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COVER STORY Tips to make traveling this summer a breeze, pg. 22 GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2022 1
Contents
Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD Rural Leader Magazine, LLC is a digital publication that highlights every day people doing extraordinary things nationally and abroad. www.RuralLeaderMag.com www.GetRuralLeaderMag.com
About Us
Launched in March 2014, Rural Leader Magazine, LLC is a digital publication with a mission to highlight every day people doing extraordinary things in business, education, music, community, art, sports, and leadership nationally and abroad. Rural Leader Magazine honors exemplary individuals on a variety of levels, such as the 20 under 20 Honors, 40 under 40 Honors, Best Small Town Restaurant, Small Town America’s 100 Most Influential People, the Scholars of Collegiate Distinction, Fifty under Fifty, and the Eagle Elite Club.— Reproduction in any manner, in whole or in part, in English, or other languages, is prohibited without written consent. Send editorial ideas to Kuanita Murphy, PhD, Editor-in-Chief editor@ruralleadermag.com Contact Us info@ruralleadermag.com editor@ruralleadermag.com ruralleadermagazine@gmail.com
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6 Ten years of wishes: How a popular family attraction helps grant wishes for kids facing critical illness
7 New survey: Road to entrepreneurial success may not be what you expect 9 Three tips for getting the most return on your college degree 11 Moved and bought a home? Here’s what you should know 11 Five Tips to Help you Find the Best All-Inclusive Resort for Your Next Vacation 13 Top 6 resources to help pay for college 15 Communication on the playground: How to make your play space more inclusive
17 Four essentials every backyard ‘Staycation Station’ needs this summer 18 Trading skepticism for support: How parents can support kids with thinking and learning differences 19 Five ways families can make the most of their outdoor space this summer COVER STORY 22 Tips to make traveling this summer a breeze 23 How to keep 1.4 billion bottles out of landfills every year 25 Enjoy summer celebrations without making a dent in your wallet
Tell us what you think about our publications, if you have a great idea for a story, or to just share. We may print your comments in Rural Leader Magazine. By sending us your comments, you’re giving permission to call you for an interview. Please be sure to include your name, address, email address, and phone number so we can reach you. Write to us at info@RuralLeaderMag.com—
Editor’s Note Dear Readers, Inside this issue, there are a number of great articles about leadership best practices, building positive self-esteem and productivity! We hope you enjoy this issue. As always, I hope you enjoy this issue and continue to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Thanks again for your continual support! Sincerely, Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
What you do matters. @RuralLeaderMag
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10 years of wishes: How a popular family attraction helps grant wishes for kids facing critical illness The pandemic has disrupted a lot of lives, and among those disruptions has been the removal of access to many forms of comfort and entertainment loved by the kids who need them the most. Six-yearold Joshua looked forward to playing arcade games with his brothers after each time he had to undergo another medical treatment for his blood and bone marrow cancer - until the pandemic hit. Then he no longer had that fun time to look forward to. As a wish kid for Make-A-Wish, Joshua knew exactly what he wanted. “I wish to have an arcade game,” Joshua said. And thanks to the popular “Eat, Drink, Play and Watch” venue Dave & Buster’s, Joshua’s wish was quickly granted. Dave & Buster’s arranged to actually bring Joshua’s favorite arcade game right to him, so he could enjoy spending time playing the game with his brothers safely at home. On his wish granting day, Joshua and his brothers were beyond excited about their favorite game being right there at their fingertips. Joshua and his parents even made an appearance on Good Day LA for World Wish Day to celebrate the granting of his wish. This is just one example of the thousands of life-changing wishes that have been granted to children with critical illnesses thanks to the partnership of Dave & Busters with Make-A-Wish. In fact, this year celebrates the milestone 10th anniversary of Dave & Buster’s continuing partnership with MakeA-Wish - marking a whopping $15 million in total giving since 2012, thanks to the generosity of the company, its employees and its customers. The company raises money every year to help grant wishes for children with life-threatening medical conditions, as well as hosting wish send-off parties, donating Power Cards for wish kids to play games at their venues and much more. Since 2012, Make-A-Wish has granted more than 150,000 wishes to children with critical illnesses, thanks in part to Dave & Buster’s and the more than $15 million they’ve raised to help support
