Budget-Friendly Activities the Whole Family Will Appreciate When the Weather Keeps Them Inside

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Warmer weather usually provides kids with many outlets for physical activity. Of course, with spring comes rain, and some summer days are too hot for outdoor play. When the weather drives them inside, most children will just take the day off from physical exercise, opting instead to spend time in front of the television or their phones/tablets. A day indoors doesn't have to end up as a lost day, though. There are many opportunities indoors to flex muscles and stimulate brains. And to help with the bargain, your kids can still use their devices for these activities. Here are some budget-minded ways to put those devices to good use.

Get Them Dancing

One way to get kids active inside is through online exercise and dance videos. YouTube is filled with exercise content. There are also apps for the Apple TV that include fitness classes and lessons, and there are also streaming programs on exercises, including yoga, tai chi and more.  Since YouTube is mostly free — there are ad-free options with YouTube Red — you will have to endure some ads before you can watch some videos.

Another way to get your kids moving is with dance. YouTube music videos can keep your kids moving and off the couch. Many parents are concerned about adult content in popular music, but luckily there are radio-friendly versions of most popular songs on YouTube. If not, you can always navigate to KidzBop for appropriate content. The best part: Unless you subscribe to YouTube Red, these videos won’t cost you a dime.

Music can also be appreciated without dancing. There are countless resources for online music appreciation and instrument lessons. Again, YouTube is an excellent resource for these lessons, but so are many of the paid programs. Fender Play is a guitar-centric, subscription-based learning tool that costs a lot less than private lessons. Kids can tap into this program to get a feel for whether they are interested in a particular instrument.


Introduce the Kids to Art

In addition to music, visual arts are easy to incorporate into indoor activities. From drawing to painting, jewelry making to crafting, kids can learn how to tap into their creative side through online portals. Your entire family can become involved in artistic expression. Art is an activity that is educational without seeming school-like or boring. In addition to viewing and participating in art lessons, kids can also learn to appreciate art through online fine art museum websites. If your child wants to try their hand at drawing or painting, you can stock up on some affordable supplies by shopping online from retailers like Kohl’s.

Get Educational

Online learning can also cross into subjects that are more serious, such as math and science. Numerous online lesson plans incorporate science technology engineering and math or STEM. Some of these activities are fun ways to make a mess and learn about chemistry, and others teach practical applications of math and science; for example, children are fascinated by creating a glass of lava that produces eye-popping colors, and you can create many of these nifty experiments with ingredients you already have around the house.

Beyond free YouTube and online lessons, there are numerous programs on Netflix and other streaming services that provide fun math and science learning through observation. One program that shows the power of math and science is Brain Games. This show features odd and interesting quirks about how our minds work, often featuring brain teasers that include counting and perception.

Another online skill that can be developed through fun activities is coding. Kids are more adept at computer programming than ever before thanks to the pervasiveness of technology in their lives. Encourage them to explore coding to take a step deeper into technology. A few years ago, Minecraft became all the rage with kids around the world, and it encouraged a type of basic coding. Today, kids are playing new games that incorporate the ability to create worlds and objects. Ask them about their favorite games and interact with those that are beneficial to their learning.

If you intend to use the internet to help keep your kids entertained and educated during their time indoors, you’ll need a connection that doesn’t come crashing down at the worst possible time. This is especially true if you allow your children to play games online with their friends. Many providers offer packages that are specifically designed with gamers in mind, providing them with the bandwidth and connectivity they need. Even if you’re not a gamer, these packages are great for people who rely on the internet for streaming and business.

Next time your kids are bored and tempted to spend the day playing video games, seize the opportunity to infuse your kids with some budget-friendly indoor learning. When done the right way, you and your kids won’t dread your days indoors.

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Keeping a toddler entertained is a full-time job. As a parent, it can get exhausting. While you may be tempted to set up your little one with a TV, tablet, or similar device to keep them amused, you may also be worried about the dangers of screen time. In fact, some screen time can be good for kids. The right type of screen time can support healthy development, promote parent-child togetherness, and promote school readiness.
 
Many parents are surprised to learn that screens aren't all bad. DragonFly Pediatric Therapy is dedicated to educating parents on topics like these. With helpful resources and pediatric occupational therapy, she supports families in raising thriving, happy, and healthy kids.
 
This guide explains how you can help your toddler enjoy productive and educational screen time.
 
Get the tech you need to enjoy safe screen time.
 
