Author: Clay Cook

The Effects of Social Media on Students: What Parents Need to Know

Have you ever wondered about the effects of social media on students? This is a topic that many parents have pondered. With school back in full force now, it’s a good time to get a refresher on the effects of letting your kids have social media. The term “students” for this particular post is in regards to high school, middle school, and even elementary-age students.

By the time you are finished reading this, you will have a better idea of the impacts of social media on students, both positive and negative. Let’s face it. Social media isn’t all bad or all good. Letting your child be active on social media requires you to make the right decision for your family. Hopefully, you’ll get a better idea of which decision to make based on the information we discuss here.

[click_to_tweet tweet=”As a parent, it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest social media trends and how they’re impacting your children. Here’s what you need to know. #socialmedia #students” quote=”As a parent, it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest social media trends and how they’re impacting your children. Here’s what you need to know.”]

IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON STUDENTS

Before we get into the impacts and pros and cons of social media for students, let’s get down to the facts and statistics related to social media and kids.

How Many Kids Are On Social Media?

Social Media is a big part of life for Generation Z (those born in the mid-1990s to 2010). Over 60 million Gen Z’ers are on social media today. That means that over 94% of people in this age group have at least one social media account.

Generation Alpha (those born 2010 through 2025) is a bit different in their social media use because they are much younger. However, 1 in 10 generation alphas are expected to work in social media as they become adults.

So yes, social media is a huge part of the lives of young people, and we must be prepared to learn

Positive Effects of Social Media on Students

Socialization

As we mentioned before, 94% of generation Z is on social media, which means that a lot of socialization is done online. Social media can be a great way for students to connect with like-minded peers.

Educational Opportunities

The internet is full of information, and much of it can be used for educational purposes. YouTube, for example, offers countless learning and educational videos that students of all ages can benefit from.

Improved Technical Skills

Let’s face it. Our kids live in a technical world. They need technical skills for just about everything these days and more than likely in the future. The use of social media can help to boost these required technical skills.

Negative Effects of Social Media on Students

Risk of Bullying

Social media, unfortunately, can be used as a tool for bullies. Oftentimes, educators state that students will come to school complaining of bullying that is happening from other students, but through social media.

Additionally, students who seek attention and thrive off of drama will often do so online, creating issues for many other students in the process.

It Can Hurt or Cause Issues for Immature Students

Social media requires a certain maturity level, and not all students have developed the appropriate maturity level for using social media.

Impacts Productivity

Social media users of all ages can lose productivity while using social media. Students need to understand that their focus cannot solely be on social media. Rather, it can be a small part of their day.

Socialization

Yes, socialization is on the positive and negative list. The fact is that, yes, kids can socialize online, but many times you’ll see kids using social media socialization as a substitute for regular in-person socialization.

Risk of Predators

We should all understand that social media (as well as other online activity) opens us up to the risk of online predators of all sorts. Whether sexual predators, financial predators, or more, internet users of all ages need to be aware. When it comes to kids and social media, awareness needs to be magnified, and everyone needs to be on board with watching out for these risks.

There is no way for the sites themselves to regulate these risks, and it’s important to monitor your children’s social media usage closely.

Should You Let Your Child Have Social Media?

Whether or not you allow your child to be on social media is absolutely up to you. There are benefits to allowing it, but there are some pretty significant risks too. I think that the best thing that you can do is weigh the pros and cons and decide what is best for your child and for your family.

Can you name any other effects of social media on students?

December 15, 2022
The Top 5 Hypoallergenic Guard Dogs That Are Perfect For Families

Are you or someone in your family allergic to dogs? Do you wish you could still have a guard dog to protect your home and family? Did you know that you can be allergic to dogs but still have a dog at home with no ill effects?

That’s right! The reason for this is that there are canine breeds out there that are hypoallergenic and cause no allergies to their humans. There are hypoallergenic guard dogs of all sizes out there for your family to love and enjoy, so you don’t need to worry that you won’t have multiple breeds to choose from. Just the opposite.

What Are Allergy Free Dogs?

Before we discuss specific breeds that make great hypoallergenic guard dogs for families, let’s define hypoallergenic dog.

First and foremost, there is technically no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog. That said, some dogs shed less often than others, and some dogs don’t shed (or shed far less often). Most people with allergies react to the protein in a pet’s dander. The less shedding, the less likely a reaction.

