http://www.articletrader.com/ Articles at ArticleTrader en-us http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/improving-gas-mileage.html http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/improving-gas-mileage.html Sun, 16 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0600
If driving less is something that you cannot fathom, you can practice a few other methods to cut down on gas mileage and save some money.

Keep Your Car Working Properly

One of the best ways to ensure that you are getting more bang for your buck in terms of gas mileage is to check your car frequently and make sure that it is working as it should be. Cars that are regularly checked and have regular oil changes usually manage more gas mileage because they are in sharper working order.

Serious maintenance problems that go unchecked, such as a faulty oxygen sensor, can cost you lots of money in terms of wasted gas mileage and can impact your vehicle performance overall. Air filters and tire pressure is important too, as having proper air filters can save you up to 10% on your gas mileage and can impact the overall performance of your vehicle. Properly balanced tires with appropriate tire pressure can offer fuel economy benefits up to 3%.

Drive Properly

Driving properly is also an important component when it comes to saving money on gas. Observe the speed limit, as gas mileage actually decreases rapidly at higher speeds (above 60 miles per hour). Not only is observing the speed limit a safer way to drive, it can also save you up to 25% on your overall gas mileage.

Remove any excess weight in your vehicle to avoid putting extra strain on your engine and your fuel consumption. Having extra weight in your vehicle reduces your miles per gallon and, in turn, reducing your overall fuel economy. This weight aspect affects smaller vehicles more than it does larger vehicles.

Avoid idling for long periods of times, like in border line-ups and other places, as this is hard on the engine. Use cruise control and overdrive gears to reduce overall engine wear, too. This will help in saving gas mileage and will also cut down on the standard wear and tear on your vehicle.

Drive Less!

Most people don’t like to hear about this particular way to save gas mileage, as society is largely addicted to their vehicles even for the smallest of trips. Carpooling, taking public transit, and combining trips into one larger trip are all effective and logical ways to reduce the overall gas mileage and save money in the long run. Instead of taking several trips during one day, try to combine all of your trips into one longer trip to save additional starts and stops of your engine. Your vehicle and your pocketbook will thank you!


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Find the best deal on the auto insurance coverage you need. Visit us today for money-saving tips and receive free quotes for really cheap auto insurance from respected insurance companies.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/parenting/tips-for-helping-your-adhd-child-with-homework.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/parenting/tips-for-helping-your-adhd-child-with-homework.html Sun, 16 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0600
Parents can help an ADHD child complete homework without resorting to yelling and threatening punishment. Understanding the thought and behavior pattern differences in their child equips parents to help a young one complete homework in a reasonable timeframe and retain a greater level of knowledge.

Not all ADHD children are alike. Some have minimal hyperactivity symptoms; others may focus well, but have difficulty controlling their moods and physical actions. A different approach treats each type of behavior.

Homework Tips for Kids with Attention Deficit Problems

• Remove Obvious Distractions: Turn off the television and radio, remove siblings from the room and close the blinds before beginning homework.
• Use an Egg Timer: An egg timer provides continuous visual cues to help the child pace progress and stay on task.
• Verbal Cues: If you catch your child daydreaming or fidgeting with school supplies, gently remind them to return to the task of completing their homework.
• Break Down Large Assignments: Large assignments can be overwhelming to a child with attention deficit disorder. Parents should break these large assignments into smaller, manageable chunks. This also helps create an ongoing sense of accomplishment as the child completes each portion.
• Use White Noise: White noise, such as the humming of a fan, helps an ADHD child concentrate.
• Write It Down: ADHD children often forget homework assignments seconds after being told the tasks. Purchase an agenda book or school planner to track homework assignments. Teach your child to use it daily.
• Keep a Schedule: Routine schedules make a big difference in children with ADHD. Setting a time for homework every day allows the child to prepare for the activity. Be sure to select a period when your child’s concentration levels are the greatest.

