Marriage & Family Archives | Page 19 of 81

7 children’s books that teach young kids about money

Looking for books to introduce to your kids the concept of money or personal finance?

Allow me to present you 7 children’s books you can consider for your next book haul and read-aloud session.

“The Berenstain Bears’ Trouble with Money” by Stan and Jan Berenstain

If your kids spend a dollar when they have a dollar, this book would be apt for them. It also teaches kids about the meaning behind an “allowance” and how they should save money in the bank so it collects interest. Suitable for kids aged 3 to 7.

“Alexander, Who Used to Be Rich Last Sunday” by Judith Viorst

I absolutely love this book! There’s something repetitive about it that makes it very literatur-ish. Ha, but laughter aside, it teaches kids about decisions. Every decision that one makes could result in a loss of money, which Alexander made and lost his cents, which quickly added to a dollar. Suitable for kids aged 6 to 8.

“Lemonade in Winter: A Book About Two Kids Counting Money” by Emily Jenkins

The money used may not be applicable in the Singapore context but I like how it still teaches math and simple calculations. You can also take the time to explain to your child how running a business doesn’t guarantee profit right from the start. Suitable for kids aged 3 to 7.

“A Chair for My Mother” by Vera B. Williams

This is a very heartwarming story in my opinion. I think it teaches kids that saving every little penny counts. It adds up! And if you’re into name and fame, then know that this book is a Caldecott Honor Book awarded by the American Library Association. Quality assured. Suitable for kids aged 3 and above.

“One Cent, Two Cents, Old Cent, New Cent: All About Money” by Bonnie Worth (A Dr. Seuss-inspired book)

Read widely and you will know that it’s hard to get stories written in the Singapore context. There are, but not plentiful. But still, I think this book gives a good look into the history of money in other nations, which can be an eye-opener for our juniors. Suitable for kids aged 5 to 7.

“Bunny Money” by Rosemary Wells

A really adorable illustrated book with the bunny theme at the center of it all. This story serves as an underlying reminder that making a trip out requires money: bus fares, lunch, and unexpected mishaps. Suitable for kids from 3 to 5, this picture book introduces our young ones to early math concepts.

“Little Critter: Just Saving My Money” by Mercer Mayer

This is a fantastic storybook that will explain to your child what a “savings account” is. Using words that are easy to understand, young kids from the age of 3 will get introduced to the concept of money and how they have to “work” for it. Animal lovers will adore this simple read!

These children’s books offer a valuable and engaging starting point for teaching young kids about money. Through relatable characters and captivating plots, children will learn vital lessons about saving, spending and making wise financial choices. By introducing these concepts at an early age, we can help set the foundation for a lifetime of financial responsibility and empower our children to make informed decisions as they grow. So grab one of these books, snuggle up with your little ones, and embark on an exciting journey to financial literacy together. Happy reading!

8 Lovely Things to Do for Your Mother after Mother’s Day

With the unwavering support of mothers everywhere, we celebrate Mother’s Day to honor their sacrifices for the family. This year, International Mother’s Day fell on May 14, 2023. This day and the following days provide a wonderful opportunity for you to express how much your mother means to you. If you haven’t planned anything yet, don’t worry, there’s still time. Instead of resorting to cheesy cards and a boring box of chocolates, show your gratitude and pamper her this week with unforgettable experiences.

Start with these activities:

#1: ASSIST WITH HOUSEHOLD CHORES

Helping with household chores shouldn’t be limited to a one-day event. Whenever you can, lend a hand to ease your mother’s or partner’s daily tasks. While it’s understandable to be preoccupied with busy work schedules, it’s important to carve out time from your priorities to assist around the house. Simple chores like folding, vacuuming, sweeping, or mopping can be completed in a short amount of time. Gather some household cleaning products and get started!

#2: MOVIE MARATHON WITH MUM

Lying on the couch while watching your favorite shows can be a perfect, no-cost form of relaxation. Put on your mother’s or partner’s favorite K-Drama, Netflix show, or Chinese movie, and indulge in a marathon with them all night long! Don’t forget to bring some chips and cook some popcorn. Creating a cozy ambiance for this joyous occasion can be enhanced with the best scented candles. My mother’s personal choice is Yankee Candle.

#3: INDULGE IN BRUNCH

If you genuinely want to go all out for your special woman, consider treating her to a glorious brunch this weekend or during your lunch break. Remember to make an advance reservation to secure your spot. Lola’s Café offers a delightful selection of croissants, scrambled eggs, smoked chicken ham, mushroom grilled cheese sandwiches, and much more. If you prefer American cuisine-inspired all-day breakfast options starting at just $6, you should definitely check out Joji’s Diner.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

#4: EMBRACE YOUR WILD SIDE

Looking for a unique experience with your mother or wife? Consider visiting the Night Safari. Embark on an adventure through the animal kingdom aboard a private chartered tram, followed by a delectable dinner. This enchanting experience is called “Evening in the Wild” and takes place at Singapore’s largest Tipi Tent. Book here.

