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	<title>Next Steps</title>
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		<title>Surviving the Education Merry-go-round</title>
		<link>http://www.next-steps.net/2013/01/25/surviving-the-education-merry-go-round/</link>
		<comments>http://www.next-steps.net/2013/01/25/surviving-the-education-merry-go-round/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 25 Jan 2013 11:44:13 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Admin</dc:creator>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.next-steps.net/?p=161</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Why, oh why, can&#8217;t our politicians stop meddling with the education system? Last night the news reported that Michael Gove, had made yet another change to the A Level system. Of course he mean well, they all do! All education ministers believe that they have been put on this earth to finally give our children [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Why, oh why, can&#8217;t our politicians stop meddling with the education system? Last night the news reported that Michael Gove, had made yet another change to the A Level system. Of course he mean well, they all do! All education ministers believe that they have been put on this earth to finally give our children the education they deserve. Only they can see what&#8217;s wrong with the current system and only they can make the the changes that are going to put it right.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.next-steps.net/UPLOADBLOGSDIR/9/files/2013/01/academic-excellence.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-162" style="width: 100%;margin: 0 auto" src="http://www.next-steps.net/UPLOADBLOGSDIR/9/files/2013/01/academic-excellence.jpg" alt="" /></a></p>
<p>Weather these changes will improve the way our children learn, we cannot of course be certain, only time will tell, but what we can be sure of, as sure as we are that the sun will rise in the east and set in the west, is that very soon there will be another education minister, with yet another set of ideas about what must be changed and the merry-go-round will be turning once again.</p>
<p>For as long as I can remember governments have been doing this. They simply seem incapable of leaving well alone. I&#8217;m not saying that there aren&#8217;t times when the system does have to be altered, but I cannot believe that the series of whole sale changes, that we have had to live through over the last two decades and more, has been beneficial to anyone other than the politicians themselves.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.next-steps.net/UPLOADBLOGSDIR/9/files/2013/01/victorian-school_2127557c.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-164" style="width: 100%;margin: 0 auto" src="http://www.next-steps.net/UPLOADBLOGSDIR/9/files/2013/01/victorian-school_2127557c.jpg" alt="" /></a></p>
<p>Certainly it makes the lives of those of us trying to bring up our children even more stressful and confusing. We know that getting a good education, is probably going to be the single most important factor in ensuring that our children will have happy and productive lives, so we obsess about getting it right. It would be lovely if those charged with governing us could help us, but far to often they just get in the way.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.next-steps.net/UPLOADBLOGSDIR/9/files/2013/01/dbjx68p8-1355788800.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-166" style="width: 100%;margin: 0 auto" src="http://www.next-steps.net/UPLOADBLOGSDIR/9/files/2013/01/dbjx68p8-1355788800.jpg" alt="" /></a></p>
<p>In the circumstances, it is hardly surprising, that more and more of us, are now employing our own <a href="http://www.mytutordoctor.co.uk">A Level tutors</a> at home, to help our children get through their vital exams. More than ever getting good grades is vital to getting the right start in life, and we will do anything to make that more likely. That may or may not be a good thing, but it is certainly a fact of life, and we all have to accept it.</p>
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		<title>How To Win The The Schooling Game</title>
		<link>http://www.next-steps.net/2012/11/20/how-to-win-the-the-schooling-game/</link>
