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Kids Ain't Cheap

But They Sure Are Worth It

Affordable Alternatives to a Full Roof Replacement

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It’s important to make sure that your home’s roof is in good shape at all times. If it’s worn out or severely damaged, you need to figure out how to repair it and keep your family safe. Fortunately, you don’t have to break the bank with your roofing replacement. There are affordable alternatives you can choose from. Read on to see some of the popular alternatives that you have for a full roof replacement so that you can choose the best option.

Repair Damaged Spots

Rather than replace the roof in its entirety, especially if it’s damaged as opposed to it being at the end of its lifespan, you can simply repair the damaged spots. The repair you do will depend on the specific material that your roof is made from, which a professional roofer can help you determine. If you have a metal roof, note that almost 72 million metric tons of steel were produced in 2020 in the United States. You can be sure that a good part of this went into roofing. A steel roof may be easier to repair, given the massive amount of material in production.

Even if your roof isn’t made out of metal, it may have components that can be replaced with steel. Given the longevity of this material, you may be better off if you use it on your roof. Do research to find out the materials that can go well together and ask your roofer for advice. Find one who has ample experience so that they can give you a solution that will work well for you.

Apply a Roof Sealant

Another affordable alternative to roof replacement is applying roof sealant. When you check in your local hardware store, you can be sure that you’ll find a variety of roofing sealants you can use. Check online to see if you find any specific brands that have good reviews to show that they work well. If you have experience with making repairs to your roof and cleaning it, you can think about applying the sealant yourself according to its instructions.

Otherwise, you should call a professional to do the job for you. They’ll also be aware of facts such as that metal roofs typically have a lifespan of 40 to 70 years. This could help shed some light on the best sealant to use, as well as how to apply it and whether to use it alongside another solution.

Partially Replace the Roof

Last but not least, you could replace just a part of the roof as opposed to the entire roof. Doing this is a sure way for you to cut your costs since it certainly won’t be as expensive as replacing the entire roof. This is another solution for a roof that’s been damaged as opposed to one that’s reached the end of its lifespan. This is because an old and worn-out roof may have widespread patterns of damage, creating too many issues to be repaired.

With almost 35,000 arrests made in Pennsylvania for theft in 2019, it’s important for you to have a trusted professional work on your roof. This will ensure there aren’t any lines of weakness that may make it easy for criminals to gain access to your home. A professional can also advise you on the right way to use different roofing materials to make them work well together. Their recommendations can help you keep a more secure and safe home.

These alternatives to full roof replacement should make it possible for you to update your roof affordably and keep your family safe. When you do so, you may even extend the lifespan of your roof and get more service out of it. Make sure to work with a professional and do thorough research so that you get the best outcome.

5 Things to Account for in a Home Budget

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A home budget is a financial plan that outlines all the income and expenses associated with running a household. It is a tool used to track and manage household finances and is an important part of financial planning. Creating a home budget can help individuals and families manage their finances more effectively by identifying areas where they may be overspending, tracking their progress toward financial goals, and planning for unexpected expenses.

By sticking to a budget, individuals and families can save money, reduce debt, and achieve long-term financial stability. When creating a home budget, it’s important to account for all your income and expenses. Here are five things you should include in your budget.

1. Housing Expenses

This includes your mortgage or rent, property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, and any maintenance or repairs you may need to make. Housing is often the largest expense in a home budget. Consider downsizing to a smaller home, moving to a less expensive area, or refinancing your mortgage to lower your monthly payments. You can even look into installing a more efficient roofing material to decrease your home energy needs by as much as 30%.

2. Utilities

The daily utilities are also important expenses. Utilities include your electricity, gas, water, internet, and cable bills. Once you start tracking how much you spend on your bills, you will see the areas where you can save money. Look for ways to reduce your utility bills by turning off lights when you’re not in a room, using energy-efficient appliances, and adjusting your thermostat to conserve energy. Check your appliances to make sure they are in good working order. According to the EPA, a home septic system should be inspected at least once every three years by a professional.

