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18 n Dear Teacher by Peggy Gisler & Marge Eberts
22 n Pick of the Literature by Dr. Donna Phillips
28 n Family Travel Have a Wild Time at Hidden Valley Animal Adventure! by Deborah Williams
42 n Wellness Choices
Have a Great School Year!
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Educational Board Games
The first day of school is just around the corner. If you are worried that your child has experienced some learning loss over the summer, here are some fun, educational board games you can play as a family to get those brain cells fired up before heading back to the classroom
SMATH
SMATH is the game that makes math fun! Similar to Scrabble, players take turns using the tiles in their racks to build their own crossword style equations. For beginners, start off with addition and subtraction. For the math whiz in the family, step it up to multiplication and division. Each tile has a point value that is earned once it is played. The player with the most points at the end of the game wins! For ages 6 and up, 2-4 players. (Amazon, $20.67)
Yahtzee Words
This variation of the classic dice game challenges players to roll, spell, and score! Numbers are out and letters are in with Yahtzee Words. Players roll seven dice and spell words with the letters they’ve rolled. Not only will you need to make 2 to 6 letter words, but you’ll also need to roll all consonants, all vowels, and multiple words. Use all seven dice to spell a seven-letter word in a single roll to get the EXTREMELY rare Yahtzee! For ages 8 and up, 2+ players. (Amazon, $14.99)
Trivial Pursuit Family Edition
If you grew up in the 1980s, chances are that your family owned at least one edition of Trivial Pursuit — the board game that Time Magazine called “the biggest phenomenon in game history.” Get the family together for this edition of brain-teasing questions that is appropriate for ages 8+. Containing 1,200 questions (600 for adults, 600 for kids), family members will learn and laugh as they test their smarts. (Amazon, $16.99)
Race Across the USA
In this state-hopping adventure game from Scholastic, players embark on an exciting educational journey exploring the diverse geography of our country. Visit six states, answer geographic questions, and race back to your home state to claim victory! The game contains questions tailored to different grade levels, allowing children of a variety of ages to play together on an even field. For ages 8 and up, 2-4 players. (Amazon, $25.47)
EPIC HOSTS SEVENTH ANNUAL BABY & TODDLER EXPO AT THE BUFFALO MUSEUM OF SCIENCE
EPIC - Every Person Influences Children is excited to announce its Seventh Annual Baby & Toddler Expo, happening on Saturday, September 28th, 2024, from 10:00am to 2:00pm at the Buffalo Museum of Science.
This year’s Expo will feature the popular Touch-A-Truck event, sponsored by the Buffalo Fire Department, where children can explore fire trucks and other emergency vehicles, offering a unique, hands-on experience.
The Expo will also provide a wide range of resources and activities focused on child safety, health, and development. In addition to the resources, there will be raffles and free giveaways throughout the event, making it a day full of fun and valuable information for families.
“Our goal is to empower parents, soon-to-be parents, and caregivers with the knowledge they need to support their children’s wellbeing,” said Reneé Perry, Director of Parenting, at EPIC. “We’re excited to partner with the Buffalo Museum of Science, the Buffalo Fire Department and other community organizations to make this year’s Baby Expo an incredible event.”
For nearly 44 years, EPIC has worked to strengthen families and build community to raise children who make a positive impact in the world. Through parenting education, family engagement, youth services and professional development, EPIC strives to create a world where every child has a strong start and a promising future.
For more information about EPIC, or to register for the Baby & Toddler Expo, please visit www. epicforchildren.org or call 716-3324130.
— by Pam Molnar
AThe 's of a Successful School Year
successful school year is as easy as learning your ABCs. Check out these 26 simple tips for a happy and healthy school year.
Accept new challenges — Push your child to go outside of his comfort zone. Encourage him to try activities, learn new sports and make new friends.
B
reakfast — We all know breakfast is an important meal. If your child does not have time for a sit-down breakfast, provide on-the-go breakfast foods like egg bites, fruit, or protein bars.
C
hores — Give your child a few jobs that you expect done each day before or after school such as making her bed or feeding the dog. A little bit of responsibility will go a long way.
Downtime — Be sure to add free time to their schedule. These are the times your child can relax on the couch, play video games or have a last-minute pickup game with friends in the neighborhood.
E
xercise — Balance your child’s sedentary school day with plenty of exercise outside after school. Combine unstructured play with friends with a more structured team practice.
F
riends — Encourage your child to invite new friends over so you can get to know the person your child is spending time with. It is a great opportunity to meet the friend’s parents, too.
G
rab and Go Snacks — Your child will be hungry after school. Instead of grabbing a handful of cookies, provide them with pre-bagged healthy snacks that won’t interfere with the dinner hour. Think veggies and dip or hummus and crackers.
Help your child, but don’t do it for him — We want our children to succeed, but they will never learn if we do it for them. It is okay to give suggestions, but remember that it is their name on the paper.
Illness — It’s back to school and back to a room full of germs. Stock your child’s backpack or desk with tissues and hand sanitizer. Remind them to wash their hands and to sneeze into their arm.
Join — Encourage your child to join activities at school. It gives them a sense of belonging and they will be more than just another face in the crowd.
Keep Trying — It is hard to see your child not get the role, position, or grade that he hoped for. Encourage your child to pick himself back up and try again. Disappointment builds character and gives them the tools to succeed.
L
imitations — Only you know your child’s limitations. While being a part of extracurricular activities is important, sometimes they are overwhelming. It’s okay to say no to invitations and extra practice when you see your child is overwhelmed.
Be
Mindful of Others’ Feelings — Think before you say it and apologize if it comes out wrong. Practice “the more the merrier” when making plans and include new friends in your group.
Nutrition — Plan healthy meals ahead of time. Stock up on ingredients for quick healthy meals that your family enjoys. Save time by using the crockpot or prepping food ahead of time.
Take time to talk — Open your schedule each day and let your kids know when it is a good time to come to you with problems and concerns. You will get more out of the discussion if you are both tuned in.
Use their time wisely — As our kids get older, their commitments increase. Teach your child to use his time wisely by prioritizing so he will not be up at midnight doing homework.
VGet
Organized — Save yourself some sanity in the mornings by organizing things the night before. Lay out clothes, make lunches before you go to bed and put backpacks and shoes in the same place each night.
Provide a good example — While words are important, your actions mean so much more. In other words, practice what you preach.
Quality Time — It is easy to get wrapped up in the busyness of back-to-school schedules. Try to plan dinners together or have a family game night. It is important to stay connected and catch up on each other’s day.
Rules — Remind everyone of the school year rules. Reestablish bed times, discuss the when, where and how long for electronics use and what happens when mom and dad are not home.
S
ocial Media — Reconfirm what social media sites your child belongs to and check all passwords.
olunteer — It is a great way to see what goes on at school, meet the teachers, and interact with the other parents. Even working parents can get involved by helping at evening and weekend events.
Workspace — Establish where your child will do his homework. Is the kitchen table too distracting? Does
he have a desk in his room? Choose a space that is quiet and has all the tools he needs.
X
tra Help — Get a jump start on finding a tutor for your child. If she struggles in a subject, look for someone who can keep her on track this year.
Year of…. — Help your child set achievable goals this year. Make this the year of straight A’s, perfect attendance or lead in the school play.
Z
zzzzzs — Time to return to the school night bedtimes. It is hard to adjust to waking up early again so adjust it a little at a time. Listen to your body and go to bed earlier if you need it.
Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three. This is her 19th new school year as a parent.
When was the last time you thanked a teacher? So often we go about life, grateful for their hard work but never really stop to thank them for the difference they make in our lives. From teaching kids to read and navigate numbers to how to work in a group and practice good manners, teachers dedicate their lives to helping you raise your children.
Teachers educate, comfort, listen, and even protect kids every day. While every day is a good opportunity to say thank you, start the year strong by showing how much you value the educators in your child’s life.
If you work with other parents from the class or the school, you can do something really special. Here are some fun and meaningful ways to celebrate the teachers in your child’s life.
LEND A HAND
Teachers are masters of multitasking. With so much on their plate, you can show appreciation by lending a hand. Offer to do things like make copies or organize the classroom library. Come in one afternoon and redecorate their seasonal bulletin board or organize and refresh their supplies. Practical help goes a long way toward making a teacher feel appreciated.
SET UP A SNACK TABLE
Break periods and lunchtime often get filled with meetings, helping students, or other work. Teachers can easily have a nourishing and tasty snack by creating a grab-and-go snack table. Ask parents to donate packaged snacks and drinks that teachers can take on the run. Great ideas are Kind bars, fancy seltzers, candy, and smoothies.
GET GIFTS THEY ACTUALLY WANT
Teachers don’t need more generic mugs. Instead, send out a survey at the beginning of the year asking each
—by Rebecca Hastings
Start Strong:
Fun Ways to Celebrate Teachers at the Beginning of the Year
teacher about their favorite things. Great ideas include favorite candy, colors, restaurants, coffee orders, and authors. Use this information to get teachers things you know they will love for upcoming holidays and celebrations (or just because!)
MAKE THEM SCHOOL YEAR
READY
As the year starts, teachers are focused on making things great for every child that walks through their door. Help them make this possible by contributing things they need for the classroom. You can also go the extra mile and give them things that make their year easier and more fun like new desk supplies, a fun calendar, a travel mug, or a stash of candy to keep in their drawer for the days they need it most.
GIVE THEM DINNER TO GO
Teachers spend all day caring for and teaching kids, and many of them are tired at the end of the day. Give them a break by making dinners they can take home when they leave. Parents and local restaurants can donate meals that teachers can grab at the end of the day. Great ideas include pasta and salad, soup and bread, meatballs and hard rolls, burritos, and tortilla chips. And don’t forget dessert!
CREATE DAILY THEMES
Celebrate the beginning of the year for a whole week, and give each day a different theme with something fun for the teachers to do, receive, or eat. Some creative and fun ideas are:
• Popcorn Day: Set up a popcorn table in the teacher’s room so they can grab some popcorn and a soda for a fun snack.
• Book/Magazine Day: Bring around a cart with books and magazines for each teacher to choose from. See if a local bookstore will donate books and magazines or ask families to donate.
• Fancy Coffee Day: Perfect for morning or a midday pick-meup, set up a table where teach ers can get fun coffee creations that are sure to beat the coffee in the teacher’s lounge.
• New Supplies Day: Collect classroom supplies, teaching supplies, stationery, tissues, and other things teachers use in the classroom. Invite teachers to come and pick a few things to refresh their classroom.
• Relaxation Day: Turn the teach er’s lounge into a relaxing oasis with calm music, cucumber wa ter, and spa kits with lotion and face masks to take home. Get a massage therapist to give minimassages for a special treat.
