Taking care of our planet

Taking care of our planet: the things we can all do to help.

Each one of us can do  little things you can do every day to help reduce western countries’  impact on the environment. As somebody has wisely said before me, we must keep in mind that we borrow the Earth from our ancestors and we are obliged to preserve it for the future generations.

So  here I write down five  things we can do on respect of what does not belong to us.

1)      Save  water. When we take a  shower, let’s try to close the water while brushing ourselves or while shampooing.

2)      Let’s do  carsharing or take a train to go to work. And let’s cover little distances going on foot instead of taking the car (my father used to say that some people, if they could, would go by car even to the toilet).

3)      Let’s recycle. It’s very important to collect the rubbish in different bins, according to the materials they are made of: glass, paper, plastic, organic stuff and so on.

4)      Let’s try to drive slow when we drive the car. We can save a lot of fuel going at a moderate speed (let’s say at maximum 90 kilometer per hour).

5)      Let’s turn off the lights during the day and when don’t need them. Very often we turn on television and lights in different rooms of our home. That’s a mistake. Even leaving the so called stand-by lights implies a great decrease of energy and a waste of money; consequently this means more pollution and damage to the environment.

Of course there are many other ways of preserving the environment with wise and prudential behavior but if anyone of us respected just five of them the planet would be more easily preserved for future generations.

The broken violin

We all know that a violin is used to make sounds; at least since the great lutist in Cremona Stradivari and great genoan player Paganini have showed the world how enjoyble is to hear its music. They must be tossing and turning in their graves, knowing the way British Airways treats musicians and their instruments. 
As matter of fact, like reported by her friend Sara Avery,  B.A. forced a violin player flying for concerts with the above named flying company,  to check her violin. (Their policy doesn't allow instruments over 56 cm/22 in in length on board. Her only choices were to check it, leave it behind despite needing it for practicing + getting routine maintenance in the US, or forfeit a $3,000 plane ticket and perhaps her last chance to visit her elderly mother.)
2. They smashed it to bits.
3. They are paying her less than 1/4 of the appraised replacement value.
Until #BritishAirways changes their policy, it is not safe for musicians to fly BA with their instruments.
As a lawyer I'm not so sure that the way B.A. has behaved is utterly correct!
At least, according to italian law, the story shows a negligent and faulty behaviour to be blamed on charge of the international flying vector, though is reported that British Airways employees have made up their decisions against the safety of the Sara's friend's violin, obeyng, it's reported,  to their own regulation.
Nevertheless I would listen to a specialized lawyer, in order to find out if such rules, as those applied by B.A.,  are in line with good faith and right care which are required to any contractor all over in the world.

Dante and his time - II

 

Dante is the founder of a new way to see and to write about love; he shares this role of founder of  this new literary current, called “the sweet new style” (dolce stilnovo) with Guido Cavalcanti and Cino da Pistoia.

Dante lives in a period which sees the end of an world: the balance between the Papacy and the Empire is at his end.

When Charles the Valois enters in Florence, in 1301, at the head of the Black Guelphs, Dante (belonging to the White Faction of the same Guelph party, traditional enemy of the imperialist Ghibeline’s party) is condemned and exiled; he never will see its town again.

The White Faction were neither for the Emperor nor for the Pope; they were just for the total autonomy of the Communes from both the institutions headed by the Germans and by the Roman Church.

If we don’t keep in mind this fundamental detail, we risk to  make the same mistake has committed A.N. Wilson in his last book we have already reviewed in this blog (but  you can find more complete reviews on line: especially by the main news papers: the Indipendent, the Observer, the Telegraph, The Guardian etc) defining the great Italian poet, incoherent and even political instable till madness.

As acutely has pointed out a well founded Italian writer, Angelo Ruggeri (who, by the way, is writing an exhaustive answer to the Wilson’s Dante in love) it must be observed that Dante, in his last 20 years of his life, was an exiled man, sued by the Roman Inquisitors as heretic, with great risks, not only  for his liberty, but also for his life.

That’s the main reason, according to Angelo Ruggeri’s theory, why Dante made alliances with Ghibelines, in order to be protected, better than with the same Guelph’s partisans (which black’s fraction, by the way, was responsible of his political and personal disgrace).

… to be continued…

 

30 Blog Posts from Breast Cancer Survivors

Facing a breast cancer diagnosis can very easily be one of the most terrifying and stressful situations of your lifetime. It’s easy to feel isolated and alone in your struggle, especially if no one you know has endured a similar battle. Thankfully, the global village created by the blogosphere has an entire community that acts as a breast cancer support system through the blog entries of actual breast cancer survivors. From the earliest days of your diagnosis to the victory of remission, and everything that happens in between, these 30 blogs offer support, information and real-life advice to help you every step of the way.

Dealing with the Diagnosis

Immediately after receiving the news of your breast cancer diagnosis, you will probably run the gamut of emotions, experiencing everything from fear to outrage. There’s no “right” or “wrong” reaction, as these five bloggers explain in their own diagnosis stories and advice offerings.

