Child neglect is the most common form of maltreatment of children where their basic needs are not sufficiently met. These needs include adequate clothing, food, education, nurturing, emotional support, and health care. Neglect can result in harm or distress for the child or interfere with their development. So, it is important to recognize the common signs of child neglect to address the issue and protect the children using the right support measures.

Common signs of child neglect
Neglect can be physical and emotional. Some of the common signs of child neglect are:

Poor hygiene and unkempt appearance
When a child is physically neglected by caregivers, they may seem untidy. They could also lack good personal hygiene and have severe body odor. Further, the child may not wear appropriate clothes for the weather, and the clothing can seem unwashed or smelly. Due to unhygienic conditions, they may also show symptoms of skin infections such as scabies, flea bites, rashes, ringworm, and sores. For toddlers and infants, this form of neglect may manifest as recurring occurrences of nappy rashes.

Extreme changes in behavior
This is a sign of physical as well as emotional neglect that has developed over a long time, sometimes years. At a certain point, one may notice severe behavioral changes in the child. They can become extremely clingy or withdrawn into themselves, refusing to socialize. Sometimes, the child will exhibit aggressive or obsessive behavior. Some children experience anxiety, paranoia, and depression due to neglect. Further, persistent neglect can make a child exhibit antisocial behavior.

Poor academic performance
Another common sign of child neglect is drastic changes in performance at school. A neglected child undergoes trauma and psychological distress, making it hard for them to pay attention in class. Also, due to parental or guardian neglect, the child will often miss school leading to poor attendance records. As a result, they find it hard to keep up with the rest of the class and may not be able to grasp what is being taught in class. The child will be unable to complete assignments and projects on time and may persistently fail in tests. Their social skills become poor, and they may find it difficult to relate or connect with their classmates.

Frequent health issues
Another telltale sign that a child is neglected is failing health. This mostly results from a lack of regular and well-balanced meals. The deficiency of adequate nutrients, along with the psychological distress due to neglect, manifests in the form of several health issues in the child. They will show symptoms of anemia, weak muscle tone, malformed joints, and dental problems. Also, the child may go through recurring infections, such as in the ears or stomach. As a result, their abdominal region may appear too slim or swollen. The child may also have untreated injuries resulting from frequent accidents due to a lack of supervision. Additionally, they may experience fatigue. The caregivers may also not keep up with the child’s medical appointments.

Developmental problems
Another common sign of a child being neglected is developmental problems. Emotional and physical neglect affects the kid’s ability to reach developmental milestones that other children their age achieve. As a result, the child may have below-average language and social skills. Also, they may experience stunted or slow physical and emotional growth.

Housing issues
This is a less apparent sign of child neglect, which only becomes known when a social worker or a community worker visits the child’s home. They may observe that the kid’s bedtime, daily routine, and curfew time are overlooked. Also, the home could be unfit and unsanitary for a child, say, it lacks proper heating, light, or running water. Further, the child could be left unsupervised and alone for long periods of time. Sometimes, the child’s needs are neglected when they are compelled to become a caregiver for another member of the family, like younger siblings or an ailing parent.

Support measures
A child exhibiting just one of the above-mentioned signs does not necessarily mean they are neglected. But it becomes crucial to pay close attention if one notices such signs. In such cases, the following measures can be taken:

Listening to the child: It is important to avoid dismissing the child if they say they are being mistreated or neglected. So, one should refrain from questioning or doubting their claims or memory of the neglect. Dismissing their experience can make the child shut down and become afraid to report what they are going through. The best thing to do in such situations is to remain calm and reassuring.

Ensuring safety: Before helping the child, one should ensure their safety so that the intervention does not cause more harm to the child. Also, it is possible that the support may be considered a threat when caregivers suspect interference. So, one should observe the situation closely and connect with professionals to avoid putting themselves and the child in danger. Professionals will be able to handle the situation in the best way.