Homework Tips for Kids with Hyperactivity Disorder

• Frequent Breaks: Allow the child to take a break at set intervals during homework time. This relieves the desire to move around, fostering greater concentration.
• Burn off Excess Energy: Allow the child a few minutes of free time, preferable outdoors and prior to the homework session. Transition to homework time by slowly decreasing physical activity until the child is able to sit still to work on assignments.
• Use Index Cards: Write out spelling words, memorization items, or key facts on index cards that the child can flip through while standing or walking around the room.
• Try Standing Up: Use a podium for completing homework instead of a desk and chair. This may allow the child to expend small amounts of physical energy while allowing him to complete homework in a timely manner.

When helping an ADHD child complete homework, be sure to give frequent words of praise for each small accomplishment. Patience, encouragement, and understanding are necessary in dealing with these extraordinary children.


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Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/hobbies/dollhouse-donation-making-a-difference.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/hobbies/dollhouse-donation-making-a-difference.html Sun, 16 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0600
Holiday Toy Drives

Every year during the holiday season, local newspapers and news stations begin to advertise their charity drives. Toys for Tots is one of the most popular, but Toys Not Tears and others are also dedicated to providing toys for those in need. If you have small toys to donate, they usually have drop boxes at convenient locations to make things easy. You local supermarket or post office might have a collection area where you can simply leave the toys. If you want to donate larger toys, like dollhouses or something similar, find a phone number for the organization and they can give you more detailed instructions.

One of the biggest advocates for children’s toy runs are motorcycle clubs. Every year clubs all over the country organize toy runs where the riders bring a toy in lieu of the cost of participating in the ride. Fire departments, police departments and other governmental organizations also present the community with drives of their own.

Call Your Area Hospitals

Almost every hospital has a wing set aside for pediatrics. Many times, these are kids who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness or other major medical problem. They are away from their family and they might feel depressed surrounded by equipment and dreary institutional settings. With a simple phone call to the hospital, you can find out if they will accept toy donations for the kids. You might even find out if there are some particularly lonely children that could use a “pick me up.” Try to find their age so you can donate appropriate toys that they can enjoy to the fullest.

Contact Local Churches

Churches are always in the business of giving to the needy. Not only do they give away food, they give toys and other goods to families who can’t afford to provide for their children. The church’s denomination is not important. Call one of the churches in your area and ask if they have the names of any families with small children that are less fortunate. They will be more than happy to take the toys you have and make sure they get to somebody who can use them.

For most children, toys can do things that nothing else can do. They can bring a smile to their face and provide hours of enjoyment regardless of the child’s age. With the exception of holidays, toys are an overlooked necessity for children. It’s great to donate during Christmas and other holidays, but donating throughout the year will give you a sense of satisfaction. Finding a local agency is often as simple as looking up a phone number and making a call.


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Learn more about the fascinating world of miniatures. Visit TheMagicalDollhouse.com today for a great selection of dollhouses and dollhouse accessories from top miniature companies.



Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/finance/insurance/car-insurance-myths.html http://www.articletrader.com/finance/insurance/car-insurance-myths.html Fri, 14 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0600
Colour Matters

One myth, believe it or not, is that the colour of the vehicle makes a different when applying for insurance coverage. A lot of people believe that coverage for the make, model, and especially the colour of the vehicle can make a difference in the overall quality and amount of coverage given. This is a myth, as it doesn’t matter what colour your car is. The coverage will be the same.

Parking Ticket Problems

Some people believe that getting a parking ticket can influence insurance rates. Surely if this were the case, we’d all be facing skyrocketing rates on a regular basis. Car insurance rates are not affected by parking tickets or other similar situations. These tickets by themselves do not count against any insurance record, but not paying tickets can impact your ability to renew your driver’s license which could, in turn, affect your overall rate. The lesson learned here is clear: pay your parking tickets!

