Author Archives: lifewithlilred

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About lifewithlilred

Just your average gal blogging an average blog!
Feb21

Puzzle Place Pt. 2

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Puzzle Place Pt. 2

Hello! Doing puzzles is a past time that I really enjoy. However, I don’t get to do so very often as Johnny isn’t a fan and it’s no fun to put puzzles together by yourself. I was SO happy when my dad purchased a couple of puzzles that featured images of Vincent Van Gogh’s paintings for my family to do together. We had a fair amount of difficulty completing Starry Night but once we got in a groove, it was relatively smooth sailing. By the time my family and I were done, all I had to say was bring on the Sunflowers! I was so confident in our skills that I figured it would be a breeze. I was also very excited as Sunflowers is one of my favorite paintings. A breeze this puzzle was not but after painstaking work, we made it through and have another amazing puzzle to glue together and display as wall art. Check it out:

It was truly a fool’s errand comparing the difficulty between Sunflowers and Starry Night because they are polar opposite paintings. Starry Night in puzzle form was hard, yes, but it provided the opportunity to put it together based on all of the different shades of blue. Sunflowers, on the other hand, was a whole lot of yellow and it proved to be a huge challenge. Every piece looked like it could have belonged anywhere! What’s more, pieces that did fit together and looked right weren’t actually right upon closer inspection, meaning we had to backpedal to find out where we went wrong. Puzzles are supposed to be relaxing and this one was straight up annoying lol.

For all of the irritation this puzzle gave us, it was the biggest sigh of relief once that last piece fit in perfectly. We also didn’t have the stress of a missing piece like when we did Starry Night which was very nice! A five hundred piece puzzle might seem like child’s play to some but it is the maximum of what my family can do while still having a good time. Was this puzzle a good time to put together? Hard no!! Does it look awesome now that it’s finally done? Hard yes!! I cannot wait to see it glued, framed, and hanging proudly above the mantel. Team work definitely made the dream work and we have a beautiful display of Sunflowers to show for it!

The next puzzle painting we are going for is The Great Wave off Kanagawa by Katsushika Hokusai. It is one of my other favorite paintings and will look phenomenal by our Starry Night puzzle!

What is one of your favorite past times? What is the maximum size of puzzles that you can do? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb20

How To Stop Stressing Over Your Age

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How To Stop Stressing Over Your Age

Getting older is something that happens to everyone. In fact, it’s a sign that you’ve been successful. Once you reach the age of 50, 60, 70 or beyond you have survived a long time in an otherwise difficult world. But people have many problems when it comes to their age. They often look at it the wrong way. If you’re somebody who’s stressing about their age and worried about getting older then this post is for you. We are going to look at some strategies you can use to reduce the stress you feel and really enjoy your life day to day:

Reframe aging as a privilege:

The first thing to do is to reframe aging as a privilege. This was something that we hinted at in the introduction. Instead of seeing birthdays as the next stage in the inevitable march through life, you can look at them more as success stories or milestones. Getting to a specific age is actually quite an achievement, especially once you start getting into the higher numbers. If you can reframe how you look at the situation, then you can totally control how you feel about it.

Focus on the things you can control:

Another thing you can do is stop pretending that aging is something you can control. You can’t actually map and manage the time passing on the calendar, but you can intervene in your lifestyle to change how you feel and function. Many people forget all about aging once they improve their exercise routine, stress management, nutrition, sleep, and skincare. Combining all of these factors often slows down the aging process significantly. It can also change the nature of the aging process so that it doesn’t lead to chronic disease and dysfunction.

^^^ Unsplash Image

Get the treatment you need:

Sometimes, feeling less stressed about the aging process is simply getting the treatment that you need. For example, if you have hearing loss, go to the audiologist and ask for hearing aids. Similarly, if you struggle to walk or you have physiological problems, you can get a trainer to improve muscle strength. You should find that once you’ve got this treatment, it has a meaningful and lasting effect on your life. It makes a profound difference to how you approach things.

Practice being present or mindful:

Worrying about aging also often means worrying about the future. Therefore, it’s a good idea to practice being present or mindful. Many people get to a certain age and wonder why their lives aren’t turning out the way they wanted them to. They stress about the things that they should have done differently in the past. Being present is the best way to counter this sort of thought process. If you can focus on what you’re doing now, you often discover that your life is much better than what you thought.

So there you have it – some of the things you can do to stop stressing about the ageing process. Looking at the positives and accepting what’s happening is often the best approach!