• Flower Day: Bring each teacher fresh-cut flowers or small potted plants. It’s fun to bring this during class so kids can see how nice it is to celebrate their teacher.
• Ice Cream Day: Set up a sundae-making station with all the fixings and make sure each teacher gets coverage to come to enjoy a sweet treat.
Rebecca Hastings is a former elementary teacher who traded the classroom for writing when she stayed home with her three children. Passionate about authenticity, faith, and family, you can find her at RebeccaHastings.net and on Amazon. In real life, she can often be found typing words, driving her kids places, or wherever there is chocolate.
—by Rebecca Hastings
Save Money on Back-to-School Shopping
—by Rebecca Hastings
I WANT: Sometimes we buy things because we want them. A new outfit is a fun way to start the school year. If that’s important to you, put it on the list. Be mindful of putting a few things you or your child wants on a list to make backto-school fun and exciting. It is important to have things that help kids look forward to the year ahead. Decide what wants you will spend money on and do so with joy.
SEE WHAT THE SCHOOL REQUIRES
Now that you have your lists, check what the school requires. Uniforms, clothes that adhere to the dress school code, and specific school supplies are important considerations. Once you check the school requirements, cross off anything you already have from your I HAVE list. This will save you money because you won’t buy things you already have at home.
Walking through my local stores, it’s already happening. Right there next to the swim goggles and sunscreen, displays of school supplies are already creeping their way in. It’s hard to imagine back-to-school shopping when we’re just finding our summer groove. When we begin to look at the price tags of everything our kids need, it can make parents want to hide in the sand.
It's no secret that inflation is affecting many parents across the country. How do you navigate rising prices and still get what your kids need for returning to school? Here are some tips that make a big difference:
MAKE YOUR OWN LISTS
Schools and stores make shopping seem easier with grade level or classroom lists for supplies. Generic lists offer good ideas, but can lead you to spend more money than you intended to. A good way to combat this is with your own lists.
Before you grab a random backto-school shopping list, make your
own lists. It may seem easier to go by whatever list you find online, but you’ll likely spend more than you need, buying things you already have or won’t use. Instead of relying on these lists, make these three lists:
I HAVE: Make a list of the things you have. This can include anything from a lunchbox that is still in good shape to folders that never got used last year. Think about the clothing your child has that still fits. They may not need new pants if they already have pants that fit. You’re better off waiting to get things when you need them than buying now simply because it’s back-to-school time.
I NEED: This is all about the things you truly need. If last year’s backpack is ripped, your child will need a new one. Think about clothing needs by evaluating what fits and getting rid of what doesn’t. Don’t forget to check their shoes, too. Many kids need new sneakers after growing all summer. Evaluating what you have will help you see exactly what your child needs before heading to the store or clicking add-to-cart.
While getting new supplies is fun, sometimes you have extra things left from the previous year that weren’t even used or only show signs of gentle use. Focusing on using what you have will help you free up funds for the things you still need.
DECIDE WHEN AND WHERE TO SHOP
There are plenty of options when it comes to shopping, and there are so many places it can be overwhelming. Every store seems to have sales that promise great pricing. But if you spend more than you have, a “good” deal isn’t truly good for you.
Before you shop, consider the best places to shop for your budget. Consider the following:
Prices: It is important to shop at places with prices that fit your budget. Whether shopping online or in-store, consider the cost of items you need. Options can include local stores, box stores like Walmart, the mall, outlet centers, consignment stores, or various online options.
Quality: While you want to save money, you should consider the item’s quality. You’re often better off buying one quality backpack than getting a cheap one that breaks in a month. A good place to find high-quality items at a bargain price can be consignment stores. Higher quality items last much longer and good consignment stores may have the quality brands that last. Better quality clothes can also be passed down and used for multiple children, saving money in the long-run.
vaccines, haircuts, and other services to make back-to-school more affordable for families. Try searching online or contacting your town recreation department to learn about opportunities in your area.
SAVING MONEY ON BACK-TO-SCHOOL DOESN’T NEED TO BE COMPLICATED
Accessibility: You don’t want to save a few dollars on an item only to spend extra on gas. Think about where you are shopping and how accessible the store is. Try to group shopping trips to minimize excessive gas costs.
Ease of returns: This is especially important if your kids are not shopping with you. Ensure items are easy to return in case they don’t fit or don’t get used. This way you can get your money back without a lot of hassle.
LOOK FOR COMMUNITY EVENTS
Many communities have free backto-school events offering a variety of services. These can vary from pencils and crayons to backpacks full of supplies. Some even include physicals,
Back-to-school shopping doesn’t have to cause extensive financial stress. The simpler you make things the easier your life will be. The best way to save is to only buy things you truly need. Beyond that, make wise shopping choices and your wallet will thank you.
QUICK CONSIGNMENT SHOPPING TIPS
Make the most out of your consignment shopping by following these tips:
• Always check for stains, rips, and holes: Don’t buy things you might be able to fix. If it’s stained, ripped, or has a hole, skip it!
• Try on at the store: Bring your child to try things on. Have them wear clothes that are easy
to change out of. If the store doesn’t have a dressing room, try clothes on over a T-shirt and shorts.
• Look for quality brands: Be mindful of quality brands you trust that will last. This will give you better longevity for your purchase. Avoid bargain brands from box stores like Walmart and Target as they won’t last as long, especially second-hand.
• Pay attention to tags: Many stores have brand-new products at second-hand prices. Keep your eyes out for anything new with tags and check that it’s a fair price.
• Consign your clothes: Drop off outgrown clothes to consign for store credit or money back.
Food For Thought: Fun Ways To Inspire Kids To Eat Healthy
Kids need a lot of energy to make it through the long school day ahead of them, but how do you get them to eat the healthy foods which will give them the energy that they need? How about trying a new strategy and making healthy eating a fun activity? Here are some fun ways to inspire the kids:
DINNER FOR BREAKFAST
Everyone knows about “breakfast for dinner,” but have you ever considered “dinner for breakfast?” “Well, why not,” says Shannon Crocker, a dietician. “If it was a healthy, balanced meal last night, it’s still a healthy, balanced meal this morning.” If your kids’ favorite food is pizza, serve mini-pizzas with healthy filings like tomato sauce, ham, pineapple, and cheese.
COOKING CLUB
Get some of your kids’ friends or classmates together and start a cooking club on afternoons or weekends. You could hire a local culinary student to teach basic cooking skills. “Children are more likely to eat healthy foods if the presentation is appetizing and if they have a hand in preparation,” says Patti Ghezzi of Greater Good Communication, a non-profit that focuses on nutrition and food.
ROLL-UPS
Have the kids “roll” their own food, sushi-style. They can roll whole wheat tortillas with ham and cheese or peanut butter and banana. They can also roll pizzas with shredded mozzarella and tomato sauce. The possibilities are endless. “Kids love these fun snacks, and they’re packed with protein, potassium, and filling fiber,” says Angelina Sickora, a dietician.
FUNNY FACES
Take a bunch of vegetables and have the kids make the funniest faces possible on the kitchen counter. Hint: peas are good for eyes. “This is a great way to increase children’s sensory experiences (and then probably acceptance) with veggies in a fun and entertaining environment,” says Karina Savage, a dietician.
HEALTHY PLATES
Have the kids create a meal that includes items from all four food groups:
fruits and vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy. “Assembling a balanced plate is one of the most practical skills you can teach a child,” says Shannon Doleac, a nutritionist, “and creating plates can become fun nutrition activities for kids.”
GUESS THE FRUIT OR VEGETABLE
Put a bunch of fruits and vegetables in a bag, have the kids close their eyes, and ask them to choose one thing. The goal is to guess what it is based on how it feels and smells. “Exploring food with all of their senses moves them closer to trusting and eating that food,” says Ms. Savage.
DESSERT AS MAIN COURSE
Put a small portion of dessert on their plates, just enough to keep them hungry and eat the main course. “You’ll be surprised when your child suddenly takes a bite of dessert along with a bite of something else, instead of just gobbling
up the dessert,” says Jennifer House, a nutritionist.
GUESS THE FRUIT
Have your kids guess which fruit you’re thinking of by describing its color, shape, texture, and taste. “It’s a great way to have fun while promoting healthy eating in kids,” says Ms. Savage.
FOLLOW THEIR PASSION
Kids have different passions. Some are interested in certain countries or
cultures, others in specific colors or textures. “What’s your child’s current obsession?” asks Katie Kick, the author of Good Life Eats. “Incorporate that into their food.” Kids are more likely to take an interest in what they eat if it aligns with their passions.
HEALTHY RECIPES
How about having the kids collect all their favorite, healthy recipes and make a book out of them? For added fun, each recipe could have a key ingredient
starting with a different letter. “Creating your own family recipe book is always a memorable project,” says Ms. Doleac.
PLANT PERSON
Take a bunch of vegetables, put them on the kitchen counter, and ask the kids to make a “plant person.” “Once you’re done,” says Ms. Savage, “it’s a great chance to ask the kids if they want to eat some of their plant person.”
LET THEM DIP
For a healthy afternoon snack, give the kids some food they can dip: fruits and vegetables, whole wheat crackers, or pita. The dip could be fat-free yogurt, salsa, or guacamole. “A great dip makes everything better!” says Aracely Rojas, a dietician.
Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences, and Disorders at The City University of New York – Brooklyn College.
10 Steps to an Allergy-Safe School Year
— by Cherie Gough
For parents of children with food allergies, starting a new school year can seem daunting. As the mom of a daughter with celiac disease, I know how overwhelming food allergies are at times. To ensure a safe, positive school year that meets the needs of a food allergic child, follow these tips from moms and experts who’ve been there.
COMMUNICATE EARLY
The best time to communicate with teachers is early in the school year, before classroom celebration policies are established for the year.
BUILD A TEAM
A team invested in supporting your child includes teachers, coaches, and the school nurse. Tiffany Hinton, mom of three daughters with celiac disease and several food allergies, and author of GF Mom Certified, meets with all teachers and the nurse at the beginning of each school year. She suggests supplying the nurse with necessary items such as EpiPens and allergy medication.
DO YOUR RESEARCH
Newly diagnosed? Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) provides
helpful resources to support families: www.foodallergy.org/life-with-foodallergies/managing-lifes-milestones/atschool.
PUT REQUESTS IN WRITING
I write a letter every year that is shared with the teacher, school nurse, substitutes and all extracurricular staff: PE, art, and music teachers. By providing information in writing, I ensure important details about my child’s needs are readily available to staff. My letter defines celiac disease and cross contamination, and includes my daughter’s specific symptoms and history. I also ask for accommodations that will help include my child and ensure her safety. I keep it positive by always thanking people in advance for all they do to keep her allergy-safe.
