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The Family Trip Packing Guide: What to Pack for a Fun-Filled Adventure

June 24, 2024

by Mary Dickson with No Comment Lifestyle Travel

Planning a family trip? Whether you’re heading to the beach, the mountains, or a bustling city, packing for a family can feel like a difficult task. But fear not, I’m here to help you make the process smooth and stress-free.

Here are seven-step guides to packing for an exciting family trip.

1. items of clothing

You cannot go on a family trip without packing clothes. When packing your clothes, make sure you pack smartly and avoid heavy clothes that will make your language heavy. Here are the things to pack according to the people going for the trip.

For Everyone

Comfortable clothes for each day, plus a couple of extras just in case.
hoodies or light jackets.
Pajamas.
Swimsuits (if you’re headed to a beach or pool).

For Kids:

Plenty of socks and underwear.
A few sets of their favorite outfits to keep them happy.

For Adults:

A mix of casual and a couple of dressier outfits (you never know when you might have a nice dinner out).

2. Toiletries and Personal Care

There’s no way you’ll pack your stuff and forget toiletries. Have all your toiletries packed and make sure they’re in adequate. Toiletries like;

Toothbrushes and toothpaste.
Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.
Hairbrush or comb.
Sunscreen and insect repellent.
Any medications or prescriptions.
A basic first aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers).

3. Snacks and Drinks

To stay fueled and hydrated, you need some snacks for these trips especially when you’re going on a long journey. This will help in getting something to eat to sustain you for the journey.

A variety of snacks (granola bars, fruit, crackers).
Reusable water bottles for everyone.
Juice boxes or small packs of your kids’ favorite drinks.
A small cooler if you need to keep things fresh.

4. Entertainment and Comfort

Yes, some trips might be on a long journey and it could be kind of boring. Some of these are some of the items or equipment you need to keep you awake and entertained for a while in order not to catch boredom.

Books, coloring books, and crayons.
Tablets or portable DVD players with headphones.
A few favorite toys or stuffed animals.
Travel games and cards.

5. Important Documents and Money

You need to be prepared for any inconvenience occurrence. That’s why you need to have on you a lot of money and also important documents. To avoid any setbacks and displeasure during the journey.

IDs and passports (if traveling internationally).
Print copies of your travel itinerary and reservations.
Wallet with cash and credit cards.
Health insurance cards.

6. Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Aside getting all the items mentioned above, you need miscellaneous in case you do not make it to the destinated trip it can help you in along the way.

A sturdy, comfortable stroller (if you have a little one).
Portable crib or travel bed.
Baby wipes and diapers (if needed).
Extra plastic bags for dirty clothes or trash.
Chargers for all electronic devices.
A camera to capture all the fun moments!

7. Special Items for Special Destinations

Every trip is been planned for some purposes and there’s different destinations planned on every trip. sometimes it could be just one destination and other time it could two or more. These are the items needed for such trips.

Beach trip: Towels, sand toys, and beach umbrellas.
Camping: Tents, sleeping bags, and camping gear.
City Adventure: Comfortable walking shoes, a lightweight backpack, and maps or guidebooks.

Packing for a family trip doesn’t have to be a headache. With a little planning and this handy checklist, you’ll be all set for a fantastic adventure. Remember to pack with a smile and enjoy the excitement of exploring new places together. Here’s to making amazing memories on your family trip. Enjoy your trip.

Mary Dickson

Mary Dickson is a versatile professional with over a decade of experience driving innovation at the
intersection of technology, marketing, and female empowerment.
With a background in marketing she worked with Nalo Solutions Limited for 13 years leading the HR
department for 8 years and moving on to lead the marketing team for 5 years.

5 Important Tips for Traveling with Kids: Car, Train, Boat, and Plane

June 18, 2024

by Mary Dickson with No Comment Lifestyle Travel

Traveling with kids can be an adventure filled with memorable moments and occasional challenges. Whether you’re embarking on a road trip, taking a train, setting sail on a boat, or flying to a far-off destination, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth journey.

Tips To Take note Of Before Travelling With Your kids

I want to take you through five important tips to help you make your travels with your kids enjoyable and stress-free.

1. Pack Smart and Light

When traveling with kids, packing can feel overwhelming. The key is to pack smart and light while ensuring you have all the essentials.

Always include a first-aid kit, snacks, water bottles, wet wipes, diapers (for babies), and a change of clothes for each kid.
Bring along some appropriate toys, books, or tablets loaded with educational games and movies to keep them occupied and entertained.
Use packing cubes or separate bags for each kid’s belongings to make it easy to find what you need quickly and to avoid misunderstandings and petty fights among them

Keeping your luggage organized and accessible helps you stay prepared for any situation without being overloaded with unnecessary items.

Also read about:

5 Reasons Why It’s Important to Save While Raising a Kid

2. Plan for Frequent Breaks

Kids have shorter attention spans and higher energy levels, which means they need more frequent breaks to stretch and move around. Whether you’re traveling by car, train, boat, or plane, make sure to:

Plan stops at rest areas or parks every couple of hours. Let the kids run around and burn off some energy. This is done when you’re traveling with your car.
Train: Walk through the train cars and take advantage of any scenic stops or layovers.
Boat: Explore different parts of the boat, participate in onboard activities, or simply take a walk on the deck.
Plane: Encourage kids to walk up and down the aisle when it’s safe to do so, and use layover times to explore the airport.

Frequent breaks help prevent restlessness and crankiness, making the journey more pleasant for everyone.

