I have always been a supporter of a woman's right to choose. It is not simply that I am a supporter of abortion. I have never had an abortion and don't think I could. However, I should have the right to make that decision myself -- not have it forced on me. My position on abortion is really very simple -- it should be legal, safe and rare.
The most important reason for my belief that abortion should be legal and safe is very closely tied to women's rights. A society that controls and shackles women's freedom cannot be wholly free. I do believe the issue is one of power and control -- of domination -- over women. If men could become pregnant abortion would not even be an issue. Pregnancy and child care have long been ways that men have controlled and dominated women as well as restricted their education and professional lives. When abortion is outlawed or restricted by laws then it becomes even more of an issue of control and discrimination -- aimed at the lower classes. We know that abortion will never disappear entirely, at least until universal fail-safe birth control exists, and that people of means will be able to obtain a safe abortion here or abroad. Outlawing abortion simply ensures that the poor and disadvantaged will have no safe alternative.
I have never understood why so many people put so much time, money and effort into outlawing abortion when spending that same time, money and effort on helping women without choices and helping the many abused and neglected children we already have would do far more to prevent abortions than any law ever could. Contrary to many abortion foes belief, I don't believe abortion is an easy choice for most women -- and for those it is an easy choice it is probably better they not be given responsibility for the health and welfare of a fetus or child. Many women who choose to have an abortion feel they have no alternative. Why not work to truly help those women so they do have choices and options? Until our society truly takes its responsibility to the children already born so we have no child suffering starvation, poverty, neglect, and abuse -- and all our children are given every opportunity for a quality education and future then I don't want to see time and resources devoted to the prevention of abortion. Think of helping these disadvantaged women and children as preventing the abortions of tomorrow. Simply outlawing abortion will not solve the root problem, instead it will drive those in need of an abortion into back alleys, but if you can solve the problems of abuse and poverty then there will be fewer unwanted pregnancies and fewer abortions.
Another important reason I believe the choice should be left up to the woman in question is that I believe the decision to reproduce has to be made willingly and only by the person involved. Pregnancy and child birth is a physical ordeal that can have a lifelong impact on a woman's mental and physical health and well being. In addition, the decision to raise a child has tremendous personal, professional, and financial repercussions. While it takes two to make a baby, all too often in the case of an unplanned pregnancy it is the woman who is left to cope alone. It is really quite simple. I believe that if I am going to undergo a process that effects my physical and mental well being as well as my financial and professional future then I should be able to make the decision myself. I am a mother and I love my child more than anything, but my pregnancy and child birth were difficult and life threatening. I am not sure if I could have survived either without the support of my husband, family, friends, and co-workers. I know this group has been even more important to me while raising my child. I am an educated professional with a good job and a good support system. I cannot imagine how people with fewer resources do it. We are failing as a society when we force so many to do so.
If we want a society that is truly free and truly responsible for all its members then abortion must be legal and safe. If abortion foes truly want to stop abortions then they should work on addressing the root causes of abortion -- poverty, abuse, and lack of opportunity. The more we do to give women freedom of choice and control over their lives then the rarer abortion will be. Then everyone wins.
Renaissance Woman Deanna Mascle share more thoughts in her blog at http://dawggone.net
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Monday, December 31, 2007
Why I Am A Presbyterian
With so many types of Christian churches available today how do you choose the faith community that best fits your individual beliefs and needs? The best way to do this is by simple visiting the different churches. Not only attend a regular service but also take part in some other activity as well. Plus you should talk with members to get a sense of the individuals that make up that church community. In order to help others who are looking for a church community I would like to share just why I am a Presbyterian.
One of the primary reasons I am a Presbyterian can be summed up in one word -- tradition. My family has long been Presbyterians and that was the church that I was raised and married in. Whenever I have moved it is always the Presbyterian Church in the community that I visited first and because of my own personal tradition that is the church that I feel most comfortable with. Aside from my own personal tradition with the Presbyterian Church I also enjoy being part of the larger Presbyterian tradition which can trace its routes back to the earliest Protestant Reformation. While the Presbyterian Church is a living body that is constantly changing and evolving it also has a long tradition.
