Friday's Fashion Fails: Mischa Barton and Kylie Jenner

Mischa Barton

Poor Mischa Barton. Remember when she was the "it" girl on The OC? Now she's stuck starring in movies with Tara Reid. Here's what Mischa wore to the LA premiere of her aptly titled new movieThe Resurrection. Where do we start with this LBD gone bad?
Check out the cobweb-esque design on the front of it... we love dresses with pretty details added, but this spidery add-on isn't very pretty and looks like she's headed to a Halloween party. The cut and the fit of this frock is so not flattering. The baggy material and draped neckline add bulk to Mischa's frame. There's also an odd belt buckle on the front of this... why?
The final verdict? There's really nothing redeeming about this dress. The worst part is that Mischa is a designer herself so you'd think she'd know better than to wear such an ill-fitting ensemble. Her sparkly shoes can stay, though.

Kylie Jenner

Kylie Jenner is not nearly as much of a mess as Misch. Check out this creation she wore to Nickelodeon's Kids' Choice Awards in LA over the weekend. The Keeping Up With the Kardashians star chose a hooded number by Msfts, a line designed by her maybe boyfriend Jaden Smith.
We don't hate the dress, although it's definitely a departure from her usual red carpet style. The issue is the black stockings paired with white, open toe shoes. It's warm in LA and we think Kylie should have stuck to one or the other: You shouldn't wear stockings with open toed shoes, especially if they're white and summery like hers are.
The final verdict? This isn't a total fashion miss since we think Kylie looks fun and age-appropriate overall for the event. With a few tweaks, this could be a total do. We think her loose waves and red lips look gorgeous too, so props to her glam squad!

Be a Good Child Care Parent

Parents looking for a child care provider usually use checklists or brochures designed to give them tips and information about what to consider when choosing a child care. Is the facility/home clean? What type of training have the providers had? Will my child be happy here? Safe here?  

Finding this special person (or center) can be key to your happiness on the job. It is stress-relieving to know children are in a safe and nurturing environment while a parent is at work. Just as the child care provider nurtures a child, the parent needs to nurture their relationship with the child care provider.

How the child care provider is treated will most likely affect how long the relationship lasts, how positive the interactions are, and ultimately, how happy the child is in the setting.

A survey was conducted of some Idaho child care providers. They were asked for tips to share with parents that would make for a better child care experience overall for everyone involved. As you will see from the following tips, they ranged from payment issues to discipline and health and safety issues.

The surveys indicate a majority of the misunderstandings between child care providers and parents could be resolved if parents would carefully read the Policy and Procedure guidelines and registration packets.

It is important to remember that even though most child care providers choose the profession because of their love of children, it is still a “business,” and bills must be paid. Another issue relates to dressing children for the weather. Numerous comments were received on this issue and the difficulty it causes if a child is unable to participate in a group outing.

According to a provider at Parents Blessing Learning Center in Moscow, Idaho, “Nothing is worse than to tell a child they can’t go outside to play in the snow because their parents didn’t bring proper clothing.”  Here are some additional tips for being a good child care parent:

Payment Related Issues

Give two weeks notice if removing a child from child care. This allows the center to replace the child without the budget suffering. 

• Pay on time, the same time each month, and without being asked. Child care budgets rely on parent tuition to pay employees. Write down and keep track of your payment arrangements.
   
• Expect tuition increases. Sometimes this is the only way to give a quality teacher the raise they deserve. Check prices of other providers if you have concerns.

 

Safety or Health Related Issues

Properly dress your child for the weather. Parents sometimes let children wear sandal-like shoes when it is snowing outside. Make sure the child has boots, gloves, and coats to wear when it is cold. Also remember to pin mittens (with large, sturdy diaper pins) to coat sleeves.

• Give all medication to the teachers (don’t leave it in lunch boxes). Always bring a doctor’s note for prescription medications and instructions for over the counter drugs (dosage and how often to be given).  
• Always follow the center’s sick policy, it is there for a reason — to help keep teachers and other children healthy. It is best for the child to be home with mom or dad when they are sick. Have a back-up plan for the children when they are ill. 
• Don’t give medication to a sick child to bring a fever down and then send the sick child to school.

Discipline-Related Issues

• Work with the child care provider to be consistent with discipline issues. If the parent(s) and care provider are working together, it will encourage the child to learn positive behavior.
   
• Do not teach your child to hit back. We focus on using our words, teacher help, etc.
   
• Tell providers what is going on at home or changes occurring in the family (divorce, death, illness, etc.). this may explain why the child is sleepy, needs more food, anything that relates to how they act.

Rules-Related Issues

• READ the registration packet. The information there is for a purpose!
   