It’s still wise to ensure you have other measures in place to reduce the chances of allergies, including having your AC serviced regularly; neglecting AC maintenance can mean your air is less pure and more polluted, which can lead to allergies.

BEST HYPOALLERGENIC GUARD DOGS

The Wheaten Terrier

The Wheaten Terrier is a medium-sized dog that is rarely aggressive but has a mean growl that will surely scare people off. They are easy to train and great for families. They average in size from 35 to 45 pounds.

Argentine Mastiff

If you are looking for a large breed dog, you should definitely check out the Argentine Mastiff. These dogs shed very little, so they are great for those with allergies. They weigh between 80 and 100 pounds and are known as big game-hunting dogs.

It should be noted, though, that these dogs require a lot of physical activity and mental stimulation, but with the proper training and a dedicated owner, they can be great family dogs.

Portuguese Water Dogs

Looking for a fun dog that isn’t too big but can be protective when needed? A Portuguese Water Dog makes a great option for you! These dogs do require a lot of physical and mental activity so be sure not to let them get bored.

The Giant Schnauzer

The Giant Schnauzer is another breed that needs an experienced dog owner with plenty of time to train and care for them. They require dedication, time commitment, and work, but once trained, they make excellent guard dogs for families.

Standard Schnauzer

The Standard Schnauzer is a great breed for those who want a smaller breed dog that is hypoallergenic, fiercely loyal, and protective of their family. These dogs generally max out at about 50 pounds and are born with a protective instinct, which makes them perfect for a family looking for a guard dog to help protect them.

The Schnauzer rarely barks for no reason but does have a high prey drive, so be sure to keep an eye on small family pets.

Tips for Finding and Owning Hypoallergenic Guard Dogs

The breed is everything when choosing a dog; it should be hypoallergenic and a good guard dog.

In addition to choosing the right dog, you also need to put a lot of time and dedication into obedience training and early socialization. These are both very important to owning a guard dog.

TIPS FOR DEALING WITH DOG ALLERGIES

Even with “hypoallergenic” dogs, those who suffer from dog allergies need to take steps to reduce reactions from these allergens. The following tips can help you to help lower your risk of allergic reactions:

Keep Your Dog Out of Any Room that You Spend a Significant Amount of Time In

The best thing you can do for your dog allergies is to keep your dog out of the spaces where you spend the most time.

Keep them out of your bedroom and most definitely your bed so that you don’t spend your sleeping hours breathing in their dander. The same goes for any other room you spend a lot of time in.

Groom Your Dog More Often to Reduce Shedding

Baths can truly do wonders for your furry friend, especially when it comes to removing dander from their coat! Regularly bathing your dog not only keeps them looking and smelling fresh, but it also plays a significant role in preventing allergy attacks.

Maintaining a consistent bathing schedule, you help ensure that your pet stays comfortable and healthy, which means more enjoyable moments together! So, why not make bath time a delightful routine for both you and your dog?

Get Rid of the Carpet

Changing your home’s flooring may feel like a big investment, but it’s a wonderful step toward creating a more comfortable space, especially for those managing dog allergies. Pet dander is a common culprit that can settle into the fibers of carpets and rugs, making life a bit tough for allergy-sensitive individuals.

To tackle this concern, regular cleaning is key! Vacuuming your carpets at least four times a week can significantly reduce allergens, though we understand that this can be tricky for busy homeowners.

So, you might want to consider flooring options that are easier to clean and less likely to collect pet dander. This simple change can greatly enhance the air quality and overall comfort of your beloved home!

Can you name any other hypoallergenic guard dogs?

December 8, 2022
7 Free Things to Do in Edinburgh Scotland That Will Keep You Entertained

Are you planning to visit Scotland soon and looking for free things to do in Edinburgh? If so, this article is for you.

Edinburgh is not only the capital of Scotland, but it is also the second most visited city in all of the United Kingdom (London comes in at number 1). Once you visit Edinburgh, you can see why that is. This city is full of stunning architecture and has one of the world’s most famous and recognizable skylines, complete with a castle cresting the hill above the city.

Despite what you may expect, Edinburgh is a great city to visit for travelers on a budget because there are some wonderful, free things to do! These free things to do in Edinburgh could be anything from museums to galleries to attractions!

