Money saving tips for Mommies.

Coupon Basics for Newbies

by Crystal Collins on September 25, 2008

in Couponing

How to Get Coupons

1. Coupon Inserts that come in the paper:

Start getting all the coupon inserts. There are three main types of inserts: Redplum (RP) (used to be called Valassis), Smartsource(S or SS), and the Proctor and Gamble (PG).
As a general rule, coupons inserts usually do not come in the papers on holidays, but there are exceptions.

To find out what local paper gets the Redplum CLICK HERE
To find out what local paper gets the Proctor and Gamble CLICK HERE
If there is a paper that gets these, it will also have the Smartsource.

Occasionally there are other types of inserts that come in the papers as well. General Mills and Kelloggs have both recently done some extra coupon inserts.

I suggest getting at least two papers every Sunday. More if there are really good coupons. On Sunday, most stores offer two packs for 2.50. But in my area there are guys that stand on corners and sell them for $1 a piece. Some Walmarts also sell them for a $1.

Other ways to get inserts:
Ask your neighbors, friends, and family for theirs.
Check local recycling centers.
Check the trash ( as long as it’s not too gross!)

Keep all the coupons! Don’t get rid of anything unless it’s expired! You never know what will be free or a moneymaker!

2. Blinkies and Tearpads:
Blinkies are found in these nice little machines on aisles in all types of stores.
Tearpads are coupons found in the store that you tear off of what is usually a whole pad of coupons.
Always be on the lookout for both of these.

3. Home Mailers
These are coupons that are mailed out to your home by companies. You can get these by signing up on a lot of company sites, and you can usually get some by contacting companies yourself. Write or call to tell them how you liked/disliked a product, or just to ask questions. They will usually send out some great coupons.

4. Catalinas
These coupons print on a receipt-like piece of paper at the register. Always watch for these. Sometimes they are item specific coupons, but other times they are $ off off of any in store purchase. When checking out at Kroger, I have actually seen the small trash cans piled high with these types of coupons. Why on earth people throw these away, I’ll never understand.

5. Peelies
These are coupons found on product, that have to be pealed off.

6. Printable Coupons
You can print coupons from all over the internet. Companies have printable coupons on their sites, and there are some main places to print coupons from.
You can print coupons from my side bar, or from some of these other places:
Smartsource
Coupons.com
Health eSavers

7. Load Coupons to Your Kroger Card
P&G eSaver
Shortcuts
Cellfire

8. Load Coupons to Your Cellphone
Cellfire

9. Magazines, Newsletters, and other Papers.
One of the best magazines for getting coupons is the All You Magazine.
Check out my giveaway for this mag. HERE.

Be on the lookout everywhere for coupons. You’ll be surprised where you’ll find them.

Tricks of the Trade

1. Understand Your Stores
Familiarize yourself with the stores in your area and their coupon policies. You can’t afford to be brand loyal or store loyal, if you really want to save money.
Coupon policies vary greatly by store, chain and the area of the country. Call or stop by the customer service desk, to find out what the policies are.

Questions to ask:
a. Do you double coupons, and up to how much?
b. Do you take competitor coupons?
c. Do you take Internet Printable coupons?
d. Do you have store coupons, and can I combine a manufacturer coupon with a store coupon?
e. Do you have a frequent shopper card? ie. Kroger Plus Card, CVS Extra Care Card
f. How many like coupons will double in one transaction?
g. Do you ever have promotions where coupons triple?
h. Do you take expired coupons?

Now that you’re familiar with the policies, look at each store’s ad every week. See what’s on sale, and maximize your savings by using coupons with sales (see www.couponmom.com for help with this).
Example:
French’s Mustard is normally 1.89 at Kroger. This week it is part of the 10/$10, making it only a dollar. You have a .50/1 coupon for French’s Mustard. Since Kroger doubles up to 50 cents, then you get your mustard for FREE.
Note: You are not obligated to buy 10 to get the deal. Each item is only $1 each.

2. Doubling
Doubling is done by certain stores. If a store’s policy is that a they double coupons up to .50 cents, then any coupon .50 cents and under will double in the amount. .35/1 becomes .70, and .50 becomes $1.00. But any coupon over .50 will not be doubled. Some stores double up to .60 or even .99, so be sure to find out what your stores do.

3. Rainchecks
If an item is on sale and sold out, you can get a raincheck for the sale price. Raincheck’s don’t expire! Sometimes getting a raincheck will work out to your advantage, because better coupons will come out. Always get a raincheck on a great deal if the item is sold out. All of the item doesn’t have to be sold out in order to get a raincheck. One flavor/type of that item can be sold out, and you can get a raincheck. For instance: At CVS Dawn was on sale for .99. They did have some on the shelf, but a particular scent was sold out. So I was able to get a raincheck for the sale price, and the cashier just wrote it for any Dawn.

4. Buy Smaller
Retailers like to get you with the “bigger size is a better value” hogwash. But this is not always true. With coupons, smaller items sometimes work out to be free or super cheap. Buy smaller items, and use your coupons to buy in bulk. You end up spending less for more.

5. Look for markdown and clearance items.
Coupons can be used on an item even when it is on clearance. This works out in your favor, because in most instances you can get something for free or mere pennies.

6. Stockpile
When something is going to be free or a great deal, stock up! This way you don’t run out of something, and then have to run out and pay full price for it. Try to build up a 3-6 month stash of things you need. Preparing like this also makes you feel more secure. You will have the peace of mind that if something were to happen, you would be able to feed/take care of your family for a while. Some people have a 1-2 year supply of toiletries, paper products, and other non-perishable items. This way each year they are only getting what they can get for free. Just be sure to watch your expiration dates!

