By Eddie Jones, partner and head of medical negligence, JMW Solicitors

As parents, our utmost desire is for our children to be safe, healthy and content as they grow. However, there are times when unexpected health conditions, such as cerebral palsy, can influence our child’s development.

Cerebral palsy is a serious condition that arises due to brain damage sustained during pregnancy, around the time of birth or during the newborn period, resulting in lifelong physical and cognitive impairments. Early detection is essential to ensure your child receives the most suitable care.

To support parents in identifying the signs and symptoms of cerebral palsy in their babies, we have prepared this guide.

Cerebral palsy: the basics

Cerebral palsy comprises a group of disorders caused by damage or abnormal development in the part of the brain responsible for movement, balance and posture. It is estimated that around 30,000 children in the UK live with cerebral palsy, with 2-2.5 out of every 1,000 babies developing the condition.

The symptoms of cerebral palsy can vary significantly from one individual to another, ranging from mild limb weakness to severe muscle spasms that inhibit movement. Common long-term health issues associated with cerebral palsy include:

  • Physical weakness, stiffness and difficulties with muscle tone and spasticity
  • Irregular posture, poor coordination and impaired fine motor skills
  • Swallowing difficulties
  • Communication and speech challenges
  • Learning difficulties

The exact causes of cerebral palsy are not always identifiable. However, it may result from certain genetic factors, prenatal trauma or other causes, such as:

  • Bleeding in the baby’s brain, or insufficient blood and oxygen supply during a challenging birth
  • Infections affecting the mother during pregnancy
  • Infections affecting the baby, such as meningitis
  • A severe head injury during infancy
  • Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar)
  • Kernicterus/hyperbilirubinemia

Recognising the signs of cerebral palsy in infants

Cerebral palsy signs and symptoms usually develop during the first few years of a child’s life, and may differ depending on the type of cerebral palsy and the child’s age. To help you identify potential signs of cerebral palsy, we have broken down the symptoms by age group.

For infants younger than six months:

  • Your baby may feel stiff or floppy when held
  • Your baby’s head may sag when picked up from lying on their back
  • When held, your baby might overextend their back or neck, giving the impression of pushing away from you
  • Your baby’s legs may stiffen and cross when picked up

For infants aged between six and 10 months:

  • Your baby may struggle to roll over when lying down.
  • Your baby might have difficulty bringing their hands together or raising them to their mouth
  • Your baby may reach out with one hand, while the other remains balled in a fist

For infants older than 10 months:

  • Your baby’s crawling might appear lopsided and uncoordinated, with some limbs dragging behind them
  • Instead of crawling, your baby might resort to hopping on their knees or dragging themselves by their hands in a seated position

As a parent, it is also crucial to monitor your child for any developmental delays. For example, if your child has not learned to sit after eight months or walk after 18 months, this could potentially indicate cerebral palsy or a related disorder.

If you suspect your baby may be displaying signs of cerebral palsy, then seek medical advice. Do not hesitate to ask your doctor questions so you can understand all of your available options. With early intervention and appropriate care, you can improve your child’s chances of achieving a positive outcome.

Treatment and care for children with cerebral palsy

The treatment and management of cerebral palsy depend on each child’s specific needs; by choosing the right option for each individual, it is possible to significantly improve the quality of life for children with cerebral palsy.

Some of these interventions include:

  • Physiotherapy to help build muscle strength and promote more natural movement
  • Speech and language therapy to address communication difficulties and assist with swallowing issues
  • Occupational therapy to provide support with daily tasks
  • Medication to manage physical symptoms, such as stiff or tight muscles, which can improve comfort and mobility
  • Educational support tailored to the child’s needs, including accommodations within special or mainstream schools, to ensure they receive an appropriate education
  • Surgery to address orthopaedic issues that may arise due to the condition

If you suspect that medical errors during pregnancy, birth, or the newborn period contributed to your child’s cerebral palsy, it is essential to consult a specialist medical negligence solicitor. They can help you explore financial compensation options, which can assist with covering the costs associated with treatment, equipment and additional support services your child may require throughout their life.

Ultimately, an early diagnosis can be crucial in empowering families to make well-informed decisions about their child’s care and treatment. Early intervention provides parents with an opportunity to discuss various treatment options, set achievable goals for their child’s development, and seek professional advice and support.

Facing the possibility of a cerebral palsy diagnosis can be incredibly challenging and frightening for parents, but your love, understanding and support can make a world of difference in helping your child to navigate the challenges they may face. By staying informed and proactive, you are equipping yourself with the knowledge and tools needed to help your child maximise their potential.

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In today’s digital world, we constantly generate and consume a staggering amount of content daily. From videos and photos to documents and financial records, our digital assets have become an indispensable part of our lives. As a small business, it is easy to get overwhelmed by the volume of data management required as you create, edit and distribute your content. Recent research has also highlighted the need for proper digital asset management to avoid loss of time and money, poor asset accessibility, and so on. Below are the top nine strategies for managing your digital assets.

1. Audit your digital assets

it’s essential to audit your digital assets regularly to ensure that your digital footprint is accurate and up-to-date. Begin by creating a comprehensive list of all your digital assets, encompassing an array of files, accounts, and devices. It’s crucial to meticulously scrutinise each item on the list, evaluating whether they are still relevant, modern, and secure. Eradicate any files or accounts that are surplus to requirements, upgrade passwords and software, and confirm that all devices are fortified with up-to-the-minute security software. 

Integrating digital asset management tools can streamline and coordinate your digital assets more efficiently. By continuously reviewing and auditing your digital assets, you can maintain your organisational structure, safeguard your personal information, and protect your digital identity against malicious activity.

