Mommy Life Hack

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  • A Beginner’s Guide to Baking

    A Beginner’s Guide to Baking

    Are you looking for a new hobby? Try baking! Learn tasty new recipes and make delicious meals and desserts. We’ll help get you started in our beginner’s guide to baking. Discover the basics and find out how to begin your baking journey!

    What Exactly Is Baking?

    When you think of baking, you probably imagine a toasty loaf of bread or a warm tray of chocolate chip cookies. You may also think of kitchen staples like eggs and flour or dessert ingredients like baking chocolate. These are delicious examples of recipes and baking essentials, but baking is much more than that.

    First, let’s discuss the basics: Baking is a preparation method using dry heat. Most of us bake with an oven, but you can also do it with hot stones or ashes. It’s also the art of making bakery products like bread and cookies. As a baker, you can create a bright and buttery fruit pie or show off your skills with fruit-filled pastries.

    Other fun recipe ideas include fluffy dinner rolls and delicate muffins. Impress friends and family with chocolate fudge brownies or a truffle cake. Pound cake and cinnamon rolls are crowd-pleasers, but you’ll also delight guests with fudge bars or chocolate biscotti.

    How to Get Started with Baking

    There is no correct way to start baking! Many beginners like to start by stocking up on essential baking supplies. Once you stock your pantry, it’s time to create a simple and delicious recipe.

    Some of the best recipes for a first-time baker include chocolate chip cookies and blueberry muffins. Make vanilla cupcakes or shortbread. Zucchini bread is an easy recipe and a tasty, wholesome snack. Try your hand at pound cake or banana bread. Make an after-dinner treat that everyone will love with chocolate brownies or pie bars.

    What to Buy: A Beginner’s Essentials and Tools 

    Beginners will need a few essential ingredients and tools. When you’re first starting out, you don’t have to buy every baking product in the grocery store. You’ll have plenty of time to stock up in the future. Instead, we recommend finding or shopping for the following items to supply your kitchen:

    Baking Tools

    • Measuring cups (dry and liquid)
    • Measuring spoons
    • Wooden spoon
    • Rubber spatula
    • Whisk
    • Rolling pin
    • Baking pans (rectangular, round, loaf, square, muffin)
    • Baking sheets
    • Hand mixer
    • Candy thermometer

    Baking Ingredients

    Keep these essential baking tools and ingredients in your kitchen and you’ll be ready to bake something sweet or savory! If you want supplies like stand mixers or a new set of chef’s knives, you can always pick them up later. Baking supplies make excellent gifts, so remember them when it’s time for your birthday or a holiday.

    When shopping for something new, we recommend a pastry brush and a sieve for sifting dry ingredients. A wire rack will help you cool your baked goods while keeping them tasting fresh. Put a pie plate and a zester on your list. It’s also nice to have a citrus juicer and a pastry wheel.

    When it comes to grocery items, your recipe may call for additional leavening agents like yeast or eggs. Check out our link to their plant-based replacements. You may also need to add dairy products, or you can substitute plant-based milk. Visit the grocery store for fresh essentials before you bake, and you’ll save time on preparation.

    Plant-Based and Vegan Baking 

    If you are vegan or are baking for a plant-based diet, you have plenty of delicious recipe options! Nowadays, baking and eating plant-based recipes are just as tasty as it is using animal products like eggs and dairy. First, look for a recipe that is made for a vegan diet or makes for vegan-friendly substitutions. Many of the most popular baked goods do well with plant-based substitutes, including cakes and muffins.

    Most brownies and quick bread recipes allow for simple swaps. You should be able to make your favorite cookie recipes vegetarian or vegan, including oatmeal and shortbread. If you’re making chocolate cookies or chocolate tarts, use vegan chocolates instead. Plant-based chocolate bars (dark chocolate or oat milk chocolate) and chocolate discs for baking will give you a delicious taste and texture without animal ingredients or added sugar. Buy baking chocolates that are 100% organic and non-GMO.

    It’s helpful to know vegan egg substitutes like plant-based yogurt and applesauce. Some recipes call for tapioca or aquafaba instead of chicken eggs. There are many swapping options, including vinegar and baking powder. Experiment with different substitutions and baked goods to find out what works for you.

    Helpful Baking Tips

    Now that you know how to begin baking, we have a few helpful tips. Remember, baking is an exact science! Follow your recipes step-by-step and measure your ingredients. Taking your time will ensure you get the taste and texture you desire. Check your recipe as you go to make sure you’re not missing an ingredient.

    Ensure your oven is at the right temperature before you start baking. Avoid opening the oven too often while baking. Instead, you may use your oven light. To test if your cake or brownies are done, insert a toothpick into the batter. If it comes out nice and clean, it is ready to remove from the oven. If you see pieces of batter sticking to your toothpick, leave it in the oven for longer and as directed by your recipe.