Reporting neglect: If one has reason to believe that a child is being neglected and it is threatening their wellbeing, it is important to report it. In addition, if it is evident that the incidences of neglect have been occurring repeatedly, one should report each incident separately. When significant information is provided over time, there is a higher chance the child will receive adequate assistance.

While several people participate in annual or bi-annual fundraising programs, it is not for everyone, especially for the people with no excess income. But that is not to say that such individuals cannot give back to society. If one is determined to help make a change, there are various ways to donate to charity. This can be via lending manpower, taking up service responsibility, etc. All you need is a little effort and some time.

6 non-monetary ways to donate to charity

By being creative
Are you a passionate baker? Or are you well versed in the art of sewing? Maybe knitting? What we are trying to say is you can put your skills to use for the greater good. You can find shelter homes, retirement communities, or schools that could use a little help with their community. Put together some of your creations and donate them to make their day a little brighter.

By being active
You can organize or participate in various marathons and triathlons to give back to people. Participate in events affiliated with or trying to raise funds for charities. If you look closely, you can find one happening at least every month in your city.

By being helpful
If monetary help is not something you can manage, be charitable with your time. Volunteer at soup kitchens or go to a public library and read to children. You can even volunteer at animal shelters and help them with cleaning and maintenance activities. Teaching kids from underprivileged communities is another way of being charitable on a daily basis.

By donating old possessions
Donating stuff that you have outgrown or don’t find useful anymore is one of the basic forms of charity. Sort different donation boxes for clothes, toys, shoes, and household items. If you are a traveler, you can even put together a box of hotel toiletries and donate it to the needy.

By donating miles
Multiple airlines are likely willing to help you in your act of kindness. Once you have accumulated enough miles to donate, contact your airline and inquire about the cause they support or the charity they contribute to.

By not littering
You don’t have to feel bad about not being able to fit charitable events into your busy schedule. Instead, try fitting small acts of charity into your daily routine. While out for your run or walk, pick up the litter and properly dispose of it. It will help clear walkways for people as well as animals.

Babies bring unimaginable joy and warmth into their parents’ lives. However, raising a baby is just as physically and emotionally draining as rewarding for parents, especially first-timers. All parents make certain mistakes while caring for their babies, no matter how much time they dedicate to their precious bundle of happiness. There’s no shame in making errors during baby care if parents can correct them. Some common mistakes are listed below.

Not letting the baby cry it out
A common misconception many parents may have about infants, especially newborns, is that their crying translates to hunger, irritation, or pain. Parents tend to believe that their mistakes are making their baby cry. Babies cry because it is just what they do. A baby can be adequately fed and diapered, and they may still cry for no reason. When it comes to newborn babies, crying is a sign of breathing. However, if a baby cries continuously for an hour, then the parents will need to visit their local pediatrician to get them checked for a rash, a swollen belly, a fever, or other health conditions. However, by and large, a crying baby is not a sign of trouble.

Ignoring oral care
This oversight from parents can become problematic for their child’s oral health later on. Essentially, babies need as much dental and oral care as adults. Therefore, regularly wiping the baby’s gums with a soft cotton cloth after every meal is a must-do for parents. Also, parents must ensure their baby is routinely hydrated to keep their mouth and throat moist.

Adjusting diapers too much or too little
While putting on a diaper on a baby, the parent must fasten it properly. It is done to secure the diaper around the baby’s body. However, if the diaper is too tight, it will affect blood circulation in the baby’s body. But, on the other hand, if it is too loose, the diaper will be on the floor in no time. Therefore, correctly adjusting a baby’s diaper is key to keeping them comfortable.

When it comes to changing diapers, parents should avoid putting them on their babies while they are resting on a carpet or bed. Such soft surfaces lead to squirmy bodies and huge messes. Instead, parents need to use portable changing mats to avoid taking their baby to a nursery for every change.

Many studies indicate that one of the reasons people indulge in charitable work is because it makes them feel good. Most people think that this need to give is a moral duty toward society and that there is a social conscience behind this act. What is this power of giving back, and how does one understand it? This article lists some benefits of the psychology behind this act of kindness.

