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Don’t Lose Yourself. Stay True To Your Dreams

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For some time after I had children, I seemed lost. Not at loss with what to do with the children but at loss with who I was. My life just seemed to rotate around the children and I just couldn’t find myself. Who was I? Was I just a mother? Was there more to life than just taking care of children?

After my maternity leave, I went back to work, but even that wasn’t all that. It just felt like there was something I was supposed to be doing that I wasn’t. Things were just so different. I felt out of sorts. My clothes didn’t fit. I didn’t know what I wanted out of life.

Now, please don’t get me wrong, being a mother is a blessing which I don’t take for granted. I wouldn’t trade it for anything, but for me, a part of me was crying for recognition. It seemed like a part of me was crying out to be let out of where I was hidden.

I realized that I needed to find myself again. Sometime in between doing motherly duties, I had buried my own dreams. What am I saying? You can be a fantastic mother and still accomplish those dreams you have in you.

Dream AgainThere’s always a time in a life of a mother that is all about your children. There’s a time when they need your undivided attention and you have to put all things on hold to meet that need. That period of your life is when bonding is built and stamped. That time of your life is when you live an indelible mark in the life of your child as the mother that brought him to earth. That time of your life is demanding but rewarding. It’s a phase when it seems like you have no life and you have lost a sense of who you are.

But gradually, the children begin to grow. They begin school and you get a few hours of your own time. They gradually begin to develop a routine and you begin to realize that a phase is over and another one is about to start.

Children are no excuse for us not to be the best that we were created to be. I hear stories of women who only lived for their children. They had no life of their own; all they did was for and through their children. Then one day, the children grow up and leave home and are off to start their own lives. These mothers seem to have nothing else to live for. Most times they make up for it by interfering in their children’s lives.

Being a mother is part of who you are and not all you are. When you were younger, you had dreams, ambitions, things you wanted to do and an impact you wanted to make in the world. I’m not just talking about a job. The concept of life’s purpose is bigger than a job. Don’t let those dreams in you die. It’s your responsibility to make sure that those dreams see the light of day.

You are an individual made by God to accomplish something here on earth. Children, I believe are a tool to help you achieve this. So my sisters, it’ time to dream again. It’s time to rest your head and think of how you can contribute to this world we live in. It’s time to stop thinking of only yourself and your family but also how you can make an impact in the world we live in.

You know what those dreams are. God put them in you and only He can help you balance all that life throws your way. He can help you create a balance so that your children and family don’t suffer. He will let you know what to do at every point in time.

I had two hectic years. I had my children one after the other. So I was pregnant for two consecutive Christmases and I ended up staying in the mother’s corner in church for two consecutive years. When my daughter was old enough to go to Sunday school, sitting as part of the congregation without children was a bit odd. I was restless. I kept on fighting the urge to just do something. Finally, I had to tell myself; “Sola, a new season has started. Enjoy it.”

I made up my mind to. I found that my time of hibernating was over. It was time to come out of my shell and do those things that I’d always felt it was my call to do. I started to dream again.

Dreaming came in bits. I was so wound up so many times because I was just used to being busy and sorting things out. But I consciously learnt to take breaks, slow down and dream again.

I can tell you it’s been an interesting journey; digging up old dreams, dreaming new ones, trying my hands out on different stuff and making up my mind to succeed. Most importantly, being able to juggle everything together by God’s help.

One more thing, when you stay true to your dreams and who you are, you become a better role model for your children. You make them realize that; “If mummy could make such an impact, and still raise us, then the sky is just the beginning………………….

Mummies, it’s time to dream again.

Contributed by Sola Agudah

Photo Source: www.konnectafrica.net

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5 Lesser Known Facts About Malaria

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Most people have heard of Malaria, a parasitic infection caused by a bite from an infected mosquito, but there are a few facts about this ailment that are not general knowledge. See how much you know about the most common parasitic infection in the world by reading our five fast facts now!

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1. Before 1897, Malaria was thought to be caused by contaminated air or infected water!

Fact: We now know that Malaria is caused by a bite from infected mosquitoes. It is still important to avoid standing water in homes and communities because such environments breed mosquitoes. In 1897, a man named Ronald Ross discovered how the parasite spreads – he later won the Nobel prize in 1902.

2. Malaria is transmitted through female mosquitoes

Fact: The mosquito responsible for transmitting Malaria is the female Anopheles mosquito. She transmits the malaria parasite through her saliva after picking up the parasite from an infected human’s blood.

3. Malaria is usually transmitted between sunset and sunrise (9pm and 5am)

Fact: Try to prevent getting infected during these hours by wearing long sleeved shirts and trousers/skirts, applying insect repellant (Mosi-Guard is safe in children and is not foul-smelling) and ensuring windows have mosquito nets and doors remain shut.

4. Malaria costs Africa more than 12 billion dollars a year!

Fact: Yes, $$$$12 billion. That is a lot of money spent every year on one ailment – think of what good that money could do for countries in Africa if Malaria were a thing of the past.

5. Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) can be used to diagnose Malaria from the convenience of one’s home, but they can be falsely negative if a person is already taking anti-malaria medication

Fact: Malaria parasites may be present in the blood but not easily detected if a person is already on medication, thereby leading to some premature truncation of a treatment course. On another note, too many people start treatment with anti-malarials when they do not have a diagnosis of Malaria and this is causing resistance to current anti-malaria medication.