    Learning How to Bake

    Baking is a skill and hobby everyone can enjoy! With so many savory and sweet treats out there, it’s easy to find inspiration to start. We recommend making a baked good you love, like coffee cake or brownies. It’s also fun to bake for the first time for a loved one. Does your sweetheart like German chocolate cake or sugar cookies? Find a beginner’s recipe, and then shop for its essential ingredients.

    Check your pantry to ensure you have the tools to mix and prep your batter and finish your delicious snack. You’ll gain new skills and confidence to make you a lifetime baker. Discover new recipes and learn how to use essential baking tools. Soon, you’ll feel like an expert in the kitchen.

  • Handle Every Behaviour Support Challenge with Ease Using These Tips

    Handle Every Behaviour Support Challenge with Ease Using These Tips

    Are you struggling with managing challenging behaviour in your loved ones or students with disabilities? Do you feel overwhelmed and unsure of which strategies and interventions to use in order to make a positive impact? Fear not, as our comprehensive guide will introduce you to the world of Behaviour Support and provide you with tips and strategies to handle every challenge that may come your way. We will explore various management techniques, professional support services, and evidence-based interventions that will serve as useful tools in promoting positive behaviour change. So let’s dive into the world of Behaviour Support and empower ourselves to make a difference in the lives of those we care for and support.

    1. Understanding Behaviour Support

    Behaviour Support is a variety of strategies, techniques, and interventions used to help manage challenging behaviours exhibited by individuals with disabilities. These approaches focus on understanding the reasons behind the behaviour, identifying the function that the behaviour serves, and implementing strategies to meet the individual’s needs in a more appropriate and socially acceptable manner. The primary goal is to improve the individual’s quality of life and minimize the impact of challenging behaviour on their daily activities and social interactions.

    2. Managing Challenging Behaviour with Autism and ADHD

    Autism and ADHD are two common developmental disabilities that often present with challenging behaviours. These may include meltdowns, impulsivity, aggression, self-injury, and social withdrawal. Some tips for managing challenging behaviours in individuals with Autism and ADHD include:

    • Implementing visual supports and schedules to provide structure and predictability.
    • Teaching social skills and communication strategies to improve interactions with others.
    • Using sensory-based interventions, such as fidget tools and weighted blankets, to self-regulate and calm the individual.
    • Establishing clear routines and expectations, while providing gentle reminders and consistent consequences for inappropriate behaviour.
    • Engaging the individual in activities that align with their interests and strengths, which can help build self-esteem and resilience.

    3. Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) and Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA)

    Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) and Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) are two evidence-based approaches to managing challenging behaviour in individuals with disabilities. PBS focuses on understanding the function of the behaviour and implementing interventions based on this insight, while ABA utilizes a systematic process to teach new skills and modify the environment to promote positive behaviour change.

    Both approaches emphasize the importance of:

    • Fostering a positive and nurturing environment that encourages appropriate behaviour.
    • Utilizing reinforcement and motivation strategies to encourage desired behaviours.
    • Consistently monitoring and evaluating the impact of interventions to ensure their effectiveness.

    4. Utilizing Behaviour Support Strategies and Interventions

    There is a wide range of behaviour support strategies and interventions that can be employed to manage challenging behaviours in individuals with disabilities. Some examples include:

    • Implementing visual supports and social stories to enhance communication and understanding.
    • Using non-verbal cues, such as hand gestures or facial expressions, to reinforce appropriate behaviour.
    • Offering choices to promote autonomy and reduce frustration.
    • Providing clear and concise instructions to minimize confusion.

    5. Professional Behaviour Support Services

    Seeking the support of professionals with experience in disability and behavior management can greatly enhance your ability to address challenging behaviours effectively. These professionals may include psychologists, behavioural therapists, occupational therapists or special education teachers. They can provide guidance, strategies and interventions tailored specifically to the individual’s needs, and may even provide direct support through one-on-one sessions or group programs.

    6. Home-based Behaviour Support

    Implementing behaviour support strategies in the home environment can lead to significant improvements in the individual’s daily functioning, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life. Establishing consistent routines, clear expectations, and a supportive home environment can create a strong foundation for positive behaviour change.

    Home-based behaviour support tips include:

    • Establishing a daily schedule to provide structure and predictability
    • Developing individualized behaviour management plans with engagement from family members
    • Encouraging social and emotional development through play, communication and group activities

    7. Special Education and Behaviour Intervention

    For students with disabilities, special education programs and behaviour interventions play a crucial role in their academic and social development. Collaborating closely with educators, support staff and therapists will ensure the implementation of consistent strategies and interventions, leading to better outcomes for the student.

    Conclusion

    Embarking on the journey of Behaviour Support may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools, strategies, and professional support, it is possible to make a significant positive impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities. Armed with these tips and insights, you are now prepared to take on the challenges that Behaviour Support may present in your personal or professional life. Remember to always approach Behaviour Support with patience, empathy, and a dedication to understanding the individual’s unique needs and perspectives.