Before your kids can use screen time for learning, they need the necessary tools. Consider getting a new tablet or desktop computer. Older models will lack speed and storage space. Whether you decide to invest in a laptop, desktop, or tablet, you can find great deals online. Lenovo offers rebates and special offers on its website, for example, while Amazon has a  dedicated page for tech deals. Do your research and comparison shop between brands before buying to make sure you get the best rate.
 
Find the right educational screen time options for your child.
 
Once you have the tech tools you need, it's on you to guide your toddler's screen time. Need inspiration? You can use technology to teach your little one about music, for example. Research shows that music helps kids learn math, listening, and language skills. For example, toddlers can use rhythm to master counting. Check out educational YouTube channels via free resources like 123ABCtv: this song teaches right versus left, for example.
 
You can also use digital tools for language learning. While you might think a toddler is too young to pick up a second language, this isn't the case. According to the World Literacy Foundation, the earlier kids are exposed to a new language, the better. Younger brains are still developing and will "soak up" new languages easily. Language learning also helps kids learn about other cultures. Check out eLearning industry's list of resources, which includes options like Rosetta Stone Kids Lingo Letter Sounds and Kids Learn Mandarin.
 
A pediatric occupational therapist can make additional expert recommendations for child-friendly educational apps. Puzzle apps like Hidden Pictures Puzzle Town help enhance cognitive skills and basics like color recognition, for example. Meanwhile, interactive tools like Touch and Write app support improved motor skills. There are also memory game apps available to encourage kids to hone concentration. This is another example of how screen time can prepare kids for school.
 
Know when to limit screen time.
 
Educational screen time has benefits. It shouldn't make up your toddler's entire day, however. It's important for kids to remain active and avoid too much sedentary activity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, kids need physical activity for normal development and growth and improved overall health. Toddlers aged 18 to 24 months should be limited to about one hour of screen time per day. Note that this doesn't include interactive screen time, like video calls with grandparents or other family members.
 
As the above guide makes clear, screen time doesn't have to be a bad thing. Children can learn many new skills via digital technology, while tired parents can have a rest while the screen keeps the kids amused. You simply have to do your research into the right apps and tools to make sure your toddler is benefitting from this time.
 
For more holistic parenting resources, get to know The Dragonfly Approach.
 
Photo Credit: Pexels.com
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A few of the questions I get asked all the time is, "How do I discipline my child with special needs? Don't I need to take into account their diagnosis?" 

So, I asked a couple of the parents of the OT kids I have on my caseload who have the most well behaved kids with autism I have ever seen. I want to share with you some of the things that they have conveyed to me.

1. Discipline is different for every child.
2. Be consistent, keep discipline going. It's not always easy!
3. Keep trying for what works.
4. Yes, you will be frustrated and yes you will cry.
5. An example of what was done in a certain situation: My son kept wanting to throw cake at a birthday party at the skating rink. He was being such a handful and it was clear he was overstimulated. Finally, in frustration, I let him throw it on the ground. Then I made him pick it up and throw it away. When he wanted to get another piece, I told him no, that he threw away the only piece that he would get.
6. We did not spank any of our children.
7. I messed up a lot but learned from it, for example, I had read something about when a child misbehaves, taking away toys and then sending him to his room, where there were more toys (not much of a punishment). So, when my son misbehaved, I made him sit in the bathtub. This didn't work out so well so I never did it again.
8. It is absolutely ok to say NO! If after my son was told NO two times and didn't listen, I got off my butt and moved him away from whatever he was doing. Yelling at at kid across the room to stop doing something does little unless you get up and make them do it or stop what you don't want them to do.
9. One time we stopped at a McDonald's on a trip and my son didn't want to leave the playground. He started to pitch a fit so my husband put him under his arm and carried him out kicking and screaming. We did NOT beg, we did NOT plead, we just removed him.
10. Pay attention to your child. NO phones at the dinner table for anyone, for example. We talk to each other, ask questions, etc. 
11. You are your child's PARENT, not his/her best friend.

I know that it is hard and frustrating to discipline a child with special needs, heck, disciplining any child is hard, but it can be done. I hope these tips and examples are helpful. 

Powerful Ways Parents Can Take Financial Control
 
Parenthood is all about making the best choices for yourself and your family. Sometimes, however, it can feel like important opportunities have gotten away from you. It’s easy to convince yourself that if you don’t start parenthood with your finances in hand, that getting them on track is impossible, and this can create quite a bit of stress.
 
