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5 Creative Ways to Kick that Teen Attitude

6/24/2015

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Image © Electric Gnome; Flickr.com

When your teen is shouting and stomping, you'll try just about anything to get them to stop. But forget about all those fancy programs. If your teen is the average child without any mental or physical conditions, get back to basics. These simple, yet creative methods work time and again when my teen gets a little cranky.

Find your teen a hobby or let them work. Sometimes a cranky teen is simply a bored teen. Give them something to do. This could be something simple like walking the dog daily. They also may want to volunteer at a local animal shelter. My teen daughter visits so much, she is going to apply for an official position this summer. Sports and local community classes are another way to take up that time and release pent up energies. Department stores, restaurants, and many other establishments often have positions teens can apply for.

Spend more time together. You may think they want you to completely disappear. But the truth is, your teen still loves you and wants your attention. Take time out as often as possible to spend with your teen. It doesn't matter so much what you do, as long as you are spending time together. My teen likes me to go with her to the animals shelter. We also might take walks or have a mother and daughter day. If you have other kids, like I do, try rotating time with each one and spending time with all together.

Give teens room to breathe. This may seem to contradict the idea of spending time together. But in order to be happy and balanced, your teen needs both. Let your teen be independent if he's feeling especially moody. The teenage years can come with pent up frustration for many reasons. Friends, hormones, and just life in general could be stressing your teen out. Let him be alone to think before rushing to ask questions. Sometimes too much prodding can cause even more pressure, especially if your teen is facing a difficult issue or decision.

Just listen. If you want your teen to be able to chill the attitude and open up to you, be quiet. I know firsthand that it can be hard not to ask what's going on or analyze the situation. But sometimes us parents just need to keep our lips sealed. The silence can help calm your teen down and make her feel comfortable enough to open up. When she starts talking, don't offer advice right away. Just listen until she is done. Her attitude may be in part due to the fact that she feels no one is listening to her. If you are always offering advice, you could be adding to those insecure thoughts.

Laugh often. I know, I know. This is so simple. It sounds like it is easier said than done. But trust me, when there is constant laughter, your teen will have an easier time ditching the attitude to the curb. I'm not saying don't take problems seriously. But learn to laugh at mistakes and learn from them. Tell jokes all the time, even if they are corny. Laughter helps relieve stress in both teens and adults and can be very helpful in ditching an attitude problem. It's pretty hard not to laugh when everyone else in the room is doing it. Try it. You'll see what I mean.

Keep in mind that there can be serious reasons behind your teen's attitude. So, don't ignore those signs, even if they are faint. Also, be sure your teen has regular visits to the appropriate health professionals.

*I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network

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Treating Common Injuries and Risks for Your Children During Outdoor Play Time

6/23/2015

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Image © WhitA; Flickr.com

Part of being a child is playing outdoors. Outdoor play can offer a child many benefits, such as lessons in nature and physical movement skills. No matter how careful the child and parent are to follow safety rules, sometimes children get hurt. Below, you will find some typical minor injuries a child can receive while playing, as well as advice and safety tips for each. If the child's injury is an emergency, call 911 right away.

Minor Cuts and Scrapes

For minor cuts and scrapes, rinse the wound with clear water to avoid irritation and rinse with an antiseptic. Next, apply antibiotic ointment to prevent infection. For the most minor wounds, leave the area uncovered, as a bandage can slow the healing process. For deeper minor wounds, apply a bandage of appropriate size to help prevent infection from getting in. Change the bandage and re-apply the antibiotic ointment twice daily, until the wound has closed. Large, deep, or puncture wounds should receive medical attention via 911 right away.

Sunburn

The best way to prevent sunburn is to apply sunscreen on your child every time he plays outside. Sunscreen that contains an SPF of 30 or higher (the higher, the better) and is PABA free is the best for use in children. If your child has a sunburn, gently place cool cloths on the affected area for a few minutes. Afterward, apply aloe gel. Do not apply lotions or water warmer than room temperature, as this will sting the sunburned area.

