Games and imaginative play are crucial elements in early child development. A study published in Child Development in 1981 outlined the importance of imaginative games and pretend play in the development of language and communication skills. For many preschool children, games are an essential part of the learning experience and can teach social skills along with reading and mathematical principles. Children are more likely to acquire and retain new skills in a relaxed, enjoyable environment; preschool games for learning should be fun as well as educational in order to produce the best results in this age group.

Online Games and Learning

One way to encourage active participation in the learning process is by incorporating online activities into the at-home curriculum. In the field of preschool games online, educational materials provide exceptional entertainment value for children and are designed specifically to teach various concepts in a fun and challenging way. Because children play these preschool games online rather than in a traditional academic setting, the fear of failure is reduced, and children are more tolerant of repeated failures in this more relaxed environment. This can improve the child’s attention span and ability to persevere even when participating in more difficult tasks.

Educational Games

A study performed by Susan W. Haugland and published by the Education Resources Information Center in 1992 showed the positive effects of developmental computer software games on children at four and five years of age. These benefits were only present for children who played educational games; those who played other kinds of games experienced no comparable benefit in cognitive thinking and often experienced a temporary flattening of their imaginative skills. Parents should ensure that their children experience a rich, developmentally appropriate learning environment online and avoid games that provide the equivalent of empty calories to young minds.

The Whole Enchilada

Integrating various subjects and fields of study into each lesson can give children a more holistic approach to the learning experience. A number of online sites offer a full preschool curriculum including math, science, music, art and communications skills; by combining these elements into individual lessons, these sites can offer children a more challenging and memorable learning experience. Parents should look for the inclusion of sing-along songs that incorporate concepts learned in other subjects in order to find the most appropriate online preschool program for their unique child.

Making the learning experience fun for children is a key element in preparing them for success in their later academic endeavors. Online preschool programs should be challenging and geared toward the interests of the individual child. The role of games in learning is well documented and should be taken into consideration when parents plan a preschool curriculum for their own children.

Jessica writes about a wide variety of topics.  She especially enjoys writing about education. You can learn more about Preschool Games at http://www.abcmouse.com/

The Department of Health and Human Services did a study that showed that the typical uninsured family can only pay around 12% of their hospital bills. Even families of four with incomes of $88,000 can only afford to pay around 37% of their bills – and $88,000 is a pretty good income! The study also found that most uninsured Americans do not have savings they can fall back upon and few have financial assets they can utilize.

The Health and Human Services study was prompted by the government’s recent attempts to defend the federal health care laws that were put into place last year. These new health care laws are being challenged by some Republicans who claim that these laws will take away individual choice and will cost the taxpayers too much. One such opponent is Paul Winfree, a senior policy analyst at a conservative think tank. He claims that the results of the study show that people who are well above the poverty level can actually afford health insurance but do not to purchase it. He cites bad spending and savings habits as the reason why these relatively financially well off individuals cannot afford health insurance.

Jack Hadley draws different conclusions from the study. Hadley, a university senior health services researcher, notes that uninsured people are actually charged more money than insured people. In some cases, uninsured people are asked to pay up to two-thirds more than insured people! Insured people are able to get lower rates because their insurers can negotiate with hospitals and other health service providers. This piece of information is very helpful for researchers and policy makers trying to determine why uninsured people who make 400% above poverty level cannot afford to pay their medical bills.

Larry Hathers is from the website LifeCover. They are a company providing life insurance in Canada – visit Larry’s website today.

It is amazing that over 80% of couples trying to conceive a baby state that if they could, they would pick the gender of their baby. While every baby is a blessing and a gift, many of us can’t deny that when we think about getting pregnant or think back to when we were pregnant that we wished for a baby girl or a baby boy. For some reason, we just felt it important… or more ideal to have one over the other.

There are a few things that you can do medically to help increase the likelihood of having one gender over the other. They are expensive and rather inconvenient. Most often they require you to get pregnant their invitro fertilization or other medical means.

However, if you are set on having a baby boy instead of baby girl, you may want to talk with your doctor about the different procedures, their effectiveness and the outcome percentages. Some have said that the only way you can absolutely guarantee that you have the baby you want is to adopt, there are others that are willing to give a number of old fashioned recommendations a try.

