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Posts tagged ‘Children’

Choosing The Right Exercise For You

The type of exercise you do all depends on you and what you like to do.  What you hate doing, paying membership fees, and whether or not to buy equipment are all things you need to consider as well as answer.

If you choose something that you don’t like to do, you aren’t going to keep doing it for a long period of time.  Give it some thought – if you don’t like jogging, you aren’t going to get up at 6 AM and go running.  If you can’t find something you like to do, choose something you hate the least, which will normally be walking.

Walking is great exercise, as it suits all levels of fitness.  Anyone can start a walking program at any time, it’s normally the intensity and duration that differs.  Walking is also a social exercise, as it isn’t difficult to find a training partner to chat with while you exercise.  Walking with a partner will also make time go by faster.

No matter what exercise you choose, you should start at a low level of intensity and build it up over a period of weeks, which is essential to the longevity of your exercise program.  If you start off too hard, you could end up with an injury which will require time off to get over.

If you are really in bad shape, you should start off by walking for 10 minutes each day.  Then, increase it by 5 minutes every 2 weeks.  To make things more interesting, you should try walking a different course every few days.  You can also roster a different friend to walk with you each day of the week.

If walking isn’t your thing, then you may want to try a fitness center.  They have loads of variety and normally have trainers on hand to answer any questions you may have.  When you choose a fitness center, make sure that they give good service.

If they aren’t willing to treat you well before you join, then they certainly won’t after you join.  You should also make sure that the equipment they use is well taken care of.  It’s easy to find out, as all you have to do is listen to the machines.  If they squeak a lot or make noise, then chances are they aren’t being taken care of.

If you still aren’t sure what you should do, then you should look into golf or tennis.  Both are good social activities in most areas, and you can even meet new friends.  Tennis is great for fitness although it isn’t for someone who is just starting out.  If you haven’t exercised in a long time, then golf may be the best activity for you.

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How to Homeschool Your Child

Now that you have decided that homeschooling is the way to educate your child, get ready for the ecstasy and the anxiety – the road ahead is a bit bumpy, but the rewards more than make up for it. Producing a well-adjusted and well-rounded personality is no mean achievement.

First of all, it is important to check out your state laws on home schooling. Some states need an affidavit filed with the State’s education department. There are basically 3 categories for homeschooling laws. These are: private school laws, home education laws and equivalency laws. Find your state laws. You may also need to maintain a portfolio that records the child’s educational progress. It is important to look into the legal requirements BEFORE you start homeschooling. Some States also stipulate a minimum educational qualification for the parent or teacher.

Next, look for a support group. If you live in a friendly or curious neighborhood, well-meaning friends will try to dissuade you. At the very least, they may put a lot of uneasy questions in your mind. A support group that consists of like-minded people will insulate you from the criticism, pressures and questions of regular school-goers. Many groups organize fun events like visits to the zoo, museum, tours to the ice cream shops etc. And if your children hit it off with other homeschooled, they will be able to build lasting relationships that do not fade when their friends change schools. These groups provide an important avenue for socialization.

The next important thing to do is to select a curriculum. Depending upon the method of homeschooling, you may choose various tools that aid you in this process. The internet is also a rich resource for homeschooling. Do some research and look into the material that is available.

Set certain ground rules. Homeschooling requires a lot of self-discipline and hard work. Here is a comprehensive list of the things you will need: 1) Eagerness to learn 2) Hard work and effort 3) Discipline 4) Time and patience 5) Flexibility 6) Enthusiasm

Consider why you want to opt for homeschooling. Your motives and your reasons are important pillars on which the whole edifice of your child’s lessons depends. Also, consult with your children. Ask them what they feel about homeschooling.

Select a curriculum or custom-make a curriculum that best suits your child. Record keeping is an important part of homeschooling. Look into the various methods of record keeping. Set up a schedule. Your child does not have to learn 6-7 hours a day. Allow him or her to dictate the time. Flexibility and fun are the cornerstones of homeschooling. Do not stuff too many skills into a single term or year. Prepare a skill list. Make the child learn the skills that he is ready for.

Gentle parenting is the secret to successful homeschooling. Children make great advances in learning and show more enthusiasm. They also turn out to be surprisingly well-balanced and well-informed when they are taught at home.

