Family & Kids Magazine June 2024

impulse control

by Linda Ligon, Family & Kids

Impulsive behavior in young children is to some degree to be expected. The parts of the brain that control reason and judgment are not fully developed until young adulthood. Young kids are driven by a desire to explore the world around them and do not always foresee the consequences of their actions. With some parental coaching, such as telling your child to ‘Stop and Think!,' your young child should start to learn to pause and consider the consequences of the action he is about to take.

Be firm with your child, but not so harsh that your child’s spirit is broken. It can be frustrating when impulsive behavior results in messes, or things around the house break, but resist lashing out in anger. Instead, if you spot your child in the process of acting impulsively, once he is safe, ask him what he was trying to do and what he thinks might have happened. For example, if you spot your preschooler about to snatch a toy from a sibling and step in to prevent it, ask him how he thinks his little sister would have felt if he had taken the toy away. One important part of kids learning impulse control is developing empathy and gaining an understanding of how others feel.

Sometimes, kids have trouble listening to directions and act without fully understanding what you are asking of them. If your child tends to take off before you have even finished your instructions, ask your child to stay still until you have finished speaking and then repeat instructions back to you correctly before he can go. This will help your child improve his listening skills, which are essential for effective communication, and teach him impulse control.

At the same time, be consistent about providing expectations to your child. Set your ground rules before enter-

ing a public place, such as the grocery store or the library. If your child understands your expectations and the consequences of not using his ‘indoor voice’ and running around, he will be less likely to engage in impulsive behavior. Good planning of your day, along with providing expectations, can help reduce the incidents of disruptive, impulsive behavior. If your child is tired after running back-to-back errands with you, he is more likely to act impulsively. It may seem more convenient to eliminate all the errands in one day but be realistic with your expectations for your child.

Some children react impulsively out of frustration because they do not know how to express strong emotions, such as anger, anxiety, and fear. Teach your child that there is no hitting or pushing others even if someone else is not being kind or has made her feel upset and angry. Work on helping her express how she feels by helping her put labels on her feelings, such as ‘angry’ or ‘tired.'

For some kids, impulsive behavior can be a sign of an underlying anxiety. Teaching your children strategies for problem-solving can help reduce impulsive behavior that stems from worry and frustration. For example, if your child is stressed and worried over her science project, help her step through the process of brainstorming ideas for it and selecting one.

For some kids, impulsive behavior is a sign of an underlying issue, such as ADHD, autism, ODD, a sensory processing disorder or another mental health issue. If you are having difficulty teaching your child to manage impulsive behavior, seek assistance from his pediatrician. Treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) are sometimes used to help with impulse management.

HOO’s HUNGRY

FRUIT SNACKS Fruit &Veggie

These healthy homemade fruit snacks have the same texture as the store-bought version, but are made with pureed fruit, vegetables, honey, and grass-fed gelatin.

INSTRUCTIONS

First, line a 9" bread loaf pan with parchment paper and spray it with cooking spray. Place the fruit and cooked vegetable of choice in a high-speed blender. Add the water and honey, and puree until VERY smooth, at least 5 minutes. Taste the mixture; add more honey if you think it needs it, and blend again until smooth. Pour the mixture into a large-bottomed stock pot. Sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the surface. Do not touch for 5 minutes. When the mixture is wrinkled on the surface, you can begin to whisk the gelatin into the fruit puree. Turn the burner to medium, and cook while whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth. At first, it will appear clumpy, but the heat will dissolve and make everything smooth. Do not let the mixture boil, but cook it until it's smooth. Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, and allow to set for at least 3-4 hours. I leave it covered overnight. Use mini pie cutters to cut out cute shapes. Use scissors to cut up the scraps into small pieces, and mix them into the shapes. The fruit snacks keep for 5 days refrigerated.

