Melissa, Author at Look What Mom Found

Best Weighted Vest for Sports Training, Running and Working Out 2019

June 2, 2019 by Melissa

Weighted vests are not just for weight training or helping you get to your goal weight. Weighted vests are used extensively in the athletic world. They are used in everything from cardio training to weight training and sports from baseball to volleyball. And surprisingly, weighted vests have many different uses such as body building, weight loss, weight training and many more.

Weighted vests are a great way to increase resistance during exercise. These workout accessories can help you improve strength, balance, flexibility and muscle tone. However, not all weighted vests are created equally. There are many different styles and types. It is essential to choose the right weighted vest and ompare them to a variety of different weighted vests to find the right fit for you.

Looking for the Best Weighted Vest for running, working out, cycling, martial arts, yoga, or any other activity that involves strong muscles? Look no further. The weight vest is a piece of equipment that is designed to simulate the weight of items you carry around. The weighted vest can simulate weights up to 2000 pounds. The weighted vest is designed to be comfortable and functional for all activities. The best weighted vest for sports training, running, and working out will give you the added energy needed to push a little bit harder and last a little bit longer.

What is a life jacket?

A bodybuilding vest is essentially a vest with extra weight. The vest may be made of a heavy material that serves as extra weight. It may also have small pockets that can be filled with sand, metal bars or other heavy objects. The main goal is to weight the wearer to improve endurance and fitness, or even just to burn calories. People wear this vest mainly for fitness activities. There are many bodybuilding vests in the market, but only the best bodybuilding vest, made from quality materials, will help you achieve your fitness goals.

Comparison: Best adjustable bodybuilding vest

Benefits of wearing a bodybuilding vest

There are many benefits to wearing a weight vest, especially if you use and integrate it regularly and consciously, not only during exercise, but occasionally during normal daily activities, such as a walk around the house or a day of shopping. Whatever your fitness goal is, you will definitely achieve it with the best bodybuilding vest workouts. Strength Improvement – Strength is the ability of your body’s muscles to exert force. The extra weight of the bodybuilding vest forces your body, especially your muscles, to adapt to extreme changes, building muscle strength. Increase endurance – Endurance is your body’s ability to withstand the physical and mental demands of an activity. Increased muscle strength is also associated with increased endurance. When you work out with a weight vest, the extra weight trains the body by forcing it to resist the extra load, strengthening the muscles and increasing endurance. Strengthen your bones, lungs and heart – When you wear the right bodybuilding vest, your heart works more in the right direction. Your lungs also perform better and consume more oxygen. Their bone mass also increases, resulting in greater bone strength and density.

Reach your goal with the best bodybuilding vest

Why do people wear bodybuilding vests? There are many reasons, but the simplest answer is fitness. Wearing a bodybuilding vest can make you fitter and healthier. Athletic Training – If you are training for a full marathon, it is advisable to regularly incorporate the best weighted running vest into your running schedule. Marathons are very tough, so you have to prepare your body mentally and physically. You need to increase your strength and endurance to make it to the 42 miles and finish the marathon. Competition Training – Football and basketball players must be able to run long distances and carry the ball efficiently. Boxers must also be able to endure 12 grueling and painful rounds of boxing. In every sporting event, players and athletes need to train effectively to strengthen their bodies and increase their endurance. Using the best bodybuilding vest in their training can help them achieve their body goals. Weight loss or calorie burning – The added weight of a weight vest during simple exercises (such as walking and climbing stairs) or daily activities (such as gardening, grocery shopping, gardening and doing laundry) can help your body burn calories faster, allowing you to lose weight more effectively.

Who may use this vest?

Anyone can use the bodybuilding vest, but you need to take precautions. It is ideal for those who want to lose weight or use the best bodybuilding vest for CrossFit, especially for Murph exercises. It is also ideal for professional athletes. Playing sports, exercising or simply wearing a weight vest all the time can put extra strain on your body. Even if you want to use the vest every day, you should not overdo it as it can lead to injuries.

Factors to consider when buying a bodybuilding vest

There are already many providers of bodybuilding vests in stores and even online. As a buyer, how do you choose the best bodybuilding vest? Comfortable – You should be comfortable because you will be using it during your workouts. It is best to find and buy the vest you feel most comfortable in. Fit – Your vest should fit perfectly. Otherwise, sore spots will appear on the body and the workout will become ineffective. Material – The weight vest is not cheap because of the high quality of the material, and it is inexcusable to buy a new one just because the one you bought broke during training. Durability – Remember that a weight vest is used for both high-intensity and non-intensity workouts. It should last several months or years, especially if you don’t use it more than 5 days a week. Adjustable – The weight vest usually has adjustable straps on the shoulders and sides. This allows him to adapt to all bodies. This is especially helpful if you’re trying to lose weight, because you’ll start with a bigger body and end up with a smaller one – if you train the right way. Weight – Depending on your activity and purpose, you have a choice between a weight equivalent of 10 and 50 pounds for the vest you want to buy. You can start with a lower weight and gradually increase the weight as you reach your goal. Make sure your vest can support the weight you ultimately want it to. Ask your fitness trainer what the best weight is to start with. Price – Prices depend on the materials used and the weight of the vest. First of all, you need to decide if you are going to use the weight vest for a long time, especially if you exercise regularly, or if you are really going to exercise, in which case you should invest in a vest of the highest quality, or if you are only going to use the vest to lose weight, in which case you can buy a cheaper vest. You can buy the 20, 40 and 50 pound vests at an average price of $49.99, $64.99 and $79.99 respectively.

