How To Prepare Your Child For A Standardized Test

So, It's Time for a Standardized Test...

Standardized tests are a common strategy applied to gauge a student’s learning capability and the school’s or teacher’s performance. There is a common misconception about standardized tests among parents that these tests are designed to evaluate school performance and don’t necessarily judge students' abilities. 

However, standardized tests are an important part of a student's academic life. In some cases, standardized tests are essential for grade promotion, graduation, or even securing a driving license. As a parent, it is your duty to prepare your children for this test, so they can deliver their best.

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How To Prepare Your Child For A Standardized Testing: Relaxing the day before is always a good idea!

What Is a Standardized Test?

A standardized test is a testing system that is based on a standard approach. In standardized tests, the question is the same for everyone, the duration of the test is the same for everyone, and even the evaluation process of answers remains the same for every student. 

Independent school entrance examination (ISSE), California achievement test (CAT), Secondary School Admission Test  (SSAT), Preliminary scholastic aptitude test (PSAT), and General Educational Development test (GED) are some commonly-known standardized tests.

Why Standardized Tests Are Used?

A standardized test is a tool applied to evaluate the effectiveness of institutional practice.  It provides a uniform platform to measure the performance of schools and students. A standardized test can gather information about the state education system, a school program, or the performance of a single student. It helps to determine a student's strengths or weaknesses and to certify their ability.

Different Methods of Standardized Test

Standardized tests are designed to evaluate the aptitude of a student. Unlike the regular tests that measure the subject-specific knowledge, the standardized test evaluates creativity, verbal ability, abstract reasoning, and mechanical ability. There are different methods of standardized methods. The most common methods adopted by schools are true or false questions, multiple-choice questions, and essay questions.

What Should Your Child Bring to a Standardized Test?

There are different rules for different tests. If students are allowed a calculator, you should check whether the model is approved by the authority. If your calculator is not approved then you should check out a smart site with good reviews for buying another model of calculator. Pen, Pencils, watch, water, and other essentials should be with your child while attending a standardized test.

How Do You Prepare Your Child For Standardized Tests?

Parents can play an important role in preparing a child for a standardized test. There are a number of ways that you can take an active role in your child’s preparation for a test. Let’s read on to know more about them.

Know About the Test

Usually, teachers notify parents before a standardized test. You should know the purpose of the test and whether the result will affect your child or the school. Also, make sure you know the exact schedule of the test and whether you need to prepare your child for the test.

Communicate With Your Child

Communicate with your child about the test. Try to find out if he/she is prepared for it. If there is any area or subject that they are less than confident about, try to solve the issues with them. If necessary, go through the previous mistakes and review them. Practicing more will boost their confidence.

Build a Positive Mindset

A positive mindset can make a huge difference in test performance. As a parent, you should try to build up your child’s confidence. Try to convey the message that you are 100% confident about them. No matter how the result is, you would be glad if they try their best.

Go Through the Test Instructions

Review the test instructions with your child. Make clear how much time will be provided and how many questions are to be answered. Try to convey the importance of that particular test to your kid; it will instill a ‘can do’ attitude within them. Tell them they should try to answer all the questions, even if they are unsure about the answer, as it will build their confidence and critical thinking skills.

Follow a Healthy Routine

A good night's sleep can have a huge impact on test performance. Try to get your child to bed early so that she can be relaxed on the test day. Most of the time, students' bad performance on a test can be tied back to the reason they lacked a good sleep the night before. Also, follow healthy eating habits that will ensure your child’s physical well being.

Build a Relaxing Atmosphere on Test Day

On the test day, stay cheerful and relaxed. Make some nutritious breakfast that will provide stamina throughout the test. Avoid foods that can cause any digestive issues to your child. Overall, follow a regular routine that your child follows for any regular test. Give some words of encouragement to them, so they feel confident.

Debrief After the Test

After the test, go through the parts that were tough for your child. Talk to your child about how they feel about the test. Try to get an insight into how they dealt with the problems they faced. It will help them process her own strategies and do better the next time.

How to Deal With Pre Test Anxiety

Some students develop anxiety over facing a test. Needless to say, extreme anxiety should be treated so that it can't have any negative effect on the test. If your children feel anxious about the test, then you have to put things in perspective for them. Tell them no matter how they perform, you will be proud of them just for braving the test.

Melt Anxiety Card Deck for Kids

On a final note, while standardized tests are not high stake tests, they can have an impact on your child’s studies. So prepare for the tests on a regular basis by checking your child's homework and their study progress. Be an active part of their academic life, so she feels encouraged. Your involvement in their studies can make a big difference to both their academic performance and personal growth.

