Karissa Tunis

5 Reasons Why Meal Prepping Is Essential For Families

Meal prepping is an efficient and cost-effective way to plan and prepare meals ahead of time. It helps families maintain a healthy diet while reducing the amount of time spent in the kitchen each day. For busy parents, meal prepping can be a lifesaver, and a way of ensuring control is maintained over their family’s eating habits. Here are five reasons why families should embrace meal prepping as part of their regular routine.

For more on this topic, check out the full Simplify collection

Improving Diet Quality

When you’re pressed for time, it can be difficult to make healthy choices when feeding your family. Meal prepping allows you to plan and ensure that everyone eats nutritious foods, such as lean proteins, fresh vegetables, and whole grains. In addition, eating nutrient-rich foods helps keep your energy levels up throughout the day so that you have enough energy for work, school, and extracurricular activities.

Saving Time And Money

Meal prepping can help you save time and money by helping you buy ingredients in bulk, cook large batches of food, and create meals that can be frozen for future use. In addition, having meals already prepared makes it easier to grab something healthy when you’re short on time or don’t feel like cooking from scratch. This not only saves time but also eliminates the temptation to eat out or order takeout, which can add up quickly in terms of cost.

Increasing Food Variety

It’s easy to fall into a food rut when preparing meals day after day; however, meal prepping makes it easier to mix things up with new recipes and different flavors each week. For example, try incorporating a corn chowder for dinner this week and a quinoa salad the following week. Experimenting with different spices, herbs, and seasonings also helps to keep things interesting and exciting in the kitchen.

Reducing Waste

Meal prepping helps reduce food waste by allowing you to buy and cook only the ingredients your family needs. This is especially beneficial for those with smaller households who often end up throwing away unused ingredients after preparing a meal. In addition, it also eliminates plastic packaging and other single-use containers that can contribute to landfill waste. This kind of waste reduction helps to protect the environment and can save money in the long run.

Creating Healthy Habits

Meal prepping sets a good example for children and helps to cultivate healthy eating habits that can last into adulthood. Planning ahead also encourages everyone in the family to eat together regularly, which is important for bonding and creating positive communication between members of the household. Working together to prepare meals also gives parents an opportunity to teach their children valuable kitchen skills.

Final Thoughts

Meal prepping can be an effective way to save time and money and improve the overall quality of your family’s diet. By taking the time to plan meals ahead of time, families can enjoy delicious home-cooked meals that are both healthy and satisfying. With a little bit of planning and preparation, families can make meal prepping part of their regular routine.

For more on this topic, check out the full Simplify collection

Helping Your Teenager Manage a Move

February 16, 2023

Moving can be a difficult and stressful time for anyone. But it can be especially challenging for teenagers who do not want to leave their friends behind, and who are already battling with delicate hormones.

However, with a little bit of preparation and support, you can help your teenager manage the transition and make the move as smooth as possible. Here are some tips to help you do just that.

For more on this topic, check out the full Moving Tips collection

Let them be involved

One of the best ways to help your teenager manage a move is to involve them in the process from the beginning. Let them be a part of the decision-making process. And ask for their input on things like the new house, schools, and activities in the new area. This will help them feel like they have some control over the situation. It will also make it easier for them to adjust to the changes.

Keep the lines of communication open

It’s important to communicate openly and honestly with your teenager throughout the moving process. Talk to them about why you’re moving, and try to answer any questions or concerns they may have. Encourage them to tell you how they are feeling and validate their emotions. Let them know that it’s okay to feel sad or anxious about the move, and reassure them that things will get better with time.

One of the worst things you can do is to just spring the move on them and expect them to deal with it because it is a major change in their life. They need will need time and honesty from you.

Enable them to stay in touch

One of the biggest challenges for teenagers who are locating is leaving behind friends and family. Especially in the case of long distance moving. To help your teenager manage the transition, make an effort to keep them connected to their old social circle. Encourage them to stay in touch with friends through social media, video chats, and phone calls. You can also help them meet new people in the new area by finding local groups or clubs that you know they will enjoy.

Bring the fun

Moving doesn’t have to be all work and no play. Try to make the move a fun and exciting experience for your teenager. Plan a special going-away party with friends, and create a fun road trip playlist for the drive to the new home. Once you arrive, take the time to explore the new area. Check out the cute coffee shop, the sprawling park, or the amazing museums you know they’ll love.

