Rescued Greyhounds Visit Elderly in Nursing Homes

September 26, 2022 by Kristen Lawrence

Greyhound Rescue, an Australian nonprofit organization, collaborated with HammondCare to provide companionship for the elderly in nursing homes. Through the innovative Hounds Helping Humans program, the nonprofit brings rescue dogs to residential elderly care homes. Residents get to pet and play with the therapy dogs who visit.

Dog handlers say that animal visits can provide mental stimulation and excitement for the elderly. It gives residents something to look forward to and may benefit those with Alzheimer’s. Greyhound Rescue believes its pilot program will have a positive impact on residents. Currently, the nonprofit prioritizes HammondCare patients living with dementia.

According to the media outlet Australian Dog Lover, project volunteers have enjoyed the experience thus far. They love watching the residents’ faces light up when a greyhound enters the room. It’s also rewarding to see them form a connection.

Natalie Panzarino, the President of Greyhound Rescue, said she felt thrilled about the opportunity to work with the elderly.

“At Greyhound Rescue, we know all too well the magic that these incredible greyhounds can bring to people’s lives,” she said in an interview with Australian Dog Lover.

“What better way to share this magic with more people than bringing Greyhounds to where they are really needed, to brighten the lives of people who are craving connection and companionship. Greyhounds are great candidates to assist with well-being in aged care services. They are generally calm and docile in nature as well as being tall enough to be accessible to people who are in wheelchairs or confined to beds.”

Mike Baird, Chief Executive of HammondCare nursing home, also looked forward to the greyhounds visiting patients. The independent Christian charity prioritizes life engagement and relationship-based care with residents. Baird believes that the new program will benefit both the dogs and residents.

Rescued Greyhounds Bring Joy to Nursing Home Residents

Baird said, “Meaningful involvement with everyday life is crucial to everyone’s well-being. I am delighted that one part of this Life Engagement Pilot is evaluating how animal engagement and support can improve quality of life for residents. What a wonderful outcome if rescued Greyhounds can be given a new purpose providing happiness for those who are older in the community.”

Greyhound Rescue and HammondCare worked on creating the Hounds Helping Humans project for many months. Thankfully, their dedication and efforts paid off, and residents seemed to respond positively to the program. They had a few setbacks along the way, but volunteers and coordinators pulled together for a successful launch.

“COVID lockdowns kept frustrating our plans and shifting our start date, but the enthusiasm never waned,” Panzarino explained. “When we announced the program to our volunteers, there was an amazing heartfelt response. So many of our people are keen to be part of this initiative and contribute to such an important part of society.”

Australian Ethical, a sustainable investment firm, helped fund the pilot program with a grant. The rescue dog and human teams faced a rigorous selection process. Once chosen, the groups underwent a temperament test before completing a specialized training course. The training helped the handlers prepare for visits while introducing hounds to new equipment such as wheelchairs and walkers.

It also acclimated the greyhounds to the stimuli they would encounter at the nursing home. Finally, the training consisted of communication methods to foster engaging connections between the dogs and HammondCare residents.

Greyhounds make the perfect dogs for the pilot program since they have a calm, easygoing demeanor. Their height provides another advantage since residents can meet them at eye level. This makes a huge difference for residents who use wheelchairs or can’t stand for long periods.

What Greyhound Rescue Handlers Loved About the Program

Kerry-Ann Plant, who visited nursing homes with her greyhound Eevee, said: “When the idea was floated, I thought Eevee would be a great candidate. She loves meeting new people, if they are sitting or standing all the better; she thinks they are waiting for her to give her pats.”

“I thought it was such a lovely idea to be able to bring a bit of joy to people who don’t have the chance to connect with beautiful puppies, it is a match made in heaven.” Like Plant, dozens of other volunteers have signed up to brighten the days of senior citizens across Australia’s aged care homes,” Plant added.

Bronwyn Mitchell, also volunteering at care homes with her greyhound rescue Sunny, said: “Sunny loves to interact with everyone who crosses our threshold and out in the community. He ensures they get their fair share of pats, neck rubs, wet nose nudges, and chin rests on their laps.

“Our clients love it and I’m sure at times they come to see Sunny, not us. So when I heard about the hounds helping humans, I just knew this was something Sunny was born to do, spreading his unconditional love to all he meets”.

Shelley Tinworth, who brought her greyhound Jessi to visit residents, believes the elderly greatly benefit from animal connections. Many probably had childhood pets and no longer have that companionship in the nursing home.

“When this program was announced, I thought Jessi would be perfect as she has so much love to give and is always happy to receive that back in return,” Shelley said.

For more information about the Hounds Helping Humans program, visit the Greyhound Rescue Facebook page.

Final Thoughts on Greyhounds Cheering Up People in Nursing Homes

The nonprofit Greyhound Rescue partnered with HammondCare to launch a program connecting elderly residents with therapy dogs. The pilot program initially had a few hiccups due to the pandemic, but the excitement never dissipated. Coordinators and volunteers ensured the program launched successfully, and residents couldn’t have been happier. Volunteers brought their greyhound rescues to the care homes for visits each week. Residents got to pet and play with the loving dogs, which helped ease loneliness and provided engagement opportunities. Greyhound Rescue hopes to expand the program in the future, and we can’t wait to see the results!