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What is a Standardized Test? How do you Prepare your Child?

How to Throw a Birthday Party People Will Always Remember

Throw a Birthday Party Tips

Looking for the perfect gift to give a loved one for their next birthday? Research shows that experiences are much better remembered and received than tangible gifts. Throwing a big bash is the perfect way to celebrate a birthday milestone. With the right birthday party planning tips, you can even make the event more entertaining and memorable. 

 Hosting the party at a home gives you much more flexibility over the event date and other details, but read on for more ideas on where to host a birthday party in case your home isn't the best option. These tips on how to throw a memorable birthday party will help to impress everyone on your party guest list. 

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Throw the perfect Birthday Party with these tips!

Pick the Perfect Theme

• One of the key tips to plan a birthday party is to pick a theme that ties in all of the party elements. This includes party decor, games, menus, invites, favors, and other birthday party details.

• Many adult party hosts even plan a signature cocktail around the theme of the party. You can do the same for a child's birthday party, think: goblin green punch, butterbeer, or a colorful layered  smoothie.

• For adult birthday parties, popular party theme choices include: The Roaring 20's, Casino Night, Fiesta, Mystery Dinners, and Luaus. You can also plan the party around a special holiday, like St. Paddy's Day. A themed party encourages guests to dress up, so be sure to add dress attire requirements the party invitations.

Gamer's Theme Party Invitations.

Decorations are an important factor when learning how to throw a memorable birthday party with style. Be sure to order party supplies that fit the theme of the event. Top decor ideas include balloon arches, banners, table settings, and floral arrangements. 

Decorate with Classy Balloons for an Adult's Birthday Party.

Set a Fun and Simple Location and Time

• Picking the right venue and location is key for how to plan a birthday party for adults. Of course, it's best to finalize your guest list before choosing a location. This way you have a better idea of how large of a space you'll need. You don't want to end up with too small a space and there's no need to pay for a large space if not needed. 

• Another venue option is to head to the beach or lake. Guests can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball games, and camping. Make sure you research the open container policy for these types of locations. You also want to ensure there's are restrooms and a nearby pavilion in case of bad weather. 

• Pick a venue that offers fun activities. Try a bowling alley, trampoline park, or escape the room venue. Renting a private room in a restaurant is another simple way to provide a more intimate setting. 

• A special tip is to keep the location easy enough for guests to attend. Meaning they won't need to take time off from work or make expensive travel arrangements to accommodate attending your birthday party. If you really want people to show up, choose a location that's familiar with locals and easy for out of towners to find.

• Keep it casual with a simple backyard soiree. Host a barbecue with fun outdoor games and a firepit. Be sure to have a weather backup plan, like renting a tent in case of rain or making space in your garage.

• Of course, it's best to have the event on a Saturday or Sunday to ensure the best availability of guests. Early afternoon is also ideal for event timing. Many families have sporting events on the weekend and others enjoying sleeping in, so an afternoon party gives them time to plan around personal and family obligations.

Create a Delicious Menu

• An impressive and delicious party food menu makes birthday events even more memorable. Choose heavy appetizers or a buffet-style meal. Serving cocktails and light canapes is a popular choice for an afternoon birthday party for adults.

• An always favorable idea is to grill hot dogs and hamburgers. Then, serve a few different salads and appetizers. Include favorites like a meat and cheese board, veggie tray, and chips and dips.

• It's creative to try and tie your menu in with the party theme. For a fiesta-style event, have a make your own taco bar. Include chips, salsa, guacamole, and margaritas.

• Decide ahead of time if you 're going to make all of the food, host a potluck party, or hire a caterer. Catering gives you more time and energy to enjoy the party. Yet, it's the more expensive option.

• Make sure you have enough supplies, including: cups, cutlery, napkins, and dinnerware. You should also serve a variety of drink options, including: wine, beer, cocktails, non-alcoholic beverages, and water.

• Don't forget some type of dessert for guests to enjoy. Maybe you create a themed custom-made cake, cupcakes, or a variety of bite-sized sweets.

• Get a final guest count with RSVP's, so you know how much food to serve. It's smart to have extra drinks and snacks on hand in case the party runs late into the night. No one wants to leave the best birthday party ever!

Make Sure There's Good Entertainment

• The best adult birthday party ideas should include unique entertainment. This keeps energy levels up and avoids guests from getting bored and leaving early.

• When hosting a fun birthday party, music is a essential party element.  The right style of music will improve the mood of your guests and influence your guest's level of happiness.

• Hire a local band or DJ to play music. A less-expensive option is to set up Spotify to play through a speaker system or Amazon Music through an Alexa device. Another fun idea, is to rent a karaoke machine so guests can provide their own entertainment.

