Guest post provided by Stamford American International School
As the world grows increasingly globalized and interconnected, it’s becoming more crucial than ever to foster a sense of community in children. Community-mindedness can act as a moral compass, guiding them to become more empathetic and respectful individuals. It helps them develop a sense of belonging and instills values that nurture positive relationships. Interacting at length with their society paves the way for children to learn valuable lessons that they’ll likely use throughout their lifetime.
When it comes to developing community-mindedness and social consciousness in children, the parent’s role extends far beyond the confines of the home. Parents are the primary architects in developing children's understanding and care for the world outside their personal sphere. If you’re only just beginning this journey with your child, know that it requires effort, consistency, and dedication. However, rest assured that the rewards are immeasurable as you watch your child grow into an engaged and responsible citizen. Here are four concrete things you can do to raise a community-minded child:
1. Send Them to a Community-Oriented School
A child’s school life involves much more than their academic performance. It's also about fostering an environment that encourages children to care about the world around them, especially considering that the school is likely to be the child’s first brush with larger society outside of the home. A community-oriented school that incorporates service-learning programs can thus be instrumental in nurturing these values. Service-learning is an educational approach that combines learning objectives with community service. It provides students with concrete opportunities to help address community needs, thereby developing their sense of social responsibility. Service-learning activities give children the opportunity to apply what they learn in the classroom to real-world problems, transforming these lessons from mere abstract concepts to highly relevant parts of their lived experiences. When choosing a school for your child, consider its approach to community engagement. Look for schools that have strong relationships with community organizations and promote participation in local events. The best international schools in Singapore, for instance, will likely have robust service-learning programs to help keep your child active and socially involved throughout their formative years. 
2. Talk with and Show Appreciation for Community Members
As social beings, people understand and connect with the world through interaction, and children are no different. Encourage your child to converse with various community members, from the friendly postman who brings daily letters to the diligent street sweeper who keeps the surroundings clean. These interactions can enhance their understanding of the different roles people play in keeping a community thriving. Teaching your child to express gratitude towards the people who help them every day is a simple yet powerful way of fostering respect for other people. Urge them to say 'thank you' to staff members at their school or service workers in shops and restaurants. Also show your appreciation and respect for the people around you openly because children learn best by observing the actions of those around them. Moreover, consider setting up opportunities for deeper engagement. Maybe your elderly neighbor has stories to share about the community's history, or the local baker can teach your child about the baking process. These experiences can enrich your child's understanding of their community and the diverse individuals who contribute to its fabric.
3. Teach Them about Politics and Social Issues
It’s never too early for children to start learning about the political and social structures that influence community life. Teaching them about these issues early on promotes active citizenship and helps them realize that their actions can make a difference in their society, even in small ways. Start with the basics of politics, such as what a government is, the importance of voting, and how laws are made. Use child-friendly resources such as books or educational TV shows to illustrate these concepts. Over time, you can ease your child into deeper discussions about more complex political and sociological concepts such as human rights and social justice. When discussing social issues, find ways to relate them to your child's experiences. For instance, don’t shun or shield your child from homeless people and instead use encounters with them as opportunities to talk about poverty and social services. Discuss news stories that highlight issues like pollution, racism, or gender inequality. Remember to keep these discussions age-appropriate, focusing on fostering empathy and understanding rather than overwhelming them with complex issues and technical jargon.
4. Find Age-Appropriate Volunteering Opportunities
Volunteering offers a hands-on approach to community engagement and allows your child to contribute to their community in tangible ways. In the process, they’ll also develop a range of useful skills such as teamwork and problem-solving. Look for volunteering opportunities that are appropriate for your child's age and interests. If your child finds they care deeply about environmental issues, for example, consider signing them up for a local tree-planting project. If they’re good with people, meanwhile, they could help out at a food bank or spend time with elderly residents at a nursing home. Volunteering not only teaches your child about the value of service, but it can also expose them to diverse experiences and perspectives. They’ll have the opportunity to interact and even form relationships with people from a wide array of social and cultural backgrounds, many of whom they likely would have been unable to meet otherwise. Raising a child who cares for their community is a rewarding journey that pays abundant dividends for their character development. Empower your child with the right tools and experiences, and they'll undoubtedly find ways to contribute positively to their society both as they grow up and well into adulthood.
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Guest post provided by No nonsense
Being a mother is one of the most meaningful and rewarding roles a person can take on, but it’s also one of the hardest. Between managing the household, taking care of the kids, and other duties, most moms are practically working 24/7. It’s no wonder that maternal burnout is a real and recognized phenomenon. A recent survey by a US-based all-in-one parenting platform revealed that 93 percent of mothers in the U.S. feel burned out at least occasionally, and nearly 45 percent are burned out most of the time.