Psychology Explains 5 Reasons Why Kids Hate Doing Homework

September 25, 2022 by Lakeisha Ethans

Having kids is a full-time job; each period of their life has different struggles. When they are babies, they take up all your time and energy. Then, as they grow up, they become more independent. Because of that, things should become easier in time, right? But all parents know that’s not the case. So, as the children mature, they may develop an aversion to extra schoolwork.

They start having trouble with friends or even dealing with little crushes. But one of the most challenging aspects of a kid’s life is managing school work. In the first few years, it’s fun and easy. Kids can draw, read entertaining stories, learn the basics and make friends. But then, the dreaded homework comes into their lives.

You might have difficulty understanding why kids hate doing homework as an adult. Memories aren’t always accurate, so you might feel that you never struggled with doing it. But that’s not the case. All parents tend to portray themselves as successful to their kids. Still, saying that you didn’t hate homework is a lie.

Even you dreaded having to do the extra work the day you went to school. And your kids hate it just as much, if not more, because of the added pressure on them. If you don’t believe this to be a fact, you should look at all the psychological data supporting it. So, here are five psychological reasons why kids hate doing homework.

5 Reasons Why Kids Hate Doing Homework

Once you understand why your children don’t feel like more schoolwork, you will be better equipped to assist them.

1 – They are Already Tired And Don’t Want More Schoolwork

Contrary to popular belief, school work shouldn’t be a full-time job. But society still treats it as such. As a result, all students, especially high school students, are busy with schoolwork for at least thirty hours a week. And that’s on the lower end. In the first few years of school, kids have four to five classes daily, often followed by after school.

They start taking six to seven classes daily, extracurricular activities, and homework as they grow older. Hardworking students can study for up to 70 or 80 hours a week. This is crazy when you think that a high paying nine to five job only takes up 40 hours of someone’s week. And they are adults who work to earn money, not just little kids.

Even adults experience this. When they get home from work, they don’t want to hear anything about work for the rest of the day. So, why are we so surprised when kids don’t want to deal with any extra work after a full day? It’s insane to think that kids have to spend as much time as a full-time job (or more) to keep up with school. They are young and should have the time to be kids and live their lives.

But when you add the enormous amounts of homework, you can understand why they hate it. Kids are probably exhausted and want to stay in bed or hang out with friends after school. There’s nothing they dread as much as having to deal with even more schoolwork. So, as a result, they have little to no time to relax or even get enough rest.

As a parent, you need to ensure they don’t work themselves to exhaustion. Help them with homework when they are too busy and allow them to relax after school.

2 – Making Time to Do Their Homework Is Hard

It is essential to understand that kids find it hard to make time to do all their homework. On a typical day, they are expected to attend every class, do chores, hang out with family, and still find time for homework. If you made an adult handle this many responsibilities, they would find it hard to schedule time for everything.

As a kid, you don’t still have enough life experience to know how to be organized. When people start throwing more and more work at a kid, they’ll likely collapse under pressure. Even if your kid is academically inclined, it still doesn’t mean it’s easy for them to juggle doing everything. They might have even liked doing homework at some point when it was easy and short. But, as kids grow up, they will inevitably start hating homework.

Making the time to do homework usually means sacrificing the time to do other activities. Say they had waited weeks to go to a movie with their friends, but now they can’t because they have homework. That’s a sacrifice that’s incredibly hard for them to do. But usually, the parent would force them to choose schoolwork. Of course, they’ll grow to hate doing extra work when that disallows them from having fun. Parents should be wary of this and ensure they help their kids schedule time for school and fun or relaxing activities.

3 – Homework Can Be Very Boring

Let’s face it; many kids find homework useless and boring. And, in many cases, it can be. Maybe your kid is sure they want to work in a science field, like medicine. But, then, what’s the point of them writing a five-page history essay? Sure, you could argue that it’s for their general knowledge. But that’s not a strong argument, especially when you think they could be doing better things with their time.

And yes, it’s better if they choose to relax after being unable to for a day than to write an essay or do other additional schoolwork. Life is much more than getting straight As; parents should understand that. But they usually don’t, forcing their kids to do even the most useless extra work. Think about it; if someone forces you to do something incredibly boring, you will hate it. But, on the other hand, your kid may not have anything against the Renaissance era.

But they will after having to spend ten hours working on a project about it. Sometimes, too much homework can make kids hate a subject they used to love. For example, they could be fascinated by how the universe works but still refuse to do their physics homework. If that’s the case, you, as a parent, should consider that they find their schoolwork boring. In that case, please make an effort to make it interesting for them. Or at least give them rewards for doing that tedious work.

4 – Homework Doesn’t Usually Incentivise Creativity

One of the problems with the school system is that it doesn’t tend to reward creative people. And we’re not talking just about artistry here. That’s also an issue, but some schools try to reward artists. There are even special schools for arts, as you surely know. But on the other hand, some kids hate doing homework because they feel that the homework doesn’t reward their artistry.

A kid who is a great painter might hate doing science homework. But that doesn’t happen to everyone. But what is more common is kids feeling like they can’t be creative. Teachers think that good homework follows all the rules. But that means that kids who do things their way will never earn a reward. Worse, they might feel shame about going off the beaten path. For example, if they were asked to do an essay and did a beautiful video presentation, they would get an F.

Maybe they put in much more work than other kids. Perhaps they are passionate about videography and want to share this passion with their peers. But in our school system, this behavior is seen as rebellious. So these kids are beaten down until they fit into a box that the school wants them to fit in. Because of this, creative kids will grow to hate doing homework.

