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13 Smart Moves Boomers Are Making That Millennials Didn’t See Coming

June 7, 2024 | Leave a Comment

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In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to assume that younger generations are leading the charge in innovation and lifestyle changes. However, Baby Boomers are making surprising moves that defy these expectations. From embracing technology to redefining retirement, Boomers are setting trends that Millennials might not have anticipated. Here’s a closer look at 13 smart moves Boomers are making that are catching everyone off guard.

1. Adopting Tech with Enthusiasm

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Contrary to the stereotype, Boomers are rapidly embracing new technologies. They’re not just using smartphones; they’re engaging with smart home devices, fitness trackers, and social media. This shift has made them savvy digital consumers, influencing market trends and online spaces where they were once underrepresented.

2. Venturing into Entrepreneurship

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Retirement is no longer synonymous with relaxation for many Boomers. Instead, they are starting their own businesses, leveraging decades of experience and vast networks. This entrepreneurial spirit is revitalizing local economies and creating a unique fusion of traditional and modern business practices.

3. Prioritizing Health and Wellness

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Boomers are increasingly focused on maintaining their health and wellness. From adopting plant-based diets to engaging in regular physical activities like yoga and cycling, they are setting new standards for aging gracefully. This proactive approach to health is influencing the wellness industry and inspiring younger generations.

4. Downsizing for Flexibility

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Rather than holding onto large family homes, many Boomers are choosing to downsize. This move is not only financially savvy but also offers a more flexible and manageable lifestyle. By opting for smaller, more efficient living spaces, they are able to travel more and reduce maintenance burdens.

5. Embracing the Sharing Economy

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Boomers are taking full advantage of the sharing economy, using platforms like Airbnb and Uber with enthusiasm. This adoption is reshaping their travel and transportation habits, making them more connected and mobile than ever before. Their participation in these platforms is bridging generational gaps and driving their popularity.

6. Investing in Sustainable Living

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Sustainability is a key focus for many Boomers, who are increasingly investing in eco-friendly homes, solar energy, and sustainable products. This shift towards green living is not only reducing their environmental footprint but also influencing market trends and encouraging younger generations to follow suit.

7. Engaging in Lifelong Learning

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Boomers are proving that learning doesn’t stop at retirement. Many are returning to education, taking online courses, and attending workshops to learn new skills or pursue passions. This commitment to lifelong learning is enriching their lives and keeping them mentally sharp.

8. Advocating for Social Causes

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Social activism is no longer the domain of the young. Boomers are actively engaging in social causes, from environmental advocacy to political activism. Their involvement is bringing experience and a powerful voice to these movements, often leading to significant changes and increased awareness.

9. Redefining Retirement Living

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Retirement communities are evolving, thanks to Boomers’ demands for more active and engaged lifestyles. Many are choosing communities that offer a range of activities, social opportunities, and amenities. This trend is transforming how retirement living is perceived and offered, making it more attractive to future retirees.

10. Mastering Digital Finance

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Boomers are not shying away from digital finance tools. From mobile banking to cryptocurrency investments, they are becoming proficient in managing their finances online. This savvy approach is ensuring their financial stability and demonstrating that tech literacy knows no age limits.

11. Traveling Off the Beaten Path

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Travel trends among Boomers are shifting towards more adventurous and unconventional destinations. They are seeking out unique travel experiences, from remote mountain treks to cultural immersion trips. This adventurous spirit is influencing the travel industry and setting new travel trends.

12. Building Multigenerational Homes

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Multigenerational living is gaining popularity among Boomers. They are opening their homes to adult children and grandchildren, fostering closer family ties and creating supportive living environments. This trend is reshaping family dynamics and offering economic benefits for all generations involved.

13. Leveraging Social Media Influence

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Boomers are becoming influencers in their own right. They are using social media platforms to share experiences, promote products, and connect with others. Their growing presence online is challenging the perception that social media is a young person’s game and proving that influence has no age limit.