Ideal trainings/exercises for the weight vest

You need to make sure that your bodybuilding vest is suitable for the activity you want to do and the goal you want to achieve. Your training may suffer if you wear a vest that is not appropriate for your activity. Some simple exercises you can use a weight vest for are walking on the treadmill, push-ups, squats and reverse lunges. You can even use the vest while walking around the neighborhood, working in the garden or gardening to burn extra calories. A bodybuilding vest, if used correctly, can have a very positive impact, not only on your physical strength and endurance, but also on your overall health and well-being. It comes down to buying the perfect vest for your activity, your body and your purpose.

Reviews: 5 best life jackets

1. MIR 50LBS short adjustable bodybuilding vest

For :

Heavy bodybuilding vest
Load capacity up to 60 lbs
Adjustable in 3 pound increments
Washable
Compact
Balanced weight distribution (front and rear)

Disadvantages:

Rather expensive.
The narrow design of the vest may cause discomfort to the shoulders when first worn.

Properties and materials of construction

The MIR 50LBS Short Adjustable Weight Vest is a very compact weight loss device that is 11 inches long. It features a full set of weights that can be set from three to sixty pounds, allowing you to lose more weight. The removable weights are located at the top of the torso and protect your abdomen from shocks while running. It also provides full body protection during sports activities. The vest itself is made of 1200D reinforced nylon and has double padding that sits comfortably on the shoulders. It is also equipped with a net for ventilation. In addition, the MIR 50LBS short adjustable weight vest has two straps that you can easily adjust to your upper body. To adjust, simply slide the straps through the D-rings.

Available weights and dimensions

The MIR 50LBS Short Adjustable Weight Vest measures 11 x 12 x 2 inches and has a total weight of 51 pounds. The weight is adjustable in three-pound increments. The load capacity of the device is up to 60 pounds. It has a strong velcro closure and empty compartments that can be used for extra weights.

Pronunciation

If you are looking for a great way to lose weight and tone your body at the same time, you can buy the MIR 50LBS Short Adjustable Bodybuilding Vest. It may be expensive, but you certainly get more than you spend. Check out the price of the MiR Bodybuilding Vest on Amazon

2. ZFOsports 40LBs adjustable vest

For :

Fits most sizes
Adjustable in 2.5 lb increments
Ideal for men and women
Cheap

Disadvantages:

Slightly bulky design
The weight change is too heavy

Workouts become much more interesting when you have resistance that makes each movement more meaningful. The best way to do this is with the ZFOsports 40LBs adjustable weight vest, a durable vest designed to mold to your body to provide the resistance you need during your workout.

Properties and materials of construction

The vest is made of durable material, designed for constant weight shift during your workout, yet comfortable enough to let you breathe. The vest has 16 removable weights of 2.5 pounds each. Each weight is essentially iron ore contained in a small bag.

Available weights and dimensions

The vest is sized to fit most body shapes for both men and women. It is adjustable, so you can adjust it better. Some users have claimed that it is not suitable for certain body types, but again there has been controversy. Unfortunately, for those who want to weigh more than 40 pounds, this vest has no heavier options.

Pronunciation

Overall, this vest is worth buying if you don’t think you need more than 40 pounds to give your workouts the boost you need. Check out the price of the ZFOsports bodybuilding vest on Amazon

3. CAP Barbell adjustable vest

For :

You can choose from a large number of load capacities
Sustainable
Adjustable strap to fit most sizes
Adjustable in 2.5 lb increments
Easy to change weights
Reasonable price

Disadvantages:

Rough design
The vest could use an extra strap, especially if you’re carrying more than a pound.

Training is a time-consuming activity, so you need to make sure it is as efficient as possible when you do it. Fortunately, you have the option of using the CAP Barbell adjustable weight vest. The vest allows you to add weight to the torso to increase the resistance with each movement, so you can get the most out of your workout.

Properties and materials of construction

The vest is made of durable and breathable material to ensure a comfortable fit. You can attach it with a simple velcro strap. Kettlebells are small sandbags that weigh about 2.5 pounds each. These individual packages can be removed for weight control.

