Two new hotels to incorporate into your staycation itinerary this summer are the Graduate Cambridge and The Randolph Hotel. Both open July 1st 2021 and are part of the Graduate Hotels collection whose design is inspired by the unique heritage of university towns and cities. #TeamCoco got a sneak peak of these stylish abodes ahead of their opening next month.
The Graduate, Cambridge
Positioned along the idyllic banks of the River Cam, the Graduate Cambridge is surrounded by the University of Cambridge, within walking distance of several colleges, and a stone’s throw from the city’s best restaurants, bars and shops.
The hotel’s design incorporates the history of the city, making the river the focal point with various accessible views, especially in the lobby bar. Colour palettes, patterns and textures in the public areas reflect the green surroundings of fields and the glorious English countryside. With the punting boat rentals located just outside, the design brings local inspiration into the hotel, with punting boats incorporated in the bookshelves in the lobby, an installation by local craftsmen. The lobby is home to a hanging DNA installation to celebrate Rosalind Franklin, a pioneer in the development of DNA at the University of Cambridge. The guest rooms have an abundance of “Cambridge Blue”, with wallpaper replicating school gates, punting boats on either side of the bed, whimsical lamp shades in the shape of a penny coin and striking wood and leather desks to give a studious library atmosphere. The bathrooms have scenic pastoral wallpaper and mirrors in the shape of the university crest.
Garden House restaurant is nestled on the banks of the River Cam. Adam Wood, formerly of London’s award winning Perilla will lead the kitchen with his focus on open-flame cooking and seasonal East Anglian produce. Garden House will be a relaxed, and seasonable contemporary restaurant in one of Britain’s best loved and historic cities. Graduate Cambridge will comprise Garden House and Garden Bar, as well as a café and flexible social space. The Graduate is the perfect base for anyone looking to explore this vibrant city over the summer.
Located in the city’s cultural epicentre, The Randolph is situated within the University of Oxford and its iconic colleges, including Trinity and St. John’s. The hotel is on the doorstep of St. Giles Street and its bustling restaurants, bars, as well as the world-famous Radcliffe Camera and Ashmolean Museum. The design of the 151-room hotel takes inspiration from the university’s history, paying homage to its storied innovators and alumni.
Interior design details include bold hues, textural elements inspired by the region’s natural resources and local art which will tell the narratives of Oxford’s past. Previously the Macdonald Randolph Hotel, the property has been renovated and transformed throughout, all the guest rooms, the lobby and social spaces ooze a preppy college vibe. Guests can relax in the intimate snug, a cosy nook between restaurant and private dining with a bohemian spin on a traditional English library space. The Morse Bar is a nod to the iconic 90’s TV detective show that was filmed at the hotel and is the ideal place to kick back with a drink after a day discovering Oxford.
As the summer months approach and you look forward to plenty of sunshine and outdoor fun, it might be easy to forget about frigid winter months that will inevitably descend on your home in a few short months. A person’s home is their castle, and yours is no different. Keeping it in pristine shape is imperative as those four walls protect you and your family from outside elements, including inclement weather.
While there might not be a rush to do any winter preparations right now, keep these five things in mind as fall approaches:
Check heating systems
Too many people wait until the first cold snap of winter to test their heating system. Getting technicians out to fix such systems is expensive, and the waiting period is long as other homeowners face the same challenges. The summer months might be the ideal time to consider installing radiators. Energy-saving radiators like these have been proven to be cost-effective electricity savers and a worthy investment. While buying similar products from Technotherm, Haverland, and Ecostrad iQ might be a significant investment, they reap long-term rewards and add value to your home.
Regardless of your home’s heating source, ensure that it is fully functional as winter approaches. Most specialist companies suggest that you book an annual service check with a heating company. Their technicians inspect the system and do routine, preventive maintenance. Their fee is far less than the bill if the entire heating system fails.