Mission is another important part of Presbyterianism. Presbyterians have long built schools and hospitals in parts of the world where health care and education are lacking. This tradition continues today. Presbyterians attitude toward mission work is not to convert by offering a helping hand to those in need but rather to demonstrate what it means to be a Christian by helping others. We hope to spread the word of God's love by our actions rather than our words. Presbyterians walk the walk while some other Christians simply talk the talk. This is why you find Presbyterian churches in unlikely locations such as remote villages in Africa, cities in China, and small communities in Appalachia. Because the Presbyterian Church came to offer help to that community then the people living there were inspired to become Presbyterians.
Evangelism, or rather the understatement of it, is a key component of being a Presbyterian. Presbyterians believe that you will know we are Christians by our love. I am always suspicious of someone who needs to tell me they are a Christian. I believe that I should know this by your actions and deeds. Presbyterians believe we are a Christian nation but strongly believe in separation of church and state. While many Presbyterians might be community leaders they hold their faith and their leadership apart from each other. Our witness is rooted in the gospel ministries of preaching, teaching, and healing, and in Christ's example of advocacy for the poor, the hungry and the oppressed. Presbyterians believe they are already saved by Jesus Christ and so can focus their life on helping others rather than saving themselves.
Tradition, mission, and evangelism are the reasons why I am a Presbyterian and why other Christians should at least consider joining this community of faith when seeking out a new church.
Read more articles by Renaissance Woman Deanna Mascle at http://deannamascle.com
One of the primary reasons I am a Presbyterian can be summed up in one word -- tradition. My family has long been Presbyterians and that was the church that I was raised and married in. Whenever I have moved it is always the Presbyterian Church in the community that I visited first and because of my own personal tradition that is the church that I feel most comfortable with. Aside from my own personal tradition with the Presbyterian Church I also enjoy being part of the larger Presbyterian tradition which can trace its routes back to the earliest Protestant Reformation. While the Presbyterian Church is a living body that is constantly changing and evolving it also has a long tradition.
Mission is another important part of Presbyterianism. Presbyterians have long built schools and hospitals in parts of the world where health care and education are lacking. This tradition continues today. Presbyterians attitude toward mission work is not to convert by offering a helping hand to those in need but rather to demonstrate what it means to be a Christian by helping others. We hope to spread the word of God's love by our actions rather than our words. Presbyterians walk the walk while some other Christians simply talk the talk. This is why you find Presbyterian churches in unlikely locations such as remote villages in Africa, cities in China, and small communities in Appalachia. Because the Presbyterian Church came to offer help to that community then the people living there were inspired to become Presbyterians.
Evangelism, or rather the understatement of it, is a key component of being a Presbyterian. Presbyterians believe that you will know we are Christians by our love. I am always suspicious of someone who needs to tell me they are a Christian. I believe that I should know this by your actions and deeds. Presbyterians believe we are a Christian nation but strongly believe in separation of church and state. While many Presbyterians might be community leaders they hold their faith and their leadership apart from each other. Our witness is rooted in the gospel ministries of preaching, teaching, and healing, and in Christ's example of advocacy for the poor, the hungry and the oppressed. Presbyterians believe they are already saved by Jesus Christ and so can focus their life on helping others rather than saving themselves.
Tradition, mission, and evangelism are the reasons why I am a Presbyterian and why other Christians should at least consider joining this community of faith when seeking out a new church.
Read more articles by Renaissance Woman Deanna Mascle at http://deannamascle.com
Friday, December 28, 2007
Why You Should Volunteer At Your Local School
I started volunteering at my son's school when he was in preschool because the school's director required all parents to do volunteer duty. At first I rather resented the burden especially when it meant giving up my lunch hour to supervise the school lunch room and recess. Now that my son attends public school I willingly give up four hours a week to help his teacher. What has changed my mind about being a school volunteer? There are three key reasons that I changed my mind about being a school volunteer and whether or not you are a parent these reasons should apply to you as well.
Unless you live in a cave or under a rock you are well aware of that problems that our society is facing today. Today's children are in desperate need of mentors and role models to help them navigate the challenges life will throw in their path. Due to the high prevalence of broken homes in American society it is also important that children receive at least a portion of their affection and positive reinforcement outside the home. If you care at all about the future of our country, our society, and our world then you should care very much about providing this essential function in some children's lives. Equally important, many children are simply not getting the support necessary for their academics from home. Public school teachers do the best they can but a volunteer can provide invaluable assistance with a little one-on-one work that teachers simply cannot offer. Many children need help with basics of literacy and/or math and having some special help might make all the difference in their future.