5 – Homework Isn’t Actually About Learning

Homework should be a way for kids to understand concepts they learned in class. If a kid struggles to do homework, the teachers should take the time to help them. Not knowing how to do their schoolwork shows that the kids are struggling and need extra help. Instead, homework is just a significant source of anxiety for most kids.

Students who don’t know how to do their homework might earn a bad grade that could ruin their GPA. Even if that doesn’t happen, they will probably get scolded and shamed in front of the class. Instead of being able to learn from their mistakes, they are taught that errors are unacceptable.

Homework is often just a way for some teachers to assign extra grades instead of being a learning tool. As a parent, don’t be surprised if your kids hate doing it. Remember that they are probably just scared of messing up. Instead, it would help if you took some time to help them overcome what they’re struggling with.

Final Thoughts on Some Reasons Why Kids Hate Doing Homework

One of the biggest hurdles in a student’s life is doing insane amounts of homework. And schoolwork is probably a significant contention between parents and their kids. So, if you only take one piece of advice from this article, remember to help your child out always. Even if you don’t understand them, do your best to help them.

There are many psychological reasons why kids hate doing homework. The most common one is that they are already tired after going to school for the day. So, the extra work is nothing but a burden that might not even help them. Not only that but doing it means sacrificing other activities. And, to be honest, homework can be very dull. Kids would much rather do something more interesting, like investing time in their hobbies.

As a parent, also be aware that your homework isn’t about learning and creativity. It’s sometimes just a way for teachers to grade students without much effort. So, if you find that your kid is apprehensive about doing homework, don’t chastise them. Instead, try to help them do it. You can even consider allowing them to skip doing it. Sometimes, it’s much more important for kids to live their lives instead of being locked up inside with a book all day.

30 Behaviors That Reveal an Emotionally Disconnected Partner

September 25, 2022 by Deborah Tayloe

Having an emotionally disconnected partner can be a challenge. While you had the best relationship initially, they’ve become distant as things have changed. Your emotional needs are no longer being met, and you seem like strangers due to this disconnection.

When there’s an emotional disconnect between you and your partner, it’s only natural that you wonder if it’s the end. You can work on things, but it will take both parties sorting the issues and trying to reconnect.

Thirty Signs of an Emotionally Disconnected Partner

If your partner is distant and seems like an entirely different person, you might suspect infidelity. You might also consider that they’re trying to head out the door. Here are some signs that the one you love has become emotionally disconnected from you.

1. An Emotionally Disconnect Partner May Stop Doing the Little Things

They no longer care about your happiness, and it’s easy to see. They’ve stopped doing all the little things that once made your life so much easier. It seems they could care less what’s going on with you.

2. You Lead Separate Lives Due to the Disconnection

Nowadays, it seems like you’re two ships that pass at night. They have their life, and you have yours. They don’t include you in their daily routine or their social calendar. This is a significant change as once you were inseparable.

3. They Don’t Put Any Effort into Your Relationship

You both know there are problems in the relationship, but they won’t try to fix things. They’re very disconnected from you, and your suggestions for counseling and other ways to repair things have fallen on deaf ears.

4. Emotionally Disconnected Partners Argue Frequently

Though they’re distant, they seem to show up for the arguments. You can’t have a normal conversation with them that doesn’t end in a dispute. They never seem to have a nice word to say to you, tearing you apart. Some nights, you dread coming home because it looks like you’re always going to fight.

5. There’s No Intimacy With Disconnection

They may sleep on the couch or stay far away from you on their side of the bed. There’s no intimacy, so they might as well be a roommate. There’s not much of a friendship anymore, either.

6. They Refuse to Discuss Their Feelings

You’ve tried to talk to them about what’s going on and their feelings, but they seem disconnected from the situation. They don’t want to talk about anything and deny something is wrong.

7. They Put Their Needs Ahead of Yours

Their needs are essential, but they don’t even consider yours. At one time, you did have a high ranking in their life, but these days they don’t even know you exist unless you’re fighting. They will bring home take-out and not ask if you wanted any, as they’ve also lost some consideration.

8. They’re Expecting Perfection from You

The more disconnected they’ve become from you, the more they expect. They want perfection as their overly critical nature is undeniable. They get upset about minor things, and they’re not acting like themselves.

You walk on eggshells when they’re around as they demand you be this perfect person who doesn’t exist.

9. An Emotionally Disconnected Partner Hides Things from You

You’ve caught them in lies, and they hide plenty of things from you. You’ve often thought they’re cheating. The fact that they’re so secretive these days causes you great alarm.

10. They Stonewall You Rather Than Discuss an Issue

When you confront them about an issue, they say everything is fine. However, they make snide comments under their breath that let you know that everything isn’t okay. According to the National Library of Medicine, this behavior is often caused by internal conflict during upbringing. In many instances, the person was abused as a child and shut off their emotions as a coping skill.

11. They Ignore You

You can be in the same room with them but feel alone. They don’t even acknowledge your presence these days. They ignore you and everything about you unless they pick a fight or are critical.

12. They Don’t Say “I Love You” Anymore

You can’t remember the last time they told you they loved you. They don’t show their emotions at all, as they’re disconnected.

13. They Don’t Like to Do Things with You

You’ve asked them to do things with you that you once both enjoyed, but they always have an excuse. It’s been months or even years since you’ve done things together.

