Showing posts with label kids. Show all posts
Showing posts with label kids. Show all posts

Mother's Milk: The Vital Role of Breastfeeding in Infant Health

 



Breastfeeding has been an integral part of human life since time immemorial. It is a means of nourishment and a profound bond between a mother and her child. In recent years, the scientific community has delved deeper into the benefits of breastfeeding, shedding light on its vital role in infant health.

From bolstering the immune system to promoting optimal growth and development, the advantages of breastfeeding are manifold and far-reaching. However, many mothers still don't breastfeed their infants for an adequate amount of time. According to Health Policy Watch, only 48% of mothers breastfeed exclusively globally. It is 2% behind the target the World Health Assembly has set for 2025.

This article explores the crucial role that mother's milk plays in the health and well-being of infants.

The Biological Foundation

Nature has meticulously designed breast milk to meet the specific nutritional needs of infants. It is a complex fluid comprising a perfect balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. The first milk produced by a mother, known as colostrum, is particularly rich in antibodies and immune-boosting factors.

Colostrum is the baby's first line of defense against infections and sets the foundation for a robust immune system. An MDPI study states that the lactose content in breast milk depends on the stage of lactation. It ranges from 45 to 64.7 g/L in colostrum, then 48 to 73.7 g/L in transitional milk, and approximately 67.8 to 77 g/L in mature milk. Carbohydrate content is between 60 and 70 g/L, around 40% of the total caloric content.

Furthermore, breast milk contains essential enzymes and hormones that aid digestion and regulate various physiological processes in the infant's body. The unique composition of breast milk ensures optimal nutrient absorption and supports the development of healthy organs and tissues.

Immune Protection

One of the most remarkable aspects of breastfeeding is its role in providing immune protection to infants. Breast milk teems with antibodies, such as immunoglobulin A (IgA), which help combat pathogens and prevent infections.

These antibodies are tailored to the specific pathogens in the mother's environment, providing targeted protection to the infant. As mentioned in an NCBI study, it accounts for 90% of the total immunoglobulins. However, only 5% of immunoglobulin A is absorbed.

Research has shown that breastfed babies experience fewer episodes of diarrhea, respiratory infections, ear infections, etc. This helps them prevent common health issues arising from baby formula food. Consider the example of Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), which has been associated with baby formula.

According to TorHoerman Law, manufacturers like Similac, Enfamil, and others face NEC lawsuits. It has been found that cow-milk-based baby formula can lead to NEC development in infants. Therefore, the parents allege that these manufacturers knew or should have known about the potential harm.

Through an NEC lawsuit, the plaintiffs also seek compensation for the problems they have suffered. There are many lawsuits active in this aspect. These cases have been consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL) 3026 to ensure the hearings proceed seamlessly.

Cognitive Development

The benefits of breastfeeding extend beyond physical health to cognitive development and academic achievement. Breast milk contains essential fatty acids, such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are crucial for brain development and function. Studies have found a positive correlation between breastfeeding duration and cognitive abilities later in life.

Breastfeeding fosters emotional bonding between the mother and child, promoting feelings of security and trust. This emotional connection lays the groundwork for infants' healthy social and emotional development.

Promoting Optimal Growth

Breastfeeding is pivotal in promoting optimal growth and weight gain in infants. The nutrients present in breast milk are highly bioavailable, meaning that they are easily absorbed and utilized by the baby's growing body. Breastfed babies are less likely to experience rapid weight gain and obesity in childhood. This reduces the risk of obesity-related health complications later in life.

Furthermore, breastfeeding helps regulate appetite and satiety cues, allowing infants to self-regulate their food intake and develop healthy eating habits early. This self-regulation of feeding can contribute to a lower risk of overeating and obesity in adulthood.

Maternal Health Benefits

The benefits of breastfeeding are not limited to infants alone; mothers also experience numerous health advantages. Breastfeeding stimulates the release of oxytocin, a hormone that promotes uterine contractions and helps the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size more quickly. This can reduce postpartum bleeding and expedite the recovery process for mothers. 