3. Stay Flexible with Your Schedule

Traveling with kids means things might not always go as planned. Delays, tantrums, and unexpected events can happen. To stay flexible

Always leave extra time in your schedule for unforeseen delays and additional breaks.
Be ready to change plans if necessary. If a child needs a nap, find a quiet spot to rest, even if it means altering your flight plan.
Understand that you might not see or do everything you originally planned. The goal is to make the journey enjoyable for everyone.

A flexible mindset helps reduce stress and allows you to adapt to any situation that arises.

4. Prioritize Safety and Comfort

Ensuring your kids’ safety and comfort during travel is paramount. Here’s how to prioritize both:

Car: Use appropriate car seats and seat belts. Pack blankets and pillows for comfort during long drives.
Train: Keep an eye on children when moving between cars and ensure they understand the rules of train travel.
Boat: Equip kids with life jackets and familiarize them with boat safety protocols.
Plane: Make sure kids are securely fastened during takeoff, landing, and turbulence. Bring a favorite blanket or stuffed animal to comfort them.

By focusing on safety and comfort, you create a secure environment that allows kids to relax and enjoy the journey.

5. Engage and Involve Your Kids

Involving your kids in the travel process can make the experience more exciting and educational for them. Here’s how to engage them:

Before the trip, talk to your kids about the destination and what to expect. Show them pictures and maps to spark their interest.
Plan interactive activities such as travel journals, or photography challenges.
Give older kids small responsibilities like carrying their own backpacks, choosing snacks, or navigating with a map.

Engaging kids in the travel process not only keeps them entertained but also helps them learn and feel more involved in the adventure.

Conclusion

Traveling with kids can be a joyful and rewarding experience with the right preparation and mindset. By packing smart, planning for breaks, staying flexible, prioritizing safety, and engaging your kids, you set the stage for a memorable journey filled with fun and family bonding. So, embrace the adventure and create lasting memories

Mary Dickson

5 Reasons Why It’s Important to Save While Raising a Kid

June 14, 2024

by Mary Dickson with No Comment Lifestyle Motherhood/Parenting

Raising children is an enriching journey, but it also comes with its fair share of financial challenges. From diapers to college tuition, the expenses can add up quickly.

This is why it’s crucial to prioritize saving money even as you go through the joys and responsibilities of parenthood. Here are five key reasons why saving while raising a kid is important.

1. Preparation for Unexpected Expenses

Life is full of surprises, and not all of them are pleasant. Whether it’s a medical emergency, a sudden job loss, or an unexpected home repair, having a financial cushion can make a world of difference. By consistently saving, you build an emergency fund that provides peace of mind and stability.

This safety net ensures that you can handle unforeseen expenses without compromising your family’s financial security or going into debt.

Also, read about:

5 Best Ways To Manage Finances As A Wife.

2. Educational Opportunities

One of the greatest gifts you can give your child is a quality education. However, educational costs can be steep, ranging from early childhood programs to higher education. By saving early and consistently, you can better manage these costs and provide your child with the opportunities they need to succeed.

Whether it’s saving for private school tuition, extracurricular activities, or college funds, having savings earmarked for education can significantly ease the financial burden.

3. Modeling Financial Responsibility

Children learn a great deal from observing their parents’ behaviors and habits, including how they handle money. By prioritizing savings, you set a positive example of financial responsibility for your kids. They will learn the importance of budgeting, planning, and the value of money.

This financial literacy is an invaluable life skill that will serve them well into adulthood, helping them make informed and responsible financial decisions.

4. Long-Term Security

Thinking long-term is crucial when raising a family. As parents, it’s important to consider not just the immediate needs but also the future. Saving money ensures that you can provide for your child’s needs as they grow and change. It also helps you plan for significant life events such as buying a home, planning vacations, or even saving for retirement.

Long-term financial planning and saving provide a sense of security and freedom, allowing you to enjoy life’s milestones without financial stress.

5. Reducing Financial Stress

Money issues are a leading cause of stress for many families. Financial strain can impact your health, relationships, and overall well-being. By saving money and building a financial cushion, you reduce this stress significantly.

Having savings allows you to manage daily expenses more comfortably and cope with financial challenges more effectively. This leads to a more harmonious household and better mental health for everyone involved.

Conclusion

Saving money while raising a kid is not just about securing a comfortable future; it’s about creating a stable and stress-free present. By prioritizing savings, you prepare for unexpected expenses, invest in your child’s education, model financial responsibility, ensure long-term security, and reduce financial stress.

These efforts not only benefit your financial health but also contribute to a happier, more secure family life. Start saving today, and give your family the gift of financial stability and peace of mind.

Mary Dickson

5 Best Ways To Manage Finances As A Wife.

May 27, 2024

by Mary Dickson with No Comment Lifestyle Motherhood/

Are you struggling with financial management as a wife and do not know how to go about it? In this article, I want to help you learn how to manage your finances as a wife.

Finance management, also known as financial management, involves the strategic planning, organizing, directing, and controlling of financial activities in an organization or individual’s life.

Ways to manage finance

1. Budgeting

As a wife, planning future income and expenditure to ensure resources is an effective thing to do. It helps you know ahead of time what to get and how to get them. It is also a coefficient for using money unnecessarily.

2. Bulk purchase

When you buy in bulk, you save a lot of money and avoid having to buy in smaller quantities. It helps you with future expenses because buying in bits is expensive, and each time you do so, the prices of the items rise the next time you visit the market. So make sure you always buy in bulk and stock them. It saves money, and expenses.