2. Create a digit asset management plan 

To create a top-notch strategic plan for managing your digital assets, you must identify the ones integral to your business needs. Such assets may comprise valuable documents, intellectual property, and financial records. Once you have identified them, the next crucial step is determining the optimal way to store, back up, and safeguard them. You may leverage cloud-based storage solutions, invest in external hard drives, or use high-end digital asset management software. Establishing strict protocols for creating and sharing new digital assets, such as access permissions, standard file naming conventions, and document version control, is essential.

3. Assign team roles

Digital asset management is not a job for one person. You must give distinct responsibilities to your team members and their required rights. For instance, you can create a governance team to help you develop, execute, monitor, and scale your digital assets management system. You can also assign roles to digital asset managers to be in charge of all aspects of the daily operations of your company’s digital asset ecosystem. Remember to train your teams. It will be extremely expensive if your employees cannot utilise the assets or spend longer than necessary keeping and retrieving them.

4. Incorporate DAM in your branding 

Aside from supplying content to the transient audience, branding material can make a ton of difference in gaining your consumers’ trust and loyalty. Make digital assets an integral and consistent element in your brand experience. For instance, you may use them to establish a link between your online and offline operations, such as prospect data collection during exhibits and subsequently using it as follow-up invites to webinars. Your prospects are less prone to go cold if they recognise your brand through digital assets management. 

5. Manage digital assets from a single source

Provisioning your digital assets from a sole source can offer a streamlined and simplified process for managing your digital assets. A centralised platform allows you to access and manage all your digital assets, including files, documents, images, and videos, from one place. For instance, you may easily use platforms like Swissmoney to manage all your digital assets from anywhere. The strategy can also be helpful if you seek ways to boost team collaboration while ensuring every team member works with the most updated asset versions. Moreover, maintaining consistency across all digital assets can make asset management and organisation easier. 

6. Save time by automating workflows

It is undeniable how much time automation can save you by replacing manual jobs. Automating many digital assets management processes, such as tagging and file format conversion, can be time-saving. You may configure the tool to automatically handle and avoid manual tasks, so feel free to consider this. You can automatically apply fresh changes and make needed changes if you deliver your digital assets from the automation system.

7. Implement a dependable security procedure

Protecting your digital assets is one of the crucial steps if your business utilises blockchain-backed investable types such as NFTs, cryptocurrencies, asset-backed tokens, and tokenised real estate. Consider the consequences if hackers steal or erase critical digital assets like product photographs or marketing brochures. Your efforts and money spent on generating such items will be lost, and your organisation’s capacity to sell items and create income will be severely affected. There’s also the problem of theft of intellectual property to consider. Unsurprisingly, the UK MoD turned to hackers to identify and report vulnerabilities to secure its digital assets. If malicious actors acquire or exploit them, it can result in severe financial loss and a loss of competitiveness for your firm.

8. Keep an eye on your product analytics

Analytics is vital in digital asset management because it allows you to measure performance and acquire insights about how your clients and stakeholders utilise them. Using this knowledge, you can readily find shortcomings and make data-driven judgments to optimise. Do you own an ecommerce business? Top tactics to ensure actionable analytics include defining your metrics, data visualisation, A/B testing, and so on. These approaches enable you to identify the assets contributing more to your bottom line and adjust your strategy accordingly.

9. Consider new technologies

With the present new tech emerging almost daily, you risk losing to your competitors if technology leaves you behind. While all the above are legit strategies to manage your digital assets, you can improve them significantly with new technologies. Technology is the bedrock of every business today, and your industry isn’t spared. You may integrate cutting-edge technologies like AI and machine learning into your digital management procedures. Meanwhile, several organisations are building AI-powered blockchain intelligence systems for privacy, risk, and compliance, which can assist in improving digital asset security.

 

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It’s not uncommon for people to start a side hustle, especially when they’re a little cash-strapped. In many cases, this can go relatively well. So well, they could consider wanting to turn it into a full-time business. You can be your own boss, after all, and the money could be more than worth it.

Turning your side hustle into a full-time business can be a stressful process and take a lot of work, though. While that’ll always be the case, there are ways to make it easier for yourself, especially with a few specific tips. If you’re on the verge of taking your side hustle full-time, three tips are more than worth focusing on.

Turning Your Side Hustle Into A Full-Time Business: 3 Smart Tips

1. Scale The Right Way

When you’re turning your side hustle into a full-time business, you’ll need to scale things up. That means getting more work, clients, and much more. It’s tempting to try to get as much on board as you can as quickly as possible. That mightn’t always be the best approach, as it mightn’t be sustainable.

Starting off small and growing sustainably can be much better recommended. Not only will you have a consistent income, but you’ll make sure you’re doing everything the right way. It avoids mistakes and lets you do your job properly.

One way you could scale the right way is to find a franchise opportunity that encompasses your hobby. Have a look at some of the choices from franchise local.

2. Know Your Costs

Your side hustle will come with various costs, but these will depend on the hustle itself. You’ll need to know exactly what these costs are. If you’re shipping multiple products, for example, you could need to use a freight class calculator for NMFC codes.

As you’re turning it into a full-time business, you should expect these to go up. By knowing what your costs are, you can figure out how much you need to charge to make an actual income. Your profits will be what ends up staying in your bank account, so make sure you have enough.

3. Avoid Burnout

Burnout is a noticeable risk when you’re running a business, especially when you’re starting it from scratch. You’ll have countless things to look after while also worrying about your costs, income, and multiple other factors. Even when you’re juggling a full-time job and a side hustle, it can be exhausting.

Take the time to avoid burning out, as this has a significant impact on your mental and physical health. It also means your work – and your side hustle – will suffer for it. Avoid the temptation to work constantly and take the time to rest and relax so you can look after yourself.