• Work out custody issues outside our school turf. We do not want to be in middle. No separate bills.
   
• Don’t send toys to school. They could get lost or broken. 
• Give the center the child’s schedule ASAP so providers will know how to staff.
   
• Inform the provider if the child will be picked up by someone else, who and when. Remember also, let your child care provider know if your child will not be at the center due to illness or vacation. 
• When children are dropped off at school, make sure they are with a teacher when you leave. 

Communication Related Issues

• Communication is the key. My daycare just experienced a death concerning one of the children’s parents. By our working with counselors and the other parent it helped the child because everybody was counseling the child the same way.
   
• If address or telephone numbers change, let provider know right away.
   
• If you are asked to meet for a conference it is very helpful if you attend and work out an agreeable compromise with your child’s teacher over the issue.
   
• Understand that we are involved emotionally with these children. We love most of them too much, if that is possible.
   
• Relax with your child a few minutes at pick up time. Play a little, see what they like to do at school. Our best “adjusted” happiest kids have parents who spend a few minutes at the center each night.
   
  

Balancing Work and Family Child Care

Child care is an increasingly important part of young children's lives as more Moms and Dads go to work.

We think of child care as a learning center for our children, but it is a good place for Mom and Dad to learn as well.

Give yourself some extra time when you bring or pick up your child from your care program

Watch your child playing with others.

• Who does he or she like to play with? Boys or girls? Older children, younger children, or age mates? Talkative or quiet children? Does your child like to spend time alone or with others?
  
• Concerned about your child? Maybe he or she has a strong temper, throws tantrums, or rarely shares. Watch other children the same age. Do they act similarly? Maybe the behavior that worries you is natural at your child's age. Watch older and younger children to see how behavior changes with age.

Your child care provider can be a source of information about your child.

• Talk to the care giver about your child's activities and behavior in the program. Does he or she note any special strengths, or have concerns about your child?
  
• Are you going through difficult times at home? Maybe there's a new baby, a family move, or parents are separating? Discuss these developments with your care provider. He or she may be able to use experience and training to help you ease these transitions for your child.
  
• If no time is available during center hours, many providers welcome a call at home to talk about the children in their care. Ask if you can call to talk about your child.

 Connect with other families at child care.

• Other families at the child care program face similar challenges in meeting family needs during a busy working day. Talk to others about their experiences as parents, and what strategies have helped them meet their family needs.
  
• Do your children have one or two special friends at child care? Check with those children's parents to see if an after-care visit at your house is possible. Visits with other families at child care can work well for both families. Children in the host family get some extra time with their friends, while parents of the guest children have some time for themselves or for their other children. Take turns so all families share the benefits.

Help while you're there.

• Ask the care provider if there is anything useful you can do while you spend time with the kids. Read a book with the children? Help with an art project? You will feel good about making a contribution, and your child will be proud to see you there as well.

Child care programs can be a learning center for children and parents alike. Linger a while when you are there to experience the benefits for you and your family.

Top 10 cat breeds

ARE YOU A CAT PERSON?

For every type of person in the world, there is a breed of cat that will suit his or her tastes and lifestyle. Active or laid back, fluffy or lean, massive or petite, there are so many cats to choose from that even "dog people” will find a cat that fits. There are several suitable breeds that will make your heart purr.

If you're thinking of going all the way and investing in a purebred feline friend, you have come to the right spot. Here is our look at the top 10 cat breeds, which include cats not known to cause allergies.

The Oriental

Related to the Siamese, this cat has big pointed ears and an inquisitive personality. The Oriental cat is smart and social and will bond deeply with its owners. The cat can be a loyal and playful companion. Its sleek body is more muscular than it would appear. It can be quite vocal and demanding--a very "dog-like" cat.

The American Shorthair

This athletic cat was descended from the British Shorthair but is larger, leaner, and more powerful than its across-the-pond counterpart. It comes in a wide range of colors and patterns and is also a very long-lived kitty, with a lifespan of 15 to 20 years not being out of the ordinary. The American Shorthair is great with kids and even gets along well with dogs, too. The American Shorthair is healthy, gentle, easy going, and low maintenance--grooming is not an issue with this breed.

The Birman

This beautiful cat is thought to have originated from Burma. Legend has it the Birman cat was the protector of the Burmese temples. It's a large, long, sturdy cat with long silky hair (which isn't as thick as a Persian's) that does not mat. This cat is known for its blue eyes, dark points on its ears, face, legs and tail, and snow-white boots on all four paws. This is a loving, gentle cat that loves to play, but can stay quiet and out of the way when you're busy.