Organizing Your Coupons

Different ways of organizing works for different people.

1. Filing all your inserts.
File all your inserts by day and type (8/10 S, 12/14 RP, 8/31 PG, ect…)
This saves you time initially, but I have found that it becomes more of a chore when you are getting ready for your shopping trips. It’s not easy to remember everything you have, and you won’t always have a coupon with you when you see a clearanced item.

2. Binder Method
This method works by clipping and filing your coupons in a binder. I used baseball card sheets when I did this. This method did not work for me either, because I found that the coupons would continue to slide out of the sleeves. This was my binder:

3. Coupon Box
This is what I am doing now. I cut the coupons out of the inserts and file them in my handy little bin. I’ve already done better doing it this way, and I’ve got my coupons ready when I find some awesome markdowns. Refund Cents has something similar to this HERE. It’s called the Deluxe Coupon File. You can get it for $22.90 included shipping and handling.

I use small envelopes: Cut the tab off and put an index card with the label for the category in there. I first learned about this from Money Saving Mom, and it has worked really well for me. It fits perfectly in the shopping cart seat. I still file some of my inserts though. Some weeks I just get way too many inserts in order to clip and file all the coupons.

I have a section for each store I shop at, and I put store specific coupons in there.
I also have Restaraunt and Movies section for those types of coupons.
In the very front I have an envelope for my shopping trips ( I put all the coupons I know I’m going to use ahead of time in there), and an envelope for coupons to file. I put all the coupons I find at the store in there.
Then I have three different main sections. Food, Household, and Baby. In each category I have more specific envelopes. It is my personal opinion that this is the best option.

4. Coupon File
Some people like this method the best because they don’t have something that is big and bulky to lug around. I have so many coupons, that I would not be able to use this system. But if you are just starting out, this might be the best start for you. It’s cheap and easy. You can get this for a $1 at the dollar store, or for a couple dollars at Walmart. Organizing Junkie has a post about how she uses this HERE. Check it out and maybe it will help you!

5. Low Budget Envelope System
This is something that my friend The Messy Mom does. It’s basically like the coupon file, but using envelopes instead. She has a great post and video on it. It might be just the thing for you! Check out her post HERE.

In the end, you have to find what works for you. I tried what other people liked to do, and it just didn’t work for me. Make your life easy and do what works!

Now that you’re prepared, start saving some money! Ready, Set, Go!!!

Teach Your Baby To Read English

When English is not Babies's First Language.
by: Anil Vij

If your child's first language is not English, he or she can
still become an excellent English reader and writer. Your
baby is on the way to successful English reading if she is
beginning to learn many words and is interested in learning
to read in her first language. You can help by supporting
her in her first language as she learns English. Talk with
her, read with her, encourage her to draw and write. In
other words, do the same kinds of activities just discussed,
but do them in your child's first language.


When your child first enters school, talk with her teacher.
Teachers welcome such talks. They even have sign-up times
early in the year, though usually you may ask for a meeting
at any time. If you feel that you need some support in
meeting with the teacher, ask a relative, neighbor, or
someone else in your community to go with you.

When you do meet, tell the teacher the things that you are
doing at home to strengthen your child's speaking and
reading in her own language. Let the teacher know how
important you child's reading is to you and ask for support
for your efforts. Children who can switch back and forth
between languages have accomplished something special. They
should be praised and encouraged as they work for this
achievement.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
~
Anil Vij is the creator of the ultimate parenting toolbox,
which has helped parents all over the world raise smarter,
healthier and happier children > http://www.expertsonparenting.com
Sign up for Anil's Experts On Parenting Newsletter - just send a
blank email => mailto: parentingnews@aweber.com
~

Baby Crib Safety

Frequently Asked Questions
by: Martin Smith

The crib is where your baby will spend a lot of their time and you want to be sure they are safe. Below are some of the questions (with the answers) that are asked about crib safety. Topics such as mattress position, how to place your baby in the crib, and general safety standards are discussed, as are other issues. If you need further information you can search the Internet and visit baby furniture stores.

Q. Are there safety standards for baby cribs?

Yes there are some very exact standards for your baby's crib. In 1974 it was made law that cribs should no longer be painted with lead based paint. It was discovered that the ingestion of lead (from any source) could cause learning disabilities and other difficulties in young children. The slats of the crib must be no more than 2 3/8 inches apart, this is to prevent your baby from getting his body or head stuck between the bars causing injury or strangulation. The side bar should be 26 inches above the mattress when it is in its lowest position. If your child is more than an inch taller than the sidebar it is time to move him into a regular bed.

Q. Are there some hazards in my baby's crib that I need to be aware of?

Your mattress must fit snugly in the crib; an ill-fitting mattress could cause your baby to slip between the mattress and the side bar causing suffocation. The mattress height should be able to be adjusted into at least three different levels. When your baby becomes more mobile you will want to put the mattress in the lowest position to prevent your baby from climbing or falling out. The slats should be tight, loose slats could pinch little fingers. Do not put the crib near a window to prevent your baby from possibly falling out or becoming tangled in Venetian blind cords.

Q. What are some historical facts about the crib?

Here is a short chronological time line of crib facts:

1973 - The standard for crib slats was to be no more than 2 3/8th inches apart to prevent your baby from slipping through or getting their head stuck. Also, double latches for drop-down sidebars were to become the norm.

1976 - The standard for cutouts in the crib end panels are presented. The end panels must not have any decorative cutout designs. Children were getting their limbs or heads caught causing serious injury or death.