Insect Bites and Stings

To prevent an insect bite or sting from happening, use insect repellent with DEET. If your child has received an insect bite or sting, first remove the stinger (if applicable) by scraping it off with a credit card or similar surface. Wash the area thoroughly. Do not squeeze the affected area. This can spread any venom. Apply an antiseptic to remove germs and ease the itch. If a bite is swollen, apply an antihistamine cream. If a bite or sting becomes hard or infected, contact your child's pediatrician.

Allergic Reactions

During outdoor play, it is possible for your child to experience allergic reactions to insect bites or stings, plants, and more. Signs of an allergic reaction include abnormal swelling, rash/hives, having trouble breathing, fever, and nausea, and even anaphylaxis. If your child has a known allergy, it is important to keep an emergency safety kit containing epinephrine shots, in case of anaphylaxis. If this occurs, treat your child accordingly and get emergency help right away by calling 911.

Bruises and Bumps

Outdoor play for children often includes dodging balls, running fast, and even just playing rough. Bruises and bumps happen frequently in many children just from playing. If your child gets a bruise or bump, first check the area to be sure that the injury isn't more serious. Place a cold compress, such as an ice pack or frozen vegetables on the affected area to reduce swelling. Contact a doctor if needed. Take proper concussion cautions if the injury is on the head.

This is not an all-inclusive list. However, it should help inform you regarding typical outdoor injuries and risks for children. Remember that your child’s licensed physician is the best source of information. Discuss these and other risks with that physician to compare and be sure you are doing the right thing.

*I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network

Sports & Fitness Options for the Kids: Spray Bottle Relay Race

6/23/2015

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Image © timsackton; Flickr.com

To keep kids active and promote physical fitness, strive to provide more than just an exercise routine. You can make it fun at the same time. When you transform exercise into an active game, a child will show far more interest. Because of the element of fun, kids may not even realize, or care at all, that they are participating in a form of exercise.

One fun, active game to play is "Spray Bottle Relay Race". It's a popular game and is even used in schools as part of Field Day or just as a fun activity. In Spray Bottle Relay Race, the kids will work pretty much the entire body. Spray Bottle Relay Race should be played in an open field, such as one at a school or park. It's a team game, but can be easily modified for fewer kids. This game is fun for school-aged children of all ages.

The only materials needed to play this active game are batons and large spray bottles. The spray bottles should be ones that can spray a straight line of water, not a mist. There should be 2 batons and 1 spray bottle for each team. Setting up the game is fairly simple. First, determine how many teams there will be. Then, split up the kids accordingly.

Figure out where the start and finish lines will be and place a baton at each to mark the spot. Alternatively, a chalk line can be drawn to mark the start and finish lines as well. Have the kids line up behind both the start and finish lines. Give each of the kids located at the start lines a spray bottle, filled with water and ready to spray.

To start the game, blow a whistle or shout "Go!" The children who are first at each of the start lines will race to the finish lines and then squirt their next teammate with the spray bottle (no face shots allowed) and hand off the spray bottle. Then, that child will run to the start line and spray the next teammate and hand off the bottle. This will continue until all of the children have run at least once. Ideally, each child should run more than once. Splitting the children into small teams can help make that happen.

This active exercise will give the kids a great cardio workout, as well as helps them cool off on a hot day. It works the entire body while running and also increases the heart rate. The action of squirting the water also gives an added bonus of using the smaller muscles in the arms, hands, and wrist. It makes for a great last minute opportunity for getting kids active, as the supplies are ones that may already be on hand.

*I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network

Sports & Fitness Options for the Kids: Homemade Tetherball

6/23/2015

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Image © Skakerman; Flickr.com

Keeping kids exercising is often as simple as finding a fun, energetic sport or activity that they enjoy. One sport you don't see enough of anymore (besides on school playgrounds) is tetherball. Remember that game from the schoolyard where you would take turns trying to punch a ball on a string around a pole? That's tetherball.

To enjoy tetherball, you don't have to hunt down the nearest gym or school who happens to have access to it. All you need to do is either buy your own or make your own. It's not as hard as it may sound. The local sporting goods store will generally have an easy-to-set-up, low-cost, low-grade tetherball game, even including the pole. The instructions will come with the set.