“Setting up and following through with a 504 plan is the best tool to keep the school staff informed of what your child needs,” says Julie Bradley, secretary of National Celiac Association San Diego. To learn the basics about 504 plans and determine whether one is right for your child, visit the FARE website: www.foodallergy.org/sites/default/files/ migrated-files/file/cdc-reducing-risk. pdf.
Maureen Dempsey, a Board-Certified Educational Advocate states, “Any
child with a food allergy qualifies for a 504.” She advises parents to read section 504 on the U.S. Department of Education’s website and contact a local education advocate if needed. (www2.ed.gov/ about/offices/list/ocr/504faq.html)
BE DIRECT AND SPECIFIC
Not all allergic reactions are the same. Be specific about your child’s reactions, whether they are life-threatening and require an EpiPen or are more hidden as is the case with celiac disease where, according to Bradley, obvious symptoms may not be exhibited, but internal damage may still occur.
Hinton finds it helpful to share a photo of how a past allergic reaction looked when it began to help educate the teacher.
ASK FOR WHAT YOU NEED
“Explain how you would best like to receive communication,” says Hinton. “I prefer an email or text message at least two days before an activity to ensure I have a safe [alternative] for my daughter.”
Bradley says teachers should avoid putting a child on the spot to read labels right before an activity. Label-reading requires keen attention to detail. Request that teachers always communicate with parents, even if a food seems safe. She also recommends educating staff about the importance of proper hand and desk washing.
PARTY SAFELY
I provide a list of kid-friendly, allergen-safe foods to room parents, and ask that alternative snacks from the list are incorporated into class parties. Keep a stash of cupcakes and donuts in the freezer to have on hand. Fill a special lunchbox with your child’s favorite allergen-free snacks and keep it in the classroom.
CREATE A CULTURE OF AWARENESS
FARE suggests speaking with teachers about the role of food in the classroom to help lower the risk of an allergic reaction. Perhaps non-food items and activities can be emphasized during cultural events and holiday traditions.
Hinton likes to share food-allergy books with elementary classrooms to spread awareness, such as Itchy Pig by Nicole Bruno Cox.
TEACH KIDS TO SELF-ADVOCATE
Self-awareness is the most important element according to Hinton. Teaching young children what happens in the body when a reaction occurs and how it presents itself helps them begin to understand allergies. “Empower your child to understand what is safe to eat, and why and how to speak up if another child wants to trade or share food,” says Hinton.
MAKE LUNCHTIME SAFE AND ENJOYABLE
• Use a separate table at school to help avoid cross-contamination or trading food.
• Have kids help choose fun, colorful lunchboxes, placemats and containers.
• Before school starts, stock the pantry and bake freezable, allergen-free snacks and reheatable breakfast favorites.
• Teach older kids to grocery shop.
• Cook whenever possible. Cherie Gough is a San Diego-based writer whose work has been published in HuffPost, Eating Well, and San Diego Parent Magazine. She’s been writing for parenting magazines for a decade. Find her on IG @cgoughwrites.
SHAPE THE FUTURE
— by Pam Molnar
1
How to Pay for College Without Taking out Loans
Start by getting good grades in high school. Your GPA and ACT/SAT scores will award you merit scholarships without even having to apply for them. Many schools have charts and scholarship calculators where prospective students can plug in their scores to reveal their automatic breaks.
2
Take AP courses or college credit courses. Many high schools offer college credit courses through a local community college. In addition, students taking AP classes in high school can take the test at the end of the school year and those who receive a C or higher on the test will get college credit for the class. The AP test is about $100 — much less than the cost of a college class and corresponding books.
3
Apply for national scholarships. Before you apply, make a list of all your associations as well as those of
your immediate family. There are scholarships available for left-handers, children and grandchildren of war veterans, and families of members of groups such as the Lions Club. Check out websites like collegescholarships. com or books like The Ultimate Scholarship Book by Gen and Kelly Tanabe for an unbelievable list of scholarships available to you.
4
Local scholarships. Check out your high school’s website for information on local businesses, churches, and sports organizations offering scholarships. While none of them offer full rides, the generous $500 to $1000 scholarships add up quickly and cover things like books, housing, and travel expenses that merit scholarships don’t cover.
5
Sports scholarships — Only 2% of high school athletes are offered some form of athletic scholarships and the opportunity to compete in college. Some athletes seek less popular sports
such as bowling or rugby hoping for a smaller pool of scholarship contenders. Be aware that D3 schools, which are often small, private colleges do not offer athletic scholarships at all.
6
Get a summer and on campus job. If a student works 20 hours at $8.00 per hour, they will gross $160 per week. Even after minimal taxes, that is more than $8,000 per year.
7
Consider joining a public services program like AmeriCorps, Peace Corp, National Health Service Corp, or ROTC. They often offer college scholarships, reduced loans or deferred loans in exchange for service.
8 Community colleges offer a lot of great college savings. Classes are available during the day or evening so you can work full or part time. Because the school is local, students can live at home to save on room and board. The cost of classes, many of which transfer to a four-year school,
are much less per credit hour. Some community college even offer 3 and 1 programs allowing students to pay community college prices for three years and one year at a local four-year institution.
9
Employer reimbursement programs. If you are going to work while in college, consider working for a company that offers a tuition reimbursement program. UPS, Starbucks and Verizon are just a few of the companies that offer tuition reimbursement to full and part time employees. The average assistance is $5,250 per year.
10
College employees and their children get discounts on their college education. Please note, this is not available for a part-time student position in the bookstore. This is for regular staff such as professors, the bursar office team, and maintenance crew members. Full-time employees and their children are usually offered a discount for tuition only, but since you most likely live within driving distance, you will also save on room and board.
11
Try to graduate sooner by taking summer and online classes at your community college. You can also take an extra class or two each semester to boost your credits and complete your requirements early. By graduating early, you will save on room and board — an average of $10,000.
12
Look for book options. Books are crazy expensive. Don’t fall for the convenience of the college bookstore. Get your class syllabus and determine the best option for buying books. Look online at Amazon, consider used books, share with a roommate or rent the books for half the price. Try looking at local used bookstores and Ebay to get the most bang for your buck.
Six Surprising College Facts
1
The average cost of a four year in-state public college education is $102,800 according to the Education Data Initiative. Out of state college fees are often higher and don’t report cost of travel expenses. Private schools average $218,000 for a four-year education.
Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of a college student and two college graduates. With the rising cost of education, she is always on the lookout for ways to save on college tuition.
2
National Center for Education Statistics reports the average time to complete a bachelor’s degree is 52 months or just over 6 years. Sadly, that is an additional cost that families often don’t budget for, especially for those with more than one child.
3
According to Fortune.com, undergraduate college enrollment dropped 8% from 2019 to 2022, even after schools returned to in person classes.
4
According to Forbes Advisor, the average college graduate has $28,950 in student loan debt. Loans are structured to be paid in 10 years, but the average payback time is more than double that.
5
The typical monthly student loan payment is $265 to $341. Yikes!
6The National Association of Colleges and Employers projected the Class of 2020 to have an average salary of $55,260. Those numbers are compiled from 10 broad range degrees areas such as Business, Education, Communication, Engineering, and Healthcare.
DEAR TEACHER
– by Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts
Helping all parents make their children’s educational experience as successful as possible
How Smart Is My Child?
Parents: If you think your child is smart, you are probably right because you have noticed his or her special abilities from a young age. But it’s not only parents that know if a child is smart, children do too. They see their superior grades in school and ability to learn new information rapidly.
Beyond your child being smart, the next question is often: How gifted is the child? Giftedness, itself, is defined by the NAGC (National Association of Gifted Children) as “Students with gifts and talents who perform—or have the capability to perform—at higher levels compared to others of the same age, experience, and environment in one or more domains.”
There are different levels of giftedness ranging from moderately gifted to profoundly gifted. It is important to note that test scores are not the sole determinant of giftedness level. There are also factors of chance such as opportunity for instruction and such intrapersonal qualities as:
Early childhood intellectual milestones and behaviors
• General personality
• Degree of intrinsic motivation
• Inner drive for continued independent learning
Doctor Deborah Ruf, who has a doctorate in Tests and Measurement and is an acknowledged expert on levels of giftedness, has described giftedness as
being divided into five levels. Below are the levels as well as brief descriptions of some attributes of each level:
Level One Gifted: Moderately Gifted
• IQ scores of about 117 to 129
• Start kindergarten with end-ofyear skills already mastered
Level Two Gifted: Highly Gifted
• IQ scores of about 125–135
• Master most kindergarten skills one to two years before kindergarten (by age 4)
Level Three Gifted: Highly to Exceptionally Gifted
• IQ scores of about 130 to 140
• Master majority of kindergarten skills by age 3 or 4
• Question Santa or Tooth Fairy by age 3 to 5
• Most spontaneously read with or without previous instruction before kindergarten
• Most read simple chapter books by age 5–6
• Most intuitively use numbers for all operations before kindergarten
Level Four Gifted: Exceptionally to Profoundly Gifted
• Full scale IQ scores of about 135 to 141+
• Majority of kindergarten skills by age 3
• Question such concepts as Santa or Tooth Fairy by age 3 to 4
• Majority at 2nd to 3rd grade equivalency in academic subjects by early kindergarten
• Majority at upper high school grade equivalencies by 4th to 5th grades
• Show concern for existential topics and life’s purpose by early elementary school age
Level Five Gifted: Exceptionally to Profoundly Gifted
• Full scale and domain scores at 145+ (slightly lower if tested after mid-teenage years)
• High intellectual profile across all ability domains, great inner drive to learn across domains (although not necessarily demonstrated in the regular classroom)
• Majority have kindergarten skills by about 2-and-a-half years or sooner
• Question concept of Santa or Tooth Fairy by age 2 to 3
• Majority spontaneously read, understand fairly complex math, have existential concerns by age 4–5 with or without any instruction
• Majority have high school level grade equivalencies by age 7 or 8 years old, mostly through their own reading and question asking.
What You Need to Understand about Levels
of Giftedness
Due to the limitations of current IQ tests, Levels Four and Five appear identical, but they’re not. The difference between the two levels is in the degree of the behaviors, which she has spelled out in her list of milestone attainments. Do visit her website https://fivelevelsof gifted.com/what-is-giftedness-2/ to see a lengthy list of the behaviors that put children in the different levels.
How to Know Your Child’s IQ
IQ tests start being reliable for children between the ages of six and nine. Testing before a child is enrolled in school may not provide reliable results. Typically, schools give group IQ tests about three times during your child’s schooling which should give you a good picture of his or her IQ. Do remember that on any given day, a test result may not be accurate for such reasons as illness, lack of effort, or unclear instructions.
