/PRNewswire/ -- As part of PACER Center's fourth annual National Bullying Prevention Awareness Week, Oct. 4-10, 2009, children, teens, adults, schools, and communities across the country are encouraged to partner with PACER to prevent bullying. The movement is being given a boost with the launch of PACERTeensAgainstBullying.org -- a relevant, edgy Web site created by and for teens. In addition to videos, stories, blogs, and social networking, the site features a toolbox of things teens and schools can do to address bullying -- from creating their own videos to performing role plays for younger students.
Every day, more than 160,000 children nationwide stay home from school to avoid bullying. Up to one-third of the nation's students are bullied during the academic year, and more than 60 percent witness bullying daily. The results of bullying can be devastating -- or even tragic.
"It's time to take action," said Paula Goldberg, PACER's executive director. "Teachers, parents, students, and adults throughout each community must work together to create a climate that doesn't accept bullying."
In addition to visiting PACERTeensAgainstBullying.org for teens and PACERKidsAgainstBullying.org for elementary school children, people can help prevent bullying in several ways. Free activities to help reduce bullying in schools, recreational programs, and community groups, and materials such as contests, classroom toolkits, and more are available at PACER.org. Organizations and schools can partner with PACER by sending an e-mail to bullying411@PACER.org with the name of their school or organization, their Web site URL, and a note about what their school is doing to support bullying prevention. Partners are listed on PACER's bullying prevention Web sites.
The week is sponsored by PACER's National Center for Bullying Prevention, which is for all children, including those with disabilities. It promotes national bullying awareness and teaches effective ways to respond to bullying. National Bullying Prevention Awareness Week is cosponsored by the American Federation for Teachers, National Coalition for Parent Involvement in Education, National Education Association, and School Social Work Association of America.
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Monday, September 28, 2009
Thursday, September 24, 2009
H1N1 Flu: Are Parents Underestimating Risk to Kids?
/PRNewswire/ -- With schools back in session, H1N1 flu has become more active across the United States -- especially among children. A new vaccine against H1N1 flu -- strongly recommended for kids -- has been tested and is expected to be available in October. But will parents get their children vaccinated?
The latest C.S. Mott Children's Hospital National Poll on Children's Health finds only 40 percent of parents indicate they will get their children vaccinated against H1N1 flu -- while 54 percent of parents indicate they will get their children vaccinated against seasonal flu. Among parents who do not plan to get their children vaccinated against H1N1 flu, 46 percent indicate they are not worried about their children getting H1N1 flu, while 20 percent believe H1N1 flu is not serious.
"This information about parents' plans to vaccinate their kids against H1N1 flu suggests that parents are much less concerned about H1N1 flu than seasonal flu for their kids. That perception may not match the actual risks," says Matthew Davis, M.D., director of the poll and associate professor of pediatrics and internal medicine in the Child Health Evaluation and Research Unit at the University of Michigan Medical School.
The poll also shows vaccination plans for H1N1 flu differ by racial/ethnic groups. More than half of Hispanic parents plan to have their children vaccinated against H1N1 flu, compared to only 38 percent of white parents and 30 percent of black parents.
Vaccination plans of Hispanic parents may reflect a higher perceived risk in the Hispanic community, given the well publicized outbreak of H1N1 flu in Mexico in early 2009, Davis says.
In describing their perceived risk of H1N1 flu for children, one-third of parents indicate they believe H1N1 flu will be worse than seasonal flu. Nearly half of parents believe H1N1 and seasonal flu will be about the same for children, according to the poll.
These perceptions contrast information from the CDC suggesting that -- unlike what is typically seen with seasonal flu -- rates of illness and hospitalizations related to H1N1 flu are higher for children than for other age groups.
"It can be difficult to follow all the new information about a fast moving target like H1N1 flu," says Davis, who is also associate professor of public policy at the U-M Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy. "Health care professionals and public health officials need to help parents and the community at-large understand that children are one of the groups at greatest risk for getting H1N1, and for getting very sick from the disease as well."
