Bipolar disorder was once only seen in adults but studies are showing children also get the manic depressive illness. The only issue is many of the kids are being diagnosed as ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) Though now many researchers and doctors are realizing that bipolar is rearing its ugly self in childhood along in adolescence.

The early the diagnosis is made in children, the better their chances of having successful treatments and living inhibited lives that would otherwise be full of chaos. It seems though that anything doing with children is full of controversy. Medicating children with bipolar is not without its debates. Many doctors feel with medication (which is given first) along with talk therapy will work. However, many parents along with psychologists disagree with this method.

It seems that as soon as parents realize their child is on medication that the child loses some of his or her personality.. a sense of who they are that parents seem to love. It’s not true actually. Anytime a person is medicated or overly medicated, they do not lose a sense of who they are. However, it can be said that medications can make some children “spacey” or just plain “out of it”. This of course causes concern among the parents and doctors, making them questions if medicine is actually necessary and if the child is better off without any.

An effective therapy for children is play therapy especially for children with bipolar disorder. These children tend to live better childhoods. Play therapy typically places the child in certain “pretend” situations where they must have a logically and emotionally healthy solution. Play therapy is good for some children but not so good in others. In certain bipolar children, the mood swings are so strong that the child cannot control both their emotional reactions and other actions to situations.

A new therapy being introduced is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. The therapy centers on the patient learning to recognize bipolar symptoms, what triggers it and inappropriate behaviors that go along with it. It also comes up with alternatives to that “bad” behavior. This therapy allows the patient to discover for themselves what they can do to avoid manic or depressive episodes and how to effectively manage it. For adults, this is a good option… for children, however, it is still quite new. This therapy does work well with medicine therapy.

Cognitive therapy requires some level of resolving crisis and vital thinking that does not occur in children typically. For that reason, it is not used a lot in children under certain age guidelines and their maturity level. Some researchers say if the cognitive and behavioral therapy had some changes and were geared toward children, that it could work. This can prove difficult to do however.

No matter the end result, childhood treatment options should be discussed with their doctor, psychiatrists, psychologists, parents and teachers to come up with a livable and realistic treatment. Every person that child comes into contact should be aware of the process in order for it to be triumphant. Should they have concerns about what kind of effects it will have on the child or they see a difference in a bad result, they need to speak up when necessary. Parents should also not be afraid to change doctors if they feel their child is not getting the care and attention they need. The goal behind treatment is to get the child to live in society and function “normally” as the law says.

Abhishek Agarwal
http://www.articlesbase.com/mental-health-articles/children-with-bipolar-disorder-how-to-diagnose-and-treat-kids-739512.html

CHICAGO, GURNEE, HOFFMAN ESTATES, NAPERVILLE, TINLEY PARK, IL …

The five DirectBuy franchises of the greater Chicago—DirectBuy of Chicago North, DirectBuy of Tinley Park, DirectBuy of Hoffman Estates, DirectBuy of DuPage County and DirectBuy of Gurnee—have developed a “Kids Zone” area in their respective clubs so parents can focus on the task at hand and kids can enjoy the DirectBuy experience, too.

Though not a supervised area, the Kids Zone features a number of things to keep school-age children occupied and entertained: books, puzzles and games. The Kids Zone also includes a flat screen television so children of members can watch movies or play games.

“Let’s face it, most kids would rather go to the dentist than watch their parents shop for their next home improvement project. By the same token, it’s difficult for members with children to get the most out of the experience and do the research they need to do if they’re concerned about the kids getting fidgety. The Kids Zone gives children of DirectBuy members a place to play games, watch TV or even make new friends with other members’ kids while the grown-ups have their ‘fun’,” said I.J. Sell, owner of DirectBuy of Tinley Park.

Creating fun things to do for children is nothing new for DirectBuy. DirectBuy franchises across North America regularly donate equipment to youth organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCAs, and children’s hospitals.

“Because we are entrenched in the greater Chicago community, we have an even greater incentive to make this a one-of-a-kind, unique shopping experience because many of the members are our friends, neighbors, even relatives,” said Dave Kushner, owner of DirectBuy of Hoffman Estates. “The Kids Zone and donations to youth groups are just an extension of that philosophy.”