    So, take the next steps by researching specific strategies or interventions, seeking out professional support services, and implementing the tips provided in this guide. Remember, you are not alone on this journey and there are countless resources and support networks available to assist you in making a real difference in the lives of those you care for and support.

  • 5 Reasons Why You Should Care About the Quality of Your Baby Crib Sheets

    5 Reasons Why You Should Care About the Quality of Your Baby Crib Sheets

    When it comes to your baby’s comfort and safety, baby crib sheets are an important factor to consider. High-quality baby crib sheets will provide a safe and comfortable environment for your little one to sleep in and help protect against allergens, germs, and other potential hazards. In this blog post, we’ll be exploring five key reasons you should care about the quality of your baby’s crib sheets. Keep reading to learn more!

    The fabric is important for your baby’s skin

    When selecting crib sheets for your baby, the type of fabric you choose can have a big impact on the comfort and safety of your little one. Natural fabrics like cotton and bamboo are highly breathable and can help regulate your baby’s temperature, keeping them cool in the summer and warm in the winter. On the other hand, synthetic materials like polyester are not as breathable, meaning they can trap heat and cause your baby to become uncomfortable.

    It is also important to pay attention to how the fabric feels against your baby’s skin. A soft, smooth texture is much more comfortable than a rough material that can irritate or scratch your baby’s delicate skin. If you are concerned about allergens, choose an organic cotton fabric certified free of toxins and other irritants. Whatever fabric you choose, make sure it is made with quality materials and properly cared for to ensure long-term comfort and safety for your baby.

    The fabric affects the temperature of your baby’s sleep

    The fabric is key when it comes to the quality of your baby’s crib sheets. Not only does it need to be soft and comfortable, but it should also be breathable so your baby can sleep at an optimal temperature. The breathability of fabric helps to regulate the temperature of your baby’s sleep environment, keeping them cooler in warmer and colder climates. This can help reduce the risk of your baby becoming too hot or too cold during sleep, which can be dangerous. Additionally, certain fabrics are better at wicking away moisture, which can help to keep your baby dry and comfortable all night long. Investing in quality sheets that are specifically designed for babies will help ensure that your baby is sleeping at a comfortable temperature.

    The fabric can help your baby sleep through the night

    The fabric quality used in your baby’s crib sheets can hugely impact how well your baby can sleep through the night. High-quality fabrics, such as cotton or muslin, allow air to flow through easily, which helps regulate body temperature and helps your baby stay comfortable all night. Not only that, but softer materials help create a sense of security and safety for your baby, helping them drift off to sleep faster and stay asleep for longer. If you’re looking for a way to ensure your baby gets the best possible rest, investing in high-quality crib sheets can be an easy way to help them get there.

    The fabric can help reduce the risk of SIDS

    Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is a tragic and frightening reality for new parents, but fortunately, you can take measures to help reduce the risk. One important way to do this is by choosing quality crib sheets made of breathable fabrics. In addition to regulating temperature, breathable fabrics allow air to pass through more efficiently, which can help reduce the risk of SIDS. Furthermore, these sheets can provide comfort and coziness to your baby while they sleep, helping them get a peaceful night’s rest. Choosing the right fabric for your baby’s crib sheets is one simple step that you can take to reduce the risk of SIDS and ensure that your little one gets a safe and comfortable night’s sleep.

    The fabric can be a keepsake for your baby

    As your baby grows, the memories of their infancy will quickly fade. A tangible reminder of their early days is a wonderful way to honor this special time in their lives. Crib sheets are a perfect way to do just that. Crib sheets are comfortable and cozy and can also be kept as a memento of your baby’s childhood. Have a special message embroidered onto the sheet, or choose a fabric with a pattern or color scheme that is meaningful to your family. When your baby outgrows the crib, you’ll have a special piece of fabric to keep forever. It’s an easy way to ensure that you never forget the precious moments spent with your little one as they grow.

    When it comes to choosing baby crib sheets, quality matters. Quality fabric is important for the comfort and safety of your baby and can help ensure your baby gets a good night’s sleep. Quality crib sheets are also a great way to ensure that your baby has something to remember about their childhood. Investing in quality baby crib sheets is a decision that is well worth making and can help give your baby the best start in life.

  • It’s Time for The Ottoman Bed to Enter the Scene

    It’s Time for The Ottoman Bed to Enter the Scene

    What are uses can you create out of an ottoman?

    The ottoman is a handy furniture at home that you can use when you want an elevated surface or a chair-like structure to rest your feet or something as a great alternative for living room seats. What is great about ottomans is that they are not limited as a resting surface. There are other uses if certain changes are made in the overall construction of the seat. They can be a perfect storage furniture if the seats can be opened or an added living room decoration.

