If you have kids that are finally getting to know on some school field trips this year, their teacher would probably love to have your help and support on the big day. However, if you’re not used to being around a large group of kids, the idea of helping chaperone a school field trip can be very overwhelming. Luckily, there are some simple things that you can do to help make this a successful experience for you and the rest of the class.

To help you see how this can be done, here are three tips for going on your first school field trip with your kids.

Start Prepping The Night Before

In order to have a great, stress-free school field trip, you’re going to want to start preparing for the experience well in advance. Once you have all of the information from your child’s school and teacher, you’ll want to make sure that you have all the details down pat the day before the trip.

As you’re getting ready the night before, make sure you have a bag packed with everything you’ll need to bring. This could include things like water, snacks, a few bandages, some cash, and other necessities or items that you could use in an emergency. You’ll also want to make sure that you get lots of rest the night before so that you aren’t dragging all day when you’re supposed to be upbeat and helpful.

Dress Comfortably

As you’re getting ready for the field trip in the morning, you’ll want to make sure that you choose comfortable clothes. Especially if the field trip is going to last all day long and you’ll be up and going for a large portion of it, you’ll want to wear very comfortable shoes that you’ve already broken in well as opposed to the cute new leather shoes you just bought. The last thing you want to be dealing with while you’re a chaperone is blisters.

Along with wearing comfortable shoes, it’s also a good idea to dress in layers so that you can keep yourself at a safe and comfortable temperature regardless of how the weather might change or what you might be experiencing throughout the day.

Take Your Responsibility Seriously

While this might be a fun experience for you to have with your child and the other kids in their class, it’s important that you remember what your responsibilities are as a field trip chaperone and that you take those responsibilities seriously. The safety of part of the class is dependent on you, and you want to make sure that you’re watching over the children just as you’d want someone to watch over your own child.

If there are any rules that you’ve been given or suggestions that have been made to help everyone stay safe and have a great time, make sure you abide by those rules and put them into practice to the best of your ability.

If you’re going to be chaperoning your child’s school field trip for the first time, consider using the tips mentioned above to help you do so successfully.

Finding a job while going to college is a practical way to generate income, and also gain experience and valuable skills. Whether you’re looking for a part time job during the school year, or just a summer gig, there are many different options for you to consider. Here are some great ideas for you to get started with.

Freight Unloader

A gym membership is expensive, and as a student, chances are you’re pinching your pennies as much as you can. Getting a job as a freight unloader can be an excellent choice for physical activity alone. Beyond that, unloading freight offers flexible hours, which can be a plus for college students with rigorous schedules.

Lastly, freight unloading jobs often provide pretty competitive pay rates which can be great for a student looking to earn the most amount of money for the least amount of time possible.

Freelance Writing

Freelance writing can be a great choice for students who are looking for work outside of school hours. Since writing is typically deadline based as opposed to a typical 9 to 5 schedule, it means you can work whenever you have time in your schedule. Whether it’s in the middle of the night or early in the morning, freelance writing can be a great way to work from anywhere around your workload at school.

Delivery Driver

A job as a delivery driver is the perfect job for students since often businesses are only looking for part time delivery drivers. More and more people opt for delivery over going directly to a restaurant themselves, so there are plenty of businesses looking for delivery drivers. The best part is delivery jobs are not limited to food and beverage, either. There are plenty of businesses in ecommerce that are looking for someone to deliver their products and services to customers.

Childcare

Childcare makes a great choice for students because it’s often evening work which is often when you don’t have classes. Depending on your level of experience, and number of kids under your care, you may be able to request a hefty sum for your childcare skills.

One of the greatest perks of childcare is that if you manage to get a babysitting job in the evenings while the children are asleep, you can get your school work done and manage to get paid for it at the same time. Score!

Online Surveys

There are all sorts of businesses looking for people just like you to take online surveys. In exchange for payment, you can fill out surveys or perform small tasks on a flexible schedule. It’s important to note, however, that these are usually pretty low paying gigs. But if that’s all you’re looking for, then it may be the perfect fit!