Some of those methods include the Shettles method. This can be used to have a boy or a girl, though overall it is more successful for conceiving a girl. The method was created by a doctor and there is some sound medical advice the supports the theories. Though it is not 100%.

There are also people that believe baby gender selection can be left to the foods that you consumer. Creating a more alkaline or more acidic environment makes it more favorable for one sex over the other. Some favorite foods if you want to have a girl include sweets and fresh veggies, whereas if you are looking to have a boy then you want to go for salty snacks and red meat.

Some people have said that the date of the month, odd or even, will impact the sex of the baby. There are other people that believe the phases of the moon can impact whether you have a boy or a girl. Different sexual positions can impact whether you are having a girl or a boy as well as who has the orgasm first, or if the woman should have one at all.

Many medical professionals even recommend that when a couple is trying to conceive that the man changes the undergarments he wears. Instead of wearing briefs he needs to wear boxers to help keep the treasure cool.

You may also find it interesting to know that while men do produce less sperm as they age, the sperm that they have only lives for three months.

So when couples go to the doctor to discuss ways to increase their chances of conceiving the doctors are going to look at the age of the women. Ladies the eggs you have when you are 35 are the same eggs you had when you were just a fetus in your mom’s womb.

There is nothing wrong with trying different things to influence the sex of your baby. Secretly we all wish we have control over the baby gender selection process.

How To Get Ready For A Baby

Even if you are still recovering from the joyful news that you are going to have baby, you will find that there are lots of things that need to be done to prepare. Whether you are a new parent or someone who has been through this before, take some time between getting the crib ready and purchasing baby clothes to consider some steps for welcoming your new son or daughter home.

1.Tell your other children
Some children will take news that they have a new sibling incoming with perfect grace, while others will become very fretful and nervous. Take time to remind them that you still love them and how you are going to need their help.

2.Gather a support network
You may be going into this on your own, or you may have a loving support spouse by your side, but remember that having more people around is important. Remember to get out and talk with friends and family. Get their support in what is a very happy, but very stressful time.

3.Accept other emotions.
When you are expecting a baby, you will find that you are going to be besieged with different emotions, and it might surprise you that not all of them are pleasant. A baby is going to change your life, and it is okay to be nervous or fearful. Work them out, find solutions and take some time to process them.

4.Classes, classes, classes!
Today, you will find that there are lots of reasons to try to take classes on prenatal care. You never know when there is going to be some information that you need, or when you are going to meet some new people, so don’t hesitate to sign up.

5.Pet care
Once you have talked to your other children, think about your pets. How is your dog or cat’s behavior and how is that going to mesh with a new baby? Take some time and make sure that you consider taking your pet to obedience training and don’t hesitate to make sure that he or she is introduced to your new baby as soon as it is possible. The sooner they start getting used to each other, the better!

6.Consider green alternatives
It is easy to say that you want to take care of your baby in a way that doesn’t harm or impact the environment, but you will find that the more planning you do, the happier you are going to be. Consider things like the source of diapers or what sort of food you are considering.

Having a baby is a life-changing event, and it is natural to be nervous. Take some time and make sure that you are preparing everything for the big day; it is much easier than you think!

Just about all of us have had them, the dreaded chicken pox.  Although for the majority of us that was years ago so when our kids get them, we’re not quite sure what to do.  So here are some tips for you on what to do if you child has the chicken pox (or if you think they do).

Chicken pox is a common affliction that affects people of all ages but is most commonly seen in children.  The symptoms of chicken pox are red bumps on the body that turn into blisters and that increase in quantity over several days.  The bumps may look like insect bites or a rash and is often difficult to diagnose the first few days.  Often, it is accompanied by a fever.  Watch the bumps to see if they turn into blisters and if more bumps emerge over a few days.  If so, it is likely chicken pox.

Most cases of chicken pox do not even need a consultation with a physician and are easily treatable.  However there are times when consulting a doctor is advisable.  If after three days you are still unsure of the diagnosis, consult a doctor.  If the child is an infant, take the little one to the doctor.  If your child’s bumps seem infected or are located on eyelids, it is best to get it checked.  Also, if your child seems unusually ill, has severe headaches, a high fever that lasts more than five days, or if the child develops other cold like symptoms such as a cough a doctor’s opinion should be sought.