3. Transportation

Transportation includes your car payments, gas, insurance, and any repairs or maintenance your vehicle may need. Your vehicle may not need frequent repairs, however, when they do need repairs, they can be costly. For this reason, you should have money set aside for car emergencies. This way you are always prepared in the event you need repairs. Consider walking, biking, or taking public transportation instead of driving. If you must drive, try carpooling or consolidating trips to reduce your gas and maintenance expenses.

4. Food and Groceries

Keep track of your groceries, dining out, and any snacks or drinks you may purchase. Once you have an idea of how much you’re spending on food, you can make the necessary changes. For example, if you’re spending too much money eating out, you may need to cook more. Cooking your meals at home can be much cheaper than eating out. Besides eating out less and cooking more meals at home you can also save money by planning. Plan your meals to avoid unnecessary trips to the grocery store and look for ways to save on groceries. By sticking to a plan you’re less likely to spend money on extra items.

5. Entertainment

Entertainment means any movies, concerts, sporting events, or other activities your family may participate in. It’s important to have fun from time to time. You just need to make sure that you are not spending too much money on these activities. One idea is to pick one day out of the week or month that you do something fun as a family. Look for free or low-cost family activities in your community, such as parks, museums, and concerts. Cancel subscriptions or memberships that you’re not using regularly.

By accounting for these expenses in your home budget, you can gain a better understanding of your overall financial situation and adjust as needed to achieve your financial goals. Reducing a home budget can be a challenge, but it’s an important step toward financial stability. It is also possible to increase your home budget by finding more money in your assets. For example, if you have a business that makes 100,000 dollars a year, it is possible to sell it for 200,000 to 300,000 dollars. Next time you’re adjusting your budget, remember these tips.

Cost-Effective Options for Building a Dog House in Your Backyard

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If you have a dog, you no doubt want to make them as much a part of your family as possible. A big part of this is ensuring that they have shelter, something that you can easily get for them by constructing a cost-effective dog house for them. Have a look below to see the ways in which you can build a dog house in your backyard without breaking the bank.

An A-Frame Dog House

An A-frame dog house may be one of the easiest dog houses you could construct. This is because its design is pretty straightforward, resembling the letter ‘A’ as the name suggests. That said, make sure that you start your construction on a solid base. You can find free plans for A-frame houses that are scalable or that are already in a scale that’s the right size for a dog. Make sure to make the dog house large enough that they won’t outgrow it fast. It should also be able to hold the dog’s feeding utensils comfortably so that it’s easy to feed them and clean up after. Note that you may want to split the amount of food you give your dog between two to three meals a day for your dog, depending on your feeding schedule. Clearly, it’s important that your dog can comfortably fit in their new house alongside everything you need to keep in the house.

A Dog House From a Barrel

Alternatively, you can buy a barrel and use it to fashion your dog’s house. This would be a great idea for smaller dogs, since a barrel is typically not going to be extremely big. You’ll also need a few tools at hand to work on the barrel. If you prefer, come up with a plan for the dog house and take the barrel to a nearby workshop to have it fashioned for you the way you want it to look. They’ll easily cut out doors and windows and make any additions you want made. With roughly 1.4 billion gallons of paint used in 2019, you may be able to find a good barrel that was used to hold or transport something like paint. Make sure it wasn’t a hazardous substance so you don’t put your dog’s health at risk.

A Dog House With a Flat Roof

It’s important to note that a flat roof, while completely flat, typically has some slope to it for purposes of draining water off it. That said, this may be an extremely easy design for a dog house, as it doesn’t call for complex slopes and angles when joining parts. You could use pole barns for the corners of the dog house, which can be expected by a homeowner to stand strong for 60 years or more. Keeping things simple with a flat roof means that you can make the dog house as large as you want. Remember to also make it high enough so that your dog has ample room when they get inside it. With enough space, your dog may also have an easier time as the free space may be more temperate than a tiny space or an extremely large one for that matter.