• Dealing with Diagnosis
• Breast Cancer: Diagnosis
• It Started With a Delayed Diagnosis
• What to Expect After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis
• Breast Cancer Diagnosis: Where Can You Turn?

Chemotherapy

You’ll naturally want to learn as much as possible about one of the most common forms of cancer treatment, but scientific journals can be difficult for a layperson to decode. These five bloggers explain chemotherapy and share their own stories or the fruits of their research in plain language that’s relatively easy to understand.

• Does Chemotherapy Deserve Its Bad Rap?
• Tummy Troubles Linked to Chemotherapy
• Chemotherapy and Exercise
• For Those About to A/C…
• Experimental Biology Blogging: Cancer Chemotherapy and Cognitive Deficits

Managing Hair Loss

One of the most dreaded aspects of cancer treatment is the possibility of hair loss as a result of chemotherapy. Unfortunately, many women are hesitant to discuss the matter when they’re facing that anxiety, usually for fear of appearing vain. These five blog posts take on the subject of hair loss resulting from cancer treatment honestly, giving you practical and useful advice for handling this difficult situation.

• Raw October — Day 21 (Hair By Chemotherapy)
• Breast Cancer, Hair Loss, and Dismissive Doctors
• Coping With Hair Loss as a Result of Cancer Treatment
• A Shaved Head is Worth a Thousand Words
• Coping With Hair Loss From Cancer Treatment

Preparing for a Mastectomy

Even if you’re not yet sure whether or not a mastectomy is in your future, it’s wise to begin gathering information and familiarizing yourself with the procedure while learning to manage the resultant emotional fallout as early as possible. These five blogs approach mastectomy candidly and frankly, pulling no punches.

• Preparing for a Mastectomy
• Prepare for Mastectomy
• Top 10 Tips – Pre-Mastectomy
• “Preparing for Mastectomy”, After Mastectomy and Lymph Node Dissection
• Preparing for Your Mastectomy Surgery

Alternative Treatments

While most women that turn to alternative treatments are in the later stages of cancer, there are those that want to pursue holistic or alternative treatment from the moment of their diagnosis. In the interest of making sure that you have the best possible chance of emerging on the other side of this battle as a breast cancer survivor, these five blogs approach the subject of alternative treatment. Keep in mind, however, that most bloggers are not medical professionals, and that their advice is no substitute for that of your oncologist or physician.

• Less Invasive Breast Cancer Treatment
• Alternative Medicine Use and Breast Cancer
• Breast Cancer Treatment Options and Alternatives
• Looking Towards Alternative Breast Cancer Treatment
• An Alternative Therapy for Some Breast Cancer Patients

Remission

The ultimate goal after receiving a breast cancer diagnosis is to reach the Holy Grail of remission. These five blog entries discuss several aspects of remission, both from a personal and scientific perspective.

• Thank You, Remission
• Breast Cancer Survivor ROC – 25 Years in Remission
• Remission
• When Cancer Disappears: The Curious Phenomenon of “Unexpected Remission”
• Living for Years With Late-Stage Cancer

 P.S. This post was  proposed to me for publication by   Hannah Anderson. I'm therefore publishing it by her invitation and under her permission. See also the link below fore more information: 
http://www.fulltimenanny.com/blog/30-blog-posts-from-breast-cancer-survivors/ 

10 Ways to Scare Away a Good Nanny

So you’ve found the perfect nanny for your family and are ready to begin your nanny employer relationship. The hard work is over, right? Wrong. Like any relationship, the nanny and employer one will take a focused effort to build and maintain. While most nannies are dedicated and loyal employees, there are a few things that can really make them question their decision to accept employment with a family.  As you move forward in your nanny employer relationship, strive to draw your nanny closer, not scare her away.

To keep the relationship moving forward, avoid doing these 10 things that are likely to scare your nanny away.

1. Use forceful language. When it comes to your nanny, the old adage is true: sometimes it’s not what you say, but how you say it. While you’re the boss and you get to call the shots, work to ensure that your interactions with your nanny are respectful and considerate. Instead of saying “I’ll be late and I need you to stay,” say “I’m really sorry to be running late. If you could stay an extra 30 minutes, it would be a huge help.” Being aggressive or forceful may lead your nanny to wonder what she’s gotten herself into.

2. Talk down to her. Speaking to your nanny like she has potatoes for brains won’t earn you the nanny employer of the year award. Saying things like “Let me put this in simple terms for you” when giving instructions, or responding to your nanny by saying “We already thought of that” when she makes a suggestion, conveys an “I’m better than you attitude.” A condescending attitude does nothing but make your nanny feel like you think she’s stupid. But don’t worry, nannies who are treated this way tend to smarten up quickly… and leave their positions.

3. Expect her to clean up after your mess. Unless your nanny specifically agreed to take on housekeeping duties, don’t expect her to clean up after you. While most nannies will go above and beyond to ensure that their work space is cleaner when they leave than when they came in, taking advantage of your nanny could send her straight for the door.