INGREDIENTS

For Mango/ Carrot Option:

• 1 ½ cups diced mango chunks, defrosted if frozen

• 1 medium carrot, steamed until soft

• 2 tbsp of honey

• ¼ cup water

• 5 tbsp grass-fed beef gelatin powder

For Strawberry/Beet Option: sub out first two ingredients for 2 cups diced strawberries and 1 small steamed beet.

through the SUMMER

by Kimberly Blaker for Family & Kids

Statistics on summer learning loss vary depending on the study. But those studies most commonly cited have found kids lose, on average, 2.6 months of math and 2 months of reading skills over the summer. Other studies have found varying results, as noted in “Summer learning loss: What is it, and what can we do about it?” by David M. Quinn and Morgan Polikoff. The good news, however, is there are ways to reduce your child’s summer learning loss. You can help your kids by providing them plenty of educational and enrichment opportunities throughout the summer months ahead. The following fun activities will keep your kids’ brains active and also help them retain what they learned throughout the school year or even expand upon it.

1. Keep ‘em reading. Take your kids to the library often for special programs, summer reading challenges and have them bring home a selection of books to read during the summer.

2. Play word, money, number, and logic games. Look for well-rated board, video, and computer games. Also, search online for board-less games that don’t require materials. Or have an art activity to create their own board game to play.

3. Incorporate learning into your travel. Before you go on your family vacation, do some advance research. Look for science centers, history museums, and historical sites to build into your trip. Then have your kids join you in mapping out the trip. This will help keep geography fresh in their minds while also learning map skills.

4. Summer journaling. Give your kid a journal to write in. Suggest they spend 20 minutes writing in it every night about their day’s adventures and activities. Let your kid know it’s their private journal and promise not to read it if they don't want you to.

5. Baking and cooking. This helps kids in both math and science. Have your kids choose a recipe they’d like to make, but have them make half a batch, or triple the batch. This will require them to calculate the measurements.

6. Form a neighborhood or friends book club. Kids of similar ages can choose one book each week for everyone to read, then meet to talk about it more in-depth. Or for younger kids, keep a record of the books they’ve read and have rewards for them at the end of the summer based on the quantity or categories you choose.

7. Workbooks or puzzle books. Give your child a workbook for the grade level he or she just finished. Have your child work on it throughout the summer to keep what they learned fresh in their mind.

8. Utilize professional resources. If your child needs to remediate some skills before the new school year or just wants to get ahead, look to area providers such as Sylvan Learning, Mathnasium, Kumon and Anew Tutoring.

at the least... take a walk!

By Linda Ligon, Family & Kids

Abusy weekly schedule can make it difficult to work out on a regular basis. However, you can still make progress towards your health goals by going for a brisk walk. Research studies have shown that walking is an aerobic exercise that benefits the brain and supports good overall fitness.

Walking supports brain health

Studies have shown that aerobic exercise such as walking can stimulate neurogenesis (the creation of new brain cells) in the hippocampus. The hippocampus is an area of the brain responsible for learning and memory. When you perform aerobic exercises, such as walking, on a regular basis, a protein called BDNF (Brain Derived Neurotropic Factor) is released which encourages the growth of new brain cells. Walking and other aerobic exercise also helps increase the size of the hippocampus, which can help improve memory.

Walking can help with mental health

Walking can help ease issues with mood regulation and feelings of anxiety. Walking can also restore your ability to focus and think. When you walk, your body releases neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine and norepi-

nephrine which can help improve your mood and help moderate symptoms of depression. These neurotransmitters can also counter the harmful effects of stress, which triggers the release of the ‘fight or flight’ hormone cortisol. Over time, the brain can be harmed by constant exposure to cortisol.

Walking helps improve creativity

Getting up and going for a walk when you feel like you have hit a roadblock when problem-solving can help. The brain accounts for only about 2% of the weight of the body but uses about 20% of the oxygen you breathe. During aerobic exercise, the oxygen supply to the brain increases, improving cognitive skills such as problem-solving. Just being outside can also help improve your mood, helping you regain focus on the task at hand.

Walking helps improve physical health

Performing moderate aerobic exercise on a regular basis can help support good cardiovascular health, reduce weight and promote muscle strength and endurance. Walking also keeps muscles flexible and promotes good bone health.