Check roof and gutters
A house’s roof is often overlooked for maintenance because it is hard to access. However, as such a vital component of a home’s structure, prioritize your roof for winter preparations. If you are not able to get up there yourself, contact a local handyman or contractor. The first thing to look for is loose tiles or shingles. They let moisture and cold air into a home, which could cause structural damage.
Water from winter rain and snow needs to run off a home’s roof and into its gutters. Gutters clogged with fall leaves are not fully functional. They may overflow or crack under the pressure of holding stagnant water that does not reach the downpipes. As the weather transitions from fall to winter, use a hose to rinse out your gutters, getting rid of any leaves and twigs trees have shed. Unblock downpipes using a long piece of wire with a hook on its end to pull debris out.
Check for drafts
Your worst enemy during winter is cold drafts entering your home. They make your heating system work harder than necessary to maintain warm temperatures, which becomes a drain on your budget as your electricity bill balance rises. Use the months before winter to detect drafts and implement measures to stop them.
Start with your house’s windows and check that each one seals properly. Replace any cracked glass panes and mechanisms that keep windows closed. Inspect the windows from outside for a tight seal where window frames meet the house’s construction material. Next, ensure that no drafts are entering your home under the door or through cracks in sealing materials. If you happen to find cracks, you can also hire an expert to replace cracked glass. To keep pests and drafts out until the window is replaced, plug the gap with plastic or cardboard. After that, use window tinting and decorative films. It will improve your windows’ look and help you control temperatures. Window film insulates windows that keep winter air out. Your home keeps warm in winter with better insulation. After fixing your window, you are indeed ready for the upcoming season
Check safety measures
If you check the statistics, most house fires occur during the winter months. This happens because people are using more electricity, and this increased demand may affect an already vulnerable wiring system. Smoke detectors and fire extinguishers are essential home safety appliances. They can mean the difference between life or death and could save severe structural damage.
Check smoke detector batteries and test their functionality. Ensure your fire extinguisher’s tag’s date has not passed. Using an expired fire extinguisher could render it entirely ineffective during an emergency.
Check fireplaces and chimneys
A cozy fireplace setting is a perfect way to wind down after an icy winter’s day. However, it comes with some risks. If you do not keep your chimney and fireplace well-maintained, carbon monoxide poisoning becomes a distinct likelihood.
Get professional chimney cleaners to ensure that your fireplace and chimney are ready for the winter months. It would be advisable to install carbon monoxide alarms that go off when levels are above average. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer as most people do not realize its presence until it is too late.
If you have been toying with the idea of getting a feline friend, they make great pets. However, like humans, cats have different personalities. Some are affectionate and demand much attention. Others are independent and do not require much human interaction.
Cats’ personalities are embedded in their genetics and their early life experiences. For example, a cat who survived abuse as a kitten might be more disinclined to seek close human contact than one that comes from a loving, nurturing environment. Regardless of which you prefer, getting a cat is a responsibility you need to be prepared for. Here are four things you should know and think through before bringing a cat home:
A cat’s needs
Before you can consider getting a cat, you must understand what keeping a cat requires from you. As with owning any pet, that animal is dependent on you for a loving home, food to eat, and a place to sleep. In addition, cats get sick and might need veterinary attention or daily supplement, including kidney support for cats. They also require annual vaccinations to protect them from diseases.
Think about what you need to buy to make your cat’s life comfortable. Start with cat food. A look in the pet food aisle of your local grocery store reveals the wide range of cat food products available. How will you know which one to buy? Some cat foods are inexpensive, while others cost more than you would spend on a meal for yourself. Do not let price be your only guide, as it is not necessarily linked to quality. Many brands like Vet’s Best, Scruffy Paws Nutrition, and Nutri Vet offer a large variety of organic treats for your fur friends that are affordable and of high quality at the same time.
Moist cat food is generally regarded as best for your cat as it contains more water than semi-moist and dry foods. Cats tend to get most of their water intake from their food. Look for food with real meat ingredients as they are more nutritious.
