There may be no place like home for the holidays, but with that being said, sometimes you and your significant other end up separated during the season. If you aren't able to be together during the holidays, you can still make this time of year special. However, it can be tricky to balance staying in touch while still enjoying the time you're spending with family.

Thanks to the connected world we live in, you and your beloved are only a phone call, text or video chat away - but sometimes you still crave a more significant connection.

Here are seven ways to keep your love burning across the miles without compromising your time with additional loved ones:

1. Send gifts and open them together

Surprise your sweetheart with your own version of the 12 days of Christmas. Send them a gift for every day you're apart and then do a quick video chat so you can share the moment when they open their presents. This lets you enjoy the delight of seeing your sweetie swoon over the thoughtful gifts and trinkets you selected just for them. If you both want to open gifts together, schedule a present-opening Skype date and share the love.

2. Go on a virtual date

Make a date to Skype or Facetime over a favorite meal or classic holiday film together. Set aside that time for one another just as you would if you were meeting in person. That means no family interruptions or guilt trips. If you each explain how important it is for the two of you to share some holiday time together, your families will understand. Having this dedicated quality time with your partner will also help you be more present for other family festivities.

3. Set up an united front

Before you have to part ways, send out a joint holiday card. This gives you a shared holiday activity and a chance to celebrate your relationship even if you can't be together during the festive season. This can also alleviate all of your family member's hounding questions about where your significant other is and whether or not "everything is okay between you two."

4. Make a countdown

Instead of counting down the days until Christmas or New Year's, make a couple's countdown that marks the days until you and your beloved are reunited. You can do it online - or if one of you is staying home, make a paper chain that lets you tear away each day until you're back in one another's arms.

5. Don't obsess over social networking

It can be hard to watch post after post of your S.O. having a great time with everyone but you - or watching other couples share holiday party photos all over social media. Save yourself the stress and worry by limiting time on Facebook and Instagram during your time apart.

6. Send sweet nothings

Sending a surprise text or a silly photo in the middle of the day or just before bed lets your partner know they're on your mind and keeps your connection going strong even though you're apart. There are also plenty of relationship apps out there designed for couples who need to connect across many miles. Try a few out and decide on the one that works best for keeping you and your loved one in sync.

7. Make the most of your alone time

No matter how much you love your partner, we all need a little time alone to refuel. Use the break as a chance for a little quality "me time." Lounge around all day in your pajamas, take yourself out to an indulgent dinner or splurge on a spa day. Your revived spirit will infuse your relationship with renewed vigor once your loved one returns.

It may not be your first choice to celebrate the holidays miles away from your significant other, but you can still make this magical time of year memorable as a couple. Use these ideas to share some of the festivities with one another. By being conscientious during your time apart, you can stay connected and still enjoy this precious time with your extended family.

The post The couple’s guide to surviving the holidays when you can’t be together appeared first on FamilyToday.

In December 2015, the Every Student Succeeds Act was passed, allowing kids to travel "to and from school on foot or by car, bus, or bike when the parents of the child have given permission," protecting parents from charges. However, the act does not trump any state or local legislation, so it's best to research your local laws regarding kids walking sans adult.

The question of how old a child should be before walking to school alone is one that's mulled over by moms and dads everywhere. Due to the number of factors that must be taken into consideration, there's not a cut-and-dried answer to this highly debated topic; but discussing the issue can help every parent gain clarity.

If you're wrestling with whether your child is ready to walk to school (or to the bus stop) solo, here's some information to help.

What the experts have to say

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) suggests that children 10 and younger shouldn't walk to school unaccompanied. A National Center for Safe Routes to School report supports the NHTSA's assertion, and suggests several reasons why children younger than 10 are at high risk for pedestrian injury.

• Multiple different cognitive skills are needed to cross a street safely, and many young children haven't developed them yet.

• Young children have difficulty deciding whether a vehicle is moving or not. If it is moving, they can't estimate how fast it's approaching or accurately assess whether they have time to cross the street.

• Due to height, a child's field of vision is often obstructed by parked cars, poles, signs, etc., meaning they might not see approaching vehicles.

• Busy intersections and other complicated traffic situations are hard for younger children to process, and they can't anticipate the movements a vehicle might make.

• Kids are easily distracted when crossing the street. They often focus on things that interest them (like their friends or a ball) instead of watching for cars.

Other factors that can influence the decision

When deciding whether your child should walk to school alone, age isn't the only determining factor. You need to evaluate their maturity and temperament, as well as things like how far they'll have to walk, if sidewalks are available, and what safety regulations the surrounding neighborhoods offer.

You know your child better than anyone. Until you're confident that they can make the trip without an adult, don't let them. In the meantime, consider organizing a Walking School Bus, where parents take turns walking neighborhood kids to school or waiting with them at the bus stop.