14. Your Needs Aren’t Being Met

You have emotional, physical, and psychological needs, and none of these are being met. They’re so distant they don’t even know what you need or care to provide them.

15. There’s No Affection if You Are Emotionally Disconnected

There’s no hand holding, hugging, snuggling, or kissing. You have a disconnection of all affection. Not only have things cooled down in the bedroom, but you don’t touch or embrace them. They’re so distant that they feel like your roommate rather than a lover.

16. They Don’t Makeup After an Argument

They don’t try to smooth things over after an argument and refuse to apologize. They’ll just leave things the way they were and move on.

17. Emotionally Disconnected Partners Become Defensive

They’re very distant with you and get defensive when you bring up anything that might be wrong in the relationship. They don’t want to hear or talk about the issues.

18. There’s No Emotional Support

This person was once a shoulder to cry on and arms that embraced you. Now, they don’t seem moved by your tears or fears.

19. An Emotionally Disconnected Partner Refuses to Communicate

You’ve tried till you’re blue in the face to get them to communicate, but they won’t talk. You’re lucky to get one or two-word answers from them when you ask a question.

20. The Disconnection is One Sided

These days you’re the one putting in all the effort, and they seem to be doing little to keep the relationship going. It looks like they’re slowly slipping away.

21. They’re Going in a Different Direction

You both wanted the same things and were headed in the same direction, but suddenly you’re on different paths. Your futures and goals no longer align.

22. They Accuse You of Having “Over the Top” Emotions

Every time you try to communicate with them or discuss an issue, they tell you that you’re too intense or over the top. They act like everything you do is an overly emotional plea for them to straighten up.

23. You Get on Their Nerves Due to the Disconnection

It doesn’t matter what you do; you don’t seem to do it right. They act like you’re always on their nerves. They sign, roll their eyes, and work irritable when you’re around.

24. Emotionally Disconnected Partners Are Impatient

The once gentle soul you fell in love with now is infuriated and inpatient with you. They’ve also become demanding as they’ve become more emotionally disconnected.

25. You’re Often Given the Silent Treatment

They like to play games and give you the silent treatment. This is typically selfish and manipulative behavior. According to the National Library of Medicine, this is emotional abuse, and their disconnected stance is more damaging in some cases than physical abuse.

26. They Do Things to Sabotage Your Relationship

There have been times when you feel that they’re directly trying to sabotage your relationship. It’s as if they’re looking for a reason to leave.

27. They’re Overly Critical of You

According to them, you can’t even fry an egg right anymore. They go around all day pointing out your faults and telling you how you could do better. They’re so disconnected from you that they’ve become your drill sergeant.

28. An Emotionally Disconnected Partner Takes Their Stress Out on You

They take it out on you if they’ve had a bad day at work. No matter who did them wrong, you’re the one that bears the brunt of their rage.

29. There’s a Disconnection if They Want to “Fix” You

They’ve made it their mission to fix all the things that are wrong with you. The only time they will consent to counsel is to air all their grievances against you, but they don’t want to fix their issues.

30. You Don’t Know How They Will Behave Anymore

You always knew how they would react to situations. But now you hold your breath and pray that you don’t set them off for the minor things. You have no clue how they will react due to their distant behavior, so you tread lightly.

Final Thoughts on Emotionally Disconnected Partners

After reading through this list, do you see things that resonate with you and your situation? Are you thinking about calling it quits? A relationship must be 50/50; if one person puts in 100 percent of the effort, it will never work.

If your partner is willing to get help and try to repair the disconnection in the relationship, you have a fighting chance. However, you must understand that it may be time to move on if your emotionally disconnected partner has no interest in fixing things.

30 Behaviors Emotionally Connected Couples Show Each Other

September 25, 2022 by Chris Butler

Are you emotionally connected with your partner, or is your connection more physical? Some people mistake the two, but once you’ve developed an association that’s on an emotional or spiritual level, the relationship is more profound. Establishing an emotional connection is the foundation if you want a healthy relationship with your partner.

Thirty Signs of An Emotionally Connected Couple

When there’s no emotional bond, it can hinder complete happiness in your relationship. You can certainly build it even if you don’t have this association. Here are 30 things that people who are emotionally connected will display.

1. Emotionally Connected Couples Are Vulnerable To Each Other

Showing your vulnerabilities is essential in a relationship, as it means that you can be honest with one another. There’s no reason to put on a fake facade, as you can be who you are without fear. They will never look down on you for being genuine with them.

2. You Know It’s Okay to Re-Evaluate Your Relationship

Relationships grow and evolve, and when you’re emotionally connected, you know you will need to re-evaluate things to keep them stable. You welcome the ebbs and flows of life as long as you can be together.

3. Emotionally Connected Couples Are Friends First

An old saying states that friends make the best lovers, and you’ve found that true. If you’re not friends first, you will never have the emotional depth you need. Friendship is the best foundation for a deep dynamic link.

4. You’re Patient With Each Other

Patience is a challenging thing to master, but you’ve learned how to be slow to anger and understand your partner. You’re emotionally connected, so you’ve learned what they need and given them time. You realize that not everyone goes at your pace or does things in your time frame.