    More importantly, they can be converted into a comfortable ottoman bed if a guest decides to stop by for the night. Ottomans are known for their extra comfort cushion so there is little effort needed to create a comfortable ottoman sleeper bed in an instant.

    The Ottoman Advantage

    You will never regret your decision in adding an ottoman bed in any part of the room. They have inherent advantages that can make them an easy choice. As a customer who is always looking for a multi-purpose furniture at home, you need to get a closer look of its benefits if they suit your requirements perfectly.

    • A convertible ottoman bedis the perfect choice for places that are limited in space. This is ideal for apartment owners that has little room for interior décor but still want to make the room stylish and functional at the same time. it can be a great living room addition and can be easily converted into a bed at night.
    • It can look great in any room for interior decorating purposes. Little or no effort at all is needed when you are trying to incorporate it in any chosen theme of the room. The trick is to choose the appropriate color and you are good to go.
    • You don’t need an extra storage space. The fold out ottoman bed can stay comfortably in its place. You don’t need to strain your back to carry a sleeper when an unannounced guest decides to stop by. Some designs may not fall as a portable equipment but the ease of converting an ottoman into a sleeper still makes it a good addition to a room with limited space.

    The ottoman furniture has always brought a simple touch of elegance to an ordinary room. Its basic make that is not your standard living room furniture, brings the room into a whole new different level. The ottoman bed can be discreetly placed as a simple furniture, in fact your guests will be amazed if they found out that this simple looking cushion in your living room can be converted into a comfy sleeper that can accommodate anyone for the rest of the night.

    The ottoman bed is a great investment for people who have limited space in their home. They come in different colors and designs that an ordinary ottoman has as well. Its versatility and comfort level is rivaled by a few convertible furniture. Look around your room and maybe once you have discovered the simple wonders of this versatile furniture, you might consider in investing in one or more.

    For further inquiry get in touch with better bed company, you will get more details.

  • Twins: A Guide for First-Time Parents

    Twins: A Guide for First-Time Parents

    Becoming a parent is one of the most rewarding experiences you can go through. Learning to juggle everything that comes with caring for a child while maintaining some sense of normalcy in your life is one of the greatest difficulties you may face as a new parent. While many challenges come with being a parent, it is all worth it in the end.

    If you’re a parent of twins, you’ll face double the challenges — the feedings, the diapers, the newborn clothing — but that also means double the love. Studies suggest that parents of twins often form a unique bond with their children that is different from any other parent-child relationship. It may seem daunting at first, but first-time parents of twins learn to adapt and face the challenges one day at a time. Read on for our guide to learning essential information for first-time parents of twins.

    What To Expect in the First Year?

    As a first-time parent of twins, you can expect the first year to be extremely busy: feeding your twins every two to three hours and changing their diapers frequently — at least eight times a day, which will probably go through about 10 diapers each per day.

    In addition to feedings and diaper changes, you will also need to spend time bonding with your twins. This bond is vital for their development and your relationship with them. It is also important to keep up with their milestones, such as when they start to crawl or walk. Be sure to take plenty of pictures and videos to document these milestones, as they will grow up before you know it!

    Feeding Twins

    One of the most important and challenging aspects of taking care of twins is feeding them. You must ensure they get enough food and eat on a schedule. Your doctor will help you make sure they’re on track and can provide solutions if it turns out your baby needs more food than you expect.

    It is also important to burp your twins after feedings, as this will help to prevent them from spitting up. You may want to invest in a double-sided bib to make things easier.

    Diapering Twins

    You can do a few things to make diapering twins easier: Invest in a good diaper bag with enough room for your supplies. You will also need to stock up on diapers.

    Setting up a changing station in your home is also a good idea. This can be a dedicated changing table or simply a pad that you place on the floor. You will also need to have your diapering supplies, such as wipes, diaper cream, and extra clothes that are within reach.

    Clothing Twins

    When it comes to baby boy clothes and baby girl clothes, you want to balance cost and quality. Make sure the clothes are comfortable and easy to put on but also affordable, as you will need more clothes than the one-baby parent. Look for clothes that can be easily mixed and matched, such as bodysuits, leggings, and shirts.

    You should also have a few different sizes on hand as babies grow quickly. It is a good idea to buy clothes that are a bit larger than your twins currently are to get more use out of them.

    Sleeping Arrangements for Twins

    When it comes to sleeping arrangements for twins, you have a few different options. You can choose to have them share a crib when they are very little or have them sleep in separate cribs or bassinets.

    It is crucial to remember that twins often wake each other up when sharing space. If you decide to have them share a crib, you may want to consider using white noise to help them sleep.

    As they get older, you can have them share a room or have their own. It is vital to make sure they have a comfortable place to sleep and that their bedroom is a safe space.

    Transporting Twins

    It’s a good idea to get a new car seat each time you have a baby to make sure the car seat is up to the latest safety standards. Car seats make transporting twins easier.

