What Preemie Moms Need to Know About Necrotizing Enterocolitis

 Welcoming a new baby into the world is an exciting yet stressful experience, especially if your little one comes too soon. Caring for premature infants is stressful and difficult, as they require round-the-clock specialized care, and they are highly vulnerable to numerous diseases. It’s essential that you be informed about the dangers your newborn faces so that you can reduce the risks and help them grow up healthy and strong.

 A little-known danger that is prevalent amongst premature infants is necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a disease wherein intestinal inflammation encourages bacterial overgrowth and, eventually, damage to the gastrointestinal system. 

 What causes NEC? What are the symptoms? What can you do should your child be diagnosed with this potentially fatal disorder? We’ll discuss that, as well as how to prevent this problem, in today’s article.

Causes of Necrotizing Enterocolitis

 Firstly, necrotizing enterocolitis is a disease almost exclusively associated with premature infants, those who were born before 37 weeks of gestation. These infants have underdeveloped immune systems which cannot easily fight off infections that may otherwise be unproblematic in full-term babies. As such, they are highly vulnerable to environmental pathogens, including those in formula and other foods.

 Necrotizing enterocolitis is caused by intestinal inflammation, often due to cow’s milk-based formulas, which leads to bacterial infections in the intestinal tract. As the cells grow inflamed and die off, this leads to necrosis, or the death of all or most of the cells in a particular organ. 

Symptoms of NEC

 Unfortunately, the symptoms of NEC are very nonspecific, particularly at first. Infants may show fatigue, lethargy, poor feeding, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal tenderness. As many babies are fussy, sleepy, or have a runny stool, parents - especially first-time mothers - may believe they are overreacting, and they might be turned away by doctors and assured that this is normal. This can lead to delays in treatment that may lead to serious complications.

 There may also be blood in the child’s stool and, as the disease progresses, trouble breathing or unresponsiveness. At this point, the child may require intestinal resection, which means that the dead portions of the bowel are cut out, and the surviving tissue is stitched together. At first, the child will be given antibiotics and fed through a tube to allow the bowels to rest and regenerate; if this doesn’t work, they may require surgery, where surgeons will cut out the damaged portions of the bowel and reconnect the remaining tissue. 

What to Do if Your Child Is Diagnosed with NEC

 If your child has been diagnosed with NEC, the first thing you must do is work diligently to get them the medical treatment they need. As the doctors care for your child, it’s time to reach out to other professionals who can assist you in getting answers - and justice - for what has happened to your little one. 

 NEC is closely associated with feeding bovine-based baby formulas, which are marketed as safe for preemies despite the well-known risks. If you have fed your premature infant certain formulas, including Simulac and Enfamil, you should consult with an attorney regarding a potential NEC baby formula lawsuit, which can provide the compensation and closure that you and your family deserve. Medical care for infants suffering from NEC is incredibly expensive, and as such, it’s vital that you pursue options to receive compensation for this severe negligence on behalf of baby formula manufacturers, who knew the risks to premature infants but did little to reduce the danger.

How to Prevent NEC

 One of the best ways to prevent NEC in preemies is to breastfeed: Mother’s milk is the safest and most effective nutrition, as it adjusts to meet your child’s nutritional needs as they grow. However, it’s not always possible to breastfeed, especially if your child was premature due to pregnancy complications and you yourself are still recuperating.

 In this instance, you should seek safer baby formulas that have higher manufacturing standards. Explore your baby formula options, including ordering from abroad, in order to safely satisfy your child’s nutritional needs. You may also consider using donated breast milk, which many hospitals will stock in order to feed premature infants. 

 It’s important to note that some formulas, such as rice milk-based formulas, are also not safe for newborns due to the high levels of arsenic naturally present in rice. Consult with your child’s medical team in order to identify what would be safest for them based on how premature they are and any other special nutrition needs they may have. 

 With research, diligence, and tender loving care, you can keep your premature infant safe from risks such as NEC. However, should your child be diagnosed with this devastating disease, know that you have options and resources in order to receive justice for your child. 

Homemade Gluten-Free Bagels Made With Oat Flour

 Looking for a chewy gluten-free bagel. These oat flour bagels are surprisingly easy to make and so delicious. They are the best chewy gluten-free bagels.

I received a sample of Better Body Foods Oat Flour to inspire this post

 Gluten-free bagels can be hard to find in the store or the bakery. When you do discover bagels that are gluten-free, they are usually more expensive than a package of regular bagels. Having to eat a gluten-free diet can be frustrating and expensive. Making your own wheat-free bagels is a way better option,

 These homemade oat flour bagels taste way better than the gluten-free bagels that you can get at the store. These bagels have a similar taste and texture to ones that are made with wheat flour. They are way better tasting than even Trader Joes Gluten-free Everything bagels, Keep reading to get the recipe.