Why Have Your Child Tested for Giftedness
Before having your child tested for giftedness, consider what you hope to discover. Knowing a child’s level of giftedness can help parents and educators fully develop the child’s abilities. Private testing can be expensive. Most parents have their children tested to advocate for their inclusion in a gifted program at a school. Before you select a tester, make sure it is one whose results the school will accept.
Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@dearteacher. com and visit the dearteacher.com website to learn more about helping their children succeed in school.
Choosing Childcare
A Special Section Dedicated To Helping Parents Find Quality Care To Fit Their Family’s Unique Needs
Future
If you are a first-time parent, choosing the right childcare situation for your child is an extremely important yet daunting task. There are many questions to ask about any child care program, whether centerbased or in a family daycare provider’s home. So, where do you begin?
The most comprehensive information and most thorough list of questions to ask a provider before making your choice can be found at Child Care Aware of America (childcareaware.org). Our local Child Care Resource Network (wnychildren.org) is also affiliated with this organization and is an excellent place to begin narrowing down your search.
But, what types of questions should you be asking about each child care program? There are many more than we can print here, but you can check out the complete list (if you have an infant or toddler, there is a complete set of questions specific to their care) on the Child Care Aware of America site before taking a tour of any program.
GENERAL QUESTIONS
Is the program licensed?
If the program provides transportation, are drivers licensed and insured? Are children properly restrained in safety seats approved for their age and weight?
Are there clear check-in and checkout procedures?
CLASS SIZE
What is the adult to child ratio?
What is the class size for your child’s age group?
Choosing a Childcare Program for Your Child
STAFF QUALIFICATIONS
Does the lead caregiver/teacher have a bachelor’s degree in a child-related field?
Does the director have a bachelor’s degree in a child-related field?
Are the caregivers/teachers and director involved in ongoing training or continuing education programs?
SUPERVISION
Are children supervised at all times, both indoors and outdoors, even when they are sleeping?
Can caregivers be seen by others at all times so that a child is never alone with one caregiver?
Have all caregivers undergone comprehensive background checks?
PROGRAM STRUCTURE
Is there a daily balance of play time, story time, activity time, and nap time?
Do children play for a significant part of their day?
Do children get to choose who they want to play with?
CAREGIVER INTERACTION
Are children warmly greeted when they arrive?
Do caregivers talk to children and seem genuinely interested in what the children are doing?
Do caregivers get down on children’s level and speak with them?
Do caregivers play with children to help facilitate learning?
THE ENVIRONMENT
Are there different areas for resting,
Is the atmosphere pleasant?
Is the environment clean?
Are there enough toys and learning materials for the number of children?
Does the program use TV, computers, or other types of technology with the children? If so, how often are these materials used?
Is there a space for outdoor play?
Is the outdoor play area fenced in? Is it clean?
Is the outdoor play area regularly inspected?
Is the equipment the right size and type for the age of children who use it?
Are children taken outside on a regular basis?
Do caregivers actively supervise (play with) children outdoors?
HEALTH & SAFETY
Are the indoor and outdoor environments clear of safety hazards, such as cleaning supplies and tripping hazards?
Does the child care program have records proving that the other children enrolled are up-to-date on all of the required immunizations?
Is handwashing a regular part of the program’s practices for both staff and children, especially before eating and after using the bathroom?
If the program serves food, does it meet nutritional standards?
How are food allergies or dietary restrictions handled?
Have caregivers been trained on CPR and First Aid, and are those certifications current?
Does the program have first aid kits?
Are medications kept out of the reach of children?
Are the caregivers trained on medication administration, and are medications labeled to make sure the right child receives the right amount of medication?
Does the program have a plan in place in case of a disaster, like a fire, tornado, flood, blizzard, earthquake or active shooter?
Does the program have an emergency plan in case a child is injured, sick, or lost?
Does the program have information about whom to contact in an emergency?
PICK OF THE LITERATURE
— by Dr. Donna Phillips
“Hi Ho! Hi Ho! It’s off to school we go!” While this might be exciting for some children and parents, it may not be for others. Prior experiences or innate anxiety can impact everyone. While we can read books about the joys of a new school year, it may not be enough to convince everyone. But there are other books out there that can help deal with concerns and emotions. Here are some to consider for you and your children.
For children just starting school, it might be a good idea to focus on the end of the year rather than the beginning. This will give them a wider view and a bigger picture of the events to come. Look How Much I’ve Grown in Kindergarten (Random House Studios, New York, 2024, $18.99) written by Vera Ahiyya and illustrated by Joey Chou is just the book you need! Ms. Perry has a brilliant plan for this! She is
Mason wants to learn to tie her shoes. One student wants to make more friends. Another wants to try more new foods. Irene wants to learn to ride a bike. This is a brilliant way to help children learn to set goals and to monitor them. As the year progresses, the charts get filled with accomplishments and new goals. Children and parents can see the growth that often goes unnoticed or uncharted. As far as I am concerned, this should be in every class and have its own report card. While the schools and teachers have their own goals, children have ones that may be more personal and even meaningful. Sometimes beginning at the end is the way to start!
does happen when the lights go out in the classroom, and everyone goes home.
helping each child in her class create a personal “Growth Chart.” This will give them agency and allow them to focus on what it is that they want to accomplish.
If you are looking for a book to break through the tension, you might consider one with a humorous and imaginative perspective. Can you imagine a conversation between your pencil and your eraser? In this introduction to graphic novel chapter books, we have Pencil and Eraser: We Have a Dull-Emma (G. P. Putnam’s Sons, New York, 2024, $12.99) by Jenny Alvardo. In it, we meet Pencil who is a confident thrill-seeker and cautious Eraser on a first day adventure in the new school year. With chapters like “The Dilemma”, (Joke break), “The Climb,” (Joke Break), “The Ride,” (Joke Break), “The Sharpener” and “How to Draw,” we are already engaged in their adventure to find a pencil sharpener for Pencil’s broken tip. The simple conversations imbedded in the pictures will have children grinning and rooting for their success all the while laughing along the way. This book is a great way to engage children in their imagination and to wonder just what
We all know food is a great way to connect to home and experiences that create a sense of safety and comfort. For some, Home in a Lunchbox (Penguin Workshop, New York, 2024, $18.99) by Cherry Mo might be on the menu. In this touching and sensitively illustrated book, we get a deep sense of what it is like to be an immigrant in the classroom where nobody speaks your language. Everything is unfamiliar and scary except the lunches Jun’s mother packs for her. Simple illustrated cells take us through her day, with insets for the words she hears or the scribbles for all of the talk she does not understand. All
Jun comes to school with each day is her lunch and phrases written on her hand translating Chinese to English for “Hello,” “Thank you,” and “I don’t know.” Through the marvelous illustrations in
this book, we get a deep sense of her loneliness and sadness as well as glimpses of hope around her. But it is during lunch that there is the connection. The smells and sights of her unique and unusual lunch invite her classmates to ask questions and even to take a bite. Before long she is inviting her new friends to her home to experience even more of her favorite foods and her culture. At the end of the book is a list of some English phrases and Chinese translations, as well as pictures and explanations of the foods she loves. This is a wonderful reminder that learning goes both ways for everyone in the classroom. This is a book that must be seen and shared in classrooms and homes everywhere.
You Are Not Alone (Sourcebooks, Naperville, 2024, $17.99), with words by Alphabet Rockers (Tommy Soulati Shepherd and Kaitlin McGraw) and illustrated by Ashley Evans, is a beautifully reassuring book that reminds us that we all can and should take care of each other. We need to be truly seen and heard and encouraged to share our stories, worries, and dreams in honest and respectful healing ways. But how do we do this? This book has some helpful suggestions and is written in a way to foster conversation and soul searching. It would be an excellent book to use at almost any grade level.
So, let’s get ready for another new school year adventure with books that can prepare and guide us along the way. There are many books like these in your local library, bookstore, or online that might be just what you need to get your child ready or for yourself to feel confident in your guidance. With these books acting like a map, no one will never get lost or be left behind.
Happy Learning! Happy Growing! Happy Thriving!
Dr. Donna Phillips is an associate professor in the College of Education at Niagara University where her specialty is literacy and children’s literature. She lives on Grand Island, NY and is the mother of two adult children and the grandmother of one.
—by Rebecca Hastings
10 Activities for Grandparents and Grandkids to Enjoy Together
The relationship between grandparents and grandchildren is a special bond filled with love, wisdom, and shared experiences. Engaging in activities together not only strengthens this connection but also creates lasting memories. Here are ten activities for grandparents and grandkids to enjoy together, fostering a deeper bond that will be cherished for years to come.
NATURE WALKS AND TREASURE HUNTS
Exploring the outdoors together is a fantastic way to connect with nature and each other. Take a leisurely stroll in the park, go on a nature scavenger hunt, or even try geocaching for a modern treasure hunt experience. This activity promotes a sense of wonder and appreciation for the environment.
BAKING AND COOKING ADVENTURES
The kitchen is a treasure trove of memories waiting to be made. Cooking and baking together allows for quality time, while also passing down family recipes and culinary traditions. Whether it’s making a special dish or trying out new recipes, this activity creates a sense of accomplishment and shared enjoyment of food.
STORYTELLING AND FAMILY HISTORIES
One of the most precious gifts a grandparent can give is the gift of storytelling. Share family history and stories from childhood, or create imaginative stories together. Allow the grandchild’s imagination to run wild while imparting important life lessons and values. This activity not only sparks creativity but also helps pass down family traditions.
ARTS AND CRAFTS
EXTRAVAGANZA
Unleash creativity through arts and crafts. Painting, drawing, crafting, or even simple DIY projects can be a source of great joy. This activity encourages self-expression, fosters fine motor skills, and provides an outlet for imagination to flourish.
BOARD GAMES AND PUZZLES GALORE
Board games and puzzles are not only fun, but they also encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and healthy competition. From classics like chess and checkers to modern games, this activity provides an opportunity for laughter and learning in equal measure.
MUSIC AND DANCE PARTY
Music has the power to bring generations together. Share favorite tunes, play musical instruments, or even have a dance party in the living room. This activity promotes rhythm and coordination. It is also a fun way to let loose and have fun.
continued on page 37
FAMILY TRAVEL
— by Deborah Williams
Have a Wild Time at Hidden Valley Animal Adventure!
It was the close ups with the tongues—very large animal tongues that I will remember most about my wondrous experience at Hidden Valley Animal Adventure in rural Wyoming County, a bucolic area dotted with dairy farms.