Turning Your Side Hustle Into A Full-Time Business: Wrapping Up

Turning your side hustle into a full-time business can be a stressful and complicated process, but there are ways of making it easier. Using the right tips makes sure that’s the case. Avoiding burnout, scaling up the right way, and knowing your costs are some of the more notable of these.

With how appealing turning your side hustle into your main income can be, there’s no reason not to put the effort into them.

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As parents, we all strive to give our children the best education possible – however, that doesn’t always call for expensive private schools. Instead, with a bit of ingenuity and commitment, you can arm your child with an exceptional educational experience right at home! Here are eight easy ways to provide your child with an educational boost without leaving the house:

1. Encourage Reading: 

Reading is a cornerstone of any child’s education and development. Not only does it open their minds up to new adventures, but it also helps them grow in terms of language knowledge and comprehension abilities. To get your child reading, designate time each day for you two to read together or go on regular library visits where they can pick out books that appeal to them most. Afterwards, ask questions about what they have just read – this will spark more interest in the text!

2. Use Educational Videos: 

Keeping your child’s attention can be quite a feat, but educational videos are an excellent way to stimulate their interest and teach them something new. From elements for kids to coding for preteens, there is no shortage of options when it comes to online sources of educational content. Moreover, YouTube channels dedicated exclusively to age-appropriate learning materials make finding the right video easier than ever!

3. Take Educational Field Trips: 

Field trips are a great way to give your child an immersive learning experience in real-world settings. Visit places like museums and zoos with your child and discuss the different animals or artefacts they encounter along the way. If you cannot leave your home, virtual field trips are becoming increasingly popular, with many museums now providing online tours of their exhibitions. You can also invest in VR headsets to experience the world 360 degrees right from your living room.

4. Introduce Arts & Crafts: 

By engaging in arts and crafts, children can learn fundamental skills such as cutting and glueing paper shapes while simultaneously stimulating their creativity. Furthermore, art activities allow them to express themselves through artistic means. To begin crafting projects with your child, start off small by introducing drawing exercises before progressing onto more intricate tasks like constructing models or fabricating paper mache sculptures!

5. Incorporate Games: 

Games are an entertaining and effective tool for teaching your child many skills. For example, board games like Monopoly or Scrabble teach the fundamentals of financial management, while card games such as Uno assist in developing counting and deduction prowess. Even video game titles can be used to hone their minds – modern releases come equipped with engaging puzzles, mini-games, and more that will challenge them mentally.

6. Practice Writing: 

Writing is a crucial skill that every child should have, and it will prove to be valuable in upcoming tests or assignments. To help your kid build up their writing proficiency, give them various daily prompts for penning down ideas. For example, you can ask them to write about their day or describe a special event that recently occurred. Then, as they get more confident in their writing, assign longer essays and reports for them to tackle.

You could even suggest they maintain a journal to record their emotions and musings. Journalling is a fantastic way for kids to practise their spelling and grammar while simultaneously exploring their inner thoughts and feelings.

7. Attend Online Classes: 

If you’re searching for additional guidance to bolster your child’s education, sign them up for virtual courses. The web provides an “ocean” of educational encounters that can be tailored to meet their individual needs and interests. From mathematics, English, and science as well as music lessons, cooking classes, or coding exercises – there are many suitable classes available, so you can surely find something perfect for your child. 

8. Reflect and Celebrate Progress: 

Don’t forget to reflect on your child’s accomplishments every couple of weeks. Reassess their progress through questionnaires or even just chat with them about what they have learned lately; a bit of recognition will go far in boosting their motivation! And make sure you celebrate all milestones reached – it is these moments that are the most rewarding for both parent and child.

Giving your child an educational boost from home doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. With the right combination of activities, you can give your child a quality education that is tailored to their needs and interests. So why not start today? After all, it takes more than just sending your children off to school for them to receive a good education – it also requires proper guidance and instruction from home. So with that in mind, it’s time to start on the path towards success! 

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Adding a skylight to your roof is a great way to transform your living place and bring your home to the next level. However, skylights or any other types of roof openings are not suitable for every home. First of all, it goes without saying these are only suited for houses and rooftop loft apartments. Yet, adding a window opening to your roof can bring new challenges and improvements to your home. 

Therefore, there are a few important considerations that you need to take into account. In this blog post, we will look at all the things to consider before adding skylights to your roof and how to figure out if they are right for you. 

Can I fit a skylight?

Does it add value?

When considering adding a skylight to your roof, one of the first questions you should ask yourself is whether it will add value to your property. The answer is a resounding yes! Skylights add a unique aesthetic to any home and can even increase the resale value of your house. When contemplating the addition of a skylight to your roof, don’t overlook the aesthetic appeal of gable pediments. These decorative elements can enhance the overall look of your roofing structure.

Skylights add an element of visual attraction to the property, making it more valuable in the eyes of buyers. It is important to note that adding skylights does not necessarily translate into a price increase in the real estate market. However, buyers looking for unique architectural designs and features are willing to make high price offers for skylights. 

Not only do they make your home more visually appealing, but they are also associated with increased well-being. As such, they can dramatically improve your interior even if there is no significant change in decor. Many homeowners associate roof openings with freshness, cleanliness, and healthiness. It is a massive psychological improvement in a home. So where is the value in psychological boost? As surprising as it might sound, feeling better and healthier in your home can boost your household income as you are less likely to splurge on comforting options such as junk food or unnecessary shopping.

Finally, there are also measurable advantages to skylights that can positively impact your energy bills, electricity, and even your physical health. 

Is it suitable for your roof?

When it comes to determining whether or not your roof is suitable for a skylight, there are a few important factors to consider. The most important thing to consider is the type of roof that you have. Generally, flat or low-sloped roofs are best suited for skylights. However, there are other types of roofs that can also accommodate skylights, including gable and hip roofs. 