3. Accounts and record keeping

After every expense, make sure you always jot down the amount of money you spend. Preparing financial statements and reports provides insight into your financial health and helps on how to spend.

This also helps you track your financial performance and support decision-making

Also, read about:

15 Home And Smart Skills You Can Start Teaching Your Kids.

4. Investment

You can also invest your resources in various investment opportunities to grow your wealth as a wife. This will help you in the future to be able to be an independent wife. Investing your money is also a way to manage your finances.

It keeps you focused and gets you going. This will also help you during your financial crisis.

5. Financial planning

You need to set your financial goals and develop strategies to achieve them. These goals can be both short-term and long-term. Doing this helps you know what to attend to first on your list. It also helps you avoid incurring unnecessary expenses.

Financial planning as a way to manage finances is essential and one of the first things to consider before making any financial decision.

Effective finance management is important for a wife’s sustainability and growth as it helps make informed decisions, optimize resource use, and achieve strategic goals.

Mary Dickson

5 Best Work-From-Home For Moms

May 24, 2024

by Mary Dickson with No Comment Lifestyle Motherhood/Motherhood/Parenting

It is a good thing to work from home sometimes as a mom. This is solely because you get to take care of your family and spend some quality time with your kids. Working from home as a mom is also good for you to keep an eye on your kids for safety and a good upbringing.

Finding the best work-from-home jobs involves considering flexibility, work-life balance, and the ability to generate a reliable income, especially for moms managing family responsibilities. This also requires personal interests or skills to be able to work from home.

Here are some of the best work-from-home jobs suitable for moms:

Social Media Manager

A social media manager is responsible for creating content and interacting with the followers of a particular social media platform for a business. They are also responsible for tracking the growth of social media and keeping analytics.

Also read about:

5 Best Ways To Manage Finances As A Wife.

Qualifications

To be a social media manager, you need to have an online certification, communication skills, problem-solving skills, creativity, and an understanding of analytics. You also need to be good customer service, time management, and Adaptability. You need to have Problem-Solving Skills, SEO Knowledge, Graphic Design Skills, and video editing, and be detail-oriented.

Aside from these qualifications, there should be additional qualifications that you need to acquire to help you improve your chances of landing a job. Such as networking, having your personal social media page, staying updated by reading blogs, following more influencers, and participating in webinars to keep your knowledge current.

2. Blogging/ vlogging

A blogger or vlogger is a person who creates and shares video content, typically in the form of a personal video blog (vlog), on platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, or their websites. Blogging/ vlogging is now a lucrative work that you can try as part of your work from home.

can start by doing lives, sharing your interests, hobbies, or expertise, and often engaging with your audience through comments and social media interactions. This helps you grow your audiences and helps you make more money when you’re dedicated to it.

Qualifications

To be a blogger/ vlogger, you need to have some qualities to be able to stay relevant to your audience. Qualities like having some writing and strong communication skills, you need to be a good storyteller to be able to get your audience to stay on your channel.

you need to be familiar with web development like WordPress, blogger, or Medium. You also need to know your niche and do more research. Make sure you have a deeper understanding of SEO to optimize content for search engines to increase visibility.

Know how to promote your content, and engage with your audience with consistency and time management. Learn also about networking, data analytics, adaptability, and monetization strategies. You also to have knowledge of video and photo editing using apps like Canva, Editor, Capcut, etc.

3. Graphic designer

Another work to consider is to be a graphic designer. A graphic designer creates visual content to communicate messages through digital and print media. This profession requires a blend of creative and technical skills, along with certain personal attributes to excel.

Qualifications

This type of work requires attention and focus to be able to come out with wonderful designs. To be a graphic designer, you need to be very creative and also have a little information about IT. You need to have good time management skills, have a deeper understanding of branding.

Be able to create balanced and harmonious designs using principles of layout and composition. Have effective communication to understand client needs, present ideas, and collaborate with other team members.

You also have to have the ability to solve design challenges and create effective visual solutions and you are willing to learn and adapt to new design trends, tools, and techniques. Keeping skills up-to-date through courses, workshops, and staying informed about design trends and software updates.

4. Online teaching

An online teacher is someone who teaches people or students through the internet. Online teaching offers flexibility and the ability to reach a wide range of students and people who are interested in whatever you teaching.

You can do your teaching through Facebook Lives, Instagram Lives, and TikTok Live. You can also record yourself and post it on YouTube or hold an online webinar. This requires a lot of time and energy and also requires you to be more knowledgeable in what you intend to teach.

It will fetch you lots of money as people join you because they might be interested in what you’re teaching. It could be about food, science, maths, nature, DIY, etc.

Qualifications

Firstly, you need to be familiar with various online teaching platforms like Zoom, Google Classroom, Microsoft Teams, Moodle, or Blackboard. You have to also know the strategies for keeping students engaged in a virtual environment, including interactive activities and multimedia resources.

Understanding and addressing the diverse needs and learning paces of students is also very important. I already mentioned that you need to have deep knowledge of the subject you are teaching and stay current with developments in the field.

You need to have Interactive skills to be able to be proficient in facilitating discussions, group work, and other interactive learning methods online. Regularly collect and act on feedback from students to improve your teaching methods, and have strong written and verbal communication skills to convey information and instructions.

5. Online Coaching or Consulting

A person who coaches or consults online is someone who helps people to build a brand and helps them to develop a better version of themselves. They Offer expertise in a specific field, such as career coaching, health and wellness, or business consulting.