Oat Flour Bagels are

+ Gluten-Free

+ Vegan

+ Delicious

+ Chewy

+ Healthy

+ Plant-Based

+ Full of Fiber

 Six months ago, I eliminated wheat from my diet thinking that it was going to be a temporary diet change. I started to notice that consuming any food made with wheat triggered an asthma attack.  I was receiving allergy shots at the time and I was receiving the high doses of the serums. So I thought that my lungs were inflamed from the allergy shots. The allergy doctor even told me that I might have a temporary wheat allergy. I only had 6 more months to go for my allergy shots, so I gave up eating wheat with the hope of being able to eat bread again.

I was diagnosed with a wheat allergy

 Six months later when I was done with allergy shots, I choose to eat a tortilla made with wheat. 2 hours later, I experienced a severe asthma attack. The next day, I had my routine allergy testing blood work. Two weeks later, the allergy doctor told me that my overall IGE allergy test numbers had increased. When I mentioned the symptoms that I had experienced after eating wheat, she tested me for wheat. The test came back positive for a wheat allergy. 

 So, being that I don't like experiencing breathing problems, I knew that I had to be on a wheat-free diet. This new food allergy may have been the result of mold poisoning two years ago. I no longer could eat anything made with wheat. So I had to start learning how to bake gluten-free recipes.

This page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases

 Gluten-Free Oat Flour Bagels

 When I was able to enjoy eating bread, I loved eating bagels and tortillas. I was not going to let my wheat allergy stop me from enjoying food and my love for bread. The first gluten-free bread recipe that I made was an oat tortillas recipe and they were so delicious. These gluten-free tortillas fold up perfectly for my tacos. 

When I received a package of an oat flour blend, I went to the company's website in search of recipes. The first recipe that caught my eye was oat flour bagels*. I was excited that I could use the Oatsome Oat Flour to make gluten-free bagels. I could once again enjoy eating bagels. 

*While the above recipe inspired me to make bagels, I chose to use the oat flour blend in a different recipe.

Ingredients Needed To Make Oat Flour Bagels

+ Oat Flour - I recommend Oatsome Oat Flour as it is an oat flour blend *see notes

+ Gluten-Free Flour Blend 

+ Instant Yeast

+ Psyllium Husk Powder ~ See notes for why you need this ingredient*

+ Sugar

+ Baking Powder

+ Salt

+ Vegan Butter

+ Baking Soda

* Why Oatsome Oat Flour is Recommended

Oatsome Oat flour has additional ingredients, in addition to gluten-free oats, in the blend that gives better results in the texture of these bagels. Read the below description to learn more.

Oatsome Whole Grain Organic Oat Flour Blend is a versatile and healthy alternative to regular flour, perfect for those with gluten intolerance. This oat flour is a perfect as a one-to-one substitute, made with only 3 simple ingredients – whole-grain organic oat flour, organic buckwheat flour, and xanthan gum for baking – it can be used in a variety of recipes from sweet to savory. Great for cookies, brownies, bread, muffins, waffles, biscuits, and pancakes, this organic oat flour is a pantry staple for delicious and enjoyable gluten-free baking.

*Psyllium Husk in Gluten-Free Baking

 Psyllium husk is a crucial ingredient in gluten-free bread baking. It acts as a binder, and it gives gluten-free bread dough the elasticity, flexibility, and extensibility it needs so you can actually knead and shape it without any problems. It also allows gluten-free bread to proof properly (so it can actually double in volume). With its help, you can make gluten-free bread that tastes, looks, smells, and feels like “regular” bread made with wheat flour.

Love that this recipe uses yeast 

How to make gluten-free oat bagels

Making the bagels is simple and similar to making traditional homemade bagels. You will follow all the traditional bagel-making steps. The only difference is swapping out the ingredients for gluten-free and vegan ingredients.

+ Mix Ingredients

+ Knead Dough

+ Let the Dough Rise

+ Boil the Bagels

+ Bake the Bagels

Look at this dough that can be shaped

Bagel Flavor Variations ~ Add these toppings or Mix-ins before baking

~ Brush the bagels with an egg wash (whisk an egg and 1 tablespoon of water) or brush with water for a vegan recipe. This helps the toppings stick to the bagels

+ Everything Bagel Seasoning – Make this homemade everything bagel seasoning spice 

+ Poppy seeds

+ Sesame seeds

+ Cinnamon sugar – Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to the dough or sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top of the bagels

+ Onion – Add 2 teaspoons onion powder to the dough and sprinkle on dried minced onion

+ Cinnamon raisin – Add 2/3 cup raisins, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon brown sugar to the dough.

