The holidays can be a stressful time of the year for any parent. Overbuying, over-eating, and an extreme amount of budgeting and time juggling often make Christmas, or Hanukkah, or any other holiday celebrations more stressful than fun for the average parent. However, some parents this Christmas may have an additional burden that is weighing on their hearts and souls. For whatever reason, whether it is by divorce, through a child's passing, or by mere separation, there are many parents out there who will not be celebrating the holidays with their children this year - these are the parents I would like to speak to today.
My heart breaks for you and I empathize with your situation. Getting through the holidays can often be hard enough without dealing with the pain of the absence of your children. However, there are coping mechanisms and ways to make your holiday joyful, even without your kids. Remember, a positive attitude, regardless of the situation, can often make a huge difference in how you perceive an event or experience. What follows, are some tips for helping you to not just get through the holidays without your kids, but to maybe even enjoy them a little, while keeping your kids close to the heart.
First, keep your integrity. Being angry and resentful of the situation will not help anything and will only make you and those around you miserable. Take care of yourself. Don't let yourself fall into a depression, but concentrate on eating right, sleeping right, and getting some exercise. Focus on the positive things in your life, instead of on the negative. These simple actions will go a long way in helping you to feel better about your current circumstances. However, realize that it is OKAY to feel sad or lonely, but don't let it consume you. Grieve the loss of time with your child/children for that holiday season and then move on and find something cheerful to do.
If your kids are in foster care or with another parent during the holidays, maybe start a new holiday tradition or celebrate the holidays on the day closest to Christmas that you will see them. Take the time to make sure they have their special holiday moment, even if yours is not perfect. Then, if you are alone for the real holiday, you have a few options. You could either surround yourself with close family and friends, who will help you to share in the laughter and love without your children, or if you feel that will be too painful for you, perhaps choose an activity for that day that does not involve children at all. Maybe spend it with some friends who do not have children, or better yet plan to do a service project with your wife/husband/partner/single friend on that day.
Sometimes serving others can refocus your pain into a positive direction. Find a local shelter or soup kitchen that serves meals during the holidays. Perhaps volunteering while helping others will alleviate your pain and give you an activity to do to get your mind off of not having your children around.
Also, remember that being productive and decorating for the holidays even in the absence of your children, while it can make you feel sad, can also help you to feel close to your kids. Put up a tree and lights, and fill your house with the sights and sounds that your kids always loved around the holidays. The death of a child or the absence of your children in the home can be depressing, so sometimes keeping things as normal as possible for yourself and your other kids can help to move past the painful moments.
Additionally, take the time without your kids to refocus this holiday season. Remember your own personal goals and count your other blessings. Take the quiet time to determine how you are going to make things better in the future, or what you are going to do for the next holiday season that will allow you to have time with your kids. Reflect on the memories of your child and perhaps find a way to memorialize their favorite holiday moments.
Remember, that while not having the presence of your children during the holidays can be painful, there is good in each and every moment. My thoughts go out to the families and community of Sandy Hook, Connecticut, where many families will be celebrating these holidays without some of their children. Tears are brought to my eyes in compassion and grief for any of you out there who the death of a child has removed them from your presence - I am sure, making the holidays feel unbearable. To that, I wish to say...this blog today was not written without sympathy and my prayers, nor is it intended to be a flippant response to grieving the death of child. This blog was written so that maybe, one day in the future, you will be ready to face the holidays and may find joy in them once again.
For the rest of the parents out there. When you have the opportunity to hug your children this holiday season, please do so. Tell them you love them. Whether you get to celebrate Christmas day with them or not, find a reason to be joyful this December. For there are so many families out there that will be struggling to find a reason for joy. Strive for peace, love, and positivity. Find alternative ways to celebrate and always focus on the real reason for the season. Enjoy your week and enjoy your kids!
Monday, December 17, 2012
Monday, December 10, 2012
Purchasing Safe Toys for Your Kids
Brrrrrr....a chill is definitely in the air this Monday morning! It's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas, or Hanukkah, or whatever other holiday you and your family may celebrate and incorporate with numerous other winter traditions. For most people, the chillier weather brings about fond feelings of upcoming time spent with family and friends, and moments full of celebration and love.
So, while you're thinking about all the warm fuzzy feelings inside, with the cold weather outside, have you yet begun to contemplate all those presents that you still need to buy? Whether your budget is big or small, the most important thing to consider when buying gifts for your children or others' children is the safety of the gift. This is the time of year where scores of new toys are hitting the shelves and children of all ages are looking starry eyed at television ads and along the store aisles at all the new and wonderful creations toy makers have come up with for the 2012 Christmas Season.
However, when deciding on purchases for your own children and those of others, remember that every year thousands of children are treated in hospital emergency rooms for toy-related injuries. Therefore, there may be some safety considerations to take to heart when purchasing toys this year, with specific guidelines for certain ages.
Several websites, including SafeMamma.com, SafeKidsUSA.org, and KidsHealth.org offer parents and guardians some guidelines for purchasing age appropriate toys that are safe for children. These websites all break down gift ideas into age brackets and give suggestions for purchasing toys for kids within those age brackets.
Here are some tips to consider before you go shopping this year:
-Consider the child's age, interest, and skill level for whom you are purchasing the gift
-When shopping, read the toy's labels. Watch for the age and safety recommendations on each of the toys and follow these guidelines when making a purchase
-Check to ensure that the toy is not damaged or broken in any way before you buy it. Broken or loose pieces can become safety and choking hazards.
Additionally, here are some recommendations of gifts for ages birth through preschool, the most vulnerable ages for choking hazards and toy safety issues:
Newborn to Toddler:
-hand puppets for parents to entertain babies with
-stuffed animals that are washable, without any plastic or buttons on them that may fall off
-soft blankets
Toddler to 3 years of age:
-a little yoga mat, to do exercises with mom
-crayons (or any non-sharp coloring utensil) and coloring books or colored paper
-personalized hero cape and mask (I mean come on - what little boy doesn't want to be a super hero anyway?!)
3 year of age through Preschool:
-board or card games that involve learning a skill and do not include small pieces
-a tool belt with miniature tools (however, remember no metal or sharp objects! "Tool Belt by Plan Toys" is a safe tool belt set that little boys can use to help dad fix things around the house)
-Young artists sets with paints and paint brushes, stamps, etc.
-Jumbo, soft floor puzzles
These gifts are suggested on the links from the sites above. Browse around and find the perfect, safe gift for your little loved ones this holiday season. Be sure to keep up with our Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest, "Christmas" board for more holiday gift ideas and safety measures. Enjoy your week and enjoy your kids!
So, while you're thinking about all the warm fuzzy feelings inside, with the cold weather outside, have you yet begun to contemplate all those presents that you still need to buy? Whether your budget is big or small, the most important thing to consider when buying gifts for your children or others' children is the safety of the gift. This is the time of year where scores of new toys are hitting the shelves and children of all ages are looking starry eyed at television ads and along the store aisles at all the new and wonderful creations toy makers have come up with for the 2012 Christmas Season.
However, when deciding on purchases for your own children and those of others, remember that every year thousands of children are treated in hospital emergency rooms for toy-related injuries. Therefore, there may be some safety considerations to take to heart when purchasing toys this year, with specific guidelines for certain ages.
Several websites, including SafeMamma.com, SafeKidsUSA.org, and KidsHealth.org offer parents and guardians some guidelines for purchasing age appropriate toys that are safe for children. These websites all break down gift ideas into age brackets and give suggestions for purchasing toys for kids within those age brackets.
Here are some tips to consider before you go shopping this year:
-Consider the child's age, interest, and skill level for whom you are purchasing the gift
-When shopping, read the toy's labels. Watch for the age and safety recommendations on each of the toys and follow these guidelines when making a purchase
-Check to ensure that the toy is not damaged or broken in any way before you buy it. Broken or loose pieces can become safety and choking hazards.
Additionally, here are some recommendations of gifts for ages birth through preschool, the most vulnerable ages for choking hazards and toy safety issues:
Newborn to Toddler:
-hand puppets for parents to entertain babies with
-stuffed animals that are washable, without any plastic or buttons on them that may fall off
-soft blankets
Toddler to 3 years of age:
-a little yoga mat, to do exercises with mom
-crayons (or any non-sharp coloring utensil) and coloring books or colored paper
-personalized hero cape and mask (I mean come on - what little boy doesn't want to be a super hero anyway?!)
3 year of age through Preschool:
-board or card games that involve learning a skill and do not include small pieces
-a tool belt with miniature tools (however, remember no metal or sharp objects! "Tool Belt by Plan Toys" is a safe tool belt set that little boys can use to help dad fix things around the house)
-Young artists sets with paints and paint brushes, stamps, etc.
-Jumbo, soft floor puzzles
These gifts are suggested on the links from the sites above. Browse around and find the perfect, safe gift for your little loved ones this holiday season. Be sure to keep up with our Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest, "Christmas" board for more holiday gift ideas and safety measures. Enjoy your week and enjoy your kids!
Monday, December 3, 2012
Keeping Your Kids Healthy & Safe During the Winter Season
So, why is it that when your child comes home with the flu a few days before Christmas, or your toddler drips a runny nose all December long, or your 8-year old steps out of sight for 1 second while you are Christmas shopping, that your heart begins to race and you worry about keeping your child healthy and safe? Well, that's because it's winter, and while the holidays are a time for celebration and joy, illness still makes its way into our homes and children, yes as horrible as it may seem, children are still kidnapped, harmed, and cruelly abused even during the holiday season. In fact, during this holiday season over 3,000 children will be victims of child abuse and neglect in Oklahoma City alone. This is a scary number, and one that we should all focus on when considering where our kids are and what they are doing during this time of year. So, here's some tips on not just keeping your kids healthy during the flu and cold season, but keeping them safe as well. First, let's talk about taking care of those runny noses and upset bellies:
-Make sure your kids are always washing their hands with antibacterial soap for at least 60 seconds each time. Hand washing is important after all kinds of activities, including using the restroom, after they have been outside, before eating, after being out in public, etc.
-Teach your child to keep his/her hands away from his/her face. Touching of the mouth, nose, or eyes can all spread germs that your child might be carrying or put germs on them from the rest of the world. A good rule is just in general, helping them to keep their hands away from their face.
-While getting vaccinations is a personal choice for everyone, and each parent should discuss vaccines with their healthcare providers and do their own research, now is the time of year when vaccinations are often given. Consider the facts and talk with multiple sources to determine if vaccines are the right choice for you and your child.
-Help your child boost his/her natural immunity by eating healthy foods and getting plenty of exercise, even in the colder weather. Lots of fruits and veggies, with high vitamin content are extremely important this time of year. Also, make sure they are drinking plenty of liquids. Orange juice and water are are key liquids to staying healthy. Stay away from sugary juices and sodas.
-In addition to eating and acting healthy, ensure that your children are getting plenty of rest. This helps their bodies to recover from a long day and helps to strengthen immunity to common illnesses.
-Also, if your child seems to have a persistent cough, keep a humidifier running during the night or at naps. This can help to calm a cough and lessen mucous thickening, causing your child to be congested.
-Dress your children appropriately. The weather in Oklahoma is constantly changing, so make sure your kids dress in layers to be both cool enough while at school, and warm enough when they have to step outside for recess, chores, or to catch the bus.