4. Volunteer her to do things without asking her first. Volunteering your nanny to care for your visiting family’s children or committing your nanny to be in charge of the carpool without asking her first is asking for trouble. While most nannies are more than happy to go above and beyond and pitch in wherever needed, it’s the not asking them before volunteering them that drives them nuts. If you keep volunteering your nanny for things without giving her advance warning, it will result in her volunteering to help find you a new nanny.

5. Appear unapproachable. Telling your nanny “I don’t have time to talk to you right now” or asking your assistant to take a message whenever your nanny calls you at work sends the message that what she has to say is not important. Successful nanny and employer relationships are based on open and honest communication. If you don’t encourage communication and instead turn your nanny down whenever she tries to speak to you, you’re sending the message that you don’t value what she has to say. If you constantly show your nanny that you don’t care about her thoughts, eventually she’ll question how much she cares about working for you.

6. Call every five minutes. Nanny employers should absolutely make it a point to check in with their nanny in some form every day. But when parents call their nanny every few minutes all day, every day (which some really do), it sends the message to your nanny that she is not trusted. Nanny and employer relationships are built on trust. If a nanny doesn’t feel like she is able to gain your trust, she may consider finding a family whose trust she can more easily obtain.

7. Become infected with nanny envy. Feeling jealous that your nanny gets to spend time having fun with your child is only normal and natural. What’s not is constantly reminding your nanny that you are jealous of her. Repeatedly saying things like “I’m so sad my child loves you more” or “I wish there was a way I could stay home” may lead your nanny to believe that you may be thinking about staying home. If a nanny feels like her job may be in jeopardy because you’re having a hard time dealing with jealousy, she may start looking for a new one.

8. Friend her on Facebook. Your nanny has a life separate from her workplace and, chances are, she would really like to keep it that way. While being your nanny’s Facebook friend may seem like the reasonable thing for you to do, to some nannies it may be interpreted as “nanny stalking.” If your nanny feels like you are trying to keep tabs on her outside of the workplace, she may feel uncomfortable enough to reconsider working for you.

9. Get a new pet, without mentioning it first. While at first it may seem like getting a family pet has no impact on your nanny’s duties and responsibilities, the reality is that it does. If your nanny shows up to work on Monday morning and is greeted by a new puppy, it may be the last Monday she shows up.  As the only adult home, your nanny will be left with no choice but to reinforce training, to feed the puppy, and to clean up after it. If you decide to purchase a puppy over the weekend, be sure to purchase the services of doggy daycare with it, at least until you talk to your nanny.

10. Refuse to pay her when your plans change.  Nannies are typically paid 52 weeks per year. If you opt to go on a family vacation and leave your nanny at home, you are still responsible for paying her. If you decide to take a day off and call your nanny to tell her she doesn’t need to come in that day, your nanny deserves to be paid. When your nanny is available to work and, by no fault of her own, you decide not to use her services, she should be paid. Messing with your nanny’s paycheck is a surefire way to welcome conflict into your relationship. Most nannies have caring personalities and, by nature, don’t enjoy conflict. Rather than engaging in a battle of wills, your nanny many instead opt to walk away. Literally.

Most nannies want to grow close to their employers, and value their working relationships. They also value job security, and typically will do most anything to make a relationship work out. As you move forward in your nanny and employer relationship, be cautious about doing things that could push your nanny away. If you push your good nanny too far away, chances are, you could end up pushing her away for good.

P.S. This post was  proposed to me for publication by Abby Nelson.  I'm therefore publishing it by her invitation and under her permission. See also the link below fore more information:

http://www.nannyclassifieds.com/blog/10-ways-to-scare-away-a-good-nanny/ 

10 Tips for Picking the Perfect Teacher Gift

Teachers are such an integral and important aspect of kids’ lives that, as parents, you may want to thank them for their hard work and dedication to teaching and serving your children.  Several times a year occasions arise where you may want to give your child’s teacher a gift to express your appreciation.  While the teachers won’t tell you that they didn’t like your gift or that they tossed it out, you do want to make sure that you are giving gifts that truly reflect your appreciation, as well as the teacher’s interests and tastes.

