How to Identify Bullies and Prevent Them

All children, no matter their origin, are potential victims for bullying. While there are many educational institutions - even international schools in the Philippines and other similar countries where this problem is prevalent - do their best to prevent this environment from developing, sometimes it simply cannot be helped.

 

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As such, it is imperative that teachers and parents learn how to properly identify, handle, and prevent bullying from occurring in order to be able to foster a kind learning environment that everyone can enjoy. But what is bullying, exactly, and why is it so bad?

Defining Bullying

Bullying is the systematic and repeated inflicting of injury from one person to another. It can come in many forms: social, physical, or emotional abuse all count towards the act of bullying. Adults should not mistake it for child's play, as this abuse is likely to have long lasting effects on the individuals who are on the receiving end of this harsh treatment.

Telltale Signs

One of the most common ways bullying manifests itself is through physical abuse. This is true especially for children. That said, be careful of children who grasp and claw at each other too aggressively or too energetically. While some may see this as normal play, most of the time the dominating one will end up hurting the submissive one. In addition, potentially harmful injuries may occur. Discourage violence at all times.

As opposed to the young ones, adolescents may turn to emotional abuse instead. The clichéd notion that girls are mean to each other is rooted in a certain truth, and that is that people during this age tend to judge others according to their own personal scale of perfection. This type of bullying often transcends into social bullying as well; those who seek superiority over their peers are those who bring those around them down in order to make themselves feel better. This often creates outcasts of the victims, damaging their self-confidence and their social standing.

Identification and Prevention

Once the aforementioned signs begin to show, it is time to take action. One of the biggest mistakes adults make is that they see this kind of behaviour as something natural, all the while letting the situation deteriorate and the victim to endure the abuse alone. This should not be the case. As the one in charge, they should be the ones to facilitate the environment the younger ones are in, and so it falls upon them to regulate everyone's behaviour. 

Possible ways to do this is through:

• Talking to the affected parties. Sometimes, communication is the best way to resolve all standing problems. Talk and explain to both the aggressor and the victim, and clearly explain to them how their actions negatively affect one another. Their understanding of what the consequences of what they do will help them not just stop, but even prevent others from doing the same.
•  Smoothing out their differences. Facilitate a conversation between the two and find the root of their conflict. Then, resolve it (if applicable). If not, then refer to the first step and explain why bullying should not be tolerated.
• Enacting punishment. There are rare times when talking is not enough and a little bit of force is needed. This is where negative reinforcement will come in. Every time the offended bullies someone, sentence them to a punishment that fits their crime. Over time, their bad behaviour will decrease.
• Setting an example. The youth learn through imitation.

Bullying is a worldwide epidemic with a cure, and all that's needed to be done is to find the time to apply it. Do so today!

AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY:

Kimberly Marie Gayeta (Kimmy) is a Communications Degree holder, currently working as an online Marketing Representative for REEDLEY International School Philippines

So, finally the home automation tool is here. Another feather on World's Technology cap

Finally, the whole world was treated with a fully functioning home automation system. The people who were lucky enough to witness the automation system first hand on the grand show are still raving about it. Who would have imagined 5 years ago that we could have the power to control everything in your house – the devices, appliances, house lighting, the security system and more – through our smartphone?

But with the advent of the home automation system, all these dreams are possible. Now you can switch on and off the lights from your couch, open the door from your bedroom; control your house temperature and cooling before you even reach back home from work. The home automation is another beautiful feather on the cap of world technology. We have been treated to brilliant technologies through the year but none so better.

What is Home Automation System?

So, for those of those who still don’t have an idea about what a home automation system is, it is basically a control system that allows you to setup rules and make all the devices and appliances in your house follow those rules and are under your control.

How does Home Automation Works?

In a nutshell, all the appliances in your house – your TV, the door, lighting, AC – basically everything is controlled through an app over your smartphone. All the hardware inside your house integrates all the electrical devices with each other to make your life easier. These activities are then controlled from the mobile app or through other devices over internet.

The home automation system includes three main elements. These are controllers, sensors and the actuators. These are really helpful to measure almost everything in your devices and allow you to control them through controller devices – the smart phones or tablets.

What Features do I get with Home Automation Systems?

Well the first home automation systems allow you a number of features such as controlling the temperature of your AC from anywhere, switch on and off your light and watch live feed of your house through the security cameras. A number of other automation systems are also announced and I bet they all will offer different set of functions and features for you to use.

What are the advantages of installing Home Automation System?