5. You’re Not Focused On “Fixing” One Other

Emotionally connected people know that you can’t fix one another, so they don’t waste their time trying. You accept one another for who and what you are, so there’s no need to change a thing. This doesn’t mean you negate self-growth, but you don’t try to fix someone perfect for you.

6. You Share Little Inside Jokes

You can always tell a couple that has a deep connection by the little inside jokes they have with one another. These people finish each other’s sentences and read one another’s minds. This is typically a bond that forms over time but reading each other like this shows an intense depth.

7. Emotionally Connected Couples Show Affection

Affection isn’t something that’s left for the bedroom, as you have no problems showing affection with one another wherever you are at. Just holding hands, hugging, or giving that smile to your partner lights up the room. Tasteful public displays of affection are commonplace.

8. You Know How They Will React or Behave in Most Instances

When you’re emotionally connected, you know how your partner will react to situations. You use this knowledge to your advantage to help keep things running smooth. It gives you an advantage in approaching them regardless of the situation.

9. You Have Completely Separate Lives Outside of the Relationship

You’re both secure enough within yourself that you can have friends and a life outside of one another.

10. You Talk Every Day and Have a Routine

You’ve developed a little routine that’s become special. You may call or text before work, at lunch, and before you leave to come home.

11. You’re Sympathetic and Empathetic

The emotionally connected couple will master sympathy and empathy, and you’re there for each other in every way possible. You’re a shoulder to cry on and will listen to them as they vent about their horrible day.

12. Emotionally Connected Couples Dream Together

One of the beautiful things about a couple with such a deep connection is that they dream together. You’re their lover now and in the future, so you plan together for your tomorrow.

13. You Leave the Past in the Past

You don’t use the past as a weapon to handle conflict. You like to let the bad stuff stay behind you and focus on a happy life and future together.

14. You Don’t Hide Your Quirks

Silly things like eating ketchup on potato chips might turn some people off, but you’ve learned that you can show your quirky side without fear.

15. You Both Can Sense When Something’s Wrong With One Another

The emotionally connected couple can sense if something isn’t right before the other person opens their mouth. You’re in tune on a higher level.

16. The Connection Isn’t Just Physical

While physical intimacy is great, there’s so much more to your connection than those things. You have a spiritual bond that goes much deeper. According to Northwestern Medicine Psychologist Dr. Sheehan Fisher, you must try to get everything you can out of a relationship. A good association with your partner means better well-being and quality of life.

17. There’s Constant Chemistry No Matter What’s Going On

Life’s great when you’re on vacation and doing something exciting, but you two have mastered how to have a great day even if you’re lounging. The constant chemistry between you two is undeniable.

18. You Both Feel Heard, Seen, and Accepted

Your partner listens to you, and you feel like they hear what you say. Even if they don’t understand, they accept you and see where you’re in life.

19. There’s Interest in Mundane Details

Emotionally connected people share even the most minor details about one another’s life, which doesn’t bore them. They care about all things, both big and small.

20. You Try to Understand Your Partner’s Perspective

You’ve found that putting yourself in their shoes for a minute helps you to understand them better. You never down them for having a differing opinion.

21. You Hold Each Other Accountable

If your partner makes a mistake, you don’t let it just escape you because you love them. You still hold each other accountable when you’ve done wrong.

22. You Don’t Just Want Your Partner – You Need The Connection

There’s a big difference between wanting someone and needing them, and you don’t know how you could survive without this person in your life.

23. You Know Each Other’s Ins and Outs

There’s nothing about this person you don’t know about, and you make it your mission to keep this deep association intact.

24. You Resolve Conflicts with Sound Logic

When you argue or deal with tough situations, you don’t let your emotions get the best of you. You resolve conflicts with sound logic and understanding and get the same in return.

25. You Share Connection in Every Detail of Your Life

They know about the time you fell off your bike and broke your arm in 2nd grade, and you know about the time they got suspended in school. Every detail of one another’s life is discussed.

26. There’s Physical, Emotional, or Mental Support

The support in a relationship that’s emotionally connected is much different than those that are only physical. You have the support that encompasses you mentally, emotionally, and physically.

27. You Trust One Another When You Have a Strong Connection

You know that anything they do is going to be for your betterment. They won’t talk about you behind your back, nor will they do anything to hurt you purposely.

28. You Care For One Another’s Needs

You care about each other’s wants and needs; if they need something, it becomes your problem too. You ensure that one another has their needs, even if it means you must go without something.

29. You Participate In Each Other’s Hobbies

While you may not like your partner’s hobby, you go along because you want to be with them. You don’t care if you’re on a golf course or swimming laps for endurance, as being beside them makes life better.

30. Emotionally Connected Couples Trust One Another With Their Secrets

You know your secret is safe with your partner so that you can open up the most intimate parts of your heart without reservation. There’s just something about them that makes you feel safe, and you’re at ease in their presence.

According to psychologist Chris Skellett, trust is like oxygen to a relationship. If you don’t have it, then your relationship won’t survive. He further states that relationships that lack trust deal with issues like suspiciousness, fear, and doubts.

Final Thoughts on Emotionally Connected Couples and How to Forge a Stronger Connection With Your Partner

It’s often said that people who are together for long periods morph into one another. Perhaps this is where the saying that when you get married, you become one came from.

You know when there’s a deep emotional connection with each other by the simple things like finishing each other’s sentences, knowing what’s going on by sensing their mood, and understanding one another’s hopes and dreams. Having this type of bond together is what makes relationships last.

