Category: Parenting

If you’re a parent curious about how your child can dive into the world of coding competitions, this guide is your roadmap. We’ll cover what these contests involve, how to find age-appropriate and reputable events, and how you can become your child’s ultimate coding cheerleader throughout the journey.

In a world where screens often get a bad rap, coding competitions are flipping the script in the best possible way. It might look like play, but make no mistake—this is one of the most enriching ways a child can spend their time. These are arenas where critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration collide in ways a traditional classroom might not always be able to nurture.

What Are Coding Competitions for Kids?

Coding competitions for kids are organized events where young programmers tackle specific challenges using different programming languages or platforms. These range from basic logic puzzles for younger children to sophisticated app-building, robotics, or AI problem-solving for older students. They’re usually time-bound and come with clear rules, themes, or problem statements to guide participants.

But these competitions are more than just coding marathons meant for aspiring software developers eager for a challenge. They simulate real-world environments where deadlines matter, teamwork counts, and quick, strategic thinking under pressure becomes an asset. As a result, approaching them with the right mentality can.

Why Do Coding Competitions Matter?

It’s tempting to look at coding competitions as just another extracurricular activity, but their benefits go far beyond entertainment or resume padding:

• Cognitive growth: Kids develop the ability to break down complex problems into manageable steps and use logical reasoning to solve them.

• Creativity: Many challenges are open-ended, giving participants room to innovate and think outside the box.

• Persistence: Debugging isn’t just a task; it’s a lesson in patience, focus, and never giving up.

• Communication: In team-based competitions, kids must articulate ideas clearly and collaborate effectively.

• Portfolio building: Even participation—let alone winning—can enhance school applications and internship resumes with tangible, impressive achievements.

These competitions also help children learn that iteration is part of success. A failed solution isn’t the end of the road; it’s a valuable step toward mastering a skill or concept. That mindset is priceless, whether they end up as engineers, designers, or entrepreneurs.

How to Find the Right Coding Competition

With so many competitions available, finding the right fit for your child can feel a bit overwhelming. But with the right filters and a little research, it becomes much easier to narrow things down:

1. Age Appropriateness

Some competitions are designed for high school students already familiar with languages like Python or Java. Others are built for younger learners, introducing concepts through visual programming tools like Scratch, Blockly, or Tynker. Always check the competition’s age range and recommended skill level to ensure it’s a good fit for your child.

2. Format and Scope

As you’re probably aware, monotony and a lack of real-world practice are the foremost obstacles when kids are learning how to code. Competitions single-handedly solve this issue by taking the following forms:

• Hackathons: Time-limited events (usually over a day or weekend) focused on building a tangible product or solving a specific problem.

• Olympiads: More academic, these contests focus on algorithms, logic puzzles, and computational thinking.

• Game Jams: Perfect for creative minds, these are all about designing and coding playable games from scratch.

• Themed Challenges: Some competitions focus on specific real-world issues like sustainability, healthcare, or education, allowing kids to code with purpose.

3. In-Person vs. Virtual

Since the pandemic, many events offer virtual participation, which is great for flexibility and accessibility. However, in-person events bring a unique energy and social component that can be incredibly motivating for kids. Choose based on your child’s comfort and enthusiasm.

4. Credibility

Stick with well-established names or competitions affiliated with trusted schools, nonprofits, or large tech companies. Here are a few examples to explore:

• Google’s Code-In (great for learning fundamentals while also being able to pick tasks)
• Hour of Code and Code.org initiatives
• First Lego League (combining robotics and programming)
• Bebras Computing Challenge (logic-based, low-barrier entry)
• CoderZ League (virtual robotics, team-based)
• American Computer Science League (ACSL)

Look at past participants, event reviews, and whether the contest is endorsed by reputable organizations or educators. That’ll give you a clearer picture of what to expect.

How Parents Can Support Their Budding Coders

You don’t have to be a software engineer to be your child’s biggest supporter. In fact, your encouragement, structure, and interest go a long way:

1. Create a Practice Environment

Set aside consistent time each week for coding practice in a quiet, comfortable space. Tools like CodeCombat, Tynker, and Khan Academy offer structured paths, but tasks with a clear purpose like splitting documents with Python or solving real-life puzzles or conundrums can also be helpful.

2. Encourage Peer Interaction

If your child has access to a school coding club or local meet-up, encourage them to participate. Learning alongside peers fosters idea exchange, builds confidence, and mimics the collaborative nature of real-world tech work.

3. Break Down the Process

After each practice session or competition, talk through what went well and what could be improved. Ask them to explain their approach, and before you know it, this might even cure any remnants of math-hate the kid may have. .

