Monday, March 30, 2015

Summer Reading Fun!!

   Summer vacation signals a time for rest and relaxation, but make sure reading is still on your kids' "to do" lists over the break. That's because reading is not only fundamental-- it's fun. Encouraging your kids to read opens their imaginations and keeps them learning all through their "off" time. Take a stay-cation to your local library to get a hands-on experience with books. With our tech-savvy kids it's also a good idea to download electronic books on their tablets for easy reading on the go.

For more information on making reading  part of your child's Summer fun go to:  http://readingfoundation.org/
http://www.scholastic.com/readingreport/

Friday, March 20, 2015

Selling The House Due To Divorce...

   Whether you have to or want to sell your house because of a pending divorce--  being prepared will get you the best price.  Some basics to know:
-Experts agree Spring and Summer are the best seasons to sell. Good weather brings out the buyers.
-Remember you have to pay off the mortgage, any lines of credit and brokers and closing fees as well as any capital gains taxes that apply-- before you make any profit to split. Despite these expenses don't over price.
-Hire an agent both parties trust. The agent can do the pricing and act as intermediary to avoid conflicts.
-Your house no doubt holds many pleasant memories but to be able to sell you have to look forward not back, or you may never be able to part with it.
-Have all pertinent information such as property taxes, home owner association fees, special features, new repairs, and neighborhood and area attributes at you finger tips to entice prospective buyers.
-Finally, keep personal affects to a minimum (i.e. family photos) then keep the house clean, uncluttered and inviting.

For more information about selling a house when divorcing try these helpful websites: http://divorceinfo.com/sellingyourhouse.htm
http://www.divorcenet.com/resources/divorce/marital-property-division/selling-house-when-you-divorce
http://www.divorce360.com/divorce-articles/debt-and-credit/mortgage/need-to-sell-your-house-in-divorce.aspx?artid=899

Friday, March 13, 2015

Pick a Perfect Summer Camp!

   It won't be too long before the kids are out of school-- and that constant "Mom I'm bored" moan drones on. Win that war before the first battle even begins! There are some super "Summer Camps" in Central Florida that offer everything from arts and crafts to fun and games and all kinds of sports -- even figure skating. Or how about Space Camp at the Kennedy Space Center? Aside from all the sun and fun, your kids learn socializing skills, and there's even a camp to help our four legged furry friends become more adoptable. Many at affordable prices. For a look at some of what's offered in our area check out these links:

http://www.orangecountyfl.net/CultureParks/YouthRecreationPrograms.aspx#.VQCk92Ma44k
http://www.newspaper-marketplace.com/orlando-sentinel/special-section/summer-camp-guide
https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/education/camp-ksc.aspx
http://camps.fit.edu/
http://www.rollins.edu/summer-camp/index.html
http://www.universityofdoglando.com/camp-doglando/

For a list of top rated Summer Camps across the country go to: http://www.campratingz.com/ShowMost.jsp

 

Monday, March 2, 2015

Stranger Danger!

    While it's important to allow our young children to discover the beauty, magic and wonder of this world, it's also crucial to teach them that dangers do exist-- especially when it comes to strangers.

     Super important-- define "stranger" for them. Obviously, strangers are people your children don't know but be sure to explain there are "good" and "bad" strangers. Tell them "good strangers" like police officers, firefighters, security guards, and teachers at school can always help if they get lost or find themselves in trouble. "Bad strangers" may talk nice but may try to trick them or take them away.

    To keep your kids safe make sure you know where they are at all times, that they know their name, address and your phone number, and that they have safe areas to play, safe streets to use, and safe places to run to if in trouble.

    Most of all teach your children to be assertive and trust their instincts. Let them know it's okay to disobey and run away from adults they don't know when they feel uncomfortable-- especially if approached by a stranger in a vehicle.

    For more information on how to protect your kids from Stranger Dangers go to : http://www.ncpc.org/topics/violent-crime-and-personal-safety/strangers