1978 - Cribs must now be painted with non-toxic finish.

1981 - Two models of cribs with cutouts are recalled.

1988 - A voluntary standard addresses mattress support hardware, failure of glued or bolted connections, drop-side latch failure and loosened teething rails.

1990 - No corner posts or projections can be more than 1/16th of an inch above the drop-side.

1998 - California and Washington mandate that hotel cribs must meet the same standards set for full-size cribs

1998 - Portable cribs must now meet the same standards as full-sized cribs.

Q. How can I tell when my baby is ready for a regular bed?

When your child stands more than a couple of inches taller than the sidebar with the mattress in the lowest position. If your child is climbing out of the crib, for his safety put him in a regular bed.

Q. How should I put my baby to sleep in his crib?

Place your baby on his back or on his side for sleeping. Use one piece sleepers rather than blankets. Your baby could slip under the blanket and possibly suffocate. Remove all pillows and toys as well, in order to prevent suffocation.

Q. Is it safe to cover my baby with a blanket?

A blanket sleeper will keep your baby sufficiently warm while sleeping. If you absolutely need to use a blanket, tuck it in around the bottom of the mattress. Place your baby with his feet toward the end-panel and the blanket should go no higher than his/her chest.

Q. Is a mesh sided crib safe to use for my baby?

Yes, a mesh crib is safe provided the mesh is less than 1/4 inch in size, smaller than a tiny button on baby's clothes. The should be rips, tears, or loose threads. If staples are used to attach the mesh they must not be exposed and the mesh must be securely attached to the top rail and the floor plate.

Q. Can I safely use bumper pads in my baby's crib?

While bumper pads are not necessary, they can safely be used. They must be very close the edge of the mattress and properly secured. The bumpers must be flat and not puffy, as your baby could get stuck between the bumper and the mattress and suffocate.

Q. What can I do to keep my baby's crib safe?

In order to keep your baby's a safe place, you should make sure to all connections are secure and that there are no broken or missing parts. Regularly, check the teething rail for splits or cracks. Make sure the mattress spring support and your crib will withstand your baby's increasing mobility. The mattress itself should have no splits, tears, or holes.

Q. How can I tell when it's time to lower the mattress?

When your baby becomes more active, when s/he begins to pull himself to a standing position or when he sits up alone it will be time to lower the mattress to prevent your little one from either climbing out or falling out.

Q. Can I hang a mobile over my baby's crib?

Mobiles and crib gyms can be used to entertain your baby but when your child is able to get on to their hands and knees or pull themselves up. This will prevent your baby from becoming entangled in them.

In Conclusion

Making sure your baby's crib is safe, is an ongoing to task. Proper positioning of the mattress, making sure all connections are secure and that there are no loose slats that could pinch little fingers will help to keep your baby's crib a safe place for him to be. Be sure to place him in the crib on his back or side and dress him in a sleeper rather than using a blanket. Keeping these tips in mind will help keep your baby safe and give you some peace of mind.

About The Author Martin Smith is a successful freelance writer providing advice for consumers on purchasing a variety of Nursery Bedding which includes Baby strollers, Baby car seats, and more! His numerous articles provide a wonderfully researched resource of interesting and relevant information. For more information visit http://www.1st-babies.com

Parenting tips to build up confidence in your child.

7 Ways To Build Your Child's Confidence
by: John Coutts

Here's one of the best bits of parenting advice you'll ever find: "a confident child is more likely to be a success in life, more likely to be liked in life, and more likely to be happy in life". Isn't that what you want?

Here are 7 parenting tips to build up confidence in your child:

1 - Always praise your child for the things she does right. Even if they are little things, make them important and let her know that she did well.

2 - Let your child do things. Even if she is not quite ready to do certain tasks, help her make a start and don't worry if it doesn't turn out right.

3 - Believe in your child and let her know it! Don't pressurize her to be something she can't be. Just let her know that you believe in her ability to (occasionally) do great things.

4 - Only critisise a behaviour - not the child. Always avoid too much criticism of her when she does things wrong. It's much better to criticise the behaviour - that way she can distance what she does from what she is.

5 - Show an interest in your child's interests. They will probably be boring to you, and you may not understand them. But they are important to her, so show a respect and interest in the things she does.

6 - Accept your child's fears and insecurities. Never belittle them or brush them aside. Remember the time when you were young and the things that made you afraid and try to understand.

7 - They say laughter is the best medicine, and it is. That's why you should always laugh with your child and never at her. Healthy laughter is a wonderful way to bond tightly. It is also something you will both thoroughly enjoy. Remember, a confident child is a happy one, more likely to be liked in life, and more likely to succeed in life. Confidence is a wonderful parenting style to apply to your little one today.

About the author:
Bringing up a child is never easy. The first step is getting the right name for your baby. To receive your free Baby Names ebook visit my parenting tips website.

