| How to Calm Hyperactive Children Posted: 10 Jan 2022 08:00 AM PST Hyperactive children may fidget, have difficulty concentrating, be unable to sit still, or generally be overexcited. This can result due to overexcitement or unmet needs, or it can be a sign of a condition like ADHD. Start by following a healthy lifestyle, developing routines, and giving your child "kid time" to get their energy out. If this doesn't help, talk to your child's doctor about their hyperactivity. [Edit]Following a Healthy Lifestyle - Develop routines. Kids thrive on routine, and knowing what activities will be happening in the day can help give them a sense of stability. Schedule wake-up time, mealtimes, activities, free time, and bedtime. Routines for each activity—for instance, bedtime routines—will help your child feel more secure and can help them wind down.[1]
- You don't need to plan out every moment of your child's day, but having a schedule can help them feel more secure.
- Be careful not to overschedule. Having too many activities in a day can be exhausting to your child. Give them downtime, too.[2]
- Feed your child a balanced diet. There's no special diet to decrease hyperactivity in children.[3] However, all children benefit from eating healthy foods, drinking enough water, and cutting back on the amount of junk food they eat. Make sure that your child is eating a variety of fruits and vegetables, as well as grains, proteins, and omega-3 acids.[4]
- Foods high in omega-3 include fish, chia seeds, flaxseeds, walnuts, and soybeans.[5]
- Some people recommend cutting out food additives and dyes. While studies are inconclusive on whether this is effective, it may help children with food allergies or sensitivities, so it doesn't hurt to try.[6]
- Ensure your child is getting enough sleep. While it sounds contradictory, if your child isn't getting enough sleep, that can actually cause them to become restless and hyperactive.[7] Getting enough sleep can reduce their hyperactivity, and is important for their health in general. Try to make sure that your child goes to bed at a reasonable hour and sleeps through the night.
- Toddlers between 12 months and two years old should be getting around 11 to 14 hours of sleep, including their naps. Children between 3 and 5 years old need between 10 and 13 hours of sleep per night.[8]
- Kids between 6 and 12 years old need between 9 and 12 hours, and teens need between 8 and 10 hours.[9]
- If your child frequently has difficulty falling asleep, often wakes in the middle of the night, or shows signs of a sleep disorder, make an appointment with their doctor.
- Make sure your child gets exercise. All kids need an outlet for their energy, and exercising can help reduce hyperactivity.[10] The World Health Organization recommends that all children ages 5 and older get at least one hour of exercise per day, and there's many ways to work this into your child's schedule.[11] You can:
- Walk with your child to school, if you live close enough.
- Take them to the park to play on the playground or ride their bike.
- Go to an indoor play area with your child.
- Practice yoga or tai chi with your child.
- Try sports that they enjoy. (Keep in mind that some kids may dislike organized sports and prefer playing on their own or with friends.)
- Look for extracurriculars that get them active, like martial arts or dance classes.
- If you're stuck inside, try hopscotch in the hallway, playing volleyball with a balloon, or dancing to music.[12]
- Consider downloading or buying exercise games or apps.
- Reduce screen time. While computers, phones, and TV can be beneficial to kids, too much use of these can cause inattention and potentially increase hyperactivity.[13][14] Overuse of electronics and social media can also keep your child away from exercise, socialization, and other necessary lifestyle components. Reducing your child's time on electronic devices can help them settle down.
- Allow your child a set amount of screen time for necessities, like schoolwork, and limit the amount of time they spend online, texting, or watching TV. (The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no screen time for children under 18 months, one hour per day for children ages 2 to 5, and to set "reasonable limits" after that age.)[15]
- For younger children, use "tech time" for educational programs or apps and seeing family or friends on video chat. Encourage their play to be in real life, not on the screen.[16]
- Don't let anyone watch TV or use phones or computers while eating. Use this time for talking instead. (You may also want to ban electronic devices from certain rooms, such as bedrooms.)[17]
- Have your child get off their devices at least an hour before they go to bed. (You may also want to use a blue light filter on their devices.)[18]
- Minimize stress. If your child is under stress, or detects that you're under stress, they might become rambunctious. Make sure that your child is getting any needed support at home and school, give them downtime, and work on reducing any stressors in the household that might be affecting them.[19]
- Life stressors—like moving house, parents separating, a birth or death in the family, financial issues, or starting a new school—can cause hyperactivity in children. Check in with your child regularly and help them cope.[20]
- Avoid exposing your child to things that might frighten them, such as scary or violent movies or news stories involving violence.
- Spend time with your child. If your child feels ignored or neglected, they may become hyperactive or noisy to get your attention.[21] You can reduce this by giving your child your full attention for set amounts of time per day, and letting them spend time with you.
- Eat meals together.
- Play together. Learn about what your child likes, and let them talk about it and explain it to you.
- Read books together, and read them bedtime stories.
- Let your child come to you when they need to talk, and give them your full attention. (Don't force them to talk if they don't want to, however.)
[Edit]Planning Activities - Consider what your child is capable of. Young children are energetic by nature; a first-grader isn't ready to sit at a desk for an entire day. Some children are also just more energetic than others. If your child is young, you may need to readjust your expectations of what they can do.[22]
- Younger children generally need to move more; three-year-olds can usually only sit still for around five to ten minutes, while five-year-olds can only sit for around 15. By the time they're seven, they should be able to sit still for around 25 minutes.[23]
- Communicate your expectations clearly. Without clear understanding of what's okay and what's not, your child might act in a way that appears hyperactive, when they simply don't know better. Clearly explain what's expected of them, so they know what they should be doing.[24][25]
- "We walk when we're in the doctor's office."
- "Indoor voice, please."
- "Be gentle with your friend."
- "Feet on the floor."
- Allow non-disruptive fidgeting. For some kids, making them sit still and hold in their energy can actually increase their hyperactivity, and can also reduce their focus. If a child's fidgeting isn't bothering anyone, let them fidget. (This is especially important for kids with conditions like ADHD, sensory processing disorder, or autism.)[26]
- Some kids stay calmer with stress balls or quiet fidget toys, while others end up distracted by them. Let your child try them and see if it helps.[27]
- If the fidgeting becomes disruptive, gently remind your child to rein it in, or offer an alternative.
- Choose calm activities. Kids can end up overexcited by energetic or fast-paced activities, so you might want to pick activities that aren't likely to get them riled up. Examples of quiet and calming activities can include:
- Reading books
- Coloring or drawing
- Making crafts
- Singing calm songs
- Playing with toys like play-dough, slime, or bubbles
- Offer positive feedback, and ignore minor disruptions. Praising your child for what you want them to do will have a better effect than constantly scolding or punishing them for doing the wrong thing. Focus on giving praise, and ignoring behavior that isn't positive.[28]
- Praise specific behaviors. Instead of "Nice work!", say, "I'm proud of you for working so hard on your homework, and taking a break when you got frustrated." Instead of "Thank you," say, "Thank you for raising your hand and waiting until I called on you."
- Only intervene with negative behaviors if it's actually causing a problem (for instance, if your child starts roughhousing with others or distracting other children).
- Make time for breaks. Anyone benefits from taking periodic breaks from whatever they're doing, and this is even more important for hyperactive kids so that they don't get restless. Plan breaks into your child's schedule so they get some downtime to relax, run around, or do whatever will help them burn off their energy.[29]
- Breaks may not need to involve physical activity. Your child might prefer downtime where they can just do something relaxing, like drawing or listening to music.
