Category: Parenting

Kids should learn coding from an early age, and it’s not just about future career prospects. It’s also about allowing them a new form of creative expression. Not every child will be interested in pursuing the skill, but by the time those who are excited by the idea of coding discover it, they will have lost those valuable early years of learning.

This is why it’s important to expose children to the very basics of what coding is?   Explaining the building of a website is a great way to introduce kids to the subject.  The analogy can also be related to the online games they may play.

Laying the Foundation

Understanding the basics does not have to mean teaching the actual basics.  Afterall, to beginners (young or old) coding is a complicated craft.  The first step is to explain what coding actually is and why it’s important.

Use everyday examples that relate to their experiences.  Explain that coding is the computer language behind what they see.  Such as the design behind Lego structures or creating art in real life, except that it’s done within a computer.

Breaking Down HTML

Everything begins with HTML, which stands for hyper Text Markup Language.   Explain how HTML acts like the skeleton of a website, providing structure and order. You can create an analogy by comparing website elements with building blocks.

Here are some key points you might want to cover:

• The concept of tags being at the core of HTML. At a very basic level the < and > symbols open and close things. For example, <a title>.  Now, if you want to make the title bold you do this:  <b>Title</b>

• Explain how opening and closing tags define different parts of a webpage like headers, paragraphs, or images.

• Tags also define hyperlinks, which are paths that allow a link to go to another page or website when clicked.

Things get more complicated when explaining hosting and virtualization concepts and solutions, like OpenVZ and KVM. Draw imaginary scenarios where their coded websites reside on computer servers powered by such technologies so they’re accessible from anywhere in the world!

This is certainly complex.  But the goal for beginnings is for them to get a general idea of how things work in coding and that people who learn the language can do amazing things on websites and within games.

Making It Fun with CSS

Once kids understand the basic idea that HTML is the unseen structure behind web pages, it’s time to add some color and styles using Cascading Style Sheets (CSS). Picture it as giving their websites a colorful paint job.

Key points you can address include:

• The idea of how using CSS can style textual content and manipulate layout designs, much like a painter using different brushes and colors to create a visually compelling picture.

• Concepts such as classes, ids, values, and properties that put the magic into their web design. These are ideas that kids will learn should they decide to learn how to code through a beginning class.

Engaging kids in the hands-on exercise of drawing and coloring a web page of their own creation on paper. Teach them that the same thing is done on a computer through coding.

Unleashing Creativity with JavaScript

After HTML and CSS, it’s time to incorporate the idea of interactivity into the child’s imaginary website using JavaScript. There are many popular coding languages that allows websites to respond like magic at the click of a button!

Different languages means is more than one way to build a website. Students of coding will learn the basics of each, but the exciting thing is they can specialize in the type of coding they like best.

Important points include:

• The basics of what JavaScript is and how it makes a static webpage interactive.

• Explain how in-built functions using JavaScript can engage the user, not unlike how an online game moves and changes as they play, while a basic website with an article is still.

• Not all websites use JavaScript, but most use it some it in some way to make things more compelling.

Essentially, these ideas communicate to kids that coding is not just boding text.  They can also have a lot of fun with creativity by learning to implement cool effects, from pop-up alerts to animations!

Coding Challenges

Coding isn’t always a smooth ride. Encountering errors and roadblocks is part of the learning journey and teaches problem-solving skills.

Key points to discuss at this stage include:

• Coding is a challenge, but just like building blocks are placed one-by-one to build a tower, learning works the same way. Children who want to learn how to code are introduced to concepts in an easy to understand way.

• Many children are introduced to concepts without them even knowing it. Games like Minecraft, Roblox, and LEGO Mindstorms

• Specific coding learning games like Scratch, CodinGame, and Hopscotch have been developed to go beyond the basics and keep kids engaged with more advanced basics.

Final Thoughts

Learning to code will help boost a child’s confidence while honing their analytical abilities. Following these steps helps you enable your child’s first steps into the world of coding. Keep nurturing their interests and encourage regular practice at what they enjoy doing. It’s not about perfection but progression.

Whether it’s just for fun or becomes a lifelong career, may this journey empower kids to unlock a new universe of possibilities through their newly acquired basic introduction to coding and the creative fun it offers.