Allow them time to adjust

It’s normal for teenagers to take some time to adjust to a new environment. Be patient and supportive during this adjustment period, and try to help them find a sense of routine and normalcy as quickly as possible. Don’t snap if they are moping longer than you think necessary. Remember, they are young and they will get there in the end.

Helping your teenager manage a move requires open communication, patience, and support. Give them that, and they will thrive.

For more on this topic, check out the full Moving Tips collection

The Benefits of Learning the Violin Online

February 8, 2023

Learning the violin online is an excellent option for many people. You can save money by taking lessons without purchasing a new instrument. It can also be a perfect way to meet other students interested in playing. This can help you connect with other people and make friends.

For more on this topic, check out the full Kid Activities collection

Improves Cognitive Skills

One of the main benefits of learning the violin online is that it can help improve cognitive skills. This allows children to learn faster and become more successful in school. These skills also carry over into other areas of their lives.

Practicing the violin stimulates large portions of the brain, allowing for better processing. This can help with memory and concentration and even reduce the risk of dementia.

While studying music benefits all ages, studies have shown that it can benefit younger students. To learn violin online helps boost their IQ, and studies have also found that those who study music are more likely to have improved reading and writing skills.

A new study has analyzed more than forty-five studies about the effects of musical training on cognition. The study examined how playing an instrument can improve memory, focus, and other skills.

According to the study, people with a better grasp of music and the instrument they are playing tend to have stronger verbal and auditory memory. Furthermore, the neural pathways developed with accurate practice will last for years.

Boosts Social Connection

The benefits of playing the violin are numerous. It can be a fun and rewarding hobby, and it may even be a way to reduce stress. In addition to the physical benefits, it can improve your social skills. You will probably make friends with fellow players and join an orchestra.

One of the most impressive benefits of playing the violin is that it improves cognitive function. Research has shown that it can improve your attention span and boost your immune system. It also helps you learn to control your emotions. There are even reports of the violin having a positive impact on depression.

Other benefits include improved posture, which can help keep you healthy and fit. Playing the violin is an excellent antidote to a sedentary lifestyle. This is especially true if you play in an orchestra, where you can interact with like-minded people. Aside from the apparent social interaction, learning the violin will help you build a strong repertoire of solo and ensemble music.

Less Expensive than Buying a First Violin

If you are interested in learning the violin, you might wonder how much is too much to spend on an instrument. There are several factors to consider, including the size of your budget and the type of violin you want.

The best way to find out what is worth spending your hard-earned money on is to take the time to learn about the many different types of instruments and their functions. You may decide to purchase a new or used violin.

A good quality entry-level violin from a reputable dealer can be bought for about $180 to $300. This includes a nice bow and a sturdy case.

An oblong case might cost a few hundred dollars, but most of these are made of lightweight foam with nylon covers. It’s also a good idea to ask if the bow is required.

Buying a violin is a big commitment. Many music stores offer rental programs. These are great ways to save money, but the rental fee varies from provider to provider.

Lessons Should have a Quiet and Distraction-Free Teaching Space.

If you’re planning to learn the violin online such as those from Forbes Music Company, you should set up a practice zone in your home. This can help you avoid distractions from other people and family pets. However, you’ll need to create a space that’s both comfortable and relaxing.

To start, you’ll need to get a music stand, a pencil and a metronome. You should also have a notebook for recording your practice. In addition, you’ll want to create a schedule for your practice sessions.

Before you start, you should ensure a good internet connection. A broadband connection is beneficial for online music lessons. It will allow you to watch the lesson without background noise.

The camera you use should be set up at eye level. However, smartphones don’t capture full violins. You may need to change the audio settings if you use one.

If you’re a young child, you’ll need a space where your teacher can see you but where you can also escape from distractions. That means a room with adequate lighting.

For more on this topic, check out the full Kid Activities collection

3 Practical Ways To Make Your Kids More Interested In School

Everyone wants their children to be interested in school. It’s what sets them up for the rest of their lives and affects almost all aspects of their future. Unfortunately, not every child is as interested as their parents would like. If you’re in this position, you could want ways to make your kids more interested in school.

You shouldn’t have to struggle with this. Three top options should be more than enough to do this, and you wouldn’t need to put too much time and effort into it. Despite that, they’ll reap dividends in the long-term. They’re worth looking into.