You will also need a litterbox for your kitty to use for its business. Some cat toys might be advantageous as cats tend to scratch and bite furniture and other valuables when they are bored. Finally, ensure that you have a cat bed and food and water bowls ready for when you bring your kitty home. Visit My Cat Needs This to learn more about your cat’s needs. Looking for a probiotic supplement that will support healthy digestion and maintain a higher energy level? Read Nutra Thrive for Cats reviews to understand the complete effectiveness of the product. However, it is always advised to check with your vet before adding anything new to your cat’s diet.
Your home environment
Is your home conducive to cat ownership? While there are no hard and fast rules for an ideal feline home environment, several factors should cross your mind. Many people think bringing a cat home will not have any appreciable effect on their household when the opposite might be true.
Cats can be quite defensive and less forgiving than dogs when handled roughly by small hands. However, bringing a cat into a home with younger children is not impossible, provided you have taught them how to be gentle and affectionate toward animals.
Consider if anyone in your household has a cat allergy. The last thing you want to do is bring a cat home as a family member and then discover that a loved one is severely allergic to it. Cat allergies are not caused by cat hair but by a protein in cat saliva. This protein covers a cat’s coat because they lick themselves as part of their grooming routine. One way to reduce someone’s allergic reaction to cats is to brush your feline frequently.
Other pets
Cats can be very territorial, and existing felines might not take kindly to the arrival of a new kitty. Dogs and cats are notorious natural enemies, and how your pooch receives a cat might not go as smoothly as you would hope. A new cat needs to establish its place in the household’s pecking order, and it could take a while for this to happen.
While you should expect some hiccups as everyone gets used to each other, things tend to settle within a few weeks. Once all your pets realize that a new cat does not mean you love them any less, they will accept the newcomer. However, it is advisable to be around for the first few days to monitor how everyone is getting along and deal with any conflict situations.
Time
Do you have sufficient time to care for a cat? While they are independent and less needy than dogs, cats have needs, too. This includes grooming, playing, and feeding. If you have enough time to care for a cat and keep it happy and healthy, it could be an ideal pet.
If you have to go away on occasion, what will happen to your cat? If it is only for a day or two, ask a neighbor to stop by each day, check if the feline is okay, and ensure there is plenty of food and water available. For more prolonged absences, ensure you have the name and number of a good cattery. Some cats tend to wander off if their owners are gone for protracted periods.
Size does matter but not when it come’s to Fordwich. Ford of Britain is challenging the population of Fordwich, Britain’s smallest town, to switch to electric in the all new, all-electric Ford Mustang Mach-E as new research* shows a large majority of those in the countryside (82%), small towns (79%) and villages (76%) would not feel confident purchasing an EV as their next vehicle, if the ban on petrol and diesel cars came in next week.
From today until Sunday, all 380** residents of the aptly named Fordwich will be some of the first to try out the new Mustang Mach-E as they take part in a unique three day mass test drive around the Kent countryside.
Other findings from the research, taken from Ford’s Go Electric consumer sentiment report, reveals a considerable lack of confidence and information on EVs, particularly in rural areas and small towns such as Fordwich. Just 55% of those living in small towns, villages and the countryside felt they had enough information to make an informed decision about buying an EV compared with 85% of those living in cities, urban areas and large towns.
With the move to electrification gathering pace, Ford recognises the need to take consumers on an electric journey and hopes to inspire confidence by putting the Mustang Mach-E into the hands of Fordwich for them to try it out themselves.
To encourage Fordwich residents to make the switch to electric in the long term, Ford has also partnered with British Gas to install a public charging point in the town. Charging is frequently cited as a critical concern and barrier to EVs, with those in small towns (63%) and the countryside (74%) saying that there aren’t enough charging points.
The charging point will be situated at The Fordwich Arms, a local gastropub, and will be available for residents to use from today.