- In a classroom environment, your child might benefit from being a classroom helper—for instance, helping to pass out papers or wipe off the whiteboard.[30]
- Learn to curtail overexcitement. Some kids are high-energy and excitable, which can result in hyperactivity that upsets others or boils over into frustration. If you notice your child getting overexcited, there are ways to calm them down.[31]
- Give warnings before changing activities. Make these warnings tangible (like "One more round and then we're moving on").
- Redirect your child's attention if you notice them getting excited or frustrated, and guide them to another activity.[32][33]
- Separate them from the situation for a moment so they have a chance to wind down.[34]
[Edit]Encouraging Calming Activities - Encourage mindfulness. Mindfulness is a strategy that helps keeps anyone—kids and adults alike—in the moment. It's particularly useful for hyperactive kids, who might be struggling with strong emotions or self-control.[35][36] You can find many mindfulness techniques for children online, depending on their age.
- Have your child focus on their breathing. Encourage them to focus on how their breath feels going through their nose, down into their chest, and then how it feels when they release their breath.
- Take them to a calm place outdoors, if possible. While walking with them, encourage them to pay attention to the sounds, physical feelings, and smells they might be experiencing.
- When your child is feeling a strong emotion, encourage them to pay attention to how they feel.
- Create a calming space. Dedicate a corner of a room, a nook, or other small space to making a space that the child can sit in by themselves. Put pillows, stuffed animals, books, fidget toys, and other cozy items in this space. This is not a time-out space where they go when they are in trouble. Instead, this is a space where they feel safe and can get a chance to relax.[37]
- This space can also be used to help children learn how to take a break when they're angry, sad, or otherwise emotional.
- Use guided imagery and meditation. Meditating is, for any age, a good way to calm the mind and body. When children are unable to handle thinking about stressful situations, you can help them visualize how they can respond to those situations. This can help calm them down. Search online for examples of these, or find a book at your local library on meditation and guided imagery for children.
- For example, have the child sit and close their eyes. Ask them to imagine a calm space, like a beach or a forest. Have them pay attention to the sounds that they hear, the wind they feel on their face, and the details they see around them. Using a regular imagined calming space can be helpful.
- Practice breathing techniques. Teach your child how to take deep breaths to relax. Take a deep breath in through the nose and slowly breathe out through the mouth. This simple strategy can be used by your child to calm down in almost any situation, and can even be used before bed to help your child wind down.[38]
- Have your child think about their legs while breathing deeply and rhythmically. Have them tighten up their leg muscles when they inhale, and relax those muscles with every exhale. Go through different parts of the body until the entire body is relaxed.
- Have your child curl their hands into fists. Have them inhale slowly, and then as they slowly exhale, have them uncurl a finger. Repeat until all of their fingers are uncurled.[39]
- Have your child imagine a warm color or light that surrounds them as they breathe. Imagine this color or light wraps them up to calm them down.
- Give your child a journal to write in. If your child is old enough to write, go to the store with them and have them pick out a notebook or journal for themselves. Journaling allows for your child to express their feelings and reflect on situations they might have had trouble with. This is particularly helpful if you suspect your child is under stress or is having a difficult time, but it can be useful for any child (especially preteens and teenagers!).[40][41]
- Do not read your child's journal. They should feel that they can be totally honest in their journal, and respecting their privacy will help them feel safe enough to write what is really on their mind.[42]
[Edit]When to Seek Medical Care - See a doctor if your child also has trouble focusing. Lots of activity can be normal for kids, but if your child also seems daydreamy or is so hyperactive that they can't focus, it's possible there could be something else going on. See a pediatrician if your child is showing signs like:[43][44]
- Forgetfulness, difficulty paying attention, not seeming to listen, or disorganization and messiness
- Blurting things out, talking excessively, often switching activities without finishing them, or physically impulsive behavior
- Losing things frequently, or not turning in homework assignments
- Avoiding certain activities or school subjects, or misbehaving when it's time for these
- Difficulty with school, academic subjects, or poor grades
- Look for a doctor if you notice unusual sensory responses. If a child is undersensitive to certain stimulus, they might be hyperactive as an attempt to fulfill that need. Some kids may also become restless when exposed to sensory stimuli that's painful or stressful to them, which can look like hyperactivity.[45] Sensory processing issues might look like:[46]
- Not noticing sounds, smells, tastes, visuals, or physical sensations (like injury)
- Being overly sensitive to sounds, smells, tastes, visuals, or physical sensations
- Seeking out a lot of activity, and/or being too rough while playing
- Loving swings or car rides—or, conversely, getting dizzy with these
- Repetitive behaviors (also called stims) like hand-flapping, rocking, or spinning
- Talk to your pediatrician if you notice signs of stress. Some kids might struggle with hyperactivity if they have an untreated mental health issue, like anxiety, or are struggling with abuse or a traumatic event.[47] Your pediatrician will be able to advise you on how to help reduce your child's stress, and can determine if your child might be struggling with their mental health.
- Your child might benefit from therapy if there's a stressful life event going on.
- Mental health conditions like anxiety disorders are typically treated with therapy, and a doctor may suggest medication for adolescents.
- Get your child tested for other health problems. Some physical health problems can increase hyperactivity in kids, whether as a symptom of the condition or as a side effect. If your child's hyperactivity seems sudden, unusual, or excessive, or your child doesn't seem to be feeling their best, it's best to get a doctor involved. Conditions that can cause hyperactivity in kids include:[48]
- Deficiencies in certain nutrients
- Sleep disorders
- Overactive thyroid
- Take your child to a doctor if their hyperactivity is dangerous. Some children are so hyperactive that they injure themselves frequently, and may even break bones, sustain head injuries, or need stitches. If your child's hyperactivity is to the point where they're frequently in the ER or doctor's office, talk to their doctor to determine the cause and how to treat it.
- You might have luck with making a hand signal between you and your child that reminds them to calm down.[49]
- Some kids benefit from listening to music while they work on homework, but others find it distracting. You might want to give it a try.
- A few studies on children with ADHD found that regular massages helped decrease hyperactive behavior. While massages haven't been suggested as an official treatment for hyperactivity, it might help.
- A child who's excitable or energetic doesn't necessarily have ADHD. Young kids are naturally on-the-go. However, you should consider the possibility of ADHD if their hyperactivity is making it difficult for them to function at home or school.[50]
[Edit]Warnings - Some resources may recommend nutritional supplements to treat hyperactivity. However, if your child doesn't actually have any deficiencies, giving them supplements can be harmful to their health.[51] Get them tested for deficiencies before giving them supplements.