Perhaps you’ve experienced that feeling of overwhelming exhaustion at one time or another as you try to juggle your numerous responsibilities as a mother. If so, you may need to squeeze in regular breaks in your routine and adopt habits that can help boost your depleted energy and refresh your tired mind and body. Otherwise, there’s a high chance you’ll suffer from burnout and hurt your physical and mental well-being as a result. If you’re looking for ways to recharge your mommy battery, here are several ideas you may want to consider: Practice a Relaxing Bedtime Routine Getting at least 7 hours of sleep a night is non-negotiable if you want to revitalize your exhausted body and mind. After all, a good night’s sleep is the most powerful body recharger. It helps your body repair itself, it helps boost immunity, and it triggers the release of hormones vital to fighting stress, infection, and inflammation. That’s why you should do everything you can to achieve sufficient and high-quality sleep. Train your kids to go to bed early and avoid staying up late watching television, using mobile devices, or doing other things that can reduce the time you spend in bed. More importantly, implement a relaxing bedtime routine to help you fall asleep faster and sleep longer. Perhaps you can take a warm bath, change into comfy clothes like an oversized shirt and soft cotton leggings, and listen to relaxing music to wind down and prepare your mind and body for sleep. Reserve One Day for Yourself If you want your battery to last for a whole week, you probably need an entire day to yourself so that you can decompress and nourish your body and soul. Perhaps you can ask your partner, in-laws, or your parents to take care of the kids on Saturdays so you have time to get a massage, have coffee with friends, go to the salon for hair treatments, or do anything that makes you happy and relaxed. You can also stay at home, if you want, and do your chosen self-care regimen therein. Whatever you choose, commit and enjoy the experience.. Exercise While it may appear to defeat the purpose of resting and recharging, incorporating physical activities into your regular schedule can be a remarkable way to boost your energy. That’s because exercise triggers the release of endorphins, the neurochemicals that improve mood, alleviate stress, and provide an overall sense of well-being. Instead of making you feel tired after engaging in moderate-intensity physical activity, endorphins provide a natural “high” or a burst of energy needed to carry out your mommy duties afterwards. Moreover, regular exercise can help you sleep better at night, so you’ll feel refreshed and energized the following day. Can’t squeeze in time to work out? Consider exercising with your kids. You can take a walk in the park, play tag in the yard, swim in the public pool, or follow kid-friendly exercise videos online. You can also do stretches or squats while waiting for the washing machine to finish a cycle or watching your children play. Engage in Creative Hobbies Recharging doesn’t only mean resting physically. More often than not, you need to recharge mentally to do your mommy duties properly and joyfully. To avoid being psychologically drained, consider engaging in creative pursuits, like quilting, photography, or watercolor painting during your free time. One study published in the Journal of Public Health found that creative hobbies are a meaningful vehicle for improving well-being. Find a hobby you’re interested in and make time to enjoy it. Take Regular Mommy Breaks Taking regular breaks from your busy day is necessary for you to be able to fight fatigue and replenish your energy. Learn to listen to your body. If you feel tired, stressed, and overwhelmed, let your children watch cartoons or play video games a little longer than usual so you can take a few moments to pause and do nothing. Close your eyes, light a scented candle, and relax. Better yet, give yourself at least 10 minutes a day to pause and recharge instead of waiting to reach your limit before taking a break. Perhaps you can make afternoon nap time for your kids mandatory if you have small children to help you get that much-needed rest. Or maybe you can introduce an engaging activity like doing puzzles or painting to keep your kids preoccupied while you try to refresh yourself. Hopefully, these tips gave you plenty of ideas on how you can recharge and acquire more energy to care for your kids and loved ones. Whether you adopt them entirely or modify them to suit your situation is up to you. The important thing is you exert effort and make changes to your everyday routine so you could protect your well-being. That way, you can avoid burnout and enjoy motherhood to the fullest. 
Guest post provided by Shop LC.
When most of us think of diamonds, we usually think of the classic round diamond shape. Due to the difference in cut properties, every diamond reflects light differently, giving each one a unique fire and brilliance. Although the round shape is quite famous, it is not the only one. If you want something different, a variety of other shapes are available to suit your individual style and taste.