Among parents who do not plan to get their children vaccinated against H1N1 flu, or who are unsure, about half are worried about possible side effects of the vaccine. Among parents who do plan to get their children vaccinated against H1N1 flu, about 4 in 5 believe that H1N1 is a serious disease and worry about their children getting H1N1 illness. Parents who think H1N1 flu will be worse for children than seasonal flu were much more likely to plan to have their children vaccinated against H1N1 flu.
"This connection between perceived risk and plans to vaccinate against H1N1 flu makes a lot of sense," says Davis. "What it emphasizes is that to reach parents who are currently unsure about H1N1 vaccination and convince them to go ahead and vaccinate their kids, the health care community needs to focus on communicating key information about the risk of H1N1 flu for children."
The poll surveyed 1,678 parents from Aug. 13 - 31, 2009 across the U.S. about their plans and perceptions related to getting their children vaccinated against H1N1 flu and seasonal flu.
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The latest C.S. Mott Children's Hospital National Poll on Children's Health finds only 40 percent of parents indicate they will get their children vaccinated against H1N1 flu -- while 54 percent of parents indicate they will get their children vaccinated against seasonal flu. Among parents who do not plan to get their children vaccinated against H1N1 flu, 46 percent indicate they are not worried about their children getting H1N1 flu, while 20 percent believe H1N1 flu is not serious.
"This information about parents' plans to vaccinate their kids against H1N1 flu suggests that parents are much less concerned about H1N1 flu than seasonal flu for their kids. That perception may not match the actual risks," says Matthew Davis, M.D., director of the poll and associate professor of pediatrics and internal medicine in the Child Health Evaluation and Research Unit at the University of Michigan Medical School.
The poll also shows vaccination plans for H1N1 flu differ by racial/ethnic groups. More than half of Hispanic parents plan to have their children vaccinated against H1N1 flu, compared to only 38 percent of white parents and 30 percent of black parents.
Vaccination plans of Hispanic parents may reflect a higher perceived risk in the Hispanic community, given the well publicized outbreak of H1N1 flu in Mexico in early 2009, Davis says.
In describing their perceived risk of H1N1 flu for children, one-third of parents indicate they believe H1N1 flu will be worse than seasonal flu. Nearly half of parents believe H1N1 and seasonal flu will be about the same for children, according to the poll.
These perceptions contrast information from the CDC suggesting that -- unlike what is typically seen with seasonal flu -- rates of illness and hospitalizations related to H1N1 flu are higher for children than for other age groups.
"It can be difficult to follow all the new information about a fast moving target like H1N1 flu," says Davis, who is also associate professor of public policy at the U-M Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy. "Health care professionals and public health officials need to help parents and the community at-large understand that children are one of the groups at greatest risk for getting H1N1, and for getting very sick from the disease as well."
Among parents who do not plan to get their children vaccinated against H1N1 flu, or who are unsure, about half are worried about possible side effects of the vaccine. Among parents who do plan to get their children vaccinated against H1N1 flu, about 4 in 5 believe that H1N1 is a serious disease and worry about their children getting H1N1 illness. Parents who think H1N1 flu will be worse for children than seasonal flu were much more likely to plan to have their children vaccinated against H1N1 flu.
"This connection between perceived risk and plans to vaccinate against H1N1 flu makes a lot of sense," says Davis. "What it emphasizes is that to reach parents who are currently unsure about H1N1 vaccination and convince them to go ahead and vaccinate their kids, the health care community needs to focus on communicating key information about the risk of H1N1 flu for children."
The poll surveyed 1,678 parents from Aug. 13 - 31, 2009 across the U.S. about their plans and perceptions related to getting their children vaccinated against H1N1 flu and seasonal flu.
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Monday, September 21, 2009
Federal Ban on Candy and Fruit-Flavored Cigarettes Starts Tuesday
/PRNewswire/ -- The following is a Statement by Matthew L. Myers, President, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids:
One of the first provisions of the new federal law regulating tobacco products will take effect Tuesday as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) enforces a ban on candy, fruit and other flavored cigarettes.
