Posts Tagged ‘children’
Locate The Best Hotels Near Vegas
December 19, 2011
Las Vegas is one of the busiest tourist cities in the world. Every year, hundreds of thousands of tourists make their way to Las Vegas to relax and let loose. Many people think that staying in the downtown Las Vegas area is the only option available to them but staying in Henderson, Nevada is a great option to explore on your next Las Vegas adventure.
Do not forget that Henderson also has casinos and many of the same things to do that Las Vegas has. You and your family or group may decide to stay put in Henderson for a night or two and do all of your gambling and partying there instead of Las Vegas. No matter what, staying at a hotel in Henderson is a great idea that you should give serious consideration to.
In conclusion, make sure that you investigate all of your travel options when traveling to Las Vegas. This article is not designed to put down Las Vegas and all they have to offer but is an article that wants to expose you to the option of staying in Henderson. Consider a Henderson hotel as an alternative to the noisy Las Vegas mega hotels.
So what are the advantages to staying in Henderson instead of downtown Las Vegas? The biggest is the amount of people and the foot traffic. While Henderson is a major city, there is no comparison to how much less traffic and noise that Henderson has compared to Las Vegas. While Las Vegas does a great job with security and safety, Henderson boasts being one of the most livable cities in the United States.
Henderson is much more family friendly and also gives many choices of outdoor exercises that are likely within walking distance of your Henderson hotel. Cost is also a factor to consider. Staying on the strip in Las Vegas may seem like a dream vacation but you may pay dearly for that experience. If staying within a travel budget is a priority then Henderson is your place to go.
Check out: henderson hotels
The Hayward Wanda The Whale Above Ground Pool Vacuum Revealed
April 9, 2011
The Hayward 900 Wanda the Whale is one of the best selling above ground pool vacuums. It is an automatic pool cleaner designed for above ground pools with vinyl liners. It works equally as well on both flat bottoms and dished bottoms. Hayward is known for their dependable pool cleaners. Like its cousins the AquaBug and Diver Dave, it is built to last.
Function
Just as with Hayward’s other automatic pool cleaners, such as Diver Dave and the AquaBug, Wanda The Whale propels itself. It, as well as the others, uses a technology patented by Hayward called SmartDrive, which programs the steering to clean faster and more efficiently than most other bottom-roving vacuums, which move around in a random pattern. While the Wanda the Whale above ground pool cleaner works in the same way as the Diver Dave and the AquaBug models, it moves slightly more quickly than the other two, and thus cleans the pool in a shorter period of time.
Suction
The vacuum action on Wanda The Whale is strong. It picks up everything from dirt and microscopic particles to twigs and fallen leaves. If you plan to use it to suck up leaves, you may want to invest in a leaf catcher, which will prevent your filter from getting clogged. It’s an inexpensive investment which will prevent you from wasting energy and time unclogging your filter, or, worse, having to make an expensive repair.
Design
The same as with Hayward’s other above ground pool cleaners the AquaBug and Diver Dave, Wanda The Whale comes in a unique color and pattern, which makes it stand out from other automatic above ground pool vacuums. Kids love the fun design, which looks like a playful blue whale. But don’t be fooled by its fun exterior; Wanda The Whale is one of the best automatic cleaners one can buy.
Equipment
The Hayward Wanda The Whale automatic pool cleaner works with a standard above ground pool filtration system, so there is no need to buy an additional booster pump. This is great because it saves energy, and therefore, of course, saves you money on electricity bills.
Safety
One of the most important things about Wanda The Whale, as well as with most automatic above ground pool vacuums, is that it keeps the pool clean with its powerful suction ability instead of using harsh chemical sanitizers. Too many chemicals in the water can lead to poor health effects. This is especially the case with children, whose immune systems are not as strong and well developed as adults’. The last thing we would want is for the pool to make our kids ill – or worse, to develop more serious cancers.
What’s Included
Included with the Hayward Wanda The Whale is a 30′ hose that connects to your pump and an instructional DVD.
To learn more about above ground pool vacuums or more about the Hayward Wanda The Whale above ground pool vacuum you should check out Bob Washington’s website.
How to really install a baby car seat. The Guide that works!
