Archive for the ‘General Tips’ Category

Take Your Online Shopping to the Next Level

Saturday, February 25th, 2017

So you are a professional when it comes to shopping online, are you? Even if you are an old hand at online shopping, you likely have not heard of this fantastic new trick that is emerging right now. Many people who are experienced shoppers have no idea that they can be saving huge amounts of money on the same high quality products that they know and love.

The natural progression of a shopper is to start out cruising aisles and simply picking what jumps out at them. Of course, what jumps out at them is what is strategically placed there by stockers – who are following orders from strategic consultants hired to offload failing stock.

The next step is for someone to get a bit savvy and recognize which stores are constantly just offloading shoddy products, and which are not. Then, the savvier shopper might start looking through their favorite publications for a chance to cut out coupons that can help them save a little cash.

More experienced shoppers will probably realize that without having to support a brick and mortar operation, stores can offer a lot lower prices. That means that shopping online has instantly built-in savings. Rather than pay overhead and retail staff, a clothing or shoes or jewelry line can build some of those cost savings into the product price, and pass that on to the customer.

But the ultimate step in this evolution of the ever-more experienced shopper? Take yourself to ASOS’ Groupon Coupons page for a shining example of how you can save a huge amount on fantastic products. ASOS offers all kinds of great gear, and by going through their Groupon link, you have the chance to save 20% off of full price items, get a 10% student discount, and even secure free express shipping.

There is nothing wrong with shopping in person at a retail store to see if you like something, or even following the coupon trail to uncover a new favorite. But if you really want to maximize your shopping budget, you need to search for your favorite brands’ Groupon pages and go from there.

Brought to you by our friend, Justin.

How to Prepare Your Child for College

Tuesday, February 21st, 2017

Going to college is a scary time for children and parents. For many, this is the first time they have lived away from home, and the first big decision that they have had to make for themselves. As a parent, you want to help them, while allowing them the freedom to grow and learn, which can be tricky. Here on some tips on the best ways to help prepare them for the first big challenge of their adult life, whether it’s still quite some time away, or they are thinking about it now.

Look at All the Options
There are more options when it comes to further education than there has ever been before. There is a huge range of courses available, from all different educational institutions. They could study close to home or far away. They could even stay at home and study an online degree, such as an online respiratory therapy degree. Or they could even study part time, and gain valuable work experience at the same time. The best thing to do is make a list, then sit down together and talk about their options. Try to go to as many open days as you can.

Encourage Them to Make the Right Choice
As a teenager, it’s always tempting to take the easy option or to follow your friends. While you can’t, and shouldn’t tell them not to do something, you can explain the benefits of other choices. If they have a dream career, help them to research what they need to do to get there. It’s not always black and white. For example, they may want to work helping children, in which case there are lots of courses and career paths they could take; even a bachelor in respiratory therapy program could lead to a career in pediatrics.

Teach Them Life Skills
If they are planning to move away from home for the first time, now is the time to make sure they know how. You’d be surprised at how many students know nothing about cooking and cleaning. Start teaching them how to make a few simple meals, and get them to help more around the house. They might not enjoy it, but these skills will help them immensely in the long term.

Prepare Financially
They probably haven’t had to control their finances too much before now. Even if you are paying their fees, or they have financial aid, they will need to make money to live. If they have never had a job, perhaps encourage them to start working a few hours, and let them control their money. Teach them as much as you can about saving and budgeting. There are some great apps which can help.

Start Shopping
Start thinking about what they need as far in advance as possible. Make a list, and between you get some shopping. They’ll need course materials and stationary, but also a laptop or tablet, and household supplies, such as bedding. After that it might depend what’s including in their dorm room, but prepare as much as you can.

Moreover, you’ll need to help them with the applications, and support them emotionally as they make these tough choices. How much help and support they need will vary, just make sure they know that you are there when they need you.

Brought to you by our friend, Carol.

3 Ways Parents Can Support Their Children through the University Years

Sunday, January 29th, 2017

Most young adults are excited about embarking on a university course and are eager to fly the nest without a passing thought as to how they might cope without their parent’s constant support and guidance. However, just because your children are moving out and forging their own path in life it doesn’t mean that you can’t still have a positive impact and help them wherever or whenever necessary.

Some young adults won’t want to acknowledge it, but the support they receive from their parents during their time at university will be hugely important to them. The transition to university life can be overwhelming for some people, so it can often be comforting to have that element of stability that parents provide, as well as the emotional support of family members. Here are a few ways you can show your support without coming across as too overbearing.