Storing And Freezing Tips

+ Store cooled bagels at room temperature for two days in an airtight container

+ Freeze for longer storage up to 3 months in a freezer bag.

SAVE THIS Recipe For Homemade Gluten-Free Bagels TO YOUR PINTEREST BOARD!

Check out some other gluten-free recipes

~ Two Ingredient Gluten Free Oat Tortillas

~ No-Bake High Fiber Breakfast Granola Bar 

~ 4-Ingredient Mocha Coconut Breakfast Cookies

~ Gluten Free Chocolate Mocha Protein Brownies 

How to Ensure Proper Nutrition for Your Infant: A Comprehensive Guide

 Are you stressed about providing the right nutrition for your newborn? Don't worry, you're not alone! This comprehensive guide is here to help you understand and navigate the often confusing world of infant nutrition, ensuring your little one gets the best start in life. Let's embark on this journey together!

Only Use Organic Formulas

 Choosing the correct formula is crucial to your infant's health and development. It's designed to closely mimic breast milk, providing essential nutrients like proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. This is essential for natural nutrition because breast milk is the optimal source of nutrition for babies 0-6 months old. Not all formulas are alike, and it's essential to select one that suits your baby's specific needs.

 For instance, formulas for premature babies contain more calories and nutrients, while hypoallergenic formulas are ideal for infants with allergies. You should also consider the form - powdered, concentrated liquid, or ready-to-use. Each has different preparation methods and costs, affecting convenience and affordability. Always consult your pediatrician when deciding on a formula. Remember, proper nutrition in infancy lays the foundation for lifelong health and well-being!

Introduce Solid Foods

 Introducing solid foods around six months plays a key role in ensuring your infant receives proper nutrition. This milestone, known as weaning, complements breast milk or formula feeding, which should continue until one year of age. 

 As infants grow, their nutritional needs evolve. Solid foods provide additional nutrients like iron and zinc necessary for growth and development. Different foods also introduce multiple flavors and textures, stimulating your child's senses and promoting healthier eating habits. 

 Start with single-ingredient foods like pureed vegetables or fruits, then gradually introduce a variety of foods, including protein-rich options like lean meats and legumes. Ensure the foods are age-appropriate and easy to swallow to avoid choking. Remember to monitor for any allergic reactions, and consult your health visitor or GP if you have any concerns. Introducing solid foods in a thoughtful and gradual manner aids in establishing a balanced diet, supporting your child's growth, health, and well-being.

Provide A Balanced Diet

 Just like adults, babies need a lot of different nutrients in order to grow and develop the right way. These are the following:

+ protein

+ carbohydrates

+ healthy fats

+ Calcium

+ iron

+ vitamin D

+ vitamin C

+ zinc

+ vitamin A

+ vitamin B12

 Providing a balanced diet for an infant ensures they receive all the necessary nutrients required for optimal growth and development. This includes protein for muscle development, carbohydrates for energy, and specific vitamins and minerals for supporting immune function, bone health, and brain development. A well-rounded diet thus lays the foundation for a healthy, thriving child.

Avoid Added Sugar And Salt

 Sugar could lead to unhealthy weight gain and tooth decay, while excessive salt may strain their kidneys, which are still maturing. Moreover, these additions can distort their taste preferences, encouraging a preference for salty or sweet foods over nutritiously diverse options. Introducing a diet free from extra sugar and salt from an early stage fosters healthier eating habits. 

 It ensures the right balance of nutrients necessary for growth, development, and maintaining a strong immune system. Always opt for natural, unprocessed foods when possible, and consult your healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Follow Safe Feeding Practices

 Adhering to safe feeding practices is paramount to ensuring your infant receives proper nutrition. Providing the right quantity of food, avoiding force-feeding, and making meal times peaceful all contribute to healthy eating habits. It's crucial to sterilize all feeding equipment to prevent bacterial infections. Position your baby upright while feeding to prevent choking and ensure they're able to swallow properly. 

 Always check the temperature of food or milk to avoid burns. Introduce new foods one at a time and monitor for allergic reactions. Lastly, keep an eye on the expiry dates of baby foods and formulas to ensure your baby is not consuming spoiled food. Together, these safety measures promote the overall well-being of your infant.

Consult With Their Doctor

 Consulting with a healthcare professional or pediatrician is pivotal in ensuring your infant's nutritional needs are adequately met. They offer expert guidance on infant feeding, taking into account your baby's growth, development, and unique nutritional needs. Regular consultations allow for personalized advice, addressing specific concerns such as allergies, food intolerances, or weight issues. 

