Tag Archives: family safety

Discipline, Family Safety, SYN Digital Enrollment Director

Discipline Mistakes Parents Make

Although almost every parent wants great kids, many parents aren’t sure how to get there. Here are three of the most common child discipline mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Treating children like pets, not people

Starting in the womb, the entire journey of having children is often viewed as a fun new venture for parents, with a completely parent-centered approach to the process that forms a shaky foundation for future discipline.

What makes this outlook so damaging is that it makes it unlikely that parents will do the uncomfortable things required in disciplining happy, well-rounded children. If the parent is unwilling to take the time to teach the child the unpleasant lesson that “Mommy’s voice can’t be ignored,” the child is left to the luck of the draw as he or she darts out into the parking lot as a toddler, or when he or she begins associating with questionable characters after school in junior high.

2. Lack of foresight

By ignoring negative behaviors when a child is small and could be easily taught lessons like “Don’t lie to Mommy” or “We don’t steal candy,” those bad habits can become ingrained.

Instead of laughing off the cute antics of adorable little bold-faced liars, wise parents will envision the same children performing the same acts in 10 or 12 years. If a 3-year-old’s lie seems funny, the parent should hold back the smile and visualize the same child at 15, then an accomplished liar.

Instead of indulging the cherub who refuses vegetables and demands only sweets, parents should picture the same child as an overweight, self-conscious 16-year-old. What can be done today to make his or her life easier then?

3. Assuming discipline = punishment

As health is more than medicine, discipline is more than punishment. Yes, punishment has its place, as does medicine. Still, optimal health means that medicine will rarely be necessary, just as wise discipline causes punishment to be a rare occurrence.

Discipline means “the process of making a disciple.” That process involves a huge host of factors, only one of which is punishment. Other equally vital components of discipline include teaching honesty, respect, reverence, work ethic, health and scheduling.

When parents ignore these other important facets of discipline, their over-emphasis on punishment can send children the unspeakably damaging message that they aren’t loved, which only exacerbates the problem.

Punishment takes discipline, but discipline is more than punishment.

Child Health, Child Safety, SYN Digital Enrollment Director

Your child’s separation anxiety: Is it normal?

It’s not unusual for a young child to feel worried or anxious when being dropped off at daycare or someone else’s home. In most cases, separation anxiety is a normal stage of childhood development. However, in some children, the anxious feelings persist or even intensify over time, causing chronic worries and interference with daily activities.

Fortunately, there are actions that parents can take to help their children.

 

What’s Normal and What’s Not

In children younger than four, reactions such as throwing a tantrum, crying or becoming clingy are natural and expected. What is not normal is a continuance of these feelings or feelings of anxiety that interfere with school and playtime. Intense or chronic separation anxiety are suggestive of separation anxiety disorder.

 

What Are the Symptoms of Separation Anxiety Disorder?

Children with separation anxiety disorder may experience one or more of the following symptoms:

  • An intense fear that something bad will happen to their parent, sibling or another loved one
  • Worries about permanent separation
  • Nightmares about separation
  • Reluctance to sleep, especially if the parent isn’t at home
  • Refusal to go to school
  • Complaints of physical illness such as headaches and stomachaches

 

What Can Parents Do to Help Their Children?

Parents can take action to lessen the symptoms of separation anxiety in their children. One of the first things parents should do is to avoid the triggers that cause the anxiety.

Reducing stress in the child’s life and maintaining a consistent environment and routine help children to lessen their anxiety. Parents can also act to control their own behaviors, as children who observe anxiety in their parents are more likely to become anxious themselves.

Parents can talk about the issue with their children. Listening to and respecting the child’s feelings show the child that his or her parent is aware.

Providing a consistent pattern for daily activities, setting limits about following school and household rules and offering choices about the separation such as bringing a favorite animal or listening to favorite music along the way can help to ease the transition. Patience and self-education about the issue can go a long way in helping parents cope with separation anxiety in their children.

Sometimes professional help is also needed for the child as well as the parent. Counseling, play therapy and medications are some of the treatment options.

 

Child Safety, Discipline, SYN Digital Enrollment Director

Do your kids know about stranger danger?

