Children’s toys are becoming more and more advanced with each passing day. Because of this factor, the potential health risks that these seemingly harmless toys bring along need to be discussed, both for your child’s safety, but also for your own.

Throughout history, a pattern has been observed in regards to the types of children’s toys that cause the most harm – electrical, projectile-based, and outdoor-based toys. Let us take a closer look at these products and see how we can protect our children from the imminent health hazards that they bring:

Electrical Toys

Toys on the US market need to adhere to a strict set of health and safety manufacturing guidelines imposed by the CPSC before they are marketed for sale and mass-production. Electrical toys, however, have been notorious in failing to respect said guidelines for years on end.

The Easy-Bake Oven

A well-known example of this manufacturer’s negligence is the case of the Hasbro Easy-Bake Oven, which had to be recalled twice in 2007 because of its extremely hazardous nature.

Several children suffered burns on their fingers because they had been caught in the appliance’s oven-window, with a case of amputation also being reported. Hasbro has released a newer, allegedly safer, version of the product since then, but the fire-hazard is still a great concern to parents across the country.

The Hoverboard

In more recent years, the popularization of the Hoverboard has also caught the attention of health and safety specialists.

If left to over-charge, the product would overheat and combust, causing major injuries, irreparable damage to the house, or even death.

Projectile-based Toys

Children, especially those who have yet to reach the age of three, are exposed to a vast number of choking hazards on a daily basis.

It is because of this that guns, crossbows, darts, or any other toy that can shoot or launch a projectile, present an immense risk for your child. And toy manufacturers have to be aware of that.

NERF Guns

NERF guns are a stark example of that.

Beyond the fact that their polyester darts can be ingested, which would lead your child directly from your backyard to the ER, they also pose significant risks in regards to eye injuries, as shown by previous child safety data.

Fidget Spinners

Another unconventional example would be the notorious fidget spinner of years past.

While its spinning lead projectiles would usually be kept inside the spinning wheel, children have been shown to remove the metallic wheels with great ease and ingest the harmful material. This occurred in both branded and knock-off models, so it could not have been attributed to low-quality material claims.

Outdoor Toys

Some of the greatest injuries can occur in the outdoors, even without the addition of a children’s toy. Ranging from spinal trauma to complete paralysis, outdoor toys have caused countless injuries throughout the years.

Trampolines

Trampolines, a children’s favorite in summertime activities, cause approximately 100,000 ER visits per year.

They have been most often been associated with blunt-force trauma accidents, such as concussions or broken bones, and in some unfortunate cases, even death.

Slip N’ Slides

Slip N’ Slides, another summertime favorite, pose an even greater danger to adults than they do to the younger generations.

Due to the added weight and body length, the impact of an accidental slip and crash could result in permanent spinal cord injury. This is the prime reason as to why Slip N’ Slides have had such a strained history with the CPSC.

Preventing Further Damage

Now that we have established the many health risks of the toys that are available on the consumer market, it is time to consider your options if your child has been victimized by any of the aforementioned products.

From a consumer standpoint, it is advisable to undergo extensive research on your toy’s manufacturer and their previous history in adhering to CPSC guidelines, before committing to purchasing any of their products.

From a lawful point of view, you are entitled to receive legal help if injured by a product, and a specialized lawyer can give you the necessary counsel and advice that you require to obtain the compensation that you deserve.

Through this preventive due diligence, you will have assured yourself that no other damages will come to your child and that justice has been earned for the collateral damage that your family suffered from because of professional negligence.

Keeping your kiddos entertained can sometimes prove to be a challenge, and during this unique time, it can be harder than ever coming up with fun games and boredom busters to keep your little ones happy and occupied. Looking for some fresh ideas of fun things to do together? Check out some of our favorite family activities to take advantage of during quarantine!

Make Quarantine Fun

We understand that it can be tough to come up with fresh ways to keep your kids entertained and happy during this challenging time. Schedule some time for these fun activities and make some lasting memories together! Play Magic Cards or similar games with them to keep everyone entertained.

