Author Archive | Camilo Valencia

5 Ways to Be a Happier Stay-At-Home-Parent

Posted on April 23, 2018 By Camilo Valencia in DIY, Fitness & Wellness, Lifestyle, Parenting, Uncategorized

The title might sound unbelievable to those parents who wish they were stay-at-home parents, but the reality is, being a stay-home-mom or dad is hard work. We have a few of those dedicated parents at Hollywood Learning Centers and we’ve seen it first hand.

Just imagine…

Waking up early in the morning to make sure everyone is ready for school and work. Making a healthy breakfast so everyone eats before leaving the house, packing a nutritious lunch and taking the children to school. Then imagine coming back home to pick up the mess made during the hectic morning, wash dishes, run errands, juggle between business and laundry or making beds and paying bills. Before you know it, is time to go to the store to buy groceries and start dinner. Let’s not forget at 3PM we have to pick up the children from school or Hollywood Learning Aftercare, help them with homework, take them to soccer practice or violin recitals, feed them dinner, attend to the husband…

As a stay-home parent, it is SO easy to get wrapped up in the lives of our children and house chores that we completely lose ourselves in the process. For that reason, we put together a list of 5 simple things you can do to be a HAPPIER stay-at-home parent:

Get Ready

Staying at home doesn’t mean we can’t get ready. Make sure to shower and change just as if you were going to work. Do not give up on yourself just because you are a stay-home parent. Dressing up can automatically change your mood. Show yourself respect and make time to tend to your basic needs daily.

Get Organized

When we have everything in its place and somehow of a routine going things are simpler to follow. Minimizing helps stay organized, labeling helps things have its place, color-coding helps differentiate, and encouraging everyone to put things back in its place and stay organized makes it a team effort. As far as a routine goes, we encourage everyone having a family calendar in a place everyone can see it (the kitchen or family room). That way we don’t over book ourselves.

Get Your Headphones

I don’t know about you guys, but music can make everything go so much smoother. Imagine waking up the kids with soothing music, cooking to jazz, working out to techno and making your own playlist based on your mood, holidays or occasions. With Spotify, it’s easy to find the right music for every moment and the best part you can listen to it on your phone, computer, or tablet.

Get a Hobby

Writing workshops, volunteering opportunities, Zumba or support groups are fun. Why not join in on the extracurricular fun? Any kind of outside activity will not only provide your with socialization, but it’ll also give you a chance to distress. There are plenty of events on https://www.eventbrite.com/

Get Some Rest…

Taking a break or a nap is not a sign of weakness. When a relative or friend offers taking care of the kids or helping around the house, say “yes!” Hollywood Learning Centers also has a few events for parents to be able to have a date night. Let’s not forget we are totally allowed to hire a babysitter every so often, when in need to for a desperate break. Do not think that by giving yourself a break or accepting support, you are in any way, not doing your job. You job is 24/7; you can take (and need) an occasional break.

We hope this list helps. Remember we will always have chaos and that’s okay, our house, lives, and children don’t have to be perfect. Embrace reality and acknowledge your efforts.

For more blogs like this one, subscribe to Hollywood Learning Centers’ blog.

Hollywood Learning Breakfast Ideas On the Go!

Posted on September 21, 2016 By Camilo Valencia in Fitness & Wellness, Parenting

Hollywood Learning Breakfast Ideas On the Go!

With Hollywood Learning Centers finally back in session some of us may be having trouble getting into the right routine to make it out the house on time (I know I am). There are essential things that need to be done before starting your day and eating a balanced breakfast is the most important one. They don’t call it the most important meal of the day for nothing, so we put together some fun and quick breakfast recipes to ensure breakfast is served.

Berry Almond Quinoa Salad: A healthy but fun morning wakeup food, packing a bunch of super ingredients. This yummy breakfast will ensure everyone gets their nutrition and energy to tackle the day.

