Ways for Students to Avoid Diseases during Schooling

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For many parents, schooling is not always about good things. This is because some parents feel the pressure and anxiety whenever their kids leave their homes to attend classes. Various threats to student’s health are one of the many things that make them so much worried. Indeed, sending a child to school is worrisome and parents should do something to at least lessen their burden.

Of all population groups, children are the most vulnerable to sickness yet the most helpless ones. Ironically, students have much higher risk of acquiring sickness as they are exposed to many people almost every single day. They commute to school, meet a lot of people, play with friends, and study in a confined space. What is even worse is that most students don’t practice precautionary measures to protect themselves from various health dangers.

What are the diseases that students often acquire while schooling?

Most Common Ailments

While school is the best place for learning, it is not the safest of all. In fact, it is home to countless numbers of germs. Below are a few of the many common ailments among students:

1. Cough and colds – These two often come together and are both caused by infection with a virus. Many types of viruses infect students’ throat and nose up to eight times a year.

2. Flu and fever – There are times students have a hard time getting up from bed more often during rainy days. And the culprit? Their cough or colds may had been worsened by another virus. Flu spreads fast among children who have active interaction with other youngsters. Coughing and sneezing produce droplets that are spread in the air and infect other people. When infected, children develop high fever, headache, sore throat, fatigue, and joint pains.

3. Foodborne diseases – Most students are not aware that they are eating unhealthful and contaminated foods. This is very risky. As a result, they develop one or many foodborne ailments. These include but are not limited to e. coli, hepatitis A, salmonella infection, typhoid fever, cholera, and diarrhea.

How to Avoid Them

Care about your child’s health. It all starts with proper education to make him aware of how to take care of his health.

Here are some good ways to make your child stay safe and disease-free:

-      Practice good personal hygiene.

-      Drink plenty of water each day.

-      Avoid close contact with people who fell ill.

-      Have enough sleep.

-      Eat healthful foods.

-      Avoid processed foods.

-      Take probiotics.

-      Maintain clean hands.

-      Sanitize all stuff.

    -  Stay home when sick.

Top 10 Educational Places to Visit for School Field Trips

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Let the children learn in the most exciting ways. Allow them to discover art, science, and history the fun way by visiting these top 10 educational places here in the Philippines.

1. The Mind Museum

With over 250 interactive exhibits, a botanical garden, and an outdoor Science-in-the-Park, kids will surely have fun while learning science. The objective of this world class Science museum is for the visitors to appreciate and support the sciences.

2. Rizal Park

Visit the giant 3D relief map of the Philippines or spend the afternoon in the National Historical Institute, Artists’ Haven, Orchidarium, and Butterfly Pavilion.

3. Manila Ocean Park

Let your child meet and get to know more about various sea creatures and their natural habitat. Aside from the Oceanarium, you kids will also enjoy various attractions like sharks and rays encounter, fish spa, and trails to Antarctica.

4. Clark Dinosaur Island

Feel the thrill of the past and get to meet the first inhabitants of our planet – dinosaurs. Understand them better and know what transpired in the Mesozoic era with the help of this first animatronic dinosaur park in the country.

5. The Money Museum

Know the story behind the evolution of our currency. See various coins, medals, artifacts, paper notes, and monetary items found in our country during its different historical periods.

6. Museo Pambata

Kids can learn various concepts relating to science, ecology, and culture as they explore and play in this fully interactive museum.

7. The Ayala Museum

Know what is it like during various era’s in the Philippines history and get to see lots of valuable treasures that have been dug up for archeological reasons.

8. La Mesa Dam Eco-Park

Let the kids feel and enjoy the gift of nature with a stroll in the forest reserve, canopy walks, zip line, kayaking, and other eco-adventure.

9. Intramuros

Take a historical tour around Manila’s old capital using kid-friendly personal transporters and mini ATV’s with safety gears from White Knight Hotel Intramuros.

10. Chinatown

Let the kids experience an all-in-one historical, cultural, and culinary tour in the world’s oldest Chinatown built in 1594.

Do you know other educational places perfect for field trips? Share your thoughts and let the kids learn while having fun.

Ten Foods Students Should Eat to Improve Mental Skills

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Summer break is over and Filipino students are expected to troop to schools to pursue studies. Undeniably, school opening is worrisome. Parents do not just need enough budget to sustain their kids’ educational needs but also to ensure their safety when they attend schooling.

