What Makes a Great Preschool Teacher?

When looking for the best preschools in Jacksonville FL, you'll quickly find that the qualities of the teachers is usually what matters the most. While facilities and access to resources are also very important, a really good preschool teacher can make all the difference. Here are some of the top things to look for in a preschool teacher.

A Passion For Teaching

The greatest preschool teachers are the ones that have a burning desire to be an influence for good in young people's lives. Because the ages and attitudes of preschoolers can be difficult to deal with at times, a passion for teaching and caring for young children will be what drives the best teachers through. Children respond to people that genuinely care for them and want what's best for them.

A Dose of Creativity

With younger aged children, getting creative is the key. Preschool teachers that can not only make fun projects for their students but make the most of the resources and environment they are in will see the most success. Also, teachers that are creative in how they approach children from different backgrounds and learning levels will help all the children feel included and have confidence they can learn as well.

Ability to be Flexible

One thing that's sure to happen in a preschool classroom is that plans will get thrown out the window. While planning for lessons is key, a great preschool teacher is prepared for the unexpected. Being flexible in this way allows a preschool teacher to stay calm and adapt to whatever the situation calls for. Whether that's rain on an outdoor activity, or needing to adjust the curriculum because of a reduction in budget, flexibility is key. 

With creativity, flexibility and a passion for teaching young children, preschool teachers can really excel. Teachers that have these qualities tend to gain a reputation for their ability to work with children and word spreads around. Be sure to ask around to other parents when looking for a great preschool and find one that employs teachers of this caliber.

How to Determine If You Have the Drive to Restore a Car

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Restoring an old car to a new condition can be extremely fulfilling. When you compare the completed project to the beat-up car you started with, you will find yourself amazed at the transformation at your hands. This is not a project for everyone. Use the following checklist to determine if you have what it takes to follow-through on a car restoration.

You Can Display Grit and Patience

Make sure you are up to the task. What starts out as enthusiasm can eventually turn into frustration and despair. The predictable often melts into the unforeseen so that occasionally it seems you spend more time solving problems than actually moving forward. If you think of problems as challenges requiring creative solutions, it means you have the right mindset.

You Are Willing to Research

Determine what your goals should be. Perhaps you are interested only in turning a rundown car into a functioning means of transportation. On the other hand, if you wish to fully restore a car to original condition, you need to research every aspect of the car’s manufacturing profile. You may instead want to create a custom look, such as applying a metallic paint finish through custom coating services Portland OR. In that case, you should read custom car magazines and visit forums to collect ideas.

You Are Resourceful

You should accept upfront that you will use only the best parts and materials every step of the way. However, depending on the car’s heritage, you may find yourself challenged to locate some pieces. In those cases, look for companies or individuals who can handcraft the parts.

Be prepared to spend year or more on a detailed car restoration if you can’t devote yourself full-time to the plan. Once you have completed the project, however, you will take understandable pride every time you step back and stare at your prized car.

Gift Ideas For Christmas To Get You Organised

It may be summer, but that doesn’t mean that we can look forward to brighter times in the future, and for many people that might mean Christmas. This year hasn’t been great so far, so it is fair to say that many will be wanting the festive seasons to come about to lift our spirits. For any of you organized ladies out there some of you may have even boxed off your christmas shopping already. For some of us, we are just starting to put plans in place and create our lists for the festive season ahead. One of the hardest things about christmas is the gifts you need to buy. With that in mind, here are some stocking filler ideas. 

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Novelty gifts for the day 

Everyone loves a novelty gift, so why not indulge in one for your friends or family. These days you can buy anything they may like, but one of the things to think about might be looking at a range of christmas shirts or even a jumper from places like UglyChristmasSweater.com that they can wear for the special day. You could even look at joke gifts in local shops. 

Glassware

Another great personalized gift would be glassware. This is where you can get things like wine glasses or something more specific like a whisky glass. Engraved with names or descriptions of the person you are gifting. 