Ingredients:

3/4 cup dry quinoa
1 pint strawberries, sliced (2.5-3 cups)
16 oz. fresh blueberries (1.5-2 cups)
1 cup cherries, pitted and sliced
2 tbsp pure maple syrup (or other liquid sweetener)
1 tsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp fresh lime juice (or lemon might work!)
Pinch of kosher salt
1/2 cup almonds, chopped

Directions:

Cook quinoa according to package directions.
Meanwhile, chop the fruit and place in a large bowl.
Mix the dressing ingredients (maple syrup, balsamic, lime juice, salt) in a small jar and adjust to taste if necessary.
Fluff cooked quinoa with fork and add to bowl with fruit. Combine. Pour on dressing and mix. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge until serving time. Serves 2-3 as a main or 4-6 as a side.

Monster Green Smoothie: I think a smoothie can never go wrong. This recipe packs everything that ensures you and your children will have a productive day at school and will keep their tummy full for hours.

2 cups liquid of choice (we use fresh-squeezed orange juice, but have used coconut water and almond milk and both are great)
2 cups baby spinach
1 cup pineapple
1 cup frozen mango chunks
1-2 frozen bananas
boosts of choice (we use hemp hearts and chia seeds)

Nutella and Banana Sushi: It might not sound as yummy, but do not worry. This fun and inventive breakfast “sushi roll” imitates the design of a sushi roll by rolling Nutella bananas in a tortilla. This recipe is very quick and easy to make. For those little ones who don’t like bananas, you can replace the banana for other fruits. This recipe is one I am going to try out for myself.

Ingredients:

2 tortillas
4 tbsp Nutella
2 bananas

Directions:

Simply spread Nutella on the tortilla, and place your banana in the center of the tortilla, then roll in tortilla and banana in a compact roll, and then slice into pieces. There are plenty of ways to ensure that your most important meal of the day is an inventive and quick one, start your little ones’ day of with goodness and creativity.

For more blogs like this one, subscribe to Hollywood Learning Centers’ blog.

Parents! Back to School, Back to Reality!

Posted on August 25, 2016 By Camilo Valencia in Lifestyle, Parenting

School is back and although it can be a bittersweet feeling for parents and children, it is something that has to be conquered nonetheless. Whether your child is going to their first day of preschool or their first day of kindergarten, they are going and as a parent you need to be prepared. So we have created a little guide on what parents can do to help transition from summer to school.

Get involved! Starting school is like starting a brand new year. Why not get involved? See what opportunities your children’s school offer for you to volunteer or become a PTA mom. Evaluate your options rather than signing up right away. Try talking to other parents and figure out the best way to help out. Remember, the amount of time you volunteer isn’t a reflection of how much you love your kids. Do as much as your time allows you. Similarly, find ways to get your children involved. It’s the early childhood stage, that determines their passions in life. Hollywood Learning Centers offers extracurricular activities such as soccer, dance, tutoring and others. Call the office at (954)922-8558 for more information.

Develop a Game Plan: This is a new (but long) journey in your child’s life, they will meet new friends and embrace new challenges, often time parents note transformational growth in their children during the school year. Discuss their goals for their academic year, what they want to accomplish in school and outside of school. If they want to learn a new language, how to play an instrument or simply make new friends. Help them make a game plan. It is said that those who write their goals have a better chance of making them happen. Help them write their goals in a place that is visible or work on a vision board.

Embrace “failure: It is important to set goals for your child, but do not be disappointed when some of these goals are not obtained. In this new journey there will be good days and bad days, and we have to learn to deal with both. Praise their efforts and teach them about perseverance. Starting the first day of preschool, second grade, or eight grade is equally scary. New materials, homework, teachers, routines, etc.

Back to school can be nerve racking and stressful. But keep in mind our small tips, and embrace every moment of the new school year. Fortunately kids are pretty resilient, so they get back into the swing of things better than parents do.

For more parenting survival tips, keep checking out our blog.

How Rude! Secrets to Teach Our Children Manners

Posted on July 27, 2016 By Camilo Valencia in Lifestyle, Parenting

Teachings manners can be a difficult task for many parents, not only because of the components associated with discipline, but also because of parents’ hectic schedules. However, manners can go a long way, especially past a simple “thank you.”

Focusing on etiquette and knowing your children have manners can help them establish positive relationships as children and adults, and contribute to their overall success. For that reason we created a guide to teach our child manners (according by age) with the help of Disney’s Babble.

