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Archives for June 2013

Rewarding Students for Good Grades?

June 25, 2013 | Leave a Comment

Rewarding Students for Good GradesGrowing up, children have very few responsibilities in life, make your bed, help with chores, be a nice person and do well in school. Given that doing well in school is really the only task throughout your day that requires any real effort, should we be rewarding our children for good grades? Something we expect from them anyway?

 

Rewarding Good Behavior

Rewarding a good, or positive, behavior isn’t necessarily a bad thing. People in general, do better in life when they receive positive reinforcement. As a working adult, if I only ever heard from my boss when I did something wrong, I would begin to resent our relationship and loath anytime he wanted to chat with me. We, as humans, like to know when we’ve done something good, or right, and always appreciate the acknowledgement of a job well done.

 

Not All Kids Are Self Motivated

Kids are no different. If you’re struggling to have them help with chores around the house, a simple reward chart that includes something small like stickers every time they accomplish something, is often enough incentive to have them work harder. Kids like to see how far they’ve come and how far they have to go. They are very visual learners.

Not all children are self-motivated. Some kids are innately self-motivated while others are not and need sticker charts for chores. I was always self-motivated and getting good grades for myself was all that I needed. I didn’t need my mom asking me if my homework was done. Of course it was. I motivated myself through life on nothing other than good grades and hard work, but most of my friends did not. Though my friends did well in school it was often because their parents helped them with homework every night and rewarded them at the end the year for a job well done in the form of a present.

There is nothing wrong with parents helping children with homework, on the contrary. I think it is hugely important to understand everything your child is learning for more reason than one, but I don’t know if rewarding them at the end of the year for a job well done is the right message.

 

Sending Mixed Signals

My concern is that if a child is rewarded with a present at the end of the school year for doing something we expected them to do anyway, they will maintain this mentality throughout life. As  adults we know not all jobs have bonuses and rewards for simply doing your job. What job satisfaction will they have if they don’t get a bonus or reward? Shouldn’t we teach our children to be happy with a job well done and not have them expect a present?

 

My Thoughts on Rewarding Students for Good Grades

I am of the opinion that children should be taught to be proud of what they accomplish academically. That praise from family and friends should be enough. I don’t think it’s appropriate to buy a 5th grader a new bike because they finished the school year with good grades, as expected. Upon high school graduation, I think a gift is appropriate to acknowledge many years worth of work and effort coming to an end, and the movement into the next phase in life. Individual grading gifts are over the top though. At the end of the school year, have a nice family gathering and celebrate the end of the academic year and start of summer together. Congratulate your child for a job well done in non-monetary or material items.

For more on kids and their education check out these other great articles.

What to Get The Graduate in Your Life
What Would You Sacrifice to Pay for Your Child’s Education
Should You Save For Post Secondary or Spend it on Experience?

What is your opinion on grading gifts?

Catherine
Catherine

Catherine is a first time momma to a rambunctious toddler. When she isn’t soaking up all that motherhood has to offer, you can find her blogging over at Plunged in Debt where she chronicles her and her husbands journey out of debt. You can also follow her on Twitter.

plungedindebt.com

Filed Under: Growing Up Tagged With: Getting Good Grades, Grades, Homework, Parents Give Their Children, Rewarding Students For Good Grades, Rewards For Good Grades

Choosing a Baby Name

June 23, 2013 | 2 Comments

Baby On BoardWhen a baby is “on board”, there is a lot that goes into preparing for the newest member of the family, including the picking of the baby name. This task can be both fun and daunting as friends and loved ones all give their two-cents. As you wade through the seemingly endless sea of possibilities, there are a few factors to consider as you hunt for your favorite name.