HOO’s PICKS

Highlight On

This April, Colton Hall, a 10-year-old Columbus resident and student at Britt David Academy, was featured at the Rally on the Runway Fundraiser at the Georgia Aquarium, along with other Rally Kids from throughout Georgia who are fighting or surviving cancer. Each took 47 steps down the runway as a reminder that every day 47 children are diagnosed with cancer. Colton walked the runway with Atlanta Falcons wide receiver KhaDarel Hodge.

Growing up as a military kid, Colton has traveled the world. Shortly after moving back to the United States, he was diagnosed with blood cancer, which he is still fighting. Every day in America, families of 47 children hear, "your child has cancer.” Every day, seven children die from childhood cancer. Of those that survive, more than 80% endure life-long side effects, including hearing loss, learning disorders, heart issues and infertility. Pediatric cancer is the #1 disease killer of children in the United States, yet less than 8% of the National Institute of Health’s budget for cancer research goes to fund pediatric cancer research.

Rally Foundation for Childhood Cancer Research, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, raises awareness and funds for childhood cancer research to help scientists find better treatments with fewer longterm side effects and, ultimately, cures.

How can you help towards their goals:

1. RallyFit is a great way to raise awareness and funds for childhood cancer research and involve your friends, family, and co-workers. Don’t just get fit, get #RallyFit. In honor of the 47 children who are diagnosed with cancer every day, dedicate your next 47 day of fitness and wellness activities while fundraising for childhood cancer research. It takes less than 5 minutes to sign up and Rally will be with you every step of the way with tips and suggestions to keep you motivated! Learn more and sign up here: fundraise.rallyfoundation. org/campaign/rallyfit-47-challenge-spring-2023/c452407

2. Get your school involved through Rally’s 4 Quarters 4 Research program! https://rallyfoundation.org/4quarters-4-research/

3. Help Rally advocate on the local and national level for more awareness and funding for childhood cancer research! rallyfoundation.org/advocate-sign-up/

4. Donate directly to childhood cancer research! rallyfoundation.org/

Colton at the event with KhaDarel Hodge.

Dining Deals for Kids

MONDAY

Barberitos

Free kid’s meal with adult entrée after 4pm

Sapo’s

5-8pm: Free kid’s meal with adult entrée

The Office

4-9pm: Kids 12 and under get a free kid’s meal with each adult entrée. Dine in only.

Tuesday

Chicken Salad Chick

Free Little Chick Meal with purchase of adult meal

Denny’s

4-10pm: Up to two free kids entrées with adult entrée for kids 10 and under

Ruby Tuesday

5-10pm: Kids 12 and under eat free with adult entrée

Wednesday

Your Pie

Kid’s meal $1.99 (pizza, drink & gelato) w/ adult meal

Red Robin

Kid’s meal $1.99 w/ adult meal for kids 11 and under

Thursday

Tuesday's Street Tacos & Burritos

Free kids meal with adult purchase; dine-in only

Saturday

Denny’s

4-10pm: Up to two free kids entrées with adult entrée for kids 10 and under

Sunday

The Simple Greek

Kids 12 & under get half-off kids bowl with purchase of regular size bowl. Not to be combined

Multiple days

219 On The Lake

5-9pm: Kids eat for $2.19 on kids menu (M-TH)

Bruster’s Ice Cream

Kids under 40” get free baby cone

McAlister’s

Kid’s meals are $2.79 with dine-in order

The Food Mill

Kids receive half off a breakfast egg and cheese biscuit with the purchase of one full price breakfast item (M-F, 9-11am)

All locations are Columbus, GA unless noted. Specials are subject to change without notice, so please verify them directly before dining. Send kids deals to Tammy@FamilyAndKidsGA.com.

Find 10 Differences

HOO’s FUN

Jordynn, 10 years Fort Moore Owen, 2 years Upatoi

Kailani, 23 months Columbus

FINE-TUNE your Communication with Toddlers

By Linda Ligon, Family & Kids

When giving instructions to a toddler who refuses to listen, many parents find themselves yelling without realizing it or resorting to threats and bribes. However, trying to gain compliance with negative reinforcement techniques, such as yelling, bribes and threats, uses fear as a motivator. These tactics damage the relationship between a parent and child and lead to more defiance and arguments. After all, you are only teaching your child to fear you and are not communicating with her. Instead, your goal should be to communicate your instructions to your toddler and have her comply because she respects you.

