Category: Family & Parenting

Published: March 16, 2023 | Last Updated on: March 16, 2023
| by Hema

Looking for a healthy and nutritious recipe for your little one? Look no further than drumstick soup. This dish is perfect for babies of all ages and can be made with just a few simple ingredients. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients that will help your baby grow and develop properly. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the recipe step-by-step, so that you can create this delicious dish in no time. So go ahead and give drumstick soup a try – you won’t regret it!

As summer quickly approaches, we might find seasonal vegetables while grocery shopping, and drumsticks are one such summer vegetable.

Drumstick soup can be helping to boost the immune system of babies and protect them against various infections and illnesses. This recipe is suitable for 8-month babies.

Health Benefits of Drumstick Soup For Babies

Drumstick soup is a delicious, nutritious and easy-to-make baby food. It is made by simmering chicken drumsticks in water until tender. The resulting broth is then used to cook the baby’s food. Drumstick soup contains high amounts of protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a valuable addition to a baby’s diet. These include:

• Vitamins A and D found in the skin and bones of the chicken
• Choline found in the liver
• Calcium from the bones and eggshells
• Potassium from the water used to cook the chicken
• Iron found in the blood of poultry.
• Lactose found in the milk of dairy animals
• Fibre from the vegetables used to make the soup
• Fatty acids found in animal fats such as those found in butter, cream, and eggs
  Drumstick soup is also a good source of vitamins such as E and K, which are essential for growth and development. In addition to its nutritional value, drumstick soup is easy to prepare and can be served warm or chilled as a refreshing summer meal for babies.
• So go ahead and give your little one a healthy start with this delicious dish!

Here’s how we can make this soup at home?

Drumstick Soup For Babies Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 drumsticks (cut into 2-3 inch pieces)
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 1 tomato (chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp urad dal
• 2 tsp ghee
• Salt to taste [ For above 1 year babies]
• Water – 2 cups
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMubho5ue9g[/embed]

Method

• In a pressure cooker add oil, cumin seeds & pepper in it and let them crackle.
• Add chopped onions and saute it for 2 minutes.
• Add the remaining ingredients one by one with required amount of water and mix well. Now cover the lid and cook them for 2-3 whistles.
• Once the pressure is released naturally, remove the lid and transfer the mixture to a blender and blend it until smooth.
• Strain the soup through a fine mesh strainer to remove any fibrous bits of the drumstick.
• In a pan add 1 tsp ghee and the strained mixture in it. Mix well and cook for 2 minutes.
• Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.

We hope you enjoyed our blog! If you have any doubts or questions, please feel free to leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you and would be happy to help out in any way possible. Thanks again for reading and we hope you have a wonderful day!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re a parent, you might be too quick to buy your child a pair of newborn shoes. But you’ll also be eager to know when your baby can start wearing shoes and what sort of shoes you should get for them.

If you’ve been looking for an answer, you won’t need to any longer; you’ll find it here. We hope that by the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of when is the best time to purchase your baby’s first pair of newborn shoes, as well as the other frequently asked questions.

 

When to Purchase Newborn Shoes

The question then becomes, at what age can infants begin wearing shoes? If this is something that has been bothering you, we recommend waiting until your child is mobile enough to walk outside before making any decisions.

Let your infant learn to walk barefoot. This is because a child’s development of balance and coordination can benefit from going barefoot.

 

When Should Babies Start Wearing Shoes?

Many parents question whether or not their infants need to wear shoes while they are exploring their world on foot. To put it mildly, it’s not something we’d recommend for newborns.

It’s best to let your baby explore the world barefoot, but if your baby’s feet get cold or hurt easily, you can always put shoes on them.

A soft sole, comfortable upper, good air circulation, and pliability are all desirable in a pair of shoes for a toddler just starting out on their feet.

 

Babies’ Ankles Get Stronger From Shoes?

Babies’ ankles are already quite strong and sturdy, so there’s no reason to give them shoes for support. Shoes, however, are fantastic for shielding your infant’s feet from harm, whether that harm is from the elements or from other people.

But this doesn’t mean you give him shoes the moment he starts walking around the house; after all, you wouldn’t force him to wear mittens whenever he went for a crawl, either.

When learning to walk, infants and toddlers need to feel the ground beneath their feet.

 

How to Choose the Right newborn shoes

Here are some things to keep in mind while searching for the perfect pair of toddler kicks:

• If your baby is just learning to walk, you shouldn’t make him wear shoes right away. It’s important for him to be able to sense the ground beneath his feet so he can maintain his balance.
• If you want to know if your baby is ready to start walking, look for these signs (this may happen somewhere from 7 to 18 months of age). As soon as you observe that your baby is able to move around without assistance, you can switch them into walking shoes.
• The proper footwear for your infant should offer plenty of arch and toe support. Baby shoes should have a non-skid sole, be lightweight, and not restrict foot movement.
• Find a pair that hugs your feet closely, especially in the arch and heel. Shoes should fit snugly but not tightly. You should get a pair that allows your child’s toes a little bit of wiggle room once they are worn in.
• Baby feet need to be able to breathe, so it’s best to steer clear of synthetic materials when shopping for shoes. Consider purchasing a pair of high-quality mesh or leather shoes instead.
• In the same vein, you ought to pay attention to congruence. Shoes should be snug but comfortable fit.
  Babies grow rapidly and may outgrow their clothes much sooner than you expect. As a result, you can determine when it’s time to upgrade your baby’s clothing size.
• Pick the right Velcro or other closures for your infant’s shoes. Straps, Velcro, and Laces are all options for fastening.

Finally, choose a shoe for your baby based on how comfortable it is rather than how cute it is.
When your baby has mastered independent walking and you want to take him or her for a walk outside, hard-soled shoes are a good option.

 

Final Thoughts On Newborn shoes

Price is another factor to think about. In as little as two or three months, a baby can outgrow a pair of newborn shoes. This is why it’s a good idea to start with just one pair of shoes that is both inexpensive and simple to replace.

Tinydale is on YouTube, Click here to subscribe for the latest videos and updates.

Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube | Pinterest

I am sure you are part of our amazing page Baby World To stay updated With posts and videos

Have kids who like to bowl? Kids can bowl free all summer long with the Kids Bowl Free program. They’ll get two free games every day at participating bowling alleys. Plus, the Kids Bowl Free people thought of everything with a heavily discounted Family Pass so the grown-ups can join the kids in the summer bowling fun. What a great opportunity to make memories this summer without breaking the break. We have done all the research so you can fill out the registration form and start bowling!

2023 Kids Bowl Free Registration is Open Now!

Is the Kids Bowl Free program legit? You bet. We have the answers to all your questions about the program so you can plan your summer and register now.

This article includes:
How Can I Sign-up for Kids Bowl Free?
Where Can My Kids Bowl for Free this Summer?
When Can My Kids Bowl?
What Ages Can Bowl Free?
Is it Actually Free?
Can Adults Bowl With Their Kids?
What is the Kids Bowl Free Family Pass?

This article contains affiliate links.

I’m terrible at bowling but hey, maybe if I did it for free over the summer when I was growing up I could now be a professional bowler – or at least not get gutter balls every time. Thankfully, parents can cultivate a pint-size bowler, or just have something free to do during hot summer days with the kids at several Upstate bowling alleys through the nationwide Kids Bowl Free program.

Kids Bowl Free gives your kids something to do this summer, that isn’t staring at a screen. AND, it gives parents and grown-ups a fun way to spend time with the important kids in their life. We love free things to do that bring families together, especially in the summer.

You’ll get two free games every day. Bowling shoes are not included, but that’s ok. Some centers will offer a discounted shoe rental pass, OR look at used sporting goods stores like Play It Again Sports, or even online for some inexpensive bowling shoes.

Last but not least, we know the grown-ups will probably want to bowl, too. And, Kids Bowl Free hasn’t forgotten that either. You can purchase a heavily discounted family pass. It starts at $34.95 and it allows up to 4 adults to bowl free all summer long. That’s not per person, just one fee for the whole group, all summer.

So, how does this whole free bowling games thing work?

Start Here: How to Sign Up for Summer Free Bowling

Parents first need to sign up their kids to participate in the Kids Bowl Free program. If you’re interested in the family pass, you’ll get an email invitation to purchase that after registering your kids.

Where Can My Kids Bowl Free This Summer?

When you register for free bowling, you’ll need to pick a bowling alley.

There are participating bowling alleys across the United States and even in Canada. You can easily search for a bowling area near you by location in the directory.

You will need to sign up individually for each bowling alley where you plan on bowling.

In Upstate SC, the bowling alleys participating are:

• Spare Time in Greenville, SC
• The Big E in Gaffney, SC
• Paradise Lanes & FEC (June 1 -August 31, 2023) in Spartanburg, SC
• Oconee Lanes in Seneca, SC

In Western North Carolina, the bowling alleys participating are:

• Tarheel Lanes (May 27, 2023 – August 27, 2023) in Hendersonville, NC
• Sky Lanes (May 1, 2023 – October 31, 2023) in Asheville, NC

Near Columbia, SC, the bowling alleys participating are:

• Anchor Lanes (May 15 – September 3, 2023) in Irmo, SC
• Stars and Stripes (April 24 – August 18, 2023) in Irmo, SC
• Royal Z Lanes (April 10 – August 18, 2023) in Columbia, SC

Near Charlotte, NC, the bowling alleys participating are:

• Strikers Family Sports Center in Rock Hill, SC
• Stars and Strips (April 24 – August 18, 2023) in Concord, NC

What Dates are Free Bowling Available

We’re pumped and ready for bowling! When can our family start bowling for free?

Each bowling alley has different dates and hours available so be sure to check each link to make sure you go when the program operates. Most are at least Monday-Friday for the summer months when kids are out of school and some have weekend hours.

What Ages Can Bowl for Free?