Circulated by Article Emporium

Baby Strollers - Frequently Asked Questions

by: Martin Smith

Baby Strollers are one of the major purchases you will make for your baby. There are different types of strollers and in each category there are a variety of models. This may leave you with a variety of questions. Some frequent questions along with their respective answers are listed below. They deal with everything from the handlebars to the wheels and what is appropriate for newborns to older children. Your needs, how and where you will use the stroller as well as your budget will determine the strollers you will have to choose from. Q. What are the different types of baby strollers available? There are single, double, and triple strollers. Jogging strollers also have single and multi-seating strollers. Strollers with multiple seats come in Tandem where one seat is directly behind the other. Stadium baby strollers have the rear seat slightly higher than the front enabling both children a view of the scenery. Some strollers actually allow you to place your children in different positions such as facing one another. Another Tandem stroller is the double-decker where the rear seat is significantly higher than the front seat. Q. What is a height adjustable handle bar? A height adjustable handlebar on the stroller is one that can be adjusted to the height of the parent or caregiver. This helps prevent bending while pushing the stroller and as a result there are fewer issues with your lower back. Q. Is this stroller appropriate for a newborn? When choosing a stroller particularly for newborns, you have to be certain that it is appropriate for your baby. The seat must recline enough to allow your baby to lie flat. A stroller that converts from a stroller, to an infant carrier, to an infant car seat might be an option. It would at least provide you with the knowledge it is good for your newborn. Q. Are the restraint straps and buckles safe? When purchasing your stroller make sure the straps are secure. The buckles or fasteners should be easily manipulated but not so easy that your baby could open them and risk injury. Q. Is a second hand stroller acceptable for my baby? For the most part yes, a second-hand stroller is acceptable for use. Before you purchase the stroller be sure to inspect all belts, straps, and fasteners. There should be no fraying or tears in the belts or straps and they should be securely in place. All fasteners should be free of cracks and still be easily used. Be sure though your baby won't be able open it. Check the seat and make sure that the back is stable and that it won't collapse under his weight. The reclining positions should also hold your baby's weight. Make sure there are no sharp edges or places where little fingers can be pinched. Q. Does this stroller come with a parent organizer? Many newer model strollers come with a detachable tray that has a cup holder, and spaces to hold your keys, your cell phone, and a wallet. Q, Is this a convertible stroller? You may want to consider a stroller that has a detachable seat that becomes an infant carrier and/or a baby car seat. This would reduce the continual removal from the car seat to the stroller or to a carrier. This is a travel system and comes with a base that remains in the car. Q. Will this stroller maneuver on any terrain? Most strollers are made for the street or for mall walking. There are some models that have different kinds of wheels for different terrain. If you are going to use it hiking, you will want to look for a specific type of wheel. For general walking whether in the street or a mall, a simple stroller like the inexpensive umbrella types strollers. Q. What kind of brakes does the stroller have? The preferred type of brake is the brake that is attached to both rear wheels with a bar. This type of brake is preferred because it can be applied or released with one foot reducing the chance that one brake would not be applied and causes the stroller to roll or tip over. Some strollers come with a strap that is called a wrist brake which is worn by the parent to prevent the stroller from rolling when you are stopped for a long period of time. Q. Where can I find out about recalls on my stroller? The store where you purchased your stroller should have recall information. You can contact the manufacturer or search the Internet for information. You can contact the Consumer Protection Safety Commission or check consumer magazines dedicated to informing consumers on the ratings of many products. Q. Are replacement or extra parts available for the model of baby stroller I have chosen? When you purchase your stroller you might want to ask specifically if the stroller you have chosen has extra parts (i.e. wheels) or replacement parts. This could be helpful if you need to replace the seat liner or an extra stay in the car base for your stroller. The best source for this information would probably be the manufacturer. Check the owner's manual to see if there is information in there on replacement parts and where you can get them. Q. What can I do to keep my stroller in good condition? Some of the things you can do to maintain your stroller in good condition includes not leaving it outside in bad weather. Keep the wheels in good shape, check all the belts and fasteners periodically to be sure they are not worn or broken. It is important to keep the seat cover clean. Apply the brake and make sure it holding when fully applied. In Conclusion Buying a stroller is very important and must be appropriate for you and your baby. Keeping your baby safe is of the utmost importance and to that end be sure that your baby never exceeds the maximum weight it is meant to hold. The manufacturer is a good source for any questions or concerns you might have about choosing a baby stroller. About The Author Martin Smith is a successful freelance writer providing advice for consumers on purchasing a variety of Nursery Bedding which includes Baby strollers, Baby car seats, and more! His numerous articles provide a wonderfully researched resource of interesting and relevant information. For more information vist http://www.1st-babies.com