December 14, 2010
I like to call it the reality check guide because no amount of instruction or well made product is going to show you how to actually install a car seat. Even though the instructions are indeed thorough, the manufcaturers of baby car seats have forgotten to take something very crucial into the installation equation.
What they forget to think about, or at least mention is the most obvious. Vehicles! They come in all sorts of sizes, styles and shapes and this means that the seats inside are also different. What this means is that no matter how well you follow the recipe, your new baby car seat does not quite fit right.
There are plenty of services that you can use to install your baby car seat for you, but I am against this and its all about saving money and being sensible
I cannot even count how many different cars and car seat combinations I have encountered, but needless to say, I have learned first hand how each seat requires a different approach, and only logic and some clever thinking can help install the car seat the way it should be installed. Let’s look at what has worked for me.
There are services available that will install your baby car seat for you , but I think you should install it yourself because at some stage you are going to have to remove it for cleaning so you may as well learn how to put it in right in the first place.
In many instances, the seat will fit snugly without any modifications being done, and if this is what happens when you install your infant car seat, then you have no problems and should probably not even be reading this article.
The Towel or two placed either behind the back or under the front of the seat will usually stop the seat from moving and allow the fasteners to do their job, but sometimes the fix is far simpler than that.
The reason the infant car seats do not fit the car is because of the backseat, and the angle in which the seat and the backrest meet. Because there is a natural curve to the shape of the back of a baby seat, if the angle and curve do not match, the capsule seat will wobble no matter how well you install it.
The rocker bar at the back of the baby seat is designed to change how much the seat inclines, depending on the toddlers age, but it can also cause the angle to be all wrong, resulting in a seat that never fits quite right. Remove this and you will find your seat is able to fit much more securely – as it should.
There are many guides and tips you can use on how best to install your baby car seat, but when it comes down to it logic really is the best thing you can apply through the process. Always keep the child’s health and safety in mind and keep within the law as well of course.
Learn more about Infant Car Seats and Covers, as well as advice, tips and reviews on choosing the Baby Car Seatthat’s right for you.
Illinois Children Need Camping
April 12, 2010
Today’s young folks of Illinois people are enjoying less and less time outdoors. As parents we know we can have a profound impact on the lives of your offspring. It is your responsibility to introducing your kids to the outdoors for the first time. They may have environmental knowledge about Illinois outdoors which you may enhance or you may just make it a play date. These outside experiences might even awaken a passion for the outdoors that will stay with them forever. The first step is to take a little time for planning, it goes a long way towards a successful and safe outdoor trip. An outdoor field trip is a great educational experience for all involved. So enjoy your time with your kids.
Illinois has many state parks, natural areas, conservation areas, recreation areas, and fish and wildlife areas. You’ll find information on camping, hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, state park lodges and resorts, interpretive programs and hundreds of great ideas for places to visit and things to do in outdoor Illinois. Its best to visit dnr.state.il.us
Just to get you ready for your outdoor adventures, Did you know that Illinois has adopted may natural elements here a few:
Illinois State Mineral – fluorite
Illinois State Fossil – Tully monster
Illinois State Prairie Grass – big bluestem
Illinois State Reptile – painted turtle
Illinois State Amphibian – eastern tiger salamander
In Illinois here are just a few spots to think about going someday:
1)Belmont Prairie Nature Preserve
Downers Grove at jct. Hwy. 34 (Ogden Road) & Belmont Road
Belmont Prairie is a high quality remnant of the dry to wet prairies typical of the Northeastern Morainal Natural Division. The preserve is located within the Valparaiso Moranic System on the Keenyville drift which was formed over 12,000 years ago. For the most part, the upper north and east sections of the area contain moderately well to well drained soils. But soils on the lower slopes and in scattered pockets throughout the area are poorly drained. The dry-mesic prairie has a high forb diversity and low percentage of grass cover. The dominant species are porcupine grass and Canada blue-joint grass. The small wet-mesic and wet prairie contain moisture-loving species such as cordgrass, sedges, and blue-joint grass. A few wildlife species known to occur here are garter snake, fox snake, and meadow vole. The area was protected from development in the early 2)1970′s by cooperative efforts of The Nature Conservancy and the Belmont Prairie Preservation Association. One-third of the area was preserved through a gift by Alfred and Margo Dupree of Downers Grove.
