Category: Parenting

Solving the financial requirements of education can be quite challenging, especially with the increasing education inflation. Traditional student loans have been a common choice, but they come with a host of difficulties: high interest rates, growing debt, and worries about repayment.

While these issues can feel daunting, there are other financing options out there that are not based on lending. This means you can pursue your education without the heavy burden that often comes with standard loans.

Alternative financing offers flexibility and can ease your financial burden. Options such as scholarships, work-study programs, and creative financial models like Income Share Agreements (ISAs) can be valuable in alleviating your financial worries. 

8 Popular Alternative Financing Options for Education

Let’s see some of the most popular alternative options for financing your education:

1. Scholarships

Scholarships are financial gifts that you don’t have to pay back. They can take many forms, such as merit-based, need-based, and specific awards aimed at minority groups or certain fields of study.

Here’s a brief overview of the different types of scholarships you can find:

Type of Scholarship	Description	Eligibility
Merit-Based	Awarded based on academic, artistic, or athletic talent	Varies by scholarship
Need-Based	Awarded based on financial need	Requires proof of income
Field-Specific	For students pursuing certain areas of study	Must be enrolled in specific programs
Minority Scholarships	For underrepresented groups	Based on ethnicity, gender, or disability

2. Grants

Grants can help ease financial pressures. Unlike loans, grants aren’t required to be paid back. They are typically offered based on financial need or certain criteria related to your chosen field. Look for research grants through government programs or nonprofit organizations that focus on your area of study.

3. Work-Study Programs

Work-study programs allow students to work part-time while they study, which can help reduce tuition expenses. These programs are a great opportunity to gain valuable work experience and earn money for your education.

Reach out to your school’s financial aid office to explore work-study programs. Numerous universities collaborate with local businesses to offer job opportunities specifically designed for students.

4. Income Share Agreements (ISAs)

ISAs represent an innovative approach to funding education. Under an ISA, students commit to paying a portion of their future earnings for a specified duration after they graduate, in return for financial support for their education. This arrangement creates a shared financial interest between students and investors.

Here’s a brief overview of the Pros and Cons of ISAs:

Pros	Cons
The payment amount is based on income	This can lead to high total repayments if income is high
No fixed monthly payments	Terms can be complex and vary by provider
Aligns interests of students and investors	Limited availability compared to traditional loans

5. Crowdfunding for Education

Crowdfunding allows individuals to gather small contributions from a wide audience, usually via online platforms. A lot of students have started using crowdfunding to help pay for tuition or other educational costs.

Here are some popular crowdfunding platforms: 

Platform	Description	Fees
GoFundMe	General crowdfunding platform for personal causes	0% platform fee
Kickstarter	Project-based funding, ideal for specific initiatives	5% fee + payment processing fees
Indiegogo	Flexible funding options for creative projects	5% fee + payment processing fees

 6. Employer Tuition Assistance

Many employers provide tuition assistance as a part of their benefits package. This option can help you further your education without accumulating substantial debt. Some companies will pay for part of your tuition if you enroll in courses that relate to your job.

If you believe your employer provides tuition assistance, consider having a candid discussion with your HR department. Explain how advancing your education can be advantageous for both you and the organization.

7. Peer-to-Peer Lending

Peer-to-peer lending platforms connect borrowers directly with individual lenders. This option may provide lower interest rates compared to traditional loans, but it also carries certain risks.

While peer-to-peer lending offers a more flexible option, it’s important to be aware of the possibility of high interest rates and the necessity for a strong repayment strategy. Take the time to research various peer-to-peer lending platforms to familiarize yourself with their terms.

8. Education Investment Plans

Look out for savings and investment plans well in time that provide a source of investment and tax benefits to help families save for future education expenses. These plans allow for tax-free growth and tax-free withdrawals when the funds are used for eligible education costs. They are a great source of saving and growing your investments to match the education inflation.

Looking into different ways to finance your education can result in improved financial results and reduced stress. Options like scholarships, work-study programs, income share agreements (ISAs), and crowdfunding can offer the funding you need without the burden of conventional loans. It’s important to evaluate each choice, consider the advantages and disadvantages, and select the one that best fits your educational and financial objectives.