1. Find something she likes.  Be observant when you meet with your teacher for a conference.  Look around the room.  Do you see a lot of monkeys?  She might really like monkeys.  Do you see her always walking around drinking Mountain Dew or a mocha latte?  Ask your child about her teacher’s favorite things. The answers provide hints to choosing the perfect teacher gift.
2. Try to always give consumables.  Chocolate is most always an appreciated gift. Gift cards are too. Things that can be eaten or used tend to make great gifts.  Figuring out where to buy the gift card is the tricky part.  Shoot for teacher stores, coffee places – unless you know for a fact she doesn’t like coffee, book stores, and retail centers that are close by the school. You can also opt for a pre-paid VISA gift card.
3. Personalize the gifts for her.  Give her thank you cards with her initial on them or better yet, “From the Desk of”… with the teacher’s name. Teachers use thank you cards all the time.  Bake for her or buy her candy and put it in a cute jar with a ribbon.
4. Bring her flowers or a plant.  Your child could bring her a single flower just to brighten her day or a complete bouquet in a school-themed vase.
5. Give her a magazine that she may like.  If you know she does scrapbooking, then give her a scrapbooking magazine.  If she loves to run in marathons then give her a magazine about running.  Ask your child what hobbies the teacher talks about to get an idea of her interests.
6. Give her things for her classroom.  A bouquet of pencils or a jar full of glue sticks can be practical and appreciated.  Be clever and turn the jar full of glue sticks into a vase and turn candy bars into “flowers” by taping them to a skewer and sticking them into the jar.  Add a ribbon around the jar and your gift is ready to give.  It’s both festive and consumable.
7. Bring her lunch.  For this gift, you can just tell her you’d like to treat her to lunch and ask her what she would like.  You can go pick it up and bring it back to the school during her lunch hour.
8. Bring her some of her favorite soda. Teachers can usually have drinks in their classroom so that would be a nice treat for her in the middle of a busy day.  She’s talking a lot to the kids and probably gets thirsty.
9. Get the kids involved.  Have each child put their thumbprint on a big popcorn bowl and paint around each print and turn it into a piece of popped popcorn.  Add the child’s name next to it so that the teacher has a memory of all of the kids in her class that year. This is something that is fun and useful.
10. Let your child draw the teacher a picture or write her a note.  Kids can be so sweet and having the present come from the child is many times more special than anything that you can buy at the store.  Take a picture of the teacher with your child and frame it for a fun gift to give later in the year.

P.S. This post was  proposed to me for publication by Hannah Anderson. I'm therefore publishing it by her invitation and under her permission. See also the link below fore more information: 
 http://www.fulltimenanny.com/blog/10-tips-for-picking-the-perfect-teacher-gift/

How to Make Your Own Baby Wipes

Baby wipes have long been hailed as a godsend for parents, and many parents use them for far more than just their intended purpose. In addition to being used to clean up messy babies during a much-need diaper change, lots of parents swear by using them to wipe up messes, act as a mini-shower, and serve as tissues, paper towels, and napkins. However have you ever taken the time to look at the ingredients listed on your baby wipes packaging?  Are the ingredients listed full of words that you can’t pronounce?  Babies have sensitive skin, and the harsh ingredients in commercial wipes can irritate a baby’s soft bottom, not to mention while wipes are super convenient, they can also get pretty expensive. By making your own baby wipes you will not only save money, but you can use gentle ingredients that won’t harm or irritate your baby’s delicate skin.

Gather together the following items:

• 4 qt. round or square container with a lid (wide enough for paper towel roll to fit in and tall enough for ½ of the roll to fit)
• Roll of 2-ply paper towel (Bounty select-a-size work well)
• 2 tablespoons of baby wash
• 2 tablespoons of mineral oil (use coconut oil or vegetable oil if sensitive skin)
• 2 ½ cups of hot water
• Cutting board
• Knife

Start by cutting the roll of paper towel in half using the knife.  Pull the cardboard core out of the paper towel halves.  The last paper towel is usually glued on, but with a little work you can get it to come loose.  Place half of the paper towels into the container, cut side down.  Measure the hot water, add the baby wash and oil to the water, and stir.  Pour this mixture over the paper towels.  Put the lid on and turn the container upside down.  Allow the container to sit for about 5 minutes.  Flip container back over and now the wipes are ready to use.  Cut an “X” in the lid of the container if you’d like to pull the wipes through.  Otherwise you can just take the lid off each time.  Start pulling wipes from the center.

Since there are no preservatives in these wipes there is a chance for mold to form.  To avoid this keep them in a cool place that is out of direct sunlight.  If you are worried about mold you can add 4 drops of tea tree oil to the water before adding it to the paper towels.  Tea tree is a natural antiseptic and will help to prevent any mold from forming.

You can also customize these wipes to suit you and your baby’s needs.  It’s simple to add a few drops of lavender essential oil if you’d like to have scented wipes.  Lavender also has antiseptic properties.

Homemade wipes can also be used in your travel wipes container, or you can simply throw some in a zip top bag and go.

The savings on these wipes will vary by where you live, but on average you can save about $10 a month by making your own wipes.  Homemade wipes tend to be moister then store bought ones, so some parents think they work better as well. If the wipes seem too wet for your liking just decrease the amount of water you use the next time you make them.