Children can be very trusting of others, an issue that can lead to serious problems if a stranger’s intent is malicious. While many strangers are nice, a child needs to learn to recognize a situation to avoid stranger danger from those who aren’t trustworthy.

A parent can help a youngster by teaching and reinforcing the following concepts.

 

Defining a Stranger

It’s important to emphasize that a stranger is someone not known to a child or to the family.

A common perception established through cartoons and other avenues is that a stranger looks scary, but this may not be the case in real life. Help a child to understand that a person’s appearance alone isn’t enough to determine whether they is nice or not.

Additionally, explain that being recognized or called by name by a stranger doesn’t mean that the child or family know that individual.

 

Good Strangers

It’s important to help children understand that not every stranger is bad.

Some strangers have jobs of protecting or helping others, and a child may need to approach safe strangers in instances of need. For example, firefighters and police officers are easy to recognize.

In work settings, school officials such as teachers and office staff may be strangers who can help. An employee in a store at a cash register or desk may be helpful, especially if a youngster is lost. Provide examples of situations and locations where help may be safely sought.

 

Understanding Dangerous Scenarios

Role playing or discussing dangerous situations can help a child who needs to better understand how to deal with strangers.

Warning signs of suspicious situations may include:

-An adult asking a child to disobey his parents
-An individual asking a child to keep a secret
-Any situation that makes a child feel uncomfortable

A youngster should be taught to deal with these situations as well. “No, go, yell and tell” is a simple mnemonic device to help a child remember what to do when in an uncomfortable situation.

-It is okay to say no to a stranger.
-It is important to go someplace else, leave the situation.
-It may be necessary to yell for help.
-It is important to tell an adult about suspicious individuals.

 

Safety Measures

Parents play a key role in keeping children safe from stranger danger by knowing where their youngsters are at all times. Additionally, parents can designate safe places and people to seek for help.

 

Child Fitness, Child Safety, SYN Digital Enrollment Director, SYN The Bully Expert

Weapons in schools compromise everyones safety

It seems as if every day on the news there are new reports of weapons in schools. When this happens, students, teachers and staff are all put at risk, due to the unpredictable circumstances that can take place. However, it is important to evaluate why these students are bringing weapons to school and what can be done to stop this trend from increasing at such an alarming rate.

The reasons that students bring weapons to school vary. A recent study showed that some of these reasons include:
• Being bullied about physical appearance or learning disabilities
• Feeling unsafe about other kids bringing weapons to school
• Showing off to friends
• Complete emotional disconnect

These common instances are easily preventable. With help from parents and educators, these problems can be corrected. For example, the reason that some students bring weapons to school is because they think others are bringing weapons as well. The more that this snowballs and accumulates, the greater the concern. This is a dangerous situations that can happen in any school. With preventative counseling and outreach, instances like this can be avoided.

child-safety

Furthermore, there is a connection to be considered between bullying and the use of weapons. If students who are bullied do not feel safe, they are 49 times more likely to bring weapons to school in order to protect themselves. Despite an increase in awareness across America, this alarming rate demonstrates just how explosive bullying in schools can be.

Some of the most popular choices for weapons include:
• Firearms
• Knives
• Clubs
• Makeshift weapons

The concern here is that many of these weapons can be taken from home. Children can even make their own weapons with instructions from the Internet. Parents may not even be aware of the problems their children are experiencing at school. Simple communication is the easiest remedy for such a troubling problem.

As the concern over weapons at school increases, so should the public awareness of the situation. Parents need to continually check in with their children to see how things are going at school. Parents should also be informing their children of what to do if they see weapons in school or if they hear someone has a weapon.

Through these precautionary tactics, we can start working towards safer schools for our children and teachers.

Child Safety, Discipline, SYN Digital Enrollment Director

2013 Dangerous Toy Lists

It’s that time again every child waits for the whole year.  Gift giving season.

They fill out their Christmas list and parents flock to stores to find the year’s hottest toys – or at least something that will keep their kids entertained for all of 10 minutes.