Basically, when in doubt, take the little fella to the doctor.

Chicken pox is highly contagious and the child should be quarantined for the duration.  Do not allow the child to interact with peers at school or with friends.  Once the child starts getting spots, it will take approximately seven days until he or she is no longer contagious.  The day after all the spots have scabbed, the child will no longer be contagious and can resume normal activity.

The accompanying fever should only be treated if it is above 101° F.  Studies indicate a slight fever will help the child heal.  Motrin, Advil or Tylenol can be used to treat the fever.  Use only acetaminophen and ibuprofen products for fever but do not use aspirin.  A child can have a severe reaction to aspirin during this time so it is important not to use it.

The child should try not to scratch the bumps because it may cause infection.  Take greater care to keep the fingernails short and clean during this time.  Frequent baths will help soothe the itching.  Adding oatmeal to the bath will also help.  Brands such as Aveeno are ideal for this.  Benadryl or other off-brand topical antihistamines can be used as needed and greatly reduce the itching.  These are readily available over-the-counter at any pharmacy.

Children who have chicken pox and who have a slight fever but otherwise seem well typically do not need to see a doctor.  Ensure they stay isolated until the ailment passes and they are no longer contagious.  See a doctor if unusual symptoms occur or if the child seems very ill.  Chicken pox is a common ailment, easily treated, and quickly recovered from.  Most people only get one case of chicken pox in a lifetime.

So you and your partner have just discovered that you are going to be parents. You realize that not only are you thrilled with the prospect of becoming a parent; you are also terrified of the road that lies ahead. If this is your first baby you are probably wondering what life has in store for you and exactly what changes are going to occur along the way.

The early signs of pregnancy will quickly be replaced with the later stages of pregnancy. Those nine months do go by very quickly. You will go from first learning the results of your pregnancy test to delivering a bouncing baby boy or girl.

One of the most important things to consider when you first find out you are expecting is medical care. Healthy babies are born to healthy mothers. You want to ensure that you are doing everything in your power to give your child the best foundation for a healthy life. Your doctor will initially run some tests to determine if everything is in order.

The doctor will also chart your progress through the different stages of pregnancy. They will explain in detail the different stages of fetal development and what is happening with your baby during each month. The doctor will also routinely weigh you and measure your stomach to determine the size of the baby. An ultrasound test will probably be in your future and the doctor may even tell you the gender of the baby.

When your friends and family discover you are pregnant they will have many pregnancy tips to offer. Everything from where to learn Lamaze techniques to what foods you need to be eating will be offered. Although all well-wishers want to believe you will follow their advice when it comes to a diet for pregnant women, you are best off to ask the advice of your doctor or nutritionist.

With the arrival of your new bundle of joy comes a whole host of things you’ll need to buy. The first are actually for you and no doubt you’ll want maternity clothes that reflect your own personal style. You can find maternity clothes that are appropriate for almost any occasion. There are even bikinis for expectant mothers to wear as they exercise in the water. If you are too shy for that consider a one piece but don’t forego the exercise, it’s an essential part of a healthy pregnancy.

Get ready for everything to change once the baby arrives. Three am feedings and days without a shower will become the norm. No longer is your life your own, instead you’ll feel compelled to tend to that wonderful new member of your family. Enjoy each and every moment of your pregnancy. You will be happy when the baby arrives and you will also have all of the memories of the months spent getting ready for the most important day of your life, the day you become a parent.

Preparing for a baby is a thrilling and exciting time. There’s so much to do including decorating the nursery, arranging for maternity leave and choosing the baby’s name. Another task that both expectant parents should be focused on is taking Lamaze classes.

Lamaze classes are offered in most communities to expectant parents. They have been taught for years and although the practices may have changed over the course of time, the principles remain the same.

Lamaze is a series of techniques that ready the parents for the process of a natural childbirth. This involves various practices that help empower both the expectant mother and the father-to-be. They are often given in a small class setting over a period of time. The typical Lamaze course involves twelve separate sessions, each focusing on a different technique.