Something engraved

Another thing to consider getting engraved would be existing jewelry or something new. Or even things like paper weights and stationery used in the workplace. Once you think about it, there are plenty of things you could get engraved.

Something for him

If you are stuck for a christmas stocking filler for men, here are some suggestions. 

Socks

Is there some law in place where you have to at least receive one pair of socks at christmas time? I think so. However, on a more serious note, they do make excellent stocking fillers, and you can never have too many socks. 

Hampers

Hampers are a great way to add some of their favourite items into one gift. You could include some of the special food items they like, for example, chocolate or crisps. Then maybe add some chocolate or sweet elements. 

Alcoholic

Who doesn’t love a tipple of their favorite alcoholic beverage during the festive season? So a great gift is to perhaps buy a bottle of that just for him. Anything from champagne to whisky will surely go down a treat. 

Something for her

Perhaps you are stuck for female gift ideas as stocking fillers. Here are some suggestions. 

Pamper sets

There is nothing quite like getting an array of pampering gift sets during the festive season. We can all love a new bath soak to try or facial wash to use. Thankfully, at this time of the year, many brands put together gift sets that include a variety of products. 

Pyjamas

Pyjamas are a great gift idea for a christmas stocking. At this time of year, you can get some wonderful ideas from festive prints to something girly and colorful. Pyjamas come in all shapes and sizes. 

Stationery

Many women love new stationery. So this time of the year is the perfect chance to buy a new planner or diary for the new year ahead. 

Let’s hope this has given you some ideas to work with.

Top Reasons to Rent a Storage Unit

When it comes to storing your belongings, you have a lot of options. One of these options is to rent a storage unit. Storage units can be beneficial in a lot of ways, but here are two reasons why you should consider renting a unit.

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You’re Ready to Downsize

Nowadays, a lot of Americans are considering downsizing. Many find it to be liberating to minimize the amount of things in their home or to find a smaller home, in general. After all, small homes are easier to maintain. If you want to downsize, you may not necessarily want to part with everything that you own. You may have seasonal decorations that you want to store or important paperwork or heirlooms that you don’t want to lose. To rent a storage unit provides you with a way to keep some of your property without it taking up space in your home.

You’re Renovating or Moving

When preparing for a move, it can help to have a rental unit available. If you find yourself moving, but your new place won’t be ready right away, you need a place to store your belongings until you can move in. Rental storage units Caldwell ID movers trust can provide you with a place to keep everything safe and dry until you’re ready to move it into your home. Likewise, if you’re renovating, you don’t have to worry about where you’re going to keep your things while the contractors work on your home.

Renting a storage unit can help anyone that needs a place to store their belongings for a short time. Likewise, if you want to rent a unit long-term, it can also help. For some, it can be stressful to be surrounded by all of your belongings. If you’re minimalist or moving, storage units can give you a place to store the things that are important to you.

How To Find A Debt Relief Program That Works For You

Once you are trapped in a cycle of debt, it is incredibly difficult to get out of. This is a big problem because debt affects your life in a lot of different ways. There are, of course, ways that you can pay off huge amounts of credit card debt in a short space of time, but if your circumstances are difficult and your outgoings outweigh your income, it’s tough to clear your debt. 

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When you find yourself in this situation, you might be looking at debt relief programs. There are a lot of great debt relief programs out there that could help you get on top of your finances. However, debt relief programs are not always the best option and there are a lot of scams out there that you need to avoid. If you do think that a debt relief program could help you, here are a few tips to help you choose the right one. 

Watch Out For Scams 

The most important thing is to watch out for scams because there are some organizations that will charge you a steep fee for meeting with them but they can’t actually do anything to help you with your debt. The Debt to Success System is not a scam because they can help you to remove your legal obligation to pay debts, but there are a lot of debt advisors out there that do not have the knowledge or expertise to do that. Instead, they will give you general advice about paying debt, which you can easily find for free online. Before you agree to work with a debt relief program, ask them exactly what steps they will take to help you manage your debts. 