- There's little evidence to suggest that essential oils will help hyperactivity, and they can potentially cause problems for kids with breathing issues such as asthma. Talk to a doctor before using them.[52]
[Edit]Related wikiHows = [Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
| How to Blow Dry Men's Hair Posted: 10 Jan 2022 12:00 AM PST When done correctly, blow-drying your hair allows you to control your hairstyle more easily. If you already use product to style your hair, using a blow dryer can help you cut down on the amount of time and product it takes to achieve your desired look. Learning the correct way to blow-dry your hair will allow you to achieve the perfect hairstyle quickly and efficiently. [Edit]Preparing Your Hair - Wash your hair as usual. Blow-drying requires applying direct heat, which can damage your hair. Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to help your hair retain its natural oils. This will minimize breakage, dryness, and/or frizziness.[1]
- Moisturizing products that contain natural oils, such as coconut oil or avocado oil, are great choices to help your hair retain and restore its natural oils.[2]
- Blot your hair with a towel. Blow-drying your hair while it is soaking wet requires more heat and can damage your hair.[3] Gently blot your hair with a towel to remove the excess moisture. Avoid rubbing, squeezing, or twisting your hair, as this can damage it.
- Use a microfiber towel or a soft T-shirt to dry your hair if possible. Microfiber towels cause less friction and put less stress on your hair than cotton towels. This leads to less frizz and less damage to your hair over time.
- You can tell if your hair is dry enough by grabbing a strand of hair near the root and running your fingers along its length to the tips. If water drips from your hair, you should continue towel- or air-drying it before blow-drying.[4]
- Comb out any tangles. Combing a part into your hair will make it easier to style. Your hair should naturally fall around the part already.[5] Run a comb through your hair to remove any knots. This will allow you to dry your hair more evenly.
- When combing your hair, always start at the ends and work your way toward the crown of your head.
- It's better to comb instead of brush your hair when it's wet because your strands are weaker when wet. Be gentle as you comb your wet hair, as you can cause significant breakage.[6]
- If your hair is curly, use a wide-tooth comb to gently untangle any knots. Brushing curly hair can make it frizzy and unmanageable.[7]
- Apply a heat protectant product. Blow-drying can cause intense damage to your hair if it isn't properly protected.[8] Apply a thermal protectant product, such as a heat-activated spray or mousse, to keep it from being fried by the blow dryer. Use enough product to cover every strand of hair.
[Edit]Using the Blow Dryer - Set the blow dryer to medium heat. When your hair follicles get warm, they open up, which allows them to become more flexible and easier to control. But if you apply too much heat, it can damage your hair and make it frizzy and unmanageable. Medium is usually a good heat setting to dry your hair without frying it.
- If your hair dryer has 3 settings, the middle setting is usually the best.
- If your hair is healthier, you can use a higher temperature. For fine, weak, or brittle hair, use the lowest heat setting possible.[9]
- Position the blow dryer from your hair.[10] If you hold it too close, the hot air can burn your hair and/or scalp. Use a brush, comb, or your fingers to pull your hair closer to the blow dryer if necessary.
- Avoid targeting any single area of hair for too long, as this can damage your hair and cause it to be flat and limp. Keep moving the blow dryer around, aiming the airflow parallel to the section of hair you're drying.[11]
- Dry your hair from roots to ends, keeping the dryer behind your brush, comb or fingers, whichever you're using to style your hair. You can also wave the hair dryer back and forth to avoid directing the heat onto a single spot for too long.
- Use the pressure of the air to push your hair in the direction you want it to lay. Use a comb or brush to grab the hair and help you control it while drying it. If you don't have a brush, use your fingers and tug the hair gently in the direction you are drying it. Move from roots to tips for more control and less frizz.[12]
- To give your hair more volume, angle the airflow upward from underneath the section of hair you want to give volume to. This will push the hair upward and help it set with more volume. It's best to use an air flow attachment nozzle to do this, as it makes it easier to direct the air flow onto your hair.[13]
- To give your hair less volume, angle the airflow downward from above the section of hair you want to lay flat. This will push the hair downward and help it set closer to your crown.
- Most blow dryers are sold with an attachable air concentrator nozzle, which can be clipped onto the end of your blow dryer for more control of the airflow.
- Use your fingers to lift your hair in the front. Angle the blow dryer up from beneath your hairline so the air is pushing your hair upward. Use your fingers to gently lift and tug the hair at the front of your crown upward while you dry it. This will create a natural lift and add volume to the front of your hair. For even more volume, use a round brush to pull the hair up and away from you while drying.[14]
- Flip your hair forward and blow-dry it from underneath. If you're in a hurry or don't want to spend a lot of time fixing your hair, this is an easy way to give your hair more volume with less hassle. Focus the blow dryer on the crown of your head first, using your fingers to gently tug your hair up at the root while drying. This will add volume to fine or limp hair and create a more natural, textured look.[15]
[Edit]Finishing Your Look - Set your style with a blast of cold air. Just as hair follicles are easier to control when they're hot, they close and become more rigid when cold. When your hair is completely dry, use the cold setting on your blow dryer to blast your hair with cold air. This will add shine and lock the hair follicles in place.[16]
- Use hair product to hold your style in place. Different products achieve different results, so it's important to know what look you want to achieve before you choose a finishing product. Products with a lighter hold strength will provide more flexibility, while products with a stronger hold will create stiffer hair. Use the right product for the type of style you wish to achieve.[17]
- You may have to experiment with different products until you find the right fit for your hair length, texture, and style.
- Use a gel for shine and control of short hairstyles. Gels typically provide high hold and high shine. These are great options for finishing side-swept or slicked-back styles, but should not be used for styles that require flexibility.[18]
- For a wet, sleek look, comb gel into hair while wet. Then, allow your hair to air dry or dry it using a diffuser attachment.
- If you want a strong hold that looks smooth, apply your gel to wet hair, then use a brush while blow-drying it.
- For thicker hair, use a gel with a stronger hold. For fine or thin hair, use a lighter hold gel.
- Try a pomade or hair wax for styles that require sharp definition. Pomades and waxes work best on medium to medium-long hair. They can also be used in wavy or curly hair for shine and separation.[19]
- To get a "messy" look, squeeze a dime-sized amount of pomade or wax onto your fingers and rub it around. Run your fingers through your hair, starting at the roots and brushing your fingers outward toward the tips. Make sure the product is evenly layered throughout your hair. Continue to gently tousle your hair with your fingers until you achieve the desired look.[20]
- If your hair is naturally oily, use wax instead of pomade. Pomades contain oil that will make your hair appear even oilier.[21]
- If your hair is thin, try a pomade. If it's thicker, try a wax.[22]
- Don't use too much product, as this can make your hair appear heavy and greasy.
- Use a cream to achieve a polished look with little hassle. These are great for men with basic haircuts who want something simple. Use a cream when you want a flexible hold, want to tame fly-aways and control frizz.[23]
- Creams work well for men who don't want anyone to know they have product in their hair.[24]
- If you need more control over your style, try a wax or pomade instead.
- Apply mousse to add volume to your hair while keeping it light and flexible. Mousse is especially great for adding definition and volume to long, wavy, or curly hair. It can be used for almost any hairstyle, except those that require a very strong hold.[25]
- You should always apply mousse to wet hair. Then, you can blow-dry it.[26]
- Finish your look with a layer of hairspray. Hold the can about arm's length from your head. Move the can in circular motions as you spray, making sure not to concentrate on one area of your hair for too long.[27] This will ensure your style stays put all day long. It can also help tame any last fly-aways. Use more hairspray and less gel if the product seems to be weighing your hair down too much.
- Hairsprays are sold in varying hold strengths as well. Avoid using a heavy hairspray that can weigh your hair down. Choose a lighter hold for less weight and more volume.
- Always keep your hand moving while applying hairspray. This prevents your hair from becoming over-saturated and heavy.[28]
- Wait until the hairspray dries completely before touching your hair.