-Lastly, know when to call the doctor. If your child is running a temperature or just not right, be sure to make a visit to the doctor before they become extremely ill. Your child's weakened immune system may just need that extra boost from antibiotics, or even just some healthy advise from a physician.
Okay, so we've covered a little bit about keeping your children healthy. Now, let's talk about keeping them safe. During the holidays there are plenty of activities that can be an endangerment to your child, including crowds at holiday events or during shopping, playing on the slippery surfaces of ice and snow, accepting rides from teenage friends in inclement weather, etc. It is important as a parent, to keep all these events in mind. Here are some holiday tips for keeping your kids safe:
-Establish rules for young children before a family outing. Whether your rules consist of always holding an adult's hand, never being more than 2 steps away from an adult at all times, or the buddy system for your older children, be sure to establish these before you leave the house.
-Talk about never leaving places, such as the mall with strangers, and discuss "stranger-danger" with your young children. Talk to your children about a meeting place if you get separated, and show them what a "trusted adult" looks like for each location (store clerk, police officer, etc.)
-Have your children wear bright colors when you know you are going to be somewhere that is overcrowded.
-The holidays involve a high crime rate for robbery, so instruct your children, especially your older children to never open the front door before checking who it is and checking with you about answering it.
-When playing out in the cold and snow, make sure your kids are within earshot or eye sight and that they have helmets on if they are skiing, snowboarding, and in some cases sledding - especially if you live in a hilly area.
-Make sure your teenage children know not to ride with other teenagers without asking your permission on snowy days. Over-confident teenage drivers and less than predictable conditions on the road can be a recipe for car accidents and disaster. Avoid these situations by driving your own teenagers around or allocating them rides with trusted adults.
These are just a few tips for keeping your kids healthy and safe this winter. Watch for more tips throughout the month on our Facebook and Twitter pages (@fambuildersok). Also, be sure to follow our 'Winter' and 'Christmas' boards on Pinterest for fun winter ideas, and health and safety tips. Enjoy your kids and enjoy your week!
Monday, November 26, 2012
Helping Your Kids to Help Others this Holiday Season
Oooooh, the moans of the Monday after the Thanksgiving holiday! Your bellies and hearts are full, time with your families was well spent, and you were more than NOT ready to return to work, school, or the other daily and routine activities of your life today. I know the feeling! However, with much to be thankful for and with the Christmas and holiday season just around the corner, positive attitudes and cheerful hearts must abound...even on this Monday after Thanksgiving.
Last week we discussed how important it is to teach your children how to express gratitude and thankfulness, no matter what time of the year it is. This week I would like to focus on the topic of helping your children to help others, especially as the holiday season rolls around. Giving is often only expressed when the twinkling lights begin to go up on a variety of coniferous trees, when holiday music begins to emit from all radio stations, and when the weather begins to turn chilly. However, giving and teaching your children how to give and help others with a cheerful heart, is important all year round. So, the topic for this week's blog is "Helping Your Kids to Help Others this Holiday Season," but of course this concept applies beyond the realm of the holidays.
In a recent study, 94% of Americans believe that parents play a key role in getting their children involved in charity efforts, yet in the same survey, 70% of parents admitted that their children are not currently involved in any charitable activities. Parents cited family commitments, concern over how contributions will be used, and time as the most common excuses in not getting their kids involved in helping others (familyeducation.com).
Here's some interesting ways to think about giving, and teaching your kids to help others:
-Be honest and talk with your kids about those in need. Make it a reality for them, maybe drive them past the local homeless shelter or soup kitchen and explain to them why people live/eat there. Also explain to them the dangers, and remind them to never visit a location like this without an adult.
-Teach your kids that giving and gratitude go hand-in-hand. Your kids won't be able to give with a cheerful heart, without first expressing and feeling gratitude for the things that they have and have been blessed with. Remind them of this, and first teach them gratitude before teaching them giving.
-Let your kids decide how to help others and give. Make it a decision that they have to make, instead of telling them how they are going to help others.
-When giving money as a family, whether to a church , or dropping it into a "Salvation Army" worker's pail at a storefront entrance, explain to your kids how this money is used, where it is going, who it may help, and how it makes a difference. Make the giving experience real for them.
-Help your children learn how to give non-material gifts. Teach them to help out a neighbor, carry in groceries for you when you get home, lend a snack to a friend at school without a lunch, etc. These simple steps are ways of helping others, without giving anything of real material value. Simple things, like accomplishing a chore without complaining or expressing thankfulness can all be ways of helping and giving without purchasing a single item.
Remember, you can make helping fun and teach your kids that giving back to others is truly a joyful experience. There are many ways that you can make helping others and giving back experiences real and fun for your children. Here are some suggestions of things you and your kids can do together for others:
-Donate to a charitable organization
-Invite an elderly neighbor over for a family celebration or meal. Explain to your kids why this might be something that neighbor will enjoy
-Deliver a meal to a family in need
-Write colorful notes or cards for other children who are experiencing long hospital stays
-Help your kids to donate clothes and toys they have outgrown to local shelters, churches, and nonprofits
-Volunteer at a soup kitchen (may be more appropriate to do with your older children)
-Send a care package to a soldier
-Visit hospital patients and spend time talking with them
-Foster a pet from a local shelter
-Shovel snow or rake leaves for a neighbor without asking as a neat surprise
-Help pick up trash at a local park
-Join a local, community group that does community service projects
All of these are ways to help teach your kids how to help others, not just this holiday season, but all year long. Simple actions and involving your kids in those actions, while explaining the good that they do for others, can help to show your children the true meaning of helping others. Often, while teaching our children these important lessons, we as adults find that we have more joy in helping, because we are setting an example for our own children. Helping others is an important tool in helping your kids to learn gratitude and to be thankful for all they have been blessed with. Remember, helping others helps us to find joy and share that joy with our children.
Be sure to visit our Family Builders' Facebook page and follow us on Twitter @fambuildersok for ways that you and your kids can serve and help others around the metro this holiday season. Enjoy the week and enjoy your kids!
Last week we discussed how important it is to teach your children how to express gratitude and thankfulness, no matter what time of the year it is. This week I would like to focus on the topic of helping your children to help others, especially as the holiday season rolls around. Giving is often only expressed when the twinkling lights begin to go up on a variety of coniferous trees, when holiday music begins to emit from all radio stations, and when the weather begins to turn chilly. However, giving and teaching your children how to give and help others with a cheerful heart, is important all year round. So, the topic for this week's blog is "Helping Your Kids to Help Others this Holiday Season," but of course this concept applies beyond the realm of the holidays.
In a recent study, 94% of Americans believe that parents play a key role in getting their children involved in charity efforts, yet in the same survey, 70% of parents admitted that their children are not currently involved in any charitable activities. Parents cited family commitments, concern over how contributions will be used, and time as the most common excuses in not getting their kids involved in helping others (familyeducation.com).
Here's some interesting ways to think about giving, and teaching your kids to help others:
-Be honest and talk with your kids about those in need. Make it a reality for them, maybe drive them past the local homeless shelter or soup kitchen and explain to them why people live/eat there. Also explain to them the dangers, and remind them to never visit a location like this without an adult.
-Teach your kids that giving and gratitude go hand-in-hand. Your kids won't be able to give with a cheerful heart, without first expressing and feeling gratitude for the things that they have and have been blessed with. Remind them of this, and first teach them gratitude before teaching them giving.
-Let your kids decide how to help others and give. Make it a decision that they have to make, instead of telling them how they are going to help others.
-When giving money as a family, whether to a church , or dropping it into a "Salvation Army" worker's pail at a storefront entrance, explain to your kids how this money is used, where it is going, who it may help, and how it makes a difference. Make the giving experience real for them.
-Help your children learn how to give non-material gifts. Teach them to help out a neighbor, carry in groceries for you when you get home, lend a snack to a friend at school without a lunch, etc. These simple steps are ways of helping others, without giving anything of real material value. Simple things, like accomplishing a chore without complaining or expressing thankfulness can all be ways of helping and giving without purchasing a single item.
Remember, you can make helping fun and teach your kids that giving back to others is truly a joyful experience. There are many ways that you can make helping others and giving back experiences real and fun for your children. Here are some suggestions of things you and your kids can do together for others:
-Donate to a charitable organization
-Invite an elderly neighbor over for a family celebration or meal. Explain to your kids why this might be something that neighbor will enjoy
-Deliver a meal to a family in need
-Write colorful notes or cards for other children who are experiencing long hospital stays
-Help your kids to donate clothes and toys they have outgrown to local shelters, churches, and nonprofits
-Volunteer at a soup kitchen (may be more appropriate to do with your older children)
-Send a care package to a soldier
-Visit hospital patients and spend time talking with them
-Foster a pet from a local shelter
-Shovel snow or rake leaves for a neighbor without asking as a neat surprise
-Help pick up trash at a local park
-Join a local, community group that does community service projects
All of these are ways to help teach your kids how to help others, not just this holiday season, but all year long. Simple actions and involving your kids in those actions, while explaining the good that they do for others, can help to show your children the true meaning of helping others. Often, while teaching our children these important lessons, we as adults find that we have more joy in helping, because we are setting an example for our own children. Helping others is an important tool in helping your kids to learn gratitude and to be thankful for all they have been blessed with. Remember, helping others helps us to find joy and share that joy with our children.
Be sure to visit our Family Builders' Facebook page and follow us on Twitter @fambuildersok for ways that you and your kids can serve and help others around the metro this holiday season. Enjoy the week and enjoy your kids!
Monday, November 19, 2012
Happy Thanksgiving!
Good morning and what a beginning to a fabulous week! Thanksgiving is just around the corner and I know all of you are looking forward to a short work week and spending a long weekend with your family and children. Thanksgiving is such a fun, wonderful, and overall exciting time of the year. This holiday often offers great food, even better time spent with family members, and begins to usher in the sights and sounds of Christmas. Oh, how I love the holidays!
In honor of Thanksgiving week, this blog post will be dedicated to all things Thanksgiving: a recipe or 2, some fun, family games to play around the table, a seasonal craft for your kiddos, and some activities to participate in for Thanksgiving weekend, around the Metro. Soooooo, let's get started:
Okay, so as this is my first Thanksgiving where I will be cooking the turkey (usually my mother and aunts hold that grand honor), I began stressing out late last week, looking for a simple turkey recipe that I thought I could handle. If any of you, like me, have kitchen/cooking anxiety (especially when it means cooking an oversized bird in your oven for hours upon end), then this is the perfect turkey recipe for you and me - simple and requires minimal ingredients. Thank you Food Network:
Good Eats Roast Turkey
Okay, so I'm sure you all have your Thanksgiving, traditional sides, but I also wanted to share a bit of a non-traditional side that my family enjoys each year at our Thanksgiving fiesta! Due to the fact that no one in my family (except my husband) enjoys that cranberry sauce out of a can, my family took a new twist on cranberries, and now makes this delicious recipe each year:
Cranberry Fluff Salad This is a fabulous recipe, and it doesn't make that strange slopping sound as it falls out of the can!