However, education loans can also be a good alternative if they are easy and hassle-free. Some banks give education loans without collateral. They can also offer digital processes that help streamline the process.

FAQs

What are the best alternatives to traditional student loans?

Scholarships, grants, work-study programs, income share agreements, and employer tuition assistance are all excellent alternatives.

How do Income Share Agreements work?

ISAs allow students to pay a percentage of their future income for a set period in exchange for funding their education, aligning financial interests between students and investors.

Can I use crowdfunding to pay for my education?

Yes! Crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe allow students to raise money for tuition and educational expenses by sharing their stories.

What should I consider before pursuing peer-to-peer lending?

Consider the interest rates, repayment terms, and risks involved. Ensure you have a solid repayment plan in place before committing.

Are 529 plans a good investment for education?

Yes, 529 plans offer tax advantages and can help you save for education costs effectively, making them a solid choice for educational financing.

Encouraging kids to eat healthy meals can often feel like an uphill battle, but making food visually exciting can help turn the tide. One of the easiest ways to achieve this is by using edible dusts. These decorative powders, including luster dusts, petal dusts, and glitter dusts, bring vibrant color and a touch of shimmer to your dishes.

Whether you’re preparing a fun snack or a celebratory meal, edible dusts can transform ordinary foods into eye-catching masterpieces that kids find irresistible.

For safe and dazzling results, using food grade edible glitter ensures your creations are both beautiful and safe to consume.

However, proper usage is crucial, especially for children, who might be more sensitive to certain ingredients. 

This guide explores the benefits and creative uses of edible dusts while providing essential tips to ensure safety.

Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or educator, these insights will help you incorporate edible dusts into meals, making healthy eating more enjoyable for kids.

 What Are Edible Dusts?

Types of Edible Dusts

Edible dusts come in various forms, each serving a unique purpose in food decoration. Understanding their differences is key to using them effectively:

• Luster Dusts: These pearlized powders add a shimmering finish to cakes, cookies, and chocolates. Luster dust can be applied dry for a subtle glow or mixed with liquid to create a metallic paint for detailed designs.

• Petal Dusts: Known for their matte finish, petal dusts provide vibrant color without the shine. They are perfect for coloring fondant flowers or other intricate edible decorations.

• Tinker Dusts: A step up in sparkle, tinker dusts are intensely glittery and ideal for adding a dazzling finish to frosted cupcakes, cake pops, or chocolate-covered fruits.

Each type of edible dust brings something special to the table, whether it’s a soft shimmer or a bold glitter effect.

Safety and Regulations

While edible dusts add flair to food, safety is a primary concern.

Unlike non-toxic craft glitter, which is not intended for consumption, edible dusts are made from food-grade ingredients like sugar, cornstarch, or mica-based colorants.

They must meet stringent FDA guidelines to be labeled as edible. However, not all products in the market are safe.

Labels such as “non-toxic” can be misleading, as these products are safe to touch but not necessarily to eat.

Always look for clear labeling that states “edible” and ensure the product is FDA-approved.

This guarantees that the dust is made from ingredients deemed safe for human consumption, giving you peace of mind when using them in children’s meals.

Benefits of Using Edible Dusts in Kids’ Meals

Enhancing Visual Appeal

Kids are naturally drawn to vibrant and colorful foods.

A sprinkle of glitter on a bowl of oatmeal or a dash of gold dust on apple slices can make these healthy options far more appealing.

Visual excitement often translates into increased willingness to try new foods.

For example, a fruit platter adorned with colorful edible dusts can turn a regular snack into an adventurous feast.

Encouraging Healthy Eating Habits

Making nutritious meals visually attractive can encourage children to make healthier choices.

Kids who might usually turn up their noses at vegetables might reconsider when presented with a salad sparkling with a light dusting of edible glitter.

This approach can help instill long-term healthy eating habits by associating nutritious foods with fun and creativity.

Perfect for Special Occasions

From birthdays to festive holidays, edible dusts add a celebratory touch to any meal.