Baby Car Seats Safety

Baby Car Seats Safety - Frequently Asked Questions

by: Martin Smith

In this article you will be provided with information about baby car seats and keeping your baby safe while in the car. There are tips for buying new and used baby car seats. Answers to some of the most asked questions about car seats are provided as well. Q. What is the best baby car seat? The best car seat is the one that matches your baby's size and weight. It also fits properly in your car and is easily installed. Q. What types of baby car seats are available? There are several types of baby car seats such as infant seats, front facing car seats, and convertible seats. There are also combination seats (can face front or rear), booster seats and integrated car seats. With each type of seat there are variations. Q. Is a five-point harness or a shield safest for my baby? A five point harness gives your child the greatest protection because it holds your baby tighter in the seat in the event of a crash. A T-Shield or over-the-head restraint allows too much room or can get in the way of chubby tummies and legs. The stalk of the T-Shield can cause serious injury to your baby. Q. How can I find out how to safely install my baby's car seat? All car seats (except most second hand seats) come with printed directions. If after reading the directions you still are not sure how to properly install it. You can call or email the manufacturer. Some police stations and hospitals have assistance programsas well. Q. Is there a correct way to secure my child in the baby car seat? Yes, there is a correct way in which to secure your child in his car seat. How you secure your baby in the car seat will likely depend on the age and size of your baby. For children under a year of age they should be placed in rear-facing seats in the centerof the rear seat. Older children can sit facing front and their seat are generally placed behind the driver or passenger in order to utilize the shoulder/lap belts. Q. What is LATCH? LATCH refers to Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children. It is a baby car seat installation system. The lower hooks are attached between the bottom of the back of the seat and seat itself. The tether piece is a strap made of seat belt material with a clip that secures forward facing baby car seats and prevents excessive movement of the baby's head in crashes. Q. What is a Tether? The tether is a strap made of seat belt material with a clip. It attaches to the clips on the seat and secures front facing baby car seats. In a crash it prevents excessive movement of the seat and the baby's head, reducing the severity of injuries. Q. How can I tell when my child is ready to use car seat belts without a booster seat? Your child will be ready for using the car safety restraint system when s/he can sitall the way back in the seat and the knees can bend comfortably over the edge of the seat. The belt crosses the shoulder between the neck and the arm and the lap belt is low and touches the thighs. Your child must be able to remain seated the whole trip. Q. Can a baby car seat be used safely in an airplane? Yes it can. Airlines require children age 2 and under, to be in approved car seats. The seats must be 16 inches or less to fit in the airplane seats. Call ahead and find out ifyour seat is an approved seat. Once on the plane, the hostess/es, will be able to assistyou. Q. Is it safe for me to use second-hand baby car seats? Yes it is safe to use second-hand baby car seats provided you do a safety check. Belts and harnesses should not be frayed or cracked. There should be no cracks or tears in the seat cover and the seat should recline easily and stay upright when the baby is seated. Look into the history of the seat, if it has been in a car crash do not buy it, its ability to safely restrain your child has been compromised. If the seat doesn't come with a manual contact the manufacturer to ensure the seat will be properly installed.If the seat is more than 5 years old do not use it, it may have been in a crash and older baby car seats may not fit in new model cars. Q. What should I do if my baby car seat is recalled? In most cases, the manufacturer will provide you with instructions of what to do if baby car seat is recalled. In some cases they will replace it for free they will have you bring it somewhere to get replacement parts also at no cost to you. Q. Are there baby car seats available for children with special needs? Children with special needs may require different restraint systems. Discuss your options with your pediatrician. Agencies such as Easter Seals have programs and information on baby car seats for special needs children. Q. What is the best type of harness for my baby car seat? There are four types of harnesses in baby car seats. The six-point harness has two straps at the shoulders, two at the hips and two at the crotch. The five-point harness has two straps at the shoulders, two at the hips and one at the crotch. The t-shield is a padded triangle that latches at the crotch while the overhead shield comes down from over the head and latches at the crotch also. The safest harnesses are the five or six-point harnesses. These prevent excessive movement of the baby in crash situations. The t shield and the over-head shield allow for too much room and could cause your baby to be ejected from the car in a crash. In Conclusion You can never go wrong if you err on the side of caution when it comes to your baby. The size and weight of your baby as well as your budget will decide what type of seat you will purchase. This article has provided you with a number of tips to keep your baby safe while riding with you in the car. (c) www.1st-babies.com Reprint Rights feel free to publish this article on your website but you must agree to leave all active links contained within 'About The Author' intact and "as is" and NOT hidden behind a java or redirect script. About the Author Martin Smith is a successful freelance writer providing advice for consumers on purchasing a variety of Nursery Bedding which includes Baby strollers, Baby car seats, and more! His numerous articles provide a wonderfully researched resource of interesting and relevant information. About the Author About the Author Martin Smith is a successful freelance writer providing advice for consumers on purchasing a variety of Baby strollers, Baby car seats, and more! His numerous articles provide a researched resource of interesting and relevant information.

Halloween Costumes

30 Quick and Easy Kids Costumes
by: Patricia B. Jensen

What happened to the " good ol' days" when a Halloween costume was your Dad's old shirt and cap, and a burnt cork beard? Kids costumes don't have to complicated to be cute!

Each of these quick and easy costumes starts with a few simple materials like hooded sweatshirts, sweat pants, posterboard, craft foam, felt, face paint, and a little imagination.

-Pirate
Black sweats, white shirt, red sash and bandanna, cardboard sword covered in foil, parrot beanie baby, stubbly face made with burnt cork or tobacco sprinkled on vaseline covered cheeks

-Kid Hit By Lightning
Gray sweats with large yellow felt zigzag pinned to the front, blackened zigzag tears in here and there on suit, hair gelled to stand straight up, burnt cork "burns" on cheeks

-Wrapped Present
Cover a large box with colorful wrapping paper. Make a hole in the bottom and invert over child's head. Add lots of matching ribbons in child's hair.

-Pair of Dice
Paint two large boxes white and add black dots on each side to represent a pair of dice. Cut hole in bottom and invert over children's heads. You need a friend for this one!

-Box of Popcorn
Cover a large box with white butcher paper. Add wide red stripes with markers or colored paper. Make a hole for child's head. Hot glue some popcorn to the top of the box. Wear red or white tights or sweat pants.

-Placard Costumes
Another quick and easy idea for kid costumes is a "placard costume" in which the child wears a hooded sweatshirt and pulls front and back cardboard panels (the placard) on over it. Shape the placard (poster board works fine) as needed for the costume desired, and design it with markers or felt pieces. This type of costume can be adapted to many different themes, such as:

-Sunflower
Yellow sweat suit. Staple craft foam flower petals end to end onto a wide ribbon and tie around child's face to make the flower. Paint the face reddish brown with black spots. Make a couple of bright green leaves from craft foam and pin side by side onto front of sweat suit.

-Bunch of Grapes
Start with a purple sweat suit. Blow up several purple balloons to the same size and attach to the sweat suit with small safety pins. Complete the look with a green knit cap
with a couple of large green felt leaves attached.