Additionally, breastfeeding has been associated with a lower risk of postpartum depression and anxiety. As stated in an article from womenshealth.gov, around 1 in 8 women have postpartum depression in the year after giving birth. During breastfeeding, close physical contact and emotional bonding release feel-good hormones like oxytocin and prolactin.

Breastfeeding has also been linked to a decreased risk of certain cancers in mothers, particularly breast and ovarian cancer. The act of breastfeeding helps to limit the number of menstrual cycles a woman experiences. Thus, it reduces her lifetime exposure to estrogen, which is known to influence the development of these types of cancers.

Societal and Environmental Impact

In addition to its health benefits, breastfeeding has significant societal and environmental implications. Breastfeeding is a sustainable and eco-friendly feeding option, requiring no manufacturing, packaging, or transportation processes associated with formula feeding. Families can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to environmental conservation by opting for breastfeeding.

Moreover, breastfeeding fosters a supportive and nurturing community among mothers, creating opportunities for peer support, knowledge sharing, and empowerment. Breastfeeding-friendly policies and initiatives can help remove barriers to breastfeeding in public spaces and workplaces. This can ensure that all mothers have the support and resources to breastfeed successfully.

Challenges and Solutions

While breastfeeding offers a myriad of benefits, it is not without its challenges. Many mothers face obstacles such as insufficient milk supply, latch difficulties, and breastfeeding-related discomfort. Moreover, societal norms and cultural beliefs surrounding breastfeeding can impact a mother's confidence and willingness to breastfeed publicly.

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach that involves education, support, and advocacy. Healthcare providers are crucial in providing breastfeeding mothers with evidence-based information and practical support. Additionally, community-based initiatives and breastfeeding support groups can offer peer support, encouragement, and guidance to mothers navigating their breastfeeding journey.

In conclusion, mother's milk is more than just food. It is a powerful elixir that nourishes, protects, and nurtures infants in unparalleled ways. Breastfeeding offers many benefits beyond infancy, from bolstering the immune system to promoting optimal growth and development. By recognizing and supporting the importance of breastfeeding, we can empower mothers to give their children the best possible start in life.

The 4 Most Common Sports Injuries to Look Out for in Your Children

 Sports are a vital part of a child's development, promoting physical fitness, teamwork, and discipline. However, along with the countless benefits that sports offer, there is also the risk of injuries. Sports injuries in children are more common than we may realize and can have long-lasting consequences if not properly addressed. That is why understanding and preventing these injuries should be a top priority for parents, coaches, and healthcare professionals alike.

The importance of injury prevention cannot be overstated. By implementing preventive measures such as proper warm-up routines, adequate protective gear usage, regular conditioning exercises tailored to the specific sport involved - we can significantly reduce the risk of sports-related injuries in children.

1. Sprains and Strains: How to Recognize and Treat Them

Sprains and strains are common injuries that can occur during physical activities or accidents. One of the most common types of sprains is a sprained ankle, which can happen when the ligaments surrounding the ankle joint are stretched or torn. On the other hand, strained muscles occur when muscles or tendons are overstretched or torn. 

Both injuries can cause pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. Recognizing sprains and strains in children can be particularly challenging as they may not always communicate their discomfort effectively. Treating sprains and strains involves a combination of rest, ice therapy, compression with bandages or braces, elevation of the injured area to reduce swelling (known as R.I.C.E), as well as over-the-counter pain medications if necessary. It is important to seek medical attention if there is severe pain, inability to move the injured area, numbness or tingling sensations.

2. Fractures: Identifying Broken Bones and Seeking Proper Medical Attention

Fractures, especially in children, can be a cause of great concern for parents and caregivers. Identifying broken bones and seeking proper medical attention is crucial to ensure a swift recovery and prevent any long-term complications.

Understanding the different types of fractures is the first step in recognizing a potential injury. Fractures can range from simple hairline cracks to more complex breaks that may require surgical intervention. Common symptoms of a fracture include severe pain, swelling, bruising, deformity, and difficulty moving the affected area.