Family Beach Vacation Ideas

All across the world, there are several locations you can choose for your family beach vacation.  Below, you will find many different locations, and what they will offer you and your family.

Maui Throughout the West Coast of Maui, you’ll have many choices for your beach vacation.  If you plan to enjoy golf, the Kapalua Resort is a great choice, as guests will receive 30% lower golf rates than those who don’t stay at the resort.  The resort also includes the Kapalua Bay Hotel, Kapalua Villas, and the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua.

One bay over from the Kapalua Bay is the Napili Kai Beach Resort, which is a low rise family resort that offers comfortable beach front condos.  The Napili Kai also offers complimentary programs for children ages 6 – 12 from mid June to the end of August, during Easter and Christmas.  The condos are seconds away from the beach, and they include kitchens as well as laundry facilities.

If you prefer a more secluded area, the Maui Prince hotel is located in a quiet setting surrounded by two scenic golf courses and a large sandy beach that kids never seem to get enough of.

Mololai family adventures The island of Molokai is filled with empty beaches, no traffic lights, and few tourists.  Many tourists visit only for a day or so, with some going to the island because they assumed they were going to Molokini (which is a snorkeling site near Maui).

The island of Mololai is accessible by ferry from Maui or by plane from Honolulu.  The island is ideal for those who like the outdoors with a twist of adventure.  When you visit here, you shouldn’t expect shopping or nightlife.

Florida The Breakers Hotel in sunny Palm Beach Florida has a spa, golf course, and a 1/2 mile sandy beach.  There is also a separate pool for the kids, a family entertainment center, and a kid’s program.  Families can reserve up to five adjoining rooms while children under the age of 16 can stay for free in the same room as their parents.

If you decide to take your beach vacation in Orlando, the Loews Hard Rock Hotel offers you plenty of beach and amusement rides, with a 240 foot slide and a white sandy beach.

Florida also has SW Florida beaches with many wonderful places right on the beaches from Marco Island all the way up to Captiva Island. Whether you want to just relax in the SW Florida sun or enjoy the backwater fishing or Fishing in the Gulf Of Mexico, Or enjoy recreational boating to Shelling. Whatever your Vacation desires you will find it here in the SW Florida area of Naples, Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, Estero, Sanibel Island or Port Charlotte. If nature is your thing to do we have sightseeing tours from the Gulf of Mexico or go inland to ride a air boat or swamp buggy. Enjoy dining while watching the sunset by boat or restaurant, Enjoy deep-sea fishing for some Grouper, Marlin, or Red fish , Along the shoreline for trout, Snook or even a Catfish for a good fight, Try backwater fishing for Snapper, Sheepshead, Trout or whatever might be running with the tide Also don’t forget the freshwater fishing for those Large Mouth Bass. If golfing is for you then we have many of the state’s top courses in the local SW Florida area, We even have several putt putt courses for the beginners. Most of all whether you want to bring the whole entire family to enjoy the SW Florida area or just want to escape with that special someone then SW Florida is the place to relax, unwind and enjoy yourselves to the fullest, after all we are the sunshine state.         

California With several family beach vacation resorts in California, the Hotel Del Coronado is among the most famous.  The hotel offers many different facilities for families, including lessons in kayaking, surfing, tennis, and biking.

Georgia The barrier islands in Georgia offer ambiance, sandy beaches, and a laid back prospective to life as you know it.  Jekyll Island offers you miles of paved bike path with three 18 hole golf courses, which is perfect for golf enthusiasts.

Carpet Cleaning Tips

Tip 1 Make sure that you get a deep cleaning of the carpet as often as it is needed.  To achieve a clean carpet, you’ll need to have it cleaned by a professional or you’ll need to use a deep cleaning machine.  There are advantages and disadvantages to this method, although a thorough cleaning is needed every six months or so.

Tip 2 Keep your eye out for spills and take care of them in a quick manner to keep your carpet clean.  Simply using water on a spill will help most of them.  If that doesn’t work, simply expand your search.  You’ll find several products out there on the market that can help you get rid of spills quick.

The products range in use and can be helpful when matching them with the different types of spills.  You can also use a mixture of water and vinegar to help you keep stains out.  By taking immediate action you can prevent spills from becoming stains that leave you with a dirty and messy carpet.