One of the most well-known techniques of Lamaze is the breathing. You probably have seen it demonstrated on television or in a movie. It consists of a series of breathing techniques that help the mother to focus and also helps to move the birth process along. They are designed to relax the mother so her body can do what it needs to do.

The father’s role is to act as a guide and motivator during delivery. He learns the same breathing techniques so when the moment arrives he is there to remind the mother. It can be difficult to recall all of the techniques when in labor.

Another important aspect of Lamaze is movement. Mothers are encouraged to move during their labor as opposed to remaining in the hospital bed. Walking, stretching and massage techniques are covered in the Lamaze classes. It is widely believed that a woman who remains active during labor can actually help the process move along quicker. The father’s role is again to encourage and he will be taught several massage techniques that can help with the pain of contractions.

Lamaze also focuses on what should be done if something goes amiss during labor. It’s very important for the couple to remain calm during the delivery. This can be almost impossible if a problem is occurring but when confounded with the rising blood pressure of the mother, the baby can easily be in distress. Lamaze teaches the couple how to relax and put their trust in the medical professionals.

One important technique that is taught in Lamaze that is often overlooked is breastfeeding. Breastfeeding comes naturally to an infant but it can take mom a bit of time to get the hang of it.
After delivery the mother will be exhausted but a hungry infant doesn’t understand the concept of patience. Therefore it’s very helpful to focus on breastfeeding techniques during the Lamaze classes. If the mother is relaxed and open with the concept, the baby will sense this and will enjoy the experience so much more.

Lamaze classes are a wonderful way for the expectant parents to learn the techniques they need for the delivery and the days following. It’s also a great way for pregnant couples to interact with others in the same situation. Many of the participants in Lamaze classes plan reunions after the births of their babies so they can see what the fruits of their labors produced. It’s simply a wonderful experience for all involved.

The nine months before the birth of a baby is one of the most important and exciting times in any woman’s life. It’s a time for anticipating the future and readying for the new addition to the family.

There are many things that need to be done while pregnant, but it can seem like the time flies by and before you know it you are bringing your new daughter or son home from the hospital. With some careful planning you can have more time to spend with the new arrival. Just by doing a few things during the pregnancy, the transition from expectant mom to parent can be seamless.

Some important tips during pregnancy revolve around you, the mom-to-be. The first is to get your rest. Many people will probably tell you that once the baby is born you’re not going to sleep much. To someone who has never had a baby this may seem like an exaggeration, but it’s not. Infants are cute, they are cuddly and they are demanding!

Once the baby is born, it has entered an entirely new world. It doesn’t understand what a schedule is and going to bed at 8 pm is probably not in their agenda. Babies have no concept of time and they simply cannot occupy themselves at three in the morning. If you are nursing this is particularly relevant as you will have to be the one tending to the baby when it’s feeding time. Get as much rest as you can in the weeks before the birth; you will be glad you did.

Take swimming or yoga classes while pregnant. Gentle exercise is not only relaxing, it’s also encouraged. Keeping fit is important for the delivery and also for the weeks following the delivery. It’s also a great way to socialize.

Purchase all the essentials before the baby arrives. You don’t want to be out buying diapers on the day you are discharged from the hospital. Create a soothing nursery for the baby and stock it with everything you need so that you can spend all of your time focused on the little one.

Arrange for child care. This may seem a bit foolish before the baby is born, but after its arrival you are going to need to get out once in a while. Many couples plan on one evening out every two weeks or each month and it’s important to leave the baby in the care of someone you trust. This may be a family member or a close friend. It’s difficult for many moms to leave their baby for the first time and if it’s something that you’ve planned for awhile you’ll feel more comfortable.

Pick a pediatrician before the baby arrives. The baby’s doctor is someone you’ll really need to trust and someone who is accessible. The best way to find a pediatrician is to either ask your doctor for a referral or you can also ask a friend with an infant for their pediatrician’s name. Although your baby will most likely be healthy when it’s born you will need to see the baby doctor with any concerns. It’s much less stressful to have that person in place before the big day arrives.

With a little planning and some forethought you can welcome the baby with little stress. Having a baby is a big event and just like any major production, planning makes it that much better.