Imagine serving glitter-dusted cookies or cupcakes at a party—kids will be thrilled to dig in.

These dusts can also elevate simple dishes for everyday celebrations, making any meal feel special.

How to Use Edible Dusts Safely

Choosing Safe Products

Safety starts with selecting the right products.

Always opt for FDA-approved edible dusts. Labels should explicitly state that the product is edible.

Trusted brands often provide transparency about their ingredients, ensuring consumers can make informed choices.

Proper Application Techniques

Edible dusts are meant to enhance the visual appeal of food, so a light touch is often sufficient. Here are a few techniques to consider:

• Dry Application: Use a clean, food-safe brush to apply luster or glitter dust lightly over baked goods. This method works well for creating a subtle sheen on frosted cupcakes or cookies.

• Wet Application: For a more intense color or metallic finish, mix luster dust with a small amount of clear liquid, such as vodka or lemon extract, to form a paint. This can be brushed onto fondant, chocolate, or even fresh fruit for a vibrant, shimmering effect.

Storage Tips

To maintain the quality of your edible dusts, store them in tightly sealed containers away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Proper storage ensures they remain safe and effective for future use.

Creative Ways to Incorporate Edible Dusts

Transform Everyday Snacks

Adding a bit of edible dust can instantly upgrade simple snacks.

Dust popcorn with gold or silver glitter for a magical movie night treat.

Or sprinkle a bit of luster dust over yogurt or pudding cups to surprise kids with a bit of sparkle in their lunchbox.

Decorate Desserts

Desserts provide an excellent canvas for edible dusts.

From glitter-dusted brownies to shimmering cake pops, the possibilities are endless.

For a fun activity, let kids decorate their own cupcakes with edible dusts, fostering creativity and excitement around food.

Enhance Beverages

Edible dusts aren’t just for solids—they can also add a magical touch to drinks.

Stir a pinch of glitter for drinks into clear juices, lemonades, or even sparkling water to create a mesmerizing swirl of shimmer.

These drinks are sure to be a hit at parties or family gatherings.

Make Vegetables Fun

Turn vegetables into a work of art with a light sprinkle of edible glitter.

A colorful dusting on carrots, cucumbers, or even mashed potatoes can make these healthy options more appealing to picky eaters.

This simple trick can turn mealtime into a playful experience.

Tips for Encouraging Kids to Eat with Their Eyes

Involve Them in the Process

Kids are more likely to eat food they’ve helped prepare.

Let them sprinkle the dust or apply it with a brush.

This hands-on approach not only makes them feel involved but also increases their excitement to try the final product.

Balance Nutrition and Fun

While edible dusts are fantastic for enhancing visual appeal, they should complement a balanced diet.

Use them to highlight the natural beauty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains rather than overshadowing the nutritious elements of a meal.

Save the Sparkle for Special Moments

To keep the magic alive, reserve edible dusts for special occasions or themed meals.

This helps maintain their novelty and keeps kids looking forward to the next glittery dish.

Conclusion: Adding Sparkle to Nutritious Meals

Incorporating edible dusts into children’s meals is a delightful way to make healthy eating more engaging.

With their vibrant colors and shimmering effects, these decorative powders can transform the simplest dishes into exciting culinary adventures.

By choosing safe, food-grade products and using them thoughtfully, you can create meals that are both nutritious and visually stunning.

So, whether it’s a glitter-dusted apple slice or a shimmering cupcake, a little sparkle can go a long way in promoting healthier eating habits and turning mealtime into a fun, memorable experience.

Have you ever struggled to make your preschooler’s lunch something they’ll look forward to? Packing a lunch that’s both nutritious and appealing can be challenging, especially for younger kids with changing tastes. A fun and easy-to-prepare lunch can encourage them to eat better, develop healthy habits, and even enjoy the lunchtime experience more.

With a little creativity, you can make lunch a time they eagerly anticipate.

In this blog, we will share practical tips and ideas for making school lunches easy for your little one, enjoyable, and something your little one will love.

