Your pet is part of the family, so you want to make sure they’re welcome wherever you rent. From understanding pet policies to preventing your four-legged companion from leaving a lasting pawprint on the property, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Whether you’re moving with a playful pup, a curious cat or a chatty bird, here’s how to navigate the rental process and find a home that’s both pet-friendly and hassle-free!
Almost half of renters live with pets, according to Zillow. Pet owners tend to be responsible and reliable. They renew their leases more frequently than non-pet owners. In this regard, they’re desirable tenants. There is a chance with pets, of course, of damage to the rental property or possible disturbances with neighbors. Landlords who welcome pets will make accommodations, such as charging a pet feet, to minimize their financial risk.
Importantly, not every property is ready to welcome your pet. The following steps will help guide you in finding the perfect home.
Research pet-friendly rentals.
Start your search early. It will take extra time to find the right fit. There are several ways to find pet-friendly rentals in your area. Importantly, do not try to hide the fact that you have a pet. That would put you in violation of your lease.
Ask friends and family members to keep a lookout for pet-friendly places.
Inquire about pet-friendly apartments and homes in pet groups on social media, at the local Humane Society, and at your veterinarian.
When searching rental websites, look for filters for pets. Make sure to check if there are restrictions on types, breeds, or numbers of pets.
If a rental does not mention pets, don’t discount it. Reach out and ask. Single family rentals may be more likely to be flexible on a case-by-case basis.
Note that landlords are required by the Fair Housing Act to make reasonable accommodations for disabled renters with service dogs, even if they don’t generally allow pets.
Create a pet resume.
One effective way to present your pet to your future landlord is by creating a pet resume. This can help turn tolerant landlords into pet-friendly ones.
Start with a cute photo, your pet’s name, age, breed, and weight. For dogs and cats, note whether they are spayed.
Describe your pet’s personality and favorite things.
Include a list of vaccinations and proof your pet is licensed in the town, showing you are a responsible pet owner.
If there are any past incidents, include them and tell how you will take action to prevent them in the future.
Get a reference letter from your current landlord, your trainer, or previous roommates about your pet. Make sure to talk about areas of concern to landlords: behavior around others, odor, noise, etc.
Be prepared to pay extra when renting with a pet, as compared to those without pets. The landlord must cover his/her risk in case there is damage. For example, carpets may have to be replaced when a renter leaves if a pet urinated there.
Expect to pay a pet deposit ranging from $250 to $500. The landlord can use this money to make repairs when you leave. However, it may or may not be refundable, so make sure to ask.
You may be charged a monthly pet rental fee in addition to your own rent.
Note that if you have a service animal, your landlord cannot charge you a pet fee. It is against federal law to do so.
Review local and state laws as they apply to pets. Some states limit what landlords can charge in pet fees.
Check out the space for your pet.
Once you find a good rental, you will want to visit it and check it out. What you see online may not always be what’s there in reality. A personal visit will show you if it’s right for you and your pet.
Find out if there are any restrictions on where pets can go.
If your pet needs an outdoor space, is there a backyard area? A nearby park or place to walk?
If you have a small living space and no backyard, make sure that setup will be right for your pet.
For cats, keep them entertained with multi-level living such as cat condos and kitty condos placed up high.
Check whether there are plants that are poisonous to your pets on the property.
Read your lease thoroughly.
Before you sign a lease at your new place, make sure that it says exactly what you were promised by your landlord. Specifically check that it spells out the pet policy.
Never sign a lease that says no pets even if the landlord verbally gives you permission. Make sure it is written in your lease that pets are allowed.
The lease should clearly outline pet deposits and fees.
Take the time to understand and agree to the rules you and your pet must follow.
Include pet coverage in your renter’s insurance.
Many landlords require you to have renter’s insurance. It’s also a good idea to have it to protect you, your possessions—and your pets.
Renter’s insurance is like homeowner’s insurance but for tenants. As a start, it protects your personal belongings (that’s right, your landlord’s insurance policy will not cover your belongings) but that’s not all. It’s an important safeguard if you’re found at fault for property damage or injuries at your place (and even around the world). It also can help if you don’t have access to your apartment or home due to a covered loss.
Adding your pet to your renter’s policy will cover you if your pet damages someone else’s property or injures another pet or person.
Note that sometimes, there are breed restrictions for coverage.