2) Dixie Fromm Briggs Prairie Nature Preserve
Kane County
Access to the southwest corner of the proposed Nature Preserve is from Wynnfield Drive, which intersects with Sleepy Hollow Road approximately 1/2 mile to the west. Dixie Fromm Briggs Prairie, located in the Morainal Section of the Northeastern Morainal Natural Division, is a mosaic of natural plant communities arrayed upon a rolling topography with diverse soil types, different exposures, and varying moisture regimes. The dry prairie is extremely rare in Illinois. The preserve also has sedge meadow and graminoid fen wetlands.
3)Cap Sauers Holdings Nature Preserve
Cook County
Hwys. 12/20 and 45 west of Hickory Hills, take Hwy. 45 south 5.5 mi. to McCarthy Road, turn and go west on McCarthy Road 1.5 mi.
Cap Sauers Holdings Nature Preserve, at 1520 acres, is the largest nature preserve in northeastern Illinois. Dominant geological features include the rolling topography typical of the Valparaiso Moraine of the Morainal Division of northeastern Illinois and an esker. The Visitation Esker is one of the best defined examples of this glacial feature in the state. Most of the site is composed of young upland forests, and disturbed prairie and oak savanna communities. Much of the former prairie and oak savanna communities are now threatened by brushy native and non-native species that have advanced because fire has been suppressed. The Forest Preserve District of Cook County and The Nature Conservancy have embarked upon an ambitious project to restore much of this site to its presettlement condition.
One last pointer you know you kids should get outside but you are just not an outdoor sort of person. No problem their are many out door programs, classes and Illinois Summer Camps available in and around your home.
Finding Resident Summer Camps has never been easier. SummerCampAdvice.com is a wonderful online source for information.
Learn more about Swift Nature Camp and ourTeen Summer Camp. Stop by the Swift Nature Camp website where you can find out all about this amazing Summer Kids Camp and the benefits for your kids.
Summer Camp In The Movies
April 2, 2010
Ahh, Overnight Summer Camp Movies, conjures up musty cabins, s’mores, mosquitoes, swimming, summer romance, pranks and much more. Yet most of the summer camp movies clearly have a less than wholesome appeal. That is until the movie Summercamp! arrived on the scene. This move is a documentary that lets parents take an inside look at the coed summer camp swift nature camp located in the northwoods of wisconsin.
“Summercamp!” knows the camp experience is eternal and the same for everyone: Sunsets over the lake are generic only when not seen from your own bunk. With its gently anarchic indie-pop score by the Flaming Lips, the film nods toward the timelessness that’s one of the best aspects of camp — no laptops or Gameboys at Swift, thank you — but it also notes where the modern world intrudes. A lot of the boys and girls discuss their ADHD medication, while a counselor scoffs that happily exhausted kids don’t need pills: “If your kid’s acting crazy, it’s not because he had too much sugar, it must be ADHD, let’s go pump him full of drugs.”
This sweet and shapeless movie focuses on a handful of youngsters struggling with their feelings. There’s little Holly, who resembles a sad Alice in Wonderland and is peculiarly obsessed with chickadees; talkative Spencer, at peace only when reading Tom Clancy; and aggressive Cameron, a delinquent-in-training who cries daily for his mother.
So here are a few of the comments others are thinking about this Summer Camp Movie:
Summercamp! is a peek at what summer camp is really like for normal American Children, but it’s honesty and its heart are ultimately what take it beyond mere documentation and into intimate and well-done documentary storytelling.
It’s the start of the last three-week session at Swift Nature Camp in Minong, Wis., and the counselors are nearing burnout. (“I love my kids,” says one. “I hate my co-counselor.”) The filmmakers introduce us to a handful of campers packing their trunks, all deceptively certain of themselves and united in their love of nature. Bailey, 11, dryly remarks that “most animals are a lot cooler than humans, who are like these pink blobs with no defenses.”
Summercamp! maintains a gentle, lackadaisical tone that eloquently captures the triumphs and traumas of this ageless ritual.
