Tag Archives: parenting

Books, Parenting

The Sparkly Bun: A Children’s Book About Being True to Oneself

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the sparkly bun, children's book, reading, learning

In a world where fitting in is the norm, “The Sparkly Bun” shows children the importance of being true to oneself.

Join Emme as she navigates the tricky world of schoolyard fashion. Emme loves her clothes and accessories, but she especially loves one item. When she wears it to school two days in a row, her friends start to tease her. Will Emme be able to learn the valuable lesson that being an individual is more important than fitting in with the crowd?

With charming illustrations and a heartwarming story, “The Sparkly Bun” is the perfect addition to any child’s library.

Here’s a review from another happy parent:

I just loved this book. Being a parent of two young children, who sad to say, are already experiencing peer pressure and the need to “fit in,” I found this book to be a true gem. The message is brilliant and one that needs to be addressed at every stage of life. It is a unique storyline with the “bun” which is so clever and easily translatable to other objects, clothes, tech etc.

Three reasons why you and your child will love this book:
1. Simply a wonderful message presented through a relatable theme about the pressure to be like everyone else. Great artwork and images as well.
2. A number of critical themes for both the child and parent reading the book. I read this to my daughter, age, 6, and then I let her read it on her own. I was able to have a real discussion about peer pressure, individuality, and being your own unique, beautiful self.
3. It can be applied to either boys or girls. The message is easily translatable to anyone you are talking to about any issue at hand.

I have read tons of books to my kids and haven’t come across one as cute, teachable and memorable as this one. Nice work!

Website:

https://www.thesparklybun.com/

Amazon:

Life, Lifestyle, Parenting, Tips

Building A Better Relationship With Your Parents As You All Get Older

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As you grow up and start a family of your own, you can find that your relationship with your own parents changes. You may find that you’re less reliant on them than you were when you were younger, and may even experience some challenges as you face your own parenting struggles.

But change doesn’t have to be a bad thing, and getting older gives you a great opportunity to get to know your parents differently, so you can enjoy more quality time together. Learn some of the ways you can build a better relationship with your parents as you get older to help bring a new dynamic to your relationship.

Image Credit: Unsplash under Creative Commons

Resolve issues you’ve been experiencing

Families are complicated, and over time, things can build up between families. You may have even experienced some serious issues that have led to a lack of communication or poor relationships over the years. But if you want to enjoy a relationship with your parents going forward, you may need to take steps to resolve these issues and find a way to forgive and move on. It’s not always easy, but if there’s a chance to save your relationship, it could be worth a try.

Be there to provide help and support

As your parents get older, it’s them that may need taking care of. Being there to provide help and support is important, and whether that’s physical or emotional support, you should pay attention to your parents’ behaviors and ensure that they get the help they need. Now that you’re more self-aware, you may be able to recommend support for issues they might be experiencing such as depression, addiction, or PTSD treatment for veterans. Your parents may be reluctant at first, but you should persevere to help them get the help they need as they get older.

Plan quality time together

Once you have your own children, time spent with your family can often revolve around the kids and keeping them entertained. But if you can, try to spend some quality time with your parents where you can be adults together and make some wonderful memories. This one-on-one time can also help you notice any changes in their health and wellbeing that may need some support, that could go unnoticed in a big family setting.

Spend time enjoying some of their hobbies and interests 

Now that they’re no longer taking care of you, time with your parents can be spent enjoying some of their hobbies and interests. Take the time to find out the things that they’re interested in and plan some fun activities together that will help you create some special memories and learn more about your parents.
As we get older, our relationships evolve and change, especially the ones we have with our parents. You may need to learn how to communicate with elderly parents or take on caring responsibilities, but you will also find that your relationship changes in positive ways too as you get to know them in different ways. Focus on building a better relationship with your parents to help you enjoy your time with them, and who knows, they could still have a lot to teach you about your own parenting skills too!

Books, Going Strong, Lifestyle, Parenting

Raheem’s Adventures: Fun and Educational Children’s Books

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The following 3 books by the author, Jawad, have been written with a fun and educational spirit. Jawad was kind enough to share details on each of his books below, please read on to learn more about them.

Raheem and his Magic Shoes:

This Book shares two of my passions, which are basketball and a story that has a meaningful message. The book is aimed at children ages 3 to 8 and currently is on Amazon.ca’s top 100 basketball books for children. The book is available at locations for the Toronto public library, Milton public library, and Mississauga central library.

Book Blurb:

Dribble right then dribbles left. He dribbles past his opponents. He takes a jump shot and … swisssssh!  Raheem loves to play basketball and is eager to make the team, but he believes the only way he can make it is with his magical shoes. Will the shoes work? Raheem will try anything! “Raheem and his Magic shoes” is the inspiring story of Raheem and his quest to make the basketball team. This fully illustrated book tells the story of a young boy who believes he isn’t good enough without his special kicks to make the team.
https://www.amazon.ca/dp/168902514X

Raheem the Superhero:

This fun read was inspired by my little nephew who loves superheroes and his willingness to help others in need.  

Book Blurb:

Incredible strength, lightning speed, x-ray vision, and the ability to fly are just some of Raheem’s favorite superhero abilities! Every superhero needs them, right? You can’t save the day without them? Right???? That’s what makes a SUPERHERO a superhero, rightttttt? Raheem seems to think so.

From the author of “Raheem and his Magic Shoes,” comes a story about Raheem’s wish for superhero powers so he can help save the day.  This book helps empower kids, with the understanding that they have their own special powers and shares a meaningful message, that parents and children will enjoy.
https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B08CP92PPL

Raheem the Referee:

As a basketball referee, I wanted to share another side of the sport I enjoy very much.  This book is like a beginner’s guide to basketball officiating. 

https://a.co/d/8dw7cPD

Book Blurb:

Foul! On blue, I mean, yellow…wait, was it a foul?

Being a basketball referee isn’t quite as easy as it looks. You have to make quick decisions that require swift action. Why would anyone want to be a referee? Raheem does, and he wants you to join him!

Breaking the rules is not RIGHT and Raheem wants everyone to play fair. So come along and let’s learn how referees enforce the rules of the game.

BIO:

Jawad is a husband, father, basketball coach, and referee. When he isn’t balling, he is a techie and children’s author. His other works include ‘Raheem and his Magic Shoes’. A tale that has captured the hearts of many young children across the globe. Also, “Raheem the Superhero,” is a story that shows we don’t need superpowers to be real heroes. Once, in his past life, he wrote for a men’s fashion blog.

As a son of immigrant parents, Jawad was taught to appreciate literature and value family at a young age. He draws inspiration from his love for his family, his imaginative mind, and his love for storytelling.

Jawad Tariq currently lives in Oakville, Ontario.