Although the cost of installing a home automation system would be huge at the starting because you would have to replace some of your devices as they won’t be compatible, but you will tend to save a lot on your utility bills through the intelligent use of the home automation systems in your house. Some of the benefits of the automation system include:

• The home automation systems protect you from the possibility of break-in or burglary at your house. You can easily protect your house with the help of the security camera as you can allows keep a look out on things happening in and around your house.
• You can easily switch the lights on and off around your house from anywhere. You can easily switch off those extra lights which your children leave open even from your workplace.
• You can make sure that your house is well cooled up and at the right temperature when you arrive back home from a long, tiring day at the office.
• You can easily control whoever enters and exit the house with an automated door. Now, you can open and close the front door with a touch of a button on your smartphone.
• Well, one of the biggest advantages of the home automation system was that you are in control of your house wherever you are. And with wherever you are, we mean from any place possible – even from a family trip to the next state. You are always in control to whatever happens to your house.

Final Say

The home automation systems were launched to much fanfares. Although the prototypes and ideas were in place from much before, it never came into fruition until very recently. The response the automation system got was mind-blowing and by the look of the features we get from it, the control system is definitely here to stay for a long time.

Keeping Your Home Safe the Effective Way

The thought of intruders breaking into your home with ease is definitely something that would scare you, not to mention make you anxious. This is why it is important that you ensure that your home is secured. Sure, you may have a guard dog at the front of your house or have all locked gates and doors and closed windows before putting the lights out. However, it might not be enough as your home may still run the risk of getting seized by criminals.

 

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Indeed, the aspect of video surveillance is something that you should take advantage. For the most part, it relieves your tensions and anxieties away, knowing for a fact that your installed equipment is making sure that it sees everything, 24/7. This is especially true when you are away from home, whether you are doing grocery shopping, making a bank transaction, or enjoying your vacation trip with your family. But even when you are inside the home, CCTV cameras are still useful, especially when there are certain risks involving your other family members.

Here are some other ways these important pieces of equipment can help your home safer:

• As parents, it is important that your baby is given round-the-clock care. That would mean keeping an eye on him or her at any given moment of the day. That is not the case when he or she sleeping, and that you must leave him or her to doze off soundly at the comfort of his or her crib. This is where you need a CCTV camera in your home’s baby room; you can monitor you baby without being there inside the room. It even helps you reduce the risk of a falling from the crib.
• With a CCTV camera installed inside your home, you can closely monitor your child or children’s actions. Indeed, your child or children are a curious bunch; they would reach for things regardless of whether they are dangerous or not. Such equipment can be installed in an off-limits area such as a workshop, garage, or a room with a closet filled with items that are considered as fire hazards or poisonous when mishandled.
• If you have an elderly at home, your CCTV camera can likewise help you monitor him or her when you are in another room or away from home. You can install one in an area where they spend much of their time; in the front porch, the garden, or bedroom. Accidents do happen, especially among the elderly. They may get trip, slip and fall in areas not always noticeable. They may also get involved in freak accidents, say bumping into stationary objects on your garden like tables, chairs, and even rainwater tanks. This is why it is important to have CCTV cameras when there are elderly in your home.
• It is definitely hard to keep an eye on everything inside your home, especially if your home is two- or three-stories high. Your CCTV camera installed in-front of your home can see who’s at the front door, especially when you are upstairs sleeping or going with your own business.
• If you have an elaborate garden or patio and you have number of expensive equipment on it, having security cameras is important. Since your home’s outdoor is the one most unnoticeable when you and your family are sleeping at night, it is an easy target. Some of the items that can be stolen, damaged, or vandalized include rainwater tanks, furniture pieces, among other valuables.

Video surveillance cameras come in different types. Some are small to remain hidden from view. Some are large enough to move on their own when they detect movement. Some are fixed cameras that only monitor a certain area. Whatever CCTV camera you consider, you can be sure that your home’s inhabitants, including yourself, are out of harm’s way, whether the dangers are coming from outside or inside.

Options for Controlling RGB Lighting Systems

There are several ways to control RGB lights, depending on the needs and specifications of the applicable environment. Trends in wireless connectivity and remote technology have allowed businesses to explore hands-off lighting approaches that are robust, inexpensive and easy to setup.

 

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DMX RGB Controllers

Digital Multiplex Signal (DMX or DMX 512) controllers are commonly found in theaters, industrial facilities, concerts and outdoor events. The unidirectional system is capable of controlling up to 512 channels via software. Operators may sync the lights with music, dance numbers, video clips or keynote speeches. The controls can be pre-programmed and saved ahead of time, or setup to function autonomously. This option is scalable to meet extremely demanding light systems and configurations.

“At a data level, the DMX512 controllers sends asynchronous data at 250 kbaud; 1 start bit, 8 data bits, 2 stop bits and no parity checking. Notice that although the data part is limited to 8-bit, some devices will combine two channels, giving a multiplexed 16-bit data packet if needed,” explained James Bruce from Makeuseof.