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THINGS TO DO IN EDINBURGH FOR FREE

Take a Walking Tour

As we mentioned already, Edinburgh is home to very unique architecture and a skyline like no other. The city itself is very walkable, which is great for those who don’t want to spend a lot of money. There are countless tours available to pay for, but you can keep this experience free by doing a self-guided walking tour. This is easy to do!

Start your self guided walking tour at the famous Royal Mile, which is a mile-long cobblestone street that connects Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyrood. This journey will give you the best views of Edinburgh’s historic and striking architecture.

Visit The Royal Botanic Garden

The Royal Botanic Garden is just one mile from the city center and is 72 beautiful acres of landscaped gardens that date back all the way to the 17th century. The gardens feature a great view of the Edinburgh castle and are completely free to visit.

The Royal Botanic Garden features plants from around the world throughout the various gardens such as the Rock Garden, Alpine Houses, the Chinese Hillside as well as the Scottish Native Plants Collection.

St. Giles Cathedral

St. Giles Cathedral is a stunning focal point of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh and is one of the oldest buildings in the city (although the building wasn’t quite the same as it is present day). While St. Giles is still a functioning church, you are able to enter and tour it for free.

If you feel comfortable budgeting for it, for just £6 ($6.52 USD), you can visit the cathedral rooftop, which offers unbelievable views of the Royal Mile.

Visit the Scottish National Gallery

Are you an art lover? If you said yes to this, you are definitely going to want to visit the Scottish National Gallery. This gallery is home to a fine art collection that dates back to the early renaissance.

Here you will find collections from Van Gogh, Monet, Wilkie and more. While you are there, be sure to visit their award-winning restaurant and check out the gift shop too!

Take a Stroll Down Victoria Street

You simply cannot visit Edinburgh without taking a stroll down Victoria Street. Victoria Street is a colorful, curved cobblestone street located just off the Royal Mile.

Along the street, you will find fun shops, magic themes, and centuries-old history at every stop (highlighted by a Harry Potter Merchandise Shop). As a matter of fact, Victoria Street is said to be the inspiration for Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley.

While on your stroll down Victoria Street will lead you to Grassmarket. Once the site of medieval executions, Grassmarket is now a medieval-style marketplace and historical neighborhood.

Visit Carlton Hill

Did you know that one of Edinburgh’s nicknames is “The Athens of the North”? It’s true, and once you take a trip to Carlton Hill, you’ll know why. The National Monument of Scotland, officially known as “Edinburgh Acropolis” was built to commemorate the soldiers who lost their lives fighting in the Napoleonic Wars.

Carlton Hill is also home to other attractions such as Nelson’s Monument, Dugald Stewart Monument, and the City Observatory. Also, be sure you don’t forget to enjoy the stunning views of the city below while you are there. You won’t regret it.

Free Museums Edinburgh

One of the best free things to do in Edinburgh is a museum visit! There are many museums in the city, such as the National Museum of Scotland, The Museum of Childhood, the Writer’s Museum, and Makars Court, and more offer free entry.

This is a great way to experience the history of Scotland as well as a great way to stay inside on rainy, cold days.

This is only a small list of the many free things to do in Edinburgh. It’s great to know that there is no reason to spend a fortune when you have so many experiences that you can have on a budget!

Do you know of any other fun and free things to do in Edinburgh?

December 1, 2022
How To Wash Your Back to Keep it Healthy and Beautiful

Taking a shower is one of the best ways to cleanse your body and relieve stress. However, some shower tasks can be more daunting than others like cleaning your back. You know how tricky this can be but it’s the best way to keep your back’s skin moisturized, smooth, and acne-free. Here you will learn how to wash your back using the right tools so your skin can be as healthy as possible!

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How to Wash Your Back the Right Way

Consider taking warm showers and not hot showers.

Hot showers tend to dry your skin and strip its natural oils. Taking a warm shower can help keep your back well moisturized and hydrated.

Put your favorite cleanser on a silicone back scrubber.

If you’re like most people, you probably don’t spend a lot of time thinking about how to wash your back. However, it’s actually quite easy to give yourself a thorough back scrub. Here’s how:

To start, wet your back scrubber and apply a generous amount of cleanser. This can be a body wash or bar soap. Rub the bristles together until a nice lather forms.
Then, hold the scrubber catty-cornered across your back. One hand should be above one of your shoulders and the other near the bottom end of your back. Scrub in a bobbing motion.