• Depending on the party theme,  you can also hire out entertainment including: Fortune tellers, magicians, makeup or henna tattoo artists.

• Fun card games or activities can go a long way to keep your guests entertained. Ladder ball, cornhole, and beer pong are popular choices. Guests will also enjoy playing darts, foosball, or pool.

Set up the Party for Style, Convenience, and Comfort

• A key tip is to give yourself enough time to set up the decor. Ask close friends and family members for help if you need it. Try to do as much as you can the day before to save on time.

• It helps to create an organized timeline and checklist for any deliveries. This includes: furniture rentals, catering, and music equipment.

• Set up tables for gifts, favors, food, and the dessert ahead of time. Be sure to provide plenty of seating for guests layered with the finest chair covers and linens, both inside and outside of the venue. Some guests may want to step outside for fresh air, to talk on the phone, or take a smoke break.

• Keep all of the bathrooms well-stocked with toiletry essentials. You may even want to consider renting a portable toilet for larger outdoor events.

• Lighting is an important aspect of any adult birthday party. Lighting accents help to create the right ambiance for the party. Add bistro lights around any outdoor living spaces.

• Always make sure there are plenty of trashcans and recycle bins placed around the event. This makes for a much easier clean-up when the party is over.

How to Throw a Birthday Party to Impress Your Guests

You'll want to be sure that all of your guest's needs are met and you have set the right party ambiance for the right crowd. And, if your party is outdoors, don't forget to come up with a backup plan in case of inclement weather. No one wants to go to all of the trouble planning a great party only to have it washed out.  Hopefully, these party tips will help you know how to throw a birthday party that wows your party guests. Remember, planning an unforgettable party involves picking the right theme, venue, menu, and entertainment.


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Christmas Gift Ideas for Tweens: Gift Guide Review

Find the Best Christmas Gifts for Preteens (Tweens)

Searching for the best Christmas gift ideasChristmas gift ideas for tweens? Check out our gift guide for tween boys and girls aged 9-12 yrs. These Christmas gift ideas for tweens were tested by our staff's own children and have received a two thumbs up! 

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Finding the right gift for preteens is tough, because they’re not little kids anymore, but they’re not quite teenagers yet. Most tweens are outgrowing their favorite toys and developing their own tastes. What they loved yesterday is old news! Tweens often like gifts that are related to their interest and seem cool and fun: Think Nifty! 

Because shopping for teens and tweens is difficult, it's tempting to take the easy way out and give them money or a gift card, but a great gift is much more memorable and lets them know that you really care. Below are some of our top picks for teen and tween Christmas gifts.

5 Top Picks for Tweens Gift Guide Review

• Fujifilm Instax Mini 9 Camera

Our tween girls love this camera! Nifty is its middle name. The Instant Camera is the perfect gift for tween girls. It’s stylish and it's an excellent value for the price. The Fuji camera comes in a range of funky colors and uses automatic exposure to help make it easy to use for beginners. All you have to do is turn the power on, adjust the dial, take the photo and wait for the film to develop. The tiny photos instantly pop out like old fashioned Polaroid pictures.

The camera is compact and lightweight so tweens can easily carry it around with them and even take photos one-handed. A highlight is the simplicity of the design because it doesn’t overwhelm kids with features and accessories they won’t use. Be sure to stock up on lots of film, kids love taking pictures of everyone during the holidays!

• My Cinema Light Box

Last year, this was a hit with our preteens and tweens! A cinema light box is another nifty gift that helps tweens express their personality by showcasing a message they can personalize. Kids can share their own fun or inspiring messages to friends and family. Plus, there are lots of fun emojis included and plenty of room to add a range of messages that tweens will love. The light box has a cool color changing background with different settings that include fade, flash, and strobe to give a variety of effects. This is a truly unique gift for theater and other creative kids. Put their name in lights under the tree and brighten your preteen’s holidays.

• Kanken Classic Backpack

The iconic Kanken backpack design is Retro which automatically translates to cool these days. Available in a wide range of colors, the large capacity storage space allows for plenty of room for school supplies and tablets. In addition to the main compartment, it has two side pockets and a front zippered pocket. The laptop pouch in the main compartment is perfect for a 13" Macbook Pro but won’t fit any larger laptops. Material is durable and water resistant, so if you're tweens are outdoorsy, it’s a great bag to take on hikes.

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• Electronic Drum Pad Set

Music lovers will have hours of fun with the electronic roll up drum pad set. Tweens can learn about the different sounds a drum kit makes and develop a sense of rhythm by playing a beat along to their favorite music. Use it with headphones to play at night and it won’t disturb your neighbors.