The Sphynx

We're not talking about the legendary Egyptian monument or myth, but an exotic cat breed. The hairless Sphynx isn't completely hairless--it actually has a fine peach-like fuzz over its body, which makes it very sensitive to the sun and elements. This sensitivity is also the reason the Sphynx should only be considered an indoor cat. It is warm to the touch, cuddly, energetic, and affectionate. The Sphynx will even snuggle under the covers with you. With its big pointy ears and curious nature, the Sphynx is a fun addition to any family.

The Ragdoll

Thus named by a breeder in the early 60s because the cat was very relaxed and floppy when picked up, the Ragdoll is a gentle and affectionate cat, often following its owners from room to room like a puppy. This kitty is not good at defending itself and shouldn't be allowed to roam the streets alone. In fact, it is careful not to use teeth and claws during play, which makes it ideal around kids. The hair of the Ragdoll is full and plush, requiring regular grooming, and although it is not as large as its coat would suggest, it is, nonetheless, one of the bigger cat breeds. This is a placid cat that really is satisfied with a relaxing lifestyle.

The Siamese

Don't let the bad kitties in the film The Aristocats leave you with a bad image of this beauty. Yes, they can be verbally demanding in wanting attention, but it's also a very loving, social and affectionate cat. The Siamese can be sensitive and nervous and is a creature of habit and routine--so if you're an international jet-setter that needs a cat that can travel, this is probably not the one for you. The Siamese comes in a number of colors, but the points--the dark patches on the face, ears, paws and tail--are integral to the breed.

The Abyssinian

One of the oldest breeds of cat, the Abyssinian resembles an ancient Egyptian cat with its lithe build, large pointy ears, and slender legs. This is a wilful, smart, and extroverted cat that loves to explore and play. Its love of games is only matched by its love of water, so watch out for unsolicited bath partners in the tub! Despite its curious nature, the Abyssinian is generally shy and timid around strangers--if you are in search of a show cat, this breed is probably not the best choice. The Aby is most comfortable in a home environment that best suits its loyal and people-loving nature.

The Exotic Shorthair

This is the short-haired version of the Persian. With its squashed face and rounded ears, the Exotic Shorthair looks more like a cuddly teddy bear than a cat. While having a similar temperament to its long-haired cousin, this cat is a bit more lively and inquisitive, but still very much calm and laid back. The Exotic Shorthair is a great choice for someone who wants a Persian but doesn't have the time or desire to devote to grooming.

The Maine Coon

This beautiful cat is a native to Maine and also the largest of the domestic cat breeds. It looks very feline and takes three to four years to reach full physical maturity. It has very thick fur with a waterproof layer, large wide paws that act like snow shoes for walking easily across snow, and a long, thick tail used to wrap about its face during harsh weather. The Maine Coon is not only a popular breed because of its temperament, but it's also a great mouser. Plus, it's also healthy and hardy, and is great with kids and other animal, including dogs.

The Persian

Everyone knows the Persian cat. Renowned for its long, silky fur, expressive eyes, and squashed face, the Persian is also one of the oldest cat breeds. Calm and sweetly affectionate, this cat loves habit and serene environments. Persians are the quintessential indoor cats; it is best to keep this breed exclusively indoors. The Persian does require regular baths and daily grooming, as its fur is too long for it to self-groom thoroughly and it is prone to matting. For Persian fanciers, grooming is but one of the many pleasures of having this cat as a companion.

10 Things you should know before bringing a cat home

TOP TIPS FOR CAT OWNERS

Cats make great companions. Not only do they look good, they also keep mice away and have built-in motors. That's pretty cool. But there's more to owning a cat than having a cute, soft, purring companion. Before you get one, there are a few things you should think about, and a few things that are just plain good to know.

10 tips for cat owners

• Cats are indeed independent by nature, but they're not quite able to take care of themselves. Before you adopt, make sure that your lifestyle can make room for a feline. How busy you are, and the amount of time you spend at home, will dictate the kind of cat you should get -- very busy people may find it difficult to find the time for a cat that needs a lot of grooming and attention, especially the highly intelligent and active cats. But, there are cats that are ideal for the working lifestyle. Do your research.

• What if your circumstances change after the adoption? Or if you work long hours and still want a friendly face to greet you at the door at the end of the day? Adopting a buddy for the cat to play with can be an excellent solution.

• Do you have cat allergies? If you do suffer from severe allergic reactions, consider testing yourself for feline allergies before bringing a cat home. Then again, some people with allergies might adapt to their own pet, but still be allergic to other cats. A safe bet is to choose a cat with low allergens. Consult your vet, books, or animal shelter employees for suggestions.