Here are some ways to encourage your toddler to listen without resorting to yelling, threats and bribes:

Ensure you have your toddler’s attention

Take a moment to get down on your toddler’s level and make eye contact before you start giving your instruction. This is a positive way to connect with your child, and it is a way to let your child know that what you are about to say is important. Getting down to her level and making eye contact sends the message that you want to have a conversation with her, not intimidate her into complying.

Make your expectations and boundaries clear

It may seem like your toddler is not listening to you, but the root cause of her not obeying may be that she does not know what exactly is expected of her. Saying ‘No’ or ‘Stop!’ when your toddler misbehaves does not clearly define what is acceptable and where her boundaries are. Your toddler may feel like she does not know what to do next.

Instead of just saying ‘No,’ find opportunities, such as reading a book about manners, to teach your child the

boundaries. When she tests the boundaries, intervene quickly to ensure your child stays safe and does not hurt anyone or break anything, and then explain what she should do instead. For example, when your toddler starts jumping on the sofa, you could say, ‘We don’t jump on the furniture, but how about we go outside and play?’

Be direct with instructions

When you do provide an instruction to your child, be direct and use age-appropriate language. Toddlers have a limited attention span and giving one instruction at a time will help reduce frustration. Your toddler probably will not remember a long list of instructions or may feel overwhelmed by an instruction that is not very specific, such as ‘clean up your toys and get ready for bed.’ Instead, you could play a game where you name the type of toys as she puts them away, and then begin her bedtime routine one step at a time with commands like ‘Let’s go brush our teeth.’

Make the morning and bedtime routines fun by creating a reward chart for completing tasks. There is nothing wrong with motivating your child to complete a specific task by creating a reward chart if it is done properly. Limit rewarding your child to the tasks on the chart and do not use the reward chart to randomly bribe your toddler.

Be firm and consistent

Stand firm and do not waiver from an instruction you gave your toddler. Providing your child with a ‘five-minute warning’ when it is time for a change, such as leaving the playground, can help with compliance if you consistently enforce the five minutes. Follow through with consequences when your child refuses to follow instructions. For example, if your child refuses to stop throwing food, you could say, ‘You are telling me you are all done,’ and then remove her from the table.

June Events

1 Chattahoochee Valley Daylily Festival. 9am-4pm. $5-$10. Columbus Botanical Garden, 706-327-8400

1 Artful Babies. 10:30am. Ages 6-24 mo & caregivers. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562

1 LEGOS®. Families. 3pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

1-2 Day Out with Thomas Train. 10am-4:30pm. GA Veterans State Park; ticketweb.com

3 Kids’ Art Studio. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

4 Geodes & Gemstones. Ages 5-12. 2pm. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

4 Little Sprouts. 10am. Ages 0-5. $5/ family. Columbus Botanical Garden, 706327-8400

6 Mineral Mania. Ages 5-12. 3pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

6 Family Fun Night: DIY Bird Feeders. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

6Budding Naturalists. 10-11am. $7. Columbus Botanical Garden, 706-327-8400

6-8 Lyle the Crocodile. 10am & 2pm. $9-$15. CSU Riverside Theatre; 706-507-8444

7 Summer Cinema: “101 Dalmatians.” 2pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

7 Flower Pressing & Suncatchers. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

8 Messy Games for Uptown Playground. 10am-1pm. Woodruff Park. Advance tickets: $7/child or $20 for up to 4 children.

8 Mini Makers. 10:30am. Ages 2-4 yrs & caregivers. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562

8 Columbus Lions Football game. 7pm. Columbus Civic Center; 706-322-3336

8 YOGC 30th Anniversary Alumni Reunion Concert. 7pm. Town Hall at Old Town; 706-256-3614

8-9 Day Out with Thomas Train. 10am-4:30pm. GA Veterans State Park, Cordele; ticketweb.com