Each location has different age requirements but most are fairly broad. Kids Bowl Free is available for kids ages 2-15 at Spare Time and Paradise Lanes and ages 2-18 at The Big E.

Remember, your family pass will cover older siblings as well as adults!

Does It Cost Anything to Sign Up?

No, you can sign your children up by filling out a simple email form.

With the family pass, you can pay a small summer-long fee to include adults. The Family Pass is not required for children to participate.

What is the Kids Bowl Free Family Pass?

Once you sign up your kids, you’ll be emailed an opportunity to purchase a Family Pass. The Family Pass starts at $34.95 and allows up to four adults or older siblings on each Family Pass to bowl for free two games per day with their kids.

It’s a one-time payment for the whole pass, not per person.

Can I Use the Family Pass Without My Kids?

The Family Pass is intended to be used with the Kids Bowl Free coupons but location policies differ, so it’s best to call your chosen bowling center to find out their policy.

Am I Required to Rent Bowling Shoes?

Kids and adults that bowl have to wear bowling shoes, which can be rented for a few dollars at each location. Check your location for their fees.

Some centers may offer summer-long shoe rental options so it’s worth checking with your center if you plan to bowl a lot over the summer.

Also, you can bring your own bowling shoes. If you want to keep it cheap, check out used sporting goods stores and online shops and see what deals you can find on used bowling shoes.

Can I Sign Up My Daycare or School?

This program isn’t recommended for daycares, school field trips, camps, or birthday parties.

How Do You Get the Free Bowling Coupons to Bowl Over the Summer?

Once you sign your kids up, you’ll be emailed coupons for each week that you bring to the bowling alley. Coupons are only good for that particular bowling alley you sign up for.

How Many Games Do You Get for Free?

The coupon allows each child to bowl for two games for free every day of the program.

Sign up for Kids Bowl Free today, right here.

For more free or cheap things to do over the summer, see our huge list of Free Things to do this summer in Greenville.

Will your kids participate in the Kids Bowl Free program this summer?

Love free things to do for kids? We do, too! Don’t miss free kids workshops at Home Depot, and free kids workshops at Lowes, and kids eat free deals across the USA.

Do you live in Boiling Springs or travel there often? If so, there are three great parks in Boiling Springs you are going to love. Read below to find out which of these Boiling Springs parks is the right one for your family to visit today.

Living in Boiling Springs, I often put the kids in the car to escape the confines of the house by venturing to one of the local parks. Within the fast-growing Boiling Springs community, there are three outstanding parks just a few minutes of one another for the locals to enjoy. No matter what part of North Spartanburg you live in, these parks are all worth the short drive it takes to get your family out of the house. Each park is perfect for playdates with friends, picnics with families, or even quiet solo walks.

Three Great Boiling Springs Parks You Should Visit

For more great parks, don’t miss our Guide to Parks in Spartanburg County.

Boiling Springs Community Park

Location, location, location! The Boiling Springs Community Park is located right in the center of town – conveniently located behind the Fire Station, Lowe’s, and beside Walmart. Parents can easily reward their children for shopping with them with a stop at the park on the way home.

This park includes swings, a playground for big kids, and a playground for little kids. It also includes a paved walkway that is great for young ones learning to ride bikes or roller skate. There is a lovely gazebo and covered picnic tables for families wanting to pack a picnic.

Another great thing about this park is that it is not as crowded as some of the larger parks in the area as it is not connected to any sports fields. One thing to keep in mind when you visit is that the only restroom is a porta-potty and there is little shade.

Boiling Springs Community Park
182 Rainbow Lake Road, Boiling Springs

Va-Du-Mar McMillan Park

If you want an outdoor space that has several options, head to Va-Du-Mar McMillan Park. This is a large recreational park that hosts soccer fields, tennis courts and a disc golf course, all in addition to a huge playground for the kids. There are covered picnic tables here as well.

McMillan Park’s playground area is fenced in, which is nice considering the size of the entire park. When you arrive with your children, you can feel safe knowing they are within a confined space with plenty of room to roam and explore. The playground includes a giant playset for big kids and a smaller playset for toddlers. It has several swings, slides and climbers. It also has a musical section. Even on the busy days, your children will find something to play on and areas to run and play.

If you are in the mood to explore nature, you can head over towards the disc golf area. This wooded section has disc golf goals along a marked trail, and it also has a creek with some sitting areas. My kids love to hike through the woods, walk over the bridges and visit the creek.

This park does serve as a sports complex, so some days may be more crowded than others. However, on these busy sporting days, the park is still a safe place for kids to get out their energy. Keep in mind that while this park does have restrooms, they are located by the concession stand (which is a bit of a walk). Additionally, the playground has no shade, so pack your sunscreen!

Va-Du-Mar McMillan Park
591 McMillan Boulevard
Boiling Springs

North Spartanburg Park

If you have little ones who are just starting to walk or a child with disabilities, this is the park for you! The playground section of North Spartanburg Park (Miracle Park) is a fully-accessible park that includes a soft-surface playground and amenities.

This brightly colored playground is a big hit for younger children because the playset is made of ramps. Even the most hesitant climbers will be able to make their way up to the top of the playset using the ramps. It also includes fun imaginative areas such as a theater and a musical ensemble set.

Another reason this playground is a hit is because it is fenced in. Between the fence and the soft surface, you will feel comfortable letting your children explore independently. There are a few benches to sit on within the fenced-in area as well.

In addition to the playground, North Spartanburg Park is also the home of a BMX track, baseball fields, and a walking trail. The complex can become crowded, but there is plenty of parking. There are also restrooms located by the concession stands. Just remember to pack sunscreen as the playground area is not shaded.

North Spartanburg Park
1160 Old Furnace Road
Boiling Springs

What’s your family’s favorite Spartanburg park?

Does your family love to visit botanical gardens in Greenville, SC, or are you looking for an opportunity to introduce your child to the wonders of a magical garden? There are several beautiful gardens in Greenville. Peruse our list and find the perfect botanical garden in Greenville to visit on a sunny afternoon.

Gardens are a wonderful way to spend time outdoors with your family. Kids love gardens–examining leaves and rocks, searching for fairies among the flowers, spotting insects and other wildlife. Local mom, Kristen Alcock shares a list of beautiful and diverse gardens around the Upstate.

Gardens in Downtown Greenville, SC

Pedrick’s Garden & Old Mill Garden

601 S Main Street, Greenville, SC 29601

The most popular garden downtown is at the scenic and award-winning Falls Park on the Reedy. With beautiful flowerbeds, grassy knolls, and waterfalls, who doesn’t enjoy spending time down there? The 32-acre park is actually home to several beautiful public gardens all along the Reedy River and Vardry Creek.

Two of my family’s favorite spots in Falls Park are The Carolina Foothills Garden Club Sanctuary and Pedrick’s Garden at Falls Park.

Pedrick’s Garden is a sunflower-themed garden featuring a fountain and raised flower beds in the shapes of sunflower petals. The two-acre garden can be found behind the West End Market along Vardry Creek, (just behind the parking lot behind Mellow Mushroom).

Cross the Botanical Bridge at Pedrick’s Garden and visit the shady and serene Carolina Foothills Garden Club Sanctuary. (This route involves uneven stone steps. If you need a flatter, or stroller-friendly path, the sanctuary can be reached by following a path just behind the amphitheater stage in Falls Park.) This is a quiet, peaceful spot with old stone walls, a narrow waterfall, and a gentle creek.

Just below the Main Street entrance of Falls Park is the Frances Beattie Rockgarden. Downstream of the falls is Old Mill Garden. This lovely, landscaped area with an old stone wall and arbor, is a popular wedding spot.

The Children’s Garden

Reedy View Drive, Greenville, SC 29601

The Children’s Garden at Linky Stone Park is another favorite downtown. My son loves the Storybook Garden featuring a gingerbread house and bear statues, and the Rainbow Garden. There is also an Alphabet Garden, a Five Senses Garden, which includes musical instruments for sound and herbs for the smell, and a History Garden. I love that it’s so shady, and there are plenty of places to sit.

There is construction happening around the garden, and often there is no parking right there. However, it is easily walkable from Main Street and there is a parking deck nearby on River Street.

Greenville Rose Society Garden & The Sue Simpson Garden

Two smaller gardens near downtown are located at 200 and 300 East Camperdown Way: The Greenville Rose Society Garden and The Sue Simpson Garden. Peak blooming times can be experienced from May to September. Both are very pretty gardens, and the Sue Simpson has plenty of shade and paths, but they aren’t places I’d take small children. There is not much for them to see or do there and there is no street parking. I could only find parking in the surrounding businesses.

The Children’s Garden and Healing Garden at Cancer Survivors Park

52 Cleveland Street, Greenville, SC

The Children’s Garden and Healing Garden are at Cancer Survivors Park. Both gardens represent those of all ages fighting cancer and inspire courage and serenity. The Children’s Garden showcases walkways lined with flowers, trees, plants, swings, human-made waterfalls, and a powerful bronze statue by Charles Pate Jr entitled “Fear Not”. The Healing Garden is tucked away in a secluded area, designed to invoke a sense of peace. The stone labyrinth within the garden is a gentle guide for those walking its path to explore the inward reflection of themselves.

Rock Quarry Garden

East Washington and Cleveland Park Drive, Greenville, SC

Rock Quarry Garden was built on the site of a pre-Civil War era granite quarry and is a popular area for wedding and family photoshoots. With waterfalls, flower beds, grassy hills, and a stone bridge over a rocky stream, it is a gorgeous place to take family photos or have a picnic. Located in Cleveland Park, at the corner of McDaniel and Sherwood Street, the garden is easily accessible from the Swamp Rabbit Trail.

