B.F. Skinner's Theories on Discipline in the Classroom

B.F. Skinner's theories on discipline in the classroom have helped to mold the way teachers instill discipline in their students for decades. His theories were not directed at classroom behavior, but his findings have influenced and led the way in many classroom discipline methods since the 1960s (Charles & Senter, 2004). This essay will discuss the impact of B.F. Skinner's theories on discipline in the classroom.

Behavior Modification

Skinner wrote many articles and essays on "how our voluntary actions are influenced by what happens to us immediately after we perform a given act" (Charles & Senter, 2004, pp. 33). These papers led to the theory of behavior modification which is used everywhere in the educational field. Behavior modification refers to the use of reinforcement in order to shape the behavior of a student.

Constant Reinforcement

Skinner noted in many of his works that "much if not most of our voluntary behavior is shaped as we receive reinforcement immediately after we perform an act" ( Charles & Senter, 2004, pp. 45). This theory led teachers to use constant reinforcement as a form of discipline in the classroom. This type of reinforcement allowed students to learn new desired ideas, rules, and skills. This type of discipline must be done every time a student does something correct (Charles & Senter, 2004).

Intermittent Reinforcement

After rules and skills are established a teacher will then need to rely on intermittent reinforcement in order to remain a level of discipline in the classroom. Since the behavior is established the need for reinforcement lessens. The use of reinforcing stimuli is only needed for discipline occassionally (Charles & Senter, 2004).

Reinforcing Stimuli

In order to maintain discipline in the classroom according to Skinner's findings the use of reinforcing stimuli is necessary. Some examples of this type of reinforcement "knowledge of results, peer approval, awards and free time, and smiles, nods, and praise from the teacher" (Charles & Skinner, 2004, pp. 34). This type of positive reinforcement has been used for decades in the classroom as a form of rewards for discipline.

Conclusion

Skinner's theories on how humans react to reinforcing stimuli has played a large role in the education and discipline of students in the classroom. Although Skinner had no intentions on having an impact on education his theories have been popular and utilized for many years. Reinforcement is a positive way to discipline students, and it is a helpful tool in the goal of classroom discipline.

Reference:

Charles, C. M., & Senter, G. W. (2004). Building Classroom Discipline (8th Edition) (8 ed.). Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon.

Father's Day Wallet Craft Ideas for Kids

 Father's Day is a special holiday for dads and there are some great wallet crafts kids can make for their dads. A wallet is a useful gift that is easy enough to make. This article will provide detailed instructions on creating wallet themed crafts with kids.

Felt

Making a felt wallet is fun and easy for young kids to make for Father's Day. For this craft you will need hard felt, scissors, and fabric glue. Start by helping kids decide how big the wallet will be. It is also useful to have a ruler and pen to measure and create straight lines, but a book or other straight object will also work fine.

Then cut a rectangle of the appropriate size. Then cut another rectangle of the same exact size, and finally help kids cut another rectangle that is slightly smaller in height. Help kids assemble the wallet by laying the first piece of felt on the table. Then add a thin line of fabric glue to the very edge of the rectangle. Make sure to leave the top line glue free because this is where the money will go. Then add the matching piece of felt to the top of the first one.

Next help kids add a line of glue around three sides of the small rectangle, and help them place it on top of the second rectangle to create a smaller pocket. Allow the glue to dry completely, and this project is complete. You can add pictures or other items to the wallet for decoration if you like as well.

Duct Tape

Any dad will love a duct tape wallet made by their kids. This fun Father's Day gift is unique and inexpensive to make. For this craft you will need scissors, duct tape, a piece of thick cardboard, and thumb tacks.

Start by assisting as kids cut a piece of duct tape the appropriate length of the wallet. Then tack it to the cardboard so the sticky side is facing upward. Then cut another piece the same size. Place it directly under the other piece, but allow it to overlap the first piece slightly so it sticks together. Add four more pieces in the same fashion. Use the tacks to keep the tape from sticking together.

Then help kids cut another piece of the same length and place it on top of the last piece with the sticky side inward. Continue with this until all the pieces are covered by another piece of duct tape. Then fold the bottom of the duct tape wallet up to meet the top. Use a smaller piece to secure the sides of the wallet. Help kids place a piece evenly on the edge like a book binding to secure the sides together; repeat this process on the other side of the wallet. Finally add a piece to the inside of the sides of the wallet to cover the piece of duct tape that was just applied and add stability to the wallet.

These unique Father's Day crafts are fun for kids to make, and dads will love using a wallet that is made by his children.

Father's Day Crafts for Preschoolers Using Pipe Cleaners

 

Pipe cleaners are a cheap and fun material to use for Father's Day crafts with your preschoolers. This is a special holiday for dads, and receiving homemade gifts from their children is a great way to celebrate this holiday. This article discusses how to create pipe cleaner crafts with your children for this Father's Day.

Tie Rack

A tie rack is a great gift for a dad who wears suits to work. For this project you will need pipe cleaners, hot glue, a hot glue gun, and scissors. You will also need a hanger for the base of this craft. Start by helping preschool children decide on which colors of pipe cleaners their father will like.

Then help children twist the pipe cleaner around the hanger. Add hot glue to secure the pipe cleaner in place. Continue in this process and make sure to assist your child so the pipe cleaner wraps around the hanger tightly and securely. When the entire hanger is covered this craft is ready to give to dad. Use the scissors to remove excess pipe cleaner from the end of the hanger. Father's can hang their ties on this hanger without worrying that their ties will slip off onto the floor.

Pen Holder

Dad's desk or workbench will look great with a homemade pen holder. For this craft all you need is pipe cleaners, glue, scissors, ribbon, and a tin can. Help kids sort through the pipe cleaners and decide on the right colors and the order they will go in.

