5 Tips for Helping a Preteen Get Things Accomplished

Recently it's been hard to keep Jordan on task. He wants to do all these things, go out with friends, play sports, go on the computer, text this person and text that person! It's a crazy life being an eleven year old apparently!

Jordan recently brought home a violin from music class. He said all the kids are learning different instruments. He was at first a little interested in the violin but that shortly changed and he hasn't brought it home since that first week. He's just happy he didn't get microkorg xl or something else like one of his friends got and is having some different issues. But, he says its really hard so I have told him when they allow him to bring it home again to bring it and we can try again! He gets frustrated and wants to quit, but we talked and he said he will try. He said he isn't a quitter, I just think he needed a little pep talk!

 He is struggling not wanting to do homework, he has a complaint every time we ask him to do one of his normal chores. So I sat down and figured out some ways I can help him focus, get the things he needs to get done accomplished and help in anyway I can.

ENCOURAGE

I find telling him how great he plays, how wonderful his sentences for homework are and what a great example he is for his younger siblings helps.

GIVE BREAKS

If he has three pages of homework to do and really doesn't want to do it in the first place - giving short breaks between pages gives him time to get a drink, a snack and just clear his head for a few minutes.

SIT DOWN AND HELP

I take time to sit with him, help when he needs it and really just be there in case he has a question or needs a little support. I don't do any of the work for him but I watch and help as needed.

LISTEN

Often times having them talk out a problem, explain a note or speak through an answer helps them figure things out on their own.

INCENTIVES

Yep. I'm not above them. He has a cellular phone that we pay for monthly so if he wants to keep it he needs to keep up with his chores, homework and behavior at school. So a quick reminder really gets that fire going.

Jordan is extremely smart. He's also a preteen boy and extremely dramatic and once in a while mouthy. These are just some tips I've learned along the way that help us out. Maybe they can help you out, or someone you know.

Preteens are super fun, the teenage years well ... I'll need a whole new set of tips to get through that now won't I?

Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 Giveaway (US Only)

IJust a quick note to let you know I have participated in another giveaway that I would love all of you to enter to win! Below you will find an amazing giveaway for the Samsung Galaxy Tab 4! I am so excited to be apart of this, and wish you all good luck! Now on to the giveaway..

 

Enter for a chance to win a Samsung Galaxy Tab 4!!! This giveaway is sponsored by BuyDig.com and hosted by Bay Area Mommy. Special thanks to our cohosts Jenns Blah Blah Blog, Jays Sweet N Sour Life, Finger Click Saver, What's Up? Reviews and Giveaways, and Deliciously Savvy!

Meet the Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 Black 16GB 10.1" Tablet - 1.2 GHz Quad Core, Android 4.4, Kit Kat -- an affordable tablet designed to be everything to everyone. Endless entertainment options, new multi-user mode and a brand new design will make this tablet hard for anyone to put down.

• Brilliant 10.1" widescreen HD display delivers clear text & bright colors
• Perfect for the family to enjoy games, movies, books, magazines & more
• Sleek, light design with expandable memory, Multi-User mode, and Multi Window capability

SPECIFICATIONS:
- Android 4.4, Kit Kat
- Processor: 1.2 GHz Quad Core
- Memory: 1.5GB RAM & 16GB on-board memory
- microSD Card Slot (Up to 64GB)
- Display Screen: 10.1"
- Display Resolution: WXGA (1280x800)
- Wi-Fi: 802.11 a/b/g/n, dual-band (2.4GHz + 5GHz)
- Camera 3MP rear + 1.3 MP front
- GPS with GLONASS
- Bluetooth 4.0
- Supports USB 2.0 Connectivity
- WatchON, Multi Window, Multi-User Mode, Netflix Preloaded

Check out Bay Area Mommy's review here! You can purchase the Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 as well as other gadgets on your loved ones' wish list at BuyDig.com! Browse through their Computer Department and you'll see that they offer a wide range of tech products that can suit your need and budget!

Why should you shop at BuyDig.com? They have the prestigious Google Trusted Store Badge and are an A+ rated business with the Better Business Bureau. They have 100% secure checkout, flexible payment options, and a 45-day return policy! With everyday low prices and no tax for orders shipped outside of NJ, your wallet will thank you for shopping at BuyDig.com! Connect with them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram!

