1. Travel Safety for Christmas Holiday: If you’re planning to travel with your pet for the Christmas holidays, ensure their safety during the journey. Secure your pet in a travel carrier or use a pet seatbelt harness in the car. Take breaks during long drives to allow your pet to stretch and drink water. If you’re leaving your pet behind, arrange for a trusted pet-sitter or boarding facility to ensure they’re cared for while you’re away. Make sure their environment is familiar, and provide any special instructions about their diet, routine, and medical needs.
2. Cold Weather Protection: Pets, especially those with shorter coats, may need extra warmth during cold December days. Consider investing in a pet sweater or jacket for outdoor walks. Make sure your pet has access to a warm place to rest indoors, and avoid letting them stay outside for extended periods.
3. Holiday Hazards: With holiday decorations and festivities, there are added risks for pets. Keep Christmas trees, lights, and ornaments out of reach to prevent accidents or ingestion of harmful objects. Be cautious with holiday foods—many ingredients, like chocolate, grapes, and raisins, are toxic to pets.
4. Gift Your Pet: The holiday season is a great time to spoil your pets with a thoughtful gift! Consider getting them a new toy, cozy bed, or even a stylish sweater to keep them warm. Interactive toys can stimulate their minds and help burn off energy during the colder months when outdoor playtime is limited.
5. Hydration and Comfort: As heaters run in the winter, they can dry out the air. Ensure your pet has access to fresh water, and use a humidifier to keep the air comfortable, especially for pets with respiratory issues.

By following these December pet care tips in Bedford, you can ensure your furry friends stay safe, healthy, happy, and well-spoiled during the cold winter months and holiday season.

The post December Pet Care Tips for Bedford: Keeping Your Pets Safe, Cozy, and Spoiled first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post December Pet Care Tips for Bedford: Keeping Your Pets Safe, Cozy, and Spoiled appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

Seniors Helping Seniors® Chagrin Valley, led by U.S. Army veteran Heather Maver, is offering compassionate in-home care services to residents in Bedford and the surrounding areas. Located in Warrensville Heights, the organization provides seniors with assistance tailored to their needs, from running errands to help with personal care like showering and mobility. These services enable older adults to maintain independence and alleviate the caregiving burden on families.

Maver, who lives on Cleveland’s east side, aims to give back to her community by ensuring seniors can remain in their homes comfortably and safely. Veterans may soon benefit from discounted services as the organization works toward VA approval. To further connect with the community, they sponsor local events and advertise in area publications.

Opportunities for Compassionate Caregivers

Seniors Helping Seniors is actively recruiting caregivers who are patient, kind-hearted, and eager to make a difference. Ideal candidates include retired teachers, nurses, or individuals with home health aide experience. Starting pay is $14 per hour, with increases based on experience and availability.

The organization currently employs 17 caregivers and has ambitious goals to hire 80–100 by next year. This is an excellent opportunity for older adults seeking part-time, meaningful work. Caregivers benefit from flexible hours and the fulfillment of giving back to others.

To inquire about services or apply as a caregiver, visit Seniors Helping Seniors at their office, call them at (216) 998-2273, or check their website.

The post Seniors Helping Seniors: Supporting Bedford Residents with In-Home Care first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Seniors Helping Seniors: Supporting Bedford Residents with In-Home Care appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

With all the activities surrounding Christmas, keeping a consistent routine can help provide structure and stability for your kids. Set aside time for daily activities like meals, naps, and quiet time, while also building in holiday traditions like decorating the tree or baking cookies. This balance will help manage the holiday chaos and keep kids feeling grounded.

Get your children involved in holiday preparations to make them feel part of the excitement. Let them help with decorating the house, wrapping gifts, or selecting holiday music. Simple tasks, like setting the table or picking out ornaments, will keep them busy and give them a sense of accomplishment.

The holidays can get overwhelming, and it’s important to set realistic expectations. It’s okay if everything isn’t perfect. Embrace the imperfections and enjoy the time spent with loved ones. Explain to your kids the true meaning of Christmas, focusing on family time and creating memories over the commercial side of the holiday.