Bridging Generations through Innovation

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Boomers are making moves that are not only surprising but also bridging the generational gap. Their willingness to adapt, learn, and lead by example is creating a dynamic and interconnected society. These trends are not just fleeting changes but are setting the stage for future innovations and lifestyle shifts.

Ashleigh Clyde
Ashleigh Clyde

Ashleigh Clyde is a dedicated youth advocate, journalist, and researcher. Passionate about shedding light on important issues, such as financial literacy and marketing tactics. She has extensive experience in entertainment journalism.

Filed Under: Growing Up Tagged With: boomers, Millennials, smart moves, Technology

What’s Wrong With Kids Today? 10 Alarming Changes of Gen Z Children

May 29, 2024 | Leave a Comment

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In recent years, much has been said about the differences between today’s kids and previous generations. Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, has grown up in a vastly different world, shaped by technology, social media, and a rapidly changing cultural landscape. These changes have led to a range of new behaviors, attitudes, and challenges that are quite different from those of their predecessors. Let’s delve into ten alarming changes observed in Gen Z children.

1. Increased Screen Time

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Gen Z children are spending an unprecedented amount of time on screens. Whether it’s for entertainment, education, or socializing, screens are a central part of their daily lives. This excessive screen time is linked to various issues, including poor physical health, disrupted sleep patterns, and diminished face-to-face social skills. Moreover, the constant exposure to screens can lead to eye strain and other vision problems. Parents and educators are increasingly concerned about the long-term effects of this trend on children’s overall well-being.

2. Decline in Physical Activity

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With the rise of screen time comes a noticeable decline in physical activity among Gen Z children. Many kids today prefer indoor, sedentary activities over outdoor play. This shift has contributed to rising rates of childhood obesity and related health issues such as diabetes and cardiovascular problems. The reduction in physical activity also affects children’s mental health, as regular exercise is known to improve mood and reduce anxiety. Encouraging more active lifestyles has become a critical focus for parents and health professionals alike.

3. Mental Health Struggles

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Gen Z is facing a mental health crisis, with increasing rates of anxiety, depression, and other psychological disorders. The pressures of social media, academic expectations, and a fast-paced, competitive environment contribute to these issues. Many Gen Z children feel overwhelmed by the constant comparison to their peers and the unrealistic standards often portrayed online. Access to mental health resources and support systems is essential to help this generation cope with these challenges.

4. Erosion of Social Skills

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The digital age has significantly impacted the social skills of Gen Z children. Many kids are more comfortable interacting online than in person, leading to difficulties in developing meaningful face-to-face relationships. This shift can result in poor communication skills, reduced empathy, and increased feelings of loneliness and isolation. Teaching children the importance of direct, personal interaction is vital for their social development and emotional health.

5. Shortened Attention Spans

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The constant bombardment of information and instant gratification offered by technology has led to shortened attention spans in Gen Z children. Many struggle to focus on tasks for extended periods, which affects their academic performance and ability to engage deeply with activities. This trend is concerning for educators who must find new ways to capture and maintain students’ attention in the classroom. Strategies that incorporate interactive and engaging teaching methods are becoming increasingly necessary.

6. Changing Attitudes Toward Authority

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Gen Z children often display different attitudes toward authority compared to previous generations. They tend to question and challenge traditional norms and values more readily. This shift can be attributed to the vast amount of information available at their fingertips and their exposure to diverse perspectives online. While this critical thinking can be positive, it can also lead to conflicts with parents, teachers, and other authority figures who may struggle to adapt to these new dynamics.

7. Increased Awareness of Social Issues

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On a positive note, Gen Z is more aware and vocal about social issues than previous generations. Many young people today are passionate about topics such as climate change, social justice, and equality. This heightened awareness and activism are driven by their access to information and their desire to make a difference. Encouraging this sense of responsibility and supporting their efforts can lead to meaningful social change.

8. Shift in Career Aspirations

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Gen Z children often have different career aspirations compared to their predecessors. Many are drawn to non-traditional paths such as entrepreneurship, digital content creation, and gig economy jobs. They prioritize work-life balance, flexibility, and personal fulfillment over traditional corporate careers. This shift is reshaping the workforce and challenging conventional career guidance and educational pathways.