The cut of a diamond relates to how well it is cut and polished. A well-cut diamond will sparkle and shine, whereas a poorly-cut diamond will be monotonous and lackluster. The finest diamond cut is precisely proportioned, symmetrical, and beautifully polished, allowing the most light to enter and emit more reflections. In this article, we'll discuss some of the best diamond cuts available that you should consider before buying a jewelry piece. 6 Different Diamond Cuts & How to Pick the Right One? 1. Round Cut Diamond Due to a large number of facets, the round-cut diamond is the most common shape of engagement rings. Due to its timeless appearance and beauty, it tends to develop the highest amount of sparkle. Round cut diamond is perfect for chic looks; the round has been carefully curated to produce the most sparkle among all other types. The brilliance and dispersion of a well-cut round diamond will impress any type of ring out there. Its intense glittering quality will make it appear even bigger, even though this diamond shape doesn't have the largest face-up area. If you're looking for something honest, loyal, and drawn to the culture, then this cut is what you need. It is perfect for someone who is always confident in their choices and wants to look bold. 2. Princess Cut Diamond The princess-cut diamond is the most popular and fancy used in paper clip jewelry. They are special because of the way they are cut and shaped ( in both square and rectangular shapes). One of the modern diamond shapes, this cut combines the shimmering effect of a round diamond and the pointed edges of a square one. You'll fall in love with the unique color reflected in this type. The princess-cut diamonds show distinct colors in each of the corners, while the color of other diamonds is displayed mainly in the center. The type symbolizes the risk-takers and is best for those who enjoy being in the limelight. If you also choose to behave like leaders and love challenging the norm, then a princess-cut diamond is for you. 3. Emerald Cut Diamond Emerald cut diamond is the preferred choice for anyone desiring a larger stone with a bit less price tag. It is well known for its length-wise straight cuts, which resemble steps. With the cuts in rectangular facets, the emerald diamond shape becomes something unique to create an elegant finish. The emerald-cut diamond beautifully showcases the diamond's originality. This type of open-style emerald cut symbolizes a big heart and clarity with nothing to hide. The inclusions present in this type make the color more apparent. Wearing a beautiful emerald-cut diamond ring reveals your classic character and taste for elegant behavior. 4. Radiant Cut Diamond This stone's unique shape adds to its allure. While it is frequently confused as a princess cut, this intricately made cut has seventy facets. This style is considered more useful and is ideal for active people. The radiant diamond shape has the same brilliance as the round diamond shape but is more modern and unique. The ones who wear brilliant-cut diamonds are lively and sociable. This unique cut also reflects the wearer's modern and simplified thinking. 5. Marquise Cut Diamond The cut is a football-like shape and will make a statement on your engagement band. The elongated shape, like the oval diamond, emphasizes the finger's length and appears bigger than other shapes of comparable carat weight. A marquise cut's form makes the diamond elegant, and your finger appears slimmer! The long, pointed outer shape also reflects the glamorous structure. They are also 10-25% less expensive than round diamonds of the same carat weight and look fantastic once set in modern engagement rings. Women who adore the marquise cut diamond have a rich taste and choose to stand out from the crowd. To avoid chipping and snagging, the tapered points of a marquise-cut diamond must be secured by prongs. Make certain that no prone tips are included. 6. Heart Cut Diamond Heart-shaped diamonds are the ultimate love sign. These diamonds must be symmetrical to look perfectly on the wearer's hand. Heart-shaped gemstones are ideal for the traditional romantic. This shape is unique and rare, frequently regarded as a more special or personal stone option. This stone is less famous than the current round or princess-cut diamonds. While this stone can be used in various jewelry items to shop personal jewelry, it is most commonly found in engagement rings. It is a literal representation of romance and affection. Heart-shaped diamonds are ideal for individuals who are sentimental and passionate. 
End Note
How much a diamond sparkles is directly influenced by its cut quality. An excellent-cut diamond is cut with ideal proportions, symmetry, and polish to maximize light refraction. A diamond with poor cutting appears lifeless and dull. For this reason, selecting a better cut quality will help you get a spectacular diamond. For many, selecting the ideal diamond can be challenging. We hope this article has given you a foundational understanding so you can confidently continue your diamond shopping. 
Guest post provided by Hue.
Deciding what to wear to your child’s school functions can be challenging as there are often no clear-cut rules, unlike ordinary events. There’s also the added pressure of wanting to leave a good impression or show your best self to teachers, administrators, and other parents without going overboard. After all, you’re representing your child, so the least you can do is appear presentable and wear outfits appropriate for the occasion.
Perhaps you often struggle with trying to figure out what to wear for different school functions. Or maybe you’re searching for outfit inspiration to make dressing up more fun and less stressful this school year. Either way, read on. This piece will offer pointers and outfit ideas that you can wear to various school functions, from sporting events to fundraisers.
Sports Activities
Supporting your athletic child while sitting on the bleachers naturally requires a casual ensemble. However, it doesn’t mean you should just wear sweatpants, workout clothes, and similar pieces that you typically wear while lounging at home. What you need are comfortable yet dressier options that make you look and feel good. You can wear a white sweater dress under an oversized beige knit sweater paired with quality black leggings and white leather sneakers. Finish the look with a black crossbody bag for a chic yet relaxed appearance. You can also put on an off-white hoodie, an army green puffer vest, dark wash skinny jeans or denim leggings, and low-top trainers. Accessorize with a dark navy beanie to complete the look. 
Parent-Teacher Conferences
You never know what can happen during parent-teacher conferences. Besides meeting with your child’s teachers, you might also explore students’ exhibits and booths, mingle with other parents, or take a tour of the campus. As such, you need an outfit that allows you to sit, stand, and move around comfortably, not to mention something stylish so you can walk with a spring in your step. When in doubt, your best bet is to go for a fit-and-flare dress in a neutral hue, as this style can help you create an elegant and feminine vibe. Wear it with a cardigan and pointy flats or low heels that complement the color of your dress to tie everything together. If you want to wear pants, consider selecting dressier types like cigarette or stove pipe pants. Pair them with an asymmetrical top, a stylish blouse, or a white button-down shirt. As for shoes, closed-toe pumps, kitten-heel sandals, and strappy heels are great options.