20 Questions Parents of Kids With ADHD Should Ask Teachers

September 25, 2022 by Sarah Barkley

When school is in session, kids seemingly spend more waking time there than at home. With that being the case, discussing your child’s ADHD symptoms with their teacher is essential. It helps everyone involved, including your child, the teacher, and yourself, in helping to calm a child with hyperactivity.

Teachers get to know quite a bit about your child, but they can only understand so much unless you talk to them. It takes time for a teacher to adjust to each student, just like it takes your child time to get into the school routine. Many parents must also become comfortable with changes as each new year brings new challenges and expectations.

With everyone involved adjusting to and learning about one another, it’s essential to discuss your child’s ADHD and ask questions when necessary. Your child’s teacher wants to help them develop, so don’t hesitate to reach out.

It does not matter whether your child attends a new school or you want to improve communication with their current educational setting. Either way, asking these questions can help you get all the necessary information and gives the teacher a chance to ask for other details.

The Importance of Open Communication When You Are the Parent of a Child With ADHD

Without communication, you might dread parent-teacher conferences. It can leave you wondering if your child is paying attention and keeping up academically. These issues can cause anxiety, and knowing what to ask and areas to discuss will give you a sense of control.

Open communication allows you and the teacher to share information as it comes up. It can also help you have productive conferences that help your student have a beneficial experience. Extra information can help your child succeed in school, giving you relief and allowing the teacher to make adjustments as necessary.

What is ADHD?

ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, indicates a pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity. When the situation interferes with functioning or development, they may receive this diagnosis from a professional.

While researchers aren’t entirely sure what causes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, they believe genes and environmental factors play a role. There’s also the possibility that brain injuries and nutritional intake contribute to the symptoms.

Symptoms and Signs of ADHD

Experts indicate that the core symptoms of ADHD include:

hyperactivity
inattention
impulsivity

The signs of ADHD include the behaviors caused by the symptoms. You might notice the following:

difficulty staying on task
struggling to focus
inability to stay organized
constantly moving, even when it’s inappropriate or against the rules
excessively fidgeting, tapping, or drumming on objects
talking too much
restlessness
acting without thinking
lack of self-control
desiring immediate rewards and being unable to delay gratification
interrupting others
making decisions without thinking of the future or potential consequences
overlooking details and making careless mistakes
seemingly not listening when spoken to directly
not following through on instructions or finishing tasks
avoiding things that require mental effort
losing necessary items
being easily distracted
forgetting chores, errands, phone calls, or appointments
struggling to stay quiet when necessary
inability to wait for their turn

Children exhibit symptoms differently, which is another reason communication is so essential. When teachers know how your child displays hyperactive behavior, they can help sooner than when they figure it out alone.

What Helps a Child Calm Their Hyperactivity?

Children experiencing ADHD thrive in environments that are structured but flexible. They also do better when they develop positive relationships and role models. However, asking teachers questions and opening up offers enormous benefits to your child.

Questions Parents of Kids with ADHD Should Ask Teachers

Here are questions parents should ask of the educators in their public school system.

1 – What methods do you use when teaching children with ADHD?

Every child is different, and their symptoms will appear in different ways. Your child’s teacher might have familiarity with differing behaviors, so asking which methods they implement is beneficial. You’ll either realize that they already use methods that work with your child, or you’ll have a chance to explain your child’s differences.

You’ll also want to identify how the teacher handles hyperactive behavior. It can help you understand how they will approach your child if a situation arises.

2 – Does my child seem happy at school?

An essential aspect to discuss is your child’s well-being. Your child can thrive when they’re happy, and finding a way to make that happen can make a difference. It can boost their self-esteem and make them want to learn.

3 – Does the school have a procedure for interventions and supporting issues of difference?

A child experiencing ADHD will have different issues than other children. Ask about how the school handles these situations to help you grasp what you’re working with. It can also give you peace of mind if you hear procedures you support.

You can discuss specific issues and hear their feedback and plans. Another beneficial aspect of learning the procedures is asking about an IEP plan. Not all children experiencing ADHD needs an IEP, but it can be a helpful resource.

An IEP is an Individualized Education Program. Asking about it can help you understand how staff will help your child. It is for individual students who require extra support and flexibility. Parents work with teachers, administrators, and other educational support members to create an IEP.

4 – How can you encourage their interests and talents?

Keeping your child engaged and focused at school involves implementing their interests and strengths. Talk to your teacher about the things your child enjoys, and ask how they will use them to help your child. It will get your child talking about the task and improve their sense of self-worth.

5 – What can we expect from your class?

When you ask this question, discuss class size and seating arrangements. These aspects can make all the difference in your child’s success.

hyperactivity — Read about a Harvard professor who believes the diagnosis ADHD does not exist.

6 – Are there alternative options for unstructured time?

Many children experiencing ADHD need structure and routine in their day. Having other options available can help them stay on track without losing focus for the remainder of the day. It can also prevent hyperactive behavior during unstructured time.

7 – How can I help encourage active class participation?

Asking the teacher how you can help encourage your child to participate can make a difference. They might suggest things you can do at home to foster your child’s interest. There also might be things you can do in the morning before school to help your child focus and participate.

8 – What is the policy regarding ADHD medication?

It’s essential to ask this question if your child takes medication during school hours. You’ll feel better knowing if they’re prepared to give it to your child. Additionally, you can ask if they will monitor for side effects after your child takes medication.