Working to keep you healthy,

Dr. Sade Adeyi MD, MPH Consultant Family Physician

@yourprimarydoc on Instagram and Twitter

Photo source: Wikipedia

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How To React If Your Child Says Google is Bad

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“Mum Google is not good” thats the statement my daughter announced to me the other day. I had mixed feelings when I heard this from my child.

The mixed feelings were a combination of one I wondered what she had innocently seen and Two I knew instinctively that this represented a moment of what I term #TeachableMoments. A teachable moment is that moment when you have the ability to discuss a real situation that has popped up. As a parent you realise that you cannot always perfectly plan when you choose to teach something. Parenting is an on the go ready to react role. Like the talk about the birds and bees which you think will only happen when your child is a teenager! No such luck.

My past experiences and as a life coach has taught me to ask why before I react to comments. So when I heard “Google is bad” I knew to immediately dig further. So digging I did.

Social Media

While she was in the middle of completing an assignment on “What if Shakespare wrote rap”  she decided to google (of course!) “girls that are rappers.” At this point of narrating her story she paused and complete with an expression of shock she said and “do you know what I saw?…. I saw a picture of a boy dressed as a girl!”. Phew not so bad right?? In my mind not so bad but for her quite an anomaly!

How To React

I did the only thing we are allowed to do! Take ownership of the situation. This enabled us to to have a conversation both about what she saw but more about the reality that there are lots of things on the internet which are inappropriate. I went on to explain that Google is not bad…but some of the content you can find is not for children and that is what is bad. We also discussed the need for anti-spam and other ways to protect yourself online.

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The truth is the internet is not going anywhere and any child born today seems to come technology abled. Parents and caregivers need to remember that content without context is very dangerous. Children still need the training to navigate all the information thrown at them. I say thrown at them because sometimes they do not always go looking but many times come across information that is inappropriate.

Internet Protection Conversations

While we need to do all in our power to protect our children from what they see online. We need to also empower them by having conversations. Have conversations about what to do if and when they come across inappropriate material. Afterall if you don’t train them who will?

Would you allow your 13 year old to meet a stranger, become friends and decide to meet without being supervised? What about allowing your teenager share personal information about herself to a 30 year old man. There are apps like Tinder that have location services and so Person X can ask to meet, because X can tell when #MissSunshine is in the vicinity.

That is the reality today! With every device and technology, a child has access to connect anytime and anywhere. They can literally meet when and where they like. If you don’t train them who will?

Internet security

As a parent you need to Be Aware and Be Relevant

Where does that leave you? even more than before you need to be having real conversations with your child about what is appropriate both offline and online. As a parent you need to Be Aware and Be Relevant. If you are not aware of what’s going on you cannot influence your child positively. If your child thinks you speak different languages and not relevant to their lives today they will not communicate with you. The danger here is that they could then be learning everything from outside.


As a parent you need to Be Aware and Be Relevant.
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Put yourself in the position to understand the language of today and engage with your child to know what’s going on in their minds. The way you react to things will determine if they talk to you in the future on other matters or not.

Digital Parenting is real and here to stay – lets be one step ahead.

The post How To React If Your Child Says Google is Bad appeared first on Lagosmums.

Mother’s Day Big Hat Brunch!

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Its time to celebrate Mothers Day in a meaningful way!

It’s time to wear your fascinators, filas, cowboy hats, fedoras, and bowlers as we celebrate Mother’s Day in a meaningful way. Join us on Sunday, May 8 at the Lagos Oriental Hotel Lagos, 1- 5 pm for the 4th Annual Big Hat Mother’s Day Brunch. It will be an afternoon of lunch, cocktails, and entertainment all in the name of fighting breast cancer in Nigeria. Tickets available on www.rfcafrica.org or call 0802 287 6660.

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What is the Big Hat Brunch?

It is a family event on international Mother’s Day to celebrate the world’s most precious commodity: women. We also raise support and awareness for the breast cancer fight in Nigeria.

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Do I have to wear a hat?

No, you do not have to wear a hat to the Brunch. The dress code is Kentucky Derby Chic.

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But the hats are soo much fun!

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What else happens?

It is an afternoon of cocktails, lunch and entertainment. There will be a silent auction and a specially designated kids’ room with activities and supervisors. Not to mention our favourite part… The Father’s Fashion Show.

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Dads are part of the fun too…

Gentlemen come wearing their filas, bowlers, and cowboy hats as well. To purchase or reserve your tickets/ table go to www.rfcafrica.org

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Our Goal

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To give every Nigerian woman, suffering from breast cancer, access to quality,uninterrupted care and the chance to fight this disease with hope and dignity.

 

Doing Good Is Good For Business- Richard Bradson

We invite your company or organization to support us in this important work by joining our team of highly recognizable brands. Sponsorships are still available. Contact Sarah Potter at sarahpotter@rfcafrica.org

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Copyright © 2016 Run For a Cure Africa, All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you have supported RFCA or attended one of their programs.
Our mailing address is: Run For a Cure Africa

15B Awolowo Road, Ikoyi Nigeria.

Big Hat Brunch

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LagosMums: Get the High-Waisted Trend Right!

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LagosMums get the high-waisted trend right.

The High-Waisted trend is so fashionable and has been a constant trend in the fashion world over the last few years. From high-waisted skirts to shorts and trousers, this trend that can be incorporated in both corporate and casual outfits.