Qualifications

As an online coach, you need to have some qualities that will help you up your game. Problem-solving skills are the ability to help clients identify challenges and develop effective strategies to overcome them. You have to be inspirational to inspire and motivate your clients, fostering a positive and empowering them.

Have a genuine passion for helping others achieve their goals and a strong drive to see clients succeed also maintain a well-structured approach to your coaching practice, including time management. You must have high ethical standards and maintain confidentiality and trustworthiness in all client interactions.

The ability to fully concentrate, understand, and respond thoughtfully to clients, ensuring they feel heard and valued. As an online coach or consultant, you need to encourage clients to stay committed to their goals and hold them accountable for their progress.

Make sure you have clear and concise verbal and written communication skills for ideas and feedback effectively.

Mary Dickson

15 Home And Smart Skills You Can Start Teaching Your Kids.

May 20, 2024

by Mary Dickson with No Comment Motherhood/Motherhood/Parenting

Are you looking for a home and smart skills that can help build your kids’ intelligence and also improve their ability for a wider experience? I believe you landed on the right article, which can help you teach your kids some skills to enhance their knowledge as they grow into adolescents at home.

Your kids must have some home skills in addition to the ones they learn in school. It is beneficial to have both academic knowledge and domestic skills. Having both educational and home training not only enhances their knowledge but also builds their confidence in every field.

Below are some home and smart skills that you can start teaching your kids to help them improve upon their strengths.

1. How to cook

Every kid must learn how to cook at least three or four meals. Cooking helps them cater for themselves whenever you’re not around. It helps them know what to eat and won’t wait for you to get them something. It also requires them to assist you in the kitchen whenever you are about to cook or when you are ill or tired. They adapt to that habit and cope with it. Some of them, as a result, end up becoming chefs.

2. How to clean the house

Teaching your kids how to clean and take care of the home makes them responsible and neat. It distinguishes them in all they do, both at school and elsewhere. They improve their teamwork skills and learn how to keep their surroundings clean.

3. Improve on their talents

Help them with training to improve upon any talents they have. This will make them experts in any talent they have. Ensure that they train every day, at least twice a week. It distinguishes them and allows them to excel in various activities, including violin, football, croacheting, dancing, acting, singing, and drawing, to name a few.

4. Teach them poetry

Write poems for them and help them recite them. Make them watch a few poem recitals on YouTube and let them practice it over and over again. This will increase their IQ and allow them to gradually begin writing their own poems. It also helps them improve their vocabularies and communication skills.

5. Time management

Time is everything and it is one of the most important things to learn how to manage in our daily lives. Teaching your kids time management makes them smart and punctual. They become conscious of everything they do and do it on time because they know the importance of time.

6. Communication Skills

It is important to learn how to communicate with people within and outside our circle. Teaching your children how to communicate is also important. Teach them how to be polite and not rude when communicating with others. How to use please, excuse me, sorry, pardon, etc. It goes a long way for them. It also becomes convincing to people that they have good and appropriate home training and manners.

7. Decision-making

You will not stay with your kids for long. As time goes on, they grow up and decide on certain things to do for themselves. Teach them how to make decisions on their own; let them be responsible for any decisions they make. That being said, make sure to guide them through so that they make the right decision.

8. Teach them house chores

Whatever you do, make sure you teach your kids how to do house chores. They grow up to become responsible adults and also pass it on to their offspring. House chores like doing the laundry, washing the dishes, cleaning the washrooms, taking care of their younger siblings, etc. This prevents them from being lazy and increases their intelligence and bravery.

9. Money management skills

Find them a piggy bank and teach them the importance of saving and money management. Teaching your children the value of money management at a young age helps them be more vigilant and understand how to spend their money wisely. It helps them avoid being extravagant and prepares them for any financial crises.

10. Reading skills

Reading improves our vocabularies and broadens our ideas on so many things. From culture, history, tradition, etc. It broadens our minds and is beneficial to instill in your children the value of reading. This will make them smart and knowledgeable about so many things. Buy books for them, allow them to visit the library if necessary, and provide them with an online library such as Novel Effect, Vooks, Bedtime Stories, and Farfaria Storybooks

11. Teach them first aid

Learning how to perform first aid at home is also a valuable skill to teach your children. Teach them how to do CPR, how to take care of a wound, how to apply ointment, and how to give medications when needed. You can also teach them how to contact the ambulance service or the police if there is an emergency at home.

Also, read about

How to create a family tradition on a special occasion

12. How to dress and be on time

As a mom, it is your responsibility to make sure you teach your kids how to dress and be on time without any delays. Teach them the appropriate clothes to wear on occasion and decent dressing. Help them know how to be ready on time whenever there’s an occasion.

As already stated, time management is important dressing on time is also part of time management. Lateness shouldn’t be part of their dictionary.

13. Menu planning

Menu planning allows you to know what meal to prepare at a given time, and teaching your children about menu planning benefits them greatly in the long run. It will also help them to know what to prepare when you’re not around.

14. Caring for the pets

Leave the pets to your kids so they care for them. Teach them how to properly care for their pets, such as bathing, feeding, and playing with them. It helps them learn how to care for others and provide for them. They do not think about only themselves but about the well-being of others as well.

15. Teach them the importance of Investment

Teach your kids about financial literacy skills to shape them into the future. Help them know the importance of investment and savings. Help them know the type of investments they’re supposed to venture into and teach them how to invest.