Then help kid bend the pipe cleaner around the can. Add glue to secure the pipe cleaner in place, and continue to add pipe cleaners to the can. When the entire can is covered add the ribbon to the inside edge of the top of the tin can.

Coaster

Preschoolers will love making this coaster for their dads on Father's Day. You will need a sheet of foam, pencils, scissors, pipe cleaners, hot glue sticks, and a hot glue gun. Start by drawing a square on the foam sheet. Then let kids cut the shape out of the foam.

Cut the pipe cleaners to fit evenly across the length of the square. Assist as preschoolers glue the pipe cleaners across the entire coaster. Lining the coasters up evenly will create a nice even pattern on the coaster. Then use the scissors to trim any excess.

These Father's Day crafts are perfect for preschool children. Have fun with your preschool kids by making these crafts, and their dads will appreciate these awesome gifts.

Father's Day Crafts for Kids Using Paint

 

You can make Father's Day crafts with kids using paint, and paint is inexpensive so these gifts will save you money as well. This article will provide you with instructions on creating fun gifts for Dad on his special day.

Picture Frame

A picture frame is easy to make and decorate with children. For this project, you will need paint, a palette, newspaper, paintbrushes, cardboard and scissors. Help kids cover the work area with newspaper. Then pour some paint onto the palette.

Cut the cardboard into a rectangle, and then cut the center of the rectangle out to make a frame large enough to fit a photo. Let the kids paint all over the frame. Young kids can cover the frame with bright colors, and older kids can make patterns or write messages. When the paint has dried, a photo will complete this craft.

Coffee Mug

A coffee mug can be easily painted to be unique, and you do these crafts with kids by using special ceramic paint markers. For this craft, simply cover the work area with newspaper. Then help kids paint the chosen coffee mug for Dad with the paint markers. Kids can paint designs, write a message or just color it all over. Follow the directions for the paint markers because they may have to be baked to seal the paint for dishwasher safety.

King Crown

Another easy and fun craft for dads on Father's Day is a crown. For this project, you will need paper, paint, scissors, gems, a pencil, glue and tape. Start by helping kids cut the paper so it is long enough to fit on Dad's head. Then use a pencil to design the shape of the crown. Points, stars and clovers are popular patterns for crowns.

Help kids cut the crown out of the paper, and use paint and gems to decorate the entire crown. You can also write, "King for a Day" or "No. 1 Dad" on the crown if you like. When the paint is dry, tape the ends of the crown together.

Making Father's Day gifts with your kids is a fun way to craft and provide the whole family with long lasting memories.

The Methods of Naturally Building and Why They Are Efficient

 

When most people hear of natural building they disregard it, and they assume that the way we have been building for years is obviously the best because we have been doing it for so long, but they are wrong. Natural Building is not only efficient but also good for the world. The building structures of most homes are foolish, and "buildings account for one quarter of the world's wood harvest" (Kennedy et al., 2002). The idea of working with nature on a basic level when building houses instead of working against it is something more people should understand and employ.

Cord wood is a method of building that was always slightly mysterious to me, I learned from this book that in order for the wood to rot it must stay wet for a long period of time, but since cordwood "breathes along end grains" the wall dries very quickly and the fungi that it needs to make the wood rot does not have a healthy living environment (Kennedy, Wanek, Smith, 2002). Cordwood is a method of building that I will use because it is attractive and efficient.

Certain methods when building will help a house in multiple ways; an example of this is when you want "to keep a house warm in the winter locate it halfway up a south facing slope so that frost and cold air are blocked, and free energy can fill the dwelling" (Kennedy et al., 2002). This idea ties in with the earthship design I am creating, and it uses the position in more ways than I had anticipated. I think that it is very beneficial and wise to make sure "every function is met by multiple elements" (Kennedy et al., 2002).

Another idea that I have adopted is organizing floor plans around activities; and I think this will be a great help when creating my floor plan later on. The basic idea is simple, but it makes a lot of sense when designing and building a house. For instance I have put the art room in my house on the far end because it will be quieter and peaceful; I chose this because the living room, master bedroom, and kitchen will be on the other end of the house, and this will keep my art room separate and secluded.

These techniques are beneficial to anyone who is planning on constructing a house or any other building because they help the home owner have a more efficient home, and they are useful of energy instead of wasteful. It is important to look at many different techniques when building your own house, but I encourage you to look into natural building for the sake of your own comfort, but also for the sake of the earth.

Reference:

Kennedy, J., Wanek, C., & Smith, M. (2002). The art of natural building. Gabriola Island: BC, Canada: New Society Publishers.

Interior: Use of the Color Blue in Your Home

The use of the color blue in the interior of your home can add a wide range of atmospheres from relaxing to dramatic. Blue comes in so many shades, and it can add that special touch to your home. This article will discuss the interior use of blue in your home decorating.

Walls and Floors

Blue is a great color for walls and floors and the varying shades can cause different feels. Lighter shades of blue and pastel hues will add openness and an airy feeling to rooms. Dark shades can shrink a room unless it is paired with lighter shades such as white or pastels. The combination of dark blue and light colors will add a dramatic look to a room.

The amount of blue or the space you use this color in will change the atmosphere this color will create. Using a blue border around a wall will add depth and detail. Blue doors and molding adds elegance and detail to home decor. You can choose these details to compliment or contrast a room. Dark blue molding compliments light colored rooms. Pastel blue details combine nicely with dark shades of blue, grey, green, and neutral colors.