Moving with Your Pet
Your pets are part of the family, but moving day will be particularly stressful for them. After all, they won’t understand why strangers are taking their furniture. With all the commotion, it’s also easy for a pet to get lost in the shuffle, or have a scared animal run away or hide. Consider having relatives or friends take care of your pets or board them in a kennel for moving day. Also make sure that you have your pet’s records for easy access when you need them.
Are you renting without a pet but would like to adopt? Make sure your lease allows it. Finally, don’t forget to protect your fur baby with pet insurance for added peace of mind, and to save on your vet bill. Remember, you can easily add pet insurance from Pet’s Best to your California Casualty auto or home policy. Find out more about what pet insurance can cover by talking with a California Casualty customer service representative today.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Turn your next drive with your kids into a meaningful moment. Whether it’s a quick trip to the store or a longer journey, being in the car together can spark conversation. It’s the perfect chance to connect and dive into the little things that matter most. With fewer distractions, the car becomes a place where stories flow, questions unfold, and you create memories that last beyond the ride. Here are some guidelines to get the conversation started.
Create an Inviting Atmosphere for Great Conversations
Ensure it’s easy to listen and be heard by keeping distractions to a minimum—turn down the radio and ask everyone to stow away devices.
Mix up the topics with a balance of fun and thoughtful discussions that match your child’s age and interests.
Keep the vibe upbeat and supportive—focus on connecting rather than correcting.
Engage by listening just as much as talking. Listening is the key to deepening your bond.
Encourage open dialogue by asking questions that spark more than a yes or no response.
If the conversation doesn’t flow right away, stay patient and keep the lines of communication open.
Creative Ways to Build Stronger Connections
Try any of these creative approaches to tap into topics that are meaningful to your child or teen.
Hobbies and Interests:
Whether your kids are into sports, art, reading, or something else, ask them about it. Your interest shows that their hobbies matter and helps boost their confidence. Inquire about the latest scrimmage, the book they’re reading, their favorite TV show or another beloved activity. You will want to show genuine curiosity and pose follow-up questions. Remember, your role isn’t just to guide, but to celebrate their unique interests and growth.
New Technology:
There are plenty of fun, new gadgets and apps that help us manage our world. Talk with your children about some of the latest tech. Then reveal what the world was like, before they were born, without this technology. Help them imagine what it was like with an engaging story or two. Ask them what new technology of the future should be invented. You never know how that might inspire them.
Current Events:
Talking about social media trends or other age-appropriate current events with your teens is an opportunity to teach them about the world and develop their critical thinking. Encourage them to share their thoughts and opinions, asking open-ended questions like, “How do you feel about what’s happening?” or “What do your friends think about this?” These discussions can help them process information, understand different perspectives, and build a sense of empathy and awareness. Create a safe space for them to ask questions or express concerns.
Role Plays:
Car rides can be the perfect time to role-play with your child and help them work through different problems in a relaxed setting. You can create scenarios based on challenges they may face, like dealing with a disagreement at school or preparing for a big test. By playing different roles, you can guide them to think through solutions, practice how to respond, and build confidence in handling tricky situations. It’s a great way to engage their problem-solving skills. Plus, the casual environment of the car makes it feel less pressured for both of you.
Fun and Silly:
For a lighthearted and engaging conversation with your kids, try mixing in some fun and silly questions. Ask them, “If you were an animal, what would you be?” or “What food could you eat every day for the rest of your life?” These boredom-busting questions can spark creativity and laughter. You might also ask, “If you could switch places with anyone in the world, who would it be?” or “If you could change your name, what would it be?” For an extra challenge, try speaking only in questions to keep the conversation flowing in unexpected ways. And when all else fails, throw in a dad—or mom—joke to lighten the mood!
Driving Safety:
Being in the car is a natural time to talk about vehicle safety. Again, keep the conversation age appropriate. If you have a teen, point out decisions that you make as you drive, and share safety tips such as how to safely pull over on the side of the road. Note the dangerous behaviors that you see from other drivers such as tailgating. Get them ready to focus on the road by asking them to navigate and tell you where you should turn. For younger passengers, point out road signs for stop, yield and crosswalks. Ask them what they notice when looking outside the window. Talk about why we wear seatbelts and what could happen if we forget. Teach them safety around vehicles.
