In Tuesday's poll, 52% of readers faced a modern dilemma: whether to trade smartphones for a simpler life 📱. One reader noted the convenience of features like caller ID for handling calls, including spam, while also expressing a desire to unplug and savor uninterrupted moments. It seems we're all grappling with the challenge of staying connected yet craving genuine presence in today's digital era.

• Summer Snaps: A guide to perfect summer family photos.

• Summer Screen Time: Finding the right balance for your family.

• Sizzle and Spice: Prep your grill and master the summer barbecue.

PARENTING

📸Summer snaps.

Capturing beautiful family moments during the summer is a cherished tradition. Whether you're on a beach, in a field of wildflowers, or just in your backyard, the right preparation can turn these photos into timeless memories. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan the perfect summer family photo shoot, from choosing the right outfits to creative shoot ideas and essential extras to bring along.

What to Wear: 

1. Avoid Being Too Matchy-Matchy
   Think 4-5 colors that complement each other rather than identical outfits. Use pieces from your existing wardrobe; no need to buy all new clothes.

2. Consider Your Location
   Dress for the surroundings and the conditions (heat, wind, terrain). Ensure your outfits are practical and comfortable for the photo setting.

3. Start with Mom's Outfit
   Moms, as the coordinators, deserve extra attention. Choose something beautiful, comfortable, and confidence-boosting. A flattering long dress in a high-quality fabric is often the best choice. Once mom's look is set, choose 2-3 complementary colors for the rest of the family.

4. Focus on Fit
   Opt for fitted but not tight clothing. Define your shape with dresses or skirts with a waistline detail.

5. Choose Muted Colors and Subtle Patterns
   Muted tones keep the focus on your family, not the clothes. Subtle patterns add depth without overwhelming the photos.

Set the Scene:

• Plan a Picnic. A casual picnic setting creates relaxed, natural photos.

• Beach Day. Capture playful moments with sand and waves.

• Sunrise or Sunset. Golden hour provides the best lighting for warm, glowing photos.

• Ride a Bicycle. Incorporate movement and fun with a bike ride.

• Ice Cream Stop. Pose in front of a mural while enjoying ice cream for a whimsical touch.

• Wildflower Field. A field of flowers adds vibrant color and a dreamy backdrop.

• Urban Setting. Explore cityscapes for a modern, dynamic feel.

• At Home. Home settings offer comfort and authenticity.

💡And don’t forget these too:

Bring Props
Props like a family quilt or favorite toys add personality and memories to your photos. Use props behind the scenes to get kids’ attention and smiles.

Snacks and Water
Keep everyone happy and hydrated. Take snack breaks, and consider small treats as motivators for good behavior during the shoot—and reward the family afterward for their patience.

PARENTING

🤳🏼Finding the balance.

Balancing screen time during summer breaks can be tricky. Striking the right balance depends on your child's age, personality, and your family’s needs. Here’s how to make screen time work for you and your kids. Striking a balance with screen time involves clear communication, setting realistic expectations, and planning engaging offline activities. By following these tips, you can ensure a healthy, fun-filled summer for your family.

🤔 How much screen time? There's no one-size-fits-all answer. Focus on how screens are used: educational content or creative activities are preferable to endless gaming. Aim for quality over quantity.

🤔 Screen time for kids… or parents? Screens can help occupy kids while you work or manage other tasks, but they shouldn't be the default babysitter. Plan varied activities in advance to keep them engaged without screens.

📱Creating Better Screen Time Habits

1. Avoid Using Screens as Bargaining Chips
   Don’t make screen time a special treat. The goal is to build healthy habits, not create rewards.

2. Communicate Screen Time Rules
   Ensure that anyone watching your kids understands your screen time rules. Consistency is key.

3. Balance Over Prohibition
   Set rules and stick to them. Offer alternatives and spend time together. Prohibiting screens altogether can lead to rebellion.

4. Set Limits and Expectations
   Be clear about what’s allowed: “You can watch two shows” or “30 minutes of gaming.” This helps manage expectations and consequences.

5. Encourage Outdoor Time
   Plan screen-free activities like outdoor play, board games, or crafts. Create a routine with scheduled family or friend time away from screens.

📱Ideas for Managing Tween/Teen Screen Time

• Family Meetings
  Discuss and set screen time rules together. Include chores and responsibilities to be completed before screen access. Make family meals and events screen-free. Set evening cut-off times and plan unplugged activities based on their interests.

• Use Visual Checklists
  Create daily checklists that kids must complete before earning screen time. This teaches good habits and ensures tasks are done first.

• Leverage Tech Features
  Use features like Apple’s Screen Time to monitor and limit usage. Schedule downtime to ensure kids are offline during certain parts of the day.

⭐But most important… model good behavior. Parents play a crucial role. Model good screen habits, set clear boundaries, and stay engaged. Avoid using screen time as a reward or punishment; instead, involve kids in setting limits. This empowers them to follow the rules and reduces overall screen time.

AND ALSO. . .

🔥Sizzle and spice.

Summer is here, and it's the perfect time to fire up the grill. Whether you're a seasoned griller or a newbie, keeping your grill in top shape and having a variety of recipes up your sleeve can make your cookouts even more enjoyable. Here’s how to get your grill ready and some delicious recipes to try

🧽Let’s get that grill summer ready:

• Prep Your Grill with an Onion and Potato. Slice an onion in half, spear it with a fork, and rub the cut side on the heated grill grates to remove grease. Repeat with a potato for a natural clean.

• Post-Grill Scrub. Use dish soap and water or a vinegar solution (1:1 water and vinegar) to scrub the grates. For removable grates, soak them in soapy water.

• Sweep Out the Ash. Use a hand broom or small shop-vac to clean out the ash.

🍔Now, let’s fire up the grill: 

• Black Bean Smashburgers

• Grilled Portobello Burgers with House Sauce

• Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

• Grilled Shrimp

• Easy Grilled Pizza

🥗Don’t forget the perfect side dish: Grilled Corn, Avocado, and Tomato Salad with Honey Lime Dressing

🔗In the market for a new grill?

• Top Charcoal Grills

• Best Gas Grills

TRENDING

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🍇 Grape news. This hack lets you de-stem grapes without the hassle.

💎 Sparkle and shine. Summer’s 7 biggest jewelry trends, from mixed metals to candy necklaces.

🎬 July blockbusters. The 11 most-anticipated movies hitting screens in 2024.

🍔 Dining delights. National restaurant chains serving up the best deals.

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