It is important to ensure that your roof’s structure can handle the weight of a skylight before installation. Adding a roof opening also increases the weight your structure needs to carry. With this in mind, it is best to consider a full audit of your structural features, especially for older properties. 

You should also ensure that your roof has adequate ventilation to prevent the buildup of moisture and humidity, which can cause rot and damage to your roof over time. Skylights can increase humidity levels in roof structures already affected by moisture buildup and poor ventilation. Take the time to consider your under-roof health and resolve existing problems before adding an opening. 

Should I get a skylight?

Finally, you should take into account the weather conditions of your area when selecting a skylight. Make sure to select a skylight with an

It will transform your lighting needs

Installing a skylight in your home can be a great way to let in more natural light. Skylights bring in significantly more natural light than traditional windows, which means that you can potentially reduce your lighting costs significantly. 

When installing a skylight, you should pay attention to the amount of sunlight that you allow in. Depending on the size of the skylight and its location, too much sunlight can cause unwanted glare and heat buildup. To prevent this, it is important to choose the right type of skylight for your needs. For example, you can install a skylight with a special coating that reduces the amount of sunlight that comes through. You can also choose to install automated blinds or shades to control the amount of light that comes through. 

Adding a skylight can also help to create a more pleasant atmosphere in your home. Natural light is known to improve mood and reduce stress levels. It can also bring warmth to any room, which is especially useful during the winter months. 

Cleaning them

When you add a skylight to your roof, you will want to ensure it stays clean and clear. Over time, the accumulation of dirt, dust, and other debris can obscure the view of the sky and reduce the amount of light that enters your home. That’s why you need to consider how to keep your skylight clean and the best cleaning strategies.

One easy way to keep your skylight clean is to use a soft cloth or brush to remove any dirt and dust from the surface. This should be done from both the outside and the inside. You may also want to use a mild detergent and water solution for tougher spots. Make sure that you dry off any liquid solutions with a soft cloth so as not to leave any streaks.

Depending on the location of your skylight, you may also need to get up on a ladder and clean the glass with a squeegee or window-cleaning tool. Some skylights can also come with self-cleaning glass technology. 

It’s also important to note that some skylights come with special coatings that require additional care when cleaning. These coatings can help keep out UV rays, reduce heat loss, or provide other benefits. 

Different design options

When it comes to adding a skylight to your roof, there are two main design options: a flat roof opening and a pyramid-shaped skylight. Flat roof openings are the more traditional choice, and they can easily be integrated into your existing roof without major modifications. Pyramid-shaped skylights, on the other hand, offer a modern aesthetic and more light diffusion than flat roof openings. Regardless of the shape, all roof openings will require professional quality glazing bars that provide a waterproof seal. It is worth investigating professional solutions, such as those from Clear Amber Shop, to figure out the best approach for your design. 

Flat roof openings are ideal for small spaces, such as bathrooms and hallways, as they can be installed in tight and dark spaces to increase natural light. They also don’t require any extra structural support, and they offer greater control over the amount of sunlight that enters the space. 

Pyramid-shaped skylights are usually made of glass or acrylic panels, and they offer a contemporary look that’s perfect for larger rooms like living rooms and bedrooms. These skylights come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can customise them to fit your specific needs. They also diffuse light better than flat roof openings, so you can get more natural light in your space. 

Different types of skylights offer different benefits, and the right one for you will depend on your unique needs and preferences.

Insulation considerations

When installing a skylight, it’s important to take into account the possible insulation issues that may arise. A skylight can significantly decrease the efficiency of your insulation, making it essential to ensure your new skylight will not affect your home’s energy efficiency. 

The most effective way to prevent insulation issues is to ensure the skylight is properly sealed and insulated. This includes checking and improving existing insulation features before the installation. Additionally, you should use high-grade sealing solutions, as explained above, between the frame and the roof decking. 

Noise considerations

When considering the installation of a skylight, it is important to consider noise pollution that can come from outside. It is also important to be aware of the noise you might experience inside the home with a skylight.

Noise from outside can include traffic, aircraft, or other external sounds. These sounds can travel through a skylight and into the home, creating an unwelcome distraction. This is a problem for skylights that can be opened for ventilation. But it can also affect your household even when the roof openings are shut. To reduce this noise pollution, homeowners should ensure that their skylights are properly sealed and insulated. In addition, window treatments can help absorb sound waves and block out some of the noise.

It is important to consider whether the occupants of the home are more vulnerable to noise pollution, such as children, pets, or those with hearing impairments. If so, it may be necessary to avoid skylights altogether or use noise-cancelling earplugs if you are concerned about external noise. As a rule of thumb, roof openings are not designed to let more noise inside your home. However, due to their nature, they can be less soundproof than traditional roof structures. So, if you have a skylight inside your home office or bedroom, noise-cancellation tools may be a great addition to your everyday comfort! 

In conclusion, while skylights can be a fantastic addition to your home architecture, it is essential to prepare for them. They can be advantageous in cutting lighting costs down. However, improper preparation can drive high energy costs and affect your comfort. 

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summer gardening tips

As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, it can only mean one thing — summer is on its way! With more outdoor gatherings and backyard BBQs coming up, now is the perfect time to spruce up your outdoor living space. In this blog post, we’ll share our top tips for transforming your backyard or patio into the perfect spot for summertime fun.

Give Your Patio or Deck a Thorough Cleaning

The first step in getting your outdoor space ready for summer is to ensure that your patio or deck is clean and free from any debris. Start by sweeping away leaves, dirt, and other debris, and then give the area a thorough scrubbing. Use a power washer or high-quality deck cleaner to remove any built-up grime, algae, or other unsightly stains. If your wood deck is looking particularly worn, consider giving it a fresh coat of paint or stain to help protect it from the elements and enhance its appearance.