The ban on candy and fruit-flavored cigarettes is a critical step to end one of the most insidious tactics the tobacco industry has used to target and addict children. The tobacco companies have a long history of using flavors to attract kids, and survey data show that youth smokers are much more likely to use these flavored products. Flavored cigarettes introduced in recent years have included Camel's Twista Lime, Kauai Kolada (pineapple and coconut), Margarita Mixer, Warm Winter Toffee and Winter Mocha Mint, and other brands featuring strawberry, vanilla and chocolate.
It is troubling that some tobacco companies may already be trying to circumvent the ban on flavored cigarettes. For example, Kretek International Inc., which imports Djarum-brand tobacco products from Indonesia and is the nation's top distributor of clove-flavored cigarettes, has introduced clove cigars that look and, according to news reports, taste like its clove cigarettes. We are pleased that the FDA has put tobacco companies on notice that it is prepared to take aggressive action against attempts to evade the new law. In a recent letter to industry, the FDA stated that the flavoring ban "applies to all tobacco products that meet the definition of a 'cigarette' . . . even if they are not labeled as 'cigarettes' or are labeled as cigars or some other product" (the FDA letter can be found at http://www.fda.gov/TobaccoProducts/GuidanceComplianceRegulatoryInformation/ucm 182186.htm).
In June, Congress passed and President Obama signed into law the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act, which gives the FDA broad authority over the manufacturing, marketing and sale of tobacco products. The new flavoring ban is one of many actions authorized by the law that will protect kids from tobacco addiction, stop tobacco companies from deceiving the public and reduce the death and disease caused by tobacco use. The new law will also:
-- Restrict tobacco advertising and promotions, especially to children.
-- Stop illegal sales of tobacco products to children.
-- Require large, graphic health warnings that cover the top half of the
front and back of cigarette packs.
-- Ban misleading health claims such as "light" and "low-tar."
-- Strictly regulate health claims about tobacco products to ensure they
are scientifically proven and do not discourage current tobacco users
from quitting or encourage new users to start.
-- Require tobacco companies to disclose the contents of tobacco
products, as well as changes in products and research about their
health effects.
-- Empower the FDA to require changes in tobacco products, such as the
removal or reduction of harmful ingredients or the reduction of
nicotine levels.
-- Fully fund the FDA's new tobacco-related responsibilities with a user
fee on tobacco companies so no resources are taken from the FDA's
current work.
Tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of death in the United States, killing more than 400,000 people, sickening millions more and costing the nation $96 billion in health care bills each year. Every day, another 1,000 kids become regular smokers - one-third of them will die prematurely as a result.
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One of the first provisions of the new federal law regulating tobacco products will take effect Tuesday as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) enforces a ban on candy, fruit and other flavored cigarettes.
The ban on candy and fruit-flavored cigarettes is a critical step to end one of the most insidious tactics the tobacco industry has used to target and addict children. The tobacco companies have a long history of using flavors to attract kids, and survey data show that youth smokers are much more likely to use these flavored products. Flavored cigarettes introduced in recent years have included Camel's Twista Lime, Kauai Kolada (pineapple and coconut), Margarita Mixer, Warm Winter Toffee and Winter Mocha Mint, and other brands featuring strawberry, vanilla and chocolate.
It is troubling that some tobacco companies may already be trying to circumvent the ban on flavored cigarettes. For example, Kretek International Inc., which imports Djarum-brand tobacco products from Indonesia and is the nation's top distributor of clove-flavored cigarettes, has introduced clove cigars that look and, according to news reports, taste like its clove cigarettes. We are pleased that the FDA has put tobacco companies on notice that it is prepared to take aggressive action against attempts to evade the new law. In a recent letter to industry, the FDA stated that the flavoring ban "applies to all tobacco products that meet the definition of a 'cigarette' . . . even if they are not labeled as 'cigarettes' or are labeled as cigars or some other product" (the FDA letter can be found at http://www.fda.gov/TobaccoProducts/GuidanceComplianceRegulatoryInformation/ucm 182186.htm).
In June, Congress passed and President Obama signed into law the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act, which gives the FDA broad authority over the manufacturing, marketing and sale of tobacco products. The new flavoring ban is one of many actions authorized by the law that will protect kids from tobacco addiction, stop tobacco companies from deceiving the public and reduce the death and disease caused by tobacco use. The new law will also:
-- Restrict tobacco advertising and promotions, especially to children.