Speeding

Speeding is a serious problem that can impact your driving record, but a single speeding ticket will likely not impact your insurance rates. Of course, if your single speeding ticket involves driving at a reckless speed several dozen miles over the limit, you can bet that your rates will be impacted. One or two minor convictions for speeding likely won’t have a say in your rates, but accumulate a few more of those and you can rest assured that you’ll be paying more when it comes time to renew your policy.

It’s Not My Fault!

One myth about accidents is that you don’t have to pay deductible if the police assert that an accident is not your fault. This is not necessarily the case. The police may not have deemed you criminally responsible as a driver in the accident, but it is your insurance company that holds the key as to whether or not you’ll be paying. If the insurance company investigates the accident and discovers that it wasn’t your fault, you’re in the clear and they will waive your deductible. If their findings differ, however, you’ll be paying.

Cheap is Best

Many people think that insuring cheaper cars is more affordable than insuring more expensive, luxury cars. This is not the case. The premium paid for automobile insurance is based on a combination of factors, including the original price of the car, any repair costs, theft frequency, and any claims history on the vehicle. If you’re older, cheaper car has a history of repairs and problems with other claims, it will likely not be cheap to insure. If a newer, luxury car lacks any history of repairs and has no claim history, it may be less expensive than your older car. Every rate is different.



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Find the best deal on the auto insurance coverage you need. Visit us today for money-saving tips and receive free quotes for cheap car insurance for women from respected insurance companies.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/parenting/potty-training-tips-for-parents.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/parenting/potty-training-tips-for-parents.html Fri, 14 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0600
Facts about Potty Training

• Most children are potty trained between the ages of two and four. Some are ready sooner; others take longer and may not be ready to potty train until age five.
• Children should be at least 20 months old before potty training begins. A child must be able to walk to the bathroom, pull his or her pants on and off, and pick up small objects.
• A child that urinates eight to ten times a day is not ready for potty training. The child must be able to stay dry for several hours and wet a diaper only four to seven times a day in order for training to be effective.
• Children that are prone to temper tantrums, willful acts of disobeying, and inattentiveness may not be ready for toilet training.
• Kids approaching readiness for toilet training are aware of the need to relieve their bowels and bladder. They may voice this need, tug at clothing, or bring you a clean diaper.

Beginning Training

• When your child is ready, let him practice pulling his pants on and off independently. Provide a step stool, potty seat insert, or child’s potty-chair. Teach him about proper hygiene and flushing the toilet.
• Children learn quickly by watching a parent or sibling use the toilet.
• Provide simple, systematic instructions. Also provide lavish praise when your child performs a request correctly.
• Tell the child to go potty every hour. Even if they do not go, it raises their awareness of bowel and bladder conditions.
• Boys should sit to urinate until toilet training is well underway. Aiming a stream of urine takes considerable skill and is for advanced toilet training.
• Separate your toilet training into daytime and nighttime sessions. It is common for bedwetting to occur for months, if not years, after a child is potty trained. Focus on daytime training first.
• Training pants are for nighttime only. This allows your child to feel uncomfortable when an accident occurs. It motivates him to attempt to make it to the potty when the urge to urinate or defecate arises.
• Check your child at regular intervals. Praise him or her for having dry pants each time.
• Consider rewarding your child with a special treat such as a favorite cookie for each successful potty experience.
• Placing O-shaped cereal in the toilet can help little boys learn to aim a stream of urine.

Toilet training should not begin during periods of stress or illness. Plan to stick close to home during this time. Scope out the location of bathrooms each time you leave home. Never scold a child for needing a toilet at an inconvenient time.

If your child shows resistance to your first toilet training attempts, simply go back to training pants or diapers until your child is ready. Remember, there is no right or wrong age for potty training.



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Find helpful and creative ideas for parents and grandparents while you shop our great selection of affordable kids furniture and classic toys. Visit www.TheMagicalRockingHorse.com today!



Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/hobbies/personal-style-dollhouse-decor.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/hobbies/personal-style-dollhouse-decor.html Thu, 13 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0600
But for individuals who enjoy building and collecting dollhouses or miniatures, adding flare opens up a whole new library of ideas. And it makes perfect sense too. If you are going to put as much pride in a large-scale version of your home, why not do the same for the smaller replica? No one ever claimed dollhouses had to fit a specific mold, right?

Decorating a dollhouse for a specific holiday is not difficult to do. There are kits widely available that can help you accomplish your goal. If your dollhouse or miniature resembles a particular period in history, such as the Victorian Era, you can find decorations that will go along with the décor of the home. Just by surfing the Internet, one can purchase kits for Halloween, Easter or even Christmas.

Perhaps the Internet is not your favorite way of shopping for items to put in your dollhouse. If you enjoy seeing and touching dollhouse decorations, you can easily find kits and accessories at specialty shops, antique stores or local craft stores. Even hitting garage sales and estate sales can turn up some beautiful and timeless pieces to add to your décor.

Because manufacturers make an endless array of dollhouse decorations and accessories, you need to have a good idea of what you want to accomplish before you start buying. Depending on what you need, there may be the chance you could save a little money and make decorations from left-over materials you used for your own home. All you need is some glue, a little paint and a lot of patience to make beautiful re-creations for your dollhouse.

If you want to get into more intricate detail, a kit would be a better choice for you. These kits can help you make a dollhouse or miniature resemble your own home down to the packages under the tree. For example, if you are looking into holiday decorations, you can buy Christmas trees with tiny lights, stockings that let you write family names on them and miniature packages with personalized name tags. In fact, decorating dollhouses for various holidays has become so popular that avid collectors even enjoy re-creating their own village or town.

One thing to keep in mind when you are decorating your dollhouse or miniature is to keep the décor personal. The possibilities are endless, and all a person needs to do is use a little creativity and imagination. You want people to pick up on your own style, just as they do for your real home. Personalization is easy to achieve, especially with all the choices you have in miniature accessories. Friends and family will enjoy seeing all your hard work and effort turned into a beautiful display.



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Learn more about the fascinating world of miniatures. Visit TheMagicalDollhouse.com today for a great dollhouse and dollhouse accessories from top miniature companies.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/maintenance/avoiding-car-accidents.html http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/maintenance/avoiding-car-accidents.html Wed, 12 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0600
Intersection Mistakes

A large number of accidents occur because people make critical intersection errors. In fact, it is reported that intersection accidents make up about one quarter of all automobile accidents because people are too distracted by too many things. The best way to avoid crashes at intersections is to pay attention to the lights, the other cars, and the direction you are driving. Watch crosswalks for pedestrians and ensure that you are crossing the intersection on a green light, not a red or yellow light.

Pay Attention!

Accidents mostly occur because the drivers involved aren’t paying attention to the road or, more importantly, to one another. The biggest problems in traffic take place because of a breakdown in communication between drivers. Make eye contact whenever possible with pedestrians and other drivers to establish points of contact. This will help determine where the driver or pedestrian is going and help to avoid collision.

Pay attention to the road, too. Ensure that you are familiar with the direction you are going, with the turns you’ll have to make, and with any of the other possibilities for confusion so that you can be aware of your vehicle and its position at all times. Not paying attention to where you are going can lead to accidents, getting lost, or fatalities.

Stay Back

Many people follow too closely. Lots of accidents are rear-end accidents caused by tailgating, so keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you at all times. If somebody is tailgating you, do not panic by slamming on the brakes and do not get angry. Simply keep your pace the same and drive in the same fashion as you would, tailgater or not.

When driving, it is best to leave a three second following distance between you and the driver in front of you. This will help guard your vehicle against instant braking or sudden changes in the road. In poor weather conditions, you should, at the very least, double the three second following distance. Depending on the severity of the conditions, you may wish to leave at least ten seconds following distance.