 P. S. This post was  proposed to me for publication by Kaitlyn Johnson   I'm therefore publishing it by her invitation and under her permission. See also the link below fore more information:

 http://www.newborncare.com/blog/how-to-make-your-own-baby-wipes/

Can’t Keep Up? 10 Ways to Simplify Nanny Management

If looking for a nanny felt like a part-time job, managing one may feel like a full-time one. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to simplify managing your nanny while maintaining what matters the most: a trusting relationship with your children’s caregiver.
1. Use a nanny payroll service. Having to calculate the proper withholdings, writing out your nanny’s paychecks, and managing your employer tax responsibilities all takes time and energy. Consider outsourcing your payroll to a household payroll and service provider like Breedlove & Associates. Since they are experts in household employment, they’ll ensure your nanny is getting paid legally and that you’ve complied with the necessary tax rules and regulations.
2. Create a family binder. Put all the important information in one place. Keep contact lists, schedules, children’s sizes, school schedules, and all other household related information in the same place. You’ll also want to keep an executed authorization to treat a minor form and a copy of your nanny and family agreement in there as well to ensure easy access.
3. Give your nanny a credit card in her name. Instead of reimbursing your nanny for grocery shopping for the kids or taking the kids on an outing, give her a credit card in her name. By making her an authorized user on your account, you can order her a credit card with her name on it. If you’re not comfortable with this idea, consider a prepaid credit card.
4. Schedule weekly meetings. Knowing you have time set aside each week to address any issues or concerns can save you time and energy. It’s hard to have conversations when someone is rushing in and out of the door, and having to find time to “talk about it later” can be challenging. Knowing you have that time set aside can keep you from feeling like you have to choose between an in-depth conversation with your nanny at that moment or your work.
5. Streamline your communications. Instead of playing phone tag, consider having a set time you check-in with your nanny each day. Whether you check-in by phone, text, or email, knowing that you can expect your nanny to check in at the same time every day will save you from having to remember to call her or from being interrupted for routine communications.
6. Select a primary employer. Having a “go to” person from the start can help ensure your nanny receives important information from one source. If one parent is delegated the task of nanny management, the question “I thought you were going to tell the nanny” won’t even come up.
7. Have an in and out folder. Set aside a dual pocket folder to serve as your in and out box so that you can say goodbye to tracking down papers and coffee stained report cards. Ask your nanny to put anything you need to review on the left side and once you’ve reviewed it and acted accordingly, move it to the right side.
8. Secure back-up care in advance. There will be a day when your nanny gets sick or breaks down while driving to work and can’t get in. Having a back-up care plan in place can turn a potentially huge problem into a minor blip on your way out the door. Find out now if your company offers a corporate back-up care program. You may also want to make a list of trusted caregivers that could pinch hit for your nanny.
9. Have a place for your nanny to stay. If your nanny has to pull an all-nighter, inviting her to stay rather than drive home just to come back a few hours later makes sense. You won’t be worried that your nanny isn’t well rested and she won’t be dreading the late night drive home. If you have a spare room, be sure she feels welcome to use it.
10. Treat your nanny with respect. Before accusing your nanny of ruining your child’s prized blanket, ask if she knows what happened to it. Instead of assuming your nanny didn’t do what you’ve asked, consider if she understood your instructions. Fixing feelings takes more time and energy than avoiding hurt ones. Be considerate when interacting with your nanny. A nanny who feels valued and respected is much easier to manage.
If you can cut back on the time and energy you spend focusing on logistical nanny management, you can invest more time and energy into relationship management. At the end of the day, when it comes to nannies and employers’ relationship is what it’s all about.

 P.S. This post was  proposed to me for publication by Sara Dawkins  I'm therefore publishing it by her invitation and under her permission. See also the link below fore more information: 
http://www.nannypro.com/blog/cant-keep-up-10-ways-to-simplify-nanny-management/