For more on this topic, check out the full Back To School collection

Ways To Make Your Kids More Interested In School: 3 Top Options

1. Don’t Over-schedule

You’ll naturally want your child to grow as a person in every way. That could lead to you enrolling them in quite a few things, ranging from music lessons to sports. There’s a certain point where this becomes too much, however. As recommended as some activities are, you shouldn’t overburden them.

Doing this means they’ll fall behind in – and possibly even lose interest in – their education. They’ll do worse in their academics because of this. Strike a fine balance between their education and extracurricular activities so their interest in either isn’t affected. They’ll be much better off for it.

2. Be A Role Model

For many kids, their parents will be their greatest role model. Since they’ll spend most of their time with you, it’s easy to see why that’s the case. You’ll need to be a positive role model and set a good example for them. That’s especially true when it comes to their education.

Don’t be afraid to show them you’re still learning and that you’re interested in it. Leading by example is often one of the best ways to make your kids more interested in school. Show them you’re interested in learning, and they’ll be more likely to, too. It’ll greatly impact their performance in school.

3. Reinforce With Resources

Your child will mainly learn during their classroom hours, with homework helping to bolster this. That mightn’t be the most interesting way for them to learn, however. By using the right resources, such as videos from Generation Genius, you can make it more interesting.

Not only will these resources teach your child what they should be learning, but they’ll be much more engaging. Your child will actively want to watch them, so they shouldn’t have a problem actually learning what they should be. It’s a quick and effective way of getting them more interested in school.

Ways To Make Your Kids More Interested In School: Wrapping Up

By using the right ways to make your kids more interested in school, you’ll see them get more engaged and passionate about their schoolwork. In time, you’ll see their grades improve, and they won’t have a problem getting their homework done.

Being a role model, not over-scheduling, and reinforcing with resources all play a role in this. With some time and effort, you’ll see the work pay off, and your kids will be doing much better in school.

For more on this topic, check out the full Back To School collection

The Truth About PFAS: What are Forever Chemicals and How to Test for Them

January 31, 2023

Forever chemicals, or PFAS, are persistent organic pollutants that can be found in our environment and have been linked to a variety of health problems. But what are these “forever chemicals” exactly, and how do we test for them?

Read on to find out the truth about PFAS and how you can protect yourself from their dangers.

In this article you’ll learn:

PFAS are a class of man-made chemicals commonly referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment
Homeowners can easily purchase testing kits online or through their local health department for more comprehensive results
Activated carbon filters and reverse osmosis systems are both effective at removing PFAS from drinking water
Avoid products with nonstick or waterproof coatings, choose natural fibers instead of synthetic fabrics, be aware of potential contamination in food packaging, look for personal care items labeled “PFAS-free” and monitor local water sources for potential contamination
Testing your drinking water is an important step in reducing exposure and protecting your family’s health

For more helpful resources, check out the full Home Safety collection

What is PFAS?

PFAS, or Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, are a class of man-made chemicals commonly referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment. PFAS chemicals are used in a wide variety of consumer products and industrial processes, including nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, and firefighting foams. These chemicals have been linked to serious health risks such as cancer, thyroid issues, and developmental problems in fetuses and children.

Testing for PFAS

Given the potential health impacts associated with PFAS, it is important to regularly test your drinking water for these chemicals. Homeowners can easily purchase testing kits online or through their local health department. For more comprehensive results, homeowners should consider contacting a qualified lab and having the samples sent to them. These tests are often more expensive but offer greater accuracy and detail in the results.

Which Water Filtration Systems Work Best for PFAS?

When it comes to removing PFAS from drinking water, the most effective option is using an activated carbon filter, says Ava Martin from QualityWaterlab. Activated carbon filters are designed to absorb these chemicals, making them an ideal choice for residential home use.

Additionally, reverse osmosis systems are the best choice for removing PFAS from drinking water. Reverse osmosis systems use a membrane to filter out contaminants, which makes them an effective option for removing these chemicals.

Ava also mentions that “activated carbon filters and reverse osmosis systems are both extremely effective at removing PFAS from drinking water when combined. However, it’s important to note that not all filters are created equal. Homeowners should always check the labels of their filtration systems to ensure that they are certified to reduce PFAS.”