9 – What are the homework arrangements?

Children with hyperactivity often take longer to do homework than other kids. They might struggle with time management, focus, and other essential aspects. Asking about the homework arrangements and discussing your child’s struggles can help everyone involved.

10 – Do you have suggestions for how I can help them stay caught up on their work?

Your child might not always finish school work, causing them to get behind. Asking your child’s teacher what you can do to help can make a difference in academic development. It also shows that you’re willing to do what you can to ensure the school year goes smoothly.

11 – How do you handle bullying?

Children experiencing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder often struggle with socialization. They don’t always recognize social cues, leading to irritating their peers. Asking what the teacher will do if it happens can help you feel better knowing your child is protected.

12 – Does all staff know about ADHD?

Your child’s teacher isn’t the only person who will be responsible for your child at school. Gym, art, STEM, music, and other teachers or employees will help your child develop. Asking the teacher if they all understand ADHD will help determine which employees you should talk to regarding your child.

13 – How often should we discuss my child’s progress?

Your child’s teacher might want to update you daily or opt for weekly updates. It could be best to check in weekly but ask for notice if your child has a bad day or disrupting experience.

Dealing with issues as they occur can help encourage your child’s success. However, you don’t want to disrupt the teacher too often. Find a timeframe that works well for both of you but allows you to feel comfortable.

14 – What is your preferred communication method?

Determining the quickest way to get ahold of your child’s teacher opens lines of communication. You’ll feel better knowing the teacher will see your message and respond when they get a chance.

The teacher might prefer phone, text, email, or a specific app. It ensures that you can regularly check the teacher’s preferred contact method for updates on your child. Knowing the preferred method increases the chances that issues don’t worsen before you and the teacher speak.

15 – Are there any behavior changes you see during the day?

Your child and their teacher spend many hours together every day. The teacher will notice behavior changes and learn when they occur. There might be specific triggers, including activities, people, or time of day.

16 – Are the teaching and learning arrangements flexible?

Children experiencing ADHD don’t learn the same way as other students and sometimes require more breaks. Ask about flexibility to know what you and your child are working with. It can help with time management and targeting specific learning difficulties.

17 – Do you recommend any specific resources for managing hyperactivity?

Teachers deal with many children and learn quite a bit along the way. They might be able to recommend specific resources that could help your child. Teachers want to help their students, so don’t hesitate to ask.

18 – Do you have a plan for students who struggle with taking tests?

Lack of focus can interfere with test-taking skills. Ask the teacher about a plan if you know your child struggles in this area. The teacher might be able to provide helpful assistance to children, and it’s beneficial to have an IEP in place for this.

19 – How much physical activity time will my child with ADHD receive?

Children need physical activity, and those experiencing ADHD benefit from frequent activity breaks. They can’t always focus well, so breaking their day up and allowing physical movement can make a difference.

20 – Is there a staff member who could mentor my child?

Sometimes children experiencing ADHD need more assistance than a teacher can offer during learning times. Having a mentor or aide can help your child stay on task and thrive in their environment.

Final Thoughts on Questions Parents of Kids with ADHD Should Ask Teachers

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is common and can interfere with your child’s well-being. However, staying in contact with your child’s teacher can make a difference. Don’t be afraid to ask questions because the discussions can help the teacher encourage your child throughout the day.

With routine and consistent role models in your child’s life, they can flourish academically and socially. Their experience might differ from other children’s, but it doesn’t have to be a constant struggle. Your child can thrive, you can feel comfortable, and your child’s teacher can be a guide when you can’t be there.

7 Steps to a Powerful Apology, According to Psychology

September 25, 2022 by Lakeisha Ethans

Apologizing is not as easy as it might seem at first. Sometimes, a simple “I’m sorry” does the trick. But other times, you need to do much more when you’ve genuinely hurt someone. If you want your apology to make an impact, you need to make an effort to craft it. And no, contrary to popular opinion, that doesn’t mean the apology is fake.

A well-constructed apology is no more or less genuine than any other apology. A simple apology can be the fakest thing possible. And a planned apology can be as sincere as it gets. But knowing the steps you need to take to construct a meaningful apology can make all the difference. You are less likely to be forgiven when you offer a fake apology.

Even if you are genuinely sorry, you must know what to tell people. If you want forgiveness, you must know how to communicate that properly. It also helps to have a plan because of how stressful and emotional these situations get. A guideline can help you when you stumble or choke up on your words.

Seven Steps to a Powerful Apology, According to Psychology

Apologizing is very hard because you want to ensure you are concise and clear. But, on the other hand, the last thing you want to do is create more issues because you don’t know how to communicate. So, if you want to know how to handle apologies better, psychologists recommend these seven steps.

1 – Acknowledge Your Mistake When Apologizing

There’s nothing worse than receiving an apology from someone who doesn’t even acknowledge they made a mistake. Right from the bat, you can feel just how fake that apology is. If you say “I’m sorry” to get out of trouble, that doesn’t mean much. Even if you temporarily get off the hook, problems will return.

So, for a good apology, the first thing you need to do is recognize your mistake. Then, listen to the one you’ve hurt and see where they’re coming from. They will tell you what the problem was and why they got mad. And you need to keep an open mind and understand what you did wrong. As soon as you do, you’ll be able to empathize with the one you’ve hurt. That way, you’ll be able to construct a better, more genuine apology.

