Keep kids in the loop

Surprises are overrated when it comes to vacations. Is it worth the potential meltdowns? Kids have little control over their lives day-to-day and their regular routines help them feel comfortable, confident and safe. Talking through each step of your trip ahead of time can help prepare them for unfamiliar situations and put them at ease. Showing them your route on a map, for instance, can help kids feel involved and get them excited.

Take advantage of family perks

Many hotels and resorts have family discounts or special activities for groups. If you’re flying, check with your airline about baggage, as some will let you check strollers and bulky baby gear for no fee. Arriving early and using the family boarding time will also help reduce stress. Remember too that breast milk is exempt from the 100 ml carry-on liquid rule.

Pace yourselves

It can be tempting to cram every possible activity into your limited time away, but remember to schedule in some down time too. Constantly being on the go is a recipe for exhausted kids and tantrums. And if you’re travelling with a new baby, accept that your pace will likely be slower than before you had kids. Enjoy your time together and allow for one-on-one side trips with older kids or grandparents too.

Pack smart and streamlined

You know you can’t pack everything, but some items can make a big difference. For new parents traveling with little ones, look for simple streamlined versions of the tools you need, such as a collapsible stroller, folding booster seat or a compact breast pump that moms can use on the go. Some Medela pumps are hands-free and USB rechargeable for up to six sessions, so you don’t need to hunt down a power outlet. If you’re preparing to pump and nurse on the go, pack less by choosing one of Medela’s pumping and nursing bras.

It’s also always a good idea to pack snacks, diapers and small activities to keep the kids happy too!

(Source : News Canada)

L’article How to minimize stress on a family vacation est apparu en premier sur Courrier Laval news.

However, some items always make the cut for curbside collection – but that doesn’t mean they aren’t recyclable. Here are a few handy examples:

1. Carpet: Get it picked up
   Old carpeting is not typically accepted in regional blue box programs, but if you call the manufacturer or a local recycling company, they can often bring it to a depot. There it’s recycled into a new carpet or other items like plastic auto parts. Carpets are often made from synthetics or fossil fuel-based materials, so keeping them out of landfill is worthwhile.
2. Old pens: Drop off at a local store
   Although much of the world has gone digital, there are still many of us who keep a trusty pen and paper on hand. Some local and national retailers collect pens and stationery items that would otherwise need to be thrown out. Check out your office supplies store to see if they take broken or dried up writing utensils, from pens to mechanical pencils and felt tip markers.
3. Re-sell or donate: Bicycles
   Even if that old bicycle seems un-ridable, there are still plenty of ways to put it to use. There are many groups across the country that will take an old bike – either as a fixer upper or as a source for stripped parts that will create or repair another bicycle. Look locally for organizations or shops that sell or repair used bikes.
4. Mail in programs: Smoke-free products
   Recycling is a great way for all of us to be stewards of the planet and, in some cases, can be done from your home or office. Nicotine-containing products like vaping devices, pods and certain heated tobacco devices can be safely recycled or disposed of for free with the national Smoke-Free Recycling program. Collect your items in any old box, print a free shipping label and send them off in the mail. There is also the option to recycle cigarette butts through the program.

(Source : News Canada)

L’article 4 ways to recycle items that don’t go in the blue box est apparu en premier sur Courrier Laval news.

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