Kilgore-Lewis House Gardens

560 North Academy Street, Greenville, SC 29601

My kids and I love wandering around the gardens at Kilgore-Lewis House. There’s something old fashioned and whimsical about this place–and my son is positive fairies live there. Both natural and landscaped areas, grassy meadows, a pond, a creek and some picturesque bridges make for a beautiful place to walk around and enjoy nature. The gardens are considered a certified backyard habitat and there is plenty of wildlife to be seen, including chipmunks, squirrels and lots of birds. Both the house and garden are free to visit, and docents are available for tours.

Gardens at Roper Mountain Science Center

402 Roper Mountain Road, Greenville, SC 29615

The Butterfly Garden at Roper Mountain Science Center is lush with flowers that attract butterflies. The garden is made up of host plants, such as Echinacea and Aster, and nectar plants like violets, hollyhock, and snapdragons. Several species of butterfly can be spotted in the garden including Monarchs, Tiger Swallowtail, and Red Admirals. Stone and dirt paths, benches, and statues complete this pretty area.

The Butterfly Garden is a certified National Wildlife Federation Schoolyard Habitat. The garden is only open to the public during special events, including Afternoon Explorations from September-May, and during Summer Adventure from June-August.

RMSC also has a Herb and Heritage Garden at the Living History Farm. Visitors can see vegetables and herbs that were commonly grown in the 1800s, as well as composting bins and plants used in fiber dyeing.

Furman University

3300 Poinsett Highway, Greenville, SC 29613

The Janie Earle Furman Rose Garden features more than 700 rose bushes, brick pathways, a fountain, and a 19th-century Florentine gazebo. This beautiful spot is a popular place for photos. It can also be rented for small, standing-only weddings. The rose garden is just off the trail that circles the lake and close to the bookstore.

Further along the lake trail is the Furman University Asian Garden and Place of Peace. The garden has a pond with lily pads and koi fish, bamboo, uncut bonsais, Japanese Maple trees, and a Chinese Evergreen Oak. The Place of Peace, a traditional Japanese temple, is across the street from the garden and up a flight of steps.

While you’re there, be sure to check out the Susan Thomson Shi Garden, further around the lake just past the Bell Tower. It’s a sort of wild patch with flowers such as coneflowers and goldenrod.

Outside of the Townes Science Center, you can find a Rock and Botanical Garden, a greenhouse, and the Fiber/Dye Garden which grows cotton and lax, and 15 plants used to produce dyes. The plants are used in a variety of science courses.

Gardens in Spartanburg, SC

Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve

832 John B White Sr Boulevard, Spartanburg, SC 29306

Hatcher Botanical Garden and Woodland Preserve is free to the public and a wonderful place for families to spend the day. With both paved and unpaved paths, wildflowers, waterfalls, ponds, observation decks, and several lovely places to picnic, Hatcher Gardens has a little bit of everything.

The trails are easy, each being about .25 miles. Within their 10 acres, you can find a butterfly garden, a medicinal garden, a native plant garden, and a hope and healing garden. They also offer group tours and educational programs. Hatcher Garden also has fun activities throughout the year including seasonal plant sales and workshops.

Spartanburg also has several arboretums that are free and open to the public. The spring flowers are stunning and the fall colors are also amazing.

Spartanburg Community College Arboretum

107 Community College Drive, Spartanburg, SC 29303

Spartanburg Community College Arboretum has several unique gardens with trees, shrubs, and perennials. There is also an Outdoor Train Garden with a scale model train. The garden is used as an educational arena for the college’s horticulture students.

Arboretum at USC Upstate

800 University Way
Spartanburg, SC 29301

The Susan Jacobs Arboretum, at the center of the University of South Carolina campus, is 12 acres of walkways and indigenous foliage. There is also a large amphitheater, a creek, and a bog garden.

Wofford College Arboretum & Trails

429 N Church Street, Spartanburg, SC 29303

The entire campus of Wofford College is considered a designated arboretum with more than 4,000 trees over 150 acres. There are three different tours of the arboretum and the college provides guides at the start of each trail.

Milliken Arboretum

920 Milliken Rd, Spartanburg, SC 29303

The Milliken Arboretum, located at the headquarters of Milliken & Company, is a nationally recognized arboretum. Within the 600 acres are more than 3,000 trees, many of them rare to South Carolina. There are several ponds, decorative fountains, trails, and open green spaces.

Morgan Square

Intersection of W. Main and N. Church Street in downtown Spartanburg

Not really a garden, but a lovely outdoor space, Morgan Square in downtown Spartanburg has several grassy areas, a bell tower, fountains, statues and brick pathways lined with a variety of plants and flowers. The square hosts several community events including Music on Main in the summer months, Flashback Fridays in April and May, and Skating on the Square from November through January.

Gardens Near Anderson, SC

South Carolina Botanical Gardens

150 Discovery Ln, Clemson, SC 29634

The South Carolina Botanical Gardens in Clemson makes for a great little day trip. While the main exhibits are the Heritage Garden and the Children’s Garden, there are 295 acres of natural landscapes, nature trails, ponds, and even a red caboose.

My kids love it there, and I see something new every time. This is a wonderful place to visit again and again. There are also educational programs and events for kids and adults all year long.

Gardens in Western North Carolina

North Carolina Arboretum

100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville, NC 28806

The North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville has garden exhibits, hiking, and biking trails, educational programs, and a cafe and gift shop. Some notable exhibits are the garden-scale model train that runs Saturdays and Sundays, a Stream Garden, a Quilt Garden, and a Bonsai Exhibit.

Asheville Botanical Gardens

151 W .T. Weaver Boulevard, Asheville, NC 28804

Asheville Botanical Gardens are free, public gardens with a focus on plants native to Southern Appalachia. The garden’s 10 acres includes walking trails, streams, bridges, meadows, and woodland areas.

The Biltmore

1 Lodge Street, Asheville, NC

You won’t find a more beautiful garden than the ones at the Biltmore Estate. They change out seasonally. The tulips and azaleas bloom in the spring, roses in late spring/early summer, sunflowers in late summer, and mums all throughout the fall. Tickets are either for just the gardens and grounds or both the grounds and the House. If you really love gardens, consider getting becoming a passholder so you can see the gardens in all their splendor all year.

Bountiful Cities

408 Pearson Drive, Asheville, NC 28801

If you’re looking for a garden that’s a little different, check out Bountiful Cities in Asheville. This group maintains three edible gardens, as well as two more partner gardens around town.

Find more things to do in our Asheville, NC Guide.

Do you know of a garden that we should add to our list? Share it in the comments!

The vagus nerve plays a significant role in the autonomic nervous system, which regulates the body’s activities, such as heart rate, digestion, and blood pressure. Therefore, stimulating the vagus nerve offers various physical and psychological benefits.

This article explores ten benefits of stimulating the vagus nerve, discussing the scientific evidence and providing useful tips for those looking to take advantage of the benefits of vagus nerve stimulation. 

 

What is Vagus Nerve Stimulation?

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a therapy that modifies the activity of the nerves in the body. It is a form of neuromodulation.

The vagus nerve is a bundle of nerves in the neck that may be stimulated by transplanting a device that provides moderate electrical pulses at regular intervals to the brainstem. After the electrical current reaches the brain stem, it is distributed throughout the brain, altering the activity of individual brain cells.

The vagus nerve stimulation is similar to a heart pacemaker in its effects. People increasingly opt for VSN, and many choose to do vagus nerve stimulation at home as it is easier and hassle-free. 

 

10 Benefits of Stimulating the Vagus Nerve

Stimulating the vagus nerve can offer numerous benefits, from reducing stress and anxiety to improving sleep quality and mental clarity. Ten benefits of stimulating the vagus nerve are:

 

1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Vagus nerve stimulation can be a weapon for you to fight your stress and anxiety. 

Stimulating the vagus nerve can reduce stress and anxiety by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for the body’s rest and digestion response. This can help to slow your heart rate, lower your blood pressure, and decrease your breathing rate. It can also improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and help you relax. 

Additionally, stimulating the vagus nerve can increase the production of the neurotransmitter GABA, which calms your nervous system. This can help to reduce feelings of anxiety, stress, and depression.

 

2. Recovers Mood

Stimulating the vagus nerve has been shown to help improve mood. For example, a study by Cambridge University Press shows participants who underwent vagus nerve stimulation experienced a mood recovery and greater well-being. 

Research suggests that vagus nerve stimulation can help regulate hormones, including serotonin and dopamine, responsible for regulating mood. 

 

3. Vagus Nerve Stimulation Treats Epilepsy

VNS is frequently used to treat neurological diseases including epilepsy, typically combined with anti-epileptic medications. The abnormal electrical activity in the brain that causes seizures may be reduced with VNS. This could lessen the frequency, intensity, and duration of seizures. 

 

4. Improves Digestion

Stimulating the vagus nerve can help to improve digestion. A study of Frontiers in Neuroscience suggests that stimulating the vagus nerve can help reduce symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease and other digestive disorders. Also, vagus nerve stimulation can help to reduce inflammation, which can help to reduce symptoms of digestive disorders. 

 

5. Enhances Immune System

Stimulating the vagus nerve can help to reduce inflammation and increase the body’s natural immune response. Research has also shown that stimulating the vagus nerve can help enhance the immune system by increasing the body’s production of cytokines, immunoglobulins, and other molecules that help the body fight off illness. 

This is because stimulating the vagus nerve increases acetylcholine levels, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate the immune system. 

Additionally, stimulating the vagus nerve can help reduce inflammation, leading to better overall health.

 

6. Cognitive Function

The Vagus nerve is a nerve that connects human hearts and minds. Stimulation of the vagus nerve has been shown to improve cognitive function in several ways. It can reduce stress levels, which can improve focus and concentration. 

VNS can increase neuroplasticity, improving learning, memory, and problem-solving. It also enhances communication between the brain and other organs, which can help with decision-making and overall cognitive performance.

Vagus nerve stimulation can also help to improve cognitive performance, allowing for more effective problem-solving. 