3. Overuse Injuries: Recognizing the Warning Signs and Promoting Rest and Recovery

Overuse injuries in young athletes are becoming increasingly common and can have a significant impact on their performance and overall well-being. It is crucial to recognize the warning signs of these injuries and take proactive steps to promote rest and recovery.

One such prevalent overuse injury that affects the iliotibial band, a thick band of tissue that runs along the outside of the thigh is iliotibial band syndrome. It often occurs in athletes who engage in repetitive activities like running or cycling. Recognizing the warning signs of IT Band syndrome, such as pain or tenderness on the outside of the knee or thigh, is essential for early intervention.

Promoting rest and recovery is vital in preventing overuse injuries from worsening or recurring. Encouraging young children to listen to their bodies and take breaks when needed can help prevent excessive strain on their muscles and joints.

4. Concussions: Understanding the Signs and Long-term Effects

Concussions are a serious concern, especially in sports-related activities. It is crucial to understand the signs and long-term effects associated with these head injuries to ensure the well-being of individuals, particularly children. Common signs include headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory problems, nausea or vomiting, sensitivity to light or noise, and changes in sleep patterns. It is essential for parents, coaches, and teachers to be vigilant and proactive in identifying these symptoms.

However, the impact of concussions extends beyond immediate symptoms. Research has shown that there can be long-term effects associated with repeated concussions or inadequate recovery time. These effects can include cognitive impairments such as memory loss or difficulty concentrating, mood disorders like depression or anxiety, and even an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases later in life.

Conclusion

Preventing sports injuries not only safeguards the physical well-being of our young athletes but also ensures their continued participation in activities they love without interruption or fear. It allows them to develop their skills further while fostering a sense of confidence and resilience.


Computers And Tech For Kids – How To Raise A Child Who Can Code

 

Teaching kids how to code can be a challenge, especially for parents like us who do not have any technical background in computer science. But, thanks to new learning materials, apps, and software, we do not need to have extensive knowledge in the subject in order to guide our kids in their learning journey.

Nowadays, online learning tools and programs are becoming more and more accessible for everyone. On top of that, many parents are now starting to realize the importance of coding in today’s digital age.

With that said, we have created this guide to help you raise and guide your kids towards their learning journey to coding and programming.

 

Provide Access to Different Learning Tools

Gone are the days when kids have to learn coding by memorizing blocks of code just to print “Hello! World.” When you look at the modules or course syllabus for many coding programs these days, you would find that they no longer rely on the traditional method of teaching. Rather than read off of textbooks, beginners are now being introduced to the world of coding through programs and software like Scratch, Blockly, Swift, and so on.

That said, it would be a big help if you would help your kids gain access to the learning tools that they need. Doing this would not only make the learning process a lot easier but it would also give your kids an impression that you are supportive of their learning journey as well.

 

Make it Fun

Many parents often support their kids' interest in coding by enrolling them in different learning programs.

But before you enroll your kids in any coding for kids programs, you have to make sure that the learning program is good enough to sustain their interest in the long run. One of the many reasons why kids often quit halfway is because they start to get bored with the lesson and start to lose interest in coding.

So to avoid this, you have to make sure that the learning program is fun and enjoyable. Thankfully, several online coding programs are a lot more fun these days because they make use of games for educational purposes like Roblox, Minecraft, and many more.

 

Let them Explore on their Own

Given that coding is more of a trial and error process, it mainly teaches kids soft skills like perseverance and patience. But, other than that, coding also enables your kid to be more creative, curious, and independent.

Remember that coding is a complex subject and there are lots of areas to explore. For instance, they can learn different coding languages like Python, C, Java, Lua, Ruby, and many more.

Once your kids finally learn the fundamentals of coding and programming, you should start to introduce them to other areas that they might be interested in. Even if they are still undecided which coding language or subject areas they want to learn, it is still a great idea to keep their option open and let them know that there might be other topics that are more suitable for them.