Invest in Comfortable Outdoor Seating and Add Shade

Comfortable seating is essential for any outdoor living space. Before the summer season begins, take the time to test out your existing outdoor furniture and replace it if necessary. Look for durable, weather-resistant furniture that is also comfortable and inviting. This can be accomplished by investing in a sturdy umbrella, installing a retractable awning, or building a pergola. Shade is not only essential for keeping yourself and your guests cool but also helps protect your outdoor furniture from fading under the harsh sun.

Set Up a Dedicated Area for Outdoor Cooking and Dining.

If you enjoy al fresco dining, take advantage of the warm summer months by setting up an outdoor cooking and dining area. Invest in a high-quality grill or consider building a permanent outdoor kitchen complete with a built-in grill, fridge, and countertops. For dining, opt for a sturdy outdoor dining set that can accommodate your family and guests comfortably. Incorporate a decorative centerpiece or hanging lights to create a welcoming atmosphere for casual meals or more formal gatherings.

Make Sure Everything is Running Well

It also pays to make sure all the amenities are running well. A hot tub is a great source of relaxation and leisure, but if the heating is faulty then it won’t get much use. Make sure to bring in hot tub maintenance just in time for summer. Not only that but facing a cold night in front of your fire pit becomes so much more pleasant with a roaring fire that sweeps away any chill in the air. However, you need to check regularly that fuel bricks or charcoal briquettes aren’t running low so that you can keep said flame burning.

Create Ambiance With Lighting and Decor

Nothing sets the mood for a relaxing summer evening quite like soft, ambient outdoor lighting. String lights are a popular and affordable option for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Hang them around your seating area, wrap them around trees or fence posts, or line the edges of your patio or deck for a stunning effect. Also consider adding colorful outdoor pillows and cushions to your seating arrangement, as well as a few potted plants or flowers to bring life to your space.

 

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Squishing the sand between your toes, paddling in the ocean, and lying out and catching some rays are all great reasons to choose a beach holiday as your next vacation. The good news is you can make your next beach break even more fun by doing the things suggested below. Read on to find out what they are. 

Beach holiday ideas

Book some on-beach accommodation 

First of all, to enhance your next beach holiday you may wish to consider splashing out on some on-beach accommodation. This doesn’t mean staying at a hotel that is on the beachfront (Although this can be very convenient if you plan to spend most of your time on the sand during our break. Indeed, the shorter the distance from your hotel to the beach the better.) 

Instead, we’re talking about things like beach huts, and cabanas that you can lease for the duration of your holiday. Beach huts tend to be very much a UK thing and were often seen as a bit kitsch. However, there has been a recent surge in their popularity when families realized it means spending a whole day at the beach is a lot easier, especially if they come with electricity so you can boil a kettle and make cups of tea. 

Cabanas on the other hand tend to be located in more tropical or exotic locations. You will find that some are hut-like with walls and a roof, while others are more like soft comfortable double sunbeds with shades and curtains for privacy and protection from the sun. 

Pick a new swimsuit

Looking and feeling comfortable on your next beach holiday is crucial to your enjoyment of the day so that means spending some time finding a swimsuit that you love. You may even want to buy two so you have one to wear while the other dries after washing. Making sure the kids have enough swimwear will make your whole experience much easier too! 

Boost your diving skills 

Another thing that you may want to do before your next beach holiday is to brush up on your diving skills. After all, vacationing in a beautiful beach location often comes with the opportunity to scuba dive and see some of the most awe-inspiring underwater sites. 

Fortunately, you can easily Enhance your diving skills with training like this Advanced dive course that you can take in a single weekend. It’s only two days long so that means you can advance your scuba skill to include open water and boat diving while only needing to stay away from home for a night! 

Invest in some beach games and entertainment 

While many people love nothing more than snoring in the sun when they are on the beach, for some all that time in the sun with nothing to do can get boring very quickly. 

If that applies to you then choosing some fun beach games and entertainment before you go can be a great way to beat such boredom. In particular, rackets with bouncy balls can keep adults and kids entertained for hours, and bucket spades are a must whether you are holidaying on UK beaches or ones further afield. Additionally, megayacht rentals can elevate your beach experience to a whole new level, offering luxurious amenities and exciting activities on the open waters.

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How to find a good roofer

If you’ve just bought your first home, you may find you’re able to do more of the renovations yourself than you think, without having to hire extra help. Home renovations can be a slow and daunting process, but it takes time to get your dream home just how you want it. With this beginner’s guide you can easily begin the process of turning your run-down property into a tranquil oasis with minimal fuss and extra cost. Here are some great tips to get you started.

Plan your budget

Before you begin your renovation, make sure you plan your budget carefully, especially if you’re renovating with a partner or friend. Leave extra room in your budget for unexpected costs – renovations can easily go over budget when things don’t go exactly according to plan. Decide what your priorities are and where you’re happy cutting costs. For example, you may not need to replace your entire kitchen counters but only the tops and handles. Decide which parts of the renovation you’re planning to cover costs for each month and how much money you will need to save for each task.

Check out social media for inspiration

You don’t need to hire a fancy designer to work out a plan for you – there are so many free DIY hacks, tutorials and inspiration boards on sites such as Pinterest, Instagram and TikTok. Save them all to a Pinterest board or spreadsheet so you can collate a theme and come back to each idea when you’re ready to renovate.

Make sure you’re prepared by hiring a skip

There’s no point starting on your renovation until you know you have somewhere to put all the rubbish! Hiring a skip doesn’t have to break your budget and it will save so much time and stress compared to dragging multiple loads of waste to the tip. Hire your skip with ease with Hurleys if you’re in the North London area and ease the burden of waste disposal so you can save money and time on renovating.