You can also teach them how to save money at the bank, as well as about lucrative businesses that will help them earn more money and the fields in which they should venture if they want to start their own business. It helps them develop entrepreneurial skills and financial stability. It prepares them to become adults who are interested in business.

conclusion

Make a concerted effort to teach your children at home so that as they grow into responsible adults in society, they can pass it on to others and their children.

Mary Dickson

How To Keep Your Kids Entertained While You’re Working At Home.

April 29, 2024

by Mary Dickson with No Comment Lifestyle Motherhood/Motherhood/Parenting

Working at home as a mom and surrounded by your kids could be very disturbing and overwhelming, especially when you do not have anyone to help you cater to them. Imagine having a meeting, and suddenly, your kid comes to call you with a shout because they need your attention.

Yeah, I know that feeling, and you wouldn’t want to imagine it, I guess? Imagine getting all your papers scattered while working and having a toddler in your arms at the same time. You end up not getting any of the work done because of the disturbance.

In this article, I have some interesting things to help you keep your kids entertained while working at home. These things are surely going to make your work at home peaceful and successful now, without your kids disturbing you.

Let’s delve into them:

1. Allow them to watch their favorite programs

Giving your kids access to watch their favorite programs will go a long way toward helping you do your work as a mom with ease and comfort. Allow them to watch rhymes on YouTube, cartoons on Netflix, play games on your phone or tablet, etc. Make sure whatever they watch can keep them glued and entertained so long as you finish your work.

2. Serve them with their favorite snacks

Serving your kids with their favorite snacks is also a kind of entertainment to them. They get overjoyed and help you, as a mom, to work efficiently at home. Giving your kids enough of their favorite snacks while working at home puts them in a position of calmness.

3. Give them work as you also work

Whenever you’re working at home, just make sure you also give your kids something to be busy with: You can provide them with an assignment, a book to read, a book to color, fix Legos, do a puzzle, or make them watch a lesson on YouTube (DYI, math, English, STEM). It serves as a source of entertainment to them, and they turn to it to learn a whole lot of stuff.

4. Invite their friends or cousins to keep them company

Kids like to play a lot and always want someone around them to play along with them whenever they’re lonely and sad. Inviting their friends or cousins to keep them company is the best idea. This will keep them entertained and help you work efficiently at home.

5. Let them go outside to play

Allow your kids to go outside and play with their playing objects ( bicycles, toys, football, basketball, etc.), but make sure you have your eyes fixed on them every minute. They become happy and do not disturb you a lot. They allow you to work and complete every task ahead of you without intruding.

6. Create a challenge for them to complete

Assign a challenge for your kids to complete with awards attached to it. Give them objects to make drawings of, and give them a reading challenge with a handful of books. They will make sure they are glued to the drawing or reading of the books without disturbing you. Kids find reading and drawing very interesting, and they will end up creating a wonderful sketch that serves as a source of entertainment for them. And because each wants to win, they get focused.

7. Make a video call to talk to family members

Call their grandparents, uncles, aunties, cousins, and siblings who are not living together with them on a video call. They get so excited and very entertained to talk to them on a video call for such a very long time. The kids talk to them and wouldn’t want to end the call for any reason. This helps you, as a mom, work effectively.

8. Care for their family pet

Give them the chance to care for the pets at home. Let the kids feed the dogs, and also have them spend time with their pets. Caring for the pets keeps them busy and entertained. It is great for them to practice a little responsibility with their pet. Have them walk the dog, clean the cage, feed the bird, or bathe the rabbit.

Summary

Practicing these ideas will keep your kids entertained, and this will also help you, as a mom, to have time and focus on all the work you do at home. Keeping your kids entertained while working at home is very important if you want to have.

Why It Is Important To Start A Mom Journaling

April 26, 2024

by Mary Dickson with No Comment Lifestyle Motherhood/

As a mom who wants to be very efficient in whatever you do, journaling is your go-to option. In this article, I want to explain why it is important to start journaling as a mom.

One may ask, what is journaling?

Journaling is the act of jotting down important information to help you in the future and also tracking the activities previously done by an individual. The act of keeping records of a step-by-step process of an activity along the line.

It is gradually done to cultivate and increase sustainability and efficiency in our daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly activities and plans.

It is very important to keep track of or keep records of whatever we do in our daily lives. I had the chance to practice journaling, and I must say, it has been a constructive and delightful journey.

Let me quickly take you through my journey and how helpful journaling was to me and I believe it will also be helpful to you as well. I have eight of them written in this article.

1. It is goal-oriented

It is believed that to get something done right and accurately, you need to set a goal for yourself. This goal cannot be achieved without jotting it down and knowing how to go about it.

First and foremost, you need to have the goal in mind and how you want it to be achieved. Writing down the goal makes it easier for you to achieve it. Journaling down the steps to follow makes it so precise.

2. It helps you correct your mistakes.

Correcting and completing your mistakes from your previous work is very fulfilling. As a mom, you might have a lot of tasks to complete, and you might not be able to complete them. So, going back to your journal makes you aware of the adjustments you need to make.

It helps you complete the task you weren’t able to complete like cooking, shopping list, chores etc. It also helps you correct any mistakes made in the previous days, weeks, months, or years.

3. It is very fulfilling

Journaling helps you be on the move. It directs you to know what to do at a particular time. It also helps you pour your heart out into your journal. Sometimes, being a mom can be very stressful and hectic and the only way to pour out your heart is to do that in your journal.

You might not want to discuss your problems with anyone, and doing that in your journal can be very helpful and fulfilling.