		<comments>http://www.next-steps.net/2012/11/20/how-to-win-the-the-schooling-game/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 20 Nov 2012 12:04:31 +0000</pubDate>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.next-steps.net/?p=147</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I was having a a conversation with a friend the other night, and we got around to the subject of our children&#8217;s schooling. Our sons are respectively 6 and 7 years old, so it might seem a bit early to be thinking about which secondary school they should be going to, but as many of [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I was having a a conversation with a friend the other night, and we got around to the subject of our children&#8217;s schooling. Our sons are respectively 6 and 7 years old, so it might seem a bit early to be thinking about which secondary school they should be going to, but as many of us know the sooner you start thinking about this problem the better. Just entering a child into a primary school may effect what secondary schools they can get into.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.next-steps.net/UPLOADBLOGSDIR/9/files/2012/11/article-0-06443518000005DC-272_468x314.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-150" style="width: 100%;margin: 0 auto" src="http://www.next-steps.net/UPLOADBLOGSDIR/9/files/2012/11/article-0-06443518000005DC-272_468x314.jpg" alt="" /></a></p>
<blockquote>
<p style="text-align: center"><em><strong><span id="more-147"></span> &#8221;We all need to realise that the education system is a game, probably the most crucial game we will ever play, but a game all the same.&#8221;</strong></em></p>
</blockquote>
<p>I thought my wife and I had thought the subject through obsessively, but my friends approach startled even me. Basically he argues that a parent should be as realistic as possible. We all need to realise that the education system is a game, probably the most crucial game we will ever play, but a game all the same. The loving parent&#8217;s objective must be to win the game at all costs, and we do this by making sure that our offspring get into the best possible university at the end of it. Once they get there, and the best result possible is Oxbridge, we must ensure that our children know exactly what they are trying to achieve there. Not an education, but instead as many good contacts as they can possibly make. The more contacts they make at Uni, the better their career, any career, will be. As for getting an education? Well, obviously that would be nice, but it is only ever secondary to the main goal.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.next-steps.net/UPLOADBLOGSDIR/9/files/2012/11/exams_1801857b.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-152" style="width: 100%;margin: 0 auto" src="http://www.next-steps.net/UPLOADBLOGSDIR/9/files/2012/11/exams_1801857b.jpg" alt="" /></a></p>
<blockquote>
<p style="text-align: center"><em><strong> &#8221;The fact is, that a close examination of the membership of almost any profession, will show that it is dominated by ex-Oxbridge undergraduates.&#8221;</strong></em></p>
</blockquote>
<p>As I said, the sheer focus of this approach took my breath away for a moment, however the more I think about it, the more I realise that it may be spot on. The fact is, that a close examination of the membership of almost any profession, will show that it is dominated by ex-Oxbridge undergraduates. Stand up comedy for example, an occupation that you might think, would not only be open to all, but positively reward those who weren&#8217;t from a conventional background, is when one looks at it, riddled with comedians who studied at Oxford and Cambridge, as of course are the TV companies they all want to be employed by.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.next-steps.net/UPLOADBLOGSDIR/9/files/2012/11/home-tutoring-08.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-153" style="width: 100%;margin: 0 auto" src="http://www.next-steps.net/UPLOADBLOGSDIR/9/files/2012/11/home-tutoring-08.jpg" alt="" /></a></p>
<p>I have to say it makes me rather despair. I&#8217;m still rather naïve about education, in that I actually think learning about a subject, is a worthy enough aim in itself. That said, I also know that I want to win the game of schooling. Perhaps that&#8217;s why as soon as I post this blog, I will be typing the words “<a href="http://www.mytutordoctor.co.uk">Home Tutoring Northampton</a>” into google.</p>
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		<title>When does &#8220;loving&#8221; become &#8220;smothering&#8221;?</title>
		<link>http://www.next-steps.net/2012/07/16/when-does-loving-become-smothering/</link>
		<comments>http://www.next-steps.net/2012/07/16/when-does-loving-become-smothering/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 16 Jul 2012 11:57:13 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Admin</dc:creator>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.next-steps.net/?p=130</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Every single mother on this earth knows that nothing compares to the unconditional love that you give to your child. You know as soon as you hold them that you would do anything for your baby, your child. Although it may not be the hardest thing to now when they’re young, letting go at an [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Every single mother on this earth knows that nothing compares to the unconditional love that you give to your child. You know as soon as you hold them that you would do anything for your baby, your child. Although it may not be the hardest thing to now when they’re young, letting go at an early stage is necessary for a healthy relationship. I’m not saying to detach yourself, just don’t be too overprotective of them.<br />