Allow Children to Play in Backyard:

Encouraging children to spend more time outdoors is undoubtedly beneficial in early childhood development. It can help children to keep away from technology and improve their motor skills and aids their physical well-being. Having a playhouse in your backyard could naturally promote all of these health benefits for your child who may not get outside enough. A playhouse opens up the opportunities for children to get outside to enjoy fresh air, Vitamin D, and extra physical exercise that they might not get while playing inside the house.

Bake a Treat

Nothing helps a child feel more grown up and helpful than lending a hand in the kitchen. Look for a simple recipe that they can help you throw together, tie an apron around their waist, and get started on something yummy together! Whether you’re relying on your trusty chocolate chip cookie recipe or you’re venturing out and trying something new for dinner, let your child help you make the magic happen. Whether they’re measuring things and pouring them in or you’re helping them stir the batter, this is sure to help them feel extra special. Once you have finished baking, you can look for the best upcoming new horror movies or the genre that your children love, and enjoy the treat with your whole family while watching it.

Build a Fort

What’s more classic than building a fort together on an uneventful afternoon? Gather together all of your blankets, pillows, and cushions and get to work on building the ultimate blanket fort. Major plus if you also have some bar stools and kitchen chairs you can incorporate! Once your fort is built, gather some books and toys to help pass the time. You might even consider bringing in a laptop or tablet and letting them watch a movie in their new hideout.

Kid Workout/Yoga

Help your little ones get their wiggles out by doing a kid workout together! There are plenty of resources available online, a quick search is sure to bring up some good options for you. You might also consider doing some kid yoga together to help them calm down when they’re riled up. Have a baby in tow? Put them in their baby carrier while you do your workout with the older kids. Not only will this keep them cozy and comfortable, but it will make it a better workout for you, so it’s a win-win!

Plant a Garden

There’s a certain level of pride that comes with nurturing something and helping it grow. If you have the space, planting a garden with your kids is a great way to give them something to take care of over a long period of time. Choose some seeds together and gather all of the supplies needed for a successful garden. Whether you’re wanting a cute flower bed, an herb garden, or you’re planting vegetables, this a great ongoing project to keep your kids involved and motivated. If the weather conditions are harsh at the moment and won’t allow you to garden outdoors, consider getting a 3×3 from primal or other providers that enables you grow plants inside the house. Temperature and light regulation also become easier with the use of indoor grow tents.

Camping Indoors

Pull out your camping gear and set up camp in the family room! You might be staying home, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t create a fun experience for your little ones. Set up your tent, unroll the sleeping bags, and plan a menu of classic campfire foods. You might consider prepping some tin foil dinners for everyone to enjoy, or turn to the classic hot dog and smores menu. Make shadow puppets on the walls of your tent and tell stories together before going to bed. They’re sure to have a blast!

The school year will be looking a lot different this year. Whether you have a child in kindergarten or are in college you are likley going to be affected by the Covid 19 pandemics effect on schooling. There is much uncertainty or clear direction for this years students. Most schools are starting the school year online. An entirely new ballgame for students and paretns alike.

Types of Students Who Will Be Taught Online

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Elementary Students

The first years of schooling have a lasting effect on a child’s development. A child learns so much more than just their ABC’s and 123’s while in school. Kids learn how to act successfully in society. How to wait your turn. How to walk calmly around the class and halls. How to be responsible for their books and pencils. How to speak to teachers and their peers. When you are in a room with your peers you learn social skills and norms that you can only learn by being with other people. Many parents are concerned about the lasting affects of the online learning for their children. Have you considered how you and your family will combat these issues?

High School Students

When kids are in High School they are developing into their adult nature. How to truly be responsible for their well-belling, their learning and their social nature. This is a time of growth, experimentation and noticing how their peers are maturing. They build off each other and learn how important it is to listen to the authorities placed in their life and how to help each other when things get hard. When you are in high school a lot of your time is based on relationships. Whether it is young love or simply friendship, they learn about themselves and society at large.

The stress of learning more difficult subjects, considering continuing higher education, moving out of their parents’ home, and so many other topics probably have high schoolers more stressed than ever. Some of these issues can be easily sorted; for instance, kids moving out for higher education can hire assistance similar to Miracle Movers Durham (or elsewhere) to move their belongings and explore realtors to get a place near the university, or ask their parents for help. However, they may need extra attention and support from friends and family to deal with mental stress and anxiety.