9. Emphasis on Individuality

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Individuality and self-expression are highly valued among Gen Z children. They are more likely to embrace diverse identities and reject rigid labels and stereotypes. This emphasis on personal authenticity can lead to greater acceptance and inclusion but also presents challenges in navigating social norms and expectations. Supporting their exploration of identity while providing guidance on respect and understanding is crucial.

10. Reliance on Technology for Problem-Solving

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Gen Z children often turn to technology as the first solution for problem-solving. While this can enhance their tech-savviness, it can also hinder the development of critical thinking and hands-on problem-solving skills. Over-reliance on technology can limit their ability to tackle challenges creatively and independently. Encouraging a balanced approach that combines digital tools with traditional problem-solving methods is essential for their overall development.

Adapting to the Changes

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Understanding the unique challenges and changes facing Gen Z children is the first step toward supporting their growth and development. By acknowledging these trends, parents, educators, and society can adapt strategies to better meet their needs. Emphasizing mental and physical health, fostering social skills, and encouraging critical thinking will help guide this generation toward a balanced and fulfilling future.

Latrice Perez

Latrice is a dedicated professional with a rich background in social work, complemented by an Associate Degree in the field. Her journey has been uniquely shaped by the rewarding experience of being a stay-at-home mom to her two children, aged 13 and 5. This role has not only been a testament to her commitment to family but has also provided her with invaluable life lessons and insights.
As a mother, Latrice has embraced the opportunity to educate her children on essential life skills, with a special focus on financial literacy, the nuances of life, and the importance of inner peace.

Filed Under: Parenting Tagged With: authority, career aspirations, children, gen z, individuality, Mental Health, Physical Activity, Screen Time, social issues, Social Skills, Technology

18 Home Appliances Millennials Are Replacing With Smarter Gadgets

May 16, 2024 | Leave a Comment

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In today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world, millennials are the driving force behind the rapid adoption of smart gadgets in homes. As this tech-savvy generation settles into adulthood, they’re swapping out traditional home appliances for innovative devices that offer convenience, connectivity, and a touch of cool. Here’s a look at 18 home appliances that are getting a smart makeover, appealing to the millennial preference for technology that simplifies and enhances everyday life.

1. From Coffee Makers to Smart Brewers

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Morning routines are sacred, but millennials are making them smarter with Wi-Fi-enabled coffee makers. These devices can be programmed from your bed via a smartphone app, so your brew is ready by the time you hit the kitchen. They can even remember your favorite recipes and respond to voice commands through integration with home assistants.

2. Traditional Thermostats to Learning Thermostats

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Heating and cooling no longer require a manual dial or a standard programmable thermostat. Smart thermostats learn your habits and adjust temperatures based on your schedule and preferences, optimizing home comfort and energy usage. Remote adjustments are standard, allowing temperature control from anywhere, anytime.

3. Basic Blenders to Smart Kitchen Systems

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Millennials are upgrading their blenders to all-in-one kitchen systems that not only blend but cook, chop, and weigh ingredients. These smart blenders connect to apps providing recipes and nutritional information, making them a valuable tool for health-conscious individuals looking to streamline their kitchen duties.

4. Simple Slow Cookers to Multi-Cookers

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The slow cooker has seen a major upgrade with the rise of multi-cookers like the Instant Pot. These devices combine the functionality of a slow cooker, pressure cooker, rice cooker, and more into one smart appliance. With app integration, you can start dinner from your phone and have a meal ready as soon as you get home.

5. Old-Fashioned Ovens to Smart Ovens

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Smart ovens offer functions ranging from pre-programmed recipes to internal cameras, allowing you to monitor your food via your smartphone. Some even come with precision baking technology, ensuring perfect results every time. These ovens often feature self-cleaning technologies, making them a favorite among tech enthusiasts who love to cook.