Available weights and dimensions

The vest is one size fits all and is adjustable in size, but some customers find that the heavier versions of the vest are longer. You can choose from the following weights: 40 lbs, 50 lbs, 60 lbs, 70 lbs, 80 lbs, 100 lbs, 120 lbs and 150 lbs.

Pronunciation

Overall, the CAP Barbell adjustable weight vest is a worthwhile purchase. You get the extra resistance you need for your workout in a convenient and easily customizable package that fits your needs. Check out the price of the CAP Barbell adjustable weight vest on Amazon

4. SKLZ Weight Vest – Variable Weight Training Vest

For :

This is a good place to start.
Reinforced nylon fabric for a comfortable fit
Adjustable in increments of just 0.5 lbs.
Adjustable Velcro strap fits most sizes
Quick and easy weight change

Disadvantages:

Not suitable for people who want to gain weight.
Maximum load capacity of only 10 lbs

Train like a pro with the SKLZ weight vest, a revolutionary tool to maximize your training with a versatile design that can add resistance to any exercise. The design avoids compromises and the weight is evenly distributed for optimum comfort.

Properties and materials of construction

Soft woven edges, reinforced nylon and mesh construction ensure maximum comfort and breathability, because you deserve to stay focused during your workout. The belt with Velcro closure can be adjusted to fit most athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Interior compartments for easy addition and removal of weights. You can increase the weight by 0.05 pounds to 10 pounds.

Available weights and dimensions

Because SLKZ strives to elevate the athlete in all of us, the SLKZ Variable Weight Vest has a flexible design with a Velcro closure, allowing it to fit almost any athlete. With this versatile mantra, anyone who wants to train can succeed.

Pronunciation

The variety of weights makes the SLKZ weight vest ideal for the runner or trainer, and the breathability of the vest makes it a must buy. SLKZ is known for its durable and effective training products, including its bodyweight vests. This innovative product will help you improve your athletic performance and develop skills that will help you become a better athlete. Check out the price of the SKLZ vest on Amazon.

5. Bodybuilding vestPure Fitness

For :

Easy weight change
Adjustable strap for most sizes
Adjustable in 0.88 lb increments
Comfortable design
Balanced distribution of weight packages
With reflective edge for night training/exercise

Disadvantages:

There are only two sizes available – 20 and 40 pounds.
Not suitable for intense exercise, especially if you choose the heavier version.

Properties and materials of construction

Fitness enthusiasts like to wear weight vests to gain a few extra pounds during their daily workouts. Using weight vests allows you to take cardio to the next level, supplement strength training and diversify your workout routine. The Pure Fitness Vest has fully adjustable buckles. These closures are also easy to remove without complicated fasteners. The adjustable buckles make it comfortable for any adult and ensure a perfect fit during training. The Pure Fitness weight vest can be used for a variety of exercises including running, pull-ups, squats, tricep squats and more. It has a reflective edge, making it safe enough to use on night walks.

Available weights and dimensions

There are a total of 43 sand-filled weights, each weighing 0.88 pounds. They are easy to insert and remove, so you can easily adjust the intensity of your workout to your preferences.

Pronunciation

Since this vest is provided to us by a reputable company, Pure Fitness, that is truly dedicated to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle, it is no surprise that the Pure Fitness Weighted Vest is a great product that will truly benefit any training regime. The fact that the fasteners are Velcro instead of snaps is a great advantage, as they enclose the body and make it secure. It fits snugly and doesn’t fall off, even during strenuous activities like running or jumping. The sandbags don’t slouch in the pockets either, but fit perfectly in each compartment. We also like that we can take away or add weights depending on the intensity of the workout we want. The Pure Fitness Vest is one of the must-have adjustable vests for fitness enthusiasts. Check out the price of the Pure Fitness Vest on AmazonYou have tried many weighted vests before but have not gotten the results you have expected. You are looking for a quality weighted vest that will last you a lifetime and with our high quality weighted vests we know you will get the results you are looking for. We have weighted vests that are specifically designed for sports training, weighted vests for running and of course weighted vest for working out. We have weighted vests for both men and women, and they are all made with high quality materials that will last for years.. Read more about weighted vest with weights included and let us know what you think.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which weighted vest is best for running?

We have all tried to run a few miles on our own, but it soon becomes apparent that we’re not exactly built for it. Even if we’re in great shape, there’s just some things we can’t do on our own. It’s not just the physical strain; it’s the mental strain that can really get to us once we start running. Cross training is a great way to keep yourself active, and with running being such a great cross training exercise, we’ve compiled this list of weighted vests to help you get the most out of your running. Running is a popular activity that is often associated with weight loss goals, but what vest is best for running? The most popular vest for running—the Scubapro 1.5 KG Vest—is often over-hyped for its ability to help you lose weight, while the GORUCK GR3 Vest is underrated for its usefulness for running and gym training.