Infants(0-1 Years): Please and Thank You’s:

When speaking to our little ones it’s important to use phrases like “please” and “thank you.” When doing this we have to watch out for our tone of voice. If we modulate our tone when using social etiquette words, such as “please” and “thank you,” they will realize this is the norm and your example will guide them as they learn to speak. The idea is to incorporate these words in their every-day vocabulary from an early age. Try it, here at Hollywood Learning Center, we make sure to remind our little ones of their magic words all the time.

Smooth Touch:

Touch is something we all respond to, so it’s best to begin at an early age. Gently direct your baby on how to treat parents, siblings and pets. Teach them that hitting friends or family members is not okay and instead show them mannerism of love, such as handshakes, hugs, and pet rubs. By doing this you’ll be able to teach them the proper ways to touch and introduce the concept of cause and effect.

Toddler (2-3 years): It’s All About the Attitude!

As toddlers, your little ones will begin developing their personality. It is at this age, that they begin to repeat everything they hear or see. For that reason, it’s important for us parents and teachers to serve as example.

Toddlers are fun, but at times they can be very difficult to handle. They don’t call it the terrible two’s for no reason.

Sharing is Caring!:

At this age “mine” is something they repeat constantly. So showing them the power of sharing can be effective in reducing the use of the word “mine.” Lead by example share with them and those around you.

Table Manners:

Begin showing your little ones simple table manners. Don’t speak with your mouth full, use utensils, no elbows on the table, ask for objects too far of reach. Reminders come handy at all times and once again lead by example.

Patience:

Introduce to them the concept of patience. We live in a fast-paced society where everyone wants everything done fast. Teaching them about patience from young can begin by simply reminding them not to interrupt conversations or allowing siblings to play first while patiently waiting for their turns, without getting antsy.

Pre-K and Elementary School (4 – 9 years): Developing Who they are

As children prepare to attend pre-K and elementary school, it’s important to work with them on their interactions with others around them ranging from teachers to other students. Begin by observing their interactions with other children besides family members. Take them to social gatherings and see if they are using the manners taught at home or school. Here are just a few to keep in mind:

Greetings: Show them the basics of a proper greeting with these three easy steps: eye contact, a firm shake or hug, and an introduction of their names. A proper introduction will provide your children with a boost of confidence. Remind them that first impressions are priceless.

Thank-you Notes: Not everyone write thank-you notes, but showing gratitude is beautiful and not often taught. At a young age, children are often receiving gifts for their birthdays or holidays. Teach them the importance of showing gratitude by either signing or drawing a picture on thank you cards. By 6 or 7, they will have the writing skills necessary to write entire thank you notes themselves. Teaching this small gesture can make a huge difference in their lives.

Manners and etiquette might vary from culture to culture or even family to family. At Hollywood Learning Center, we make sure to encourage manners, but we can only do so much at school. Practicing these at home can go a long way. Keep checking our blog for more helpful parent tips.

4 Healthy and Delicious Substitutes for Rice – Hollywood Learning Centers

Posted on June 8, 2016 By Camilo Valencia in Fitness & Wellness

Being from South Florida, I know that rice is a staple crop of many cultures. When eaten as part of a balanced meal, small portions of rice can serve as a great energy source. In traditional diets, rice is eaten as a side dish to roasts, stews, and curries, among other dishes. Rice can also be added to soups and served with vegetables or alongside meats. With all the goodness and deliciousness that comes with rice, it is also very high in carbs. For that reason, Hollywood Learning Centers created four favorite substitutes for rice that the kids should love, too.

1)Quinoa (pronounced KEEN-wah): quinoa is a high protein content with a beautiful sweet and nutty flavor. It’s delicate texture has made quinoa a popular substitute for rice. Quinoa is an easy grain to love and super easy to cook. Technically, it’s not a grain but a seed, though it is used in virtually all the same ways as other whole grains. As a complete protein source that’s also high in iron, magnesium, and fiber, quinoa is not only one of our healthiest pantry staples, but also one that’s incredibly easy and quick to cook. Check out this the link below for some cool recipes.

2) Couscous: Couscous is a tiny pasta made of wheat or barley. Similar to quinoa, it is also a perfect substitute to rice. It is very easy to cook and can be used in salads or in place of breadcrumbs. Couscous pairs beautifully with a number of flavors in a main dish or as a side. It is also a great source of fiber. Click below to rock your palette with these yummy couscous recipes.

