Children and Computer Technology

Computers are increasingly becoming a mandatory part every household and the children are exposed to them from their earliest days. Parents are faced with the questions like what is the right age to introduce computers to their children, what are the advantages and disadvantages of computer use and what possible health problems this may cause. By looking at their parents using computers, kids would probably want to do the same.


It is not recommended for a child under 2 years of age to use a computer, or be exposed to any screen for that matter (television, consoles…) because the eye muscles are not fully developed yet. Luckily, children themselves show real interest in the computers between the age of 3 and 6. In this period, parents should gradually introduce different kinds of games that are appropriate for the age and interest of the child. Keep in mind that the development and interests of children vary on an individual basis, and while some children may show an interest earlier, others may not be interested in computers for a long time. If your child doesn’t show an interest in computers, don’t impose it on them. There is plenty of time to learn everything there is to know, when they’re older.

Between 6 and 9 years of age is when most children are already familiar with the computer. If you didn’t have a computer in your house it is possible that this is when you would probably get one at the request of your child.  If this is the case, do not put the computer in child’s room, but somewhere visible to you, in order to have a better idea of the amount of time your child spends playing on the computer. Teach your child that a computer is not just for playing games - this is the age when a child can get numerous educational multimedia content that can greatly expand his or her knowledge, especially when it comes to school subjects.


Provide your child with good computer chair because the back has to be straight. Correct posture is very important for the development and healthy growth. The appropriate distance from the child’s face to the screen should be between 45 and 70 cm. The environment must always be well lit, but check that no source of light (natural or artificial) is reflected on the screen.

When they get older, most children will already use a computer better than their parents. Internet and social networks will probably become standard means of communication of your children and their friends. During this period it should be paid special attention to teaching your child what Internet safety is and how to behave online.  You can always protect your child from unwanted content and contact with parental control systems which have time slots you can easily set up. Moreover, most search engines have filtering options that can prevent unsuitable content for children from appearing.


When your children hit puberty, you should expect them wanting PCs or laptops of their own. Most children are addicted to gaming and social networks in this period and they would like to have their privacy. Gaming laptops or better performance PCs are some of the things that may be on their wish-list. As long as you took your time explaining your child that there is time to play and time to study, there shouldn’t be a lot of problems in this regard.

Numerous studies on the effect of computers on the intellectual, physical and social development are being done around the world, but the results are still insufficient to draw any final conclusions. A positive link between use of computer and cognitive development of preschool children from the age of 5 and up was found, but additional research is needed to determine the impact on very young children who are in the period of intensive development and acquisition of first knowledge about the world and environment. Only after years of study it will be possible to give definitive recommendations on the use of computers in the early years and its positive and negative aspects – until then, trust your judgement as a parent, respect your children’s interests and try to present proven content, appropriate for their age.

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Importance of New Technologies for Student-Teacher Relationships

Every school has some form of traditional rules imposed on teachers and on students as well. However, with new technologies emerging ever so frequently, there is a big shift in how students and teachers behave among and towards each other. Though, it is expected that schools will undergo changes as well, the question is whether it will have a positive or negative influence.


A chance to increase student engagement
With introducing technologies in the classrooms, it is possible that students can become more active, not only in class, but also outside of it. Effectively making students become more self-sufficient and to be able to research on their own. However, it will also offer teachers new methods of teaching and passing on knowledge. On the other hand, communication between teachers and students should improve as well.

Use what you have
Classrooms will have the possibility to enable students to connect even via personal smartphones, making classes seem more interesting. Moreover, by introducing mobile learning, students will be able to follow classes even if they are from another part of the world. Moreover, students and teachers will be able to exchange information and get questions answered without having to disrupt the class. Remember to teach your students about mobile etiquette and what acceptable behavior is, so that they do not abuse their phones in class.