How Does Activated Carbon Reduce PFAS?

Activated carbon works by trapping the PFAS molecules, which are then removed from the water when the filter is changed. Activated carbon filters can be used for both point-of-use and point-of-entry applications, depending on the specific needs of your household.

However, it’s important to note that some activated carbon filters may still allow small amounts of PFAS molecules to pass through. To ensure better results, consider using an additional filtration system in tandem with the activated carbon filter for maximum protection.

How Does Reverse Osmosis Work?

Reverse osmosis systems use a semi-permeable membrane to block particles and chemicals from entering the water supply. This method is extremely effective at removing PFAS from drinking water, as it traps these molecules in the pressurized system and prevents them from passing through into your tap.

Most families that are concerned with PFAS often combine a whole-home water filtration system with a reverse osmosis system in their kitchen to provide the best results in eliminating PFAS.

Costs and Maintenance

The cost of a water filtration system for PFAS varies greatly depending on the type and quality of the unit. Generally, activated carbon filters are more affordable, but require regular replacement to ensure optimal performance. Reverse osmosis systems tend to be more expensive upfront but offer long-term savings due to their higher efficiency.

How Can I Reduce My Exposure To PFAS?

In addition to testing and filtering your water, there are other steps you can take to reduce your exposure to PFAS.

Avoid products with nonstick or waterproof coatings
Choose natural fibers such as cotton, wool, and linen instead of synthetic fabrics
Be aware of the potential for PFAS contamination in food packaging
Look for personal care items that are labeled “PFAS-free”
Monitor local water sources for potential contamination

Conclusion

PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” are a class of man-made chemicals that have been linked to serious health risks. Testing your drinking water for these chemicals is an important step in reducing exposure and protecting your family’s health. Additionally, using an activated carbon filter or reverse osmosis system can help reduce the levels of PFAS in your drinking water.

For more helpful resources, check out the full Home Safety collection

Overcoming the Dad Bod Slump: 10 Tips for Achieving Your Fitness Goals

Are you tired of feeling self-conscious about your dad bod? Do you want to get back in shape and feel confident in your own skin? You’re not alone. Many dads struggle with maintaining their fitness levels and finding the motivation to get back in shape. But the good news is, it is possible to overcome the dad bod slump and achieve your fitness goals. Below are some tips to help you get started.

For more on this topic check out the full Staying Healthy collection

Set realistic goals

It’s important to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and set realistic goals that are attainable. This will help you stay motivated and on track.

Find an exercise that you enjoy

Whether it’s hitting the gym, going for a run, or playing a sport, find the exercise that you enjoy and stick with it. This will make it easier to stay motivated and make working out a part of your regular routine.

Make a schedule

Set aside specific times during the week for exercise, and make a schedule that works for you. This will help you stay on track and make sure that you’re making time for exercise.

Get support

Having a workout buddy or joining a fitness group can be a great way to stay motivated and accountable. It’s also a good way to meet new people and make new friends.

Eat a healthy diet

In order to lose weight and achieve your fitness goals, it’s important to eat a healthy diet. This means cutting out processed foods and eating more fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.

Prioritize your sleep

Getting enough sleep is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight and overall well-being. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night and try to establish a consistent sleep schedule.

Incorporate strength training

In addition to cardio exercises, make sure to include strength training in your fitness routine. This will help build muscle mass and boost your metabolism, which can aid in weight loss.

Find a balance

While it’s important to focus on your fitness goals, it’s also important to find a balance. Don’t neglect other important aspects of your life, like spending time with family and friends or pursuing hobbies.

Be consistent

Consistency is key when it comes to getting in shape. Don’t expect results overnight, but rather stay committed to your fitness routine and make small changes to your diet and exercise habits over time.

Don’t give up

Remember that setbacks and obstacles are a normal part of the journey. If you slip up or miss a workout, don’t give up. Get back on track and keep pushing forward towards your goals. For a bit of extra help that is FDA approved try looking into coolsculpting results.

Remember, getting in shape takes time and effort, but it’s worth it in the end. With a little bit of discipline and determination, you can overcome the dad bod slump and achieve the body you’ve always wanted.