So if you want to See this movie free of charge just go to Snagfilms.com
Looking for a Summer Campsummer camp experience visit SummerCampAdvisor.com
Swift Nature Camp is a Traditional Coed Summer Camp. Boys and Girls Ages 6-15. enjoy Nature, Animals & Science at this Minnesota Summer Camp
Creating a Baby Friendly Holiday With Three Simple Tips
March 28, 2010
When you are planning a family friendly holiday, the main concern should always be safety. You will need to consider taking care of basic needs in a wide scope of situations. That’s why, you may want products and plans that can create a comfortable and convenient ambience.
Child Safe Accommodation
If you have accommodation in a regular hotel, they may be perfectly safe for older children. Pools and other stuff can be risky for toddlers and babies. Before you settle on a given resort, you may want to look for one that caters to parents that plan to bring along babies or toddlers.
During the process of choosing baby safe rooms, you may want to do more than look for hotels that will provide playpens and cribs. Look for accommodationwith windows and doors which cannot be opened by curious toodlers. The bathroom door and other doors as well as windows in the rooms are important.
Driving and Transport
Even though you may have a car seat, there are other important aspects that come with having a baby in the car. For example, you may need to feed the baby or change his/her diaper during a long drive. For these situations, you should always have a kit that consist of anything you might be needing. It may also help to bring along items that can be used to amuse the baby if he/she becomes restless.
Unfortunately, there are many cars that have baby seat belts in unusual locations. You may find it hard to tend a baby who starts to cry even though he/she looks perfectly secure in these vehicles. Choosing between concentrating on traffic or pulling over to tend a hysterical baby if driving on a thruway or unfamiliar highway is one thing that undoubtedly you won’t want.
Feeding and Snacking
During your vacation, it is important to continue choosing healthy and nutritious foods for your baby. In some cases, you may be tempted to buy candies and other items that will have a placating effect. But it’s always possible to take fresh fruits, vegetables, and other wholesome snacks if you bring along an ice cooler..
Arranging your schedule in order to accommodate routine feeding is very important regardless of whether you are traveling or in a hotel room. Adhering to the usual feeding routine can provide calming effect to the baby who feels disturbed because of being in strange places. Some issues like dehydration can occur while having a vacation but sticking to a regular schedule will minimize this risk.
For a baby friendly holiday, there are three main aspects that typically you will need to think about. Vehicles as well as finding baby friendly accommodation are important. Always, we need to think of the basic needs that might come up at any given time.
Learn more about child friendly holidays. Stop by Wendy Q Shand’s site where you can find out all about child friendly accommodation and what it can do for you.
Affordable Disney Vacations: Ten Fun and Frugal Things to do at Walt Disney World
March 21, 2010
Do you have a Walt Disney World trip planned? And are you trying to figure out how to make it an affordable Disney vacation? If so, then you will be interested to know that there are many fun…and inexpensive….things to do while there, beyond the standard rides, attractions, and shows. And if you are wondering about souvenirs, it is good to know that returning home with special Disney memories does not have to cost a fortune. Here are 10 suggestions for fun, but frugal ways to get the most out of your Disney vacation.
1. Visit the Disney resorts. The Animal Kingdom Lodge especially has animal observation areas that are fascinating places to animal watch!
2. Disney’s Boardwalk is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening, with a number of “beach boardwalk” activities that are tons of fun.
3. Don’t miss riding on the monorail, even if you are not staying at a Disney resort. We make sure to do it at least once each trip.
4. Take a ride on a Segway! While there are several Segway tours, they can be a little pricey. For anyone over a certain height, you can have a lesson for free….along with a photo op….at Epcot’s Innoventions.
5. You don’t have to be extravagant for souvenirs, in fact some of the best souvenirs are the cheapest. Pressed pennies, postcards, pencils, and pins are all very inexpensive and are perfect for those kids who love collecting things.
6. If you have kids, character autographs will probably be a big hit. Turn this into a lasting souvenir by using something other than an autograph book: try tee shirts, hats, posters, or pillowcases instead. Be sure to have the characters use a sharpie for lasting signatures.
7. Pin trade. While pin trading can end up costing a lot of money, if you start small, and keep to a budget, your kids (and you) can start a really fun and interesting hobby.
8. For a fun, educational, and free activity, have your children visit each of the Epcot KidCot fun stops where kids make fun masks etc. at each of the World Showcase countries.