Start with Simple and Nutritious Choices

The first step to making lunch fun is keeping the food simple yet nutritious. Preschoolers are more likely to eat foods they recognize and enjoy. Fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, yogurt, and whole grains are great options that are both easy to pack and appealing to young kids. Mixing up different colors, shapes, and textures can make the meal more exciting without needing to prepare anything too complicated.

Choose a variety of foods that provide essential nutrients while keeping the flavors mild and familiar. Small bites of apple, banana slices, cheese cubes, and mini sandwiches are great choices that are easy for little hands to manage.

Use Fun and Practical Storage Options

A great way to add some excitement to your child’s lunch is by using fun, reusable storage containers. Bento boxes with compartments make it easy to separate different foods and offer a visually appealing layout. Small containers or silicone cupcake liners can help you divide items, creating an organized yet fun presentation.

In addition, using natural materials like beeswax for food wraps can make packing snacks or sandwiches even easier. Beeswax wraps are a reusable, food-safe option for wrapping up lunch items securely, helping keep them fresh without relying on plastic bags. These wraps are easy for kids to open, making them a convenient, eco-friendly choice that’s perfect for school lunches.

Add a Pop of Color with Fresh Produce

Kids are naturally attracted to bright colors, and fruits and vegetables provide a wonderful way to add color to their lunch. Include small servings of different colored produce, such as carrot sticks, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and berries. These foods offer essential vitamins and minerals, and the variety of colors makes the meal more visually interesting.

If your child isn’t a fan of certain vegetables, try cutting them into different shapes with cookie cutters to make them more appealing. A mix of colors, shapes, and sizes keeps lunch fresh and exciting each day.

Include a Fun Note or Sticker

Adding a little personal touch can make lunchtime feel extra special. Place a small note, a cheerful sticker, or a simple drawing in your child’s lunchbox. These small gestures can brighten their day and give them something to look forward to as they open their lunch.

If your child isn’t reading yet, a sticker with a favorite character or a drawing can still make a big difference. This small effort helps make lunchtime an exciting moment and reminds them that you’re thinking of them.

Get Creative with Sandwiches

Sandwiches are a staple in lunchboxes, but there are plenty of ways to make them more exciting. Try switching up shapes by using cookie cutters to turn sandwiches into stars, hearts, or even animal shapes—these small changes can make a big difference to a child’s interest. Experiment with different fillings, like turkey and cheese, peanut butter and banana, or even cream cheese and cucumber, to add variety throughout the week.

Pack a Healthy Treat

A small treat can be a nice surprise for children, as long as it’s healthy. Try including a small serving of yogurt, a few pieces of dried fruit, or a homemade snack like energy balls made with oats and honey. These treats add a bit of sweetness without too much sugar, satisfying your child’s taste for something special.

Healthy treats offer a balanced approach to packing lunches, giving your child something they enjoy while providing nutritional value. It’s a fun way to balance health with enjoyment.

Involve Your Child in Lunch Preparation

Kids are often more excited to eat a meal they helped prepare. Involve your preschooler in choosing and preparing their lunch items. They can help with tasks like picking out fruits, assembling sandwiches, or putting snacks into containers. Letting them help with lunch preparation encourages independence and makes them feel more connected to their food.

Even small tasks, like choosing between two options for a snack or helping to place items in their lunchbox, can create excitement and make lunchtime something they look forward to.

Making preschool lunches both easy and fun doesn’t have to be complicated. By focusing on simple, appealing options and adding a touch of creativity, you can turn lunchtime into an enjoyable part of your child’s day. The goal is to create meals that are nutritious, easy to eat, and engaging, helping them develop a positive relationship with food.

As you pack lunches each day, think about how these little details make a difference in their experience. With some thought and planning, you’re setting the stage for healthy eating habits and enjoyable mealtimes. What new lunch idea will you try next?

College is your children’s first real taste of independence. Although autonomy is exciting, it can also be scary. Once your kids move out of their comfort zones and exit the safety bubble your home provides, they must rely primarily on themselves for everything, especially protection. Can your children stay out of harm’s way?