 

7. Vagus Nerve Stimulation Regulates Heart Rate

Stimulating the vagus nerve can help to regulate heart rate. The vagus nerve is a cranial nerve that runs from the brainstem to many different organs in the body, including the heart. It is involved in the parasympathetic nervous system, which controls processes such as heart rate. 

Stimulation of the vagus nerve has been shown to directly affect heart rate, decreasing it and leading to a decrease in blood pressure and improved relaxation. By stimulating the vagus nerve, the heart rate is decreased, and the body can relax and recover from stressful situations.

A study in the journal ScienceDirect shows VNS can also be a treatment for heart failure.

 

8. Reduce Symptoms of PTSD 

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a non-pharmaceutical treatment for PTSD. The vagus nerve is stimulated by vagus nerve stimulation, which is situated in the neck and is in charge of transmitting messages between the brain and the rest of the body. This stimulation has been shown to have a relaxing and regulating impact on the autonomic nervous system, which can help reduce symptoms of PTSD.

Although VNS cannot treat PTSD, it can significantly reduce symptoms. It can be used with other therapies to enhance its efficacy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or medicine. It may take many weeks or months before the full advantages of VNS are visible, so keep that in mind.

 

9. Improves Sleep Quality

The vagus nerve is the longest of the 12 cranial nerves and runs from the brainstem to the abdomen. When stimulated, it can help to relax the body and reduce stress hormones, which leads to improved sleep quality. 

 

10. Increases Mental Clarity

Stimulation of the vagus nerve can help to increase mental clarity. An article in The New York Times proved that the vagus nerve has the potential to improve mental health. 

Stimulation of the vagus nerve can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can help to improve mental clarity. 

 

Conclusion 

The vagus nerve is the longest nerve in the body and is responsible for relaying signals between the brain and the body. 

Overall, stimulating the vagus nerve has numerous benefits, from reducing stress and anxiety to improving mood and cognitive function. With the right methods, anyone can take advantage of the many benefits of stimulating the vagus nerve.

Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube | Pinterest

Tinydale is on YouTube. Click here to subscribe to the latest videos and updates.

Published: March 15, 2023 | Last Updated on: March 16, 2023
| by Hema

Looking for a delicious and nutritious recipe that can help keep your baby healthy and happy? Beetroot carrot halwa is the perfect dish for you! This sweet and savory dish is packed with nutrients and will help to keep your baby’s digestion running smoothly. It’s also a great way to introduce your baby to new flavors and textures, making it an ideal first food. Check out this delicious recipe below and enjoy!

Treat your baby this yummy and delicious Beetroot Carrot Halwa prepared without milk and takes about 10 minutes of your time. This recipe is suitable for babies over the age of 8 months.

Here’s how we can make this halwa at home?

Health Benefits of Beetroot Carrot Halwa for Babies

• The health benefits of beetroot carrot halwa for babies are many and varied. From improving digestion and helping to relieve gas and abdominal discomfort, to promoting eye and skin health, there are many reasons why this delicious dish can be a valuable addition to your baby’s diet.

• One of the most popular health benefits of beetroot carrot halwa is its high levels of antioxidants. These antioxidants help support a healthy immune system, reduce inflammation, and may even help prevent cancer and heart disease.

• Another benefit of beetroot carrot halwa is that it has a low glycemic index (GI). This makes it an ideal food for individuals with diabetes or those watching their blood sugar levels.

• The combination of carrots, tomatoes, and beets in this dish also provides a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

• Finally, beetroot carrot halwa is easy to make at home and can be served as a snack or main dish. It’s a nutritious and versatile option that can help ensure your baby’s health throughout childhood.

Beetroot Carrot Halwa for Babies Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 medium-sized beetroot [peeled and grated]
• 2 medium-sized carrots [peeled and grated]
• Almond powder/ Dates powder – 4 tbsp [ For 8-month babies]
• Jaggery – 1 cup.
• Ghee – 4 tbsp
• Cardamom powder – A pinch
• Chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios) – 2 tbsp.
• Water – As required.

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SyUxyuJu_a0[/embed]

Method

• Heat ghee in a pan, add grated carrots and beetroot to the pan and saute for 5-6 minutes or until they are slightly softened.

• Add water to the pan and cook the mixture on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the water is absorbed, and the carrot and beetroot are cooked through.

• Add almond powder, jaggery & cardamom powder into them and stir until it dissolves completely.

• Cook the mixture until it thickens and starts to come together as a halwa.

• Halwa is ready to serve hot, garnished with chopped nuts.

Beetroot carrot halwa is a delicious and nutritious recipe that is perfect for babies. The sweet and savory flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters, and the halwa is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are essential for baby’s development. Halwa is a staple dessert in many cultures around the world, and beetroot carrot halwa is an easy and delicious way to introduce this classic dish to your little one. If you’d like to learn more about this delicious recipe or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out in the comments below. Thank you for reading!

Frequently Asked Questions

Play Cafe at Judson Mill in Greenville, SC is about to make every parent of little kids dreams come true with their huge indoor play area and cafe.

Austin Motes and Daniel Kingsbury are both dads with little kids. They acutely understand the challenge of finding fun, safe, and affordable places for their kids to play indoors but not at the expense of the sanity of the parents. And with Greenville growing so fast and so many new families coming to put down roots here – many of whom work from home – they also saw the need for a massive indoor space that allows parents to work but where their kids can get out energy and play.

They started dreaming up something big. Like really, really big.

Enter the new Play Cafe of Judson Mill, a massive new indoor play space with structures up to three stories tall and a cafe and comfortable tables and chairs for parents to get some work done.

The photo below is a possible rendering of what one of the playgrounds at the Play Cafe will look like.

About the Play Cafe

Austin Motes works in construction and has extensive knowledge of what it takes to navigate building codes and permits. Daniel Kingsbury owns SC Party Rentals so his expertise lies in entertainment. These Greenville natives are the co-owners of the Play Cafe and it’s their experience as parents and their knowledge of their respective industries that will make this new business venture appealing to families in Greenville (and beyond).

The vision behind the Play Cafe, they both told me, was to have a fun and relaxing place for kids to play safely but also to make sure parents didn’t need a vacation after spending a couple of hours there with their kids.

To that end, there will be no arcade, no loud air blowing through inflatables, and no musical aspects. Of course, kids will be loud but none of the play structures will add to that noise.

The Indoor Playgrounds

Austin and Daniel have quite literally scoured the world to find the coolest indoor play structures to bring to Greenville. They have gone to the biggest convention of theme park operators and inventors to find unique aspects to bring to the Play Cafe. This is no small deal to say the least.

The entire Play Cafe will occupy more than 14,500 square feet, which is enormous.

There will be two huge play structures, one of them two stories high and the other three stories high. They will be netted, and have slides, climbing structures, balls to throw and play with, tunnels, ladders, and other surprises.

Smaller kids will have an enclosed area to play apart from the bigger kids as well as a sensory area to explore. One side of the enclosed space will have a bartop counter where parents can sit with their coffee and laptops and watch their kids.

The Play Cafe is designed for kids ages 12 and under and while kids can play on any structure they’d like, one structure will be geared more for kids under 5 years old and the other for kids ages 6-12.

It’s obvious two dads and their wives planned this space, which I so appreciate!

Imagination Stations

For kids who may not want to play on the larger structures, the Play Cafe will have several Imagination Stations. These are small areas that are themed where kids can use their imaginations to become whatever their little hearts desire.

Some of the themed Imagination Stations will include a veterinarian’s office, a fire station, a princess castle, and a doctor’s office.

Safety at the Play Cafe

Safety is, of course, of utmost importance at the Play Cafe. All the play structures are sturdy, strong, and basically indestructible. These aren’t flimsy structures.

Additionally, when parents and their kids come to play, they will be given wristbands. To exit the facility, the kids must have the same wristband as their parents or they cannot leave. And there is only one entrance and exit so parents don’t need to worry about their little escape artists wandering off.

The Cafe

The Cafe will have comfortable seating throughout the space and service coffee, smoothies, pizza, and sandwiches.

The Play Cafe will also be working with Feed & Seed, also located at Judson Mill, to offer healthier options if parents want to choose those.

And working parents, this is your place to bring the kids so you can get some work done. There will be plenty of space to bring your laptop, connect to the Wifi, and let your kids get some energy out while you meet your deadlines.

Birthday Parties & Special Events

The Play Cafe at Judson Mill will offer several different birthday party packages for guests, ranging from a more budget-friendly version to an all out turnkey event where the parents only need to reserve the room and everything else will be handled for them. Um, yes please.

There will be 10 birthday party rooms – yes, 10. So if the weather looks bad for your outdoor party, you have a pretty good chance of snagging one of the birthday party rooms here at the Play Cafe.

Additionally, all the party rooms will be the same with the option of projecting a theme throughout the room. Think a princess castle or jungle full of dinosaurs.

Play Passes & Memberships

The pricing for a day of play has not been finalized yet but it will be competitive and there will be discounts for siblings.

Memberships, homeschool days, tot times, and special needs hours will also be part of the new Play Cafe at Judson Mill.

Opening Date

It took an entire year for Austin and Daniel to find the location and get the permits for the Play Cafe and while they have a lot in place already, the space will not be ready for business for around six months – so hopefully by September 2023.

In the meantime, be sure to follow the Play Cafe on Facebook and we will be updating our readers as soon as it’s open!

Play Cafe at Judson Mill
701 Easley Bridge Road, Greenville
Play Cafe Facebook

Health experts say students who stay healthy do better in education. Health includes being physically and emotionally well. Healthy learners rarely miss classes, focus more, and achieve higher grades. To build good study and health habits, a student needs to pay attention to several issues.

They need to space their studying and take breaks. They also need to eat healthy foods and have time for exercise. They should set goals to help them balance studying and taking care of their health. 

Develop Strategies For Stress Management

Stress in students builds up due to a variety of factors. The main one is due to pressure from academic demands. The learner might have a list of homework, papers to write, and notes to study. When time seems too limited, most learners begin to build stress. It affects their study time and health. Some of the strategies to manage stress are to have a proper time management plan. 