Ask About Fees 

Some debt relief programs charge very high fees, which is a problem if you are already in a tough financial position. Paying fees is fine if your debts will be cleared very quickly, but if you are tied into paying for a service for a long time and it doesn’t actually work, that’s going to leave you in a much worse position. Some debt relief companies will ask for a large fee upfront, so think carefully about whether it is a worthwhile investment or whether it will make your debt situation worse. 

Consider Your Credit Score 

Debt relief options can help you to get out of debt, but some of them will also affect your credit score in a big way. If you declare bankruptcy, for example, it will leave a lasting mark on your credit score, which can make it difficult to borrow money again in the future. It’s important that you consider this before you make any decisions. If there is any way that you can realistically pay off your debts without a debt relief program, this is a better option because it will not affect your credit score as much. Things like bankruptcy, in particular, should always be a last resort option. 

Debt relief programs can be a good option for some people. However, it is important that you do your research and find a legitimate organization that can actually help you to clear your debts. 

Keep Your Pets Safe at Home

Keeping your pet safe at home is one of your number one priorities as a pet owner. Here are three commonly overlooked safety issues that you should consider.

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1. Be Careful About Extermination

When you’re having pest control treatment in your home, talk to the exterminator about whether the proposed treatment plan will be safe for your pets. Try to work with a company that offers a non-toxic solution that won’t leave dangerous residue all over your home and put pets’ health in jeopardy. If you need to find non-toxic pest control Skokie IL, work with a service provider who can offer a safe and unique alternative to traditional chemical treatments.

2. Address Problematic Windows

If you have a window that doesn’t consistently stay open or you sometimes use something to prop it open, it can create a serious safety hazard for pets. If they go to a window to get a view and move against it just slightly, it could cause it to slam shut suddenly. Likewise, a window with a screen could be a hazard if a small animal leans against it. A cat who is basking in the sun or doing a little bird watching could fall out of the window if the screen rips or pops out. Don’t leave a window open high enough for this to happen or install a pet window safety guard that can prevent a tragic accident.  

3. Keep Your Doors Closed at All Times

When you’re bringing things in and out of your home, be sure to keep your doors closed between trips. A dog or cat can dart out in just a moment not necessarily because of any escape inclinations but just plain curiosity. Once outside, he or she could get lost, struck by a vehicle, or attacked by another animal. Be conscientious about keeping your door closed to protect your furry family.

6 Reasons Why You Need Help Getting Rid Of Your Debt

Debt is something that affects everyone at some stage of their lives. Some people borrow more money than others, and most people repay their debts as agreed with their lenders. The trouble is, debt can get out of hand and spiral out of control when you least expect it.

For example, if you’ve recently lost your job or aren’t able to work due to injury or illness, you’ve no way of paying your bills. When that happens, your creditors will start hounding you to make a payment - something which is impossible to do in such circumstances.

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Are you in a position where your debts appear to be taking over your life? And are you finding your life quite stressful these days? If the answer to both questions is yes, don’t worry because you’re not alone.

Managing and getting rid of your debt isn’t something you should do alone for the following six reasons:

1. Your mental health is at risk

The first thing you should keep in mind is that dealing with the burden of debt alone will harm your mental health. When you feel like your mountain of debt is going to snowball out of control, it’s time to seek some outside help with it.

2. Everyone’s debt problems are unique

You might assume there are several other people with the same level of debt as yourself, and you’re probably right. But, that doesn’t mean someone else’s solution will work for you! It’s crucial to get the right debt advice, so you don’t make any mistakes in finding a solution.

3. Some unusual debt solutions can help you

There are many different “tried and tested” methods of easing the burden of debt. However, some you may not have heard about, and others you might have dismissed as a scam.

For instance, you might have heard about the Debt to Success System scam when, in reality, it’s just an unusual debt solution that works well for some folks. Without seeking help from others, you won’t know which unconventional methods are out there that work well.

4. You need help contacting your creditors

When dealing with a financial crisis, you will inevitably need to speak with your creditors about the problems you face. The trouble is, doing so without going through a professional third-party debt solution provider is a bad idea.