Field Trips
If you’ve signed up to chaperone your kid’s school trip, you need something that’s not only fashionable but also comfy and functional. That’s because there’s a great chance you’ll spend considerable time on your feet managing and keeping an eye on playful children. When selecting clothes, remember to consider the weather and the itinerary. Stay comfy and warm with a chunky sweater, jeans, and ankle boots with padded insoles during the cooler months. For warmer days, you can wear a short-sleeve button-up shirt, a dark-colored t-shirt, or a linen tunic. You can pair them with denim leggings and comfy rubber sandals or espadrilles for a cute summer vibe. Whatever pieces you choose, make sure they’re suitable for academic environments. That means tank tops and shorts are a no-no, even if the weather is hot and humid. You may also need to bring additional layers to keep you comfortable throughout the day. Consider packing a shawl or a lightweight jacket that you can readily use to stay warm when visiting museums, auditoriums, and similar places that are usually chilly. 
Plays, Recitals, or Talent Shows
Attending school plays, recitals, talent shows, and similar functions where your child will go on stage and perform is a remarkable opportunity to show them that you value their skills and talents. When planning a suitable outfit, you may want to avoid overly casual pieces, like graphic tees and distressed jeans. Instead, look for dressier options that suit the venue. If the show is in the school auditorium or local hall, you can opt for a smart casual outfit—something neat and polished but not too formal. For instance, you can wear a black blazer over a printed blouse and go for dark-wash, well-fitted jeans and black heels to achieve a relaxed yet sophisticated look. When attending school shows in formal venues, try to dress up a little bit more, especially during the evenings. A black wrap dress paired with black heels is a great option, as it flatters the figure and makes you look taller. Add a splash of color to your ensemble with statement earrings or bracelets. You can also wear a stylish blouse with a pencil skirt in a dark shade and pointed-toe heels. Complete your elegant look with a well-made handbag that complements your outfit.
Fundraising Events
School fundraisers are important events where you can meet the school administrators, stakeholders, and other important people. So, make sure to dress up in a way that makes you feel confident and empowered. Consider a well-fitted black or dark gray dress with a classic cut and stylish black heels. You can also opt for a printed dress, but try to stick to delicate and subtle prints on a neutral-colored background. Moreover, keep your accessories simple and classy to create a polished and put-together appearance. Hopefully, this piece gave you plenty of ideas on how you can dress up for various school functions. Ultimately, the key is to keep your outfits simple and classy, even if the event requires more casual attire. Remember, what you wear can affect people’s perception of you and, indirectly, how they see your child. Thus, you may want to make an effort to ensure that what you wear always reflects your best self.
These myths may make you reconsider no medical exam life insurance as an option for you.
This is a sponsored guest post provided by Responsival. 
When people think of life insurance policies that do not require a medical exam, they most often assume those types of insurance are reserved only for people with serious medical issues. However, that is absolutely not the case. While this type of insurance is a great option for people with health issues, it can also be an option for people in perfect health. This misconception, on top of the many other misconceptions people often have about life insurance with no medical exams ultimately ends up unnecessarily limiting the options people have for life insurance types. Let’s debunk some of those myths and discuss some of the most popular life insurance types that do not require a medical exam. Debunking the Biggest Misconceptions About No Medical Exam Life Insurance What you believe to be the case about no medical life insurance may not actually be true. 
Getting life insurance is a big decision, so of course, those shopping around for a policy that suits their needs want to do their due diligence when researching. Because many people have so many misconceptions about no medical exam life insurance, they may not consider this type of insurance as a legitimate option. With these 7 myths explained, no medical life insurance may be a serious contender when searching for life insurance policies.
Myth #1: Life Insurance With No Medical Exams Are The Only Option For People With Pre-Existing Conditions People with pre-existing conditions commonly believe that they will not qualify for traditional life insurance policies or that their life insurance premiums will be completely unaffordable, thus leaving them with no medical exam life insurance as their only option. While each situation will be evaluated by an insurance carrier, many people with pre-existing conditions would be surprised to learn that they can still get a traditional policy at an affordable rate. In fact, there are very few pre-existing conditions that would disqualify someone from a traditional life insurance policy. Some of the medical conditions that may disqualify someone from traditional life insurance may include but are not limited to:
Myth #2: People Can Only Get No Medical Exam Life Insurance If They Are Old Age is a determining factor that does indeed play part in life insurance premiums and rates. Generally speaking, someone young is expected to have a longer life expectancy than someone who is a bit older and therefore is a lower risk to life insurance companies. Just because someone is young and in good health doesn’t mean they can’t also consider life insurance with no medical exams. While they are more likely to get a lower premium and higher coverage amounts with traditional life insurance options, young people can still get quotes for policy options that do not require a medical exam. While some types do require applicants to be within a certain age range or have certain health issues, not all do. So, both traditional and no medical life insurance options should be considered. On the flip side, just because someone is older, that doesn’t necessarily mean that no medical exam life insurance policies are their only option. Traditional insurance policies may have a higher premium rate and lower coverage, but older adults are still very likely to be approved for a policy of some type if they are in good health. Myth #3: People Only Qualify for No Medical Exam Life Insurance If They Are Sick While life insurance policies that do not require a medical exam are great for people who have been denied coverage from traditional policies because of their health, that’s not the only reason why someone may want to get this type of policy. In fact, people in perfect health may still prefer policies that don’t require a medical exam. Here are some common examples of why that may be the case:
Myth #4: No Medical Exam Life Insurance Applications Will Not Ask Any Medical Questions Of course, much like the name suggests, when applying for life insurance with no medical exam, there will be no medical exam needed. However, many people assume that the application process requires no medical information at all. In actuality, that is dependent on the type of life insurance policy someone applies for, so someone may still need to answer questions about their own health or their family’s health history. For example, a simplified life insurance application will ask the applicant a few questions about their medical history in order to determine the coverage and premium amount. On the other hand, guaranteed life insurance will not ask any medical questions at all. Myth #5: No Medical Exam Life Insurance Is Unaffordable Typically speaking, a life insurance policy that does not require a medical exam does tend to be more expensive than that of a traditional life insurance policy. Because companies do not take as much medical information into consideration, policyholders are automatically considered a higher risk. That’s why premiums tend to be a bit more expensive. What someone considers affordable is dependent on their own personal situation. However, with options to work with a broker or an agent or shop around to compare quotes online, it is possible to find an affordable life insurance policy that does not require a medical exam. Myth #6: Life Insurance Policies With No Medical Exams Can Provide Similar Coverage as Traditional Life Insurance Policies When comparing the coverage of traditional life insurance policies to policies that do not require a medical exam, more often than not, policyholders are often able to get a much higher amount of coverage with a traditional policy. A no medical exam life insurance policy, like guaranteed life insurance, may only cover up to $25,000, whereas a traditional life insurance policy can often offer a much higher coverage amount. Sacrificing a medical exam for life insurance does come at a cost in most cases. However, many people are able to find the appropriate amount of coverage they need as they shop around for different options. Myth #7: Coverage Is Instant Once Approved Many people assume that when they are approved for a life insurance policy without taking a medical exam, they have instant coverage. This is not always the case and absolutely depends on the type of life insurance policy. With a simplified life insurance policy, the policyholder is covered as soon as they are approved. With a guaranteed life insurance policy, the policyholder has to go through a waiting period between 2-3 years depending on the company and the policy details. It is always best to double-check when the coverage goes into effect when getting a life insurance policy. Common Types of No Medical Exam Life Insurance Policies Explaining the top 3 most common types of life insurance options that do not require a medical exam 
No medical exam life insurance policies are not just for people with serious medical conditions, though it can be a good option in those instances. As people shop around for a life insurance policy that works for them, no medical exam policies should be considered in the running just in case one does fit their lifestyle and needs. Of the most common types of no medical life insurance policies, people typically consider accelerated term life insurance, simplified life insurance, and guaranteed life insurance.
Accelerated Term Life Insurance While there used to be a time when someone could only get life insurance through a broker or an agent, that’s just not the case anymore. With more and more life insurance options popping up online, life insurance policies are only getting more accessible. Now, it’s even possible to get no exam term life insurance policies under an accelerated process. Accelerated term life insurance is not something that’s offered by every life insurance provider, but it is becoming much more popular. It’s the same as a traditional life insurance policy, however, the application is much simpler and faster. In this case, an applicant would provide details about previous health records, financial information, and lifestyle habits. With these details, companies opt to use algorithms to bypass the need for a human underwriter to review the application. Depending on the applicant’s situation, they can get a fairly high coverage amount for an affordable rate. Despite the simplicity, if someone is in poor health or has a family history of serious medical conditions, they may be denied coverage. An accelerated approach to term life insurance is a great option for people in good health who need coverage quickly, but may not be the best option if they have serious health issues. Guaranteed Life Insurance Guaranteed life insurance is a common type of policy that does not require a medical exam. In this instance, when someone applies for a guaranteed life insurance policy, not only is the medical exam not required but there is also no requirement for the applicant to answer any type of health questionnaire or give any information about medical history records. In an instance where health problems disqualify someone from getting any other type of life insurance, guaranteed life insurance is typically the best option. Because many of the people who get guaranteed life insurance are in poor health, life insurance providers view guaranteed life insurance policyholders as a high risk. Because of that, guaranteed life insurance policies have small death benefits, high premiums, and long waiting periods until death benefits kick in. While it does depend on the company and the policy, people who get guaranteed life insurance can expect to only get a death benefit between around $2,000-$25,000. The waiting period for this type of insurance is on average between 2-3 years, so if the policyholder dies before that waiting period is over, the death benefit is not paid out. With this being said, life insurance providers will repay the premiums of the policyholder, oftentimes with interest. Simplified Life Insurance Simplified life insurance is a type of no medical exam policy with an extremely short and simple application process. While the applicant doesn’t have to take the medical exam, the application for simplified life insurance policies does tend to ask a few health questions, though that portion is fairly brief. The health questionnaire allows life insurance companies to assess an applicant's health risks in a modified format so that they can set appropriate death benefits and premiums. While the process of getting a traditional life insurance policy can take anywhere from 1-2 months, a simplified life insurance policy may only take days for coverage to go into effect once approved. Beyond the benefit of not taking a medical exam, people typically opt for a simplified life insurance policy if they need coverage quickly. In comparison to guaranteed life insurance, simplified life insurance policies may offer a higher death benefit, which can be anywhere between $5,000-$100,000. Though premiums are a bit higher than traditional life insurance policies, simplified life insurance policies are a good route for people who need life insurance quickly. Finding a life insurance policy can be a tough decision, and limiting the options only makes that decision harder. With these misconceptions about no medical exam life insurance policies explained, this type of insurance may no longer be ruled out as an option. Though no medical exam life insurance policies may not be the best option for everyone, they could be the right option for you. 