 

Encourage them to Share Their Projects

The great thing about learning how to code these days is that there are tons of kids who are interested in coding as well. That said, the community around beginners and kid coders is vibrant and very encouraging.

So to boost your kids' confidence, you can encourage them to share their projects for other people to play or use. Doing so would not only boost their confidence, but it might also motivate other kids to learn to code as well. Other than that, other coders might also recommend a few tweaks that might make their project even better.

That said, sharing your kids' projects online is a win-win situation for everyone. It would boost your kids’ confidence, make them learn from other coders, and even motivate other kids to start learning how to code as well.

On that note, we, as parents, still have a big part to play in our kids’ learning journey to being a coder. Because no matter how interested they are in the subject, it is still up to us to keep their motivations up so that they can successfully learn.  

 


Parenting Guide: How to Deal with Notorious Kids Smartly

 



"Your kids require you most of all to love them for who they are, not to spend your whole time trying to correct them."


  • Bill Ayers 


For once, you may think of agreeing with this thought, but what if you notice your naughty one playing mischievous plays with you? Well, as a parent to a naughty child, your tolerance level will be tested several times a day. When kids behave impossible, kids scream out their lungs just to get their favorite toy in their kitty. At such times, you may feel the urge to lose your temper and scold your child. 


But wait, such incidents can make things worse and impossible for you to handle further. So, what is the ultimate solution then? Well, it seems like you need to look through some interesting options to deal with your kids' mischievous behavior. 


Let's not wait anymore and explore how to manage a naughty child at home. 


#1- Manage the overwhelming emotions - There are times when your naughty child may feel the urge to express those powerful emotions, including - frustration, fear, and sudden sadness. Rather than feeling tired and irritated about this behavior, prefer to calm down and support your baby. This indicates understanding their weird mood swings, which is common to witness during childhood. 


#2 - Find ways to burn off their energy - Kids have an extensive amount of energy that needs to be burned off wisely. Otherwise, it may lead to many issues for you and your family. When their energy is not utilized properly, they may end up indulging themselves in a notorious activity. Rather than this, keep them occupied in hardcore physical activities like - running, cycling, playing outside, and much more. In no time, your child will start feeling exhausted, which will help him/her fall asleep quickly.


#3 - Find alternatives to everything - You need to be smart enough to deal with their trouble-making plays. For instance - if you are fed up buying new cosmetics and lipsticks that are often ruined by your little one, then go for sturdy child-resistant packaging bags that secure everything stored in it. Other examples can be - covering sharp objects in towels like - knives, blades, gardening equipment, etc., which often become a toy for naughty kids. 


#4 - Cook favorite meals - Making your kids eat nourishing meals is one of the daunting tasks almost every mother goes through. Here, the solution is to blend superfoods and nutrient value containing vegetables or fruits in their favorite meals. For instance - prepare multiple fruits-enriched smoothies for breakfast, mix and blend different vegetables in slurry or soups. This is the best way to ensure the intake of all grains and nutrients required for the child's development. 



The bottom line is that - 


Your child's behavior is the ultimate result of your behavior at home. Therefore, make sure you behave ideally to give your child enough good habits to learn and follow. Having restrictions on the child is a good idea to control wrong behavior but ensure it does not turn out to be negative on his/her behavior. 


Tips on How to Teach Cooking to Kids

 Cooking is a useful habit that can literally be life-saving in so many situations. Also, one doesn’t need to be a master chef in order to prepare simple, yet nutritious meals. However, in order to be an adult who cooks, it’s important to learn those habits in childhood. Now, that doesn’t mean actual cooking skills, but more normalization of cooking, especially when it comes to boys. But, girls should also benefit from this, so if you have kids, here are some tips on how to teach them some cooking.