Tip 3 A clean carpet is a carpet that has been taken care of very well.  You should always take the time to vacuum your carpet often and make sure you do a good job.  This means going over the floor in several directions to allow the vacuum time to pick up all it can.  High quality vacuums are the best choice, as they get up the most debris.

Tip 4 The proper use of entrance will greatly help to clean off people’s shoes and keep most of the tracked soils off the surface of the carpet.  You should always use entrance mats outside of your doors and make sure that anyone who enters your home use the mats to help get debris and dirt off of their shoes before they enter.  You can also take off your shoes and request that guests do the same, prior to entering your home.

Around 80% of the soils that enter a building or home are dry.  The remaining 20% are greases, oils, and starches.  The dry soil types are easily removed by vacuuming.  As long as they are removed on a daily basis, it will help to minimize the damage to the carpet.

Maintaining and keeping a clean carpet is more than just healthy, as it can also help to prolong the life of the carpet.  If you have just laid the carpet, you are already aware of the expenses involved with doing so.

Even if you haven’t had this done, you probably know the benefits of keeping a clean carpet.  A clean carpet will add value to the home if it is maintained well.  It will also help to keep the home free from odors as well.  Also, it will help to make a comfortable living area for your friends and your family.

Recreational after school programs

After school programs can be divided into 3 broad categories: academic, recreational and social. Balanced development takes place when there is compatibility between the physical, mental as well as the educational achievements of the child.As the name suggests recreational after school programs are based on a sport or recreation. Some of the more common physical activities include football, swimming and basketball.Some clubs offer programs like gymnastics, trekking and hiking. In this case, youngsters are often given a short class in first-aid class also.

Recreational after school programs offer children an opportunity to let off some steam and to distress themselves. The closed classroom atmosphere and a day full of textbooks and writing cause the child to repress his natural enthusiasm. He curbs his energy when he is required to sit quietly in class and learn. Physical activity is an all-time low during such times. This physical lethargy and inaction is countermanded by recreational activities. Growing concerns of obesity and child diabetes make it necessary for children to indulge in some strenuous exercises that will allow them to work up some sweat.

Unlike educational programs, recreational programs do not tax the mental processes. But, they do aid the learning process by making the child more active. A child who is physically active is mentally fit, and is able to focus his thoughts on the work at hand. Additionally, recreational programs teach discipline, mechanics of teamwork and fair play. These are important lessons in the growing process.

As more and more nuclear families emerge, the child faces greater isolation. Many children shuttle between their classroom and their bedrooms and do not have any meaningful relationships outside these. Recreational programs offer ample avenues for socialization. This is a place the child can go to and play even when his neighbor is not the most welcoming. The Boy / Girl Scout programs are excellent recreational after school programs. Lately, survival classes and camps have devised to combine important survival skills with sports and games to educate children on how to handle emergencies.

Like any good after school program, recreational programs are designed to give children a safe area where they can indulge in some group activities that interest them. This is one of the most effective ways to keep kids out of the streets and out of trouble. But, one has to be careful when enrolling children for recreational classes. The age of the child, his temperament and his physical caliber has to be taken into account before you choose the right program for your child.

Do You Need An Air Purifier?

It is estimated that each year millions of Americans think about purchasing an air purifier for their home or their business. Are you one of those individuals?  If so, have you purchased an air purifier yet?  Unfortunately, a large number of individuals think about purchasing an air purifier, but not everyone ends up making that purchase. One of the reasons for that is because many individuals wonder whether or not they really need one.

When it comes to owning an air purifier, anyone can own one.  You do not necessarily have to meet certain criteria to be able to benefit from the use of an air purifier. Honestly, you could just be someone who is looking to breathe clean air.  If that is the case, you could definitely benefit from the purchase of an air purifier.  Despite the fact that some individuals have no set reason for wanting or needing an air purifier, there are others who do.  If you find yourself one of these individuals, as described below, you may want to seriously think about purchasing an air purifier for your home or your business.

Air purifiers work to clean the air. They do this by preventing harmful particles from passing through their collection grids or filters.  These particles may even include dust particles.  For that reason, if you have allergies associated with dust, you may very well find that an air purifier works to remove or completely eliminate your allergy symptoms.  In turn, this may make your days and nights more pleasant and enjoyable.