- Blow-drying the hair also helps style a loose comb over.
- Be gentle, work with your hair, and take your time. The best styles are achieved with time. Practice makes perfect!
- Clip a diffuser to the end of your blow dryer if you want to speed up the drying process and don't care as much about the style.
- Blow-drying in the direction of the cuticle can increase your hair's shininess.[29]
- If you use too much, you can weigh down your hair and make it look oily and unnatural. If you use too little, you risk your style falling too soon. Always read the recommendations on the label before you apply product.
[Edit]Warnings - Don't blow-dry your hair if it's thinning, or if it's already damaged, dry, or prone to excessive breakage. Blow-drying it will only damage it more.
[Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
| How to Be a Successful Tutor Posted: 09 Jan 2022 04:00 PM PST Starting a tutoring job may seem intimidating, especially since you're working with people that you've never met before. There's no need to worry, as it's easy to lead a productive and successful tutoring session with the right preparation. Just remember that tutoring isn't a race—it's a journey that you take with your tutee step by step that helps them develop a greater understanding of a certain topic. [Edit]Leading a Productive Session - Prepare for your session in advance if you can. If your student has scheduled a session with you ahead of time, ask the tutee what they'd like to focus on. Look over their assignment sheet before you start so you have a better idea of how to provide assistance.[1]
- If you know the assignment ahead of time, you can start helping the tutee right away during the session.
- Arrive at your sessions on time with all of your things. Keep all of your tutoring supplies in 1 spot, like a backpack or tote. Set an alarm or make a note of when your tutoring sessions are so you can arrive a few minutes early.
- Arriving late to a session tells the student that their time isn't as important as yours.
- Learn about the background of the student's assignment. Ask your tutee if they have an assignment sheet or rubric for whatever they're working on. Go over this sheet with the student so you have a good understanding of what the student needs help with.[2]
- Some students might have a worksheet instead of an official assignment. It'll likely depend on the specific subject that you're tutoring.
- Establish an overall goal for each tutoring session. Ask the tutee to explain what they've been struggling with the most, and try to center the session around that. If you meet with a student regularly, you may be able to make a small lesson plan for future sessions. Decide if you want to focus on a specific assignment, or if your student would prefer to study a specific skill set.[3]
- For example, if a student is struggling with an essay, focus on the introductory paragraph instead of the entire paper.
- If a student is really struggling with algebra, you can walk them through specific skills instead of focusing on a homework assignment.
- Listen to the student's questions and concerns. Give the tutee plenty of opportunities to speak their mind, especially if they have a question. Keep the session focused on the student so you can be as helpful as possible. Don't dominate the conversation with your own knowledge—instead, offer assistance and advice on an as-needed basis.[4]
- Eye contact is a great way to show that you're listening to a student.
- Ask tutees open-ended questions instead of yes/no questions. Phrase your questions in a way that forces your students to answer and engage with the material. Don't let your student answer with "yes" or "no," as these aren't good indicators of a student's understanding. Instead, invite the tutee to explain the topic and information to you, which gives them valuable practice.[5]
- Instead of saying "Do you understand this topic?" you can ask something like, "Can you explain how you solve this problem?"
- Engage the tutee with questions throughout the session. Don't assume that the student completely understands a topic. Instead, ask plenty of questions to check in and see how they're doing. Remind the student that you can always backtrack if a topic seems confusing.
- Get in the habit of checking in with your student every few minutes in the session.
- You can say something encouraging, like: "Is everything making sense so far? It's totally okay if you want to go over some of these topics again. This subject can be really confusing!"
- Think of multiple ways to explain a single concept.[6] Don't expect all students to learn and understand in the same way. Note that some tutees may be visual learners, while others may prefer to have things explained. Brainstorm different ways to teach a single topic, which helps ensure that your students really understand what's going on.[7]
- For instance, some students may learn better with a Venn Diagram while others may prefer a bulleted, written list.
- An auditory learner may benefit from a question and answer session, while a visual learner may prefer you to write or draw out different examples.[8]
- A kinesthetic, or hands-on learner, may learn better if you let them pace or walk around throughout the session.
[Edit]Creating a Friendly and Professional Environment - Greet your tutees before the session starts. Introduce yourself before the beginning of the session and invite the tutee to share their name as well. Offer a friendly greeting and some basic small talk to help the tutee feel a bit more comfortable.
- For instance, you can say something like: "Hi, I'm Jane, and I'll be your chemistry tutor! What's your name?" or "Thanks so much for stopping by! How's your day going?"
- Praise your tutees so they feel encouraged. Let your tutee know whenever they do a good job with something. A simple "good job" or "nice work" can go a long way, especially if a student isn't confident in their own abilities. Try to praise your tutee a lot during each session, even if it's something small.
- For instance, if your tutee solves a single math problem correctly, tell them that they did a good job.
- Consistent praise helps tutees become more confident in their abilities.
- Let your tutee know if you aren't sure of an answer. Don't be hard on yourself if you aren't sure of an exact answer. Instead, be honest and transparent with your student about your own limitations. Use a reference book or quick web search to get the answer to your tutee's question instead.
- It's perfectly normal and okay to not have the answers to everything!
- For example, you can say something like: "I don't know the answer to that off the top of my head, but I can look it up really quickly!"
- Relate to the tutee so they don't feel overwhelmed. Remind the student that they're not the only person who's struggled with this topic before. Share a story from when you struggled with a specific topic or lesson. Honesty will only raise your credibility with your tutee, and will help them feel more relaxed and at ease with their assignment.[9]
- For instance, you can say something like: "I completely understand where you're coming from here. I took a class where I was really confused, and I had to meet with a tutor for extra help."
- Exercise patience if a student doesn't understand something. Take your tutoring sessions step by step, even if it's going slower than you may like.[10] Work at the student's pace if they're stuck on a single problem, and offer continuous encouragement if they don't understand something right away.[11]
- If you get frustrated, the student may get discouraged.
- Remember that tutoring is for the student's gain, and not for your own.
- Offer a more flexible schedule that caters to your tutee. Try to make your schedule as open and accommodating as possible. Let your tutees know that you're happy to work around their schedule, and that your main goal is to help them succeed. Your students may feel more invested in their tutoring sessions if they know that their tutor is willing to help.[12]
- Instead of listing your own hours, ask the student what time slots work well for them. Try to work your tutoring schedule around the student.
[Edit]Fostering a Tutee's Independence - Give tutees moments of silence to figure out a problem. Don't be afraid of awkward silence in your session. Instead, encourage your students to take some time to themselves to figure out a problem. Offer your support on the side, then praise the student for their efforts![13]
- For instance, you can say something like: "I'll give you a couple minutes to finish up this problem. Let me know if you need any help!"
- Work with the student instead of commandeering the assignment. View your tutoring session as a set of training wheels on the bike—you're helping a student get the hang of an assignment while helping them develop confidence and independence. Don't solve their problems and do their assignments for them, as this won't teach your tutees anything. Accept that your sessions are a team effort where you offer support while the student leads the way.[14]
- Some students may expect you to solve a problem for them. In this case, say something like: "Let's go through an example together so you can solve this problem on your own."
- Center your lessons around your tutee's interests and learning style.[15] Try to gauge your student's interests as you begin the session. If your tutee is an athlete, try adding sports metaphors into your session. If the student is a musician, try making some musical connections.