Let them help 

If you’re cooking regularly, then letting your kids take part might be of great help. Simply, kids enjoy doing things with adults, as they see them as role models. So if you’re cooking, chances are your kid will want and ask to help. Plus, doing this can help their motor skills, just to name some benefits. Next time, if that happens, make sure to let them give you a hand if it’s nothing that will actually do to make cooking faster or more efficient. Just enjoy the fact that your kid is interested in something, and use that experience to bond and have fun together. 

Watch cooking content together 

If your kid shows a proclivity for cooking, you can start watching some cooking content together. So it doesn’t matter if it’s a regular cooking TV show, or a YouTube video, as long as the kid is interested and wants to implement everything they’ve learned. But, keep in mind that this can only work, if you as a parent enjoy cooking, baking, and preparing foods. If that’s not your strong suit, then chances are, you won’t enjoy doing that with your kid either.  There’s nothing wrong with not liking to cook, but in that case, let someone else (like a grandparent or another relative) teach your kid how to prepare food. 

Teach your kid about various foods 

If you want your kid to learn some cooking basics, then it’s important to teach them about different foods and their healthy properties. For example, as you’re peeling a carrot, tell them about how carrots are good for eyes and eyesight. If your kid loves nuts, or you enjoy cooking with nuts, you can tell them what is the healthiest nuts to eat, so they’ll have more knowledge that they can use in the future. The same goes for different types of meat, dairy products, and eggs. You can also show them a documentary about foods and healthy nutrition. 

Go grocery shopping together 

Usually, kids love shopping, as long as you’re the boss. Meaning, no temper tantrums, and unnecessary tears. Still, going grocery shopping can teach kids, not only about different foods and cooking ingredients but also about prices and the economy. Maybe grocery shopping is something you’d rather do quickly, but if you decide to take your kid, maybe you’ll actually have fun, so feel free to consider it, but only if you’re in the mood, and when you’re not in a hurry.


Remember to be patient 

Adults tend to forget what it’s like to be a kid and learn things afresh. We often expect kids to do things exactly the way we do them, which can cause unnecessary pressure and self-esteem issues later in life. Therefore, rather than pushing them too far, make sure to be kind, considerate, and patient with them. Yes, waiting for too long might be frustrating, but if you’re teaching kids something, it’s important to do so without any negative feelings involved.

Conclusion 

Teaching kids nutrition and cooking is a big deal, as it equips them with the vital information they’ll need when they grow up. Therefore, watching cooking content, shopping and asking them to help you are all important tips that will show any kid that cooking is fun and useful skill that they’ll benefit from. 


15 Advent Calendars for Kids

When I was a kid, one of my favorite parts of the holidays was the little advent calendar my grandma always had for me. I only got to see her on weekends, so when I would get to her house, I would get to open several windows at once, for a few little treats!



Looking back on it, the calendar was as basic as it could get. The squares of chocolate were small. But, it was the fact that someone thought of me and picked up an advent that had a picture she knew I would love on it, and she kept it for me, on the odd days I came over.

Now I am a mom and I always have an advent for my kids. They love the little ceremony and surprise that awaits them. If you are like me, and maybe don't have the time to create an elaborate advent, check out these ideas from Amazon. This post contains affiliate links, so if you make a purchase, I will earn a small advertising fee.



Paw Patrol Advent
Hatchimals Holiday Advent
Barbie Careers Advent Calendar
Mega Bloks TMNT Advent
Playmobil Advent
Play Doh Christmas Advent
Grinch Advent Calendar
Hot Wheels Advent
Crayola Christmas Countdown
Disney Tsum Tsum Advent
Lego City Advent
VTech Smart Animals Advent
Thomas and Friends Advent Calendar 
Funko Harry Potter Advent
Olaf's Adventure Christmas Countdown Calendar 

If you find a great advent calendar on Amazon, I hope you will leave me a comment so I can add it to my list!

Best Board Games to Gift

Board games make awesome gifts! They encourage family time, and any gift that pull kids away from a screen is going to be welcome by parents! I have rounded up some excellent options for gifting board games this year to help you find some new and exciting options for family game time.

Samples were provided for inclusion and photography.