Featured Image By: Unsplash

Feb20

Early Signs Of Hearing Loss Every 20 Something Should Know

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Early Signs Of Hearing Loss Every 20 Something Should Know

Anyone can lose their hearing. No matter how old you are or how healthy you feel, your hearing can be affected by your day to day activities. Too much loud noise at home, in the workplace, or coming through your headphones and you could be dealing with a lower level of hearing. And for some people, genetics play a role in causing hearing loss at a younger age. It’s a complex thing, and it’s something to keep an eye out for so you can act in time. As such, here are some of the most common early signs of hearing loss that you should know about as a young adult:

Everything Needs Turning Up Higher:

Have you started needing to turn the volume up on your phone, tablet, or TV much louder than you used to? Say you always had the volume set to fifteen and that was fine, but these days you need it at twenty and above. Dialogue just doesn’t feel all that easy for you to parse anymore. It could be an issue with the device itself, of course. It could also be a problem with the way the sound was recorded for whatever media you’re watching. But it could also be a sign your hearing has been impacted.

People Keep Saying You’re Being Loud:

Are you noticing that more and more people are saying you’re talking quite loudly, but you didn’t even realize? That could be a sign of hearing loss, especially if no one really said anything like this to you before. Or alternatively, you think you’re speaking at a normal volume, but everyone’s suddenly telling you that you’re being really quiet. Both of these things can, in fact, be a sign of hearing loss. And when it comes to difficulties in general conversation, a trip to the audio doctor is the next best thing to plan. After all, you could be in need of hearing aids. And if you do, there’s no need to worry. There are plenty of different styles and options to suit your ears, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Plus, your audiologist will be there to walk you through choosing a set that’s right for you.

You’ve Stopped Noticing Background Noise:

It’s hard to notice when you’re not noticing something – that’s why it’s called ‘background noise’. But if you’re never noticing when there’s some sound going on around you, it could be another sign you’re dealing with a form of hearing loss. Maybe cafes aren’t as loud as they used to be, as you haven’t really heard much chatter going on around you? And what about when you’re on the bus to work – does the sound of the bus sound as loud as it used to? The next time you get the chance, focus on the background and see what you’re picking up.

Hearing loss can creep up on you, and it can happen at any age. Pay attention to signs like these to prevent the problem from getting worse!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Feb20

5 Technologies That Can Improve Your Health

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5 Technologies That Can Improve Your Health

There’s no doubt that technology is making our lives easier – but the right tools can also make us healthier! If your priority is to look after your health, form better habits, and improve your living space, some technologies can make it easier to improve your well being and prevent future health problems. In this guide, we’ll look at a few investments worth making this year. Let’s dive in:

Wearables:

Wearable devices like smartwatches play a key role in helping you take better charge of your health. They can help you track essential indicators such as step counts, heart rate, stress levels, sleep quality, and more. Some specific devices, such as wearable alarms, can also improve safety levels among older people and those with mobility limitations. Make sure to find the best model for your needs and consult a doctor to understand how to best use your wearable technology to support your health.

Smart Home Technology:

Smart home devices can create a healthier home that fosters healthy habits. As well as adding convenience to everyday life, these technologies can help you control temperature, lighting, air quality, and safety features. Some investments worth making for your health and well being include:

  • Air Purifiers: Improve indoor air quality, reducing the risk of allergies and respiratory issues.
  • Smart Thermostats: Maintain temperatures for better sleep quality and overall comfort.
  • Smart Lighting: Support healthy sleep cycles and mood regulation.
  • Voice-Activated Assistants: Help with reminders for hydration, exercise, medication, and provide hands-free emergency assistance.
  • Sleep Trackers: Monitor sleep patterns for better sleep health.

AI Hearing Aids:

Did you know that unaddressed hearing loss can lead to significant complications, including an increased risk of dementia? However, deciding to wear hearing aids is not always an easy choice, as it can impact your confidence and comfort. Thankfully, newer models are less noticeable, more efficient, and fully adjustable. For instance, AI hearing aids can adapt to different sound environments, filter out background noise, and even learn your listening preferences, making communication much easier and natural.

Telemedicine Platforms:

Telemedicine has been a game changer for both healthcare providers and patients. Over the past few years, it has contributed to overcoming common barriers to treatment, including long travel distances, childcare or eldercare, busy schedules, and mobility limitations. Telemedicine allows you to consult specialists within your area and beyond from the comfort and privacy of your home. Patient portals can also help in scheduling appointments, getting test results, asking questions to your provider, and repeating prescriptions as directed. Consult your primary healthcare provider to understand what telemedicine systems they offer.