LagosMums Fashion Looks

Contrary to popular belief, this is a style for everyone. It not only appeals to women and yummy mummy’s of all ages but of different shapes and sizes. They hide love handles, belly bulges, and front tummy flab. They also help keep tops properly tucked-in! Below are styling guides and images to inspire you gorgeous LagosMums:

LagosMums Fashion Looks DenimLook 1: Kome Osalor. Go for the denim-on-denim trend with some high-waisted jeans. Elevate your look for a date by adding hot heels and smacking some pink/red lipstick on!

LagosMums Fashion Look HIgh Waisted

Look 2: Jennifer Ramirez. A pretty patterned pencil skirt with a statement neckline blouse makes for a more sophisticated look. Bodycon skirts in lycra fabric will also do well to suck you in and help smooth over bulges, leaving you with a nice silhouette! If you’re concerned about your midriff, pair with a peplum blouse.

LagosMums Fashion

Look 3: Pamela Madlala. Make a pretty fashion statement in a high-waisted midi skirt made of expensive-looking fabric and in gorgeous hues. Perfect easy look for a church or a wedding when paired with a simple top, statement necklace and hot heels.

LagosMums FashionLook 4: Pamela Madlala (@pam_madlala) shows how to rock distressed high-waisted jeans by tucking in a tank top and pairing with a blazer and heels!

Read more at: www.kamdora.com | Follow us: @mykamdora on Twitter | Kamdora on Facebook | Kamdora on Instagram

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Praying for a Marvellous and Magnificent May

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Welcome to the Month of May – May this month be marvellous and magnificent for you.

We have put together a calendar to pray for our Children as we are dedicating the month of  May to children. We pray that all our children will grow in wisdom, stature and favour before God and all men. Amen

Download the prayer for the Month of May here for children >>>

 

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School Feature Of The Month: Whistles Children’s Place

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LagosMums interviews Mrs Yetunde Adebiyi, the Head Of School, Whistles Children’s Place located in Ibeju Lekki. She discusses the school curriculum, ethos and more.mrsYetundeA_200x0

What is the name of your school and where was it founded?

The name of the school is Whistles Children’s place. It was founded on the 1st of February 2015

Where is the school located?

Our School location is opposite Coscharis motors, Awoyaya, Ibeju Lekki.

Please give details of your staff/ administration
The head of school  Mrs Yetunde Adebiyi has a first degree in Environmental management and Toxicology and a PG education from university of Nottingham, UK. The head of teachers Mrs Wunmi Ishola was a teacher at Greensprings and has vast knowledge of Montessori .
Ratio of kids to teachers
Our ratio is 5 children to a teacher. This will enable the teacher to concentrate on each child individually, as different children have their different needs and peculiarities.
Number of children in the school and its capacity
We don’t exceed 15 children in a class Whistles Children School.png children
What age range are your students and classes
We cater for ages 3months to 5 years
What is the curriculum/ Teaching methodology
Our curriculum is core early years foundation which is enhanced with Montessori method.
Extra-curricular activities available? School Hours and any after school services offered?
Extra curricular are numerous (music, swimming, ballet etc). We do a lot in the area of mother tongue as well.
Whistles Children School.png swimming
What is the admission process?
Admission is on first come due to our limited spaces.Other requirements involves a one on one entry point  assessment, two passports, record of immunisation.
Tuition? Do yo offer a payment plan.
Yes we have a payment plan that can be structured to suit individual parents.
How do you access students progress
Our children are taught beyond numeracy and literacy instead we do a lot of applications to our day to day lives through our teaching styles.
Discipline Methods
Our discipline method is to deny the child from going out for recess
Do you offer a school bus service
Yes we have a brand new bus that picks our students from designated places
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Any other information you would like to share
Whistles offers world class preschool services and we are close to two main stream finishing schools. At Corona Lekki we could work out a structured tuition plan for children transferring from our school WCP.
What should parents be looking for to decide if your school would work for them/their children?

At WCP we don’t joke with the welfare of our children , it’s not just academics inclined. Our caregivers are experienced and we have 24 hours power supply

How is your school preparing children for learning and operating in the 21st century?

21st century children are more practical so in line with this we do a lot of outdoors activities that will help the children to think outside the classroom

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How do we contact you for more information? Or to schedule a visit to the school

Kindly contact me on 08032012205 for a visit of the School premises.

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5 WAYS TO CULTIVATE A HEART OF CONTENTMENT IN YOUR CHILDREN – A TO Z PARENTING TIPS

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Contentment – “an internal satisfaction that does not demand changes in external circumstances.”—Holman Bible Dictionary.

As parents, we find ourselves constantly striving for more money and power – if only we can have just a little more of everything, forgetting that contentment is a struggle our children also face.

“But I wanted cheese pizza; not pepperoni!”

“Why does she get to do all the fun stuff?  I never get to do anything!”

Do you hear phrases like this in your home?  Is it obvious that your children are struggling with being content?

Here are some ways you can help to cultivate a heart of contentment in your children:

  1. Teach them that all good things come from God.

If they are given the blessing of a fun family night with pizza, teach them that God gave it to them as a gift.  When we recognize that the good things we have are gifts from God, we can learn to be grateful for them instead of wishing for more.