4. It helps you keep records of old times

Journaling helps you keep records of past events in your life, the lives of your kids, and your spouse. It helps you keep important records of happy moments in your life and also helps you keep important dates of anniversaries, birthdays, holidays, etc.

It is important to avoid being forgetful of certain events in your life as a mom; keeping records of these things becomes a priority for you. If you’re the type that becomes forgetful easily after getting things done, then you need to make journaling a habit. It really goes a long way.

5. Journaling helps you know your potential

Most of the time, as a busy mom, you want to attend to everything to make life simple and easy for your family. You end up attending to everything, making sure it gets done by all means. Take a chill pill, darling; you cannot do everything at a goal all by yourself.

Journaling helps you know what you’re good at doing very easily and quickly without getting caught up with time. It helps to know what type of goal to set. It also shows you how to prioritize any schedules you make.

6. It serves as an expression of gratitude

journaling helps you write down what you are grateful for as a mom. It makes you appreciate life and all the opportunities that come to you as a mom. It also helps you to become positive, happier, and more optimistic about life.

It is good to feel grateful and appreciate life in some way. Having the opportunity to care for a family is a blessing that we need to thank and appreciate God for.

7. It helps to minimize mental health

There are many benefits to journaling, one of which is to control and manage through any problems, fears, concerns, or panic you have. It reduces depression and anxiety. Journaling helps you manage and solve any problem you’re going through.

writing down all the problems you’re going through mentally will help you find a solution one way or another. This is basically because you will know what your strengths and weaknesses are, thereby channeling your energy to them.

8. It is a stress reliever

That moment when you can write down how your day went and what you achieved within the day is such a stress reliever. Writing down what went on with your family and kids during the day helps.

Writing down your thoughts, worries, fears, and anything else that may be causing you to overthink helps you find ways to deal with them or solve them. This can give you a new idea on how to tackle them, making them less stressful than you once thought.

In summary

Dear moms, journaling is very important in your home and if you haven’t started yet, then I guess you need to start now. Get yourself a journal and start writing now, Write anything and everything that comes to mind. It is a delightful thing to do that

Mary Dickson

Positive Habits For A Stay-At-Home Mom (SAHM)

April 19, 2024

by Mary Dickson with No Comment Lifestyle Motherhood/Motherhood/Parenting

A stay-at-home mom is typically a woman or a mom who stays at home to cater to her children while the other partner goes out to work.

A stay-at-home mom (SAHM) is also known as a “housewife” and makes sure the house is in order.

As a housewife, you have to make sure the house is well taken care of, the children are well fed and attended to, and the home is in an orderly position.

Many at times, most women do not want to become “stay-at-home moms.” Instead, they prefer to have something to do professionally to be able to support their partners with the bills and provide for the family.

Most moms become stay-at-home moms because their partners may not want them to be both mothers and workers. They prefer that their women stay at home while they go out to work and provide for their families.

Some come in the form of an agreement between both partners, and others come as a result of the preference of the other partner. Or solely a decision by the women.

In most cases, SAHM becomes so depressed and frustrated having to do just home things all the time. Which is to take care of the home and make sure children are well attended to.

Sometimes, it is a fun thing to do and other times, it becomes hectic, draining, and, of course, “boring.”

The reality of life is that when life hits you with children who need more time and attention, then the option of being a SAHM is the best decision to make.

Also, read about:

10 Positive Habits For a Stay-at-Home Mom

Let me take you through this process that will help you become a happy stay-at-home mom with less stress which will let you enjoy every moment of it.

1. Late to bed, Early to rise

As a stay-at-home mom, one habit you need to adapt to is the habit of going to bed early and making sure you get up early the next morning, even before your kids wake up.

Yes! I said late to bed because, as a mom, you need to make sure everything is in good shape and order before you go to bed.

Such as checking if the doors are well locked, if your kids are fast asleep and not having too much screen time, if kids are going to bed early, if the kitchen is in good order, and everything else that needs to be checked.

I also said to wake up early before you’re kids because, as a mom, you need to be well prepared before your kids wake up. You must ensure that their breakfast is prepared on time, that they are dressed appropriately for school, and that they arrive on time.

Waking up early helps you get everything done as fast as possible to prevent lateness and running from here to there trying to put your kids in their preparation for school or any other activities.

2. Have shared chores among your kids

Every child will gradually grow and become an adult someday. That’s why, as a SAHM, you need to share the chores with your children to ease your burden.

This is because, as the kids grow, responsibilities become larger, and you can’t take it all upon yourself.

A shared responsibility with your children will help ease your burden and make you feel less stressed. It also gives you more time to have some time to yourself.

That being said, when you have younger kids, try involving them in any activity you do. As they grow, they become used to whatever responsibility or chores you have them do.

They tend to do it and do it well. They understand that helping mom is the responsibility of every child, which makes them happy whenever they’re helping you do any chores at home.

Like the washing of dishes, doing the laundry, buying groceries, and washing the cars.

3. Make some new friends

You know that staying at home and not moving becomes so boring sometimes. Doing and having one activity done for a very long time also becomes boring.

That’s why, as a SAHM, you need to have time for yourself by making new friends and spending quality time with them.

With this, you learn new things and have some good chats and laughter with them. They also try to help you and give you advice on how to become a wonderful and caring mother.

Make sure you make good friends who can advise or teach you what to do as a mom. Share some ideas. Have some fun and visit a lot of places for a beautiful memory.

This makes you a happy mom without even thinking twice about how boring your life is as a stay-at-home mom.