Building a dog house in your backyard may be an amazing activity to do with your family as long as you take safety measures into consideration. Remember to use quality materials so that the house can stay in good shape for a long time. Since there are many resources you can find online for free, including free floor plans, make the most out of them to be sure that you get the best for the latest member of your family!

Futuristic Upgrades to Make Your Home More Functional

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In this day and age, having a functional home is more important than ever before. Our homes have become a sanctuary from the outside world, and we want them to be comfortable, efficient, and clutter-free. Futuristic home upgrades can transform your living space and turn it into a functional, efficient paradise for you and your entire family.

One of the biggest problems that homeowners face is clutter, especially when young kids are involved. 54% of Americans feel overwhelmed with clutter filling up their homes. Fortunately, there are many ways to combat this, such as adding more storage space, investing in multi-functional furniture, and creating a system for organizing your belongings. Implementing these changes can make your home more functional and enjoyable.

Efficient Heating and Cooling

Another critical aspect of a functional home is efficient heating and cooling. In warmer climates like Florida, it’s essential to have an HVAC system that can keep up with the demands of the weather. A single mini-split air handler can heat or cool up to 1,000 square feet, depending on the climate and system size. This makes it an excellent option for those who want to save money on their energy bills while keeping their homes comfortable.

Recycled Materials and In-Duct Air Filtration

Recycled materials are an excellent option for futuristic home upgrades. Industrial recycling plants can now recycle a wide range of materials, including Christmas lights, wine corks, and even denim. These materials can then be used to create unique and eco-friendly home decor, such as recycled-paper countertops, recycled-plastic carpets, and denim insulation.

In-duct air filtration is an excellent upgrade for anyone wanting to improve their home’s air quality. You can eliminate allergens, toxins, pathogens, and pollen using a particle-and-carbon-removal system built into your central air conditioning unit. UV sanitizers can also sterilize harmful particles that make it into the air circulating through your home.

Smart Home Gadgets

If you want to incorporate futuristic gadgets into your home, there are many options to make your life easier and more efficient. Some of the most popular devices that can be controlled through your smartphone include smart lightbulbs, which can provide the perfect lighting experience and ambiance through features such as dimmer switches and motion sensors. Additionally, smart video doorbells allow you to answer visitors remotely and speak with them through the door, giving you added convenience and security. Consider controlling smart pet feeders from your phone. These gadgets help schedule meals and dispense food automatically, making life easier for pet owners.

Another device you can control from your phone is a smart thermostat. These devices offer energy-saving capabilities and automatically adjust the home’s temperature. Smart beds can be controlled by an app, giving you the ability to adjust the firmness of each side of the mattress and track your sleeping habits. These beds can ensure a better night’s rest.

Building Codes and Regulations for Your Dream Home

These upgrades might not always be simple, depending on where you live. For example, Florida has some of the toughest building codes in the nation, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to create your dream home. By working with licensed professionals who understand these codes and regulations, you can rest assured that your home will meet the highest quality and durability standards.

Incorporating futuristic upgrades into your home can make a huge difference for you and your family. Whether you’re looking to reduce clutter, lower your energy bill, or create a more relaxing atmosphere, these upgrades can help you transform your home into an oasis that exceeds your expectations.

Keep Your Home Safe From Fires Using These Tips

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Fires are common, albeit unfortunate, and pose a major risk to most homeowners and family members. House fires can cause death and massive property damage. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of safe fire prevention methods. This article provides four tips to help keep your family safe from fires.

1. Smoke Alarms and Fire Extinguishers

National Fire Protection Association data shows an average of 358,000 house fires occur yearly. One of the actions you can take to prevent house fires is installing smoke alarms in every space of your home, from the kitchen to corridors. They alert you when they detect fire, enabling you to prevent it from spreading. Some jurisdictions have laws that require homeowners to install these systems. The smoke detectors need inspection at least once a month, and changing batteries yearly.