10 Things to Consider When Traveling Internationally with Your Charges

For many nannies, traveling internationally is a regular part of their job duties. Often times, due to scheduling conflicts or out of convenience, a nanny and her charge will travel separately from the child’s parents. While doing so can be an exciting adventure, it also requires careful planning and preparation. If you’ll be traveling internationally with your charge, here are 10 things to consider.
1. Passports. Be sure that both you and your charge’s passports are current. You’ll want to be sure that your return travel dates are well within your passports’ expiration dates. It’s also a good idea to make a photocopy of your passports and take them with you in your travel bag. Upon arrival to your destination, store them in a safe or secure area. If your passport was to get stolen, having a copy would make it easier to replace.
2. Visas. Before travelling internationally you’ll want to be sure that the necessary visas are secured for you and your charge. Even if you are told you don’t need a visa, you’ll want to confirm this information for yourself, as the rules are constantly changing.
3. Get a notarized consent form. When traveling internationally with your charge, you’ll want to have written consent to do so. Be sure your employers draft a letter giving you permission to travel abroad with their child and that the letter is notarized.
4. Get a notarized medical authorization form. It’s always a good idea for a nanny to have a notarized written medical authorization form so that her charge can receive medical treatment should the parents be unreachable.
5. Medical power of attorney. For families who want to be sure that their child will be able to receive any medical treatment necessary and know that they may be largely unreachable, giving their nanny a medical power of attorney may make sense.
6. Expenses. When travelling with your charge you want to be sure you have the financial resources available should there be a kink in your travel plans. A family credit card with your name on it, cash on hand, and cash in the currency used in your final destination can make covering unanticipated expenses easier.
7. Check connections. Entering customs and immigration can take a long time when you are traveling alone, never mind when traveling with a child. Make sure that you’ll have enough time to travel through customs and immigration between flights, if necessary.
8. Medication information. If your charge is prescribed prescription medication or formula you’ll want to travel with the medication or formula in the original containers. Having a doctor’s note outlining any health concerns or prescribed medications can also be helpful should you be questioned about the medications at your entry point or should your charge become ill while abroad.
9. Reserve seats. Sometimes it costs extra to reserve airlines seats, but if you’re traveling with a non-lap baby, doing so is essential so that you can ensure you are seated together.  For extra room consider reserving bulkhead seats.
10. Use a neck pouch. Consider wearing a neck pouch that is concealed underneath your shirt. Putting your travel documents, money, and important documentation in this pouch can make accessing it and keeping track of it easier.
Traveling internationally can be a rewarding experience, but when traveling with children it’s vital to be prepared for the worst case scenario. Consider how you’ll handle delays, cancellations, and other bumps that may present themselves during your journey together.
 P.S. This post was  proposed to me for publication by  Debbie Denard. I'm therefore publishing it by her invitation and under her permission. See also the link below fore more information:


http://www.nanny.net/blog/10-things-to-consider-when-traveling-internationally-with-your-charges/

10 things to do during a heat wave

What's good for kids it's good also for elderly. It's really funny how a man, getting older, returns a sort of a child.

I'm sorry, but I'm going out of tune. 

As matter of fact I wanted to underline that sometimes  you go to visit a blog which is meant to be devoted to children's matters, and though you are not properly a kid, nevertheless you can find some useful advices even for your self.

That's what happened to me reading an article by Debbie Denard at nanny.net.blog ( please see the link below).

It's a blog devoted to matters about childcare, but reading the interesting article above mentioned, on how to behave during a heat wave, you'll find interesting advices yet you are an adult.

If you don't believe me just take a free look and make sure by yourself.

http://www.nanny.net/blog/10-things-to-do-during-a-heat-wave/

About Different Types of Infant Formula

While breastmilk is the most nutritious and healthy choice that parents can make for their new baby’s diet, there are times when breastfeeding simply isn’t feasible. When medical conditions, personal choice or other circumstances require that your infant be fed formula, the vast array of options on the market can be staggering. Commercially available infant formula comes in several forms, and contents vary based on the specific requirements of an infant with special dietary needs.

Preparations

There are three common infant formula preparations commercially available today: powder, liquid concentrate and ready-to-use. Powder formula is often chosen due to its relatively low price and is favored by earth-conscious new parents due to the fact that powdered formula cans take up less room in transit, and in the garbage. It does, however, require a bit more time and concentration to prepare, which might be less than ideal for 2 A.M. feedings. Powdered infant formulas are designed for parents and caregivers to mix only the amount needed for a specific feeding, which help sin reducing waste. Cans generally have a one-month shelf life after they’ve been opened.

Liquid concentrate infant formula is more expensive than the powdered variety, but almost always cheaper than its ready-to-use counterparts. Preparation typically requires parents or caregivers only to mix equal parts of the concentrate and water, which makes the process a bit less labor-intensive than preparing a powdered formula variety. Like ready-to-use products, liquid concentrate formula is commercially sterile when it arrives in your home.

Ready-to-use or ready-to-feed formulas are generally the most expensive commercial option, but they require no mixing or measuring. Parents or caregivers that are concerned about access to safe, clean water to mix a powdered or concentrated formula can opt for ready-to-use because it eliminates such worries. Containers of ready-to-use formula require more space for storage, as well as more room in landfills if consumers don’t have access to recycling programs. Furthermore, the formula only has a shelf-life of 48 hours after opening, and may be more likely to stain than other feeding options.

Types of Available Formula

In addition to the three main forms that infant formula is available in, there are a variety of options regarding nutritional content and allergens. Parents should speak with their pediatrician before switching an infant’s formula, but should also have a basic idea of the different options on the market.

The most common type of commercially available infant formula is cow’s milk based, though the proteins are altered in order to make it easier for babies to digest. As a general rule, babies tend to thrive on a diet of cow’s milk based formula; carbohydrates, protein and fat levels are balanced almost perfectly for the majority of tiny tummies.

Some infants may have difficulty digesting cow’s milk formulas, or parents that are hesitant to place their new baby on a diet that contains animal proteins. In such cases, soy-based formula may be the best option. Lactose intolerant babies also do better with soy-based formula, which is also often suggested to the parents of colicky babies. Evidence supporting claims that soy-based formula improves symptoms of colic is largely anecdotal, however. Roughly half of babies that have milk allergies are also allergic to soy, so be prepared for the chance that a switch to soy-based formula makes no discernible difference.