Okay, so dinner is made, turkey is done, and the meal is almost ready to go on the table. As you prepare the finishing touches for the meal you wonder how you will incorporate the old "tell us at least one thing you are thankful for this year" conversation into your Thanksgiving meal. Well, here is a great idea. All you need is some newspaper, a white table cloth, and colorful felt tip pens. Cover your table surface in newspaper and then lay down the white table cloth. With the felt tip pens, have each member of your family write somewhere on the table what they are thankful for this year. Then, when you are all seated, take turns reading off the items that are closest to where each person is sitting. This is a great way to encourage conversation, and puts a new spin on stating what each of you is thankful for.
Of course, we can't leave the children out...and as we all know, they are always the first ones done at the table, ready to move on to the next fun thing, while the adults wish to sit around and visit, or perhaps simply talk while they digest the copious amounts of food that they just inhaled. Haha...well here is an easy craft to set up ahead of time, that you can send the kids off to complete while the adults at Thanksgiving visit, catch up, and clean up from a fun meal:
Spoon Pilgrims
Okay, last but not least, I would like to provide you and your family some activities that may be going on Thanksgiving Day and the few following days, around the Oklahoma City area. Many of you may have relatives in town for the weekend, or are enjoying the first weekend in a long time, together with your family. Here are some great activities to enjoy with your family and others:
Thursday:
-Start off at 8:00 am with the Edmond Turkey Trot
-7:00 pm is the Norman Library Music Connection at the Norman Library
-10:00 pm begins the All Night Madness at the Outlet Shoppes in OKC
Then on Friday:
-at 12:00 pm visit the Express Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink
-3:30 pm is Scuba Santa at the Oklahoma Aquarium
-6:00 pm is the Holiday River Parade on the Oklahoma River
On Saturday:
-at 11:00 am is FREE crafts for Kids at Lakeshore Learning Center
-12:00 pm is Chesapeake Energy Snow Tubing at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark
-5:30 pm Christmas Lights are Up on the Farm at Orr Family Farm
There's plenty to do this Thanksgiving weekend. For more info visit the Metro Family Magazine's online calendar at: http://www.metrofamilymagazine.com/Calendar/
Have a great Thanksgiving everyone. Enjoy the holiday and enjoy your kids!
Monday, November 12, 2012
Teaching Thankfulness & Gratitude to Your Kids
Happy Veterans Day! Today is the day that we celebrate the men and women who past and current, work hard to make sure our great country experiences freedom and remains a democracy. On a day like today, in the season of thanksgiving, it is easy to remember to be thankful and express that thankfulness to those service men and women around us. But what about the rest of the year? Admittedly, I am one of those people who is grumpy and un-thankful sometimes, forgetting all that has been done for me and all the blessings that have been showered upon me and my family. Thanksgiving often brings out the "thankfulness" in all of us, but isn't it important to be thankful year round, and to teach our kids to express gratitude as well?
Teaching thankfulness can be difficult. The children of today often are growing up in an era where they rarely here the word "no" and often have an over abundance of things that they do not necessarily need. However, it is SO important to raise thankful kids and here are some ways that you can help your kids to gain an 'attitude of gratitude.'
You can often teach thankfulness by leading through example. If you are thankful and can learn to express that verbally, often your kids will follow suit. It is sometimes difficult to remember that the simple "chores" in life that we might consider a burden (such as cooking AND then also cleaning up the kitchen, right moms?) are the fallout from a greater blessing: being blessed with children whom you love and love you back. If you, as a parent are able to express thankfulness to and for your children, they often will learn to do the same. Another way you can be an example for your children is by giving thoughtfully yourself. Build charity into your budget and have your kids be a part of picking out a purchase or giving to a non-profit that will benefit another child or parent in your area. Explain to them the process and allow them to participate - this will teach them what giving selflessly really looks like.
Also, be sure to reward thankfulness and good manners, especially when your children are very young. By reward, I don't mean a physical present or money, but when you hear your kids say 'thank you' take the time to stop what you are doing and simply acknowledge their thanks, give them a hug, and tell them how proud of them you are for their grateful attitude. Teaching your kids how to share everything will also help them to see that sharing benefits others, giving them a selfless attitude about material items in life. Expressing approval and encouragement when an expression of thankfulness comes from your children will encourage them to continue on the path of being thankful.
Another suggestion is to go through the motions of helping your kids to give to and help others. This can be as simple as having them go through their old toys and clothes and picking out the ones that they would like to donate to other children that year. Encourage your kids to give gifts to others, and to participate in such things as "Operation Christmas Child," which involves picking out gifts for a another child and sending them in a shoebox. Help your kids to pick out gifts for others that are thoughtful and reflect an attitude of truly wanting to bless someone else through the gift.
Additionally, expose your kids to some events and circumstances that will help to raise their level of gratitude. By this, I don't mean traumatizing your children through horrible images of starving people or homeless children. Instead, talk to your children while serving them dinner, reminding them that some families are not eating dinner tonight. Or, after a hot bath or shower, explain to your kids the fact that many children never take a hot bath due to their being without warm water facilities. Maybe take your kids with you to serve dinner at a soup kitchen one evening. (Remember, this may be age appropriate for older children only!) Or have them help you volunteer at church putting together food baskets for families in your area. These hands-on experiences will teach your kids to serve others.
Lastly, create family traditions that will encourage thankfulness. This can be done in many ways. Maybe each year construct a "thankful tree" or "thankful chain", where everyone writes down several things they are thankful for that year as leaves or a link to the chain. At Christmas, have your children help pick out gifts for others. Maybe each night as you tuck them in bed encourage them to name one thing they are thankful for that happened that day. These small traditions can encourage your children to learn to be thankful and to express that appreciation through simple, everyday actions.
Teaching your children to be thankful for what they have, no matter how much or how little, will help them to help others someday and will give them a positive outlook on life, no matter what their situation is. Giving your kids the blessing of learning to be grateful and having a positive attitude could perhaps be the greatest gift that you give to them. So start now and show them by example. As a parent, each day practice being thankful so that your kids can learn too. Here are some great resources for following through with some of the suggestions listed above:
http://www.metrofamilymagazine.com/November-2012/Easy-Tips-For-Raising-Thankful-Kids/
http://www.justmommies.com/articles/giving-thanks.shtml
http://www.focusonthefamily.com/parenting/articles/give_thanks.aspx
Have a great week everyone and practice thankfulness! Enjoy your kids!
Teaching thankfulness can be difficult. The children of today often are growing up in an era where they rarely here the word "no" and often have an over abundance of things that they do not necessarily need. However, it is SO important to raise thankful kids and here are some ways that you can help your kids to gain an 'attitude of gratitude.'
You can often teach thankfulness by leading through example. If you are thankful and can learn to express that verbally, often your kids will follow suit. It is sometimes difficult to remember that the simple "chores" in life that we might consider a burden (such as cooking AND then also cleaning up the kitchen, right moms?) are the fallout from a greater blessing: being blessed with children whom you love and love you back. If you, as a parent are able to express thankfulness to and for your children, they often will learn to do the same. Another way you can be an example for your children is by giving thoughtfully yourself. Build charity into your budget and have your kids be a part of picking out a purchase or giving to a non-profit that will benefit another child or parent in your area. Explain to them the process and allow them to participate - this will teach them what giving selflessly really looks like.
Also, be sure to reward thankfulness and good manners, especially when your children are very young. By reward, I don't mean a physical present or money, but when you hear your kids say 'thank you' take the time to stop what you are doing and simply acknowledge their thanks, give them a hug, and tell them how proud of them you are for their grateful attitude. Teaching your kids how to share everything will also help them to see that sharing benefits others, giving them a selfless attitude about material items in life. Expressing approval and encouragement when an expression of thankfulness comes from your children will encourage them to continue on the path of being thankful.
Another suggestion is to go through the motions of helping your kids to give to and help others. This can be as simple as having them go through their old toys and clothes and picking out the ones that they would like to donate to other children that year. Encourage your kids to give gifts to others, and to participate in such things as "Operation Christmas Child," which involves picking out gifts for a another child and sending them in a shoebox. Help your kids to pick out gifts for others that are thoughtful and reflect an attitude of truly wanting to bless someone else through the gift.
Additionally, expose your kids to some events and circumstances that will help to raise their level of gratitude. By this, I don't mean traumatizing your children through horrible images of starving people or homeless children. Instead, talk to your children while serving them dinner, reminding them that some families are not eating dinner tonight. Or, after a hot bath or shower, explain to your kids the fact that many children never take a hot bath due to their being without warm water facilities. Maybe take your kids with you to serve dinner at a soup kitchen one evening. (Remember, this may be age appropriate for older children only!) Or have them help you volunteer at church putting together food baskets for families in your area. These hands-on experiences will teach your kids to serve others.
Lastly, create family traditions that will encourage thankfulness. This can be done in many ways. Maybe each year construct a "thankful tree" or "thankful chain", where everyone writes down several things they are thankful for that year as leaves or a link to the chain. At Christmas, have your children help pick out gifts for others. Maybe each night as you tuck them in bed encourage them to name one thing they are thankful for that happened that day. These small traditions can encourage your children to learn to be thankful and to express that appreciation through simple, everyday actions.
Teaching your children to be thankful for what they have, no matter how much or how little, will help them to help others someday and will give them a positive outlook on life, no matter what their situation is. Giving your kids the blessing of learning to be grateful and having a positive attitude could perhaps be the greatest gift that you give to them. So start now and show them by example. As a parent, each day practice being thankful so that your kids can learn too. Here are some great resources for following through with some of the suggestions listed above:
http://www.metrofamilymagazine.com/November-2012/Easy-Tips-For-Raising-Thankful-Kids/
http://www.justmommies.com/articles/giving-thanks.shtml
http://www.focusonthefamily.com/parenting/articles/give_thanks.aspx
Have a great week everyone and practice thankfulness! Enjoy your kids!
Monday, November 5, 2012
New Ways to Give this Holiday Season!
Can you believe it is November already? Where has the time gone? Before you know it, it will be Thanksgiving, then Christmas, and then 2013! I don't know about all of you, but as the holiday season begins to roll around, I realize just how much that I have to be thankful for. After all, I am healthy, have a wonderful family, fabulous friends, a great support system, and have been blessed in many other ways. Being thankful gets me thinking about all the ways that I can give to and support others. After all, everyone deserves to have not just a great holiday season, but a life that is blessed and full of joy.
At Family Builders, our mission is focused on strengthening families so that they to, can have a blessed and joyful life. Our goal is to protect children and to educate their parents so that their lives can be enriched in every way. At the start of November and the holiday season, we are reminded that children everywhere deserve to have every day feel like the holiday season - full of warmth, tenderness, giving, joy, and of course laughter and a loving family.
With this mission of strengthening families in front of us, Family Builders has implemented a few new fundraising plans that we hope you will share in with us. All of our fundraising is directed at having the monetary funds to be able to continue to serve families and children around the Oklahoma City metro and surrounding area, making their everyday feel like the holiday season. We want to enrich families' lives so that they are able to have stable and cohesive relationships with each other, benefiting children emotionally, psychologically, and physically.