The growing online sports betting industry is making gambling more and more accessible to adults and children alike. While it might be legal for adults, access to sports gambling poses many potential risks for kids. Despite an individual’s age, it’s a risky activity for anyone who even simply dabbles in it. Even more so for young minds not fully developed.

If you’re a parent, here are a few things you need to know about the risks of online sports betting.

The Rise of Online Betting: A Snapshot

The online gambling market is expected to reach over $25 billion in 2023, with most of the revenue generated in the United States. Over the past few years, many states have legalized sports betting, allowing for a boom in new online betting platforms. These platforms make gambling easily accessible to anyone with Internet access. Online sports betting sites have advertisements on social media, websites, and television, which contribute to their growing popularity.

Children and Teenagers Can Bypass Age Restrictions

Online betting platforms typically have age restrictions, with most requiring users to be at least 18 years old. However, since these platforms are online, age verification is often based on self-reporting or easily forged documents. This makes it very simple for tech-savvy teens to bypass these restrictions and gain access to online gambling sites.

The Attraction of Online Betting

Betting platforms often employ tactics to attract and retain players. These can include welcome bonuses, free spins, and loyalty rewards. Combined with the thrill of winning, these promotions can be particularly enticing to younger individuals who may need more maturity and experience to understand the risks involved.

Moreover, the illusion of easy money can be a potent lure, leading some to chase losses or develop unhealthy gambling habits.

The Risk of Addiction

The youth are particularly vulnerable to impulsive behavior and addiction. The ease of access and immersive experience offered by online betting can increase the risk of problematic gambling among young people.

The National Council on Problem Gambling reports that over 60%-80% of high school students gambled in the past year.  Furthermore, the rates of problem gambling are reported to be between 10%-14% — an alarming trend that needs to be addressed before it becomes a full-blown crisis.

Financial Implications: Personal and Social Perspectives

While the risk of addiction is concerning, there are also tangible financial consequences. The anonymity and convenience of online transactions can make it easy for teens to spend large amounts without fully grasping the implications. This could lead to significant financial strain or debts, which can impact their financial health and stability in the long term.

Problem gambling can increase dependence on social welfare benefits and higher health care costs. The annual social cost of gambling in the U.S. is about $7 billion, including gambling-related crimes, loss of business, unemployment, and bankruptcy.

Tips for Parents

Parents must be proactive, informed, and vigilant to ensure their children’s safety and well-being. Here are some tips that can help you connect and influence your child’s habits:

• Know what’s available: Over 34 states and Washington, D.C. have legalized some form of sports betting. Research laws in your state so you can talk to your kids about them.
• Educate: Familiarize yourself with popular betting sites and the signs of problematic gambling to better guide and monitor your children.
• Tech solutions: Employ parental controls and monitoring software to restrict access to gambling sites.
• Lead by example: Set a responsible example by showcasing healthy attitudes towards gambling and money. Offer them an allowance, help them save some of it by opening a bank account and reward your children when they reach certain milestones.

Helping the Youth Overcome Gambling or Betting Problems

A multifaceted approach to address this issue is essential, starting with professional support and counseling. The National Council on Problem Gambling offers specialized helplines and resources catering to the younger demographic. Moreover, the National Center for Responsible Gaming, another U.S.-based organization, has endorsed cognitive behavioral therapy as a promising treatment for youth gambling and addiction issues.

Schools equipped with structured programs that highlight the risks of gambling and demystify the notions of “easy wins” play an instrumental role. The U.S. National Library of Medicine has cited the tangible impact of youth-targeted prevention programs in curbing gambling tendencies.

With the expanding legalization of sports betting in many U.S. states, there’s a demand for stricter regulations to prevent underage participation. For instance, New Jersey has stringent age verification mechanisms on online betting platforms, setting a precedent for other states.

A Team Effort

Tackling youth gambling addiction in the U.S. is a complex challenge requiring a concerted effort from parents, educators, policymakers, and communities. While statistics show the pressing nature of the problem, they also highlight the potential for strategic interventions to create a positive change. A proactive and informed approach can help guide American youths toward safer and healthier choices in the digital age.

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.