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. (James 1:17)

  1. Do not shelter them from the unpleasant realities of the world.

Most children really have no idea how privileged they are. Don’t be afraid to show them how people are living and explain to them that the meal they are eating is more than some children have had all day.  Let them be involved in helping the needy and homeless people in your own community so they can truly get an idea of how good they have things.

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  1. Teach them that joy is a choice rather than a feeling.

Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. Philippians 4:4

We are not always going to feel happy about our circumstances.  Yet we are told to rejoice always.  There is no way to do that except by making a deliberate choice.  (Don’t worry; you’ll have plenty of chances to model this choice because you don’t always feel happy either, do you?)

  1. Meditate on and talk about good things.

Right along with understanding that joy is a choice is meditating and speaking about good things.

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Philippians 4:8

If we are always focusing on the negative our children will learn to do the same.  Instead, we must intentionally put our mind on good things even when things are not going our way.

  1. Teach them and show them that we ought to put others first.

Children (okay, adults too!) tend to be envious when a friend gets something nice that they didn’t.

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Philippians 2:3-4

But we are commanded to put others first.  If we are treating others with more importance than ourselves we can be genuinely happy for them rather than jealous of their blessing.

Culled from www.imperfecthomemaker.com

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Raising Children In Today’s World

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As we may have all noticed in recent times, raising children can be very demanding. We have all sorts of outside forces, seen and unseen competing for the attention of parents and children alike. Little wonder that the generation before us look at us and openly announce that they would not want to be parents with the responsibility of raising children in today’s world. What has changed? Are they badly educated by their parents or are they exposed to many more difficulties resulting from the modern way of living? This drastic transformation raises a lot of questions and I think the most important question is: how should we raise our children in today’s world?

Beyond the fact that today’s parents are not measuring up to the standard that our own parents set generations ago, the biggest challenge in raising children today however remains dealing with the outside influences of the society like drugs and alcohol, peer pressure and the impact of television and social media. In addition to societal influences, other perceived challenges in raising children include teaching morals and values, maintaining discipline, handling the financial aspects of childrearing, and dealing with the educational system.

No matter the environment or our time period, the needs of children remain the same. They have needs for love, security, nurturing, training, relationship and a sense of belonging as seen from their essays on our earlier post. Effective parenting information is available from many different sources but applying that information in our daily parenting experience is where the rubber meets the road. Let’s examine a few I have found useful for me that I believe could work for you.

Parental Control and Discipline – In recent years, family life has awfully changed. Once upon a time, parents were totally in charge and children did only and exactly as they were told. Today the reverse is the case in many homes. For example, consider the following scenarios: Clearly, the current wave of relaxed discipline has had negative effects. It has not only weakened parental authority but also left children without the guidance they need to make good choices and approach life with genuine confidence.

  • While at the store with her Mum shopping, a little girl picks up a pack of Biscuit and the mother says she can’t have it. The young lass retorts, “No, I want it and starts whining!” In a bid to avoid further tantrums the mother cowers and the girl gets the Biscuits.
  • Or perhaps you may have been visiting a home where you were served drinks and the child in the home just picks up your drinking glass and sips your drink without you offering him/her. And the best the parents would say is, “No dear, please drop Uncle’s glass and take yours”. Then they go ahead and serve the child from your drink!
  • Picture a grown adult right in the middle of a hearty conversation with friends and his little boy interrupts and says “I’m tired Daddy, let’s go home!” Guess what? The father abruptly brings the visit and conversation to an end.
  • How about sitting at the airport lounge and a little kid is screaming, jumping and probably even kicking you or your bag. Making everyone sitting around them most uncomfortable without any apologies or caution whatsoever from the parent. And when you feel bad enough you may have to caution the child yourself!
  • Perhaps you may have heard of a teenager who is suspended from high school for misconduct, perhaps being rude to a teacher or fighting his schoolmate. His parents are upset. At the child? No. At the school authority! They pull the child out of that school to another one.

These scenarios are not exaggerated fictions; they are so so real! They are examples of real problem that exists in homes where parents tolerate children’s excesses, submit to their demands, and “rescue” them from the repercussion of their misbehavior. Parents now conveniently renounce authority to young children. In our time, we knew exactly who called the shots – it certainly wasn’t us!

As much as we have many parents who strive to teach their children proper values, there are still several others who do not appreciate the value of doing so. How did things get to this point? Whatever happened to discipline?

It all began when some school of thought started urging parents to be more easygoing with their children with the “be a friend” ideology. They also say reprimanding children would damage their fragile emotions and cause them to resent their parents later in life. They took the self-esteem movement to the extreme and sold it to parents as the best parenting technique – make your children feel good about themselves! Experts told parents: ‘Avoid using negative words such as no and bad.’ ‘Keep telling your children that they are special and that they can be anything they want to be. Invariably, it was as if feeling good was more important than being good. While it is important to instill confidence in children we cannot afford to trade it for indiscipline!

Don’t Over-Protect – Try not to shield your child from the consequences of his or her own actions or mistakes. For example, if your son carelessly damages a toy belonging to another child, you could require that your son give one of his own toys to him. Your child will not quickly forget this lesson on respecting the belongings of others. Letting your children have a taste of the real world. I let my teenage boys get on public transport even when a driver can conveniently drive them around. They take buses, Kekes, bikes and all sorts. I did that and still do when the need arises anyways, so why can’t they? As for the little ones, when they complain “Aunty” or “Uncle” smacked them, my first question usually is “what did you do?”. So even my three year old knows better to come report anyone to me if they have been naughty because they understand I won’t take sides with them.