Is it OK to run with weighted vest?

Running can be a demanding and sweaty activity. But, like it or not, many runners find that they need to work out in other ways to maintain their fitness levels. This is especially true for people who are looking to take up weight training as part of their fitness regime. I love running. I like to think of it as my time to decompress from the daily grind, listening to music playing in my headphones, moving my body to the rhythm of the music, and really getting to know my surroundings. I love being out in nature, breathing fresh air, and enjoying the interactions I have with other runners, dogs, and other runners’ dogs.

Do weighted vests help build muscle?

Lifting weights is beneficial for a variety of reasons. It helps build muscle, helps burn calories, helps you build better endurance, and helps improve bone strength too. Most lifting equipment such as dumbbells and kettlebells provides you with the means to improve each of these so you can work out harder and faster. On the other hand, weighted vests are a unique kind of lifting equipment that can help you build muscle because of its use of increased resistance. The goal here is to help you find the best weighted vest for yourself. Weighted vests can do a lot of different benefits but are they really useful for building muscle? In this article, we’ll discuss whether weighted vests for fat loss really work or not.

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Best Weighted Vest for Sports Training, Running and Working Out 2019

June 2, 2019 by Melissa

What is a life jacket?

Comparison: Best adjustable bodybuilding vest

Benefits of wearing a bodybuilding vest

Reach your goal with the best bodybuilding vest

Who may use this vest?

Factors to consider when buying a bodybuilding vest

Ideal trainings/exercises for the weight vest

Reviews: 5 bestlifejackets

1. MIR 50LBS short adjustable bodybuilding vest

For :

Heavy bodybuilding vest
Load capacity up to 60 lbs
Adjustable in 3 pound increments
Washable
Compact
Balanced weight distribution (front and rear)

Disadvantages:

Rather expensive.
The narrow design of the vest may cause discomfort to the shoulders when first worn.

Properties and materials of construction

Available weights and dimensions

Pronunciation

2. ZFOsports 40LBs adjustable vest

For :

Fits most sizes
Adjustable in 2.5 lb increments
Ideal for men and women
Cheap

Disadvantages:

Slightly bulky design
The weight change is too heavy

Properties and materials of construction

Available weights and dimensions

Pronunciation

Overall, this vest is worth buying if you don’t think you need more than 40 pounds to give your workouts the boost you need. Check out the price of the ZFOsports bodybuilding vest on Amazon

3. CAP Barbell adjustable vest

For :

You can choose from a large number of load capacities
Sustainable
Adjustable strap to fit most sizes
Adjustable in 2.5 lb increments
Easy to change weights
Reasonable price

Disadvantages:

Rough design
The vest could use an extra strap, especially if you’re carrying more than a pound.

Properties and materials of construction

Available weights and dimensions

Pronunciation

4. SKLZ Weight Vest – Variable Weight Training Vest

For :

This is a good place to start.
Reinforced nylon fabric for a comfortable fit
Adjustable in increments of just 0.5 lbs.
Adjustable Velcro strap fits most sizes
Quick and easy weight change

Disadvantages:

Not suitable for people who want to gain weight.
Maximum load capacity of only 10 lbs

Properties and materials of construction

Available weights and dimensions

Pronunciation

5. Bodybuilding vestPure Fitness

For :

Easy weight change
Adjustable strap for most sizes
Adjustable in 0.88 lb increments
Comfortable design
Balanced distribution of weight packages
With reflective edge for night training/exercise

Disadvantages:

There are only two sizes available – 20 and 40 pounds.
Not suitable for intense exercise, especially if you choose the heavier version.

Properties and materials of construction

Available weights and dimensions

There are a total of 43 sand-filled weights, each weighing 0.88 pounds. They are easy to insert and remove, so you can easily adjust the intensity of your workout to your preferences.

Pronunciation

Frequently Asked Questions

Which weighted vest is best for running?

Is it OK to run with weighted vest?

Do weighted vests help build muscle?

Related Tags:

Why Getting Your Children Interested in Gardening is a Good Idea

May 27, 2019 by Melissa

Having new skills that your children can participate in very important for them to grow up with a lot of information about a lot of things. Confidence in adults is usually developed when they were kids. Gardening is an activity that, along with being fun and play, teaches children a new skill and also self-confidence because they are taking care of and growing their own food.

Children anyway love being outside and playing the dirt. Use that to teach them the importance of food and how difficult it is to grow one plant. Teach them how, when they put in enough time and effort, they can grow their own food. They can learn how to nurture life and also how to respect it and its process. Different plants need different things to grow, this can turn into a very important lesson of respecting the process of different things and also being patient with things because not everything comes to fruition equally.

The new skills that they learn are not only in the sense of physical activity, but it also helps develop their personality. Because they care for the plants, they learn responsibility. They become more understanding because they get the first-hand experience in cause and effect of their options like how watering the plants every day will make them thrive and not watering will kill them.