Furniture

Blue furniture can come in a variety of colors. Bright shades and deep hues will add drama and personality to a room with pale walls. Sky blue adds a cheerful feeling, and pastel blue adds country charm especially if it has a weathered look to it. Slate blue is very attractive and sophisticated, and it will match well with many other color combinations. Blue furniture is a great way to add blue to a room without painting the walls.

Accessories

There are many blue accessories that will add personality in home decorating. Blue is a popular color for glass, and lamps, vases, and blue glass bottles will add a stylish feel to your home. Blue ceramic is charming and goes great with a country or rustic feel. Blue curtains can come in heavy or light material. They can add a cool tone of relaxation while keeping cold air out in the winter. These simple accessories add blue to a room with little effort.

Blue comes in many tones. Vibrant aqua shades are reminiscent of the ocean, morning glory blue is a pale and warm hue, and midnight blue is dark and deep. All of these colors can be used in home decorating to add that unique feel to the interior of your home.

Father's Day Cake Decorating Ideas

 

Dad's love cake, and there are many great Father's Day cake decorating ideas that everyone can enjoy creating and eating. Cake decorating does not have to be left to professionals, and the thought behind the cake always makes the cake taste even sweeter. Here are several cake decorating ideas for Father's Day.

Shirt

Whether your dad works in an office or on the basketball court, a shirt cake is an awesome idea. All you need to do is make a square or rectangular cake. You can make more than one layer if you like. Then ice the entire cake white. Use a pastry bag and colored frosting to design the type of shirt that reminds you of dad.

BBQ

Another unique cake idea is a barbecue. Your father will smile when he sees the awesome cake. It can be made using round cake pans. Frost the sides in gray, and the top with black frosting. Then use a pastry bag to make the grill lines. Also create burgers for the grill by making a small round cake and cutting it into smaller circles. You can make hot dogs too by using candy clay or chocolate molds.

Fish

A big fish cake is fun for young children to decorate, and it is important to have lots of candy and sprinkles for this cake. It is made using two round pans. One pan will be the body, and the other pan can be cut into pieces to make the fins. Ice the entire cake and use the candy to add scales and different colors to the fins. Also use candy to make an eye.

Super Dad

On Father's Day, your dad is a superhero, and he should have a cake that reflects his magnitude. For this cake decorating idea, you will to make an upside down triangle-shaped cake. Ice the sides of the cake with baby blue frosting and the top with yellow. Then use red frosting to write dad on the cake.

These cake decorating ideas for Father's Day are fun to create for any dad. Try them and you will all be pleasantly surprised.

Edible Father's Day Crafts that Kids Can Make as Gifts

 

Edible crafts are always a good gift idea for dads on Father's Day. Children will love making these projects, and they are easy to make. This article supplies you with information on edible Father's Day crafts that kids can make.

Barbeque Sauce

Father's Day is the perfect holiday for this edible gift because it is celebrated in the beginning of barbequing season. To start creating this gift idea you need to find barbeque sauce recipe you enjoy. Check out this link to choose from the top 10 barbeque sauce recipes.

Work with kids to create the barbeque sauce. When you are all finished you will need canning jars, wax paper, pinking shears, ribbon, heavy paper, a funnel, paper towel, a hole puncher, and a pen. Start by filling all of the jars with the sauce. Then cut squares out of the wax paper using the pinking shears. Also cut small rectangles out of the paper.

Write the name of the sauce on one side of the rectangle. Also right a message on the other. Punch a hole in the corner of the paper. Cover the jar with the flat part of the lid. Place the wax paper over the jar and place the ring over the wax paper. Cut a long piece of ribbon, thread it through the hole punched in the paper, and tie it around the lip of the jar. These tasty gifts are easy crafts to give away.

Tie Cake

Another fun craft for kids to make for their fathers is a tie cake. For this gift you will need cake mix, canned pumpkin, white colored frosting, food coloring, a square cake pan, a loaf pan, bowls, spoons, knives, and a pastry bag. If you don't have a pastry bag you can roll up a piece of wax paper.

Start by assisting as kids mix the cake mix with the pumpkin, fill the two pans, and bake according to the directions on the cake mix package. Allow the cake to cool when they are done, and mix the frosting while you are waiting. Start by placing some frosting in a bowl. Then help children add food coloring of your choice to the frosting. Mix it together thoroughly.

When the cakes are cooled, flip them over onto a plate. Use a knife to cut the corners off of the loaf cake. Then trim a little of the cake off of the sides of the loaf. This will make the base of the tie, and can be placed on top of the square cake. Then add two corners together in a triangle shape at the top of the tie to make the knot. Place the two triangles on either side of the knot to create the collar. Ice the entire cake with the white frosting.

Then ice the tie using the colored frosting. Mix another color with some frosting in a separate bowl and put the frosting in the pastry bag. Write a special Father's Day message for your dad on the cake, and add details to the tie.

These edible gift ideas are perfect crafts for children, and dads will love them too. Try creating thee projects to make the children and father's in your life very happy on this special holiday.

What is Yeast and How Does it Work?

 

Everyone loves delicious bread, but many people do not realize how important yeast is in the process of making bread. If we didn't have yeast we wouldn't have a lot of the things we enjoy today such as rising bread, wine, whisky, or beer. Although yeast is so integral to the food culture of our world many people do not know much about yeast. This article will describe what yeast is and how it works.

Yeast is a "one celled plant" that is so small when alone you need a microscope to see it (Leokum, 1986, p.184). I know yeast is small, but I can see it every time I use it to bake bread; how is this possible? Yeast may be one celled, but it grows in "colonies" (Leokum, 1986, p.184). Yeast is a valuable part of everyday life. Yeast is almost "colorless," and it is considered a "fungus" because it ddoes not produce chlorophyll or any other means of feeding itself (Leokum, 1986, p.184).