Involve them in Chores – I’m a big fan of chores so you can expect that my kids though all boys have more than enough to contend with. Many parents I know wouldn’t dream of letting their kids come within 5 inches of their kitchen. You are missing out, Mamas. Guess what? My older boys can cook, wash, iron, dress my room and scrub my bathroom. So when they are home I can afford to have no steward or cook because I have my boys! I’m not trying to blow my trumpet here (although there is nothing wrong with blowing a golden trumpet if you’ve got one!) but I’m saying it works for the good of everyone, especially your own good if you teach these kids these chores. They may not like it but hey…hang tough, you are the boss!

Some mothers believe involving the kids in chores would distract them from focusing on their schoolwork or talents. But from what we see of most kids these days, their talent is in clicking around their phones and tablets and studying Facebook rather than face their books! Their best companion today is social media.

Many parents are so focused on their children’s happiness and self-esteem and believe that if a child feels good about herself, she’ll have more to give others. That’s the modern idea, but it’s often not true. Our kids’ happiness is clearly important but if we place that above their respecting us, caring about others, and appreciating what they have, children are less likely to internalize our moral standards, learn empathy or be grateful. They may grow up thinking their happiness is priority.

May we endeavor to teach our children the right values. Remember, you should not raise your children to have more than you had but raise them to be more than what you were. All the best!

mercy makindeMercy Makinde is a Speaker, Writer, Coach and Entrepreneurship Advocate who owns the Online Motivational Radio Station –http://www.iaspireradio.com

and the Motivational & Inspirational Blog – http://www.iaspireblog.com

 

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Khadijah Williams: A True Story of Resilience Homeless to Harvard

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Khadijah Williams, a young woman from California, spent many nights doing her homework in one of the beds at a local shelter for women and children. She wrote English essays, practiced math problems and studied for exams until the lights went out at 10 p.m.

Khadijah began moving from shelter to shelter with her mother and younger sister when she was 6 years old. When there were no shelters available, Khadijah says she and her family slept in bus stations or on the street. In 12 years, Khadijah attended 12 different schools, but she kept up with her peers by spending day after day at the Los Angeles Public Library.

If you are you looking for a young role model for your children, look no further than Khadijah. Khadijah spent day after day at the Los Angeles Public Library, “It changed my life,” she says. “The library gave me some control over some aspect of my life. Even though I couldn’t really control where I would live or anything, I could control how much I wanted to learn.”

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During Khadijah’s sophomore year in high school, she decided to do whatever it took to stay in one place. From that point on, she woke up every morning at 4:30 a.m. to catch a bus from Los Angeles’ Skid Row to Jefferson High, which was two hours away. “Who wouldn’t want to escape that kind of life in Skid Row or in the shelters to come to this?” she says. “That’s what I focused on.” Khadijah never stopped believing education was her ticket to happiness.

Khadijah found a light at the end of the tunnel because she found more than a home. She won a scholarship to Harvard. She’s now 25, working for the city government in Washington, D.C. and one of her tasks is helping homeless kids.

I’m sure you are wondering about her mother in all of this. “No matter where we lived, no matter how bad our circumstances may have been, my mom was always positive,” she says.

If other children growing up in shelters knew what was out there and what was possible, Khadijah says their perspective would change.

“To any person, homeless or otherwise, who feels like they don’t like the situation they’re in and feels like they can’t do anything about it, they can,” she says. “For a while, that’s all I had—the belief that I could do it. All you need is that belief because you can. I did it.”


All you need is that belief because you can. I did it
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www.huffingtonpost.com

www.huffingtonpost.com

 

You may read this story and think your children will never be a Khadijah. While this is true, we hope that you can teach your children the power of resilience. As adults, we already understand the responsibilities that come with adulthood and we are living with this reality. Our kids don’t understand this.

We hope this story will guide you in bringing up a generation of resilient children. These are the children that will grow up to become problem solvers. And if they ever have to step into a tough situation perhaps Khadijah’s story, will encourage them to handle what is thrown at them with a sense of confidence.

Source: www.oprah.com

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Picnic and Tea Party Photo Shoot

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Sometimes you come across pictures that just transports you to a place of beauty! These pictures by the talented Children’s photographer, Toun are from a picnic and tea party photo shoot. An afternoon of pretty dresses, mini teacups, macaroons, cupcakes while enjoying the outdoors.

Are you wondering how to celebrate your child’s birthday or want to do something different? Get some inspiration from below.

Planning and photography by Lagos Children’s Photographer, Toun Okunnu, Decoration by fara and zara parties (@faraandzara), macarons by Sokolad (@mysokolad), Sandwiches, brownies, scones, tarts by Salt Lagos (@saltlagos).

Tea Party Shoot

Head Piece

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Picnic Setting

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Beautiful Picnic Setting

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Getting ready for the picnic

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The lovely ladies

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Looks Absolutely Yummy

To book your photography session contact –  Olatoun Okunnu | Photographer – Olatoun Okunnu Photography, Lagos Nigeria Children’s Photographer | http://www.olatounokunnu.com/blog | +234 803 302 3744

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Lagos Mums: How to Style Culottes

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culottes

 

For this edition of Lagos Mums style, we will be considering Culottes! These neither pants nor shorts women’s knee-length trousers, Culottes are characterised by cald grazing full legs that resembles a skirt.
These pants have gone from confused-trend to must-have closet mainstay so if you haven’t already, it’s time to hop on board.