-Bag of Trash
Make two leg holes is a large sized trash bag. Have child step into the bag, then add balls of crumpled newspaper to hold a round shape. Make two armholes in each side and secure around the neck .

-Little Old Lady
An old house dress with torn stockings and slippers. Curlers in the hair or white wig. Glasses, blacked out tooth, old fashioned pocketbook.

-Tourist
Hawaiian shirt or other loud clothes, camera, hat with pins all over it, maps sticking out of pockets, sunglasses.

-Crayon
Sweat suit in the chosen color of your crayon. Design the crayon wrapper from poster board, felt pieces or craft foam and baste or pin onto the sweat suit. Add a like-colored plant pot for a hat, or use a large round of poster board, cut from edge to center and make into a pointy hat. Secure under child's chin with a wide strip of elastic stapled to the hat.

-Static Cling
Start with sweat suit of your choice, pin on small clothing items such as socks, hats, mittens, and underwear along with a few dryer sheets.

-Cow, Pig, Kitty, Doggy
Hooded sweat suit in the appropriate color ( white cow, pink pig, brown dog). Embellish with felt scraps to make spots, ears, tail, etc.

-Backwards Kid
Put clothes and hat on backwards, sunglasses on back of head, say "Treat or Trick!"

-Mummy
Tear a white sheet into strips. Paint face white and spray hair with white paint. Smear black under the eyes. Wrap child dressed in white long underwear with sheet strips, securing with clear medical tape, leaving eyes and mouth open.

-Angel
White sweat suit with wings of tulle stretched over shaped coat hangers. Glittery headband made from wire circle covered with foil and colorful curling ribbon. Wand made from thin dowel with cardboard star attached to one end, painted silver or gold with glitter and curling ribbon added.

-Clown
Sweat suit with colorful felt or fabric paint polka dots.. Clown collar made from felt triangles attached together in a circle to go around child's neck. Colorful clown wig, nose, and oversized glasses. Facepaint simple blue crosses over eyes, red cheeks, and large red mouth.

-Cook
White sweat suit, chef's hat, large wooden spoon, cookbook under the arm, curly
mustache drawn in face paint.

-Nerd
Too small pants, shirt buttoned up wrong, pocket protector, hair slicked back, old pair of glasses with tape, white socks, large textbook to carry under the arm.

-Misc.
Ladybug
M & M (two kids of different heights can be "plain" and "peanut"!)
Soccerball, Basketball, Baseball
Apple or Pumpkin
Deck of Cards
Favorite Book


About the author:
Patricia B. Jensen is a mother of three and kids party enthusiast. She is the webmaster and owner of Kids-Party-Paradise.com - a comprehensive resource for kids party ideas and complete party plans for many popular themes, including invitations, cakes, decorations, games, costumes, favors, and food.

If you have a web site related to kids, kids parties, or another related theme, you may reproduce this article on your site, provided it appears in its entirety, including this resource box and live clickable link to:
Kids-Party-Paradise.com where great kids parties are "a piece of cake"!



Circulated by Article Emporium

Being A New Dad

A Man and His Baby

by: Ieuan Dolby

When a couple steps forth with a baby in tow everything in life is stable and normal. People hold open doors, hard shopkeepers "chuck" and go all gooey before catching themselves and generally life is an easy ride. But gentlemen, when he who dares to step-out with a baby in tow (minus the wife) life becomes a series of obstacles that never ceases to surprise.

I don't mean a trip to the corner shop, "no siree"! I mean a fully-fledged trip into town, pram, milk bottles and spare nappies to boot! Small things are immediately noticeable, like that hard and mean-looking grocer down the road! When my wife goes in to his establishment he goes all gooey, in fact he doesn't notice me at all; just talks to my wife and son and ignores me as if I was the invisible man. But walking in to his shop with only my son, an apple to buy before the days outing ahead and he became meaner and harder. In fact he noticed me for the first time, glared at me as if I had just stolen the kid and was on the run and said "hope that's not for the little one"! I felt like saying what's it got to do with you mate but .....on the bus the driver who suggested that I sit near the front instead of upstairs was nearly out of his seat and taking the part of usher before realizing that this was not really in his job description!

Somehow some basic human instinct suggests that 'man' is neither capable nor fit to look after a baby! This instinct immediately raises the hairs on the backs of people's necks, images of disaster loom in their minds and unseen forces push them forwards to offer help. They do not see a happy and carefree father pushing his laughing baby along in the pram, they see a harried father who is at his wits end and who is desperate for help. They see a tormented and unwilling baby, screaming and kicking in desperation, a father who is pulling his hair out and desperately looking around for somebody to just show him what to do.

Once in town and in the department store I headed straight for the baby changing room! Same routine as always except minus one cog - the wife! I did what I had done so many times before whilst my wife had sat down to read a magazine. Well, the plan was the same as all those times before, make the milk give my son the bottle, lay him down on the nappy changing "thingy", change his nappy, etc! I did not even get as far as the hot water dispenser! One mum, before I had even entered the room stopped me in my tracks and in a very serious way informed me that the seat belt on the pram was not fastened. One has to be polite in situations like these; I myself planning ahead as always had removed the seat belt just then in preparation for lifting my son out of it once inside the baby room. I did not know of the golden rule that one cannot unfasten the seat belt until well inside closed doors!

Inside the room, some mystical being ran around the room telling all of the mums that a 'father-alone' was out and about! Upon entering heads swiveled in my direction, a series of forces pushing bodies towards me and unwanted advice started to escape from mouths. Once past I could hear whisperings, stories being generated and past on; a fictional myth growing in reality to become truth in mind! I shut myself off, warded off the numerous hands that where heading towards my sons cheeks like locusts, barged through with forced smiles and "no thanks", and managed to get to the water machine. I smiled politely to the lady who showed me how to press the button for hot water, grimaced when told that the milk I had made was too hot (how did she know?) and nearly barked when asked "is the wife in not well dear"!

