Apps to Help You Stay Active This Winter

By Tracey Dowdy

Now that Mother Nature has dropped a blanket a snow on the northeast, it may be tempting to hunker down and stay inside til Spring. Instead, take advantage of the winter weather and make the most of the snow. There’s more to do than you may think.

Let’s Move

Let’s Move is First Lady Michelle Obama’s initiative to get kids moving and the Let’s Move website is a great resource for winter fun. Along with fitness tips and nutritious recipes, the Get Active tab has loads of suggestions to get you and your family moving, including a “Let’s Move Outside” option with links for “Where to Go” and “What to Do”. Discover forests, parks, hiking trails, and get tips on what to bring on your hike like water and healthy snacks.

National Park Service

The National Park Service website can help you find a park and plan an adventure in your area. Find winter activities near you or take advantage of winter hiking trails. Plus, to encourage families to get out and explore, every fourth grader (or age equivalent free learner) and their family is eligible for free passes to National Parks for a whole year.

Nature Rocks

Nature Rocks by The Nature Conservancy will be your go-to on snow days, rainy days, sunny days…you know where this is going. Fill in the blank from a drop down menu: “It’s (snowing, raining, warm, cold) outside. Where do you want to play?” Choose your own backyard, a park, the forest, or the water and get connected to ideas for Winter Olympics themed games, crafts like bird feeders made with pine cones, or art projects to make with snow.

Natural Learning Initiative

The Natural Learning Initiative has a list of fun winter activities you can do in your backyard. Go on a nest hunt with the leaves off the trees, make snow angels and paint them with food coloring, build a tiny igloo with ice cubes as bricks and snow as mortar, or use sand toys to build snow castles.

Finally, if you or your kiddos are going to be outside for awhile, remember these tips:

  • Dress in layers – Active play warms kids up so dress them in layers to keep them from overheating.
  • Stay hydrated – Kids may not realize how much they sweat when playing outside in the cold so remind them to stop for a drink once in a while.
  • Protect your extremities – You lose heat through through your head, ears, hands and feet first, so make sure you keep them protected.

Tracey Dowdy is a freelance writer based just outside Washington DC. After years working for non-profits and charities, she now freelances, edits and researches on subjects ranging from family and education to history and trends in technology. Follow Tracey on Twitter.

 

7 Apps for Help with Pregnancy

By Tracey Dowdy

Being pregnant is a beautiful combination of the most nerve-wracking, confusing and exciting times in your life. There’s more information and advice available than anyone could possibly comprehend and sifting through what is good advice and what is nonsense can be challenging. Sushi or no? How much exercise is safe? At what point in your pregnancy is it too late to fly? And is it normal to have heartburn so bad you’re afraid your shirt will catch fire?

Obviously your doctor or midwife are your best resources for prenatal care and advice but these apps can help with tips for everything from conception to timing contractions when math is the last thing on your mind.

Ovia Fertility

OviaOvia Fertility gets rave reviews for being exceptionally user friendly with its bold and color coded design making it easy to sift through complex information. It’s regarded as one of the most accurate fertility apps as it uses complex algorithms to track your cycle making it easier even for those with irregular menstrual cycles to conceive. As a bonus, the app includes a MyQ quiz to help you discover what is fact and what is fiction regarding pregnancy and conception.

Cost: Free
Platform: iOS, Android


Glow – Ovulation Calculator, Fertility & Period Tracker

GlowGlow helps women understand their menstrual cycle. The app tracks your period, mood, symptoms, sex, and any medications you take and uses that information to map your fertility. Because of the medication tracking element, it’s an excellent app for those undergoing fertility treatments like IVF or IUI.

Cost: Free
Platform: iOS, Android


Ovia Pregnancy Tracker

OviaPOvia Pregnancy Tracker is a follow up to their fertility app and also stands out from the crowd. Using those scientific algorithms to track weight, sleep patterns, symptoms and even your moods, the app transforms all that data into a custom plan to record milestones and will even alert you to signs you or the baby are at risk.

Cost: Free
Platform: iOS, Android


Sprout Baby Tracker

SproutSprout Baby Tracker gets consistently high marks from moms and professionals alike. With vivid and beautiful images of your baby at each stage of development and resources from Parent’s Magazine, the app also has unique features like the ability to track twins progress individually and share and sync information across devices. One user pointed out how it’s easy-to-use interface made it both simple and fun for older siblings to understand the baby’s development. Sprout offers additional apps and can be purchased as a bundle for comprehensive care from conception to delivery and beyond.