Don’t make the mistake of thinking it’s too late to take control of your money. Whether you’re a soon-to-be parent or are teaching your child to drive, you can still make powerful financial choices that will protect your family in the long run. Here’s a look at some of the best things you can do for your family now:
 
Planning for End-Of-Life
 
There are too many uncertainties in life to leave your family’s circumstances following your death up to chance. If you don’t already have one, look into taking out a life insurance policy. This kind of insurance will help to cover funeral costs, medical bills, and lost income, sparing your children from heavy financial burdens and possibly providing for their future.
 
Thanks to the Internet, you have easy access to information about getting insurance.  It’s never been easier to compare rates and make sure you get the best option. You can use online calculators to get a sense of how much coverage you need and what kind of rates you can expect. Remember – the younger and healthier you are when you take a policy out, the lower your rates will be. Since these rates are usually locked in for several decades, the best time to get life insurance is always now. Bear in mind that most insurance providers will require a blood test and possibly an exam to help ascertain your overall health, which helps them determine your premiums.
 
Keeping Close Track of Finances
 
One of the most important things you can do for your finances is to build a budget. Track your spending for a few weeks, and use your current patterns as a starting point. If you find that you currently spend too much to be able to confidently save for the future, figure out ways you can cut costs. Some spending areas, such as monthly bills, can only be reduced so far. Others, like entertainment spending, have much more wiggle room.
 
Finding ways to set limits, cut costs, and stick to a budget during your child’s early years will set your family up for long-term success. Not only will you have control over your finances, you’ll be able to set a great example for your child’s whole life. You can even make a family activity of building and planning a budget: Have your child track and plan how to use their allowance so that the act becomes second nature.
 
Looking Toward Buying a Home and College
 
After you’ve built up your savings, you may want to consider buying a home for your family. While a home can be a profitable long-term investment, you’ll need to be careful to buy one within your means. You’ll need to save up for a down payment and shop for a mortgage with monthly payments you can afford. If you’re a first-time home buyer, an FHA loan may be the best option. PennyMac FHA loans offer lower down payment options and have more flexible income and credit requirements.
 
It’s never too late to start considering what kind of savings you want to set aside to ensure their future. Even if you only have a few years to set money aside, an academic savings plan will still help them to achieve their dreams (affordably). There are plenty of ways you can save for your child’s academic future, but the most common kind of college savings is a 529 plan.
 
These plans can be used toward a four-year degree, but they can also go toward other educational costs, such as trade school, books, or even off-campus housing. Each state offers its own version of this plan, but you don’t have to choose the version from the state you reside in. Take a look at the options and figure out a plan that’s best for you and your family.
 
You may not have your finances together perfectly, but there’s always time to do better. Remember: The earlier you start any kind of savings, the more you’ll have set away. Planning ahead is the best thing you can do for your family’s long-term security and happiness.
 
Photo Credit: Pexels

Click on the title below for a direct link to this awesome book!!

Let me just say this from the start of this blog, I did not have to read this book to already know what is causing autism because it has been smacking us in the face for many many years. If it smells like poo, looks like poo, and feels like poo, than it is poo. 

I will also say this, if I had to do it all over again, I would have asked my mom from the womb to keep vaccinations out of my body and I would have kept vaccinations out of my kid's bodies once I became a mother myself 19 years ago, I just didn't know until about 15 years ago.

There, I said it.

Now, is that to say that vaccinations are the only cause of autism, ADHD, and many other diagnosis, no, actually it is not the only cause, but it is a big huge cause and its time we adopt a brand new way of thinking. A new way of thinking that the vaccination trade off IS NOT WORTH IT, as it seems we are swapping a very minor reduction in a few acute illnesses for an epidemic in lifelong chronic illnesses, including autism, and yes, autism is now an epidemic.

Mr. Handley's book was written from a parent of an autistic child for other parents and was written very very well as this man did his research! What I mean by this is, the man brings to light all of the science that often goes unpublished because of the amount of money it takes to advertise it plus losing your butt over blowing a big ugly whistle (read the book and this will make sense), which clearly points a finger at vaccinations as a cause of autism. If you don't believe me, get his book and you will see the pages and pages of scientific proof. Its all there in black and white.