Babies that have a number of allergies or aren’t able to absorb the nutrients in formula well may benefit from being switched to an extensively hydrolyzed formula, in which the proteins have been broken down into smaller parts. These formulas may also be suggested by your pediatrician if your child is suffering from eczema or other irritating skin conditions.

Low-birth weight and premature babies require specialized formulas that are higher in protein and calories than other varieties, containing medium-chain triglycerides that are more easily absorbed than other fats. Formulas thickened with rice starch are generally suggested for babies with reflux problems, which often aid in the prevention of reflux symptoms.

While the advertising budgets of nationally recognized infant formula brands may help to boost their visibility, they do not contribute to improving the quality or nutritive value of the formulas themselves. Because infant formula is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, generic brands are held to the same standards as their designer counterparts; more often than not, parents shelling out extra money for name-brand formula are only paying for that name. Comparing the ingredients and nutrition information on the labels, parents can make an informed and frugal decision about the formula to feed their brand new bundle of joy.

 P.S. This post was created and proposed to me for publication by Kaitlyn Johnson. I'm therefore publishing it by her invitation and under her permission. See also the link below fore more information:

 http://www.newborncare.com/blog/about-different-types-of-infant-formula/

5 High Protein Snack Ideas for Kids

 According to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, the protein needs in children change and increase as they get older.  For instance, a child 2 to 3 years old requires 13 to 50g of protein per day and a child 4 to 8 years of age requires 30 to 90g per day.  Once kids get to be 9 to 13 years of age, boys need more protein than girls, with boys needing 40 to 120g and girls needing 35 to 105g.  Protein makes up about 45% of the human body and is essential for good health, so it’s important to make sure that kids fulfill their recommended daily intake.  To help your child reach their daily requirement of protein here are some tasty high protein snacks.

1. Hummus with pita chips is a high protein snack.  You can buy premade hummus or you can make your own at home.  To make your own, combine 1 can of chick peas, ¼ cup of olive oil, 1 T. of lemon juice, and 1 t. of cumin in a food processor.  Blend all of the ingredients together until they have a smooth and creamy texture.  To make your own pita chips, take 4 pitas and split them open so you have a single layer of bread. Cut each piece into wedges (6 to 8 per pita).  Brush the insides with olive oil and sprinkle with a little salt and pepper and dried oregano if you like.  Spread the chips into a single layer on two baking sheets and bake at 400 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes or until crisp and lightly browned.
2. Banana with chocolate hazelnut spread makes a tasty, protein-rich snack.  Cut a banana in half and dip one end into the hazelnut spread to coat it, and then dip it into some chopped nuts to cover the spread. When you add the 2 T of chocolate hazelnut spread and 1 oz. of chopped peanuts to the banana, the snack clocks in with a whopping 10g of protein. This snack is very versatile and you can change it up according to your child’s tastes.  If your child doesn’t care for nuts, or has a nut allergy, coconut makes a good substitute. If you want to have a sweet treat you can dip the banana in mini chocolate chips.
3. Smoothies make a quick protein laden snack, and are perfect for breakfasts on the go.  Blend your choice of frozen and fresh fruit, Greek yogurt, protein powder (optional), and some juice or milk in the blender.  If you use all fresh fruit add about a cup of ice to the blender. Be sure to use Greek yogurt in place of regular yogurt because it has twice the protein.  If you make the smoothie with a cup of Greek yogurt, fruit, juice, and a full scoop of protein powder it will contain 45g of protein.  (Protein powder is best consumed first thing in the morning or after exercise.)
4. Protein filled yogurt parfaits feel like you’re eating a decadent dessert.  In a clear bowl layer sliced strawberries, vanilla Greek yogurt, and some sliced almonds or granola.  Repeat for additional layers.  Feel free to change up the fruit to take advantage of what is available seasonally or to what your child prefers.  Bananas are available year round and add a healthy dose of potassium to the parfait.  If you use 1 cup of Greek yogurt and ¼ cup of almonds your parfait will have 30g of protein. 
5. Sliced apples, peanut butter, and a cup of milk pack a high protein punch.  Pairing peanut butter with an apple will create a satisfying snack, and having a glass of milk to wash it all down makes it the perfect nutritional powerhouse for kids. With an apple, 2 T of peanut butter, and 1 cup of milk your snack would have 16g of protein.
   

P.S. This post was created and proposed to me for publication by Sophie Leake. I'm therefore publishing it by her invitation and under her permission. See also the link below fore more:

 http://www.aupaircare.net/blog/5-high-protein-snack-ideas-for-kids/

5 Ways to Prevent Your Child from Catching a Cold

It’s inevitable that from time to time you and your child will be exposed to people who have a cold or who are spreading airborne germs.  While the odds are that your child will catch the occasional cold, there are certainly a few ways to reduce the number of colds that she gets.