If you want your community to be a good place to live both now and in the future then you must do everything you can to make the schools strong and successful. Education is key to the future for these children but their future success and happiness will have a direct impact on the overall success of your community. One person cannot change the world but you can change your little corner of the world through some volunteer work at your local school. It is easy to think that there are people paid to teach our children and so there is no need for school volunteers but the simple truth is that there are so many demands on today's public school teachers that volunteers are essential to school success.
You will find volunteering to be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. Not only can you see a difference as a result of your efforts, but you will receive a tremendous emotional benefit in terms of affection from the students. I collect hugs from a number of students every time I visit the class and all the warm smiles and affectionate greetings I receive just warm my heart. That along makes my time worth while but it is very rewarding to see the children I work with learn and blossom. Some students just need a little extra confidence while others need a little extra attention, but I am just as excited about their success as they are. Chances are there was some special adult who made a big difference to your childhood. Isn't it time you repaid that debt and did the same for a child?
If you have never considered volunteering in your local school then you should because it can make a huge difference in the lives of the children, it can be very beneficial to your community, and it can be good for you as well. Just a few hours a month can make a big difference in the lives of others as well as your own.
Renaissance Woman Deanna Mascle writes about family and other topics at http://renaissancewomanonline.com
Unless you live in a cave or under a rock you are well aware of that problems that our society is facing today. Today's children are in desperate need of mentors and role models to help them navigate the challenges life will throw in their path. Due to the high prevalence of broken homes in American society it is also important that children receive at least a portion of their affection and positive reinforcement outside the home. If you care at all about the future of our country, our society, and our world then you should care very much about providing this essential function in some children's lives. Equally important, many children are simply not getting the support necessary for their academics from home. Public school teachers do the best they can but a volunteer can provide invaluable assistance with a little one-on-one work that teachers simply cannot offer. Many children need help with basics of literacy and/or math and having some special help might make all the difference in their future.
If you want your community to be a good place to live both now and in the future then you must do everything you can to make the schools strong and successful. Education is key to the future for these children but their future success and happiness will have a direct impact on the overall success of your community. One person cannot change the world but you can change your little corner of the world through some volunteer work at your local school. It is easy to think that there are people paid to teach our children and so there is no need for school volunteers but the simple truth is that there are so many demands on today's public school teachers that volunteers are essential to school success.
You will find volunteering to be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. Not only can you see a difference as a result of your efforts, but you will receive a tremendous emotional benefit in terms of affection from the students. I collect hugs from a number of students every time I visit the class and all the warm smiles and affectionate greetings I receive just warm my heart. That along makes my time worth while but it is very rewarding to see the children I work with learn and blossom. Some students just need a little extra confidence while others need a little extra attention, but I am just as excited about their success as they are. Chances are there was some special adult who made a big difference to your childhood. Isn't it time you repaid that debt and did the same for a child?
If you have never considered volunteering in your local school then you should because it can make a huge difference in the lives of the children, it can be very beneficial to your community, and it can be good for you as well. Just a few hours a month can make a big difference in the lives of others as well as your own.
Renaissance Woman Deanna Mascle writes about family and other topics at http://renaissancewomanonline.com
Thursday, December 27, 2007
College Guide - All about the SAT and Passing with Flying Colors
The Scholastic Aptitude or Assessment Test is now known as the SAT Reasoning Test and is an examination that all high school students are required to take in order to get into college. The SAT is conducted by the Educational Testing Service but it’s the College Board that computes the results of the test.
The Components of the SAT
There are three primary parts that make up the SAT: critical reading and writing and lastly, mathematics. Each part is further divided into three sub-sections. There are ten sub-sections all in all, with one sub-section made up of questions that are included for experimental purposes. This particular sub-section can belong to any of the three major parts of the SAT and results are excluded from the overall score.
Majority of the questions in the SAT provide students with multiple choices for their answers. The SAT takes five hours to complete. Questions are arranged according to their level of difficulty.
SAT Schedules, Candidates, and Fees
The SAT is administered to students seven times a year. It is in the months of February and July to September that there is a hiatus for SAT takers. The schedule also alternates between March and April in administering the test. Students who wish to take the SAT will be assisted by their respective schools in registering for the test.
If, however, such assistance is unavailable for a student, he may register by mail, telephone or online correspondence. Registration must be done at least three weeks prior to the preferred SAT testing schedule. The SAT costs approximately $40 to $50 although fees vary for international test takers.