These kindly mums, whose husbands obviously knew nothing about how to change a nappy or feed a baby his milk, had my son crying within five minutes. He doesn't like attention in the form of searching hands. He especially doesn't like getting his cheek pinched or chin chucked! I felt like shouting "give him air" or wading in with elbows to rescue him but they were all so well-meaning, these poor mums! Needless to say that as my sons screaming and bawling intensified to maximum pitch the mums turned to me as one as if to say "look at the poor man, doesn't know how to look after his baby".

Naturally as they confirmed their belief that I was totally inept and useless, wandering hands gained purpose and started to lift my baby out of the pram to offer him comfort - my son hates strangers holding him! Well, I made a run for it, I grabbed the baby in mid-air, swiveled the pram around on a sixpence, closed my eyes tight and charged for the door, throwing aside mothers like pins at the bowling alley!

I went to the men's toilet to change my son's nappy! At least in the sanctity within, nobody talked to me, no advice was freely given and no insects to ward off. Naturally, looks of sympathy and confusion were issued freely, stories would abound later as husbands rushed to tell their wives about the "poor sad man with the baby" - but who cares, just don't talk to me about it.

I suppose all is not so bad! A new dimension opened up, one that it would be best if my wife knew nothing about! I have never in my life had so many young ladies (ones who wouldn't know what the inside of a baby changing room looked like) surrounding me; albeit they were cooing at my son but ... something about single men with babies must be an attraction. Anyway, I always enjoyed their reaction when saying loudly, "ah, here's my wife coming now", the desertion was abrupt and complete! I know how to handle that one; it's the rest that bothers me!

About the Author

Author and Webmaster of Seamania. As a Chief Engineer in the Merchant Navy he has sailed the world for fifteen years. Now living in Taiwan he writes about cultures across the globe and life as he sees it.

Protect Your Baby - Safety Checklist

Baby Safety Checklist - Protect Your Baby
by: Alli Ross

When bringing home your new baby, there are so many things to do in order to get ready. Making your home a safe haven for your new little one is one of the most important things you will do to get ready. Each room contains its own set of dangers. Below is a baby safety checklist to ensure that every room in your house is baby friendly. General Safety Tips:

• Place child-resistant covers on all electrical outlets.

• Install safety gates at the top and bottom of the stairs.

• Don't use baby walkers because they have been known to have caused serious injuries to babies. Use stationary exercisers instead.

• Keep all dangerous chemicals out of the reach of children.

• Shorten curtain and blind cords.

• Install smoke detectors on each floor of your home, especially near sleeping areas. * Be sure to change the batteries each year.

• Keep all small objects away from young children. (This includes tiny toys and balloons.)

• Use corner bumpers on furniture and fireplace-hearth edges.

• Know the names of all plants in case a child eats one of them.

• Be sure that furnaces, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, space heaters, and all gas appliances are vented properly.

• Place screened barriers around fireplaces, radiators, and portable space heaters.

• Keep firearms and ammunition safely locked away.

• Secure unsteady furnishings.

• Check your house for lead and asbestos. If you detect either of these substances, contact a professional. Any house built before 1978 is at risk for lead paint.

Protect your kids rooms:

• Ensure that your crib meets national safety standards.

• Place guards on windows and stops on all doors.

• Make sure your baby's crib is sturdy and has no loose or missing hardware.

• Make sure that the mattress fits snugly.

• Be sure the crib sheet fits snugly.

• Never put stuffed animals or heavy blankets in the crib with your infant.

• Never leave your baby unattended on the changing table.

• Remove mobiles and other hanging toys from the crib as soon as your child can reach up and touch them.

• Place infants under one year of age on their backs to sleep. Mattress should be firm and flat with no soft bedding underneath. * Following this advice will reduce the risk of suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

• Place night-lights at least three feet away from the crib, bedding, and draperies to prevent fires.

• Check age labels for appropriate toys.

Keep the bathroom safe:

• Put a lock on the medicine cabinet.

• Lower the household water temperature. (It should be set at 120 degrees F or below to avoid burning your baby)

• Always test the water first before bathing a child.

• Never leave your child alone in the bathtub or near any water.

• Secure toilet lids. Many young children are fascinated by putting objects inside.

• Make sure that bathtubs and showers aren't slippery.

• Install ground-fault circuit interrupters on outlets near sings and bathtubs.

For the Kitchen:

• Keep all knives, cleaning supplies, and plastic bags out of children's reach.

• If stove knobs are easily accessible to children, use protective covers to prevent kids from turning them.

• Never leave your baby alone in a highchair. Always use all safety straps.

• Replace any frayed cords and wires.

• Keep chairs and step stools away from counters and the stove.

• Remove all household cleaners from the bottom cabinets or put them in a cabinet that is out of your baby's reach.

In the Yard:

• Store tools, garden, lawn-equipment, and supplies in a locked closet or shed.

• Don't use a power mower when young children are around.

• Don't allow children to play on a treated lawn for at least 48 hours following an application of a fertilizer or pesticide.

• Know the types of trees and plant life on the property in case children ingest berries, leaves, or other plant life.