Since 1971, DirectBuy showrooms have offered members the opportunity to enjoy enormous savings on home furnishings, home improvement items, entertainment and outdoor products and accessories by buying wholesale, directly from the manufacturer. With five convenient locations in the greater Chicago area (Chicago, Gurnee, Hoffman Estates, Naperville, and Tinley Park), consumers can enjoy a comfortable, country-club setting, where they finally have the financial control of buying direct.

For more information on a DirectBuy membership, you can call 1-800-DIRECTBUY or visit http://www.directbuychicago.com/.

About DirectBuy

Since 1971, DirectBuy has helped hundreds of thousands of families enjoy a better quality of life, enabling them to buy directly from more than 700 manufacturers and their authorized suppliers. Buying direct makes members’ hard-earned money to go much further, while having the selection and choice not available at any retail store. Access to confidential prices, local suppliers, and unparalleled selection helps make members’ dream projects a reality.  It’s a comfortable, country-club setting, where you finally have the financial control of buying direct. The five DirectBuy showrooms serving the greater Chicago area are part of more than 160 locations throughout North America.

Consumers interested in becoming members may obtain a Visitor’s Pass to attend an Open House by visiting http://www.directbuychicago.com/.

Locations of the five DirectBuy showrooms serving the greater Chicago area are: DirectBuy of Gurnee, 4081 Ryan Rd. #107, Gurnee, IL; DirectBuy of Hoffman Estates, 2200 N. Stonington Ave Ste. 150 Hoffman Estates, IL; DirectBuy of Chicago North, 6325 Avondale, Chicago, IL; DirectBuy of DuPage County, 1864 Highgrove Ste. 136 Naperville, IL; and DirectBuy of Tinley Park, 18400 S. 76th Avenue Ste. B, Tinley Park, IL.

To learn more about the superior value and benefits of a DirectBuy membership, visit www.directbuycares.com.

Joe D’eramo

http://www.articlesbase.com/franchise-articles/directbuy-offers-play-areas-for-parents-and-children-724043.html

Gazebos are ideal for houses with large backyard spaces and for people who love to be part of nature’s wonders. If you love the rain, sun or snow, but afraid you’ll get wet or burnt, then a gazebo can help you enjoy your outdoor area in any kind of weather conditions.

If you want to have a little fun with your gazebos, you can install gazebo swings and share it with your loved one and friends. Not only can you swing outside your house, you can also enjoy different kinds of weathers and still return indoors dry, unburned and safe from environmental harm.

Gazebo swings are perfect for your kids to enjoy. They can swing their heart out right at the comfort of your own homes. You don’t need to worry about possible accidents at the playground if you have your own gazebo swings in your back yard. Your kids will love asking their friends to come over and just hang out.

While kids and teenagers would love their new gazebo swing, parents can also enjoy a peaceful moment outside and talk about “grown up” things. Installing your own gazebo swing in your back yard can give couples a new hideout for quality time and relaxing, talking about problems or enjoying the stars.

Choosing The Perfect Gazebo Swing

A gazebo swing is just like ordinary roofed gazebos, with a swinging chair. It offers a 360-degree view of your outdoor space. You can find gazebo swing types in all sorts of shapes, styles and sizes. You can choose an enclosed gazebo that you can use as a guesthouse, or a gazebo with fully opened sides.

Regardless of what kind of gazebo you choose, whether simple or rugged, you will find accessories that can fit your style. However, you have to complete all legal papers, such as regulations, permits, placement and other details for your construction. Since these rules vary from one city to the next, it is important to advice with your local authorities to find out what you need to accomplish for your gazebo swing.

Your property size and type of layout will be a large factor in choosing the location for your gazebo swing. Planning is an important part for your gazebo because you need to determine if there is room enough for your gazebo swing, if the materials and style will complement your garden or pond, and if the physical environment will accommodate your gazebo.

Ann Marier
http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/gazebo-swings-are-not-just-for-kids-124712.html

Camping can be a very exciting activity for the children. It is often regarded by parents as an opportunity to bond with their kids during the weekends. Moreover, it will also be an opportunity to teach your kids new things about the environment and some life skills. You can develop team work and cooperation between your children while camping.