6. Manual Light Switches to Smart Lighting

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Replacing traditional light switches with smart lights allows millennials to control lighting remotely, set timers, and create mood-based scenarios. Integration with virtual assistants means you can adjust lighting with simple voice commands, which is perfect for setting the ambiance without lifting a finger.

7. Conventional Doorbells to Video Doorbells

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Security is key, and smart video doorbells are replacing old models for an added layer of safety. These devices stream live video to your smartphone, so you can see and speak with visitors from anywhere. Motion sensors alert you to activity, providing peace of mind whether you’re home or away.

8. Standard Washing Machines to Smart Washers

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Smart washers come with a host of features like remote start, soil sensing, and energy-efficient cycles that are easily managed from an app. Some even integrate with smart home systems to run when energy costs are lowest, aligning with millennial values of efficiency and sustainability.

9. Bulky Vacuum Cleaners to Robotic Vacuums

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The manual vacuum cleaner is taking a back seat to robotic vacuums, which clean autonomously and can be controlled via smartphone. Features like mapping technology and voice control make these devices a popular choice for those looking to minimize household chores and maximize leisure time.

10. Static Security Systems to Integrated Smart Home Systems

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Millennials are enhancing home security with systems that integrate cameras, sensors, and alarms, all controllable from a single app. These systems provide real-time alerts and the ability to check in on your home remotely, ensuring safety and control like never before.

11. Rudimentary Refrigerators to Smart Fridges

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Today’s smart refrigerators go beyond just keeping food cold. Equipped with touchscreen interfaces, they can display family calendars, play music, or even let you see inside without opening the door. Shopping lists, spoilage alerts, and recipe suggestions are just a few taps away.

12. Basic Bathroom Scales to Smart Scales

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Gone are the simple weight scales; smart scales now measure body composition, tracking everything from body fat percentage to water weight and muscle mass. Syncing this data to health apps helps millennials stay informed about their health and fitness goals.

13. Traditional Toasters to Smart Toasters

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Smart toasters allow for precise control over browning levels and are programmable for different types of bread, ensuring the perfect toast every time. With features like “lift and look” and automatic adjustments, breakfast just got a lot easier—and more fun.

14. Clunky Irons to Smart Steamers

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The iron is being replaced by smart steamers that quickly and efficiently remove wrinkles from clothing without the risk of burning. These devices often come with app integration for optimal settings and maintenance alerts, making laundry less of a chore.

15. Regular Air Purifiers to Smart Air Quality Monitors

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Smart air purifiers not only clean the air but also monitor air quality in real time, sending alerts and recommendations via apps. These devices can adjust their settings automatically to maintain optimal air quality, a boon for health-conscious millennials.

16. Analog Clocks to Smart Alarm Clocks

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Smart alarm clocks do more than just wake you up. They simulate sunrise to wake you gently, play your favorite music, or even offer guided meditation sessions. Integration with smart home systems means they can trigger morning routines like turning on lights or starting the coffee maker.

17. Traditional Speakers to Smart Speakers

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Smart speakers are replacing conventional ones, offering not only music playback but also smart home control, voice assistants, and more. They serve as a hub for managing connected devices, making them an indispensable part of modern living.

18. Manual Locks to Smart Locks

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Smart locks are revolutionizing home security with features like keyless entry, remote locking/unlocking, and temporary access codes for guests. They can be managed via smartphone apps, providing flexibility and peace of mind for millennials who prioritize security and convenience.

Out With the Old, In With the New?

a woman listening to music

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In conclusion, millennials are at the forefront of adopting smart home technology, transforming the way we live and interact with our homes. These 18 smart gadgets not only offer enhanced functionality but also align with the millennial values of efficiency, convenience, and sustainability. The future of home living is undoubtedly smarter, and millennials are leading the charge.

Read More

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Vanessa Bermudez
Vanessa Bermudez
Vanessa Bermudez is a content writer with over eight years of experience crafting compelling content across a diverse range of niches. Throughout her career, she has tackled an array of subjects, from technology and finance to entertainment and lifestyle. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two kids. She’s also a proud fur mom to four gentle giant dogs.