Lisa Brankin, Managing Director, Ford of Britain and Ireland said: “We are incredibly excited to introduce our all-electric Ford Mustang Mach-E. Ford is committed to helping our current and future customers to go all-in on the road to a fully electric future by supporting them on that journey. Over the next few days, we want to show how even the smallest town can make the electric switch!”
Philip Lewis, Local Councillor and Mayor of Fordwich added: “What a fantastic way to get people to try out an electric vehicle. We are so proud of our town and preservation is something that is incredibly important to us so we were keen to see how simple it would be to switch over to a more environmentally friendly vehicle. It’s great to see so many people signed up over the next few days and we are thrilled to have a local charging point installed for long term public use.”
Lauren Vazquez, EV installation engineer at British Gas added: “British Gas is committed to delivering the infrastructure needed for the electrification of all modes of transport. We know that it’s vital that we enable the switch to electric vehicles as quickly as possible and we will continue to work with our partners such as Ford to make this happen all over the UK.”
The new Ford Mustang Mach-E is available now across UK dealerships. For more information on the new Ford Mustang Mach-E please visit our website here.
This Father’s Day don’t default to socks and shaving kits, instead remind your dad just how much he is appreciated with one of these premium spirits. The perfect gift for dads who love a tipple.
Pink Pepper Gin Gift Box-Book
A truly unique Pink Pepper Gin Gift Box-Book designed so that the inner box flattens out and is re-folder to form six pages showcasing the cocktails and a guide to the perfect G&T – the outer box refolds to create a hardback cover leaving you with a stunning cocktail recipe book and a bottle of Pink Pepper Gin
This premium blended Irish Whiskey boasts one of the highest malt contents in the blended whiskey category at 46%, providing a smooth complexity. Grace O’Malley’s Blended Irish Whiskey launched in the UK in March 2021, making it a lovely new brand to gift to dads this Father’s Day.
Audemus Spirits, the innovative spirits brand behind Pink Pepper Gin, is launching Umami Gin in the UK. This latest creation takes the definition of gin and expresses it very differently to what gin aficionados will have tried before, through infusion unique ingredients (incl. Parmigiano Reggiano and capers) to create a savoury – or umami – flavour.
Recipe: Combine 30ml of Mr Black Coffee Liqueur and 25ml of Chase Vodka. Top with milk or milk alternative e.g. oat or coconut and serve in enamel mug over ice. The kit will make 4 White Russians – and the Mr Black will make as least 10 more tasty coffee cocktails!
After the hellscape that was 2020, many individuals are embracing the reopening of the world in 2021 and excited for a fun-filled summer.
While the global vaccine drive is helping to drive optimism for a summer where we can meet up with our friends and families and do the things we love, the future remains uncertain.
As such, there’s no guarantee that things will be simple and fun this summer. If you’re concerned about the uncertainty, then here are some innovative ways to future-proof your plans and ensure that you don’t lose out if things go wrong.
Plan A Staycation
Holidaying in the UK, also known as ‘staycationing’, is a great way to travel and get away from the place you’ve spent the entirety of last year, without travelling abroad. It’s usually cheaper and more convenient than international travel, and there are lots of options available. So, check out some innovative ideas for a unique staycation, such as glamorous camping, or ‘glamping’. These holidays will give you a taste of travel without the stress and hassle of international travel. This approach will also ensure that, if the international travel restrictions change, you will be safe.
Consider Planning Virtual Meet-Ups As Well As Physical Ones
Virtual plans are more flexible than physical meetings, so if you want to enjoy a unique experience, then consider a virtual one. Many attractions and entertainment providers now offer virtual experiences that are just as fun, if not more so, as going to a physical location. There’s everything from virtual concerts through to virtual escape rooms. Explore the best virtual escape rooms to find one that will suit you and your adventurous pals.
Take Out Staycation Insurance
If you’re taking a staycation, or booking an expensive venue for a fun party, then you need to be prepared for any eventuality. One great way to ensure that your money is protected if the restrictions change is to consider staycation travel insurance. Many individuals who are planning summer holidays in the UK are being urged to take out staycation insurance to ensure that they are covered if something happens. By taking an insurance policy at the time of your booking, you can give yourself peace of mind that if the holiday is cancelled, you can still get your money back and plan it again for the future.
