasonal Sales Events

Keep an eye out for seasonal sales events that may offer additional savings opportunities. During holidays like Black Friday or New Year’s, many retailers offer significant discounts on various products, including OTC phentermine alternatives. Take advantage of these events to stock up on your favorite products at discounted prices.

So don’t pay full price for your OTC phentermine alternatives when there are plenty of ways to save. Check out these sources for coupons, discounts, and loyalty programs, and make sure to take advantage of seasonal sales events. With a little effort, you can find great deals that won’t break the bank!

Exploring

The KISS principle (which stands for Keep It Simple, stupid) relates to just about every area of our life. Not surprisingly it begins when our children are little.

Visit the home of any family with little kids and you see toys, toys, and more toys. The overabundance of toys makes each toy less special, less noticed and less valued. I have often found that putting toys away for a while and rotating them offered a better chance for the kids to appreciate them more.

But, as often happens the problem that many of us experienced, was resolved a mom.

Lori Pope launched Baby Plays, a web-based company that rents toys, think of it as a Netflix for toys.

Customers pay $28.99 a month to get four toys a month for three months and $35.99 a month to get six toys a month for three months. Families willing to sign a yearlong contract can get six toys a month for $31.99.

Baby Plays’ inventory includes popular toys by brands such as VTech, LeapFrog and Playskool as well as more obscure European manufacturers. Pope keeps at least seven of each kind of toy in stock so she can fulfill almost every request. She plans to double her inventory over the next two months.

Pope mainly stocks sturdy, easy-to-clean toys with few parts or parts that are easily replaced. She searches Web sites and catalogs for popular toys that are appropriate for small children and meet all European and American safety standards.

Check out this website for more great options on toys for your kids. Guess the kids would really look forward to a visit from the UPS driver!

Tags: Babies, children, entreprenuers, parents, Play, Toddlers, toys, websites
Posted in Babies, Family, Family Friendly America, Money & Material Things, Play, Toddlers | 13 Comments »