While many parents are busy buying school supplies for their kids, only a few of them care about their children’s nutrition. This thing, which boosts learning and fuels academic success, has always been ignored.

We should learn from our experiences. Stories about food poisoning in schools are not new in the local scene. In fact, it happens almost each school year anywhere in the country. Care about the food that your kids eat so we won’t hear news about food contamination victims again.

Give your kids foods that can help them perform well in classrooms.

Brain Foods

Whether your child is attending pre-school, elementary, or high school, it is better that you let them bring healthful foods.

What are the foods that you should prepare or give to your child to make him smarter?

• Fruits

-      Blueberry

-      Strawberry

Two known super fruits, these berries are rich in antioxidants that keep good mental condition as people age.

• Vegetables

-      Broccoli

-      Tomato

These veggies contain nutrients that help improve student’s concentration and cognitive function.

• Dairy Products

-      Milk

-      Cheese

These two products are proven effective in improving one’s memory performance and cognitive function.

• Whole Grain Foods

-      Whole grain breads – Go for this type of bread when you make a sandwich.

-      Brown rice – Unlike white rice, this one allows brain and nervous system to function smoothly.

Both these products are a good source of energy for the brain.

• Liquids

-      Water – This is the most important of all liquids. Students should always have bottled water inside their bags and drink every so often during class hours. Drinking water helps achieve optimal brain health.

-      Juices – Just make sure to give your kid juices from "real" fruits.

All these foods will surely make every student active and attentive—stuff that will change classroom experience for better. These make all the difference.

Let your child enjoy learning and achieve academic success. 

Top 10 Things Every College Student Need In Their Bags

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The first day of school is hard especially for college freshmen. So to help these newcomers, here are the top 10 things that they should always have in their bags:

1. Paper

Phones and tablets can never replace notebooks, agendas, or sticky notes in keeping your dates, notes, appointments, and contacts organized. They are inexpensive and can be a lifesaver just in case you need to leave a note to someone.

2. Pens

Never leave your house or dorm without pens – take note it's plural! Aside from writing thoughts, notes, and appointments, you will also need them in filling up forms and answering test papers.

3. Cash

Always bring cash. You’ll never know when you will encounter a store that only accepts cash.

4. Mobile Phone with Power Bank or Charger

It’s always wise to carry a phone with charger or even better a fully charged power bank to help you stay in touch with family and friends in case your battery runs low.

5. Water Bottle

These days, it’s a must to bring water anywhere to keep you hydrated especially when you have to walk from one building to another or climb several floors for your classes.

6. Earphones

Use earphones and de-stress yourself in between classes by listening to music or review recorded notes without disturbing anyone near you.

7. Gum or Candy

It helps you focus, reduce food cravings, and have a fresh breath especially when you have to stay a longer period in school.

8. Umbrella

Keeps yourself and your things dry during random rains and protect your skin from excessive sunlight. You can also use it for self-defense.

9. School ID

It’s not only used as a school requirement, it can also be the only way to identify you in case of emergency or accident.

10. Hand Sanitizer or Alcohol

Keeping a small bottle in your bag and using it before you eat or after you go to the bathroom will help a lot in keeping yourself from acquiring diseases.

Do you have a different list? Please don’t hesitate to comment. Your thoughts are always welcome.

Eight Most Beautiful Catholic Churches in the World

A church is a place of worship or a house of God. This, perhaps, is the reason we see churches with stunning designs. With their artistic beauty, they also become world’s famous places to visit.

Here’s a list of amazingly built Catholic churches across the world. These famous houses of worship will truly fascinate you.

Photo Credit: foodicles.blogspot.com

1. Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar Zaragoza,  (Zaragoza, Spain)

The basilica was created in the early second century AD at the banks of Ebro. The church is in baroque style, and the current structure was built between 1681 and 1872.

Photo Credit: calltoholiness.us

2. Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary  (Baltimore, USA) 

Baltimore Basilica was the first Catholic cathedral in the United States. Benjamin Henry Latrobe designed the building. The construction lasted for 15 years, from 1806 to 1821. 

The basilica’s design is neoclassical that conforms to European traditions. It flaunts columns of Doric, Ionic or Corinthian pillars, and Renaissance-style domes.

