INPUT ARTICLE: Article: Before you start explaining the things that you want in a haircut, it’s a good idea to describe your hair issue or problems with your stylist. That way, they will know if the haircut you describe will work for you. For example, you might tell her that your last haircut accentuated your hair’s frizziness or didn’t make it look as thick as you’d like.  Make sure to discuss the thickness and texture of your hair with the stylist as well, because a style that looks good with fine, straight hair probably isn't the best option for thick, wavy hair. Point out any cowlicks that are a concern for you because the wrong haircut can make them more obvious. In addition to talking to the stylist about particular hair issues, you should also mention any concerns about how the cut will look with your face shape. For example, if you have round face, you might explain that you want a style that will help make it appear longer. Even after you describe your hair concerns, the stylist should touch and study it prior to cutting. You want to be certain that they really understand your hair type and texture before they pick up the scissors. Stylists are usually visual, so having a photo of the type of cut that you like can help your stylist understand what you want. Go through some magazines to find pictures of the look that you’re going for. However, it’s important to keep in mind that just because you like the look of a certain style doesn’t mean that it’s the most flattering cut for your hair type and face shape.  You don't just have to bring pictures from magazines. If you have a photo of yourself with a past haircut that you really liked, bring that to show the stylist. Don’t overwhelm your stylist with a bunch of inspiration photos. Three or four is enough for him or her to get an idea of the type of cut that you want. Everyone’s point of view differs, so you and your stylist may not have the same idea when it comes to certain generic terms. Instead of saying, “Take off a few inches,” show them specifically how much you want cut by holding your hand up. Don’t just tell your stylist that you want bangs; explain exactly what type of bangs you want, such as blunt cut, wispy, or side-swept. You want to be sure that they understand exactly what you want in your haircut. If there are certain things that you don’t want in haircut, be specific about those as well because knowing what you don’t like is just as important as knowing what you do like. You might say, “I don’t like any harsh lines,” or “I don't want too many layers.” You might get a haircut that looks great when you leave the salon, but never looks the same once you wash and style it at home. That’s because you don’t spend the same amount of time styling it as your stylist did at the salon. To ensure that your hair looks great every time you style, tell your stylist how much maintenance you’re willing to put into your hair.  For example, if you know you won’t get up 20 minutes early to blow dry your hair with a round brush every day, make sure your stylist knows that. If you tend to go a long time without getting your haircut, let your stylist know so you don't wind up with a layered cut that will look awkward growing out. While you may have a very specific idea for the haircut that you want, it isn’t necessarily the best fit for you just because it looks good on your cousin or your favorite celebrity. Your stylist is trained to know what styles will work with different hair types, so they might tell you that the cut won’t work with your hair. It's normal to be disappointed, but you're better off taking the stylist's word for it than winding up with a style you hate. If you have your heart set on a certain cut that your stylist doesn’t think will work for you, ask them to suggest alternatives. There may be similar looks that will work better with your hair type and texture.

SUMMARY: Discuss your hair concerns. Find an inspiration photo. Be specific. Be honest about the maintenance. Listen to the stylist’s expertise.


INPUT ARTICLE: Article: Stand straight up and keep your knees and legs straight. Bend over and touch your toes or the ground. Keep your back and neck straight, and bend at the waist. This stretches your back and legs as well. Stand a few feet away from the wall and place your hands on the wall behind your head by bending backward. Walk yourself down to the ground. Back bends stretch out your back muscles and help you become more flexible. Lay on your back and reach your arms over your head, placing your hands on the ground by your ears. Push your body up so that your weight is on both your hands and feet and your torso is in a bridge.  For an added challenge, straighten your legs, rather than leaving them bent at the knee. You can also walk your legs in and rock back and forth. For advanced gymnasts, try to move your arms in toward your head and rest your weight on your forearms, rather than your hands. Lay on your back and bring your knees in toward your tummy. Hold your legs with your arms so that you are curled up in a ball. Rock back and forth to stretch your back muscles. Lay flat on your tummy then use your arms to hold your torso up. Tip your head back. This stretches your chest, abdominal, and back muscles. A snake or cobra stretch is another name for this pose. If that stretches your muscles too far, support your body with your elbows and forearms and work up to using your hands to support your weight.

SUMMARY: Touch your toes. Try a wall bridge. Do back-bends. Rock out your back. Do a seal stretch.


INPUT ARTICLE: Article: Video games are only one way that children can entertain themselves. There are a lot of things they can do, especially if they are not allowed to fall back on video games. Encourage your child to pursue other interests, and if they can’t think of anything, suggest a few for them.  For example, your child can play with other toys, put on plays, make music or movies, read, play outside, engage in something creative like drawing, writing, or crafts, or play board or card games. Don’t be afraid to say no to your child when they want to play video games because “there’s nothing to do.” Make sure you are not relying on video games for babysitting; it is easy to get into the habit without realizing it. Gaming is a solitary activity. You can encourage your child to participate in group activities they will enjoy. Brainstorm together and let them choose activities they will enjoy instead of choosing one for them.  You can try youth groups at your religious institution. Local Y Clubs, community arts centers, and libraries also offer youth programs. Look into local arts programs for theater, music, painting, and drawing. You can also look for programs for computers, building, or other hands-on activities. Recreational sports can be fun for some kids, though you should never force children to do sports who do not want to do them. Excessive playing of video games has been linked to conditions like childhood obesity because video games are sedentary activities. To get your child more active, encourage your child to choose a physical activity they enjoy. It’s important to let your child choose what they do. Encourage them to try new activities if they don’t have any favorites. Your child may enjoy bike riding, skateboarding, dance, martial arts, recreational sports, swimming, and playing games outside.

SUMMARY:
Encourage your child to find other activities. Get your child involved in social activities. Encourage your child to get involved in physical activities.