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Parentown KidSmart

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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Kids

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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Parentown KidShape

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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Parentown KidSmart

Kidsmart – Mar 2015

When you set out to make life changes, such as weight loss or adopting a more active lifestyle, it can be tempting to look for shortcuts that expedite your path toward your end goal. However, long-term success is more attainable for those who take a slow and steady approach that puts health first. “There are dozens of reasons people look to develop healthier eating habits, ranging from weight loss to disease prevention,” said Rene Ficek, registered dietitian and nutrition expert for Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Eating (SSHE). “Regardless of the motivation, success begins with a well-balanced eating plan that is based on sound nutrition and physical activity.” Ficek offers this advice to individuals looking for a new approach to eating: • Adopting a healthy diet is the key to successful, long-term weight loss. A healthy diet provides adequate calories and nutrients to support your body’s energy and nutritional needs while allowing you to shed an average of 1–2 pounds per week. • Be wary of diet plans that promise loss of five or more pounds per week, which is unrealistic and unhealthy. • Look for a meal plan that takes the guesswork out of eating right by serving calorie- and portion-controlled meals that reflect a well-balanced diet. • Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise every day. If you have been primarily sedentary, start slowly with a moderate walk each day, working up to more aggressive cardiovascular exercise and weight training to develop muscle. • Find ways to make your new lifestyle as convenient as possible, such as meal programs that save on grocery shopping and cooking time or gyms that specialize in short, well-rounded workouts. Another important aspect of a successful weight loss program is a menu that incorporates high-quality ingredients to create an appetizing array of meals that adhere to current nutrition guidelines. Finding a menu that offers variety is a smart approach, Ficek says. “When you’re watching what you eat, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut and eat the same foods repetitively. Unfortunately, that approach can backfire if you become bored with your food and gravitate toward options with new flavors that may be less nutritionally beneficial.” On the breakfast menu, SSHE offers options such as Strawberry Yogurt & Dark Chocolate-Berry Crunch Parfait, which features layers of strawberry Greek yogurt with orange-cherry-cranberry sauce and a decadent granola-berry-dark chocolate crunch. Or for lunch, the Pecan-Cranberry Mixed Greens Salad offers a fresh mix of salad greens, roasted pecan halves, Swiss cheese, dried cranberries and celery seed dressing served with a tomato juice sipper. To learn more about convenient and healthy approaches to losing weight, visit www.seattlesutton.com or call 1-800-442-3438. Number Crunch Healthy eating means understanding and closely monitoring the calories and nutritional value of the foods you eat. The registered dieticians and research and development teams at Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Eating prepare meal plans that comply with the following nutrition guidelines: • Low in fat (25 percent calories from fat) • Low in saturated fat (less than 7 percent) • Low cholesterol (less than 200 mg) • Calorie-controlled (1,200; 1,500 vegetarian; or 2,000 per day) • Sodium-restricted (less than 1,500 mg/day on the 1,200 calorie plan) • No hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils (zero trans fat) • Free of food dyes and harmful additives as preservative Meal Program Lets Senior Achieve Lifelong Goal Decades of weight loss and gain followed — as much as 400 pounds up and down through the years. Now, at 63, Janet Wilke is adopting healthier eating habits and learning exactly what and how much to eat. In May 2013, Wilke weighed in at 299.8 pounds. Just 15 months later, she achieved her goal weight of 150 pounds. Her secret? An eating plan that guides her to make healthy choices at each meal following a 1,200-calorie eating plan created by Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Eating (SSHE), a family-owned company based near Chicago. “In the past when I would lose weight, I would save my clothes just in case,” Wilke said. “This time, I am confident because I know exactly what to eat and how much and I feel fabulous. I have never felt as energetic and healthy as I do now, and the smaller size is a bonus.” Through SSHE, Wilke orders convenient and freshly prepared meals delivered to her home. A weekly menu consists of three meals per day, with both regular and vegetarian menu options available to provide a mix of vegetables, fruits, beans, whole grains, nuts and low-fat dairy products. “Now, I look for opportunities to move because I feel so ‘light’ and pain free,” Wilke said. “I can get up and down out of my chair almost effortlessly, and my sleep has improved as well. I have even given away all of my ‘too big’ clothes because I know that I will not regain the weight.” Cuando decide realizar cambios en su vida, tales como perder peso o adoptar un estilo de vida m·s activo, podrÌa resultar tentador buscar atajos hacia la meta final. Sin embargo, el Èxito a largo plazo est· m·s cerca de quienes adoptan un enfoque moderado y continuo con la prioridad puesta en la salud. “Existen docenas de razones para desarrollar h·bitos de alimentaciÛn m·s saludables, desde pÈrdida de peso hasta prevenciÛn de enfermedades”, manifestÛ Rene Ficek, dietista licenciado y experto en nutriciÛn de Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Eating (SSHE). “Independientemente de la motivaciÛn, el Èxito se alcanza con una dieta equilibrada, basada en una buena nutriciÛn y actividad fÌsica”. Ficek ofrece sus consejos a las personas que buscan un nuevo enfoque de alimentaciÛn: • Una alimentaciÛn saludable es clave para perder peso de manera exitosa a largo plazo. Una alimentaciÛn saludable provee los nutrientes y las calorÌas adecuadas para brindar energÌa a su cuerpo y satisfacer sus necesidades nutricionales y, al mismo tiempo, le permite perder de 1 a 2 libras por semana. • Tenga cuidado con las dietas que prometen perder cinco o m·s libras por semana: no son realistas y son perjudiciales para la…