As yeast grows it turns into two substances, and these substances help cause the changes in the foods we use them for. The two sunstances yeast forms are "enzymes" known as "invertase and zymase," and these enzymes "convert starch to sugar and sugar to alcohol, carbon dioxide, and energy" (Leokum, 1986, p.184). This process is known as fermentation and this is what causes bread to rise and juice to turn into wine. Yeast may be tiny, but it has a powerful ability to change things.

Many years ago the Egyptians discovered yeast, and they used it in their bread making, but not everyone else knew about yeast. Bread makers of the past realized that leaving their bread out to rest for a while would provide them with lighter fluffier loaves. They did not know it at the time, but this process worked because yeast strands from the air would get in the bread and cause it to rise. These days bread makers add sugar and yeast on purpose to make rise. We now know that the yeast eats the sugar and turns it into carbon dioxide, and the carbon dioxide forms bubbles inside the loaf. The oven's heat "drives off the carbon dioxide and leaves a dry light loaf" (Leokum, 1986, p.184).

Yeast is an amazing fungus that helps us to enjoy the foods and drinks that we love so every time you sip a beer or eat a sandwich remember the one celled yeast plant and enjoy!

Reference:

Leokum, A. (1986). The Big book of tell me why. New York, NY: Grosset and Dunlap.

What is a Master's Degree?

 

Many people hear about master's degrees and are not sure exactly what one is. This type of degree is a valuable asset that can add a lot of new options and benefits to your career path. Master's degrees have many benefits that can help you improve your life in many ways.

A master's degree is a degree that is obtained after a bachelor's degree and before a doctorate degree. It is a two year degree program, and a bachelor's degree is usually required before obtaining a master's degree.

The benefits of a master's degree are plentiful, and this degree can add to your career in many ways. Higher pay is a common benefit of a master's degree, and this type of degree proves that you have exceptional knowledge in a certain area or field.

Another benefit of a master's degree is new career path options, and gaining a master's degree in a new area of expertise can allow you to obtain a different career. Master's degrees give you the knowledge and certification needed to transition into a different field.

Master's degrees are obtained through two years of education that have similar courses to undergraduate degrees, but the coursework is more specialized and in depth. After four years of academic work students in a master's degree program are expected to have higher analytical skills, and many master's degree courses require thorough discussion of topics. Another required part of a master's degree is a thesis, and this requirement is usually in the format of an extended research paper on the major topic of your degree.

There are many different types of master's degrees available, and there are three major areas of master's degree programs. Master's of arts, science, and business administration are the common master's degree programs available, and they all have specific degree majors.

Master's of Art degree programs entail several subjects including psychology, English, counseling, education, and human resources. These degrees are not the only master's of arts programs available, but they are commonly acquired.

Master's of Science degrees are another type of master's degree programs that are based on scientific theory and information. Some common master's of science degree program options are environmental studies, computer science, medicine, and information science.

Master's of Business Administration degrees are popular programs that focus on specific business subjects such as marketing, accounting, management, and advertising. These master's degree programs will provide you with extensive knowledge in relation to business information and skills.

A master's degree is a valuable degree for increasing career success on many levels, and these two year degree programs will provide you with valuable information and skills that will help you in your career goals.

The Great Artists of the Romantic Movement

 

One of my favorite art movements is Romanticism. This type of art flourished from 1800-1840, and it was inspired by the "dark ages" where "barbarianism, superstition," "gothick, sublime", and "miracles" were popular culture (Gardner, 2001. p.864). Romanticism started in "1770", and it is still alive today; it has even inspired the soundtrack to the epic film Star Wars (Brians, 1998).

This movement was based on the idea that all that was artificial and false should be banned and honest emotion should prevail. This movement was so unique and interesting because it was about rebelling against the common values of society. Imagination and emotion was revered over reasoning and rules in this art movement. Individualism and creativity were highly valued during this time in art(Gardener, 2001). The heart was revered over the mind, and many preconceived ideas on art and beauty were thrown to the wind. It is interesting to note that Neoclassicism was happening before Romanticism, and it was a type of art based on rules and modeled after art from the Renaissance. It is intriguing to see the pattern of art movements, and I realize that the movement based on reason led to a movement based on imagination.

William Blake was an artist of the Romantic Movement that was appealing to me. He was said to be "inspired by dreams," and his engraving titled Ancient of Days is beautiful and inspiring (Gardener, 2001, p. 865). The dramatic use of light and dark in the contrast of the bright yellows and orange of the sky and sun opposed to the dark brown and black of the background and landscape worked very well and added strong emotion to the piece. I also enjoyed the linear aspects of the light and stance of the figure. This piece embodied the Romantic style with its use of emotion and passion.

Henry Fuseli is another great artist from the Romanticism period. His painting The Nightmare embodies the work of the Romantic Movement. This painting depicts a woman sleeping or possibly dead with a demon crouched on top of her smiling; in this picture there is also a dark spirit of a horse or similar creature lingering in the shadows (Gardener, 2001). This painting suggests the idea of dreaming and the darkness of nightmares. Many of Fuseli's paintings portray gargoyles and creatures of the night, and they have a dark almost menacing theme to them.

The Romantic Movement was an amazing and very inspiring movement in art. The raw use of imagery and emotion combined to leave the viewer in awe and wonderment. I love the humor and clever themes. Romanticism was a great time for art, and it is important to know and appreciate the work of many of the artists of this time.

References:
Brians, P. (1998). Romanticism. Retrieved June 9, 2009, Web site: http://www.wsu.edu/~brians/hum_303/romanticism.html

Gardner, H. (2001). Gardner's art through the ages. Orlando, FL: Harcourt College Publishers.