However, you should note that bringing your kids out to camp is not just a matter of pure fun and excitement. Rather, it brings certain responsibilities. To make sure that you can make the most out of your aspired camping experience, below are some tips that you should apply.

Involve your children in your plans

Make sure that your children are involved in planning for the camping activity. Let them play a part in choosing the camping site. However, as they make the choice, make sure that you explain to them the activities that they can do and the kind of environment that awaits them in their chosen camping ground.

Let them decide the camping activities

Aside from letting the kids choose the camp site, let them decide the camping activities that all of you will engage in. Choose camp games and activities that are quite exciting, entertaining, informative, and educational. Also, make sure that each of your children has camp responsibilities that fit their age and actual capabilities. You can ask them to help with the cooking, cleaning, or collecting firewood based on their capability.

Let them pack their own bags

Let your children pack their own things for the camping trip. However, you should provide them with a basic checklist in order to make sure that they will not forget to bring all the necessary tools and equipment needed. Also, you should double check their bags before you set out for your camping adventure.

Do a dry run in your own back yard

If your children are going out to camp for the first time, it will be best if you do a test camp out in your own backyard. Aside from the fact that such can be a good bonding activity as well, this will help you assess whether your children are really ready for an outdoor camping activity.

Teach them about basic camping rules

Before you bring your children to the campsite, make sure that they are well aware of the basic camping rules. This will not only keep them safe. Instead, such will also keep you and your kids out of harm’s way. Tell them where exactly are they allowed to play and run around, what time is the curfew, what their tasks are, and other rules and regulations.

Pack emergency first aid kits

Never forget to bring emergency first aid kids for yourself and the children. Be aware of the fact that since children are quite playful and sometimes careless, they are highly at risk for a wide variety of potential dangers out in the camping site.

Assign partners or buddies

If you are planning to bring four or more children, assign partners or buddies. Explain to them that they are tasked to look after each other and they are supposed to watch out for each other at all times. This can help you manage your young companions a lot easier.

Benedict Smythe
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/camping-with-your-kids-681743.html

Outdoor living, urban living, changing your garden,

Out Door Living Advice

This applies equally to country or city living. While for some the garden is a passion, for many more people it is an “outdoor living room”. It’s a place where children play, families eat, friends are entertained and all types of hobbies are pursued. To have the best outdoor living area, you must first consider your lifestyle, and what you want to do in the garden.

Make Your Garden More Liveable!

• For people with larger properties, such as farms or large suburban blocks, try to keep your living, play and entertainment areas away from work and storage areas.
• Keep rubbish and compost areas away from bbq and eating areas. (Note: Flies breed in rubbish and compost).
• Keep still water away from outdoor entertainment areas (these can be mozzie breeding areas).
• Plant mints and tansy near outdoor living areas to help repel insects.
• When you build anything with bolts or nails, make sure no bolts or nails are left protruding.
• Put metal furniture (or play equipment) in shaded places where it won’t get too hot and scald the children.
• In hot climates, check out where cooling winds come from (usually off the water in seaside areas), and leave openings in the garden to catch these winds (ie. Don’t build walls or plant hedges where they will stop a cool breeze).
• In cool climates paved areas against a north facing wall will heat up more than other parts of the garden, providing a useable outdoor living area almost all year round.

For A Comfortable Time in the Garden

• Provide shaded places so you can escape the sun.
• Always wear a hat
• In summer and in warmer climates, always apply suntan lotion.
• Keep out of the sun in the middle of the day.
• Keep your garden clean so you don’t attract pests
• Never chance falling asleep in the full sun.
• Break some mint or tansy and rub over yourself if insects pose a problem. (Tansy repels flies, most mints repel most insects).
• Throw some crushed leaves of mint or tansy around the bbq, or on the table with food to help keep insects away.
• Avoid using poisonous plants.
• Avoid creating slippery surfaces (eg. extra wet areas or an overused extra wet area in a lawn)
• Remove sharp or protruding objects which could be bumped, tripped on or knocked (eg. part of a fence, poorly laid paving, tools left lying around, farm equipment)
• Avoid areas which will restrict the cool flow of air.

Buy Outdoor Living products, log cabins and garden sheds at Garden Eco

Garden Buildings

Garden buildings are used for various reasons, including:

• Somewhere to escape the heat or rain.
• Somewhere to store bikes, tools or other things either for protection, or just to keep out of eyesight.
• Somewhere to work in away from the house.
• Somewhere for privacy away from the house (some parents use gazebos or shed to escape the kids, and some kids use them to escape the parents).