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the mission. “We are thrilled to be celebrating the 10th anniversary of our partnership with Dave & Buster’s this year. Since 2012, Dave & Buster’s has given more than $15 million to help grant wishes to kids all across America,” said Richard Davis, president and CEO, Make-A-Wish America. “Their hard work to elevate the fundraising campaigns is directly reflected in the success we see each year. We are so grateful for their help in making an impact for so many wish kids and their families in communities throughout the United States.” And this partnership is not slowing down any time soon. This year, Dave & Buster’s will be launching new fundraising opportunities to help raise even more funds for Make-A-Wish in about 143 locations across the United States plus two locations in Canada. Dave & Buster’s also has new chef-crafted menu items that rotate seasonally, including a featured item in which $1 is donated to Make-A-Wish with every order. You can try the next featured Make-A-Wish menu item starting May 1 - Cinnamon Toast Crunch Fried Ice Cream! “Our team members and guests love knowing that Dave & Buster’s has made a difference in the lives of many wish kids over the past 10 years,” said Dave & Buster’s SVP/CMO Brandon Coleman III. “It’s a powerful purpose and we’re looking forward to continuing to grow our partnership with Make-A-Wish for years to come.” To learn more about giving opportunities near you, or to donate online to help kids with critical illnesses see their wishes granted, visit Wish.org.—
New survey: Road to entrepreneurial success may not be what you expect If you’ve dreamed of becoming an entrepreneur, you may think success is a straight road from one success to another until you’ve “made it.” But a recent survey reveals what small business owners have learned: Making mistakes is not the end of your entrepreneurial career. More likely, it provides the key to ultimate success. “Good business fundamentals and hard work, combined with planning, organization and surrounding yourself with supportive people who can offer an honest opinion, can be the essential drivers to success,” said John DeSimone, president of Herbalife Nutrition. “In business, just like in life, what matters most is seizing the opportunity to learn and improve.” Here are the biggest takeaways from the study: 1. Learn from your failures. Survey respondents said it took an average of two failed business ideas before they figured out what worked. The key is not to let failure discourage you but to allow your mistakes to help you learn, grow and succeed in future endeavors. Almost 90% of small business owners said they learned valuable lessons from each unsuccessful venture, and 38% advised entrepreneurs not to be afraid to make mistakes. 2. Prioritize effectively. Over 30% of survey respondents said learning to prioritize work is critical.
Many business owners make lists, then become overwhelmed by their workload - leading to procrastination. Beyond making lists, entrepreneurs must dig deeper to understand what tasks are most essential, and why. Ask each day: What tasks are essential for your business to succeed? If inventory is low, ordering goods is a top priority. When revenue is stalled, sales calls may be highest on your to-do list. Similarly, another top recommendation was to make a solid business plan (41%). 3. Be goal oriented. The importance of entrepreneurs learning to be more productive was high on the list of lessons learned. Over 40% of small business owners said productivity was critical to success. How do you achieve higher productivity? By first setting attainable goals. Unlike employees who have goals and deadlines set by others, entrepreneurs need to learn how to set attainable goals for themselves to be more productive - then tackle them, one step at a time. 4. Get organized. When small business owners were asked what advice they’d give someone just starting out, a top tip was to get and stay organized (42%). What does that mean? Organization entails both ordering your things (files, equipment) and structuring your time: GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2022 7
* Documents should be clearly labeled and easy to access, whether stored digitally or on your desk. * Color-code items - for example, red for urgent, blue for today and yellow for later completion - to help identify hot activities. * Organize your workday by making a list of tasks and prioritizing those to be completed first. * Set a timer to dedicate yourself to each task before taking a break. Knowing you have time constraints - and something to look forward to - can help you complete tasks faster. 5. Keep learning. Entrepreneurs believe ongoing learning is essential for innovating and developing new ideas. Nearly one-third (29%) of them believe continuing education is the secret sauce that helps business owners stay on top of their game. How can you fit learning into your busy schedule? * Read articles and attend virtual events during breaks or evenings, thanks to content being available
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on demand. * Review news stories, industry blogs and research to help you brainstorm new ideas to keep you and your business fresh. * Keep a “spark list” handy, where you can jot down thoughts and ideas to help you grow. The survey, commissioned by Herbalife Nutrition and conducted by OnePoll, asked small business owners and employees to share lessons they’ve learned through workplace mishaps - and how those lessons shaped their entrepreneurial journey. Insights from 8,000 small business owners and employees across 15 countries, including 2,000 Americans (1,000 small business owners and 1,000 employees with 10 years or more of experience), can teach a great deal about what it takes to succeed as an entrepreneur. Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey? Visit IAmHerbalifeNutrition.com to learn how.—
Three tips for getting the most return on your college degree With the rising cost of education, you might be thinking, is college really worth the investment? If you’re heading to college soon and trying to figure out what your ideal degree will net you, here are a few considerations to keep in mind. Research majors and corresponding career opportunities. A recent study by the Federal Reserve analyzed college majors that offer the most earning potential after graduation. Chemical engineering, aerospace engineering and computer engineering topped the list of degrees with the highest salaries for college graduates. Others near the top of the list include pharmacy, computer science, business analytics and finance. “When deciding on your college major, don’t solely focus on careers and salary. Take into consideration what you’re most passionate about,” said Brittany Mills, assistant manager of education lending at Navy Federal Credit Union. “Keep in mind that your interests may change throughout school, so be flexible and open to expanding the skills you want to build