Digital Mental Health Tools:

Last but not least, technology can help in supporting mental health, too. Thanks to guided meditation apps, online therapy platforms, and support from mental health professionals available via chat or video calls, getting support at any stage of life is easier than it has ever been. Be sure to explore the best tools to boost your health and make calculated investments in the technologies that can provide support in the long term.

Improve your life and health with the technology above and you will be sure to notice a huge difference!

Featured Image By: Freepik

Feb20

V-Day OOTD

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V-Day OOTD

Hello everyone and welcome to a brand new OOTD here on lifewithlilred! Johnny and I enjoyed a magnificent Valentine’s Day date with dinner at Boss ChickNBeer and an evening at a Cupid’s Revenge haunted house. For dinner, I paired the look you are about to see with a sweetheart cardigan. Then, I let it all hang out at the haunted house because it was an event that definitely teetered on the sexy side! This little fit was a huge hit and I felt like an absolute star in it. In fact, Johnny and I were so well dressed that we ended up making friends with every single person who complimented us! ❤ Check it out:

Who? What? Wear?

Bralette: Victoria’s Secret

Bubble Skirt: A New Day, Target

Heeled Mules: Betsey Johnson, TJMaxx

Heart Earrings: SugarFix By Baublebar, Target

As the Cupid’s Revenge haunt erred on the side of sexy, I decided to follow suit and put the lingerie as everyday wear trend to good use. I had a few different bralette options in mind including an adorable one with embroidered hearts on it. That was actually my original plan until I pivoted to an All Black Everything ensemble. I’ll be honest with you, I genuinely forgot I had the Vicky’s Secret bralette you see above so when I found it, it was game on. This little number is sexy with a capital S E X Y. I absolutely love the black lace over the nude background and find it to be such a chic pairing. While this was quite revealing, I felt fully comfortable in it as it is so supportive with six tabs to attach in the back. I was able to hit the dance floor at the haunt without any fear of a wardrobe malfunction! (Although it for sure wouldn’t have mattered there!)

The evening of our date was blessedly warm which gave me the opportunity to go with a skirt to pair the bralette with. Even if it was bitter cold, I still think I would have worn it because I would do anything for fashion! And besides, it was a very short walk into the haunted house. 😀 Since the bralette was so form fitting, I wanted to add some dimension and went for my gorgeous bubble skirt by A New Day. It made for such an interesting silhouette and was such fun to twirl in to the pop hits blasting through the speakers. This skirt added a dose of sweetness to the sex appeal and made for a perfect combination.

Finally, it was onto shoes and accessories. For shoes, I went for a pair of heeled mules by Betsey Johnson for a touch of quirky cute with those striped heels and embroidered flowers. They were also a strategic choice as the heel was nice and sturdy for our trek through the haunt. With my tattoos doing a majority of the talking, all that was left to do was slip on a pair of earrings. The three tiered hearts by BaubleBar provided a pop of color and V-Day flare. With that, I was ready for our amazing night on the town!

Sometimes you just have to get sexy and what better occasion than Valentine’s Day?!

How would you describe your personal style? What does a sexy piece of clothing look like for you? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb19

4 Ways Investing In A Boat Can Seriously Enhance Your Summer

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4 Ways Investing In A Boat Can Seriously Enhance Your Summer

Let’s think of the ideal summer’s day. You’re probably outside somewhere, surrounded by nature with your friends and family. You spend the day jumping in and out of a cooling body of water, and wrap up the evening with a delicious meal.

That is an idyllic day that sounds like a dream, but actually, if you live near a lake, then it might be more within reach than you think. If you have a boat, then all of those things could be on the table, and not just on one day, but all summer long. 

Still not convinced that a boat is right for you? We’ve put together a list of just some of the ways that buying a boat can be a game-changer for how you experience the summer months:

It Gives You Easy Access To a Good Time:

The summer months can be fun, but it doesn’t happen automatically. On a sunny day, you still have to make something happen. A boat provides an easy and convenient way to make sure that you and your family have a day to remember. Most people have to go on vacation to make the most of the summer months — if you have a boat, then you’ll have a vacation-worthy experience readily available all summer long. 

It Provides Plenty of Water-Based Fun:

It can be fun to simply spend time out on the water, but you can also use your boat to engage in water-based hobbies. While most boats are multipurpose, some are designed with a particular activity in mind. Remember how we mentioned at the beginning of the article about eating a delicious meal? Then take a look at Smoker Craft boats, which are excellent for fishing in both shallow backwaters and large lakes. If you’re looking for a boat that’s fun for the family, then a wake boat can be a great option — these high-speed boats are awesome for wakesurfing and wakeboarding, among other watersports. 