After, switch sides to clean both sides of your upper back thoroughly.

Scrub your lower back

Follow the same process as before but this time wrap the back scrubber around your lower back. Firmly gripping the handles, move in an almost punching motion. You can also slide the scrubber up and down while doing the punching motion to cover more ground.

Rinse your back

Residue from cleansers can dry out your skin. So, thoroughly rinse your back and remove all of the cleansers.

Moisturize your back

Rub your preferred body lotion all over your lower and upper back. It’s actually better if your skin is still a little damp as it will help you retain moisture. This will help prevent your skin from getting flakey and dry.

Three Ways To Exfoliate Your Back

Consider using a back-cleaning brush

It’s important to exfoliate your back’s dead skin. It will help cell turnover, keeping the healthiest cells at the surface.

Using the back brush, gently scrub in a circular motion all over your back. However, this can take some time and maneuvering if you aren’t very limber.

Use an exfoliating body scrub

Quality body scrubs contain granular pieces of sugar or salt that remove and exfoliate the skin. This helps keep your pores clear.
You can use a silicone body scrubber to apply body scrub to your back.

Utilize an exfoliating back scrubber

If you are having a hard time cleansing your back because it’s hard to reach, an exfoliating back scrubber is your best bet. Its long shape and double-sided bristles allow you to easily cleanse and exfoliate your back at the same time!

Take the band’s handles in each hand, bring it over your head like a pendulum, and run it down.

Final Words on How to Wash Your Back Properly

Most people only focus on cleaning their face and parts of the body they can reach. Meanwhile, the back gets forgotten, clogging pores and causing acne.
However, with the right tools and cleansing technique, your back’s skin can be healthy too!

Do you know how to wash your back the right way?

November 3, 2022
10 Fun Indoor Winter Activities for Adults to Beat Cabin Fever

For some people, this time of year is a lot of fun. But for others, the cold weather can be depressing and lead to cabin fever. If you’re looking for ways to beat the winter blues, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. In this blog post, we will share ten fun indoor winter activities for adults that will help keep you entertained all season long!

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Museums have fun indoor winter activities for adults

There’s nothing like exploring art, history, or science to take your mind off the cold weather outside. Most museums offer winter discounts, so this is a great activity if you’re on a budget.

Take a scenic drive

Winter is the perfect time to admire the beauty of nature, even if you have to do it from the comfort of your car. Make a cup of hot cocoa, crank up the heat, and hit the road!

Plan a Vacation

If you can’t stand the thought of another cold day, why not plan a summer getaway? This will give you something to look forward to and help beat the winter blues.

And there’s no need to wait until the last minute to book your trip. In fact, it’s often cheaper to book in advance. So start looking into flights and hotels, and start dreaming about all the fun you’ll have in the sun.

Start a new hobby

Winter is the perfect time to start a new hobby. With shorter days and colder weather, it can be harder to get out and be active. However, there are still plenty of indoor activities that can keep you entertained throughout the winter months. Whether you want to learn how to knit, pick up painting, or start a home renovation project, there are plenty of indoor activities to keep you busy.

And best of all, you can do them from the comfort of your own home. So if you’re looking for something to do this winter, why not try your hand at something new? You may just find a new passion.

Get active

Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you have to be inactive. There are plenty of ways to stay fit and have fun indoors, from group fitness classes to at-home workouts.

From yoga to spin class, you can find a workout that’s perfect for you and get fit with friends. If classes aren’t your thing, you can also do plenty of at-home workouts to stay in shape. Online fitness videos make it easy to get a great workout without even leaving your living room.

Cook a new recipe

One of the best things about winter is that it gives you the perfect excuse to stay indoors and enjoy some delicious comfort food. With the cold weather outside, there’s nothing better than warming up from the inside out with a tasty meal. And what could be more comforting than a slower cooker stew or a freshly baked chicken pot pie?

Of course, you don’t have to be a master chef to enjoy winter comfort food. There are plenty of easy recipes that even the most novice cook can handle.

Have a game night

Get together with friends or family and have some fun! There are tons of great indoor games to choose from, like charades, Cards Against Humanity, and Pictionary.

Learn a new programming language

Why not learn a new programming language if you’re looking for a challenge? This is a great way to keep your mind sharp and pass the time indoors.