But what ends up under the tree on December 25th could pose a potential health threat. So every year, safety groups find and rate the year’s most dangerous toys in hopes of keeping kids out of harm’s way.

Check out this article before heading to the store to find out what made the “naughty” list of Dangerous Toys for 2013.

The report states that while toys are safer than before, there still are some that can harm a child’s health.

Would a toy on the list dissuade you from buying it for your child?

Child Safety, Family Safety, Online Safety, SYN Digital Enrollment Director

How to Plan for the Unexpected—Part 2

Annie Babbitt, guest contributor

In the first part of this essay, we discussed how to create and legalize a will. Now let’s move on to the harder task of choosing a guardian and caring for your child in case of unexpected death of you and/or your spouse.

 

Choosing Guardianship

Do not assume that your spouse will automatically gain guardianship over your children when you pass away. If there is no guardian named then anyone can put his or her name forward to be considered. While your spouse has a very high chance of being chosen, it is not a guarantee. State your spouse specifically as guardian, then choose one or two alternatives in case your spouse is unable or unwilling to care for the children, or passes the same time as you.

If you have strong feelings against your children’s other parent having guardianship, be sure to state exactly why in your will, with examples and reasons. The judge will consider all information available before making a final decision.

Thinking about someone else having to raise your children can be very tough and emotional. However, it does need to be given a lot of thought before a decision can be made. Here are some questions to consider when choosing a guardian for your children.

  • Is there someone your children are already close to and comfortable with?
  • Who is financially, physically, and emotionally responsible and stable enough to care for your children?
  • Will this person have the time and energy to give your children the care they need?
  • Does this person have children already, and would your children fit in or get lost in the shuffle?
  • Would your children have to move far away, and would that cause more problems?
  • Does this person have the same parenting style, values, and religious and educational beliefs that you do?
  • Should your children be kept together, or would it be better to name a separate guardian for each child? Separate guardians may be good for children who are far apart in age, for children who have special needs, or if they have special attachments to different people.
  • Should you name one guardian until your child is a certain age, then a different guardian after that? A switch like this can be difficult on a child though, so keep that in mind when considering this option.

 

Your Child

Having one or both parents pass away will be very hard on your child, and the more they know the better they will be able to handle it. If the death is known to be coming, say from a sickness, talk your child through each stage and explain in terms they understand what is going on. If it is sudden, make sure the person caring for your child will give them concrete answers, and be able to answer questions as the child ages and is able to understand more.

Make sure children know who will take care of them in case both parents are gone. Consider writing a letter for your children to have in case something happens, like this blog mom did. Tell them reasons you love them, reassure them, let them know they will be taken care of, give advice, and comfort them.

 

Final Details

Once your will is finalized place it in a safe spot, like a locked filing cabinet, and tell your executor and a couple other trusted friends and family members where it is located. Some banks have very strict rules about who can access safety deposit boxes, so those may cause more hassle than they’re worth if your spouse or executer cannot access your will.

Make sure someone has official permission to pick up your children from school or daycare in case something happens to you and your spouse, and consider naming someone as temporary guardian to care for your children until a judge has named the official guardian.

Once you have your will put together it is a good idea to have it looked over by a professional. This makes sure you have everything you need to make it official, that you have not missed anything, and gives you a chance to ask any questions you may have. Some law firms will offer a 30 minute consulting session, and while finding a lawyer in your area may sound intimidating, it is as simple as searching online for “Ottawa law firm,” or something similar, then making a phone call for what services they offer.

The peace of mind you gain from having a will in place, and a professional reassuring you all will be well for your children if you and/or your spouse pass away, is well worth the money and time it costs.

——

Annie Babbitt writes about her interest in current events, political science and philosophy. Annie loves helping promote change and being an advocate for those in need.

Child Safety, Discipline, SYN Digital Enrollment Director

How to Plan for the Unexpected—Part 1

Annie Babbitt, guest contributor

As a parent, you have made the promise to take care of your children until they can take care of themselves, and sometimes for a bit longer. But what happens to your children when the unthinkable happens and you and/or your spouse die unexpectedly? It isn’t the most pleasant topic to think about, and I know you’d much rather be reading about tips for cute Halloween decorations or a new chicken recipe. But planning ahead for the unexpected is the best way to make sure your children are cared for—even after you are no longer able to.