It’s a Great Hangout Spot:

Having a boat might just make you the most popular person in town. The reason? Everyone loves spending a hot summer’s evening on a boat! They’re great for socializing; all you need to do is pack some snacks and drinks, head out onto the water, and simply enjoy being together in a beautiful environment. If you’re looking for a way to bring your loved ones together this summer, then a boat will more than do the trick — and not just this summer, but for many years to come.

It Brings Adventure:

Many of us are infused with the spirit of adventure when summer rolls around. Normally, that means taking a vacation somewhere. When you have a boat, you’ll have adventure right on your doorstep. Boats allow you to explore during the hot summer months when the days are long. Maybe you’ll discover a hidden gem of a beach, find fun caves to trek through, or discover that you can easily reach the next town over by taking a shortcut over the water. 

Make a huge splash this summer with a brand new boat. Adventure awaits!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Feb19

Sunny Days Ahead

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Sunny Days Ahead

Hello! Is it just me or has this winter left a lot to be desired? January felt like it was five months long and February was particularly rough due to the passing of our beloved neighbor. I feel so mentally and physically drained. However, I did perk up this morning when I checked the weather because guess what?! It is going to be almost sixty degrees in Akron, Ohio and that sounds like just what the doctor ordered. It’s amazing what a bit of warmth and sunshine can do to boost your mood and it had me thinking of all of the things I can’t wait to do in the spring. Like the following:

Spring Hiking Spree:

My brother and I are avid hikers and it is our go to activity as soon as the weather warms up. During the winter, we hit the gym for our workouts but in the spring you can always catch us on the trails! The metro parks in our neck of the woods offers a fall and spring hiking spree and we can’t wait to participate in both of them. This will be our second year of completing the spring spree and the third year for the fall. It’s hard not to feel good when you’re immersed in nature, taking a leisurely stroll, and enjoying great company. Bring it on!

Planting Flowers:

My dad has two green thumbs and I love to help him plant flowers in the garden as soon as the appropriate weather strikes. Whether we are scattering seeds in the wildflower patch, making arrangements in raised planters, or simply cleaning up the debris from the winter – it is fun because we’re together! It’s exciting to start a project and watch it grow and come to life. The best of all is when I show up at my mom and dad’s and see the beautiful bouquets he creates from our handiwork as a greeting on the kitchen table. ❤

Warm Weather Clothing:

As much as I adore breaking out my coats, heavy sweaters, and winter accessories for OOTDs, I am SO over it lol. What started out as a mild winter went into a stretch of frigid days and lots of snow in mid January. I wouldn’t say I’m a huge fan of summer but I have been begging for it since then! It is going to be so glorious to step outside in shorts and a T-shirt for work or flouncy sundresses for a weekend date with my main squeeze. Seventy degrees and sunny is my ideal temperature but if it were a hundred degrees tomorrow you would not find me complaining. I don’t do well in really hot weather but trust and believe I would be basking in it like a lizard lol.

Playing Outside:

Johnny and I have three sweet nieces who live nearby and there is nothing better than playing outside all together. I revel in unleashing my inner child with my favorite old hobbies of blowing bubbles, picking flowers, drawing with chalk, and running around the yard like crazy people. Whether we are hitting up the park or staying close to home, the piece de resistance is a frozen treat or something cold to drink afterwards. The cool down is wonderful until it’s back outdoors for more warm weather activities! I am particularly excited to go bunny watching with them in my parents’ yard because there are always a bunch come springtime. ❤

Reading Outside:

As you all know, reading is one of my most treasured hobbies and it is such a simple pleasure to be able to read outside. When it’s nice out, I love to sit on our little patio at the apartment with a glass of lemonade and a good book. Feeling the sunshine on my face as I get lost in a story just makes the whole world disappear and it’s so damn nice to check out for a little while. As much as I love curling up on the couch with whatever book I’m working on, I plan on taking the majority of my reading outdoors whenever the weather is ready!

After a crummy few months, I just know that there are Sunny Days Ahead and I have been chomping at the bit since yesterday!

What is your favorite springtime activity? What are you looking forward to? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb18

Best Weekend Ever!

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Best Weekend Ever!