Recycled Teen Crafts: Purses

 

Recycled crafts are very popular, and they should be. It is good to use recycled materials when crafting, and it is something that your teens will enjoy. This article will provide you with step-by-step instructions for creating several different purses out of recycled materials; and you teen will love completing these projects with you.

Dish Towels Purse

Dish towels come in many fun patterns and designs, and they are inexpensive. Teens will love the purses they can make with dish towels. For this recycled craft you will need needle, thread, ribbon, scissors, and a dish towel.

Start by folding the dish towel so the outside is on the inside, but allow about 3 inches of extra material on one side. Help teens thread the needle, and sew the sides together. Make sure to sew them a few times to make them stronger.

Help teens cut the ribbon so it is long enough for a shoulder strap and sew it to the inner sides of the purse. This teen craft is quick and it uses recycled materials to create a unique purse.

Pocket purse

Another easy purse can be made using recycled pockets, fabric glue, scissors, needle, thread, and ribbon. Start this craft by cutting out a couple pockets from different items of old clothing. Then decide how to assemble your purse. An easy way to do this is by starting with the biggest pocket, and gluing the smaller pocket onto the side of it. Remember you can sandwich the pockets together to create multiple areas to this purse craft.

When all of the pockets have dried, help teens cut a piece of ribbon long enough to be a strap. Thread the needle and sew the straps to the inside of the biggest pocket. This unique recycled purse is a great way to get your teens to be creative.

Pant Leg Purse

Instead of throwing away your ribbed pants, teens can recycle them into a purse. For this craft you will need an old pair of pants, scissors, needle, and thread. Start this craft by cutting off the bottom of one pant leg. Make sure you cut straight across the leg and it is long enough for your desired purse length.

Turn the pant leg piece inside out, and thread the needle. Help teens sew across the cut edge of the paint piece and tie the thread in a knot to secure it. Then cut three long strips from the other pant leg, and braid them together. Tie the ends in a knot and sew the knot to the inside of the purse to complete this recycled craft.

Creating recycled purses is fun for teen, and it will allow them to understand how important it is to recycled. Try these crafts with your teens, and you will both have a great time.

Tea Party Themes for Children

 

Children love tea parties, and there are many themes that kids will enjoy adding to their game. Tea parties make great birthday party ideas, and your children will enjoy them. This article will discuss tea party themes for children.

Dolls and Teddy Bears

Kids love dolls, teddy bears, and their other stuffed companions, and they are an excellent item to integrate to your theme parties for children. For this tea party make sure to gather many of your children's favorite dolls and toys. Dress them up with ribbon and bows, and remember to find chairs and dishes that will suit their sizes. This personal touch will add a special meaning to your children's tea party.

Picnic

Another great tea party theme is a picnic. Children love being outdoors, and a picnic is an excellent way to take tea parties outside. For picnic tea parties make sure to bring edible treats that hold up well outdoors. Umbrellas can be decorated with frilly lace to look like parasols for this tea party theme, and fans are always appropriate.

Seaside

A seaside tea party is a fun theme, and shells, pearls, and lace should be incorporated into the decorations of this type of tea party. Seaside tea parties can be held on the beach, or the feeling of the ocean can be brought inside with seaside inspired music. Citrus is a lovely flavor to add to teas during a seaside party theme, and children will enjoy mixing lemon and lime into their favorite teas.

Garden

A garden tea party is a great event. This theme requires bright colors such as pink, orange, green, and yellow. A garden themed tea party should also inspire fruit flavored teas that can be poured over ice. Mint and other herbs are also a nice addition to this type of tea party. Garden themed parties should have plenty of fauna and foliage.

Winter Wonderland

The cold of winter can inspire wonderful tea party ideas. Spiced and sweet teas are excellent for this type of party. A winter wonderland also suggests sweetly glazed baked goods. Apples and pumpkin are good flavors for this theme as well. For a winter tea party children should wear gloves, scarves, and to stay toasty.

These fun tea party themes will provide children with hours of preparation and fun. Tea parties do not have to be the same old thing; try adding some excitement with themes.

The 3 Main Types of Committees in the United States Government

 

There are 3 main types of committees in the United States government. These committees make many decisions for the government that impact all U.S. citizens. Understanding the 3 main types of committees in the United States is an important part of understand the United States government and legislature. This article will discuss the 3 main types of committees in the United States.

"Congress divides its legislative, oversight, and internal administrative tasks among more than 200 committees and subcommittees" in the United States government (Committee Types and Roles, 2009, p. 2, pp.3). Although there are many committees and subcommittees, there are three main types of committees in use by this government. Informal groups such as party committees and tasks forces are not included in the main committees discussed in this article. The three main types of committees are known as "standing, select or special, and joint" (CTR, 2009, p. 1, pp. 3). These types of committees handle many aspects of government.

Standing Committees

These committees are permanent and "have legislative jurisdiction;" standing committees consider bills and issues and recommend measures for consideration by their respective chambers" (CTR, 2009 p. 2, pp1.). Standing committees must also oversee and monitor certain programs, activities, and agencies within the area of their jurisdiction. It is common for the areas of jurisdiction to overlap committees because of the wide range of effects of programs, agencies, and activities on different areas of government and the United States. Standing committees also have a hand in recommending funding levels "for government operations and for new and existing programs" (CTR, 2009, p.2, pp. 2). Standing committees also play a role in budget and financing of programs and agencies within the government.