1. Communicate With Them Often
As children hit the teenage year’s communication can sometimes be lacking and for parents this can often be quite frustrating. However, rather than showing your annoyance at the grunts you might receive daily or the lack of phone calls when your child has moved out, try to be patient and understanding. Show support by asking how they are getting on with their online GIST degree and if they are enjoying university life – you might not get a detailed response at the time, but by doing this on a regular basis you are showing that you are there for them if they need help and this can be enough to make them feel supported.

2. Encourage Debate and Discussions
When you do get together, show that you are interested in their new life by starting discussions based on current affairs or a relevant topic, maybe a subject that links to their geographic information science and technology degree. Inquire about their opinions on the matter, ask them to explain concepts to you or challenge their beliefs in a diplomatic way. The chances are a lot of their time spent socializing with their peers hasn’t been focused on entirely educational subject matters, so this type of conversation will help to spark their enthusiasm and is a great bonding method.

3. Make Sure they’re Taking Time Out
University life can sometimes be a high pressured environment especially when deadlines are looming or there are important exams on the horizon. Some students are so determined to get good grades or are so worried about failing that they will barricade themselves inside and bury their heads in GIST books for days on end. It’s often a time when parents can feel quite anxious as they may not hear from their children and they want to ensure they are eating and looking after themselves. One thing parents can do is to persuade their children to take some time out from their studies and explain that short breaks are important for refreshing their minds and stimulating their brains. Suggest activities you could together, such as a shopping trip, meal out or even a simple walk in a park.

If you’re worried that you’re being too interfering then take consolation in the fact that studies have shown students whose parents are involved in their education are more likely to achieve better grades and have higher self-esteem.

Brought to you by our friend, Carol.

Five Gastronomic Cities You Must Experience

Friday, January 27th, 2017

Travel and food go together like wine and cheese. There are many wonderful flavours and aromas across the world we have yet to experience, and so little time to try them all. To help you go on a culinary adventure, we are providing the five gastronomic cities you must experience.

Caceres, Spain

The beautiful city of Caceres was awarded the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy in 2015, and for good reason, because this is a city that could almost be built of flavour. While holidaymakers are more likely to visit the likes of Madrid or Barcelona, the real foodies are heading to Caceres, which offers simple, rustic meals that are created using the finest quality ingredients. The portions are also very generous, so you can guarantee you won’t feel a little bit hungry after a meal, even though you will want to keep coming back for more farm-style dishes.

Hanoi, Vietnam

The best food in Hanoi can be found on the streets, so don’t be afraid to go up to a market stall to try the pho tiu noodles with a sweet and sour soup or a banh mi. The smell alone will make your mouth water, and it’s here that the locals will purchase their dishes, so you know it must be good – not to mention it’s an affordable option when you’re travelling across Vietnam.

Tokyo, Japan

There is a reason why Tokyo has more Michelin stars than any other city in the world, and that’s because they consistently create beautiful dishes that deliver on flavour. There is something for everyone in the Japanese capital, from scrumptious sushi to okonomiyaki pancakes that the children will love. You also don’t have to spend much money to enjoy delicious meals, because the city caters to all travellers’ budgets, so you can choose to dine at a Michelin star skyscraper restaurant or can consume tasty tapas at a Japanese-style pub.

Manchester, England

Great Britain has a bad reputation for food, but the stereotype is unwarranted, especially if you visit a city like Manchester, as the restaurant scene is unstoppable. This buzzing city is alive with flavours and colours that burst onto a plate, with the Michelin-starred chef Simon Rogan creating exquisite dishes at The French, located within the Midland Hotel. Take a look at the Manchester city guide to learn more about its cuisine and culture.

New York City, USA

New York City is the home to residents who were born in every country on Earth, so the range of gastronomic cuisines must be experienced to be believed. This is a city that sets food trends, creating unique and inspiring dishes that change and adapt every year to suit tastes and creativity. However, if you want to experience a dish that is truly out of this world, you must try the oysters at the Grand Oyster Bar, which is located within Grand Central Station. There is a reason it has existed since 1913. You will not want to come home.

Brought to you by our friend, Carol.

4 Educational Benefits of Playing with LEGOS

Friday, January 27th, 2017

In 1932, Ole Kirk Kristiansen, a Danish carpenter, founded the Lego Group. Lego gained its name from the Danish word ‘leg godt,’ which means ‘play well.’ The Kristiansen family still control the Lego group: Ole’s grandchild, Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen, runs it now.