Whether you are wearing them to work or out for date night, culottes will take you yummy lagos mums through every event on your schedule. Not sure how to style your new culottes? Check below for style inspo:

 

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Look 1: Oge Agu. I complemented my pink culottes with a matching floral print top for a sophisticated look that is perfect for the workplace.

 

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Look 2: Chrissy Akomea. Nail a polished work look by keeping the rest of your outfit understated with neutrals.

 

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Look 3: Stella Uzo. A crisp white button-down and statement heels are the perfect complement to this velvet floral culottes.

 

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Look 4: Ola Dipo. Anchor your wide bottom pants with a fitted crop top for a figure-flattering date outfit. Finish up with a pop of red lipstick.

 

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Look 5: Monica Awe-Etuk. Glam up a monochromatic look with a bold coloured purse and strappy heels. This is date night perfect.

 

Which look do you like?

 

For More fashion looks visit www.kamdora.com.

Follow @mykamdora on Twitter, Kamdora on Facebook and Instagram

 

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Start Where You Are: Video Of The Week

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Last week, we brought to you the story of Khadijah, she started as a young homeless girl on the streets of Skid Row and ended up at Harvard University.

Watch this video as Oprah spoke with Khadijah Williams, a prime example of someone who always believed in herself and had the power to change her life.

“You don’t have to wait to achieve your dream until you have more things, time or money. Start exactly where you are.” – Oprah Winfrey

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Help Baby Get Funds for Transplant

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Baby Odeniyi whose picture is below has suffered from liver cirrhosis from birth. He clocked 2 on March 1, 2016 but yet to stand on his own, let alone walk.

His parents are both secondary school tutors in Lagos, Nigeria. His mom has been unable to work since his birth to enable her give him all the attention and care he requires now.

Baby Odeniyi receives treatment from the LUTH, Idi- Araba, Lagos. The Odeniyis have been advised by the doctor in charge of their baby at LUTH that the only option of improving his health up is a liver transplant, this procedure can be done in a hospital in India or in the United Kingdom.

Baby needs operation
The operation has been billed to the tune of 8 million excluding the cost of travel and other daily expenses during this medical trip. This estimated bill is a far cry from the resources available to the Odeniyis at the moment. Thus , the plea for support and assistance of humans all over the globe to help keep Baby Odeniyi alive and in good condition of health.

Please send your contributions to Odeniyi  Olawale Matthew, A/c number :5331526578. Fidelitybank

Please help baby Odeniyi to stay alive with funds, advice and prayers.

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Recipe Tuna and Zucchini Salad

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Even though zucchini is a fruit, it is usually cooked as a vegetable because it is best when eaten in cooked dishes. Some health benefits include: weight loss, promotes eye health, and prevents all the diseases that occur from vitamin C deficiency like scurvy, sclerosis, and easy bruising. It helps to cure asthma and has a high content of vitamin C, carbohydrates, protein and fiber. Zucchini contains significant quantities of potassium, folate, and vitamin A, all of which are important for general good health.

Our recipe this week is Spice Crusted Tuna Steaks with Chickpeas, Apple and Zucchini Salad. This looks incredibly yummy!

LM Recipe

La Pointe

Ingredients

Tuna Steaks: 
2 teaspoons (10 ml) flaxseeds
1 teaspoon (5 ml) fennel seeds
1 teaspoon (5 ml) mustard seeds
1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) black peppercorns
2 tablespoons (30 ml) sesame seeds
4 tuna steaks, each about 6 oz (170 g), slightly warmed to room temperature
3 tablespoons (45 ml) olive oil
Salad recipe:
1 apple, Cortland or Granny Smith, peeled and diced
1 onion, chopped
2 tablespoons (30 ml) honey
1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
1 can 19 oz (540 mL) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 cup (250 ml) chicken broth
1 green zucchini, diced
Salt And pepper
Preparation:
  1. In a coffee grinder or mortar, coarsely grind the flaxseeds, fennel, mustard seeds, and peppercorns. Pour into a dish and add the sesame seeds. Stir to combine. Press the tuna steaks into the spice mixture to coat. Season with salt.
  2. In a large non-stick skillet, brown the tuna steaks in the oil for 2 to 3 minutes per side or to the desired doneness. Season with salt and pepper. Slice thinly and drizzle with olive oil, if desired. Serve with the Chickpea, Apple, and Zucchini Salad.
For the salad:
  1. In a saucepan, sauté the onion and apple in the honey and oil for about 5 minutes or until lightly caramelized. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Add the chickpeas and broth. Bring to a boil and simmer for about 5 minutes or until the broth has almost completely evaporated. Add the zucchini and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Adjust the seasoning. Serve warm.

Serves four persons.

Happy Eating!

Source: La Pointe  175b Kofo Abayomi, Victoria Island, Lagos

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Five Ways To Discipline Your Children Like a Pro – A To Z Parenting Tips

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The saying “spare the rod and spoil the child” – the rod which stands for the rod of discipline comes in many forms. Although you may have discovered your own set of solutions when it comes to disciplining your children, however, most parents understand that there’s no perfect discipline tip that works every single time.

Are you looking for new ways to keep your children grounded? Check out the different discipline hacks that can help you manage your children.