Tips for safe travels

When your child is ready to start walking alone - whether it's a block to the bus stop or a mile to school - there are several things you can do to help them make the trip safely.

• Escort your child several times to ensure they know the route. This is a good opportunity to evaluate their judgment, reinforce safety rules, and role play scenarios - like what to do if a stranger approaches them.

• Identify at least two safe places (homes, offices, or stores) they can go if they need help on the way to school.

• Buy them a wearable GPS tracker specifically designed for kids. In addition to location tracking, some GPS wearables also offer cellphone functions, so your child can let you know they've arrived at school safely.

• Sign up to receive text alerts about local crime and potential safety issues through a site like CrimeMapping.

• Give your child the Test of Twelve. Created by Gavin De Becker, an expert on predicting and preventing violence, the test outlines a dozen points your child should know before they are allowed to go out in pubic unaccompanied.

In the end, you're the best authority on how much supervision your child needs. Don't feel pressured to rush the process. Assess your child's maturity, wait to let them walk alone until you're sure they're ready, and set up additional safety measures once they do start making the trek to school on their own — there's no need to take any chances with your child's well-being.

Do your kids walk to school alone? If so, did you take any additional safety precautions to prepare them? If they don't, why not? Let us know in the comments.

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As the holidays get closer, it becomes clear how vital technology is to our everyday lives. Many holiday wish-lists include some kind of high-tech toy with connectivity capabilities. But as you're going about your holiday shopping, have you stopped to consider how secure these gadgets really are?

Hackers will target anything to get your personal information, including your holiday presents. And without proper precautions, some popular high-tech gifts-especially those with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities-can become gateways into your private data.

Luckily, you can take steps to decrease the risk of a breach. Use these few quick security tweaks to make sure your high-tech presents stay secure this holiday season.

1. Keep your firmware updated

Firmware is the basic code that manufacturers program into devices. It's in nearly all electronics including your smartwatch, laptop and tablet. It's also one of the most vulnerable entry-points in any gadget.

While it isn't easy for an average hacker to access the firmware on your devices, it can be devastating when they do. And factory resets and system wipes won't remove the embedded malware.

To keep your devices secure, check their manufacturers' websites regularly and update the firmware whenever possible. Regular system software updates also provide an extra layer of security.

2. Lock down your Bluetooth

Bluetooth is a major vulnerability because just about anyone can latch onto your device if they have the proper know-how. Smartwatches and fitness trackers normally don't store vital information, but their Bluetooth connections can lead back to your core devices like your laptop or desktop computer. Hackers use these leads to access your personal data and compromise your security.

Covering this weakness is fairly simple. First, turn Bluetooth off when it's not in use. Second, where possible, limit the visibility of your Bluetooth connection. Many devices have the option to make Bluetooth "invisible," which means that your connection won't be easily discovered.

3. Change your passwords

Weak passwords can leave you open to potential attacks. To decrease that risk, set complex passwords on all of your accounts and connections. That way, even if hackers breach your devices, they won't have automatic access to all of your sensitive data.

Keep in mind that a good password is longer than eight characters and includes a good mix of uppercase and lowercase letters as well as numbers and symbols. Make sure your password has no personal connection to you because things like birthdays or phone numbers can be easily discovered online.

Don't forget to set a pin or password on your smartphone or tablet, too. The more barriers you put up around your information, the less vulnerable you'll be.

4. Stay away from public Wi-Fi

Unencrypted public Wi-Fi connections are wide open to hackers. There is very little to stop other people from sniffing out your login credentials when they're on the same network as you. The high volume of users and the relative anonymity of public networks also make it difficult to track potential criminals.

Stick to wireless data if you're on a smartphone, or buy a wireless hotspot if you need consistent and quick Internet access. It may be a hassle, but the security benefits will be worth it in the long run.

5. Download antivirus software

Antivirus isn't a magic cure-all, but it can certainly make it harder for hackers to target you. By installing it on your core devices and running regular scans, you can avoid Trojans (hackers disguised as something else) and malware that would otherwise have easier access.

Android and Windows devices offer a variety of antivirus options. Apple products are updated frequently and carefully policed, meaning they're less vulnerable to such virus attacks in the first place.

6. Be aware

Staying safe online requires a lot of caution. Hackers rarely limit themselves to just a few tactics, and many will try just about anything to get to your vital information-including making fake phone calls or sending falsified emails asking for your personal information. These attacks are hard to trace and can be done anonymously.

When hackers can't gain access through your software, they often resort to social engineering methods instead. Be wary of whom you give information to and verify suspicious requests from soliciting companies.

Becoming informed is the first step to preventing a catastrophe. By staying aware of the risks associated with technology and taking the steps necessary to safeguard your high-tech gifts, you can stop hackers from potentially ruining your holiday season.