 They can also provide insights on dietary adjustments as your baby grows and their nutritional requirements change. This advice can help you make informed decisions, ensuring your baby receives a balanced diet that supports optimal growth and development. Remember, an open line of communication with your doctor is an essential part of your child's nutritional journey.

 Ensuring your infant's optimal nutrition is a journey that requires careful planning and commitment. Remember, from selecting the right formula, and introducing solid foods, to avoiding added sugar and salt, every decision you make plays a pivotal role in shaping your child's health and well-being. Never hesitate to seek advice from a healthcare professional for a comprehensive approach to your infant's nutrition.

The Triumphant True Story of Corrie Ten Boom: The Hiding Place ~ Giveaway

 Experience the incredible true story of Corrie Ten Boom in this beautiful new global cinema event. This is a Holocaust story that is well worth watching.

Many thanks to The Hiding Place LLC for providing a sample of the product for this review. My opinions are 100% my own.

 The Holocaust was an awful time in history and there is so much that we can learn about. While most people know about how the Jewish people were tormented and sent away, most people know little about the people who chose to risk their lives to hide the Jewish people. 

 Sure most of us have read the story about Ann Frank and how her family was hidden in a house by a family but there were many more Jewish refugees hiding away in homes. Corrie Ten Boom was another hero who risked everything to hide Jewish refugees during World War II.

Experience the incredible true story of Corrie Ten Boom in this beautiful new global cinema event, coming to theaters on August 3 & 5 only! 

 Buy tickets today to see The Hiding Place

Families will love watching this powerful film together & being inspired by Corrie’s faith and courage.

About The Hiding Place:

 In the Netherlands, Corrie Ten Boom and her family risk everything to hide Jewish refugees* by the hundreds and ultimately face the consequences when they are discovered. World War II. Darkness has fallen over Europe, and the boots of the Third Reich echo through the streets. But on a quiet city corner in the Netherlands, some choose to resist. Corrie Ten Boom and her family risk everything to hide Jewish refugees by the hundreds, and they ultimately face the consequences when they are discovered. The Hiding Place is their story—a story of faith, hope, love, and forgiveness in the face of unthinkable evil. 

*The Ten Boom saved over 800 Jewish refugees

 This powerful cinematic presentation was adapted for the stage by A. S. Peterson, directed for the stage by Matt Logan, and filmed for cinema audiences in Nashville, Te n n e s s e e.

Meet the cast

The film stars stage veteran Nan Gurley in the role of her already-remarkable career as Corrie Ten Boom. Carrie Tillis (daughter of country music legend Mel Tillis and sister of Pam Tillis) is another gifted actor and stars as Betsie Ten Boom. Playing the part of Casper Ten Boom is the motion picture legend Conrad John Schuck, who has starred in films such as M.A.S.H., Star Trek, and a litany of other television roles.

Watch The Hiding Place Official Movie Trailer ~ On Youtube

This is a powerful film that families need to watch together. "The Hiding Place" is a story of faith, hope, love, and forgiveness in the face of unthinkable evil. It is a film that will teach you and your kids about an evil time in history. It will teach your children about brave people who helped Jewish people escape from the enemy. You’ll be moved by the cinematic experience of this unique theatrical show, which highlights the strength of the Jewish & Christian faiths even during great suffering.

What ages is the film most appropriate for?

 While the film is not officially rated by the MPA, this story is centered on the difficult subject of the Holocaust. There is no nudity, graphic violence, or foul language.

Buy tickets today to see The Hiding Place on August 3 & 5 only!

#TheHidingPlaceMIN #TheHidingPlaceFilm #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Giveaway ~ $10 Amazon gift card

 The sponsors of this article are giving away a $10 Amazon gift card to one lucky Mom Knows Best reader. The giveaway is limited to US winners only. The giveaway starts on July 27th, 2023, and ends on August 10th, 2023. To enter the giveaway ~ enter on the giveaway form below.

~ Limited to US winners only

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Dreamin’ Wild Is A Must See Movie About Rediscovering A Dream

Dreamin' Wild is based on the true story of Donnie & Joe Emerson. The brothers grew up making music and never had a chance at a music career. Thirty years later that all changed.

This is a sponsored post on behalf of Review Wire Media for Roadside Attractions Films.

Looking for a movie to watch? Discover the story of the musical duo Donnie & Joe Emerson in the movie called Dreamin' Wild. Donnie & Joe Emerson were on the way to becoming famous with their music. Their first album was ready to be produced but it never happen due to lack of money. 