  1. Current Trends: Many of us want to give our child a name that is both familiar and unique, and so we try to find new inspiration. Unfortunately, lots of parents find ideas in many of the same things like celebrities, pop culture and more. Therefore, be aware of the current trends so you can anticipate what your child’s third grade class will look like. Right now, parents are loving the idea of naming their children after locations; Reese Witherspoon named her child Tennessee, Ashlee Simpson named her son Bronx, Ethan Hawke named his daughter Indiana, Chris Hemsworth named his daughter India . . . the list goes on and on. Another popular trend right now is to bestow monikers with Scandinavian and Roman influences, as these provide “just the right amount” of exoticism without deviating too far from the easily-recognized. So, be aware that if you name your baby daughter Octavia as a way of differentiating her from her peers, she may just end up in a classroom full of Brooklyns, Viggos and Caesars.
  2. Cruel Nicknames: Being a child and teenage is hard enough without a horrible nickname, so make sure that you aren’t giving bullies potential material. For instance, while you believe that Harry is a lovely name, you may want to rethink it if your last name is Pecker. Be aware of what the initials spell out, what bad phrases may be all-too-easily rhymed with the name. And never underestimate the creativity of children!
  3. How the name will age: Certain names have certain ages associated with them – some are regarded as uptight and appropriate for older individuals, while others are overly adorable and may make being taken seriously a bit more challenging. Therefore, try to find a name that will “age well”. To be safe, consider whether your choice has numerous nicknames that your child can call upon when appropriate. For instance, Victoria; as a child she may want to be called Vicky, as she matures she might prefer Tori and revert back to Victoria when being interviewed by potential employers.
  4. Reflect upon what inspires you: With there being a world of options at your fingertips, it is easy to get overwhelmed by the responsibility of settling on a name. Therefore, consider what has l meaning to you. Perhaps you want to use the name as a way to celebrate your cultural heritage, pay homage to a personal hero, honor Mother Nature or instill the characteristics of your favorite fictional hero. Say the name over and over again, and write it down so you can see what it looks like spelled out. If you feel yourself getting overwhelmed, just remind yourself that there is no such thing as the “right” or “wrong” name, and that your new baby is going to be wonderful regardless.

What are your thoughts on choosing a baby name?

Brian
Brian

Brian is the founder of Kids Ain’t Cheap and is now sharing his journey through parenthood.

 
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Filed Under: Baby Stuff Tagged With: Baby Name, Choosing a Baby Name, Naming a Baby

5 Family Day Trips to Keep Everyone Smiling

June 20, 2013 | 1 Comment

Cadbury WorldIt can be tough on parents to keep generating family-friendly days out, which everyone can enjoy. It’s unlikely that you can afford half of the options, let alone opt for something democratically. Here are just a few of our suggestions for inexpensive days out that will allow everyone to bond together.

Cadbury World

Who doesn’t love chocolate? If you’re a freak of nature, who has forsaken the more-ish delights of the cocoa bean, move on to the next subheading – nobody wants your healthy diet choices here. Easter has already been and gone, and you won’t get another chocolate haul like that again until Christmas (from well-wishing relatives who really can’t think of anything else to buy you). Well, that is…unless you go to Cadbury World.

Cadbury World is largely a poorly masqueraded opportunity to walk away with a year’s supply of chocolate (okay, a week’s). Yeah, you can learn about the chocolate-making process and even how Cadbury advertises their goodies, but really everyone is here to get sick on Crunchies. Just remember to take a pack of wet wipes with you, or you’ll regret it.

There’s also an African adventure play park, where the kids can work off all that extra energy. Top tip: book online and save 5% off a family ticket price.

Nidderdale Llamas

Walking can be a bit lonely and boring, but at Nidderdale Llamas, you can go for a trek with a llama…just because. Special therapy sessions with the llamas can even be arranged for children with difficulties. You can meet and greet the alpaca, before strapping on your walking boots.

 Don’t worry, these llamas are friendly and gentle souls, who don’t rush slow walkers. There’s no spitting from these furry creatures. According to Trip Advisor, it gets 5/5!

Eureka!

Our nation’s child museum is especially tailored to the kids…and your inner five year old. Eureka is especially designed for young ones, so if you still have under-tens on your hands, this makes learning fun. The new gallery, ‘All About Me,’ explores how the body works, and was built by adults and children working together.

Other attractions include ‘Living and Working Together,’ which means children can role-play as grown-ups. There are many more informative and hands-on galleries.