- Students may be more engaged in a session if you use references that they can understand.
- For instance, you can say something like: "The opening sentence of your essay is like the first play in a game of golf. Your sentence kicks off the reader and gets them engaged, while the first play gets viewers invested in the game."
[Edit]Establishing a Tutoring Business or Career - Work with a tutoring center if you enjoy working with other people. Look for work with an established tutoring center or university so you can provide consistent help to students. Use this kind of job opportunity to exchange tips and tricks with your fellow tutors so you can improve at your job even more![16]
- Working a tutoring center can be a great job, though you don't get to choose your own rates.
- Start a career as a private tutor if you want better hourly rates. Think about your own experience and flexibility before joining a tutoring center. Private tutoring offers a lot more freedom, and you can set your pricing based on your experience and comfort level. Start with $15 an hour or so if you don't have a lot of experience. If you're an advanced tutor with a lot of knowledge to share, you can set your rates anywhere up to $100.[17]
- Look at what other tutors are charging and try to match those rates.
- Create a profile on a tutoring website to market yourself. Find a general tutoring website that hosts different profiles. Add your resume to your profile, along with your rates and the subjects you specialize in. Wait for people to view your profile and book you for a tutoring session![18]
- You can also make your own website to advertise yourself as a tutor.
- Some great sites to use are Wyzant, Preply, and Classgap. Some universities also let student tutors upload profiles online.
- Communicate with teachers to give students a specialized learning plan. Talk with your tutee's teacher to find out what they've been struggling with. Work with the teacher to solidify a lesson plan that'll work well for the student. Try to keep in touch with the student's teacher frequently, so you can lead a focused session that will really help your tutee.[19]
- For instance, if a student is struggling with subject/verb agreement, you can center your next tutoring session around that.
- Get certified as a tutor to set yourself apart from them competition. Visit the National Tutoring Association or The Association for the Tutoring Profession to what certification options are available for you. Keep in mind that these certifications come with a fee of up to $55 that must be paid each year.[20]
- Some organizations require you to submit a professional recommendation before becoming certified.
- These certifications help potential clients know that you're qualified for the job.
- Always set professional boundaries with your tutees. Even if you're the same age as your tutee, remember that your relationship is professional and not social.
[Edit]Warnings - Keep the session focused on academics, and not on you or your student's personal life.
- Don't jeer or criticize the instructor for the tutee's class.
- Always keep a student's personal information confidential.[21]
[Edit]Related wikiHows
[Edit]References |
| How to Change Your Gmail Password Posted: 09 Jan 2022 08:00 AM PST This wikiHow teaches you how to change or reset your Gmail account password. You can do this on desktop, iPhone, and Android versions of Gmail. If you've forgotten your password, you can use Google's reset form to change the password. [Edit]Using the Gmail App on an iPhone or iPad - Open Gmail. It's the white icon with a multicolored "M" inside. You'll find it on the home screen, in the App Library, or by searching.
- If you don't know your password, reset your password instead.
- Changing your Gmail password also changes your password in all other Google products, such as Google Drive and Google Photos.
- Tap your profile photo. One of these two things will be in the top-right corner of the screen.[1] If you don't have a profile photo, it'll be your initial instead.
- Tap . It's near the top of the window just below your Gmail address.
- Tap the tab. It's in the upper-left area of the screen.
- Tap . This is at the bottom of the "Basic info" section.
- Enter your current password and tap . Once your current password is validated, you can create a new one.
- Enter your new password twice. Type your new password into the "New password" text box, then re-enter it in the "Confirm new password" text box.
- Tap the button. This button is at the bottom-right corner of the page. Your new password is now active.
[Edit]Using the Gmail App on an Android - Open your Android's Settings . This is usually a gear icon in your app drawer.[2] You can also open Settings by swiping down from the top of the home screen and tapping the gear in the upper-right corner.
- Scroll down and tap . Depending on your phone or tablet, you'll usually see a "G" on the Google option.
- Tap . This opens your Google account settings.
- Tap . It's at the top of the screen.
- Scroll down and tap . It's under the ″Signing in to Google″ header.
- Enter your current password and tap . This takes you to the ″Password″ page.
- Type your new password into the top box. Make sure your password contains at least 8 characters, using a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Type the new password into the ″Confirm new password″ blank. Make sure to type it exactly as you entered it into the first box.
- Tap . It's the blue button at the bottom of the page. Your Gmail password is now changed.
[Edit]Using the Google Account Settings Page on a Computer - Go to https://myaccount.google.com in a web browser. This is the Google sign-in page. If you're already signed in, your account settings will appear. If not, follow the on-screen instructions to sign in now.
- Click . It's in the left panel.
- If you don't see this option, tap the menu at the top-left corner of the page to expand the options.
- Click . It's in the right panel at the bottom of the "Basic info" section.
- Enter your current password and click . This opens the ″Password″ screen.
- Type your new password into the top box. Make sure your password contains at least 8 characters, using a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Type the new password again into the ″Confirm new password″ blank. Make sure to type it exactly as you entered it into the first box.
- Click . It's the blue button at the bottom of the form. Your new password will take effect immediately.
[Edit]Resetting a Forgotten Password - Go to https://accounts.google.com/signin/recovery in a web browser. This is Google's account recovery website. You can access this site in any web browser on your computer, phone, or tablet.
- Enter your email address and click .
- Select . Since you don't know your password, you'll need to use one of Google's recovery methods.
- Select . It's at the bottom of the screen. Doing so prompts Google to send a verification code to the phone number you have registered to Gmail.
- You can select Call if you'd rather receive a call from Google.
- If there's no phone number connected to your account, you may be able to have the code emailed to you instead. The options you'll see depend on what information you've provided to Google.
- You may have to confirm your phone number or email address by entering your phone number in the text box at the bottom of the form and clicking Next.
- Retrieve your verification code. Open your phone's text message app (or your email app if you received the code via email), select the message from Google, and review the six-digit code in the text message.
- If you receive a call, answer it and listen to the voice describing the code.
- Enter the verification code. In the text box in the middle of the page, enter the six-digit code from the text (or call), then click or tap Next.
- Enter the password you want to use twice. Type the password you want to use into the top text field, then re-type it into the bottom text field. The password entries should be identical.
- Select . It's a blue button at the bottom of the page. Doing so changes your account password.
- It's helpful to have a second email account. That way, you can link it to your Gmail, and have your password information sent to that account if you ever forget your Gmail password.
- If your browser is storing your old password and not saving your new one, open your browser's password manager and delete any entries for Gmail or Google. You should then be prompted to save your new password the next time you log in.
- Avoid using the same password you've used for other accounts if you're worried it might have been compromised at some point.
- Write down your password in a notebook or store it in a password manager in case you forget it.
[Edit]Warnings - If you don't have access to your phone, you may not be able to reset your password.