For extra precaution, the NFPA25 Code outlines that fire protection systems require regular visual inspections and functional tests monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, and annually. Others require five and 10-year intervals to ensure they work perfectly. Additionally, always keep a class ABC fire extinguisher in your home in easy-to-reach areas, especially the kitchen, garage, office, and bedrooms.

2. Unplug Unused Electrical Items

Another way to ensure your family is safe is by unplugging electrical gadgets when not in use. These appliances pose a potential hazard. TVs, computers, gaming systems, and iron boxes use electricity and can experience power surges or overheat, causing a fire. While new models are designed with systems to safeguard the consumer against fire accidents, they aren’t foolproof.

For instance, many fire accidents emanate from defective electric cookers. These fires can cause devasting damage in some cases, consuming a whole estate. Even the smallest estates have valuable assets. Estates whose residents earn less than $100,000 fall into the category of small estates.

3. Create a Fire Escape Plan

Preventing a fire is crucial. However, in case of emergencies, you need a fire escape plan if there’s a fire outbreak. A good escape plan should include seeking assistance in an emergency and an escape route before the emergency service providers arrive. Remember, emergency service providers serve a massive population, and numerous cases can overwhelm them. Approximately 67% of firefighters service communities with over 25,000 people.

Hypothetically, if the door is closed, it should enable your family to leave the room. Check the windows to ascertain if there is a way out during a fire or emergency. Also, teach your kids to stay low, block fires using doors and other tools, get fresh air during a fire, and check for a fire outside the door. They should also know where to go after getting out of a burning house and always remind them never to get into a burning house.

4. Keep Flammable Items Away From Heat

The last thing you should do is keep flammable items such as paper, fabrics, or cans next to heat sources. For instance, keep cooking oils and car gas far from stoves. Petrol can catch fire even when it’s quite a distance from the fire. Store any item that could cause a fire in safe cabinets and out of children’s reach. Similarly, some chemicals can cause fire after a reaction. They burst and cause explosions which can cause fires. Familiarize yourself with safe use if you use chemicals in your homes.

Fires are dangerous and fatal. Ensure you put preventive measures in place to prevent fire, protect your family and loved ones, and keep your house safe. For instance, you should install fire extinguishers and create an escape plan. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Remodel Your Home Interior Without Breaking The Bank!

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Home renovation projects can be a great way to update your living space and add value to your home, but they can also be quite costly. In 2018, Americans spent around $7,560 on home improvement endeavors. However, there are ways to remodel your home interior without breaking the bank. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you achieve the look you want without spending a fortune.

Use Design-Build Firms

Design-build firms are a great resource for those looking to remodel their home without breaking the bank. These firms have one team of experts that take care of an entire home project from top to bottom. This means you don’t have to hire multiple contractors, which can save you money. Design-build firms can also help you stay within your budget by providing you with a detailed cost estimate upfront.

Consider Concrete Floor Coatings

If you’re looking to update your flooring, consider using concrete floor coatings. The U.S. concrete floor coatings market size is valued at $298.2 million, which means it is a popular choice among homeowners. Concrete floor coatings are a cost-effective way to update your floors, as they are less expensive than traditional flooring options like hardwood or tile. Additionally, concrete floor coatings are durable and long-lasting, which means you won’t have to replace them anytime soon.

Paint Your Walls

One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to update your home’s interior is by painting your walls. A fresh coat of paint can make a room feel new and updated. Choose a neutral color that can serve as a blank canvas for any future decorating changes. Painting is a DIY project that can be completed over a weekend, saving you the cost of hiring a professional painter.

Update Your Lighting

Lighting plays a big role in setting the mood and atmosphere of a room. Updating your lighting fixtures can make a big impact on the overall look of your home. Consider switching out old and outdated light fixtures for newer, more modern options. You can also add dimmer switches to create a more ambient atmosphere.

Refresh Your Window Treatments

Another simple and cost-effective way to update your home’s interior is by refreshing your window treatments. This can be as simple as adding new curtains or blinds, or as elaborate as installing a new window seat. This can be a great way to add some color and personality to your living space without spending a lot of money.