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Parentown KidShape

Kidshape – March 2015

Arts Just as Crucial as Math and Science, Say Education Experts Science, Technology, Engineering and Math — known collectively as STEM — has been the buzz phrase for educators for some time. But, with many school districts eliminating art, music and other humanities classes, there has been a recent push by educators to change the focus from STEM to STEAM, and add arts back into the mix for a more well-rounded education. “Many experts agree that STEAM education is a great way to engage children of all ages in creative play, discovery and learning,” says Dr. Eric Klopfer, Platform Learning Expert and member of the Expert Panel at VTech, a world leader in age-appropriate and developmental stage-based electronic learning products for children. Whatever the present academic focus of your local school district is, you can help support a more comprehensive education for your children at home, while making it fun. Here’s how to incorporate STEAM learning into your children’s playtime: While there’s no doubt that math and science comprehension are critical, education experts advise parents to support an interdisciplinary approach to learning that incorporates the arts as well. Art Time The school day may not offer daily opportunities for creativity to flourish, but you can turn the playroom at home into an artist’s studio. Keep on hand arts and crafts supplies such as glue, construction paper, glitter, scissors, string and paint. Take a trip to a museum or gallery and learn about different artists and styles to get kids inspired. New Technologies Handing over your expensive, breakable mobile technology to your young children may not sound ideal for on-the-go learning, but there are durable tablets built for children that support learning apps combining STEM subjects with the arts. For example, InnoTab MAX, VTech’s most powerful and versatile 7-inch tablet, features access to more than 650 educator-supported apps, including hand-picked Android learning games and age-appropriate learning software and content through VTech’s Learning Lodge, as well as creative onboard apps such as Movie Maker and Art Studio. The apps feature a wide curriculum of language arts and reading, math, science, social studies, problem solving and creativity that have been reviewed  by a panel of education and child development experts. Music Participation in music education has been proven to improve grades in STEM subjects. Not only that, it’s a ton of fun. If your school offers opportunities such as band or chorus, encourage your kids to get involved. If arts programs are scarce, invest in a keyboard or guitar for the home. Even if private music lessons are out of the budget, there are plenty of online tutorials that can help with the basics.