 

What is a Will?

A will is the easiest and most important thing you can put into place as a parent to be sure your child is taken care of after you’re gone. A will sets out in plain terms who you would like to become guardian of your child and to whom your assets go. Many assume that the nearest relative will become guardian of the children, but without a will any friend or family member can put themselves up for candidacy, leaving the judge to choose among them.

Do not confuse estate planning with a will. Estate planning includes a will, but that is only one part of the process. It also includes growing your assets and finances while you are still alive, as well as what happens after death. They are very beneficial, but require meeting with various professionals. A will is much simpler to create.

 

Creating a Will

You do not need a lawyer to create a will, but it will take some time and probably a little money. There are guides and resources online or at the library that will give you something to follow. Here is a basic list of things to write in your will.

  • Pick someone close to you and your family to be your will’s executer after your death. This can be any family member, friend, or a professional like a lawyer or bank. This person will be in charge of making sure your will is carried out and will take care of any paperwork. Make sure to ask them if they are willing before you make it official though!
  • Make a complete list of all your property, including bank accounts, real estate, investments, and life insurance.
  • Decide who you want to inherit what, and when. For instance, if you want your daughter to have your grandmother’s necklace, but not until she is 18, then clearly state this.
  • Choose someone to be the guardian of your children, and then pick one or two alternate guardians just in case the first choice is unable to take the job, or chooses not to. Then decide whether you want the guardian to also be in charge of the assets you leave your children or if you would like someone else to fulfill that role.
  • Consider writing a letter specifying how you would like your children raised—how you want them to be educated, what religious beliefs and values you think are important. Also, specify what you would like your funeral arrangements to be, etc., and update the letter every few years.
  • Be sure to name your spouse as sole beneficiary, otherwise the court may split your property between your spouse and children and assign a state officer to control your children’s portion until they are 18. Naming your spouse as sole beneficiary will allow him or her to use the entire portion of assets to raise your children. You can also name your children as sole beneficiaries in case you and your spouse pass away at the same time.
  • Name a trustee to manage the property passed on to your children. The trustee can also be the guardian, or you can name two different people.

 

Legalizing a Will

To make a will legal it must be typed or computer-produced (handwritten wills are only accepted in some states), it must say in the document that it is your will, and it must be dated and signed. You must sign the will in view of two (some states require three) witnesses, and these witnesses must also sign and date the will confirming that you did this of your own free will and that it is the official will.

Some states require a will to be notarized, so be sure to check if your state does.

Stay tuned for part two of this article, which will discuss choosing a guardian for your child, and making sure all the details are in order.

 ——

Annie Babbitt writes about her interest in current events, political science and philosophy. Annie loves helping promote change and being an advocate for those in need.

Child Safety, Parenting, Self-Esteem, SYN Digital Enrollment Director

Parenting Goals for Your Child’s Development

Guest contribution-

There are a lot of parents with young children who prefer to hire child care services most especially when there is not enough time to be with them. Most of the times, parents prefer someone who is just a relative or someone who lives nearby. There are really times when we needed the assistance of someone who can be “physically there” to care for your child.

What are the Goals of each Parent for their Child?

 

Discover what the strengths of your child are.

This will help them develop and make their dreams come to reality.
Never give them something that is not on their list of interests, as this will only discourage them to become better.

Support your child’s excellence and make sure that you are there to guide them all the way.

You have to make them feel confident and let them know that you are there to cheer them up whenever they feel down.

Teach your child to become independent.

This will let your child do things on his or her own even when you’re not around.
Your child will be able to grow with self-esteem.
Build them with a good character so they will grow kind-hearted until they grow old.

Different Styles of Parenting

There are different ways of parenting, and that would depend on one person to the other. Since we all grew up in different communities, we tend to raise each child differently. If you try to research these styles on the web, you may discover which style would work out best for you.