Hello!! After a rough few weeks, Johnny and I had the best Valentine’s Day weekend ever and it was so very needed. This year we went a more interactive approach for our presents – I helped Johnny pay for the PS5 his friend sold him and he got us tickets to a Cupid’s Revenge haunted house. As a bonus prezzie for us, he also purchased a new game called Reanimal and it is freaking AWESOME. We are avid fans of the Little Nightmares series but were both thoroughly disappointed with the third installment. Reanimal is exactly what the third one should have been and we spent all Friday night playing it! We also just had to play it a bit more before heading out on our big date on Saturday. We had an amazing dinner at Boss ChickNBeer and a wacky time at the haunted house. Check it out:

Earlier last week, Johnny texted me on his break at work with the most beautiful sentiment. He asked if I wanted to get dinner at Boss ChickNBeer before the haunted house and my answer was a resounding YES! Boss ChickNBeer is a fantastic women owned business in the greater Akron/Cleveland area. They have a few other restaurants and we are lucky enough to have one ten minutes away from us. This restaurant offers a normal menu as well as a fully vegan version of it meaning that both Johnny and I can eat like kings. We were starving by the time we got to Boss Chick as we wanted to save our appetite and our eyes were, admittedly, a bit bigger than our stomachs. We did have leftovers for days, though!

Johnny ordered the chicken tenders and fries while I opted for a side of their queso mac, cauliflower wings, and an order of onion rings to share. The food is made right in front of you at Boss Chick and those onion rings looked way too good to pass up! As always, our meals were absolutely incredible and their cauliflower wings are easily the best I have ever had. They use full on florets, the most delicious breading that is so good that you don’t even need sauce, but obvi you’re going to get their homemade sauces too! They are so very filling that I barely made a dent in mine but I got to enjoy our meal again and again with everything we took home. 😀

After dinner, we made a quick stop back at our apartment to put our takeaway containers in the fridge as it was close to fifty degrees that evening. It was like a bonus Valentine’s Day gift to put on a skimpy little something and not freeze my nads off! Then, off to the Haunted Schoolhouse and Laboratory we went for their Cupid’s Revenge event. The festivities began with a cocktail hour at six o’clock with the haunt opening at seven. The setup was so unbelievably cute with a light up dance floor, flower wall, photo stations, and the haunt actors lurking around for photo ops. Honestly though, it was kind of a sad affair to start with as it wasn’t a raging crowd and everyone remained glued to their own tables. That was no problem for Johnny and I because we immediately made friends to booze and schmooze with and chattered the cocktail hour away until the gates opened for the haunt.

The Cupid’s Revenge haunted house was great fun and my only regret was that it wasn’t longer as it only used one of the two spaces available for the attraction. However, it was just a hoot to have Halloween vibes on Valentine’s Day that it didn’t even matter. Of course, they couldn’t change the bones of the Haunted Schoolhouse too much but the rooms were decked out in V-Day style with bleeding hearts, red streamers, classic Valentine’s Day decor, and their cast of wonderful actors handing out tricks and treats. One gave me a mushroom which we discovered when we got home and the other gave me a bag of candy! You just never know what you’re going to get!

Once the haunt was over, we were deposited back into the dance floor area and were about to make our way home. Then, we ran into the people we mingled with during cocktail hour and figured it couldn’t hurt to stay for one more drink because the party was jumping at that point. Pop hits were playing, the dance floor was packed, and the guests and character actors alike were all having a blast! While Johnny and I had an awesome time, there was one person we know for certain that had the best time of all. There was this one actor who was literally getting paid to spank people with a paddle for the evening. And the answer is YES, we did partake. And, yes, my fanny was on fire the following day. Hey, you have to go a little crazy on Valentine’s Day lolol!

Our V-Day outing was, hands down, one of my favorite dates we have ever been on. We cannot wait to go back to the Haunted Schoolhouse and Laboratory for their St. Patrick’s Day haunt and party!

How was your Valentine’s Day weekend? What is your favorite V-Day candy? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb17

Small Things That Can Cripple Your Confidence (And How To Overcome Them)

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Small Things That Can Cripple Your Confidence (And How To Overcome Them)

Confidence can be an unpredictable force that either propels us towards great heights or pushes us down into self-doubt and anxiety. We all experience highs and lows. Some unexpected small issues can erode even the most confident person’s sense of assurance. From missing teeth to challenges with speech that seem minor to some can feel like everything to the person experiencing it. In this blog, we will look at some of the common confidence killers, their causes and effects, and how best to overcome them all:

The Smile Struggle – Missing Teeth:

Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, making a missing tooth an internalized flaw and source of insecurity in every interaction. Although others might take no notice, those dealing with missing teeth might feel exposed and think it represents neglect or imperfection. But dentistry has quickly advanced with solutions such as a single tooth implant, veneers, and bridges, which can restore your confidence and smile simultaneously.