Introducing interactive learning
Keep in mind that as technology evolves, interactive learning will get a new perspective and dimension as well. The question then will be whether teachers and students are capable to undergo the necessary changes. Teachers should gradually introduce new interactive methods used in the classroom, so that students can get accustomed. Furthermore, it will provide a new horizon for being able to learn more, and to make learning more fun and interesting. 

Accepting the new changes

Schools should have proper equipment
The most important consideration for enabling better relations between teachers and students will be the necessary equipment required for schools. Though it might seem that it is impossible to get everything that a modern school would need, it is in fact possible to existing infrastructure and modify it according to the school’s needs. On the other hand, if the substructure is developed gradually, it will leave room for further improvements in the future.

Related article:School Tables -Shapes,Heights and Sizes

Handling school needs
As schools become more modern, and more equipped with new gadgets and computers, it will become pricier to get in as well. Though, with school easy pay, it will be possible to handle books, fees, and even other school required activities, with a few easy payments. On the other hand, make sure that you plan your budget so that you have enough to cover tuitions and required gadgets to follow the program without any problems.

The future of technological advancements in the classroom
Although it is not definite what will happen, one thing is certain. Without a teacher to conduct a class, it will be hard to imagine education. Even if there are technological advancements in schools, a teacher-student relation must be established in order to pass on knowledge and to really teach something.

Schools should not oppose changes, rather, try to give teachers time and resources to work these new advancements into their classes. After all, a teacher is best if they can teach in an environment they understand and feel welcome in. Moreover, students feel safe with teachers they trust and can ask question related to schools and otherwise. In the end, remember that there is always a test period where you will be able to see if schools are ready for changes.

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How to Decide What TENS Unit to Buy

Thanks to the technological developments in medicine and physiotherapy, today there are a number of solutions that you can turn to in case of any ailment. There is an incredible number of companies that are producing a myriad of products that are designed to lessen the physical pain in your body whether you are suffering from some sort of an injury, or if you are in post-operation period and require treatment, or you are an athlete with needs to relieve the sore muscle tension, the most common and widely used product for these problems is the TENS Unit, a small electrical device used for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation to get rid of the pain. However, there is more to it than just simply getting one, how do you know which one is the right for you?

While TENS units are safe to use, the only time you should stay away from them is in the case that your doctor specifically orders you to do so, this is usually told to patients that have a pacemaker installed or to women that are pregnant and within the first couple of weeks of their pregnancy. Before deciding to buy it, you should know specifically what is it that you intend to use it for, that is, you should be aware of your problem fully and only then consider the methods to solve it. Always consult your doctor, physiotherapist or another specialist that can give you an opinion regarding your problem.

Since we mentioned previously that there are a lot of companies producing the TENS units, there are many variants with a number of different options and features available to each of them, so you should always take some extra time and look up the product that you want to buy and see what is it that would be that could benefit you the most out of those features. A lot of Units come with the ability to vary the intensity levels and this is one of the core characteristics that you should look for to be included in your product, in addition, many units come with pre-programed modes that are specifically designed to auto-regulate the volume and intensity levels based on which mode you select, these vary from being applied to resolve back problems, any sort of muscle tension or in the cases of relieving pain from joints.

Also, one more thing to look at is the power consumption, remember that these devices operate on batteries so you should preferably look for one that has the ability to charge the battery with an external cable, this is simply to save you the cost of constantly having to buy new packs of batteries, since it is highly inefficient. Another thing to look at is the number of pads available that you can use at any given time, most of the units have a standard of two pads, but some have more. Finally, after you’ve looked through the number of available modes and other features, lastly, look for the price that is not too cheap but not too high, usually between 80 and 180$.

         

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Does Alcohol and Breastfeeding Mix?

One of the concern of new mommies is whether they can have a drink or two, and still be able to breastfeed their child. Although, there is no direct correlation between drinking alcohol or not, it is best to avoid heavy drinking. Though, having one once in a while is a possibility, just make sure that you do it when your baby is not hungry, and you know you do not have to breastfeed in the near future.