Despite planning your 24-hour time daily, they might still be unable to manage the work. You might want to learn how to write an essay and do research within a limited time. You can manage stress by getting online help for students. There are many free essay topics you can get online to help you build writing knowledge. Search for Hidden Figures essay with topics on Samplius and use them for information. The topics are written by professional writers for use by students. They will help you write the best quality paper with less stress. 

Take Care of your Physical and Mental Health

Your mental health is important if you want to achieve the best results in your study. Good physical health ensures your body stays in good shape. Several habits can help you build strong physical and mental health. 

Exercise Daily

Spend at least half an hour daily exercising. You may choose to jog, walk, run, or do other types of exercise. It helps to keep your brain well-saturated with oxygen. Your body muscles stay healthy too. 

Choose what you Eat – Healthy Eating Habits

There are all types of foods available in the market. However, it is not every type of food that is beneficial to your body. Some foods lead to excessive weight gain, which is risky for your health. Choose a good and balanced diet all the time.

Sleep Well TO Build Awesome Habits

Lack of enough sleep increases the amount of stress in your body. It affects your study time, and you could develop depression. Health experts advise you should sleep at least 8 hours daily. 

Avoid Tobacco, Alcohol, And Other Drugs

Tobacco is known to cause a variety of cancers in the body. It affects your brain health and damages your lungs. Alcohol leads to addiction, and drugs destroy your cognition ability. They affect not only your health but also your education. 

Dress well based on the seasons To Build Awesome Habits

When it is hot, you may wear lighter clothes to keep your body cool. When it is cold, wear warm clothes to keep yourself from getting sick. 

Find Someone To Study With

When studying alone, you may easily become tired and procrastinate. Avoid studying alone all the time. Get a study buddy and be accountable to each other. When you get tired, you can socialize and remain productive in your studies. 

Plan Your Time Wisely

College study runs under strict schedules. From the time you open a new semester or year, the teachers give you a lesson schedule. You know when your next lesson will be, when exams will come, and so on. Plan your entire semester wisely and avoid rushing at the last minute. It helps you avoid stress or scoring poorly, which might affect your mental health. 

Pay Attention To Grooming

Grooming constitutes taking care of your clothing, hair, nails, and recreation. It touches on keeping your room clean, the bed well-made, and having correct lighting. For example, if your dental hygiene is poor, it can affect your social life. 

If your clothing hygiene is poor, it might affect your relationships. Good grooming impacts your confidence level and academic performance. It can affect your mental wellness either positively or negatively. 

Conclusion on How to Build Awesome Habits

Good health includes your physical and mental wellness. Both affect your relationships and performance in education. Build a habit of eating healthy foods, exercising, and socializing. Make sure you get enough sleep daily and plan your study time effectively. Learn to manage your stress and get a friend to help you study. Tobacco and drugs can negatively affect your health and study life. Pay attention to good grooming and avoid fast foods. 

Author’s Bio

Cory Shilling is a sublime writer who has gained success in a very little time. That has been possible with his continuous efforts to train himself to write high-quality essays and edit them perfectly. His essay samples on a free online resource are popular, and thousands of students use them to get ideas and write their papers perfectly to get high grades.

Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube | Pinterest

Tinydale is on YouTube. Click here to subscribe to the latest videos and updates.

Are you looking for the perfect way to keep those kids busy during Spring Break? Greenville has so much to do, you’ll never be bored! Spring Break for public schools in Greenville County is from March 17th to March 24th, 2023. We have a list of things to do over Spring Break including day trips and great places to visit.

This list focuses on things to do that are appropriate for families with school-age children, so while there will still be activities listed that are appropriate for smaller kids, we didn’t include activities that are only for toddlers or preschoolers. The best place to find those activities is our Greenville calendar.

Looking for more about spring break in Greenville? Go to our Ultimate Guide to Spring Break in Greenville for things to do, budget-friendly ideas, local travel, and more.

Spring Break Camps in Greenville

You’ll find a list of spring break camps available this year on our Spring Break Camps in Greenville and Spartanburg list. We’re keeping it updated as more camps are announced, so check back often. Just don’t wait too long to register!

Free Things to Do in Greenville During Spring Break

Check out one of our 6 favorite playgrounds in Greenville.

Find one of these 11 secret spots in Greenville.

Take a frisbee and head to one of these 17 top parks with great outdoor spaces in Greenville.

Learn a new sport and play some disc golf at one of these local courses.

Plan a hike at one of our favorite 6 hiking spots near Greenville.

Ride a bike at one of our favorite 7 bike trails in Greenville or try one of the places to mountain bike near Greenville.

Go on a train-inspired day trip with this list of everything train-related in Greenville.

Take a picnic at one of these great picnic spots.

Fly a kite at one of these perfect places for kite flying.

Try one of many free things to do in downtown Greenville.

Watch for birds at Lake Conestee Nature Preserve.

See the waterfall at Cedar Falls Park or hike to one of these waterfalls near Greenville.

Play at Northwest Park and then visit the horses at the nearby Equestrian Park or try one of our other sunny parks in Greenville that are perfect for cooler spring days.

Play at popular Heritage Park.

Enjoy the outdoors at Campbells Covered Bridge.

Ride bikes on the Swamp Rabbit Trail and catch lunch at the Swamp Rabbit Cafe & Grocery.

Enjoy the outdoors without the crowds at these Greenspaces near Greenville.

Don’t forget to check out our list of Inexpensive/Cheap Things to do Over Spring Break.

Great Trips for During Spring Break

Here are 26+ places that you can easily drive to from Greenville for spring break!

Take a day trip to Asheville to see the Western North Carolina Nature Center.

Pack a lunch and enjoy the beauty of Issaqueena Falls at Stumphouse Tunnel.

Try one of these places to zip-line near Greenville, SC.

For the brave, head to Asheville Adventure Park for a zip-line day to remember.

Also, don’t miss this great itinerary for Flat Rock that could easily be combined with a trip to the Carl Sandburg home or the Hands On Museum in neighboring Hendersonville. Don’t miss the Glassy Mountain hike where you can see baby goats this time of year.

See the flowers and play in a Peter Rabbit-themed children’s garden at the  SC Botanical Garden.

Or just check out one of these 24 other spots in Western North Carolina that our readers say they love. You can also find information about specific major cities in Western North Carolina in our Kidding Around Guide to WNC.

Traveling to Charleston? Don’t miss our 2-3 Day Charleston Itinerary or go to our Charleston page where we list short reviews on multiple attractions.

Riverbank Zoo, Edventure and the SC State Museum are all located in nearby Columbia.

For families on a budget, our list of 10 budget-friendly family trips (under $25 in admission for a family of 4) is a great place to start looking for that next fun trip.

Check out one of these fun 10 things to do at Clemson University or try one of these 10 cool indoor activities in Clemson.

Traveling to Myrtle Beach? Check out our Travel Guide to Myrtle Beach, with tips on places to eat, stay, and play!

Try one of our 12 day trip suggestions for South Carolina.

Visit the Georgia Aquarium and/or World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta.

Drive to one of the nearby science museums that offer reciprocal membership benefits for Roper Mountain Science Center members. (the RMSC is closed for Spring Break)

Read to a goat at the Carl Sandburg Home in Flat Rock, NC

Places to Go and Things to Do During Spring Break

Have a day of play at The Children’s Museum of the Upstate.

Visit Greenville Zoo and do one of their scavenger hunts.

Go indoor rock climbing.

Take a fun drive through the Upstate and Western North Carolina to waterfalls that don’t require a hike!

Try one of the 10+ suggestions of indoor bounce houses, play parks, and trampoline parks on our Indoor Guide to Greenville.

Go roller skating at Roller Sports in Taylors. They are all open all week for Spring Break.

Jump around, fly on a zip line, drive a race car, and climb walls at Urban Air

Spend the day in Travelers Rest with this day itinerary (Don’t forget to eat at the Whistle Stop).

Visit one of these Day Trip Worthy Towns in the Upstate, and spend less time in the car and more time exploring!

Learn something new with one of these Educational Things to Do in Greenville, SC.

Fly through the air on zip lines and ropes courses at Flying Rabbit Adventures in Greenville.

Take a self-guided tour of Split Creek Farm and see baby goats.

See a gorgeous sunrise or sunset at any of these places

If the weather is warm enough, hang out at one of these awesome mountain sandy beaches

Events in March and April

If you’re still looking for some spring fun, check out our list of events, festivals and fun things to do happening this month in Greenville.

We would love to hear what fun plans you have for Spring Break!

Kids are growing along with their parents, siblings, families, and school friends. Yet, this has changed in the past decades as technology has made its way into education too. Even though it may seem strange, kids are nowadays growing up with a smartphone in their hands. Whether it is just for distraction, or to learn, they are now growing up with technology. Which changes entirely the learning process they go through. So, it is helpful to accept that times have changed. Even though long exposure to technology can come with negative effects, it has positive ones too. Of course, it depends on the multimedia they are exposed to. And many educational games actually help kids develop and improve their skills. So, why should parents allow kids to play games? How do they actually benefit kids? 

 

Preparing for Real Life 

One of the most essential benefits of playing educational games as a kid is that they help them prepare for real life. There are so many games that simulate real-life situations, so they actually force kids to face them in the virtual world. Knowing what may follow in their lives and things that can happen from time to time will help them improve the skills and emotional regulation to cope with them. Studies have shown that playing these games that simulate the activities of adults helps kids learn how to control their emotions. 

However, it is crucial to know that educational games come in various forms. From simple puzzles and board games to more complex video games and simulations. When choosing educational games for children, it is important to consider their age, interests, and learning needs. Parents and educators can also involve children in the selection process to ensure that they are engaged and motivated to learn. 