4. Learn a new skill( DIY)

Developing yourself every now and then as a mom is a very important thing to do especially being SAHM. It is very important because it helps you release some stress and have new knowledge about something new.

Learning a new skill can involve your kids. Make sure you involve your kids when learning the skill. Sometimes, you may want to have alone time to yourself and develop yourself. That is a good thing to do but involving your children also helps them become so familiar and acquitted to you as their mom.

They learn to associate and relate more to you. Children are very observant and as you involve them in your skill learning, they also become used to it and want to learn some more.

5. Have some alone time to yourself

Meditations lift our spirits and make us strong and healthy. It makes us have and develop new plans and strategies about what to do as a mom.

More often, after you finish with your daily activities at home, make sure you have a lone time to yourself and reflect on what to do next. Have some rest, watch TV, listen to some music, read some books, and visit the saloon for your pedicure and medicure.

You need that as a mom too. A time for your kids and a time for yourself is very important. Make sure to always look presentable and attractive to your partner.

The fact that you’re a stay-at-home mom doesn’t mean you should be lackadaisical and mentally unstable. You need some time to yourself. It is very important.

6. Have some time with your partner

Funny enough, most stay-at-home moms get so used to their kids without having some time for their partners. They become so addicted to their kids forgetting about their partners.

This is not a healthy practice. Give what belongs to Ceazar to Ceazar and give what belongs to God to God. That means spending some with your partner as much as you spend with your kids.

Your partner is equally important as your kids. A SAHM is also required to give her time to her partner to lighten their relationship. To build a healthy and strong family.

Notwithstanding, a mom who doesn’t give much attention to her partner ends up losing him while giving all the attention to her kids.

7. Have patient.

It is a very hectic thing to be a stay-at-home. It is very depressing and overwhelming sometimes. It is time-draining, and all this requires some patience.

As a mom, one element that needs to be focused on is to be patient in all your dealings. Both with your partner and kids.

It takes a lot of effort, time, and strength to build a healthy and happy home.

Being a stay-at-home mom can sometimes be frustrating and you might end up wanting to give up. Patience is a major key and without it, you’ll always lose yourself, and end up having mental health issues.

It takes time and much effort to make it work. It is a gradual process to make it happen. And when you’re finally through it becomes a glorious Hong to behold. So, have some patience and everything will be fine.

8. No comparison

In other to be a strong SAHM, make sure you never compare yourself to other moms whom you think their doing so well than you are.

Mind you, you’re all not equal and truth be told, you’re doing a very wonderful work. You’re in the right truck and you’re going to be so okay on your own.

Comparing yourself to other moms makes you rather see yourself as not doing so well and also not putting much effort in whatever you’re doing. It drains you mentally seeing yourself less and worthless.

You might end up wanting to give up your motherly duties. Just be focused on what you’re doing.

Why compare yourself to others when you know you’re doing so well? Look at whatever you’re doing. You’re a supermom to your kids and they love you just the way you’re. Keep doing what you’re doing. You’re on the right track and stop comparing yourself to others.

9. Ask for assistance

You can never do this Stay-at-home mom alone. Sometimes, all you need is a little push and everything will be fine.

Don’t be shy to ask for help when you need it. Asking for help simply means, you’re human and you need someone to assist you in whatever you’re doing.

Ask for help from anyone you think is in the right position to offer it. It could be from your partner, relatives, friends, and even your kids.

Almost all humans need a helping hand to help them complete a task or to be pushed. Don’t think asking for help as a SAHM makes you any week, lazy, or not hard working. You need it, so ask for it.

10. Teach your children how to be independent

You can not do it all alone, you need to help your children help themselves at all times. Especially when you’re not around them.

You’re supposed to teach your children how to be independent and work on their own.

Teach them to do the dishes after eating, teach them to lay their bed when they wake up in the morning, and teach them to say sorry and thank you. Teach your kids to be able to do the laundry on their own. Let them know how to do their homework independently.

Don’t try to do everything alone by yourself by piling all these responsibilities on yourself. As you teach them, it helps you lift some of the burdens off your shoulders and have some limits to attending to them. While at this, make sure you keep an eye on them to do the right thing at the right time.

Conclusion

I just want to see happy and healthy moms who can look after their kids with love and cheerful faces, not a mom who wants to give up just because they’re Stay-at-home moms (SAHM).

I know it’s not easy but trying these habits and making sure you follow them will help you become a happy stay-at-home mom her writings.

Mary Dickson

A Successful Single Mother

April 8, 2024

by Mary Dickson with No Comment Lifestyle Motherhood/

A single mother is a superwoman who single-handedly raises and takes care of her children. She is a woman who fulfills the roles and responsibilities of both a mother and a father figure in the lives of her children.

Single mother comes as a result of the death of a spouse, denial of pregnancy, divorce, co-parenting, and any other factor that may contribute to this situation.

Being a single mother comes with so many responsibilities. This leads to frustration, depression, and overthinking.

As we all know, taking care of children is a big responsibility that requires time, energy, strength, and understanding to be able to be a good mother to your children.

As the children grow into adolescents, they begin to exhibit behaviors that require the intervention of a father figure. But in their absence, a single mother steps in to take on that role.

They make sure they train the children to be upright and responsible adults in society as they grow up.

It is very true that most single mothers lose themselves as a result of that. Dedicating their lives and time to make sure that their children are well attended to.

There are many ways to be a successful single mother and still take care of your children. So that you can take care of yourself while still being there for your children.

10 ways To Become A Successful Single Mother.

Here are some steps to help you become a “successful single mother,” which will make your children proud of you and also see you as a supermom.