<img class="alignnone" src="http://blogs.studentlife.utoronto.ca/intersections/files/2011/01/6a0120a5f87159970c0134836a4074970c-800wi.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="352" /><br />
Whether you have a little girl or boy – perhaps you have both – they will want to play and have fun. Remember that your little one is new to this world, and he/she will want to learn as much as possible (for now anyway). As a baby or toddler, your infant will want and need to explore their body and environment, so let them have some time to themselves to do this.</p>
<p>But do not stop spending valuable quality time with your child, spend all the time you can with them – they’re not that cute forever! Take them for walks, treat them to sweets and stay and watch their favourite TV shows with them, but when your little one crawls along the carpet with his tiny hands and feet, don’t follow him. Let him play with his building blocks and enjoy some alone time away from mummy.</p>
<p>So love and cherish your baby girl or baby boy. Love them as you will and help them grow into their own person. Don’t be the parents who want to be there for his first date, but equally don’t be the ones who don’t show up to any of her school plays. Babies and toddlers are very forgiving of such mistake, so you have some time to learn. Just be the parents your child will love and thank for your help and kindness.</p>
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		<title>Let them Breathe</title>
		<link>http://www.next-steps.net/2012/07/15/let-them-breathe/</link>
		<comments>http://www.next-steps.net/2012/07/15/let-them-breathe/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 15 Jul 2012 00:13:18 +0000</pubDate>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.next-steps.net/?p=126</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[For most mothers out there, their baby is the cutest, smartest and the best thing that ever happened to this world and nobody can argue with them. Children have a unique capacity of learning and the more you encourage their brain to think, the better it will be in the future. Toys that require logic [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>
			For most mothers out there, their baby is the cutest, smartest and the best thing that ever happened to this world and nobody can argue with them. Children have a unique capacity of learning and the more you encourage their brain to think, the better it will be in the future. Toys that require logic and associations will help them develop their thinking process, but while you should encourage them to evolve, don&rsquo;t forget that they are children. It is understandable to want them to succeed in this fast paced society we currently live in, but they have a long way until they reach the age when all the worries start to come, so let tem enjoy their freedom.</p>
<p style="text-align:center">
			<img src="http://sharedlog_ai.s3.amazonaws.com/1342310460-_PetsKids_2007.jpg" align="center"></p>
<p>			<span id="more-126"></span></p>
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		<title>Single Mum</title>
		<link>http://www.next-steps.net/2012/07/09/single-mum/</link>
		<comments>http://www.next-steps.net/2012/07/09/single-mum/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 09 Jul 2012 11:45:56 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Admin</dc:creator>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.next-steps.net/?p=123</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Being a mum is not as easy as one may think, but it is definitely something very rewarding, which will make you feel happy and satisfied, once your baby grows older. One of the most important things a mum has to do is to shape her baby&#8217;s character, even since he or she is a [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><p>Being a mum is not as easy as one may think, but it is definitely something very rewarding, which will make you feel happy and satisfied, once your baby grows older. One of the most important things a mum has to do is to shape her baby&rsquo;s character, even since he or she is a little toddler. There is nothing more important than allowing your child to become a stable, responsible person and everything a mum does pushes the baby into this direction.</p>
</p>
<p style="text-align:center">
			<img src="http://sharedlog_ai.s3.amazonaws.com/1341833228-pg-16-single-mum-Al_104070t.jpg" align="center"></p>
<p>			<span id="more-123"></span>
