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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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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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Parents

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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Parentown KidShape

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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Parentown KidSmart

Kidsmart – Jan 2015

With the new year underway, there is a heavy focus around resolutions. Whether you are making a resolution to celebrate a fresh start or looking to make a change no matter the time of year, maintaining resolutions can be difficult. In fact, a recent survey from Bank of America found that 49 percent of respondents don’t make New Year’s resolutions because they prefer to set goals throughout the year. Goals tied to the New Year, and those set at various points in the year, are all aimed at making significant life changes. According to the survey, 81 percent of resolutions involve health and fitness, 45 percent involve personal finances and 30 percent are targeted toward making changes in social life and relationships. With the large number of people planning to make changes in their finances, it is helpful to determine how to best ensure you achieve your goal. “I’ll be the first to admit keeping to a financial resolution takes a lot of hard work. It takes good behavior and good habits,” said Farnoosh Torabi, a consumer finance expert. “With life being so complicated, stressful and complex, we often abandon them. Get the systems in place — the small steps you need to take now — to help you get on the right track.” Research shows that consumers who understand their behaviors and motivations are more likely to build and keep positive habits for the long term. That’s why it’s so important to have strategies to keep those financial resolutions throughout the year. Below are few pointers to stick with your financial resolutions: Prepare before your resolution begins Putting thought into your resolutions before you spring into action can put you on the path to change. Starting early with a few small changes can also improve your odds of staying the course to achieve your goals. For example, if you’re looking to improve your financial health, begin by imagining a debt-free life. Visualizing how things may change can provide additional motivation you may need to move forward. Think about having more money available each month and how it would change your stress levels. Imagine what it would be like to not worry about meeting your payments, or saving more for retirement, education or emergencies. Thirty percent of survey respondents said they identify their New Year’s resolutions early as a way to stick with them throughout the year. Develop an action plan It’s fine to make a resolution, but the odds of sticking with it improve dramatically if you create an action plan of smaller steps to support your goals. If your number one resolution is to lose weight, your plan might include budgeting money for a gym membership and cleaning out any junk food from your pantry. Creating a budget? Start by tracking your spending to see where the money is going. Then create a budget that’s tight but workable, to give you more flexibility to pay down debt, increase savings or invest for retirement. If you have to carry a balance, but want to responsibly manage your credit card, consider a card that helps build positive habits. For example, Bank of America’s Better Balance Rewards card pays you to manage your credit card use. Every quarter that you pay more than your minimum balance on time, you earn $25 cash back. If you have at least one other qualifying account with Bank of America, you can receive another $5 bonus, totaling up to $30 a quarter. You’ll be eligible for up to $120 a year toward your balance, and you’ll feel better knowing how much you can spend each month. Write it down Forty percent of survey respondents say they use written reminders to help stay on track with their resolutions. Try writing your resolutions on Post-it notes, in Evernote, in calendar reminders or on notes stuck to the refrigerator — whatever you’ll look at regularly — to keep yourself committed and on track. Research shows that a written goal is more likely to be achieved. If your goal is managing your finances better, write a reminder on your daily calendar to check your credit card statements as they come in — it’s the best way to spot transactions you don’t recognize. Get a little help from your friends Sometimes a gentle reminder from a family member or friend can work wonders. Share your resolutions with a trusted person and ask for occasional reminders. Some 23 percent of survey respondents plan to enlist help this way. A friend may be able to coax you to going to the gym, or even talk you out of buying that handbag you’ve been eyeing that’s out of your budget. The key to cutting debt is to stop adding to it. If you’re in a hole, stop digging. Partner up Find a friend or loved one with the same resolution and agree to motivate and support one another to stick to your goals. It’s easier to manage a diet, exercise plan or budget if you have support. Twenty percent of respondents plan to partner up to keep to their resolutions. Start your New Year’s resolutions thinking today, and keep the big goals in mind every day, whether they aim for better health, sounder finances or better relationships. With the right attitude and commitment, 2015 could be a very good year. For more information, visit www.bankofamerica.com. Cumpla sus decisiones financieras En Año Nuevo, se hace hincapié en las decisiones. Cumplir las decisiones tomadas puede ser difícil, ya sea que decida comenzar desde el punto de partida o que desee introducir un cambio en cualquier época del año. En una reciente encuesta del Bank of America, el 49% de los encuestados respondió que no toma decisiones en Año Nuevo, porque prefiere establecer objetivos a lo largo del año. Los objetivos propios del Año Nuevo, así como los establecidos en los distintos momentos del año, apuntan a realizar cambios importantes en la vida. Según la encuesta, un 81% de las decisiones se relacionan con la salud…