• Before you bring your cat home, take it for a checkup and immunizations. Also, schedule it in to be neutered as soon as age permits. This can mean the difference between a healthy and happy cat, and a miserable cat trying to claw its way through the windows or spraying your furniture.

• Get a good litter box and quality litter. Covered boxes can allow you and your cat more privacy, and clumping litter is easier to maintain. Keep the box clean, for the comfort of your cat and your nose. Also, make sure you buy well-balanced, age appropriate food for your cat. Ask your vet and the representatives at your local pet store for advice.

• Cats love to play. Toy mice, string, feathers, and even empty boxes make for great amusement. Playthings needn't be expensive (they can even be homemade), just make sure there's enough to keep your cat happy, active, and mentally occupied.
  

• If you don't want your sofa shredded, or your new Louis Vuitton bag ruined, invest in a scratching post or nail caps.

• Catnip, and those little freeze-dried chicken nuggets are excellent tools for cat bribery and training.

• Get pet insurance. We hope you won't need it, but as our elders always say, "It's better to be safe than sorry."

• If it's a kitten you're bringing home, make sure you start a grooming routine early. Bathing, brushing, and trimming claws will be an event to look forward to, rather than something to dread.

And there you have it. These are just a few of the things to keep in mind when you get yourself a new companion. Another important consideration: Cats often live for around 20 years, so you and your furry feline friend will be together for a long time.

Celebrity pets

FAMOUS CELEBS' FURRY FRIENDS

Hollywood has gone to the dogs (and cats, and pigs, and monkeys). Now more than ever, pint-size (or larger-than-life) animals are stealing the spotlight from their owners. Here's our list of the pets that have become A-listers in their own right.

TINKERBELL

(AKA: Paris Hilton's chihuahua)
After surviving a kidnapping from Paris Hilton's home in 2004 (during a botched robbery), Tinkerbell has once again stolen the spotlight from her diva-ish master. Dubbed "Accessory Dog," Tinkerbell has been to dozens of A-list events, including galas like the recent benefit for Pets of Bel Air.

BUBBLES

(AKA: Michael Jackson's chimpanzee)
Adopted by Michael Jackson in 1985, Bubbles was a constant member of the singer's entourage until the late 80s. The chimp was seen at concerts, recording sessions and even dinner parties. Almost 30 years later, Bubbles still lives the pampered life: He was entrusted to the Center for Great Apes in Florida after becoming too aggressive for domestic life.

BO OBAMA

(AKA: President Barack Obama's Portuguese water dog)
Bo may be new to the fame game (after his recent adoption by the First Family), but we're sure we'll be seeing a lot of him in the upcoming press. Already, there's a Bo Beanie Baby, water bowl and teddy bear -- and he just recently posed for his first official White House photo.

KITTY PURRY

(AKA: Katy Perry's feline)
What's more important to Katy Perry than her singing? Her cat, Kitty Purry. The fancy feline, who has been by the singer's side since before she hit it big, is reportedly helping the star through some relationship ups and downs. The singer recently told media she was over men and that the only person she'd be kissing was Kitty Purry.

ISABOO

(AKA: Rachael Ray's pit bull)
Inspired by her love for Isaboo, Rachael Ray recently launched a gourmet food line for animals called Nutrish. As the fresh-faced spokesdog, Isaboo has been getting a lot of airtime, showing off her svelte figure on Rachael Ray's pet-dedicated cooking segments.

SEUSS

(AKA: Hilary Swank's South African gray parrot)
Hilary is an animal lover, owning several dogs, a cat and a rabbit. But one of her most pampered pets is Seuss, a South African gray parrot. According to Swank, the cheeky parrot is a non-stop talker who constantly lets her human know what's on her mind. When Seuss was brought home, Swank crafted a special cage for the parrot to live in, complete with customized lighting.

SADIE

(AKA: Oprah's new cocker spaniel)
After showing herself off to millions on Oprah, Sadie has begun to settle into her new life as Oprah's favorite pup. Although the dog went through an adjustment period -- she had a virus that, sadly, claimed the life of her brother, and now she has to deal with house-training -- we're sure Sadie will start to love her position as one of the world's most powerful pooches.

Friday's Fashion Obsessions: Mila Kunis and Jessica Alba

WE'RE OBSESSED!

Mila Kunis and Jessica Alba's beautiful celebrity styles made us do a double take this week! We're telling you why in this week's installment of Friday’s Fashion Obsessions.