<p>Of course, it is very important for the mother to be assisted by the father of the baby, but if there have been some issues and the mum had to find <a href="http://www.brookman.co.uk">legal assistance</a> to solve the problems and maybe get a divorce, it is mandatory for her to be both mum and dad for the little bundle of joy. Even if it is very important for the baby to grow up in an emotionally healthy environment, where both parents are present, there are plenty of single mums who have made it through and have raised their children perfectly.</p>
</p>
<p style="text-align:center">
			<img src="http://sharedlog_ai.s3.amazonaws.com/1341833375-_DX_singlemom.jpg.CROP.article250-medium.jpg" align="center"></p>
<p><p>If you are in this situation, you should know that you are not alone in this and that there are numerous people you can address in order to lead a better life. Your child is the most important person you should be thinking about and even though you have gone through a divorce, you should make sure that your little bundle of joy is stable from the emotional point of view.</p>
<p>The satisfaction you get from raising your children on your own is twice bigger and the joy your children offer you is surely something that compensates for all the troubles and depressing periods you went through with your divorce. Whatever you do, make sure that your children are protected from every side and that they will be there for you once they grow up. Even if you feel that your children do not understand your sacrifices, they do. They might not express it right away, but when time comes they will and that&rsquo;s the moment when you will be proud of yourself and your kids. </p></p>
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		<title>Choosing The Right Baby Toy</title>
		<link>http://www.next-steps.net/2012/04/13/choosing-the-right-baby-toy/</link>
		<comments>http://www.next-steps.net/2012/04/13/choosing-the-right-baby-toy/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 13 Apr 2012 09:04:01 +0000</pubDate>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.next-steps.net/?p=119</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[So your bundle if joy is finally here and running the household already. But now you want to find them a good toy that is not only educational, stimulating, but also entertaining. There are many products on the market and you may find yourself overwhelmed and highly concerned about making the right choice. So how [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:12.0pt;margin-left: 0in;line-height:18.0pt">So your bundle if joy is finally here and running the household already. But now you want to find them a good toy that is not only educational, stimulating, but also entertaining. There are many products on the market and you may find yourself overwhelmed and highly concerned about making the right choice. So how do you go about buying the right toy for your baby? Here are some thoughts. </p>
</p>
<p style="text-align:center">
			<img src="http://sharedlog_ai.s3.amazonaws.com/1334306862-babyhaba-1021-1-big-voyage-pull-toys_1994_detail.jpg" align="center"></p>
<p>			<span id="more-119"></span>
<p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:12.0pt;margin-left: 0in;line-height:18.0pt">Age guideline </p>
<p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:12.0pt;margin-left: 0in;line-height:18.0pt">Finding that toy for your child that cannot be too difficult or overly simple is a challenge. But most of the toy companies in the market tend to have on the toy box a listing of the recommended age. So check the box for the age range. Do your best to stay within the age range for the toy for your baby. </p>
<p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:12.0pt;margin-left: 0in;line-height:18.0pt">Kind of toy </p>
<p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:12.0pt;margin-left: 0in;line-height:18.0pt">Try never to run out and buy the very first sparkling toy you see. Take some time to think about what you want to get. Keep in mind that babies usually tire of things easily and get distracted very often. So, in the same way you would not attend the same <a href="http://www.creativeeducation.co.uk/teacher-training-courses.aspx">teacher training courses</a> over and over again, you should not buy the same toys for your baby over and over again. </p>
<p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:12.0pt;margin-left: 0in;line-height:18.0pt">Variety </p>
<p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:12.0pt;margin-left: 0in;line-height:18.0pt">Choose toys that are challenging and different. So if your baby has many toys that they can use outside why not get them something that has to be used inside around a table.  </p>
</p>
<p style="text-align:center">
			<img src="http://sharedlog_ai.s3.amazonaws.com/1334307116-.jpg" align="center"></p>
<p><p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:12.0pt;margin-left: 0in;line-height:18.0pt">Safety </p>