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Parentown KidShape

Kidshape – January 2015

How your kids win with breakfast • Be a Healthy Role Model Kids emulate everything their parents do, including eating habits when mealtime rolls around. Show your kids that making smart, healthy choices is something that is important and vital to you. When they see you choosing vegetables and fruits over junk food, they will want to follow in your footsteps. When they adopt these types of eating habits, they’ll have the proper fuel to help get them through their school days. • Stock Up on Simple Options Do you ever have those hectic mornings when you’re trying to get everyone out the door? Easy-to-make breakfast options are great to have on hand, such as Carnation Breakfast Essentials® nutritional drinks and bars. These convenient products offer an easy and nutritious way for your kids to start their day right, with a rich source of protein and 21 vitamins and minerals, including calcium to help build strong bones. • Mix Up Lunches A lunch consisting of a sandwich, cheese stick and apple can be boring after just a few days. Turn last night’s leftovers into a delicious lunchtime meal. For example, grilled chicken can be turned into a wrap, or taco meat can be a perfect topping for salad or rice. This type of repurposing can save busy parents time and money throughout the school year. • Get a Good Night’s Sleep A great day in the classroom starts with a restful night of quality, restorative sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, kids between ages 3-5 should get between 11-13 hours, while kids between ages 5-12 should get 10-11 hours of sleep. Create a good environment for sleep, which consists of a quiet, dark and cool room that is free of distractions, such as televisions, computers and smartphones. • Make Breakfast Fun Keep the options for this important morning meal exciting for your kids by mixing in their favorite flavors. Smoothies are a kid favorite that can be quickly created with lowfat milk, frozen fruit and a packet of Carnation Breakfast Essentials® powder drink mix. There are various habits that contribute to a healthy lifestyle. But one healthy habit in particular, the routine of having a nutritious breakfast every morning, is one that can positively impact your family. A nutritious breakfast is important to fuel your body and brain after an overnight fast and provide the nutrition you need to start the day. For parents who want their children to be their best, good nutrition at breakfast can make all the difference. In fact, a good breakfast is just as important as having sharp pencils and the right gym shoes. So help your children be their very best by incorporating these tips into your family routine. For helpful recipes and additional tips, visit www.carnationbreakfastessentials.com.

