Logo

Welcome to Mama Knows

Login or Join Us to meet new friends, find out what's going on, and connect with other Mothers on Mama Knows!


Sign Up Now

Registering for Mama Knows is easy. Just fill in the fields on the registration page and we'll get a new account set up for you in no time.

Forgot Your Password?

A new password will be e-mailed to you.

Member Login

Top 10 Back to School Money Saving Tips

August 31, 2009 in Parenting by Hanna Trafford

VN:F [1.9.15_1155]
Take a moment to Rate and Review:
Rating: 0.0/10 (0 votes cast)

money-saving-tipsI am sure that some of you are already worried about how to manage buying everything your child needs and wants before starting the new school year. And as every parent, you want to make sure that you can provide for everything. But some ways of doing that are better than others – here are my most useful tips – based on past experiences. Hope it is helpful to you and I will greatly appreciate if you add to this list, as I am sure you have other experiences that you could share!

Top 10 Back to School Money Saving Tips:

1. Check your home inventory first:

I don’t know about you but I always find things at home that I have put away some time ago and just forgot I had them. And especially if you have more than one child going to school – there is a good chance you have some items at home you will not need to buy.

2. Make a shopping list:

Detailed one is a very good idea! Because if you don’t, you are likely to buy things you don’t really need. So the bottom line here to avoid unnecessary purchases. And it is a very good idea to make the list with your child. That way you will be able to avoid your child suddenly remembering that he needs something when he sees it on the store shelf.

3. Set a budget and set limits:

Again – a good idea is to get your child involved in setting the budget limits and boundaries. You may want to bring a calculator with you to the store and keep your child updated on the budget status as things are being added to the shopping cart.

4. Check out flyers with specials:

This step can be a big help when doing your shopping list with your child. Going over advertised special items will help you decide where to do your Back to School shopping. And if there are coupons, have your child cut them out and see just how much money can be saved.

5. Look for and buy used books:

If you need to purchase books, check with used book stores or contact your school for information about where you can possibly purchase used books. Or if you have friends with children in higher grades, check with them – they may have what you are looking for.

6. Check for student discounts:

This applies specifically of you are planning on purchasing electronics – check different retailers and do not be afraid to ask if they offer special discounts.

7. Check out Thrift stores for clothing:

I have found brand new items in local thrift store – with tags still on them and at a fraction of the department store price! There are real treasures to be found – it may take a little more time but trust me – it can work real well for your wallet!

8. Shop ahead and shop smart:

If your budget and your wallet will allow it, and when you see a really good bargain, buy enough to last – not just what is needed for the first month of school. It will work well for you in the long run.

9. One more tip on clothing issue:

You may want to wait for your children (especially girls) to determine what the trends are. There is a very good chance that the items on the list will change as she sees what is in and what isn’t in.You might be able to avoid some discussions on that subject that you would rather not have.

10. Go Homemade:

I am talking about lunches specifically here. Things like drinking boxes can be easily replaced by having your child choose their own drinking bottle and filling it with juice that is already in your fridge. And same thing goes for things like puddings, snacks – just look for reusable containers and use them as much as possible instead of spending money on prepared lunch items. And this works really well if you get your child involved in preparation process – it will be the lunch they will eat if they put it together themselves.

Your comments, additions and suggestions are most welcomed here – please share!

scan000325

VN:F [1.9.15_1155]
Rating: 0 (from 0 votes)

Protecting Your Child From Swine Flu

August 31, 2009 in Health, Parenting by Hanna Trafford

VN:F [1.9.15_1155]
Take a moment to Rate and Review:
Rating: 0.0/10 (0 votes cast)
Swine Flu Virus

Swine Flu Virus

In light of the recent reports that some swine flu cases were reported, I have put together a short information guide on what to do when your child has flu symptoms and you start worrying. It is important to note that teens are not immune to this flu as it was previously thought. Some flu cases were reported in a school in New York so caution is recommended.

What is Swine Flu?

Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza virus that regularly causes outbreaks of influenza in pigs. Swine flu viruses cause high levels of illness and low death rates in pigs. Swine influenza viruses may circulate among swine throughout the year, but most outbreaks occur during the late fall and winter months similar to outbreaks in humans. The classical swine flu virus (an influenza type A H1N1 virus) was first isolated from a pig in 1930.