Keep Your Car Happy

Vehicle malfunctions, such as sudden stalling or braking problems, lead to some accidents. For this reason, keep your vehicle’s maintenance as a primary concern. Before leaving on any big trips, make sure to have your car checked thoroughly and have your oil changed at regular intervals. Proper car maintenance can avoid a lot of problems down the road.

Watch Your Speed

Finally, pay attention to speed limits and follow them correctly. Driving too fast reduces reaction time and increases the likelihood of accidents by increasing the impact potential, especially in busy areas. Keep your speed down and be aware of your surroundings.


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Find the best deal on the auto insurance coverage you need. Visit us today for money-saving tips and receive free quotes for cheap second car insurance from respected insurance companies.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/parenting/how-to-help-your-child-develop-self-confidence.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/parenting/how-to-help-your-child-develop-self-confidence.html Wed, 12 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0600
Genuine Praise and Encouragement

Children view themselves through the eyes of others. They see what they believe others perceive. Your opinion of your child’s actions, abilities, appearance, and judgment significantly affects your child’s self-image.

Parents often speak without thinking. Statements such as, “You’ll never get it right,” or “Don’t be so stupid,” may seem harmless when spoken, but they send a negative message to the child that contributes to a low self-image. Words are very powerful.

Build your child’s self-confidence by providing frequent, genuine statements of praise. Tell your children they are special, that you love them even when they fail, that they are beautiful with bed-hair and a shiner from a missed fly ball. Every parent has feelings for their children, but few communicate them to little ones enough.

Encourage your children to strive for their goals. Tell them you believe in them. Let them know you love them and support them – no matter what.

Instill a Sense of Belonging

Show your children that they are important to you by including them in many areas of your life. Ask your daughter which color looks best for the new carpet. Ask your son what he thinks of going to Alaska for the family vacation. This shows your children that you value their opinion and judgment and that what they think matters.

Take off the Training Wheels

It is difficult to watch your children struggle in life. That struggle prepares them for adulthood. You must allow them to fail and make mistakes.

Provide added responsibilities and challenging, age-appropriate tasks. This communicates to your children that you believe they are capable of doing what you ask and trust them to handle the situation. They will never learn to ride that bike unless the training wheels come off.

Encourage Positive Thoughts

If your child constantly thinks he is below others and of lesser importance, his self-confidence suffers. Thoughts determine actions. In order for your child to act in a self-assured manner, he must believe he is valuable.

Correct your children when they speak negative comments, such as, “I can’t do anything right,” or “I look fat and ugly in this outfit.” Back up your reprimand with a strong positive statement to counteract the negative thoughts.

Model Self-Confidence

Children learn a great deal by watching the role models in their lives. Parents are the first and most important role models. Do not put yourself or your spouse down in front of your children.

It also helps to place an emphasis on relationships instead of physical appearance. Do not stay home from a family outing because your clothing fits poorly or your hair is messy. This sends an unhealthy message to impressionable children.

Building self-confidence in your children is possible. With words of encouragement and praise, opportunities to contribute to important decisions, new experiences, and positive role modeling, your children can develop healthy levels of self-confidence.


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Find helpful and creative ideas for parents and grandparents while you shop our great selection of furniture for kids and classic toys. Visit www.TheMagicalRockingHorse.com today!



Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/hobbies/bargain-hunting-discount-dollhouses.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/hobbies/bargain-hunting-discount-dollhouses.html Tue, 11 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0600
As with any kind of shopping excursion, avid dollhouse collectors are always looking for the best possible price when purchasing materials and accessories for their dollhouses. But for those of you who may be new to the dollhouse market, finding a good deal does not have to be a figment of your imagination.

If you are a little skeptical about where you should begin looking for dollhouse materials, fear no more because the answers are literally at your fingertips. The Internet has become a commonly used location for shoppers of all ages. So if you are looking for particular dollhouse items, this is the best place to start.