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Parentown KidSmart

Kidsmart – Dec 2014

Is Your Family Protected? Life Insurance Strengthens Your Financial Safety Net Savings account? Check. Retirement account? Check. Debt managed responsibly? Check. Life insurance? Wait a minute…. Protecting your financial security is about more than having money in the bank now and in the near future. It’s also about long-term financial protection for your family. However, a significant share of Americans, especially women, is putting its financial security at risk. It’s estimated that one in three U.S. households have no life insurance at all, and for those that do, on average they only own enough to replace their household income for three and a half years, according to 2013 “Facts About Life Insurance” from LIMRA, a leading life insurance research organization. What happens to your loved ones after that? Women are particularly vulnerable. They are the sole or primary breadwinners in a record 40 percent of U.S. households, according to Pew Research in 2013. However, women are not adequately protecting their salaries. LIMRA statistics from the same year indicate women are underinsured, carrying only 69 percent of the average life insurance coverage compared to men. “Every woman and her family need to stop and take a moment to understand the value of what she provides at home and consider the importance of protecting her income in the event something happens to her or her spouse. And, if she is a single mom, it heightens the importance,” said Cynthia Tidwell, President and CEO of Royal Neighbors of America, one of the largest women-led insurers in the United States. “Life insurance can help replace your salary, pay off a mortgage, cover childcare expenses or protect college dreams if you die prematurely,” Ms. Tidwell continued. “Families need to be protected from the unexpected.” Know your worth. There are several misperceptions about why women or their families may not have enough life insurance. First, said Ms. Tidwell, “Women tend to undervalue their worth because they think if they do not bring in a higher salary than their partner, they don’t need coverage. Actually, all wives and mothers contribute to the financial security of the family, whether they work outside or inside the home.” Life insurance can help replace a lost income for a working mom or all the contributions a stay-at-home mom makes to the family. There are options to meet various situations. One economical option to consider is term insurance for families. Term insurance provides coverage at a fixed premium amount for a specific time period. Think of it as “renting” life insurance for a set number of years. It is an affordable choice to protect income and meet family expenses such as paying the mortgage or other debts. Protect your long-term goals. A second misperception is that life insurance only pays for funerals. “The fact is, life insurance not only pays for funerals, but also can provide an ongoing paycheck, protect your current lifestyle or ensure your children’s college dreams still come true,” Ms. Tidwell said. LIMRA’s 2011 “Trillion Dollar Baby” report recommends that while typical families average enough coverage for three years, adequate life insurance protection starts at twice that, from seven to 10 years. Youth is on your side. A third false belief is that insurance is for older people with children. “People don’t realize that it’s better to purchase life insurance for yourself or your children at a younger age because the cost is generally cheaper the younger and healthier you are,” Ms. Tidwell said. She recommends purchasing permanent coverage (whole life insurance) because policies will build cash value. (Think of it as “buying” insurance rather than “renting.”) Another option is to look for economical term policies that can be converted to more permanent insurance no matter what happens to your health. You hear “experts” suggest buying term and investing the rest. However, most people who buy term don’t invest the rest. Get educated. A final stumbling block to adequate life insurance coverage is simply confusion about where to begin. “We hear this often,” commented Ms. Tidwell. “Royal Neighbors was founded nearly 120 years ago to help women get financial protection. The fact is, women do need to become educated, and it’s important to take the first step. But with the right guidance, they can come to an easy conclusion on what is best for them.” A quick and easy way to see how much life insurance you may need is to try an online insurance calculator, such as the one available at www.royalneighbors.org. Factors include your age, income, and current expenses. The calculator also explains the different types of coverage and what might fit your needs best. In addition, the website provides easy-to-understand information on the different types of policies that are available. Four Life Insurance Questions to Ask 1. How much will it cost to pay off your debts such as a mortgage, credit card payments and auto or other loans if you were to die prematurely? 2. What are your ongoing expenses? Don’t forget daycare, tuition, grocery and energy bills. 3. Would your family be able to pay its bills? Nearly two-thirds of financial decision makers admit they would have trouble paying everyday bills within a few months, according to the “Trillion Dollar Baby” report by LIMRA in 2011. 4. Do you have enough to pay for funeral expenses? In 2012, the average funeral cost about $7,000 according to the National Funeral Directors Association. For more information about life insurance options, visit www.royalneighbors.org or call (866) 845-6665. ¿Su familia está protegida? El seguro de vida refuerza su red de seguridad financiera ¿Tiene una cuenta de ahorro? Verifique. ¿Tiene una cuenta de retiro? Verifique. ¿Gestiona sus deudas de manera responsable? Verifique. ¿Tiene un seguro de vida? Espere un minuto… La protección de su seguridad financiera es mucho más que tener dinero en el banco en el presente y en un futuro cercano. Es necesario contar con una protección financiera a largo plazo para su familia. No obstante, una porción significativa de estadounidenses, en especial, las mujeres, ponen en…

