Everybody knows of the common digital video cameras and has used one at some point. They are a popular choice when it comes to recording family events we want to remember for later or making simple movies together with friends. Nowadays we also often use cameras that come equipped together with our smartphone – the video quality in the newest models is simply remarkable.

But the human ingenuity knows no bounds. We have come up with so many different types of video cameras that it is hard to keep track of them all. Here are just two of the most useful ones:

Backup cameras

Backup cameras, also called rearview cameras, are a special type of camera that is attached to the rear of a motor vehicle. They give the driver an unobstructed view of what is going on behind their vehicle. The image taken by the camera is then displayed in real-time on the screen of the car’s head unit. They eliminate the precarious blind spot. As such, backup cameras are extremely useful to drivers who don’t have a good view out of their rear window – truck drivers or people carrying a lot of baggage in the back.

They are also loved by people who struggle with parking. Many backup cameras can display ‘parking lines’ on the screen that will indicate what is the safe distance between your car’s back and other objects, such as a wall or another car. Before you purchase a backup camera, make sure that it has technology that allows it to display quality images even in the dark. To find the best one, check out backup camera reviews by NobleRate.com.

However, remember that you should not ever rely on the backup camera alone when in reverse gear. While they are very useful, make sure to glance out the sideview and rearview mirrors as well.

Nanny cameras

Nanny cameras were first invented so that parents could monitor their nanny from a remote location. Leaving your child with a stranger is stressful so nanny cameras were able to put the parents’ worries at ease. People also use nanny cameras for different purposes – home surveillance or checking up on their pets just to name a few. Some question the morality of using nanny cams without the nanny’s knowledge, but as of now, there is nothing illegal about it. Some US states prohibit recording someone’s speech but there are no laws against capturing employees’ movements on video footage.

If you are buying a nanny camera, the most important choice you need to make is whether you want to conceal it or not. Hidden nanny cameras are often disguised as everyday objects, like a clock or a toy, so that the person being monitored doesn’t realize it’s there. The drawback to these cameras is the image quality. Hidden cameras often don’t provide such clear footage as the ones that don’t need to be concealed. To get the best nanny camera, you will also want the motion detection feature (so that you don’t use up memory space on recording an empty room) and the ability to watch the live feed.

Lazy days at home are a burden for children with their energy tanks full and infinite readiness to explore nature. Cartoons may catch their attention for a couple of hours but that’s neither energy-consuming nor healthy. There’s nothing a child loves more than interacting with their parents and doing fun stuff together. When the activity is outdoors the plan sounds even better.

If you’re out of ideas and still avoiding the mischievous TV alternative, we invite you to dive in our compact list of fun, creative activities to share with your lively kids.

Creative activities to explore with your children

Regardless of where you live, there’s no chance you won’t find a venture to suit your place. Be prepared for crafty challenges that will at least intrigue your senses.

1. Wood carving 

This leisure activity should be a challenge both for you and your family. The expected outcome shouldn’t be a flawlessly carved piece of wood but the closeness you share with your little ones. Wood is fun and undemanding to carve, and with a tutorial, you can succeed in great designs. Even if you are not a crafty person, there’s nothing children love more than working and exploring with their hands. There is a wide array of wood shaping tools to take into account before planning the activity. Make sure to get all the instruments before you let your child what you have planned for him. Our favorite brand regarding wood carving is Pheil as they craft easy-to-use tools with high-quality materials.

2. Pottery 

You probably came across the fact that your children better engage in a messy activity than stay clean all day. Pottery is not only great stress-relieving leisure but also a gracious way to explore your creativity. Imagine inviting your children to a pottery session after a heavy day at school or when they’re a bit down in the dumps. This would be an instant recovery on your little ones’ part!

3. Gardening 

Teach your child patience and care with a gardening session. Children have an innate sense of protecting and caressing the ones around them, and this activity would surely chisel their tendency towards showing care, mercy, and love. You don’t have to overthink the mission, still. Get a few flowers and tell your child they need to be taken care of. Show him how to do it, and you’d be surprised by your baby’s eagerness to give you a hand!

4. Paper Crafts 

If you’re not willing to adhere to a dirty mission, this may be a suitable activity for you and your children. Supply yourself with colorful sheets of paper, scissors, and some glue and let your mind explore crafting ideas. Before you manage to do so, you’ll see that your child has already provided you with a bag full of thoughts and ideas to pursue. The designs go as far as your imagination takes you!

5. Thumbprint a family tree 

If you’re looking for a session of unconventional painting combined with educating your child on the importance of family, you should give this activity a try.  Help your little one contour the tree, and then explore together the acrylics with the thumbs before printing them on the tree.