Select or Special Committees

These types of committees have a special purpose. They are "established by a separate resolution of the chamber," and select or special committees are use "sometimes to conduct investigations and studies, and, on other occasions, also to consider measures" (CTR, 2009, p. 2, pp. 5). These committees deal with issues that are fairly new and not represented by already existing types of committees. They also deal with issues that cross the jurisdiction of more than one standing committee. A select or special committee can be temporary or permanent depending on the goal of this type of committee. "Certain restrictions on member tenure or may include certain specified representatives (e.g., party leaders or certain standing committee chairs) as ex officio members" may be portrayed by this type of committee (CTR, 2009, p. 3, pp.5).

Joint Committees

"Joint committeesare made up of Members of both the House and Senate," and they are permanent panels in the United States Government (CTR, 2009, p.43, pp. 6). Joint committees are types of committees that perform studies and monitor areas of government. "The chairmanship of the joint committees "usually alternates between the House and Senate" (CTR, 2009, p.43, pp. 6). A type of joint committee that deals with conflicts between the House and Senate is a conference committee.

Understanding the main types of committees in the U.S. government is important when understanding how the government is run.

Reference:

Committee Types and Roles. (2009). U.S. Senate. Retrieved August 9, 2010, from http://www.senate.gov/CRSReports/crs-publish.cfm?pid=%26*2

Recycled Metal Garden Decor Crafts

 

Spring is here, and so is spring cleaning; so keep your eye on the side of the road for junk that can be turned into treasures. Many people throw away all sorts of useful metal items, and many of them can be turned in recycled garden décor crafts. Here you will be provided with several recycled metal garden décor crafts that will inspire you to get crafty with your garden.

Fence Arch

A fun garden décor idea that uses recycled metal fences is a squared arch. For this garden craft all you will need is some old metal fences or railings, a shovel, rocks, and some wire. Start by finding a good spot in your garden and placing the railing where you would like it. Mark the spots with the shovel and lay the fence on the ground.

Use the wire to attach the three pieces of metal fence together and dig holes about a foot deep to set your fence in the ground. Lift the structure and place it in the holes. Add the rocks and dirt to fill in the hole around the fence, and you can add some bricks to the outside bottom edge to further secure the arch in place.

Vine Trellis

Another easy garden décor craft made from recycled metal materials is a vine trellis; this craft is easy because any type of metal object can work. Old grates, fence posts, doors, and other unique and interesting metal items can easily be recycled into a vine trellis. Simply place the metal piece where you would like it and mark the spot with a shovel Dig out the section and bury the bottom of it in the ground. This simple garden décor craft only requires a recycled metal item of interest and a shovel.

Chair Container

Another fun and interesting recycled metal craft for your garden requires a chair and a garden pot. The garden pot should be big enough to fit into the seat of the chair. If it is too small you can add some wood to the edges of the seat of the chair to hold the plant inside it. Simply remove the seat of the chair place it in your garden, and it will create height that is perfect for vines and hanging plants. This recycled metal craft is a inexpensive addition to your garden décor.Using recycled materials for garden décor is fun and inexpensive; these are the reasons this type of garden décor has become so popular lately. Try these garden décor crafts the next time you find a metal item that can be recycled.

The Relationship Between Physical, Cognitive and Social-Emotional Development in Humans

 

There is a strong relationship between the physical, cognitive, and social-emotional development of humans. All of these areas of human development have their unique traits, but they are all dependent of each other as well. This article will describe the traits of these areas of development and discuss their connections.

Physical Development

Human development happens physically starting from conception. Physical development consists of the growth of the body and brain. It is also categorized by the development of motor skills and behavioral patterns.

Physical development is very rapid in childhood and teenage years. Throughout child hood physical development starts with learning to crawl, walk, and use the hands and feet efficiently. In the teenage years physical development is characterized through puberty.

Cognitive Development

Cognitive development is represented in terms of logic and reasoning. This area of human development pertains to thought processes and their complexity. It is also reflected by improved ability to understand theory and an increased vocabulary level and usage.

In childhood human development of the cognitive nature is evident through learning to speak and write. It is also reflected by the use of theories to rationalize and comprehend. As children turn into teenagers cognitive learning is increased, and it continues increasing as a human ages and develops.

Social-Emotional Development

This part of human development relates to feelings, emotions, morals, beliefs, and ethics. Social-emotional development in humans occurs throughout age. It is reflected through thoughts on what are right and wrong and other matters of belief and opinion.

As a human develops its thoughts include more reasoning and complexity. Through this development a human becomes more aware of their selves and others, and a human will be able to deal with social-motional developments better.

Relationships in Human Development

Human development is separated into different areas because all of these areas have specific traits. The physical, cognitive, and social-emotional developments in humans all influence each other in different ways.

Physical development influences both cognitive development and social-emotional development. Cognitive development is influences by physical development because the brain and motor skills naturally affect the development of thought patterns. Behavior is also influential over cognitive development because behavioral patterns will cause thought development to be different.

Cognitive development affects social-emotional development because the ability to think and reason will affect a person's ability to understand feelings and emotions. It will also impact a human's ability to understand themselves and others.

Social-emotional development is also impacted by physical development and vice versa. A human's development of confidence may be affected by the physical development. Puberty is another reason why physical development affects social-emotional development.

The different areas of human development all have specific characteristics, but they also all have impact on each other.

Natural Insect Control in Your Garden

 

It is important to know methods of natural insect control in your garden if you are going to have a healthy garden this year. Insects are inevitable, and they can be one of the biggest problems in any
garden. Luckily, there are many natural methods of controlling the insect problems in your garden. Many of these methods can be found right in your kitchen. This article will discuss several methods of natural insect control in your garden.