<p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:12.0pt;margin-left: 0in;line-height:18.0pt">Always keep safety in mind when decision what to purchase. Always go for reputable toy brands and also stores that are trusted to have safe toys on sale. Look at the toys&apos;edges, adjustable parts, removable parts, and the material they are made out of. </p>
<p style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:12.0pt;margin-left: 0in;line-height:18.0pt">Choose toys that will meet these criteria and ensure that you are comfortable with your decisions. </p></p>
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		<title>Divorce &#8211; How to Ease Your Children Through this Situation</title>
		<link>http://www.next-steps.net/2012/01/04/divorce-how-to-ease-your-children-through-this-situation/</link>
		<comments>http://www.next-steps.net/2012/01/04/divorce-how-to-ease-your-children-through-this-situation/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 04 Jan 2012 13:39:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Admin</dc:creator>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.next-steps.net/?p=116</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The old statement that divorce is toughest on the children isn&#8217;t just an empty saying. For kids, the home as well as the daily presence of mommy and daddy is their only reality. That home is really all they have recognized since delivery so when it is abruptly split apart by separation and divorce, that [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>
			The old statement that divorce is toughest on the children isn&rsquo;t just an empty saying. For kids, the home as well as the daily presence of mommy and daddy is their only reality. That home is really all they have recognized since delivery so when it is abruptly split apart by separation and divorce, that will become the greatest trauma for the child&rsquo;s lifestyle. Therefore it is recommended that both mom and dad think through the direction they will take to help their children emerge from the separation and divorce period with as little negative effect as possible.</p>
<p style="text-align:center">
<p>			<span id="more-116"></span>
<p>
			Conversation is cruicial to help your children cope with the aftermath of divorce. The specific discussions with regard to the way the separation and divorce will end such as the home and visitation legal rights must be done mainly by the adults. However if you allow the older children to let you know of their emotions, good and bad concerning the separation and divorce, that may do a lot to help relieve the transition.</p>
<p>Those discussions may also be used to reassure the kids that they didn&rsquo;t cause the separation and divorce and they continue to be 100% loved by both mom and dad. You will find a great deal of low self-esteem kids feel when mom and dad separate because they have to know who&rsquo;s planning to care for them. Therefore make use of this period of regular discussions as a family to reassure them that they will in no way be away from the parent who cares for their needs.</p>
<p style="text-align:center">
			<span style="float:left;font-size:1.1em;font-style: italic;margin:4% 13%;border: 1px solid #C6C6C6;border-left:0px;border-right: 0px;padding: 15px;width:70%;text-align:justify;font-family: sans-serif;text-align:center">Make sure your children know you love them 100% throughout the divorce proceedings.</span></p>
<p>
			Last, do not involve your children in the <a href="http://www.brookman.co.uk">Divorce lawyers London</a> process. This will do them no good to talk with your lawyers, take sides or be a part of any of the financial concerns of hiring one. Keep your divorce as peaceful and pleasant as you possibly can for your kids. As long as your children know they having nothing to do with your divorce and that you still love them regardless of what is going on, it will help to ease them of any pain associated with this kind of situation. </p>
<p><span class="similar_posts" style="font-weight:bold">Similar Posts:</span><br /><a href="http://www.targetjr.org/2012/01/04/the-right-path/">The Right Path </a>&nbsp;:&nbsp;Children are a joy to behold! The way they&#8230;</p>
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		<title>The importance of alone time&#8230;.</title>
		<link>http://www.next-steps.net/2011/08/24/the-importance-of-alone-time/</link>
		<comments>http://www.next-steps.net/2011/08/24/the-importance-of-alone-time/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 24 Aug 2011 02:03:56 +0000</pubDate>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.next-steps.net/?p=113</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[With many moms and dads working full time jobs these days it is often difficult to find time to spend with the family, never mind making time for oneself. For busy parents, those with difficult babies or children, and especially single parents finding some time to take a break is an absolute must. While it [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="float:right"><img src="http://sharedlog_ai.s3.amazonaws.com/200px-MDRBobMomSmall_2775.png" alt="The importance of alone time...."></div>