Guest post provided by Bounce - instantly find locations nearby to drop off your luggage wherever you go!
At the western end of Long Island, Brooklyn is a fantastic place for a family trip with all of the beaches and parks in the borough. It may be small, but it has the most people in the state of New York with over 2.6 million residents. Everyone has heard of the Brooklyn Bridge, but there is a lot more to Brooklyn than that.
Brooklyn has over 30 museums with a children’s museum, toy museum, and museum of food and drink that kids of all ages will love. And just a quick train, bus, or Uber ride away, you cannot forget the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty! But you cannot bring your luggage, so drop it off at a Brooklyn luggage storage facility before starting to explore. 
Museums
Theme Parks
Attractions
Animal Fun
Between all these visits, you have to stop and eat. Shake Shack is a favorite for families with locations throughout Brooklyn and New York City. Stage Door Deli and Pizzeria in lower Manhattan has sandwiches, pizza, and all kinds of other yummy foods. And for dessert, go to Laboratorio del Gelato in NYC's Lower East Side (or New JerseY) where they have 15 kinds of chocolate and 40 flavors of fruit gelato.
To further plan your visit (or staycation if you're a NYC local), check out some of these great resources: 
Guest Post sponsored & provided by Empire Movers & Storage
The function of the home environment is more crucial than ever in this period of uncertainty. Our homes have become so much more than just houses. Since the pandemic started, our homes have pretty much become our own little universe, incorporating everything from an office, a full-time restaurant, an entertainment venue, and a place of calm. It can be a challenge, but can also be very achievable to have one home act in all these seemingly contradictory positions.
The past year has influenced every aspect of our lives and has most definitely changed our habits and everything we’ve known, probably forever. It’s only natural that it influences the way we decorate our houses and even their architecture from now on. It’s very probable that some of the trends are here to stay for a while and that more and more households will start adopting them. So let’s check it out and see exactly how the pandemic has influenced home designs! 
The home office
The majority of people are now working from their homes as conventional offices remain closed. Until the pandemic hit, a home office was seen as a much more informal venue for payment of bills, emails or conducting the occasional calls. But since home offices are now more permanent offices, they need to be comfortable, fitted with spacious working areas, comfortable chairs and increased storage to accommodate significantly more heavy uses. Going forward, the real concern is how to handle two adults working from home and two children studying from home at the same time. A home office with a door is a must. A smart solution is flexible spaces and nooks in the entire home that can be used as an office if necessary. But a spare bedroom, or loft space, would be ideal for this. Create an in-home working area that is free from distractions, comfortable and that can feel separate from the home environment. If you don’t have a spare room available and you are short on space, even a partition can do the trick!
Kids learning and playing spaces
With school moving to zoom, it is necessary to try and minimize distraction for the little ones as well, as much as possible. Now, many recognize the need to have a dedicated room equipped with everything needed to be able to function to full capacity. The kids learning space may not, however, be a large, traditional room. These spaces can be made more like objects or pods, floating in the yard or attached to a garage with new furniture. If the family stays home, having a special place to play for your kids can be very useful. The separation of the playground from the bedrooms would help arrange things and keep the children occupied. If you happen to have a room under your stairs, that can be an excellent way to use it - turning it into a kid’s play area. The Narnia wardrobe to a secret playroom can be a perfect way to make the room exciting for children.  
Multiple use spaces
The more we sit at home, the more we feel the need for versatility in our homes. The living room is no longer just a living room or just a dining room. These multifunctional areas take account of this new reality and integrate innovative ways to turn an appropriate area quickly into a home office, a classroom, lounge, fitness center or a playroom. A lot of light, efficient artificial lighting, storage and Internet access are key to make living spaces work for a variety of purposes. The open plan was a movement that resisted the time test, whether it is the first building of a house or a renovation. But the open plan doesn't always succeed when it comes to privacy – and efficiency drops without privacy for work or schools. The open plan has to be rethought as families continue to work and school from home. The modern home must be multifunctional, both before and after the pandemic. By redefining these wide open spaces, we are better equipped to live, learn, operate and play in one place: our homes. For instance, a family may replace an extensive dining table with an optional drop-out to create room for a nook or an office, if a house contains an eatery as well as a formal dining area. 