Amid the holiday hustle, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Schedule moments to relax, whether it’s enjoying a cup of hot cocoa or taking a walk in Bedford’s winter beauty. A happy parent means a happier holiday for everyone.

By preparing for Christmas with these tips, you can ensure a holiday season full of joy, love, and cherished memories with your family in Bedford.

The post Childcare Tips for a Fun and Stress-Free Holiday in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Childcare Tips for a Fun and Stress-Free Holiday in Bedford appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

Mindfulness is the art of staying present and focused in the moment. During busy Thanksgiving get-togethers, mindfulness can help you stay grounded and reduce feelings of stress or overwhelm. Before your gathering begins, take a few minutes to center yourself. Find a quiet space, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Inhale deeply, hold for a moment, then exhale slowly. This simple practice can help calm your mind and prepare you for the day ahead.

Throughout the day, try to stay present by focusing on the sights, sounds, and smells around you, rather than worrying about future tasks or rehashing past events. When engaging with others, practice active listening. Instead of thinking about your response, give your full attention to the person speaking, which can create a more connected and less stressful conversation.

Self-care is also essential during Thanksgiving. Set boundaries if needed—it’s okay to say no to extra tasks or invitations if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Prioritize moments of rest and relaxation to recharge.

By practicing mindfulness and self-care, Bedford residents can enjoy a peaceful, joyful Thanksgiving while managing the potential stresses that come with the season.

The post Managing Holiday Stress with Mindfulness and Self-Care for Bedford Residents first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Managing Holiday Stress with Mindfulness and Self-Care for Bedford Residents appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

Volunteering in your community not only benefits others but also provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment. In Bedford, helping local causes can foster a “helper’s high,” creating feelings of joy and contentment. The satisfaction of making a positive impact on others’ lives contributes to increased emotional well-being and life satisfaction.

Reducing Stress and Anxiety

Engaging in volunteer work offers a great way to take a break from daily stressors. By focusing on helping others, you shift your attention away from your own worries. Volunteering promotes the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood boosters, which help to reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm.

Building Social Connections

Volunteering provides an opportunity to meet new people and form meaningful relationships. Whether you’re working with others on a shared cause or simply interacting with those you help, socializing through volunteer work helps reduce feelings of loneliness. Strengthening your community connections improves emotional health and a sense of belonging.

Increasing Self-Esteem

Volunteers often experience a boost in self-esteem by seeing the positive impact they make. Contributing to your community gives you a sense of accomplishment and reinforces your personal value. Volunteers report greater feelings of confidence and empowerment, knowing they’re making a tangible difference.

Ways to Volunteer in Bedford, OH

Looking to make a difference in Bedford? Here are two impactful ways to get involved:

1. Become a Resident Reporter for the Bedford Tribune
   If you enjoy writing and sharing local stories, consider volunteering as a Resident Reporter for the Bedford Tribune. Help shine a light on the people, events, and projects that make Bedford unique by contributing articles to the community’s trusted online news source. No professional experience is required—just a passion for storytelling and a commitment to keeping your neighbors informed. Email us at editor@bedfordohio.org or submit your story to get started!
2. Volunteer with Meals on Wheels
   Support Bedford’s senior and homebound community by volunteering with Meals on Wheels. Whether you assist in delivering meals, packaging food, or providing a friendly visit, your time can make a world of difference in ensuring residents receive nutritious meals and companionship. To volunteer, please call (440) 439-0302.

For Bedford residents, volunteering is a wonderful way to nurture mental well-being while giving back to the community.