Cost: Free, with in-app purchases
Platform: iOS


BabyBump

babybumpBabyBump goes beyond the average pregnancy app by incorporating a social networking element for parents. Each day brings tips and new information while tracking progress for both you and your baby. Connect with other parents to ask questions like “Is this normal?” you can’t or don’t want to ask the doctor, get suggestions on how to treat heartburn and insomnia, and even find out which products are must-haves or a waste of money from the people actually using them.

Cost: Free
Platform: iOS, Android


Pregnancy ++

pregnancy++Pregnancy ++ is a comprehensive app that includes a daily diary and tips that enable you to track weight, diet, doctor appointments, and a contraction timer. It even offers a list of over 1000 baby names plus a baby size guide that offers practical information to help you really understand how big the baby is at each stage. For example, did you know at seven weeks your baby is the size of a blueberry? Best of all, the app includes beautiful images of babies at each stage of development. It will be one of your favorite features and is a great teaching tool to help older siblings watch the baby grow and develop.

Cost: $3.99
Platform: iOS, Android


Full Term

fulltermFull Term offers features like a kick counter, nutrition and fitness information, but where it really shines is in its primary purpose as a contraction timer. Like other apps on this list, it’s easy-to-read interface makes starting and stopping the timer simple. Each contraction is recorded in a log making it easy to report to the nurses and doctors – especially valuable at a time when you want to be able to focus on breathing, not on math.

Cost: Free
Platform: iOS, Android

Tracey Dowdy is a freelance writer based just outside Washington DC. After years working for non-profits and charities, she now freelances, edits and researches on subjects ranging from family and education to history and trends in technology. Follow Tracey on Twitter.

Thursday, January 28: It’s Movie Night!

IT’S MOVIE NIGHT!

#FiOSPhilly

When: TODAY, Thursday, January 28, 2016
8:00 – 9:00 pm ET
5:00 – 6:00 pm PT
Join @SeeMomClick and the #FiOSPhilly team TODAY at 8 pm ET as we chase away the cold with FiOS TV’s spectacular winter movie line-up!
It’s the middle of winter and there’s no better time to snuggle up and watch a movie. Grab a bowl of popcorn and join us as we share our all-time favorite movie scenes, pick our Oscar winners, and look forward to an amazing month of new releases for download and streaming!
RSVP and attend the chat for a chance to win a Motorola Power Pack portable battery charger or a Kindle Fire HD 8 tablet!

(Click here  to learn more about our Twitter chats. You must RSVP and attend the party to be eligible for a prize.)

To RSVP:
  1. Email RSVP@theonlinemom.com (subject line: FiOSPhilly) indicating your Twitter ID.
  2. Spread the word and RT this link on your Twitter feed: http://ow.ly/Xw8LE
  3. Join us on TweetDeck or HootSuite (#FiOSPhilly) today between 8:00 – 9:00 pm ET.
  4. Tell your Twitter followers!
PRIZE WINNERS will be announced during the Party!

(The Online Mom LLC receives a fee for participating in certain promotional programs for Verizon.)

The Problem with Tech Shaming

By Tracey Dowdy

Articles warning us about the negative social and emotional impact of technology are almost as common as Kim Kardashian selfies. Those warnings are nothing new – people have been warning about the effects of progress on society for as long as there have been, well, people. Socrates warned the ancient Greeks about the dangers of writing, since it could “create forgetfulness in the learners’ souls, because they will not use their memories.” (Side note, I feel that could have been a prophecy about Google!) And in 1936, Gramophone Magazine cautioned readers that radio had caused children to develop “the habit of dividing attention between the humdrum preparation of their school assignments and the compelling excitement of the loudspeaker.”

Jennifer Lawrence chastising a reporter for looking at his phone during a Golden Globes press conference is just the latest example of tech shaming to hit the media. His reasons for being on his phone at that time are his own, as are her reasons for chiding him. But it speaks to a bigger issue: is tech shaming becoming an acceptable part of our culture?

You may recall Gary Turk’s video, “Look Up,” that made the rounds on social media a while back. Turk cautions us not to disconnect from face-to-face interaction and chastises those whose only relationships are online. The video makes some valid points and of course it’s wise to guard against becoming a ”slave to the media we mastered.” But to judge someone who chooses to work on the train in order to be able to do homework with their kids or enjoy a night out with friends isn’t being a slave. Those people haven’t disengaged from society; they’ve simply prioritized their time and decided that chatting with a fellow commuter isn’t as important as time spent with family or friends.