4. Manage the Pressure

It’s easy for kids (and parents) to get caught up in rankings and awards. Keep things in perspective. Remind them that even top developers write broken code at times. What’s important is their growth, not just the outcome.

Prepping for the Big Day

Preparation shouldn’t feel like cramming for a test. The best way to get ready is with regular, focused practice that mirrors the real competition environment:

• Start Early: Identify target competitions months in advance to avoid last-minute stress.

• Simulate the Experience: Time-box coding challenges at home to build endurance and focus.

• Reflect Often: After practice sessions, talk about coding both in a theoretical and practical context, as well as how to tackle similar challenges in the future.

• Rotate Roles in Teams: Let kids experiment with various roles like coding, UX design, project presentation, and even timekeeping. It builds holistic skills and confidence.

Consider making prep a family routine—perhaps coding on Saturday and reviewing on Sunday. Keep it light, flexible, and fun.

Final Thoughts

Coding competitions aren’t just about computers and lines of code—they’re about growth, confidence, curiosity, and community. They teach kids to think critically, work smart, collaborate across skill sets, and bounce back from setbacks with resilience. They create moments where your child realizes they’re capable of building real things that solve real problems—and that realization is both powerful and empowering.

So, if your child is showing even a flicker of interest in coding, nurture it. Support them through the highs and lows, celebrate their learning curves, and most importantly, keep the experience joyful. Because in today’s digital world, coding isn’t just a skill. It’s a superpower. And every superhero needs a trusted sidekick—that’s you.

When you think of orthodontics, what likely comes to mind are teenagers with metal braces. Maybe you picture awkward smiles, their anxiety about going back to school the day after getting them, monthly adjustments, and the long wait for that final, freeing retainer.

But what many parents don’t realize is that a child’s first visit to the orthodontist should happen much earlier—by age 7, to be exact.

According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), age 7 is the ideal time for a child to have their first orthodontic evaluation. This recommendation isn’t about putting braces on second graders—it’s about identifying potential issues in a child’s developing mouth and jaw early on, while they are still easier (and often less expensive) to treat.

If you’re a parent, here’s why this milestone matters—and what to expect when you bring your child in for an early orthodontic evaluation.

Why Age 7 Is a Key Age for Orthodontic Screening

At around age 7, most children have a mix of baby (primary) teeth and adult (permanent) teeth. This stage is referred to as the “mixed dentition” phase. It’s the perfect time to evaluate how your child’s bite is developing.

An orthodontist can spot subtle issues that might go unnoticed by a general dentist, such as:

• Bite misalignment (overbite, underbite, or crossbite)
• Crowding or spacing issues
• Abnormal tooth eruption patterns
• Jaw growth irregularities
• Habits like thumb-sucking that could affect dental development

Early treatment means early detection so that your orthodontist can monitor growth and development and recommend treatment only if it’s truly needed.

Benefits of Early Orthodontic Evaluation

You might be wondering: if braces usually come in the teen years, what’s the point of going to the orthodontist so early?

Here are a few important advantages:

1. Early Intervention May Prevent Future Problems

Some issues, such as severe crowding or crossbites, are best treated while the jaw is still developing. In these cases, early intervention—also known as Phase I orthodontics—can guide jaw growth, create room for incoming permanent teeth, and reduce the need for extractions or surgery later on.

2. Shorter and Less Complicated Treatment Later

When problems are detected and managed early, it often makes Phase II (braces or clear aligners in the teen years) shorter, simpler, and more affordable.

3. Improved Self-Esteem for Kids

In some cases, children may develop speech issues, trouble chewing, or self-consciousness due to visible dental issues. Early treatment can help correct these concerns and improve a child’s confidence.

What Happens at an Orthodontic Visit for a 7-Year-Old?

Parents often feel anxious about what to expect at their child’s first orthodontic visit. Fortunately, the initial consultation is completely non-invasive and often fun for the child.

Here’s a general overview of what happens:

• Exam & Imaging: The orthodontist will perform a visual exam of your child’s teeth, bite, and jaw, and take digital X-rays or photos.

• Growth & Development Review: They’ll assess how your child’s teeth and jaw are growing.

• Customized Recommendation: You’ll get a clear explanation of any findings. If no treatment is needed, the orthodontist will likely recommend “growth guidance” visits every 6-12 months to monitor progress.

Many orthodontists offer free consultations for children, making it easy for families to get this crucial check-up without commitment.