Using a third-party offers a variety of benefits, one of which is avoiding conversations with your money lenders.

5. You need help and advice for the future

The last thing you want to do is clear your debt problems and then find that history repeats itself. To that end, a professional debt counselor can give you the support you need to make better future financial decisions.

6. You don’t know what’s best for your situation

Last but not least, trying to resolve your debt problems alone can leave you feeling frustrated. That’s why it makes sense to work with a debt professional as they can help you determine what’s right for your situation.

Self Care Advice For Those Who Are Struggling

Self care isn't something you’re either into or you’re not. It shouldn’t be, anyway. Self care should be something that everybody does, regardless of age, gender, and other factors. Looking after yourself should not be something that ever comes as an afterthought, or something that doesn’t come at all. That being said, many people simply aren't in the habit of caring for themselves, and as many weren't taught how important this is, they just don’t do it.

Getting into the self care habit is essential - especially if you’re struggling. Maybe work is getting you down, or maybe there are other things going on in your life that you just don’t know how to deal with. Whatever it is, looking after yourself can help you to get some headspace, and you could find yourself in a better mindset. This will allow you to make decisions far easier, and you should end up feeling less stressed. If you want to get into the self care habit but you don’t know how, read on for some self care advice:

Start Small

If you’re not used to self care, then you’re going to struggle to throw yourself head first into a self care routine. Just start small. For example, vow to drink a big glass of water when you get up in the morning, and leave your vitamins on the side so you remember to take them. This alone is an act of self care.  

Try to Turn It Into A Habit 

Transforming things into habits means you need to be consistent - it can take about 3 weeks for a habit to solidify to the point where you’re not just going to stop doing it. James Clear’s book Automic Habits explains how to transform your habits and get rid of bad ones. 

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Only Do Things You Enjoy 

You don't need to slather yourself in lots of different masks if you really don’t like them. Don’t do things you really, genuinely don’t like in the name of self care and instead, just do things that you enjoy. There’s bound to be something you like to do, even if it’s spending 30 minutes on the hobby that you feel like you don’t spend enough time on. Looking after your skin and soaking in the bath can be lovely, but it might not be for you and that’s ok. 

Prioritize Your Health 

If you’re not prioritizing your health, you’re not prioritizing self care. Go to regular health appointments and check ups. Don’t underestimate the importance of eye tests, and make sure you go to the dentist. You may also want to get a hearing test. You might be surprised to learn that you could need a hearing aid if you have never been for a test. Stay on top of your appointments. 

Take Time To Yourself 

Just have some time away from everybody and enjoy it. Eat nice food, watch a show you love, and get comfortable in your own company. 

Consider A Therapist or Life Coach 

If you’re really struggling, a therapist or life coach could help you to get back on track. 

Best Responses To Questions Kids May Ask About The Corona Virus Crisis

How do you explain to a child about the coronavirus crisis? It is difficult enough for adults to get a full grasp of the pandemic, what more for a child who is wondering why he or she cannot go out and play. Here are some of the questions your little one may ask, and the best responses you can give.

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Question: "What is a Corona Virus?"

Response: "A Corona Virus is a germ. You know what germs are, right? But this one is different because it can make people sick very quickly. The germ comes from people who have it in their bodies already."

Question: "Why can't I go out and play? 

Response: "We are doing our best to keep you healthy and free from the virus. We cannot see it, so the best we can do is to stay home. We do not know where it is. It is an invisible enemy. So to avoid getting sick, we should stay home. Only Mommy or Daddy can go out to get food and other things we need."

Question: "Mommy, why do you have to wear a mask when you go to the grocery?"

Response: "Mommy needs to do that to protect me from the virus. Remember I told you, we cannot see it? A mask protects Mommy's nose and mouth from inhaling the virus so I don't get sick. I also wash my hands thoroughly after I get home before I touch anything else. Mommy and Daddy are being very careful so that we don't get sick."