While educational games can be a helpful tool for learning, they should be used in moderation, and in combination with other educational methods. In cases where students need extra help with assignments, parents and educators can seek help from online resources such as do my assignment for me services. These services can provide students with the necessary support to complete their assignments. And ensure that they are not falling behind in their studies. Writing is a challenging part for every student. So, thanks to all these technological advancements, online assignment services actually help students expand their skills. Writing papers and doing your assignment indeed helps you improve your creativity, critical thinking, and research skills. And students can learn these skills from experts too. 

 

Encourage Creativity With Educational Games

Another benefit of educational games for kids is that it actually improves their creativity. They are encouraged to think outside the box through the various tasks they have to do. Each educational game is built differently, so they have distinct tasks. 

Some of them have a single correct solution, like for example puzzles. Others have more correct solutions and this is the type of task that actually encourages their creativity. Many of these educational games have platforms where they share videos and other multimedia tools that kids can see and use to boost their creative skills. 

Valuing Diversity 

This is one of the benefits that might be most underrated. Many parents and educators focus on choosing games that help kids improve their math skills, or knowledge of biology, the environment, the universe, and so on. However, there are more and more games with educational value that help kids value diversity. As technology enabled people to travel around the world, we live in multicultural environments. Kids will have colleagues at kindergarten and school or college from all over the world. 

So, valuing diversity since they are little is essential as they will learn each of us has our own beliefs, culture, habits, views on the world, and so on. There will be no room for racism or bullying on cultural motives, as their diversity is what helps them grow. And many educational games teach kids exactly this, which is a quality that is rare nowadays. 

 

Final Thoughts 

Technology is so intertwined with all aspects of our lives. It made room in the educational sector too, as more and more educators and parents started seeing its value. Many games with educational value could help children develop their cognitive, social, and emotional skills.

However, as a parent or educator, you must choose the right games for kids. This way, you actively contribute to their development.

Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube | Pinterest

Tinydale is on YouTube. Click here to subscribe to the latest videos and updates.

Do you feeling tired or drained most of the time?

Do you feel like running away?

Do you struggle with procrastination? Does it take you longer to get things done these days?

These are all signs of burnout, a state of physical and emotional exhaustion that women with ADHD experience far too often. We’re prone to feeling chronically stressed because we navigate our busy lives while coping with executive functioning difficulties, a sensitive nervous system, and a mind that won’t shut off.

Gender roles and expectations also drive burnout. We’re often at the helm of our families and households while juggling our careers and other responsibilities. We’re perfectionists who, consciously or not, try to mask that we’re neurodivergent. We’re rarely compassionate with ourselves about the challenges we face. Instead, we’re always trying to compensate for them.

It’s even worse for women with undiagnosed ADHD, who don’t have the benefit of knowing why they spend days, weeks, even months feeling exhausted, drained, overwhelmed, and despondent.

Our emotionally dysregulated brains, which rarely leave fight-or-flight mode, often prevent us from being able to slow down and rest. But it’s what we need the most. Here’s how to recognize that you’re burned out, and how to take steps to recover.

[Read: ADHD Fatigue Is a Real (Exhausting) Thing]

1. Know the Signs of Burnout

Burnout has a way of stealthily creeping in. We often don’t know that we’re approaching burnout until it’s too late. But the signs are there. Our body is always speaking to us, and we must learn its language. Signs of burnout include but are not limited to the following:

Emotional Signs of Burnout

• feeling tired or drained most of the time
• feeling overwhelmed
• feeling like dropping it all and running away
• feeling detached and/or lonely
• thinking constant negative thoughts; having a cynical outlook
• feeling on edge
• feeling unable to “switch off”

Physical Signs of Burnout

• headaches
• insomnia
• back/neck/shoulder pain
• gut issues
• recurrent illness
• jaw clenching

2. Question the Roots of Burnout

If your job is the primary cause of your burnout, as it is for so many of us, (the World Health Organization recognizes burnout as an “occupational phenomenon”) ask yourself the following questions:

[Read: “My ADHD Unleashed a Workaholic. ‘Quiet Quitting’ Is Saving Me.”]

• What triggers me to overwork? For many people, overworking is tied to feelings of inadequacy and imposter syndrome on the job. Fear of rejection (tied to rejection sensitive dysphoria) may also be involved.
• Am I setting reasonable expectations for myself? Examine your perfectionistic tendencies. Do you set high standards for yourself and often feel like you haven’t done enough? When does this come up?
• Do I define myself by my career? How can I detach from my work self?
• Am I honoring my work style and flow? Get to know yourself — including your energy levels, interests, work rhythms and patterns, environments, and more. Personality tests and career assessments can help you understand yourself and uncover passions and purpose, which then may reshape your entire way of living.

Burnout also comes from trying to do it all. Our inner critics force us to set high standards for ourselves and tend to make us feel like we haven’t done enough.

• Notice when your inner critic creeps up. Does the critical voice appear when you try to rest? When you set boundaries for yourself? When you try to ask for help? Let the voice have it’s say but recognize the truth.

3. Set Boundaries

Be Intentional with Your Time and Mental Space

Eliminating the stressor that’s causing you to burn out is best, but not always a possibility. That’s where boundaries come in. Ask yourself these questions to become more intentional about your time and space:

• When am I saying yes to doing something when I really want to say no?
• What do I value? Time with family and friends? Being present for my children? Create a poster of all the things you value and keep it in eye view for a constant reference that guides you back to your authentic desires. Then, ask yourself if your everyday life matches up to the values you wish to uphold.
• What energizes me? What depletes me?

Stop Multitasking. Seriously.

Compared to neurotypical people, we burn a lot more cognitive energy just trying to get through the day, which is why multitasking is not a good idea for us, according to Casey Dixon, an ADHD coach. “By engaging in task switching, you are spending more of your limited energy than you can afford,” she writes. Avoid multitasking to avoid burnout.

• Set a limit to how many things you’ll put on your daily to-do list.
• Work in shorter bursts and use a Time Timer clock to easily see the passing of time.
• Cut down on unnecessary notifications and distractions that eat up your time, attention, and energy. Work-related notifications will keep you in work mode even when you’re trying to disconnect.

4. Focus on Improving Your Sleep

Sleep deprivation is a key indicator of burnout. From working late and answering that “one last email” to revenge bedtime procrastination, burnout fuels insomnia and sets off a vicious cycle. Prioritize restful sleep:

• Commit to going to bed at a set time, even if things aren’t “done.” (Your to-do list will still be there tomorrow.)
• Create a soothing bedtime routine.
• Quiet your racing mind. Try brain dumping to clear mental declutter that’s preventing you from resting.
• Avoid mindlessly scrolling through your phone while in bed. Set a timer or make it a rule to “turn off” all your social media/notifications at a specific time.

5. Do Things That Make You Happy

Schedule in time to do something that brings you real joy, like going for a walk, texting a friend, watching a funny video that makes you laugh, or reconnecting with an old hobby. Even a few minutes can break you out of the stress zone and help you feel more balanced.

6. Practice Calming Techniques

Tapping and breathing exercises are simple activities you can do every morning and throughout the day when you most need it. A bath or even a splash of cold water can calm and reset your system. You don’t have to wait until you’re stressed or overwhelmed to use these tools. You can find lots of calming techniques and tutorials in my Vimeo account here.

7. Practice Self-Compassion

Recognize that you are doing the best you can each day under your circumstances. Think to yourself (perhaps as you do a calming exercise): “Even though I’m feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and burned out, I’m going to send myself some love. I choose to feel calm. I choose to meet myself where I am. I accept how I’m feeling. I choose to believe that my situation will improve.”

Here are other helpful affirmations to help you practice self-compassion as you respect your boundaries and recover from burnout:

• It’s safe to rest.
• It’s OK to finish for today.
• I’m allowed to relax.
• I’m enough right now.
• I give myself permission to relax and recharge.
• I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.
• Whatever I have done today is enough.
• I am defined beyond my career.
• I live life according to my truth and values.
• I am learning to release control and surrender more.
• Where I am in my journey is where I’m meant to be.
• I’m creating when I’m resting.
• I chose to accept that whatever I do is enough right now.

How to Recover from Burnout: Next Steps

---

SUPPORT ADDITUDE
Thank you for reading ADDitude. To support our mission of providing ADHD education and support, please consider subscribing. Your readership and support help make our content and outreach possible. Thank you.

Save

By Louise Kinross

Recently, in planning for the future of Holland Bloorview, parents were asked what they wish they’d known when they began their journey with a child with a disability.

Here’s my answer.

I wish I’d been given a more complex idea of what disability is, one that views it as generative and creative and part of being human, rather than reductive or “taking something away” from a person.

When my son entered the rehab world, no one told me that the disability experience could be considered a culture, and that people took pride in this community. I didn’t know that people choose to identify as “disabled,” like they choose other social identities. And that disability culture values adaptation, creativity and helping one another (also known as “mutual aid”). The importance of relying on each other would have tamped down the message families got that independence was the ultimate goal.

I wanted to hear that my child had value. I didn’t know how to ask clinicians for that. I frustrated my pediatrician by repeatedly asking if my son would live a “normal” life. Years later I deduced that my question was a roundabout way of asking about his worth. I knew “normal” was valued in our culture, and disability wasn’t. I wanted a clinician to tell me that my child had value, exactly as he was. That his worth didn’t come from efforts to reduce or mask his disabilities. 

When my child was born, I had no real experience with disability. I saw it as something unfortunate that would limit my child and cause other people to judge him. My understanding of children’s rehab at the time was that it would help to minimize my child’s disability. I was a believer in hard work, and I was confident that if I threw myself into the world of rehab exercises and therapy, that I could change the outcome for my child.