after graduation.” Additionally, some lenders provide online job search training and resources as a student loan benefit. “For example, all Navy Federal student loan borrowers have access to a Career Assistance Program, which allows them to search for jobs, get interviewing tips and assistance building a resume and much more,” said Mills. Weigh benefits of the type of school and hybrid vs. in-person learning The College Board reported that tuition and fees was $10,740 for in-state students at four-year public colleges, compared to $38,070 for students at fouryear private colleges in the 2021-22 academic year. By attending school in-state, you’ll save on transportation, as well as room and board if you live at home. But if you prefer to get the college experience away from home, an out-of-state college may be a good choice. Community colleges and trade schools also provide hands-on training and certificate proGetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2022 9
grams for different skilled careers, if that’s of interest to you. Many schools are now also offering the option to attend school virtually or a hybrid environment (combination of in-person and virtual learning). As these options can save you money on your overall education expenses, be sure to factor them into your decision. Make a list of pros and cons to determine which kind of school best fits your budget and lifestyle. Explore financial aid to lower college costs. “Covering college looks very different for everyone, so take time to understand the types of financing in the market and how to apply for them,” said Mills. Student loans are just one of several options to choose from when deciding how to pay for college. Federal student loans are funded through the U.S. Department of Education and require you to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Private student loans are available through a bank or credit union, and are based on your creditworthiness. Private loans can be a great tool to fulfill any unmet funding needs after you’ve received financial aid through federal loans, grants, scholarships or the Post-9/11 GI Bill.
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“We provide loans for a semester or the entire academic year up to the school-certified cost of attendance,” added Mills. “We also offer in-school repayment options and a 0.25% interest rate reduction for setting up automatic payments to help reduce overall loan costs.” In the long run, exploring your passions and potential career possibilities will give you a solid plan for determining whether college is the best investment for you and your finances. Navy Federal Credit Union is federally insured by NCUA.—
Moved and bought a home? Here’s what you should know Much of the country is still in the middle of a redhot real estate market. Home values are rising due to high demand and first-time homebuyers should be aware of how the value of their home impacts the way their premiums are calculated. Location and structure type are two examples of considerations that can affect home insurance premiums, but so do the features of the home, policy limits, and, in some states, even a homeowner’s personal finances. Policyholders should be aware of the variables that are factored into their insurance coverage. Location. Location is perhaps the largest component when it comes to the costs of your insurance premium since it deals with exposure and hazard to the home’s physical structure. The type of home you have, where you live and the state or city in which you reside can drastically affect how much you will pay. In fact, location is such a primary factor that coverage in certain areas may require special policies.
For example, many homeowners moved from the city to the country during the pandemic and found that they now live in wildfire- or flood-prone areas and that additional coverage is needed due to environmental risk factors not covered under available homeowners insurance policies in the area. Homeowners living in or near large urban areas may find that their premiums cost more due to the higher cost for construction or repairs. Take a close look at what factors are impacting the cost of your home insurance rate. The size of your home, regional vulnerability to natural disasters, and different building material options like brick or wood and their relationship to the environment may determine your premium’s cost. Replacement cost. The more your home costs to replace, the more you will need in coverage to insure it. Continued on page 12 GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2022 11
“Replacement cost is a measure of the amount it would cost to replace or rebuild your home after a loss with a similar home of like kind and quality,” said Bonnie Lee, Mercury Insurance vice president of property claims. “This amount takes into account factors such as the square footage of your home, the local construction costs per square foot, and construction details unique to your home.” While replacement costs refer to the cost of rebuilding a house to the same standard as before, it does not include features such as the neighborhood, amenities, and even proximity to schools which can affect a property’s attractiveness. “Replacement costs and market value are often used interchangeably, but they are two completely different concepts. Market value accounts for how the neighborhood and its conveniences impact a property’s attractiveness to buyers, while replacement costs only refers to the expense of rebuilding a home after a loss,” Lee said.