Enlist the help of friends and family

There may be some renovation jobs that you simply won’t have the time or skill to be able to complete yourself. Before you hire expensive contractors, ask friends and family if they would be able to donate an afternoon of their time or skills to help. Even if they can’t contribute, they may be familiar with tradespeople who are able to offer mates rates or advice.

Don’t sweat the small stuff

Renovating a home is a marathon not a sprint, and getting your home exactly how you want it will take time. Make sure you get the big things out of the way first before worrying about the smaller things like soft furnishings and decorations. They may not fit into your budget right away, but you can add personal touches to your home as time goes on to create a lived-in feel. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to make things show-home perfect in a matter of months – take things at your own pace safe in the knowledge that everything will come together eventually.

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how to get a business loan

Lockdown was a difficult time for most of it, but out of it came the start of some great new ventures, whether that was a fitness journey, a new hobby or even your own business. Now lockdown is over, you may be thinking about how to turn that online or local business into something bigger. If you’re feeling daunted about how to take your side hustle to the next level, check out these top tips for scaling up your lockdown business.

Make a long term plan

Maybe you started your business mid-pandemic when uncertainty was a big factor in planning, or you simply decided to turn your hobby into an income stream while you were stuck at home. If your business is now thriving post-lockdown, it might be time to start planning for the long-term now things are back to relative normality. Create a plan for the next five or ten years that includes your goals, objectives and where you see yourself as a business owner over this time period.

Hire some local help

If your online business is flourishing and you’re having trouble keeping up with production or shipping, you may find you only need to hire someone a few hours a week to keep on top of your growing orders. With people still working from home and looking to get out and about for extra work, advertise in your local area for some help so you can concentrate on building your business without sweating the small stuff.

Get a business loan

If you’re serious about scaling up, it may be time to bite the bullet and apply for a business loan. It’s easier than you think to get a business loan quote with PYF.  Make sure you browse plenty of options to see which might be the most suitable loan for you, rather than jumping in to applying with your existing bank who may not provide the best rates or most suitable loan.

Upgrade your tech

Poor investment in tech can make or break a small business and can often be the thing stopping people from being able to scale up. If you sell in person, make sure you have a card reader as not many people carry cash post-lockdown and may be put off from purchasing if they have to go to a cash machine. They aren’t as expensive as you might think and will be worth the investment to make sure you’re making it as easy as possible for people to purchase.

Boost your online presence

People are spending less and less time on social media now they aren’t stuck at home, so it’s more important than ever to have a strong online presence for your brand to catch people’s eye when they do reach for their phones. Spend some time researching your target audience and develop a strong presence on the platforms that your customers use the most, whether that’s Facebook, Instagram or TikTok. Post regularly and try to engage with relevant trends on your preferred platforms.

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It is not a typical thought to consider a tent that might muffle outside noise. Soundproofing the tent is a challenging endeavor because of the lightweight and thin fabric that it is constructed from. Because of this, there is not a large selection of soundproof tents available at retail outlets.

There are a variety of steps you may take to lessen the amount of noise produced within your tent; however, it is not possible to eliminate noise.

how to soundproof a tent

In this article, we will discuss the advantages of doing so, as well as seven different strategies for attaining the level of stillness that is sought when one is outdoors under a tent.

In the interest of full disclosure, let’s get this out of the way: a tent cannot be made entirely soundproof. Inevitably, some noise will seep through the cracks you fail to close. However, with the help of the hints provided, you should be able to bring it down to a more manageable level.

Noise Blocking Or Moving Blankets 

These blankets are built to dampen noise to a significant degree. Moving blankets are thick and dense to protect your furniture in the moving van, but soundproof blankets are designed expressly for this purpose. You need just these characteristics to block out noise completely. One benefit of using moving blankets instead of soundproof ones is the significant cost savings you’ll likely see.

Alternatively, you may stitch the blankets directly onto the tent’s interior walls for a more permanent solution. But, depending on their thickness, they may make it difficult to pack up the tent after use. In any case, you could always use cords to secure the blankets to the tent’s framework. Because they are designed to be hung, soundproof blankets are ideal for this purpose and usually come with a convenient fastening. 

The blankets’ additional ability to block out light and retain warmth should help you get some extra shut-eye.

Invest In Heavy-Duty Vinyl

To achieve optimal results in soundproofing, mass-loaded vinyl is typically employed. The material is offered in sheets about a quarter of an inch thick, and it is both thin and flexible. Vinyl with added mass can either absorb or deflect sound, depending on the situation.

Again, vinyl is often black, so it will shield your tent from light pollution just like the blankets did. At an event where there are numerous fires and bright lights, this is an additional perk.

Vinyl is thin, pliable, and light, making it simple to sew into the interior of your tent to protect you from the weather. Being so lightweight, it shouldn’t prevent you from folding up your tent normally.

Make sure as much of your tent as possible is covered. If there are any cracks or crevices, the noise will be able to get through. Using a Stanley knife or sharp scissors, you should be able to trim the vinyl to the exact dimensions of your tent. Also, double-check that it is securely sewn in place. If it breaks loose once you’ve arrived at your final location, fixing it will be a lot more of a hassle.

Put Down Flooring 

Blankets and mass-loaded vinyl are efficient noise reduction methods against higher frequencies, however, low frequencies can easily penetrate these materials. These are the kinds of sounds that have more of an effect on your body than on your ears, like the rumbling bass of a song.

Surprisingly, low-frequency sound travels quite far into the earth. Your tent’s surfaces can also act as sound reflectors. This is why it’s a good idea to put some extra weight in your tent to act as a buffer between you and the floor.