Buying a first car for your teenager is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with important considerations. Ensuring their safety, affordability, and suitability requires careful planning. Firstly, prioritize safety features such as airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. Secondly, consider fuel efficiency and maintenance costs to make it affordable in the long run. Thirdly, opt for a reliable make and model with a good reputation for durability. Lastly, involve your teen in the decision-making process to teach them responsible ownership. By following these tips, you can make a well-informed choice and provide your teen with a safe and suitable vehicle. If you are interested in exploring more check out the infographic below.

Infographic created by Capital Auto Auction

After a few mishaps, you are just starting to get the hang of potty training your new puppy on a pee pad.

A crisis occurs just as everything appears to be going as planned.

As a pet owner, dealing with soiled and smelly washable pee pads is an inevitable part of your routine. But the question remains, how do you effectively clean them?

Washable Pee Pads: Cleaning Instructions

However, it’s important to note that the lifespan of the pad will depend on the size and breed of your dog, as well as their bathroom habits.

Place the pad in the washing machine or water, mixing water and a little detergent together. It is not advisable to use bleach since it might irritate the skin and cause allergies and damage the pad’s absorbency.

To ensure that the pads are thoroughly cleaned, it’s recommended to wash them on a hot cycle. The high temperature will kill any bacteria and eliminate odours. Once the cycle is complete, hang the pad outside to dry or tumble dry on low heat. It’s important to avoid using high heat as it can damage the pad’s waterproof layer.

In conclusion, washable pee pads are an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to disposable ones. However, proper cleaning and maintenance are essential for your pet’s health and hygiene. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your furry friend has a clean and comfortable space to do their business.

What if it’s covered with poop?

If the stool is solid enough, you may be able to pick it up with a scoop or some toilet paper and flush it. As a result, a clean pad won’t end up in the trash.

However, if the droppings are mushy or runny, clean it with a hose. The washer should be used after that. It makes sense to use an odor-eliminating spray. A disinfectant spray is another option for getting rid of harmful chemicals.

Clean Your Home Regularly to Control Odour

Along with washing them, you may need to put in a bit extra effort to remove the stink from these pee pads. For instance, you need to replace and wash your dog’s pee pads often to keep smells under control. Additionally, you can:

Cleaning Washable Puppy Pads with Baking Soda

Before adding some cold water, add 1 cup of baking soda to 4 cups of boiling water. Before being laundered, the dirty pads should soak in this mixture for 2-4 hours.

Using this method, you will mix the laundry detergent with a tiny quantity of vinegar—roughly one tablespoon. The pee pads should then be cleaned as normal to get rid of the scent; if it’s too strong, add a little more vinegar—about 1/2 cup.

Do Washable Puppy Pads Make Sense?

Washable puppy pads are a useful tool for housebreaking puppies, but there are also good reasons to avoid using them.

Pros:

• Puppies have tiny bladders and need to pee regularly. They also still don’t have a fully developed sense of self-control, so they’ll urinate when it’s required.
• You won’t always be able to get outdoors in time, but potty pads provide a great, hassle-free option.
• If you are old or live in an apartment, it could be challenging to constantly take your puppy outdoors for potty breaks.
• If your puppy hasn’t had all of its vaccinations, it may not be safe to let it outdoors due to possible diseases.
• They are, after all, a straightforward method of getting rid of canine waste—just wrap them up!
• • Your dog has a simple place to relieve himself thanks to pee pads. As a consequence, positive behaviour are created.
• The last thing you want to do in a storm is let your puppy out into the rain. If they’re used to using pads even indoors, they won’t have any trouble taking toilet breaks.
• Adult dogs that were taught to use their pads still recall it. If you travel or if it ever develops sick and becomes immobilised, this may be helpful.

Cons:

• The cost of dog pads is a drawback. On average, the cost of a pack of disposable pee pad may vary from $20 to $30.
• The environmental effect of disposable pads is significant since they are designed to be thrown away after usage. Because they are constructed of plastic and foam, they are not easily biodegradable.
• The majority of pups love to chew and will cheerfully swallow everything. Pee pads work the same way. If given the opportunity, puppies will be able to create a significant mess!

These problems can easily be solved if you use dry paw-made, reusable puppy pads. Puppy pads are washable 200 times or more. You won’t have to purchase them as regularly as before. It will save the environment and is biodegradable and reusable.

