Archive | Fitness & Wellness

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.

Starting the Year Simple: 5 Reasons to Hop on the Minimalism Bandwagon

Posted on January 17, 2018 By Fatima Zimichi in DIY, Fitness & Wellness, Lifestyle, Parenting

The consumer-driven trend behind buying and accumulating clothes, shoes, purses, toys, home supplies and other items for no reason to then gradually give it all away is out the window.

As you most likely heard everyone is talking about minimalism. There a tons of documentaries about it, blogs, Youtube videos, posts, you name it. But for those who are new to the world of minimalism, it’s not just a Pinterest board, it’s a lifestyle.

It’s basically the idea that the less you have, the better you’ll be. There are various benefits associated. We put together a little list of the benefits to see if we get you all to be minimalistic mommies and daddies.

DISCLAIMER: Read at your own risk, minimalism get obsessive.

More Happy

Through advertising, TV commercials, Instagram posts, and other avenues, large corporations convince us to buy their products. I’m at fault too. I want everything I see, the long boots, fuzzy pillow, mini cactus, and the cute mugs with quotes. I mean, we’ve been taught that the more we have the happier we are, but happy is a state of mind associated with experiences, not material. Once we realize this, then we’ll be able to make smarter decision before shopping another item we won’t need.

More Space

Did you know that the average American household has over 300,000 stuffs in it? Furniture, paintings, plates, linens, pictures, and memories. Once we get rid of those extra things we don’t need, or keep around “just in case” and just keep the bare minimum, we end up with some desiring space. More space in our home, rooms, cabinets, cars, purses, etc.

More Money

The average American today has over $16,000 of credit card debt. Simplifying makes your wallet happier. When we downsize our belongings, whether that is wardrobes, electronics, shoes, and other stuffs, the next time we purchase an item, we think twice about it. The less we buy, the more money we’ll save.

More to Give

If you decide is time to declutter, as you get rid of things, think about what things you can donate. Not everything we want to get rid off is garbage. Sharing those valuables that brought so much joy with others could be very rewarding.

More Time

The less things we have,the less time we have to spend cleaning and organizing. Think about how much time we spent washing tons of dishes, or clothes, fixing up messes. Minimalistics moms have more time to be more productive, spend more quality time with the family, try a new business venture or hobby.

Being minimalist parents just means being more practical parents with more space at home to move around, think and breathe. More money to spend it on things you always wanted to do like family vacations or new hobbies to save and spend it on experiences, more items to donate and give to other. Also more time on our hands to learn new things or practice our hobbies and with all these be more happy. Try it, why not? God Bless.

Tips for Moms Looking to Start their own Business this New Year

Posted on January 3, 2018 By Fatima Zimichi in Fitness & Wellness, Lifestyle, Parenting

This 2018, just do it! Don’t even think about it. It’s going to be tough, but you knew that. Just imagine a hectic nightmare with coffee, meetings and diapers in the beginning, but the end product can be a strong business owner able to have her own schedule and be involved in their children’s development.

Business owner mommies are known for one main common characteristic, ready?

The capacity of being able to M-U-L-T-I-T-A-S-K!

When it comes to having success in business, there are many different things that can be integral factors. Hollywood Learning Centers put together 3 advices for our mommies thinking of starting their own business:

1) Find What Motivates You:

If you are going to be crazy enough to add a business to your already hectic mother schedule, then it should be something you absolutely love. The thing you loved doing during your free time. Do you even know what that is? If you don’t remember, picture waking up one day with nothing to do. You get up, make yourself a cup a coffee and then to do what…? Well, whatever that is, that’s your business.

If you image yourself changing into gym clothes to work out, then research what business are on demand in the world of fitness. If you see yourself going to the mall, is there a product you see yourself designing or creating yourself? If you love interactions with others, is there a service you could provide with your God-given talents or is there something that doesn’t exist that you wish you could create?

I mean, the possibilities are endless.

2) Create a System that Works

Processes are real. They dictate the way we do things and why we do them. If you have a strong support system at home, take time figuring out when would it be best to work.

Husbands, friends, siblings can help in the process. Schools, aftercare programs and reliable childcare institutions like Hollywood Learning Center, for example, is open 7 AM to 6 PM, which works great for hard-working mothers. A schedule will vary from family to family. Also there are so many free automotive business softwares to help free your time; whether you are looking to invoice, account management, budgeting, social media marketing, email marketing, etc.

3) Ditch Bad Associations

We don’t have that much time anyways. However, if we do decided to keep friends around, make sure to surround yourself with people who will uplift and contribute to where you’re headed. Entrepreneur mommies need all the cheering and motivation possible. Avoid negativity, jealousy and others who don’t believe you are capable.

Many entrepreneurs involve family members in the process, why not? Involve the children or your significant other. They can help decide which route to take, business’ naming, logos’ colors, etc. Make them part of the journey.

And bring your kids over to Hollywood Learning Centers’ while you go out and conquer the world! May God bless your efforts.