The post Nurturing Your Mind: The Mental Health Benefits of Volunteering in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Nurturing Your Mind: The Mental Health Benefits of Volunteering in Bedford appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Travel Safety for Thanksgiving Get-Togethers: Many families travel for Thanksgiving, and it’s important to ensure your pet’s safety if you’re bringing them along. Secure your pet in a carrier or seatbelt harness while traveling to prevent distractions and reduce the risk of injury. If you’re leaving your pet at home, consider a trusted pet-sitter or boarding facility. Provide clear instructions about your pet’s routine, food, and any medical needs.
2. Protect Against Cold Weather: As temperatures drop, pets that are used to being outside may need extra protection. For outdoor pets, ensure they have a warm, dry shelter to retreat to during the colder nights. Indoor pets may also appreciate a cozy blanket or sweater, especially if they have shorter coats.
3. Holiday Hazards: With Thanksgiving feasts comes the temptation to share food with your pets. Avoid giving your pets rich foods, as they can upset their stomachs or even lead to poisoning. Be especially cautious with foods like onions, garlic, and bones, which are toxic to dogs and cats.
4. Maintain a Healthy Routine: Stick to your pet’s regular feeding and exercise schedule to help them stay calm and avoid stress, especially with the increased holiday activity.

By following these pet care tips for November in Bedford, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable month for your furry companions.

The post November Pet Care Tips for Bedford: Staying Safe and Comfortable This Fall first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post November Pet Care Tips for Bedford: Staying Safe and Comfortable This Fall appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

Share & Support Group: Parenting is Lonely

Join the Connecting for Kids staff to discuss the article, “Why Parenting Can Be Lonely, Even When You’re Rarely Alone.” We will explore the theme of isolation when raising a child with disabilities or mental health issues and how to build a village of support. For in-person programs, free, supervised children’s activities are available, but adults and children must register separately. connectingforkids.org/support
Wednesday, Nov. 6, 6:30 p.m.
Solon Branch of Cuyahoga County Public Library

Music Therapy & More

Join us for a hands-on program designed to teach families how to use music to improve their child’s academic, motor, communication, and social skills, as well as behavior. This program is designed for families and their children, ages 0–6 years, who have concerns about development. connectingforkids.org/music
Wednesday, Dec. 11, 6:30 p.m.
Solon Branch of Cuyahoga County Public Library

Virtual Sessions

Speaker Series: Autism 101

Nathan Morgan, MSSA, LSW, of Milestones Autism Resources, will present facts, debunk myths, and provide the most up-to-date terminology available on ASD, informed by experiences as both a licensed social worker and autism self-advocate. Learn about differing strengths, lagging skills, and accommodating ever-changing support needs. connectingforkids.org/speakerseries
Tuesday, Nov. 19, 6:30 p.m.
Virtual

Share & Support Group: Parenting is Lonely For Families of Children with Complex Needs

Join the Connecting for Kids staff to discuss the article, “Why Parenting Can Be Lonely, Even When You’re Rarely Alone.” We will explore the theme of isolation when raising a child with disabilities or mental health issues and how to build a village of support. For in-person programs, free, supervised children’s activities are available, but adults and children must register separately. connectingforkids.org/support
Tuesday, Dec. 3, 6:30 p.m.
Sponsored by United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Cleveland (UCP)
Virtual

Behavior Chat

Ochanya McRoberts-Wells, MEd, will lead a discussion guided by your questions on various behavior topics. Each session will focus on a new tool from our free Behavior Toolkit, but questions on any behavior concern are welcome. Content is geared toward children 18 months–6 years.
How Structure Can Prevent Meltdowns
Monday, Dec. 16, 6:30 p.m.
Virtual

About Connecting for Kids

Connecting for Kids provides resources, support, and community to families in Northeast Ohio who have concerns about their child. We support families who have children with mental health concerns, developmental delays, and disabilities as well as those facing major life changes. We offer programs, Resource Fairs, and a Family Resource Specialist (FRS) Program. Programs include support groups for adults, presentations by professionals, and hands-on programs that caregivers attend with their child. The FRS program offers a CFK staff member who meets with families and assists them in navigating resources. All programs are offered free to families.