Alcohol will not promote milk making
There is a general belief that drinking beer will help in producing milk, but, you should not believe such things without proof. And, because there is none, it is safe to say that you will not end up with more milk than usual. On the other and though, you should be careful, as alcohol tends to dry out your body, and you should be careful how much you drink. Moreover, it will interfere with the hormones involved in producing milk, which could lead problems if it gets out of hand.

Keep drinking to nights
When you notice that your baby can sleep through the night, you can have a glass or two, it will help you relax, and you will not have to worry about not having enough to feed your baby. Though, keep in mind that you should not go overboard, as your baby might still wake hungry. Rest assured that even if you have a drink at night, and still need to feed your baby, the alcohol will not have such a big impact.

Make a break before breastfeeding

Plan ahead when you want to breastfeed your baby, as you should have a break of at least two hours beforehand. Although alcohol will not take a lot of time to be digested in your body, it is best if you can leave some room for it, so that you can feed your baby milk that is rich in nutrients, and not at tall influenced by alcohol in any way. Though, make sure that you also drink plenty of water afterwards, so that your body does not dehydrate as quickly.

Have a longer period of non-alcohol drinks
Even if you would drink a glass of something once in a while, it is best to have a couple of days completely free from alcohol. This way, you can build up a level of tolerance, and you can also flush toxins out of your body, which could have a bad effect on your baby. It will be great for both you and your baby.


Choose from a finer selection
Sometimes, when you want a drink, it could be already late into night, and you are without a bottle of wine at home. However, if you find the nearest bottle shop open late in your area, you will be able to have a drink before the baby wakes up. Not only that, but, you will be able to relax a bit, and to kick back and relax after a hard day of work.

Keep drinking to a minimum
It is important that you do not drink too much and too often, otherwise, you will be able to produce normal amounts of milk, and you will not have to worry about affecting your baby in any bad way. Though, you should not go overboard, and you should make sure to have breaks, so that you can give your body enough time to recuperate. On the other hand, try to find patterns to drink, when you will not have to feed your baby anytime soon.

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Tips for Planning Your Green Wedding

If you're committed to living a sustainable lifestyle, the details that go into your wedding should reflect that commitment, as well as your commitment to each other. Luckily, there are a number of ways you can incorporate eco-friendly elements into every aspect of your big day. Follow these tips for planning your green wedding to get started.

The Venue

image credits:mohonk.com

There are a number of approaches you can take when it comes to choosing an environmentally-friendly reception venue. These days, there are some venues like Mohonk Mountain House that cater to green weddings. Such establishments offer local, organic menu items, along with such touches as flowers from their own greenhouse and even green features throughout the facility. You can also take details into consideration like having your wedding at a location that is convenient for the majority of your guests or deciding to combine the ceremony and reception at the same location. Both of these options will cut down on guest transportation. You could also choose an outdoor venue that will need less decorating and in which you can incorporate nature as ornamentation. Another idea is to find an organization you would like to contribute to such as an art gallery or botanical garden that allows private events.

The Rings

Diamond rings hold a great deal of controversy for those wishing to protect the environment and its people, Rather than choosing what could possibly be a "blood diamond" associated with mining in war zone or the funding of various conflicts, go with a lab-created diamond or choose a company known to use only conflict-free diamonds. A better plan may be to purchase vintage rings as a means of reusing existing materials. These items may be antiques and often have unique character not seen in modern jewelry. You could also demonstrate your own personal style by choosing a colored gemstone for your engagement ring.

The Invitation

There are so many options when it comes to eco-friendly invitations. You can make a great impression with gorgeous stationery and still be kind to the earth. Look for recycled, hand-made or tree-free papers. Other materials for paper production include bamboo, organic cotton or banana stalks, among others. You can even look for paper that is processed without chlorine and printers that use soy or vegetable-based inks. There's no rule stating that you have to go the traditional route and send of a multi-piece invitation that includes multiple envelopes and reply cards. Go with a a pretty postcard instead. For the very modern bride and groom, online or email invitations are an options. Setting up a wedding blog will allow you to communicate all the pre-wedding event details like bachelor or bachelorette parties and the bridal shower without sending paper invitations.