Not only will you be able to learn something new, but you’ll also be able to exercise your problem-solving skills. There are a number of resources available online to help you get started, so there’s no excuse not to give it a try.

Start a new business

If you’ve been wanting to start your own business, there’s no better time than the present. Use the extra indoor hours to do some research and get started on your new venture.

Play online games

There are tons of great online games to keep you entertained, whether you’re a fan of puzzles, card games, strategy, or adventure. So curl up with your laptop and have some fun!

Final thoughts on indoor winter activities for adults

Don’t let the winter blues get you down! There are plenty of fun indoor winter activities for adults to help beat cabin fever. From cooking and crafting to playing games and getting cozy, there’s something for everyone. So put on your comfy clothes, make a hot cup of hot chocolate, and enjoy some quality time indoors this winter.

Can you name any other indoor winter activities for adults?

October 3, 2022
Get into the Christmas Spirit with These Christmas Yard Decorations

The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and of course, decorations! If you’re looking to get into the Christmas spirit, these yard decorations are the perfect way to do it. From inflatable Santas to light displays, we’ve got everything you need to make your yard look merry and bright. So get started on your outdoor decorating today and enjoy the holidays!

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Inflatable Christmas Yard Decorations

Christmas is a time for bringing people together, and what better way to do that than with some festive yard decorations? Inflatable Christmas yard decorations are a popular choice for many people, as they are relatively easy to set up and take down.

Plus, there is a wide range of inflatable Christmas decorations to choose from, so you can find the perfect one to suit your taste. From Santa and his reindeer to snowmen and elves, there is an inflatable decoration for everyone.

And if you really want to make a statement, you can even find inflatable nativity scenes and really get into the Christmas spirit. No matter what your style, inflatable decorations are a great way to spread some holiday cheer. Plus, they’re a lot of fun for kids!

Get into the Christmas Spirit with Light Displays

Another popular option for Christmas yard decorations is light displays. You can find all sorts of lights to decorate your yard, from strings of lights to spotlights and more.

Wrap your trees in lights, line your walkway with light stakes, or throw net lights onto your shrubs, and you’ll have a festive outdoor space in no time. Just be sure to follow any safety precautions when using electrical decorations.

No matter how you choose to decorate with lights, they are sure to add some holiday cheer to your yard.

Get Festive with Christmas Laser Light Projectors

If you want your house to get into the Christmas spirit this year, then a laser light projector is a must-have. These innovative devices can transform your yard into a winter wonderland, and they’re surprisingly easy to use.

Just set up the projector in your desired location, point it at your house, and watch as hundreds of sparkling lights dance across your walls and roof. You can even choose the colors and patterns of the lights, so you can create a truly unique display.

Hang Outdoor Christmas Garland and Wreaths

One of the classic ways to decorate for Christmas is with garland and wreaths. You can find all sorts of garland, from traditional evergreen to light-up options. And there are just as many wreath choices, from simple greenery to more elaborate designs.

These can be put on doors, windows, or around door frames to add some Christmas cheer to your yard.

Put Snowflakes in Trees

One of the best ways to get into the Christmas spirit is to start decorating your yard with snowflakes. You can find all sorts of snowflake decorations, from small ones to large ones.

Just find some trees in your yard and hang the snowflakes from the branches. It’s an easy way to add a touch of winter wonderland to your yard.

Put Christmas Swags on Outdoor Light Fixtures

An easy way to add some Christmas cheer to your outdoor light fixtures is with swags. These are simply real or imitation evergreen pieces that hang vertically. Typically, they are tied together at the top with a ribbon and feature pinecones, poinsettias, or ornaments.

Hanging wreaths on windows

The holidays are an excellent time to decorate the windows. There are so many different ways to do it, and it can really add to the festive atmosphere of the season.

One popular way to decorate windows is to hang garlands or wreaths. Another is to stencil on snowflakes with faux snow spray. Many people also like to put up holiday-themed decals or paint their windows with holiday scenes.

Final Thoughts How to Get into the Christmas Spirit By Decorating Your Yard

These are just some of the many ways to get into the Christmas spirit. So get creative and have fun!

And don’t forget to take plenty of pictures to document your handiwork. After all, you’ll want to remember this holiday season for years to come. Happy decorating!

How do you get into the Christmas spirit during the holidays?

September 27, 2022