SATs are administered on a Saturday but students who have valid reasons for requesting to take the test on a Sunday instead may always request for a change in test schedule to the appropriate authorities. Approval however depends on a case to case basis. Test takers with certain disabilities are given allowances in order to take the test with comfort. Again approval for such privileges depends on a case to case basis.
How SAT Scores are Tallied
A scale of 200 to 800 is used for each section, bringing the total score for SAT to 2400. One raw point is given whenever a student provides the right answer but 1/4th of a point is subtracted from the student’s score whenever he provides the wrong answer. The scoring system is set up in such a way that a student won't benefit if he were to randomly guess the answer.
How to Get It Right on the SAT Essay Question
The first part of the test that you will be asked to answer is the essay category and which represents 30% of the final score for the Critical Writing category of the SAT. The essay question is typically general and philosophical in nature. To effectively answer the essay part, students are usually advised to use various sources for their answer by citing situations and drawing examples from their personal life, history, the arts and so forth.
Tips on Preparing and Taking the SAT
Study at least six months prior to your preferred testing date. As the SAT tests you on the knowledge you’ve gained throughout the years, make sure that you don’t overlook any important subject in your review. For best results, create an outline in order to review for the SAT methodically and efficiently.
Avoid cramming. This can cause you to experience added stress and anxiety about the upcoming SAT. If you wish to study on the night before your testing date, you can simply review the main principles of each subject matter. Do your best to enjoy a good night’s sleep before the exam.
In the critical reading section, your vocabulary and ability to comprehend the text provided are being tested. If you’re finding it difficult to determine the right choice in vocabulary questions, cross out what you feel are immediately inapplicable to further narrow your choices. For reading comprehension questions, skim the text provided to get the gist then look up details when you have the time.
In the critical writing question, it’s all about finding the choice that completes the sentence or thought in the clearest possible way.
As for math questions, consider using variables if you feel unable to solve a problem. For grid-in questions, it’s important to provide an answer even if you’re unsure of it because this won’t be counted against you.
Find your college guide at http://www.teenslearnmore.com/
The Components of the SAT
There are three primary parts that make up the SAT: critical reading and writing and lastly, mathematics. Each part is further divided into three sub-sections. There are ten sub-sections all in all, with one sub-section made up of questions that are included for experimental purposes. This particular sub-section can belong to any of the three major parts of the SAT and results are excluded from the overall score.
Majority of the questions in the SAT provide students with multiple choices for their answers. The SAT takes five hours to complete. Questions are arranged according to their level of difficulty.
SAT Schedules, Candidates, and Fees
The SAT is administered to students seven times a year. It is in the months of February and July to September that there is a hiatus for SAT takers. The schedule also alternates between March and April in administering the test. Students who wish to take the SAT will be assisted by their respective schools in registering for the test.
If, however, such assistance is unavailable for a student, he may register by mail, telephone or online correspondence. Registration must be done at least three weeks prior to the preferred SAT testing schedule. The SAT costs approximately $40 to $50 although fees vary for international test takers.
SATs are administered on a Saturday but students who have valid reasons for requesting to take the test on a Sunday instead may always request for a change in test schedule to the appropriate authorities. Approval however depends on a case to case basis. Test takers with certain disabilities are given allowances in order to take the test with comfort. Again approval for such privileges depends on a case to case basis.
How SAT Scores are Tallied
A scale of 200 to 800 is used for each section, bringing the total score for SAT to 2400. One raw point is given whenever a student provides the right answer but 1/4th of a point is subtracted from the student’s score whenever he provides the wrong answer. The scoring system is set up in such a way that a student won't benefit if he were to randomly guess the answer.
How to Get It Right on the SAT Essay Question
The first part of the test that you will be asked to answer is the essay category and which represents 30% of the final score for the Critical Writing category of the SAT. The essay question is typically general and philosophical in nature. To effectively answer the essay part, students are usually advised to use various sources for their answer by citing situations and drawing examples from their personal life, history, the arts and so forth.
Tips on Preparing and Taking the SAT
Study at least six months prior to your preferred testing date. As the SAT tests you on the knowledge you’ve gained throughout the years, make sure that you don’t overlook any important subject in your review. For best results, create an outline in order to review for the SAT methodically and efficiently.