Exit the Game Theft on the Mississippi is a really fun option for older kids. It involves solving riddles to discover who done it. Families will love this engaging game that is challenging and fun. Exit the Game is available in several themes, for about $15 a game.


Jabber Jaw is perfect for snow days, or anytime you need a good laugh with game play. This descriptive game is challenging and fun for kids of all ages. Order it for about $25.


Trailz is a really fun strategy game from Play Monster. This game is perfect for kids 7 and older. The players will out manuever one another to safely move their shrooms to the other side of the board with the help of some slugs. The game is unique and fun. Order it for $15.


Chicken War is a strategic guessing game that will have players 8 and older clucking for more. This fun game is engaging and entertaining. It guarantees one thing, if chickens went to war, hilarity would ensue. Order it for about $20 for a fun family game night!


Any fan of the classic film Back to the Future needs this Dice Through Time game! This is a great gift for tweens and teens. Chances are their parents are going to want to play too for  the nostalgia factor alone. In this game you will help Doc and Marty while time traveling. Order this game for about $40 for a fun winter gaming session.



PENSILLY is the super, silly drawing and guessing game! It takes creativity, teamwork and imagination to play! Grab your friends, select your cards and sketch out the clues.



Kids will find the What's Wrong With Grown Ups Game to be hilarious because, well, it is a hilarious game for the family! This game encourages creativity and curiosity in kids for a fun way to play together with cards. Order for about $25.
 


This is a really fun game for families because it is a race to make sense of nonsense. Laughter is sure to ensue. This would be a good game to have ready for New Years Eve! Order Incoherent Family Edition for about $25.



Grounded for Life is such a fun game! But, be warned, the answers you give just might get you grounded for life! This is great for kids of a variety of ages and is perfect for family game night! Order it for about $20.

I hope these board game ideas help you find one that you don't have already and will definitely bring a ton of fun to family game night!

While you are here, why not check out some of my favorite Christmas Crafts?

Pine Cone Rescue Fine Motor Activity

This easy fine motor activity is perfect for keeping little hands busy without requiring any special materials! This Pine Cone Rescue is great for quarantine, or anytime you need to challenge little learners with simple supplies.


This is a super easy to set up activity, but let me be honest, this is HARD! It will challenge the kids and their fingers!  Last week my kids were restless and they were looking to argue with each other and I whisked them outside for a walk, hoping to get the ants out of their pants. 

It didn't work; they had a fight or three in the middle of the street. As the 6 year old picked up a pine cone to throw it at her older brother, inspiration hit me. Busy work was exactly what they needed!




Supplies:
Affiliate links are used, if you buy, I earn a small advertising fee.



Directions:
Place the small rubber bands around the pine cones.
Add more bands for older kids, and fewer for younger kids.
Encourage your kids to rescue the pine cone.
Be sure to dispose of the bands properly after removal because they can pose a hazard to small kids and pets.

Removing the bands is challenging! So, this is a great activity for kids of all ages. 


You can find more boredom busters for kids here
Mermaid Tail
Leaf Foxes
Easy iPad Stands

Play Doh Food Themed Puzzles

Do you need an easy way to keep the kids entertained? This play doh puzzle idea is perfect for challenging them with items you already have on hand!



It is no secret that we LOVE play doh! Homemade versions, ideas to play with it, and just the joy of squishing it in your hands! No matter how you do it, it is fun with play doh.

The kids have been out of school for a long time now; 6 weeks and counting. Keeping them learning, playing and happy has been a challenge. I have had to get creative in my efforts, but some of the best ideas are born out of idle time and basic supplies.

This play doh puzzle can be as challenging or easy you want it to be. We used play food because we have a lot of that.

Affiliate links are used in this post. If you make a purchase, I will earn a small advertising fee at no cost to you.


Supplies:



Directions:
Roll a can of play doh out until it covers about a 6 to 8" area
Press assorted play food into the play doh, leaving a little room in between the food to create impressions that you can match up.



After you have filled the play doh with imprints of play food, lay all play food around the play doh and invite your child to match up the play food to the imprint that the food left.