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Deductible. The insurance deductible is one of the most important parts of a homeowners policy and plays a significant role when determining insurance premiums. The deductible is the amount of money a policyholder must pay before the policy pays out for repairs or a loss. For example, if covered damage to your home costs $20,000 and your deductible is $5,000, you would be responsible for the first $5,000 in damages and your insurance company would pay the remaining $15,000. Homeowners that pay a higher deductible may decrease the cost of their premiums, but may have to pay more out of pocket when filing a claim. Home insurance premiums are calculated based on a number of factors that homeowners should take into consideration when researching the best coverage for their needs at a reasonable cost.—
Top 6 resources to help pay for college If your child is college bound, you probably have questions - including how to pay for their higher education. What may surprise you is how many different sources you’ll draw from to cover tuition, room and board - plus expenses like books, fees, travel and more. A recent study revealed over a dozen funding sources parents used to help fund their kids’ education. According to the College Ave Student Loans survey, 97% of parents said they’re currently helping - or planning to help - their child pay for college. Here are the most common ways to cover the biggest investment you’ll make in your child’s future. 1. The FAFSA. The first step to obtaining financial aid is filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at FAFSA.gov. Filing the FAFSA as early as possible each year is crucial, as some aid is first come, first served. Information you provide on the FAFSA determines your child’s eligibility for certain grants, work-study, federal student loans and more. 2. Scholarships and grants. In the survey, 70% of parents reported their children were using scholarships or grants to help pay for their education. How do you tap into this vital source of funds? First, by
filling out the FAFSA to access government-funded grants or school-based scholarships. However, many scholarships are available from community organizations, your home state or online sources. Your child should ask their high school guidance counselor and their college’s financial aid office about other opportunities. Then check out websites like Fastweb, Cappex and College Board’s Big Future. Not all opportunities are scholastic in nature; many are based on things like extracurricular interests, where you’re from or even chance. For example, you can apply for $1,000 monthly scholarship sweepstakes at CollegeAve.com. Like scholarships, grants do not need to be repaid. Some, like government-funded need-based Pell Grants, will be made available to you by filing your FAFSA. Others may be state-based, so visit your state’s Department of Education website. 3. Savings and income. In the College Ave survey, 62% of parents cited regular savings and income as funding sources for their child’s education, with 40% mentioning their 529 savings plan. Use the time now to review your budget and identify where you may find extra money to put toward college expenses. You GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2022 13
may also find that you don’t have as much flexibility in the budget. Have a candid conversation with your child now about financial concerns which can affect school choice and whether the student must help contribute to their education. 4. Student contributions. Some students may have money saved from working during high school that can help pay for expenses. For many students, holding a part-time job while in college will also help cover costs. Some students also consider working full-time jobs over the summer. As they get older, your child may also look for paid internships in their career field. The study found that 37% of families drew from a student’s job to help with finances. Many students qualify for part-time work-study campus jobs by filing the FAFSA. 5. Federal student loans. Over half (55%) of parents surveyed said student loans helped pay for their child’s education. How do you qualify for a federal student loan? You guessed it: the FAFSA. “Take out federal loans in the student’s name first, as these come with low fixed interest rates and unique benefits, like flexible, income-based repayment plans,” said student loan expert Mark Kantrowitz. “But federal student loans have annual limits, so
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you may need additional funds if there’s a gap between what you can borrow and your total cost.” 6. Private loans. Private student loans can help bridge the gap between financial aid your family receives and the amount you need to cover remaining expenses. Use the student loan calculator at CollegeAve.com to look at possible monthly payment, private loan interest rates, and repayment terms. You may also consider private parent loans, if you have strong credit and are able to take on the debt. Private parent loans such as those at College Ave, offer a choice of fixed and variable rates and no origination fees, unlike federal parent PLUS loan options. “When looking for a lender, ask questions about the terms of the loan,” said Joe DePaulo, co-founder and CEO of College Ave Student Loans. “Make sure you understand everything from the interest rate to the terms of repayment, so you can get the best option for your family.” For more information and tips about financing your child’s college education, visit CollegeAveStudentLoans.com.—
Communication on the playground: How to make your play space more inclusive Playground design has been evolving to become more inclusive and inviting for all children - as well as caregivers - of differing abilities. But developing innovative playgrounds that benefit everyone requires more than an understanding of the necessary equipment and environmental considerations to allow for the appropriate space and accessibility. It also takes knowledge and experience of what children need on all levels: physically, emotionally and cognitively. The importance of play. Play is so crucial for the development of children that the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) considers it to be an important component of developmentally appropriate teaching practice. In addition, the American Academy of Pediatrics issues guidelines to help pediatricians encourage play, and the United Nations High Commission on Human Rights has even declared play to be a fundamental right of all children. Parents agree. A nationwide parent survey on inclusive play conducted by Landscape Structures Inc. revealed how much perceptions have changed. Nearly three-fourths (74%) of parents believe it is important that children have the opportunity to play with a variety of children, including those with disabilities. With this goal in mind, Landscape Structures has