Legos are just as popular today as they were over 84 years ago. Children in 140 countries constantly find new ways to delight in building Lego creations. Legos enhance creativity and inspire imagination. They also improve the behavioral and educational development of small children. Here are a few ways how:

Puts Math and Science Practices to Use

Constructing Lego designs require children to apply basic math skills. A single Lego building may involve addition, subtraction, division, and fractions. Lego constructions also assist in children’s development of engineering techniques. They must learn to create a model from instructions and photos, as well as making adjustments when necessary.

Improves Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Skills

Lego beginners must learn to solve simple problems such as making pieces connect. As a child’s cognitive abilities increase, so will their desire to build more complex Lego models. These models require solutions to more pressing problems, such as how to distribute the Legos to keep it balanced.

The more Lego models a child attempts, the better they become at using their critical thinking and problem solving skills.

Children also learn problem solving skills through their interactions with other children. They must first establish a cooperative environment in order to succeed at their Lego endeavors. Once distribution of labor occurs, they use collaborative learning to find solutions.

Develops Self-Discipline

Legos often become a child’s first training of self-discipline. The completion of a Lego model requires hours of persistence and patience. They learn to remain calm when facing obstacles. Legos help children develop organizational skills, and increases their motivation and perseverance.

Strengthen Fine Motor Skills

Fine motor skill development enhances a child’s tiny muscle control in their hands and fingers. Fine motor muscles can also be found in the face, feet, and tongue.

Legos help children strengthen their fine motor muscles with the constant maneuvering and building of Lego designs.

Legos can be a vital play tool for young girls and boys, so parents should try to keep a set of Legos around for both play and education. Find Lego discounts on Groupon’s coupon page.

Brought to you by our friend, Justin.

7 Safety Tips for Family Road Trips

Tuesday, December 20th, 2016

car-1796388_640Safety on the road during family road trips is a matter of great importance. If you are planning your next vacation to be a road trip, be prepared because your car is about to become a moving family-room. However, there are things every parent can do to make sure that the whole trip goes smoothly. Here are seven safety tips for family road trips.

1. Get Adequate Sleep
Driving while drowsy is a significant contributing factor in 100,000 road accidents annually according to NHTSA. Ensure you drive when well rested and if possible, switch with another qualified adult driver every few hours.

2. Wear Your Seat Belt
Wearing a seat belt is the safest thing you can do on your next family road trip. In fact, it is a primary law in a majority of countries for front seat passengers and drivers to wear seat belts. Additionally, UK law requires child safety seats for children, and a car seat booster for kids who are not yet big enough to wear regular seat belts. Since the car seat requirements for your children keeps changing as they grow, ensure that you have an efficient car seat to suit their needs.

3. Be Sun Smart
Ensure you equip all your family members with sunglasses and sunblock during your road trip. You may as well invest in a sunshade for your backseat or pop hats on the heads of your little ones. When you leave your car, ensure you carefully cover your seats with blankets so that they do not heat up and burn the tender skin of your baby. What’s more? Never leave your kids alone because with the outside temperature at about 30 degrees, the interior of a parked car can rise to deadly temperature limits.

4. Keep Your Tyres Well Serviced
Besides making your car safe, maintaining its tyres at a recommended pressure saves you lots of cash. Consider buying a pressure gauge from Pep Boys to ensure that you have your tyres at a recommended pressure. Keep it inside your vehicle just in case you need to lower or raise the pressure. Consider replacing your car tyres with proper snow tyres for extra grip if you live in an area that gets heavy ice and snow.

5. Wear Safety Gear
The NHTSA recommends packing a car kit that contains warm blankets, water, jumper cables, a torch, tyre-changing tools, flares, a fully charged mobile phone and a first aid kit. You can also subscribe to a roadside assistance plan to ensure you know where to call during an emergency and what kind of support is in your policy plan.

6. Keep Heavy Items as Low as Possible
Store heavier items low in the seat wells to prevent them from becoming projectiles during a sudden stop. In that case, pushchairs, suitcases and anything else stored in an open cargo area should be kept as low as possible.

7. Play Defence
Apart from taking the safety precautions mentioned in this article, always think about the other drivers on the road. Always keep a safe distance behind the cars in front of you so that you have the time to turn or stop quickly. Also, make sure to avoid any activity that shifts your focus away from the road, for instance, using a handheld phone or eating.

You should also consider brushing up on your driving skills before you take a road trip. One of the easiest ways to do this is by taking mock DVLA driving tests. Top Tests offers tons of free resources as well as mock driving tests that you can take to refresh your driving skills. You can visit their website at www.toptests.co.uk.

In Conclusion
Road trips are no small affair and things can go wrong quick if the proper precautions aren’t taken. However, if you follow the tips in this article, your family road trip will be a joyous experience.

Brought to you by our friend, Carol.

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