#5: GET ACTIVE

When the weather allows, my family and I enjoy going on evening walks. I suggest asking your superwoman for a nature walk. Botanic Gardens, Fort Siloso at Sentosa, or a stroll by the Singapore River are all excellent choices, but our favorite is the MacRitchie Nature Trail. It offers a combination of fresh air, stunning views, and a touch of history during your trek. If the hills seem too challenging, you can opt for a more leisurely pram-friendly walk around Singapore or explore new cycling routes to entertain the whole family!

#6: RADIATE FLOWER POWER

Surprise your mother with a delightful bouquet of fresh flowers or arrange a rustic cluster of boho-chic peonies to brighten her day. Singapore’s flower experts can assist you in adding a personal touch. If your mother enjoys gardening, consider gifting her a fuss-free indoor gardening kit, such as the ones available on Lazada.

#7: ENJOY A PAMPER SESSION

Surprise your mother or wife with a heartfelt gesture by sending her a selection of top facials and letting her choose which one to book. And don’t forget the rejuvenating power of reflexology! In no time, she’ll feel completely recharged. If you want to pamper her, go the extra mile by offering a luxurious package that includes massages, facials, and a glass of champagne or a soothing cup of tea. Treat her to a day filled with relaxation and pure bliss.

#8: BURN SOME CALORIES AT A FITNESS CLASS

If you and your mother or wife are adrenaline junkies, why not spend some quality time at the gym? Grab your yoga mat and enjoy a relaxing yoga class at HOM Yoga or Yoga Movement. Alternatively, get your heart pumping with indoor spin classes at The Ripple Club or Sync Cycle.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

You never know, this exhilarating experience might turn into a weekly date activity with your loved one!

Sources: 1,2, & 3

How to deal with your teenager when they’re spending too much money

Is your teenage child asking for extra pocket money recently?

And you’re worried that they might be spending more than they can afford without being financially responsible?

Well, it’s time to set some financial rules and learn how to say no without alienating them.

Monitor spending and look for red flags

Excessive spending in recent months can be a sign of trouble, signaling that your child might have gotten themselves with the wrong crowd or are hiding something.

Maybe they are going for more expensive stuff, spending impulsively, or wanting to fit in with a certain group on social media.

If so, this is a good time to discuss the value of money and ask them what they think responsible spending habits are.

Then, take the chance to explain why money shouldn’t be spent carelessly without giving much thought.

Have an honest conversation about their spending habits

Before pinpointing their spending habits, it’s always good to be vulnerable first.

And by that, I mean opening up about the financial mistakes you’ve made and how that made you pick up healthier spending habits.

Yes, it’s hard to admit our mistakes, but those lessons learned don’t have to be yours only to remember. It can be a learning resource for your kids!

You may also want to walk the talk by modeling good financial behavior, whether that be budgeting or maintaining a savings account.

Also, reinforce the difference between needs and wants in life, so it’s clear what should be in the essential “cart”.

Stop giving additional pocket money until you see change

Image Credits: blog.remitly.com

Yes, you love your child, and giving extra money can be your way of expressing yourself as a busy working parent.

But you don’t want to feed their recklessness in spending decisions.

So a wise way to handle this situation is to stop providing bonus pocket money until you see some improvements in how they are handling their existing allowance within their daily or weekly budget.

And if they have never budgeted before, this is a wonderful opportunity to introduce simple budgeting tips with broad categories such as saving and spending.

Encourage them to get a part-time job during the holidays

If your teen is of legal age to work, why not encourage them to find a part-time job during the school holidays?

Getting out there into the working world is, in my opinion, one of the best ways to teach your child about financial responsibility and independence.

When teens get a taste of what “work” is like, they will likely understand how tough it is to earn money. Unlike spending money given to them, they will probably think twice and thrice before spending that dollar they’ve earned.

When it comes to your teen’s money-spending habits, lay down some boundaries. Telling them “no” in a loving way isn’t easy, and it’s important to explain your reasoning behind not giving in to their requests—so they understand that it’s not just a flat-out refusal. Share that you’re not a fan of irresponsible spending and let them know that they are responsible for setting a budget and sticking to it. With open communication, you will be able to nip money issues in the bud and ensure that your teen has the financial savvy to make it in the real world when they graduate.

Affordable floral arrangements from $39.90 for Mother’s Day 2023

Blessed Sunday!

Mother’s Day is really right around the corner, with only a week left to go. If you’ve yet to get mum anything, today’s the day to make that purchase.

In this post, we will be looking at a list of affordable floral arrangements from $39.90 for Mother’s Day 2023.

MD Carmen by Well Live Florist

Price: $39.90

At just $39.90, this is a steal. You will get a lovely bouquet of three flowers consisting of fresh tulips, a carnation, filler, and foliage. At the time of writing, delivery dates are available from 12 to 15 May so act fast if you want to chope the best date and timing for your mama.