Never have I been in such close contact with the quite large heads of animals that include bison, west highland cattle, water buffalo, Texas longhorn cattle, and Watusi, an ancient breed with long horns that originated in Africa. Visitors had cups of special food ready to pour into their mouths and usually the long thick tongues came out first.
Just about 20 minutes from East Aurora, the very appropriately named Hidden Valley Animal Adventure is celebrating its 15th season this year. It was the brainchild of Hans Boxler Sr., whose father Joseph sailed over to the United States from Europe in 1921 and settled in Varysburg. It was here he started his dairy farm and raised his family.
Joseph Boxler also started Boxler Maple Farm in 1928 as a hobby. He loved to spend the winter and early spring sugaring. That operation has since grown into a major producer of maple syrup and maple products by tapping nearly 3,200 trees and collecting the sap into 175 miles of tubing.
Hans Boxler grew up with a love of animals. Over the years, the family dairy farm was transformed from a small operation to a major dairy producer operating on 5,000 acres with 3,100 milking cows and about 6,000 head of cattle.
Boxler created Hidden Valley after buying some bison and elk and then a camel. He decided to share his passion for animals and help cover the cost of care and feeding of his growing menagerie by opening to the public. Ground was broken in 2005 and five years later in 2010 Hidden Valley opened.
The original vision included a hot dog stand. Then plans expanded to include a restaurant, banquet hall and two hotel rooms housed in an expansive timber frame lodge. Why two hotel rooms? The hotel rooms are the result of a local law dating
back to the end of Prohibition in 1933 which requires establishments that sell liquor have overnight lodging.
Today, park guests enjoy a Wild Game Safari guided bus or drive-thru experience, taking their own personal vehicles over 2.2 miles of trails on 63 acres of park. Guests can purchase grain to feed some of the 350 animals representing 42 species from around the world.
Here is advice to consider from a long-time visitor with a season pass who usually brings a grandchild on her visits. If you are driving your own car, it could get scratched by an animal. Since you would be at eye level you might also end up with a large head poking through your open window.
“My grandson gets a bit unnerved by the head so close and that’s why we like the safari bus, because we are higher and still very close to the bison or whoever. The rule is to use the cup to feed the animal by pouring feed into their mouths or onto the ground. We like it that way. No fingers,” she advised.
Our driver was Tom, who entertained us with stories and tales about the animals he sees daily on his drives through the grounds. Our bus had several multi-generational families with grandparents, parents, and children. There were some grand-
Wild Game Safari guided bus
parents treating their grandchild to animal close-ups. There was even a family from Switzerland.
Our first animals were zebras, a long way from their native Africa. Then came the bison, complete with babies. There are even some almost white bison, and they ambled over to our bus ready and waiting for food with their mouths open and their tongues hanging out. Clearly, they know the drill.
We met Bonnie, the ostrich, who walked over to our bus to check out our treats. It is always the same food for the animals and giving animals any other foods is forbidden to protect the health of all.
A special resident is Miles, a 2,200-pound Texas longhorn steer with a unique single horn weighing in at 100 pounds. He used to have the normal two horns but one was amputated when he suffered an injury. All indications are that Miles is doing fine with his very impressive looking single horn.
A bus favorite were the llamas—all very sweet and gentle with lovely eyes and eyelashes. There were several babies in the group including a spotted three-day old baby who walked over to the bus with some of the adults.
Our last group of animals we passed by were black belly
sheep and they indeed have black bellies. They are also a type of sheep that do not need to have their wool sheared.
The bus finishes the trip right in front of the lodge where many people stopped for lunch or ice cream. Walk on the bridge over the pond to see the swans and fish who enjoy some of the leftover feed pellets.
Behind the lodge is the Small Animal Adventure WalkThru, popular with families with small children. Buy the carrots or pelleted feed and walk inside to meet the goats including babies. Remember to feed with a flat hand. They were all gentle and accustomed to meeting visitors. The miniature horses were behind fences, but they seemed to enjoy being petted and munching on carrots.
Since most routes to Varysburg pass through the village of East Aurora, plan to stop for a meal or ice cream and a visit to Vidler’s which bills itself as the “World’s Largest 5 & 10 Variety Store.” Look for the red and white awning and the Vidler on the roof on the brick covered Main Street.
Like the animal adventure, this is a place for multiple generations. There are more than 75,000 items for sale spread through four buildings on two levels. This is a shopping experience you won’t find online.
Vidler’s, one of the area’s treasures, has been in business for 94 years with the third generation of the family now running the store. The store is listed on the New York State Historic Business Preservation Registry. Robert S. Vidler Sr. opened the store on June 21, 1930, at the start of the Great Depression. Local merchants made bets that the new guy wouldn’t last six weeks.
Where else could you find a mechanical horse offering rides to small children for 10 cents? Or an amazing array of old-fashioned candy? Shopping here is just plain fun even for the shopping ad-
Miles, a 2,200-pound Texas longhorn steer
As we approach the 2024 presidential election, the importance of recognizing and combating fake news has never been more crucial. Fake news, defined by Wikipedia as “a form of news consisting of deliberate disinformation or hoaxes spread via traditional news media (print and broadcast) or online social media,” has evolved significantly with technological advancements. Deepfakes and sophisticated disinformation campaigns are just the latest threats in the ongoing battle against false information. This article aims to educate both parents and children on identifying and addressing fake news, with an emphasis on the upcoming election.
The Evolution of Fake News
In the early days of the internet, fake news spread mainly through rumors and hoaxes, often unchecked due to limited tools for verifying information. I actually found a great quote about rumor while writing this article. Mark Twain once said, “A lie can travel halfway around the world while the truth is still putting on its shoes.” Only…he didn’t actually say that. It’s a perfect example of something being spread without being fact checked. Today, the internet has drastically transformed, but fake news persists, driven by factors such as the ease of creating content, anonymity online, and the role of social media algorithms. These elements have allowed misinformation to proliferate at unprecedented speeds, reaching vast audiences.
News Deep Fakes Disinformat Fake Lies
RAISING DIGITAL KIDS
— by Mike Daugherty
The Misinformation Age:
How to Navigate Fake News
Misinformation vs. Disinformation
Understanding the difference between misinformation and disinformation is crucial in the fight against fake news. Misinformation refers to false or inaccurate information that is spread, regardless of intent to deceive. This could be as simple as sharing a mistaken fact without realizing that it’s incorrect. This reminds me of when your Aunt Beth shares some crazy story on social media without ever knowing it’s entirely made up. On the other hand, disinformation is deliberately misleading or biased information, manipulated narrative, or propaganda. Disinformation is spread with
the explicit intent to deceive or manipulate people. Recognizing this distinction helps in identifying the motives behind the information we encounter and reinforces the importance of verifying facts before sharing them.
Deepfakes:
The New Frontier of Fake News
Deepfakes represent a significant evolution in disinformation technology. These highly realistic but fake videos can be used to manipulate public perception and spread false narratives. With the 2024 election on the horizon, it’s essential to be vigilant about the potential misuse of deepfakes.
The Impact of Misinformation
Misinformation and disinformation can polarize public opinion and distort the decision-making process. Many individuals may not even realize they are being misled. It’s crucial to employ strategies that increase awareness and limit the spread of false information. Here are some reliable resources and methods to help you and your family navigate this complex landscape:
Trusted Resources for Verifying Information
1. Snopes.com — Snopes is a well-established fact-checking website that has been debunking hoaxes and internet rumors since 1994. The team
behind Snopes verifies viral stories and assigns ratings such as “True,” “False,” “Unproven,” and more. For example, a recent claim about a tweet predicting Kobe Bryant’s helicopter tragedy was verified by Snopes, providing clear evidence and context. When you encounter questionable information, head to Snopes.com and check the “Hot 50” list for trending stories. Similar sites include TruthorFiction.com and LeadStories.com, which cover a wide variety of genres and use algorithms to highlight trending topics.
2. FactCheck.org — FactCheck. org specializes in political fact-checking, covering topics like elections, legislative bills, and statements from public officials. The site presents information in easy-to-digest segments with links to original data sources. Other notable political fact-checking sites include PolitiFact.com and FullFact.org (UK-based).
3. Newsguard — Newsguard is a browser extension that helps identify credible news sources. After installing the extension, you will see green, yellow, or red icons next to news-related
links, indicating the site’s credibility and transparency. This tool is invaluable for spotting misleading information before you even click on a link. FactMata.com offers a similar service for checking the integrity of any internet link.
Educating the Younger Generation
It’s a common misconception that children, having grown up with technology, are adept at spotting fake news. In reality, studies show that middle and high school students often struggle to distinguish between real news and sponsored content. To address this, several educational initiatives have been developed:
1. Google’s “Be Internet Awesome” — This curriculum is designed for children ages 8 to 12, teaching them about cyberbullying, spotting misinformation, and maintaining personal privacy through a game-based approach. Many schools have adopted this free resource, and parents can encourage their children to participate by searching for “Be Internet Awesome” online. continued on page 41
LDaddy Daddy The Track
– by Shannon Carpenter
isten with Curiosity is one of the best pieces of advice I have ever gotten.
Life gets very complicated as a father, even when that’s not our intention. I spend a great amount of my time trying to keep peace in my home. But when you have kids, chaos seems to find its way in because it’s just the natural progression of life. That chaos has a way of pushing everything out of our minds so that we only focus on the next task on our list. This happens to me way too often, and the result is that I forget to take a moment and just listen.
Recently, I had the opportunity to talk to Dr. Niobe Way, author of Rebels with a Cause. In the book, she discusses many of the issues our sons face throughout their adolescence. Based on forty years of her research, and conversations with thousands of young boys, she has insight that is difficult to match.
I look at my eleven-year-old son and see myself. For the most part, this fills me with such abounding joy. At the same time, I know that he will have hardships in his life because I have lived it. I know that there will be times when he will bottle up his emotions because that is what our society teaches our young boys to do. He will be afraid to be vulnerable because he will have the experience of having those vulnerabilities used against him. And he will at times feel completely alone, as if the world does not care about him. Dr. Way gets into the psychology of this “boy culture” in her book and its eye opening, because it is me. It is all of us.
“We must begin to listen with curiosity,” Dr. Way has often said as I have spoken to her over the last several weeks. It’s a profound statement for its simplicity alone but, when looked at deeper, when I listen to Dr. Way with curiosity, I can see the absolute difference it can make in my son’s life.
What she means is that as fathers, we need to get past the “How was school? Did you do well on your test?” These are surface-level conversations that tell us nothing about our boys. The connection that we share isn’t strengthened. It’s just a way to pass the time as we get to the next thing on our checklist.