Beer

Beer can be used in your garden for natural insect control. Slugs love the smell of beer, but they are not capable of surviving in it. If you have a slug infestation simply pour some beer in a very shallow dish and place in the areas that are infested with slugs. Slugs eat large holes in leafy plants such as collards, cabbage, and swiz chard. A little beer trap will save your precious garden vegetables.

Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol is another natural insect control for your garden. Mealy bugs and scale insects can not endure alcohol. To utilize this method try mixing 1 part alcohol with 2 parts water and spray the natural insect control on plants. You can also dip a cotton ball in the solution and rub it directly on leaves or bugs.

Dish Soap

Natural insect control can be made using dish soap. It is important to use soap that is not antibacterial. Antibacterial soap will badly harm your plants so make sure to read the label before using. Simply mix 2 tablespoons to a cup of water and spray on plants. The soap will automatically kill any insects it comes in contact with. This natural insect control for your garden is easy and efficient.

Onions and Garlic

Onions and garlic can be brewed into a natural insect control for your garden. Simply chop an entire onion and an entire bulb of garlic. Boil these natural insect controls in 2 quarts of water for about 30 minutes. Strain the garlic and onion out of the liquid and spray on plants. This natural insect control can be slightly smelly, but it will keep insects out of your garden.

Vegetable Oil

Mixing a tablespoon of vegetable oil with any of these natural insect controls will help increase your chance of success. Vegetable oil does not mix well with water so remember to shake the liquid while applying.

Hot Pepper

Spicy scents and tastes are an automatic deterrent to garden insects. A natural way to control these pests is by mixing 3 tablespoons of hot pepper sauce with a cup of water. If you have red pepper flakes your can add about a cup of pepper flakes to 3 cups of water; boil for an hour or soak over night. Remember to strain out the pepper flakes from your natural insect control solution. Spray the entire plant with the mixture.

Natural insect control in your garden does not have to be hard or expensive. These simple methods will help you control your insect problems naturally in your garden.

Inexpensive Vegetarian Camping Recipe

 

Cooking over a fire when camping can be intimidating, but it can also be delicious. There are many vegetarian recipes you can cook when camping, but this recipe is inexpensive, vegetarian, and delicious.

For this camping recipe you can use a small camping stove or you can use a fire. The only cooking utensils you will need are a large pot and a spoon. A vegetarian diet must have protein, and here are the ingredients for this inexpensive camping recipe.

1 cup water

2 Ramen noodle packs

A can of chic peas

A can of creamed corn

A can of mixed vegetables

1 cup instant mashed potato flakes

A pinch of salt and pepper

Start by cooking the noodles with the water in the pot until soft. Add the cans of vegetables and the chic peas and mix thoroughly. Then add the salt, pepper, and mashed potato flakes. Stir together and heat until the mixture has thickened up.

Serve hot; this camping recipe makes 7 servings. You can also sprinkle some cheese on top if this hardy vegetarian camping recipe; or you can add a can of tuna if you are not vegetarian.

This easy camping recipe is a treat for vegetarians and meat eaters alike. The ingredient combinations may seem strange, but the finished texture and taste is excellent. This easy and inexpensive camping recipe only requires one pot, and it serves many people.

Try this recipe when you are camping and you will be warm, full, and satisfied.

The Ancient Greek Culture of Nudity

 

The ancient Greek culture of nudity is a long haul from the present culture of nudity in the United States. Nudity is a taboo subject for many, but in the past it was rivaled and respected. Nudity can be uncomfortable for many people, but it was a religious practice in the past. This article will discuss the ancient Greek culture of nudity.

In ancient Greece it was common for people to be nude when working or dancing. The Greeks also exercised in the nude in gymnasiums. What is not commonly noted is how the gymnasiums were also places of education, and students were required to exercises their minds as well as their bodies. The weather was usually nice enough to not wear clothes in Greece. The people of Greece were not shocked by people being nude because it was common place and accepted.

Being nude reflected the values and beliefs of the ancient Greeks because they believed that by imitating the gods they were closer to them. Exercising, education, and nudity were all a common and sacred way the Greeks paid tribute to their gods. Nudity was common in celebrations and training in ancient Greece. When a child was born the naked father would parade around holding his newborn. The nude body was a tribute to the gods, and the ancient Greeks respected and represented this ideas.

The Greeks were criticized by some for wearing little or no clothing. Although the Greeks may have received criticism, they helped form many of the common ideas on civilization. I think that the Greeks ideas on nudity are positive. I do not believe in the same gods as the Greeks, so I do not see it as a form of worship, but I think the nude body is at its most natural form and should be accepted instead of shunned, guilted, or degraded.

It is important to understand that the ancient Greeks did not walk around in the nude all the time. They wore clothing and armor in battle and when riding. Many great warriors are pictured in the nude in ancient sculptures and paintings, but they did not fight in the nude. Many ancient Greek artworks depict nudity to emphasize emotions and themes.

The ancient Greeks were nude a lot of the time. They respected nudity because it represented a closeness, tribute, and respect for their gods. The ancient Greek culture of nudity was important to the Greeks, and people should be more aware of their culture.

Green Crafts: How to Make Jewelry from Old Clothes

Green crafts have many benefits, and you can learn how to make jewelry from old clothes. Reusing old clothes to make custom jewelry and accessories is a great way to save money and keep stuff out of landfills. This article will provide you with detailed instructions on creating a rag charm bracelet and knot necklace.

Rag Charm Bracelet

Charm bracelets are popular, and this green craft makes a great addition to your jewelry collection.

For this craft you will need an old piece of clothing, a hot glue gun, glue sticks, scissors, a chain that is long enough to fit around your wrist, a clasp, and 2 O-rings. Start by plugging in your glue gun. Also cut a 6 by 3 inch piece of fabric from the old clothing.