Promotes social connection
A number of studies done by sociologists indicate that giving to others can have immense benefits. When you give to others, your generosity will mostly be rewarded at some point in time. You will be rewarded by the person you helped or someone else. These exchanges of goodwill strengthen human relations and promote cooperation. Furthermore, we make others feel closer to us when we help them. This results in an improved sense of interdependence among society at large.

Improves mood
A number of studies have linked giving back with improved mood in general. One report indicated that people who do more or give back constantly tend to be more happier. Being generous over a period of time has been known to reduce stress levels too. Moreover, giving can positively impact a person’s self-esteem.

Improves one’s sense of gratitude
Giving can invoke a sense of gratitude in people. This sense of gratitude is known to elicit feelings of happiness and joy amongst people. In addition to that, giving can create strong social bonds. In fact, further study on the subject concludes that cultivating gratitude in everyday life has the potential to increase personal happiness.

Physical health benefits
Besides gratitude and happiness, giving back can have a number of health benefits. You experience lower blood pressure and lower stress levels when you give back. There has also been evidence to indicate that our bodies secrete “feel good” chemicals like serotonin and dopamine when we give. Additionally, giving others is known to stimulate the reward center in the brain.

Charitable work is overwhelming and exhausting, but it’s undeniably fulfilling at the same time. Being able to give back to a community that helps shape your life and future is a definitive way to address several issues we face in society. Building a sense of belonging through empathy will go a long way in creating healthy safety nets for people. Let’s look at how charity impacts the strength of a community.

Creates a sense of fellowship
Being involved in local activities and causes brings you closer to your community and creates a sense of security. These are your neighbors with whom you share a space, and wouldn’t it be nice to interact and evolve with them? Charity events are a good place to socialize with like-minded people, ensuring that some of your interests are similar and creating a solid groundwork for a cordial relationship.

Utilized for specific causes
Charities work toward solving specific problems in the community. These causes could be issues like justice for all genders, free education for all, and shelter for the homeless. If your community is struggling with an issue, there may be people working towards solving that problem. Helping a cause with several people is much better than just one person trying to make a difference.

Societal upliftment
While working with a charitable group, you will undoubtedly find the right people to connect with. Aligning your goals with theirs will help you uplift your community for the better! You all come with the same mindset and different skill sets, which can be extremely helpful. Charity in the form of donating your time and effort is also appreciated and not just money.

Strengthens personal values
Another way charity impacts the community is by strengthening the personal values of people who are getting involved. Empathy, compassion, and understanding are some of the most human traits that can strengthen community service and charity work. Research also suggests that the feeling of social conscience is one of the biggest reasons people get involved in charitable activities. Such an act can feel like a moral duty toward society, and there’s nothing wrong with giving back if you are in a position to do so!

One can also help in other ways like making a donation to those in need. St Jude Children’s Research Hospital accepts donations for their cancer research. You can also donate a car through DonateCarUSA or UNICEF USA. The American Diabetes Association also takes donations to help end diabetes through research programs that work on efficient management and eradication of the condition.

As far as charity is concerned, people usually think of it in linear terms. Donations help those in need, and it’s normal to believe this is the only goal. But many people are unaware that there is so much more to the act of giving. Lending a helping hand is only one of many benefits of making charitable donations. Individuals who share their wealth may also have rewarding personal, emotional, and mental experiences.

Helping those in need
One of the biggest benefits of donating money is helping those in need. The world isn’t perfect or even fair, for that matter. What makes a difference is a surplus sharing with those who don’t have privileges to bank on.

Providing a positive experience
A National Institute of Health study found that people who chose to donate would activate the pleasure centers in their brains. While there is more research to be conducted to understand this link, sharing is an undeniably satisfying experience.

Taxes are deductible
Donating to charity also comes with the benefit of a tax deduction. If you’ve contributed to an IRS-approved non-profit organization, you’ll get a write-off on the donation sum while filing returns.

Setting an example
Donating to a local or international community allows you to set a good example for the youth in the community. After all, children do what they see.