Reuse and Repurpose

When remodeling your home, consider reusing and repurposing items you already own. Instead of buying all new furniture, think about how you can update the pieces you already have. For example, you can give an old piece of furniture a new look by painting it or adding new hardware. This can save you money and also add a unique touch to your home.

Shop for Deals and Discounts

When shopping for materials and fixtures for your home remodel, always be on the lookout for deals and discounts. You can find great deals on building materials, furniture, and decor at home improvement stores and online retailers. You can also check for clearance sales and end-of-season deals to save money. Additionally, many stores offer discounts for military personnel, seniors, and students, so be sure to ask if any of these discounts apply to you.

In conclusion, remodeling your home interior doesn’t have to break the bank. With the right planning and a little creativity, you can achieve the look you want without spending a fortune. Consider using design-build firms, concrete floor coatings, painting, updating your lighting, refreshing your window treatments, and reusing and repurposing items you already own. With these tips and tricks, you can create a beautiful and functional living space for your family that you’ll love for years to come.

Buying Your First Home: 8 Budget Tips

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Budgeting for your first home can seem impossible, but there are many steps you can take to save for your first family home! Below are some of the best tips of advice you can use when trying to squeeze the most out of your paycheck to cover closing costs and down payments for a home.

1. Consider Buying in the Winter

Summer is one of the busiest times of year to move with nearly 60% of annual U.S. moves taking place between May to August. During this time, the housing market is hot and prices might be higher than normal.

If you want to save on your home purchase, aim to start looking for a house during the winter months. Because demand is lower, you might be able to snag a home at a lower price.

Additionally, many homeowners are more motivated to sell their homes during the winter since they’re likely relocating for a job or their children’s schools. This means that you might be able to negotiate a lower price for the home since the seller is more eager to sell.

2. Look for Ways to Cut Expenses

If you want to save up for your first home, it’s important to find ways to cut family expenses so that you can funnel more money into savings. One way to do this is to track your spending for a month to see where you’re spending the most money.

After tracking your expenses, look for ways that you can cut back, such as eating out less, cutting back on travel, or buying generic brands instead of name brands. Once you have an idea of where you can cut back, start trimming your expenses so that you can save more money for a down payment on a home.

3. Save Your Tax Refund

If you get a tax refund every year, consider using that money to save for a down payment on a first home. A tax refund is typically a large sum of money that can be used to make a significant dent in your savings.

4. Get a Part-Time Job

If you’re serious about saving for a down payment on a first home, getting a part-time job can be a great way to boost your savings. You can use the extra income from your part-time job to save for a down payment more quickly.

5. Pay Off Other Debt

If you have other debt, such as student loans or credit card debt, focus on paying that off before saving for a down payment on a first home. This is because interest rates on debt can be high, which means you’re losing money by not paying it off as quickly as possible.

6. Consider a No-Closing Cost Mortgage

If you’re worried about having enough money for closing costs, consider finding a no-closing-cost mortgage. With this type of mortgage, the lender pays the closing costs instead of the borrower, making them a great option if you’re short on cash. However, it’s important to compare different mortgage options before deciding on one.

7. Prepare For Moving And Save on Costs

According to Home Guide, 40-yard dumpsters are the best tools to use if you’re moving your entire home, have large remodeling projects, or are in need of roof replacements. Consider saving for dumpster rentals and for other associated family moving when saving for your first home.

8. Budget for Possible New Roofing

Stone-coated steel roofing is 100% recyclable, incredibly lightweight, and has a Class A fire rating and Class 4 hail impact. If you’re buying a used family home, consider saving for a new roof or other related home renovation expenses.

Saving for a down payment on your first home doesn’t have to be difficult. By following the tips above, you can make it a priority and reach your goal more quickly. Remember to start early, cut expenses, and use any extra money you have to boost your savings.

How to Get Your Home Ready for Back-To-School

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Back-to-school season is upon us, and that means that parents need to be prepared for the chaos that is to come. The good news is that you don’t need to worry about any chaos as long as you’ve planned ahead. Here’s how you can get your home ready for the season.