Mila Kunis

Oz the Great and Powerful premieres in theaters nationwide today, and we here at SheKnows couldn't be more excited to see it! One of the film's leading ladies, Mila Kunis, looked lovely in lace at the recent LA premiere, and I'm definitely crushing on her look.
You know those outfits that just make you want to smile? This is one of them! I can't help but think of prim and proper tea hours and ballet recitals when I look at this gorgeous Dolce & Gabbana lace dress. It's a little bit modern (sexy fit), a little bit classic (lace and tulle) and a whole lot of fun.
The final verdict? Mila kept her hair sleek and chic in the front but totally surprised me with the intricate back detail (stay tuned for a tutorial next Friday!). Her silver bow peep toe heels and vibrant jewel tone earrings are the perfect complement to the overall look and pop so well on that Yellow Brick Road... err, carpet.

Jessica Alba

We're focusing a lot on hot moms this March, and there are few celeb moms who have hotter style than Miss Jessica Alba. The actress and fashionista showed up to the Stella McCartney show at Paris Fashion Week in this super cool pantsuit and landed herself on our best dressed list this week.
First of all, how cool are Jessica's pants (zoom on in, folks)? The beaded detail stretches down the entire leg, and the blazer is lined with the same awesome accent. The actress paired her matching suit with a crisp white button down blouse, an edgy clutch and dark nails. I love the contradictions going on here: Menswear suit meets prim and proper blouse, edgy accessories meet feminine peplum blazer.
The final verdict? The beachy, laid-back hair really makes this look. If Jessica had worn her hair all fancy in an updo, it might have looked a bit stuffy, but the casual "I don't care" strands make this already neat look even cooler.

Pisces Astrology Profile

Pisces Characteristics: Symbol: The Fish Element: Water Group: Theoretical Polarity: Negative Favorable Colors: Sea-Green Chinese Counterpart: Rabbit Ruling Planet: Neptune, Jupiter Cross/Quality: Mutable House Ruled: Twelfth Opposite Sign: Virgo Lucky Gem: Moon Stone Period: Feb 19 - Mar 20

Pisces Personality:

"Understanding" is a most appropriate keyword for this gentle, affectionate sign. Easygoing and generally accepting of others around them, Pisceans are often found in the company of a variety of different personalities. Their willingness to give of themselves emotionally lends to an aura of quiet empathy. A Pisces is comforting to be around. While not likely to be the leader, this sign's presence is strong and vibrant in any cause they put their hearts into.

Pisces Key Words:

Strengths:
Intuitive, compassionate, artistic, gentle, wise, musical.

Weaknesses:
Can be a victim or martyr, fearful, overly trusting, sad, desire to escape reality.

Charismatic marks:
Soft, sometimes frail to medium build. Face easily shows emotion.

Likes:
Spiritual themes, time alone, visual media, time to sleep, romance, music, swimming.

Dislikes:
Know-it-alls, the past coming back to haunt, being criticized, cruelty of any kind.

Best environment:
On or near water, especially the sea. The movie theater.

Famous Pisces:

Sharon Stone

Liza Minelli

Jenna Fischer

Josh Groban

Jessica Collins

Aquarius Astrology Profile

Aquarius Characteristics:

Symbol: The Water Bearer Element: Air Group: Theoretical Polarity: Positive Favorable Colors: Turquoise Chinese Counterpart: Tiger

Ruling Planet: Uranus, Saturn Cross/Quality: Fixed House Ruled: Eleventh Opposite Sign: Leo Lucky Gem: Turquoise Period: Jan 20 - Feb 18

Aquarius Personality:

Aquarians present themselves in one of two ways. One on hand, you’ll see someone who is shy, and quiet. On the other, an Aquarian can be boisterous, eccentric, and energetic. Both are deep thinkers with a love of helping others. Highly intellectual, this is a sign of fierce independence that prizes intuition tempered with logic. Both personality types have an uncanny ability to see both sides of an argument without prejudice, making them excellent problem-solvers. While very much attuned to the energies around them, Aquarians have a deep need to take time out alone and away to rejuvenate themselves. The keyword for this sign is imagination. The Aquarian can see a world of possibilities even when there appears to be none.

Aquarius Key Words:

Strengths:
Progressive, original, humanitarian, independent.

Weaknesses:
Runs from emotional expression, uncompromising, temperamental, aloof.

Charismatic marks:
Good looks, beautiful eyes, angular faces, thin build.

Likes:
Fun with friends, fighting for causes, helping others, intellectual conversation, a good listener.

Dislikes:
Limitations, being lonely, broken promises, dull or boring situations, people who disagree with them.

Best environment:
Any gathering of people to exchange ideas.

Famous Aquarius:

Ziyi Zhang

Oprah Winfrey

Farrah Fawcett

Julia Jones

Tiffany Thornton