Finally, you’re traveling with precious cargo when you transport your family. Make sure your car is well-maintained and protect it with the right car insurance. Safe travels.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
It’s nearly Halloween—and whether you’re transforming into a mischievous monster, a zany zombie, or a whimsical witch, you can be “trick-or-treat-ready” in no time. With a dash of creativity and simple supplies, here are some ideas for spook-tacular looks that bring all the Halloween fun without the fright of a big price tag!
Children’s Costumes
No-sew Dinosaur
Supplies: hooded sweatshirt, white and colored duct tape, scissors, ruler
First make the dinosaur teeth. Cut a 2-inch piece of white duct tape.
Fold both top corners to the center to form a triangle at the top. Leave the sticky strip along the bottom.
Press the exposed sticky strip to the inside edge of the hood.
Repeat and place each triangle next to each other until the hood is filled.
Next make the scales that go along the back. Cut a 5-inch piece of duct tape.
Fold the tape in half, leaving a half inch at either end that still has the sticky strip exposed. Cut a triangle shape in the non-sticky part. (See the video for a visual.)
Attach the triangle starting at the front center of the hood. Repeat in a straight line all the way down the back of the sweatshirt.
Bubble Bath
Supplies: white, clear and pink balloons, yellow duckie, white shirt and pants, white head band, rubber cement, safety pins
Blow up the balloons in various sizes.
Dress your child in the white shirt and pants.
Pin the balloons in clusters onto the outfit. (Put the pin through the latex below the knot.)
Pin some balloons to the headband.
Use rubber cement to attach the yellow duckie anywhere that you’d like.
Spelling Bee
Supplies: black shirt and leggings, yellow and black duct tape, bubble wrap, giant fluffy black pipe cleaners, headband, letters (felt or bulletin board letters in a contrasting color work well)
Apply lines of yellow duct tape in stripes on the shirt along the front. Then repeat along the back. (Pro tip: Really stretch the fabric out. There’s no stretch in the tape, and so if you go too narrow, it will be hard to get the shirt on and off.)
Cut the bubble wrap in two long oval shapes. Lay them on top of each other and pinch them in the middle. Tape that middle with the black duct tape.
Tape the wings to the back of the shirt.
Attach two pipe cleaners to the headband to form antennae. Bend them at the top so they curl.
For the final touch, affix the letters in random order all over the bee costume. You can even get creative and spell some words.
Teen/Adult Costumes
Bubble Tea
Supplies: black pom-poms, white felt, cardboard tube, solid color wrapping paper, a headband, a dress or long shirt you’ll be wearing, scissors and a hot glue gun
Glue the pom-poms to the bottom of your dress/shirt in a random fashion.
Cut strips of white felt and glue them along the bottom of the dress/shirt. This will help it to look more like a cup.
Next make your straw. This will go on your head. Cover the cardboard tube in wrapping paper.
Poke a hole through the bottom of the tube. Thread the headband through that hole.
Hot glue the headband in place. Bobby pin it to your head.
Magic Eight Ball
Supplies: black t-shirt and black pants, white and black felt, light blue cardstock, white paint marker, hot glue, headband
Cut out a large circle in white felt.
Cut out the number 8 in black felt that will fill your circle.
Glue the 8 to the white circle and then glue the circle to the center of your t-shirt.
Cut a triangle in blue cardstock. Write on it with a white paint maker, “Ask again later.”
Attach the cardstock to the headband. You will need to cut a strip of cardstock, fold it in half and glue one side down to the band and the other side to the triangle.
Going Batty
Supplies: black hoodie, black pants, an old black umbrella, pliers, wire cutters, safety pins, scissors, black electrical tape, black foam
Open the umbrella fully. Carefully remove the central metal structure with pliers and wire cutters so you are left with the fabric canopy and metal spokes.
Cut the umbrella fabric in half lengthwise, so you have two triangular wing shapes.
Use safety pins to attach each wing to your hoodie, so that the cut edge runs along the underside of your arms. This will give you the bat wing effect when you lift them.
Cut out ears from the black foam and attach them to the hood using electrical tape.
Couple Costumes
Mario and Luigi
Supplies: Overalls (or pants and suspenders), red and green shirts, red and green hats, black felt and elastic for mustaches (or eyeliner to draw your own), white gloves, yellow and white paper, red and green markers, tape, hot glue, hole punch
To make the signature “M” and “L” for the hats, cut out circles and draw the letters (L in green and M in red).
Tape the L to the green hat and the M to the red hat.
Cut out two circles to form the “buttons” at the top of the overalls. Attach with tape.
Cut out two identical mustache shapes for each person in black felt.