Then 30 years later, after Donnie & Joe Emerson made their first album, the Dreamin' Wild Album was discovered. The Emerson brothers had a dream to rediscover with a chance to have a music career that they never thought was possible. 

Based on the true story of Donnie & Joe Emerson, Dreamin' Wild is only in theaters on August 4.

About Dreamin' Wild

 Dreamin’ Wild is the true story of love and redemption. The story of musical duo Donnie & Joe Emerson, whose family leveraged their farm in the 1970s to produce the brothers’ record Dreamin’ Wild. The album languished until it was rediscovered nearly 30 years after its release, creating an unexpected music career for the Emerson brothers.

The album that the Emerson brothers recorded as teens was rediscovered after thirty years of obscurity and was suddenly hailed by music critics as a lost masterpiece. While the album’s rediscovery brings hopes of second chances, it also brings long-buried emotions as Donnie, his wife Nancy, brother Joe, and father Don Sr. come to terms with the past and their newly found fame. 

~ Rated PG (for language and thematic elements) 

~ Genre: Biography, Drama, Music

Written and Directed by Bill Pohlad

The Film Stars

~ Casey Affleck ~ Noah Jupe ~ Zooey Deschanel ~ Jack Dylan Grazer ~ Chris Messina ~ Walton Goggins ~ and Beau Bridges

The music they made will always keep them together ~ Casey Affleck and Walton Goggins are Donnie and Joe Emerson in #DreaminWild - only in theaters August 4.

Official Movie Trailer

 It’s time to start #DreaminWild.  ~ See the film only in theaters on August 4.

Learn & Connect with Dreamin' Wild

Movie Website: https://www.dreaminwildmovie.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RoadsideAttractionsFilms/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/roadsidetweets

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roadsideattractionsfilms/

This page may contain affiliate links. 

Giveaway

One winner will receive the Donnie & Joe Emerson Dreamin’ Wild LP (RV $27)! Open to U.S. residents of the 48 contiguous United States. You must be 18 years old to enter to win. This giveaway ends at 11:59 PM EST on 8.8.23. 

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Signs and Symptoms of Low Iron Deficiency

 Have you been feeling tired and wondering if the cause of your low energy levels is due to low iron levels in your blood? Iron deficiency is easy to diagnose and easy to treat but how do you discover if you have low iron?

 The most common symptom of a low iron problem is fatigue and that may be the reason to wonder if you have low iron. Of course, there may be other reasons that you are tired, like lack of sleep. So it is good to know other signs and symptoms of low iron deficiency. Iron deficiency is easy to diagnose and easy to treat. The first step in finding out if low iron may be the cause of your fatigue is knowing what other symptoms of low iron are.

 Once you look at the signs and symptoms of low iron and you realize that you have several of them. It may be time to get some blood work done. The right blood test will help the doctor diagnose a low iron deficiency. Then you will be able to start an iron treatment plan. It is important to note, that it is not wise to take iron supplements without having the proper blood work testing done for iron deficiency.

What are The Signs and Symptoms of Low Iron Deficiency?

 If you may be wondering if you have low iron levels or Ferritin levels in your body, take a look at the below list. If you have 1 or more symptoms, it may be a good time to call your doctor and request lab testing for low iron. A blood test will not cause any harm to your body but it may lead to a treatment plan to correct low iron in the body. Then you can be on your way to feeling better.

Signs and symptoms of iron deficiency

+ Poor mental performance

+ Headaches

+ Fatigue

+ Low sex drive

+ Weakness

+ Trouble swallowing

+ Shortness of breath with  activity

+ Restless leg syndrome

+ Hair loss

+ Cold all the time

+ Palpitations 

What is the role of iron in our body

 Iron is an essential mineral that helps your body carry out a number of important processes. One of the most essential roles iron plays is helping make and maintain healthy blood. Iron is needed to form hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. 

Potential causes of iron deficiency include:

+ Heavy menstrual cycles

+ Pregnancy, whether due to the body making more blood to support the growing baby or blood loss during delivery

+ Decreased ability to absorb iron, which can be due to certain health conditions (Celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, H. pylori infection) or weight loss surgery

+ Low-dietary iron intake, though this is rare in the U.S.

+ Chronic bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract

Testing for Low Iron Deficiency

 If you have one or more symptoms from the iron deficiency list above, having blood work for Ferritin levels is the best way to know if your body is low in iron. Your doctor can order the iron blood work or you can order lab tests here. If you do your own lab work, please do your research to order the correct test and to interpret the results. Specific blood tests are needed to check iron levels.

I received samples from optimizeiron.com to facilitate this article. The medical information was obtained from this website.