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Parents

Kidshape – December 2014

Gifts That Inspire the Imagination Though it may seem that all of the high-demand gift items this season require batteries and a level of tech savvy only the younger generation can boast, there are actually many great options that let you encourage the kids on your list to get back to basics and get unplugged. According to research by Common Sense Media, kids under eight spend nearly two hours of every day on screen time — that is, using a tablet, computer or mobile device, watching TV, etc. While some of that usage is dedicated to educational games and content, the prevalence of media use among kids is distracting them from one of childhood’s greatest gifts: the freedom to let their imaginations soar. Kids whose imaginative play is fostered and supported show numerous health and developmental advantages, ranging from increased levels of fitness and coordination to higher self-esteem and an improved ability to apply the information they learn. This holiday season, look for gifts that inspire kids to embrace pretend play: Blocks It doesn’t get much more basic than building blocks when it comes to setting the imagination free. Skip the sets that come with specific instructions and opt instead for blocks that encourage free-form play and construction. Small and mid-sized plastic pieces let kids create miniature versions of nearly anything their minds can conjure. On the flip side, jumbo cardboard blocks let children create environments they can physically engage with, such as life-size playhouses. Figurines There are many figurines and customizable accessories and environments available to tickle kids’ imagination. From auto service stations and race tracks to dollhouses and pet boutiques, little ones can explore and create for hours. For example, the Calico Critters toy line provides hours of wholesome and imaginative play. These adorable, high-quality miniature families of animals are paired with a selection of environments ranging from homes to shops to restaurants, along with complementary furnishings and accessories. These settings are similar to those in a child’s life, making them more relatable and fun. For more information, visit www.calicocritters.com. Dress up Whether you assemble a collection of whimsical treasures from thrift shops or rely on the costumes and sets available at retail stores, clothing that allows a child to adopt a new persona is an instant way to encourage the imagination. Costumes depicting familiar characters let kids act out their favorite screen-time scenes in real life, while a unique mish-mash of items lets them create unique scenarios to explore. Books Good old-fashioned books help expose kids to new worlds. Choose-your-own-adventure books, in which the reader helps direct the flow of the story line, are a great choice for engaging kids directly as they imagine their way through the story line. More traditional books introduce concepts, characters and scenarios that provide hours of play as kids act out the new ideas they discover. Crafting sets From create-your-own jewelry to color-to-complete playhouses and spaceships, crafty gifts let kids explore their artistic side and experiment with creating tangible representations of their imagination. You can choose from prepackaged sets at many retailers, or crafting stores provide a diverse selection of unfinished items to pair with the appropriate tools. Toys and games that encourage pretend play let kids create, explore and imagine in a stress-free environment where they set the rules and boundaries. These gifts, which encourage kids to unplug and embrace a whole new world of wholesome play, are the kind you can feel truly great about giving. A Gift That Keeps Giving Encouraging kids to explore the world and learn through imaginative play has numerous benefits for their overall well-being. Giving gifts that encourage kids to use their imagination helps boost numerous long-term development skills. Social development Creating characters and scripting scenes, whether alone or through play with others, teaches a child to consider other perspectives and fosters the growth of empathy and understanding. Language Being allowed to create their own play environment, versus those delivered on a screen, forces children to rely on their vocabulary and practice using the words they’ve learned both informally and formally. Solitary play offers the benefit of allowing a child to practice these skills, while pretend play with peers encourages clear and effective communication with others. Problem solving It’s never too early for a child to begin developing cognitive thinking skills that allow them to effectively trouble-shoot and resolve problems. Even a simple play activity, such as contemplating what items from the dress-up drawer should be packed for an imaginary vacation, lets a little one begin to understand how to identify a challenge and create meaningful solutions. Relationships Playing with others is a natural way for kids to forge meaningful bonds with other children, and with the adults in their lives. Imaginary play nurtures and lets children practice critical relationship-building skills such as communication. What’s more, interacting through pretend play gives kids a shared experience that shapes a bond with their partner in play. Helping Out During the Holidays This holiday season, Calico Critters is giving away $250 in merchandise to 40 lucky winners. Plus, for every dollar of merchandise the company gives away, toys of equivalent value will be donated to Toys for Tots and My Stuff Bags to help children in need. To learn more, visit www.calicocrittersclub.com.

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