The post Connecting for Kids November & December Programs in Solon & Three Virtual Opportunities first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Connecting for Kids November & December Programs in Solon & Three Virtual Opportunities appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Costume Safety for Halloween: If you plan to dress up your pets for Halloween, prioritize their safety and comfort. Ensure costumes fit well without restricting movement, vision, or breathing. Avoid accessories that could pose choking hazards, such as small parts or loose items. Always supervise your pet while they’re in costume, and consider a trial run to see how they react before the big day.
2. Keep Halloween Treats Away: Halloween brings an abundance of sweets, but many popular treats can be harmful to pets. Keep chocolate, candy, and other goodies out of reach. Educate family members and guests about the dangers of sharing human food with pets.
3. Maintain a Routine: With Halloween festivities, your home may have more noise and visitors than usual. Try to maintain your pet’s regular routine to reduce stress. Create a quiet space where they can retreat if they feel overwhelmed.
4. Grooming and Coat Care: As temperatures drop, pets may begin to grow thicker coats. Regular grooming is essential to prevent matting and to keep their skin healthy. Check for any signs of dryness or irritation.
5. Watch for Wildlife: As nights get cooler, wildlife, including deer and raccoons, may become more active. Keep an eye on your pets during walks and ensure they are leashed to prevent encounters.

By following these pet care tips for October in Bedford, you can ensure your furry friends enjoy a safe and festive fall season.

The post October Pet Care Tips for Bedford: Preparing for Fall and Halloween Safety first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post October Pet Care Tips for Bedford: Preparing for Fall and Halloween Safety appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

1. Costume Safety: When selecting or making costumes, prioritize safety. Choose costumes that are visible in the dark—bright colors or reflective materials are great options. Avoid long capes or accessories that could cause tripping. Make sure masks fit properly and allow for clear vision and breathing. Consider using face paint as a safer alternative.
2. Pumpkin Carving: Carving pumpkins is a fun tradition, but it’s important to supervise your children closely. For younger kids, consider using markers or stickers to decorate pumpkins instead of carving. For older kids, provide them with child-safe tools and assist them as needed.
3. Planning Trick-or-Treating: Discuss safety rules with your kids before heading out. Set a specific route that is well-lit and familiar, and consider going in groups. Make sure they know to wait for you at street corners and to look both ways before crossing the street.
4. Food Safety: Check all treats before letting your kids indulge. Discard any unwrapped or suspicious-looking items. If your child has food allergies, have a conversation about what is safe for them to eat.
5. Fun Activities: Beyond trick-or-treating, plan fun Halloween activities at home, such as watching spooky movies, making Halloween-themed snacks, or hosting a costume party.

By keeping these tips in mind, we can ensure that Halloween is not only fun but also safe for our children in Bedford. Happy Halloween!

The post Halloween Prep: Essential Childcare Tips for a Fun and Safe Celebration first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Halloween Prep: Essential Childcare Tips for a Fun and Safe Celebration appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it’s easy to get caught up in worries about the future or regrets about the past. Mindfulness encourages a shift in focus to the here and now, promoting a sense of calm and clarity. This is particularly beneficial during October, a month often filled with activities and seasonal changes.

To incorporate mindfulness into your self-care routine, start with simple practices. Consider setting aside a few minutes each day to engage in mindful breathing. Find a quiet spot, close your eyes, and take deep breaths, paying attention to the sensation of the air entering and leaving your body. Notice any thoughts that arise, but let them pass without judgment, gently bringing your focus back to your breath.

Another way to practice mindfulness is through mindful walking. Take a stroll in one of Bedford’s beautiful parks, such as the Bedford Reservation. As you walk, focus on the sights, sounds, and smells around you. Notice the crunch of leaves underfoot, the crisp autumn air, and the vibrant colors of the foliage.

By embracing mindfulness this October, Bedford residents can cultivate a greater sense of peace, enhance their emotional resilience, and foster a deeper appreciation for the beauty of the present moment.

The post Finding Joy in Mindful Moments This October in Bedford first appeared on The Bedford Tribune.

The post Finding Joy in Mindful Moments This October in Bedford appeared first on The Bedford Tribune.