“Striving for normality is part of the core business of rehabilitation,” wrote the Bloorview Research Institute authors of this 2019 study in Qualitative Health Research. It looked at what clinicians “cheered” for in an outpatient clinic at Holland Bloorview for children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a degenerative neuromuscular condition that involves the loss of skills over time. For example, clients were cheered on when a therapist was able to achieve almost normal range of motion in their ankles. “We did not see what happened when Ron’s ankles stop looking ‘normal,'” the authors wrote. “When the body becomes “abnormal,” families are not always prepared for it…Cheer works against this preparation.”

As a newbie parent, no one told me that sometimes, despite best efforts, children don’t make gains in the way their parents initially hope. The drive to change a child often stems from the parent’s own discomfort with being different. What I needed, as a parent, was to focus on how I could better accept myself and my child. Acceptance of, and pride in, being different needs to be a stronger theme in children’s rehab. 

Here are some resources I wish had been dropped in my lap, because they would have forced me to examine my thinking about disability.

We Move Together, a children’s picture book about ableism, accessibility, disability arts and culture. It begins with this powerful quote from disability activists Aurora Levins Morales and Patty Berne at Sins Invalid:

All bodies are unique and essential. All bodies are whole. All bodies have strengths and needs that must be met. We are powerful not despite the complexities of our bodies, but because of them. We move together, with no body left behind. This is disability justice.

I wish every parent received a copy of this book as an introduction to the world of disability. In bright, bold images, it follows a group of children, with and without disabilities, navigating their day in the city. They move in different ways—fast, slow, on feet, in wheelchairs, using scooters, bikes and canes. Along the way they work together to overcome obstacles—whether it’s learning American Sign Language so everyone can communicate or building a small ramp so wheelchairs can get over a step into the ice cream shop. 

In a glossary at the end, the book defines ableism as “a form of discrimination. It wrongly considers only some bodies, minds, and behaviours to be normal, worthy, and valuable.”

I’d like to see that definition posted in the halls of all children’s treatment centres. As a reminder to everyone, but particularly parents.

I wish a clinician had asked me to consider why I thought speech was preferable to sign language or gestures or voice technology, or to simply being silent but present. I may not have been able to hear them, because I was so rigid in wanting my child to have the same abilities as his peers. 

I can remember, so clearly, when we were teaching my toddler sign language, that I was embarrassed to use it in public. I can remember sitting in our local cafe, and refusing to let my hands speak, because I didn’t want to draw attention to myself. I wanted so much to be like everyone else. 

I wish someone had shown me this video of Gaelynn Lea, a disabled American folk singer and violinist who talks about disability in a celebratory way. “Disability is also adaptability, it’s also resilience, it’s also creativity, it’s also inspiration for the art that we create, it’s also the way we move in the world, the way we relate to people…”

I wish I had heard disabled folk describe their technology. Year Of The Tiger: An Activist’s Life by Alice Wong is a must-read in this regard. The American advocate has a form of muscular dystrophy that made walking exhausting and moved, at age 7, from a walker to a manual chair to an electric chair. “…I took my rightful place on my motorized throne,” she wrote. “It was total liberation: I was in a comfortable position and, most important, in control.” For Alice, a power chair was an extension of her body, “a part of my personal space and sense of self.”

Alice was born in 1974, the Year of the Tiger, to Chinese immigrants living in Indianapolis. In her memoir she draws on the attributes of tigers and domestic cats as a model for living well. Last summer Alice had a medical crisis, was hospitalized in intensive care, and lost the ability to speak and eat. She had surgery on her throat to create an opening that connects a tube from her airway to a ventilator. “For now, every breath from my ventilator is a ferocious feline roar of defiance and joy,” she wrote in this Teen Vogue piece.

Wow. What an empowering image for kids who use ventilators. “Roar!” So much of Alice’s book is about “having a loving relationship with a radical body.” We need more research to identify how people with disabilities do that. 

Which reminded me of a 2011 study of children living at home with ventilators by McGill University bioethicist, nurse and psychologist Franco Carnevale. “Our preconceptions going in were that this was an intrusive, aggressive intervention and we needed to rethink the hardships we were imposing on these families,” he recalled.

Despite challenges, the researchers learned equally of the joy in these families’ lives. “My ‘pap’ makes me happy,” one preschooler said, describing their BiPAP, a mask that delivers pressurized air so that a child can take bigger breaths when their breathing muscles are tired or weak. “I really like my pap. The pap is good because it helps me to breathe.”

Year Of The Tiger chronicles how Alice developed a positive disability identity through friendships and working relationships with other disabled adults. In high school “I didn’t have any role models,” she wrote. “I did not have any adult in my life that also had disabilities, that ever said, like, “Hey, I’ve been where you’ve been. It’s going to get better.” 

I’d like parents to be given lists of disabled activists on social media to follow, and other firsthand accounts of disability. I know when my son was young, I didn’t want contact with disabled adults because I held the erroneous belief that a disability could be “overcome.”

I wish there was a rotating first-person exhibit in children’s acute and rehab hospitals, so that disabled experiences surrounded families. A recent example is the book As I Live and Breathe, a collection of short stories and images about growing up with a disability by youth leaders at Holland Bloorview. Images and excerpts lined one of our hallways. I’d like to hear about a variety of people’s experiences, including those who don’t lead conventional lives. What are some examples of rich lives by adults who don’t do traditional work?

One way to build disability pride is to learn about disability rights activists. Crip Camp is a documentary about a 1960s camp for disabled teens in upstate New York. It spawned activists who would lead historic protests and sit-ins for disability rights in the 1970s. Judith (Judy) Heumann, who died recently, was one of those campers, and is considered the mother of the disability rights movement. This Good Morning America video about her life is so powerful. 

What do you wish you knew earlier in your journey with your child?

Like this story? Sign up for our monthly BLOOM e-letter. You’ll get family stories and expert advice on raising children with disabilities; interviews with activists, clinicians and researchers; and disability

Searching for cheap things to do over spring break? Spring Break fun doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. There are plenty of things to do to in the Greenville area and at home that will quickly fill up the downtime during the break and even better, don’t require a ton of energy or planning. Spring Break for Greenville County Schools is March 20th – 24th, 2023, so making your plans with these inexpensive ideas will make it full of memories and fun! Read on to discover ten cheap things to do in Greenville this spring break.

Looking for more about spring break in Greenville? Go to our Ultimate Guide to Spring Break in Greenville, SC for things to do, local travel, and more.

Have Fun Over Spring Break Without Breaking the Bank

1. Get that Garden Going

Have a garden? Spring break is the perfect time to plant seeds or grab starter plants from the garden store and prepare for a bountiful summer of homegrown fruits and vegetables. Clemson University has this handy chart for the best times to plant during the year.

If you don’t have the space for a garden, small pots can be used without taking up too much space. If that doesn’t work, Greenville County offers Community Gardens all around town where garden beds are available to purchase inexpensively and where you can grow vegetables and get tips from other community members about best gardening practices. You can also grab free seeds from your local library during one of their pop up seed library events.

2. Family Movie Night

This is my go-to solution for cheap fun at home with the kids. It’s easy to pop some popcorn and dig through our movies or rent something online. Spread out a blanket and pillows and enjoy a family movie night. Some of my family favorite films are any of the Shrek movies, Hook, Zootopia, and E.T.

3 . Camping in the Backyard

For the brave parents and their kids, set up a tent outside and camp overnight in the backyard (or do it during the day – still fun and adventurous). Grill hot dogs and roast marshmallows and you’ve got a legit camping experience. Plus, if anyone gets scared, you’re close to a real bed and roof.

4. Hang out at the Library

The Greenville County Library system is huge and they have an array of programs for kids of all ages. There are also kid-only areas with computers, Legos, and sometimes, little castles with knights and ladies available for play. If you can’t get to the library, check out their online offerings.

5. Become an amateur astronomer

Stargazing is a free activity that kids love. There are so many cool tales of the constellations in Greek and Roman mythology that parents can read to their children while trying to find the stars in the night sky.

Or check out the incredible planetarium at the Roper Mountain Science Center for their Friday night Starry Nights programs ($6 for adults, $5 for kids 5-12, military and senior citizens, and free for members and kids under 3).

6. Take a Hike

We always put hiking on our list of inexpensive things to do in the Greenville area because there are tons of great natural parks here with awesome hiking trails. We even made a huge Hiking Guide to help you out.

7. Bike + Picnic

Either rent a bike or take your own along the Swamp Rabbit Trail for a nice ride. Make a day of it by packing a picnic (or picking up stecca and local fruits from the Swamp Rabbit Café along the trail) and enjoying the hopefully great weather.

If mountain biking is more your family’s preference, check out this list of mountain biking parks and trails near Greenville.

8. Let’s Go Fly a Kite

Most dollar stores or big box stores have cheap kites or for the crafty parents, you can make your own.  Legacy Park is especially spacious for running around with a kite. Cleveland Park and many other good parks for kite flying in the area have big, open spaces that work, too.

9. Clean Out Those Closets

This is a great activity for a low-key or rainy day during the break. As you change over clothes from spring to summer, this is an ideal time to gather gently used clothes and donate them to Goodwill, Miracle Hill, Safe Harbor, or the Salvation Army.

10. Volunteer

Meals on Wheels encourages families to volunteer with them and deliver meals to those in need. (Be sure to do an orientation beforehand, which are every Thursday at 9:30 am). You can also volunteer with the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Carolinas, with children 8 and older being able to participate in most volunteer opportunities. Here is a list with some other ideas for volunteering in Greenville, too.

Bonus: For more ideas, check out our giant list of Free and Cheap Things to Do in Greenville, SC.

Do you have an inexpensive idea on how to have fun this Spring Break?

Thinking about getting that kite out and wondering “what are the best places for kite flying near me?” The sun is shining, flowers are blooming, breezes are blowing, and the children are begging to get back outside. It’s finally springtime in Greenville and conditions are becoming ideal for long weekends at beautiful parks, backyard cookouts, and most importantly: kite flying!

Read about the best places in Greenville to fly a kite below.