10 Pony Bead Party. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

10-14 Into the Wild Summer Camp. 9am-4pm. Ages 8-11. $250/week. Oxbow Meadows; 706-507-8550

11 Reptiles on the Road. 2pm. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

11 Teen Adventure Crafternoon. 3:30pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

12 Musical Adventures. 11am. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

12 MAMA B.E.A.R.S. (part 2) Breastfeeding Support meeting. 12:30-1:30pm. Columbus Pediatric Assoc; 706-221-4602

12-15 Lyle the Crocodile. 10am & 2pm. $9-$15. CSU Riverside Theatre; 706507-8444

13 Simple Steps Storytime: Sensory Stations. 10am. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

13 Summer Adventure Collage Boards. Ages 5-12. 3pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

13 LEGOS® in the Library. Families. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

14 Watch & Unwind: Movie & Craft. 10:30am. South Columbus Library; 706683-8805

14 Summer Cinema: “The Goofy Movie." 2pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

14 Crocheting for Beginners. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

14 Columbus Lions Football game. 7pm. Columbus Civic Center; 706-322-3336

14-15 Hairspray. 7:30pm. $15$27. CSU Riverside Theatre; 706-507-8444

15 LEGOS®. Families. 3pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

15-16 Day Out with Thomas Train. 10am-4:30pm. GA Veterans State Park, Cordele; ticketweb.com

17 Kids’ Art Studio. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

18 A Father’s Day Dinosaur Dig. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

18 Dungeons & Dragons. Families. 6pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

19Juneteenth-Empowerment Posters & Buttons. 4pm. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

19-22 Lyle the Crocodile. 10am & 2pm. $9-$15. CSU Riverside Theatre; 706-507-8444

20 Father’s Day Daddy & Me Library Campout. Ages 5-12. 3pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

20 Family Fun Night: Rock Painting. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

21 Sensory Scavenger Hunt. Ages 4-7. 11am. North Columbus Library; 706748-2855

21 Summer Cinema: “Anastasia." 2pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

21 Pokéthon. 3pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

Events

PROVIDED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:

21 Grannycore Summer: Scrapbooking. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

21-22Hairspray. 7:30pm. $15$27. CSU Riverside Theatre; 706-507-8444

22 Watermelon Express. Times vary. $20-$30. SAM Shortline, GA Veterans State Park; 1-877-GA-RAILS

22 Uno, Dos, Tres Craft! Ages 4-8. 3pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

24 Pony Bead Party. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

24-28Animal Antics Summer Camp. 9am-4pm. Ages 6-9. $250/week. Oxbow Meadows; 706-507-8550

25 Rock, Paper, Scissors, STEAM: Paper Maker. Ages 5-12. 2pm. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

25 Nature Crafting Series. 11am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

26 Musical Adventures. 11am. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

26 Seedling Storytime. 10-11am. $7.18. Columbus Botanical Garden, 706327-8400

26 MAMA B.E.A.R.S. (part 2) Breastfeeding Support meeting. 12:30-1:30pm. Columbus Pediatric Assoc; 706-221-4602

27 Simple Steps Storytime: Sensory Stations. 10am. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

27 Adventures in Coding. Ages 5-12. 3pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

27 LEGOS®. Families. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

28 Watch & Unwind: Movie & Craft. 10:30am. South Columbus Library; 706683-8805

28 Summer Cinema: “Robin Hood." 2pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

28 Square Dancing. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

28-29Hairspray. 7:30pm. $15$27. CSU Riverside Theatre; 706-507-8444

29 Plains, Train & Fireworks. 6pm. $32-$92. SAM Shortline, GA Veterans State Park; 1-877-GA-RAILS

30 Interactive Character Experience by Playtime Pals. 10am. Columbus Trade Center. Tickets on Eventbrite.

JULY

4-6 Star Spangled Beach Party & Fireworks. 9am-11pm. Callaway Gardens; 855-885-3841

Weekly Events

MONDAY

Simple Steps Storytime: Babies & Toddlers. Ages 0-36mo. 10am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

Simple Steps Stations: Play. Ages 3-5. 10am-12noon. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

