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Parentown KidSmart

Kidsmart – August 2015

For most homeowners, sunny skies lead to more time spent enjoying nature in your coveted outdoor spaces. If you’ve considered revamping your open-air landscapes, let this be your season to bring the elements of beauty and design to the environment. Homeowners who want to enhance both the aesthetics and efficiency of their outdoor spaces are not alone. In fact, a recent survey conducted by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), found that sustainable and low-maintenance designs are top trends among residential landscape projects. “The good news is that consumers care about designed landscapes that are attractive, easy to take care of and eco-friendly,” said Nancy Somerville, executive vice president and CEO of ASLA. “The survey shows that homeowners increasingly see opportunities to improve the environment right in their own backyard.” The study, which asked landscape architects to rate the expected popularity of outdoor design elements, points to a great demand for ecologically sensitive projects intended to preserve the environment, conserve water and reduce landscape maintenance. Here are the top five project types with the expected highest consumer demand: • Native plants (85 percent) • Native/adapted drought plants (83 percent) • Food/vegetable gardens (79 percent) • Fire pits/fireplaces (78 percent) • Low-maintenance landscapes (78 percent) Go with a pro If you’re ready to breathe these top design ideas into your outdoor spaces, consider hiring a pro. Here are the top five reasons for hiring a landscape architect for the job: 1. A landscape architect is well equipped to design an outdoor living space that will add value to your home, extend your living space and allow you to enjoy all that nature has to offer in a controlled setting. From arbors to fountains, they can create a space that is both inviting and environmentally sustainable. 2. Hiring a landscape architect is a terrific investment for your home. Research from Virginia Tech shows that landscapes literally grow in value over time, while traditional home additions or remodels start to lose value the minute the dust settles. 3. Landscape architects are licensed professionals who often work with landscaping or other construction companies to install their designs. Think of the fashion designer imagining an outfit while a clothing manufacturer makes the apparel, or an artist designing a wall poster that’s printed by another company. 4. Landscape architects are trained to think about landscapes as systems. They will assess your property’s problem areas as well as possibilities and create a solid plan that addresses both the big picture and exact details of how your landscape will look. They will handle all the details, saving you time and stress. 5. Landscape architects will deliver a finished project that you will love and that will comply with regulations and codes. It will be a special place that you and your family and friends will enjoy for years to come. For more landscape ideas for your home, and to find a professional in your area, visit www.asla.org. Para la mayoría de los propietarios de vivienda, los cielos soleados permiten disfrutar más tiempo de la naturaleza en sus codiciados espacios al aire libre. Si ha considerado la renovación de sus paisajes al aire libre, deje que esta sea su temporada para acercar los elementos de belleza y de diseño al medio ambiente. Los propietarios que desean mejorar tanto la estética como la eficiencia de sus espacios al aire libre no están solos. De hecho, una encuesta reciente llevada a cabo por la Sociedad Americana de Arquitectos Paisajistas (American Society of Landscape Architects, ASLA), descubrió que los diseños sostenibles y de bajo mantenimiento constituyen las principales tendencias entre los proyectos de paisajes residenciales. «La buena noticia es que los consumidores se interesan por los paisajes diseñados que sean atractivos, fáciles de cuidar y respetuosos del medio ambiente», dijo Nancy Somerville, Vicepresidenta Ejecutiva y Directora Ejecutiva de ASLA. «La encuesta muestra que los propietarios ven cada vez más oportunidades de mejorar el medio ambiente en sus propios patios». El estudio, solicitado a los arquitectos paisajistas con el fin de evaluar la popularidad esperada de elementos de diseño al aire libre, apunta a una gran demanda de proyectos ecológicamente sensibles destinados a preservar el medio ambiente, conservar el agua y reducir el mantenimiento del paisaje. A continuación, se detallan los cinco principales tipos de proyectos con la máxima demanda esperada de los consumidores: • Plantas autóctonas (85 por ciento) • Plantas autóctonas/adaptadas a la sequía (83 por ciento) • Huertos (79 por ciento) • Hogueras/chimeneas (78 por ciento) • Paisajes con bajo mantenimiento (78 por ciento) Consulte a un profesional Si está listo para adoptar estas excelentes ideas de diseño con el fin de dar vida a sus espacios al aire libre, considere contratar a un profesional. A continuación, las cinco principales razones para contratar a un arquitecto paisajista para el trabajo: 1. Un arquitecto paisajista está bien equipado para diseñar un espacio vital al aire libre que agregará valor a su hogar, ampliará su espacio de vida y le permitirá disfrutar todo lo que la naturaleza tiene para ofrecer en un entorno controlado. Desde pérgolas hasta fuentes, estos profesionales pueden crear un espacio, tanto acogedor como ambientalmente sostenible. 2. La contratación de un arquitecto paisajista es una excelente inversión para su hogar. La investigación de Virginia Tech muestra que los paisajes crecen literalmente en valor con el tiempo, mientras que las adiciones o remodelaciones de casas tradicionales comienzan a perder valor en cuanto se asienta el polvo. 3. Los arquitectos paisajistas son profesionales certificados que a menudo trabajan con compañías de paisajismo o con otras empresas de la construcción para instalar sus diseños. Piense en un diseñador de moda que imagina un traje mientras un fabricante de ropa confecciona ropa o en un artista que diseña un cartel para pared que otra compañía imprime. 4. Los arquitectos paisajistas están capacitados para pensar en paisajes como sistemas. Evaluarán las áreas problemáticas de su propiedad así como también las posibilidades, y crearán un plan sólido que aborde tanto el panorama general como…