1. Try to keep ahead of the germs.  Disinfecting wipes or a water and bleach solution can be used for this task.  Make sure that you are regularly cleaning door knobs, handles, cabinets, toys, and anything else that little hands might come into contact with.  For every gallon of water, 1 ½ teaspoons of bleach should be added to create a solution to disinfect surfaces and toys. For diapering and toileting areas, 1 tablespoon of bleach can be added to 1 gallon of water. Let the bleach solution sit for 2 minutes before wiping it down.  If you are worried about your child coming into contact with chemicals, look for all-natural sanitizing solutions.  You’ll also want to make sure that everyone in the house frequently washes their hands with warm water and soap. 
2. Change toothbrushes often.  Toothbrushes can harbor germs and re-infect your child if the germs are not killed.  Dentists recommend that toothbrushes be replaced every 3 months if you are healthy, more often if you are not.  Toothbrushes should also be replaced after an illness. To kill germs soak the toothbrush in antiseptic mouthwash for 5 minutes or run your toothbrush through the dishwasher.  Warning: Boiling your toothbrush or running it through the dishwasher will wear out the bristles faster.
3. Feed your child a healthy diet.  If your child eats a proper diet it will strengthen his immune system and he will be better able to fight off cold-causing germs.  Make sure he eats plenty of fruits and vegetables, as these contain the proper vitamins and minerals needed to build up his body’s natural defenses.  Eating foods high in vitamins is better for absorption of those vitamins than taking vitamin tablets.
4. Encourage your child to drink plenty of water.  Water not only keeps your body hydrated during the very dry winter season, but it helps your body flush out unwanted toxins.  Water also helps your lymph system run better, which is part of your body’s immune system, and it fights off illness.
5. Make sure your child gets enough sleep.  Sleeping is extremely important, and most people don’t get enough of it.  Doctors recommend that children sleep 10-11 hours per night.  A lack of sleep can affect how well your child grows because the body produces a growth hormone during sleep.  Digestion also takes place during sleep.  Bodies need this down time to recover and rebuild after a busy day of being a kid.  By getting enough sleep the body is better prepared to fight off germs.    

P.S. This post was created and proposed to me by Martina Keyhell . I'm therefore publishing it by her invitation and under her permission. See also the link below fore more information:

 http://www.becomeananny.com/blog/5-ways-to-prevent-your-child-from-catching-a-cold/

10 Reasons Parents Don’t Believe Their Child Is Sick

It’s a never-ending battle and a narrow tightrope to walk, dealing with kids who tell you they’re sick. On the one hand, as a caring parent you always want to look out for the welfare of your children and to help them when they’re feeling less than 100%. On the other hand, however, you just don’t know when to believe them sometimes. They can be quite crafty at getting what they want. Take, for instance, these 10 reasons why parents don’t believe their child is sick:

1. The oral thermometer reads 114°. You go into the bathroom for 2 minutes while your son takes his temperature. For a mere 2 minutes he’s left alone with the thermometer. You come back and, what the … Say, what’s that smoke coming from the table lamp light bulb, Junior?
2. It’s Monday morning. What is it about 7 AM Monday mornings that make them so susceptible to all manner of germs and viruses anyway? The Monday morning blahs are not something that needs to be diagnosed by the family physician, in case you were wondering.
3. They’ve faked it umpteen times before, in which case you can hardly be faulted for your skepticism toward the situation. Tell your son the fable of the boy who cried wolf – while he’s dressing himself for school.
4. The sudden ailment coincides perfectly with final exams or an assignment that is due, which your child has failed to study for or complete on time. It’s amazing the things you can learn just by taking a child’s temperature.
5. They’ve got an appointment with the dentist scheduled for today. Another remarkable coincidence that your child could fall ill the same day she is due to have dental work done.
6. You’ve seen your son will his way through the bubonic plague all the way up to Prestige Mode, in Call of Duty. Surely a measly flu bug isn’t going to send our little Commander to sick bay. Perish the thought. Damn the torpedoes and all that.
7. It happens every spring. Those nice warm days filled with brisk air and sunshine just seems to make the kids so ill. At least on five out of seven days of the week, none of which start with the letter “S”. Oddly enough, they seem to build up an immunity right around Friday afternoon at 3.
8. They went nearly three full months (June, July, and August) germ-free and in tip-top shape as the immaculate picture of health. Now they seem to be sick every week. Something tells us it’s got nothing to do with allergies or their immune systems.
9. When we were kids, we never got sick. We walked 5 miles to school, uphill both ways, in our bare feet. And when we got home, we churned butter on our bicycles while painting the barn …
10. Your daughter swears she’s sick, pointing out her gaunt and pale appearance – which you could have sworn she just spent an hour and a half cultivating in the upstairs bathroom, while coordinating her Hot Topic emo ensemble.

P.S. This post was created and proposed to me by  Tinzley Margolin. I'm therefore publishing it by her invitation and under her permission. See also the link below fore more information:

http://www.nannyflower.com/blog/10-reasons-parents-dont-believe-their-child-is-sick/