First, I'd like to introduce to you a new series of "Dine-Out" nights that Family Builders will be holding at local, family friendly restaurants all around the metro area. These "Dine-Out" nights will be held twice a month starting in December and run through the summer. Our first "Dine-Out" night is scheduled for Tuesday, December 4th at Kamps 1910 Cafe located at 10 NE 10th Street in Oklahoma City. The event will run all day long, and if you eat at Kamps, mention the Family Builder's name and a portion of your tab will be donated to Family Builders.
Our second "Dine-Out" event will be held, Thursday, December 13th at Zio's Italian in Bricktown. Watch for printable flyers on this blog, as well as our Facebook and Twitter pages, as you will need to bring a flyer with you when you go to eat dinner at Zio's on the 13th. When you bring your flyer, a portion of your tab will go to Family Builders and you will be helping to support us in our mission to strengthen families.
Be sure to stay tuned for the location, dates, and details of all of our "Dine-Out" nights over the next upcoming months. Be sure to pay attention to the location and what you will need to say, BEFORE YOU ORDER your food, in order for the donation to be made to Family Builders. These unique events are a great way for you to spend time eating out with your family, while donating to our cause. Come celebrate our "Dine-Out" events with us!
Secondly, Family Builders has introduced a new way to give through everyday purchases. Family Builders now has three, newly designed Capitol One, Visa cards that allow you to donate as you purchase holiday gifts. When you sign up for a card, an initial $50 will be donated to Family Builders and then from there,
Our new credit card is an easy way to give, while holiday shopping, purchasing the fixing for Thanksgiving, or just through everyday purchases! Join in our cause!
With the installation of these new fundraising concepts, Family Builders recognizes that these events and options are not feasible for everyone. If you are looking for a more traditional way to give this holiday season, just visit our webpage http://www.familybuildersok.org/make-a-donation.html
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this important post. Family Builders wants to make big changes in the families in our community this holiday season and beyond. But we need your help and your support! So as the holidays begin to roll around, take a moment to be thankful and remember all that you have, then give a little to help us help those families around you. Your support is appreciated, as well as all that you do! Thank you for being our biggest fans and biggest supporters! Enjoy your week, and enjoy your kids.
At Family Builders, our mission is focused on strengthening families so that they to, can have a blessed and joyful life. Our goal is to protect children and to educate their parents so that their lives can be enriched in every way. At the start of November and the holiday season, we are reminded that children everywhere deserve to have every day feel like the holiday season - full of warmth, tenderness, giving, joy, and of course laughter and a loving family.
With this mission of strengthening families in front of us, Family Builders has implemented a few new fundraising plans that we hope you will share in with us. All of our fundraising is directed at having the monetary funds to be able to continue to serve families and children around the Oklahoma City metro and surrounding area, making their everyday feel like the holiday season. We want to enrich families' lives so that they are able to have stable and cohesive relationships with each other, benefiting children emotionally, psychologically, and physically.
First, I'd like to introduce to you a new series of "Dine-Out" nights that Family Builders will be holding at local, family friendly restaurants all around the metro area. These "Dine-Out" nights will be held twice a month starting in December and run through the summer. Our first "Dine-Out" night is scheduled for Tuesday, December 4th at Kamps 1910 Cafe located at 10 NE 10th Street in Oklahoma City. The event will run all day long, and if you eat at Kamps, mention the Family Builder's name and a portion of your tab will be donated to Family Builders.
Our second "Dine-Out" event will be held, Thursday, December 13th at Zio's Italian in Bricktown. Watch for printable flyers on this blog, as well as our Facebook and Twitter pages, as you will need to bring a flyer with you when you go to eat dinner at Zio's on the 13th. When you bring your flyer, a portion of your tab will go to Family Builders and you will be helping to support us in our mission to strengthen families.
Be sure to stay tuned for the location, dates, and details of all of our "Dine-Out" nights over the next upcoming months. Be sure to pay attention to the location and what you will need to say, BEFORE YOU ORDER your food, in order for the donation to be made to Family Builders. These unique events are a great way for you to spend time eating out with your family, while donating to our cause. Come celebrate our "Dine-Out" events with us!
Secondly, Family Builders has introduced a new way to give through everyday purchases. Family Builders now has three, newly designed Capitol One, Visa cards that allow you to donate as you purchase holiday gifts. When you sign up for a card, an initial $50 will be donated to Family Builders and then from there,
- Earn 2% Cash rewards at most major Gas and Grocery merchants
- Earn 1% Cash rewards on all other purchases
- Earn up to 10% Cash rewards at select merchants
Our new credit card is an easy way to give, while holiday shopping, purchasing the fixing for Thanksgiving, or just through everyday purchases! Join in our cause!
With the installation of these new fundraising concepts, Family Builders recognizes that these events and options are not feasible for everyone. If you are looking for a more traditional way to give this holiday season, just visit our webpage http://www.familybuildersok.org/make-a-donation.html
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this important post. Family Builders wants to make big changes in the families in our community this holiday season and beyond. But we need your help and your support! So as the holidays begin to roll around, take a moment to be thankful and remember all that you have, then give a little to help us help those families around you. Your support is appreciated, as well as all that you do! Thank you for being our biggest fans and biggest supporters! Enjoy your week, and enjoy your kids.
Monday, October 29, 2012
Keeping Your Kids Safe this Halloween
Good morning everyone and welcome to another week! Mondays can always be cause for some sighing and grumbling, however this week is Halloween, so there should be plenty of excitement in your home as your family prepares to participate in this fun, seasonal holiday. As we discussed in last week's blog you and each of your families may participate in Halloween in unique ways. Some families may treat Halloween a little differently from society, choosing to not dress up and participate only in 'fall festivals.' While many other families may partake in the regular old Halloween activities of dressing up, trick-r-treating with the kids, and then consuming far to much candy than is good for them :) Each family will explore Halloween differently, and each event will have their own element of fun for adults and kiddos alike.
However, no matter how you choose to allow your children to participate in Halloween, keeping them safe should be of the utmost priority. Eating candy, trick-r-treating, and being around adults that are dressed in costumes all have the potential to lead your children into hazardous situations. Here are a few suggestions from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) http://www.emergencyemail.org/newsemergency/anmviewer.asp?a=702&z=29 and the Halloween Safety website (http://www.halloween-safety.com/halloween_safety_kids.html) on how you can keep your children safe this Halloween.
First, lets discuss costumes. Any props that your children are carrying (weapons, knives, etc) should be FAKE and soft if at all possible. Encouraging your children to carry real weapons is dangerous, and even plastic toys may cause accidents if they are not handled carefully. Be sure to include a light-up element on the costume, or have your children carry a flashlight while trick-r-treating, so that they can be seen on dark streets. Make sure that costumes are flame-resistant and fit well, so that vision is not impaired and tripping or falling won't be an issue. If you are utilizing some sort of body or hair paint, be sure to test it out on a small area of your child's skin first, to check for irritation or an allergic reaction.
Second, as a parent, make sure you know ahead of time the schedule for the night and where your children will be at all times, especially if you are not planning on accompanying your older children in their Halloween endeavors. Here are some pre- Halloween and trick-r-treating checklist items for you as a parent:
- look up online where sex-offenders may be living in your neighborhood and make a wise decision about the route your kids take to trick-r-treat. Halloween is the perfect time for perpetrators to prey on young children.
- if your family does not trick-r-treat, know ahead of time whether or not the fall event your kids are attending is open to the public, requires a ticket for access, or if they do not have any safety measures in place for keeping out Halloween extremists. Knowing whether or not your kids will be intermixing with all types from the public will allow you to make a wise decision on attendance and chaperones.
- set a trick-r-treat route ahead of time and draw out a map with your kids. This way you will know where they are going to be at all times.
- set a curfew and send your kids with a cell-phone.
- the best way to ensure safe trick-r-treating or party attending is to go along for the fun. Halloween isn't just for kids after all.
Remember, your children, no matter their age, should never trick-r-treat alone. Safety is always in numbers and applies the same to Halloween activities. Also, remind your children, that they should never enter a house or car for anything. Candy givers should answer the door and pass out candy without requiring children to enter the house. Remind your kids that if anyone wants them to come inside, they should move on to the next house. Also, because your kids are likely to be walking the streets while trick-r-treating, remind them to be careful when crossing, to look both ways, and to always have their eye out for cars.
Remind your older, teenage children that vandalizing, even on Halloween, is wrong and that treating animals (yes, even black cats) unkindly, is cruel and not to be tolerated. Halloween should be fun for everything and everyone, so ruining property and hurting others is not cool.
As far as candy and Halloween treats go, remind your children that whether trick-r-treating, attending a party, or participating in a fall festival they should only take or consume factory wrapped treats where there are no rips or tampering that has occurred. Also, if you have rules about eating candy in your house, be sure to establish them ahead of time.
Lastly, remind your children that while there may some adults dressed up as fun (or scary) characters, they are to never ever go anywhere with an adult, allow an adult to touch them, or be lured away from the group. Halloween can provide an enticing atmosphere that may distract your children from remembering how to keep themselves safe. It is your job as a parent to remind them of the rules and establish with them what is, and what is not appropriate behavior by an adult. Obviously, attending Halloween celebrations with your children is the only way to ensure that you are keeping them safe, however this may not always be possible, so instill these Halloween safety tips beforehand.
Don't let these tips take away from the fun of Halloween. Enjoy making or buying costumes with your kids this week and send them out to have a fun evening Wednesday night. Fun is important, however safety is necessary. Enjoy the week, and the enjoy your kids!
However, no matter how you choose to allow your children to participate in Halloween, keeping them safe should be of the utmost priority. Eating candy, trick-r-treating, and being around adults that are dressed in costumes all have the potential to lead your children into hazardous situations. Here are a few suggestions from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) http://www.emergencyemail.org/newsemergency/anmviewer.asp?a=702&z=29 and the Halloween Safety website (http://www.halloween-safety.com/halloween_safety_kids.html) on how you can keep your children safe this Halloween.
First, lets discuss costumes. Any props that your children are carrying (weapons, knives, etc) should be FAKE and soft if at all possible. Encouraging your children to carry real weapons is dangerous, and even plastic toys may cause accidents if they are not handled carefully. Be sure to include a light-up element on the costume, or have your children carry a flashlight while trick-r-treating, so that they can be seen on dark streets. Make sure that costumes are flame-resistant and fit well, so that vision is not impaired and tripping or falling won't be an issue. If you are utilizing some sort of body or hair paint, be sure to test it out on a small area of your child's skin first, to check for irritation or an allergic reaction.
Second, as a parent, make sure you know ahead of time the schedule for the night and where your children will be at all times, especially if you are not planning on accompanying your older children in their Halloween endeavors. Here are some pre- Halloween and trick-r-treating checklist items for you as a parent:
- look up online where sex-offenders may be living in your neighborhood and make a wise decision about the route your kids take to trick-r-treat. Halloween is the perfect time for perpetrators to prey on young children.
- if your family does not trick-r-treat, know ahead of time whether or not the fall event your kids are attending is open to the public, requires a ticket for access, or if they do not have any safety measures in place for keeping out Halloween extremists. Knowing whether or not your kids will be intermixing with all types from the public will allow you to make a wise decision on attendance and chaperones.
- set a trick-r-treat route ahead of time and draw out a map with your kids. This way you will know where they are going to be at all times.
- set a curfew and send your kids with a cell-phone.
- the best way to ensure safe trick-r-treating or party attending is to go along for the fun. Halloween isn't just for kids after all.