If surfing isn’t your thing, then just pick a few web sites you know will have the times you are pursuing. Auction web sites, such as Ebay, are great places to use when trying to find the “hard-to-get.” These sites are a virtual storage house for anything and everything, and the best part is you get to bid for items you need in particular. Although there is always the possibility of being surpassed by someone else’s bid, when you do make the sale, you are usually getting the best price possible.

If you are not into the auction scene, then you can still use the Internet to find special dollhouse items. Vendors and manufacturers that specialize in dollhouses will usually have a place on their site that holds close-out sales and marked-down items. Although their regular items are full-price, perusing the sale web sites may be the way to strike gold. It all depends on how rare the items are and what you are specifically looking for to complete your dollhouse collection.

If you don’t like to use the Internet and enjoy the hands-on experience of store shopping, you are not out of luck to find a bargain. Some of the best places to bargain shop for dollhouse accessories are garage sales and estate sales. You still have to do a little bidding for a price, but you can see and touch the item being purchased, allowing you a little piece of mind when spending money.

Another great location to look for dollhouse bargains is antique stores and flea markets. These places can be a diamond in the ruff when it comes to looking for small items that can be used for your dollhouses. Craft stores and specialty shops dealing in dollhouses are another location to try out. Even if the regular store items seem expensive, always look for a sale or clearance section for your best deals.

By shopping at various locations, you will be able to play prices of each other and find the venue with the best deal. By doing a little research, you can make your dollhouse unique without having to break the bank.


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Learn more about the fascinating world of miniatures. Visit TheMagicalDollhouse.com today for a great doll house and dollhouse accessories from top miniature companies.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/hobbies/discovering-your-collection.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/hobbies/discovering-your-collection.html Mon, 10 Dec 2007 00:00:00 -0600
Some individuals purposely set out to collect something, whether it is as expensive and rare as an antique car or easy to find as a tossed penny. The purpose of a collection is to look for certain items that hold some value to you, whether the value is personal or monetary. And collections usually resemble a great affinity for an object, such as fine paintings or sculptures.

You may not even realize when you started collecting something because many times it just happens to accumulate over a period of time, sometimes years. But when you do make the effort to begin a collection, you have to make it a manageable pastime. Otherwise you may find yourself completely surround by endless clutter and chaos.

One thing to remember when you begin a collection is to find something you absolutely love. Take the time to research and learn about the history and mystique behind your prized possessions. This will also aid you in determining what pieces you intend to buy and keep so you can make the most of your collection.

When you collect something, find pieces that have special meaning. If you are collecting antique dollhouses, for example, perhaps you want to look for accessories that represent a particular time period. Or you may want to collect items that remind you of fond memories from your childhood. Adding unique and meaningful items as part of your collection not only gives you ample conversation pieces, but it represents special times in your life.

Because collections normally accumulate over a period of time, it will help if you can make out a “wish list” to narrow down specific items you are looking to find. Locating hard-to-get pieces that go with your collection will require a little research, and you will inevitably find yourself looking through magazines, surfing the Internet or visiting specialty shops. But this is just part of the fun of looking for items you love.

As your collection grows, learn about each item. Find out how it was made, who made it and what they used for materials. You may also want to catalogue your collection to help you keep things organized in case you decide to sell a certain item or trade it for another piece.

You may also want to join a club or organization that deals specifically with what you collect. This is the perfect way to gain hints and suggestions on where to find pieces and get a better price for items you are interested in selling. It also helps form a bond among other avid collectors who also love the same unique things you enjoy.

Starting a collection can be a fun and enjoyable pastime or hobby. You can find a special place for you collection to display for friends and family. And who knows, maybe one day your collection will be worth a lot of money!


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Learn more about the fascinating world of miniatures. Visit TheMagicalDollhouse.com today for a great selection of doll houses and dollhouse accessories from top miniature companies.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]>