Avoid cramming. This can cause you to experience added stress and anxiety about the upcoming SAT. If you wish to study on the night before your testing date, you can simply review the main principles of each subject matter. Do your best to enjoy a good night’s sleep before the exam.
In the critical reading section, your vocabulary and ability to comprehend the text provided are being tested. If you’re finding it difficult to determine the right choice in vocabulary questions, cross out what you feel are immediately inapplicable to further narrow your choices. For reading comprehension questions, skim the text provided to get the gist then look up details when you have the time.
In the critical writing question, it’s all about finding the choice that completes the sentence or thought in the clearest possible way.
As for math questions, consider using variables if you feel unable to solve a problem. For grid-in questions, it’s important to provide an answer even if you’re unsure of it because this won’t be counted against you.
Find your college guide at http://www.teenslearnmore.com/
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Words Of Wisdom - Why It Is Necessary To Keep Your Desire To Learn
Necessary reasons to keep your desire to learn. Have you ever dwelled upon how key learning is to your life in terms of your ability to not only survive but also to thrive both professionally and personally? Becoming a lifelong learner is important to your health, your success, and your happiness, but if that is not enough reason to learn more then consider these three key reasons to keep your desire to learn and to live and learn.
Change is healthy. Change is healthy for your diet, your physical well being, your mental state, and your brain's health. While change is not always comfortable its benefits usually far outweigh its challenges. We know change is good for us but that doesn't make it easy to force ourselves to change.
Learning can decrease your weaknesses. Most of us spend a lot of time and effort trying to conceal or compensate for our weaknesses when that time would be much better spent simply learning more about that particular aspect of our lives and learning how we can decrease that weakness. Perhaps with time and effort that weakness can become a strength.
Learning keeps your mind sharp. Study after study shows that when it comes to the brain it really is use it or lose it. Challenging your brain by learning new skills and experiencing new things can foster brain growth and development no matter what your age. One of the reasons why young children's brains grow at such a rapid rate is because they are constantly learning new things. As we grow older we tend to slow and even stop learning which is damaging to our brains.
These are just three key reasons to keep your desire to learn that should give you food for thought and hopefully start you on the road to learning more and improving yourself today, tomorrow, and all the tomorrows to come. Now go forth and live and learn so you too can reap the benefits of becoming a lifelong learner!
Find more words of inspiration story and quick inspirations at http://wordsofinspirationonline.com/
Change is healthy. Change is healthy for your diet, your physical well being, your mental state, and your brain's health. While change is not always comfortable its benefits usually far outweigh its challenges. We know change is good for us but that doesn't make it easy to force ourselves to change.
Learning can decrease your weaknesses. Most of us spend a lot of time and effort trying to conceal or compensate for our weaknesses when that time would be much better spent simply learning more about that particular aspect of our lives and learning how we can decrease that weakness. Perhaps with time and effort that weakness can become a strength.
Learning keeps your mind sharp. Study after study shows that when it comes to the brain it really is use it or lose it. Challenging your brain by learning new skills and experiencing new things can foster brain growth and development no matter what your age. One of the reasons why young children's brains grow at such a rapid rate is because they are constantly learning new things. As we grow older we tend to slow and even stop learning which is damaging to our brains.
These are just three key reasons to keep your desire to learn that should give you food for thought and hopefully start you on the road to learning more and improving yourself today, tomorrow, and all the tomorrows to come. Now go forth and live and learn so you too can reap the benefits of becoming a lifelong learner!
Find more words of inspiration story and quick inspirations at http://wordsofinspirationonline.com/
Live And Learn Direct - Why It Is Essential To Keep Your Desire To Learn
Essential reasons to keep your desire to learn. Have you ever pondered upon how essential learning is to your life in terms of your ability to not only survive but also to thrive both professionally and personally? Becoming a lifelong learner is important to your health, your success, and your happiness, but if that is not enough reason to learn more then consider these three essential reasons to keep your desire to learn and to live and learn.
Change is healthy. Change is healthy for your diet, your physical well being, your mental state, and your brain's health. While change is not always comfortable its benefits usually far outweigh its challenges. We know change is good for us but that doesn't make it easy to force ourselves to change.
Learning can decrease your weaknesses. Most of us spend a lot of time and effort trying to conceal or compensate for our weaknesses when that time would be much better spent simply learning more about that particular aspect of our lives and learning how we can decrease that weakness. Perhaps with time and effort that weakness can become a strength.