Signs That Your Child May Need an Orthodontic Evaluation Sooner

While age 7 is the standard recommendation, there are some signs that may indicate a need for even earlier attention. If you notice any of the following, it’s a good idea to schedule an orthodontic consultation right away:

• Early or late loss of baby teeth
• Difficulty biting or chewing
• Mouth breathing
• Speech impediments
• Jaws that pop, shift, or appear unbalanced
• Thumb-sucking or pacifier use beyond age 3
• Teeth that protrude or don’t meet properly

Why Families Are Prioritizing Early Orthodontics

For families where a child’s overall well-being is a priority, parents are increasingly looking for ways to invest in their children’s long-term health. Orthodontic care may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it’s an important part of the picture.

Here’s why early orthodontic awareness is growing:

1. Access to Modern Technology

Today, there are many state-of-the-art orthodontic offices equipped with digital scanning, 3D imaging, and early intervention tools that weren’t widely available a generation ago.

2. Focus on Preventative Health

Parents today understand the value of prevention—not just in medicine, but in dentistry too. Addressing small orthodontic issues before they become major problems saves time, money, and stress down the line.

3. More Options Than Ever Before

From braces with colorful bands to nearly invisible aligners, orthodontists can provide kid-friendly solutions that align with your child’s personality and comfort level.

What If No Treatment Is Needed?

This is one of the best-case scenarios!

Many children are simply placed into an observation program, where their orthodontist will check in every 6-12 months to make sure teeth are coming in properly. This approach gives you peace of mind and helps you plan ahead if treatment is needed later.

By having a trusted orthodontist on your team early, you’re setting your child up for the healthiest smile possible—without surprises or rushed decisions.

Final Thoughts: The Right Time Is Now

If your child is nearing age 7—or if they’ve already passed it—it’s not too late to schedule their first orthodontic visit. In fact, many families don’t realize this milestone until they’re referred by their dentist or hear about it from other parents.

As with many things in parenting, being proactive is the key. A simple consultation could make all the difference in your child’s future smile, confidence, and oral health.

Looking for a Trusted Orthodontist?

Ensure you choose a board-certified orthodontist who has experience working with young children and a strong reputation for family-centered care.

Look for practices that:

• Offer free or low-cost consultations
• Have positive local reviews
• Use the latest technology
• Provide flexible hours for busy families

Early orthodontic care isn’t just about straight teeth—it’s about helping your child grow into a healthy, confident young adult.

Remember: The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child see an orthodontist by age 7. It’s a small step that can lead to a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Juggling work, school, extracurriculars, and everything in between can leave families feeling stretched thin.  When the weight of mental health challenges arises, finding the time and resources for traditional therapy can feel like another hurdle.  What if there was a way to access support that accommodates your family’s life?

Say hello to blended learning therapy.  This innovative model offers a lifeline to families in search of connection, understanding, and healing.

What Is Blended Learning Therapy?

Blended learning therapy thoughtfully merges the personal connection of in-person therapy with the convenience and flexibility of online counseling. The result is a treatment experience tailored to families’ unique needs.

How Does Blended Learning Therapy Work for Families?

This approach may begin with a traditional in-person session or a virtual meeting. The first meeting allows the therapist to connect directly with family members to understand their dynamics. It helps build rapport and for everyone to feel comfortable.

Any necessary paperwork will likely be completed at this time, as well.

This type of therapy may cover a range of practice areas, from virtual IOP at Sophros Recovery to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for families. Since therapy is customized, a therapist may use various methods, including:

• Video conferencing technology
• Phone therapy sessions
• In-office sessions
• Remote group therapy
• Weekly email check-ins

Therapists may also suggest creative online exercises or activities.

For example, a teenager may find it easier to open up through text-based journaling between face-to-face sessions. Working parents could schedule virtual counseling sessions after work or email during lunch breaks.

Such flexibility adapts to varying schedules, preferences, and specific challenges facing families.

Blended Learning Therapy Resources

Blended learning therapists often use online resources to enhance the therapeutic process.

For example, a therapist may set up an online note taking app where families can jot down ideas collectively. Some apps even track therapy progress, encouraging families to set and meet goals.

A therapist can share (relevant) links to helpful articles or videos. Therapists may also recommend books through reading apps or provide a complete book list.

Why is Blended Learning Therapy Important for Families?

Blended therapy breaks down common barriers to therapy by offering flexible solutions and multiple therapy delivery options. Common barriers include:

• Demanding work schedules
• Multiple extracurricular activities
• Living in rural communities with less access to therapists

Cost is another common barrier. Travel expenses, childcare costs, and even taking time off work can add up. Blended learning therapy is more budget-friendly, reducing travel time.

Blended options ensure more families receive crucial mental health support.

Blended learning therapy recognizes that every family is unique; therefore, therapists adapt approaches to specific challenges, learning styles, and communication preferences. This personalized approach can lead to more effective and engaging therapy.