You can not get swine influenza from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork and pork products is safe. Cooking pork to an internal temperature of 160°F kills the swine flu virus as it does other bacteria and viruses.

Influenza viruses can be directly transmitted from pigs to people and from people to pigs. Human infection with flu viruses from pigs are most likely to occur when people are in close proximity to infected pigs, such as in pig barns and livestock exhibits housing pigs at fairs. Human-to-human transmission of swine flu can also occur. This is thought to occur in the same way as seasonal flu occurs in people, which is mainly person-to-person transmission through coughing or sneezing of people infected with the influenza virus. People may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

Here are symptoms to watch for:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Body Aches
  • Headache
  • Chills
  • Fatigue
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea

What To Do When Symptoms Appear:

  • Keep him home from school
  • Contact your family physician, since to accurately diagnose swine flu, respiratory specimen needs to be analyze by a qualified laboratory. Early report to the physician is a key here – the specimen needs to be taken in the first 4-5 days of symptoms.
  • Seeking help early might make a difference in preventing the illness from getting worse

Preventing Flu:

  • Good hand washing is always important – using alcohol-based sanitizer
  • Give your child tissues to cover their mouth and noses if they sneeze or cough. The virus is transmitted through respiratory droplets
  • Ask your child to be aware of his friends having symptoms and ask him to make sure he keeps his distance and tells you about it

Final note – just in case you wondered:

The H1N1 swine flu virus is not the same as the human H1N1 virus. They are very different and therefore vaccines for human seasonal flu would not provide protection form H1N1 swine flu viruses.

Please add your comments, suggestions and tips on preventing flu – this is all about sharing and your input will be valued by others!

Thank You!

scan000321

VN:F [1.9.15_1155]
Rating: 0 (from 0 votes)

Top Five Jam Recipes

August 28, 2009 in Recipes by Hanna Trafford

VN:F [1.9.15_1155]
Take a moment to Rate and Review:
Rating: 10.0/10 (1 vote cast)

large_fruits-sel-aeginaThere is a plenty of fruits this time of the year to choose from to make some easy and delicious jams. Here are my top 5 recipes for you, but before you get to them, please read some tips on making jams:

Tips for Making Jams:

  1. Select firm, ripe but never over-ripe fruit
  2. Wash fruit in cold, running water
  3. Remove hulls,. cores, pits, seeds or skins; leave whole, slice or chop as directed in the recipe, discarding all spoiled portions
  4. Weigh or measure fruit and sugar accurately
  5. Cook in small batches and do not double the recipe unless indicated
  6. Combine fruit and sugar and cook over low heat until sugar dissolves, stirring occasionally
  7. When sugar is dissolved, cook rapidly (boil) and stir frequently to prevent sticking
  8. Jams will thicken as they cool
  9. Pour hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2″ head space. Jars should be hot and dry when being filled.
  10. Seal all fruit products in air tight home canning jars. If you use ordinary household jars, seal with melted, hot paraffin wax. Use only enough paraffin to make a layer about 1/8″ thick.  Prick any bubbles that form in the paraffin wax.
  11. Store in dark, dry and reasonably cool area.

Top Five Jam Recipes:

Spiced Peach Jam

Spiced Peach Jam

1. Spiced Peach Jam:

2 cups of crushed, peeled peaches

2 tablespoons of water

1-1/2 cups of sugar

1/4 teaspoon of whole cloves

1/4 teaspoon of whole allspice

1/4 cinnamon stick

Combine crushed peaches and water, cook gently for 10 minutes. Add sugar and slowly bring to boiling, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves. Add whole cloves, all spice and cinnamon stick, tied in a cheesecloth bag to jam during cooking; remove just before pouring jam into jars. Cook rapidly until thick, about 15 minutes; stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Pour hot into hot sterilized jars and seal.

Raspberry Jam

Raspberry Jam

2. Raspberry Jam:

9 cups of crushed raspberries

6 cups of sugar

Combine crushed raspberries and sugar. Bring slowly to boiling, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves. Cook rapidly to or almost to jellying point, depending on whether a firm or soft jam is desired. Pour boiling hot into hot sterilized jars and seal.

Yellow Plum Jam

Yellow Plum Jam

3. Yellow Plum Jam:

6 cups of chopped yellow plums

4-1/2 cups of sugar

3 tablespoons of lemon juice

1 cup of water

Combine all ingredients and bring slowly to boiling point, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves. Cook rapidly almost to jelly8ing point – takes about 20 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. Pour boiling hot into sterilized jars and seal.