Making an impact
Charities impact the community at large by uplifting those in need of help. Donations provide a better standard and quality of life, access to education, and even healthcare to improve the community’s standing.

Making life more meaningful
Contributing and sharing your wealth allows you to meet and mingle with other like-minded individuals. You get to share your passions and bring about a positive influence on the issues at hand.

Helping everyone feel happy
Spending your hard-earned money on yourself is thrilling, but sharing your wealth with others can also feel rewarding. Studies have shown that individuals are happier when giving rather than receiving. Volunteering can reduce depression and improve overall mental well-being.

Feeling grateful
Overlooking what we don’t personally experience is easy. But volunteering and donating to a cause can show you different ways of life and make you feel thankful for what you have.

Inspiring others
People are more likely to do something if they see someone else do it. You may inspire your close ones to be generous this way.

If you’re interested in donating, you can check out various charities that offer care and support for patients with diabetes, cancer, and other such conditions. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is one such charity that focuses on providing cancer care for children. You can offer donations, memorialize a loved one, or even volunteer here. You can also make various contributions to the Diabetes Foundation. This can be in the form of food items, clothes, and even your old car. Habitat for Humanity, Goodwill, and The Salvation Army are organizations that accept car donations.

Most people look for the best advice and tips for dating. But remember, there are no hard-and-fast rules chained to dating. So, a date may not always go as planned and expected. Furthermore, when it comes to dating or going on a date, people may say or do things that are not in either party’s interest. So, here are six common dating mistakes you should avoid for a smooth experience.

Going unprepared
Never go on a date unplanned. Instead, spend time writing up a description of what an ideal date looks like to you. Doing so will help identify if a future date aligns with what you want from your partner.

Choosing to text frequently
Making frequent conversations with your date via text messages may result in a lack of topics when you are together. So, reduce how much you text them and save those interesting conversations for when you meet in person.

Excessive self praise
While your date will want to get to know you, only speaking about your accomplishments the entire day may turn the date sour. So, it is best to talk about your passions, hobbies, and interests. These aspects can even make a conversation fun and entertaining.

Not expressing interest in your date’s life
Asking your date about their life is important. If you avoid this, they might feel you are not interested. But don’t force unnecessary questions; ask simple ones like what they enjoy doing in their free time or where they like spending their vacations. These questions will help you get to know them better.

Discussing future plans too early
People often talk about their future and what they expect in a relationship on their first date. But the thought might be overwhelming for the other person. It may affect how the evening plays out. So, you must be mindful when you are on a date to ensure comfort levels are maintained and that everything goes smoothly.

Having too many negative thoughts
Not all dates will go as planned. But you should not let yourself down about how things may go. You should be positive about the date and confident about yourself. It will help lighten things up when you approach the other individual.

Tracking a cell phone number is illegal in the country if you are an ordinary civilian. It is a federal crime even if you know how to track a cell phone number. However, you can do it if you are confronted by a specific situation that necessitates cell phone tracking, such as to ensure that the person using the phone is safe, or if your phone has been stolen and you want to trace it. For all these scenarios, you need special permissions for the same. Even law enforcement officials need a warrant if they want to track you using your phone number. If you are wondering how to track a cell phone number without getting into trouble, the following are some of your options.

• Using cell phone carriers
  All the major telecom companies in the country, like Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T mobile offer a paid feature that allows you to track cell phone numbers attached to your account. To use this service, you require permission from the number you want to track. Therefore, this method is completely legal. Using this service, a user can keep track of family members and friends and ensure their safety.
• Using smart-phones
  The invention of smart-phones has made tracing cell phone numbers an extremely easy task. If the number or person you are trying to track uses a smartphone, you can track it using your own smartphone. The Android device manager of Android phones lets a user track any Android phone using the Internet, but this works only if the GPS setting is switched on. Apple users can use the Find My iPhone app or Find My Friends App to trace any iPhone using another iPhone.
• Using third-party apps
  This is the trickiest method on how to track a cell phone number because tracing a cell phone number using a third party app needs a written permission, else you may end up in legal trouble. There are many third-party applications like mSpy and Find My Friends that let you track a phone number using GPS. One other issue with this method is that both the phones, the one being tracked and the one used for tracking, need to have the app installed on them. Therefore, you will have to physically access the phone that you want to track and install the app on it, which might not be as easy as it sounds.