9. Don’t overlook the pools. Your hotel will probably have one, and even if you have a vacation home, you will probably have one as well. Be sure to take advantage of it! Especially in the summer, a few hours relaxing at the pool each day can do wonders for both kids and grownups.
10. Stop to smell the roses….literally! We have visited Walt Disney World more than 10 times and on each visit we discover something new to us! Disney World is a truly fascinating place, and if you can take a few minutes each day to appreciate those little details, your trip will be that much more enjoyable. Promise!
With a little thought, you will be able to make the most of your time, money, and experiences, and actually have an extremely affordable Disney vacation. And the best thing about that is those magical memories you create will not break the bank in the process.
Nancy Bobby has been traveling to Disney World for over a decade. Her top money saving guide for a Disney vacation has been the Ultimate Disney World Savings Guide. Learn how how to have your own affordable Disney vacation and get her free Disney vacation guide at her website www.theaffordablemouse.com
Save Money On an Orlando Vacation
March 2, 2010
DRG Property Services has condo’s, townhouses and regular houses to stay at very affordable rates. There are a variety of housing options you may choose and when you go can make a big difference in what the homes rent for also. You can save a lot of money if you go on vacation in the off season.. For example, this could be after Labor Day when rates typically come down . The weather is still beautiful well into October and you miss the large crowds.
To save on food rent a place that has a kitchen and bring or buy your own food. Most of DRG’s properties have kitchens and by doing this reduces money spent in expensive restaurants. This could really add up quickly depending on the size of your family.
Renting a car on line can usually save you money than making a phone call. Rent an economy car but when you go to pick up the car always ask for an upgrade. Economy cars go fast and most car companies will offer upgrades at no additional cost. If you don’t ask, you probably wont get the upgrade.
By booking your flight reservations 2 weeks in advance on-line, you will also save money on air fare. Shop on-line for the best deals but also check for any restrictions. And don’t forget to work with a travel agent who can offer advice and counsel.
The home you rented in Orlando was beautiful the first day you walked in. On the day you leave it should look as close to that as possible. Rental companies will charge a fee if the property is left in a mess. Be sure to take out all your trash, clean the kitchen and keep the furniture where it was. General cleaning is expected but not excessive cleaning. Remember to immediately report anything you see wrong or broken in the home to the rental agent.
Bob Ranallo went to Orlando for the first time 30 years ago. Bob is writing article on tourist attractions for PickOfOrlando.com and PickOfCleveland.com. Bob has found great deals at Orlando Vacation Home. You can save money on Disney World Vacation Homes by renting from a private company like DRG.
Planning Affordable Disney Vacations: How to Choose Where to Stay
February 9, 2010
Planning to visit Disney World this year? Hoping to be able to save money on that trip? Saving money on where you stay can greatly contribute to an affordable Disney vacation, and exploring all of your options will help you make the right choice for your family budget.
Several things will affect your choice of accommodations at Disney World. When you go, whether you will need transportation while there, and even the size of your family will all need to be taken into account.
The busier times of year, such as holiday weekends, Christmas/New Years, and summer, tend to be more expensive on Disney resort properties, and you may find many of these rooms booked, especially if you are not planning far in advance. For this reason, during peak season, and on short notice, off-Disney properties may be the most economical.
What about family size? If you have several children and need more than one motel room, you may instead want to consider larger “suites”, villas, or rental homes as a way to save money.
You will also want to think about how you will get around to the theme parks. If you stay with Disney, you will be able to use their free resort transportation. If you stay off-site, then you will need to see if your hotel/motel has a free shuttle, or you will need to rent a car or van.
Now, what choices will you have then for accommodations at Disney World?
Increasingly, many families are choosing vacation homes or condos. This type of property will provide more space for your family, usually sleeping from 4 to 16 people comfortably, which can be an important factor. Since family size for many means multiple hotel rooms, a vacation home will very likely be a cost savings. In addition, with access to a kitchen, being able to easily prepare and eat in for some meals will also be a cost savings for your vacation.
Another option is to choose an off-site property. Staying in a non-Disney hotel/motel will likely cost less, possibly much less than a Disney World resort property. But make sure that this is truly the most economical option for you, but finding out if the hotel offers things like free breakfast, or free park shuttles. See if you will need a car rental.