Peach and Cherry Jam

Peach and Cherry Jam

4. Peach and Cherry Jam:

6 lbs. of peaches

3 oranges

5 lbs. of sugar

1/2 cup of lemon juice

1 bottle (6 oz.) of commercial pectin

1 jar of Maraschino cherries

Peel and slice peaches. Slice oranges thinly using skin and pulp. Combine peaches, oranges and sugar. Tie peach stones in a cheesecloth bag and add to peaches with syrup from cherries. Simmer for 3 hours; add lemon juice and simmer about 5 more minutes. Remove peach stones and add chopped cherries and pectin. Stir and let stand for about 5 minutes. Pour into sterilized jars and seal.

Apple Blueberry Jam

Apple Blueberry Jam

5. Apple Blueberry Jam:

3 cups peeled chopped apples

1 1/2 cups  crushed blueberries

1/4 cup lemon juice

5 cups  granulated sugar

2 pouches CERTO Liquid Pectin

Measure prepared fruit into a large saucepan. Add lemon juice and sugar, mix well. Bring to a full rolling boil and boil hard 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Immediately stir in liquid pectin. Continue stirring 5 minutes, skimming foam. Pour quickly into warm, sterilized jars filling up to 1/4- inch from rim and seal.

Jellying Point Test:

Thermometer test: Check boiling point of water with candy thermometer. Boil jams until temperature reaches 9 degrees above the boiling point of water.

Spoon test: Dip a cool metal spoon into boiling syrup; raise and tilt spoon until syrup runs from the side. When jellying point is reached, liquid will not flow in a stream but will divide into distinct drops which run together and drop off the spoon as one sheet.

Hope you enjoy these tips and recipes – please let me know how they turned out for you – your comments and suggestions are always very much appreciated.

scan000320


VN:F [1.9.15_1155]
Rating: 0 (from 2 votes)

Czech Fruit Dumplings

August 27, 2009 in Uncategorized by Hanna Trafford

VN:F [1.9.15_1155]
Take a moment to Rate and Review:
Rating: 0.0/10 (0 votes cast)
032509plumdumpling

Svestkove Knedliky - Plum Dumplings

When I was growing up in Czechoslovakia , ovocne knedliky was served as a full dinner — even though it seems more like a breakfast, lunch or side. It is not a difficult meal to make and believe me – it is especially loved by children. We used plums, peaches, apricots, cherries or apples and covered the dumplings with breadcrumbs roasted in butter and cinnamon. I remember this as my granma’s specialty and as I write this recipe, I can almost taste these delicious little fruit goodies!

Fruit Dumplings (Ovocne Knedliky)
2 cups flour
1 egg, slightly beaten
2 tablespoons melted butter
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon salt

  • Mix egg with butter and milk. Add salt.
  • Sift flour on a board and add first mixture, kneading until smooth.
  • Cut dough into small pieces and wrap evenly around the fruit (make sure to clean and pre-pit your fruit!). Seal well all around.
  • Drop dumplings in a large pan of boiling salted water and cook for about 8 minutes. Do not overcook.
  • Remove from water immediately, sprinkle with topping made by melting butter in a large pan and adding enough breadcrumbs to make a coarse looking mixture. Sprinkle the mixture with cinnamon to taste.
  • Good idea is to keep the dumplings in a colander over hot water until ready to serve.
  • Arrange on a platter, sprinkle with some more topping if you want.
  • Crumbled pot cheese, ground poppy seed or plain brown sugar can also be used for topping.

Hope you and your family will enjoy this unique fruit treat recipe – your comments and suggestions will as always be very much appreciated!

scan000318

VN:F [1.9.15_1155]
Rating: 0 (from 0 votes)

Top 10 Tips for Great Barbecue Party

August 27, 2009 in Featured Articles, Household Hints by Hanna Trafford

VN:F [1.9.15_1155]
Take a moment to Rate and Review:
Rating: 0.0/10 (0 votes cast)

7_27lights_08-27-2004_ml2cpnlSummer is coming to the end really fast and as sad as that is and as much as none of us what that to be true, we have to face the fact that it will in fact happen!Enjoy the nice warm days and if you are thinking about having that perfect outdoor party with a easy to do barbecue, here are some tips that will help!