[Edit]Related wikiHows [Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
| How to Do Glass Painting from a Pattern Tracing Posted: 09 Jan 2022 12:00 AM PST Glass painting can be intimidating, but it does not have to be. If you use a pattern to trace from, it can be simple and fun. This article will show you how to get started in the art of glass painting. [Edit]Getting Started - Gather your supplies. Glass painting requires a little more than just paint and brushes. You will also need to prepare your glass piece properly, so that the paint will stick. Some paints also need to be cured in an oven. Here is a list of what you will need to get a basic painting done:
- Glass object to paint
- Cotton balls
- Rubbing alcohol
- Design printed on paper
- Masking tape
- Glass paints
- Paint brushes
- Plate or palette
- Oven (optional)
- Find a glass piece to paint. You can paint things like jars, cups, or wine glasses. You can also paint a glass panel. The best place to get a glass panel is from a picture frame. When you are done painting, you can display the finished piece inside the frame. Make sure that the panel in the frame is glass, however; some frames come with an acrylic panel instead of glass.
- You can take the back out of a picture frame, or leave it in. If you decide to leave the back in, you might want to cover it with some white paper. Most glass paint is translucent, so it will show up best against a white background.
- Clean the glass with some soap and water. Even if the glass looks clean, you will still want to wash it. Any oil, dirt, or dust may keep the paint from sticking to the surface.
- Have your pattern or design ready. It needs to be printed on paper. If you are painting something like a cup or jar, the paper needs to be trimmed down so that it can fit inside.
- The best patterns to use are just outlines, like from a coloring book.
- Place the pattern where you want it to be. If you plan on using this glass piece for eating or drinking out of, move the pattern to a place where food, drink, or mouths won't be touching it. Even if a glass paint is labeled as "non-toxic," it may not be food-safe.[1]
- If you are painting on a flat sheet of glass, place the pattern face down on the glass. Tape the edges down with masking tape, and flip the glass over.
- If you are painting on a cup, place the pattern inside the cup. Move it around until it is where you want it to be. Press the paper against the wall of the cup, and tape it in place.
- Keep borders in mind. If you are going to put the glass panel inside a frame, make sure that the frame won't be covering your design.[2]
- Wipe the surface of the glass down with rubbing alcohol. Soak a cotton ball with some rubbing alcohol, and wipe down the entire surface of your glass piece. Any oily residue left on the glass from when you handled it may keep the paint from sticking.[3]
- Try not to touch the area where the pattern is from now on.
[Edit]Painting Your Pieces - Get some glass paint liner and squeeze a tiny amount out onto a sheet of paper. The first bit of paint often tends to gush out in a glob, and it is better for this to happen on a sheet of paper than on your painting.
- Some glass paint liners are labeled as "leading" or as "dimensional."
- Most glass liners come in black, but you might also find them in other colors as well, such as silver and gold.
- Use a glass paint liner or dimensional glass paint to trace the outlines on your pattern. Hold the tip just above the glass, and start tracing the design. Use long, continuous strokes. If you make short strokes, your lines are more likely to end up uneven and goopy. Also, try not to drag the tip on the glass. This will cause the paint to come out too thin and streaky.
- If you are left-handed, try to start tracing from the right side first. If you are right-handed, start tracing from the left. This will help prevent you from accidentally smudging the wet outline while you work.
- Make any touchups, if necessary, when you are done. Once you have finished outlining your piece, look over it carefully. If you see any lumps or clumps, you can wipe them away with a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol. If the paint has dried, you can scratch it away with a craft knife.
- Let the outline dry all the way. Most glass paint liners will take about six to eight hours to dry.[4] You might want to refer to the label on the bottle for a more specific drying time, however, as each brand will be a little different.
- If you are pressed for time, you can hold a fan or hairdryer over the paint. This will help it dry faster. If you are using a hair dryer, make sure that you are using the lowest setting.
- Squirt some glass paint onto a pallet or plate. If your glass paint comes with a pointy tip, you can apply the paint to the glass directly from the bottle. You can also squirt the paint onto a pallet and apply it with a paintbrush; this will give you the most control.
- You can use both synthetic and natural brushes for glass painting. Synthetic brushes may cost less, but they will be more likely to leave behind brush strokes. Brushes made from soft, natural fibers, may be more expensive, but they will leave behind the smoothest finish.
- Fill in the spaces with glass paint. Do not press down too hard with the brush, or you will wipe the existing paint off. Instead, let the brush glide across the surface that needs to be painted. If the paint is too thin in one area, wait until it dries before applying a second coat. If you try to go over wet paint a second time, you may end up wiping it off.
- Glass paint will shrink a little when it dries. Try to paint all the way to the outline. If you are having trouble reaching a tight area, such as a point or corner, use a toothpick to spread the paint.[5]
- The thicker you lay the paint on, the more it will level off. This reduces brush strokes.[6]
- To create a swirled, marbled effect, put a few drops of two or more colors into the space you want colored. Use a toothpick to lightly swirl the colors together. Do not over-mix, or you may lose the swirled effect and end up with a solid color.[7]
- Be sure to rinse and dry your brush before moving onto a different color. When you are ready to move on to a new color, dip the brush in water and swirl it about to remove any excess paint. Lightly dab the brush against a paper towel. If you see any color on the towel, rinse the brush again. If you don't see any color, keep tapping the brush until there's no water left on the bristles. If water gets into the paints, it can cause beading.
- Clean your painting up again, if needed. Look over your piece carefully, and see if there are any places that need touching up. It is much easier to touch things up while the paint is still wet than when it is dry. Use Q-tips, paintbrushes, and toothpicks dipped in rubbing alcohol to wipe away any excess paint. This is especially useful if you went outside the lines.[8]
- Use a pin or needle to pierce any bubbles that may have formed in the paint. Be sure to do this while the paint is still wet.
[Edit]Curing and Using Your Piece - Read the instructions on the paint bottle. Some brands of paint need to dry for several days before they can be used, while others need to dry for up to a month. Some brands might require you to bake your piece in the oven. Always refer to the label on your bottle of paint.[9]
- Some labels will tell you to "cure" your paint for a certain amount of time. This simply means to let the paint "dry."
- Allow the paint to dry for at least 48 hours. After this, the paint should be dry to the touch, and can be gently handled. Depending on the brand of paint you used, however, the paint may not be cured all the way. If the paint feels sticky or gummy, it is not cured and needs to dry longer.
- Most glass paints will be completely cured after 21 days.
- Consider baking the item for durable finish. This will allow you to wash your piece in the dishwasher. Place your painted piece onto a foil-covered baking sheet, then put the baking sheet into a cold oven. Set the oven to 350°F (175°C), or whatever temperature the manufacturer recommends. Bake the item for about 30 minutes, then turn the oven off. Do not take the piece out of the oven yet. Instead, let the piece and the oven both cool down first. Removing the glass too soon may cause it to crack.
- Most paint with glitter in it cannot be cured in the oven. You must allow them to air-cure for 21 days. The label on the bottle will tell you whether or not the paint can be oven-cured.[10]
- If you are using glass paints from different brands, know that they may have different curing temperatures and times. To avoid burning the paint, stick with the lower baking temperature and time.
- Know how to wash your glass piece safely. Most glass paints are delicate after they cure, and should only be hand-washed using a soft cloth of sponge. If you cured your piece in the oven, you might be able to wash it in the top rack of a dishwasher. Never leave painted glass sitting in water, even if you oven-cured it. The water will cause the paint to flake away. Also, never use a scratchy sponge on a glass piece; you will scrape the paint off.
- Finished.
- Once your piece has cured, you can use super glue to attach things like beads and rhinestones.