In his book, he has two distinct graphs that speak volumes if only you will look and think about the gravity of what you are looking at. The first one is the graph pointing out that back in 1970, when babies only got about 3 vaccinations, autism was at 1 in 10,000. Fast forward to today, when a baby is known to have up to 38 vaccinations and you will see that autism is 1 in 36 now. The other graph shows a jaw dropping linear increase in the number of vaccinations that babies are getting and the number of kids with autism. 

The ingredients in the vaccinations causing many of the issues are aluminum and thirmerosal aka ethylmercury, which wreak havoc on our bodies and brains. Read the book to see why, its alarming.

Austism can also happen in the womb if a mom gets sick during a critical part of the baby's brain development. There are a few other ways but I'll keep it simple for now so I can urge you to read this book and when you do, question everything you think you know about your baby's medical journey. 

The trick in all this is the fact that vaccinations are a $20+ billion industry and folks don't like to be seperated from there money but I say this to them, "You are messing with human children who have their whole life ahead of them, but you've altered it in a way to where it will never be the fullness that it could have been. In the process, you have thrown the parents under the bus who will struggle in caring for what you have ruined. Shame on you!"

Now, I realize that the initial intent of vaccinations was to help but now that the cat is out of the bag and it is hurting more than it is helping, step up and make changes.

I cannot tell you how many parents that I have worked with over the last 27 years that say this to me, "He/she was developing just fine and then after his/her vaccinations EVERYTHING changed."

Again, if it smells like poo, looks like poo, and feels like poo, than it is indeed just that, poo.

Read this book, I promise you that it is eye opening and you will agree that change is long overdue!

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Over the last several months, I have been studying and researching why there is autism, leaky gut, the poisons in our food, the rise of autoimmune diseases, the rise of genetic disorders, and how all of this relates to diet. 

I myself have leaky gut and it hurts like heck if I don't stay on my incredibly strict diet because I have inadvertantly done so much damage by eating the foods that I buy at the grocery store, I have decreased what I can eat to very minimal.

I cannot eat foods with gluten, casein, sugar, GMO'S, and all the other poisons that have been added so that the food industry can make more money. Thanks y'all, I don't appreciate it. Pesticides are used to keep the bugs away, GMO'S or genetically modified organisms scare the heck outta me and hurt my gut a lot, hormones aka GMO'S, and probably loads more that I am unaware of to hurry up the growth process of the animals and plants that I have been eating for the last several years put in my food to hurt me.

I also have discovered why I have trouble losing and keeping weight off as my gut flora is so low in some areas that I fear my gut will never be repaired. I am part of a study with the company called UBiome and after getting my results today from my first fecal sample, I have a heck of a lotta work to do to heal myself and it scares me.

If I eat the wrong things, I have gas, bloating, severe pain, diarrhea, and joint pain. This has caused me to miss work, decline lunch and other outings as I fear the paralyzing pain and frequent visit to the restroom, and many other areas of enjoyment that have been affected by my leaky gut.

Leaky gut is rampent in kids with autism and causes a lot of pain, confusion, and brain fog in these kids. They already have enough to deal with without having this too.

I also discovered that I have damaged my bodies ability to produce the proper enzymes to break my food down, which makes things even worse because with leaky gut, the gut wall becomes too permeable and allows my not-all-the-way processed food to escape into my body/bloodstream. That ain't good news for health.

Did you know that 80% of immunity is located in the gut? Given that, you better darn well take care of that gut or you will be sick all of the time eventually leading to an autoimmune disease, which basically means your body starts attacking itself. 

The book above is a must read if you find yourself or your kids dealing with painful stomach/intestinal trouble, diarrhea, inflammation, joint pain, muscle pain, autism, ADD/ADHD, brain fog, and load of other symptoms/diseases. 

Dr. Amy Myers is a functional medical doctor whose goal with each and every one of her patients is to get to the 'why' of the symptoms and does not throw body destroying pills at folks as a quick fix for the complaints. 

As a fellow holistic practitioner whose goal is also to get to the 'why' of what I see in my clinic with my OT kids, I appreciate what she is preaching.

I highly recommend this book to all of you. She also has a quiz on her website, which I have taken, that will pinpoint what might be going on and what to do about it.

I do not know Dr. Amy, but I feel connected to her because she is on the same path that I am of giving our patients the best care and the proper care possible.

Much of my book, that is out on Amazon called 'The Dragonfly Approach,' talks about diet and gut health. Her book just hits this point further home.

Here's to health! Cheers!