1.Have music playing when guests arrive – you can mix your own CD based on what you think your guests would enjoy hearing

2.Offer vegetarian option – Summer BBQ is synonymous with great meats. But vegetarians are a growing population and chances are there are going to be people at your summer BBQ that don’t like or don’t eat the meat you are preparing.

3.Make drinking water availableOften times the perfect BBQ drink is a margarita or a cold beer. But unfortunately, when you combine hot weather and alcohol it can be a potentially harmful situation. So make sure you have more than alcoholic drinks and sodas to offer your guests as all of those things dehydrate people and make them more susceptible to heat stroke or even worse.

4.Make sure there are designated drivers. This goes along with the statement tip above. Always make sure I know that there are designated drivers that aren’t going to have more than 1 drink.The last thing you want is for someone to get in an accident or a DUI as they are on the way home from your party. You wouldn’t be a good host or a good friend if you only served alcohol without any other options.

5.When it comes to having a party, food is the centerpiece of your event. People usually limit themselves to traditional hamburgers or hotdogs. But you can take everyone’s classic summer favorites and transform them into a feast of flavor by making a few simple adjustments.

6.Here are some suggestions on preparing almost traditional foods with a little ywist:

  • Potato Salad-instead of using the traditional mayonnaise recipe, make this dish more figure friendly by using vinegar, salt, pepper, and some chopped scallions.
  • Corn on the Cob-no outdoor barbecue party would be complete without it, but instead of smearing it with butter, create a butter and garlic rub. Take a few chunks of butter and combine it with a little bit of olive oil, salt, pepper, and some minced garlic. Leave the corn covered in the mixture in the fridge.Then wrap it in aluminum foil and cook over the grill.
  • Burgers-keep the ground beef, but add a few table spoons of olive oil, salt, pepper and butter. Then dice one sweet onion and slice a few mushroom caps, mix and grill.
  • Shrimp another way: Get about 2 cups of cherry tomatoes (slice in half’s) and combine them in a bowl with salt, pepper, grate a small clove of garlic and some chopped fresh basil. Sauté shrimp in a pan over high heat with a olive oil and add to tomato bowl.

7.For your décor, paper table cloths and bright yellow plastic plates just don’t make the grade – try using fabric  tablecloths, it will make a world of difference. You can throw them in the wash and use them for next time. You can could find plates that are inexpensive and provide a festive compliment for your party -but if doing the dishes is not your thing go for a plastic ones.I would recommend a good quality ones – personally, I would never used the Styrofoam ones – they can ruin a great meal!

8.Remember that lighting will totally influence the mood of your party – choose paper Chinese lanterns you can buy inexpensively at your local discount store and place them strategically over areas where your guests will be eating or sitting.

9.Plan some outdoor entertainment – such as games. That will largely depend on the space you have available. If the space is restricted, plan games that will involve everyone without the need for moving around. If you have larger space for your entertainment, plan games where you guest will have to move around. And if you haven’t tried Bocce tournament, give it a shot – that has always been popular for me!

10. The last tip is almost the same as the first – music is always a great idea. Keep it going through the time of your party but remember that if you have neighbours you didn’t invite, they may not appreciate it if your music is too loud, especially later in the evening. Turn the volume up or down depending on the activity and the time of the day.

And just a footnote – if you have lots of leftovers it is probably because you prepared too much (that is usually what happens to me) have some disposable containers on hand and offer your guest take home packages. Some will jump on the offer, other won’t, but you won’t be stuck with food that potentially cannot be put into your freezer.

Hope these tips were helpful to you – your input with suggestions and comments will be greatly appreciated!

scan000319

VN:F [1.9.15_1155]
Rating: 0 (from 0 votes)

10 Things You Can Do With Bread

August 26, 2009 in Household Hints by Hanna Trafford

VN:F [1.9.15_1155]
Take a moment to Rate and Review:
Rating: 2.0/10 (1 vote cast)

breadwhite

Other than making sandwiches that is. Lots of times we throw out bread that has gone stale or hard – and no matter how you look at it – it is a waste. Here are a few tips what you can use bread for, save money, time and the help your planet!