If all these listed above are not doable things to do, then you have to make sure that your child is always in good hands. Child Support Agency is an institution that can help you manage the goals listed above, and makes your child become successful in life. They can help you in arranging child maintenance whenever you cannot do it by yourself.
Child Support Agency would provide you how much you need to shell out for child maintenance services, and they can even help you with the collection of fees. You will surely be informed which organization is most suitable for you and your child.

Who is eligible to apply?

  • Those who have their children with them
  • Those who are considered a child’s grandparent or guardian
  • Those parents who do not have his child living with him or her
  • Those children who are residing in Scotland

If you are the receiving parent, and you are not residing in United Kingdom, then you cannot apply for the services.

All these mentioned above are important notes for each and every parent in the world. If you are self-confident about your parenting style, then there would no reasons for you to apply for these services. There are really children who misbehave and get us out of control but when it comes to your own child, you would know and understand how it is to become a parent.

Try to search for the CSA number in order to get assistance in parenting. Give them all the information that they need to make sure that they would be able to help you accurately.

Child Safety, Family Safety, SYN Digital Enrollment Director

Finding a Kid Friendly Home

Alyssa Sullivan, guest contributor

Buying a new home is an exciting event in your life no matter who you are, but when you have kids and a family, there are some special aspects of a home that you need to look for. Finding the right kid friendly home can take some time, but in the end, it will pay off. Since your home is where you will be spending the majority of your time, it’s important to take the following into account when you begin your search. While everything might not always fall into place, meeting the majority of your needs will only make life easier and better for every member of your family.

The Neighborhood

One of the first things that you should consider when seeking a kid friendly home is the neighborhood that it exists in. Having a home in a safe neighborhood will make it a lot easier to keep your family and children safe overall. When looking at a neighborhood, check online to see what others are saying about the area. Look at City-Data to get detailed information and search Google to find crime statistics. Sometimes your real estate agent can help you as well if you ask specific questions about crime and other safety issues.

Look into how far away the nearest police and fire stations are. Consider driving around the potential area, or take a Google Street View tour to see if people leave things outside, like grills and bikes, or if the yards are empty. Homes that have lots of things outside, though not in a trashy way, often mean that people are not afraid that things are going to get stolen or damaged. Similarly, check into the overall look of the neighborhood. While homes might be older, well-manicured lawns show that people in the area care about what their home looks like and what the neighborhood looks like.

The School System

Chances are there are a number of schools in the area where you are looking at a home. Finding the right school for your kids is important, especially if you have young kids who will be in the school system for a long time. Check online and get information about the school that your home would be in the district of and see what it is rated as. Each state rates each school according to various factors, so make sure you are comfortable with the ratings and reputation that the school has online. Similarly, check into after school activities and other things to do around the area. Don’t be afraid to ask online for information about a given area to see what current residents think of it. Not only will this give you an idea of what’s going on, but it will help you plan ahead and get your child settled into a new routine quickly.

The Home Itself

While only one aspect of the search for a kid friendly place, the home itself might be the most important aspect of all. This is the place where you and your children will be spending a lot of time, so make sure that the home you choose is both safe and comfortable. When you view a potential home, keep the following in mind.

  • Is the home in good repair? Are there edges or other aspects of the home that would need to be fixed to make it safe?
  • Is there mold or other water related problems that could cause illness?
  • If your child has allergies, is there carpet in the home?
  • How old is the home? Is there lead in the paint of an older home you are considering?
  • Is the yard fenced in? If so, is the fencing in good repair?
  • How is the yard? Are there holes that present a danger, or other issues that would need to be fixed?
  • Are there stairs that might pose a danger to younger children? Are all railings and handrails in good condition?

Keep in mind that your child is going to grow up in the home that you choose. Make sure to take your time and seek the house that will be the best fit for you and your family. Consider, also, the potential that your family may grow. As you view potential homes, keep these things in mind, or even make a list of things to look at specifically. In the end, by remembering these simple things, you will be able to find a great home in a place that is not only pretty, but safe for your family.

——

The author of this post, Alyssa Sullivan, has worked for a few large moving companies throughout her twenty years in the industry. Today she offers helpful tips like these to consumers who need to relocate and don’t want to deal with too much stress.