Gardening is not only a physical activity that lets the children do something fun and productive, but it also teaches them about nutrition, about where their food comes from, and about how much work goes into growing them. This makes them appreciate what is put on the table, and they will learn to be generally less wasteful in their lives.

Talking about what they learn – gardening also teaches them about the science of growing plants and usually that is in the children’s syllabus. If you start them young, they will have practical knowledge of it already. Through this activity, they not only learn about plants but also learn about animals and how to protect what plants from which animals and birds, they learn about the weather and the environment, and what effects they cause.

Because you are making them do this activity with you and if they have siblings, then them too, they learn how to be cooperative, they learn to work in teams. Hoe to do the task assigned to them and how to contribute to the team is a skill that is very valuable and will be needed throughout their lives, but it is also one of the things people are generally bad at. This gives them a chance to learn early.

Because they have the opportunity to learn so many things early and also get a sense of achievement every time a plant grows, it boosts their self-confidence. All of us know how important that is. One of the easiest ways to start is by using a ready-made kit that is easy to grow and maintain at home. If you have several kids, you can put them in pairs, and they can take turns watching over their assigned plant. This is one way of teaching them accountability too!

Last but not least, with the current state of our planet, getting children interested in gardening, plants, and nature, in general, is the best thing to do in the grand scheme of things. Little steps towards a bright future!

7 Ways Dads Can Help Moms with a Newborn

May 20, 2019 by Melissa

After she gives birth, the new mother needs help both physically and emotionally. The emotional side means giving her a mental break from the intensive care of the beautiful new baby. The physical side means giving her a break to do things for herself. You want to be the best Dad you can be the one. Here are some of the things to think about:

1. Exhaustion

If you are exhausted, remember mom is even more exhausted. Think about ways to help her and encourage her to get enough rest and feel loved. The stronger the mama, the better for the baby.

2. Peaceful environment

Set up an environment that is peaceful. This is a sweet, beautiful time with your family and it can also be very emotional. Keep the place neat and tidy. Fresh air, some light music, healthy food, candles at night, a kiss and a hug and a thank you to mom for making such a beautiful baby. The “little things” make a huge difference.

3. Be there for her

Anything and everything mom asks you to do, you have to do, or she would not be too happy? Take proper care regarding her diet. If possible take a vacation from work. If mom is sore, ask her if she wants a back rub or a massage. Sometimes, just by being there for her and offering to do what she needs is enough to show her that you care.

4. Learn to change diapers

Always make sure to check the diaper often and change it whenever needed. Go ahead and use as many wipes as you need. The goal is to keep your kid clean, so do what it takes to get it done. You should also take great care while bathing your baby.

5. Spend enough time with your baby

Bring the baby to mom, don’t let her get up. If bottle feeding, then feed the baby. Don’t assume all the feedings have to fall on mom, and she would love it if you would take on some of the feedings. This is especially true at night. It is a great idea to come up with a schedule that works for both mom and dad about who gets up with the baby and when. This means that both can get enough amount of sleep.

6. Help mom with laundry and shopping

It might feel quite overwhelming but remember how she manages all such things. Do the necessary shopping required for the mom and the baby. Also, cook her fresh and healthy meals. Make sure she is eating three wholesome meals a day that is full of proteins and nutrients, not much sugary and fatty foods. Give her green leafy vegetables, fruits and plenty of water.

7. Show appreciation

Let her know that she is doing an amazing job. Point out where you think she is doing great. Tell her that you are proud of her and how much you love her. Encourage her to go out of the house once in a while, and connect with other moms. Do ask her time tot time if she needs something. At such times, all of her attention is going to be on the baby, so someone needs to look after her needs.

Why Letting Your Kid Become a Dog Walker is a Good Idea

May 13, 2019 by Melissa

Who doesn’t love dogs? If your kids have grown up and turned into teenagers, who want to earn. Although you are paying and will continue to, they want to make money on their own for something that means something to them or something that you wouldn’t get them. Don’t be worried. Dog walking is a good job for them to have. If done right, it can even turn into a lucrative side-hustle. Plus, they will enjoy doing it. You also don’t have to get them a pet if you don’t want to because they will anyway be spending time with different dogs. But, it can also make them want a dog that much more.

Until it is just for hobby, it isn’t much of a problem. When you start taking this job seriously, just like any other small business, there is a lot to know and learn, and it comes with its own set of challenges.

If your kid is saving money for some concert or buying something, tell them to first determine how much they need to make. This is very important because then they will understand how much work they would have to put in order to make the amount of money they need. This will also help them make a plan, as to how much time do they need to set aside for this and how many dogs do they need to walk. Help them calculate how many days they would need to work to get the money, or if there is a deadline to what they need money for then help them figure out how many hours they need to put in and how many dogs they can see.