- If you are using the paint directly from the tube, and not with a brush, be sure to wipe the tip with a paper towel after each time you apply some paint. This will keep the paint from building up inside the tip and clogging it up.[11]
- Try to store the glass liner upside down. This will allow all the paint to flow down into the tip. You don't have to squeeze the bottle as much, and it will reduce the chances of bubbles forming.[12]
- Most paints, including glass paint, tend to dry a shade or two lighter. Some glass paints may also dry a little more clear. Keep this in mind when designing your project. You may need to paint a few more layers.[13]
[Edit]Warnings - Do not use a scouring pad on painted pieces. Always use a soft cloth or sponge.
- Never wash air-cured paint in the dishwasher. It will flake off. Oven-cured pieces may be washed in the top rack of a dishwasher.
- Do not paint areas that will come in contact with food, drink, or mouths. Even if a glass paint is labeled as non-toxic, it is not always food-safe.
- Never leave painted glass sitting or soaking in water, even if you cured it in the oven. The water will get under the paint and cause it to flake off.
[Edit]Things You'll Need - Glass object to paint
- Cotton balls
- Rubbing alcohol
- Design printed on paper
- Masking tape
- Glass paints
- Paint brushes
- Plate or pallet
- Oven (optional)
[Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary - ↑ Madigan Made, Simple Tips for Using Glass Paint
- ↑ Just Paint It, Make a Faux Stained Glass Window
- ↑ Madigan Made, Simple Tips for Using Glass Paint
- ↑ Just Paint It, Make a Faux Stained Glass Window
- ↑ Just Paint It, Make a Faux Stained Glass Window
- ↑ A Beautiful Mess, DIY Faux Stained Glass
- ↑ Just Paint It, Make a Faux Stained Glass Window
- ↑ Madigan Made, Simple Tips for Using Glass Paint
- ↑ Madigan Made, Simple Tips for Using Glass Paint
- ↑ Plaid Online, What are the Curing Instructions for Martha Stewart Glass and Craft Paint?
- ↑ Just Paint It, Make a Faux Stained Glass Window
- ↑ Just Paint It, Make a Faux Stained Glass Window
- ↑ Madigan Made, Simple Tips for Using Glass Paint
|
| How to Drive Safely During a Thunderstorm Posted: 08 Jan 2022 04:00 PM PST Just as how driving during heavy rain isn't optimal, driving during a thunderstorm is not encouraged, but sometimes you don't have another option. Keeping yourself and your passengers safe, as well as driving safely for the benefit of other drivers, should be your priority when driving in severe weather conditions. And remember: it's better to arrive at your destination late than to never get there at all! [Edit]Taking Basic Precautions - Try to wait out the thunderstorm if possible. Driving in thunderstorms is not recommended, as heavy rain causes reduced visibility in addition to slippery roads (and therefore, heightened potential for a car accident). If the weather forecast predicts thunderstorms, especially severe ones or with associated severe weather conditions, consider waiting out the storm and going out when the weather is more tolerable.
- If you don't have a choice in driving during a storm, find a weather station on the radio so you can keep track of the conditions while driving.[1]
- Be aware of the conditions you may encounter. Ensuring that you know the potential conditions while driving will help you remain on-guard and prepared. While the conditions will be affected by your location and the time of year, the weather and situations that you may encounter in a thunderstorm includes:
- Mild to severe rain
- Thunder and lightning strikes
- Strong winds
- Weather closely associated with thunderstorms (e.g. hailstorms or tornadoes)
- Affected road conditions (e.g. flooded roads, muddy roads, or roads blocked by debris)
- Do not drive in a vehicle without a hard roof and windows. Now is not the time to drive a convertible—the roof of a convertible does not protect from falling hail or debris, and doesn't effectively conduct electricity around you should lightning strike your car. And while it may seem obvious, don't drive in a vehicle that doesn't have a closed body, such as a motorcycle, a golf cart, or a car with no windows.[2]
- Perform basic checks on your car before leaving. In theory, you're supposed to check your car before every time you drive, but many drivers don't adhere to that. However, if you're going to be driving in a thunderstorm, you and other drivers will need to react quickly, and a crucial component of the car not operating right could cost someone their life. Make sure all of the following are operable and in good condition; otherwise, do not drive.[3]
- Oil and antifreeze levels
- Windshield wipers
- Blinkers
- Brakes
- Headlights and taillights
- Tires (newer tires are less susceptible to hydroplaning)
- Ensure you have insurance paperwork and your license with you, as well as emergency equipment for your car (e.g. spare tires).
- Fill the gas tank if it's low. The last thing you want is to be stranded with an empty gas tank during the middle of a storm. If you notice that your gas tank is close to empty, and you have to go out driving, fill it up at a nearby gas station as soon as possible.[4]
- Tell someone where you're going. Letting someone know where you're going is important if you're making a long drive or are heading through particularly severe storms. Should you not return after a certain amount of time, this person can call you and get help sent in your direction if you're stuck in a bad situation.[5]
- Bring your cell phone with you. If you get stuck in your car or end up in an emergency situation, it will help to be able to call emergency services and/or an emergency contact.
- Keep a personal emergency kit in your car. While it's not likely that a thunderstorm on its own will strand you somewhere, thunderstorms can cause other emergencies (such as flooding or mudslides) that can leave you stuck, or occur alongside a tornado. If you end up trapped in your car, having the following items in your safety kit will be beneficial in case of emergency:[6][7]
- Water
- Snacks high in protein
- A first-aid kit or medical supplies
- Flashlights, battery-powered radio, and spare batteries
- Emergency contact cards
- Blankets
- Clothing and toiletries
- Cell phone charger
- Adjust the supplies based on your personal circumstances (e.g. driving with family or with a pet).
[Edit]Driving Safely - Wear your seatbelt. In many places, it's legally required to wear a seatbelt when driving at all times, and this is even more important if you're driving in severe weather conditions. Wearing your seatbelt helps reduce the risk of being thrown around (or even through the windshield) if the car skids or crashes, which can prevent serious injuries and even save your life.[8]
- If you're driving with other passengers in the car (especially children), make sure they wear seatbelts, too.
- Be alert. Even if you know the route you're going and have driven it every day, staying alert is important, as the road conditions change during severe weather. You need to be ready to make evasive maneuvers or take alternate routes when needed.[9]
- Don't multitask while driving. Keep both hands on the wheel and be ready to slow down at any given moment.[10]
- Tune into a weather station on the radio. Find a station that covers the area you'll be driving through and stay on it while driving. If you're making a very long drive and the station will only apply to one location, get a passenger to find another station so that you aren't distracted by fiddling with the radio.[11]
- Turn on your headlights and windshield wipers. It's obvious that heavy rain will restrict your visibility, so your windshield wipers are a necessity, but headlights will also increase visibility in any kind of rain.[12] Use the high beams and adjust your windshield wiper speed as necessary.