Words That Waver – Stuttering and Speaking Challenges:

Communication is at the foundation of human interaction, so struggling to express yourself, whether through stuttering or even mild anxiety, can quickly undermine your confidence levels. Worries over judgment only deepen these feelings of discomfort further, making social or professional settings crippling. Speech therapy, support groups, and public speaking practices can work wonders in rebuilding confidence for those feeling held back by their voices.

Posture Problems and Body Language Blunders:

Slouching may not seem significant, but even slight adjustments in your posture can have an enormous effect on how you and others perceive you. Hunched positions often communicate feelings of insecurity or powerlessness, while upright ones show confidence. Fidgeting too frequently or avoiding eye contact can make interactions feel awkward while reinforcing feelings of doubt about yourself. Practicing better posture or altering body language might seem like superficial solutions, yet these techniques could greatly alter how you carry yourself as well as how others respond to you.

Skin Deep Concerns – Acne and Blemishes:

Facial issues such as acne, scars, or prominent blemishes can make anyone self-conscious. Even when people around you do not seem bothered, feelings of inadequacy can persist through social media’s constant emphasis on flawless appearances. To address such concerns requires self-compassion as well as consulting dermatologists or skincare experts in order to feel at ease in your own skin.

The Culprit of Self-Talk:

Sometimes the greatest threats to your confidence don’t originate externally but come from within. From an inner critic who exaggerates every failure, highlighting any perceived shortfall. A critical inner voice can magnify minor insecurities into larger ones that threaten your security and well-being. Cultivating an awareness of negative self-talk while replacing it with affirming messages is important for maintaining your sense of well-being and building your self-esteem.

Confidence doesn’t come from never faltering. It comes from finding courage within to stand tall once more regardless of the challenges. Each step forward shows resilience, proving no insecurity is too powerful!

Featured Image By: Laura Chouette on Unsplash

Feb17

What Kids Really Need To Succeed In School

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What Kids Really Need To Succeed In School

When people imagine what success in school is, they’ll usually think about things like grades (obviously), test scores, and overall academic achievement, which is all very important. But the truth is, it’s a bit more complicated than that. Kids aren’t going to thrive in school just because they’ve got the right textbooks or a strict routine – they succeed when they feel properly supported, understood, and confident enough to keep trying. With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at what kids really need to succeed in school:

A Sense Of Safety And Belonging:

Children learn best when they feel really secure, and that means feeling safe in the classroom, accepted by their friends and peers, and supported by teachers who understand them. When kids feel anxious, isolated, or they’re constantly on edge, it’s going to make learning a lot harder, which means a school environment that prioritizes well being as well as academics makes a massive difference and kids will probably do better there.

Encouragement, Not Pressure:

Kids need plenty of motivation, but they also need to be allowed to be human. If they’re under constant pressure to perform, that’s going to make them feel stressed and actually lower their confidence over time. Encouragement is the best thing, and much better than trying to make kids perfect (they won’t be perfect because no one is). Children do best when they’re praised for their efforts and progress and not just the results that come from their work.

Strong Relationships With Adults:

One of the best ways to know a child is going to be successful at school is if they’ve got at least one trusted adult who really believes in them. That might be a teacher, a mentor, learning support, a staff member, or anyone else. The point is, when children feel like they’re understood and supported, they’re more likely to engage, ask questions, and keep going even when things are a bit more challenging. Schools like KIS Reignwood Park tend to place a strong emphasis on nurturing these types of relationships, and that’s going to make the entire learning experience a much better one for everyone.

Learning That Feels Relevant And Engaging:

Children usually succeed when the learning they’re doing feels relevant, which is why a curriculum that encourages creativity, critical thinking, and real engagement is something that’s going to help keep kids interested and motivated. When students feel that school is something they actively play a part in rather than just something they sit through, they’ll get a lot more confident in their abilities and what they can do.

A Home Environment That Values Learning:

Parents don’t have to be teachers, but children are definitely going to benefit from a life that places a high value on learning and being curious about things. That could mean you read together, you talk about your day, and you show an interest in what they’re learning – it all creates a positive idea about school and learning, which is helpful. If kids feel supported at home, they’re going to enjoy school more, and learn more as a result.

Fostering a love for learning and a secure setting can make a big difference in your child’s academic life!

Featured Image By: RDNE Stock project