Remember, your children, no matter their age, should never trick-r-treat alone. Safety is always in numbers and applies the same to Halloween activities. Also, remind your children, that they should never enter a house or car for anything. Candy givers should answer the door and pass out candy without requiring children to enter the house. Remind your kids that if anyone wants them to come inside, they should move on to the next house. Also, because your kids are likely to be walking the streets while trick-r-treating, remind them to be careful when crossing, to look both ways, and to always have their eye out for cars.
Remind your older, teenage children that vandalizing, even on Halloween, is wrong and that treating animals (yes, even black cats) unkindly, is cruel and not to be tolerated. Halloween should be fun for everything and everyone, so ruining property and hurting others is not cool.
As far as candy and Halloween treats go, remind your children that whether trick-r-treating, attending a party, or participating in a fall festival they should only take or consume factory wrapped treats where there are no rips or tampering that has occurred. Also, if you have rules about eating candy in your house, be sure to establish them ahead of time.
Lastly, remind your children that while there may some adults dressed up as fun (or scary) characters, they are to never ever go anywhere with an adult, allow an adult to touch them, or be lured away from the group. Halloween can provide an enticing atmosphere that may distract your children from remembering how to keep themselves safe. It is your job as a parent to remind them of the rules and establish with them what is, and what is not appropriate behavior by an adult. Obviously, attending Halloween celebrations with your children is the only way to ensure that you are keeping them safe, however this may not always be possible, so instill these Halloween safety tips beforehand.
Don't let these tips take away from the fun of Halloween. Enjoy making or buying costumes with your kids this week and send them out to have a fun evening Wednesday night. Fun is important, however safety is necessary. Enjoy the week, and the enjoy your kids!
Monday, October 22, 2012
How to celebrate Halloween without Ghosts, Goblins, and Ghouls
Happy Monday to everyone! Looks like Halloween is just a little more than a week away and I would like to offer some Halloween tips and alternatives if you and your children are not the ghosts, goblins, and ghouls type. Growing up, my mother never allowed me or my 4 siblings to dress up as evil beings for our Halloween affairs. While we were allowed to trick-r-treat and collect candy, the costumes we chose had to be cheerful, creative characters that were the hero/heroines of movies, plays, TV shows or books. Never once were we allowed to dress up as ghosts or witches, nor have any weapons, blood, or violence as a part of our costumes.
Now, your Halloween traditions and rules might be different than my family's, but I would like to offer some alternative suggestions for those individuals looking to celebrate Halloween in a non-traditional manner.
First, if like my family you are not apt to let your child dress up as a scary, violent, or evil being, there are many other costume suggestions for your children. Have then dress up as their favorite Disney (c) character or a character from a favorite TV show. Encourage them to be creative, maybe make their own costumes (for a fun list of Do It Yourself costumes, be sure to visit the Family Builder's Halloween board on Pinterest). It's always fun to dress up as local heros, such as sports stars, police, fireman, or any of our armed forces. Maybe pick a family theme and everyone dresses up according to the theme. The Flintstone family perhaps, or maybe everyone dresses up as a fruit for a Family Fruit Basket. Have a big family? Create your own sports team and include cheerleaders. There are so many alternative costumes for your kids besides dressing up as evil beings. Make Halloween an opportunity for your kids to dress up as heros and heroines, or be the princesses and princes that they always dreamed of - get creative and help your kids find a fun costume!
I would also like to discuss trick-r-treating. My family always split the fun. We would spend the first hour of our neighborhood's three hour trick-r-treating time slot knocking on doors and collecting candy, and the two other hours answering our own door and passing out candy to other trick-r-treaters. Many parents want to avoid their children collecting and consuming too many sweets. This is a great way to ration the amount of candy received and allows an opportunity for your kids to be on both the giving and receiving end of participating in trick-r-treating.
Not a fan of trick-r-treating and looking for an alternative activity for your kids? While I DO NOT suggest adult-themed Halloween parties for your children, I do recommend finding local churches in your area who might be putting on a Fall celebration as an alternative to trick-r-treating. Most churches will have fun activities that are fall themed, still allow children to dress up in non-evil or fall themed costumes, and collect candy without the trick-r-treating aspect. Many families find this a much more appealing and safe way to allow their children to participate in Halloween activities. Search for local churches in your area to find out if they may be hosting such an event.
Lastly, as a parent you might be wondering what and how you should ration all that candy your kids just received in only a matter of hours. Well, at my household we were not allowed to eat any candy until we got home for the evening. From there, we were each allowed to pick 4 pieces from our own loot to eat immediately. From there, my mother would combine all 5 of our candy stashes together in a huge bowl hidden high on a shelf and we had to ask to have any. She would put one piece in our lunches everyday for school and when Thanksgiving came around, any candy left over we donated to local non-profits and schools for putting in gift bags for children. My mom made candy a privilege and a treat. If you completed a chore, you might get one piece; if you did something without being asked, you might get a piece. Candy was something we looked forward to receiving, but we were taught that it was a treat not a daily part of our meals :)
Halloween can be fun to participate in, but it can also be a source of stress for parents who do not wish to include ghosts, goblins, ghouls, or trick-r-treating into their traditions. I hope that some of the above suggestions have provided some alternatives for parents looking to get creative. Have a great week and enjoy your kids!
Below are some links to local OKC Halloween events that do not include trick-r-treating:
Haunt the Zoo at the OKC Zoo
Fall Festival at Crossroads Church
Mummy & Me Masquerade Ball
Fall Festival at Council Road Baptist Church
Free Family Fall Fest at Trinity Church of the Nazarene
Now, your Halloween traditions and rules might be different than my family's, but I would like to offer some alternative suggestions for those individuals looking to celebrate Halloween in a non-traditional manner.
First, if like my family you are not apt to let your child dress up as a scary, violent, or evil being, there are many other costume suggestions for your children. Have then dress up as their favorite Disney (c) character or a character from a favorite TV show. Encourage them to be creative, maybe make their own costumes (for a fun list of Do It Yourself costumes, be sure to visit the Family Builder's Halloween board on Pinterest). It's always fun to dress up as local heros, such as sports stars, police, fireman, or any of our armed forces. Maybe pick a family theme and everyone dresses up according to the theme. The Flintstone family perhaps, or maybe everyone dresses up as a fruit for a Family Fruit Basket. Have a big family? Create your own sports team and include cheerleaders. There are so many alternative costumes for your kids besides dressing up as evil beings. Make Halloween an opportunity for your kids to dress up as heros and heroines, or be the princesses and princes that they always dreamed of - get creative and help your kids find a fun costume!
I would also like to discuss trick-r-treating. My family always split the fun. We would spend the first hour of our neighborhood's three hour trick-r-treating time slot knocking on doors and collecting candy, and the two other hours answering our own door and passing out candy to other trick-r-treaters. Many parents want to avoid their children collecting and consuming too many sweets. This is a great way to ration the amount of candy received and allows an opportunity for your kids to be on both the giving and receiving end of participating in trick-r-treating.
Not a fan of trick-r-treating and looking for an alternative activity for your kids? While I DO NOT suggest adult-themed Halloween parties for your children, I do recommend finding local churches in your area who might be putting on a Fall celebration as an alternative to trick-r-treating. Most churches will have fun activities that are fall themed, still allow children to dress up in non-evil or fall themed costumes, and collect candy without the trick-r-treating aspect. Many families find this a much more appealing and safe way to allow their children to participate in Halloween activities. Search for local churches in your area to find out if they may be hosting such an event.
Lastly, as a parent you might be wondering what and how you should ration all that candy your kids just received in only a matter of hours. Well, at my household we were not allowed to eat any candy until we got home for the evening. From there, we were each allowed to pick 4 pieces from our own loot to eat immediately. From there, my mother would combine all 5 of our candy stashes together in a huge bowl hidden high on a shelf and we had to ask to have any. She would put one piece in our lunches everyday for school and when Thanksgiving came around, any candy left over we donated to local non-profits and schools for putting in gift bags for children. My mom made candy a privilege and a treat. If you completed a chore, you might get one piece; if you did something without being asked, you might get a piece. Candy was something we looked forward to receiving, but we were taught that it was a treat not a daily part of our meals :)
Halloween can be fun to participate in, but it can also be a source of stress for parents who do not wish to include ghosts, goblins, ghouls, or trick-r-treating into their traditions. I hope that some of the above suggestions have provided some alternatives for parents looking to get creative. Have a great week and enjoy your kids!
Below are some links to local OKC Halloween events that do not include trick-r-treating:
Haunt the Zoo at the OKC Zoo
Fall Festival at Crossroads Church
Mummy & Me Masquerade Ball
Fall Festival at Council Road Baptist Church
Free Family Fall Fest at Trinity Church of the Nazarene
Monday, October 15, 2012
Powerful DVAM Video Campaigns: Help spread the word!
Hard to believe it is October 15th already! Where has this month gone - why has time flown so quickly? Halloween is right around the corner, and before you know it, it will be Thanksgiving and then Christmas! I hope that each of you are enjoying the slightly cooler temperatures and finding it difficult to part with your kids each morning as you send them off to school. However, while you have a little bit of free time, take a moment to thoroughly involve yourself in this week's blog.
Today, I am excited to provide all of you with some links to powerful Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) video campaigns both from the U.S. and around the world. These campaigns have been used this October to help spread the word of domestic violence and sexual assault, as well as to encourage breaking the code of silence that is preventing DV from being stopped. These campaigns vary in their production, their budgets, and their presentation, but they all share the same message: domestic violence and sexual assault are heinous acts that need to be stopped.
So, grab a box of tissues and engross yourself in these DVAM video campaigns:
First, is the "Indiana Says No More" campaign utilizing the message behind the "No More" Project that we discussed in an earlier blog:
Indiana Says No More
Then, there is the "1 is 2 Many" Campaign. Vice President, Joe Biden launched this campaign last year in partnership with many familiar faces. See if you recognize some of our country's most beloved athletes:
1 is 2 many
This next campaign was originally aired in the U.K. with actress Kiera Knightley. She stands behind a powerful message to end domestic violence:
Isn't it Time Someone Called Cut?
Another U.K. campaign was launched by a British blogger whose blogs are highly acclaimed. She created a unique campaign to raise awareness:
How to Look Your Best the Morning After
This campaign takes a look at the disturbing effects that domestic abuse and violence can have on children who witness violent acts every day:
Live Fear Free-The Effect of Domestic Abuse on Children
This campaign, done by a group of high-school students, may seem a bit corny, but it provides a message not often heard - acts of domestic violence occur towards men more often than anyone knows. The message behind this campaign is very real:
Domestic Violence PSA
This last campaign, involves men who on October 13th, 2012 took a stand for the women in their lives and all around the world. They are going the extra mile to raise awareness for DV in a very unique way:
Walk A Mile in Her Shoes
While some of these messages are disturbing and terrifying all at once, I hope this last campaign allowed you to smile and that all of the campaigns encouraged you to help raise awareness of DV and sexual assault in your own area. These videos have powerful messages and can be a contributing factor for a movement to end DV. However, only you can truly make it stop. Be aware, report suspected domestic violence or abuse, and educate your children on the dangers of anger, violence, and losing your temper. Have a great week everyone, and enjoy your kids!