For more on this topic check out the full Staying Healthy collection

Backyard Activities to Enjoy With Your Kids

January 25, 2023

Summer is fast approaching. Chances are you’re planning some fun summertime activities for your little ones. Some of us will head away on vacation. Some of us will plan activity days at play centers, museum trips, space centre trips and so much more. This is all great. Kids love to get out and about, exploring the wider world and experiencing new things.

But you’re not going to be able to attend lavish activities away from home every day. Throughout a lot of the summer, your children will be at home, and it’s important to ensure that they can have fun here too! If you have a backyard, you’re in luck. This is the perfect space for kids to play and enjoy themselves during the warmer and sunnier months of the year. It’s secure and still allows them to immerse themselves in nature. So what activities can you plan for your little ones in your own backyard space? Here are some suggestions that will help you to get ready!

For more on this topic, check out the full Summer Safety & Activities collection

Prepare Your Space

Before getting started with any activities, it’s important to prepare the space for your little ones to spend time in. Make sure to mow the lawn, as this will remove long grass, which can hide hazards. Be sure that the fence perimeter has been checked and that all fence panels are secure and intact. And make sure there’s a lock on the back gate so they can’t leave without you knowing.

You can even use a Deck Builder to create decking which poses a great play area and also a space that tables can be set up for activities. Make sure that any plants growing or flowering are non-toxic.

The list goes on. But in short, do whatever it takes to make sure that your backyard space is danger and mess free, and ready for your kids to spend time in.

Nature Exploration

Get your kids to walk around your garden and see what nature they can see. This could be trees, bushes, leaves, flowers, plants and so much more. You can help them to identify the different things that are lying around, from pine cones to acorns. You could set up a basket or table for them to display everything they’ve found.

[Read: Friendly Bug Scavenger Hunt Printables for the Summer]

Wildlife

You can draw wildlife into your garden in a number of ways. Place bird feeders around and fill them with a range of seeds and suet balls. Encourage your children to sit still and be quiet and the birds will start entering the garden around them. You can plant a range of bee-friendly plants and flowers that will attract bumblebees and butterflies for your children to enjoy seeing. If you fit a shallow water feature, you could even get frogs, newts and other amphibians. Just make sure that it’s really shallow so that this isn’t a safety concern for your children, and always supervise them when they’re in the backyard.

Raising Pets in Your Backyard

If your backyard is spacious, consider keeping backyard pets such as rabbits or chickens. These pets are low maintenance and can be a great way to teach responsibility to your children. Be sure to invest in necessary equipment such as a chicken coop, durable netting and fencing, and feeders, among others. Keeping pets in the backyard can be a fun and enjoyable experience for the whole family.

Water Fights

Kids love a good water fight. If the weather is hot and the day is sunny, you could provide them with water balloons, water pistols, buckets and a host of other playthings that will leave them laughing and occupied for hours. Of course, it’s best to encourage them to completely dry off before running into the house, as this can prevent slips and trips.

[Read: Beat the Heat – Indoor Summer Activities for Families]

Hopefully, some of the suggestions outlined above will help bring a smile to your kids face as they play in your backyard this summer!

For more on this topic, check out the full Summer Safety & Activities collection

How Can You Make Your Meals More Nutritious?

Are you looking to lead a healthier life? Making a few small changes can make a big difference when it comes to your health. Meal times are always a good place to start. Simply switching an ingredient or two can make your meal much more nutritious without you needing to sacrifice any flavor. With that being said, below, we are going to take a look at some of the different things you can do to make your meals much more nutritious without worrying about the taste lacking.

For more on this topic, check out the full Staying Healthy collection

How to make your meals more nutritious

Check out some healthy meal recipes online

There is only one place to begin, and this is by looking online for different recipes you can try. One area a lot of people struggle with is the side dishes. You have a lovely piece of fish or chicken but then you do not know what to serve with it. Does this sound familiar? You may be tired of simply having a salad. And the good news is that you do not have to go for a bed of greens all of the time. This parsnips recipe is a great example.

Always choose wholemeal

We are sure that you have heard about the benefits of opting for brown bread instead of white bread, and so on. The same goes for pasta, rice, and other carbohydrates. The wholemeal version contains more fiber, and this is going to help you feel fuller for longer.

Drink a glass of water before dinner

This won’t necessarily make your meals more nutritious, but it will stop you from over-eating at meal times. A lot of people mistake being full with being dehydrated. Typically, we are actually thirsty when we feel that we may be full. It is easy to get the sensations confused. So that is why having a glass of water before you eat your meal makes a lot of sense.