drawn on the expertise of child development professionals to explore new avenues that allow for all children to fully participate in play together. The work of the company has included not just play structures and activities that are accessible to children with physical disabilities, but also those who may have sight or hearing impairment, intellectual disabilities such as Down syndrome and developmental disabilities like autism. “We draw from the experience of inclusive play experts as well as partners like the STAR Institute for Sensory Processing, passionate parents, therapists and kids,” said Jill Moore, inclusive play specialist at Landscape Structures. “As a wheelchair user myself, I understand how vital it is for playgrounds to be truly inclusive for all children, as well as for family members and caregivers who also use these crucial spaces for developing children.” Inclusive playgrounds require features such as: * Physical play structures where children of differing abilities can challenge themselves, creating a sense of mastery and achievement * Unitary surfacing amenable to wheelchairs and other mobility devices * Extra-wide pathways and ramps * Stimulating activities to engage children on many levels GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2022 15
* Imaginary play areas * Tactile, visual and auditory stimulation plus calming sensory activities using sand or water, artwork and/or music * Social activities for several children, plus smaller spaces for just a few * Quiet spaces for children needing quiet time and limited social interaction A new frontier in playground innovation: Communication For children who are unable to communicate verbally, such as early language learners, children with developmental delays, and those who are speech-challenged - or who may speak other languages - their inability to share ideas, feelings and needs can be frustrating and may keep them from socializing with other children. With this need in mind, Landscape Structures has created a new Symbol Communication Sign to be placed at the entrance to play areas, so every child, family member and caregiver can use them to help further their expression, interaction and communication. The Symbol Communication Sign is a large board with pictures to represent nouns and pronouns,
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verbs, feelings, activities, playground events, letters and numbers. The graphics are clear, universally understandable and easy to use, with industry-standard colors representing different types of words. These pictures and symbols help non-verbal, speech-challenged and early-learning individuals communicate with others. Creation of the board’s design was a team effort involving Landscape Structures staff as well as outside experts like speech-language pathologist Karen B. Haines and occupational therapist Ingrid M. Kanics. “With guidance from experts in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Inclusive Design, we use pictures and symbols as an effective way for non-verbal, speech-challenged and early-learning individuals to communicate with friends and caregivers alike,” said Moore. “This new element helps create a more fully inclusive playground that allows everyone to be able to better communicate with one another, interact with each other and play together.” Learn more about the Symbol Communication Sign and other inclusive play possibilities for your community, school or neighborhood at PlayLSI. com.—
Four essentials every backyard ‘Staycation Station’ needs this summer Picture this: You’re floating in the pool, enjoying some relief from the heat while lunch is sizzling on the grill. You hear soft music, the gentle sound of sprinklers splashing and your kids getting along (finally). You could swear you’re on a vacation miles away from home but believe it or not, you can have it all in your own backyard. With gas prices expected to remain high throughout the summer, many people are looking to spend their time off closer to home. Therefore, it’s important to take all the necessary steps to turn your home into a “Staycation Station” this season. Big Lots has prepared an outdoor fun guide to make your backyard the envy of the neighborhood at a fraction of the price of a beach trip. Here’s what you’ll need: 1. A place to stay cool. No in-ground pool? No problem. You’ll need something refreshing to soak in this summer, and all the better if it’s only temporary. Try a quick-set portable pool for adults to float and swim in and a smaller one with interactive elements like a bounce house or fountains to make a big splash with the youngest members of your family. And lest we forget our furry friends, a shallow, inflatable $15 dog pool will help your pets handle the heat. 2. Fashionable, fun floats and accessories. Don’t forget to purchase enough floats to go around. Now-
adays you can find one of the pineapple, flamingo, alligator and unicorn variety for around $21. Other pool toys to consider are inflatable ones like floating basketball hoops, volleyball nets and beach balls, and sinking rings, sharks or mermaids. 3. Gear for competitive water battles. Dry land also holds potential for loads of water fun. Stock up on some rapid-filling water balloons and host an impromptu battle where the winning team gets full bragging rights. Another great way to cool off without a pool is on a water slide. Gone are the days of sliding down a wet tarp; now there are affordable (around $24!) water slides that have sprinkler fountains, multiple sliding lanes for races, and even one with a water balloon pit at the end. 4. A place to gather and lounge. Aim for a full staycation experience by setting up a comfy space to hang out while you grill out all day long. A cooler packed with drinks next to some inviting chaise loungers or a full patio set surrounding a fire pit will take your backyard summer vacation to the next level. These “Staycation Station” essentials and a variety of other surprising summertime finds can be found at low prices at your neighborhood Big Lots or on biglots.com.— GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2022 17
Trading skepticism for support: How parents can support kids with thinking and learning differences