Filed Under: Technology Tagged With: smart devices, smarter gadgets, Technology

Some Thoughts on Life’s Lessons

January 16, 2011 | Leave a Comment

Maybe she should encourage more books and less technologyI have to say, this first month of 2011 has been a busy one.  There just seems to be a never-ending string of things to do!  It is amazing.  But, I am not complaining.  I like being busy and, while single parenthood is never boring, it is a different feeling to be busy in the workplace and doing things outside motherhood.  That said though, I find it funny how I am constantly reminded of things that are kid-related.  Let me elucidate.

I grew up in a relatively comfortable home.  I was educated well and I was able to travel to a few places around the world and experience different cultures and meet all kinds of people. As a result, I like to think that I have maybe an additional perspective on some things compared to others who have not had the chance to experience the same things. Don’t get me wrong.  I am in no way belittling anyone or making myself bigger than who I am. I am simply saying that I believe I have a wider take on things having had a bit more experience compared to how I think I might have viewed things had my circumstances been otherwise.

Because of that, I try my best to apply what I’ve seen to how I raise my kids.  I want them to be open-minded and exploratory. I want them to question and come up with their own answers and be independent.  I want them to judge and treat people well and not to be so fixated on material things.  I want them to be comfortable but to understand the values of patience and hard-work and not to take anything for granted. So, I try to guide them and introduce them to as much as I can and think they should be exposed to at their age, that I feel would help them develop this way. I want to give them the same chance to experience what I did growing up but I also want them to have some simple roots.  I grew up in a much slower time after all and back then it was easier to sit back and see things move without getting a migraine.  I have come to observe though how tough this considering what they are surrounded with today.

Do we really need all this technology?

There is so much to do, so much to see, so much you are told you should want and have that it is easy to lose track of simple things that cost you a fraction of the cost of what is suggested and adds character, develops the mind and body, and teaches the child lessons that no amount of money can buy.

Today is the age of the Internet and computers and all these high tech toys that are so attractive and do so many interesting things that it is easy to believe that you just absolutely need one and that you cannot live without one and be up-to-date.  Well, I have nothing against computers and games.  I actually find that a lot of the games tackle history and music very well.  And, c’mon, I have blogs! But I really think there is something about books, and outdoor play, and arts and crafts for children that technology cannot teach.And this is the experience of the activity for itself, not pixelized or in HD or from a flat screen TV.  I hope I will be able to properly explain what I mean. Let me try through a couple of examples.

OK, call me old-fashioned. I read somewhere that babies born this year might be reading from e-books and that speciality bookstores might be extinct in 10 years or so. Well, I think that is just sad.  While you can practice your imagination reading off a tablet as well as the page, the beauty of the printed word, the smell of a book, the feel of a genuine and hand-crafted cover is something that adds dimension to your creative experience and adds something to your appreciation of the story and the story teller. It’s just something that would be lost reading from a tablet.  I understand how games today are supposedly designed to add dexterity and to improve fine motor skills but how about all of us folks who became dexterous without the latest Wii game? I think we did really well and had the added benefit of healthy lungs, fit bodies, and a joy of sports and activity that I think is lacking today. And how about appreciation of nature, and smelling how fresh the air can be in a park, or watching the sun rise or set and feeling the droplets of rain on your face, all during outdoor activities.  Who can say that those experiences are not treasured memories that give that special glow to an otherwise sepia image of your childhood?

The point here is that I am reminded everyday, during those pleasurable times when I am busy, how great it is to be busy and how great it is to know what it means to also be simple as well.  And this is something I want for my kids too. Yes, I want them to be modern but I also want them to be unassuming and appreciative of things that they might overlook surrounded by technology.  I think this is important in creating open-minded, independent, discerning, and balanced individuals.

Do you embrace technology for your children or try to promote older activities?

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: Green Living, Healthy Living & Eating, Random Musings Tagged With: Activity, Books, Life's Lessons, Technology

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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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