Parenting today is a multifaceted challenge, amplified by the influence of technology. A recent Pew Research Center survey revealed that 66% of parents in the US feel that parenting is more complicated now, often pointing to the pervasive role of smartphones and social media.

To ensure advancement in all subjects, you need to stay updated on your child’s progress to help them reach there potential.  But first, let’s understand why.

The Importance of Real-Time Progress Monitoring

Traditional methods like yearly tests fail to truly understand a child’s learning journey.

Now, with student progress monitoring – a dynamic approach offering real-time insights – parents become vital allies in their child’s education.

It’s a collaborative effort involving teachers, parents, and students to boost academic performance, essential life skills, and a strong foundation for future success.

This guide explores effective strategies for parents drawn from expert insights and practical experiences. Let’s delve into these strategies.

1. Use Online Portals and Educational Apps

Harness the power of technology by regularly checking online portals provided by schools. These portals offer real-time updates on your child’s grades, assignments, and participation.

Additionally, explore educational apps that cater to your child’s specific learning needs. Many apps offer integrated progress trackers, providing detailed insights into your child’s academic engagement and implementation.

2. Maintain Regular Communication with Teachers

Establish a strong line of communication with your child’s teachers. Attend parent-teacher conferences, engage in email exchanges, and participate in school events.

Understand your child’s performance and gain valuable insights into their strengths, challenges, and social interactions, allowing for a holistic perspective on their progress.

3. Collaborate with Online Teachers for Individualized Support

If your child faces specific challenges, collaborate closely with their teachers to create individualized support plans.

Address learning gaps, explore tailored teaching methods, and seek additional resources such as tutoring or specialized educational programs.

Work collaboratively with teachers to ensure your child’s unique needs are effectively met.

If your child is still falling behind, enrol them in tuition from online tutors for 2nd grade. You should also be in regular touch with them.

4. Participate Actively in Homework

Homework is not just a solitary task for your child. Actively engage with them during homework sessions.

Assist in planning study schedules, discuss assignments, and encourage critical thinking.

Work with your child on homework to ensure completion and enhance their understanding of the subject.

5. Actively Participate and Attend School Events

Participate in school events and volunteer for activities for insights into your child’s social interactions and extracurricular engagements.

It lets you observe teamwork, leadership skills, and overall school experience. It nurtures a sense of community, reinforcing the idea that education is collaborative.

Read about the benefits of learning analytics to improve results for young learners, by using data to understand learner performance.

6. Regular Review of Graded Assignments

Stay proactive by regularly reviewing your child’s graded assignments, quizzes, exams, and performance tasks. Understand teachers’ feedback and identify improvement areas.

Track their progress consistently to intervene promptly when needed and offer targeted assistance.

7. Opt for Interactive Learning Sessions

Engage your child in interactive learning sessions at home in a distraction free environment.  Encourage them to share what they’ve learned in school, ask questions, and explore topics of interest together.

These discussions not only reinforce their learning but also provide you with insights into their academic passions and challenges.

8. Attend Workshops and School Board Meetings

Participate in workshops organized by schools, focusing on parenting strategies, educational trends, and student development.

Additionally, attend school board meetings to stay informed about educational policies and curriculum changes.

A comprehensive understanding of the educational landscape equips you to advocate effectively for your child’s needs.

9. Promote Social Growth and Peer Interactions

Beyond academics, focus on your child’s social growth. Encourage positive peer interactions, teach empathy and communication skills, and foster friendships with children who have a positive influence.

Social well-being significantly impacts academic performance and overall happiness.

10 Celebrate Achievements and Efforts

Create a culture of celebration at home. Acknowledge not only your child’s achievements but also their efforts and perseverance.

Celebrate big and small milestones, reinforcing the importance of hard work and dedication. Positive reinforcement strengthens their confidence and motivates them to excel further.

11. Strike A Balance in Parental Involvement

Navigating between support, guidance, and independence is fundamental. Avoid excessive surveillance, akin to helicopter parenting, allowing your child to face challenges and learn from mistakes.

Offer guidance, affirm their decisions, and foster open dialogue. Balance involvement to nurture resilience, ensuring they grow into confident, capable individuals.

Conclusion

Mastering the strategies for monitoring your child’s progress is about active involvement, effective communication, and adaptability.