Putting down a thick rug or carpet inside the tent is a great way to muffle outside noise, retain warmth, and improve the quality of your night’s sleep. However, this may not be feasible if you have a long hike before you reach your campsite.

Mass-loaded vinyl comes to the rescue once more if this is the case. It won’t do much for the tent’s warmth or comfort, but it will act as a sound barrier. It’s possible to use two layers for a more dramatic effect, though this will depend on the width of the roll you buy.

Furthermore, a soundproof floor is just as useful as soundproof walls, so consider purchasing movable or soundproof blankets for both purposes. Choose a quilted soundproof blanket, because they’re engineered to dampen low-frequency noises.

Purchase a Low-Noise Generator

A silent generator, while not a tent per se, can greatly improve the quality of your camping experience.

The use of a generator on a trip can be both an annoyance and a source of the noise. It can also be annoying to nearby campers, so opting for one with a low decibel level is always a good idea. Check out the quietest portable generator for camping here. 

Build An Outdoor Barrier 

This is a more involved undertaking, so only think about it if noise is a serious problem and your visit will last more than a few nights. These obstacles are common on building sites, so you have probably seen them before. Foam or fiberglass sheets are used to create the walls.

Creating a comparable barrier would be costly, therefore, it would only be worthwhile if the noise problem were severe or if the acoustic sheets were needed for some other purpose. There are, however, less costly alternatives. You can use mass-loaded vinyl or moving blankets to swaddle a huge clothes airer, for instance. While it won’t completely stop the flow, it should slow it down significantly.

This choice is available only when the noise is coming from a single source. Unless your car is going to be parked very near to the campsite, it isn’t going to make sense to bring individual stands to enclose your tent. It would cost a lot of money, too.

Install Curtains That Absorb Sound

In most cases, soundproof curtains may reduce the amount of noise entering a home by half or more. Tents aren’t as sturdy or soundproof as permanent structures, so you won’t enjoy the same advantages. The tent will be darker and warmer, and it will reduce the amount of outside noise.

These can be used in place of regular curtains in a large tent. You should cover as much of the walls as you can to get the best results. As soundproof curtains cost extra, they probably won’t be worth it to purchase just for this purpose. You can rehang them in your house to further improve the acoustic environment there.

Curtains can be attached to the walls of a tent in the same manner as moving blankets and mass-loaded vinyl are. You’ll have to sew them on, but if you can find sturdy Velcro strips, you can attach them to the tent and the curtain backs instead.

Conclusion

Camping is a great activity, but if you have trouble sleeping in noisy environments, you may not like it as much. This may make you feel like you’re missing out on things because it limits where you can travel.

Don’t fret, though; perhaps all that’s needed are a few tweaks to the soundproofing.

While it won’t be feasible to eliminate noise, you should be able to reduce it to a level that allows you to camp in more locations. You may select the best soundproofing strategy for your needs and budget by giving careful thought to both. You’ll have the world at your fingertips.

 

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how to keep bedroom tidy

Maintaining a clean and organised bedroom is required for a healthy and happy lifestyle. Moreover, it is a private space within your home where you can retreat from the rest of the world and enjoy some personal space to reflect on your thoughts, work on personal projects, or enjoy some alone time. Therefore, keeping this area in top shape is essential. Here are helpful ways to achieve the desired outcome.

  • Wash your bedding regularly

One of the most important aspects of bedroom maintenance is keeping your bedding clean. It’s recommended that you wash your bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, and blankets, at least once a week. This helps to remove dirt, sweat, and other substances that can accumulate over time and create an unpleasant sleeping environment. Additionally, clean your pillows and mattress regularly. Dust mites, bacteria, and other allergens can accumulate in these areas, which can cause health problems and affect the quality of your sleep. Regular cleaning can help to reduce these issues and keep your sleeping space fresh and comfortable, so feel free to consider this.

  • Prioritise pest control

Bed bugs, spiders, and other pests can enter your sleeping space, creating an uncomfortable and potentially dangerous environment. To avoid this, it’s necessary to address any infestations quickly. Some common pest control strategies include sealing cracks and gaps in your walls and floors, storing food in airtight containers, and keeping your bedroom clean and clutter-free. If you notice signs of an infestation, such as bites or droppings, it’s vital to call a pest control professional to address the problem before it worsens. As a tip, avoid eating in your bedroom, as food crumbs can attract vermin. 

  • Declutter your bedroom regularly

Clutter can make it difficult to relax and sleep well and create hiding places for pests and allergens. Consider decluttering your bedroom regularly and keeping it tidy to avoid these issues. Some tips for decluttering your bedroom include removing items you no longer need or use, finding storage solutions for items you need to keep, and keeping surfaces clear of unnecessary items. You may also consider investing in furniture with built-in storage, such as a bed with drawers or a nightstand with shelves.

  • Avoid harsh cleaning chemicals

It is critical to avoid using harsh cleaning chemicals that can harm your health and the environment. Many commercial cleaning products contain chemicals that can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, and other health issues, especially if you use them in a small, poorly ventilated-space like a bedroom. Instead, consider using natural cleaning solutions like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. These products effectively clean and disinfect surfaces without the harsh chemicals in many commercial products. Further, you can use an air purifier to filter out impurities in the air and improve its quality, so feel free to consider this. 

Maintaining a clean and organised bedroom is essential for your health, happiness, and sleep quality. Following these tips will ensure that you achieve the desired outcome.

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DIY for mums

Being a mum means juggling several responsibilities, making it tough to find time to tackle home maintenance projects. Although some tasks may be tougher for mums, several DIY tasks are still quite easy to carry out with just a bit of planning and effort. So, are you ready to learn new skills while keeping your home in top condition? Then, here are eight simple DIY maintenance projects you can do on your own from today!  