<p><P>With many moms and dads working full time jobs these days it is often difficult to find time to spend with the family, never mind making time for oneself. For busy parents, those with difficult babies or children, and especially single parents finding some time to take a break is an absolute must. While it may be difficult to think about spending more time away from your child ultimately it will make for better parenting.</P> <P>Taking a break from being an employee, parent or spouse is beneficial for all in many ways; it helps to reduce one&rsquo;s stress levels, rejuvenates and provides opportunity for much needed down time. Many parents believe that this means taking a night out away from the children, this is not true. What constitutes alone time varies among individuals. For some parents it is being able to do groceries or run errands without having to bring the children along, whereas for others it is an evening out to the movies and dinner. Whatever the preference actually taking the time is what&rsquo;s most important.</P> <P>In order to facilitate making time to get away may require the hiring of <a href="http://www.mybuilder.com/handymen/in/uk">handymen</a> to take care of the simple chores that might otherwise take up any of your free time. Having someone come and mow the lawn, clean out the gutters or repair the leaky sink may cost a little money, but it allows both moms and dads the time to spend with their children therefore, (hopefully) reducing the guilt that naturally occurs when parents think about taking time away from their kids. Being a parent is a full time job and a trying one at times. Taking time to catch your breath every once in a while will help to make the difficult times more bearable.</P></p>
<p><span class="similar_posts" style="font-weight:bold">Similar Posts:</span><br /><a href="http://www.targetjr.org/2011/08/14/irrational-demands-by-kids-how-to-deal/">Irrational Demands By Kids &ndash; How To Deal?</a>&nbsp;:&nbsp;How to deal with&#8230;</p>
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		<title>Stressed Mum = Stressed Kid</title>
		<link>http://www.next-steps.net/2011/07/29/stressed-mum-stressed-kid/</link>
		<comments>http://www.next-steps.net/2011/07/29/stressed-mum-stressed-kid/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 29 Jul 2011 15:18:39 +0000</pubDate>
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		<description><![CDATA[One thing that is easy to forget is just how easily your own emotions can have an impact on your children. Young toddlers especially will pick up on emotions that they can&#8217;t fully understand or process yet and will act out accordingly. Many parents don&#8217;t even know it, but their mood can have a significant [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><p style="margin-bottom:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-align: justify">One thing that is easy to forget is just how easily your own emotions can have an impact on your children. Young toddlers especially will pick up on emotions that they can&rsquo;t fully understand or process yet and will act out accordingly. Many parents don&rsquo;t even know it, but their mood can have a significant effect on their toddler&rsquo;s development which is why it is so important to understand and confront your own feelings on a regular basis.</p>
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<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-align: justify">An <a href="http://www.foxnews.com/health/2011/03/17/depressed-moms-parenting-style-linked-toddler-stress/">article</a> that appeared on Fox News illustrates quite effectively just how much of an impact a mother&rsquo;s emotional state can have on a child. It is therefore important to ensure that you talk to your partner or if you are a single parent, a close relative or friend about how you are feeling and coping. Being a Mum is one of the most wonderful things in the whole world, but it can also be one of the most terrifying and stressful at the same time. There is no shame in admitting that you are struggling to cope or that you&rsquo;re feeling depressed. Believe it or not these are very common traits amongst parents, experienced and new. </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-align: justify">One way to relieve the stress of parenting is to take a break once in a while. Don&rsquo;t be afraid to take a holiday %u2013 if you can leave your toddler with a trusted relative or friend for a few days or a week then that&rsquo;s great! Don&rsquo;t feel embarrassed to ask for help, many more people then you realise will understand especially if they are close to you. Getting away even for a few days will give you the opportunity to recharge your batteries and come back refreshed and most likely happier. If you are worried about the thought of leaving your baby all alone, you need not fret. Take your mobile phone with you and make sure you have full access to the internet on it. If your service provider charges too much for data use abroad then it&rsquo;s easy enough to find a better <a href="http://www.abroadband.com/en/GB/whatisabroadband">mobile roaming solution</a>. You can change your sim just for when you&rsquo;re away on holiday allowing you access to cheaper calls and internet usage. That way you can call home to check on your baby whenever you need to. Again, it&rsquo;s nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about.</p>