  1. Setting Rules

Peaceful meals begin with good preparation. To prevent hassle during mealtime with your children, set table rules like: no screen time or no phones while eating to avoid any commotion from taking place. Be sure to follow mealtime rules too. For picky eaters, try putting the salad first especially when they’re most hungry. By the time they get to the main course, the vegetables are all eaten by then.

  1. Acknowledging Feelings

Here’s a quick guide on how children process their feelings: Children ages 2 to 6 throw tantrums as they have a hard time expressing their feelings through words; At ages 7 to 9, children face new pressures; Lastly, children ages 10 to 11 mostly have mixed feelings and during this time that they highly consider the opinion of their friends.


It is recommended to validate your child’s emotion, which will teach them to recognize their…
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Let them finish venting out their feelings but be sure to keep other children away from him or her. Afterward, talk to your child and let them know it’s okay to be angry but be sure to talk about them next time instead of throwing a fit.
  1. Change of Scenery

Sometimes, our children exhibit naughty behaviors because they feel flustered or frustrated but cannot relay how they feel. A quick discipline trick is to let them go outside and vent all their frustrations there

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  1. Consistency

While it can be tiring at times, repeating things over and over again is the key to discipline. This will also set a pattern that kids will easily fall into. Establishing a routine will lessen instances of tantrums, repeated mistakes, or room for misbehavior.

  1. Compromise

To keep your sanity, learn to compromise with your children’s attitudes. Establish which ones are acceptable and which ones are not. Learn when to intervene and learn when to disregard certain behaviors. You cannot just intervene with every little action because you’ll end up exhausting yourself. In turn, you will become inconsistent. Learn the “disengaging strategy”: “Not giving any attention to a behavior makes it less likely that the behavior is repeated.”

It is important to remember that discipline is a time for learning. The ultimate purpose of discipline is to teach your children the basic values and develop the self-control to follow them even if you’re not around. More so, it is important to give emphasis on the positive behavior than the negative ones.

Culled from www.parentherald.com

 

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Parenting Skills 101 – A Guide To Caring For Your Child’s Hair

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We were all blessed with lush hair from birth.

It’s important for Nigerian females to know that their hair is just as beautiful as Michelle Obama’s hair or any other African-American female for that matter.

www.pintrest.com

www.pintrest.com

After my move to Nigeria as a hairstylist from the States, I immediately noticed the difference in hair culture. For starters, hair care is a ritual in the African-American culture – it starts from childhood. While a few “lucky” girls made it to the salon on Saturdays, it didn’t change the fact that Saturdays were known as washdays, followed by a cute braid or a home-based pressing comb for a less kinky (straight) hair. I have so many memories of my lovely Aunt Velma; a beauty school graduate from the 50‘s of her styling my hair in the “poodle.” Needless to say, I wasn’t a huge fan of the style, however, the process taught me how to care for my hair. I did not take for granted the consistency and dedication that involved a weekly/bi-weekly shampoo and hair styling – your hair had to be done, period.

Nigerian girls operate differently. I find that some Nigerian girls are made to cut their hair really short either for school or for maintenance sake. I have also observed that in recent times, our girls are required to weave their hair almost exclusively for school. While weaving can be considered a protective hairstyle, it’s the technique that matters the most. Sadly, moms don’t usually have the time and patience for these Saturday routines, which means most children end up in a salon where they are more likely going to be rough handled. From using a shampoo and conditioner that can be too harsh for children, to weaving too tightly, which ends up damaging the follicles especially around the edges – a permanent damage. This is what happens when the responsibility of caring for our children’s hair is handed to someone who considers hairdressing just another job, and who lacks proper hair education.

Though we still have a long way to go, I have seen a subtle shift to better hair care, thanks to the natural hair movement.

It’s never too early to take the time to care for your children’s hair; educate yourself about certain hair products and pay attention to your children’s hair. Remember, once the follicles are damaged, the hair will not grow back. If you don’t know where to start, turn to Google and YouTube for research purpose. It’s also important for you as a parent to find a stylist with gentle hands and love for hair to care for your children’s hair.

wondrous-e1460375291556

 

Contributed by Wondrous Brown

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From Nappies to University

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New parenthood naturally comes with new financial responsibilities. A baby is another mouth to feed, clothe, entertain and educate; all at significant cost. Your bundle of joy presents a bundle of expenses even before they arrive so it pays to be financially prepared for your new baby. Here are some practical tips to help you get prepared:

A budget is the best tool to help you track your expenses. Establish a clear picture of your financial status, your income, your expenses, your net worth. If the numbers just don’t add up even after you cut back on living expenses and any excess, you will need to consider where the shortfall will come from; overtime, freelance, or contract work? For the moment, don’t be tempted to overshop, new babies don’t really need much so avoid borrowing if you can, apart from some of the baby equipment that family or friends will be happy to lend you. Don’t feel obliged to “keep up;” buy what you can afford.


The earlier you start saving for the new baby, the better.
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If you are a couple, one of you is laid off or unable to work, these funds will cushion the effect of such a situation; it is even more important for a single parent who may have to bear the costs solely. Try to save up to six months of living expenses for such eventualities. It will be so useful when the baby is born. Place these funds in a money market account where you have easy access. A special “baby account” before you have the baby is a good idea. The funds here would be specifically for the baby shopping.