Garden Sheds
The least expensive type of shed is a prefabricated metal structure with galvanized iron walls and roof. Despite being galvanized, the walls can eventually rust, hence routine maintenance (rust proofing and painting) becomes essential if you want a longer life. Being a cheap construction these have their problems. These sheds are poorly insulated and may not be watertight. Unless anchored tightly to the ground they can blow down in a windstorm or cyclone. These problems can be reduced by bolting the shed to a pre poured, concrete slab which is raised above ground level. A window and double doors can provide useful ventilation on very hot days. Brick or timber sheds are better insulated, and if properly constructed will last longer than a tin shed; however these are more expensive alternatives.

Gazebos
Gazebos are roofed buildings designed to command a view. Open on one or more sides, they may be any shape, though traditionally they are octagonal or hexagonal with a hipped or conical roof.
They may be constructed of wood, cast iron, aluminium or cast columns of cement, with wooden shingles or palings being traditional for the roof, although corrugated or flat iron can be used.
A gazebo can provide protection from the direct sun for outdoor entertaining. There are all types of gazebos on the market today, and your choice is best determined by what you can afford and the style of garden you are trying to create. Remember though, that there may be maintenance involved. Stained timber will need restaining. Painted metal or timber will need repainting periodically.

BARBEQUES

Barbeques come in all shapes and forms, and are just about a must have item in any Australian backyard, even very small ones. No matter what sort of barbecue you have, there are some basic rules to follow in where you put it and how you use it.

Location and Landscaping around the BBQ

• Keep it clear of plants which could catch on fire. (Fire resistant plants include Agapanthus, Coprosma, Ficus, Ligustrum, Pelargonium, Populus (Poplar) and most cacti or succulents).
• Build a wall or fence (preferably fire resistant), nearby to protect the barbecue from wind.
• Locate a table, seat or bench near the barbecue to place uncooked (or cooked) food on.
• Outdoor tables and chairs should be far enough away to avoid any problem with smoke, or spitting fats or cooking oils.
• Install lighting so that you can see how the cooking is going at night. Be sure that people standing around the barbecue don’t throw shadows over the barbecue.
• Put plants which can be used in cooking near the barbecue (eg. Thyme, Sage, Oregano).
• Gravel is the best surface under a barbecue, because it won’t develop ugly permanent stains from oils and fats, etc. Concrete and sandstone are some of the worst materials for staining.

Types of BBQ’s

• Wood barbeques are appropriate if you live in a treed area, where there is an abundance of firewood, such as in country areas, or you have access to wood offcuts (perhaps from a joinery). They are normally built from concrete blocks, brick or stone. Always remember the fire needs air around it to burn. The best wood barbeques are ones where the fire is on a metal grill raised above the base, allowing air to move in below the fire, and ash to drop through. The hot plate above the fire should slope slightly backwards to allow fat to drain off to the rear. If it drains to the front, it is dangerous and can stain paving, shoes or anything else in front of the bbq. If built properly, with a tall chimney, it is relatively smoke free. Another simple way to build a wood barbecue is to dig a pit in the ground, sit a metal grill in the pit and place a metal plate on top of a few bricks to bridge the hole.
• Outdoor Ovens. The “Webber” style barbecue has become very popular in recent years. Using heat beads as the fuel and fire lighters to start it up is not exactly cheap, but it is very easy to use and particularly appreciated when you want to cook a roast on a hot Christmas day. The main disadvantages are that you must remember to buy the heat beads and firelighters, and you must be positive that there is sufficient heat being generated before putting the top on. Most people who own this type of barbecue have experienced the occasional late or cold meal, because “someone didn’t get the heat beads going hot enough”.
• Gas Barbeques. Gas is clean and reliable. It isn’t expensive to buy or use, and is instant heat, unlike heat beads or wood fire. The only real problem arises when you don’t check the gas level and run out of gas half way through a barbecue.

Dave angel

http://www.articlesbase.com/landscaping-articles/buy-out-door-living-garden-sheds-furniture-and-landscaping-materials-1067939.html