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<p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-align: justify">Your emotions are going to be all over the place when you&rsquo;ve become a parent. It&rsquo;s difficult to keep up with the changes but it&rsquo;s perfectly normal. Don&rsquo;t think you&rsquo;re the only person in the world who&rsquo;s going through this; you&rsquo;re not and there are plenty of people available to help you, be it your partner, a relative, a friend or even a professional doctor or counsellor %u2013 sometimes it&rsquo;s easier and less embarrassing to talk to a stranger about your problems then it is someone close to you. </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0cm;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-align: justify">Remember; don&rsquo;t bottle your feelings up. Talk to people, listen to advice and above all, take care of yourself.</p>
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<p><span class="similar_posts" style="font-weight:bold">Similar Posts:</span><br /><a href="http://www.targetjr.org/2011/07/23/encouraging-imagination-in-children/">Encouraging Imagination In Children</a>&nbsp;:&nbsp;It is very important for&#8230;</p>
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		<title>Good Parenting &#8211; Being Skilled And Talented Is A Must?</title>
		<link>http://www.next-steps.net/2011/07/22/good-parenting-being-skilled-and-talented-is-a-must/</link>
		<comments>http://www.next-steps.net/2011/07/22/good-parenting-being-skilled-and-talented-is-a-must/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 22 Jul 2011 11:35:38 +0000</pubDate>
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		<description><![CDATA[It was only after I had a baby that I discovered that I had no skills that I could pass on to my child on my own. I could not sing, dance, stitch, sculpt or paint &#8211; I just knew how to work as an accountant but that was useless for my young child? Thankfully, [...]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="float:right"><img src="http://sharedlog_ai.s3.amazonaws.com/90px-Toddler_in_Misfits_shirt_3976.png" alt="Good Parenting &amp;ndash; Being Skilled And Talented Is A Must?"></div>
<p>It was only after I had a baby that I discovered that I had no skills that I could pass on to my child on my own. I could not sing, dance, stitch, sculpt or paint &#8211; I just knew how to work as an accountant but that was useless for my young child? Thankfully, I realized this when my baby was very young and managed to join <a href="http://www.saa.co.uk/tuition/tuitionlisting.php">art classes</a> to improve my skills. </p>
<p>Why is it important to possess such skills? What is wrong if a young mother cannot sing for the child? Well, I am not going into the right or wrong aspect but I felt that I should be a position to pass on some skills to my child on my own. I always had the option of sending my child to art classes to become a painter. However, I felt that I would do a better job of improving not just my child&rsquo;s art skills but also his or her confidence and self esteem by being a teacher myself. </p>
<p>I also discovered that I could easily take a few hours out of my schedule despite having a young baby at home. I just had to manage the feeding time right and I could focus on my art classes without any difficulty. This also gave me the encouragement to become a work at home mom to earn some money for my child without any difficulty. </p>
<p>Of course, I have a wonderful time trying to teach my young toddler how to paint. I do not know whether I have talent but I can confidently state that my young child has a lot of interest in playing around with colors.</p>
<p><span class="similar_posts" style="font-weight:bold">Similar Posts:</span><br /><a href="http://www.targetjr.org/2011/06/29/parenting-and-child-abuse/">Parenting And Child Abuse</a>&nbsp;:&nbsp;As a child I have often had the&#8230;<br /><a href="http://www.storieproductions.com/2011/06/28/storytelling-kids-learn-a-lot-from-stories/">Storytelling &ndash; Kids Learn A Lot From Stories</a>&nbsp;:&nbsp;It is very&#8230;</p>
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