TUESDAY

Simple Steps Storytime. Babies & Toddlers. Ages 0-24 mo. 10am; Preschoolers. Ages 3-5. 11am. North Columbus Library; 706748-2855

Unplug…For Chess’ Sake! Families. 4:30pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-2432782

WEDNESDAY

Simple Steps Storytime. Preschoolers. Ages 3-5. 10am; Babies & Toddlers. Ages 0-36 mo. 11am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706243-2782

Discovery Hub. Ages 3-5. 11am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

Kids’ Corner. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706243-2813

Chess at the Library. Ages 9-16. 5pm. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

THURSDAY

Toddler Tales. 10am. Barnes & Noble Columbus; 706-653-7880

Simple Steps Storytime: Family. Ages 0-5. 10am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

Simple Steps Storytime. 10am. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

FRIDAY

Simple Steps Storytime. Ages 0-5. 10am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

SATURDAY

Market Days on Broadway. 9am-Noon. 900, 1000 & 1100 blocks of Broadway; uptowncolumbusga.com

Toddler Time. 10am-Noon. $10. Ages 5 and under. Launch Trampoline Park; 706221-8680

Please call ahead to confirm dates, times and age-appropriateness, in case changes were made after the info was obtained.

Summer Camps & Activities Guide

STEAM SUMMER STEAM SUMMER CAMPS CAMPS

May 27-August 02

8am-12pm & 1pm-5pm

We are uniquely designed to spark their interests in a fun-filled environment to learn new skills, play, connect and innovate!

Snacks, drinks, and swag will be provided!

706-600-1126 https://steaminventors com info@steaminventors com 8342 Veterans Parkway #100 Columbus, GA 31909 Sign-Up Today!

Summer Camps & Activities Guide

Will take our JOBS

by Aryya Bhattacharyya, CEO, Steam Inventors

As we teeter on the edge of the AI revolution, a question looms….”Will artificial intelligence usurp our livelihoods, or even surpass humans?” At the core of this inquiry lies the awe-inspiring complexity of the human brain, a marvel of nature with an estimated 86 billion neurons. The human brain, a dynamic entity, continues to evolve and adapt throughout life, with the prefrontal cortex not reaching its full potential until the mid-20s.

ChatGPT is one of the most popular AI language models, with a staggering 175 billion parameters. While it’s not a direct comparison to the neurons in our brains, this scale is mind-boggling. It raises crucial questions, “Should we be concerned? Is there a need considering the potential implications of such rapid technological advancements?”

Let’s first look at the scientific differences between human and AI brains. Biological neurons use electrochemical signals to transmit information, while artificial neurons in AI systems use digital signals. Biological neural networks in the brain are intricately interconnected, with each neuron forming thousands of connections. In contrast, artificial neural networks have a more limited number of connections between layers. The human brain is a master of adaptation. It learns through experience and modifies its neural connections over time. AI systems, on the other hand, typically learn from vast datasets but do not adapt their neural networks like the brain. The brain’s highly complex neural pathways, with information flowing through many interconnected regions, has unique learning and adaptation capabilities. AI neural pathways, in comparison, are more linear, with information flowing from input to output layers. While artificial neural networks draw inspiration from the brain, their fundamental mechanisms differ considerably.

It’s no secret that AI and robots are already outperforming humans in various arenas, such as strategy games like chess and Go. Machines now handle tasks like piloting airplanes, driving cars, and even conducting surgeries. On the other hand, let’s consider a simple example: a child can quickly distinguish between an apple and an orange after a brief introduction. However, many machine-learning-algorithms require thousands of data sets to accomplish such a seemingly straightforward task.

Consider another instance: scientists in Germany have successfully trained a machine to replicate the styles of renowned artists like Van Gogh and Picasso, producing surprisingly convincing images. However, while the machine can mimic their work, this does not represent creativity.

The human brain is intricately linked with physical responses. For instance, emotions encompass more than just a mental state; they involve physiological and behavioral reactions that, in turn, influence brain function and thoughts. In 1997, when the IBM computer Deep Blue defeated the Russian world champion chess player Garry Kasparov, Kasparov’s emotional response was profound—he was devastated. While Deep Blue certainly managed to “outsmart” Kasparov, the computer was devoid of reaction or unique response.