If you notice a high schooler or any student who seems not to be doing well remember to reach out. They probably need to talk to someone but are not confident in reaching out for help on their own. Talk to them about using online counseling. It’s affordable, easy, and convenient.

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College Students

Deciding to move on into the choice of higher education is a huge lifestyle change. Typically students are no longer in their parents homes. They are in dorms, apartments or other temporary housing. This freedom can be thrilling and scary simultaneously. They are adults making their own choices and living how they choose. They are learning how to fully care for themselves academically, physically and mentally. If they are now doing this but all online they probably free so many emotions, emotions like angry, resentment, lack of care or even depression. These students were prepared to move on to real adulthood in college. College students have been raised using technology so they know the benefits that this technology provides. If you are dealing with this type of situation and need to reach out for help, just remember how useful online e-counseling tools can be.

In conclusion, just be honest with yourself. Are struggling? Do you see a loved one struggling? Don’t ever feel bad in expressing your concerns and asking for help.

In these unprecedented times we are all experiencing a large variety of feelings and thoughts.

Have you wondered if they are “normal”? Or thought about how others are handling things?

You are not alone. We are all overwhelmed with how life looks now a days.

Relax

We can all agree that is it easy to get worked up and stressed out with life. During the Covid-19 pandemic we have all felt that stress and anxiety increase. Things are so scrambled and life is so very different than it was last year. When you get worked up try your best to stop and realize that your feelings are valid. If you notice your breathing getting fast you may want to try mindfulness. Mindfulness is a type of meditation in which you focus on being intensely aware of what you’re sensing and feeling in the moment, without interpretation or judgment. Practicing mindfulness involves breathing methods, guided imagery, and other practices to relax the body and mind and help reduce stress.

Reach out for help

If you keep thinking about how you need a shoulder to cry on, a person to vent to, someone who can hear what you need to say then you should look into finding a counselor online. Most offices are telling us that it is not safe to visit a medical physicality right now. The risk of being at exposure to the virus has slowed all office visits for now. This fact should not stop you – you can reach out virtually. Check out BetterHelp, as this online resource can help you find the right type of counseling for you.

Call a friend

When you feel blue, just pick up your phone. Odds are that most of your friends and family are feeling the same way. When you call them, and are honest with your situation, it may even help them. They may be in the same boat as you emotionally and your phone call may be just what they needed to. We may not be able to get together for a dinner and drink, but that cant stop you when you do it virtually. Stop and think about who you should call. If you aren’t sure what you talk about try starting off with a corny dad joke!

Be safe

No matter how sad, lonely, angry or worked up you may get just remember you can always find help. Think of topics that will lift your spirits. A past birthday party that was so much fun. The last family gathering and how great (or dramatic) it was. That awesome family roadtrip. When you saw your friend do that hilarious thing he does. If you have a dog, try taking them out for more walks. You both will benefit from some fresh air. If you don’t have a dog then why not call a friend or family member and suggest you take the dog for a social distant walk together.

As people continue to stay home due to COVID-19, now is a great time to give your backyard a fresh look or upgrade so that you can maximize your time outside this fall before the cold winter months arrive. Below are some great ways to transform your backyard into a relaxing and inviting space that you can enjoy all fall:

Find Furniture that Fits Your Space and Lifestyle

If you have been considering upgrading your furniture outside, it is a great time to do it. With the end of the summer season upon us, there are many companies offering sales on furniture. It is an expensive investment and one of the things I have learned is that cheap furniture may end up costing you more in the long run. Find and select furniture made of durable materials that will withstand the elements. I have been eyeing this gorgeous new all-in-one structure from Backyard Discovery. Their Cabana Pergola can be placed anywhere in a yard or on a deck/patio based on the unique design and there is even an option to get it delivered with furniture covered with durable Sunbrella material. They are offering my readers a limited time, exclusive code for $600 off any order now through September 30 – just use code Mamathefox at checkout.

Consider Adding Color

You may have seen my last post about adding a vibrant garden to your backyard, but as we head into the fall months, it is a perfect time to cozy up your backyard with warm colors and plantings that can withstand the elements. Chrysanthemums, celosia, flowering kale, and dianthus are all excellent choices to create a cushion of color in festive shades of red, orange, purple, and deep green. Some are perfect for potted table décor while others are great for border walkways or seating areas. It may also be a good idea to use these on your custom deck as well. Getting in touch with a deck company by searching online for ‘deck companies near me‘ may prove to be an interesting option if you don’t already have a deck in your backyard.