Even if they are doing this temporarily, tell them to see it as starting a business. This gives them practical experience that can help them in the future. You can turn it into a learning activity. Help them research other dog walkers or dog walking companies in your area. What do they offer? What do they charge for the services? Is there a package deal? How much do different packages cost? Let them gather as much information as they can because then they will learn the importance of requirement gathering before starting a business.

The dog walking industry has boomed in recent years. So, there are going to be a lot of professional services around. Teach them to not get discouraged because of the competition. They can give more personal attention to each client than a company can. They should bank of the fact. This also teaches them the importance of building good relations, treating people right, and negotiating.

They learn how to convince people why to hire them, they learn how to report back and give suggestions, they learn how to deal with clients. The teachings that come are more valuable than money. Plus, they get to play with dogs. Don’t worry if your child wants to make money on their own, help them and teach them so that they are well prepared for the future.

Yard Work Chores Perfect for Little Kids

May 9, 2019 by Melissa

Older kids and teens might drag their feet and moan about chores — but not your precious little ones. Toddlers and younger kids delight at the opportunity to “help” mom and dad, so you can get them to do almost anything with hardly any cajoling. Since it can be so hard to get kids outside these days, and since yard work is one of the worst household chores, you might wonder: What is safe for littles to do in the yard?

First: What’s NOT Safe

Little kids simply can’t be trusted around anything that can cause them harm. So, while you should encourage them to help you in the garden, you should be careful to forbid them from some yard care activities.

You should avoid allowing them to go near anything that could poison them, which especially includes brightly colored chemicals like fertilizer and pesticide. Little kids love putting things in their mouths, and if the stuff is colorful like candy, the likelihood that they’ll ingest it is even higher. You should keep these compounds on higher shelves or, better yet, behind lock and key with other toxic substances like bleach.

Additionally, you shouldn’t let your little ones go near sharp yard tools, like hedge clippers, or anything motorized, like your weed whacker or chainsaw. In fact, it might be wise to avoid keeping any of this stuff on your property at all. I outsource many of the larger yard care jobs to a local Baltimore lawn mowing service, and you can do the same in your neck of the woods.

Whatever you are protecting your kids from inside the house should also be kept away from them outside. Fortunately, that leaves plenty of totally safe activities to keep your kids occupied outdoors — such as:

Container Growing

Toddlers and young kids aren’t big enough to help tend large, established plants in your yard, but they can definitely care for smaller plants in containers. A container is anything that keeps a plant out of the ground; plant pots are containers, but so are mugs, shoes, birdcages and bathtubs. Your kid can be in charge of watering the container on a schedule dictated by you (so it doesn’t get over- or under-watered). You might also work together to transplant the plant to a larger container when the time is right.

Watering

In truth, young kids can water most of the plants in your yard, as long as you teach them how to do it properly. Most plants prefer long, slow, infrequent drinks, which means all your kid needs to do is pull the hose over, turn it on and set a timer. As with container gardening, kids can watch how proper watering affects the plants, helping them grow big and strong.

Harvesting Fruits and Veggies

Vegetable and fruit gardens are perhaps the most exciting things to grow, for adults and kids alike. Children love seeing how their food is made, and adults love knowing that their fruits and veggies are healthy and fresh. It doesn’t take much skill to pick ripe fruits and veggies and bring them indoors, so you can happily outsource that to your youngest kids. You might also task them with picking up the rotten or bird-eaten fruit, if you can trust them to do it safely.

Raking and Collecting Debris

Many plants drop excessive amounts of leaves and other debris, especially in the autumn. Young kids can help you collect all that stuff, either by using kid-sized rakes and shovels or by grabbing handfuls of the stuff and tossing it into your piles or trashcans. It’s important to note that your toddlers won’t be super effective at this chore; they won’t have a system or any sense of expedience to ensure your yard gets cleaned up fast. However, they will learn the importance of picking up the leaf and stick litter, and they’ll be more likely to help as they grow up.

Cleaning up Toys

Finally, if nothing else, your little ones should be in charge of picking up the toys they leave strewn around your yard. You can begin to teach your children responsibility by tasking them with looking after their toys, which means keeping them organized and out of the way when they aren’t in use. As long as you have a place where outdoor toys can be safely stashed, your kids should be able to follow rules about keeping the yard neat and tidy.

Children want to learn, which means they want to do the things you do. By asking them to help you complete chores around the yard, you are building their sense of responsibility and teaching them about various adult tasks. Plus, yard work doesn’t have to be a slog; with kids around, everyone can make yard work fun.

5 Fun Activities to do With Your Family This Weekend

May 6, 2019 by Melissa

Sharing quality time as a family gives you a chance to become a loving family with strong bonds and also share experiences. These experiences make great memories that stay with us all our lives. With busy schedules, it can be difficult to spend time every day with your family, but weekends should be reserved for quality family time.