When it comes to raw computational power, a machine can outperform a human. There is no doubt that machines will make our lives better and more enjoyable, but will machines be able to write the next original Oscar-winning movie script?, or will they go out in the rain to dance after a long, hot summer? AI will not replace humans, but someone with knowledge of AI will replace someone who does not.

The speed of innovation is outpacing how quickly humans can learn the new technologies. To bridge the gap between the classroom and rapid progression of technology and science in the outside world, we created Steam Inventors to better prepare students for the future job market, through afterschool and summer STEAM programs for students PreK-12. Find us at steaminventors.com.

HOO’s HEALTHY

Parvovirus B19 is a viral illness which affects humans only. The types of symptoms caused by Parvovirus B19 depend somewhat on the age and health of a person. Parvovirus B19 is a mild viral illness but it can sometimes cause complications for pregnant women and for anyone with health conditions such as anemia or weakened immune system.

In children, the first symptoms often include a runny nose, a fever, upset stomach and headache. It is also common for children infected by Parvovirus B19 to later develop a rash on the cheeks, which is also called Fifth disease. The rash can spread to other parts of the body, such as the chest, back, buttocks and the soles of the feet. On the buttocks, the rash may have a pink, lacy appearance. The rash may itch and typically disappears in 7 to 10 days. The rash is a late symptom, and Parvovirus B19 is contagious before the rash appears.

Adults may develop some of the same initial symptoms of Parvovirus B19 as children. However, most adults infected by Parvovirus B19 do not develop a rash. Instead, it is more common for adults infected by Parvovirus B19 to experience

What is:PARVOVIRUS

joint soreness that can last for days or weeks. For some adults, joint soreness is the only symptom they develop.

Parvovirus B19 is usually a mild illness and most often the treatment consists of relieving symptoms such as fever, itches and joint soreness. People who have a chronic condition, such as a compromised immune system or anemia, and experience complications, such as a low blood count, may require additional treatment. A pregnant woman who is infected with Parvovirus B19 should notify her healthcare provider since the virus can be passed to the unborn baby and may cause pregnancy complications.

Parvovirus B19 is spread through respiratory droplets or blood products. There is no vaccine to prevent Parvovirus B19 infections. Teaching your kids good handwashing technique and reminding them frequently to wash their hands helps prevent Parvovirus B19 infections as well as other illnesses that are spread through close contact.

SHAPED HOMEMADE SIDEWALK CHALK

For a day of outdoor fun or cute party favor, make this homemade sidewalk chalk recipe for kids that takes just three ingredients.

DIRECTIONS

SUPPLIES

• Plaster of Paris

1. Pour 1/3 cup water at a temperature of 40-50 degrees into each plastic cup.

2. Stir about 3-4 Tbsp. of a different color paint into each cup of water.

3. Mix 2/3 cup Plaster of Paris into each cup. The consistency will be similar to runny yogurt.

4. Pour into silicone mold and tap it gently to remove air bubbles.

5. Let set up for 24 hours. Setting them in the sun will lessen the time.

6. Pop the chalk out of the molds and make sure they feel dry all over.

7. You are ready to start coloring your favorite pictures on the sidewalk.

• Washable tempera paint, multi-colors (glow in the dark pigment powder can also be used)

• Plastic Spoons

• Plastic Cups

• Silicone Mold

COURTESY OF: dinedreamdiscover.com

learning

enhance vocabulary through HOO’s

Play is one of the best ways for children to learn language and literacy skills. Activities help them put thoughts into words and talk about what they are doing. As your baby handles objects and toys, describe to them how they feel, what they look like, and the sounds they make. Enhance your child’s play by adding new words and descriptions to the words they use as they play. Children learn new words best when they learn them in context or in a natural setting.