If you want a more sturdy tetherball game, try making your own. It's very simple and depending on the ages and abilities of the kids, they may even be able to help. All you need is a small bag of concrete mix, an old tire with the rim still inside, a cheap tarp, a metal pole, a bolt with a hook, a drill with a metal bit, and a pre-strung tetherball.

First, drill a hole the correct size for the bolt into the top of the pole. Next, screw in the bolt. Mix the concrete thickly. Set the tire on top of the tarp.Now place the mixed concrete inside of the tire. Fill the entire hole. Place the pole in the center of the mixed concrete inside the tire. Smooth out the concrete. The pole should stand straight up and if the concrete is thick enough, it will not move. Allow it to dry completely. There's your tetherball pole. Now, just hang your tetherball and you and the kids can start to play.

Tetherball rules are very simple. Player one is the server. To serve the ball, much like volleyball, set it atop the non-dominant hand and punch it with the other. The goal is to get the tetherball to wrap completely around the pole without interruption from the other player. Each player must take turns hitting the ball in opposite directions until one player wraps it around the pole.

Whomever wraps it around the pole first is the winner. Players may not grab the string or hold onto the ball. Either is an automatic "out". If this occurs, the next player will come in and a new game will begin. Players may only punch or hit the ball.

As you can see, a simple project can provide the kids with a lasting way to be active. Sports like this are great because a child can play solo or with a friend or family member. This helps them reach sports and fitness goals more often.

*I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network

Sports & Fitness Options for the Kids: Exercise at School

6/23/2015

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Image © KWDesigns; Flickr.com

Physical fitness is important for children. It helps them gain strength in the bones and muscles, which is good for growth. It also can help fight obesity by keeping the body in shape. Kids already get some exercise in gym and PE classes at school, but they still need more. Parents should be actively involved in promoting physical activities in their kids, creating some type of opportunity for exercise every day. One place to start raising awareness is at school.

Public schools are getting more active in promoting physical fitness in children, which is great news. One thing some schools do to get kids moving is to add a rock climbing wall to the school gym or playground. They are accessible during recess, as well as on certain days during gym or physical education class. The kids seem to really enjoy these rock walls and it's a great total body workout.

School playgrounds are actually a good source of exercise as well, offering a range of physical movements. Adding other things to the outdoor play area, such as a tether ball pole, basketball court, and volleyball net add even more fun and exercise. Some schools even allow the children to use bicycles, inline skates, and skateboards in a designated area. With this type of play growing in popularity, some schools have added bicycle and skateboard ramps.

Many museums also have an interactive physical health section where children can visit to learn more. Schools can take a day trip and teachers can center a lesson around this. Some of the museums even offer lesson plans or guided tours of these interactive exhibits.

Another thing many schools do is hold a free play time at least once a week during gym or physical education time. They will have assorted things available to play with, like gym scooters, fitness balls, a rock wall, rope climbing, and many other items. These create physical activities that are disguised as fun to the kids.

Making gym and physical fitness fun is a great idea. Active kids are healthy kids, so also be sure the kids get their dose every day, in addition to what is offered at school. Dancing is a fun and versatile family activity that is also great exercise. Some schools are incorporating dance into the curriculum of the core subjects for added physical and mental benefits.

Many kids also like to play those classic games you used to play as a kid. Children don't seem to play these as much anymore. These include games like "Red Rover", "Freeze Tag", and "Dodge Ball". These games are great at school because of the larger numbers of kids to work with. Bike riding is another regular activity that’s fun and beneficial to the physical health of the children. It's great to do any time of the day, but riding bikes to and from school can help kids stay fit in an enjoyable manner.

While some schools often do a great job at incorporating activities like these, others don’t. Parents can do their part by speaking up. Get together with other parents to discuss what’s happening in your child’s school. As a united front, a group of parents can make all the difference in getting schools to add more sports and fitness options.