These are just three areas in which you can consider alternatives to traditional wedding details as a means of going green. Using some creativity and taking your lifestyle into consideration, and you'll surely be able to add to the list.

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A Birthday Celebration

Happy Monday to all. How’s your weekend, anyway? Last Saturday, we went to a BIL’s home to celebrate a nephew’s 5th birthday. The birthday boy looked disappointed at first as no one told him about the birthday cake and gifts.

Birthday cake - lots of blue :)

Happy birthday, Azman

The plan to surprise him was running well. After dinner with the whole family, the birthday cake taken out from the cupboard. He’s given lots of gifts that night.  The boy looked so happy. My husband created a framed mosaic of his pics, started since he’s still a baby. It became our birthday gift to him.    

Blue Monday

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Essential Camping Trips and Tricks

Camping can be fun and relaxing if you are well prepared and if you know how to set up a camping site. Otherwise, you might be in for an adventure that will forever ruin camping for you. Though you have to keep in mind that without proper preparation and planning, it will be extremely hard to set up camp and to enjoy nature in its full glory.

Related article : Survival tips

Always make sure you have shelter
Even if you are going to a camping site, it is very important that you find or prepare shelter. This will be especially imperative if you are not going with a camp house and if you want to camp with a tent and a bedroll. Finding shelter before dark will be essential as you will have not only a hard time setting up everything in the dark, but you will have to deal with any passing wildlife as well. Besides it is always better to have your fire burning by the time night falls, so that you are safe from anything happening during the night.

Read this also : building survival shelters.

You need to be clear with one thing immediately, a bigger tent is not going to be better at all times. And, in most cases it is best to carry a smaller tent so that you do not lug around a lot of your things. Though, make sure that you always check beforehand where you will go so that you can pack your gear to best suit your needs. Furthermore, always make sure that you choose the right tent because it will be beneficial if you can set up your tent quick and without any hassle.


Pitching your tent

Pack enough food that will last
Remember to pack light and easy to carry food with you, so that you do not have to bring a lot of perishable ingredients. It will go bad quickly without refrigeration, and it might attract uninvited wildlife. Moreover, learn how to prepare simple meals from canned and dried ingredients, it will be easier to cook it and to clean up afterwards as well.

Building a campfire without setting the forest on fire
A campfire is necessary to build, but it can quickly become a hazard if you do not pay attention. Before you set out on a camping adventure, you need to be sure that you can build a fire pit and that it will not endanger its surrounding, even if you forget to put it out. Always carry a simple set of flint and steel, so that you can light your fires without any trouble.


Be wary of your water supply
Unless you can be sure that you can refill your water supplies, it is best if you carry enough to last you your camping trip. Besides bringing enough jugs and water bottles, make sure to learn how to filtrate water on your own. Finding springs will be a great find, but often it is best to first purify water so that you avoid drinking any toxins. Remember that the easier solution to treat your water is to boil it.

Make room for any extra supplies
If you are going on a camping trip with a car, you need to make sure that you have enough fuel with you, and that you can use it. Make sure to install additional diesel tanks so that you can carry surplus fuel. In the long run it might become necessary not only to have enough so that you can drive in rough terrain, but also to feed your fire when it becomes absolutely necessary. Though bear in mind that you should not bring along too much, or it will only slow you down.

Check before you pack for camping
Make a list of essentials you must bring along the trip, so that you can double check it and make sure that you have everything. Moreover, practice setting up a campsite before dark falls, so that you have enough time to secure the perimeter and to get a fire started. Always plan ahead so that you can bring sufficient food and water and other supplies as well. In the end, your camping experience should be enjoyable and memorable.

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