Cut a piece of elastic and place at each side of the mustache shapes in between them. Hot glue to secure.
Pencil and Notebook
Supplies: (For pencil) old cone-shaped party hat, tan and yellow card stock, black marker, glue stick, elastic, scissors, yellow dress/outfit, silver socks, pink shoes (For notebook) white t-shirt, red and blue fabric markers, yardstick
Glue the tan card stock over the party hat.
Cut a strip of the yellow card stock. Then cut a scalloped pattern along the top.
Glue the yellow card stock along the bottom of the hat.
Use the black marker to color the top tip so it looks like pencil lead.
If needed, add the elastic to the party hat.
For the notebook, use a yardstick to draw a vertical red line from the shoulder to the bottom of the t-shirt along the left side.
Then use the yardstick as a guide to draw horizontal blue lines about 1-2 inches apart.
Pair the white shirt with jeans.
Sushi and Soy Sauce
Supplies: pillow, orange pillowcase, white dress/outfit, green and black tulle, green shower loofah, green spray paint, foam batting, white fabric marker, hot glue, plastic headband, black outfit, black apron, printout of soy sauce logo, red beanie
Spray paint the foam batting green. When dry, cut it into long strips. These will be your cucumber sticks.
Put the pillowcase on the pillow. Use fabric marker to draw diagonal lines to mimic a piece of raw salmon.
Glue the loofah to the plastic headband. This is the wasabi. You can add some smaller cucumber sticks too if you’d like.
To assemble, wear the white dress/outfit. (You are the rice.) Attach the pillow to your back using the tulle. Tie it off to the side.
Tuck in some of the longer cucumber pieces.
For the soy sauce costume, affix the logo to the front of the apron.
Wear all black, the apron, and a red beanie for your cap.
Pet Costumes
Watch Dog
Supplies: plain t-shirt that fits your dog, peel-and-stick felt, printed watch faces, hot glue, black marker
Cut felt into strips to resemble a watch band.
Hot glue watch faces to the middle of the bands.
Stick the watch bands onto the t-shirt. Space them so that the faces don’t overlap.
Add black dots for the holes in the band.
Groovy Hippie
Supplies: child’s size tie-dyed t-shirt that will fit your dog, craft foam, hot glue, beads, round rim sunglasses, elastic
Cut out a peace sign in craft foam.
Hot glue it to the beads to create a necklace.
Dress your dog in the t-shirt. Tie it off with a knot in the side for a better fit and to ensure that your dog can go to the bathroom.
Place the peace sign beads around your dog’s neck. Adjust so it’s not too tight or too loose.
If your dog will tolerate it, finish the outfit off with a pair of sunglasses. Secure them with elastic tied to each side.
Rocket Dog
Supplies: 2 empty one-liter soda bottles, silver spray paint, yellow, orange and red tissue paper, silver duct tape, image of the NASA logo
Paint the bottles silver and allow to dry. (Pro tip: Hang the bottles by clip hangers on a low tree branch for easy painting.)
Duct tape the bottles together at the middle.
Create streams of tissue paper flames that come out of the openings. Duct tape to secure the flames.
Add the NASA logo or another outer space image of your choice.
Attach the rocket launchers to your dog’s harness using the duct tape.
Happy Halloween from all of us at California Casualty!
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Picture a living room where soft throws, flickering candles, and calming neutral tones create a haven of warmth and relaxation. That’s the idea behind Hygge, the Danish art of coziness. Whether you’re unwinding with a cup of tea or enjoying a quiet moment, a hygge-inspired space wraps you in comfort and serenity. Ready to embrace the cozy life? Let’s explore how to turn your living room into the ultimate snug retreat.
What exactly is Hygge?
Hygge (pronounced hoo-ga) is a Norwegian word that means coziness. It’s a Danish concept characterized by simplicity that embodies a feeling of comfort and contentment. At its core, hygge is about slowing down and savoring moments that bring joy and relaxation, helping to create a sense of well-being and balance in everyday life.
Elements of Hygge Design
Hygge design is all about simplicity and functionality. Here are some easy ways to incorporate hygge elements into your living room.
Space
Hygge spaces are uncluttered, light and airy spaces with distinct areas.
Clutter is stressful. The first step is to declutter your room. This gives you the blank canvas to thoughtfully consider what belongs here.
If you’re ready for a painting project, paint your walls in a light earth tone such as white, off-white or cream.