Keep Up With The Latest News On The Virus
The UK government often makes snap decisions about the virus and the restrictions it puts in place to halt or slow its spread. As such, you need to make sure that you’re always up to date with the latest ideas and new rules. Follow a reputable new blog and sign up for newsletters to get the latest insight sent directly to your inbox. Wherever you travel in the UK, make sure that you can get a mobile data signal and can always stay informed.
Some older adults are eager to get outdoors (or at least get their body moving) after a long, cold and dreary winter. After all, being cooped up inside the house isn’t healthy.
Doing physical activity regularly can help older adults develop healthy exercise habits. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in fact, recommends that adults aged 65 and above should get two and a half hours of moderate activity per week.
If you have an elderly parent or family member in your household, try to encourage them to step outside their home, get some fresh air and do fun activities.
Here are a few ideas for seniors:
Hiking
Taking a hike or a stroll are aerobic activities that provide great health benefits. If your senior is physically and mentally fit, walk along the beach, take a stroll along the paths in your neighborhood or community or head off to a nature trail. Walking outdoors pushes the body to work harder, so give this option a shot if this option is available.
Note: if your elderly parent wants to go on a more challenging hike, consult with their health care solution provider if this outdoor activity is suitable or appropriate for them. Remember that you should prioritize safety above all else.
Swimming (or Pool Exercises)
The summer heat can make everyone uncomfortable. A good way to combat this is to go for a swim.
Swimming can keep your elderly parent or family member cool. This is a good summer activity, as it minimizes the likelihood of injury by lessening joint impact. Your senior can float, swim or do water aerobics.
Classes that offer water or pool exercises zero in on resistance training and aerobic endurance. These group workouts sometimes come with lively and joyful music.
If your senior doesn’t know how to swim or prefer to work out by themselves, that’s fine. They can just walk around the pool in waist-deep water. Just make sure that you or a qualified professional is supervising their activities in the water.
Fishing
Going on a fishing excursion is a great way for seniors to breathe fresh air and experience the beauty of the great outdoors. You could take your senior to the nearest lake, pond or riverbank and do a just-for-fun catch and release fishing activity.
This activity isn’t too strenuous to the body. Your elderly parent or family member can enjoy the wide, open space that nature offers. When they’re going to fish, do so during the early morning or late afternoon, preferably when the weather isn’t too hot.
Tai Chi
This light exercise offers excellent health benefits for both the mind and body. Tai Chi improves flexibility, muscle strength and balance. Doctors frequently prescribe this physical exercise for patients with Parkinson’s disease, as well as for individuals who are recovering from an injury.
Tai Chi isn’t difficult to do. It involves purposeful and slow movements coupled with meditation and visual imagery. It’s about as low impact as it can get. If you have a senior who has arthritis, they can try Tai Chi to enhance muscle strength throughout their body.
Gardening
Your elderly parent or family member won’t need to leave far just to get a good workout. They can get the exercise they need simply by walking a few steps to their backyard. Between cutting plants, weeding, digging and watering, gardening offers light exercise. Tending to plants and flowers is one of the best activities that your senior can do during senior, as it’s disguised as leisure.
Another benefit of growing vegetables and herbs in a garden is that seniors can use the harvested produce to whip up a delicious meal for themselves or their guests.
Ballroom Dancing
If your elderly parent or family member is looking for another great summer workout, encourage them to put on their dancing shoes. You could enroll them in a ballroom dancing class. Some senior-friendly cardio styles are salsa, swing and square dancing.
If you are unable to find a dancing class in your area, don’t fret. Look for a bar in your area that has dancing and music on weekends
Golfing
This sport isn’t just fun for all ages. It’s also a fantastic, low-impact way to improve body flexibility and strength.