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Parentown KidSmart

Kidsmart – Feb 2015

Driving in the Dark Tips and tricks for navigating at night Although a lack of confidence while driving at night is most commonly associated with older drivers, new survey results reveal that drivers as young as 40 feel uncomfortable driving in dark, nighttime conditions. This time of year, when darkness falls earlier, means more low-light driving time for drivers of all ages, so it’s important to understand the factors that contribute to this discomfort, including one surprising culprit — your nutritional intake. Night driving is characterized by low-light conditions and glare from oncoming headlights that impact a driver’s vision and can have serious safety implications. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reports that vision provides as much as 85 percent of the information drivers need to make safe decisions behind the wheel. Results from a survey conducted by Toluna and EyePromise reinforce the importance of quality vision, with nearly one in four respondents reporting that if they could see better, they would feel safer driving at night. A problem with real consequences Concerns about safe driving at night and in low-light conditions are valid. According to the National Safety Council, traffic death rates are three times greater driving at night versus driving during the day. However, for many people, driving at night is not a choice. In the survey, one in five respondents said that, despite feeling anxious, they continue to drive at night out of necessity. Protect yourself behind the wheel The first step toward night driving safety is being aware of the issues that may disrupt a driver’s confidence behind the wheel. The vision issues related to night driving can be organized into three categories: low-light conditions, which affect contrast and the ability to gauge distance; glare, which may cause a period of blind driving and reaction time, which is reduced when visibility is hampered. You can also enhance your safety behind the wheel by adopting smart driving behaviors, such as driving slower at night and watching the white line on the road. The National Safety Council recommends drivers clean their headlights, taillights, signal lights and windows (inside and out) at least once a week. Research reveals there is an additional solution proven to directly address the major night driving vision concerns: protecting your vision quality at its source. Scientific studies show that nutrition has a significant impact on visual performance, specifically the nutrients zeaxanthin and lutein. Zeaxanthin and lutein are carotenoids that make up the macular pigment — the area of the eye responsible for protecting vision. Trace amounts can be found in foods like leafy greens, corn, eggs and red, orange and yellow peppers, but because it is difficult to get enough in the average American diet, optometrists recommend a nutritional supplement. EyePromise vizual EDGE is a once-daily softgel that features high levels of dietary zeaxanthin and is guaranteed to improve vision quality within three months. “It has been scientifically proven that high levels of dietary zeaxanthin taken in supplement form improve night driving visual performance,” said Dr. Dennis Gierhart, a foremost researcher on dietary zeaxanthin and founder of ZeaVision, one of the leading companies in ocular nutrition. Learn more about the impact vision has on night driving safety at www.eyepromise.com/nightdrivingvision. Common night driving pitfalls Low light: Low-light conditions make it harder for the eyes to see contrast and thus identify objects and gauge their distance. It is much more difficult for a person to make out an object or person in the street or to accurately measure how fast they are moving or how far away they are at night versus during the day. Glare disability and recovery: Glare and blinding light from an oncoming car’s headlights not only disable vision in the moment, but there is a period of time before the eyes recover where people are left driving blind. In fact, glare is one of the most common night driving vision issues, with one out of four respondents reporting that they feel unsafe driving at night due to glare, according to a survey by Toluna and EyePromise. Reaction time: Reaction time is slower at night. The National Safety Council reports that 90 percent of a driver’s reaction depends on vision, which is limited at night, so a person’s ability to spot danger and react is compromised. When considering the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety’s assertion that a typical driver makes 20 decisions per mile and has less than half a second to act to avoid a collision, it’s clear that hampered night vision poses serious danger. Take steps to improve your safety There are numerous ways you can proactively improve your safety while driving at night. The experts at EyePromise offer these suggestions: Practice safe driving • Make sure the windshield and headlights are clean. • Leave more distance between cars. • Use “night” setting on your interior rearview mirror. Improve your eyes with nutrition Research proves nutritional supplements high in dietary zeaxanthin (10 mg or above) and lutein protect and promote eye health to directly address major night driving vision issues. These nutrients help by improving contrast, reducing glare and improving recovery time. Trace amounts of these nutrients are found in foods like leafy greens, eggs, corn and orange and yellow peppers, but the best option is a natural supplement like EyePromise vizual EDGE, which features high levels of dietary zeaxanthin (14 mg) and lutein in a once-daily softgel. Schedule regular eye exams to monitor for vision issues A professional will be able to identify any issues with the aid of routine examinations. Frecuentemente se asocia la falta de confianza al conducir por la noche a los conductores mayores. No obstante, los resultados de una nueva encuesta revelan que los conductores de apenas 40 años se sienten incómodos al conducir por la noche, en la oscuridad. En esta época del año, oscurece antes, y los conductores de todas las edades conducen más tiempo con poca luz. Por lo tanto, es importante entender los factores que contribuyen a esta molestia, y se sorprenderá…

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Parents

Kidshape – February 2015

Tips to start the day right to help your kids get the right start to the school day, follow these nutrition and wellness tips: School can seem like a whirlwind for kids, and it’s important for parents to get them organized and put them in a position to succeed. Thankfully, new developments in education are making it easier for students to keep organized, study smarter and achieve better results. These days, technology has the power to improve how kids digest, retain and apply information dramatically — if you know how to use it. Check out these great study tips that can help your students achieve the grades they strive for. Quit Cramming “All-nighters” are a relic of the Saved by the Bell era. Research now shows that students who cram the evening before a test or quiz are less likely to perform well the following day. Rest is critical for academic success. Instead of packing learning into marathon sessions, students should maintain a regular study schedule leading up to their tests and should make sure to get plenty of shuteye. Create a Digital Tool-Kit “Be prepared” is the simple motto of the Boy Scouts, and it applies to almost every facet of life. You wouldn’t try to build a tree house without a hammer, saw and nails — you shouldn’t study with an empty tool kit either. These days, there are unique tech tools available that make the studying process more efficient, engaging and effective. For example, McGraw-Hill Education’s LearnSmart provides an adaptive “digital tutor” that continuously assesses students’ knowledge and skills and provides personalized recommendations that help them master content over time. By helping students focus their study time more on learning what they don’t know and less on what they already know, LearnSmart can help turn C students into B students and B students into A students. The company also offers SmartBook, a personalized digital textbook that adjusts on the fly and highlights important information based on each student’s current strengths and weaknesses. You can find more information on McGraw-Hill Education’s entire family of adaptive learning tools at www.mheducation.com/back-to-school. Jump Around Not physically, but figuratively. When prepping for a test, most students review course materials in chronological order. While this approach may seem logical, research suggests that studying out-of-order helps students retain standalone knowledge more effectively. This allows them to recall information in a randomized fashion (the way it appears on tests). If your children apply themselves and use these tips to guide their studies, they should have a leg up on the curriculum this school year. Whether it’s McGraw-Hill Education’s digital learning products, an outside-the-box approach to test-prep or just a good night’s sleep, a dynamic, modern approach to education can help your child thrive. “This is the era of digital education,” said Jeff Livingston, senior vice president of McGraw-Hill Education. “We must continue to develop adaptive technologies that streamline the learning process and increase the potential of students everywhere.” If your student has struggled in the past, or if you think he or she isn’t reaching his or her true potential, try some new techniques to help make this school year the best of your son or daughter’s academic career.

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