Almost everyone does some form of history in school - but often, it doesn’t cover as much as it should. Many people also consider history as a subject to be surplus to requirements. The truth is, though, that history can teach us a lot about where we live, the people around us, culture, travel, and more. And sometimes, the more children get access to learning experiences that involve history, they might find their own era in time that they fall in love with. 

Diversity

One of the significant impacts that history can have on children is that they can see just how diverse the world is - and they can get a good understanding of how it came to be how it is now. Even if we grow up in a location with a lot of diversity, it isn't easy to imagine just how many cultures, traditions, and people there are in the world.

Identity

For children who often hear tales of people back in their family tree, reading more about the era, watching documentaries and movies, history trips, and more can help them build a much deeper connection to who they are. As we grow up, we often begin this search - who are we? Where did we come from? What did our great-great-grandfathers do? These questions can sometimes be answered by looking at history.

Inspiration / Devastation

There have been some historical figures that truly achieved great things, many who did good deals - and let’s not forget that some of the best writers, poets, painters, and architects come from way back when. There is a lot that can be inspirational when it comes to history- however, there are plenty of people and things to learn about that are the opposite. When learning history, there are some stark moments that shaped the world as we know it - and not for the best in many cases.

Skills

The more you learn about history, the more you see how things like trains, electricity, and even the TV were developed and by who. But, part of the joy of history is that you can start to implement skills like research. Research is a skill that comes into play continually through life.

History, and the learning of it, are considered to be an academic pursuit that forces people to think, consider, and understand things that we often can’t see. One of the most important skills we can develop from an early age is critical thinking - and history offers children the opportunity to get a start. History is a series of events that are connected, and children can start as far back as they like and slowly trace the progress of technology, the movement of people, and the events that shaped the world.

A child’s learning journey starts early in their lives, and it is something that many will do throughout their life. One of the ways to get a solid start is to consider what type of learning your child will need and enjoy the most. Why not start with this post - Are Playgroups Necessary for Children?

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6 Tips On Finding a Good Family Home in Kent

In 2023, more and more families are choosing to move away from the eye watering property prices in London. Those looking to get out the city are seeking the help of solicitors in Maidstone and surrounding areas whilst they look further afield for the perfect family home. In this post I'll be explaining why Kent could be just the place for you and your family, as well as providing six tips for finding the perfect family home in this beautiful and versatile part of the country.

Affordable Housing

Figures show that house prices in Kent are around 33% lower than in London, meaning that families can get more bang for their buck - something which is on many people’s minds these days as we continue to battle the current cost of living crisis.

Excellent Transport Links

Kent is served by some great transport links including airports, ports, roads and train lines. This is great news for those whose work is based in London as the HS1 train line can speed you into the capital in just 20 minutes - giving you the best of both worlds.

Varied Choice of Living

Despite spanning just 1368 miles, Kent has something for everyone. From the coastal towns and villages of Herne Bay and Dymchurch to cosmopolitan cities such as Maidstone and Canterbury, you’re literally spoilt for choice.

Family Friendly

As if all of the above isn’t enough, Kent has some fantastic schools, colleges and universities with plenty of great restaurants, bars and culture. It’s also surrounded by some pretty stunning scenery, making it the ideal place to raise a family.

6 Tips on Finding a Good Family Home in Kent

Finding the right home in Kent for your family is the key to your success when it comes to your new life and, in this section, I'll share eight tips on finding your dream home in Kent.

1. Consider the size of home you’re looking for -
When looking for a family home in Kent, you will want to be realistic about the size of your family - this means figuring out if your family is now complete or if you may hear the further pitter patter of tiny feet again sometime. This can help determine the size of the house you’re looking for helping to narrow your search.

2. Consider your families hobbies -
Kent has an awful lot to offer and some great versatility. Because of this, you and your family will need to decide on what’s important to you in a location. In Kent, this means choosing between picturesque villages, coastal towns and cool cities.

3. Create a family friendly checklist -
Once you’ve decided what type of location you prefer, it's time to zero in on particular towns or cities. When choosing your town, city or village, there are a few things to put on your checklist, including: 

· Transport
· Schools
· Restaurants, bars and shops
· Crime rates 

4. House hunting -
Once you’ve decided where in Kent you would like to live, it's time to find a good estate agent to help you to find your dream home. Make sure that you take your time when shopping around for an estate agent as you’ll want to find somebody who has grown up in the area or has lived there for a long time to ensure that they know the location inside and out.