• If you have a swimming pool, install a fence that separates the house from the pool. ( Make sure that the gate is childproof)

This list is a general guide. For more in-depth information go to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission at www.cpsc.gov. About the Author: GranMamma is the webmaster at the Baby Names Box - http://www.babynamebox.com - Where you can explore over 6,000 baby names and their meanings. Read articles on parenting, family, recipes, home and gardening. Be sure to say hi to GranMamma! Source: www.isnare.com

Feeding Your Baby Brain Food.

Brain Food for Baby
by: Andrew Loh

This article shows you the brain food that can make your child smarter
Brain development is affected greatly by a baby's nutrition intake. Children who are malnourished will resulted an inadequate brain growth that showing lower IQ, slower language and fine moter development. Before we talk about the kind of food that we need to 'feed' the brain. We probably want to ask ourselves, what is our brain made of?

~ The Building Block of the Brain ~

Our brain is primarily fat, 60% by dry weight! Few people realize how important fat is to a healthy brain. And DHA, the most plentiful fatty acid in the brain, is crucial to brain health, from infancy to old age.

~ DHA ~

Many parents today already heard about the brain food - DHA. If you have not, you may want to pay attention to this.

DHA is shorthand for docosahexaenoic acid. This omega-3 long chain fatty acid is the primary building block of the brain and retina of the eye. The brain is 60% fat, and DHA is the most abundant fatty acid in the brain, comprising 25-35%. DHA is found in even greater concentrations - 50-60% - in the retina. DHA is critical for infant development. Compelling research links DHA to the rapid cerebral cortex and eye development that occurs during pregnancy and in the first few months after birth.

DHA passes through the placenta to the fetus during pregnancy, and to the nursing baby through breast milk. Optimal levels of DHA in the bloodstream of pregnant women and the breast milk of nursing mothers are crucial to babies. In fact, DHA's presence in breast milk may explain why breast-fed babies have demonstrable IQ advantages over babies fed formula without DHA. This is proved by the 21-year study by a research team at Brisbane's University of Queensland. They found that the breastfed children ended up with an intellectual advantage of eight IQ points. One of the explanation by Prof. Najman, the research team leader was "that omega fatty acids found in breast milk may be giving breastfed children an intellectual advantage."

Once we understood the important of DHA presence in breastmilk, one must also realises that the level of DHA vary widely from mother to mother. In fact, the DHA levels in the breastmilk of American women rank among the lowest in the world. Why? Because the level of DHA in the breastmilk is very much depending upon the food intake of the mother. To produce high level of DHA in the breastmilk, the mothers should try to eat as much seafood as possible on the regular basis. And try to breast-feed their children if at all possible.

With the finding of the importance of DHA in brain development, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended that DHA be included in infant formulas at levels comparable to those of mothers' milk. Today, you can find many infant formulas are fortified with DHA such as: Frisogrow, Anmum Essential, Enfapro, Dumex ... and many more! Just look for DHA next time when you are buying infant formula. In addition, you can find DHA packaged in the softgel for older children. You can find these products in major pharmacies and there are three products that I've come across: Champs, Kordel's Tuna Oil, Red Sun - BrainMax

You can also ensure your children (and yourself) obtain DHA from the diets. The richest sources of DHA are red meats, animal organs, and eggs. Deep-water fish obtain their DHA from microalgae like salmon, striped bass, rainbow trout, halibut, tuna, sardines, mackerel or fish oil supplements for those whose fish intake is very low. You can also find DHA in plants like green leafy vegetables, soybeans, walnuts, flaxseed and canola oil.

~ DMAE ~

DMAE normally found in small amounts in our brains, DMAE (dimetheyaminoethanol) has been shown to remarkably enhance improvement in learning, mental alertness and clarity of thinking. A study conducted by Dr. Carl Pfeiffer of Princeton, N.J. showed significant improvements in behavior, learning ability, and attention span with 108 boys and girls. Irritability was decreased, scholastic ability was improved and intelligence was actually elevated in some cases. With its ability to improve attention span, DMAE is also alleviates behavior problems and hyperactivity such as ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder).

DMAE is often given credit for having to elevate mood and improve memory and learning. People who have taken DMAE for a period of a few weeks often report an increase in physical energy and less of a need for sleep. Occurring naturally in fish (sardines), you can also find DMAE in tablets/capsule form in major pharmacies. Why is DMAE important? Because, it also increases the levels of the neurotransmitter 'acetylcholine' in the brain. Next...

~ Acetylcholine ~

'Acetylocholine' was the very first neurotransmitter to be identified back in the early 1900s. Acetylcholine is found in the brain and the peripheral nervous system and is an critical element in brain development and it proved to enhance spatial memory and mental focus. Choline is the usual pre- cursor of acetylocholine and Choline influences levels of acetylcholine. One of the infant formula that contains choline is 'ABBOTT GROW'.

~ Ginkgo biloba ~

The last food for brain in this article (there are many others, make sure you follow the subscription to receive more information in the future) is Ginkgo biloba. Ginkgo biloba is the oldest species of tree native to China. Extracts from the leaves of the ginkgo biloba tree has been used medicinally for centuries. Studies showed that ginkgo works by increasing blood flow thoughout the body and brain. Especially, ginkgo biloba improves circulation and oxygen supply to the brain. Thereby improves mental alertness by increasing the brain's alpha wave rhythms and overall brain functioning. You can find Ginkgo biloba tablets in major pharmacies.

=================================================
Give this article away for free on your site, or include it as part of
any newsletters as long as the entire article is left intact including
this notice and resource box
=================================================

About the Author

Andrew Loh, the editor of 'BrainyZine' newsletter teaches parents to nurture a smarter kid.
Find out more today and subscribe to his newsletter at: http://www.brainy-child.com/