Add sheer drapes or window coverings in shades of those same colors.
Plan out cozy places within the room to gather, such as a reading corner and conversation nook.
Furnishings
When considering your furniture, look for modern, minimalistic designs.
Draw inspiration from Scandinavian furniture with clean lines, rounded edges and tapered legs.
Avoid stiff furnishings. Instead choose a chair with overstuffed arms or super soft upholstery.
Blend old and new. You can incorporate vintage furniture next to modern.
Arrange seating for conversation and interaction, rather than around the television.
Less is more but make sure you have ample seating for everyone.
Calming Neutrals
The neutral color palette used in hygge design draws inspiration from nature.
Choose calming tones such as creams, grays and browns. Think of the colors that you find in natural shades of wood.
Select patterns with similar colors that will not disrupt the harmony.
Avoid bright pops of color. Instead, go deeper with earth tones.
Everything you add should create a peaceful atmosphere.
Tactile Textiles
A neutral palette allows the textures to really stand out.
Choose materials that invite you to touch them, such as fluffy pillows, thick knits, boucle blankets, and items made of linen, cashmere, and fuzzy mohair.
Add a deep pile area rug that invites your toes to sink in.
Layer your textures. Group together throws and cushions of different textures.
Pile blankets high in a wicker basket within easy reach of your seating area.
Soft Lighting
Lighting creates the right ambiance for relaxation.
Just as you layer fabrics, you can layer lighting. Choose an overall dimmer switch for full room lighting that can be adjusted to fit your mood. Then add pockets of lighting in areas within your space.
Use a floor lap or table lamp in your reading nook. Choose light bulbs with a warm color temperature. Lamps with frosted shades offer beautiful, filtered light.
Candles provide a flickering glow. Choose flameless varieties that are safe around kids and pets, for increased fire safety.
Twinkling lights give off a softer light than your overhead light. Choose tiny white or clear lights that work with hygge décor.
Natural Elements
Hygge is inspired by a connection to nature. Bring those natural elements inside.
Add potted plants, fresh or dried flowers, for some natural inspiration.
Incorporate organic materials like wood and stone in furniture and décor.
Consider wood floors, wooden bookcases and shiplap paneling on walls.
Display artwork depicting scenes in nature or using natural items or themes.
Décor
Hygge is about minimalism. You’ll want to keep your décor simple and meaningful.
Display your treasures—the things that are meaningful to you. That includes children’s artwork, DIY crafts and family photos.
Avoid overcrowding shelves and tables with knickknacks.
Less is more when it comes to décor. Start with a blank slate and add one or two pieces to create that cozy, welcoming feel.
Your home is one of your greatest investments. Make sure to protect it – and your valuables – with the right insurance.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
In the classroom, every second is an opportunity to learn. That’s where sponge activities come in—quick, engaging learning tasks that soak up spare moments like a sponge, turning downtime into teaching time. Whether it’s a fun brain teaser, a vocabulary challenge, or a quick math drill, these activities keep students engaged and learning, making the most of every moment.
What exactly are sponge activities?
The term was coined by educator Madeline Hunter. She envisioned activities that reviewed previously learned material and provided ways to practice and engage with the content. The best sponge activities are fun and engaging, and don’t seem too academic.
Sponge activities are often confused with brain breaks. Brain breaks offer a break from learning to energize or relax students so they can refocus. Sponge activities are learning activities.
When should you use sponge activities?
When the lesson finishes earlier than expected
When the lesson doesn’t pan out and you need to switch gears
When the Wi-Fi goes out and you don’t have access to your planned lesson
When you have a few minutes left in class before dismissal or the next activity
When you want to add a fun element to learning
When you want to engage students to prevent behavioral management issues during downtime
Engaging & Effective Sponge Activities
Sponge activities do not just happen. They are pre-planned just as any of your lessons. However, once you establish your list of “go to” sponge activities, you can incorporate them at a moment’s notice. Here are some of our favorites.
Language Arts
Storytelling: Write a story collaboratively with the whole class. Use a ball to toss around. The person with the ball must add one sentence to the story. Record the story so students can later illustrate it.
Word scramble: Ask students to write down spelling words so that the letters are scrambled. Then, have them switch papers with a classmate and challenge students to unscramble the words. Alternatively, write a multisyllabic word on the board and have students find as many words as possible using a selection of letters from the word.