Thankfully, you’ll usually be able to find estate agent reviews online and you should make sure that you check these out as they can be a really good indication of how effective an agent is. Before making any decisions, make sure that you spend some time in the area - both during the day and at night - to get a proper feel for the place before committing to a move. 

5. Create a realistic budget
These days, desirable properties tend to be snapped up pretty quickly so you’ll need to make sure that you’re ready to go should you find your dream property. Be realistic with your budget and make sure that you have any necessary financial products such as a mortgage in place.

6. Check out property auctions for a bargain
If your house buying budget is pretty tight, you may want to consider going down the property auction route in Kent. This can be a great way of nabbing yourself a fantastic property at an extremely reasonable price.

Making the move to a new town or city can be daunting, but Kent most definitely offers more pros than cons. Make sure you do your research thoroughly as well as spending some time in your chosen area to make sure that it's right for you and your family. If you’re planning to commute, you’ll also want to give transport links a test run to make sure that it's a viable option for you. Around 1,707 people move to Kent every year and most of them never look back - so you’ll be in good company.

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The Dangers of Ignoring your Health as Busy Parents

As a busy parent, it's understandable that your own health may take a backseat to the demands of everyday life, and caring for your children. However, neglecting your health can have serious consequences that can influence your ability to care for your loved ones and decrease your quality of life. It's therefore important to recognise the dangers of ignoring your health. From chronic pain and exhaustion to decreased immunity and hormonal imbalances, neglecting your health can manifest in various ways.

In this post I will share the dangers of ignoring your health as a busy parent, so hopefully by understanding these risks, you can take steps to prioritise your health and well-being, therefore allowing you to better care for your family and lead a happier, healthier life.

Hormonal Issues

Hormonal imbalances can impact both men and women, and neglecting your health can exacerbate these issues. In women, failing their health can lead to irregular periods, mood swings, and other symptoms. Men, on the other hand, may experience a decline in testosterone levels, which can result in decreased energy, decreased libido, and reduced muscle mass. These issues can significantly impact their everyday life, making it tough to keep up with the demands of work and family.

Fortunately, there are options available to address hormonal imbalances, including testosterone replacement therapy, which helps men restore their testosterone levels. As a result, it leads to improved energy levels, increased muscle mass, and a better overall sense of well-being. However, seeking guidance from a qualified healthcare professional before starting any hormonal therapy is important.

Chronic Pain and Discomfort

These are common issues for many individuals, including busy parents. Various factors, including injury, inflammation, and certain medical conditions, can cause it. Chronic pain can significantly impact your quality of life, making it difficult to carry out everyday activities and increasing stress and frustration.

It's significant to seek medical attention if you are experiencing chronic pain or discomfort, as various treatment options are available. These may include physical therapy, medication, or alternative therapies such as acupuncture or massage. Self-care, such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress-reducing techniques, can help prevent chronic pain and discomfort from becoming a persistent issue.

Increased Fatigue and Exhaustion

As a busy parent, neglecting your health can increase fatigue and exhaustion. A range of factors, including poor sleep, lack of exercise, and chronic stress, can cause this. When you ignore your body's need for rest and recovery, you can experience physical and mental exhaustion, impacting your ability to carry out everyday tasks. Over time, increased fatigue can lead to various health issues, including weakened immunity, depression, and anxiety.

It's important to address increased fatigue and exhaustion early on by making lifestyle changes such as improving sleep hygiene, taking breaks during the day, and incorporating regular exercise into your routine.

Chronic Stress and Anxiety

Chronic stress and anxiety are common issues faced by many individuals, including busy parents. This can be driven by various factors such as work pressures, family responsibilities, and financial concerns. Neglecting your health can worsen these issues, as stress and anxiety can lead to negative consequences, including decreased immunity, difficulty sleeping, and even depression.

Addressing chronic stress and anxiety early on is essential to prevent these negative consequences. This can be done through various self-care practices such as regular exercise, meditation, and relaxation techniques. Additionally, seeking support from family, friends, or a mental health professional can help manage chronic stress and anxiety. By prioritising your mental health, you can better manage the demands of everyday life as a busy parent and lead a happier, healthier life.