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Parentown KidShape

Kidshape – August 2015

As summer vacation winds down, thoughts turn from jaunts to the beach to readying for a new school year. To-do lists include many of the typical tasks that precede going back to the classroom, including shopping for new clothes, purchasing school supplies and finishing summer reading assignments. Another essential requirement parents must find time for is completing their children’s health screenings and immunizations so youngsters can return to school. Health screenings may include, but may not be limited to, routine physical exams, eye exams and dental cleanings. Each school district may have its own set of health requirements that must be met in order for children to attend school. Many schools require that children are up-to-date with all immunizations before they can begin a new school year. While the issue of vaccinations has inspired debate in recent years, parents should recognize that many schools will only exempt students from receiving certain vaccinations due to religious reasons. For a list of state vaccination requirements and possible exemptions for schools in the United States, visit www2a.cdc.gov/nip/schoolsurv/schImmRqmt.asp. Students who have specific learning disabilities or medical conditions that require classroom modification should obtain recent documentation from any therapists or specialists prior to beginning a new school year. Doing so facilitates the process of setting up procedures within the school while ensuring children have what they need to excel in the classroom. All parents may want to ask doctors to provide copies of medical and immunization records so that schools will have the most recent copies on file. Parents should schedule eye examinations well in advance of the first day of school so they have ample time to fill new prescriptions for youngsters before school begins. This ensures kids won’t be starting off on the wrong foot because of vision problems that could already have been addressed. Parents of adolescents or students on the verge of adolescence may want to address the subject of bodily changes before the school year begins anew. Address which changes can be expected, including the start of menstruation for girls. This will help children better understand what is happening when they witness changes in themselves and fellow classmates and give them a chance to receive accurate information rather than gossip from their peers. Keep in mind that health screenings conducted in advance of the school year may not preclude students from school-sponsored screenings. Schools may offer their own vision and hearing screenings and may take physical measurements to ensure students are growing on schedules in line with normal development.