Chester Zoo

Go wild at Chester Zoo! Not only are there 11,000 fantastic animals to see but there is also Oakfield Manor to explore. The beautiful gardens are excellent for strolling around. Chester Zoo is big on its conservation and can boast some of the most innovative enclosures in the country. Besides, no-one ever grows out of their love for cute and amazing animals, so even Granny can come along and have an enjoyable day out.

Warner Bros Studios

Fans of Harry Potter will be stupefied by this day out. The Harry Potter tour includes real scenery from the films, from the Great Hall to the Gryffindor Common Room. You can even toast to your day out with a glass of refreshing butterbeer!

The fun and furry inhabitants at Knowsley Safari Park have collaborated with Kids Ain’t Cheap to bring you this post today. Click here for information on exciting days out.

Got any ideas for family day trips that we’ve missed? Share your recommendations in the comments below!

Brian
Brian

Brian is the founder of Kids Ain’t Cheap and is now sharing his journey through parenthood.

 
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Filed Under: Stuff to Do Tagged With: Cadbury World, Chester Zoo, Day Trips, Family Day Trips, Warner Bros Studios

Save on Baby Goods (and Make Money) with CouponChief

June 15, 2013 | 1 Comment

diapersIf you’re a new parent, hearing that babies are expensive is no surprise.  Seriously, who knew a little newborn could go through so many diapers in 24 hours!  Sometimes, you know more than change the baby and the diaper needs to be changed again.

However, diapers aren’t the only supplies babies run through.  They grow so quickly that an outfit that fits great one day can literally be too tight just a few days later.  My son was a big baby who went through new sizes every 6 weeks until he finally settled into 12-18 month for awhile.  Keeping up with their clothing needs can be expensive.  Let’s not even talk about formula and baby pictures.

If you know what I’m talking about, you’re likely looking for ways to cut corners without compromising on quality.  One great way to do that, especially if you’re an avid online shopper, is CouponChief.

 

How CouponChief Works

You’ve likely seen that online retailers have a box for promo codes when you check out, and you likely know that there are sites online that will share online promo codes.  CouponChief works the same way, with a few differences.

CouponChief shares the promo code, but then you can read other people’s comments about the code and also see how frequently the code works.  Best of all, unlike some other sites, CouponChief removes the code when it’s expired, which makes your search more productive and less time consuming.  (And anything that helps save time when you have an infant is welcome!)

Even better, you can create a profile and then save your favorite searches.  For instance, let’s say you want to see all the promo codes related to the “baby” category.  CouponChief will e-mail you every time there is a new code for anything from diapers, to baby clothes, to portrait studio packages.  You don’t need to keep checking the site; they send the information to you.

 

Make Money with CouponChief

Not only will CouponChief save you money, but it may also be able to make you some money.  If you’re good at tracking down coupon codes, share it on CouponChief, and you’ll earn 2% of the purchase total that others make using your coupon code.  You can earn up to $25 a month, per coupon.

How sweet is that?

Kids are expensive, but if you learn some tricks such as using promo codes to save money and sharing coupon codes to make money, having children becomes just a bit more affordable.

Brian
Brian

Brian is the founder of Kids Ain’t Cheap and is now sharing his journey through parenthood.

 
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Filed Under: Coupons Tagged With: baby goods, diaper coupons, Diapers, online coupons

How to Save Money for Your Family

June 13, 2013 | 2 Comments

save money for familyAre you looking to save money for your family? Many families today are just trying to tread water when it comes to paying the bills and staying out of debt. Who has extra money to actually put into the bank? Well, when you put your mind to something, you might be surprised how much you can accomplish, especially when it comes to savings money.

Two Steps to Saving Money

If you truly are committed to saving money for your family, there are just two things that you need to focus on. You must reduce your costs and you must learn to grow your money once you’ve got some stashed away in savings.

Reducing Costs

This can be a tall order because many of us already feel like we’re pinching pennies as it is. But, no matter how tight you think you are with money, there are always ways to spend less than you are now.