1. Have a plan for your daily activities:

Having a plan or schedule for your daily activities is very important to keep you on your feet. It helps you know your next step and also helps you utilize your day successfully.

It keeps you busy and directs you to do the right thing at the right time. Many single mothers do not know or have any planned activities, and this makes them overwork their day without achieving any goal within the day.

2. Follow your schedules sequentially:

After having your day scheduled with all the activities you have within the day, make sure you follow them step-by-step.

Know what to do and do it well. Know how to start and start well, and make sure at the end of the day, you achieve at least half of the activities scheduled before you go to bed.

This helps you yield positive and successful work done without any stress.

3. Having something doing (a profession):

Being a single mother doesn’t guarantee idleness. It comes with a whole lot of responsibilities, energy, and resources. As a single mother, you must find practical work that keeps you on your toes. A handy work that makes you want to do more for your children.

You need to think of your needs, your children’s, and how to attain them. Having handy work doesn’t necessarily mean you should get a “well-to-do job,” but rather, you need to get a source of income.

An income that can at least put food on your table, clothe you and your children, and also give you a happy life and home. You can have an online store, be a makeup artist, fashion designer, caterer, food vendor, or open a mini-restaurant, just to mention a few.

This prevents you from being a “liability” to many, and it also allocates respect and honor to your name.

4. Don’t be too extravagant:

There are “needs,” and there are “wants.” Needs are the necessities we cannot do without, like clothes, education, shelter, food, and good health. While wants are the basic things we need to make life comfortable for us, like shoes, watches, cars, having fun, etc.

A single mother needs to know what she needs and wants to help her plan her expenses well. It helps you understand how and when to spend money on things that are not really necessary for survival.

It also encourages you to save more money for the future in order to be prepared for emergencies.

5. Let go of too many parties and outings:

Yes, it is very good to have fun sometimes. At least a little, have some fun, and make memories, but do not go overboard. Most single mothers do not care about their children, hence making them live a lavish life. Overspending and running out of cash.

They make “outing” their priorities forgoing their motherly responsibilities. They do not care how their children are fed or how well they look. Sometimes, they do this out of pain, regret, hate,, or out of their irresponsible lives as mothers.

Single mothers should understand that their children are their responsibilities, so they should give up some activities to spend more time with them.

They should rather set good examples for their children to follow, because a happy child is a healthy one.

6. Spend quality time with your children:

This helps your children become part of your world and also helps them become fond of you as a mother. Make sure you have a mother-child moment with them.

It could be watching TV together, taking a vacation, learning a new skill (DIY), playing games, or telling them stories.

As this keeps going, it becomes a tradition in the family and creates a strong bond between you and your children. This gives them the room to be open to you and discuss any situations they’re facing with you.

They turn to you for advice because you are their best and closest friend. You become their “ATM” mother (All The Time Mother).

7. Tell your children about their father:

Some children are very smart and may want to know anything and everything. These children are constantly on the lookout for new information and will not stop until they find the answers.

It is advisable that every child has the right to know who their father is. So if a child wants to know about their father, do them the honor by telling them without being secretive. Some children may want to know who their father is by all means. Being bold and strong enough to tell them the story pertaining to their father would either make them see how weak or strong you are as a single mother.

Children are very observant, and the more you hide things from them, the more they want to know why you’re hiding it from them. At least you owe them that, as a mother, to help them know their identity.

8. Don’t be an overly protective mother:

It is good to be there as a mother for your children. It is also good to protect them from the diversities of this world. A mother is like an eagle who protects and fights predators from harming her child.

A mother protects her children from harm and gives them strong shoulders to lean on when they are in pain or sorrow.

As the children grow, they begin to seek privacy from their parents, and do not want anyone to invade their space. Most of the time, they prefer to be left alone. This happens mostly in their adolescent stage. Children, as they grow up, want to take on some responsibilities by themselves.

They also want to make some decisions for themselves. Allow them this freedom while ensuring that you are available whenever they require assistance or advice.

Imposing or forcing them to do something they do not want to do causes misunderstandings between you and your children. Maybe you want to prevent them from repeating the same mistake as you did, or you might want them to be careful about certain decisions they make. But don’t be too imposing on them. They are maturing into adults and will eventually live independently.

Allow them to make their own decisions while you provide guidance, but do not use force.

9. Be their number one cheerleader:

Praise and acknowledge your children at all times. Don’t blame them for your failure or hate them for something they do not know about.

Whatever they do, recommend them and let them feel the motherly love from you. Being a single mother doesn’t mean you’re a failure, thereby venting your anger at your children for the slightest things they do.

Always make sure you motivate them and help them when the need arises in any tiny way you can. This makes you a fulfilled and successful single mother as you see them grow to become prominent and responsible adults in society.

They will never forget what a wonderful mother you were to them. And always show your appreciation in whatever they do.

10. Save for the future:

Hard times may come, and difficulties may set in as you raise your children alone. Saving for the future also helps you become a successful single mother.

It reduces your burden by ensuring that you have enough saved for unforeseen circumstances. Saving for the future makes you adequately prepared and ready for what lies ahead of you and your children. It eradicates shame and provides assistance for any emergencies. Saving is extremely important for a single mother because it allows you to provide for your children.

The smiles you put on their faces demonstrate how much they appreciate you and regard you as their supermom. This is due to your consistent ability to meet their needs. It is an honor to be able to care for your children on your own, to watch them grow and achieve their goals as they mature into adults.

Also, read about:

Mary Dickson