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Parentown KidSmart

Kidsmart – July 2015

What makes a healthy and satisfying snack for children? A well-balanced snack with good nutrition can help kids grow and provide them with the proper support and energy needed for school, sports and other daily activities. Parents have the best intentions when looking for nutritious options for their children, but challenges related to lack of access or knowledge of nutritious foods have contributed to an alarming trend. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, childhood obesity rates in the U.S. have more than doubled in the past 30 years, with over one-third of children currently overweight or obese. Kids and snacking A number of factors contribute to obesity rates, with snacking as a major culprit. While parents need to consider what they provide their children for three main meals a day, what they eat in between is equally important. Research by DuPont Nutrition & Health shows that children eat two to three snacks each day. Other studies confirm that American kids are consuming more than 700 calories in afternoon and evening snacks alone. Aside from the fact that these calories make up a substantial part of the total daily recommended caloric intake for children, most of the snacks commonly consumed by kids are high in saturated fats or simple sugars in the form of salty snacks, candy and beverages — such as fruit drinks — according to a University of North Carolina study. Parents face many practical challenges in providing healthful snack options to kids who are on-the-go and may not have access to refrigeration or re-heating capabilities. This often leads to snacks which lack the essential vitamins, minerals and protein a growing body needs. While snacking is essential to give kids the energy they need for the day, it’s important to provide snacks that contribute to daily intake goals of nutrients to support healthy growth and development. “For many parents, the primary reason for giving snacks to children is to stave off hunger until their next meal,” said Megan DeStefano, Global Strategic Marketing at DuPont Nutrition & Health. “When choosing a snack, parents should avoid those high in carbohydrates, such as simple sugars, since they tend to leave children feeling unsatisfied quickly and often craving additional unhealthy snacks.” Understanding better snacks It’s important for parents to know what to look for in a snack. For example, protein helps kids feel full longer, which may support weight management. In fact, numerous studies have confirmed that protein is more satisfying than either carbohydrates or fat. And lean proteins, such as soy, can meet needs to support growth and development without contributing to fat or cholesterol intake. It’s challenging for parents to determine what snacks are best. DeStefano shares some tips on healthful ingredients parents should look for in snack foods. Protein packs a powerful punch Vegetable proteins are a great way to consume protein without increasing the amount of saturated fats and cholesterol in your child’s diet. If you are considering vegetable proteins, try soy protein. Soy protein snack options can be found in a variety of tasty products such as ready-to-drink beverages, bars, cereals and dairy alternatives. Soy protein is also the only widely available vegetable protein that provides all the essential amino acids in the proper amounts that are needed to support growth and development of children. Parents can also rest easy knowing that soy protein delivers cardiovascular benefits as well. According to clinical research published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition conducted in both children and adults, soy protein has been shown to help reduce LDL cholesterol, also known as “bad” cholesterol, increase HDL, also known as “good” cholesterol, and decrease triglyceride levels. Just 25 grams of soy protein a day, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease. Find a fiber-filled option Fiber is another important ingredient to look for when looking for healthy snack options. Many kids are falling behind on their fiber intake. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children only consume half the amount of fiber that is recommended. For proper digestive health, it is recommended that children get 25–31 grams of dietary fiber per day. Snacking provides another opportunity to help kids to meet this goal. Including a fiber-rich food can also eliminate cravings for additional snacks. Snacking doesn’t have to be bad for your child’s health. There are several options that are tasty while delivering a healthy dose of cardiovascular or digestive benefits. With so many great possibilities, parents should continue to offer healthy snack options, with greater nutrient density to their children to help them stay energized throughout the day, while satisfying their hunger and taste. For more ways to get your family to make smarter snacking decisions, visit www.danisco.com. ¿Cómo podemos preparar bocadillos saludables y nutritivos para los niños? Un bocadillo saludable bien balanceado ayuda a los niños a crecer y les brinda la energía necesaria para la escuela, los deportes y otras actividades diarias. Los padres tienen las mejores intenciones cuando compran opciones nutritivas para sus hijos. Sin embargo, los desafíos relacionados con la falta de acceso o el conocimiento sobre alimentos nutritivos constituyen una tendencia alarmante. Según los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades, los índices de obesidad infantil en los Estados Unidos han aumentado más del doble en los últimos 30 años y, en la actualidad, hay más de un tercio de niños con sobrepeso u obesidad. Bocadillos para niños Existen diversos factores que contribuyen a los índices de obesidad, y los bocadillos son los principales culpables. Si bien los padres preparan para sus hijos tres comidas al día, lo que comemos entre comidas tiene la misma importancia. Una investigación del Departamento de Nutrición y Salud de DuPont ha revelado que los niños comen de dos a tres bocadillos por día. Otros estudios confirman que los niños estadounidenses consumen más de 700 calorías por la tarde y la noche solo en bocadillos. Según un estudio de la Universidad…

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Parentown KidShape

Kidshape – July 2015

Keep kids engaged through summer vacation. “Summer Slide” is a term parents may hear at the end of the school year. No, it doesn’t have anything to do with playground activities. Rather, “summer slide” refers to knowledge gained during the school year that may be lost over the duration of summer break.The National Summer Learning Association says many students lose about two months of grade-level equivalency in math computation skills over the summer. Students tend to score lower on standardized tests after summer vacation than they do when the same tests are taken at the onset of summer. Minds left to sit idle can haunt children when it’s time to return to the classroom. But parents who engage kids throughout the summer and reinforce educationally sound activities can prevent summer slide. -Make vacations educational. Visit a locale kids have studied in class and explore its culture and traditions. -Offer plenty of reading materials. Reading can expand children’s minds and help them build and maintain their vocabulary. Ask teachers for work packets. Students can stay on top of their studies by doing some light schoolwork throughout the summer. This can reinforce lessons kids have already learned and keep their minds sharp. -Purchase a journal. Encourage kids to write about their summer adventures in a journal. Chances are their teachers will ask about summer vacations and may require an essay when students return to school.