2 – Be Honest and Authentic in Your Apology

The most important factor of a good apology is being honest. No matter how well-crafted your apology might be, no lie could compare to the truth. Admitting your fault goes a long way. Even if it’s scary to admit that you messed up, it’s the best way you can move forward. But before being honest with someone else, you must be genuine.

After you make a mistake, your instinct might be to get defensive. You might want to make excuses and do anything to save face. You might even try to convince yourself that lying to them might be the best option. After all, what they don’t know can’t hurt them. Well, wrong. Remember that the truth will always come to the surface.

It’s always better to acknowledge what you did and own up to your mistakes. Of course, the worst thing that could happen is not getting the forgiveness you seek. But at least you know you were honest up until the end.

3 – Apologize as Soon as Possible

One of the best things you can do if you want to have the best apology is to do it as soon as you can. The more you delay it, the less genuine it might seem. Sure, people need time to process and decide whether to forgive them. But that doesn’t mean you should put off saying that you’re sorry. They can have all the time to process after you’ve apologized.

Just because apologies are awkward doesn’t mean you should put them off. As soon as you do it, you’ll feel lighter. Plus, you’ll prove you’re genuine when you do it quickly. It will show that you care more about the other’s feelings than yours. It will also confirm that there’s nothing you want more than to fix things.

If you keep delaying, the other person will think you don’t care about them. It will just make them feel neglected and hurt their feelings more. So, to avoid all these potential issues, make an effort to apologize.

4 – Show That You Regret What You Did

It isn’t much you can do to make someone refuse to forgive you. Aside from the worst crimes against humanity, you’ll always have the opportunity to make amends. But the other person won’t take your apology seriously if you don’t show your regret for what happened.

Regret is not an emotion that anyone likes to feel. But it’s imperative to handle it if you want to move on. Regret shows that you understand what you did and how it affected others. It shows that you empathize and you want to make things better. Regret comes from knowing that what you did was wrong and wishing you could take it back.

And, when you genuinely regret something, it shows. People can hear it in your voice and see it in your actions. So, when you apologize, show that you regret what you did. Take responsibility for your actions and show the other person that you understand the pain you caused.

5 – Listen

When you give an apology, you aren’t talking to a wall. You are communicating with an actual human who has the right to speak. And you should be aware that an apology is more than words. It’s not supposed to be a monologue. Instead, it should be a conversation. You might start the apology by talking about something, only to discover that the real issue is something else. But you can only learn that by listening. If you genuinely want to solve problems, you need to give the other person the opportunity to talk.

But listening isn’t just good because it allows the other to tell you precisely what bothered them; it’s also a kind and moral thing to do. Whenever you apologize, you need to ask the other person how they feel. This discussion will make them feel heard and cared for. Sometimes, the loudest message you can send is silence. Let them vent about how they felt. Allow them to get all the negative stuff out. After they get their chance to talk, you’ll find it much easier to fix things.

6 – Make Some Changes in Your Behavior

Sometimes, actions do speak louder than words. And no, this is not just a cheeky catchphrase. It means a lot for the person you’ve hurt to see that you’re willing to change. Sure, you can’t change everything about yourself overnight. And you shouldn’t have to. You should only change the toxic parts of your behavior.

True, you won’t be able to prove that you have changed when you apologize. And that’s because you didn’t have the time to make the necessary changes. But you can at least promise to become better. This is why communication is so vital, even when apologizing. You must be willing to accept the change even before talking to the person you’ve hurt.

But you also need to keep an open mind and tell them what else you can do to improve. That’s not to say you should accept to do anything so that they can forgive you. Just because you made a mistake doesn’t mean you deserve to be hurt and changed. You still need to respect yourself. Sure, you need to take action to become better. But don’t let anyone stomp all over you.

7 – Don’t Expect an Apology In Return

In most fights, both parties carry their part of the blame. Sometimes, it’s equal. Other times, one of you did more harm than the other. And other times, it might be the fault of only one of you. Still, blame and hurt aren’t something that can or should be quantified. So as long as you messed up, you need to apologize and make things right. And one thing you should never do is expect something in return.

Even if you were hurt, you should never apologize because you are trying to force an apology out of the other person. Your apology should be genuine and selfless. Your intentions should be to make the other person feel better and make things right. Sure, if the other person doesn’t own up to their mistakes, you won’t be able to move on. But whether they apologize or not is their choice. All you can do is be genuine and sincere and own up to your mistakes.

Final Thoughts on Following the Seven Steps to a Powerful Apology

Apologizing is never an easy thing to do. You can never be sure you’re doing it right or that it will be effective. Still, you must be brave and ask for forgiveness when you mess up. And you shouldn’t apologize in the hopes that the other person will forgive you. If you want your apology to be powerful, it needs to be selfless and genuine. You need to do it because you are genuinely sorry, not just because you want their forgiveness.

You need to understand what you did wrong. Own up to your mistakes and understand how your actions impacted the other. The person you are apologizing to will feel this empathy. It will make your apology genuine and believable. You need to be honest and apologize as soon as possible. Don’t let things simmer and get worse. You also need to show remorse for what you did.

This works particularly well when you try to be a better person. A good apology also includes listening and seeking the other person’s input. Lastly, remember not to seek an apology in return. If they are sorry, they will apologize when they are ready. If you try to force it out of them, things will backfire.

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