  1. Softening Brown Sugar - A slice of bread placed with hardened brown sugar in a plastic bag and sealed tightly will soften the sugar in about 3 hours.
  2. Bread Snacks - When your bread has turned almost stale, take a cookie cutter and cut the bread into shapes. Place in a plastic bag and freeze. When company arrives, top the bread pieces with fancy cheese  spread and pop them under a broiler. Instant snacks that will taste great!
  3. Gourmet Croutons - Cut stale bread into 1/2-inch cubes. Place ona  baking sheet and bake at 325F for 15 minutes, stirring around occassionally. Yoiu can sporinkle them with seasonings – like garlic or celery salt before baking,.
  4. Crumbs - Dry bread in an oven at 300F for about 10 minutes. Break into pieces and place in a paper bag. Secure end and crush with a rolling pin to make bread crumbs.
  5. Make it last – Bread will last longer if you put a stalk of celery in the bag along with the bread.
  6. Rejuvenate! - To restore bread to freshness, take a damp tea topwel and wrap the loaf in it. Plae in the fridge til the next day. When ready to use, remove the tea towel and warm the bread in your oven.
  7. Bun fix – Place your stale buns or rolls in a brown paper bag. Sprinkle teh bag liberally with water and place it in a warm oven for about 5 minutes, Watch the oven carefully – it is a paper bag!
  8. Crispy crackers - Kepp soda crackers in the bottom draer of the stove – the heat from the oven will keep them crisp.
  9. More crispy tips – Crackers, pretzels and potato chips that have lost their crunch can be revived by placing them on a cookie sheet and broiling for just a minute.
  10. Dusting – really? This works great! If you have an oil paiting that has collected some dust, use a slice of white bread to take the dust off – honestly!

Do you have more ideas, tips or experiences? Please add them – it will be greatly appreciated!

VN:F [1.9.15_1155]
Rating: 0 (from 0 votes)

Five Things You Can Do With Watermelon

August 26, 2009 in Recipes by Hanna Trafford

VN:F [1.9.15_1155]
Take a moment to Rate and Review:
Rating: 0.0/10 (0 votes cast)

watermelonWatermelon itself is a great refreshing treat – especially on a hot, summer day. But there is a whole lot more you can do with this great treat – and here are five recipes that I hope will assist you in surprising your family or your friends.

1. Watermelon and Feta Appetizer:

watermelon-with-balsamic-and-feta_lg3 cups of cubed (about 1 inch size) watermelon

1/2 cup of coarsely crumbled feta cheese

1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon of shredded fresh mint

1/4 teaspoon of pepper

Place watermelon in serving dish, sprinkle with feta cheese and drizzle with oil. Sprinkle with fresh mint and pepper. To serve, spear with toothpicks.

2. Watermelon Fresco:

watermelon-fresco

6 cups of chopped watermelon

1 cup of crushed ice

1/4 cup of granulated sugar

2 tablespoons of lime juice

thin watermelon wedges (for garnish)

In blender, combine watermelon, crushed ice, sugar and lime juice until smooth and frothy. Pour over more crushed ice in glasses and garnish with thin lemon wedges if desired.

3. Watermelon Daiquiri:

watermelon-daiquiri

1 lime wedge

4 tablespoons of granulated sugar

3 cups of chopped watermelon (frozen)

1/4 cup of white rum

2 tablespoons of line juice

thin watermelon wedges (for garnish)

Run lime wedges around the edges of glasses, coat with 1 tablespoon of sugar. In blender, blend watermelon, run, lime juice and remaining sugar. Blend until slushy. Pour into glasses and garnish with thin watermelon wedges if desired.

4. Watermelon Salsa Salad:

watermelon_salsa1

4 cups of cubed watermelon (small about 1/2 inch cubes)

2 cups of diced celery

1/2 cup of thinly sliced red onion

2 tablespoons of each chopped fresh coriander and lime juice

1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil

1/4 teaspoon of each salt and pepper

In a bowl, toss together all ingredients and mix gently. Serve cold with your favourite chips.

5. Watermelon and Raspberry Sorbet:

sorbet

2 cups of frozen raspberries, thawed

4 cups of coarsely chopped watermelon

1/2 cup of granulated sugar

1/4 cup of orange juice

Press raspberries through sieve, discarding seeds. In blender, blend raspberries, watermelon,sugar and orange juice until smooth. freeze in 13 x 9 inch metal cake pan until solid, about 2 hours. break up and puree. Freeze in airtight container until firm – about 1 hour.