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Parents

Kidsmart – June 2015

For young minds looking into future career paths, the options are seemingly limitless, with professions to fit every talent and passion. From middle and high school students to incoming college freshman, finding the perfect college that fosters an engaging environment to forge ahead on their chosen path is essential. The following are questions to consider which will help define personal passions, skill sets and lifestyle needs — all important pieces of the puzzle. Identifying your interests While you don’t have to enter college with an exact plan for your future profession, being aware of your passions can certainly help. Consider the following questions to bring your interests to mind: • What topics excite you at school? • Do you have any interests or hobbies outside of school? Many colleges offer career planning courses to help guide entering students to the perfect college major. There are also various tests available to match a student’s interests with specific occupations. As you search, try not to limit yourself by thinking your passions can’t translate into successful careers. You may encounter occupations you weren’t aware of that put your interests to work in unexpected ways. For example, students with an appreciation for art and science and an interest in environmental issues may look into the world of landscape architecture. This profession plans, designs and manages a variety of small and large scale outdoor projects including parks, residential developments, campuses, urban plazas, streetscapes, waterfront developments and trail systems. Undergraduate and graduate degrees are available; an undergraduate degree requires four to five years of study in design, construction techniques, art, history, natural and social sciences. To find out if your passions match with this rewarding industry, visit www.asla.org/yourpath. Identifying your abilities Equally important to your passions are your natural abilities, skills and talents to guide you to your profession. To help you think about your skills, consider these questions: • What classes do you succeed in? • Have you been acknowledged with any awards or recognition? Further research can help you match your skills into specific disciplines. For example, the skills required for a landscape architect include a combination of natural abilities and learned skills, such as an understanding of the arts and design elements; as well as a technical ability to translate a design into a built work. Formal education can help you develop the knowledge necessary to pursue professional work in this field. Recognizing value The perfect job will also support what you value in life. Consider these questions to determine your personal values: • What motivates you to do work? • Do you value working alone or with peers? While a job may sound good on paper, it is important to find one that fulfills you personally. Casting a wide net as you consider the possibilities may reveal fulfilling career options that let you focus on your values in ways you never imagined. Returning to the example of landscape architecture, this may be a good path of study if you are interested in melding creativity with science or attentive to environmental issues. Landscape architects play an important role in creating healthy environments and implementing projects that respect both the needs of people and the environment. Dig deep and ask yourself the important questions. Begin your college search with a basic understanding of your interests, skills and work values, and you’ll be on your way to the right profession. Para mentes jóvenes que analizan carreras profesionales futuras, las opciones son aparentemente ilimitadas, con profesiones para adaptar cada talento y pasión. De los estudiantes de enseñanza media y superior a los estudiantes de primer año de la universidad, encontrar la facultad perfecta que estimule un ambiente atractivo para salir adelante en su carrera elegida es fundamental. Lo que sigue son preguntas a tener en cuenta que ayudarán a definir las pasiones personales, los conjuntos de habilidades y las necesidades de estilo de vida, todas son piezas importantes del rompecabezas. Cómo identificar tus intereses Si bien no tienes que ingresar a la universidad con un plan exacto de tu profesión futura, ser consciente de tus pasiones ciertamente puede ayudar. Ten en cuenta las siguientes preguntas para recordar tus intereses: • ¿Qué temas te entusiasman en la escuela? • ¿Tienes algunos intereses o pasatiempos aparte de la escuela? Muchas universidades ofrecen cursos de orientación profesional con el fin de ayudar a guiar a los estudiantes que ingresan a la asignatura principal de la universidad reconocida. Asimismo, existen varias pruebas que combinan los intereses del estudiante con las ocupaciones específicas. Cuando investigues, trata de no limitarte a pensar en tus pasiones que no puedan traducirse en carreras exitosas. Puedes encontrar ocupaciones que no conozcas y que susciten tus intereses de una forma inesperada. Por ejemplo, los estudiantes que saben apreciar el arte y la ciencia y tienen interés en asuntos ambientales pueden analizar el mundo de la arquitectura paisajista. Esta profesión planea, diseña y maneja una variedad de proyectos de exterioresa pequeña y gran escala incluidos parques, desarrollos residenciales, campuses, plazas urbanas, paisajes urbanos, desarrollos costeros y sistemas de senderos. Están disponibles los títulos de grado y de posgrado;un título de grado requiere de cuatro a cinco años de estudio en técnicas de diseño y construcción,arte, historia, ciencias naturales y sociales. Para averiguar si tus pasiones coinciden con esta industria rentable, visita www.asla.org/yourpath. Cómo identificar tus habilidades La misma importancia que tienen tus pasiones las tienen tus habilidades, aptitudes y talentos naturales para guiarte en tu profesión. Con el fin de ayudarte a pensar en tus aptitudes, ten en cuenta estas preguntas: • ¿En qué clases obtenías mayores logros? • ¿Has obtenido algún premio o reconocimiento? Una mayor investigación puede ayudarte a hacer coincidir tus habilidades con disciplinas específicas. Por ejemplo, las aptitudes requeridas para un arquitecto paisajista incluyen una combinación de habilidades naturales y destrezas aprendidas, como un entendimiento del arte y los elementos de diseño, así como también una capacidad técnica para traducir un diseño en una obra construida. La educación formal puede ayudarte a desarrollar…