Bonding with your partner is essential for so many reasons. It means better communication, understanding, and trust between both of you. Plus, when you make time for bonding activities, it makes your relationship feel more meaningful and allows both of you to connect on a deeper level. But finding time to bond can be tricky, what with work, family, and likely several other obligations. Bonding at home can simplify things when done correctly.

Here are some tips on how to bond with your partner at home.

Cook Together

Cooking is an awesome bonding activity that you and your partner can do together at home. There’s something special about sharing meals that creates an intimate connection with people. Plus, cooking is a creative task that lets you explore different flavors and textures — something that you can both enjoy doing together.

First off, make shopping for ingredients into a small outing. It’s an easy way to get out of the house and explore different markets. Then, create simple recipes that don’t require too much preparation — such as an easy-to-make taco night or salads with various toppings. Lastly, share your thoughts about the food you make together; it gives you both a chance to express your opinions and taste preferences.

Create Art Together

Creating art is another great way to bond with your partner. Not only does it tap into your creative side, but it’s also a fun activity that you can do together. Whether you paint, sculpt, or do something else entirely — there’s no wrong way to create art.

So decide on a project together and then split the tasks among yourselves — such as one partner doing the sketches while the other paints. After that, take turns critiquing each other’s work; this will give you both an opportunity to see things from different perspectives. Lastly, find a place to display the artwork you create — it will be nice to see your joint efforts every day.

Bathe Together

Taking a bath is one of the oldest and most relaxing bonding activities that couples can do together. Not only does it feel great physically, but it also has psychological benefits — such as promoting trust and connection between both of you.

A perfect way to make bathing more intimate is by adding elements that both of you like. For example, you can put out some candles for a more romantic atmosphere or turn on some music to make it even more relaxing. You can also customize the bath with essential oils, salts, or colored water; this can even be something fun to do together. You also want to make sure that the tub is in working order; check the bathtub overflow plate for example.

Bonding with your partner is essential for the health of your relationship. Fortunately, there are lots of things you can do at home to make sure that you both get some quality time together. From cooking up something delicious to creating art or taking a sensual bath — it’s all about making time for one another and doing activities that you both enjoy. So, what are you waiting for? Get to bonding with your partner today!

Let’s face it, there is little to compare with fine antique jewellery and if you are looking to acquire that special piece for your partner, here are some classic jewellery pieces that you might like to consider.

1. Eternity Ring – The classic 3-diamond line, with a slightly larger central stone is every woman’s favourite; ring stacking is all the rage right now and the Art Deco eternity ring sits nicely with an engagement and wedding ring. Start by finding the website of a leading antique dealer and see what they have in their catalogue. The meanings of the ring are numerous, with loyalty and devotion being just two things an eternity ring symbolises. The Internet hosts a wealth of information if you are interested in knowing the origins of the eternity ring.
2. Single Diamond Solitaire Engagement Ring – The time-honoured traditional single diamond engagement ring is perhaps the most popular jewellery piece ever designed. You can check with your local antique shops or search online. There are antique dealer Kalmar Antiques and several others will offer you precisely what you’re looking for. There isn’t a woman alive that wouldn’t love to receive such a classic diamond engagement ring; all you need to do is discover her wedding finger ring size. You might want to consider filming the proposal, then you can both look back at the event many years from now. YouTube hosts some great examples of how to propose, which might bring some inspiration.
3. Vintage Charm Bracelet – If she doesn’t already have a charm bracelet, that should be next on your list. Even if she has one, no woman is going to refuse a vintage charm bracelet, with its own unique story behind it. The Art Deco era produced some stunning charm bracelets, with coloured gemstones and unique charms that you can add at a later date. The charm bracelet is the only jewellery piece that can always be added to; even when full of charms, you can swap around. When you visit the antique dealer’s website, use the search functions to find charm bracelets and you can view the entire collection.
4. Vintage Bangles – Art Deco is the era, with inset gemstones for added colour. Yellow or rose gold is a popular metal used in this period, with stunning entwined bands with lots of sparkle. For any woman who is looking to add some class to her jewellery collection, Art Deco bangles are a perfect choice. There are so many different designs; you can choose a single, thick band of gold, several separate bangles or even mixed metal bangles, which are unique.
5. Diamond Droop Earrings – If you are looking for the perfect anniversary gift, look no further than a pair of droop diamond earrings. If you are a vintage or antique jewellery collector, you can take your valuables for repairs & valuations to a leading antique dealer and should you be looking for something special, they are the people to approach. Whether you prefer coloured or clear diamonds, there are some stunning creations from the 1930s, so you will find a pair that are ideal your cocktail dress look.