Today, I am excited to provide all of you with some links to powerful Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) video campaigns both from the U.S. and around the world. These campaigns have been used this October to help spread the word of domestic violence and sexual assault, as well as to encourage breaking the code of silence that is preventing DV from being stopped. These campaigns vary in their production, their budgets, and their presentation, but they all share the same message: domestic violence and sexual assault are heinous acts that need to be stopped.
So, grab a box of tissues and engross yourself in these DVAM video campaigns:
First, is the "Indiana Says No More" campaign utilizing the message behind the "No More" Project that we discussed in an earlier blog:
Indiana Says No More
Then, there is the "1 is 2 Many" Campaign. Vice President, Joe Biden launched this campaign last year in partnership with many familiar faces. See if you recognize some of our country's most beloved athletes:
1 is 2 many
This next campaign was originally aired in the U.K. with actress Kiera Knightley. She stands behind a powerful message to end domestic violence:
Isn't it Time Someone Called Cut?
Another U.K. campaign was launched by a British blogger whose blogs are highly acclaimed. She created a unique campaign to raise awareness:
How to Look Your Best the Morning After
This campaign takes a look at the disturbing effects that domestic abuse and violence can have on children who witness violent acts every day:
Live Fear Free-The Effect of Domestic Abuse on Children
This campaign, done by a group of high-school students, may seem a bit corny, but it provides a message not often heard - acts of domestic violence occur towards men more often than anyone knows. The message behind this campaign is very real:
Domestic Violence PSA
This last campaign, involves men who on October 13th, 2012 took a stand for the women in their lives and all around the world. They are going the extra mile to raise awareness for DV in a very unique way:
Walk A Mile in Her Shoes
While some of these messages are disturbing and terrifying all at once, I hope this last campaign allowed you to smile and that all of the campaigns encouraged you to help raise awareness of DV and sexual assault in your own area. These videos have powerful messages and can be a contributing factor for a movement to end DV. However, only you can truly make it stop. Be aware, report suspected domestic violence or abuse, and educate your children on the dangers of anger, violence, and losing your temper. Have a great week everyone, and enjoy your kids!
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Overcoming Discouragement
Today, I would like to share a short entry with you about overcoming discouragement. With the colder weather approaching, leaving us to do indoor activities with our children who are less than thrilled about being stuck inside, discouragement can begin to take root. Your own personal discouragement will be different than mine; it could be related to your parenting skills, your own personal goals and achievements, discouragement in your job, or in your kids behavior. There are so many things that can become a source of discouragement in life.
However, I would encourage you to take the challenge of overcoming discouragement head on. Seek out a friend with whom you can exchange tails of woe. Find a support system that is able to help you process and work through the discouraging circumstance in your life. Never stop believing in yourself. You can do it - whatever "it" is; whether it is taking on a new challenge in parenting, overcoming a bad habit or addiction, or simply just climbing over a recent disappointment in life. Having a positive attitude and facing your discouragement head on will allow you to take positive steps towards overcoming it.
My own discouragements have come front and center this week and it made me consider that perhaps each on of you could be dealing with discouragements of your own this week. Remember, you are not alone in your struggle and you are not failing just because something did not go exactly as planned. Smile, keep you chin up, seek advice, and continue to strive towards overcoming your own personal source of discouragement. After all, there are so many other things to be smiling about and looking forward to. Halloween is around the corner and that means costumes, trick-r-treating, candy, and most of all, spending quality time with your children. Keep your heads up and keep moving forward. You will overcome and you will succeed. Keep your children's health, safety, and happiness as your first priority. Enjoy your kids and enjoy the rest of your week!
However, I would encourage you to take the challenge of overcoming discouragement head on. Seek out a friend with whom you can exchange tails of woe. Find a support system that is able to help you process and work through the discouraging circumstance in your life. Never stop believing in yourself. You can do it - whatever "it" is; whether it is taking on a new challenge in parenting, overcoming a bad habit or addiction, or simply just climbing over a recent disappointment in life. Having a positive attitude and facing your discouragement head on will allow you to take positive steps towards overcoming it.
My own discouragements have come front and center this week and it made me consider that perhaps each on of you could be dealing with discouragements of your own this week. Remember, you are not alone in your struggle and you are not failing just because something did not go exactly as planned. Smile, keep you chin up, seek advice, and continue to strive towards overcoming your own personal source of discouragement. After all, there are so many other things to be smiling about and looking forward to. Halloween is around the corner and that means costumes, trick-r-treating, candy, and most of all, spending quality time with your children. Keep your heads up and keep moving forward. You will overcome and you will succeed. Keep your children's health, safety, and happiness as your first priority. Enjoy your kids and enjoy the rest of your week!
Monday, October 8, 2012
NO MORE - A movement to end Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault
How was everyone's weekend? A little chilly perhaps? The leaves are really beginning to fall, football is in full swing, and fall decorations are starting to make their appearance in the windows and on the porches of houses in neighborhoods everywhere. Fall really is a fun time of the year - October ushers in the cooler temperatures and Halloween closes out the month; November brings about holiday planning and Thanksgiving; then we move into winter as December descends upon us with thoughts of Christmas and family.
As we begin to cherish the moments that make fall wonderful, we must also remember those who are struggling to simply live their lives peacefully from day to day. All around you, in your neighborhood, at your church, where your kids go to school, are men and women who are daily victims of domestic violence and whose children are innocent bystanders who observe more violence than TV has to offer. These men, women, and children are people you know, people you care about, and often silent victims.
Today, I would like to introduce to you a groundbreaking movement that utilizes a symbol to spread the word about domestic violence and sexual assault. The symbol, you may have noticed, is located at the top of this blog post. The "No More" project began as a way to unify support across the nation to end domestic violence. This symbol and the call to action that stands behind it is not meant to replace the purple ribbon that is most often associated with Domestic Violence Awareness Month, but is meant to move awareness into the public realm, raise visibility, break the silence, challenge the current stigma, and unify the movement towards ending this atrocity.
Interestingly enough the "No More" symbol holds no copyright and therefore leaves permission open for individuals and organizations anywhere to utilize the symbol along with their own logo. This symbol can be attached to a website, a blog, a social media account, and any other pamphlet, fact sheet, or flyer that individuals, non-profits, or companies want to use. The whole idea is to spread awareness and unite the movement to end domestic violence.
The "No More" Project has so many intricate and unique details that make it easy to use and help to bring awareness to this important issue. A toolkit is available on their website in order to begin implementation of the symbol at your own company or non-profit. Facts and stories of survivors are featured, further motivating individuals to become involved. Many celebrities have become involved and are the backbone for the campaign including, Law & Order SVU star, Mariska Hargitay. The project is unique but it is one of the strongest calls to action that has been issued.
Visit the "No More" Project website at: http://www.nomore.org/ and help to break the silence for those who are victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.
While the topic of domestic violence may seem depressing for a blog that is meant to inform and encourage parents, remember that children are affected by domestic violence each and everyday. Your child may be in school with another child who witnesses the beating of his mother by his father everyday. Or your child's regular Wednesday play-date may be the onlooker of a mother who verbally abuses his/her father on a regular basis. If parents are informed, children can be sheltered from the horrors of domestic violence. Know the signs, learn the facts, and keep an eye on the children whom you and your children have interactions with everyday. If you suspect child abuse or domestic violence is occurring in a home, report it - do not stand silent.
For all you parents out there, have a great week and continue to explore fun, fall plans with your children. With Halloween right around the corner, its time to get a jump start on those costumes. Stay tuned for fun costume ideas and safe trick-r-treating tips as the month continues. Enjoy your kids and remember "No More." Stand for a cause, be a voice.
Monday, October 1, 2012
October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month
When you think October, you often think fall, Halloween, breaking out the candy, figuring out how to make home-made costumes for your kids, and preparing to make holiday plans. While all these activities are fun, exciting, and add a level of depth and dimension to your relationships with your children, October should also make you think of another very important event - Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM).
In 1987, almost 25 years ago, October became the official month of Domestic Violence Awareness. This awareness program was launched due to the record high number of deaths of women associated with domestic violence for that year. Purple became the nationally recognized color of DVAM, as it is said to symbolize the colors of the bruises received by those who are victims of this atrocity. According to DomesticViolenceStatistics.org, domestic violence is still the leading cause of injury to women. The LEADING cause- that means more than car accidents, rapes, and muggings - domestic violence trumps all of them. Domestic Violence isn't the same as being mugged and beaten on the street by a stranger, or raped by a person who don't know. Domestic Violence occurs in the home, by people who are known, loved, and close to the victims. The perpetrator is someone the victim is in a relationship with, married to, or as a commitment to. No strangers are involved in this type of violence. This perhaps, makes this violence all the more deadly and terrifying.
Domestic violence doesn't just effect women. Men are also domestic violence victims, and the mental and emotional damage inflicted on young children who become victims by observing domestic violence in their homes is on the up-rise. Domestic Violence hurts everyone. Here are some general statistics from NOMore.org regarding the casualties of domestic violence:
In Oklahoma City the YWCA can help to educate and protect you and those you love. Their mission is to empower women to fight against domestic violence and sexual assault, racism, and promote peace, freedom, and dignity. They are a great resource in this area for those who feel they are victims, or know victims of domestic violence. For more information, visit their website at:
http://www.ywca.org/site/pp.asp?c=djIMI0POKvG&b=4818621
or get in touch with them by phone at 405.943.7177
Knowing the resources in your area can help you to end domestic violence.
So, this October, wear purple and help build awareness for Domestic Violence in your area. Many events are occurring in the upcoming months:
"Silent Witness Initiative Project Tour" - Verizon Wireless and the Oklahoma Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (OCADVSA) - stops in Durant, Oklahoma today, Oct 1st from 7 to 8 pm
"Women Who Care, Share" - YWCA - December 3rd
"Rally on the South Lawn of the State Capitol" & "Wear Purple Day" - Women's Haven - Oct 4th, 6:30 pm
"Telling Amy's Story" - screening on Great Lawn at Myriad Gardens - Oct 9th, 7 pm
Be sure to stay tuned to our blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest pages as we locate more DVAM events and keep you updated with stats, stories, and facts. Raising awareness of Domestic Violence is a crucial part of bringing about peace and keeping your children and family safe.
So, while enjoying the crisp, fall air and helping your kids pick out Halloween costumes and fall decorations, wear something purple to remind you of DVAM. Enjoy the week and enjoy your kids!
In 1987, almost 25 years ago, October became the official month of Domestic Violence Awareness. This awareness program was launched due to the record high number of deaths of women associated with domestic violence for that year. Purple became the nationally recognized color of DVAM, as it is said to symbolize the colors of the bruises received by those who are victims of this atrocity. According to DomesticViolenceStatistics.org, domestic violence is still the leading cause of injury to women. The LEADING cause- that means more than car accidents, rapes, and muggings - domestic violence trumps all of them. Domestic Violence isn't the same as being mugged and beaten on the street by a stranger, or raped by a person who don't know. Domestic Violence occurs in the home, by people who are known, loved, and close to the victims. The perpetrator is someone the victim is in a relationship with, married to, or as a commitment to. No strangers are involved in this type of violence. This perhaps, makes this violence all the more deadly and terrifying.