Photo credit: panoramadelart.com

3. Notre Dame de Paris (Paris, France)

The church was the first to use the said style and flying buttresses for support. It was built from 1160 to 1345. 

Notre Dame de Paris is a prime sample of French Gothic architecture. Gargoyles and grotesques adorn the gutter system.

Photo Credit: australia.tourismster.com

4. St. Patrick’s Cathedral (Melbourne, Australia)

Catholics in Melbourne, who were mostly Irish, built the church to honor St. Patrick.  The construction started in 1858 until 1939. 

The church is the tallest in Australia and the cathedral of Melbourne’s Archdiocese. This great example of Gothic Revival design highlights pointed arches, steep-sloping roofs, and decorative tracery. 

Photo Credit: walksofitaly.com

5. St. Marks’s Basilica (Venice, Italy) 

The church was on the site in 823, but the present building was constructed from 1063 until 1094. With many improvements, it was officially completed on 1617.

Also known as Chiesa d’Oro or Church of gold, the basilica depicts Venetian wealth and power since the 11th century. It adopts the Byzantine architecture that reflects a grandiose image. 

Photo Credit: unavitaverde.net

6. Basilica of Our Lady of Lichen (Stary, Poland) 

The basilica was built between 1994 and 2004. With its huge feature, it is Poland’s largest church and one of the largest in the world. Also, it is a famous pilgrimage site.

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7. Las Lajas Cathedral (Ipiales, Colombia) 

Inside the canyon of the Guaitara River, you will find the Las Lajas Cathedral.  Built in 1916 to 1949, the design is in Gothic Revival architecture.

Photo Credit: visit-vaticancity.com

8. St. Peter Basilica (Vatican City) 

Located on St. Peter’s burial site, the basilica is the holiest and greatest church. The largest basilica can hold 60,000 people.  It is called the greatest building of its age because well-known artists like Michelangelo, counter-reform the structure. 

Top 10 Worship Songs to Add To Your Playlist This Lent

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One great way to worship God and celebrate this lent season is through music. Whenever you’re down and needs guidance, feel His presence by listening to these songs. The songs on this list are my favorites and as a music lover, I am hoping that you’ll love them too!

1. Who Am I – Casting Crowns

This song shows how great God’s love for us is. Even though we may think and feel insignificant at times, we should not fear and feel alone. God loves us so much that he takes time to know each one of us.

2. Jesus, Take the Wheel – Carrie Underwood

This song shows that even if were too busy to give thanks and ask for His forgiveness for all our sins, he will never turn his back and leave us. He is always at our side to guide and accept us whenever we call out to Him.

3. Warrior Is A Child – Twila Paris

This song shows that whenever we feel weak, God is always by our side. Whenever we falter, God is here to protect, strengthen, heal, and give us rest when the world is too much to handle.

4. Tell The World Of His Love – Jamie Rivera

This song encourages us to tell and share how great God’s love is. It also tells us to lead those who have lost their ways to the home of God and seek His presence.

5. May Bukas Pa – Rico J. Puno

This song tells us to have faith in God whenever we feel down and troubled. There is always tomorrow for those who believes. Seek for Him and you will be answered.

6. Lead Me Lord – Basil Valdez

This song shows us that we can lean on Him whenever we feel confused and alone. Seek for Him and He will guide us to the right path and decisions.

7. Power Of Your Love – Hillsong United

This song shows encourages us to face our own weaknesses and fall into the arms of God who’s doing everything to convey His love to us.

8. Take Me Out Of The Dark – Gary Valenciano

This song teaches us to trust God because He would never give us trials that we can’t bear. He would never leave us even if we’re thinking that we’re not worthy of His love.

9. I Offer My Life – Don Moen

This song encourages us to seek God in everything we do and you will be at His mercy.

10. One More Gift – Bukas Palad

This song tells us that the greatest gift that we should seek to Him is peace, not only for the world, but also peace within ourselves.

DIY Crafts: Artful Ways to Dress up Easter Eggs

How will you make Easter Sunday more special and enjoyable? Put some twists on your Easter eggs by trying these DIY ideas.

Photo Credit: redenvelope.com

1.   Decoupage Eggs 

Spruce up Easter eggs using paper napkins, colored magazines, or designed papers.  Cut them into strips and glue them around the egg. Let it dry. Then apply a final coat to make it glossy.