    When it comes to choosing a stroller, there are a number of double stroller options. It really comes down to your preference. If maneuverability is important, you can choose a model where one seat is behind and slightly higher than the other. You can also select a model where the seats are side-by-side, giving the twins an equal view of the passing surroundings. Each has advantages and disadvantages, so be sure to read a few reviews.

    You will also need to ensure that you have enough room in your car for food, supplies and the stroller. If you are planning on taking a trip, be sure to pack plenty of snacks, extra diapers and changes of clothes.

    The Importance of Bonding with Your Twins

    Bonding with your twins is important for their development and your relationship with them. This is more difficult when you have to split your time between two babies. Be sure to spend plenty of time with each one separately, holding them, talking to them and playing with them. Always try to respond to their cues, such as when they cry or reach for you.

    Conclusion

    Being a parent of twins can be challenging, but it is also a wonderful experience. With a little planning and preparation, you can be sure that you are ready for anything. Congratulations on your new arrivals!

  • 5 College Life Power-Ups

    5 College Life Power-Ups

    College life isn’t always conducive to cleaning. Whether you’re living in a dorm, apartment or house, it’s hard to keep up with things like laundry and dusting when your schedule is jam-packed with classes, extracurriculars and a bustling social life. Many students put household chores at the bottom of their to-do lists for this reason. A tidy home is aesthetically pleasing, but that’s not the only reason you should make cleaning a priority. Clean, clutter-free rooms are also less distracting, which makes studying easier. Plus, maintaining a clean space can ease stress and anxiety. Even the act of cleaning can boost your mood. Clearly, there are a lot of great reasons to tidy up.

    The excitement of a new school year can provide the boost you need to keep your space clean in the first few weeks of classes. But as that motivation wears off and you settle into the semester, you might find empty pizza boxes and dirty laundry piling up more and more. Before you find yourself buried in clutter, try these college life power-ups!

    1. Stay on Top of Your Laundry

    Laundry starts piling up fast. If you don’t tend to it quickly, it doesn’t take long for it to become overwhelming — especially if you need to use communal laundry facilities. Decide on a day to wash all of your dirty clothes, towels and sheets and stick to the schedule. You can even use laundry detergent sheets (more on that next!) to make the process easier. Developing this routine means you won’t have overflowing hampers. Instead, you’ll have a closet or dresser full of fresh clothes along with clean sheets and towels for the week.

    So, what are laundry detergent sheets? They’re a simple, environmentally friendly alternative to traditional liquid and powdered detergent. These eco-friendly laundry products are completely dry and dissolve almost instantly in cold or hot water. They are also completely plastic-free. They are packed in biodegradable packaging, and you only need half of a sheet for regular loads. Plus, each package is lightweight and compact, so they’re much easier to store and carry to the laundry room than huge plastic bottles or boxes of powdered detergent. In other words, switching to these sheets makes staying on top of your laundry easier and lessens your environmental impact.

    2. Keep All of the Essentials on Hand

    It’s hard to maintain a clean space when you don’t have any cleaning products. Whether you’re a freshman living away from home for the first time or have been in school for a few years and still don’t know how to keep things clean, purchasing the right cleaning products ensures you’ll have what you need to get the job done. Keep these essentials on hand:

    • Small vacuum
    • Sponges
    • Disinfectant wipes
    • Air freshener
    • Multi-purpose spray cleaner
    • Hard floor cleaner (Swiffer has several options.)
    • Toilet bowl cleaner
    • Glass cleaner
    • Toilet brush

    If you share your home with pets, keeping an enzyme cleaner on hand is smart, as well. We also recommend stocking up on reusable paper towels. They’re better for the environment than disposable ones and they’re more enjoyable to use since they don’t fall apart.

    When shopping for supplies, choose the ones that interest you most. You’re more likely to use that vacuum cleaner if it’s your favorite color and spray cleaners are more fun to use when they smell good. There are a lot of cute cleaning supplies that can make chore day a lot less boring.

    3. Wash Your Dishes Daily

    Whether they’re from takeout or a home-cooked meal, dirty dishes are gross. No one particularly enjoys washing them, but the longer you wait, the more difficult dishes become to clean. Plus, leaving food-encrusted plates, bowls and glasses piled up in the sink or on the counter is unsanitary and serves as an invitation for insects like ants and fruit flies. It’s a habit that could irritate your roommate (if you have one), too. And much like laundry, dirty dishes pile up quickly. Washing them regularly prevents them from becoming an overwhelming chore.

    Do your dishes every day — ideally, immediately after finishing a meal. If you can’t wash them after every meal, at least give them a good rinse instead of leaving them caked in food until later. Put them away as soon as they’re clean and dry so your dishrack isn’t completely full the next time you need to do dishes.

    Deal with empty takeout containers promptly, too. There’s no reason to have empty pizza boxes and soda cans scattered throughout your apartment. You should also clear random takeout containers out of your fridge regularly.