Create a Charging Station

These days, kids need to have certain technology to succeed in school. They often need a laptop computer. They also likely need to have their phone in order to communicate with you or other adults at the end of the school day. Sometimes it can be difficult to remember to charge things. Start the year off strong by setting up a charging station somewhere in your home. At night, your kids can plug their electronics into the charging station and make sure they’re ready for tomorrow.

Doing this allows you to keep track of the technology used in your household. It likely isn’t too complicated. You’re not focused on something like cast routing technology, which routes traffic through a firewall and CDN to ensure fasting loading times. But you will be able to make sure your child is sleeping and not on a Minecraft server in the middle of the night.

Organize Your Fridge

It is time for early breakfasts and packing school lunches. The best way to make sure things stay calm in the morning is to organize your fridge. Make sure that everything your children need is easily available to them. If you or they pack lunches, put them somewhere that they can reach. If you organize your fridge in a way that allows easy access to healthy foods, your children will be much more likely to choose those foods than they would if they were crammed in the back of the fridge. So, as you get the rest of your home ready for the school year, take some time to focus on your fridge as well.

Get the Entryway Ready

Whether you have a front hall or a mudroom, your entryway is going to get a lot of use during the school year. Get it ready before the year starts. This is a great opportunity to organize it and put in any hangers or storage that you need. Keeping your children’s jackets, backpacks, and outdoor gear in the entryway ensures that they know where it is and can easily grab them on their way out the door.

Organize School Supplies

If you have multiple children, they’re all going to need different school supplies. A school list or server might show you exactly what you need. But once you have the supplies at home, make sure that they are organized. Set up shelves, bins, or any other storage system that works for you. If you always know where the pens, notebooks, and crayons are, you can be sure that your child has what they need. Then you’ll also be able to restock before you run out.

Declutter

Before the school year starts, consider doing a major decluttering project in your home. If you get rid of all of the unnecessary junk that’s built up over the years, you’ll have plenty of space for school supplies. It will also make your home feel calmer and less hectic, which can be a big relief during stressful times. Whether you declutter your whole house or just a few parts of it, this can help you start the year off right.

Whether you’ve got a kindergartner with crayons or a high schooler building a server, your kids are going to need things for the school year. If you get your home ready ahead of time, you’ll be set up for success. Apply these tips to make this process easier!

Create a Family-Friendly Outdoor Space On a Budget This Summer

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This summer, why not create a family-friendly outdoor space on a budget? With a few simple tips, you can turn your backyard into a fun and relaxing oasis for everyone to enjoy. Here are some ideas to get you started.

1. Patio Furniture

A good set of patio furniture is essential for any outdoor space. It provides somewhere for your family to sit and relax, and it also makes the area look more polished and finished. Look for weatherproof and durable pieces, so they will last through all sorts of weather conditions.

You can also go for Amish patio furniture, which is known for its high quality and durability. Amish furniture is handcrafted by skilled craftsmen, so you can be sure it will last for many years to come. When you buy Amish furniture online, expect to wait 12 to 16 weeks for delivery.

2. Shade

A big part of enjoying an outdoor space is being able to escape the sun when necessary. Adding some shade to your backyard can make it a lot more comfortable to spend time in. You can do this by installing a patio canopy, setting up some umbrellas, or planting tall trees or shrubs.

If you don’t have a lot of space to work with, consider installing a retractable awning. This will give you instant shade when you need it, and it can be rolled up when you don’t.

3. Color

Adding some color to your backyard can really brighten up the space and make it more inviting. Try planting some flowers or herbs or adding a few brightly colored patio accessories. This is a great way to add personality to your outdoor area and make it feel like your own little oasis.

When choosing colors, try to stick with shades that will be complementary to your home’s exterior. This will help to create a cohesive look for your entire property.

4. A Fence

A fence is a great way to create privacy and security for your backyard. It can also add some extra visual interest, and it can be a great place to hang some decorations or plants. If you don’t have a fence already, now is the time to install one.