Create Privacy

Wide open yards are coveted for a lot of reasons, but not ideal when it comes to privacy. Creating a more intimate space allows for greater relaxation and there are plenty of ways to do this. You may already have a high fence or screened in porch, but if not, you can simply hire a fencing Brisbane company, add large planters or plant taller hedges. This will not only make you feel safer form prying eyes but will also improve your security as a high fence can prevent a burgular from accessing your backyard. You can add curtains to porches or balconies for added privacy in small spaces. A pergola is a great add for shade as well as a cozier setting.

Add a Fire Pit or Fire Table

Adding a fire table creates ambiance and function. Whether enjoying an evening cocktail or making S’mores with the kids, fire pits and tables are perfect to extend the life of your backyard as we head into cooler fall nights. There are so many options and sizes for gas fire tables nowadays you can add one to almost any space.

Lighting

I am a big fan of creating a warm lit space in your backyard. Lighting helps set the mood in any space, especially outside. Creating well-lit backyards, porches, balconies or landscape lighting helps create a comfortable, stylish, safe and well-lit space that is an extension of your home. A quick and easy way to add lighting is to hang string lights overhead. I love the idea of stringing lights to the Cabana Pergola I mentioned before and adding a few table lanterns in front. Solar pathway lights are a nice touch for the front walkway of your home and you can add a warm glow to seating areas by adding candle lanterns.

The bedroom in the home is one of the few rooms where we should be able to entrust that we are at our most safe and secure. For adults, this isn’t too much of a difficulty. For young children, however, we have to consider the extra risks that come with not always interacting with their environment in the most sensible way. Here, we’re going to look at some of the most major risks in the average toddler’s bedroom, and what can be done about them.

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Don’t leave yourself open to a shock

For younger children, such as babies, then the flat outlet plug covers you can buy quite easily at any store might be enough to stop them from poking at the electronics of the room. However, toddlers can remove these, so they stop being effective. Instead, you might want to consider looking at outlet plug safe plates. Furthermore, make sure you’re taking this out and putting it in when your child isn’t directly there to watch and learn from you how you do it.

Beware of fall hazards

When you are decorating your child’s bedroom, you need to keep a close eye on anything that might be able their head level. If they can find a way to reach them, any clutter and accessories can become a falling hazard. The same is true of any furniture that they might be able to tip over. Either make sure that you’re choosing things that can’t fall over or put them so far out of reach so as to not be a concern.

Watch those windows

The windows of the bedroom can be a real hazard in a couple of ways. First of all, open windows that are accessible, or could easily be accessible if your child pushes something to act as a step, are inherently dangerous. Window mesh guards can ensure that your child can’t access them. Plantation shutters that can be installed by Southern custom shutters – Boston, are also great to prevent any danger from open windows. to Cords are another serious danger, meaning that it’s worth seriously considering options like a light filtering cordless cell shade. Aside from making the room safer, they can also ensure that it doesn’t get too much sunlight on really sunny days.

Mind the bed

Falling out of bed might not sound like the worst thing in the world, but for toddlers in a bed that is set at adult height, that can result in quite the injury if they fall the wrong way. For that reason, it’s a good idea to make sure that the bed is low to the ground so that, even if there is a fall, it’s less likely to hurt them. Otherwise, you might want to consider buying toddler bed rails to make sure they can’t fall out in the first place or to ensure there is a soft landing such as with rugs or cushions.

The tips above aren’t designed to make your worry too much or be paranoid about the risks in your toddler’s bedroom. However, it’s easy to forget about them, so this is just a reminder and a few pointers on what you can do.

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Despite what Disney films have taught us, most relationships don’t last forever. Who knows the reasons why, but the divorce rate, according to Hardy Law Group, PLLC, amongst couples is exceedingly high. Perhaps people are rushing into things too soon, or maybe the modern world just isn’t built for marriage. I’m not a relationship expert, so your guess is as good as mine!