Hope you enjoy these variations of watermelon – if you have others, please let me know and I will gladly add them!

scan00034


VN:F [1.9.15_1155]
Rating: 0 (from 0 votes)

Guide to Getting Your Child Ready for Kindergarten

August 25, 2009 in Household Hints, Parenting by Hanna Trafford

VN:F [1.9.15_1155]
Take a moment to Rate and Review:
Rating: 0.0/10 (0 votes cast)

get-ready-for-kindergarten-monthI remember to this day what it was like to take my firstborn to his first day of kindergarten. And I also never forgot the words that Mrs. Fillingham – his kindergarten teacher said to me, as she took his hand to lead him into the classroom: “Take a good look mom and remember this day good. This is the day you start loosing him”. Little strong perhaps, but somehow I knew what she meant. My child will start on his road to independence – little by little through all the following years. And just to clear that up – that child is now 39 years old and I have never lost him!

But one thing is for sure – the apprehension and anxiety about the first day of school is very real and equally stressful for both of you. I hope the following tips and guide will help you!

Guide to Getting Your Child Ready for Kindergarten:

  • Take your child to visit the school and arrange to meet his teacher. Show him the cafeteria, library, playground, etc. – the more familiar he is, the easier it will be for him (and you).
  • Play school at home. Do some colouring, reading, play with blocks and have your child raise his hand when asking a question
  • Build the excitement for school by showing your excitement. Let your child know how much fun it will be, how much he will learn and how great it will be to make new friends. If you are scared or apprehensive, you child will be as well – if you are excited, he will be excited.
  • Teach your child how to eat from a lunch box by packing lunches for both of you the week before school starts
  • It is likely that the concept of laying on a plastic mat to take a nap will seem bizarre to him – another thing you can practice the week before school
  • Reading is a great exercise – read together – if only for 20 minutes each day. Reading together means that you read a story and have your child “read” back to you   - he can “read” the pictures
  • If your child is not used to being with a larger group of children participating in activities, give him some practice. Check your local library – most of them have children’s programs that will give him some practice.
  • Do not hang around the classroom all day – some parents do that – it just makes it harder on the child! Even if you see some tears on the first day – just leave and remind yourself that he will be so busy with activities and with discovering new things that the tears will fade away quickly. It will probably take you longer to dry your eyes!

checklist1Kindergarten Ready Checklist:

  • Listen to stories without interrupting
  • Recognize rhyming sounds
  • Pay attention for short periods of time to adult-directed tasks
  • Show understanding to general times of day
  • Cut with scissors
  • Trace basic shapes
  • Begin to share with others
  • Follow rules
  • Manage bathroom needs
  • Button shirts, pants,coats and zip up zippers
  • Separate from parents without being upset
  • Speak understandably in sentences of five to six words
  • Look at pictures and then tell stories
  • Identify some alphabet letters
  • Recognize some common sight words like “stop”
  • Sort similar objects by colour, size and shape
  • Count to ten

Note: Highlighted words have more detailed information below – don’t miss them!

cartoonclockReading a Clock

In these days of digital everything, your child may not see many conventional clocks, but telling time the “old way” is still a skill that is good for your child to master.

Materials:

  • Colored construction paper
  • Scissors
  • Paper plate
  • Paper fastener
  • Crayon, pen, or marker

Directions:

  1. Make a play clock for your child to practice telling time.
  2. Cut big and little hands out of colored construction paper and attach them to a paper plate with a paper fastener.
  3. Using a crayon, pen, or marker, number the clock appropriately.
  4. Your child can move the hands around the clock as she learns the basics of telling time.
  5. Most young children will not learn all the details of telling time–to the quarter hour, to the minute, and so on–but, if they know their numbers up to twelve, they can certainly learn to tell time on the hour and maybe even on the half hour.