Follow the plate division rules

Did you ever hear that half your plate should be vegetables, a quarter should be your protein like meat or fish, and a quarter should be carbohydrates? This is a good rule to follow, and it can certainly help you to follow a very balanced diet. It can also help you to be disciplined at meal times, which is something a lot of people struggle with.

Weigh your food

The final suggestion we have for you is to weigh the food you consume. It is easy to put too much pasta in the pan or to think that you’re having a normal portion of chicken when, in fact, you have quite a lot on your plate. This is why we always advise that you weigh your food before cooking it.

So there you have it: some of the different steps and ideas that you can follow to make meal times more nutritious in your home. We hope that this gives you a helping hand and makes a positive change to your diet. You will be surprised by how much small changes can matter overall.

For more on this topic, check out the full Staying Healthy collection

Useful Tips for Preparing to be a Bridesmaid

Being a bridesmaid is surely an honor and one of the best things you can be for a friend! However, it is also a demanding task if you want to get the job done impeccably. So, if you have been chosen to be part of an awesome bridal party, then you should definitely be happy! Because you are not just anyone at that moment. – You are part of the inner circle, and you will get to see things others won’t. So, if you want to be appreciated, and if you want your bride to feel special, then you have to do everything in your power to contribute to this breathtaking event. To help you out, we put together some very useful tips for preparing to be a bridesmaid.

For more on this topic, check out the full Friendship collection

Cool Tips To Be The Best Bridesmaid In The World

Focus On Your Dress

Even after you get measured and fitted, it is highly likely you will still need to alter your dress. If that’s the case, then you should find a reputable local shop that offers alterations. Be sure to take along the undergarments that you are planning to wear on the big day, along with the dress, shoes, and any other accessories that make up the look.

In addition, do not forget about your makeup look. For instance, if you’re wearing a bold pink dress, try a bright pink lip color. Or if you’re wearing a little black dress, go for a more natural look with nude lipstick and eyeshadow. And make sure to match it out with some accessories like a diamond necklace or Mikimoto pearl earrings to highlight your facial features in these elegant events/happenings.

You can also try eyelash extensions as they give you a more dramatic or glamorous look that will really open your eyes, even if you are not having your makeup done by a professional, you can easily practice putting on lash extensions at home and complete your makeup look all by yourself.

Seek Help If Necessary

There is no shame in getting a little overwhelmed, or even lost in these types of situations. You want everything to look great, and there are a lot of tiny details that go into planning. But there will be moments when you’re surrounded by all the chaos. Even an experienced bridesmaid can feel a bit intimidated and confused at times. But it’s okay.

ModernMoh Bridesmaid’s advice for all inexperienced maid of honors is to constantly communicate with the bride. – Especially about things that they are not familiar with! Or, if you do not want to disturb her, you can always turn to fellow bridesmaids to see if they can be of help.

Collectively you will be able to get everything right. And, you will also enhance your relationship with the other women in the bridal party. So keep in mind that you are not alone in this and that possibly other bridesmaids are experiencing the same or similar issues.

More Tips To Help Your Become an Invaluable Bridesmaid

Send Encouragement

Even though it’s not recommended to constantly bother the bride with numerous questions, it still doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be there for her. After all, it’s her wedding day. And she is probably obsessing about various things, such as her dress, hairstyle, makeup, etc.

As her bridesmaid, you must be there to ground her and remind her that everything is going to be fine. There are so many details that are going to stress her out, and your goal must be to distract her as much as you can. She will surely appreciate any support and encouragement that you can offer!

It is easy to conclude that being a bridesmaid can bring a lot of pressure and responsibility. But on a more positive note, it can also bring you a lot closer with not only the bride herself, but also the wonderful people she picks to make up the wedding party. So follow these tips and you are going to be the bridesmaid that your sweet friend deserves.

Being asked to be a bridesmaid, or the maid of honor, is an incredible privilege! It’s your friends way of saying that you are one of the most important people in her life! So embrace it and enjoy it!

[Read: What To Look For In A Friend]

For more on this topic, check out the full Friendship collection

Modern Workplace Essential Skills You May Not Have

Getting back to work after being a parent means you may not have the required modern workplace essential skills. Some you may already have through previous experience. However, there are also others that are becoming more requested by employers when they advertise. Some you can learn with ongoing training, but most are easily learnable from online resources.