Real-World Examples of Blended Learning Therapy in Action

For example, blended (CBT) learning therapy can help a teenager struggling with depression. A therapist may combine weekly in-person cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) sessions with online interactive modules on coping skills. Personalized feedback on therapy “homework” can be submitted through secure messaging.

A child experiencing anxiety might benefit from blended learning therapy that includes in-person sessions on healthy coping mechanisms. This approach may be supplemented with online relaxation techniques a child can practice at home.

Virtual support groups may also be formed for the parents of an anxious child, so the parents feel community and understanding, as well.

Blended Couples Counseling

Busy parents who struggle to find time for in-person couples therapy can alternate between in-person and video conferences after work. Online communication platforms allow for ongoing discussion and conflict resolution strategies between sessions.

Overcoming the Challenges of Blended Learning Therapy

It’s important to acknowledge potential challenges with this approach and how to overcome them. For example, technical issues, such as unreliable internet access, can be a barrier for some families. Open communication with therapists about these concerns is crucial to finding workable solutions.

While maintaining a strong therapeutic connection is paramount, some parents may worry that online interactions will feel less personal. Skilled blended learning therapists are adept at building and nurturing connections through various mediums.

The answer is open communication and an active willingness on the part of all family members to engage fully in both the in-person and online aspects of therapy.

Ensuring consistent client engagement in both in-person and online spaces requires thoughtful planning and motivation. Therapists can play a vital role in keeping families engaged by making online activities fun, providing regular feedback, and fostering a sense of accountability.

Discover a Brighter Future for Family Well-being

Blended learning therapy represents a significant step forward in making mental health support more accessible, flexible, and effective for families.

By thoughtfully integrating the power of in-person connection with the convenience of online tools, blended learning therapy offers a dynamic and adaptable approach that meets the diverse needs of modern families.

Parenting in the digital age presents a unique set of challenges. Between school assignments, extracurricular activities, screen time concerns, behavioral shifts, and your own busy schedule, staying on top of everything can feel like an impossible balancing act.

For many families, especially those with school-age children, organization isn’t just a skill—it’s survival.

One of the simplest yet most powerful tools a parent can use to regain control and support their child’s development is a planner or customizable notebook. Not only can it help manage daily routines and academic responsibilities, but it can also serve as a behavior journal, a learning tracker, and a communication bridge between home and school.

A growing number of families are turning to purpose-built tools to do this effectively. For instance, Plum Paper offers a wide range of fully customizable planners tailored specifically for family life, school tracking, and behavior management—all in one place. These kinds of resources help parents adapt to the constantly changing rhythms of modern family life.

Let’s explore how planners can become more than just calendars and checklists—they can be powerful frameworks for understanding, supporting, and empowering your child.

Why Organization Matters More Than Ever for Parents

Modern parenting is demanding. With more dual-working households, blended learning environments, and increased screen exposure, parents are pulled in multiple directions. Add to that the emotional labor of managing a child’s academic performance, emotional wellbeing, and social development, and it’s easy to see why many parents feel overwhelmed.

This is where planners can make a huge difference. They help translate chaos into structure, intention into action, and daily tasks into measurable outcomes. When parents are organized, they’re better positioned to:

• Monitor their child’s progress at school
• Manage stress levels at home
• Communicate effectively with teachers and caregivers
• Promote independence and accountability in their kids
• Organization is not just a productivity hack—it’s a parenting strategy.

Building Academic Awareness at Home

Children, especially those in early education, need guidance and encouragement to develop effective study habits. When parents track what their kids are learning, they stay better informed and engaged, leading to more meaningful support.

A well-structured planner enables you to:

• Record homework and reading assignments
• Set mini goals for test preparation
• Track quiz and exam scores
• Highlight progress on long-term projects

Over time, these entries form a clear academic profile. You’ll start to notice patterns, like whether your child consistently struggles with math assignments after weekends, or if they perform better when a certain study routine is followed. This kind of visibility allows for timely interventions before grades start to slip.

It also encourages your child to take ownership of their learning. Seeing their goals written down, tracking achievements, and checking off milestones gives kids a sense of pride and motivates them to stay consistent.

Tracking Behavioral Patterns Effectively

Children’s behavior is often a reflection of how they’re processing emotions, stress, or changes in their environment. By logging behavioral events—both positive and challenging—you can begin to understand the “why” behind the “what.”

Use your planner to track:

• Emotional outbursts
• Mood swings
• Sleep patterns
• Social interactions
• Screen time triggers

When you begin documenting this consistently, you’ll see trends emerge. For example, if a child becomes irritable on Monday mornings, it may be a sign of Sunday night anxiety. Or if positive behavior increases after outdoor playtime, that’s a cue to prioritize it more.