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It may be the most wonderful time of the year, but all that wonder comes with a healthy serving of stress. During the holidays, that stress can be particularly taxing on couples. Before diving head-first into the holiday fray, take a minute to assess your holiday plans and decide, as a team, how you're going to tackle the season.

To get the conversation rolling, look to beloved holiday movies or your favorite TV couple for inspiration on how to survive the season.

Once the ice is broken, try out these simple survival tips to keep your love on the nice list this year.

Be Realistic

It's easy to get caught up in ideas about the "perfect" holiday, including everything from looking like the ideal couple to receiving the gift of your dreams. Disappointment and resentment are more likely to build up if you cling too tightly to that perfect vision. Be flexible - and don't expect your partner to read your mind.

If decorating is important to you, let your partner know. If you have your heart set on a special gift, don't make them read your mind. Finally, accept that some things will not go to plan, and that's okay. As long as you are together, that's what really matters.

Remember the Magic Words

"Please" and "thank you" aren't just for small children. We often overlook the small kindnesses that can ease tension during this hectic time of year.

Don't bark orders at your loved one while shopping or cooking the family feast, and always acknowledge their efforts with a simple "thank you." You may be surprised how much more quickly (and happily) the lights get strung if you simply say "please."

When you're feeling exasperated, take a breath, and then use these magic words. You're sure to get a better result when you do.

Don't Take It Personally

Getting together with family is one of the most special parts of the holiday season - and one of the most challenging. If you and your partner have different family traditions, it can be hard to mix the two. Be ready to compromise and don't be offended if your sweetie can't stand the tinsel you love.

When it comes to family gatherings, always be gracious and resist the urge to get into risky topics like politics. If Grandpa blurts out a controversial point of view from the 1940s, let it slide and don't take his worldview as an affront to your own. It ispossible to get along with family at holiday gatherings.

It's Okay to Say No

One of the things that puts us on edge this time of year is the hectic pace and desire to squeeze in every activity and event to which we're invited. Sit down together and decide which events are the most important to both of you and commit to attending those.

If other invitations come up that conflict or will push your holiday spirit to its limits, it's all right to decline with a polite, "We'd love to join you, but unfortunately our holiday calendar is full." To soften the blow (and possible guilt), you could suggest a get-together after the holidays when you can really relax and spend quality time together.

Share Your Sugarplum Dreams

When you're starting to feel more stressed out than festive, take a break and reminisce about holidays past. Cozy up with your honey and share your favorite childhood memories about the holiday. Not only will this help you understand each other's holiday expectations, but it will bring you closer together as you learn more about the wonder-filled child your partner used to be.

Start Your Own Traditions

Couples can feel torn between two families and different ways of celebrating the holidays. One way to bring harmony to the holiday season is to start some traditions that are unique to you as a couple. It can be as simple as watching a favorite holiday movie each year or learning to cook a new dish that becomes your signature holiday offering.

As long as you do it together, any activity can have meaning. Look around and start planning some brand-new traditions that honor your special bond.

We get so caught up in the dazzle and demands of the season it's easy to lose sight of what matters most - each other. Take these simple tips and make this holiday season as conflict-free as possible. By focusing on one another, you could end up having the most magical holiday season ever.

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Moving during the winter can be tough. And if you're moving during the holidays, it can be even harder, especially for children. On top of the sadness of leaving behind family and friends, you may also be headed into unpredictable winter weather and a holiday that's anything but traditional.

Being prepared ahead of time can make your move successful. There are several things you can do to make moving during the winter easier for your family, most of which won't cost a dime.

Prepare your family

Before your move, make sure your entire family is prepared for the adventure ahead, especially your kiddos. Give your children plenty of notice, and start telling them about what your new home will be like. If you're moving from a warm climate to a cold one, or vice versa, explain how the weather may be drastically different at your new home. Allow them to discuss the move with their friends if they want to. Ask your children to pack a box of all of their favorite things, and let them open it as soon as you arrive to help them adjust. If you have teenagers, let them research your new location to find things that interest them.

Make a list

Make a list and check it twice. Actually, check it three or four times! Keep everything in a binder to track your to-dos, and start compiling any important documents you may need. Look into the immunization or other requirements for your children's new school, so you can gather any necessary documentation. Getting copies of school records and grades, medical charts and other important information can be helpful as well. Keep everything in your move binder, and keep your binder handy during the entire move.

Hire professionals

Adding the stress of moving to the stress of the holidays can be overwhelming. If possible, look into professional moving companies that can do the heavy lifting for you and help reduce the stress of your move. If you decide to go with a moving company, coordinate your timeline and schedule with the company well in advance. Since you are moving during the winter, ask what their bad weather contingency plan is, so you can be prepared. By being clear about your schedule and needs, you'll be able to find the mover that's best suited to you.