DMX RGB controllers are reliable, but may be prone to interference from nearby electronics. Because of this, such systems are not suitable when used with flammable effects, such as pyrotechnics, where the risk of an electrical interference accidentally setting off explosives is considerably high. For elaborate configurations, it is recommended to use repeaters to maintain the signal quality of digital cables when used over long distances.

Bluetooth RGB Controllers

Bluetooth controllers are ideal for wireless lighting applications. The system relies on a Bluetooth device that is connected to the RGB lights, acting as a bridge between the remote and lights. The remote that communicates with the Bluetooth controller can be a smartphone, tablet or a computer. In most cases, manufacturers develop their own apps that are designed to work seamlessly with the controller. Such configurations are ideal for both indoor and outdoor environments, with high-end controllers featuring waterproof designs.

Businesses with complex RGB lighting requirements may find this option to be limited in application. This is because the operator must be within the radius of the controller in order to issue commands fluidly. The control radius for such devices varies greatly- class two units that transmit 2.5mW are capable of reaching 32 feet, while Bluetooth 4.0 gadgets can reach a maximum distance of 200 feet. Individuals may find that operating at the edge of the radius often results in delays and inconsistencies. To ensure reliable connectivity, companies will need to match the Bluetooth classification rating of the RGB controller with the intended application.

Wi-Fi RGB Controllers

Wi-Fi can be used to control RGB lights remotely. This may be a viable option for facilities that already have a wireless network setup in the area. The transmission of data does not affect internet speeds, and multiple users may control the system with the use of third-party apps or additional remotes. The configuration consists of a router that is connected to a Wi-Fi controller, which is connected to the lights via wires. The remote (smartphone, computer, tablet or stock remote) connects and issues commands to the router wirelessly. This option is more flexible in terms of controlling radius and remote options, compared to Bluetooth RGB controllers. Operators can be in a different building, remote into a computer on the same Wi-Fi network and control various RGB lights on the system.

Wi-Fi RGB controllers perform optimally in open environments, such as offices with open floor plans, industrial warehouses and outdoor settings. Facilities with thick walls and solid obstructions are not ideal for this lighting configuration, because it could limit the range of the Wi-Fi network. A feasible solution to this concern would be to deploy signal extenders in areas of the building where receptions are weak. For complex RGB lighting systems that require multiple room controls, businesses may group the lights accordingly and install zone receiving controllers for each area. This will allow operators to control the lighting conditions of each room individually.

Wall RGB Controllers (Wired and Wireless)

Wall RGB controllers are applicable upgrades for traditional light switches and outdated indoor lighting systems. This option features an elaborate panel, which serves as the remote, that is permanently mounted on a wall. High-end wall RGB controllers support a digital panel with touchscreen capabilities, smooth color wheels and audio notifications. Wired RGB controllers are connected to the lights via wires that are tucked away neatly behind the device. The controller’s input terminal wires are also connected to a transformer.

Wireless RGB controllers are appropriate for facilities that require controls over multiple zones or rooms. Such devices can connect wirelessly to various zone controllers around the location. Each zone controller is connected to a different group of RGB lights. When issuing commands to individual zone controllers, the operator simply selects the zone on the panel, and data is transmitted via radio frequency to the selected controller. 

Ideas for Outdoor Enhancements

The outdoor area of a home can be a great place to entertain guests. A front or backyard can be an excellent place to enjoy the weather and spend time with others. While a yard may not be a destination spot, there are enhancements that can be done to make it the place to be.

A Nice Patio
When people come outside, they usually like to have a place on which to sit or stand. While the grass can be a comfortable place to be, it may not be the best when it rains or is muddy. Furthermore, tables and chairs may not be sturdy on grass. A solid alternative to consider is a patio. A patio can be an excellent way of providing a solid place for people to congregate. A slab of cement may cost less than what many homeowners believe. It can easily be cleaned, and it can be replaced or enhanced if an older patio is in place.

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Grills and Plates
A grill can be a terrific way to serve and entertain guests with great food. If a grill is getting older, there are plenty of sales in spring, summer and fall that enable homeowners to find a great grill at a decent price. When the meat and vegetables are done on the grill, be sure to have proper plates on which to serve the food. While it can be easy to use indoor plates, resist that urge and invest in plates that can be used outdoors. Some people prefer to purchase plates that look nice but can be inexpensive to replace.

Professional Assistance
While a number of outdoor projects may seem simply and easy to do, it may be time to consider getting professional assistance to take care of challenges. Professionals can take care of a patio that needs to be created. If a lawn is full of dirt and weeds, a professional service can address those needs. If there are bugs and pests around a home or yard, a Naples exterminator or another professional can take care of the problem. It can be easier and faster to go with a professional than to try to fix a situation by oneself.

Remember to think about what outdoor enhancements need to be made. Brainstorm some ideas and create a plan. Once a plan has been made, follow through on making it happen.