In addition to reducing allergies associated with dust, air purifiers can also help those with allergies that are related pets.  You will find that multiple air purifiers not only trap pet hair, but they also trap the air particles created by pet droppings.  These dangerous particles are not only harmful to those who have allergies, but to everyone else who is in the home. In addition to eliminating particles created by pets in the home, you could also use an air purifier if you have a business that is centered on pets. These types of businesses include pet grooming shops and vet offices.

You may also want to think about purchasing an air purifier, especially if you have young children at home.  Children tend to be more susceptible to illness. With cleaner air, your child’s health may improve by a ton.  In addition to being used in traditional homes, you may also want to purchase an air purifier if you run or operate a daycare center.  An air purifier may not only improve your health, but the health of all of your children.  Essentially, this will make for happier and healthier children, which is extremely important when running a daycare business.

An air purifier may also be ideal for those who are smokers. Even if you are not a smoker, there may be someone inside your home who is.  If this is the case, you will want to seriously consider purchasing an air purifier.  Most air purifiers, especially those designed specifically for smoking households, may help to reduce secondhand smoke.  Secondhand smoke is bad for everyone, but it is especially bad for children.  Of course, you will want to try to not smoke around your children, but if you do, you will want to purchase an air purifier, if not for your own benefit then for the sake of your children.

As mentioned above, those operating a business centered on pets or kids could benefit from the use of an air purifier; however, they are not the only types of businesses who could benefit. If you are business owner, whether you run a small retail store or an office, you may want to think about getting an air purifier.  As mentioned above, air purifiers help to keep the air clean. In reality, this means that your employees will be healthier. In addition to better performance, you may also find that an air purifier helps to reduce the illnesses being spread throughout your building.  In turn, this may not only result in better performing employees, but employees who end up requesting less sick time. 

If the above mentioned examples describe you, in any way, you are advised to purchase an air purifier.  Whether that air purifier is for your home or your business, you will reap an unlimited number of benefits to owning and using one.

What Makes A “Green” Home?

While “green” has become quite the buzzword when it comes to home building and design, what exactly it means isn’t always clear. There are a few standards for eco-friendly homes, but the term “green” doesn’t have a universal definition beyond being a color made by mixing yellow and blue. So how does a consumer know when a home the builder is calling “green” is actually built with an ecological focus, or at least enough of one to justify its price?

Some of the standards for ecologically minded homes include increased insulation. To be really energy efficient, a home should be insulated beyond the minimum local requirements. This includes floor insulation, which in some cases is built right in to the concrete foundation. In addition to the walls, floors and ceilings, windows should also be insulating. Therefore, double paned and/or vinyl windows are becoming the “green” standard.

Energy efficiency should be continued throughout the home. Low water use toilets are a must, and those that have different flush options are extra eco-concious. These options allow you to have a more efficient flush for solid waste, while liquid waste just gets much more conservative flush. Shower heads, washing machines, faucets and dishwashers can also be equipped to limit the water used without compromising function. Air conditioners, refrigerators, heaters and all other appliances within the home should be of the highest standard of energy efficiency. In addition, compact fluorescent lights should be used throughout the home, or replaced by LED lights wherever those are suitable.

Beyond energy efficiency, use of non-toxic, ar at least less-toxic, materials is important in “green” homes. Look for a home with low VOC paints. VOC stands for volatile organic compounds, which are toxins that gas-off from conventional paint. Remember the lighter the pigment, the lower the VOC’s, so white or off-white walls are healthier than some of the bolder, trendy colors. This is because it is the paint base that is quality controlled, but it is impossible to take the VOC’s out of some pigments.

Another finishing detail that is popular for eco-friendly homes is bamboo or cork flooring. Bamboo is popular because it grows so quickly. It takes about five years to grow bamboo to the right size to make flooring. It is versatile and comes in a variety of styles and colors. Cork is an option because it is sustainable to harvest – removing cork does not damage the cork tree, as it replenishes its cork bark every year anyway. Cork makes a lovely, soft and springy floor surface that is also naturally warmer than many other flooring options.

For our final indoor consideration, eco-friendly homes will use more natural fabrics such as wool and cotton for carpets and window dressings.

Outside the home leaves plenty of room for “green” considerations, too. Xeriscaping is a popular means of landscaping utilizing plants native to the area being built in. These plants are naturally drought-resistant because they are acclimatized to the local environment, needing less watering and maintenance than lawns or beds full of foreign flowers.