Learning keeps your mind sharp. Study after study shows that when it comes to the brain it really is use it or lose it. Challenging your brain by learning new skills and experiencing new things can foster brain growth and development no matter what your age. One of the reasons why young children's brains grow at such a rapid rate is because they are constantly learning new things. As we grow older we tend to slow and even stop learning which is damaging to our brains.
These are just three essential reasons to keep your desire to learn that should give you food for thought and hopefully start you on the road to learning more and improving yourself today, tomorrow, and all the tomorrows to come. Now go forth and live and learn so you too can reap the benefits of becoming a lifelong learner!
Find out how you can learn more and live and learn direct at http://howyoucanlearnmore.com/
Change is healthy. Change is healthy for your diet, your physical well being, your mental state, and your brain's health. While change is not always comfortable its benefits usually far outweigh its challenges. We know change is good for us but that doesn't make it easy to force ourselves to change.
Learning can decrease your weaknesses. Most of us spend a lot of time and effort trying to conceal or compensate for our weaknesses when that time would be much better spent simply learning more about that particular aspect of our lives and learning how we can decrease that weakness. Perhaps with time and effort that weakness can become a strength.
Learning keeps your mind sharp. Study after study shows that when it comes to the brain it really is use it or lose it. Challenging your brain by learning new skills and experiencing new things can foster brain growth and development no matter what your age. One of the reasons why young children's brains grow at such a rapid rate is because they are constantly learning new things. As we grow older we tend to slow and even stop learning which is damaging to our brains.
These are just three essential reasons to keep your desire to learn that should give you food for thought and hopefully start you on the road to learning more and improving yourself today, tomorrow, and all the tomorrows to come. Now go forth and live and learn so you too can reap the benefits of becoming a lifelong learner!
Find out how you can learn more and live and learn direct at http://howyoucanlearnmore.com/
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Family Fun Vacations - 10 Fun Things for Kids To Do On A Camping Trip
No doubt about it, camping trips are fun. A vacation in the wild outdoors, fresh air, roughing it can be such a fun break from the hectic routine of city life. However, a lot of people think they cannot enjoy or even survive a camping trip because of kids. Children can indeed add enjoyment to anybody’s life, but to be honest, it is really hard to bring kids along on a camping trip. Imagine having no television or computers to keep them busy (and quiet). For the average parent, that could spell disaster. But you should not despair, there are many activities in the outdoors that can keep kids entertained during a camping trip. Here are ten of them.
1. Get wet and go splashing. More likely, you would be able to find a nice swimming spot. Whether a big lake or a small brook, you are bound to locate a nice body of water to splash around and have wet fun. Swimming amidst nature can be so much more enjoyable than swimming in a man-made pool. Just be sure that the swimming hole you find is safe for people, normally camping parks would tell you which ones are good for dips and which ones are not. Also, be careful about diving and never leave your kids swimming alone.
2. Bike together. Most camping sites have great bike trails. Riding bicycles is very fun when the view is great. It is faster and cooler than just traveling on foot. Make sure to bring a map and plan your trip so that you would not easily get lost. Do not ride too fast, or you might leave each other behind, anyway, you would not be able to enjoy the scenery if you speed so much.
3. Watch for birds and animals. Most camping sites and forest parks have primers and leaflets about the various animals thriving in their area. You may also bring books about wild animals and see if you could spot them. Try having a contest – the one who spots most kinds of animals wins. See the different animals that come out during the night compare them to those that come out during the day. Just keep your children from a safe distance so that they would not disturb the animals.
4. Play games in the outdoors. It may be the classic sac race, tug-o-war, or just plain tag. Nothing beats the time-tested games when done in the woods. Just be sure to play games in a clear area to avoid accidents. Also, avoid creating so much noise so that you would not disturb the wildlife.
5. Organize a scavenger hunt. Kids love to go on quests and adventures. Scavenger hunts can be a great alternative to the role playing games kids play these days, not to mention that it is more physical, allowing your kids to exercise rather than just sit in front of the computer screen all day. Just be warn your kids about the many prickly plants that could be lurking in the woods, such as poison ivy, oak and sumac.
6. Learn how to read maps and compasses. The great outdoors is a nice way to teach your children about navigation. Take out your map and compass while exploring the forest. Show your kids where you are in the map and show them where you are heading. This can also be done in conjunction with the scavenger hunt.