You have to find opportunities to spend as much quality time together as possible. A strong family isn’t formed by just being born in the same family, the bond is made stronger by experiencing things together, watching each other grow, and spending time together per se.

1. Home Video Night

I have always loved watching “America’s Funniest Home Videos.” How do you think those videos came into existence? It is a fun idea to film ourselves and our kids to watch when we grow older. Kids love watching themselves when they were younger and also listening to funny/ embarrassing stories about themselves. Your wedding videos and photos also are a fun thing for them. Don’t forget the vacation videos and pictures, they are the most fun.

2. Have a Fun Competition

Having fun, creative contests like a scavenger quest with the kids is a great way to bond and develop sportsmanship in them. Have competitions for a game they love or even some art competition: cricket, carrom, cheese, any game. You can also introduce them to new games this way. It is a fun way to learn. You can also keep rewards for the kids so that they feel more excited.

3. A day out

You can go to the beach, museum, fairs, theme parks, the world is your oyster. These trips help create memories, help learn new things if you visit places like science fairs, art galleries, and museums. Playing at the beach is fun, you can make sand castles, play in the water, collect shells. Those shells can then be used to make jewelry. Visiting new places can give rise to new hobbies as well.You can also play darts. When you choose Best darts, the time will pass quickly and with pleasure. This is essential for a good holiday.

4. Barbecue Night

Speaking of outdoor activities, barbecue parties are the best way to bond. You can invite your neighbors, friends, and family. Everyone can have one task to do. Kids love working with the adults and being given responsibilities, especially during parties and such. Cooking and eating together is one of the most fun and meaningful activity I know, and you also get to eat delicious food. It’s a win-win.

5. Camping

Camping is one of the interesting memory-making activities. Camping helps kid learn so much. They learn to enjoy nature, which is very important. Teach them how to build a campfire, then you can roast marshmallows and tell stories huddled up around the campfire. Help them identify the insects and animals from the noises. You can also identify and catalog the plants.

Spending time with the family doesn’t always have to cost money. Think of activities that interest everyone and try incorporating it. Teach your kids things that could be done at home. Even if you are too tired to go out, you will still spend a fun time at home with your family, by playing board games, watching movies, cooking at home. The idea here is to spend time together doing something that helps us grow together, bond, and create fond memories.

Plan the Perfect Los Angeles Family Reunion Getaway

May 2, 2019 by Melissa

Los Angeles is the city of dreams. It can offer a lot to any person who walks by and has been the center-point for the intermingling of many cultures. The cultural potluck of L.A. also creates a pretty great place to meet your family and enjoy yourselves. If you live nearby and want to do a local tour, Los Angeles offers you almost every kind of entertainment in a nutshell. So, whether you’re trying to mingle with the uncles you’ve avoided calling for a while, or with sisters that have moved far away, there’s no better place than this city to meet up with them, and check out the different things together.

Remember, there are very few things in our lives that’s as important as our families. Considering that, it should be your primary priority to talk and mingle with them as much as you can. There’s nothing more sorrowful than seeing your family fade away before you before getting a chance to get together. Now, family getaways can be a difficult task to navigate, so, we’ve organized a small list which you can check off as you plan your family reunion.

1. Book a vehicle

So, you’ve done the hardest part already. You called up all your family members, got them together and they’re gearing up for a reunion. The first step is of course to book transportation. Remember that Los Angeles can pretty be crowded even on normal days, so, your best bet is to book a bus to avoid the confusion multiple vehicles create. Plus, when you book a Los Angeles charter bus with a driver, you get a chance to play around and converse with your family as you go round the city also.

Check out what kind of bus you might need, and go forth with organizing the rest of the tour. Make sure to talk with your professional driver from the get-go and make sure that your account for any traffic snarls that might happen.

2. The venues

Family-friendly venues can be a bit tricky to navigate depending on the age of the family you’re bringing. Adult-only spaces are automatically out because you’ll most probably have kids traveling with you, and it’s unfair to not include them in a family trip. So, here are some venues you can see.

Santa Monica Pier – Get cotton candy and roam around in the sun when you hit this pier. With an entire amusement park growing around the boardwalk, this is the place where you can enjoy. Once you’ve visited all the attractions, get to the pristine beach and rest as you strike up a conversation about the old days.
Hollywood Sign – The huge Hollywood sign is the defining picture from Los Angeles. If you want some real bonding time, plan a normal hike through the area and visit the letters, the renovated sign makes for a wondrous time.
J. Paul Getty Museum – The museum has been at the center of a lot of appreciation over the years. Walk through the lanes of history and find the medieval manuscripts i this museum.

There are many venues for you to explore as you go through the city, so, plan according to your budgetary needs and the time you’re getting.