One in five kids - nearly 70 million Americans - have learning or thinking differences (LTDs), like ADHD or dyslexia. While LTDs are common among families, friends, neighbors and peers, new research from Understood.org, a guide and resource for people with LTDs, finds that there are still harmful stigmas associated with them - stigmas that often negatively impact children’s mental health and prevent parents from taking steps to get their child proper support. According to Understood.org’s “Neurodiversity and Stigma Study,” 90% of parents believe there are children with LTDs, yet more than half (55%) of those with neurodivergent children say they are afraid to tell others about their child’s LTD because of associated biases. Additionally, 69% of parents of kids with LTDs say that these stigmas negatively impact their child’s mental well-being. This is why Understood launched the “Be the Reason” campaign - to increase awareness and engagement of parents around neurodiversity. Parents can get involved by participating in the #YouCanBeTheReason social media challenge, led by social media influencers the Holderness Family, and share how they’ve been the reason their child thrives. The campaign also includes a short film and stories from the perspectives of children with LTDs, as well as an activity kit to help parents initiate conversations with 18 RuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2022
their children. “When parents engage with their kids around their emotional and academic challenges, particularly if they believe the challenges may be related to a learning difference, it can be incredibly powerful,” said Dr. Andy Kahn, a licensed psychologist and Understood expert specializing in LTDs. “Parent support has an enormous impact on a child’s ability to thrive, and the ‘Be the Reason’ campaign is a step to provide parents with tools to help them and their kids get there.” If your child has or may have a learning or thinking difference, here are some important steps you can take, according to Kahn and Understood: 1) Talk with your child. The most important step is engaging with your child and making sure they know you’re ready to help. To get a better sense of the challenges they’re experiencing, try asking open-ended questions like: “What made you laugh today? What was the peak and pit of your day?” These questions will give you a better sense of what your child is feeling and why. You can also use a feelings wheel, which helps kids make connections between feelings, body sensations and words, and helps kids express their emotions. 2) Engage teachers and caregivers. Proactively engaging with your child’s teachers and other caregivers, such as pediatricians, coaches and tutors, will help you get a 360-degree view of what your child
may be experiencing at home, school and in other activities. These conversations also allow for collaboration with other caregivers to ensure your child gets appropriate support. There are many accommodations that can be made at school - like additional time for tasks or sensory tools - to support your child’s emotional and academic development. 3) Practice self-calming strategies. LTDs affect your child academically, emotionally and socially. Things like deep breathing, stretching and yoga can help kids calm their bodies, become more aware of how they feel and manage their emotions.
In moments of high stress, help your child pause and “scan” their body from head to toe, checking for signs of tension, pain or discomfort. Being able to identify and acknowledge the physical effects of stress and sadness is a first step to releasing them. If you’re a parent looking for more tips and resources, visit the “Be the Reason” campaign website, and be sure to participate in the #YouCanBeTheReason social media challenge across TikTok, Instagram and Facebook. To learn more about symptoms of LTDs, visit understood.org/take-note.—
5 ways families can make the most of their outdoor space this summer Are your kids getting enough time outside? A survey commissioned by the makers of Claritin® of 5,000 American parents of children aged 5-13 found that 81% agreed their children are excited to be outside - yet 55% are worried their kids aren’t spending enough time outside. Getting outside isn’t just good for your kids’ mental and physical health - it’s an excellent way for families to bond and create memories together. When surveyed, 78% of parents said that some of their favorite childhood memories are of playing outside, with 66% revealing they want to recreate those memories with their children.
While more than half (55%) of parents admit their kids spend more time outside now than pre-pandemic times, 72% acknowledge they’d spend more time outside if their personal outdoor space was more exciting. Not sure where to start? The Outsideologist Project, from the makers of Claritin®, offers many ideas to encourage children to spend more time playing outside - whether it’s in your own backyard, local park, or anywhere in between. Below are five tips on how you can make your outdoor space more exciting and engaging with fun activities the whole family will enjoy. GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2022 19
1. Sports . What are your fondest memories of playing sports - catch, kicking around a soccer ball or shooting hoops with your parents? Many kids develop a passion for sports from their parents. You can nurture their interests by regularly playing different sports with them. While you may not have enough people to play teams, you can teach your kids the fundamentals and help improve their skills. Turn your lawn, backyard, or even the park into a mini training camp. For example, if your children are interested in soccer, you can designate sections of the yard or field for different skills, like dribbling around cones, scoring a goal and passing the ball. 2. Games. There are plenty of backyard games your kids can enjoy this summer and beyond. The triedand-true classics like tag, water balloon fights and hide and seek are always a hit, but you can also try fun creative games as well. If your children like to play pretend, you can make their day by creating a treasure hunt so your little pirates can go exploring. Hide a few small prizes in your backyard, draw up a map with clues or challenges and set your kids off on a great adventure. You can also create a backyard obstacle course with cones, pool noodles, hula hoops or any other materials you may have. Bend the pool noodles or cardboard boxes to make tunnels or hurdles, and place hula hoops, or use chalk to create hopscotch-like obstacles. If you have slides, incorporate those into the course for more challenging obstacles. 3. Gardening. It’s never too early to get children involved in gardening. If you’re an experienced gardener or a hobbyist, you already have a wealth of knowledge to pass on to your kids. Teach them which plants grow best in which seasons, show them the different parts of a plant or flower and explain how they grow and thrive. If you grow your own fruits and vegetables, you can teach your children how to plant and tend these