Repeat with more play food, or even other objects from around the house.
Make more imprints for more challenging puzzles, or fewer for an easier play experience.
We loved that we could make this fun for both kids without having to buy anything!

You can find all of my play doh ideas here

Reader favorites include:

Homeschool Labs - COVID-19

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Greg Landry's Homeschool Labs.

Students in Greg Landry’s online science classes have had a lot of questions about COVID-19 (by the way, this is not the name of the virus), and your children may also have questions. Greg has created a PDF to address the common questions and to give students an understanding of viruses in general, and this virus in particular...in a way that's fun for students.

Home School Science Freebies


For example, Greg Landry believes that in science, it's very important for students to have what he calls "magnitude perspective". We all know that viruses and bacteria are very small but few people really have a perspective on how small they are and how they compare with each other and to the width of a human hair. He does this not only with numbers but also with graphics they can easily understand.

Free Homeschool Student COVID-19 Printable Lesson and Worksheet (and a free bonus lesson and worksheet on the muscular system).

Greg Landry’s FREE PDF also covers:
- Are viruses alive?
- How do they affect humans
- What's the actual name of the current virus? (few people know this).
- What is "coronavirus"?
- What do they look like?
- Where do viruses come from?
- What are some common diseases caused by viruses?

This PDF includes a printable student worksheet with graphics to label and color plus a virus quiz.
Click here to get a free COVID-19 Student Printable Lesson + Bonus! When you submit your email to receive this freebie you will also have access to a free "muscular system" lesson and worksheet!

Fun Tech DIY To Do With Kids

Children have a thirst for knowledge and love to experiment. Sometimes it can be challenging to find
projects that you can do from home that can help encourage this. DIY technology projects can be so
much fun, and usually, you can find the items in the house, or source them pretty quickly online. So
here are a few fun DIY projects that you can do with the kids. 


Photo by Johannes Plenio on Unsplash

Earmuffs

You might have seen these in a store already, but you can create your own music earmuffs at home.
The critical thing to remember is that you won’t be able to put your earbuds in your ear. Instead, they’ll sit
behind a layer of fabric. Kind of like can headphones - but warmer. Simply cut a small space in the
center of ear earmuff, slide the earbud inside and stitch it back up again.


 If you are feeling extra adventurous, you can use larger headphones, and replace the fabric entierly. If
you don’t love the idea of musical earmuffs, try putting on-ear headphones Into a woolly hat instead. 

Echo

You can create your own Amazon Acho by using a Raspberry Pi. Amazon has a range of walk throughs
and coding sources to help you manage it. And once you have tackled that, you can move on to turning
it into a Twitter Bot, a Minecraft Game server, or even just private storage. 

FireStick

If you have a firestick or Apple Tv, you might be surprised to know just how much you can do with
them - aside from watching TV. TroyPoint has a few really fun DIY projects that are really simple to
tackle. 

USB Drive

Sure we mostly use cloud storage or HDD now, but the simple USB drive has a lot going for it. Even
more, when you take the time to create your own case. You can opt to do something with dried flowers
and epoxy or perhaps building something with LEGO. You can get super adventurous and use an oven
bake clay to create a dinosaur or a happy potter wand. Bake for a few minutes in the oven and voila!

Jewelry

Geek-chic and ‘nerd’ jewelry is a big deal. Even more to the people who are genuinely in that culture.
You can create some incredibly unique pieces of jewelry like earrings or necklaces with old
motherboards. Of course, other circuit boards will do the trick, but motherboards are more prominent,
and you’ll be spoiled for choice on the textures. 

You’ll need to saw the board into the shapes that you want, and it is recommended that you wear
gloves and eye protection while doing this. Smoothing down the edges doesn’t take long with some
epoxy. 


You can pick up old defunct computers at car boots and online, rather than consider sacrificing old
motherboards that you have in the home (that can be used to build your own computers)

Simple and fun ideas to help encourage your children to get creative with technology and DIY.