There are many different types of fences to choose from. This includes wood, vinyl, and metal. Each has its advantages. Wood fences are the most traditional and affordable option. Vinyl fences are low-maintenance, durable, and are much stronger than wood, while metal fences are very sturdy and can last for many years.

When choosing a fence, be sure to consider the style of your home and the climate in your area. Fences that are too tall or too short can look out of place, and fences that are not weatherproof will quickly deteriorate in bad weather.

5. A Play Area

If you have young children, it’s a good idea to add a play area to your backyard. This can include a sandbox, a climbing wall, or even just some simple toys. This will give your kids somewhere to play and run around in safety, keeping them occupied for hours on end.

When choosing a play area, be sure to consider the age of your children. If you have very young children, choose a play area that is safe and easy to access. If you have older children, choose something more challenging and exciting.

6. A Fire Pit

A fire pit is a great addition to any backyard. It provides a place for your family to gather around and relax, and it also makes the space feel cozier and more intimate. Plus, who doesn’t love roasting marshmallows over a fire?

Before getting a fire pit, be sure to consider the size of your backyard. You want to make sure you have enough room for it to fit comfortably. Also, be sure to choose a model that is safe and easy to use.

The September NerdWallet survey found that roughly a third (34%) of homeowners who completed home improvement projects in the previous two years cited pandemic-related social distancing steps as the reason they took them on. Whatever your reason for wanting to improve your outdoor space, these tips will help you get started.

Free Chore Chart Template for Kids

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Chore Chart Template for Kids

My kids started helping with chores when they were about 18 months to 2 years of age.  My oldest got his own little broom that would recite, “sweeping, sweeping” as he swept.  He loved that broom, and he loved helping out.  Most toddlers are eager to do what the people around them are doing.  If you have a toddler and want to start working with them on chores or you want a more organized chore routine for your older kids, consider using one of these free chore chart templates for kids.

Why Assign Kids Chores?

Some parents don’t want their kids to do chores.  They argue that kids should just be kids.  However, there are many valid reasons why you should assign your children chores:

They Learn Valuable Life Skills

When I went to college, I couldn’t believe how many kids didn’t even know how to do their own laundry.  My son started doing his own laundry at 12, and my daughter started at 11.  The larger variety of chores you have your kids do, the better they will be able to successfully live on their own.

They Learn to Contribute

There are many things that need to be done to run a household successfully.  If you don’t expect your kids to contribute, they can grow accustomed to the idea of others doing things for them, which can lead to a sense of entitlement.  The family is the first place kids learn what it means to be part of a group and to help run that group.  This, too, will be a valuable lesson for their adult lives.

Should You Pay Kids for Chores?

Chore Chart Template for Kids

Photo by Anna Earl on Unsplash

This can be another devisive issue.  Some families don’t pay their kids money for chores because they want them to realize that they are part of a family and family members help one another.

Others, like my family, pay their kids for chores because they want kids to firmly make the connection between work and income.  You work, and you earn money.  You don’t work, and you’re broke.

Still others don’t pay cash but instead let their kids earn privileges like watching a show, or playing a video game, or staying up late based on the chores they do.

The choice is up to you and what your family decides will work best.

Free Chore Chart Template for Kids

There is no need for you to create your own chore chart template for kids when there are so many out there!  Here are a few of our favorites:

Healthy, Happy, Impactful has a chore chart template that gives blank lines to list up to eight chores beside squares for days of the week.  Just check off each day that the chore is completed.  There is also a box at the bottom for notes.

Plan for Awesome has a chore chart template for toddlers.  This one is unique in that rather than words, there are pictures so your littlest helpers can understand.  You can also use the pictures and words for the preschool and early elementary set.

Make any one of these chore charts last longer by laminating them or placing them in a plastic sleeve so you can use them week after week.

Final Thoughts

There’s no time like the present to start having your kids help with chores.  These free chore templates can help motivate them and help them find pride in their accomplishments.

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