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crops. Into flowers or herbs? Teach your kids how to identify them and explain their different uses. Don’t have a green thumb? Depending on your kids’ ages, do some research and have an interactive science lesson on photosynthesis, the plant lifecycle or how the outdoors engages all five senses. 4. Art. Arts and crafts aren’t just indoor activities. You can have your child look for natural materials in your backyard to incorporate into their art projects. For example, they can paint a rock, make an owl sculpture out of a pinecone or press flowers to use as decorations for bookmarks or journals. Best of all, creating art outside means there is no mess inside your home and makes for an easy cleanup. 5. Camping. No list of outdoor recreation would be complete without camping. You don’t need to plan for a long weekend at a state park to enjoy camping. Simply set up a tent in your backyard, break out the sleeping bags and make sure you have bug spray and sunscreen. If you don’t have a tent, grab some blankets and get creative! You can make an outdoor fort or just relax and do some stargazing. “Getting outside is essential to children’s overall well-being,” said Claritin spokesperson Catherine Vennat. “That’s why The Outsideologist Project is dedicated to providing parents/guardians with fun and engaging activities for their own little adventurers.” For more ideas and inspiration on making the most of your outdoor space, including a fun expert-guided curriculum of activities to do with your kids this summer, follow @outsideologistproject on Instagram and Facebook. To learn more about the project, visit Claritin.com/The-Outsideologist-Project.—
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COVER STORY
Tips to make traveling this summer a breeze Sponsored by Chase United It’s no surprise that after a pause in travel for many over the last few years, people are craving new travel experiences now more than ever. In fact, according to The Vacationer, more than 80% of American adults intend to travel this summer. The rise in travel demand makes planning ahead critical to ensuring your trip runs as smoothly as possible. The first step should be figuring out the type of trip you want to take and dates you’re looking to travel. From there, finding the best flights and hotels, mapping out your itinerary, and creating packing lists will ensure you’re prepared to have the best experience. Consider these planning tips to make your summer vacation a breeze. Fly and rest with the best!. Once you’ve decided on your travel dates and vacation location, the next step is booking the best flight and accommodations within your budget. To maximize options and reward opportunities, consider applying for a travel rewards credit card. A great choice is the United ClubSM Infinite Card, where new cardmembers can currently earn 100,000 United MileagePlus® Miles after spending $5,000 on qualifying purchases within the first three months of opening an account. Cardmembers earn miles for any United purchase and have exclusive membership to United Clubs across the world. To make your airport experience that much sweeter, cardmembers also receive 25% back as a statement credit on premium drink purchases made in United Clubs with their United Card. United Club Cardmembers also receive complimentary benefits at luxury hotels and resorts worldwide and up to $75 in statement credits as reimbursement for IHG® Hotels and Resorts purchases charged to the card
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through Dec. 31, 2022. Map out your itinerary . Whether it be a solo adventure trip, a family vacation or a friends’ getaway, having a planned itinerary can make your travel experience more fun and memorable. A flexible schedule of activities and restaurants can relieve the burden of determining what to do and where to go upon arrival. In fact, some travel rewards cards will reward you for indulging in a special meal, shopping or even exploring a new local attraction. For example, United Club Cardmembers earn 2 miles per dollar spent on dining and travel. Packing lists are key! A common saying all travelers should keep in mind is: ‘Better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.’ Packing mishaps can result in a minor inconvenience or cause a large disruption to your vacation. However, creating detailed packing lists can prevent any mishaps and ensure you don’t find yourself without the essentials. Not sure where to start? Luckily, there are a variety of guides on the internet and apps on your phone that can help. As summer approaches, many of us are eager to go out and explore the open world again. By incorporating these tips on your next trip and planning ahead, you’ll be able to focus on your summer trip and what really counts - making new memories! Accounts subject to credit approval. Restrictions and limitations apply. Offer subject to change. Cards are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.—
How to keep 1.4 billion bottles out of landfills every year
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No one enjoys seeing plastic floating in lakes and streams. No one likes seeing it crushed and filthy on the roadside. Almost everywhere it ends up, plastic waste is unwelcome. Even at the recycling plant. The EPA reports less than 10% of plastics in the United States get recycled. Some plastics get incinerated, but the majority winds up in a landfill. Frustratingly, the bulk of this is from single-use items that were destined, from the start, to be wasted. Case in point: Liquid hand soap bottles. According to statista.com, more than 300 million U.S. consumers use liquid hand soap. Estimates of the number of discarded bottles this results in vary. Some place it around 600 million a year. Others estimate as high as 1.4 billion. Regardless, the result is thousands upon thousands of pounds of discarded plastic. “We’ve found that most people are trying to be responsible and recycle,” says Christopher Gill, vice president of eco-friendly soap tablet brand Nature Lake. “Unfortunately, once those plastic bottles have been made, they’re unlikely to get through the recycling process and actually be repurposed.” Consumer choices can make a difference. The best way to keep 1.4 billion plastic dispenser bottles out of landfills is to not make them in the first place. Consumers have power around this, particularly when purchasing habits change en masse. But selection and availability are key to making change possible. Fortunately, there are multiple high-quality, easyto-access alternatives available for liquid hand soap. Option 1: Tablet-based liquid hand soap. This might be surprising, but the truth is, you don’t need to give up liquid hand soap to stop consuming it in single-use plastic bottles. The Nature Lake foaming hand soap kit includes two reusable glass dispenser bottles with non-slip silicone sleeves and four tablets. To turn a tablet into soap, you simply fill the bottle with warm water and drop the tablet in. In minutes you have a full bottle of hand soap with only a small pouch to discard.