If you find yourself in the middle of a divorce, it can be a very difficult time for you and your family. In some cases, there are financial issues involved which may result in bankruptcy lawyers in Harrisburg PA, or similar, being needed at the same time. It can be tumultuous for families to go through. An amicable divorce is ideal, meaning both parties can separate and still remain on good terms with one another. This is rare, but even in these situations, your children could still get hurt. Not physically, but on a more emotional level. It’s not easy for a young child to cope with their parents getting divorced. Of course, things are even worse if the divorce isn’t amicable and gets drawn out. Regardless of what broke down in your relationship, always put your child above everything else. Don’t make this period harder than it has to be for them. Otherwise, you could scar them for life.

The tips in this post should help you deal and cope with your divorce without damaging your child at the same time. It’s impossible for them to not feel any emotions, but you can do your bit to make it as easy as possible.

Don’t vent your frustrations to your child

Divorces are notoriously annoying and far more complicated than you’d think. This, plus the situation you’re in, can lead to lots of pent up rage and anger. You’re incredibly frustrated at everything that’s gone on, and you want to let off some steam. Under no circumstances should you use your child as a mini therapist. Letting out some frustration is good, but do it to your friends or an actual therapist. Venting to a child is terrible as they see you all upset and angry and it makes them upset!

Plus, you could say lots of bad things about their other parent. Regardless of what you think of them, you shouldn’t let your feelings known to your child. This can sew division between them and the other parent, or they might repeat what you said. As a result, the other parent then takes it up with you and you have another argument. It’s best to avoid all of this by keeping your emotions in check when you’re around your child.

Keep them away from any legal proceedings

When you hire a child custody lawyer, unfortunately, 9 times out of 10, it’s unavoidable and your child will be part of the legal proceedings. This will sound horrible, but they’re essentially the main asset that both parents are fighting over. Each parent will want custody, and this is one of the many things that can draw out divorces. Neither parent is willing to concede, so some middle ground must be found. Find a law firm like The Sanders Firm, P.A. that has the knowledge and experience dealing with alimony cases

Does your child need to know about all of this? No. Should they be present when these negotiations are taking place? Absolutely not. Keep them away from all the legal proceedings because it will just confuse them even more. They will start to feel like a game piece being moved around on a board. One moment the mother has custody, then the father, it’s too much for them to deal with. Leave them with your parents or a friend when you have to go to any divorce meetings. Also, try to avoid talking on the phone about things like custody and the divorce as it can upset them.

Don’t do anything stupid

This sounds very vague, but the main thing to talk about is leaving your home with your child. You’re going through a terrible divorce and the love of your life has left you. It feels like your world is crumbling, and you just want some peace. So, you decide to pack your bags and move back to your hometown where you can live with your parents. It sounds like an excellent idea to clear your head and figure out what to do next.

I’ve set the scene, and it’s a scene that many people see when going through a divorce. However, if you decide to pack your bags and leave without letting the other parent know, you’ll be in trouble. This is technically child relocation, and it needs to be approved by the court beforehand. So, you’ll end up causing more drama and roping your child into it as well. They won’t have a clue what’s happening as you have to deal with police inquiries, many different people asking questions, and so on. This is the type of thing that can scar them for life! As much as it may hurt to stay where you are, don’t do anything stupid. If you want to leave, get permission to avoid any drama. Further information on how to handle children in a divorce case can be found at Dootsons LLP Solicitors.

Let them see their other parent

In some divorce cases, the other parent might not care about custody at all. In fact, they may not care about seeing the child. This is horrendous, but it is very rare. Most situations are not like this at all – usually, the other parent wants to see the child as much as possible. Understandably, you can get very protective and possessive over your child. You want them to stay with you all the time, as you’re worried they might prefer the other parent. It sounds silly to say out loud, but it’s true.

Nevertheless, let your child see their other parent as much as possible. The worst thing you can do is withhold contact with the other parent. It will just upset the child and they’ll grow up without two parents looking after them. Be lenient with how often you let your ex see them – think about how you’d feel if you couldn’t see your baby every day!