    4. Make Cleaning Fun

    Cleaning may never be your favorite activity, but it doesn’t have to be miserable. Instead of dreading your daily and weekly chores, make them fun! Listening to music, an audiobook or a podcast is one of the easiest ways to make the experience more enjoyable. When you’re focused on listening to something you enjoy, you’re less likely to think about how much you dislike cleaning. You could also turn your chores into a cleaning routine, invite friends over to help or keep you company, make cleaning a game or catch up on phone calls while you work.

    5. Treat Yourself When You Finish

    Knowing you have something to look forward to after a day of cleaning makes it a lot easier to get things done. Treat yourself to something from your Amazon wishlist, enjoy a drink with friends, order takeout from your favorite restaurant or just relax as a reward for tidying up.

    Conclusion

    College life is hectic, and cleaning is probably one of the last things on your mind. Making it a priority is important, though, as doing so prevents messes from getting out of control. Cleaning also offers mental health benefits and can help you stay on top of your studies. Try the suggestions above to level up your cleaning routine!

  • 3 Layering Pieces Every Little Girl Needs For Winter

    3 Layering Pieces Every Little Girl Needs For Winter

    Winter is quickly approaching, and it’s time to start thinking about what you’ll need to layer your little girl up when she starts playing in the snow! She’ll need plenty of layers to keep her warm but also pieces that are cute enough to wear with her favorite dresses and leggings. Fortunately, there are plenty of adorable winter layering pieces every little girl needs, so you can easily find the cutest way to stay warm this winter! Here are some of our favorites!

    The coat

    Treat yourself to the perfect winter coat for your little girl. This is the most important piece of clothing in her wardrobe because it will keep her warm and make her look stylish at the same time. Whether she loves pink, polka dots, or plaids, there’s always something for everyone! To switch it up, look for a high-quality coat with various features like faux fur lining, removable hoods, and double-layered lining. If you’re looking for a budget option, find one that has the same features as far as warmth but without the extras.

    The sweater

    A cozy sweater is an essential layer in every winter wardrobe. They’re the perfect weight for fall and spring and provide warmth for cold days when paired with a thin long-sleeved t-shirt or tank top underneath. The best part about sweaters is that they come in many different styles! From classic cable knits to fun bright prints, you can find the perfect sweater for your little one’s style. With all of the great options out there, it’s easy to forget what makes them work so well. Sweaters are machine washable, quick drying, and packed up small.

    When choosing a sweater, make sure it fits snugly but not too tight around the neckline. When it comes time to zip it up, you want room to maneuver without stretching the fabric around the face. Some of the most stylish sweaters include:

    ● Cardigans to wear over shirts, blouses, jumpsuits, and dresses.
    ● Hoodies to wear over short and long-sleeved shirts and even under a coat.
    ● Pullovers look especially well together with a turtleneck or collared shirt.

    The long-sleeved shirt

    A long-sleeved shirt is a must-have for any little girl. It will be a favorite to wear under her sweaters and jackets in the winter but can also be worn with leggings or tights. The best part about a long-sleeved shirt is that it can also be used as a pajama top, so you don’t have to worry about buying one of those for your daughter once you have gotten all the wear out of them. Long-sleeved shirts are available in many different styles, including graphic tees, striped button-downs, polka dots, and even cute ruffly detail like these ruffle tops from presleycouture.com. They come in basic colors like white and black, which makes them perfect for layering on top of other items or pairing with bright colors to create an outfit all by itself.

    The winter months can be so fun with all of the snow and ice, but it can also be really cold. To help keep your little girl warm and looking great this winter, we recommend a cute coat, gloves that go up to the wrist, and a scarf.

  • How To Choose Play Equipment For The Whole Family

    How To Choose Play Equipment For The Whole Family

    You may think that play equipment choices only include the brightly coloured plastic cheap looking (despite the cost not being so cheap generally). Still, you may be surprised to learn that a great range of natural material play equipment is sturdy enough for adults to use too.

    If you are going to buy play equipment, why not consider a more natural look for your outdoor space where the whole family can benefit? Not only could it last much longer, but it could be more aesthetically appealing in your garden too.

    The benefits of natural materials for outdoor gym equipment

    Quality wooden and stainless steel outdoor gym and play equipment is incredibly sturdy and hardwearing and is perfect for families to have for many generations. With that in mind, you can transform your garden or open space to have play equipment that the whole family can use. Choosing natural wood will mean it can be used all year round, it will last longer than plastic as the sun doesn’t do the same damage to wood as it does the plastic children’s equipment, and it will look and feel natural even on the hotter days. Natural woods such as oak and Robinia look great too and are a far more realistic view from a living room window, so your garden will not feel overrun by bright artificial plastics.