  1. Second Hand Stores – When is the last time you stepped foot in a second hand store to make a purchase? If buying second hand clothing weirds you out, I understand, but there are plenty of other things that you can save money on by buying it second hand. If your chair breaks and you have nothing left to sit on, I bet you can find a perfectly reliable one at the second hand store. It might not match perfectly with your décor, but it will allow you to save money for your family.
  2. No more restaurants – Going out to eat is fun, but man is it expensive! I just made pasta for myself at home for $1.50. Do you know what this would cost you at a family restaurant? Probably at least $8 if not more! Avoid those restaurants and buy your food from the grocery store.

Grow Your Money

After you save enough money, you might start to wonder what you should do with it. If you don’t have an emergency fund, that would be your first option. When things go wrong in life, like your water heater breaking down or a major home expense such as bathroom remodeling in Washington Township (or elsewhere), it’s reassuring to have the money on hand for these unknown expenses. To cover these types of costs, make sure your funds are easily accessible. This might mean putting some money in a standard savings account, some in a check-writing CD, and another portion in an ISA, which is an individual savings account. For those in the United Kingdom, ISAs can be particularly useful for emergency savings and provide a secure place to park a portion of your funds.

Once your emergency account is funded, then it’s time to start growing your money. Instead of earning a couple of percent interest here and there, consider investing your additional money into a venture that could potentially offer a higher return, like 10% or more. This could be anything from starting your own business to supporting a promising project or even diversifying into real estate. The riskier the investment, typically the higher the return you might expect. But proceed with caution—risky investments can sometimes fall short.

It’s simple, but true.  What do you think?

Brian
Brian

Brian is the founder of Kids Ain’t Cheap and is now sharing his journey through parenthood.

 
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Filed Under: Money and Finances Tagged With: family money, save money

Five Father’s Day Gift Ideas

June 11, 2013 | Leave a Comment

fathers day gift ideasWith Father’s Day approaching this weekend, kids all over the world will be preparing to celebrate their dads in their own special ways. Growing up I remember decorating neck ties and coloring pictures in school. Though any dad would appreciate the effort behind a hand-made gift, sometimes dad also want a little pampering and gifts.

 

Car Detailing

I included this on my Mother’s Day gift idea as well, but think dad would love it too. Everyone loves getting into a new car but after a while of living in it, the new car luxury is taken over by dirt and crumbs. Dirt has a way of finding its way into tiny nooks and crannies within your car. A professional car detailing from somewhere like https://autocolorwi.com/auto-detailing/ will restore your car to new-car condition for a fraction of a new car cost! Some professional detailing will just do the interior while others will do interior, exterior and engine. Book one you think dad will love and always check online coupon sites to see if you can score a deal.

 

Electronics

Some dads like computers, some are into iDevices and other like gaming systems. Whatever your dad is into, check local sales and see if you can score a deal. Remember to check refurbished products as well since they are usually available at a fraction of the price and often still with a warranty.

 

A Good Steak or Lobster Dinner

Sometimes a dad just wants a good feast and a good steak and/or lobster would do just that. For a dad who loves to grill, heading to a local butcher for your dad’s favorite cut is a nice gesture and won’t break the bank. Lobster may be pricier depending on where you live but another nice meal option.

 

Alcohol

If you’re dad likes to enjoy a drink, buying him a bottle of something special is always a nice idea. If he enjoys beer, maybe buying a few cans of a specialty beer would be a treat. For the hard-liquor drinker, a small bottle of something unique, or a tested favorite, would be well received. There are many options when it comes to wine, asking for a recommendation at the liquor store will point you in the right direction.

 

Needs

Sometimes dad would love to get something he genuinely needs. It doesn’t have to be anything extra special but would be much appreciated. If you’re stumped for what to get him asking him what he needs wouldn’t be inappropriate. If he doesn’t give you much direction, look around and see if anything needs replacing. Is his 10-year-old wallet being held together with duck tape? He may not need a new wallet, but would likely appreciate one.