Difficulty Staying Asleep

Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep can be a common issue for busy parents. Various factors, including stress, anxiety, and hormonal imbalances, can cause this. Neglecting your health can worsen this issue, as poor sleep habits can lead to increased stress and anxiety, exacerbating the problem.

Lack of sleep can significantly impact your health and well-being, leading to decreased energy, mental clarity, and immunity. It's important to address difficulty sleeping or staying asleep early to prevent these negative consequences. This can be done by establishing a regular sleep routine, practicing relaxation before bed, and avoiding stimulating activities such as electronic use before bedtime.

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How to Create a Safe and Healthy Home Environment for your Family

As a parent, being concerned about your child's well-being is natural. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 48 million people in the United States get sick from food-borne illnesses every year, and children under 5 are at a higher risk of developing severe complications from contaminated food. Thus, a safe and healthy home environment is essential for a child's overall wellness. In this post will I am going to share various ways to make your home a safe and healthy haven for your children, to hopefully give you some helpful tips an advice.

Keep your Home Clean and Clutter-Free

One of the easiest ways to ensure a healthy home environment for your kids is by keeping your home clean and clutter-free. Regularly vacuuming and dusting will help eliminate allergens and reduce the spread of germs. Use natural cleaning products that are free from harmful chemicals and toxins.

Keeping your home clean and clutter-free can create a comfortable and inviting safe space for your children. It can also save you time and money by preventing the need for costly repairs or replacements due to neglect or damage caused by clutter too.

Ensure Proper Ventilation

Proper ventilation is critical for maintaining good air quality in your home. Opening windows and doors can help fresh air circulate, but it may not be enough sometimes. Installing exhaust fans in your bathrooms and kitchen can remove excess moisture and prevent mold growth, especially in areas with high humidity.

Did you know that poor indoor air quality can cause respiratory problems such as asthma, especially in children? That's why it's crucial to improve ventilation in your home. Additionally, using an air purifier can be helpful in areas with high outdoor pollution levels. This will help remove harmful pollutants from the air and ensure a healthy environment for your children.

Keep your Home Pest-Free

A pest-free home is crucial for a healthy and safe environment. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, asthma affects 6.2 million children in the United States, and exposure to pests, such as cockroaches and rodents, can exacerbate their symptoms. It is essential to keep your home pest-free to reduce the risk of asthma and other health issues in children.

Therefore, if you notice a pest problem, quickly eliminate it using quick pest control solutions, such as hiring a professional team. Hiring a skilled team can be beneficial as they have the right tools and skills to stop further infestation. Don't wait. Pests can pose a significant health risk to your family.

Create a Safe Play Area

Use childproof gates to block off stairs and other hazardous areas. Install soft floorings, such as carpet or foam tiles, in your child's playroom to cushion falls, and keep small toys and objects out of reach of young children to prevent choking hazards.

Supervise your children during playtime to ensure they are safe and not engaging in risky behaviour. Remember, accidents can happen anywhere, so always be vigilant and take the necessary precautions to prevent injuries.

Ensure Proper Lighting

Adequate lighting is essential for maintaining a safe and comfortable home environment for your children. Bright and energy-efficient lighting in play areas and homework zones can prevent accidents caused by poor visibility. In addition, a well-lit home creates a welcoming ambiance for children and adults. Night lights in your child's room can also provide a soothing atmosphere and prevent tripping hazards in the dark.

Consider using smart lighting systems that allow you to adjust the brightness and colour temperature of the lights. With proper lighting, your child's room and the rest of your home can be a comfortable and safe space for them to grow and thrive.

Install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

These detectors are essential safety devices that can save lives. Install them on every level of your home, including inside and outside each bedroom. Choose interconnected detectors so that if one alarm goes off, all alarms will sound. Make sure to test them monthly too, to ensure they're working correctly, and replace batteries annually. It's also essential to replace the detectors every ten years.

In addition, make sure everyone in your home knows what the alarms sound like and what to do if they hear them. With these simple steps, you can help protect your family from the dangers of smoke and carbon monoxide.

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