New colors and quality furniture
New decorative design patterns have already started in COVID-19. People want to build a peaceful place at home in calm colors. Softer fabrics, brighter colors, and more natural light become common in the middle of the confusion and turmoil outside to create a relaxed environment. On the other hand, bold colors encourage homeowners to celebrate new ideas and cultures from the comfort of their homes instead of traveling or spending time on events. They can stimulate imagination that helps people in the same routine. With people spending more time at home, they want to invest in quality furniture that will be able to endure heavy usage and last for years. This applies in particular to home offices, where cheap desks were once very popular. But remote employees are investing in quality desks, chairs and storage because they expect to operate from home in foresight.
Bigger kitchen
It might not have been seen so before the pandemic (well, at least not for those not passionate about cooking) but a big kitchen makes a huge difference. Especially when you have a bigger family for which you are cooking every meal. It can be difficult to prepare every meal at home in a small kitchen. Not to mention that if you have repurposed your dining room, your kitchen might need to double as that as well. A walk-in cupboard and a large island will make an enormous difference. Any other things to search for are double islands, kitchen wine rooms, hot drills, double ovens, pans and personalized cabinets with personal storage when designing larger kitchens. 
Outside spaces
Our homes and backyards become cultural centers for those who engage in social distance, as restaurants, pubs, and other places become difficult to navigate—if not completely shut down. Home outdoor areas fill a void of missed outdoor opportunities and create a safer space for meetings with friends or neighbors. Our love of nature and of the outside seems to have improved considerably after the start of the pandemic. As a result, there is a growing demand for home designers to provide private exterior spaces for all kinds of homes. The architects will be responsible for developing ways in which the outside can be integrated into even the compact houses, testing roof gardens, micro-backyards, porches and balconies.
About the Author
Michaela Smith is the marketing director of Empire Movers, a well known commercial moving company based in New York, with over 15 years of experience on the market. 
Guest post, sponsored & provided by Oz Moving & Storage
As the East Coast’s crown jewel, New York City attracts millions of tourists and permanent residents a year. Those who’ve visited or moved there say that its pull is almost irresistible. Once you experience the fast-paced life, the art scene, and the diversity of NYC, you can never go back. New York always stays there, at the back of your mind.
Has The Big Apple enchanted you as well? In that case, you’re probably already thinking of trying your luck in the most exciting city in the world. Before you do that, though, it might be wise to learn what this move would entail. We’ve asked Oz Moving to give us some insight, and here is what they said:
1. You’ll Probably Need a Roommate
New York City isn’t cheap — in fact, it’s one of the ten most expensive cities in the world. Even if we just count groceries, utility bills, and rent, you’d still need over $2,000 a month to cover it all. Add to that entertainment, hobbies, and nightlife expenses, and that number grows to at least $3,000! Of course, these estimates are only true for more affordable areas of NYC. If you want to live in Manhattan, for instance, you’ll need a far bigger budget. So make sure to choose your location wisely! And even if you do settle for a more affordable neighborhood (like my personal favorite, Bay Ridge), singles and couples without kids will do well to find a roommate. Even families with a legal basement or bedroom to spare will find it worthwhile considering renting out their extra space! Splitting the rent cost with someone will bring a huge relief to your budget and open up many opportunities. You’ll no longer need to sit holed up at home, trying to save money. Finally, you’ll have enough to explore the many things the city has to offer! And do you know what the best part is? It’s incredibly easy to find a roommate in NYC. Everyone’s in the same boat, so all you need to do is look up some roommate offers and choose the one you like. Alternatively, you can post that you’re looking for a roommate on one of these sites, and you’re sure to start receiving calls in no time. 
2. You May Have to Pay a Broker’s Fee
Finding a good place to rent is extremely difficult in NYC. After all, you’re competing with thousands of other people, and the best apartments find tenants in a matter of hours. Even once you do come across something you like and within your budget, you might discover that you have to pay a broker’s fee. That usually comes as a surprise, as it’s not nearly as common in other cities. So, what exactly is a broker’s fee? Well, landlords often hire brokers to post their listings online and connect them with potential tenants. Naturally, brokers don’t do that for free — they always charge a certain fee for their services. This fee usually amounts to around 12–15 percent of a year’s rent. And instead of paying themselves, landlords often put that responsibility on the new tenants. Now, the broker’s fee is quite controversial, and we’re sure you can see why. That’s why it was almost banned last year — at least for brokers that you haven’t hired. However, this ban was temporarily blocked, so many landlords still ask their tenants to pay the fee. All that might change in a few months, but for now, don’t be surprised if you encounter it. Of course, you can also find no-fee apartments and avoid this issue altogether. But the competition for those is fierce, so you have to be really quick. 
3. Be Ready to Leave Some Belongings Behind
Although expensive, apartments in NYC are typically quite small. You won’t have the same kind of space as you did in your house in the suburbs or countryside. That may be unpleasant at first, but you’ll quickly get used to it. However, you might not have such an easy time leaving your belongings behind. Whether you like it or not, though, you’ll have to get rid of some things. Give some to your family and friends, donate or sell others, and throw out those that can’t find a new home. Keep only the essentials and items that hold the most value to you. And don’t worry — you’ll quickly acquire new belongings as you live your new life in NYC. 
