Create something that's visually alluring by matching the color of the mat to a color in the background of the photo. Avoid picking a mat color based on the room where the picture will be hung; instead, match it to the photo itself. For example, if your photo is of a sunset, pick a mat that is a shade of blue that matches part of the sky. A white mat is often a classic choice, regardless of what kind of frame you use; but, if you're using a dark frame, it can really highlight the actual photo so it doesn't get lost. Especially if the photo itself is dark, it's a good idea to differentiate the space between the photo and the frame. For example, if your frame is a deep mahogany wood and your picture is full of darker shades (like brown, gray, black, green, or purple), a white mat will really draw the eye to the picture itself. Use 8-ply for photos that are wider than 30 inches (76cm). Visit your local craft or framing store to get all the supplies you need. Look for acid-free or archival-grade mats. You can also make your own mats at home using thin pieces of cardboard or thick pieces of crafting paper. Keep in mind that these won't be of the same quality as an actual mat board, but they're good substitutes if you're looking for a quick and easy matting option, or if you just want to practice your matting technique. You may already know the size of the frame, especially if you bought it specifically to fit a picture. But if you don't know, use a ruler to measure the width and height of the frame. Write down the measurements on a piece of paper so you have it to reference. Use a ruler to mark the back of the mat board where you'll need to cut. Take your time when marking the mat. You need your measurements to be exact so that it'll fit snug inside the frame. Use an X-ACTO knife or something similar to carefully cut the mat board to size. Cut along the length of a metal ruler to keep your lines as straight as possible. There are special mat cutters and rulers that you can purchase if you want to. The ruler has a rubber bottom so it won't slip while you're cutting, and the mat cutter helps you make more precise cuts. They aren't a requirement to mat photos, but if you do it a lot, they could come in handy. Be very careful when using any kind of cutting instrument, and make sure to work on top of a cutting board, self-healing mat, or large piece of cardboard.

Summary: Choose a colored mat to complement the picture you want to frame. Use a white mat to make the picture pop against a dark frame. Buy a 4-ply piece of mat board for your standard-size photos. Measure the inside of the frame to get its dimensions and mark the mat. Trim the edges of the mat board so it'll fit inside your frame of choice.

Many teens who have lost a parent as a child seem to be searching for someone to fill that void in their teenage years. Be open to the idea of guiding and mentoring the teen during these difficult years. Strive to be a positive role model for the teen and avoid exposing them to destructive behaviors. This may also include supporting the teen emotionally or financially. This is a very delicate situation and it's important to remind the teen that you are not trying to replace their parent, but to help honor them by supporting the teen. The teen you are mentoring will appreciate your genuine concern for their lost parent. It will give them a chance share memories (if they have them) and family stories. Also, make an effort to understand the circumstances around the parent's death. This will help you be more sensitive around tough topics. For example, if you know the teen's parent died in a car accident, you might be more patient if the teen seems timid in the driver's seat. Although grief takes many forms, some methods of grieving can cause long-term damage. Be sure to watch for signs of drinking, drug use, or other harmful methods of grieving and try to guide the teen to healthier methods of grieving. Warning signs of dangerous behavior can be subtle. People are unlikely to witness drinking or drug use directly, but may observe lying, significant weight loss, changes in sleeping patterns, etc. Suggest a physical activity to help channel their grief into something positive and healthy. Running, hiking, or yoga are all great physical activities that could help alleviate stress and center your emotions. If the teen discusses thoughts of suicide or hurting themselves, seek professional help immediately. Grief can last for a long time, especially in children and teens. Find out if there are any specific days that are more difficult for the teen. Many teens will struggle with holidays such as Christmas, or the deceased parent's birthday. Try to avoid downtime during these days. Keeping the teen busy will help distract them from their sadness. Be sure to remember their parent on this day. Say things like "I know you miss your parent(s), and you should keep them in mind and try to enjoy the day."

Summary: Become a parental figure in their life. Learn about the parent who was lost. Watch for warning signs. Know what holidays are hard.

Some people develop a fear of mathematics because they believe things about math that aren't necessarily true. Statements like, "men are better at math than women" or "there is no creativity involved in math" are just a few myths that are commonly heard and believed. While there have historically been more male mathematicians than female mathematicians, no evidence exists to show that men are innately better at math than women. Historically, men have had better educational opportunities than women, but this is changing. Some believe that math is all about logic, with little to do with creativity. Although logical thinking is necessary to work through the steps to solve a math problem, understanding where to begin in solving the problem sometimes requires a healthy dose of intuition. Some believe that to be good in math means being able to do all the calculations in your head. Counting on the fingers shows an understanding of basic arithmetic, and a form of finger calculation led to the development of the abacus. Some believe that being good in math means getting the right answer in the right way. While the ways taught to do certain calculations are the easiest and "best" methods, they're not the only methods. When adding 1/6 to 3/8, it's usually taught to convert to the equivalent fractions of 4/24 and 9/24 to add to make 13/24 because 24 is the lowest common multiple of 6 and 8. However, it's also okay to convert the fractions to 8/48 and 18/48 (6 x 8 = 48) and add to make 26/48, which reduces to 13/24. Finding the lowest common multiple simply means you have smaller numerators to add together. Related to the common myths about mathematical ability listed above are personal beliefs about one's inability to do math. People with math phobias may believe they can't get the answer fast enough, or that if they got the answer, the problem had to have been too easy. In truth, while a math test may be timed, mathematics is not about how fast you get the answer. If the problem looked too simple, it's more likely that you are actually better at math than you think you are. When approaching math, take your time and take perfection out of it. Tell yourself that nobody is perfect and if you struggle with a problem, ask questions instead of giving up. Unfortunately, many teachers themselves suffer from math anxiety and accordingly do not teach math well. Such teachers usually fall back to teaching exclusively from the textbook, relying on memorizing facts, and employing only drill and practice to reinforce the lesson. Note that while many college education programs require future teachers to declare and be educated in an academic specialization or concentration, school districts may hire teachers for teaching positions outside that area of specialization. Thus, a teacher hired to teach mathematics may not have had a great deal of academic coursework in the subject and how to teach it. If you yourself suffer from math anxiety, you'll more than likely pass your fears onto your children if you don't address them. Although telling your child that it's okay not to be good at math because you weren't on the surface sounds supportive, it also lowers their expectations for themselves. Cultivate a positive environment relating to mathematics, especially when helping your children with their assignments.
Summary: Know the myths about mathematical ability. Recognize perfectionist thinking. Consider the ability of the teacher who taught you or your child. Consider your own feelings about mathematics.