3. Plan activities

The hardest part of keeping a family reunion on track is definitely keeping the kids in check. Now, there are several tactics we could follow to make sure they’re always entertained. However, the best way to keep them in check is to plan activities from long ago.

Make sure to have some games planned before you start. You can arrange small sessions of board games during travels, or scavengers hunt where different treasures are placed with different family members. The kids will bridge any gap that might’ve widened so, that’s a plus to look forward to.

Moving House with Kids

May 2, 2019 by Melissa

It isn’t always easy moving house with kids as young children don’t always handle change very well. If you want your next move with kids to run smoothly, check out these helpful tips.

Before your move

When you’re moving with kids it’s a good idea to tell them about it early on in the moving process. It might be hard for them to understand at first if they are very young, but it will allow them time to get used to the idea of moving

Make sure you talk about the move in a positive light so they understand that it is a good thing. Let them know they will have a new room to look forward to and that there will be lots of great playgrounds nearby too.

If you can, it can be helpful to show your kids around the new area before you move in. This will allow them to become familiar with their new environment so that they can settle in better.

During your move

Moving day can be very stressful, for both kids and adults, so if you can arrange a babysitter for that day it will make everything easier. If you have family or friends in the area who could help out this could also work.

You can keep your children with you during the move, but if you do make sure you’re prepared with supplies. Keep a few of their favourite toys or items out to keep them occupied, or stick a movie onto your phone for them to watch.

Once you arrive at your new home make sure you set up your kids rooms first to help familiarise them with their new home. This means while you move boxes around in the rest of the house they can start playing in their new rooms.

After your move

Now that you’ve finished moving into your new home it’s time to get everyone settled. You may need to allow some time for your children to adjust to their new environment. This means you may need to be more patient with them for a while.

Make sure you arrange play dates with their old friends if they are still around, or try and make some new friends for them. This will help them feel more comfortable and will show them that their life doesn’t have to change that much.

You can also do little things, such as playing their favourite music, buying them a house warming present, or giving them some leftover packing boxes to play with.

Moving with kids can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be if you use professional removalists. They can take the hassle out of your next move and ensure your belongings get safely from A to B.

Three Ways Your Family Can Save Big This Spring

April 25, 2019 by Melissa

For busy families, saving money during the spring and summer months is easier than most people think — in fact, with a few proactive changes, you can reduce your home energy bill by a considerable amount.

Consider the following strategies to save on money and do your part for the environment. You’ll be glad you did.

Invest in a Smart Thermostat

By investing in a Smart thermostat, you’re taking the guesswork out of temperature control. By programming your thermostat to warm or cool your house when you need it, you’re keeping energy waste to a bare minimum.

A smart thermostat — like this one from LUX — will raise the temperature during the day when you are away from the house at work and then allow you to lower the temperature remotely as you’re finishing your work day.

This will make sure the house is at the perfect temperature as people return home from their busy days, which in turn reduces any unnecessary strain on your AC, helping you save on energy costs.

Look into Conservation and Rebate Programs

The Fraser Institute releases a report in 2016 noting Canadians are paying 34 per cent more for hydro from 2008 to 2016. Averages ranged from $109 per month in Calgary to $201 in Toronto.

Many municipalities offer programs and incentives to help you reduce your heating bills. Coupons, energy rebates, and even usage tracking through municipal websites helps homeowners understand their energy usage and curb bad habits.

The result can be billions of dollars in savings for Canadians. Between 2011 to 2016, Natural Resources Canada’s (NRC) energy efficiency suite of programs achieved $1 billion in cost savings for Canadian consumers and industry.

Keep Your HVAC Well Maintained

To some people, springtime maintenance sounds like a chore. Experienced homeowners, however, know two things that others might not: first, conducting maintenance on a major appliance before you put it to work over the summer is an easy way to save yourself money on household bills in the long run, and second, that the maintenance doesn’t have to be a chore at all — with the right technicians, a tune-up is a breeze.

HVAC systems are complex, and when the summer really gets steamy, your air conditioning can get an awful lot of use. If your AC system isn’t running efficiently, for example, it could be drawing a lot more power than it needs to, which could be causing your monthly bills to skyrocket.

Get your home ready for Spring by hiring a professional to assess your HVAC system and be sure to make any adjustments now — before the summer months where temperatures really ramp up!

Things like outdated components or blocked filters can be major contributors to that inefficiency, and a good technician will help you identify any elements that need to be addressed. The difference between the bill for an air conditioner running at peak efficiency and the bill for an air conditioner that is straining and overworked may shock you!

It’s also worth keeping in mind that maintenance helps prevent costly breakdowns. Repairs can be an unpleasant surprise, and in the case of more serious problems, replacing your HVAC system can be an enormous expense.

It may be helpful to think of your HVAC system like a car: taking a little time every year to have the oil changed and the tires rotated will help save on gas in the short term and avoid major repairs in the long term, saving you money and keeping your life as convenient as possible.