    Sensory and Sustainable

    Children can learn the feel of natural wood when playing outside. Wood and metals offer a greater sensory experience. Far too often, overused plastic is the main focus of children’s play, so having the opportunity, whether in your own garden or by a family trip to the park, is great for children to learn about the benefits of sustainable and natural materials. Choosing natural resources is possible through suppliers such as PlayEquip, who can provide professional advice, individual outdoor play and gym equipment and bespoke solutions for your home garden or local open space.

    How to choose equipment for all ages

    Spending time outside is essential for both adults and children to help look after overall fitness and health and improve mental wellbeing, so why not have fun and play together. With the right outdoor play equipment families can take traditional bonding time outdoors. Choosing sturdier equipment means adults can join in with the kids having fun and getting fitter while they do so.

    Exercising as a family is a great way to set good habits, encourage those less able and build on what each person can do. Often exercise is one of the first things to be forfeited if time is tight, and visits to the gym can get in the way of everyday family life, so choose play equipment that offers options for the whole family.

    Examples could include

    • Outdoor pull-up bars
    • Monkey bars
    • Climbing walls
    • Weave bars
    • Rope climbs
    • Balance beams and wobble boards
    • Trampolines

    Exercise targets to reach

    Consider family play equipment that enables you as a family to exercise using the three key exercise focuses

    • Aerobic – raising your heart rate for a prolonged period. Such as jumping on a trampoline. They can be sunk into the ground, making them safer for all ages.
    • Strengthening – pulling up on monkey bars, pull-up bars and climbing walls to improve arm, leg and core body, spine and abdomen strength
    • Flexibility – balance boards, wobble boards, and everything else we have already mentioned will help build body flexibility for all ages.

    As we age, we should keep on top of regular daily exercise and spending time outside exercising is good for our health too, so using family-friendly outdoor play equipment with or without the kids will improve overall health and help in everyday life chores too.

    Flexible solutions to suit your space

    If you have a small garden, don’t have room for an indoor gym or don’t like or want plastic only safe for small children in your garden or open space, then natural wood and metal choices are the answer. Whether you buy a bespoke set-up or individual pieces, there is a wealth of play and outdoor gym equipment that the whole family can use, and it will look far more natural and enable you to connect with nature.

  • How to Choose Your Cosplay Character

    How to Choose Your Cosplay Character

    One of the finest components of crafting is the glorious opportunity to detach from the day-to-day, the tried-and-true, the mundane little ruts we all tend to fall into from time to time. We crafters escape into our art and find sweet reprieve from the boring ol’ workaday.

    Every member of the crafting cohort knows this sweet feeling, this little bit of departure we sink into each time we bring out our cutting mat and get to work. But some crafters REALLY know how to get away. Indeed, we’re talking about crafters who sink into the world of cosplay. These crafters not only generate that little getaway for the mind when they craft—they use their crafting talents to create costumes that they don for a serious dose of exodus from the day-to-day.

    Today, the goal is to encourage more crafters to venture into the world of cosplay by thinking about what characters may help them embody that little something that speaks to their inner explorer—of course, we’ll be encouraging our crafting compatriots to take the crafter’s route into the cosplay universe by making their own costumes.

    So let’s consider how to go about selecting your cosplay character. Because once that decision is made, you simply won’t be able to stop crafting creations for your alter-ego. Without further ado, let’s get into it.

    Accentuate a Trait You Love About Yourself

    What do you love most about yourself? No need for modesty here. Are you cunning, strong, fast—are you a little bit sexy? It’s okay to say yes to any of these; you aren’t broadcasting these answers online like some egoistic jerk.

    Find a character that embodies these qualities. You value your physical strength? If that’s the case, maybe you need to round up your cosplay tools and craft your own Hulk costume. Or maybe you want to pair and sex appeal—in that case, crafting ladies, maybe Wonder Woman is your move.

    The point here is to use your cosplay character as an extension of something you love about yourself.

    Or Consider Traits You Aspire To

    Perhaps you feel like you’re sometimes too submissive. Maybe you feel a little out of shape and are looking to beef up in the gym. Or maybe you’ve been dealt some real blows in life—things have come along and sent you on a path you didn’t want to go down.

    If the previous paragraph speaks to you, find that cosplay character that appeals to your inner-desire to improve your station, your lot in life. There are endless characters in the cosplay realm whose origin stories are all about overcoming adversity, characters who turned pockmarks into beauty marks. For a classic example, how about Superman—that poor fella was orphaned as a baby, but things kind of worked out for him in the end, didn’t they?

    Find a cosplay character that helps you slip into the person you’re on the path toward becoming.

    Have Realistic Costume Goals

    Now for a dose of reality: You have to keep in mind that whatever character you choose to embody—well, you need to make that costume. That means time (perhaps a lot of it), and money (perhaps a lot of that, too). Of course, there are plenty of cosplay characters the expert crafter can put together in now time, with little more than a bit of elbow grease and the proper craft knife.