871origPay Attention:

  • Get your child’s attention before giving directions.
  • Speak slowly and clearly without overexaggerating your speech.
  • Vary loudness to increase attention.
  • Give simple directions, and keep them brief.
  • In more complicated directions, use words like first, next, and finally.
  • Check that your child understands your directions by asking him to repeat or summarize them.
  • Encourage him to ask questions when he doesn’t understand your directions.
  • Try not to show frustration when your child misunderstands directions.

toddler-cryingSeparation Anxiety – Making it easier for Everyone

  • You cannot stay with your child every minute of every day – and even if you could, it would take care of everything. Separation anxiety stems from the conflict between your child’s urge for independence and the need for security. Balance between the two is the key to success but it is not an easy thing to do.
  • First – try not get annoyed when your child whines or clings – take it as a compliment. So bear the tears and stay calm if there is a tantrum. The fact that your child makes such a fuss when you leave shows that you are loved and needed.
  • Creating a balance between freedom and security is not an easy task – but remembering that independence springs from these two conditions makes it important. If you increase your child freedom but deny the sense of security, the chid, filled with anxiety will founder. It means – for example – that leaving your child alone in the room for extended periods of time thinking it will increase independence will not work.
  • On the other hand – of you provide your child with plenty of security but little freedome, your child will more than likely become extremely timid or very rebellious.
  • That is why you need to work on striving for a balance between the two.
  • Try to be there for your child whenever he needs you – you are the home base
  • Provide a safe environment for your child that allows him almost a free rein
  • When separation anxiety seems particularly painful for your child, pamper him to help him feel more secure. Little babying is fine as long as it doesn’t go on forever
  • And just in case it results in your child having trouble going to sleep. Or waking up with nightmares – give yourself a permission to sit beside him until he falls asleep. Do this for a week or so – the anxiety should wane and regular sleep routine should resume.

abc_A Box of ABC’s

Materials needed:

  • A shallow box, box top, or baking pan
  • Uncooked rice
  • Dark colored paper or paint (optional)

Young children like to use their sense of touch to learn new things. The following “hands-on” activity is a fun way to help kids aged 3 to 5 learn their letters — and numbers too. Kids will be able to feel the shape of these symbols as they draw them.

  • What to do:
  • For the best effect, paint the bottom of the box a dark color or tape down dark-colored paper.
  • Pour in a thin layer of rice. Shake the box lightly until the rice evenly covers the bottom.
  • Your child can begin by drawing lines in the rice.
  • If letters are a new concept, guide his hand to write the first letter of his name.
  • Shake the box and try it again!
  • Variation: Your child may draw pictures of any object, such as an apple, tree, or face. Keep the learning aspect by having him identify the letter that the picture starts with and writing it in the rice.

I hope this was helpful to you – and I am sure there is a lot more that could be added. Please send in your comments, suggestions and questions – this is all about sharing experiences and helping each other!

scan000317

VN:F [1.9.15_1155]
Rating: 0 (from 0 votes)

Cinnamon Biscuit Peach Cobbler

August 23, 2009 in Recipes by Hanna Trafford

VN:F [1.9.15_1155]
Take a moment to Rate and Review:
Rating: 0.0/10 (0 votes cast)

cinnamon-biscuit-peach-cobblerThis is a great recipe for a totally different breakfast idea! You may or may not agree, but just picture the aroma of baking cinnamon in your home first thing in the morning – it is a real treat! Of course it is also perfect as a dessert and works real well when you want to impress your dinner guests!

Cinnamon Biscuit Peach Cobbler:

1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon plus 1/3 cup packed brown sugar, divided

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

6 tablespoons cold butter

1/2 cup milk

2 tablespoons butter, melted

3/4 cup chopped walnuts

3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

FILLING:

1 cup packed brown sugar

2 tablespoons cornstarch

3/4 teaspoon grated lemon peel

1 cup water

9 cups sliced peeled peaches

Directions:

  • In a bowl, combine the flour, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, baking powder, salt and baking soda; cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Stir in milk just until blended.
  • Transfer to a floured surface; knead 10-12 times. Pat into a 12-in. square. Brush with melted butter.
  • Combine the walnuts, cinnamon and remaining brown sugar; sprinkle over dough to within 1/2 in. of edge.
  • Roll up jelly-roll style. Seal dough; set aside.
  • For filling, in a large saucepan, combine the brown sugar, cornstarch and lemon peel. Gradually stir in water until blended. Add peaches. Bring to a boil. Cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened and bubbly. Transfer to a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish.
  • Cut biscuit dough into twelve 1-in. slices; arrange biscuits over filling. Bake, uncovered, at 400° for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Hope you enjoyed this recipe – let me know how it turned our for you! Your comments and suggestions are always welcomed!

scan000315

VN:F [1.9.15_1155]
Rating: 0 (from 0 votes)

My Prague Spring Memories

August 21, 2009 in Memories by Hanna Trafford

VN:F [1.9.15_1155]
Take a moment to Rate and Review:
Rating: 0.0/10 (0 votes cast)

local-police-administration-prague-26-august-1968For as long as I live I will remember that day.