 Treating Low Iron Deficiency

 If your blood test for Ferritin levels comes back with an indication that you have low levels of Ferritin in your blood and the doctor gives the diagnosis of low iron, an iron supplement is the best way to treat low iron. Your doctor may write you a prescription for an iron supplement. Before you fill that prescription, learn about an iron supplement for people with low iron/iron deficiency.

~ Optimal ferritin is somewhere in the range of 70 to 150

 Blood Vitality, it is a bioavailable iron supplement for people with low iron/iron deficiency. Dr. Matt Angove is a Naturopathic Doctor who researched and created the supplement after his wife had iron issues during her pregnancies and for his various patients presenting with low iron.

 Blood Vitality is an iron-containing formula you can rely upon to safely raise your ferritin levels within 30 days, which is easy to digest without the side effects associated with many iron supplements.

Facts about Blood Vitality 

+ Blood Vitality is an iron-containing formula you can rely upon to safely raise your ferritin levels within 30 days

+ Gentle on the stomach - a non-constipating iron supplement that won’t cause digestive discomfort, black stools, or nausea 

+ Blood Vitality has 15mg of elemental iron per serving along with other blood-building minerals in a unique form called Hydrolyzed Whole Protein Chelate. This is 83% of the daily recommended for iron, so can be safely used by anyone. See the dosing chart below for those with Low Iron Deficiency.

Get your energy back and start enjoying life

If you are experiencing any of the Signs and symptoms of iron deficiency, it may be time to get your iron and ferritin levels checked to see if you need an iron supplement. ⁠⁠

Discover Smile Zemi With a FREE Tablet Deal

 Looking to enhance your child's education or learning? Check out an innovative home learning service that makes learning fun.

I received a Smile Zemi learning program in exchange for this article

 We as parents want the best for our kids when it comes to learning. We want to see our kids succeed in school. As a busy parent, it can be hard to juggle work, family, and your child's education. So what is a parent to do when it comes to giving your kids the best education?

 In a perfect world, you can choose to homeschool but the stress may not be good for the child or the parent. If one was wealthy, they could send their child to the best private school. The reality is most parents can't afford the cost of private schools and most parents are not qualified to teach their kids at home. Even if parents have the education to home-school, they may not have the time or patience.

Are you a busy parent juggling work, family, and your child's education? It's time to say goodbye to the stress! 

 Discover Smile Zemi, the innovative home learning service designed to take the pressure off and make learning fun. This unique learning platform offers personalized lessons that adapt to your child's needs, boosting their confidence, and academic skills. This learning program will help set your child up for success. 

Smile Zemi is an effective alternative to tutors and learning centers

 All children can benefit from additional learning. There is no such thing as too much learning. The more learning help the child receives the better for so many things. A good education will help your child succeed in school and in the future.

 The Smile Zemi is a program that can help kids learn beyond what they learn in school. This learning program can enhance a child's learning and reinforce learning from what they learned in school. Smile Zemi makes learning fun.

Back to School Special ~ Get a free tablet ($329.99 value) with the purchase of the Smile Zemi Learning Program.  ~   limited time only ( ends July 31st, 2023)

Checking out Smile Zemi

 I had the opportunity to check out the Smile Zemi learning system. This is a learning program that I wished I had access to when my kids were younger. This learning program would help kids succeed in school. The Smile Zemi is geared toward elementary school-age children in grades 1st-5th. While my boys are in high school, I was able to have my oldest granddaughter check it out. 

 My granddaughter is starting kindergarten next month and has attended pre-k. So she has experience with online learning. There were some lessons that I felt my granddaughter could do like Rhyming Words. So I introduced the Smile Zemi educational program to my granddaughter.

 I liked that this learning system for kids was available on a tablet. The tablet is needed for the learning program. Right now, you can get the tablet for free. I liked that the tablet was large and came with a protective case. I was able to bring the Smile Zemi Tablet to my granddaughter's house.

 I preloaded the Rhyming lesson for my grandchild to check out. The lesson had pictures and audio so that made it easy for her as she is learning how to read. I liked that the lesson included a learning section and then a practice test. So my grandchild was able to learn about words that rhyme. The fun part came when she was able to interact with the lessons with a digitizer pen.

Smile Zemi makes learning fun

 My granddaughter enjoyed watching the lessons and taking the practice tests. I loved seeing her excitement when she got the answers to the test right. The program told her "great job" when she got the right answer correct and "good try" when she answered incorrectly. There was even a how-to-solve section to give her additional help. I loved that my granddaughter could hear the instructions and see the words as they were being spoken. This would help her learn how to read.

The Smile Zemi learning device made learning fun for my granddaughter and I loved that there was so much learning available. 

All the grades of learning included:

+ Math

+ ElA

+ Word Study

What is Smile Zemi?