Spelling chain: Give the students a word to spell. The challenge is that each student spells just one letter and they must do it in order. The first student says the first letter, the second the second letter, and so on. Any student who gives a wrong letter sits down.
Advice column: Ask students to write a letter to a character in the book the class is reading. Students could offer advice at a pivotal moment, share their support, or ask questions. This really helps students to engage with the text.
Vocabulary guess: A volunteer stands at the front of the room with their back to the board. You write a vocabulary word on the board. The student then calls on the class to provide clues so they can guess the word.
Wordle for kids:Spellie consists of three daily puzzles ranging in difficulty. The easiest level has four letter words that are good for kindergarten to grade 2. The medium and hard versions use five letter words but keep to words that are common to a fourth-grade vocabulary.
Math
Countdown: Sit students in a circle and ask them to count by 2s, 5s, etc. Make it more difficult by counting backwards or skipping prime numbers.
Wordy math: Give students an equation and ask them to write a word problem for it.
Around the world: You will need flashcards with simple math equations. Start with two students and see which one solves it first. The winner plays the next student using a new flash card, and so on, until it travels around the classroom, and everyone gets to play. You can also do this in small groups.
Problem-solving box: Keep a small box and blank cards available for students. When they have free time, they can write a problem and place it in the box. For your sponge activity, draw a card from the box and challenge the class to solve it.
Mental math: How fast can students calculate an answer in their head? Can they beat a calculator? Start with easy computations to build confidence and gradually increase difficulty.
Race the teacher: Challenge your students to complete a math page more quickly than you can. You can even have students create the questions.
Social Studies
History charades: Have students act out people, situations, and events that occurred during the period you are studying.
20 questions: Write down a name, event, or other content from your current unit. Students choose a card and then the class asks them yes/no questions to discover the answer. If the class cannot guess it within 20 questions, the student has successfully stumped them.
Historic careers: What careers would students have chosen if they grew up in the historic era the class is studying? Ask the students to write down requirements for that job and to create a daily schedule.
The list of lists: How many states can students name in a minute? 5 minutes? Choose any content that can be shared as a list and challenge students to compile it within a timeframe.
Advocacy: Ask students to take a stand about a local or state issue. Present both sides of the issue. Have them write an email to their local or state official about their view.
Four corners: Present students with a statement related to the unit the class is studying. Have students assemble in one of the four classroom corners: strongly agree, agree, disagree or strongly disagree. Then have each group discuss why they felt that way.
Science
Student teacher: Ask for a volunteer to be the teacher. That student will quiz the class about the lesson. Model first what you are looking for and prepare a rubric with types of questions the student can ask.
20 questions: Write down a scientific element, animal/species, or content from the unit the class is studying. Students choose a card and then the class asks them yes/no questions to discover the answer.
The list of lists: How many elements on the periodic table can students name in a minute? Choose a category and challenge students to list items within that category.
Brilliant scientist: Ask students to design an experiment that will prove a concept that the class is studying. (For younger students, give them the steps of an experiment and have them put the steps in the right order.)
Science fiction: Take a scientific concept and have students create a story around it.
Breakthrough news: Ask students to write a news article on a past scientific discovery (e.g. discovery of gravity).
General
Last one standing: Have students write down items in a category related to your content area. Then, ask all students to stand. One by one, have students read one item on their list. If that item appears on anyone else’s lists, it must be crossed off. When all items on a student’s list are crossed out, they must sit down. The winner is the last one standing.
Epic tech: Use Padlet to help students process the lesson. What 3 things did they learn? What 2 questions would they put on a quiz? Or try these other tech tips and tricks from a third-grade teacher.
Blackboard races: Divide the class into teams. Pose the question and then students race each other to the blackboard to write the answer. Points are awarded for speed and accuracy.
Music to my ears: Have students free write or draw to different types of music, with prompts based on your content area.
Study habits: Have students create mnemonics using their own silly sentences to remember a series of terms. They can even create a chant or cheer that the class can practice.
Homework help: Model the use of AI and how it can help with homework questions. Then, ask the class some questions to ask AI. Discuss when it is appropriate to use, and when it is not.
Do you have a sponge activity that’s not on the list? Share it with your colleagues in the comments below.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Planning a night out or a fun day without the kids? Make sure your babysitter is ready for more than just snacks and bedtime stories. Prepare them with the right information to handle any situation—whether it’s a scraped knee, a tantrum, or a power outage. When they’re prepared, you can truly relax.