By embracing these strategies, parents become proactive advocates for their child’s education, ensuring a nurturing and empowering learning environment.

Remember, your role as a parent is not just to support but to actively guide your child’s educational journey, laying the foundation for a successful future.

School holiday breaks can be excellent fun for kids and families. They get enough time to spend together, go to parks, play games, or go for a family vacation. However, this period comes with its set of challenges. For the most part, parents work during this period, and the kids are left alone without an adult taking care them.

Children are playful, curious, and love trying new things. Often these traits lead to injuries, damages, and in the worst scenarios – getting into things they shouldn’t.  Therefore, whether you’re leaving your kids at home, or travelling with them, their safety should always be a priority.

Here are some top tips that can help you safeguard your kids during the holiday breaks:

1. Enrol To Summer Camps

Summer camps and holiday school programs are an excellent way for parents to keep their children safe even when they’re away from home. First, these camps guarantee supervision as the camps are staffed with experienced counsellors who supervise the kids all the time ensuring they’re safe and doing the right thing.

Additionally, when you sign up to a school holiday program and other top programs, your kids can participate in numerous activities such as sports, hiking, art and crafts, and more. This can help keep the kids engaged during the summer break.

Finally, these camps offer educational programs that can help your kids develop their skills. Some programs offer STEM courses, art workshops, and language classes. Additionally, they ensure that students can socialize and build their confidence.

2. Ensure Food Safety

Food safety is another major concern for kids during the holiday break as they may spend more time at home eating snacks. There can be cases of constipation, allergies, or food poisoning which can be serious especially for children. You should teach your kids how to handle food safely such as washing hands to avoid contamination and monitoring what and when they’re eating.

Additionally, if your kids want to prepare food, you should monitor how they use appliances such as cookers and fryers as they may not fully comprehend the risks they carry. This will help prevent cases such as fire hazards and accidents.

You should also be careful with leftovers, raw, and undercooked foods as they may lead to stomach complications. By following these tips, you’ll ensure you safeguard your kids from any cases of food poisoning and stomach complications during the holidays.

3. Teach Kids About Internet Safety

The internet provides a good place for kids to learn new skills and watch fun videos. However, it can also be a platform for cyberbullying, trolls, attacks, inappropriate content, and predators. Therefore, you should teach them about how to keep themselves safe when using the internet.

First, you should teach them about how to be good digital users. They should learn to be respectful to others, such as thinking before posting or commenting and not sharing personal information online.  Secondly, you should monitor their online activities to ensure they don’t access harmful content and know who they’re talking to.

Lastly, it’s important to set rules on internet usage such as what websites they can visit, who they talk to, and what time they spend there. It’s advisable to include parental control to restrict what they can access to protect them.

4. Keep Dangerous Items Out of Reach

Keeping dangerous items such as medication, cleaning supplies, guns, and alcohol away from children can help protect them from self-harm and hurting each other. Kids are naturally curious and will experiment with anything.  However, they’re not aware of the danger and harm.

To ensure their safety, keep any dangerous item out of reach. For example, bottles of alcohol should be stored in locked cabinets or high shelves. Lock guns in a safe and ensure kids don’t know the password or pin. You should also be aware of poisonous plants and herbs around the house and destroy them or keep them far from your kids.

5. Protect Them When Outdoors

The holiday break is full of activities such as visiting the park, bike riding, skating, swimming, and many more. These activities keep them engaged, allow them to build their physical skills and coordination, and bond with their friends. However, it’s common for them to get injured during their playtime.

While minor injuries aren’t a major concern, there can be major injuries, such as concussion. Therefore, your kid should be protected when playing outside.

They should have protective gear such as helmets and kneepads when skating or riding bikes. If they go out swimming, they should have swimsuits and floaters and there’s should be an adult to watch over them. Such action will ensure they’re safe when having fun.

Conclusion

Your kid’s safety should always be a priority when they’re home for a school holiday break. While it’s their time to have fun and life away from books and school activities, they should do it a safe way.

Focus on what they do online, what games they play, what items they can access, and many others discussed in the article. This will safeguard them from any harm and ensure they enjoy their holiday and give you peace of mind.