KH-07 Cheery by Little Flower Hut

Price: $49.90 (sale!)

Spotted this bouquet of 9 pink roses at just $49.90 (was $69.90)! We have no idea when the sale will end so it’s good to get your hands on these before they decide to conclude the sale. You can also choose to “upsize” the bouquet at an extra price if you think it’s too small.

A Touch of Wild by Wildflower Florist

Price: from $55

There’s something about wildflowers that make them magical. And this particular arrangement which may include a combination of lilies, sunflowers, hydrangea, orchids, and other seasonal fresh-cut flowers and foliage is certainly a different take from the usual Mother’s Day floral selection. Which is great if you want to stand out from the crowd and please mama.

Misc MD by Floristique

I’m loving this florist because there are various options priced from $59.90 for you to choose from. And they are:

Zelda MD: Carnations | Spray Roses | Rose | Fillers & Foliage
Greta MD: Carnations | Spray Roses | Fillers & Foliage
Gianna MD: Carnations | Fillers
Isla MD: Carnations | Baby’s Breath
Kiera MD: Carnations | Fillers & Foliage
Everly MD: Carnations | Fillers & Foliage
Reia MD: Roses | Carnation Spray | Fillers & Foliage

Price: from $59.90

A fun dilemma on which to gift your mum.

Everlasting Vase – Preserved by The Bloom Box

Price: from $62

One comment I get very often from my mum is this: “Flowers have no value because they die quickly.” And that’s true… to a certain extent. If your mum thinks the same way too, why not get a preserved option for her? This everlasting vase is fitting for its name since it can last up to a year if properly taken care of.

Understated Beauty by Flora Moments

Price: from $68

This elegant arrangement of white and orange roses exudes charm just right for mama. Comprises white eustoma and orange roses, it represents admiration, passion, and happiness in life. Note: The most affordable option at $68 only consists of two stalks.

And there we have it, our list of affordable floral arrangements from $39.90 for Mother’s Day 2023. Just a gentle reminder before we go, Mother’s Day is on 14 May 2023, and that means we’re just days away. Whether it’s a gift you’re getting for mum or flowers to cheer her up, make that purchase asap to avoid disappointments!

This ed-tech startup that taps on AI for assessment-based learning is worth a try

Best of all, they have a ‘freemium’ plan for new users.

I’ll get to that later in this article but for a start, let’s look at more on what this ed-tech startup offers.

The name to note is ‘Explico’.

Explico was co-founded 3 years ago by Ashutosh Shukla and Sandesh Shetty, with the aim of using AI and machine learning to create an assessment-based educational system.

And mind you, not just any assessment-based learning but one that is tailored to your child’s needs.

How it works

Supposedly you’re a new user, you can sign up for free under their ‘freemium’ plan and have your child attempt Explico’s free diagnostic assessments Set A & Set B.

These diagnostic assessments are prepared by Explico’s teachers and use AI to assess your child’s proficiency in a particular subject.

Upon completion of the assessments, Explico will recommend live sessions based on their analysis.

The good part is that even as a ‘freemium’ user, you will be entitled to 2 free live sessions (worth 10 credits) so you and your child can have a firsthand experience of how it works.

Going a step further

Like what you’re seeing and think Explico will benefit your child?

You can step up your game from the ‘freemium’ plan to ‘credit-based’, ‘assessment-only’, or ‘all-access’ plans.

Prices range from $19.95 to $1450.

I’ll put it down here for easy reference:

If you’ve got a UOB card, good news! Use your UOB card for payment and enter coupon code <UOBEX2023> for 15% off your purchase.

You’re welcome. 😉

Which plan should you go for?

If you’re on a budget, then maybe the ‘credit-based’ plan would make sense.

It comes in bundle credits of 5, 20, 50, and 80, which the latter will allow you to save up to 15%. Since they can be shared among siblings, it would be good if you have more than one child to worry about.

For parents who believe in the power of practice, then the ‘assessment-only’ plan at $125 for one subject and $280 for three subjects would be perfect.

The only downside is that it’s for a specific child (just one). And the same goes for the ‘all-access’ plan.

If you’ve not started your child on any form of tuition at all, the ‘all-access’ plan is actually worth an investment.

Think about it this way: one subject will cost you $550 with a validity of 12 months if you sign up with Explico. That’s roughly $45.83/month and way much lower than it would cost to hire a private tutor (ex/current MOE teacher) at $50/hour long-term.

Image Credits: singaporetuitionteachers.com

Doesn’t sound too bad, huh?

But ultimately, the decision lies with you. Don’t forget to speak with your child to see what he/she thinks about using Explico as a study buddy for the long term. To give you peace of mind, Explico has recently bagged US$1.4 million in pre-series A funding from key investors such as the renowned Mavis Tutorial Centre. So be rest assured that they are here to stay and expand.

For more information, you can visit www.explico.sg.