One lucky reader will receive a Samsung Galaxy Tab 4 from BuyDig.com! Open to US residents only. Must be at least 18 years old to be eligible. Giveaway ends on November 4, 2014 at 11:59pm EST. To enter, use the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure & Disclaimer: Bay Area Mommy received the product for purposes of evaluation. Other participating bloggers were not compensated for this post and are not responsible for prize fulfillment. Prize will be sent directly to the winner by BuyDig.com. Winner will be chosen randomly using Rafflecopter, will be notified via email and has 48 hours to respond before another winner is selected. Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter are neither endorsing nor are they liable for this giveaway. Void where prohibited by law. No Purchase Necessary.

7 Reasons I Babywear!

If you've been reading for a while you know I love babywearing. However, Babywearing wasn't always important to me. I really didn't start babywearing until baby #5 came and I decided to babywear because lugging a stroller everywhere was a pain in the butt living in the big city. We don't have a vehicle we use the bus, subway and street car often so lugging a stroller isn't always practical or easy.

People always ask me why I babywear, or how I got into it. I got into it because it's MUCH easier to wrap a baby, or put on the Boba and go... My babies didn't always like the stroller and would cry, attempt to get out and it wasn't fun for anyone. So here are my top 7 reasons why I babywear.

COMFORTING

Not only it is comforting for me to know my baby is happy, and snuggled against me but the baby is comforted knowing they are on me, can feel my heartbeating, and I am not going anywhere without them!

CONVENIENT

No big strollers to fold and unfold while getting on the bus, subway or street car. No stroller to have anyone accidentally bump into or have to move out of everyone's way.

BREASTFEEDING IS EASIER!

Breastfeeding is so much easier. Just loosen a bit, reposition baby, and away you go. Most of the time people don't even know you are doing it! If you've ever dealt with a screaming, hungry baby while out in public you can understand this one!

A LOT LESS CRYING!

I always found my babies got bored, wanted snuggles and just want to be held so often in the stroller they'd cry. I would say while babywearing there is 90% less crying. They feel warm, protected and comforted right with Mommy/Daddy! The only time my babies have cried while babywearing were when hungry or needing a change.

ADULT INTERACTION!

I have also found that while babywearing so many people stop to talk. Adult interaction win! They ask about babywearing, give a nice compliment or just ask to see the baby! It's a great conversation starter and it's a great way to encourage others who may also want to babywear!

BENEFICIAL & SOOTHING

Not only does babywearing allow for more bonding time with baby it also helps soothe baby, and attend to baby's needs faster and easier than when in a stroller. Babywearing helps babies be more content and less fussy.

BECAUSE I LOVE CUDDLES!

Simply put I like babywearing because I love cuddles with my babies. I love the closeness, and that extra time we spend out running errands, going to the bus stop or simply a walk around the block gives me extra time to snuggle and love on my baby that I wouldn't be able to do while pushing a stroller! No, don't worry babies won't get "spoiled" or cry when not held.

In addition, a little added bonus is now my husband sees and wants in on it too. Men babywearing their babies? TO DIE FOR.

Isn't this just the cutest? Yeah, I think so too.

I know a lot of people who aren't into babywearing always wonder WHY we bother, why we can't just hold the babies or "put them down!" so I just wanted to share this little bit of information I found on LLL:

Some parents worry that a baby who is constantly held or worn will become a fussy baby, always crying for attention. Actually, the opposite seems to be true. In cultures where babies are constantly in the arms of caregivers, infant crying spells are virtually unheard of. A study in North America showed that babies cried less when parents were instructed to wear or carry them for several "extra" hours each day. THE WOMANLY ART OF BREASTFEEDING comments:

These findings confirm what our mothering instincts tell us —- that plenty of loving contact does not "spoil" a baby or make him more demanding, but instead helps him feel more comfortable and happy in his new world.

A happy baby is quiet and alert. In this state of mind, he is ready to interact with people. When worn or carried by a parent, a contented baby can see what’s going on around him. When he sees facial expressions and hears his mother's voice, he is learning about the world.

In addition to helping infants develop emotionally and socially, baby wearing also meets their physical needs.

Babies need and enjoy motion. In the womb, they become accustomed to the sound of mother's heart pumping blood and to the feeling of being confined in a small space. The experience of being in the womb also teaches them to enjoy the rhythm of their mother’s movements. After birth, the experience of being held close to a parent’s body helps them recall the peace they felt in the womb. A baby sling swaddles them and helps control the movement of their arms and legs. As parents move around the house or walk down the sidewalk, the motion soothes babies. Parents quickly discover that their newborn will sleep while in their arms, comforted by the rise and fall of mother or father’s chest. Lay that newborn down in a crib that neither breathes nor walks and baby wakes up in a hurry! ----- http://www.lalecheleague.org/nb/nbnovdec04p204.html

Well, There you have it!