“Gimme, Gimme” vs. Giving, Giving

Posted on September 20, 2017 By Fatima Zimichi in DIY, Fitness & Wellness, Lifestyle, Parenting

Over the last few days we have witness hurricane disasters so now more than ever is important to talk to our children about the power of giving and contributing. Hollywood Learning Centers, a preschool for little ones in Hollywood, FL put together a list of 5 ways to teach our children to be more giving.

Start When they are Small.

It’s never to early to start. We can’t expect to teach children to be giving in their teens. We have to start when they are young. Even small deeds count. Parent can begin by instilling sharing habits. This is easier when the children has siblings, but if not parents can try with other family members.

Is your child easy to share toys or his food and snacks with others? Test them, see what their answers are. If it’s what you were expecting, continue to encourage them to share and give to others. Complement and even reward their efforts. Your young child might be happy to help bake cookies for friends or children in need. However, If your child is less likely to give, try to understand them and see where this is coming from. Instead of getting upset with them or punishing them, talk to them about the importance of giving and make a plan to instill empathy in them.

Reality Checks

Seeing commercials of poor children or other disadvantaged groups might not the reality check our kids need. If those don’t work, it’s best to take them to see why giving is important.

Take a ride to deprived area with a high number of homeless or to an orphanage for our children to learn why we must share and donate to others (books, toys, clothes, etc). This will not only make those kids extremely happy, but it will teach our children about having empathy towards those children and eventually empathy towards everyone in need as they grow up.

Walk the walk

My family has always been one to give. Coming from a poor country teaches you to appreciate and share the blessings given. Be a role model for your little ones. As you know, children love to imitate their parents. If they see us volunteering or donating, they will do it. The passion and dedication we put into giving and sharing to others will reach their little hearts. Not only will they be proud of you but they would follow your lead.

Give Year-round

We don’t always have to wait for a disaster to take place to give. Of course earthquake and hurricanes’ victims could use all the help in the world, but giving can be a year-round effort. There are plenty of opportunities to help. Here at Hollywood Learning Center we are always collecting items for disasters victims or feeding the homeless. Not much money or planning is required. When we don’t have a particular cause to donate or contribute to, we buy water and distribute them to the homeless on a hot day or buy dinner and go around looking for someone who might need it. The feeling you’ll get is so rewarding it’ll become a habit.

Simplify Giving

Some believe giving, donating or volunteering requires a lot of money or efforts and of course we are all busy parents who work and barely have time.That is not true! Giving can be fun.

For example, buying two bags of sandwich bread, 1 pound of ham and cheese would not even come to $10, but it can feed 24 people. Buying a pack of water for the same group of 24 cost $5. Yet, that might be too much for some families, in that case, we all have toys, books or clothes we no longer use but are still in good conditions. There are also groups that come together to help particular causes.

This week, Hollywood Learning Centers will be collecting items for those affected by Hurricane Irma and to help rebuild Florida’s paradise, The Keys.

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.

5 Yummy and Healthy Snacks for Your Children

Posted on June 22, 2016 By Fatima Zimichi in Fitness & Wellness

Children can be very picky eaters, especially when it comes to food that they’re supposed to eat. During snack time, your little one might be begging for candy and chips. Make sure you set your foot down and put away the junk food. Try these five yummy healthy snacks Hollywood Learning Centers has already incorporated in their menu:

Strawberries and Bananas

Most children love sweet things! Of course that also means that they love candy, but we want them to eat healthier. A good alternative to candy are sweet fruits, like strawberries and bananas. Their sweetness have the all the nutrients kids need. Strawberries are packed with antioxidants, which can help prevent heart disease, and bananas are a good source of tryptophan, an amino acid that converts into serotonin in the brain. Serotonin helps people feel happier. No wonder why minions are always happy.

Popcorn

This popular snack isn’t just for the movies! Popcorn is actually healthy when it isn’t covered with lots of butter or salt. Actually, two cups of popcorn has 2.3 grams of fiber and 62 calories, making it a light snack for our little ones. So this summer, get some kernel and pop away!

Corn on the Cob

If your kids can’t get enough of that popcorn goodness? Then they’ll definitely love corn on the cob! It’s sweet, fun to eat, and a popular summer treat! It’s also rich in nutrients that can help control diabetes.

Whole Grain Cereal

Put away the sugary cereal and get the whole grain cereal instead! Whole grain cereal is full of protein, carbohydrate, vitamin B, and vitamin E, making it one of the healthiest snacks for your kids. This is by far one of Hollywood Learning Centers most requested snack.

Veggie Chips

Does your child love potato chips? Veggie chips are no different, except they are a healthier and tastier substitute! These crispy snacks are made from beets, broccoli, cauliflower, and a number of other vegetables, so your kids can finally eat their veggies without even knowing.

All of these yummy snacks can be served with natural apple juice or water, two healthy drinks low in sugar and preservatives.

Have your little ones snack on these yummy treats and they’ll be happy and healthy! Want more healthy foods and recipes? Subscribe to our blog!

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!

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