Photo Credit: redenvelope.com

2. Twine-Wrapped Eggs 

Give those eggs more boosts by using twine. Apply glue on the surface of the egg.  Wrap it with twine starting from the center to top.

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3.   Blackboard Eggs 

Coat eggs with chalkboard paint. Using chalk, create lines or pattern on the surface. Likewise, make a paper nest to have an attractive set.

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4.   Tattooed Eggs 

Another cool way is to stick fake tattoos to eggshells. You may place images of superheroes, cartoon characters, insects, dinosaurs, and more.

Photo Credit: craftgawker.com

5.   Ombre Eggs 

Give some eggs a chic look by dying them in different tones. The trick is to soak them in varying amount of dye and time. This way you can get dark to lighter shades. To do this, place the egg in a small cup. Fill it up with the liquid dye that is enough to cover the bottom third of the egg. After 5 minutes, add water until the top third part of the egg. Then, you will see a lighter tone. After 3 minutes, add more water to cover the whole egg. Then, you get a more pale shade.

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6.   Silk Tie-Dyed Easter Eggs 

When you want silky looking eggs, try this craft. You need 100% silk tie. Cut a piece that is enough to cover an egg. Make sure that the right side faces the surface of the egg. Wrap them smoothly and tightly using a thread to get a clear print. Then, wrap them again with a light colored and lightweight fabric. Boil them for 20 minutes in water with vinegar.  I suggest that only moms do the said steps. Kids may do the unwrapping after the eggs cool. Then, polish it with oil to get a shinier look.

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7.   Hand-drawn designed Eggs 

Dress up the egg in different hand-drawn shapes and patterns. Use pen paints, chalks, or acrylic craft paints to decorate the eggs.

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8.   Stamped Eggs 

Word imprints are another fun way to spice up dyed Easter eggs. Stamped inspirational words or phrases to motivate egg hunters.

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9.   Personalized Eggs 

Nothing’s more fun than putting your name or initials on the egg. You can use foam alphabets or felt stickers to spell out your name. Another way is to use a candle to write on the shell. Then, the name appears after soaking it in the dye. Stick other fancy stuffs to decorate these eggs.

In fact, there are million ways to put some twists on your Easter eggs. So flaunt your creativeness this Easter Sunday. Share the moment with your kids to make it a fun-filled day. 

Visita Iglesia: Why Does the Tradition Live on?

Photo from Manila Bulletin (mb.com.ph)

We have many ways to reflect Christ’s life, passion, death, and resurrection. Fasting, abstinence, repentance, and turning away from sins are common activities during Holy Week. Apart from these, Visita Iglesia or Church Visit is one of them.

We learn the custom from the Augustinian friars. They are the first missionaries in Philippines who arrived in 1565. The practice entails us to go to seven churches and pay homage on Christ’s sufferings. We do this on Holy Thursday.

There is no required prayer for the Visita Iglesia. Some would pray and meditate on the mysteries of the Holy Rosary. Others would pray two Stations of the Cross per church. Though seven is the suggested number of churches to visit, others may opt for 14 churches. In fact, the number of churches is immaterial as long as you pray fervently.

The Popularity of the Tradition

Visita Iglesia is a common tradition during Holy Week. There’s a myth that wishes will be granted if you accomplish the practice. But this isn’t a reason it remains popular.

Visita Iglesia is a practice to honor the Blessed Sacrament as you do this after Christ established the Sacrament of Eucharist. Then, it changed into a form of journey and reflection of Christ’s sorrow and distress. The tradition reflects on Christ’s first agony in the garden of Gethsemane. During then, He ordered apostles Peter, James, and John to remain and keep vigil with Him. But they did not comply.

Today, church visit is our solemn way of responding to His call.  We go to at least seven churches to pray and reflect on His passion. Thus, it stays as a popular practice during Holy Week.

The Tradition Will Live On

Every holy week, we do Visita Iglesia or church visit. In the first place, who will not venerate Christ painful ways of freeing us from sins? 

The Lenten season is a time to remember His sufferings and great love. To honor His noble sacrifices, we remain up with Holy Week’s traditions. Observing the customs will improve our spiritual discipline as we prepare for Christ’s coming. And Visita Iglesia, a custom to relive and accompany Christ in his suffering, will go on from generation to another.