Although the nature of the game means that your senior will be outside for long periods, golf courses usually offer shady areas. What’s more, golf carts are readily available at many clubs.
These seven activities can help keep your senior physically and mentally healthy. If your elderly parent or family member will be staying outdoors for long periods, make sure that they take frequent breaks, drink plenty of fluids, avoid working out when the sun is at its hottest and wear sunblock.
According to Harvey Broadbent, Founder & CEO of sustainable and truly inspirational fashion brand Positive Outlook Clothing, “you should always start with purpose and let your product follow.”
From a very young age, Harvey started with purpose, living a life surrounded by positive energy and encouragement which he now shares with others through Positive Outlook Clothing.
Purpose is everything for Harvey, and this rings true for his company which foregoes fast-fashion trends and instead inspires people to look inward, giving them the right clothes to live their best, most confident lives. Positive Outlook Clothing has people at heart and planet in mind and offers stylish, evergreen pieces that can go from day to night and are made to last.
“We create quality-crafted clothing that focuses on the wearer and helps them to shine and feel their best,” Harvey says. “Clothing that helps you feel and be the best version of yourself every day.”
“Each and every time a customer sees or wears an item of our clothing, it gives a small boost, a smile, a push in the right direction and acts as a symbol of like-minded, forward-thinking, positive people.”
It makes sense then, that for Harvey, profits aren’t the be all and end all for his company. Instead, he seeks something much more valuable – and that is to share his truly inspiring positive mindset with the world, one sustainably made garment at a time.
We sit down with Harvey to talk about his early forays into design, balancing profit and purpose and his goal to build a family of positive-minded people looking to change the world.
“Our motto is ‘people at heart, planet in mind’ and this rings true all the way through our company foundations… Success for me is measured by the impact you have, the love in your heart and the legacy you leave behind… not the numbers on your bank balance!
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background, what inspired you to start Positive Outlook Clothing?
My name is Harvey Broadbent and I guess you could say I was born and raised in the midlands surrounded by creativity and positivity. With the family on my mum’s side all in motorsport engineering, and the family on my dad’s side was in fabrication, upholstery, and carpentry I was destined for a world in design.
My childhood was full of positive reassurance and the general push to ‘try anything’. Our family was not afraid of failure and instead praised it, as long as you gave it your all and regardless, learned from the outcome. Although my passion began in fine arts, I had the standard concerns of “you won’t make any money,” stressed to me by my teachers and friends alike.
To keep the creativity alive, I chose to explore the world of product design with a bachelor’s degree at Bournemouth University in 2008. This was where I gained an insight into each and every stage involved in taking a product from concept to life and my sense for sustainable design was born. Little did I know that this life of positive encouragement and desire to create would drive me to build a company with people at heart and planet in mind.
We love the mantra of “A positive outlook garment is a positive mindset.” From design to production and marketing – how does this ethos inspire your business?
We create quality-crafted clothing that focuses on the wearer and helps them to shine and feel their best. We don’t cater to high street fashion and exotic trends; we look a little further inward into one’s mindset and inner confidence. Clothing that helps you feel and be the best version of yourself every day.
Each chance encounter and shared moment creates a unique opportunity for a transference of positive energy, wisdom, and culture. Each time a customer sees or wears an item of our clothing, it gives a small boost, a smile, a push in the right direction and acts as a symbol of like-minded, forward-thinking, positive people. These are the foundations we stand upon in every aspect of our business and will continue to as we look to grow as a Positive Outlook family.
In your opinion, what sets Positive Outlook Clothing apart from other fashion brands in the market today?
Sustainability, transparency, and accessibility. We have been working in the world of sustainability for over eight years. We’ve made mistakes, tackled controversy, and sailed through the smoke and mirrors that exist within the fashion industry and business world.