It was very early dawn and at first, I thought I was dreaming, hearing peculiar rattling sound. Then I heard another sound – loud thunder. I was pretty much awake and realized that it was a sound I didn’t recognized. As I was trying to figure out what was going on, I heard that rattling again and looking in the direction it was coming from, I saw that it was my teacup from last night, jumping around in the saucer. And then the sound of thunder again – and I realized that planes were flying really low over us. And at that point, I heard more rumbling topped by my grandmother running into the room and yelling: “Wake up, get up – the Russians are here”. The only thing I could think of is that she had lost her mind and is reacting to a bad dream. Surely it is either a bad storm outside or maybe an earthquake???? Why in the world would the Russians be coming here? They are our friends, no?

Trying to turn on the radio was not much help – it was panic all over the place. The TV was already gone – off the air – and I realized that this was no fun, no joke, no bad dream. This was in fact a reality – the Warzsaw Pact armies invaded Czechoslovakia – the communist government of the Soviet Union very much disliked the event of Prague Spring, Alexander Dubcek and everything that was going on, including the enthusiasm of people when they heard the word “freedom”.

My memories of that day are a blur of crazinest. Rumours, gossip, reports of Russian tanks shooting at people and everything they felt was not to their liking, historical building being severly damaged…. You have to understand, Czechs are incredibly proud nationalists, treasuring their heritage with unmatched vigor and the fact that the National Museum on Wenceslaw Square in Prague was being attacked was almost enough for people to start fighting back.

I quickly threw some clothes on – the only thing I remember for sure were white socks, because they were what I spent most of the day running around in. I met with a group of friends in the town square, wanting more information and trying to understand what was going on. Shortly after we met, the thunderous rumble of tanks reached us and the decision was to either stop them and ask them what the hell they are doing or run. We ran – and that is when I lost my shoes. We met up in our secret meeting place in our town’s park, out of breath, scarred and really, really mad. We figured the tanks were heading for Prague and the only thing we could think of is to take shortcuts to directional signs and turn them around. Whether that worked or not, I will never know – but it felt good just doing something.

After couple of hours, we reached a field with few crossroads and right in the middle of it quietly stood about dozen tanks and army trucks. As we ran out of the forest surrounding the fields, we realized that the soldiers saw us. We stopped trying to figure out what to do next. Then we saw two soldiers walking toward us – turning around and running away was not on the agenda – after all, we clearly saw that they were armed. I can tell you that in a moment like that, the time stops and so do your brain functions. The soldiers approached us with straight faces and started talking to us – in polish. The two languages are quite similar so we could actually communicate – they were asking us to tell them where they were. We couldn’t believe they didn’t know! One of my friends – Stan – totally lost his temper at that point and started yelling at them without choosing his words carefully. We told them that their army is a part of an invasion of our country – and much to our surprise, they were shocked. One of them started crying – sight I will never forget. They honestly thought they were on an army exercise.

The rest of that day and events that took place after were beyond sad. Alexander Dubcek was held in captivity and his government replaced, student Jan Palach burned himself alive in protest, all media was directed by Moscow and thousands of people were running away from the country, looking for freedom.

The one thing I remember of the aftermath is seing russian soldiers everywhere I went. Especially in the shoe stores. They were buying up shoes like crazy – regardless of style, colour or size. Weird memory? For sure  - but then – the whole thing was weird.

I am one of those people who left the country – not immediately and not exactly running. But that is another story, for another day. For now – my heart goes back to my homeland, my lost future in there and all my lost dreams – just remembering August 21st, 1968.

It’s 41 years later – you think I could watch the videos I just found on YouTube without emotions? Not a chance – this is a fresh as it was then.

Hope you enjoy watching these 2 videos – the background voices are asking to calm, trying to avoid loss of human life and the music is very appropriate. In the second video, the confirmation is given that the government has been replaced and the video ends with national anthem. Oh yes…. more tears – but just for the past, because the present is very, very good

YouTube Preview Image YouTube Preview Image

VN:F [1.9.15_1155]
Rating: 0 (from 0 votes)
Real Time Analytics