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Parentown KidShape

Kidshape – June 2015

Summer camp is a beloved tradition in many families. Many parents of young children fondly recall spending their summers at summer camp, where they made lifelong friends and learned the finer points of roasting marshmallows and competing in three-legged sack races. Parents looking for the right summer camp for their kids will soon discover there are various types of summer camps, each offering youngsters something different. The following are some of the summer camp options parents can expect to encounter as they search for the right camp for their kids. Day camps Day camps are not overnight camps, which means kids will return home each night rather than sleep over at camp. Day camps typically offer many of the activities people have come to associate with camps, including crafts, sports and even day-trips to experience local culture or attractions. Many day camps are co-ed, and counselors typically live within the community. Faith-Based camps Faith-based camps offer many of the same activities as more traditional summer camps, but do so while simultaneously offering campers the opportunity to celebrate and further explore their religious beliefs. Some faith-based camps may focus heavily on religion, incorporating faith into daily camp activities, while others may be more subtle with regard to integrating religious beliefs and lessons into camp activities. Sports camps Some summer camps focus on a particular sport, catering to young athletes who want to further develop their athletic talents. Sports camps may feature guest lectures and lessons from notable local athletes and coaches, while some camps may provide instruction from current and/or former professional athletes. Some sports camps are overnight, while others are day camps. Family camps Family camps are opportunities for the whole family to enjoy the summer camp experience. Family camps typically tailor their activities around tasks families can complete together, with counselors providing assistance when it’s needed. Family camps may be faith-based or secular, and families typically stay overnight, sleeping in facilities on the campsites or in lodging away from home. Special needs camps Parents of children with special needs can still send their kids to summer camp, as there are many camps that cater to such youngsters. Special needs camps may cater to campers who are blind, deaf, learning disabled, or mentally or physically disabled. Staff at special needs camps typically receive extensive training, which helps to calm some of the fears parents may have about leaving their special needs children at camp. Facilities at special needs camps are often built to accommodate the specific needs of campers.