We take nothing at face value and instead strive to see first-hand the people and processes involved at every stage of production. For example, over the past 4 years, we have worked with one family-run manufacturer for all our clothing, and we couldn’t be happier about it. We know every member of staff working there at every process, we know where our fibres come from and the energy it takes to turn those natural fibres into fabrics for you to wear and feel fantastic in. This approach allows us to share this information confidently and honestly with our customers.
With fashion being one of the biggest pollutants, sustainability in the fashion industry is more important than ever. In what ways does Positive Outlook Clothing promote conscious consumerism?
Coming from a product design background, for me sustainable design is not a gimmick, marketing ploy or USP, it’s just ‘the way it should be’ and a sign of good wholesome design. This follows through to the type and styling of the clothing we produce – quality everyday essentials.
As a company, we promote a minimal lifestyle, producing quality made items that fit and feel amazing, styled to look as good at the bar with friends or out on your morning run. We aren’t focused on launching elaborate ranges or hitting those high-street trends. A Positive Outlook item is an everyday item that will last. Our botanical fabrics and fibres work with your body, aiding movement, allowing your skin to breathe while being durable and stylish to suit any
surrounding.
As a business owner with such strong ethical foundations, how do you balance profit and purpose?
Our motto is ‘people at heart, planet in mind’ and this rings true all the way through our company foundations. I have no dreams of incredible riches but rather to succeed as a company, to reach our goals and build a family of like-minded ambitious people that are living the life they want to live and positively impacting as many people as they can while doing it. Success for me is measured by the impact you have, the love in your heart and the legacy you leave behind… not the numbers on your bank balance!
What’s next for you? Any new exciting projects in the pipeline?
Where do I start! I’d say out of everything we have going on now, I am most excited about the podcast concept we are currently creating as a company. The podcast we’re launching will ultimately be an extension of our heart, championing various youth organisations across the country, starting local to us.
We will be sharing the amazing work they do, breaking down the challenges/stereotypes they and their members face and chatting 1-2-1 with the inspiring young people these organisations work with.
We have 6-7 projects lined up so far at different stages and already each conversation we’ve had has been eye-opening and powerful to say the least! Keep your ears peeled and eyes open for this one…
What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to start their own fashion brand?
There are a lot of firsts in a child’s life, especially during the few first years. There’s the first word, the first step, even the first time they graduate from breast milk and use a sippy cup while drinking through a straw. Those are all significant milestones, and parents look forward to experiencing them with their toddlers. One of the biggest milestones is when they start school, and unlike the first time they drink with an open cup, this milestone can be scary for both kids and parents.
However, starting pre-K is something most parents consider extremely important, not only for their children’s education but also for social development purposes. You’ll need to make sure they’re prepared with everything they need for a great educational experience, including a packed lunch with solid food, their trainer cup, with the no-spill spout or a cup with a straw, and a diaper bag, if needed for younger toddlers. Let’s delve into a few ways you can prepare your little one for their pre-K life to come.
Visit the preschool.
When you’re choosing the best sippy cup for your toddler, you don’t just purchase the first one you come across, do you? No, you don’t. You search for one that will keep your toddler happy, and help them prepare for their transition cup so that they can drink like the big kids do. Of course, no matter what kind of product you’re looking for to help your toddler, you’ll be looking for something with the ease of use that’s also high quality.
You would never skip out on your research into a good pediatrician, and you’d likely even check references from the American Academy of Pediatrics before visiting each office on your list. The same should hold for the preschool they attend. MUSE Academyis a great choice to find the full potential of every child and prepare a generation of lifelong learners. You’ll find that visual arts, music, and performance are of great importance at this school, and pre-K and Kindergarten programs are designed to instill creativity and passion into each child at an early age.
Of course, whether it’s MUSE or another preschool in your area, you need to visit the school ahead of time with your child in tow. Especially if your kiddo hasn’t been out of a stroller for long, it’s important for you to see how they react to the school you’re considering.
Visit your child’s classroom a few days ahead of time so that you both can meet their teacher and get used to being in the classroom setting. If there’s a class schedule posted, show it to your child. Show them where they’ll keep their book bag and even where they’ll sit if that’s already decided. Visiting the classroom and meeting the teacher will go a long way towards making your child comfortable in the pre-K setting.