Be ready for the weather

Leading up to your move, start checking the weather at your destination frequently. Moving during winter can be hazardous because weather conditions can deteriorate quickly. Keep an eye on the forecast and have an emergency plan in place. Make sure to keep winter supplies on hand, and double check to make sure your car is ready for winter weather, which may mean buying snow tires or making sure your car has emergency supplies in it.

Take a breath

If you're moving over the holidays, don't forget to take some time to enjoy special days with your family. If you'll be on the road, consider packing some presents for everyone to open in the car. Take a break to open them, and just be together as a family. Also consider shipping holiday gifts to your new house ahead of time, so they're waiting when you get there. This is a great way to show younger children that Santa had no problem finding your new address! Remember, the most important part of the holidays are the traditions you carry with you. Take the time to honor these traditions, even if you're on the move.

Adjust to your new home

Now that your move is over, it's time to help your family adjust to your new home and area. Take some time to explore fun outdoor activities together. If this is your family's first time living in a snowy climate, show your children the joys of sledding and making snow angels. Enjoy the time with your family, then get to work setting up your new house.

Set up services

If you're unsure about what services are available in your area, decide what kind of Internet you need, and try searching cable service providers by ZIP code. Let your kids unpack while you go about setting up utilities and filling out change of address forms. Check all of the lights and outlets in your house, and make sure doors and windows lock and seal tightly, especially if you've moved to a colder area. You can also ask your children to tour the house with you to help them get used to the new space. Exploring together can make them more comfortable and help them to adapt.

Moving in winter doesn't have to be more stressful than a move any other time of year. Take some time to prepare beforehand, and adjust to your new home afterward to make it as smooth of a transition as possible.

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From increased utility usage to holiday gifts and travel, winter is an expensive season. On average, a person spends $805 on holiday spending. To balance out Black Friday and holiday gift shopping, here are 10 ways you can save money during winter and see the benefits last all season long.

1. Use LED holiday lights

Ditch the traditional incandescent bulb and use LED lights, which last up to 25 times longer and use 75 percent less energy. Set your lights on a timer so they turn off during the day to further decrease your energy usage.

2. Insulate your pipes

Uninsulated water heater pipes take longer to heat up, which wastes water usage. You can easily insulate your pipes yourself by purchasing pre-slit pipe foam and duct tape. By spending less than $15 to insulate your pipes, you can raise the water temperature by two to four degrees and save up to $12 per year.

3. Stop drafts in their tracks

Drafts affect your energy bill more than you'd think. A draft from a door or window can waste anywhere between 5 and 30 percent of your energy use. Rather than replace your doors and windows, which can quickly add up, use the reliable and inexpensive draft snake. Purchase one from a store, or make one yourself using a rolled towel or long stocking.

4. Turn on ceiling fans

It may sound counterintuitive, but your home's ceiling fans can boost the airflow of heat. Switch the rotation of the fan blades to spin clockwise. Heat near the ceiling will be pushed down into the room and keep your home warmer. Turn your ceiling fan on a low setting and you can cut heating costs by 10 to 15 percent.

5. Eliminate or reduce home services

Too often, people pay for more Internet than they need. Compare your current package with how much Internet speed you actually need. If you aren't frequently gaming or streaming music or videos, you may be able to switch to a less expensive package. Along with reducing your Internet package, consider cutting the cord on your cable bill. Many Americans pay upwards of $250 for their monthly cable bill when you can easily reduce that to less than $50 per month by switching to streaming services, such as Hulu, Netflix and Amazon Prime.

6. Heat only your main rooms

It takes much more energy to heat an entire home, as opposed to a few select rooms. Close the vents in any rooms that don't need to be heated, such as the laundry room or unused guest room.

7. Maximize your dishwasher

Today's dishwashers provide enough water power to break down food particles from dishes. Save water by skipping the pre-rinse and put dirty dishes directly into the dishwasher. You can also save on energy costs by switching your dishwasher setting from heat dry to air dry. While it will take longer to dry, it can save around 15 percent of the dishwasher's total energy use.

8. Make a library trip

Cozy nights at home during winter are a great time to catch up on reading and movie-watching. Save money by renting books, eBooks, audio books and movies for free at your local library.

9. Replace furnace filters

During the winter, furnace filters quickly build up dirt, resulting in restricted airflow and increased energy usage. Replace or clean your filter once a month. If you'd rather avoid a monthly task, switch to a permanent filter. While there is the initial cost, which ranges anywhere between $50 and $1,000, you reduce waste and the effort of buying and replacing a disposable filter each month.

10. Turn down your water heater

If you haven't manually adjusted your water heater thermostat, it may be set at the manufacturer setting of 140 degrees, which is much hotter than necessary. By lowering the thermostat to 122 degrees, you can save up to $61 every year.

By incorporating these 10 money-saving winter tips, you can keep more money in your wallet to spend on holiday shopping!

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