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Childcare Is Expensive

Will one parent stay at home, work full or part time, and for how long? How much will childcare cost? Good childcare through a day care centre or an experienced nanny is expensive and must be factored into your monthly budget. Review your options ahead of time.

Nowadays most households must rely on two incomes to fulfill family goals. Having a baby has implications for family income as it usually means a reduction in one partners’ income if they opt to stay at home to raise the child. After twelve weeks’ maternity leave with full pay, should a mother require more time away she may have to take a reduction in salary depending on the circumstances. Review your maternity leave options so that you know your rights and responsibilities in this regard.

If you decide to stay at home with the children, bear in mind that in reality, an extended absence from work, skills and training, could limit future career options, and therefore your lifetime earning potential. If you do wish to pursue a career, consider maintaining part-time work or continue to develop yourself through training and education while your children are still young.

Will your child go to a public or a private school? It may seem premature to discuss this so early but the cost of education means parents must plan literally years in advance. Having these discussions and planning ahead of time is key to giving your child the best education that you can afford.

There are particular times in life when assets, responsibilities and obligations change. With a young family depending on you, they need to be protected if your life changes or anything happens to you. Insurance should be one of the pillars of your financial plan and there are different levels of cover to choose from.

If you don’t have health insurance, get some immediately either through your employer’s plan or privately. Does your employer’s plan cover medical care for you during pregnancy and for your newborn baby? Newborns are naturally susceptible to early ailments so having medical coverage for the baby is important. Go through the policy carefully so you know what it covers.

Most of us avoid or delay estate planning, as it is hard to think about the possibility of our early demise. Do you have a life insurance cover? As morbid as it sounds, life insurance can provide needed funds for your children’s care and education in the event of your incapacity or death. For most families the need for life insurance is greatest early in life; this usually decreases as the family ages and accumulates assets.

This is also a good time for couples to review and update beneficiaries on your financial documents including your life insurance and your will. Most young people consider it absurd to write a will when they seemingly have so little. Yet one of the most important reasons for having a will has little to do with money. Without clear instructions in a will, the court can appoint a guardian to care for your child and an administrator to manage their assets. Address these issues early on and you shouldn’t have to think about them again until your circumstances change significantly.


By starting early and through careful planning, budgeting, saving and investing for your child, you…
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Nimi Akinkugbe has extensive experience in private wealth management. She seeks to empower people regarding their finances and offers frank, practical insights to create a greater awareness and understanding of personal finance.

For more personal finance tips, contact Nimi:

Email: info@moneymatterswithnimi

Website: www.moneymatterswithnimi.com

Twitter: @MMWITHNIMI

Instagram: @MMWITHNIMI

Facebook: MoneyMatterswithNimi

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Exclusively Children- 1st National Exhibition Of Children’s Products And Services

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Are you a parent? Do you love children? Are you passionate about their welfare, growth & development? Do you sell products and services for children?

 

Exclusively Children Exhibition
Join us at the Exclusively Children Exhibition 2016 where you will experience EVERYTHING CHILDREN! Meet with hundreds of exhibitors in every category imaginable…service providers, vendors, Importers, Distributors & Manufacturers of Toys, Food, Books, Stationery, Learning & Educational Resources, Games & Outdoor Equipment, Clothing, Schools, Furniture, health, safety & security and lots more!
Exclusively Children - Teasers001

Enjoy enlightening, educative and fun-filled sessions: story-telling with AJAPA and GRANDMA WURA,  play zones, seminars and discussions with subject-matter experts. There will also be FREE dental & pediatrics checks, FREE crèche services. Admission is ABSOLUTELY FREE.

Come experience EVERYTHING CHILDREN on ONE platform
Date: Friday, May 27th to Sunday 29th of May, 2016
Venue: Lagos Preparatory School, Glover Road, Ikoyi, Lagos.
Time: 9am – 6pm Daily
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Exclusively Children…everything children on ONE platform

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Teaching Our Children Online Etiquette

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The Internet is full of so many teachable moments. Our children shouldn’t have to miss out on all the fun; it’s never too early to start teaching our children online etiquette: how to stay safe, interact and how to behave online.

Your children need to understand that the behaviors you won’t accept in your home shouldn’t be exhibited online as well.


It’s important to use some form of parental control on all technology from the beginning – so…
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So how can we as parents have or start good conversations with our children about online etiquette?

We need to teach our children what we already know – that the digital world is very much like the real one: it has the good, bad, and down right ugly. Most times, people don’t understand the concept of boundaries. One of the most important conversations to have with your children about the online space is the art of having healthy digital boundaries; start by encouraging your children to unplug regularly.

Check out a few ideas on how to start an online conversation with your children:

  • Tell them derogatory comments about individuals or groups can be considered as inciting hatred.
  • Let them know never to post comments encouraging violent activity against people or organisations.
  • Abusive comments or unwanted images on someone else’s page – deliberately causing offence with comments or images is not only offensive, it’s a crime – threaten them with jail time.
  • No matter how much they fancy a celebrity, explain to your children that if someone blocks them or rejects their friend request on a social media site, harassing them can be considered stalking.
  • And the most important conversation you can have with your children about social media is privacy – tell them never to share private information without your consent.

Lagos Mums, what do you think? Should conversations with our children about their digital lives should start early?

Need more help? Watch this video…

Culled from www.time.com www.mums.bodyandsoul.com.au

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