7. Light a campfire. Perhaps this is among the most awaited activities during camping. This can be the best way to end the day. Gather around the campfire to sing songs and tell stories (scary ones if you would like). Roast marshmallows and hotdogs. Play riddles and other word games.
8. Watch the stars. This is another night activity that can be both fun and educational. You may just simply lie on the grand and appreciate the free light show in the sky, or you may bring out a star chart and look for famous constellations and other heavenly bodies. Look for shooting stars and make your wish.
9. Bathe in the rain. The weather can be unpredictable in many places, you cannot expect to have clear and sunny skies all the time. But do not pout if the rain does pour. You can have fun playing in the rain and enjoy mother earth’s natural shower. Just be careful not to go out when there is thunder and lightning.
10. Just relax and simply enjoy the moment. You are in the outdoors for only a few times in a year (or even in a lifetime). Enjoy what nature has to offer. Avoid bringing any electronic gadget and simply bask in the quiet of the forest. This is the time to bond and enjoy each other’s company.
There are hundreds of other activities to do out doors, these ten are just a fraction of the many activities you can do with your kids on a camping trip. The point of it all is to enjoy spending the time together as a family.
Find out more about family fun and family entertainment at http://familyfunforyou.com
1. Get wet and go splashing. More likely, you would be able to find a nice swimming spot. Whether a big lake or a small brook, you are bound to locate a nice body of water to splash around and have wet fun. Swimming amidst nature can be so much more enjoyable than swimming in a man-made pool. Just be sure that the swimming hole you find is safe for people, normally camping parks would tell you which ones are good for dips and which ones are not. Also, be careful about diving and never leave your kids swimming alone.
2. Bike together. Most camping sites have great bike trails. Riding bicycles is very fun when the view is great. It is faster and cooler than just traveling on foot. Make sure to bring a map and plan your trip so that you would not easily get lost. Do not ride too fast, or you might leave each other behind, anyway, you would not be able to enjoy the scenery if you speed so much.
3. Watch for birds and animals. Most camping sites and forest parks have primers and leaflets about the various animals thriving in their area. You may also bring books about wild animals and see if you could spot them. Try having a contest – the one who spots most kinds of animals wins. See the different animals that come out during the night compare them to those that come out during the day. Just keep your children from a safe distance so that they would not disturb the animals.
4. Play games in the outdoors. It may be the classic sac race, tug-o-war, or just plain tag. Nothing beats the time-tested games when done in the woods. Just be sure to play games in a clear area to avoid accidents. Also, avoid creating so much noise so that you would not disturb the wildlife.
5. Organize a scavenger hunt. Kids love to go on quests and adventures. Scavenger hunts can be a great alternative to the role playing games kids play these days, not to mention that it is more physical, allowing your kids to exercise rather than just sit in front of the computer screen all day. Just be warn your kids about the many prickly plants that could be lurking in the woods, such as poison ivy, oak and sumac.
6. Learn how to read maps and compasses. The great outdoors is a nice way to teach your children about navigation. Take out your map and compass while exploring the forest. Show your kids where you are in the map and show them where you are heading. This can also be done in conjunction with the scavenger hunt.
7. Light a campfire. Perhaps this is among the most awaited activities during camping. This can be the best way to end the day. Gather around the campfire to sing songs and tell stories (scary ones if you would like). Roast marshmallows and hotdogs. Play riddles and other word games.
8. Watch the stars. This is another night activity that can be both fun and educational. You may just simply lie on the grand and appreciate the free light show in the sky, or you may bring out a star chart and look for famous constellations and other heavenly bodies. Look for shooting stars and make your wish.
9. Bathe in the rain. The weather can be unpredictable in many places, you cannot expect to have clear and sunny skies all the time. But do not pout if the rain does pour. You can have fun playing in the rain and enjoy mother earth’s natural shower. Just be careful not to go out when there is thunder and lightning.
10. Just relax and simply enjoy the moment. You are in the outdoors for only a few times in a year (or even in a lifetime). Enjoy what nature has to offer. Avoid bringing any electronic gadget and simply bask in the quiet of the forest. This is the time to bond and enjoy each other’s company.
There are hundreds of other activities to do out doors, these ten are just a fraction of the many activities you can do with your kids on a camping trip. The point of it all is to enjoy spending the time together as a family.
Find out more about family fun and family entertainment at http://familyfunforyou.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)