For more on this topic, check out our full Work Life Balance collection

Computer-Based Report Writing

There was a time when writing reports was only requested for specific jobs. Typically corporate settings and offices that deal with a lot of data would do this. And some medical jobs where it’s necessary to view information. These days, employers of all kinds love reports. Mostly because of the interlinked nature of modern offices and data acquisition. So learning to use Microsoft Word and other word processors can be a highlight on your resume that can get you the job.

Modern Workplace Essential Skills Include Search

In a time when information is used more and more, knowing how to use a search tool well could be a very useful skill. “Googling” has become a synonym for searching on the web, so it might not be a bad idea to put that word in the Skills & Knowledge section of your resume. You might not know everything you need to know about someone or something at work. And when you’re on your own, learning how to search correctly to find key information can be your best friend.

Strong Teamwork Skills

Even if you work alone a lot at your job, you still need to be able to work as a team. This is because you often work with people from other departments, people above you, or people below you. Effective teamwork includes having a common goal. But also being able to put aside personal biases, and being willing to accept responsibility as a team. Team-building exercises are often used by many companies to help people get along better at work and establish trust.

Good Problem-Solving Skills

Instead of using problems as an excuse for bad work, you can solve them to get things done. Every workplace wants people who can solve problems well. So, instead of just telling people what you think, you can impress them by doing something. With creative thinking, persistence, and teamwork, anything can be fixed. When you put a lot of people with different abilities, attitudes, and goals into an environment with a lot of roles, good things will always happen.

Skills for Working from Home

Working from home is a boon to parents with young children and is an expected part of modern work life. Following the COVID pandemic, around 50% of workers now do their job from home at least once per week. But it’s not as easy as you might think and requires some skills:

Excellent time management, which can be tricky at home.
Personal responsibility to treat at-home jobs like the workplace.
Learning how to delegate tasks to other team members.
Setting your own goals for the days and weeks ahead.
Emotional intelligence, such as motivation, self-awareness, and social skills.
Looking after yourself well so you can tackle the day ahead.
Critical thinking to make decisions using your own initiative.
Developing a time scale to balance work and family life.
Learning to use communication tools for getting through to departments at work.
Understanding how to use various collaboration and management apps.
Learning the basics of cybersecurity to protect sensitive company and client data.

The best way to work from home is to treat it as you would your work office. With no boss around, you are surrounded by distractions. And you have to put more effort into things like setting up your PC. However, this is where you demonstrate just how good you can be.

Good Communication Skills

Communication in the modern workplace is more than just being able to interact with others. Active listening is also a part of it. Colleagues want to be acknowledged, cared about, and understood. Active listening is when you don’t judge and listen without planning to answer. To do that, you have to listen carefully and not just wait for your turn to talk. Skills in active listening and communication are important as a leader, manager, or supervisor at your place of work.

Working with Data

Data is everywhere in the modern workplace. Some bigger companies even collect real-time customer data, website traffic, and how well their employees are doing. As a result, a lot of the decisions made in the workplace today are based on data. Professionals who do well can gather, analyze, and understand all kinds of data. They can look for patterns and trends and explain what the collected data means in well-written reports for the layman and expert.

Using Software is Among Modern Workplace Essential Skills

Software pretty much runs the whole world these days. Almost every place of work is the same way, too. Software is used everywhere, from construction sites to corporate offices. Apps for managing projects, HR systems, and job-specific programs like Adobe Creative Suite for graphic designers are just a few examples. Most of the things you do at work every day will involve software. So, many companies require knowledge of a range of software suites.

Financial Responsibility

Without a written agreement, a paycheck is never a sure thing. And recent events have shown that layoffs can happen at any time. So, you should put together and keep an emergency fund. This is money you set aside in case something bad happens that can hurt your finances. Having an emergency fund can help you feel more financially secure and less stressed out if you lose your job. This will also keep you upbeat and help you get back to work as soon as possible.

Summary

The list of required modern workplace essential skills is as long as your arm. However, many are listed for specific roles. That being said, some are becoming more requested for pretty much any job. These include report generation, soft skills for remote work, and using software suites. Having just one of these skills that modern employers look for can put your resume at the top.

For more on this topic, check out our full Work Life Balance collection