4. Having a Car Might Be a Hassle
Normally, it’s better to have your own car in a big city — how else would you explore all it has to offer? But driving in NYC often turns into quite a hassle, so up to 56% of New Yorkers don’t own a car. Instead, they use the highly efficient bus and subway system to get around. There's also walking, several ferries, Citi Bike, and of course taxi / Uber / Lyft etc! So, why are cars such an issue in New York? The main reason is, of course, the lack of parking space. When you go somewhere by car, keep in mind that you’ll need at least 30 minutes to find a parking spot. And once you do, it’s likely to be expensive. Street parking when you return home can take half an hour to find as well, or if you rent a spot, it can cost hundreds of dollars a month. Simply put, public transport is a much better investment! 
In Conclusion
Moving to a big city like New York can be intimidating, especially if you’ve never lived in a place like that. Still, we can confidently say that it’s worth the initial struggle. In New York, you’ll encounter possibilities and opportunities that you would never have found anywhere else. So take a leap of faith and move to NYC as soon as you can! For those moving here with a family, I think you'll find this page helpful! The following is a sponsored guest post by a company I'm pretty excited about - Fittedtot.com!! Fittedtot.com is a baby and toddler clothes rental service that allows you to have unlimited pre-styled outfits delivered right to your door. Our little ones grow so fast but unfortunately those adorable yet pricey outfits you buy them do not. Don’t get stuck with the of clutter of outgrown clothes with next to no resale value. With fittedtot.com, you will pay a monthly fee and we will send you a box full of outfits that you can have your child wear as much or as little as you like. When you’re done with those clothes, just send them back and we’ll send you a new box! You can update your child’s size at anytime. Please visit our site for more information!  Note from Heather: I had vaguely heard of Baby Planning & Maternity Concierge while pregnant, but didn't really consider it as I just assumed it was something way out of my price range. I planned my wedding all by myself, after all. *whoop whoop* Though, that was friggin' hard... Anyway, here's some info about what Baby Planners can do for you, straight from the source! Thank you to Pitter Patter Baby Planners for taking the time to explain! You may or may not have heard of a baby planner before. Many of those who have heard of baby planners maintain a negative view of them as taking advantage of new, nervous parents and believe that a mother’s instinct will instantly kick in and take care of many of their questions and concerns. While this may be true for some people, it is not the case for all new parents. Asking for help during the transition into parenthood is not only okay, it is widely accepted in most of the world. In many other countries around the world, the postpartum period is treated in a special way. Mothers are given the opportunity to rest and bond with their baby while family/friends take care of the household chores and other duties for at least 6 weeks after baby's birth. Not only is this to help mom recover from the physical, mental and emotional stress of childbirth, but it is also important in promoting a positive attachment between the baby and her parents. Not everyone is so lucky to have their family/friends pitch in to help after the birth of a child. Also, family/friends are not always up-to-date on the best/safest products and services for babies. At Pitter Patter Baby Planners, we want to help take care of new and expecting parents to make the transition into parenthood as smooth as possible. We offer services such as introduction to baby gear, assistance with setting up and managing a baby registry, and organizing baby's nursery. For those in search of additional baby-related services, such as childproofing, sleep consultant, or doula services, don’t fret; we also provide concierge services to find you the most reliable businesses in Central NJ. In addition to baby planning services, Pitter Patter Baby Planners offers childbirth education classes, breastfeeding counseling, and psychotherapy for postpartum depression, newborn care class, and The Happiest Baby on the Block™ class. Interested in documenting baby's first precious moments? We have a professional photographer who can capture this most special event in your life in a fun, natural way and in your home environment. In fact, all of our services can be provided in home. We will also travel into NYC and Northern NJ, for a nominal fee. For more information or to register for one of our services, please call 866-836-7916 or email us: info@pitterpatterbp.com. Meet the Pitter Patter Team:  Maria is a licensed clinical social worker, who has devoted her career to helping new parents and babies make the most of their first moments together. She is an experienced psychotherapist, who has worked with children and adults providing individual, family, and group counseling. Maria is also a mother of two precocious little boys, ages 4 and 2.  Melanie is currently a Registered Nurse in the Maternal Child Services department at a medical center awarded an international designation as a Baby-Friendly hospital. She gained great experience and passion caring for mothers and babies in antepartum, labor & delivery, and postpartum areas. Along with all of Melanie’s professional experience, she is also a mother of two very active toddlers, so she understands the stress of being a busy working mom.  Ivelisse has an educational background in Communication Arts and well over 22 years experience in Television Production. She is also a very proud aunt of two adorable boys. Her camera is ever-present to capture their first steps and giggles. In addition to her skills as a baby photographer, Ivelisse is also a Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician and will go to your home to teach you how to properly use child safety seats and seat belts so that you can travel safely with your family.
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About ME:I'm a NYC metro area mom blogger living in NJ with my Japanese husband & our 3 kids (twins plus 1), focusing on fun and honest product and travel reviews, saving moms time finding the best for their families! Find what you need in the menu bar or search section above! 
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