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Parentown KidSmart

Kidsmart – May 2015

Borrowing money can help you manage your way out of a tight spot, but doing so without knowing all the facts can make your finances even tighter in the long run. “When faced with a financial emergency, most people don’t think through how borrowing money might affect them down the line,” said Susie Irvine, president and CEO, American Financial Services Association Education Foundation. “With so many options available, it’s relatively easy to get a loan, but the impact on your credit and what it actually costs you over time can vary a great deal.” Two common forms of small-dollar borrowing are traditional installment loans (TIL) and payday loans. Understanding how each loan works can help you make the right decision for your financial situation. Traditional installment loans are used for various purposes, such as meeting family emergencies, purchasing home furnishings or consolidating other debts. These loans are generally short-term. Most traditional installment loans range from $500 to $3,500, with the borrower paying equal installments at regular intervals over a determined number of weeks, months or years. A typical monthly payment is around $125. With regular, manageable payments of principal and interest, the borrower has a clear roadmap out of debt. Payday loans are repaid in a single balloon payment at the end of the loan period. This payment is usually due in less than 30 days, most commonly 14 days. Payday lenders do not assess ability to repay, relying instead on a postdated check or on similar access to a borrower’s bank account as their assurance that the loan will be repaid. Although payday loans may appear to provide a quick and easy solution, a traditional installment loan is a more financially sound choice for most people. For more resources to help you better manage your money, visit www.afsaef.org. Is an Installment Loan Right for Me? When deciding whether to obtain an installment loan, consider the benefits and responsibilities. According to the American Financial Services Association Education Foundation, an installment loan: • Obligates future income. You’ll be required to set aside a certain amount of future income for loan payments. • Requires discipline. Borrowing wisely means not borrowing more than you can handle. Don’t let the thrill of buying or having a sum of cash obligate you to more than you can afford. • Makes it possible to meet unexpected expenses. The ability to borrow and make affordable payments can be helpful if an emergency arises that requires extra money. • Allows you to obtain products and services now and pay for them later. A loan can provide an opportunity to purchase bigger-ticket items and use them right away. Keys to Credit Success The American Financial Services Association Education Foundation offers this advice to help ensure that your interests are protected when you borrow money: Budget your money. Provide your monthly spending plan when you meet with creditors. It will help them make a responsible decision about the amount of credit you can afford. Shop, shop, shop. Compare the costs of credit from different creditors. Shop for credit as you would shop for anything else. Beware of “now or never” offers. If it’s a good deal, it will probably still be there after you’ve had time to think about it. Don’t be pressured into making a quick decision. Ask questions. Don’t sign on the line until all your questions have been answered. Read the contract. Don’t sign a contract that you don’t understand or has any blanks. A signed contract with blanks can be completed as anyone wishes, and it will be legally binding. Keep your contract in a safe place. It’s important to keep all paperwork relating to your credit obligations. If questions come up later, you’ll have your agreement in writing. Make your payments on time and in full. This is one of the best ways to build a good credit history. Repeated late payments will trigger late payment fees, and hurt your credit report, which will make it difficult to obtain future credit. Additional products are not required to get a consumer loan. Optional products that may be offered for purchase with your loan include motor club membership, term insurance or warranties. Terms to know When you take out a loan, it’s important to understand the complete cost of repaying the amount you’ve borrowed. It’s a good idea to compare offers from multiple creditors, and understanding these terms will help you calculate the real cost of borrowing to get the best deal. Here is a list of common terms from the American Financial Services Association Education Foundation. • Amount Financed: The total dollar amount of the credit that is provided to you. • Annual Percentage Rate or “APR”: A measure of the cost of credit expressed as a yearly rate. • Credit Insurance: Optional insurance that is designed to repay the debt if the borrower dies or becomes disabled. • Finance Charge: The dollar amount you pay to use credit. • Fixed Rate Financing: The interest rate and the payment remains the same over the life of the loan. Equal monthly payments of principal and interest are made until the debt is paid in full. • Length of Payment: The total number of months you have to pay the credit obligation. • Late Payment Fee: A fee that is charged when payment is made after its due date. • Monthly Payment Amount: The dollar amount due each month to repay the credit agreement. Pedir dinero prestado puede ayudarle a salir de un aprieto. Sin embargo, si lo hace sin información podría afectar aún más sus finanzas a largo plazo. “Frente a una emergencia financiera, la mayoría de las personas no piensa de qué manera el dinero prestado podría tener efectos a largo plazo”, afirmó Susie Irvine, Presidente y CEO de American Financial Services Association Education Foundation. “Con tantas opciones, es relativamente sencillo obtener un préstamo, pero el impacto sobre su crédito y lo que cuesta en total puede variar mucho”. Dos opciones comunes de pequeños préstamos en…

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Parentown KidShape

Kidshape – May 2015

Choosing the right summer camp It can be difficult to envision warm summer days when the wind is blowing and the snow is falling. However, the winter months are a great time to explore summer camp options. In fact, many camps have strict enrollment timelines that require decisions to be made prior to spring. Attending summer camp has been a tradition in the United States for more than 150 years. Statistics indicate that around 30 million American kids attend summer camp each year. There are many benefits to summer camp. Camp enables children to stay engaged during the summer when there may be limited interaction with school friends. It also gives parents both a safe and viable daycare solution during the summer. Summer camp pulls together children from different neighborhoods, social classes and backgrounds, which can make it a good place to meet new people – some of whom may become lifelong friends. Camps also provide a variety of activities that can challenge children to try new things that go beyond their comfort zones. Some children are very receptive to the idea of attending summer camp. Others need a little coaxing. But summer camp should never be forced on a child who does not want to go. In such instances, consider local daytime programs that may fill the void instead of programs that require being away from home. Once the decision for summer camp is made, there are some questions to answer. • What are your finances like? Do you have a budget for summer camp? • What size camp do you desire? • Should the camp be co-ed or single sex? • How far do you want your child to travel for summer camp? What are the options in your area? • Are there any camps that have been recommended by friends or family members? • What kinds of activities do your children enjoy? These types of questions will help you narrow down your options. Then you can visit and interview camps to find one that is the best fit. When visiting camps, go armed with a checklist of questions. Some of these can include • What is the philosophy of the camp? • Can you explain a typical day? • What are the types of activities and facilities offered? • What is the camper-to-counselor ratio? • What is the camp’s drug/alcohol policy? • Does the camp have insurance and security personnel? • What percentage of staff return each year? How are staff selected and trained? • What kind of health care is provided? • Can you tell me about the policy on phone calls and family visits? • What do you do in the event of emergencies? There are many different camps available. Some offer a “little bit of everything.” Others cater to academics, sports, specific hobbies or even religious preferences. Don’t wait too long to research and sign up for camps because many fill up quite early or have an extensive waiting list. That is why choosing a camp should be part of a winter to-do list. Summer camp is a fun way that millions of children spend their summers each year.