Having a clear, written plan for your babysitter is essential for peace of mind. In unfamiliar or stressful situations, even the most experienced sitter might forget key details. A written guide provides them with easy access to the important information they need to stay calm and handle things efficiently.
Family Information
Your sitter may know you well or may be meeting you for the first time. Either way, it’s good to provide the basics in case they need to reference the information, whether it’s for a pizza delivery or a 9-1-1 call.
Home address (and nearby cross streets or landmarks if needed)
Full names and ages of each child
Home phone landline (if there is one)
Your cell phone number
Name and number of a neighbor, close friend or relative as a backup
Pro Tip: Get your sitter to program your cell phone number into their phone before you leave.
Emergency Contacts
Emergencies happen, and when help is needed right away, your sitter may have to call 9-1-1. Share examples of when they should do so, such as when someone is injured beyond the first aid they can provide, or if a child has been exposed to a potentially toxic substance. If there’s a fire in the house, they still need to call, but they should leave the home first with your child(ren) and call from outside.
Poison Control Center (800) 222-1222 (open 24/7)
Pediatrician’s phone number (which will connect to after-hours care)
9-1-1 (police and fire)
In case of fire, share these instructions with the sitter:
Do not try to put the fire out yourself.
Bring the children out of the house. Do not go back in for any reason, even to rescue pets.
Call 9-1-1. Stay on the line until the operator says it is okay to hang up.
Call the parents after you have called 9-1-1.
Wait at a safe distance with the children.
In case of severe weather, use this as your basis for instructions to the sitter:
In a hurricane, tornado or high-wind storm, stay inside your home. Choose a small, interior room without windows, such as a bathroom or closet, on the first level.
Share the location of flashlights, extra batteries, candles and matches in case the power goes out. (They can also use the flashlight on their phone.)
Call the parents to let them know. Conserve your phone’s battery so you can stay in communication.
Medical Information
Whether it’s allergies, medications, or any existing health conditions, providing this information ensures the sitter is prepared to act quickly and appropriately.
Food and medication allergies (if any) listed for each child
Where medicine is stored, instructions on how and when to administer (and whether they need your permission to receive)
Location of the first aid kit, band-aids and other medical supplies
A healthcare authorization form in case you can’t be reached in an emergency and your child needs medical care (You can find these forms online.)
Schedule & Routines
Think through a typical day and write down the routines for your children. Use that as a basis for the schedule you will provide for your sitter.
Include approximate times, as it may take longer than usual when a person other than you is directing.
Chores or homework for which the kids are responsible
Essential supplies (e.g. a lovey and sound machine for bedtime)
Include options for discipline (e.g. loss of screen time) and rewards (e.g. an extra story) to help encourage children to follow the routine.
Snacks & Meals
Whether or not your sitter will be feeding your child, they will likely have to negotiate requests for snacks.
Establish the rules on snacks and sweets, and when children can have them.
Make sure your sitter knows what is safe for a baby or toddler to eat. Don’t give a child under age 4 whole grapes, whole hot dogs, hard candy, popcorn, or other choking hazards.
Plan to feed your sitter if they are there during mealtime and let them know the options.
Safety Rules
Safety isn’t always commonsense. Make sure your sitter is aware of the following rules.
Never leave child unattended in a bathtub or on a high surface like a changing table.
You will want to share your rules about what is allowed, from screen time to what the sitter is allowed to do when the kids are asleep. Here are some rules to consider.
Whether the sitter is allowed to post photos of your kids on social media
What is off-limits in terms of television shows (even when kids are asleep), technology, food and drinks
Your policy on visitors (e.g. no friends, don’t open the door unless the parent has let you know that a visitor is expected)
No sleeping on the job
When Your Babysitter Arrives
Ask your sitter to arrive 15-30 minutes before you plan to head out to allow ample time for instructions. It’s worth the additional peace of mind to pay her for this extra time.
Give your babysitter a tour of the house if she or he hasn’t been there before. Point out any areas that are off-limits to the sitter and/or the kids. Show him or her two ways out of each room in case of a fire.
If you have Nanny cams, point them out.
Go over the written instructions and leave them posted in a visible, easily accessible place, such as stuck to the fridge with a magnet.
Give your sitter a chance to ask questions.
Confirm your expected arrival back at the home and let them know how you will update them if you are running late.
Enjoy your day or night out with the peace of mind that you’ve taken the steps to keep everyone safe.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