If you really want to stay on a Disney World resort property, you may find that their resort guest “perks” may actually make this the most affordable option for you. Disney offers free transportation to and from the Orlando airport as well as between the theme parks, meaning that it is not necessary for you to pay for a rental car. And their “Extra Magic Hours” will allow you additional time in the parks adding value to your vacation. Plus Disney offers some very attractive promotions regularly which may make an on-Disney property your most affordable choice.
Once you choose, before booking, make sure to compare your pricing options, whether you stay on or off Disney property. It is not unusual to get a better price from websites like Expedia and travelocity, than the one you are quoted by Disney or the off-site hotel. Also be sure to check for discounts through groups like AAA and AARP. If you are a teacher, ask about discounts as well: the Walt Disney World Swan and Walt Disney World Dolphin often have teacher promotions.
It is possible to have a very affordable Disney vacation. Careful research and comparison of all of your accommodation options will help to insure that your vacation will be remembered for the fun you had, and not the money you spent.
Nancy Bobby has been traveling to Disney World for over a decade. Her most useful guide to save hundreds of dollars on a Disney vacation has been the Ultimate Disney World Savings Guide. Get help with your own affordable Disney family vacation and receive her free Disney vacation guide at her blog www.theaffordablemouse.com.
Adventures for Teens
February 4, 2010
Choosing the right summer activity for a teen is often more complicated than for a younger child. Yet, the rewards can be even Greater. A teenager is in the midst of an incredible growth spurt. As parents we are always looking to increase our teens emotional, spiritual, intellectual, and social Development. Teen Adventure Camp programs are a wonderful way of doing this.
Finding the right summer program for teens is not all that different than that of a ten year old. It is important to find a safe, secure, and appropriate environment. Yet, teens need and are ready for new challenges and increased independence. Yearly, as interests expand and your child matures, reexamine your choice.
Remeber, interests, and abilities of a 13 year-old are quite different from that of a 17 year-old. So, when thinking programs, you should always keep in mind your child’s maturity. Supervision in many of the programs designed for teens is less than for younger children, so be sure to ask. One great resource is Summer Camp Advice, a free website that offers all sorts of information on how to select a summer camp.
If you’re living with a teenager, you’re living with part kid and part adult. Planning a summer program in November may be more difficult for an adolescent than a younger child, because your teenager’s interests and emotions are going through such enormous changes. However, because many good programs fill up fast, you will want to try to focus early so that you and your child have the widest range of choices.
It’s best to start your search for a Teen Summer Program is to sit down and talk with your child. Often this time together can strengthen your relationship with your teen. Help him or her figure out their interests, concerns, and values. You need to talk with your teen about what each of you want the summer to be. However, be ready to hear that they “don’t want to do anything.”
Many teen programs exist its important to try to find the best one. Sometimes you have to really look hard to find the right answer. The internet is a very useful tool for this. It is helpful to know the kind of program you are looking for: sports, serving, traveling, adventure or a little bit of each.
One of the best ways to reconcile your goals with your child’s is to piece together the summer with activities from both of your lists. Although it is more difficult and figuring things out may be more time consuming, your teen will get a broader experience for your work.
If you decide that your teen will stay at home, set up summer rules, expectation, chores, and schedules. This will be especially important and will help you in the long run.
Swift Nature Camp may be the perfect fit for your teenager. Swift Nature Camp is unique among teen summer camps in that we provide teens a special opportunity to make friends in a relaxed and fun-filled environment, to build self-esteem and independence, and to challenge themselves with new physical and creative activities. We realize teenagers want to do things for themselves and are bored by a “normal” camp. So we provide an Adventure Camp program with loads of opportunities cabins often leave camp and go out into the big open wild and see the Apostle Islands, go to the International Wolf Center or find themselves canoeing down the Mississippi River.
Last and most importantly remember youth summers are limited and no adult ever looked back and rembers the good old days of sleeping in and watching television.
TO learn more how to select an Summer Camp visit Summer Camp Advice. Choose a Camp
Swift Nature Camp, a non-competitive, Summer Science Camp for teens. Our programs are perfect for the first time camper or experienced camper. Learn more Overnight Summer Camps