For even more ideas of how to have fun outside in Greenville be sure to see our list of things to do outside in Greenville!

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, Kidding Around earns from qualifying purchases.

The Best Places for kite flying near Greenville, SC

When I think about flying a kite I think of wide open spaces- big fields with plenty of room to run! Two main parks come to mind when planning a day of kite flying: Poinsett Park and Legacy Park.

Located just off Poinsett Highway, Poinsett Park could easily be added to our list of those hidden gems around Greenville. Lots of established trees for shade, plenty of picnic tables, a rippling creek along the side, and a BIG open field make this my top choice for flying a kite! 

Legacy Park is a Greenville City park that was created and inspired from New York’s famous Central Park. If you’ve ever been to Legacy, you know this a space you could spend all day exploring. I love the description on the city website that says Legacy has “rolling greens”…just perfect for kite flying!

More than just a water park, also visit the Southside park outside Discovery Island Water Park, the large grassy spaces are definitely kite friendly and have awesome playgrounds.

Several other places to fly kites were suggested by our readers:

Reader Lindy suggested Pittman Park: “Daddy managed to get our kite in the air at Pittman Park the other day! Those soccer fields are great for running distance on not-so-windy days!”

Herdklotz Park has several soccer fields that provide great space for kite flying. The playground is also one of our top playgrounds in the Upstate making it a perfect place to fly kites, eat a picnic, and play.

No Kites at Runway Park!

A couple of readers mentioned, Runway Park beside Downtown Airport. We checked with the management of Runway Park to be sure that kite flying was safe due to the park’s close proximity to a working airport. The park management told us that kite flying does present a danger to the planes at Downtown Airport and as a result kite-flying is prohibited at Runway Park. That’s a good thing to know!

Annual Kite Festival

Each year, Spartanburg hosts an annual kite festival where the community can watch professional kite flyers as well as fly their own kites. If you don’t own a kite, don’t worry — you can purchase a kite at Spartanburg Soaring (or just enjoy the show). See our article about Spartanburg Soaring.

Fun Kites to Purchase

How to Create a Kite

Purchase a kite kit or create your own and you’ll be singing along Mary Poppins style to “Let’s Go Fly a Kite!” in no time. Check out our Kite Flying Pinterest board for more ideas from DIY kites, kite snacks, and kite-inspired crafts!

Or you can find any number of interesting and beautiful kites online that are ready to go.

Great Books about Kites

Visit the Greenville Library to find one of these great picture books about kites.

Kite Flying by Grace Lin

Curious George Flies a Kite by H.A. Rey

Stuck by Oliver Jeffers

Where is your favorite place to fly a kite?

Ready to get outside and enjoy spring? Backyard gardening is something the whole family can do together, plus, it can provide delicious food for your table! Springtime vegetables are some of the easiest and most low-maintenance vegetables to grow. You don’t need many supplies at all to get started and you can order what you need and have it delivered straight to your door or order ahead and pick it up. Here are the vegetables you can start growing this time of year and how to get started!

Backyard Gardening: What do you need?

I am not an expert gardener. I am certain there are people out there who know much more and should they stumble upon this would have a great deal more to say on the subject. But in my backyard gardening experience you really need just a couple things to be sucessful.

• You need a sunny spot. Select the place in your yard that has the most sun. Consider where the shade falls at different times of the day and go for the most spot with the most sun overall.
• I highly recommend some kind of raised bed. This helps your garden drain and protects it from becoming too saturated, which many plants don’t like. You can build a wooden raised bed out cedar fence pickets, which have some natural rot resistance and are fairly inexpensive or if you just want a small simply use grow bags.
• If you don’t have a yard, you can use pots and place them in a sunny spot on a deck.
• You need seeds.
• You need quality soil. Notice I did not say dirt. The stuff out there that your grass is growing in is probably not going to produce a lot for you.

In short, if you just want to have a small backyard project with the kids, order a few grow bags, a couple of bags of potting soil and some seeds and you’ll be good to go. If you’d like to try something bigger, decide on materials for your raised bed, and if you’re really covering a large space you can order soil by the truckload. Of course, you can always try tilling up space and putting your garden in the ground, but you’ll still want to mix some soil into your existing dirt to spiff it up a bit.

Getting Seeds

There are a few ways to get seeds, including one where you don’t have to pay for them.

The Greenville Library System’s Seed Library

This is a fantastic option because they are free and they have great seeds. The Seed Library is located at the Berea libary branch. All you need to do is go there, show your library card, and pick out 10 seeds. You can get 10 seeds for each card. During the spring, the library does pop-up seed libraries at different branches where you can get 5 seed packets – just follow the library to find out when they do these. And you can also order the seed packets to be delivered to your local library, all for free. They’ve also got a great Growing Guide to help you figure out what to plant and when to plant it.

Go to a local garden center

If I’m at Home Depot or Lowes, I’ll get seed packets here but they also have them at Ace Hardware and local garden centers. You can also purchase small plants here if you need to get a little bit of a head start. If you want your seeds today, Swamp Rabbit Cafe and Grocery carries a variety of seeds.

Order online

There are tons of places to order seeds online. I’ve gotten them from Burpees and Johnny’s Select Seeds, which are all non-GMO. For heirloom and rare seeds, try Seed Savers Exchange. I also love ordering from Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds. They have a ton of unique varieties of vegetables and they generally germinate really well.

Social Media

There are local Facebook groups that do plant and seed swaps, which is a cool way to get some vegetables, fruit, or other seeds/plants that you may not have had before. Or just ask in local plant groups if anyone has any extra seeds they may be open to parting with. There was a post in a local group here asking for loofah seeds and I had some extra so I sent them off to the woman who asked – loofahs for everyone!

Starting Your Garden Indoors

I usually will start my seeds indoors in February or March to get them to little seedlings, which I’ll plant after the first frost. Conventional wisdom dictates this is after Easter or mid-April.

I’ve tried all kinds of seed trays but these from Amazon are my favorites because they are super easy to work with and make nice little greenhouses indoors.

You can also create a makeshift greenhouse outdoors from plastic covering, zip ties, and pipes. I’ve also done this and it worked (mostly). Or you can get indoor growing lights and use them on your seed trays.

After the first frost, they can be planted outdoors.

Easy Vegetables to Grow in the Spring

There are a lot of vegetables out there you can grow, but I’m focusing on the ones that I’ve found to be reliable, low maintenance and pretty easy.

Clemson has a fantastic chart that shows you when to plant what seeds depending on where you live in South Carolina. I’ve bookmarked this and go back to it constantly.

• Beets: They love loose soil, so make sure your dirt is good and loose. If it packs down, adding organic matter like broken up leaves or a bag of garden perlite can help. Plant them about a half inch down. The worst thing that happens is that the root of your beet is small and you only get greens. They are still tasty, so, you still win.
• Carrots: Another root vegetable that loves loose soil, carrots in this way are a lot like beets. If your dirt isn’t the best, you’ll probably still get carrots. They’ll just be smaller or misshapen. But a carrot is a carrot and you grew it, so who cares? Note: Don’t bury carrot seeds. Sprinkle them loosened dirt and use your hand to scatter the seeds around. That’s it. Carrots need light to germinate. Water the area and don’t let the dirt dry out until they’ve grown a bit.
• Greens: Spinach, kale, swiss chard, even lettuce are great spring time vegetables. Kale is by far the easiest thing to grow. Turn your dirt over dig a trench, maybe about a half inch deep and sprinkle the seeds along the trench and cover with the dirt. Water, you’re done.
• Radishes: Plant radishes just like the beets and greens. They grow quickly. Pick them small and they’ll be tender. Did you know you can roast radishes? They are tasty in a medley of roasted vegetables.
• Snap peas: Snap peas can handle some frost, but they don’t like hot weather. The success of snap peas here in the Upstate depends on how long and mild our spring is. These guys need a bit of support so a trellis or just some wooden sticks in the ground are helpful here. Kids love to hunt for the snap peas, and the flowers they produce are pretty white and purple. So, it doesn’t really bother me too much if I don’t get many peas.
• Green beans: I might be a bit early planting green beans because they do not like frost at all. But they are easy to plant and seeds are cheap. So, to my way of thinking, if I need to replant later, who cares? If we don’t get a late frost, I’ll have beans sooner. Works for me. Bean seeds are super easy to grow. To speed germination, soak your bean seeds for 1-2 hours in warm water, then plant. This helps them sprout quickly and not rot in your soil. Plant them about 1/2 inch down, cover with dirt, and be prepared with a trellis or something for them to climb. We built a trellis out of more cedar fence pickets and twine.

Where to Buy Garden Supplies

Grow bags: If you want to try grow bags I know that you can get them on Amazon.

Potting Soil: I’ve ordered potting soil on Amazon. But if you have to buy several bags, it’s probably cheaper to get some at your local hardware store. Most of these stores allow you to make your purchase online and pick up in the store, and some will even deliver it to you, like Southern Mulch.

Pots: While your local hardware store will have pots, you may be able to find them cheaper at a thrift store. I’ve had good success with putting pots on my deck outdoors, which is the sunniest spot at our house. Tomatoes especially love the sun and they grew really well in pots when I used a metal trellis for them to climb on.

Involving Kids

My kids help me for all aspects of gardening, from picking out the seeds to starting them in seed trays to planting and watering them. It’s been great to get them involved not only to learn about gardening but then to hopefully eat all the veggies they’ve helped to cultivate. Sometimes this works, sometimes not! One of the coolest things is that the kids get to see the fruit (or vegetables) of their work pretty quickly, especially as the seeds start sprouting. It’s fun to watch. Plus, the added benefit of knowing where your food came from is extra cool.

Last piece of advice: Have fun. You’re not trying to start a small farm here. Get out, enjoy the sun. Get some dirt under your fingernails, and maybe in a month or so you’ll have a tasty radish to eat. Happy gardening!

What tips do you have for spring gardeners?