Playing:

s Teaches children how to think, imagine and express themselves.

s One of the primary ways young children learn about how the world works.

s Helps children practice putting their thoughts into words.

s Allows children to develop background information and learn problem-solving.

s Develop narrative skills through imaginary play.

s Act out real situations: restaurant, doctor’s office, car repair shop, store, etc.

Activities to do with your Baby:

s Use your face as a toy. Show your baby all the things your face can do (Peekaboo).

s Play with your baby’s hands and feet. Count toes and pretend to eat them up (This little piggy).

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s Let your baby use books like toys, as things to discover.

s Provide toys that can represent the characters in a favorite book to act out the book or extend the story in imaginative play.

Activities to do with your Toddler:

s Use everyday objects – kids can do a lot with a stick, box, or pots and pans.

s Play matching, sorting games, and puzzles for problem solving.

s Help your child see and feel different shapes as you play, i.e. say “The ball is round.”

s Provide open-ended toys, such as wooden blocks, that can spark imagination.

s Dramatic play: act out stories together; can use puppets and/or props

Join us Mondays in June and July from 10am-12pm at the Mildred L. Terry Public Library for Simple Steps Play. Our open playtime sessions offer the perfect opportunity for babies to develop crucial motor skills, ignite their imagination, and foster social interactions with other tiny adventurers. Encourage play and PLAY, PLAY, PLAY! Visit cvlga.org for more.

Anna Kay, Mildred • L. Terry Public Library

10 Ways to

The basic rule of budgeting is pretty straightforward:  Don’t spend more than you take in and cut out the nonessential spending first. But don’t overlook how you are spending or potentially wasting money on essential things like utilities. Here are a few easy ways to save on them:

TURN IT DOWN

Turning down the heat in the winter and the air conditioner in the summer is one of the fastest ways to see a significant savings on your electricity bill. Likewise, turning down the temperature on your hot water heater can make a difference as well.

 TURN IT OFF

Keeping lights and ceiling fans turned off when not in use is one of the best habits you can develop. Be sure too to fully turn off electronics that go into “standby” mode such as computers and printers, as they are still drawing electricity in standby mode. Unplugging appliances when not in use can help a lot too.

STOP PRE-RINSING

The truth is that most newer model dishwashers are designed specifically to remove and break down food particles from dishes, saving you money on water consumption.

AIR DRY

While it might take longer, air-drying your clothes, dishes, and even your hair as often as possible can cut a big chunk out of your power bill. Start by changing your dishwasher settings to air dry rather than heat dry. Then, whenever possible, line or flat dry your clothes. When you do need to use the dryer, use the auto sensor function.

 KEEP IT CLEAN

Be sure to clean your dryer lint screen before each use to help it run more efficiently. Likewise, keep your air filters clean and changed regularly in order to save energy on heating and cooling the house.

 BE STINGY

Look for ways to use less water in your everyday activities, including adjusting your washer to use the lowest water setting necessary, and not letting the water run while brushing your teeth or washing dishes by hand. Consider replacing shower heads with low-flow heads, and place a bottle filled with sand in your toilet tanks so that they use less water each flush.

 CHECK FOR LEAKS

Hidden water leaks can result in abnormally high water bills, and none of us want to pay for something we’re not even using! If you’re not sure

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why your bill is so high, do a leak test by checking your water meter right before bedtime and then as soon as you wake up. If the numbers changed, you could have a leak.

 ELIMINATE DRAFTS

Drafty windows can be a huge source of heat loss during winter months, so cover them up as much as possible. Use a winterization kit, or create your own with tape and plastic, sheets, or blankets and even heavy insulating curtains in front of the window. Also keep the damper closed on your fireplace when not in use.

ADD INSULATION

Poor insulation will make your home cold in the wintertime and unbearably hot in the summertime, adding hundreds of dollars to your utility bills in a year. It is worth the investment to add additional insulation to your attic and walls. Be sure to first eliminate any drafts, as insulation will not stop air flow.

GET EFFICIENT

When purchasing new appliances or fixtures, be sure to opt for the most energy-efficient styles available. This goes for large appliances such as refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, and washers and dryers, but also for things like toilets, shower heads, and faucets.

Ruth Soukup Living Well, Spending Less