Another “green” outdoor trend is utilizing permeable paving stones. These actually absorb water, which then is naturally filtered through the earth and goes back into the ground-water supply. These avoid the toxic run-off that can be caused by water rushing over cement and into drains, carrying oil and exhaust residue straight into the drainage system, which ultimately ends up being a nearby body of water.

If a home you are looking at is being promoted as being “green”, don’t hesitate to ask the builder about some of these features. If they don’t measure up, don’t buy it.

Common International Air Travel Rules

Everyday, in the United States, a large number of individuals, couples, and families travel by way of an airplane.  Out of all of those travelers, a decent number of them are traveling overseas or to a foreign country. As international travel continues to increase in popularity, it is likely that the numbers will continue to rise. In fact, there is even a good chance that you may make the decision to travel to another country. If so, it is advised that you familiarize yourself with the international air travel rules. 

When it comes to international air travel rules, there are many travelers who automatically get confused.   This is because not many people know that the rules for international air travel are different from the rules for domestic air travel. In reality, they aren’t exactly the same, but they aren’t that much different either.  Despite the similarities, it is still advised that you place a focus on international air travel, especially since you will be traveling internationally. 

As previously mentioned, you will find that a number of the air travel rules are similar between domestic and international travel.  One of those rules is the airport screening process.  In all airports, even if they are not classified as an international airport, passengers will need to pass through the appropriate airport security checkpoints. This screening process includes the close examination of your checked baggage.  Unlike in the past, now almost all airlines thoroughly inspect checked baggage looking for explosive, flammable, or illegal items.

Since a large number of international airports not only offer international flights, but domestic flights as well, intentional passengers are not always separated from domestic ones. Essentially, this means that the passenger screening procedures, as well as the screening for all luggage will be the same.  All flyers are advised to remove any of their accessories, which may set of the metal detectors, as well as their shoes. Your shoes will be sent through the x-ray machine. This is done to ensure that there are not explosives or other dangerous materials hidden in them.

One of the few differences that you will see, between domestic air travel and international air travel, has to do with the first check-in.  When you first arrive at the airport, you will need to approach the airline counter to register yourself.  This is also where your checked luggage will be examined and processed for the trip.  On domestic flights, passengers only need to supply a picture id. This identification is usually a government issued identification card or a driver’s license.  If you are planning on traveling internationally, you will need to supply additional proof of identification.

The proofs of identification that you will need will all depend on the airport in which you are leaving from and the airport that you will be arriving at.  If you are required to show more than a picture id, you may need to bring your birth certificate, your passport, your visa, or your certificate of citizenship.  Although your first impulse may be to bring them all, just incase, you will want to refrain from doing so. Unless absolutely necessarily, you will want to keep these important personal documents safe at home.

The above mentioned international air travel rules and procedures are just a few of the many that you may be required to follow.  If and when you are unsure about a particular rule, it is advised that you seek professional assistance. That assistance should either come directly from an international airport or an international airline.

Pool Alarms: More than Just a Pool Accessory

Throughout the United States, there are a large number of storefront retail locations and online retail stores that sell pool accessories.  Many of these pool accessories can be considered fun, but others can literally be lifesaving.  If you are a pool owner, regardless of whether or not you have children, you may want to consider purchasing a pool alarm.

One common misconception, when it comes to pool alarms, is who should have them. There are many individuals who mistakenly believe that pool alarms are only necessary for households with small children. While, families with small children may benefit the most from a pool alarm, they are not the only ones who may.  Even if you do not have children, you may want to at least consider purchasing yourself a pool alarm. Not only could that alarm help to protect guests, but it could also protect children that just wander into your yard.

As with most other pool accessories, you will find that pool alarms come in a wide variety of different styles. Despite the different styles, all pool alarms have the same goal. That goal is to keep young, unattended children away from a swimming pool.  In the event that they do make it near a pool, the pool alarm will alert you, and other adults, right away. This is why pool alarms are not just a pool accessory, but a lifesaving device.

If you are interested in purchasing an alarm for your pool, you will have to decide on an alarm style. By visiting your local pool supply store or by reviewing the available merchandise online, you should be able to familiarize yourself with the pool alarms that are currently on the market.  In your search, it is likely that you will find underwater pool alarms, above water pool alarms, or gate alarms.