An electronic drum set pad is a great alternative to a full size drum set. Who has the room for a full-size drum set? It’s also easy to roll up and carry, so your kids can take it anywhere. We bought one of these for our tween boy last year. Pardon the pun, but it was a hit! We also bought this electric roll up piano for our musical tween daughter. She takes it with her everywhere she goes!

• Crystal Growing Kit 

Crystal growing kits are a hit with 9 and 10 year-olds. If your preteen is into science or shows an interest in precious gems, the crystal growing kit is a perfect gift idea. Kids can grow red, blue, and white crystals and monitor their progress day by day as they transform into fully grown crystals. Once they’ve grown, add them to an LED display to show them off in their full glory. How cool is that?

These Christmas gift ideas for tweens are some of the best rated gifts for preteens on Amazon and have been proven hits with our own kids. If you didn’t find the perfect gift for your preteen, check out some more cool suggestions on Good Old Gifts. Hopefully, you'll find a gift suggestion that matches your preteen’s interests so you can give them something they’ll truly love this Christmas.


Be sure to follow us on Instagram and Pinterest to stay up to date on our reviews and travel tips!


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Tips for Traveling with Baby

Traveling with Infants on Family Vacations: Do's and Don'ts

Vacations are enjoyable for families, right? Family vacations allow us to focus on loved ones and spend quality time together without being bothered by the hassles and activities of everyday life. However, for most parents, traveling with and infant or small children is challenging. Especially, if you aren't prepared and you aren't sure about what baby items to pack for your vacation. So, if you need some tips for traveling with a baby or toddler on family vacation, you've come to the right place!

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Here are some do's and don'ts tips for traveling with an infant on family vacation:

Do’s

1. Make a Checklist for Essential Baby Items     

Sit down in advance of your trip and make a check list for your vacation with all of the required items you'll need for your infant. If you make the list weeks ahead of time, you can add to it as things pop into your head. The most important tip for traveling with a baby is be prepared.

While traveling with a baby, you need to be careful of every last detail. If you’re traveling by air, you'll rarely find adequate baby supplies. Be sure to bring along all of the baby items that your baby will require on the trip to avoid any disruption of your travel schedule. A check list helps to avoid last minute hassles that may cause you to forget essential items like a compact travel bottle warmer and delay your trip.

2. Carry Enough Food

Pack enough baby food, but know what works best for your trip. You don't want your baby scattering everything around; therefore, avoid messy, sticky, or crumbly foods. Also, carry some spill-proof cups for your baby's' water or milk. If traveling by air, be sure to check on what foods or how much liquids are allowed on the plane. You don't want to have to throw out items that you spent your hard earned cash on just before boarding the plane.

3. Accept Assistance from Strangers

This may seem weird, but it's okay to accept some forms of help from strangers. Whenever a flight attendant or fellow passengers see an unsettled baby, they often try to offer support. So, if someone volunteers to soothe your baby, allow them to do it, but keep a close eye on them, of course.

Sometimes, your baby is just tired of you. Babies know how to push our buttons. A change in scenery in the form of a smiling face can make all the difference. Your stressed, worried face, may cause baby to become inconsolable. Infants look to their parents for signs of safety. If you're stressed, chances are, they're stressed.

4. Carry some Medications

In the past, some parents often medicated their kids before traveling to help make the journey easier. on everyone. You may still get similar advice from friends and loved ones, but it's not always the best advice. Don't medicate your baby if it's not necessary. However, it's a great idea to pack some medicines in case of emergencies. Again, depending on your mode of travel (plane or cruise ship,) call ahead to make sure you're allowed to bring along meds for your baby.

5. Pack Extra Clothes

One of the most important factors to consider when traveling with an infant is proper packing. Pack enough clothes for yourself, but ensure that you carry extra clothing for your baby. Your baby might spill food, wet, or even vomit on their clothes.

It's gross, you don't want to be stuck without enough baby clothes when you have no place to wash the dirty ones. You may also need some warmer clothes in a warm destination, you can never be sure of the weather! A light jacket is always a good call.

Also, be sure to take along some extra plastic bags. Recycled grocery bags come in handy for catching baby puke and trapping the nasty smell of infant diapers, they may not be available in the airplane.

Keep all of your baby's essentials in your handbag, rather than a diaper bag, as it will make it easier to access when needed. It's not pleasant to think about it, but you'll be happy you prepared for puke when an incident occurs.

6. Seating Arrangements

When you book your flight, be sure to choose the best seats for traveling with an infant. Make sure that not only your comfort is catered for but also that you've planned for your baby's comfort. For instance, an aisle seat is an excellent option when traveling with a baby, as it enables you to move around with your child without annoying the other passengers.