Read books about pre-school.
It’s a good idea to settle in with your child for a day of reading about pre-school and all the fun the children have there. It’ll be fun for your child to cuddle on the couch at your side to listen to you read about characters in books going to their first day of school.
Reading books about preschool is a great way to get your child’s imagination going, and it’s also a great way to get them excited about their own first day in school. It might even help you wean your child away from stubborn habits, as most kids are going to want to behave like the other ones they see in school. The point is to get your child ready to be a big boy or girl by reading to them about other kids who have gone to school before.
These are just a couple of tips for preparing your child to go to pre-K. Remember, don’t cry when you drop your child off for the first day, and chances are they won’t cry either and will be able to enjoy their first day.
The menopausal transition is a stage of life all women go through, although some women experience no noticeable menopausal symptoms. Symptoms of menopause can include moodiness, irritability, vaginal dryness, depression, and of course, the infamous hot flashes. In some cases, it may be necessary to consult with a doctor for treatment to lessen your menopause symptoms. Thankfully, there are a few remedies for hot flashes you can try without professional medical consultation.
Pay attention to possible triggers.
For some, hot flashes can be a result of a lifestyle trigger. Fans of spicy food and junk food may be disheartened to hear that they are possible triggers for hot flashes. Coffee and other caffeinated beverages can increase hot flashes as well. Consider cutting back on your morning coffee or switching to a decaffeinated alternative. If you drink alcohol, you may want to pay attention to whether or not there is a link between your alcohol consumption and an episode of hot flashes. Learning to recognize and avoid your triggers can help cut down the time you spend being uncomfortable. This could help combat mood changes and irritability during menopause or perimenopause as well!
Stay cool.
Even the slightest increase in your body temperature can set off a hot flash episode. Dress in breathable fabrics like cotton and linen, especially in the summer or to bed, to avoid night sweats. Staying hydrated and drinking ice-cold drinks can help keep your body temperature low. If you find yourself frequently standing in front of the open freezer, checking for a new batch of ice, consider a countertop ice maker. When you’re in the midst of a severe hot flash, the last thing you want to see when you open your freezer is an empty ice tray. If possible, keep your environment cool as well. Lower the air conditioning temperature or utilize a portable fan.
Relaxation is key.
Reducing stress is one route many women take to lessen symptoms throughout all stages of menopause. Meditation, massage, and breathing exercises are all excellent relaxation techniques to consider. Reducing stress could combat your hot flashes; however, it can be applied to other symptoms of menopause as well. The peace of mind relaxation provides you with can help you sleep better and improve stability in your mood. It may be beneficial for you to consider practicing yoga. Yoga combines meditation, breathing techniques, and deep stretching to help regulate your emotions and get you feeling your best. If you’re aspiring to lose weight, the physical fitness component of yoga is a bonus.
No smoking!
Smoking has a direct link to hot flashes. In addition to putting you at the additional risk for cancer, heart disease, and strokes, it could be setting off your hot flashes during menopause or perimenopause as well. Quitting smoking isn’t easy, but it’s worth it to help you get through a transitional stage of your life that can already be challenging. Many people think that seeing benefits after quitting smoking takes time. However, that is not always the case. The health benefits of quitting smoking begin just one hour after your last cigarette. The mere decision to make your next cigarette your last cigarette ever results in a near-immediate drop in blood pressure and increased circulation. After a single month, your lung capacity improves. Your increased lung capacity will feed directly into your breathing techniques, relaxation, and overall wellness.
Battling the symptoms of menopause can seem like an uphill battle. By following these recommendations, you may be able to ease your discomfort. Suppose your symptoms are severe, or the end of your menstrual period has been interfering with your daily life. In that case, it may be a good idea to seek professional medical advice. You may want to discuss in-depth treatment options like hormone therapy with your doctor.