Now don't get me wrong. I still use a stroller. Mostly around the neighbourhood - to run to Walmart or if I am alone with the kids it's easiest to put Justin and Jackson in our sit n stand so Jackson is safe and there's no extra helping hands from dad. But I would much rather babywear. I know it's not for everyone but I really enjoy it and when done safely, it's an amazing experience for both mom or dad and baby!

HAVE YOU EVER BEEN A BABY-WEARER?

If yes: Did you enjoy it?

If no: Do you think it's something you'd try, if you could maybe with your own kids, grandkids or a family member?

Little Me On Halloween

I was going through a photo album last night and found a few photos from Halloweens of the past. Of myself! So I thought it would be fun to take a look - I didn't post a Flashback Friday yesterday so this can count as that! My kids got a really big kick out of looking at these photos of me from Halloween as a kid, so why not share with you all too! I remember all these times, such happy times for me with my mom. I loved Halloween and am glad I'm able to share all these with my kids too!

Witch

Yep, I think most girls went out as a Witch a time or two, right? I dig the green hair.

Indian

I don't even know when this was but I love it. My Grandma had this costume at her house so I figured why not. I also had a FULL snow suit on under this and mittens because it was a BLIZZARD outside!

Biker Chick

This was made out of a Cardboard box. HA. My mom's boyfriend at the time had this exact same ZX6 Motorcycle and he made it for me. I thought it was the cats meow.

Baby

This was a few years ago with my kiddos, I was pregnant with Jackson at the time - Chubby:). It was the first time as an adult I dressed up because my kiddos asked, and I will be again this year :D

What was your favorite Halloween costume as a child??

ELPH Band Giveaway Event - Plus $125 Target Gift Card! (US Only)

I've recently decided to participate in some sponsored blogger giveaways. It's been giving me something extra to add to the site and more exciting giveaways to bring here for all of you! Today is a pretty special one, not only is the ELPH Band a PTPA winner, but it's actually a really cool product that I think everyone should take a look at - especially parents! I'll be quiet now and onto the giveaway... GOOD LUCK!

Welcome to the ELPH Band Giveaway Event!

Mom Powered Media, ELPH Band, and fantastic group of amazing bloggers have come together to bring you this event, just in time for Halloween.

Hosted by: Mom Powered Media
Sponsored by: ELPH Band

The ELPH Band is a link to your identifying information, such as your address, parent or guardian cell phone numbers and any other information you think is necessary, including medical conditions or drug allergies your child may have. Whether you're traveling to a theme park, zoo, park, a crowded festival or even the mall, the ELPH Band can help find your child in the event he/she gets separated from you. It only takes one second for a child to disappear out of your site.

The ELPH band is a non-toxic, durable, silicone wristband. It provides an immediate, highly visible form of identification with clear instructions directly on the band. It's easy to use with options to dial in or scan the QR code. ELPH Band does not put personal information, such as the child's name or phone number where people can see it when it isn't needed.

What does ELPH stand for? Easy Lookup to Phone Home

If your child get's separated from you, all your child needs to do is show an adult his/her ELPH band. That adult can then call the 800# or scan the QR code to get in touch with you to reunite your child with you! It's that simple!

Once the QR code is scanned on a smartphone, a screen similar to the one below will pop up for them to get in touch with you.

To set up your ELPH band you will register it on a computer, or by scanning the QR code yourself and setting it up via your smartphone. Just a few simple questions and you will be registered. Once completed, you will get a text and email alert letting you know the account profile is active, and to verify the information has been entered correctly.

ELPH Bands are available in 3 sizes: Toddler (up to 5.75 inches), Child (up to 6.5 inches), and Adult (up to 7.5 inches). They are also available in two colors, Navy or Pink.

Buy it: ELPH Bands are $19.99 each and they come with 1 year of service. You can purchase here. After 1 year of service, you can renew your service with ELPH Band.

Connect with ELPH Band

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram

Now for the Giveaway!

TWO Lucky Readers will win an ELPH band of their choice, as well as a $125 Target Gift Card.

Giveaway is open to US Residents, void where prohibited.

Must be 18+.

Only one entrant per household, per address.

Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

Winner will be contacted via email and have 48 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen.

Giveaway ends October 31st, 2014 at 11:59pm EST.