Perhaps no group is more judged when it comes to media use than parents. Managing screen time is arguably one of the greatest challenges in parenting today. In fact, if you’re ever in the mood for a spirited debate, ask a group of parents how much is too much when it comes to screen time, then take three steps back and watch what happens.

To listen to critics, you’d think that prior to the invention of the iPhone, mothers spent their days entertaining their children by crafting, singing and playing games, always giving them their undivided attention. I can tell you as someone with a pre-cell phone childhood that just wasn’t the case. Like most families, my mom shooed us out the door when the weather was good and encouraged us to read, play or otherwise entertain ourselves when it wasn’t. In later years, we would even listen to music on a Walkman or watch a video.

In a post for The Atlantic, Alexandra Samuel describes the three schools of thought most parents fall in to when it comes to technology: Digital Enablers, Digital Limiters, and Digital Mentors. The first two are self-explanatory but the third – Digital Mentors – deserves a second look. These are the parents that realize we all live in a digital world and it’s part of our responsibility to prepare our kids for dealing with technology. Instead of using technology as a reward or allowing unlimited access, these parents take an active role and model healthy behaviors and attitudes toward connected devices and the Internet.

We can’t parent with the same media rules our parents used, so it’s important to model the relationship you want your kids to have with technology and carry it into the next generation. Modeling appropriate behavior – with technology and without – is a fundamental part of parenting. By the way, bullying is never okay; isn’t that basically what tech shaming comes down to?

Friendships can be strengthened through social media; families can stay connected even when they’re miles apart; and WebMD can help you decide if it’s just a cold or something more serious. There are times when using your device isn’t just to pass the time or shut out the world around us. Sometimes you need to know now, need to connect now.

The key is balance. Become a Digital Mentor like Ms. Samuel suggests. Be present with friends and family and don’t be so quick to judge if they pick up their phones. Technology isn’t the enemy – shaming one another is.

Tracey Dowdy is a freelance writer based just outside Washington DC. After years working for non-profits and charities, she now freelances, edits and researches on subjects ranging from family and education to history and trends in technology. Follow Tracey on Twitter.

Friday, February 26: Smartphone Tips & Tricks

VERIZON MOBILE LIVING TWITTER PARTY

#VZWBuzz

When: TODAY, Friday, February 26, 2016
3:00 – 4:00 pm ET
12:00 – 1:00 pm PT

‘Smartphone Tips & Tricks’

Join @RobynsWorld and the VZWBuzz team at 3 pm ET (12 noon PT) TODAY, Friday, February 26 as we chat about Smartphone Tips & Tricks!

Join us as we take a look at some smartphone features that might not be so familiar to the casual user, and highlight a few tips and tricks that will make us love our smartphones even more!
RSVP and attend the party for a chance to win a JBL Flip 3 Bluetooth speaker or a Droid Maxx 2 smartphone!

(Click here to learn more about our Twitter chats. You must RSVP and attend the party to be eligible for a prize.)

To RSVP:
  1. Email RSVP@theonlinemom.com (subject line: VZWBuzz) and include your Twitter ID.
  2. Spread the word and RT this link on your Twitter feed: http://ow.ly/Xf729     
  3. Join us on TweetDeck or HootSuite (#VZWBuzz) on Friday, February 26 between 3 – 4 pm ET
  4. Tell your Twitter followers!
PRIZE WINNERS will be announced during the Party!

(The Online Mom LLC receives a fee for participating in certain promotional programs for Verizon Wireless.)

Friday, February 19: Health & Wellness

VERIZON MOBILE LIVING TWITTER PARTY

#VZWBuzz

When: TODAY,Friday, February 19, 2016
3:00 – 4:00 pm ET
12:00 – 1:00 pm PT

‘Health & Wellness’

Join @TheTechDad and friends at 3 pm ET (12 noon PT) TODAY, February 19 as we chat about Health & Wellness!
We all want to live a healthier lifestyle but how many of us can find the time or motivation to get on track? Join us as we look at how a few simple changes to our daily routines can make a big difference to our health and wellness – and how mobile technology can lend a helping hand!
RSVP and attend the party for a chance to win a Motorola portable charger, a JBL Flip 3 Bluetooth speaker or a Droid Turbo 2 smartphone!

(Click here to learn more about our Twitter chats. You must RSVP and attend the party to be eligible for a prize.)