Documenting behavioral changes not only gives you clarity but can also be incredibly useful when working with teachers, counselors, or pediatricians. You’ll have concrete examples to discuss rather than relying on vague observations.

Setting Routines That Actually Stick

Planners can help you and your child build routines that foster independence and emotional safety. Children thrive when they know what to expect. Predictability helps regulate emotions and reduces anxiety—especially in younger kids.

Try using your planner to establish:

• Morning routines (wake-up, hygiene, breakfast, school prep)
• Homework schedules
• Bedtime rituals
• Family tech-free zones
• Weekend activity slots

Visualizing these habits creates structure, and that structure creates freedom—freedom from stress, missed deadlines, or chaotic mornings. Kids also love routine charts and checklists, especially when they get to check off completed tasks themselves. It’s an early lesson in goal-setting and follow-through.

Enhancing Parent-Teacher Communication

Teachers often rely on short parent-teacher conferences or digital reports to share updates. But when parents come to these meetings with specific observations, the collaboration deepens significantly.

A planner that includes both school-related notes and at-home observations allows you to:

• Compare school performance with at-home behavior
• Document recurring academic challenges
• Share insights on behavior triggers or mood swings
• Align strategies across environments (e.g., classroom behavior charts and at-home reward systems)

Bringing this kind of data to a conversation changes the dynamic from reactive to proactive. It shows teachers you’re engaged and opens up the door for joint problem solving.

According to a report by Edutopia, children perform better academically and socially when parents and teachers maintain strong communication and use shared insights to adjust learning plans.

Journaling Emotional Growth

Beyond tracking school performance and behavior, planners can become emotional development journals. Create a section for daily or weekly reflections that help your child express themselves.

Prompts could include:

• What made me happy today?
• Something that challenged me this week was…
• A moment I was proud of myself.
• A time I helped someone else.

These exercises help kids build emotional intelligence, reflect on their actions, and improve self-awareness. They also give parents a window into their child’s internal world—something that’s often difficult to access through casual conversation.

Making it Fun: Visuals, Stickers & Rewards

One of the easiest ways to keep younger kids engaged with their planner is by making it visual. Use:

• Color-coded pens for different tasks
• Stickers for achievements
• Emojis to represent moods
• Weekly reward boxes

This adds a layer of fun and interactivity. Planners should be viewed not as another chore, but as a tool for self-expression and creativity. Involving your child in the design of their section—especially with customizable products like Plum Paper—creates a sense of ownership and pride.

Balancing Screen Time with Real Time

It’s no secret that screen time is one of the most challenging aspects of modern parenting. With many learning platforms being digital, the lines between education and entertainment can blur quickly.

Using a planner to log screen time—by type (educational vs. entertainment), time of day, and mood after use—can help you create more balanced routines.

For example:

With consistent tracking, you’ll begin to identify ideal screen time durations, preferred educational apps, and even signs of digital overstimulation.

Combining Digital and Paper Tools

While physical planners offer tactile benefits, many parents prefer a hybrid system. Syncing important reminders to your phone, setting weekly review alerts, or uploading snapshots of planner pages into a cloud folder can help maintain momentum.

But be careful: too many tools can lead to “app fatigue.” Choose 1–2 digital supports (like a shared Google Calendar or family productivity app) to complement your paper system, not replace it.

Planners for Neurodiverse Families

For parents of children with ADHD, autism, or sensory processing disorders, planners can be especially powerful. Visual routines, progress charts, sensory logs, and emotion trackers can be customized to suit individual needs.

Structure and predictability help neurodiverse children feel more in control. A planner also helps parents document interventions, therapy sessions, and feedback from specialists—making it easier to advocate for your child in school settings.

When to Start Using a Planner with Your Child

Even preschoolers can benefit from age-appropriate planning tools. Start small:

• A “My Day” chart with simple icons
• A weekly sticker tracker
• A bedtime checklist

Gradually increase complexity as your child grows. By the time they reach middle school, they’ll have the confidence and skills to use planners independently—setting them up for success in high school and beyond.

A planner is so much more than a to-do list—it’s a tool for intentional parenting. It helps families slow down, tune in, and respond thoughtfully to the needs of their children. Whether you’re monitoring learning goals, tracking behavior, building emotional resilience, or simply trying to remember library day, a well-structured planner brings clarity to the chaos.

As a parent, you have the power to model the habits of reflection, accountability, and goal-setting. A notebook might seem simple—but in the right hands, it becomes a lifelong skill-building tool that empowers both you and your child.