Listening with Curiosity
This goes beyond the commonly used piece of advice of active listening. That’s a good start, but we are dads, and we can do better. We have to because there is so much on the line for our boys. They are growing up in a world where they are expected to be stoically calm while the world falls apart around them. They are going to be expected to have an answer, to “take it like a man,” and to not complain. This leads to a loss of connection and loneliness. And from there, well, it just gets scary. And as a father, I know this because I have experienced that life.
Listening with curiosity means taking the time to ask follow-up questions about what’s going on in our kid’s lives. It’s more than just asking what they are interested in and more about finding out why they are interested in those things. That leads to conversations that bring true connection, and with that connection, they get protection from the world when we are no longer here. They will remember that Dad cared, and that memory will help them through the most difficult times in their lives.
For me, that’s what listening with curiosity means. And, of course, it’s not something I only do with my sons. My daughter is on her way to college and I’m taking every opportunity to ask as many questions as I can before the opportunity is lost to me. In those conversations, we connect and that’s what is needed most of all with our children.
A connection that outlives us so that we are always truly there. I want my kids to be able to talk to the memory of me when they need it most.
Shannon Carpenter is the father of three and has been a stay-at-home dad since 2008. He's the author of the book "Stayat-Home Dad: Your Essential Manual for Being an Awesome Full-Time Father.” as well as the co-host of Dadhouse Pod. In addition to his writing on parenting, he is also a humor writer trained through the famous Second City. And we all know that having a sense of humor is essential to surviving parenthood!
Family Movie Options: In Theaters and Streaming Online
f your child isn’t overscheduled, you probably know one who is. Spontaneous after-school play dates or frolics through the neighborhood have become a rarity for many kids, who instead rush off to piano lessons, soccer games, or gymnastics practices as soon as the school dismissal bell rings. This trend even prompted the American Academy of Pediatrics to issue a statement saying that unstructured playtime is critical to children’s development.
My daughter is in fourth grade and probably meets the criteria for an overscheduled child. She has an after-school activity every day except Friday, and two mornings a week she arrives at school an hour early for orchestra rehearsal. There are also occasional Girl Scout meetings, special practices and concerts.
In the eyes of the AAP, my daughter’s jampacked schedule would perhaps raise some red flags and, initially, I was concerned too. Earlier this fall, as our family calendar swelled with drama rehearsals, swim lessons and martial arts classes, I felt my blood pressure rising. I worried about the potential pitfalls — namely, increased stress and a big reduction in leisure time — of letting my daughter participate in so many extracurricular activities.
But several weeks into the school year, I’m much more comfortable with the schedule. Here’s why.
SHE THRIVES WHEN PARTICIPATING IN SEVERAL ACTIVITIES
Before I considered signing her up for anything, my daughter made a compelling case for why she wanted to try each activity. While I pushed back at first, her enthusiasm won me over. Over time, I’ve observed that she is happiest with a mix of structured activities that engage her mind and body in different ways.
Why I’m Letting My Tween Be Overscheduled This Year
By contrast, my younger daughter loves to play independently and has little desire to cram her waking hours with supervised programs — and that’s okay, too. Just like adults, some kids enjoy being busy; others prefer more unstructured time. As long as my older daughter remains the driving force in selecting her activities, I want to support her to the extent that our family schedule and budget allow.
SHE CAN SOCIALIZE WITH DIFFERENT GROUPS
Around third grade, cliques at school become a bigger factor in kids’ friendships, fueled by the strong desire to fit in and feel secure. Participating in an array of extracurricular activities gives my daughter a sense of belonging as she works with peers toward shared goals. It also offers her a chance to develop close-knit friendships outside school. No matter what might have happened at recess that day, she can always regroup, and commiserate with her theater friends about flubbing lines, or strategize with her taekwondo buddies about how to tackle a tough board break.
SHE’S LEARNING TO PRIORITIZE
Most days, we have a small window between school and activities. One such afternoon, my daughter dropped her backpack on the floor and made a beeline for her iPad.
“Do you think you should finish your homework before screen time?” I asked.
She waved me off. “I’ll do it later.”
Later turned out to be past her bedtime, when she suddenly remembered the reading assignment she’d postponed. “I should’ve done my homework first,” she said.
Allowing her to carry a full schedule has taught her more about time management than all of my well-intentioned nagging ever could. She has to keep up with her homework and get adequate sleep, or she’ll have little energy for the activities she enjoys.
SHE’S DISCOVERING THAT SHE WON’T ALWAYS BE THE BEST AT EVERYTHING
Like me, my daughter is competitive and struggles with perfectionism. At first, when she didn’t get a lead part in the fall musical, she was crushed. But now she loves being part of the ensemble and is learning from her more experienced cast mates. Trying different activities has helped her realize that the most important thing is to show up and give her best effort.
In supporting my daughter’s extracurricular activities, though, I do have a few nonnegotiable rules.
SCHOOL COMES FIRST
Always. She needs to stay caught up on homework, reading and studying for tests.
IF SHE SIGNS UP FOR AN ACTIVITY, I EXPECT HER TO COMPLETE THE FULL SESSION
She needs to understand that when she commits to an activity, her parents are making a commitment, too — both financially and time-wise. Shuttling her to and from activities impacts our family schedule. If she loses interest or decides that something just isn’t for her, that’s okay, but she has to finish the session.
THE
EXPECTATION IS THAT SHE GIVES HER BEST EFFORT, NOT THAT SHE PERFORMS PERFECTLY
Whether she’s in the classroom, on the stage, or in the pool, I expect her to do her best. But I want her to make plenty of mistakes while finding what she’s passionate about. What matters most is that she’s putting forth a genuine effort — even if her rendition of “Hot Cross Buns” on the violin sounds like a mouse being murdered (as she once put it).
I’ll admit that my daughter’s full schedule adds an element of stress to our lives. There are weeks when one parent is traveling and the other has to scramble to cover the transportation duties that we normally share. There are evenings when we sit down to dinner at eight o’clock, and there are frantic morning searches for spelling homework that somehow got lost in the shuffle.
But, so far, the benefits have outweighed the downsides. While next year could look completely different for my tween, at the moment, being “overscheduled” feels just right.
Originally published in the Washington Post, November 5, 2018
Gina Rich is a Wisconsin freelance writer who focuses on parenting, health, and the natural world. Her work has been published in the Washington Post, Good Housekeeping, WIRED, and other outlets.
This is a perfect place to shop for the person who seemingly has everything. There are signs galore for the home, art supplies, garden items including garden gnomes, candles, cookie cutters, lunch boxes, craft items, home décor. There are items you never knew your wanted or needed. The store has even made it into some TV movies.
One shopper reported that she brought her four-year-old son and “he went bonkers.” Others reported that it was hard to leave, and they kept discovering new fun items. People rarely leave without filling a bag of newly discovered must have items.
Travel Tip of the Month: Hidden Valley is open daily through Labor Day, September 2. After the summer hours it is open weekends through Columbus Day, October 14 when it closes for the season. Visit hiddenvalleyadventure.com or call 585-535-4100 for information.
For Vidler’s visit vidlers5and10.com or call 716-652-0481. It is open daily.
Deborah Williams lives in Holland, NY and is a veteran travel writer whose work has appeared in national and international publications. She is the recipient of the Society of American Travel Writers’ Lowell Thomas Gold Travel Writing Award
verse. There is a wonderful array of toys for the youngsters and an amazing collection of kitchen gadgets downstairs.
Vidler’s
Vidler’s
SINGLE PARENTING
— by Meagan Ruffing
Finding Your Groove as a Family
School should be in full swing right about now. Start dates differ across states but when September rolls around, you can expect back-to-school schedules to follow. Getting back into a routine for yourself can prove challenging, let alone finding your groove as a family. While there may be some of you in the home who are excited about starting a new school year, there may be others who are dreading it. No matter where you find yourself in this mix of emotions, there are several tried and true tips to help you and your family get settled in and ready to rock this year.
Consider getting yourself a new calendar. This is a cheap and easy way to start the new school year off on a clean slate. Since I have several calendars going at once, I make sure each one is ‘new’ in some way. I get new dry-erase markers for my at-home family calendar, and I buy a new paper calendar that goes back and forth between home and work. Starting fresh with my schedule means I am prepared to take on new commitments. This
is also great modeling for my kids as they get to see what it looks like to stay organized.
Start with a fresh wardrobe. There’s something about wearing new things that makes you feel good about yourself. Taking care of yourself through your outer appearance does so much for your inner self which, in turn, makes you feel more confident. When you feel confident, you want to do more things. When you do more things, you create more opportunities for yourself and your family.
Give the house a deep clean. I recently bought a new home and through the process of packing things up, I felt this sense of clarity and freedom in purging old things. I also had a newfound appreciation for keeping less stuff and gaining more space. Knowing what’s in your space creates room for more family time which helps everyone find their groove.
My kids are old enough now that each of them can take a night to make dinner. I won’t say they’re necessarily excited about this, but I am. It gives me greater insight into what they like to eat and how they problem-solve while preparing a meal. It also creates a sense of pride for each of them as they know the rest of the family is counting on them to eat. It’s been fun to see how each of my kids’ personalities play a role in what they cook.
I use conversation starters at dinner. This helps me ask things about my kids’ days that I might otherwise have not thought to ask. While school can be exciting, it can also come with a side of drama. I do my best to stay on top of what’s happening so as not to lose any of my kids in their adolescent years. It’s easy for teens to hide how they’re feeling for fear of parents overstepping or meddling, but my approach is to keep the conversation going and to teach my kids to put words to how they’re feeling.
Electronics are a real battle for us. Going from summertime to school time can be a hard transition because of bedtime, but I have learned how to approach screen time using a collaborative approach with my kids. Instead of making them do their chores right when they get home from work, I allow them one hour when they get home to decompress. After that one hour, they get up from their screens and put their school bags away, put dirty clothes in the laundry, and start on their homework. After those things are done, they get their electronics back for another hour. After that one hour, we start our dinner routine. Keeping this groove has helped my kids know what to expect and when kids know what to expect, they feel safe to be themselves.
I ask my kids what they’re looking forward to. This could be something happening the very next day or a celebration coming up. I have found the importance of knowing what excites my kids is also the same thing that can bring anxiety at times. Since anxiety shows up through upset stomachs, headaches, loss of appetite, having a hard time concentrating, or withdrawing from certain activities to name a few, I try to do my best to keep a pulse on things coming up in my kids’ lives to help alleviate any worry and join them in their excitement at the same time.
The holidays will be here before you know it so enjoy the month of September while it’s still here! You’ll be glad you took the time to help your family get back into the groove of a routine and your kids will appreciate the structure.