As a parent, you must train your children about personal safety before pursuing their studies. Experience is the best teacher, but some lessons are better to learn theoretically than firsthand.

Most Common Crimes College Students Fall Victim to

Forcible sexual offenses and property crimes are the most prevalent illegal activities in postsecondary educational institutions. Rape and fondling account for 44% of reported on-campus crimes, victimizing women at a higher rate than men.

Regarding property crimes, college students are vulnerable to burglary and motor vehicle theft. Aggravated assault and arson are also causes for concern within school premises.

Off-campus, your children are susceptible to vehicular accidents, regardless of whether they drink, drive or both. While gun violence occurs less in college than in high school, mass shootings are nevertheless not unheard of.

5 Safety Tips to Give Your Incoming College Freshmen

Exposure to physical danger is an unfortunate consequence of leaving the nest for college. It’s unavoidable because even the safest campuses in the United States can never guarantee zero crime incidence at all times. Smarten your kids up with these five pieces of sage advice to protect themselves from any conceivable threats in college.

1.   Be Aware of School Amenities and Services

Colleges and universities deter crime by observing various precautions to keep student bodies safe. Many use a combination of access control systems, video surveillance cameras, alarms and automatic illuminators. Many also have emergency buttons that immediately contact 911 when pressed.

Academic organizations may collaborate with the local police department to prevent crime. Law enforcement officers may offer late-night transportation to students living off campus or escort those who feel unsafe walking alone after dark.

While schools may have bars on campus, most have substance use policies to regulate alcohol consumption and ban drugs, including medical marijuana, on college or university property. Many states permit educational institutions to decide whether to allow students and staff to carry concealed weapons on campus grounds.

Your children may learn everything they need to know about campus security during student orientation. However, you should also be aware of them to help your kids maximize them for their personal safety.

2.   Walk With Confidence

Criminals and bullies usually go after vulnerable individuals because they avoid resistance as much as possible. They typically prey on the meek and assured to get away with their malicious acts unscathed.

Perception is everything. Remind your children to observe proper posture and demonstrate confident body language to communicate their strength to others. They can project self-assuredness by keeping their heads up, scanning the area when walking and making casual eye contact. Tell your kids to keep their eyes off their electronics when moving to be aware of the surroundings.

Confidence is one thing — cautiousness is another. Tell your kids never to put themselves in a disadvantageous situation, no matter how much they believe in their abilities. Staying in well-lit and populated areas is wise because there’s safety in brightness and strength in numbers.

3.   Be Mindful of All Belongings

Leaving valuables unattended is a rookie mistake. Advise your children to safeguard their possessions, especially if losing them would make college life more challenging. Thieves love targeting bikes, laptops, smartphones and textbooks. Cybersecurity also becomes a major concern because devices hold a wealth of personal data, opening students up to potential identify theft and the compromising of online accounts.

4.   Don’t Overshare Online

Digital natives may not value privacy as much as the older generations because young adults grew up using social media.

As a person who knew life before the internet, you should remind your children to avoid treating Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok and X as a journal. Posting life updates can be dangerous because of lurking cyberstalkers.

Cyberstalking can be benign. However, dubious people may dig up any information on your kids for whatever nefarious reason.

It’s better to be safe than sorry, so warn your children against updating the world on their routine, plans and location. If they want to share their thoughts online, highly encourage them to use their privacy settings accordingly to filter out prying eyes on social media.

5.   Notify Others of Their Whereabouts

Tell your kids to keep a trusted person in the loop about where they’re going, especially when they may spend some time with a stranger in an enclosed space. It doesn’t have to be you — it can be a close friend or a respected mentor. If something happens, a concerned individual can contact the authorities and provide them with a lead to find and rescue them as soon as possible.

Instill the Importance of Personal Safety in Your Children

Your kids are on their own when they begin their college life. You can’t always protect them at all times once they leave the nest, so impart practical personal safety advice to them while they still live with you.

Author bio:  Cora Gold is the Editor-in-Chief of women’s lifestyle magazine, Revivalist. She strives to live a happy and healthy life with her family by her side.
Follow Cora on Facebook and LinkedIn.