7. Carry some Toys

When on a family vacation, the last thing you want is to get stressed out by a crying baby. To keep your baby in a happy mood, pack baby's favorite playthings to keep them distracted. Be sure to pack one or two toys that don't have detachable parts, aren't so small that they're easily lost, and are easy to carry.

Don'ts

1. Baby items - Don't assume that it'll be easy to get your baby's stuff to the airport or onto the plane. To ensure a more peaceful trip, carry on all that your baby will need.

2. Watch what you give your baby - Avoid sugary foods; a sugared-up baby is no fun on a trip! 

3. Toys - Avoid carrying toys that could harm your baby if broken or that are bulky or too heavy.

4. Avoid heavy luggage - Only pack what you need for your trip, it's much easier to travel with light luggage. For the less essential items, consider purchasing them once you arrive at your travel destination and donate or throw away any unused items before you head back home.

Final Thoughts

Traveling with a toddler or infant is often stressful, but it's easier if you're prepared and bring along the necessary baby essentials for the trip. Remember, carry enough baby food, pack lightly, have essential meds, and don't forget baby's favorite toys.

If you make a checklist for baby items and check it off as you pack, you'll be sure to have the most important things needed for traveling with your baby. This way, you'll enjoy your vacation no matter how far away the destination.


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Kitchen Safety Tips for Kids

How to Keep the Kitchen a Safe Place 

Thinking of doing a kitchen remodel? As parents, we need to remember to always put safety first. This is especially true when you have toddlers. Little ones often get into mischief, and you want to know that they’re out of harm's way. To toddlers and preschoolers, the kitchen is a magical place. When they wander into the kitchen, they also wander into an area that has several safety hazards. So, how do you keep the kitchen a safe place for your kids?

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Make your kitchen kid-friendly by paying attention to the small details. Ensure things like
fires, injuries from sharp objects, and slip and falls are avoided whenever possible. Below are some ways that you can help you  learn how to keep the kitchen a safe place for toddlers and adults alike!

Kitchen Safety Tips 

Invest in Good Lighting 

As simple as it may sound, having good lighting is a great way to make your kitchen safe for kids. When you have good kitchen lighting, you can see what you’re doing and reduce the risk of accidents. The fun thing about choosing lighting for your kitchen is that there are so many different types to choose. Good kitchen lighting should complement your interior design as well, as, give you enough light to use your space in all the ways that you want. We use our kitchen as our homeschool room, so lighting is a key factor. To modernize your kitchen for better safety, under cabinet lights often serve double duty as spotlight lighting for preparing food on the worktops, and as softer lighting in the evening when the main lighting is switched off. 

Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby 

Fires are a common occurrence, and because there are so many hazards in the kitchen, everyone should have a fire extinguisher in their kitchen. It has been said that over 150,000 fires take place in the kitchen every year, so you want to be prepared in case it ever happens to you. Place the kitchen fire extinguisher near your stove so that it’s easy to grab quickly. You’ll also need to learn how to use it, There are many online resources that teach how to use a fire extinguisher or contact your local fire station . Lastly, note that fire extinguishers have inspection dates that expire, so ensure that you’re up-to-date.  

Store Objects in Cabinets 

If you have sharp objects or ones that could harm your toddlers, you should put them into cabinets. This will ensure that they’re out of reach and minimize the risk of accidents. If you don’t have cabinets, or the kitchen cabinets that you have aren’t secure, you should install new ones. Cabinet Doors ‘N’ More sell quality cabinet doors; their replacement cabinet doors are made from solid woods, such as hard maple, paint-grade hard maple, red oak, and cherry. 

Slip-Resistant Flooring 

Slips and falls happen all of the time, but there are several ways to help prevent these kitchen accidents. The kitchen is especially prone to accidents like water spillage and cooking grease. So, you should get slip-resistant flooring installed in the kitchen. Some examples are wood with a flat finish, textured vinyl, or laminate flooring. Kitchen laminate happens to be somewhat easy to install and it's very durable. 

First Aid Kit 

In the event that an accident does happen, you should have access to a quality first-aid kit. Keep it in a cupboard, on a shelf ,or in your kitchen storage pantry for easy access. Some items you should have in your kitchen first aid kit include: bandages for cuts, dressings, and burn ointment. 


Whether you're giving your kitchen a quick makeover to make it safer for the kids, or a full kitchen remodel, we hope you find these kitchen safety tips for kids, especially toddlers, helpful. For more family activities and safety tips, please follow us on Pinterest.

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