GARDENING AND PLANTING
ADVENTURES
Planting seeds and watching them grow is a wonderful way to teach patience and responsibility. Gardening provides a tangible connection to the Earth and allows for bonding over a shared project. Grandparents can share their knowledge of plants and nature, while grandkids learn about the cycle of life.
VISIT A MUSEUM OR HISTORICAL SITE
Embark on a journey through history by visiting a local museum or historical site. Explore exhibits together, ask questions, and learn about different periods and cultures. This activity provides an educational yet engaging experience, fostering a love for learning. You can even try virtual visits to museums and sites that are far away.
BOOK CLUB AND READING SESSIONS
for meaningful conversations. This is helpful at all ages, but especially in the tween and teen years.
PHOTOGRAPHY AND MEMORYMAKING
Capture moments together through photography. Share tips on composition, lighting, and storytelling through images. Create scrapbooks or digital albums to document these precious moments, preserving them for future generations to cherish. Grandparents often love sharing photos from their younger years and kids get a kick out of seeing them.
Meagan Ruffing is a marriage and family therapist living in northwest Arkansas with her three kids. She’s looking forward to finding her groove with her family and starting the school year off right.
Sharing a love for reading opens a world of imagination and knowledge. Read books together, discuss the stories, and even start a mini book club. This activity promotes literacy and critical thinking. It also provides an opportunity
TIME TOGETHER IS WHAT MATTERS MOST
The activities shared between grandparents and grandkids are not just moments in time, but building blocks of a strong and enduring relationship. They offer opportunities for learning, growth, and most importantly, love. Through these shared experiences, both generations can learn from each other. It also helps them create cherished memories that will be passed down for generations to come.
Whether it’s in the garden, kitchen, or through the pages of a book, these activities strengthen the precious bond between grandparents and grandkids, leaving an indelible mark on their hearts.
— by Sarah Lyons
The Misunderstood Child: Sensory Processing 101
Specia l N eeds
level, the temperature is the coldest or hottest you have ever felt, you are wearing the most uncomfortable clothing that has ever touched your skin, and you are nauseated by a repulsive smell. All at the same time. What would be your response? Most would quickly escape the situation,” says Dana Lyons, Occupational Therapist at Boulder City Hospital. “These are examples of what a child with Sensory Processing Disorder feels, but they cannot escape the symptoms. As a result, these children may respond with anger, frustration, or ultimately avoid situations which may cause a breakdown.”
Atypical morning in my home begins with the words “My clothes hurt me. They are too loose. I need new clothes.” As a result, I began the search for the “right” clothes for my 4-year-old daughter. After much time, many tears, lots of tight hugs, and a good dose of frustration, she begins her day in the same dress she wore the day prior and many days prior to that. The process of getting dressed, which seems simple to most, is the biggest challenge my child faces on a daily basis.
This situation is one example of what living with a child with Sensory Processing Disorder is like. “Imagine being in an environment where the noise around you is amplified to the highest
Sensory Processing is a term that refers to the way the nervous system receives messages from the senses and turns them into appropriate motor and behavioral responses. “Everyone processes sensory input, but some people process it differently than others,” says Carrie Grosdidier, Occupational Therapist. “When the processing of this information interferes with our ability to function on a day-to-day basis is when we have a problem.”
Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) can be hard to diagnose because it affects each person differently. “Any of the five senses can be affected by being hypersensitive (overstimulated) or by being hyposensitive (under simulated),” says Lyons.
A hypersensitive response to sensory input may include:
• Distracted by noises that sound normal to others (flushing toilets, clanking silverware)
• Fear of surprise touch or avoidance of hugs
• Avoids swings and playground equipment that others enjoy
• Has poor balance, falls often
A hyposensitive response to sensory input may include:
• A constant need to touch people or textures
• An extremely high tolerance to pain
• May often harm other children and/or pets when playing, doesn’t understand own strength
• Fidgety and unable to sit still, enjoys movement-based play such as spinning, jumping, swinging etc.
• Seems to be a “thrill seeker” and can be dangerous at times
Children can have one or many of these characteristics as well as some
THE MISUNDERSTOOD CHILD continued... Celebrate these FUN DAYS during the month of
DAY
September 8th Grandparents Day
September 9th Teddy Bear Day
September 13th
Kids Take Over the Kitchen Day
September 18th
Cheeseburger Day
September 20th
Build a Sandcastle Day
September 21st
Miniature Golf Day
from each category and in varying degrees of severity. “Unfortunately, these responses are viewed by others as children behaving badly when in fact they are not,” Lyons says. “The most important thing to understand is that children with SPD are not ‘bad’ children. They are simply trying to survive in their own skin, in a world with heightened or lowered sensations. Typical punishment for ‘bad’ behavior is not optimal and can cause regression rather than progression.”
Stephanie Beaudry, mom of two children with SPD, says “When trying to explain my son’s hyperactivity or clumsiness is due to SPD, we get told ‘Oh it’s just his age’ but it’s actually because his nervous system doesn’t respond as it should in certain situations.” SPD may cause motor clumsiness, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, or other impacts if not treated effectively.
Sensory Processing does create challenges for families, but there is treatment available for kids who struggle with it. “We had a fabulous Occupational Therapist that helped my son. She gave us tools and gave him permission to figure out what worked for him and what didn’t,” says Joy Alsup, mom of four. “He has a high need for tight, long hugs and we understand that this is what helps him. It’s a huge priority for us.”
With the help of an Occupational Therapist, kids with SPD can find tools that help them balance sensory input. Activities may include swinging, wearing a weighted vest, pushing or pulling heavy objects across the room, or jumping on a trampoline. Many of these activities are fun for the child and can be integrated into playtime at home.
“The therapy helps more than just their physical strengths but also their emotional strengths,” says Beaudry. “When my daughter first started therapy, she was extremely shy. She wouldn’t even talk to children her own age when they approached her. Now, four months
An occupational therapist’s main goal is to educate parents about SPD and give families tools they can use to help the child progress at home. Although families that deal with SPD may have struggles with things other people see as “normal” activities, many parents find hope in their child’s progress and support from other parents dealing with this disorder. “One thing I have learned after experiencing our journey is that I am not alone. There are so many others that understand what I am going through and we are there to support each other in many ways,” says Beaudry.
As a mother of a child with Sensory Processing Disorder myself, I would encourage others to educate themselves about SPD and begin to approach the situation from the child’s perspective. Parents can then begin to use the tools needed to adjust their environment and celebrate as their child meets their goals and overcome challenges.
Joy Alsup says, “When my son was diagnosed, I felt like he would be limited in his future. He has worked through many of his issues and I see his SPD as part of what makes him unique. I wouldn’t have him any other way.”
It takes a lot of patience, persistence, and love to parent a child with SPD, but when a child feels accepted and supported, they can work through their struggles, and thrive in school and at home.
Originally published in the January 2016 issue of KC Parent Magazine
Sarah Lyons is a wife and mother of six. The inspiration for this article came from her daughter who was diagnosed with Sensory Processing Disorder in 2014. She writes from her home in suburban Kansas City.
RAISING DIGITAL KIDS
2. News Literacy Project — Targeted at older students, the News Literacy Project (Newslit.org) offers resources to help young adults detect bias, identify misinformation, and scrutinize sources. Parents should complement school efforts by discussing these topics at home.
Tips for Parents
1. Stay Informed — Regularly check reputable fact-checking sites and use tools like Newsguard to evaluate the credibility of news sources.
2. Educate Your Children — Discuss the importance of verifying information and the potential impact of fake news. Use resources like “Be Internet Awesome” and the News Literacy Project to teach your children critical thinking skills.
3. Encourage Critical Thinking — Teach your children to question the source of information and to look for corroborating evidence before accepting something as true.
Conclusion
Fake news is a persistent issue, and with advancements in technology, it has become even more challenging to combat. However, by using trusted resources, educating our children, and staying vigilant, we can navigate the misinformation landscape more effectively. As the 2024 election approaches, it’s more important than ever to be aware of the tools available to discern truth from falsehood and to teach our children to do the same. Together, we can create a more informed and discerning society.
Mike Daugherty is a husband, father of three young children, author, speaker, Google Innovator, and possible Starbucks addict. He is a certified educational technology leader who has served in a variety of roles through his twenty-year career in public education. Currently, Mike is the Director of Technology for the Chagrin Falls Exempted Village School district in Northeast Ohio. As an IT director he has developed creative, well thought out solutions that positively impact teaching and learning.
Health & Wellness is of utmost importance to today’s families. Promote your services to over 53,000 WNY families in our section. Appearing monthly in print and online!
ChoicesWellness
To Advertise In This Section, Call 716-836-3486
September is Life Insurance Awareness Month
— by Ryan Seufert
Hey there, WNY families! Let’s chat about something that is super important but often overlooked: life insurance. After all, September is Life Insurance awareness Month. I know, I know — it’s not the most exciting topic, but stick with me here. It’s pretty crucial for securing your family’s future and giving you some peace of mind.
There are a few different types of Life Insurance — Term, Whole Life, Universal Life, etc. I think for the most part, Term is where it’s at! So, what’s the deal with term life insurance? It’s like a safety net for your loved ones. Imagine it as a big, comfy blanket that covers your family for a set number of years (usually 10 to 30). If something unexpected happens to you during that time, your family gets a lump sum of money to help them out. Simple, right?
Why is it so great for young families like yours?
1. IT’S BUDGET FRIENDLY
Let’s face it, between mortgage payments and those growing grocery bills, every penny counts. Term life insurance is way more affordable than the other types, so you can protect your family without breaking the bank.
2. IT’S FLEXIBLE
You can choose how long you want to be covered. Maybe you want a policy that lasts until the kids are through College, or until you’ve paid off the house. You’re in control!
3. IT’S EASY-PEASY:
No complicated stuff here. You pay your premiums and, if the worst happens, your family gets the money.
Let’s get personal for a second. Think about this: if something happened to you, wouldn’t it be amazing to know your family would be okay financially? That’s what term life insur-
ance does. It’s like giving your loved ones a big hug from beyond, saying, “I’ve got you covered.”
Take Jane and John, for example. They’re just like you — young couple, two kiddos, new house, saving for the future. They decided to get a 20-year term life insurance policy. Sadly, Mike passed away unexpectedly a few years later. But because of their policy, Sarah was able to pay off the house, keep the kids in their activities, and even continue saving for college. It gave her one less thing to worry about during a tough time.
If you’re nodding along thinking, “Yes, this sounds like something we need,” here's what to do:
1. Figure out how much coverage you need. Think about your debts, future expenses (Hello, college tuition!), and how much it costs to keep your family living comfortably.