    But there are plenty of cosplay costumes that are borderline impossible to put together (of course, truly elite crafters may consider these costumes an irresistible challenge).

    Know your skillset. Know your budget. Cosplay is all about escapism, but when it comes to this aspect of cosplay, you need to get practical for a second.

    Connect and Explore With Other Cosplayers

    Crafting can be a relatively solo pursuit. We sink into work in our studios and travel into the innermost realm of our creative self. But when you’re crafting for cosplay, that effort will ultimately unite you with a seemingly boundless community of like-minded souls.

    For this component of cosplay creation, we are encouraging you to connect with fellow cosplayers on the front end. That connection can potentially inspire your costume choice. Perhaps you’ll connect with players who are adhering to a theme for an upcoming cosplay event; if they have specific character needs, you can fill the void and use the group as your cosplay creation muse.

    Because when it comes right down to it, we cosplay to be among others. Cosplay is all about a creative expansion that helps players unite with folks who will likely remain friends even after the costumes come off.

    But when those costumes are removed, there’s always another event on the horizon, which means there’s endless opportunity for cosplay crafting.

  • What Qualities Should I Look For In A Mattress?

    What Qualities Should I Look For In A Mattress?

    Choosing a mattress is a minefield. Fillings, springs, breathability, size — it’s all too easy to spend hours researching and looking at what people say on forums.

    This is especially true when buying a mattress without trying it online.

    Thankfully, we’re here to help. Below, we’ve covered the main qualities to look for in a mattress. And when you’ve finished, go and check out our article on How to Choose the Right Mattress for even more handy tips.

    Let’s jump in!

    Fillings – what are they? 

    No mattress on the market uses only one filling type — all use a combination of fillings, such as foams, fibres, and wools. Here’s a run-down of the leading fillers:

    • Memory foam: contours to your body and relieves pressure on contact points. Lacks breathability unless infused with charcoal bamboo.
    • Reflex foam: flexible foam that pushes back. Found in spring and pure foam mattresses as a comfort layer to improve squishiness.
    • Latex foam: elastic and springy with some body-contouring qualities. A natural allergen, so make sure you are not allergic to latex.
    • White fibre: polyester yarn, also known as hollow fibre. Packed densely to create a comfort layer. Firmer feel than foams.
    • Natural fillings: natural fillings replace foams and white fibre. They include bamboo, cotton, wool, mohair, and pure latex foams.

    Springs – what type are they? 

    If you pick a sprung mattress, you need to know whether it has open coil springs or pocket springs. Here are the key differences:

    • Open coils: this bed of interlocked springs reacts as a single part. Provides good support but can suffer from poor movement isolation.
    • Pocket springs: individual springs sewn into pockets. The springs react independently, so this mattress type offers better support and comfort.

    Breathability – will it keep you cool? 

    Some mattresses sleep warmer than others (we’re looking at you, memory foam). If you are a hot sleeper, you should choose a cooling mattress. Here are your main options:

    • Sprung mattresses: sprung mattresses have air gaps that facilitate airflow underneath the mattress to keep you cool.
    • Cooling gel: mattresses with cooling gel will keep you cool irrespective of whether they are sprung or memory foam.
    • Charcoal-bamboo memory foam: traditional memory foam lacks breathability, but memory foam enhanced with charcoal bamboo breathes well.

    Top cover – what is it made from? 

    Although you’ll use a bedsheet on your mattress, it’s still possible to sense its softness underneath. Here’s a run-down of the main fabrics:

    • Stitchbond: stitchbond is a non-woven polyester fabric used on cheap mattresses. It has poor breathability and a scratchier feel.
    • Damask: Damask is the most common fabric. It is soft-touch, breathable, flexible, and nicer to sleep on than stitchbond.
    • Micro-quilt (knitted): micro-quilt is a knitted fabric that will provide similar softness to damask, but it has a stitch pattern that some people prefer.

    Top cover – is it plain, tufted, or quilted?  

    When you lay on a mattress, you can feel the system it uses to hold the fillings together – this is a stitched, tufted, or quilted system.

    • Stitched: stitched top covers are stitched into the top comfort layer, creating a straight or wave pattern.
    • Tufted: tufted top covers have popcorn buttons that penetrate the mattress’s layers and hold the top fillings together.
    • Quilted: quilted top covers are purely aesthetic and sit on top of the comfort layers, giving the mattress a premium finish.

    Size and thickness – does it match your bed? 

    It’s easy to match a new mattress to your bed – pick a mattress that fits your bed size. Here’s a size guide to help out even more.

    Once you’ve figured out the proper size, please pay attention to mattress thickness, which will make or break how it looks and performs on your bed.

    A mattress that is too thick could reduce the functionality of your headboard and give you the sensation you are sleeping ‘on’ your bed rather than ‘in’ it.

    Generally, divan and ottoman beds suit mattresses between 18cm and 25cm thick, while standard bed frames have more leeway.