About Smile Zemi 

Smile Zemi is the first tablet-based educational learning system tailored to meet the needs of elementary school children grades one through five and specifically designed to improve academic performance aligned with Common Core State Standards.  Developed by JustSystems, one of Japan’s largest manufacturers of educational software, Smile Zemi features a professionally developed curriculum and materials, including instructional videos, exercises, and quizzes to help students most effectively study Math and English Language Arts (ELA) on their own and in support of Common Core State Standards.

Smile Zemi is a tablet-based home learning service that promotes independent study by offering fun exercises coupled with rewards for accomplishments!

Smile Zemi has fun rewards

+ When your child completes 4 lessons, they will earn a fun reward 

Smile Zemi has a Parent Portal

+ This learning system has a parent portal that is password protected, so parents can apply clock settings, progress reports, and more. Parents can also access the parent portal through an app on their phone.

Smile Zemi is a flexible home learning service 

+ This may just be what your child needs to improve their confidence and academic skills

+ More affordable than home tutors and learning centers

+ Can be used outside the home for learning on the go

Back-to-School is just around the corner help kids start the school year off with Smile Zemi! 

Back to School Special ~ Get a free tablet ($329.99 value) with the purchase of the Smile Zemi Learning Program.  ~   limited time only ( ends July 31st, 2023)

~ The offer is valid under the condition of continuing the subscription for one year.

A Mom’s Guide to Parenting a Child with Dissociative Identity Disorder

 Raising a child with Dissociative Identity Disorder (formerly known as Multiple Personality Disorder) can feel like navigating an emotional minefield at times. If you're worried about how to handle the unique challenges that come along with parenting your struggling child, don’t give up hope!

Thanks to our guide, you'll be armed with the right resources and coping strategies, you, as a parent of a diagnosed individual dealing with DID, may find practical and helpful. Let's dive right in!

Understand the Basics of Dissociative Identity Disorder

 Dissociative Identity Disorder, commonly known as DID, is a complex condition in which a person's identity is fragmented into two or more distinct personality states. These states, also known as identities or alters, can take over the individual's behavior and thought processes. It can be confusing, scary, and disorienting for both the child experiencing DID and their parents.

 Depending on the person, each identity can have its own unique set of traits, memories, and behaviors, creating significant disturbances in daily life. Generally, treatment for DID involves a particular form of therapy called Integrated Dissociative Therapy, or IDT, for short. Through IDT, individuals are taught to reintegrate their identities, learn coping mechanisms, and work towards healing.

Learn How to Spot Signs and Symptoms of DID

 The first step in understanding this complex disorder is to recognize the signs and symptoms associated with it. As mentioned above, DID is characterized by the presence of two or more distinct identities or personalities within one individual. These identities can take control of behavior and thoughts, leading to unexplained memory gaps and feelings of dissociation.

 Other symptoms include anxiety, depression, and self-harm. It is crucial to learn how to spot these signs and symptoms, as early intervention can greatly improve someone's quality of life. While DID can be challenging to diagnose, it is important to be aware of the symptoms so that you can seek professional help if necessary.

Find Professional Help for your Child with DID

 As a parent, nothing is more important than the health and well-being of your child. But what happens when your child presents symptoms that you can't explain or understand? If you suspect that your child may be dealing with DID, it's incredibly important to seek professional help as soon as possible. With the right support and treatment in place, your child can learn to manage their symptoms, improve their mental health, and lead a happy, healthy life. Don't hesitate to take the first step in supporting your child's mental health.

Create a Safe Space for Your Child

 Creating a safe space for your child to express their feelings is essential to their emotional development. Encouraging them to talk about what's on their mind can help you better understand what they're going through, whether it's a new school, changes at home, or a difficult friendship.

 Listen to them intently and without judgment — you can provide the support and guidance they need to navigate their emotions. Ultimately, your child will feel heard and understood, leading to greater trust and a stronger bond between the two of you.

Understand How to Talk to Other People About DID

 When it comes to talking to others about DID, there can be a lot of uncertainty and fear. But remember that knowledge and understanding can break down those walls and foster compassion and acceptance. One approach may be to start with simple, factual explanations of the disorder, highlighting its symptoms and how it affects daily life.

 Emphasize that each individual's experiences with DID are unique and personal and that thorough communication and genuine empathy can go a long way in supporting someone with the condition. Breaking down the stigma about this disorder starts with you!

Be Patient and Remain Positive During Difficult Situations

 Overall, parenting a child with DID can be incredibly challenging and emotionally draining. During difficult moments, you must remain patient and offer unconditional love and support. That means remembering that the behaviors your child is exhibiting are a result of their diagnosis, not something they’re doing intentionally.