I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network

Summer Outdoor Activities for Kids: Water Bucket Relay Race

6/23/2015

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Image © Redcorn Studios [Matt]; Flickr.com

Parents and teachers can make exercise fun with a unique way to cool off and get active on a sunny day. Combining fitness with fun is my favorite way to keep kids active. One activity kids will enjoy playing with their friends is the "Water Bucket Relay Race."

In this water relay race, the kids will get pretty wet, so be forewarned. To play Water Bucket Relay Race, a few supplies are needed. All kids who play will need a pair of sweatpants and a bucket. All buckets should be exactly the same. A kiddie pool is also needed for this active game.

First, determine a start and finish line for the kids. The kiddie pool should be at the finish line. The buckets should be at the start line. Each of the kids will stand in front of their own bucket. At the start of the race, each one of the kids will race alongside each other to the kiddie pool and jump in, which should soak their sweatpants. They then should run the race back to their own bucket and squeeze as much water as possible into it.

Game play continues until one player's bucket has been filled completely. That player is the winner. If there are more than 10 kids playing, the game can be adapted into a team relay game. The kids should really like this active game and have so much fun running back and forth. The determined looks on their faces while attempting to fill the buckets will make you smile.

For those concerned about the physical challenges, when the pants become soaked, it creates extra weight, which gives a good workout, in addition to the racing itself. To make this race even more challenging, try adding a mini obstacle course in between the pool and bucket. One idea for a mini obstacle course is to put out some cones to weave through, a row of batons to jump over, or a row of tires to step through.

Be sure to have drinking water, towels and dry clothing on hand for when the race is completed. The kids should enjoy this active race, but when it is over, they will also be happy to get refreshed.

*I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network

Top Sports Summer Camps for Girls

6/11/2015

Build Character, Teamwork, and Skills

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Is your daughter interested in sports? You may be considering summer sports camps for girls. There are many to choose from. Summer sports camps for girls can help build skills, teamwork, character, and lasting friendships. Any girl even mildly interested in sports will likely enjoy this one-of-a-kind confidence-building experience. Here are some of the best summer sports camps for girls.

Stanford Camps

Stanford Camps offer a variety of summer sports camps for girls, such as baseball, basketball, hockey, swimming, lacrosse, golf, fencing, field hockey, volleyball, soccer, and much more. Stanford summer sports camps are for girls and boys alike. However, girls and boys are housed separately at Stanford University dorms.

Cornell Summer Sports Camps

Cornell Summer Sports Camps are available to both girls and boys ages 7 - 18. There are co-ed camps as well as summer sports camps for girls and boys to enjoy separately. Summer sports camps for girls include basketball, field hockey, ice hockey, lacrosse, volleyball, softball, and soccer. Co-ed summer sports camps include cross country, golf, fencing, youth sports, track, tennis, swimming, rock climbing, and sailing.

Camp Emerson

Camp Emerson offers separate sports summer camps for girls and boys. This camp caters to the needs of the individual child and has a family atmosphere. Camp Emerson is a place to enjoy sports and other activities, make new friends, and develop hidden talents and skills. The camps are self-designed by the students, according to which sports and activities they are interested in.

US Sports Camps

US Sports Camps offers a variety of summer sports camps for girls and boys, some co-ed and some separate. US Sports Camps features Nike Sports Camps, as well as other top-notch summer sports camps. Some of the sports available include basketball, swimming, soccer, lacrosse, golf, field hockey, football, volleyball, tennis, and running.

Sports Camp at Frenchwoods

Frenchwoods Festival of the Performing Arts Summer Camp also offers All American Sports Academy. Girls and boys camp separately. The campers choose their own sports and activities to customize and make the most of their camping experience. Sports include basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, fencing, hockey, soccer, gymnastics, and more. The instruction at these sports summer camps for girls and boys is individualized. If a camper wants to take the professional route, the instruction leads in that direction. Whereas, if a camper is simply there for fun and has no desire to be on a professional team, her experience will be different.