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Parentown KidSmart

Kidsmart – April 2015

Holding on to Your Car Tips for a safe, long-lasting vehicle While driving a new vehicle off the lot may sound tempting, the financial commitment it brings is not an option for most families. Instead, hanging on to your old set of wheels is the smarter choice for a number of reasons. Taking good care of your car not only improves safety and dependability, but also can have a positive impact on your wallet. “Hanging on to your current vehicle allows you to redirect money you would spend on a new car to pay off credit card debt, college loans and other bills; beef up savings or even take a road trip vacation,” said Rich White, executive director with the Car Care Council. “By simply budgeting the equivalent of just one new car payment, consumers could cover an entire year’s worth of basic maintenance.” Even the cost of fixing a serious engine issue is a more sensible economic decision, added White. For the cost of an average down payment on a new car or truck, a vehicle can be repowered with a remanufactured or rebuilt engine and gain years of reliable service. “The bottom line is that a properly maintained vehicle is safer, more dependable, more fuel efficient, less polluting and more valuable,” White added. The experts at the Car Care Council offer these 10 general tips for those looking to maintain the life of their vehicle: 1. Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission, as well as windshield washer solvent and antifreeze or coolant. 2. Check hoses and belts to make sure they are not cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or showing signs of wear. 3. Check the battery and replace if necessary. 4. Check the brake system annually and have the brake linings, rotors and drums inspected at each oil change. 5. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, damage and broken supports or hangers if there is an unusual noise. 6. Check engine performance to make sure it is delivering the best balance of power and fuel economy and producing the lowest level of emissions. 7. Check the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system as proper heating and cooling performance is critical for interior comfort and safety. 8. Inspect the steering and suspension system annually, including shock absorbers, struts and chassis parts, such as ball joints, tie rod ends and other related components. 9. Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots. 10. Check the wipers and lighting so that you can see and be seen. Check that all interior and exterior lighting is working properly and replace worn wiper blades so you can see clearly when driving during precipitation. The next time you consider purchasing a new car, think about investing in the vehicle you already own for significant savings, as well as enhanced reliability and safety. For more tips to extend the life of your car, visit www.carcare.org. Si bien conducir un vehículo nuevo podría sonar tentador, el compromiso financiero no es una opción para la mayoría de las familias. En cambio, cuidar su auto anterior es la elección más inteligente por diversos motivos. Si cuida bien su auto, no solo mejora la seguridad y confiabilidad, sino que afecta positivamente su bolsillo. “Si mantiene su vehículo actual, redirigirá el dinero que gastaría en un auto nuevo para cancelar la deuda de su tarjeta de crédito, préstamos universitarios y otras cuentas, acumular ahorros u organizar el viaje por ruta de sus vacaciones”, afirmó Rich White, Director Ejecutivo del Consejo del Cuidado del Automóvil. “Con un pago de su nuevo auto, los consumidores podrán cubrir un año entero de mantenimiento básico”. “Incluso el costo de reparar un problema grave del motor es una decisión económica más sensata”, agregó White. Por el costo del anticipo promedio de un nuevo auto o camioneta, podrá restaurar su vehículo con un motor reparado o reconstruido y ganar años de servicio confiable. “Como resultado, podemos agregar que un vehículo bien mantenido es más seguro, más confiable, ahorra más combustible, contamina menos y es más valioso”, agregó White. Los expertos del Consejo del Cuidado del Automóvil ofrecen estos 10 consejos generales para quienes intentan mantener la vida útil de su vehículo: 1. Verifique todos los fluidos, incluso el aceite del motor, la dirección, los frenos y la transmisión, además del solvente limpiador de parabrisas y anticongelante o refrigerante. 2. Verifique mangueras y cinturones para asegurarse de que no estén dañados, desgastados, deshilachados, sueltos o con signos de demasiado uso. 3. Verifique la batería y cámbiela si fuera necesario. 4. Verifique el sistema de frenos todos los años y haga revisar los discos, los rotores y las pastillas de frenos con cada cambio de aceite. 5. Inspeccione el sistema de escape para detectar fugas, daños y soportes o sujetadores quebrados, en caso de escuchar un ruido inusual. 6. Verifique el rendimiento del motor para asegurarse de que ofrece el mejor equilibrio de potencia y economía de combustible y que produce el nivel más bajo de emisiones. 7. Verifique el sistema de calefacción, ventilación y aire acondicionado (HVAC), dado que el adecuado rendimiento de la calefacción y refrigeración son de vital importancia para la comodidad y seguridad. 8. Inspeccione el sistema de dirección y suspensión todos los años, incluidos los amortiguadores, montantes y piezas del chasis, tales como juntas de rótulas, barras de acoplamiento y otros componentes relacionados. 9. Verifique los neumáticos, incluida la presión y el dibujo. Si observa que el desgaste es desparejo, deberá alinear las ruedas. También debe revisar los neumáticos para detectar bultos o áreas lisas. 10. Verifique los limpiaparabrisas y las luces para poder ver y ser visto. Verifique que las luces interiores y exteriores funcionen correctamente, y cambie las escobillas desgastadas para ver con claridad cuando conduce con lluvia. La próxima vez que evalúe comprar un nuevo auto, piense en invertir en el vehículo que ya tiene para…