Entry-Form

Disclosure: The participating bloggers were not compensated for this posting. All thoughts and opinions are those of our own and were not influenced in any way. Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google, and any other social media are not affiliated with this posting or giveaway. The participating bloggers are not responsible for prize fulfillment and shipment. Only one entrant per household, per address may enter. Winner is subject to eligibility verification. Winner will be contacted via email and will have 48 hours to respond. Failure to respond in a timely manner, a new winner will be chosen and you will forfeit your prize. This disclosure is done in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 10 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. If you have any questions about this event or would like to see your event hosted by Mom Powered Media, please email Darci@MomPoweredMedia.com

Erin Condren Holiday Collection Review & Giveaway!

Now I know it's only October but after trying to decided a very critical decision the past 2 days I realized I needed to get this up sooner rather than later.

HOLIDAY CARDS

Yes! That's right. It's time to discuss Holiday cards. Every year we have to decide personalized or generic store brand. Well, let me stop you right there and tell you - after you see the Erin Condren holiday cards you won't ever want to buy generic store brand cards again. Ever.

As most of you know my love for all things Erin Condren runs deep. Very deep. So there's no surprise that when I was asked to host a review for their Holiday collection I not only jumped at the chance but I squeeled with glee (no seriously, you probably heard me!)

So, here we go.

Amazing, right?Perfection is how I would describe this.

Of course these wouldn't be Erin Condren holiday cards if they didn't have a few types of cards to choose from.

Premium Cardstock CLASSIC, Double Thick FOIL, Premium Cardstock POSTCARD & Premium Cardstock NON Photo.

Personalization and Selection is one of the many reasons I choose Erin Condren for all my stationary, planning and card needs! Want photos on your card or maybe lots of photos? No worries, both are an option! There is even an option for no photos!

The prices are great too, very reasonable they start at as low as $1.95 and go up to $3.75. All come with envelopes which you get to choose the color of and even a choice of return labels to match!

As mentioned above in the photo there is even a choice between card stock. What do I mean? Well, see above where it says Double Thick? You can choose if you want Premium (130lb)  or Double Thick (260lb) - twice as nice! You can also pick if you want cards with rounded edges or straight. You can choose between a greeting that says Happy Holidays or Merry Christmas. You can add family names, pet names, you name it you can do it even wait for it - get FOIL cards!

Yep, that's right. FOIL CARDS. Beautifully hand stamped foil cards come in Fluer Feliz and Paisley.

There are so many gorgeous options to choose from 

I have tried for the last 2 days to choose the perfect ones for us and I finally decided on what cards I would go with after playing with a few ideas. This was so hard because lets face it ALL of them would be awesome! But choosing just one, was difficult. who knew? When there's so many beautiful options to choose from it can be a bit overwhelming but the more I thought about it, looked at the choices and then held these beautiful samples in my hand my mind was made up.

I can't share exactly what I ordered because I haven't gotten them yet, but I did choose FOIL! I am a huge sucker for EC foil. SO. GORGEOUS.

There are different quantities to choose from. 10-300, and if you need more I am sure you can contact them for more. I only chose 10 as I only send to a few select family members and didn't need a huge amount, but if that is what you need the option is there.

I would suggest ordering sooner rather than later. As the Holiday's approach I know for certain lots of people will be ordering. You don't want to miss out!

Also, can we please take a moment and talk about this wonderful Candle Erin Condren has?

Island Fleur. Wow, wow,WOW. This candle smells like nothing I have ever smelt before. I've tried a lot of candles, A LOT and none of them hold the scent like the Island Fleur and none of them are as pretty either. The smell isn't overwhelming, but it's clam and fills your house up with the smell of flowers and if you close your eyes you maybe could just imagine yourself somewhere on an island sipping on a piña colada! It's just that good. I'm in love. So much so I just had to order two more!

Alright, so now you've seen all that Erin Condren has to offer for Holiday Cards, so now is your chance to go order some! Below is a code you can even use to get 30% off until 10/31/2014. You can also click here to use my referral code and earn $10 off your first order!

Giveaway!

Of course the amazing and generous team over at Erin Condren wanted to give two special readers a shot at TWO $100 gift cards to ErinCondren.com to help purchase your Holiday Cards! Yep, that's right TWO WINNERS will each get One (1) $100 gift card each to ErinCondren.com

Thank you to ErinCondren.com for this wonderful giveaway. Giveaway is open WORLDWIDE.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post. I was compensated in some way for this review. However all opinions are mine and 100% true. 

Giveaway open worldwide. TWO WINNERS will receive 1 (one) $100 ErinCondren.com Gift Card each..  Winners will have 24 hours from prize announcement to claim  prize before a new winner will be chosen instead. Giveaway is open from October 16 - October 23 at 11:59p, winner will be chosen and posted/emailed the afternoon of the 24th . Good luck!