The above designs are just some ideas; whether shopping for yourself or your partner, the online antique dealer has you covered. From bangles to diamond engagement rings and everything in between, the online jeweller has global connections, so if you are looking for something specific, he or she would probably be able to locate it.

The appropriate vitamins aid your dog’s body in healing and growing. However, taking too many of these vitamins can harm their health. Without the proper balance of vitamins, your dog’s body would not be able to grow or heal itself properly. Specific diets provide nutrients that benefit your pet’s skin, coat, and heart health. Meanwhile, giving your healthy dog food is not always practical—particularly one that has the ideal ratio of vitamins and minerals for optimum health and appearance.

Consuming the right vitamins can help them prevent diseases such as kennel cough, diarrhea, diabetes, and more. Vitamins aid in the processing of other nutrients by your dog’s body. So, let us discover the vitamins and minerals dogs need to avoid getting sick.

Vitamin A

Dogs require assistance to maintain healthy bones and good vision, like humans. Vitamin A for dogs is one nutrient that is necessary for this task. Fat-soluble vitamin A contributes to preserving sight, the immune system, and bone health. Since vitamin A supports the immune system and helps to produce the protective mucus that protects the lungs, it can even keep dogs from getting sick. Some veterinarians liken vitamin A to the “oil” that supports human and canine systems functioning correctly because it is found in practically every body system.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)

Your dog’s heart and nervous system may deteriorate as they age. B1, usually referred to as thiamine, is a water-soluble vitamin that aids in enhancing and maintaining nerve, heart, and brain health. Given that it is a vitamin that dogs require for good health, it must be included in your dog’s diet. Thiamine, needed for carbohydrate metabolism, is essential for the correct functioning of the brain and other high-energy organs.

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)

Riboflavin, another B vitamin, converts lipids and carbs into energy by breaking them down. B2 is necessary for healthy cell growth and function and for your dog to absorb and digest food correctly. It’s also crucial to help your dog’s body metabolize the fats and other substances they’ve consumed to produce energy that keeps them active all day. Niacin, often known as vitamin B3, is crucial for the metabolic process.

Glucosamine

Numerous dogs, especially those of large breeds, experience joint problems, including hip dysplasia. A naturally occurring substance called glucosamine that has anti-inflammatory qualities helps lessen your dog’s bone fragility. For your dog, this means less stiffness and suffering as glucosamine supplements promote cartilage formation and thicken synovial fluid, improving mechanical joint function and reducing the progression of arthritis.

Biotin

You can strengthen your nails, get better skin, and develop more hair with biotin. Your pets are also subject to this. This water-soluble vitamin provides fantastic advantages for your dog’s skin, hair, nails, and eyes. Older dogs taking biotin can keep their energy levels up and their nerve systems functioning. Additionally, biotin plays a crucial role in the metabolism of fatty acids and carbohydrates. It can also assist your senior dog in preserving the muscular mass lost due to age.

Vitamin E

Puppies need vitamin E, a fat-soluble nutrient, to develop into dogs. Vitamin E for dogs has potent antioxidant benefits that also combat free radicals. Vitamin E oil can prevent further harm to cell membranes when your dog cuts himself. One of your dog’s defenses against oxidative damage is vitamin E. Additionally necessary for cell function and fat metabolism is this fat-soluble vitamin. Degeneration of the eyes, muscles, and reproductive organs can result from deficiencies.

Vitamin K

A fat-soluble vitamin called vitamin K is essential for triggering your dog’s blood to clot. Specific rat and mouse poisons prevent dogs from using the vitamin K that is already present in their systems, which results in bleeding and, if left untreated, death. Your pet will recuperate from wounds and injuries thanks to vitamin K.