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Parents

Kidshape – April 2015

How to enjoy this year’s staycation Recovery from the recession that began in 2008 has sparked renewed interest in vacation travel. Resort bookings are up, and millions will enjoy exotic vacations in the months to come. While discretionary spending is increasing, some individuals and families continue to take a conservative approach to their finances, and that approach extends to how they spend their time off. Many are still embracing “staycations,” in which families forgo travel in favor of staying home. Staycations may not be as exotic as trips abroad, but there are several ways that families can make their staycations enjoyable and memorable. Invest in your home or lifestyle. Instead of bankrolling a trip overseas, channel those funds into improvements for your home or yard to create a relaxing atmosphere you can enjoy year-round. Install that pool or landscape the backyard to make it feel like a tropical paradise. Coasting across the water of a lake or ocean is an enjoyable pastime, so repurpose your vacation funds to buy a boat or some jet skis that you can enjoy throughout the warmer months. Become a tourist in your hometown. Chances are you have never experienced the sights of your hometown the way a tourist might. Plan a few days when you can act like someone visiting your town or city for the first time. Go to the top of that tallest mountain or get a tour of that local factory. Seek out and visit monuments and points of history in your community. Hop on one of those sight-seeing buses and learn something new about where you live. You may just be surprised at what you can discover. Look for hidden gems. Some local businesses may be willing to open up for “behind the scenes” tours if you ask. This can be a fun excursion for young children. Ask employees of a movie theater if you can see the projection room. Newspaper offices may host tours of their facilities. Even a bowling alley can be fascinating to kids if they can see ball-return mechanisms or how equipment is stored. Watching the zamboni machine clean the ice at a rink also may be an entertaining sneak peak into rink operations. Splurge on a show or sporting event. Attend an event you normally wouldn’t unless you were on vacation. Take a trip to see a Broadway or Broadway-inspired musical at a nearby theater or take the family to see your local sports team play a home game against its biggest rival. Treat yourself to concession stand snacks and a few souvenirs. Dine out a few nights. Vacations often entail eating out, especially if meals are not included in a traditional vacation package. Use your staycation as the opportunity to dine at local restaurants you have yet to visit. Indulge the kids one night and put them in charge of choosing the meals. Forget those diet plans for a day or two and savor that triple-scoop ice cream cone. If the cost of dining out has you concerned, select restaurants that offer coupons in community mailers or value packs. Read the newspaper or community bulletin. Chances are you can find a number of entertaining and low-cost activities sponsored by your town or other organizations close to home. Fireworks displays, movies under the stars, boat tours and fairs are just a handful of the fun events that may be coming soon. Turn off electronics. Take a break from some of your devices during your staycation. By doing so, you will be less likely to fall into your daily habits and more likely to make the most of your time to rest and relax.

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