2. Shop around! Compare policies from different insurers to find the best fit for your family and budget. An Independent agent or Financial Advisor is the way to go, as they will have access to highly rated companies and can shop it for you.
3. Take action! Don’t put it off — the younger and healthier you are, the better the rates.
Look, I get it. Talking about life insurance isn’t exactly a barrel of laughs. But it’s one of those adulting things that can make a huge difference for your family. It’s all about making sure your loved ones are taken care of, no matter what life throws your way.
Give yourself and your family that gift of security. Then you can get back to the fun stuff — like figuring out how to get spaghetti sauce stains out of your toddler's favorite Spider-Man shirt.
Ryan Seufert is the owner of Silver Grove Financial Group in Orchard Park, NY, a husband and father/juggler of two toddlers, and a strong advocate for term life insurance, both professionally and personally.
Workin’ 5-9
Make the most of your morning hours for more productive days
(Family Features)
From a regenerative bath to that first cup of coffee, early morning rituals have the power to heal, restore and fuel. They can leave you feeling accomplished, empowered and ready to take on the day. How you spend your hours from 5-9 each day can ensure you’re well prepared to tackle whatever your 9-5 throws your way.
Establishing a well-planned and consistent routine removes the guesswork and makes it easy to accomplish more during these essential hours that set the stage for the day ahead. Get a jumpstart on your day with these tips to make the most of your morning routine.
Set Personal Goals
Just as no two people are exactly alike, your morning routine should reflect your unique needs. Some people need these early hours to ease out of sleep and gradually work toward a busy day while others jump out of bed ready to set the day in motion. Decide what you can realistically accomplish in your waking hours before you hit the office or school drop-off line and plan a sequence that makes sense for you and your family. When you have a steady routine in place, it’s typically easier to keep up with habits like early morning workouts, and on days when your energy is lagging, you can shift into autopilot and still get everything done.
Create a Rejuvenating Space
No matter your 5-9 routine, the bathroom is central to it. You can start the day with a more positive outlook when you get ready in a space that’s equal parts functional and beautiful. With stunning design, innovative features that make life easier,
environmentally conscious performance and do-it-yourself installation ease, the Aspirations Collection from American Standard provides a full suite of bathroom products to start your day right.
This collection gives you plenty of reason to consider upgrades, whether coordinating a full bathroom and accessories or installing just one or two elements like a unique faucet. Choose one with a pull-out, swivel spout to quickly clean those hard-toreach corners or a touchless option for hands-free convenience. Find the right sink to match with four different stylish options that lend a personal design while streamlining morning routines for you and your family. Awaken your senses with a four-function showerhead and keep all your bathing essentials organized with a clever shelving wall panel. Reflecting nearly 150 years of quality craftsmanship, design and reliability, each piece within the collection delivers big on style and performance.
Practice Good Sleep Habits
The way you end each day influences how you start the next one. Going to bed on time, avoiding screen time before you turn out the lights and creating a comfortable sleep environment are all keys to restful sleep. However, managing your sleep doesn’t end once you reach dreamland; your wake-up routine is also an essential aspect of a healthy sleep schedule. One of the biggest detriments to quality sleep is hitting snooze to delay your day. Just a few more minutes easily becomes 20, 30 or more and none of that time is quality rest, so you’re not really gaining anything.
Ensure You're Well Equipped
Few things can sidetrack a good morning routine like discovering an empty bottle of shampoo or an empty can of shaving cream. Make a habit of regularly taking inventory of your morning supplies. Watch for sales so you can keep backups on hand to ensure you’ll always have your favorite toiletry items ready to help you feel refreshed and ready to go.
Make Time for Breakfast
Countless studies affirm the importance of a well-rounded breakfast. Researchers have found good nutrition provides fuel to help give you energy, promote clearer thinking and problem solving, improve mood and memory, and more. If you can’t stomach a full meal, look for alternatives to give your system a morning boost, such as a protein-rich smoothie early and a more substantial snack later in the morning.
Enjoy a Mindful Moment
Making time to relax or do something you enjoy can set a positive tone for the day. You might savor a few quiet moments over a cup of coffee or spend quality time with a pet. Early morning light and nature sounds can provide calming background for meditation, or you might simply use the time to organize your to-do list so you feel better prepared to tackle the day.
Take Time to Tidy Up
When it’s time to put the workday behind you, it can be easier to make the mental shift from work mode to life mode when there’s not a list full of chores awaiting you at home. As part of your morning routine, make your bed, clean your vanity countertop and complete other small chores to make your evening load lighter.
Find more ideas and inspiration for making the most out of every morning at americanstandard.com.
Tell them you saw their ad in
Elevate Pizza Night with Premium Toppings
(Family Features) A family debate over what’s for dinner often ends with one word: pizza. Next time you land on pizza night, take it to the next level with premium ingredients everyone can agree on.
Elevating the pizza experience starts with tasty toppings that allow you to customize for everyone’s preferences, such as Carando’s Dry Sausage line. Featuring three varieties — Italian Dry Salame, Pepperoni and Genoa Salame, as well as a duo pack with Genoa Salame and Pepperoni — the line is made of all-natural ingredients that pairs effortlessly with an array of dishes.
Uncured and well-seasoned for classic Italian flavor, it allows families to elevate pizza night with options like Genoa Salame and Pepperoni ThreeCheese White Pizza. This cheesy, flavorpacked recipe is ready in just 20 minutes without sacrificing taste, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
When the weekend rolls around and it’s time for a savory snack or in-home entertaining, put premium dry sausage at centerstage with this Tour of Italy Charcuterie Board. Ideal for serving a crowd or sharing during family movie night, this platter calls for cheeses, olives, a homemade mostarda and Carando’s high-protein sausage that’s dried and sliced to perfection. Made with select cuts of meat and a longstanding recipe, it’s a classic star ingredient for meat and cheese boards. Each 5-ounce package contains 6-10 grams of protein per serving without added MSG or artificial flavorings, ingredients or colorings.
Visit Carando.com to find more recipes that take pizza night or your next summertime event to the next level.
Genoa Salame and Pepperoni ThreeCheese White Pizza
Stretch each dough ball over separate lightly greased, 14-inch pizza pans.
Drizzle 1/8 cup olive oil on top of each crust then top each with 1 tablespoon garlic and 1 tablespoon anchovies followed by 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, 1/2 pound fontina cheese, 1/2 pound fresh mozzarella pearls and 1/2 package charcuterie duo.
Bake pizzas about 15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and crust is golden brown.
Remove pizzas from oven and garnish each with 1 tablespoon chopped parsley.
Tour of Italy
Charcuterie Board
Prep time: 20 minutes
Servings: 3-4
Mostarda:
1/2 cup apricot preserves 1/4 cup whole-grain mustard
Charcuterie Board:
1 package (5 ounces) Carando Uncured Genoa Salame
1 package (5 ounces) Carando Uncured Dry Salame
1 package (5 ounces) Carando Uncured Pepperoni
5 ounces fontina cheese
5 ounces provolone piccante cheese
5 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls
6 ounces olives
6 ounces giardiniera (pickled vegetables in oil)
crackers, crostini or bread, for serving fresh basil, for garnish cherry tomatoes, for garnish
To make mostarda: Mix apricot preserves and whole-grain mustard.
To prepare charcuterie board: On large board or platter, arrange mostarda, genoa salame, dry salame, pepperoni, fontina cheese, provolone piccante cheese, mozzarella pearls, olives and giardiniera. Serve with crackers, crostini or bread and garnish with fresh basil and cherry tomatoes.
THE KIDDIE GOUR ME T
The Rock Kitchen and Bar, an American Treasure built in 1908, was our delicious destination on Transit Road, home to many restaurants in many zip codes. A Kid's Menu sports five items for 12 and under. The usual include 4-ounce Cheeseburger and fries ($7.49), Chicken Fingers and fries ($8.99), Kraft Mac-N-Cheese and fries ($8.99), Grilled Cheese and fries ($6.99), or Pepperoni Pizza ($8.49). Kids get Play Dough for their entertainment. Plus, there are big screens around to compete with their small screens.
— by Barbara Blackburn
The Rock Kitchen and Bar 6261 Transit Road East Amherst, NY 14051 716-688-7625
rockkitchenandbar.com
My Lobster Roll ($22.49) revealed big flavor in a very big filling of poached Maine lobster mixed with a captivating citrus aioli, served on a toasted brioche roll. This compared more than favorably to another lobster roll that left a culinary memory.
The Buffalo Spree Magazine favorite ($17.99), chosen by Dad, delivered what the description said and more. A big mouth burger was topped with fried onion straws, bacon, pepper jack cheese, and sweet and smoky ranch dressing. He upgraded his fries (which accompanied my entree) to sweet potato fries ($2.00 upgrade), broccoli was also a choice. Both potato choices were crisp and done to a tasty turn. Someone in the kitchen puts together good sauces. Our items were paired with a spicy aioli and a honey butter.
The summer menu includes Sauteed Mussels ($12.99), Clams Casino ($14.99), and Steamed Clams ($12.99). If mussels were not our go-to company meal, we would have ordered them.
The drink menu is ample and creative, as evidenced in my Blueberry
Lemon Sangria ($9.00), compatible with my food, and at the end, awarding me with a handful of blueberries.
So, what else may tempt your ordering decision? The three taco choices: Bang Bang Shrimp, Shrimp Tacos, and Burnt Ends Tacos appealed to me. The Shrimp Tacos shows a little house logo, as do the other signature Rock items.
A house shows up on the Garden Noodle Bowl ($14.99), sounding inviting to me, a sometimes vegetarian: sauteed zucchini and squash noodles with slow roasted tomatoes, sauteed spinach, and topped with grated cheese.
Peach and Blueberry Salad ($16.99), plated mixed greens, grilled chicken, peaches, strawberries, goat cheese and almonds excited my taste buds, thinking and writing about it.
The Rock desserts were off the menu. That night the dessert chef, a.k.a. the previous owner's wife, offered a delicious Key Lime Pie, plus some candy bar focused desserts ($7.50).
The Rock restaurant is building good memories of food on a solid culinary foundation and tradition. Because of it, and some others, Transit Road stands out as a dining destination.
Barb has been happily doing the Kiddie Gourmet for over 35 years. She has two aging children and four grandchildren, all living in Florida. She is a home instructor and community education cooking instructor for Williamsville Central Schools. She is the 2023 recipient of the Buffalo State Alumni Association Senior Service Award.
If you could be any animal, what would you be? What is your favorite thing to do with friends?
If you could trade places with anyone for a day, who would it be?
If you had $50, what would you spend it on? $50
If you got to choose what’s for dinner, what would you pick?