3) Barley: This is one of the healthiest types of grain to consume, and many people choose it when looking for a white rice alternative. It’s a great source of fiber, phosphorous, copper, and manganese. Barley has much more fiber than brown rice. Though it does take longer to cook and requires more liquid than rice, it is still a fun way to experiment with other non-rice options. Find fun barley recipes here.

4) Cauliflower rice: Cauliflower rice is a grain-free, gluten-free, and nutrient-dense way to replace the white rice on your plate. It’s a great way to eat what seems like rice, but without all those carbs. It is the perfect introduction to grain alternatives. All you need is a grater or food processor to resemble the rice-like texture and look, then you can proceed to either pan-fry, or roast to create a light, fluffy portion that will have the most ardent carb monsters licking their fingers. Check out the link for more recipes.

For more fun summer ideas and recipes, continue to check out our blog!

Revolutionary Moms in History – Hollywood Learning Centers

Posted on May 25, 2016 By Camilo Valencia in Lifestyle

If I could write down every mother, grandmother, aunt, stepmother, or any woman who extended her heart and hand to a person in need, I would write for a lifetime. Being a mother is an experience filled with fulfillment, joy, and sacrifice, and every one who entails the journey deserves the world. Personally, I know there isn’t a day that goes by where I need guidance from one of the many moms in my life.

Throughout history and the world, we have had numerous women who have sacrificed themselves in order to birth someone or something great, and in the words of Tupac, “You are appreciated”.

In the spirit of May, Hollywood Learning Centers put together five revolutionary moms in history who have not only contributed to their respected children, but also to society.

1) Ann Maria Jarvis:

Mrs. Jarvis is known for being the creator of Mother’s Day. A super mom who understood the importance of mothers being healthy. She worked hard to begin the Mother’s Day Work Clubs in 1858 to improve health and sanitation conditions in an effort to prevent infant mortality. During the Civil War, the organization nursed soldiers from both sides, becoming a symbol of neutrality.

In an effort to create a peaceful post civil war lifestyle, Jarvis called to action to create a “Mother’s Friendship Day.” After she passed in 1905, her daughter Anna Jarvis made it her mission to get an official Mother’s Day created, which she did.

2) Michelle Obama:

Most mom try their best to guide their kids so they grow up living healthy lives. First Lady Michelle Obama is no exception, making it her responsibility to have the whole country eat healthier, starting with children. Working hard to stress the importance of education for girls all over the world and enforcing a healthy initiative through the “Let’s Move!” program, Michelle Obama is one of the many revolutionary mother figures in this country. She is able to balance many tasks while being a mother to two girls. For all she has done for our country, I am sure she will be missed and she will always be a part of history.

3) Harriet Tubman:

Soon we will be able to see her on a 20 dollar bill, and this is just one aspect of Harriet Tubman’s revolutionary persona. As the face of the Underground Railroad, Harriet Tubman fearlessly lead more than 300 slaves to freedom and became an icon of the Civil Rights Movement.

Tubman spent the rest of her life as an abolitionist and humanitarian. She was strong and fearless and she helped send many to their deserved freedom; in a sense she is the mother to many, giving them a new deserved life.

4) Marie Curie:

Scientist, wife, and mother of two, Marie Curie was a true Renaissance woman. Redefining what it meant to be a mother and wife in her times, she is most famously known for her research in radioactivity and discovering the elements polonium and radium.

In 1903, Curie became the first woman to win the Nobel Prize, and later on was the first person to win two Nobel Prizes and the first female professor at the University of Paris. Can we say revolutionary?

5) Fatima Marin:

This last woman might not have impacted history, a nation or even an entire city, but she has and continues to devote herself to her daughters and each and every child in Hollywood Learning Centers of First Presbyterian Church. She makes sure children feel loved, parents at peace and her staff content in a working environment full of love and respect. She defies the norm by implementing extraordinary extracurricular activities, always finding the best companies to partner up with and improving year after year.

Every mother in her own way is revolutionary. Motherhood is a journey in which no one is sure of what it will entail. It’s something new everyday.

This list should be never ending, but it does serve justice to mothers everywhere because each of these revolutionary moms highlight certain aspects of motherhood. If you can, take the time today to recognize the revolutionary moms in your life.

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