Then open the O-rings and attach the clasp to the the ends of the chains. Close the O-rings to secure both the clasp and the bracelet together. Then using the scissor cut small notches along the longer side of the fabric. Rip the fabric apart along the notches. You will have many strips.

Glue the strips along the length of the bracelet. Using the scissors trim the ends of the strips to the desired length. When the glue is dry you can wear your green jewelry craft.

Rag Knot Necklace

An inexpensive green jewelry craft is a knot necklace. For this craft you will need a few pieces of old clothes, scissors, a hot glue gun, and hot glue sticks. Pants and long sleeves work best for this jewelry craft because you will use longer pieces of old clothing.

Start by cutting 3 long strips of fabric that are about a quarter to a half inch wide. These strips will have to be twice the length of the desired necklace length, and remember to add about 4 more inches to compensate for the knot and braid.

Fold the strips in half, and tie the looped end into a knot. Make sure to leave the loop wide enough to fit your finger through it. Then braid the length of the strips until you reach the end. Tie the end in a knot that will fit through the loop.

Then cut 3-6 more pieces of rags about 12 inches long. Fold the strip in half and tie the ends on a knot. Continue knotting the end until the length is from 2-3 inches. Then attach the knots to the necklace to add interest. Start attaching by placing the loop underneath the necklace. Wrap the ball over the necklace and through the loop again. Pull it tightly and the green necklace is complete.

Green crafts are popular and inexpensive. These jewelry crafts are green because they are made from old clothing items. Instead of throwing out that ripped shirt try make green crafts with it; there are wonderful jewelry craft you can make with your old clothing.

Diversity as a Business Strategy

 

Using diversity as a business strategy is an important tool to meeting with growing trends in business. The workforce is diverse, consumers are diverse, and companies are diverse. This makes diversity a necessary strategy in any successful business. This article will discuss several ways to use diversity as a business strategy.

Diversity can be used by businesses to create a competitive advantage in applications for business consumers. Consumers are diverse and the applications used by them should be diverse enough to suit the different needs of the consumers. For instance some people like to do their business online, but some people would rather do it in person. Having both of these options is important when creating diverse business applications for consumers. It is also a good idea to have phone business services as well. Having several open areas for people to communicate with a business will help increase success.

Diversity should also be reflected in payment methods used by businesses. People are diverse and they like diverse methods of payment. Many people only use banks, credit cards, and some people strictly use cash or check. Online methods of payment are also very popular. If a business accepts several methods of payment, they are more appealing to the diverse market of consumers. This strategy is a benefit of diversity.

Another diverse business aspect for consumers is languages spoken. It is helpful for businesses to have translators or people who speak several languages in order to communicate with a diverse multitude of consumers. This is a benefit of diversity in the workforce because diversity employees will be able to speak different languages Language is a common place where business can be lost, and being equipped with a diverse workforce is an excellent strategy in business.

Another example of an application that will give businesses a competitive edge is staff members who work different hours. This strategy seems simple, but employing diversity in these means will benefit a business. Foreign customers and people who can not do business in the day appreciate the extra time for customer service. Adding a diverse way of doing business with customers will open up a diverse group of consumers. This strategy employs diversity in a business environment, and it can be very beneficial to a business.

Catering to the needs of a diverse world require diverse methods. These are all beneficial examples of how diverse consumer applications can give businesses a competitive edge. Diversity can be a strategy for any successful business.

Inexpensive Pirate Party Favors for Kids

 

Pirates are popular amongst kids, and many kids enjoy having a pirate themed party. Pirate themed parties are fun to plan, and there are many great pirate party favor ideas that are easy and inexpensive. This article will provide you with several inexpensive ideas for pirate themed party favors that your kids will love.

Eye Patch

An eye patch is a common pirate party favor, and they can be found for inexpensive prices at your local dollar or discount store. You can even make very inexpensive pirate eye patches for your party favors. All you will need is some black felt, scissors, black elastic cord, and glue or a hole punch. Simply cut the felt to a nice eye patch shape and add the elastic to make this eye patch wearable for kids.

Sword

Swords are another popular pirate party favor, and you can find them for inexpensive prices at local toy stores. They can also be bought cheaply at local dollar stores. If you can not find an appropriate pirate's sword for your party favor you can make one.

Simply cut two identical pirate's sword shapes out of cardboard and glue them together. Add foil to the metal part of the sword and paint the handle black or brown. You can also add some yarn or cord to the handle for grip. This inexpensive pirate party favor is a hit with kids.

Foil Candy Coins

A very inexpensive and awesome pirate party favor is foil wrapped candy coins, and you can find them for low prices at local dollar stores, drug stores, and gas stations.

Candy Rings

One of the best parts about being a pirate is the treasure, and candy rings are perfect party favors for a kid's pirate party. These inexpensive party favors can be bought in bulk for an even more inexpensive price.

Parrots

Every pirate has a parrot, and you can find inexpensive stuffed parrots at local dollar stores and toy stores. Also check online for bulk stuffed parrots and you will be able to find them for a good price.

Treasure Maps

A fun and easy party favor to create is a treasure map, and this party favor will be sure to be a hit with the kids at your pirate party. You can create this awesome party favor using markers, paper, tea bags, and imagination.

Start by ripping the edges off of a piece of paper to make it look old and soak the tea bags in some water. Then squeeze the tea bags onto the paper and spread the brown water around. This will stain the paper and make it look like a real treasure map. Simply use the markers to create directions, and this pirate party favor is practically free.Party favors are one of the best parts of parties, and these inexpensive party favors are sure to please all of the kids at your pirate party.