Domestic violence doesn't just effect women. Men are also domestic violence victims, and the mental and emotional damage inflicted on young children who become victims by observing domestic violence in their homes is on the up-rise. Domestic Violence hurts everyone. Here are some general statistics from NOMore.org regarding the casualties of domestic violence:
- 1 in 4 women experience violence from their partners in their lifetimes.
- 1 in 3 teens experience sexual or physical abuse or threats from a boyfriend or girlfriend in one year.
- 1 in 6 women are survivors of sexual assault.
- 1 in 5 men have experienced some form of sexual victimization in their lives.
- 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men were sexually abused before the age of 18.
In Oklahoma City the YWCA can help to educate and protect you and those you love. Their mission is to empower women to fight against domestic violence and sexual assault, racism, and promote peace, freedom, and dignity. They are a great resource in this area for those who feel they are victims, or know victims of domestic violence. For more information, visit their website at:
http://www.ywca.org/site/pp.asp?c=djIMI0POKvG&b=4818621
or get in touch with them by phone at 405.943.7177
Knowing the resources in your area can help you to end domestic violence.
So, this October, wear purple and help build awareness for Domestic Violence in your area. Many events are occurring in the upcoming months:
"Silent Witness Initiative Project Tour" - Verizon Wireless and the Oklahoma Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (OCADVSA) - stops in Durant, Oklahoma today, Oct 1st from 7 to 8 pm
"Women Who Care, Share" - YWCA - December 3rd
"Rally on the South Lawn of the State Capitol" & "Wear Purple Day" - Women's Haven - Oct 4th, 6:30 pm
"Telling Amy's Story" - screening on Great Lawn at Myriad Gardens - Oct 9th, 7 pm
Be sure to stay tuned to our blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest pages as we locate more DVAM events and keep you updated with stats, stories, and facts. Raising awareness of Domestic Violence is a crucial part of bringing about peace and keeping your children and family safe.
So, while enjoying the crisp, fall air and helping your kids pick out Halloween costumes and fall decorations, wear something purple to remind you of DVAM. Enjoy the week and enjoy your kids!
Monday, September 24, 2012
It's Family Meal Day!! Recipe #4
Hello, hello and Good morning! Today is Family Meal Day! Monday, September 24th, 2012 is not just a day that we are celebrating here at Family Builders, but is also a national event. Launched in 2001 by The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University, Family Meal Day became a national movement that encouraged families to eat dinner together at least one night a week. Engaging your kids in conversation at the dinner table has been proven as an effective way to keep kids substance and alcohol free! This initiative encourages parents to become a STAR on family day: Spend time with your kids, Talk to them about their day and the things going on in their lives, Answer their questions and listen to what they say, and Recognize that you have the power to help your kids in living wholesome lives. More information on this family day can be found at http://casafamilyday.org/familyday/
Today's recipe, in honor of Family Meal Day, is brought to you by a local mom who wishes to remain unnamed. A mother of five, she tries hard to get her family sitting down together for dinner at least once a week. Here is her suggestion for a fun, family-friendly and low cost recipe, as well as a yummy dessert:
Oven Fried Chicken Strips
Ingredients:
3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3/4 cup of flour
1/2 tsp each of Kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika
1 cup of fine bread crumbs
2 egg whites
1/2 cup of buttermilk
3 Tblspn. of olive oil
Directions:
Preheat oven to 450 degrees
Slice chicken breasts into 4-5 stips each
Combine flour, salt, pepper, and paprika in a flat dish (such as a pie plate)
Dredge chicken strips in flour mixture and set aside. Add break crumbs to remaining flour
Whip egg whites until they form stiff peaks, then add buttermilk and whisk together
Dip chicken strips into buttermilk mixture, then dredge in bread crumb mixture. Set aside.
Preheat oil in baking dish, then add chicken strips in a single layer
Bake 10 to 15 minutes, then flips strips over and bake another 10 minutes
Serve with honey mustard or BBQ sauce.
Goes great with mac-n-cheese, fruit, or even a salad.
And for dessert...
Chocolate Chip Scones!
Ingredients:
2 eggs
1 cup of milk
3 3/4 cup of flour
1 cup of sugar
1 Tblspn. of baking powder
1 tsp of salt
1/3 cup of shortening
4 to 5 tsp butter, softened
add 1 cup mini chocolate chips
Directions:
Preheat oven to 425 degrees
Mix together in a bowl the eggs and milk
Then with a pastry wire, cut in flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, shortening, and softened butter
Then mix all ingredients together
With floured hand, knead ingredients until mixed together
Add chocolate chips and knead together
Divide dough in half, press out into a flat circle on a greased and floured cooked sheet
Sprinkle with sugar and cut into 8 wedges with a pizza cutter
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes
What yummy recipes from this busy mom! Celebrate Family Meal Day today and have dinner with your family. Download and print out this Family Builders place-mat so your kids can learn to set the table with you: Family Meal Day placemat
Have a fabulous week and remember to be a STAR for your kids - not just today, but every day of the week. Happy Family Meal Day!
Today's recipe, in honor of Family Meal Day, is brought to you by a local mom who wishes to remain unnamed. A mother of five, she tries hard to get her family sitting down together for dinner at least once a week. Here is her suggestion for a fun, family-friendly and low cost recipe, as well as a yummy dessert:
Oven Fried Chicken Strips
Ingredients:
3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3/4 cup of flour
1/2 tsp each of Kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika
1 cup of fine bread crumbs
2 egg whites
1/2 cup of buttermilk
3 Tblspn. of olive oil
Directions:
Preheat oven to 450 degrees
Slice chicken breasts into 4-5 stips each
Combine flour, salt, pepper, and paprika in a flat dish (such as a pie plate)
Dredge chicken strips in flour mixture and set aside. Add break crumbs to remaining flour
Whip egg whites until they form stiff peaks, then add buttermilk and whisk together
Dip chicken strips into buttermilk mixture, then dredge in bread crumb mixture. Set aside.
Preheat oil in baking dish, then add chicken strips in a single layer
Bake 10 to 15 minutes, then flips strips over and bake another 10 minutes
Serve with honey mustard or BBQ sauce.
Goes great with mac-n-cheese, fruit, or even a salad.
And for dessert...
Chocolate Chip Scones!
Ingredients:
2 eggs
1 cup of milk
3 3/4 cup of flour
1 cup of sugar
1 Tblspn. of baking powder
1 tsp of salt
1/3 cup of shortening
4 to 5 tsp butter, softened
add 1 cup mini chocolate chips
Directions:
Preheat oven to 425 degrees
Mix together in a bowl the eggs and milk
Then with a pastry wire, cut in flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, shortening, and softened butter
Then mix all ingredients together
With floured hand, knead ingredients until mixed together
Add chocolate chips and knead together
Divide dough in half, press out into a flat circle on a greased and floured cooked sheet
Sprinkle with sugar and cut into 8 wedges with a pizza cutter
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes
What yummy recipes from this busy mom! Celebrate Family Meal Day today and have dinner with your family. Download and print out this Family Builders place-mat so your kids can learn to set the table with you: Family Meal Day placemat
Have a fabulous week and remember to be a STAR for your kids - not just today, but every day of the week. Happy Family Meal Day!
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Protective Factor #6: Social & Emotional Competence of Children
It's Wednesday everyone. Yes, that "middle of the week, I really don't want to get out of bed, I wish it were Friday already" feeling hits everyone right about this time every week. Well, chin up. Wednesdays aren't so bad. They mean that you have had a successful first half of the week and are ready to conquer the second half and get ready for a weekend filled with spending time with your children, enjoying the crisper air, and getting outside to spend time in the outdoors before the chilly weather hits. Ah, Wednesday is not so bad after all.
Today, we are going to discuss our sixth and final, Protective Factor. This little blog series has, I hope, helped to instill some positive thoughts and actions in the parents who have taken the time to read them. These Protective Factors are so important for a healthy, developmental, and safe relationship between you and your child. So let's finish on a strong note. Today's Protective Factor #6 is:
Social and Emotional Competence of Children
What does that even mean? Well, think of it this way: in previous weeks, we have discussed how it is so important for parents to be emotionally prepared and resilient to deal with the pressures of parenting, as well as to establish good social connections with other parents in your community for support and guidance. Just as good social and emotional development is healthy for you as a parent, it is also important and healthy for your children to be socially and emotionally competent.
Just like learning to walk, talk, and read, learning the correct emotional and social tools can sometimes be a journey for children and their parents. However, children must learn to express their emotions in a healthy manner. In this way, parents are better able to respond to their children's needs, and this creates a stronger parent-child relationship (www.childwelfare.gov). When a child is incapable of expressing their social or emotional needs, they can become frustrated, which in turn will only frustrate you as a parent as well. Developing emotional self-regulation is so important for your child, as it effects their relationship not just with you as their parent, but with peers and friends as well.
Additionally, the ability of children to manage their emotions and behaviors and the ability to cultivate healthy friendships with peers, can have a greater affect on their ability to perform positively in school. In other words, healthy emotions and social capabilities better prepares your kids for academic success (Webster-Stratton,C. PhD & Reid, J. PhD. Social and Emotional Competence in Young Children - The Early Foundation for School Readiness and Success, Infants and Young Children, 17 (2). ). Teaching your children to not throw tantrums, express themselves with words, and share and interact with peers will all help ready them for succeeding in the world around them.
Parents must teach their children to learn and properly identify their emotions, as well as how to successfully express those emotions to others in a social setting. ChildWelfare.gov has some suggestions for helping parents with this important process:
Keep up the good work all you parents out there! Utilize these 6 Protective Factors that we have been covering in the month of September. Remember, you can always contact Family Builders for thoughts and guidance anytime of the day. Enjoy the rest of your week. Here are the list of the 6 Protective Factors one more time! Happy Wednesday!
1.Nurturing and Attachment
2. Knowledge of Parenting and Child and Youth Development
3. Parental Resilience
4. Social COnnections
5. Concrete Support Services for Parents
6. Social and Emotional Competence of Children
Today, we are going to discuss our sixth and final, Protective Factor. This little blog series has, I hope, helped to instill some positive thoughts and actions in the parents who have taken the time to read them. These Protective Factors are so important for a healthy, developmental, and safe relationship between you and your child. So let's finish on a strong note. Today's Protective Factor #6 is:
Social and Emotional Competence of Children
What does that even mean? Well, think of it this way: in previous weeks, we have discussed how it is so important for parents to be emotionally prepared and resilient to deal with the pressures of parenting, as well as to establish good social connections with other parents in your community for support and guidance. Just as good social and emotional development is healthy for you as a parent, it is also important and healthy for your children to be socially and emotionally competent.
Just like learning to walk, talk, and read, learning the correct emotional and social tools can sometimes be a journey for children and their parents. However, children must learn to express their emotions in a healthy manner. In this way, parents are better able to respond to their children's needs, and this creates a stronger parent-child relationship (www.childwelfare.gov). When a child is incapable of expressing their social or emotional needs, they can become frustrated, which in turn will only frustrate you as a parent as well. Developing emotional self-regulation is so important for your child, as it effects their relationship not just with you as their parent, but with peers and friends as well.