Taking time out of your day to tell you dad you appreciate him, and all that he does, is the most important thing you can do for dad on Father’s day. If you can’t be with dad on Father’s day, make sure you send a card or call, I’m sure it will be appreciated.

What are you getting your dad for father’s day?

Catherine
Catherine

Catherine is a first time momma to a rambunctious toddler. When she isn’t soaking up all that motherhood has to offer, you can find her blogging over at Plunged in Debt where she chronicles her and her husbands journey out of debt. You can also follow her on Twitter.

plungedindebt.com

Filed Under: Holidays Tagged With: Dad Gifts, Fathers Day, Gift Ideas

356 Days…

June 4, 2013 | 1 Comment

breastfeeding356 days is how long I was able to breastfeed. Nine days short of baby girls first birthday. Try as I might I don’t think she’ll be able to get one more ounce out of me. With returning to work full-time just two weeks ago, I’ve noticed a big dip in my supply, combined with the fact that baby girl seems to be loosing interest in the whole thing. I will try breastfeeding one more day, but I think my breastfeeding days with this baby are over.

 

My Goal

I’m disappointed I didn’t make my one year goal. I know nine days isn’t a lot, but I really wanted to make that one year mark. I know I should be proud of what we accomplished but I’d be lying if I didn’t say I was a little bummed. One year was my first goal. I planned on going as long as she self-weaned which I hoped would be later but I think it’s here now.

Breastfeeding has been the single most difficult thing I’ve had to do as a mom. I’m so thankful I’m in Canada and allowed a 52 week maternity leave. I know there is no way we would have made it this long if I had to return to work in the early weeks. I commend women who are able to work full-time, raise a family and do everything required to maintain a milk supply for their baby. Given my job it would be incredibly hard so I’m thankful I was able to be home with her to nurse on demand.

My daughter went through growth spurts textbook style. I would spend what felt like days, nursing. The first grow spurt was frustrating, I was stuck inside during the beautiful summer doing nothing but nursing. By the second growth spurt I had grown to love our time together. She wanted and needed me, for that I loved our time together.

 

Memories

I’ll miss those sweet moments of just the two of us. The way she’d look at me and the way she’d place her hands and feet on me. I’ll miss the special cuddles only she and I shared and how calm she was. I will especially miss not having to figure out why she was upset because I had the answer to whatever it was. I enjoyed breastfeeding so much more than I could have ever imagined. The bond it helped create is beyond words.

My husband is constantly reminding me that she’s healthy, happy and growing and as parents that’s all we can ask for. As much as we’d like, we can’t keep them small forever. It’s our responsibility to help the grow and navigate life. As she continues to grow and enters her second year of life, we will figure out new ways to bond and have many new experiences together.

I knew my breastfeeding days would eventually come to and end I just didn’t know how hard it would be on me. I just need to remind myself that I am so thankful I was able to breastfeed at all since I know it’s not always possible.

Catherine
Catherine

Catherine is a first time momma to a rambunctious toddler. When she isn’t soaking up all that motherhood has to offer, you can find her blogging over at Plunged in Debt where she chronicles her and her husbands journey out of debt. You can also follow her on Twitter.

plungedindebt.com

Filed Under: Random Musings Tagged With: Breastfeeding, Self-Weaning, Weaning

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Basic Principles Of Good Parenting

Here some basic principles for good parenting:

  1. What You Do Matters: Your kids are watching you. So, be purposeful about what you want to accomplish.
  2. You Can’t be Too Loving: Don’t replace love with material possessions, lowered expectations or leniency.
  3. Be Involved Your Kids Life: Arrange your priorities to focus on what your kid’s needs. Be there mentally and physically.
  4. Adapt Your Parenting: Children grow quickly, so keep pace with your child’s development.
  5. Establish and Set Rules: The rules you set for children will establish the rules they set for themselves later.  Avoid harsh discipline and be consistent.
  6. Explain Your Decisions: What is obvious to you may not be evident to your child. They don’t have the experience you do.
  7. Be Respectful To Your Child: How you treat your child is how they will treat others.  Be polite, respectful and make an effort to pay attention.
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