You may go ahead and try these methods, but you have to make sure that you are following all the legal rules and do not end up behind bars.

A great photograph is a work of art. With the advent of digital photography, clicking and developing photos has become simple and easy. However, if you have just got your hands on a brand new DSLR, photography could seem like a daunting task. Don’t worry. Here are five essential digital photography tips to get you started.

• Follow the “Rule of Thirds”
  One of the basic tenets of photography, the “Rule of Thirds” concept states that ideally, the subject of your image should never be in the exact center of the frame. Rather, you should picture two horizontal and vertical lines dividing the frame. The point of intersection of these lines is where your subject should appear. According to the “Rule of Thirds,” this is the best way to focus attention on your subject.
• Learn about the “Exposure Triangle”
  The “Exposure Triangle” consists of the interrelationship between the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO settings in photography. Understanding this basic principle will help you shoot brilliant images effortlessly in different lighting conditions. It will also help you experiment with photography as an art form. However, mastering this technique will require a great deal of practice.
• Shoot in RAW
  Before you start clicking photos, go to your camera settings and change the type of file shot from JPEG to RAW. Why should one choose the RAW format? RAW is a type of file format that is best at capturing all the data as seen by your lenses. Thus, your photograph has more details, and you also get greater control while editing images. Moreover, most leading digital photography professionals prefer using the RAW format to click splendid shots.
• Try out different lenses
  If you are a beginner at photography, there are high chances that you still have the standard 18-55mm kit lens. If you want to improve your shots, experiment with different types of lenses. Go for a telephoto lens with higher zoom quality, a prime lens, a wide-angle lens, or even a razor-sharp macro lens. Your creativity will bloom when you start experimenting.
• Never use flash indoors
  Indoor photography works best with natural lighting. So, don’t hesitate to turn off that flash, bump up the ISO to around 800 or slightly more, and use your widest aperture. The era of digital photography has made it easy to shoot with natural light. You can instantly see your shots on the camera’s LCD monitor.

Traffic has become the bane of our lives. Today, many cities are congested because almost everyone has a car, but there is no space to drive it. Most cities have more cars than needed because everyone wants to be comfortable while commuting. Due to this, citizens have to deal with congested streets and constant traffic jams. Thankfully, we now have some great apps that can tell us which road is blocked and guides us about alternative routes. Therefore, the next time you worry about interstate traffic conditions, use one of the apps mentioned below to reach your destination in a flash.

Waze
Waze is one of the top traffic apps because it provides the latest updates about interstate traffic conditions along with dependable driving directions. Waze also reads and stores data related to your drive and shares it with other Waze users on the same route. It records your speed, your route, and other factors that help users enjoy a comfortable journey. Waze is a user-driven app, where users come together to create data, report instances of traffic, discuss weather conditions, and note the presence of police officers. People can also chat with each other to get better updates. Along with traffic and driving guidelines, the latest update on Waze also helps you with parking.

Google Maps
Google Maps is a navigation and traffic app that is popular across the globe. This application is extremely user-friendly and so dependable that it gets more than a billion users per month. Google Maps is loaded with data about interstate traffic conditions and can help you reroute quickly in case of traffic or other delays. It also helps you with bus routes and walking directions.

INRIX
INRIX is another great app that can give you updates about interstate traffic conditions. This app is supported by a cloud platform called Autotelligent. You will find it on the dashboard of cars from top brands like Porche and BMW. This app is proactive as it optimizes and reroutes your vehicle as and when needed. Just like Google Maps, this app is also capable of calculating the expected time of arrival (ETA) based on current traffic conditions and helps you make informed traveling decisions. What makes this app different from the ones mentioned above is that it captures the driver’s habits and uses that data to give route advice in the future.