Additionally, the ability of children to manage their emotions and behaviors and the ability to cultivate healthy friendships with peers, can have a greater affect on their ability to perform positively in school. In other words, healthy emotions and social capabilities better prepares your kids for academic success (Webster-Stratton,C. PhD & Reid, J. PhD. Social and Emotional Competence in Young Children - The Early Foundation for School Readiness and Success, Infants and Young Children, 17 (2). ). Teaching your children to not throw tantrums, express themselves with words, and share and interact with peers will all help ready them for succeeding in the world around them.
Parents must teach their children to learn and properly identify their emotions, as well as how to successfully express those emotions to others in a social setting. ChildWelfare.gov has some suggestions for helping parents with this important process:
- Help children understand their emotions by first giving the feelings names and then encouraging them to talk about how they are feeling.
- Use pictures, books, and other visual elements to help the child understand his or her emotions.
- Give children opportunities to suggest different ways he or she can deal with feelings.
- Teach children the different methods for responding to feelings, conflicts, or problems such as taking deep breaths, stepping away from the situation to calm down, or asking an adult for help.
- Praise the child for healthy emotional expression.
Keep up the good work all you parents out there! Utilize these 6 Protective Factors that we have been covering in the month of September. Remember, you can always contact Family Builders for thoughts and guidance anytime of the day. Enjoy the rest of your week. Here are the list of the 6 Protective Factors one more time! Happy Wednesday!
1.Nurturing and Attachment
2. Knowledge of Parenting and Child and Youth Development
3. Parental Resilience
4. Social COnnections
5. Concrete Support Services for Parents
6. Social and Emotional Competence of Children
Monday, September 17, 2012
Family Meal Month, Recipe #3
Today marks the third week of September and the third week of Family Meal Month here at Family Builders. In honor of Monday, another family recipe has been provided for you courtesy of local chef Christa Carretero of Cooking Girl. She has graciously provided us with a low-cost, fun recipe for you to share with your family:
Oven Roasted Chicken
4 pieces of chicken with skin on
1 tsp. Thyme
1 tsp. Rosemary
1 TBSP. Dijon Mustard
Salt and Pepper to taste
Preheat oven to 375 degrees
While the oven is heating, mix all ingredients together with chicken in a bowl. Rub mixture into the chicken pieces.
Oven Roasted Potatoes
4 Idaho Potato's, cut into wedges
3 TBSP. Oil
Salt and Pepper to taste
Place
Potato's in a bowl and mix in the ingredients. Place in a 9x13
casserole dish.
Place Potato's in with the chicken at the same time at 375 degrees and
cook at 375 degrees for approx. 30 minutes. Every oven differs in
temperature so check the Chicken and Potato's in 30 minutes to see if
they are done. Chicken will be done when the juices run clear. One of
them may have to cook longer than the other.
Garlic Roasted Broccoli
1 1/2 Fresh Brocoli
1 TBSP Oil
Salt and Pepper to taste
3 cloves of garlic, minced
Wash
and cut the Broccoli into florets. In a
bowl, mix the Broccoli and all other indredients together. Transfer
Broccoli mixture onto a cookie sheet and put into oven at 375 degrees
for 15 minutes.
Remember, these recipes are to encourage you to sit down and share a meal with your entire family. Enjoy a hearty meal, good dinner conversations, but most importantly, quality time with your children.
For more info about Christa and her company, visit the Cooking Girl website at:
Enjoy the meal and enjoy the company. Have a fabulous week and don't forget to spend time with your kids!
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Protective Factor #5: Concrete Support Services for Parents
Here we go...continuing on our journey to learn about each of the 6 Protective Factors that may help families to avoid child abuse, neglect, and other types of violence. We have discussed factors 1-4 and today we will discuss #5, the second to last protective factor.
Be sure to remember that these factors serve as guidelines and may need to be slightly modified to fit each family's particular situation. However, the root of their advice applies to everyone. These factors have been linked to lower incidences of child abuse and neglect and so their advice should be taken seriously and with great consideration.
Protective Factor #5: Concrete Support Services for Parents
All families experience times of crisis, whether it be a natural disaster, unstable finances, inadequate health insurance or medical care, or a death in the family. These crises vary, but will create stress for parents and could often pose a risk to the children in the home as well. These circumstances are beyond the realm of child-parent relationships, but can still pose a great risk to a parent's ability to cope and care for their children at the same time.
This is where support services for parents makes their greatest leap. In most cities around the country, there are community resources that can help parents meet their basic needs and help guide them through tough times (www.childwelfare.gov). Concrete, social support through counseling services, food drives, transportation and housing services, as well as clothing needs, can usually be met in some degree by services within the community.
These services are not meant to completely support a family, but can certainly supplement family needs when times get tough. Utilizing these services to help in the care of your children does not make you greedy or incapable of caring for your kids. The services are there as a protective factor to help protect your children from the inescapable burdens of life. Parents, utilize these services if needed.
In some cases, you may find that your community lacks a certain service that you, or someone you know, could have benefited from. In this case, parents are a powerful advocate for a cause, and this could be your calling to step up to legislature and community leaders in order to establish new programs (HeadStart, ECLKC.gov). Other helpful programs could be low-cost, after-school programs, or safe transportation for your teenagers (www.childwelfare.gov).
Remember, as a parent your ability to cope and deal with stress is necessary for the health and well-being of your children. Concrete, substantial, support services in your community can aid you in being the best parent possible. Reach out to them, and encourage other parents you know to do the same, so that your kiddos come first.
Some Concrete Support Services for Parents in the Oklahoma City area include:
Family Builders
Oklahoma Department of Human Services
Family & Children's Services
EduCare - Tulsa
Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma
Child Care & Development Fund
Emergency Infant Services
Central Oklahoma Community Action Agency
Shelter for Friends
and many, many more!
If you need some type of support, do not hesitate to contact us at Family Builders. We can get you in touch with the right people!
www.familybuildersok.org
Be sure to remember that these factors serve as guidelines and may need to be slightly modified to fit each family's particular situation. However, the root of their advice applies to everyone. These factors have been linked to lower incidences of child abuse and neglect and so their advice should be taken seriously and with great consideration.
Protective Factor #5: Concrete Support Services for Parents
All families experience times of crisis, whether it be a natural disaster, unstable finances, inadequate health insurance or medical care, or a death in the family. These crises vary, but will create stress for parents and could often pose a risk to the children in the home as well. These circumstances are beyond the realm of child-parent relationships, but can still pose a great risk to a parent's ability to cope and care for their children at the same time.
This is where support services for parents makes their greatest leap. In most cities around the country, there are community resources that can help parents meet their basic needs and help guide them through tough times (www.childwelfare.gov). Concrete, social support through counseling services, food drives, transportation and housing services, as well as clothing needs, can usually be met in some degree by services within the community.
These services are not meant to completely support a family, but can certainly supplement family needs when times get tough. Utilizing these services to help in the care of your children does not make you greedy or incapable of caring for your kids. The services are there as a protective factor to help protect your children from the inescapable burdens of life. Parents, utilize these services if needed.
In some cases, you may find that your community lacks a certain service that you, or someone you know, could have benefited from. In this case, parents are a powerful advocate for a cause, and this could be your calling to step up to legislature and community leaders in order to establish new programs (HeadStart, ECLKC.gov). Other helpful programs could be low-cost, after-school programs, or safe transportation for your teenagers (www.childwelfare.gov).
Remember, as a parent your ability to cope and deal with stress is necessary for the health and well-being of your children. Concrete, substantial, support services in your community can aid you in being the best parent possible. Reach out to them, and encourage other parents you know to do the same, so that your kiddos come first.
Some Concrete Support Services for Parents in the Oklahoma City area include:
Family Builders
Oklahoma Department of Human Services
Family & Children's Services
EduCare - Tulsa
Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma
Child Care & Development Fund
Emergency Infant Services
Central Oklahoma Community Action Agency
Shelter for Friends
and many, many more!
If you need some type of support, do not hesitate to contact us at Family Builders. We can get you in touch with the right people!
www.familybuildersok.org
Monday, September 10, 2012
Family Meal Month : Recipe #2
Good morning everyone. I hope this past weekend was filled with fun moments with your children, enjoyment of the cooler weather and of course, football. Family Builders had a busy weekend, attending the United Way Kick-Off breakfast on Friday and then spending Sunday evening at a Block Party at the OKC First Nazarene Church. Both events were fun-filled and encouraging.
To continue on in our quest to promote and represent Family Meal Day here at Family Builders, I have added another recipe below. This recipe comes courtesy of Chef Shauna of the OKC Metro area. The recipe feeds a family of 5 to 6 and is great for a long meal that involves quality time together and good conversation.
For an easy side, Chef Shauna suggests:
http://www.chefshauna.com/
To continue on in our quest to promote and represent Family Meal Day here at Family Builders, I have added another recipe below. This recipe comes courtesy of Chef Shauna of the OKC Metro area. The recipe feeds a family of 5 to 6 and is great for a long meal that involves quality time together and good conversation.
Angel
Hair Pasta with Sautéed Chicken & Artichokes
and
Lemon Butter Sauce
Ingredients:
|
1 shallot, chopped
1 tsp garlic, minced
½ cup white wine
¼ cup lemon juice
2 sprig thyme
1 bay leaf
4-5 peppercorns
1 cup heavy cream
3 sticks unsalted butter, cubed
salt & pepper to taste
|
|
Preparation:
In a small
sauce pan combine shallot, garlic, white wine, lemon juice, thyme, bay leaf,
and peppercorns. Reduce by half and add heavy cream. Reduce again by half and
until thick. Remove from heat and slowly whisk in butter a few pieces at a
time. Salt and pepper to taste and strain.
For the Pasta Mix
1 can
Artichoke hearts, chopped
¼ cup red
onion, chopped
1 pound
chicken tenderloins
3-4 fresh
tomatoes, diced
2 cups
mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 large box
angel hair pasta
Fresh basil
In a large
pot, cook angel hair pasta for 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to overcook. In a
large sauté pan, cook chicken then add onions, artichokes, and tomatoes. Dice chicken and in a large bowl combine
pasta, chicken mix, cheese, and lemon butter sauce. Toss and top with basil.
For an easy side, Chef Shauna suggests:
Herb Roasted Red
Potatoes
Ingredients:
|
10-12 small red potatoes
½ cup vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp parsley, dried
1 tsp basil, dried
1 tsp oregano, dried
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
|
|
Preparation:
Preheat oven
to 350 degrees. Wash
and quarter red potatoes making sure all pieces are about the same size. In a
large bowl, toss the potatoes, oil, and seasonings until potatoes are evenly
coated. Spread onto a baking sheet evenly and bake in oven for 50 minutes or
until potatoes are golden brown and thoroughly cooked.
Shauna is the owner and chef of her own business, Chef Shauna. She
teaches cooking lessons, provides cooking class parties, caters private
dinners, and creates custom cakes.To learn more about Chef Shauna, visit her company website at:
To contact her personally, call 405-260-0476
Enjoy Chef Shauna's fabulous recipes and be sure to eat this yummy meal with the entire family. Remember, it's Family Meal Month here at Family Builders, so be sure to track our Twitter, Facebook, and Pinterest pages to get all the info on new recipes, cooking tips, dinner conversation ideas, and much more. Have a fabulous week!
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