In a way, gate alarms are the most popular of all pool alarms. While the alarms are not actually installed in or around your pool, they are still considered pool alarms.  This is because the alarm is positioned on the gate of your pool fence. Depending on the model you purchase, most gate alarms will sound when someone passes through the gate unnoticed or if the gate door was accidentally left open.  In a way, gate alarms are the most effective pool alarms on the market.  By properly installing and using a pool gate alarm, your child may never even make it to the pool.

As popular as pool gate alarms are, not everyone can use them.  If you do not have a fence installed along the exterior of your pool, you will want to examine other alarm types. One of these types may include a surface alarm, otherwise known as an above water alarm.  An above water pool alarm is designed to sound when someone comes too close to the pool.  Many of these alarms come with a preset barrier. That barrier may only be a foot, but it may also be up to four.  Above water alarms, or surface alarms, are ideal because they can alert you before your child actually makes it into the water.

The only problem that you may find with above water alarms, or surface alarms, is that they tend to be easily setoff, especially if your pool area is not gated in. Whether the wind blows debris past the alarm or an animal enters the area, it is likely that the alarm will sound.  If you are looking for pool alarm that is less likely to produce error, you may want to consider purchasing an underwater pool alarm.

Underwater pool alarms are similar to surface alarms.  Instead of detecting motion on the exterior of the pool, they detect motion in the interior. This means that if your pool alarm is set, you will be notified whenever something enters the water. Therefore, if your child happens to fall into the pool, your pool alarm will automatically sound; thus allowing you to rescue them.

As much as we would like to be able to keep an eye on our children all the time, that is something that is just not possible. In a single instant, your child could be out of the house and underwater, unable to swim. For a reasonable price, a pool alarm could prevent you from having to make that horrible discovery.  

Teen Dieting

We have the highest teenage and childhood obesity rates today than at any other point in the world’s long history. Much of the blame for this is on the fast food, low energy society that we have become. Far too often we feel that it is safer to keep our children inside our homes rather than out and about in the great outdoors. The things we are doing for the protection of our children are actually detrimental to the health of our children.

There are things however that are being done to address the problem and get our children more involved, more active, and better educated about making the proper choices about diet, nutrition, fitness, and overall health. The problem for most teens is getting them off the computer, phone, or away from the television long enough to get active.

Even video games are getting in on the act of getting children up and active by creating games such as Play Station 2’s Dance Party Revolution and the new Nintendo Wii gaming system that seem to be taking the market by storm. These systems allow consumers, to actively participate in the game play adventure rather than sitting back and playing the game in a static environment. It is a great way to get teens off their seats and active. These games are also fun for adults and will have the same effects when it comes to activity. Whoever thought we’d be actually encouraging game play for exercise?

Get Outside and Get Active

Teens learn by example and whether they care to admit it or not, they typically enjoy doing things as part of the family. Go rock wall climbing or mountain climbing. Go bike riding as a family. Camp in the great out doors and go hiking, boating, or biking yet again. Learn a new sport together. It’s amazing how much fun you can have learning how scuba dive and while you are at it, neither of you will be consuming empty calories. Even if the sport you take up together doesn’t involve a lot of physical activity it is quite likely more active than sitting in front of the television.

Have your teen join a recreational sports team. We have all kinds of sports teams available in our community in which our teens can join. Even those with no skills at all can join and play in some of the leagues while other leagues are competitive. Getting out and about for a softball game, soccer game, and even volleyball can be a great way for the family to do something together and the games and practices are opportunities for your teen to be active.

Lawn work is another way to get out and get active with your teen. The key, as always, is in your teen burning more calories than he or she consumers. It is often easier said than done but it is quite possible if you work to get them out and about. Find things however that will be interesting to your teen and focus on those rather than torturing them with activities that hold no interest at all (well maybe not the yard work). At any rate, filling their time with activities is also allowing time that they aren’t consuming calories as well and that is something worth considering.

Encourage your teen to eat healthier foods. Eliminate calorie-loaded soda, fruit juices, and energy drinks from your pantry shelves, and encourage your teens to drink plenty of water each day. Introduce as many vegetables as possible to the diet of your teens and get rid of the prepackaged convenience goodies that teens are notorious for depleting in one sitting. Also having your teens actively participate in the preparation and clean up for meals will help them pay more attention to the things they put into their mouths as well as the messes they make in the process.