*I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network

Dry Drowning in Kids: Signs, Symptoms, and Prevention

6/7/2015

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What Every Parent Should Know About Kids and Water

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Do you know what dry drowning is or how to prevent it happening to your kids? There are some important facts every parent needs to know before their child enters the water. This is especially true when children are in or near large bodies of water, such as lakes, beaches, and swimming pools. Always be on the lookout for signs of distress when kids are in these situations.

What is Dry Drowning?

Dry drowning is not to be mistaken with pulmonary edema, although at first it may seem the same. Pulmonary edema in kids occurs when too much liquid, like water or chlorine, is swallowed and that liquid irritates the air sacs. The lungs react to this by filling up with fluids. Dry drowning is when something noxious or extremely cold meets the vocal chords. This causes them to close up, which makes it hard to breathe. In dry drowning, the harder the person tries to breathe, the worse it will get.

I recently spoke with EMT Kathrine Lloyd and here is what she had to say about dry drowning in kids:

"It's not just the vocal cords involved, it's the muscles of the larynx and vocal cords together that go into spasm (laryngospasm - body's attempt at self preservation by keeping more water from entering the lungs)."

"Water that is swallowed travels down the esophagus into the stomach. Water that is inhaled enters the trachea and the lungs. If a parent believes that their child has inhaled even a small amount of salt water, they should take them to the hospital whether the child seems okay or not."

"Our body's quest to maintain homeostasis dictates that once salt has been in our lungs, our body will push water into our lungs to balance things, which causes drowning once the child is no longer near water. As a rescuer, we call this a 'parking lot drowning'. Children oftentimes will die within 24 hours of a near drowning in salt water because of this."

"Most parents believe that once the child is on land and breathing, they have dodged the bullet, which isn't necessarily the case unfortunately!""

Signs and Symptoms of Dry Drowning

Since dry drowning generally occurs if there has been a near drowning experience, you should be watching for these symptoms already. But also keep in mind that dry drowning needs to be treated and observed by a licensed medical professional. Any of the symptoms below can mean a variety of things. However, all can be serious whether they indicate dry drowning in kids or not. If your child is experiencing any of the symptoms below or any other suspicious symptoms, always seek immediate medical attention.

Continuous or persistent coughing - If your child is coughing uncontrollably for long periods of time, this could be a symptom of dry drowning. It also could signify another health issue that requires immediate medical attention.

Shortness of breath - Trouble breathing or shortness of breath is another telltale sign that something is wrong. This symptom of dry drowning requires prompt medical care.

Chest Pain - If your child is complaining of pain in the chest area, this could be another sign of dry drowning. Kids can experience this for other issues as well. However, any chest pain in kids should be taken seriously, whether it is suspected of being dry drowning or not.

Fatigue or Lethargy - While fatigue or lethargy can be a symptom of a whole host of things, it can be a good indicator of dry drowning as well. If your child is extremely tired or not like his usual self, something could be very wrong.

How to Prevent Dry Drowning in Kids

Proper supervision and safety training is the best prevention for dry drowning. Adults should always be attending any kids in the water. Never stray far from the vicinity of a child who is swimming, wading, or playing in or around water. Know CPR and other first aid and water safety rules and procedures. Educate children on appropriate behavior in the water. Swimming lessons and water safety classes are ideal for all kids and adults before anyone steps into the water.

*IMPORTANT: The author is not a licensed medical professional and the material contained within is intended for informational purposes only. Always seek health advice and care from a licensed medical professional. If you think your child may be a victim of dry drowning or is in another emergency situation, call 911 immediately.

*I originally published this via Yahoo Contributor Network

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5 Creative Ways to Kick that Teen Attitude

Treating Common Injuries and Risks for Your Children During Outdoor Play Time

Sports & Fitness Options for the Kids: Spray Bottle Relay Race

Sports & Fitness Options for the Kids: Homemade Tetherball

Sports & Fitness Options for the Kids: Exercise at School

Summer Outdoor Activities for Kids: Water Bucket Relay Race

Top Sports Summer Camps for Girls

Build Character, Teamwork, and Skills

Dry Drowning in Kids: Signs, Symptoms, and Prevention

What Every Parent Should Know About Kids and Water

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