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“Tablet-based products require less fuel to ship, take up less storage space and never result in a wasted plastic bottle,” Gill explains. “We truly believe tablets are the future of sustainable personal care and cleaning.” Option 2: Artisan soap bars. Solid artisan soap bars are a fun option, in part because the sky’s the limit on colors and scents. From neon pink cupcake shapes to sparkly bars with elaborate motifs, if you can think it, you can probably find an artisan selling it. Of course, the drawback to artisan soap bars is availability. It can be tricky to find a soap maker with a formula you like and your desired scent or design consistently in stock. You’ll also want to invest in a soap dish, unless you like chasing down runaway bars. Option 3: Bulk bar soap. For those who like it old school, bulk bar soap is another option. These mass-manufactured bars are inexpensive and readily available. However, their cardboard boxes often come sealed with plastic, which hurts their sustainability case. Pro tip: before committing to a bulk pack of 12 or 24 bars, try buying just one bar to be sure you’re happy with how the formula feels and smells. That way you’re not stuck with a year’s supply of soap you don’t like. Single-use plastic can be a thing of the past. It’s encouraging to see how many eco-friendly and affordable alternatives to disposable bottles of liquid hand soap are available. As movement toward conscientious, earth-friendly consumption grows, it seems more than plausible that tablet-based hand soap could be the way of the future. How to keep 1.4 billion bottles out of landfills every year.—
Enjoy summer celebrations without making a dent in your wallet
As summer approaches, so does celebration season, which can mean gathering with friends and family for graduation parties, a fun-filled day celebrating the father figure in your life or BBQs and pool parties to kick off the warmer weather. Shopping for the tastiest food, thoughtful gifts and festive party decor are essential to entertaining, but all those purchases can make a dent in your wallet. Here are some tips on how to be a savvy spender while not compromising on fun as you celebrate summer. Take advantage of your credit card rewards. It’s never too early to start planning ways to celebrate the father figure in your life. Finding a perfect gift or experience that will make them smile is a great way to say thank you and show your appreciation. Be extra savvy with your gift-giving by researching gift guides early on to find special sales or deals for the occasion, make your own gift or help dad with an at-home task he has been meaning to tackle. Another great way to save is researching seasonal rewards your credit card offers. Whether you are looking to spruce up your wardrobe or go for a nice dinner with the whole family, Chase Freedom cardmembers have the opportunity to take advantage of limited-time deals during the entire month of May with Chase Freedom’s Month Of More. Freedom cardmembers can earn at least 5% bonus cash back when shopping through Shop with Chase, 10% total cash back on Chase Dining pre-paid reservations or takeout through Ultimate Rewards, 10% extra value when redeeming for Apple products, and will save 10% when redeeming for select popular gift cards. Include friends & family to help in the planning and prep. Planning summer celebrations and hosting graduation and family parties can be stressful and costly with so many details to account for. Whether
crafting the invite list, buying decorations, picking out a gift to planning out the menu, you don’t have to feel as if it is all sitting on your shoulders. One way to cut costs can be by getting creative with DIY decor - make an afternoon out of it and invite friends to come over, bring their craft supplies and create fun decorations as a team. Not only will it add excitement for the upcoming celebration but save your wallet as well. Also consider asking guests to bring a dish: making your event a potluck will ease the financial burden of feeding a large group and allows your guests to feel like they contributed to the fun. Seek out free summer fun options. Kick off the “start of the summer” by spending quality time with your loved ones. Whether you’re by the beach or hosting an annual BBQ, summer is all about getting outside and celebrating downtime from the daily school or work grind, but that doesn’t mean you need to break the bank with expensive activities and parties. Enjoy the warmer weather by exploring local and state parks, looking for “free days” at a nearby museum, spend a day doing DIY arts and crafts, grabbing ice cream at home, or try out a weekend of camping with friends and family. No matter how you plan to gear up for some much-needed time outside, consider stocking up on all your summer essentials while earning cash back and getting more value for your cash back rewards with Chase Freedom’s Month of More offers. Celebration season can be hectic and expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Follow these tips and be a savvy spender, so you can entertain and have fun with less stress and a little extra money in your pocket this season.— GetRuralLeaderMag.com | JUNE 2022 25
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