  • Clean gutters and downspouts regularly

Gutters and downspouts can easily become clogged with leaves, dirt, and other debris, causing water to overflow and potentially damaging your home’s foundation. Regular cleaning can prevent this problem. You only need a stable ladder, gloves, and a garden trowel or scoop to remove the debris. You may also need a hose to flush out stubborn dirt and to check that water flows freely through the downspouts. Investing in gutter guards is an excellent idea as these cover your gutters to prevent debris from entering your gutter, which, in effect, you can reduce the amount of cleaning your gutters needs. Moreover, to ensure your downspouts handle water effectively, it’s crucial to determine the size needed for a gutter downspout, as the correct size will efficiently manage water flow and prevent blockages. This step is essential in maintaining the longevity and functionality of your home’s drainage system.

  • Replace filters

The air quality in your home plays a vital role in your family’s overall health and comfort at home. This is why replacing the filters in your home’s Heating, Ventilation, and Air-conditioning (HVAC) system is essential. Clogged filters can reduce airflow and cause the release of harmful substances into the air circulating in your home. Research has shown that poor air quality can cause major health issues such as stroke, cardiovascular diseases, and lung cancer. Additionally, clogged filters can cause an increase in energy bills as your HVAC has to work more than it should to function adequately. 

To avoid dealing with the consequences of filthy, clogged filters, you should consider checking your HVAC filters regularly and replacing them every three months. You may want to do this more often if you have pets. When replacing your filters, use the correct size and type of filter for your HVAC system. You can find this in the system’s manual or the internet.  

  • Inspect and clean air ducts

In addition to replacing your HVAC filters to improve your home’s air quality, you should consider inspecting and cleaning your air ducts. Air ducts distribute heated or cooled air throughout your home. Over time, they can become clogged with dust, dirt, and other debris, reducing airflow and decreasing indoor air quality. When inspecting your air ducts, pay close attention to unusual odours or dust buildup around your vent. These are telltale signs that your air ducts need cleaning. Frequently cleaning your air ducts would improve your home’s air quality and make your HVAC system run more efficiently.

  • Inspect and seal windows

Poorly insulated windows can result in drafts, energy loss, and higher heating bills. To ensure your windows are in good condition, take the time to check the weatherstripping around your windows and replace any that are worn or damaged. You can seal gaps between the window frame and the wall using caulking. This will help prevent drafts and keep your home comfortable year-round. Additionally, it is quite easy to do on your own! All you need is a caulking gun and high-quality silicone caulk.

If you have old or inefficient windows, consider upgrading to energy-efficient models. This can be a more costly project, but it can pay off in the long run by lowering your energy bills and improving the overall value of your home.

  • Fix leaky faucets 

The drip-drop of a leaky faucet is not only a waste of water but also annoying and expensive! Fortunately, fixing a leaky faucet is quite a straightforward DIY task. You only need a wrench, a new washer or O-ring, and some plumber’s tape. Turn off the water supply, unscrew the handle, and remove the stem when fixing a leaky faucet. Next, replace the old washer or O-ring with a new one, wrap the stem with some plumber’s tape and reassemble the faucet. Yes, it’s that simple!

However, in some cases, the cause of your leaky faucet may be more complicated. For instance, a leaky faucet caused by a broken or rusted pipe may mean replacing the pipes or installing new press fit copper fittings. In that case, you need the help of a professional. Don’t feel defeated when this happens; it is better to have the job done by experienced hands than to do it on your own and cause more damage. 

  • Patch holes in walls

Small holes in walls and ceilings can be unsightly and make your home look unkempt. Luckily, patching them up is easy, quick, and simple to make your home more appealing. A spackling paste, a putty knife, and sandpaper are quite easy to find at your local hardware store, so keep this in mind. 

To patch a hole in a wall, apply the spackling paste to the hole with the putty knife, smoothing it out as you go. Allow it to dry, then sand it down until smooth. If needed, paint over the patched area to match the surrounding wall. However, be sure to use colours that complement your home and, if needed, hire a professional for a beautiful finish. 

  • Check and replace light bulbs

Lights around your home add to your home’s ambience and style and serve as a source of safety and security. Therefore, burnt-out light bulbs can be problematic and must be changed immediately. Replacing light bulbs around your home is easy, requiring little to no skill. However, when replacing your light bulbs, you should consider switching to energy-efficient LED bulbs as these use less energy and last longer than traditional bulbs, saving you money and time in the long run.

  • ​​Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors protect your home and family from fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. However, they’re only effective if they work properly, so regularly testing your detectors is vital.

Testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors is a simple task that can be done by pressing the “test” button and listening to the alarm. If the detector doesn’t sound, replace the batteries and test it again. Speaking of replacing the batteries, changing the batteries in your detectors twice a year is advisable. This will ensure they’re working properly and provide you and your family with sufficient safety, so feel free to consider this.

  • Clean dryer vents

It’s safe to say that you don’t pay attention to your dryer vents until there’s a problem. Clogged dryer vents can cause your dryer to function at a reduced efficiency. In some cases, clogged dryer vents can be fire hazards. Therefore, cleaning your dryer vents at least once a year is vital. Clean your dryer vents by disconnecting the vent from the dryer, removing any lint buildup, and using a long brush or vacuum attachment to clean the vent pipe. 

When unclogging your dryer vents, disconnect the vent hose from the dryer and remove any lint or debris with a vent brush or vacuum attachment. You can also clean the vent from the outside by removing the cover and using the same tools, so keep this in mind. Then, reattach the vent hose securely to prevent leaks.

There you have it! Despite your worries about being too inexperienced to maintain your home, these easy DIY maintenance project ideas should have changed your mind. Although all these projects are vital, doing them in sections at scheduled times is advisable to avoid being overwhelmed and doing a shabby job.

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