To RSVP:
  1. Email RSVP@theonlinemom.com (subject line: VZWBuzz) and include your Twitter ID.
  2. Spread the word and RT this link on your Twitter feed: http://ow.ly/Xf6Ec      
  3. Join us on TweetDeck or HootSuite (#VZWBuzz) today, February 19 between 3 – 4 pm ET
  4. Tell your Twitter followers!
PRIZE WINNERS will be announced during the Party!

(The Online Mom LLC receives a fee for participating in certain promotional programs for Verizon Wireless.)

Friday, February 12: Loving Your Smartphone

VERIZON MOBILE LIVING TWITTER PARTY

#VZWBuzz

When: TODAY, Friday, February 12, 2016
3:00 – 4:00 pm ET
12:00 – 1:00 pm PT

‘Loving Your Smartphone’

Join Melissa Chapman (@MelissaSChapman) and the VZWBuzz team at 3 pm ET (12 noon PT) TODAY as we chat about Loving Your Smartphone!
Valentine’s Day is coming up so it’s time to share a little love with the one thing you take with you everywhere you go – your smartphone! From fun apps and ringtones to mobile accessories and personalized cases, we’ll give you plenty of reasons to keep on loving your smartphone!
RSVP and attend the party for a chance to win a Flip 3 Portable Bluetooth Speaker or one of TWO Droid Maxx 2 smartphones!

(Click here to learn more about our Twitter chats. You must RSVP and attend the party to be eligible for a prize.)

To RSVP:
  1. Email RSVP@theonlinemom.com (subject line: VZWBuzz) and include your Twitter ID.
  2. Spread the word and RT this link on your Twitter feed: http://ow.ly/Xf6f1       
  3. Join us on TweetDeck or HootSuite (#VZWBuzz) today, Friday, February 12 between 3 – 4 pm ET
  4. Tell your Twitter followers!
PRIZE WINNERS will be announced during the Party!

(The Online Mom LLC receives a fee for participating in certain promotional programs for Verizon Wireless.)

Friday, February 5: Mobile Entertainment

VERIZON MOBILE LIVING TWITTER PARTY

#VZWBuzz

When: TODAY, Friday, February 5, 2016
3:00 – 4:00 pm ET
12:00 – 1:00 pm PT

‘Mobile Entertainment’

Join Marv Dorner (@bebizzy) and the VZWBuzz team at 3 pm ET (12 noon PT) TODAY, Friday, February 5 as we chat about Mobile Entertainment!
Super-fast wireless networks and a host of streaming and download services are turning our smartphones and tablets into personal TV screens, movie players, music centers and more. Join us as we explore the devices and apps that are leading this mobile entertainment revolution!
RSVP and attend the party for a chance to win a Motorola Power Pack portable charger or one of TWO Motorola Droid MAXX 2 smartphones!

(Click here to learn more about our Twitter chats. You must RSVP and attend the party to be eligible for a prize.)

To RSVP:
  1. Email RSVP@theonlinemom.com (subject line: VZWBuzz) and include your Twitter ID.
  2. Spread the word and RT this link on your Twitter feed: http://ow.ly/Xf5VU      
  3. Join us on TweetDeck or HootSuite (#VZWBuzz) TODAY, Friday, February 5 between 3 – 4 pm ET
  4. Tell your Twitter followers!
PRIZE WINNERS will be announced during the Party!

(The Online Mom LLC receives a fee for participating in certain promotional programs for Verizon Wireless.)

Monday, January 18: Making the Switch

MAKING THE SWITCH!

#FiOSNY

When: TODAY, Monday, January 18, 2016
8:00 – 9:00 pm ET
5:00 – 6:00 pm PT
Join @mistygirlph and the #FiOSNY team at 8 pm ET TODAY, Monday, January 18 as we explore the benefits of a better TV and Internet service, and discover just how easy it is to Make the Switch!
RSVP and attend the chat for a chance to win a Motorola portable charger or an all-new Kindle Fire HD 8!

(Click here  to learn more about our Twitter chats. You must RSVP and attend the party to be eligible for a prize.)

To RSVP:
  1. Email RSVP@theonlinemom.com (subject line: FiOSNY) indicating your Twitter ID.
  2. Spread the word and RT this link on your Twitter feed: http://bit.ly/1mZjhRJ
  3. Join us on TweetDeck or HootSuite (#FiOSNY) today between 8:00 – 9:00 pm ET.
  4. Tell your Twitter followers!
PRIZE WINNERS will be announced during the Party!

(The Online Mom LLC receives a fee for participating in certain promotional programs for Verizon.)