Maine Coon cats are the largest breed of domesticated cat in the world and their handsome looks and sweet personality make them a desirable pet. However, as with many purebred cats, Maine Coons are susceptible to certain health conditions. It’s important to be aware of these so you can look out for signs and seek medical treatment early.

3 common medical problems in Maine Coon cats

Here are the three most common health conditions that Maine Coon cats are susceptible to:

1. Hip dysplasia

Maine Coons are at a higher risk of hip dysplasia than smaller cat breeds. This is because their muscles and ligaments are put under more pressure due to their large size and weight. Males are at a higher risk because they’re even bigger than females. Hip dysplasia causes painful arthritis and in extreme cases can lead to paralysis if not treated. It’s important to keep an eye on your Maine Coon’s weight to minimise undue pressure on the joints and ligaments.

2. Feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy occurs when the walls of the heart are too thick and can’t contract normally. It can lead to heart failure or even sudden death. It tends not to cause any symptoms until middle or old age, but unfortunately, it has a high mortality rate. The condition appears to be genetic but not every cat with the relevant gene develops the condition. It’s vital to get Maine Coon kittens tested for the gene as soon as possible. Those that have it should undergo regular heart ultrasounds so the condition can be identified and managed early.

3. Spinal muscular atrophy

Spinal muscular atrophy is where motor neurons are lost in the lower part of the spinal cord, which leads to weakness of muscles in the hind legs. Although the condition is not painful, it does lead to a shortened lifespan. Maine Coons with the condition have an unsteady gait and abnormal posture, and they gradually become more unstable over time. Cats can live happy lives with spinal muscular atrophy, but it’s important to keep them indoors to ensure they receive adequate care and stay safe.

Protect your Maine Coon cat against medical problems

We never know what’s around the corner for our pet’s health, but we can take steps to reduce the risk of serious medical conditions. First, if you’re considering adopting a Maine Coon kitten, be sure to ask the breeder about the health history of the parents and avoid those who don’t screen parents for genetic health problems before breeding them.

Second, be sure to invest in pet insurance from a reputable provider such as Petsure. This will give you peace of mind that even if your beloved Maine Coon cat falls ill, you’ll be able to provide them with the necessary veterinary care.

There are all sorts of different reasons why kids have temper tantrums. One minute they’re happy in the bath, and the next second you have to replace your bathtub stopper because they ripped it out in the middle of a meltdown. Unfortunately, the younger children are, the more preposterous their demands can be.

Even the slightest change of plans or going against their wishes can lead to a full-fledged emotional explosion. And while many articles may promise to help you stop tantrums altogether, the truth is many kids can’t be convinced otherwise. Unfortunately, temper tantrums come with the territory of having a younger child, and as parents, we have to endure them.

So, the next time you find yourself in the presence of a screaming child who is upset for not getting their way, keep these tips and tricks in mind.

Learn to Breathe

Even though we may have compassion for our children, and we know that they don’t always have control over their emotions and reactions, it’s still hard to keep our cool. When someone is screaming and kicking, even the Dalai Lama would have trouble staying calm.

One of the best things you can do to withstand a tantrum is to learn how to breathe. Deep breathing can help avoid exploding in reaction to a tantrum, and doing something that you regret.

If your child is having a tantrum, take a minute to take several deep breaths, and leave the room for a second if need be. If you start to feel your anger rising, then it’s a good sign that it’s time to calm down. Remember, it’s your job to show them how to regulate their feelings. If you match their angry energy, then you will only encourage their behavior.

Know The Triggers

Many children have tantrums as a reaction to specific triggers. Get to know what these triggers are, and try to avoid them before the tantrum even begins. For example, if you know that your child is going to have a meltdown every time they pass the toy or candy aisle, then go a different direction in the grocery store. Sometimes avoidance is the best weapon.

Use Simple Language

Trying to reason with a child with adult language in the midst of a full-blown tantrum isn’t going to get you anywhere. Use simple and straightforward language rather than trying to deliver your upset child a speech.

A screaming child isn’t going to hear a word of what you say. It’s going to go in one ear and out the other, so you’re better off using simple words. Once the tantrum is over, then you can have a conversation about why the tantrum happened and what the consequences are going to be.