Question: "When can I go back to school? I miss my teacher and my friends."

Response: "Right now, there are still people who are getting sick, so your school will be doing online classes for now. You can still see your teacher and your friends. You will still be doing your lessons, sing songs, and learn art. The only thing different is that you will be using the laptop to do these things. It will not be forever, only until things get better."

Question: "Can I visit Grandma and Grandpa?"

Response: "Sure you can, but not as often as we did before. Once a week will be fine. But you will have to wear a mask and a face shield when we take you to visit your grandparents."

Question: "Can people die if they get the virus?"

Response: "Yes. People may die if they get the virus. These people are those who are already sick of something and then they get the virus. But if you are healthy and strong, you may only feel sick for a while and then get better. Now, do you understand why I keep telling you to eat healthy food and finish your veggies? It is because I want you to have a strong body to protect yourself from the virus."

Question: "When will the virus go away?"

Response: "Many people like scientists and doctors are working to find a cure. Do not worry, they are doing their best. Let us pray for them so that they may find the solution to get rid of the virus." 

These are just some of the questions a young child may ask. As parents, you must learn to choose the right words that your child will easily understand. Be honest, but also be careful not to overwhelm them with information and cause anxiety. Reassure them that all these things that are happening are only temporary.

Keep their little minds busy with other things. Encourage them to be creative through art. Get new books, especially on topics they are interested in. Keep them interested in learning new things. You can get your child a small plant that they can take care of. You can sit outside in your patio at night and gaze at the stars and the moon. Teach them about the planets, the solar system, asteroids, and galaxies. There are so many ways to keep a young child curious and hungry for new knowledge! 

My 4-year old grandson busy drawing the earth, sun, moon and other planets

Being on lock down has its perks too. Some of you may have been given a work from home set up by your employer. That's good because you get to spend more time with your child and you get that chance to personally see to it that your family is safe. 

We have been on lock down since March 16th. That's a total of 126 days to this day. Some restrictions have been lifted, but the rising number of cases is still getting everyone worried. My family and I follow strict sanitation procedures - wearing a mask (and face shield if possible), no shoes or slippers in the house, washing hands, avoid touching our faces when we are outside, and practicing social distancing. Prayers do help a lot too!

Before I end this post, let me share with you a photo of my grandson's drawing. He drew the earth, and then grabbed a red crayon and started coloring a part of the earth red. When I asked him what the red color is all about, he said, "This is the people on earth with coronavirus." And this kid is just 4 years old! 

That red area, according to my grandson is, "People on earth with corona virus"

Stay safe, and stay home as much as possible. Let us listen to the experts' advice and be vigilant always.

3 Benefits of Painting Services

Painting companies often provide more than just a paint job. Depending on the company, they can offer services like plaster repair, custom trim and molding, and staining. Here are three benefits of using a painting service.

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1. Professional Renovation Skills

Choosing to use a professional contractor when you want to renovate your workplace or living space can ensure the project is finished on schedule and meets standards and expectations.

Say you want to renovate an entire building, or most of the updates you want to make are outside. That can be a lot of work, and a project of this scale would probably be better off in the hands of experts with professional training.

2. Reduced Stress

Renovation projects can consume a lot of time, money, and energy. You can take on that work yourself as a DIY project, but most of the time, working with professionals can take a lot of the stress and workload off your plate, especially when you have a big project or extensive updates in mind. 

You can reduce stress with a one-stop-shop contractor. A company offering a wide range of professional painting services Redding means you can rely on one company for every part of your renovation instead of finding a different contractor each step of the way. That kind of strategy can really lower your stress level.

3. Long-Term Results

Utilizing the skills of professional painters and renovators usually means you can count on their work to be of high quality and last a long time. With good-quality workmanship, you won't need touchups as often as you might otherwise. That cuts long-term costs and means you won't have to deal with figuring out when and how often to schedule maintenance.

There are a lot of benefits to hiring professional painting services or renovators. They can repair, update, and maintain your office or home for you, so you have fewer things to worry about.