- In the US and Canada, it's legally required to use your headlights when driving with reduced visibility.[13]
- Should your car's windows fog up due to the rain, turn on your defroster or AC to clear them.[14]
- Avoid using cruise control. Stormy conditions are not the time to use cruise control—since you don't have as much control over the car's speed when using cruise control, you may not be able to react quickly enough if you need to make an emergency maneuver or stop.[15] Keeping cruise control off will also keep you alert, which is extremely important when driving during a thunderstorm.[16]
- Hydroplaning while in cruise control will cause your car to go faster than if you were driving the car manually.[17]
- Drive below the speed limit. During storms, oil surfaces on the road, making the roads much slipperier and resulting in skidding at high speeds. Additionally, going too fast while there's water on the road can result in hydroplaning (when your car loses road traction due to water-filled tire treads), and both skidding and hydroplaning can result in car accidents. Driving below the speed limit will reduce the risk of skidding.[18]
- Driving below the speed limit will also give you more time to react if another car on the road swerves, skids, or even crashes.
- In the US, you can be ticketed for driving at the speed limit during heavy weather conditions.
- Give other cars extra space. Driving slower is not a reason to tailgate, especially when the roads are wet. During rain and thunderstorms, giving cars extra space is important, since the roads will be slick and your vehicle may take longer to stop.[19]
- This is especially important if there are strong winds, as cars can be blown around and certain vehicles (e.g. trucks) can be easily knocked over.[20]
- Don't drive into standing water. Even of water is enough to potentially stall or damage a car, and of water can cause the car to float.[21] Additionally, a flooded road may be damaged or even be swept away.[22] Drive slowly into shallow water to avoid hydroplaning, and if the road is badly flooded, find an alternate route.
- Do not drive into water if you can see that a power line has fallen into it, as water conducts electricity extremely easily.[23]
- Avoid driving into moving water. Your car can be swept away.[24]
- Pull over if you can't see while driving. If the rain is so heavy that your windshield wipers aren't helping, find an appropriate place to pull over so that you can wait out the storm. Turn on your emergency blinkers so that other drivers know you're there.
- Try to find a relatively populated place to pull over—don't stay on the side of the highway or in the middle of nowhere unless there isn't another choice.
- Pull over under a sturdy location if possible. However, do not stay under a bridge or overpass. These can collapse during or after severe weather.[25]
- Do not touch electrically-conductive surfaces. Metal surfaces in your car are dangerous if you're driving in very close proximity to lightning, since metal conducts electricity easily (leading to electric shocks). If you're driving in very close proximity to lightning, it's best to pull over, activate the emergency blinkers, turn off the car, and keep your hands in your lap until the storm is a safe distance away.[26][27]
- Electrically-conductive surfaces include door handles, window handles, gear shifts, the car radio, and even the steering wheel.[28]
- Do not lean against the door of your car.
- Use caution after the storm lets up. Even after the storm has moved on, the roads may still be dangerous and unsuitable for driving—there may be debris or standing water on the streets and the roads will undoubtedly be slippery. Be prepared to drive slowly or find alternate routes, just as you would during the storm.
[Edit]Handling Driving Emergencies - Stay calm if you hydroplane. If your car begins to hydroplane, don't accelerate or slam on the brakes—just slowly ease up on the accelerator and gently steer yourself back into the proper direction (pulling too hard on the steering wheel may result in out-of-control skidding). Once you've gotten the car back under control, you can resume driving as normal, but try to drive slowly to avoid hydroplaning again.
- Try to escape a tornado. Tornadoes can go hand-in-hand with thunderstorms sometimes, and a car is not a good place to hide from a tornado. If you hear a tornado siren or hear a tornado warning on the radio, try to drive away from the tornado and to a stable building, or even abandon your car to get to a safe building if necessary.[29]
- If there are no suitable buildings nearby, pull over (but do not park under a bridge or overhang) and keep your seatbelt on. Duck your head underneath the windows, and use your hands (and preferably a cushion or blanket) to cover your head.[30]
- Take cover if it begins hailing. If it begins hailing while you're driving, try to find something to park your car under, even if it's just an overhang. (If one is unavailable, face your car towards the hail, as the windshield is stronger than the other windows.) Lie down on the floor of your car if you can, and keep your back to the windows. Pulling something such as a blanket over you will help keep hail or other objects from hitting you, should the window break.[31] Cover your eyes, as well as the eyes of small children.[32]
- Don't park under trees or power lines (as the hail may knock them down) or in ditches (as water may fill the ditch).[33]
- React appropriately to a downed power line. If you see that a power line has fallen, even if it hasn't landed directly on the road, treat it as though it's active. Do not drive over a fallen power line, and try to keep as much distance from the power line as you possibly can.[34] Avoid exiting the car until you are a safe distance away from the power lines.
- Act quickly if you end up in deep water. If you've misjudged the depth of water and ended up stuck, turn on your emergency flashers while trying to restart your engine. If the car restarts normally, then find a shallower part of the water and drive out of the flooded area, then find a safe place to inspect the car for damage. However, do not try to repeatedly force your engine to restart if it doesn't work the first time—this will damage the engine.[35]
- Be aware that water can end up entering your car's engine, fuel line, or exhaust pipe, especially if it's deep.
- It's possible your car may stop working. In this case, find a safe moment to exit the car and seek higher ground (even if it's just climbing onto your car roof if safe). However, if it isn't possible to escape through a door or window, call emergency services or yell to someone nearby for help.[36]
- To avoid this situation when driving, do not drive through water that's more than deep, try to avoid roads that you know have dips, and drive slowly when driving into water, as water can conceal dips in the road.[37]
- Know how to drive in muddy conditions. If you end up on a dirt road that's been softened by the rain, briefly get out of your car and make sure the mud isn't too soft to drive through. Put your car into four-wheel drive mode (if applicable) and drive slowly into the mud. Try to avoid driving in someone else's tracks, since the deeper tracks can make it easier for you to get stuck.
- Keep in mind that if you get stuck, you may have to dig your car out, which is not something you want to be doing in a thunderstorm.
- Follow proper procedure in case of a car accident. If you get into a wreck with another driver, pull over to a safe place if possible and call the police to alert them of the accident. Ensure the safety of both yourself and the other driver before exiting your car to talk to the police or the other driver. Stay in the car when possible, due to both the adverse weather and the risk of being injured by another car passing by.
- If you see someone who has crashed, pull over a safe distance away from the accident and call emergency services. However, only get out of your car to help the people involved if doing so won't endanger anyone. Stay near the scene and encourage the driver to turn off their car if the crash is minor, to reduce a risk of fire.[38]
- Get your car repaired if it has suffered damage in the storm. While you can often remove debris that's lodged in your exhaust pipe or grill, if your car has actually been damaged by the storm, you'll need to get your car repaired as soon as possible. Keeping photos of your car prior to the storm is often helpful to prove that the damage wasn't already there.[39]
- Whether or not car insurance covers the damage to your car depends on your insurance company and what insurance packages you have.
- Be extremely careful if glass has shattered in your car to avoid injuring yourself, and make sure other passengers don't touch it.
- Make sure that you replace any used items in the emergency kit, should you need to use them.
- Regularly perform checks on your car to make sure it's running in good condition so that if you're caught in a thunderstorm without warning, you can still manage the storm.
- Keep in mind the typical weather conditions for the area. For example, if you're driving through a thunderstorm in Southern California, it's highly unlikely that you're going to encounter hail or a tornado.
- The longer it's been since it's last rained, the more slippery the roads will be, as the oils on the road will have accumulated and won't have had a chance to be washed off yet.[40]
[Edit]Warnings - Inexperienced drivers should generally not drive in severe weather; if you're a new driver, either wait out the storm or get a more experienced person to make the drive.
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