 It's also essential to remain positive when communicating with your child — negativity can only worsen their condition and make it harder for them to cope. With an open heart and consistent dedication, you can find the strength to help your child through this difficult journey.

 We hope that our guide has provided you with the resources and information necessary to support your child on their road to recovery. While parenting a child with DID can be overwhelming at times, having the right guidance and support is key. With a bit of patience, understanding, and love, you can make a world of difference in your child's life!

Why Hiring a Professional Car Shipping Service is Worth the Investment

 The idea of a cross-country road trip might sound adventurous, but the reality of driving your car for thousands of miles can be exhausting and time-consuming. This is where professional car shipping services come to the rescue. While some may consider it an unnecessary expense, hiring a professional car shipping service is a decision worth making, and here are some of the reasons why.

Peace of Mind

 Moving a car is not as simple as loading it onto a truck and driving away. It requires meticulous planning, proper equipment, and expertise in handling different types of vehicles. Professional car shipping companies have experienced personnel who are well-versed in the intricacies of vehicle transportation. Contacting the Road Runner enclosed carrier auto transport service for starters can help you understand all of the technicalities of the shipping service. They know how to properly load, secure, and transport your vehicle to ensure it arrives without a scratch. 

Time and Cost Savings

 Embarking on a long-distance road trip to transport your car can be a time-consuming endeavor. Not only will you spend days or even weeks on the road, but you'll also face additional costs such as accommodation, food, and fuel. On the other hand, hiring a professional car shipping service allows you to focus on other aspects of your move. You can invest your time in settling into your new home, handling necessary paperwork, and spending quality time with your loved ones. Additionally, when you consider the overall expenses of a self-driven move, including potential car damages, the cost of a car shipping service becomes a cost-effective solution.

Insurance Coverage

 One of the significant advantages of opting for a professional car shipping service is the insurance coverage provided by reputable companies. While accidents during vehicle transportation are rare, having the assurance that your car is protected financially can bring peace of mind. Reputable car shipping companies typically offer insurance coverage that will compensate you for damages in the unlikely event of an accident or mishap during transit. This added layer of protection ensures that your investment in your vehicle remains safeguarded throughout the journey.

Door-to-Door Convenience

 Another compelling reason to invest in a professional car shipping service is the convenience of door-to-door delivery. With this service, the shipping company picks up your car from your current location and delivers it directly to your new address. This eliminates the need to drop off and pick up your car from distant terminals, saving you time and energy. The convenience of door-to-door service is particularly beneficial for busy individuals, families, or anyone seeking a seamless moving experience.

Specialized Equipment: Ensuring Safe Transportation

 Transporting a vehicle over long distances requires specialized equipment to secure it properly during transit. Professional car shipping services have the necessary tools and resources, such as sturdy car carriers, tie-downs, and loading ramps, to ensure that your car remains secure throughout the journey. Attempting to transport your car without the right equipment could lead to potential damage or accidents, putting both your car and other motorists at risk. By hiring a reputable car shipping service, you can be confident that your vehicle will be handled with care and transported using the most appropriate methods, minimizing the chances of any mishaps.

Time-Efficient and Flexible Scheduling

 Coordinating a cross-country move can be challenging, especially if you have a tight schedule or other commitments. Professional car shipping services offer flexibility in scheduling to accommodate your needs. They understand that each customer's situation is unique, and they strive to provide a smooth and efficient experience. Whether you need your car shipped urgently or you prefer a specific delivery date, most car shipping companies can tailor their services to fit your timeline. This level of flexibility ensures that you can align your car transportation with the rest of your moving plans, making the entire process much more manageable and stress-free.

International Shipping Expertise

 For those moving overseas, the complexities of international car shipping can be overwhelming. Navigating customs regulations, paperwork, and shipping logistics requires a thorough understanding of international transportation procedures. Professional car shipping companies have extensive experience in dealing with international moves and can streamline the process for you. They will ensure that all the necessary documentation is in order, making customs clearance more efficient. Entrusting your car to experts who have handled international shipping before ensures a smoother transition across borders and minimizes potential delays or complications.

 From the peace of mind that comes with experienced professionals handling your vehicle to the time and cost savings of avoiding a self-driven move, the advantages are substantial. The specialized equipment used by car shipping companies guarantees the safe transportation of your vehicle, eliminating the risk of damage or accidents. Moreover, the flexibility in scheduling and expertise in international shipping provided by these services make the entire moving process more convenient and stress-free. So, if you're faced with the task of relocating your vehicle, consider the many advantages of a professional car shipping service to ensure a smooth and successful move.