Never make them feel like they’re to blame

It’s all too common for kids to think they’re to blame for a divorce. Sometimes, parents will actually tell them this is the case. Under no circumstances should you ever blame your child for what’s happened. Never make them feel like they caused the rift in your family. Let them know that both parents still love them as much as can be. Try to explain why you broke up, and you might have to blur the truth a little bit to make it seem less disastrous than it was. The classic excuse is that mommy and daddy just didn’t love each other anymore.

You don’t need to say more than that, just comfort your child and make sure they know it wasn’t their fault. Even if a part of you thinks that life got harder after having a kid, don’t say it out loud!

To finish this post, it’s important to understand that getting a divorce isn’t always a bad thing. Yes, we all want to find someone and be with them forever. But, life gets in the way and you don’t know what the future holds. Often, getting a divorce is a big step that leads you both towards a better life. Too many couples will stay together just for the sake of the kids. Realistically, this doesn’t help anyone. Your kids may grow up with two parents around, but they’re not stupid. They can tell if there’s no love between you, which will just make them sad. It is sometimes better to break up and go your separate ways, creating a better family atmosphere for your child.

That’s all there is to say on this topic, it’s a tricky one to talk about, but we have to face the realities of life. If you’re going through a divorce, I hope this has given you a few things to consider for the sake of your children.

Whether it is a flash flood, a hurricane, or something less devastating such as a leak or damp, water damage can severely damage your home. If your home already has water damage, there are steps you can take. For a more in-depth description of repairing water damage, you might want to read a guide on water damage repair in Chicago, IL from the team at ServiceMaster by Lake Shore. However, I am going to touch on the important steps to take below. As water can seep into wood, plaster, insulation and soft furnishings and ruin the material, making it soggy, smelly, cold and flimsy.

Water can even damage the foundations of your home, making it unsafe to live there, and causing huge refurbishment needs. This is why many people turn to companies like 1-800 WATER DAMAGE of Fairfield County, and many more water damage repair companies, to give them some advice on how to repair any damage. Contacting these companies is especially important if you believe the damage is causing a danger risk to anyone living there. Damp homes can be dangerous for your health, due to the fact they can cause a buildup of black mold which is bad for your respiratory system. In short, water can be hugely detrimental to the very fabric of your home.

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Preventing Water Damage

Of course, the best way to deal with water damage is to protect your home from it. This means taking measures to decrease your chances of water damage. How can you do this? Let’s take a look.

• Good ventilation.

Damp and mold can occur when your home has too much water vapour in the air. This can be caused by poor ventilation, as a lack of fresh air passes through your home and water vapour can hang in the air. Make sure you open windows every day, even if you live in a cooler climate. This will satisfy your home’s need for fresh, drier air to pass through. If that doesn’t work, invest in a dehumidifier.

• The right home for your location.

If you live in an area which is prone to flooding, at the foot of a hill or prone to climate disasters such as hurricanes, it is essential you prepare your home for this. Make sure your home has strong, well-built foundations which do not allow water to seep in and rot them from the ground up.

Dealing With The Damage

If your home already has water damage, there are steps you can take. Of course, do consider getting help from a Milwaukee Water Damage Restoration company (or a service provider near you) if the repairs are out of your hands.

• Ongoing Flooding Or Leaks

If you have an active leak, for example from a burst pipe, locate and use the stop-tap in your home. This will prevent any water from being pumped through your pipes and will stop the leak in its tracks. Next, locate the leak, and call an emergency plumber (like the ones available at websites like queencharlotteplumbing.com) for assistance.

However, if your home is flooding due to a climate disaster, it is important you evacuate immediately. Your life is more precious than your house, and staying inside could risk your safety.

Furthermore, you may also want to look at this Emergency Plumber Cost guide so you know what to expect in the future, should you ever need to deal with water damage. If the water is near any electronic equipment, take extra care not to touch it, and deactivate your power for safety.

• Rot and Mold

If your home is experiencing rot or mold, you can deal with this in multiple different ways. Rotten foundations or walls will, unfortunately, need to be replaced. There is no way of fixing a furnishing once it is rotten to the core. If your home has black mold, you can scrub it off using bleach or mold cleaning chemicals. Make sure to wear protective clothing if you do this.

Conclusion

No matter the weight of the problem, there is always a solution to be found. Try to prevent water damage to your home, and if it occurs, seek help from an emergency plumbing company!