 

Child Safety, Discipline, Family Safety, SYN Digital Enrollment Director

How To Have A Safe Flight With Your Kids

Mark, guest contributor

Keeping our children safe is our responsibility. Whether during a car ride, while my kids are riding a bicycle, or before, during and after a flight, safety for my children is my number one concern.

When traveling with kids on a flight, it’s all about managing things you can control so that you can handle the things you cannot control.

Here are some of the best tips that will assist you in flying safely and sanely with your kids:

 

Cleaning

The first thing you should do is take an anti-bacterial wipe and/or spray and wipe off every cleanable surface that you could possibly touch. Don’t let odd looks from other passengers stop you. If you’re fast, this process takes about a minute or two, at the most. Repeat during the journey, if you remember.

 

Before the take-off

Gather everything you think you might need for the first 30 minutes to an hour after the seatbelt sign turns on, and put it within arm’s reach. This includes snacks, wipes, crayons, toys, books, and whatever. Make a list of what you’ll need during this time before you leave the house so that you don’t forget anything.

 

Ear pressure

Babies and young children are sensitive to changes in cabin pressure. Ask your doctor if it’s okay, but I keep age-appropriate Tylenol within arm’s reach at all times. Our pediatrician advised that as soon as I see my daughter pull on her ears or complain about pressure, to give a full dose.

As we already discussed, nursing or giving a bottle to babies during take-off and landing helps their ears. Older kids can munch on snacks. Lollipops are great for this, too, because they are long lasting.

 

Diapering

Pack more diapers than you need. This never happened to me, but in the off chance you are stuck at the gate or on the tarmac for hours at a time, you need to have enough. Your child may get an upset stomach from something he or she ate on the plane or pick up a random germ. Be over-prepared in this department.

Diaper wipes: On long haul flights, make sure that you seal your wipes packet tightly. The re-circulated air can dry them out.

 

In-Flight Meals

Warming bottles and food: If you ask a flight attendant to warm bottles or food, test the temperature first. They’re very busy and may not have babies at home.

Jarred baby food: If you are flying on an airline where jarred baby food is provided, you should bring your own anyway. I asked an airline if they could tell me what flavors of jarred food they had onboard and they couldn’t verify with certainty.

Even if they gave me a list of options, there is always a risk that they could run out. Plus, you don’t want your baby to try new food and have an allergic reaction at 35,000 feet.

It’s easier to keep her calm, than to have to deal with a frightened child.

 

On-board Entertainment

Of course, it’s foolish to assume that the movies and magazines offered onboard are going to entertain all young children, and you may need to motivate them to focus on a different kind of entertainment.

You’ll need to haul onboard toys and other gear to help you stay sane. This brings me to another point. I personally think that you must do whatever it takes for you and your fellow passengers to survive a flight together.

 

In Case Of A Meltdown

This is likely the best tip I have for toddlers and preschoolers. We all experience “get me off this plane” feelings and kids typically articulate them by fussing. You can’t rationalize with a toddler.

The most effective way for me to reset my daughter’s mood when she starts to fuss is by handing her a present. I started taking very lightweight, cheap presents on the plane when my daughter was about 1 year old.

And, if you think your child can handle it, wrap the presents in multiple layers. Drag the process out as long as you can. Get creative. Especially on a long haul flight, when other passengers are trying to sleep, you have to be proactive about stopping crying immediately. This is one way to do it.

 

For sleeping

Sleep cues: If your child has a stuffed animal or security blanket that they use to fall asleep, bring it on the plane and give it to them when it’s time to sleep. I’m sure this is a no-brainer already.

However, when it’s time to sleep (this applies mainly to longer flights) be sure to change your child into pajamas, sleep sack, or whatever they normally sleep in. Try to repeat your normal bedtime routine. This is a hassle to do on the plane, but any reminder that it’s time to sleep helps.

There’s no question that flying with kids can be stressful. I hope that you can take a little bit of my experience and make your upcoming flight a little easier.

——

Mark recently took his family on a holiday to Vanuatu, where he spared neither effort nor expense to keep his kids (and wife) safe.