Month: May 2018

How to Use Essential Oils

By Elisa Mardagen

How can you use essential oils to help your children recover from colds?

Elisa Mardagen reveals how to help your children recover from colds and relax with essential oils.

Elisa MardagenQ: What oils do you use for your family to relieve colds?
A: The essential oils I use for colds for our whole family are Eucalyptus for it’s decongestant properties as well as Peppermint. I also use Frankincense to help ease any coughing. I like to make a chest rub with these oils so I use coconut oil (solid, not fractionated) as the base. I add in the oils and stir it together. Then I rub it on the chest, back and feet as needed. I will also diffuse these same oils beside the bed at night for some added support. (more…)

Family Vacation Anxiety

Can everything really go smoothly on a family vacation?

By Shirin Yadegar

Shirin YadegarDo you get anxiety when thinking of your next family vacation. Family vacations require hours of thoughtful planning so everyone involved is happy.

Is that realistic when you have teenagers and kindergarteners?
Yes, it is.

Over spring break we planned an incredible two week vacation for our immediate family which includes my husband and I and our 14, 12, 8 and 6 year old plus my nearly 80 year old father-in-law. (more…)

Is it Wise for a Parent to Homeschool Their Own Child?

By Janis Adams
Lauren RashapThere are times when a traditional school is just not working for your child. It may be as simple as scheduling. Perhaps a child’s personal or professional interests may require a flexibility that schools are unable to accommodate. It may be that a child’s academics do not align with their grade level. The child may be highly gifted or in need of remediation, struggling with a curriculum that does not even closely match their academic level. It may also be emotional, for example, a child that is being bullied. There are many reasons that parents seek alternative options to a one-size-fits-all school.

When a traditional school fails to meet a child’s needs, many parents decide to homeschool. This option sounds fun and creative, anticipating days spent exploring, discussing, and bonding. However, despite these benefits, it can also be over-whelming and frustrating for both the child and the parent. Taking responsibility for a child’s education requires ample time and an unwavering commitment. It is a teaching job and not something to be treated lightly. (more…)