-- Stop illegal sales of tobacco products to children.
-- Require large, graphic health warnings that cover the top half of the
front and back of cigarette packs.
-- Ban misleading health claims such as "light" and "low-tar."
-- Strictly regulate health claims about tobacco products to ensure they
are scientifically proven and do not discourage current tobacco users
from quitting or encourage new users to start.
-- Require tobacco companies to disclose the contents of tobacco
products, as well as changes in products and research about their
health effects.
-- Empower the FDA to require changes in tobacco products, such as the
removal or reduction of harmful ingredients or the reduction of
nicotine levels.
-- Fully fund the FDA's new tobacco-related responsibilities with a user
fee on tobacco companies so no resources are taken from the FDA's
current work.
Tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of death in the United States, killing more than 400,000 people, sickening millions more and costing the nation $96 billion in health care bills each year. Every day, another 1,000 kids become regular smokers - one-third of them will die prematurely as a result.
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Friday, September 18, 2009
Tips For Developing Good Sportsmanship
(NAPSI)-There may be good news for people concerned about what they think is a lack of sportsmanship in America.
A program created to reward and recognize sportsmanship on and off the field has developed a set of practical steps that parents and others can take to encourage fair play in youngsters and adults alike.
Tips To Help
• ABCs of sportsmanship. Teach sportsmanship as part of the fundamentals of the sport. Sportsmanship isn't naturally learned and must be taught daily.
• Go team. Parents should cheer for the team, not just their child, to teach the importance of being part of a group.
• Reward the positive. Give game balls, provide privileges for the "best sport of the game" or give the opposing team an award.
• More than the handshake. Start new end-of-the-game rituals that highlight sportsmanship. From creating a special song to a new ceremony, create an atmosphere that's positive.
• Be a reporter. Call or e-mail the media when witnessing great displays of sportsmanship to spread good news.
• Form a sports support group. Join forces with parents, coaches and community leaders.
Expert Advice
Consider the advice of LaVell Edwards, the legendary former coach of the Brigham Young University Cougars football team and chair of the blue-ribbon panel that selects the winner of the national ARA Sportsmanship Award. The award is given annually to a college senior who excels at sportsmanship on and off the football field.
Said Edwards, "This is an issue we need to address at the grade-school level and with coaches and parents everywhere."
The Good News
A higher percentage of Americans (83 percent) report they have witnessed positive displays of sportsmanship than have seen bad sportsmanship (78 percent).
That's according to a national sportsmanship survey fielded by TNS for the Awards and Recognition Association (ARA), an international trade association whose members are specialists in recognizing people through awards, trophies and other forms of appreciation.
Learn More
To learn more, visit www.arasportsmanshipaward.com.
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A program created to reward and recognize sportsmanship on and off the field has developed a set of practical steps that parents and others can take to encourage fair play in youngsters and adults alike.
Tips To Help
• ABCs of sportsmanship. Teach sportsmanship as part of the fundamentals of the sport. Sportsmanship isn't naturally learned and must be taught daily.
• Go team. Parents should cheer for the team, not just their child, to teach the importance of being part of a group.
• Reward the positive. Give game balls, provide privileges for the "best sport of the game" or give the opposing team an award.
• More than the handshake. Start new end-of-the-game rituals that highlight sportsmanship. From creating a special song to a new ceremony, create an atmosphere that's positive.
• Be a reporter. Call or e-mail the media when witnessing great displays of sportsmanship to spread good news.
• Form a sports support group. Join forces with parents, coaches and community leaders.
Expert Advice
Consider the advice of LaVell Edwards, the legendary former coach of the Brigham Young University Cougars football team and chair of the blue-ribbon panel that selects the winner of the national ARA Sportsmanship Award. The award is given annually to a college senior who excels at sportsmanship on and off the football field.
Said Edwards, "This is an issue we need to address at the grade-school level and with coaches and parents everywhere."
The Good News
A higher percentage of Americans (83 percent) report they have witnessed positive displays of sportsmanship than have seen bad sportsmanship (78 percent).
That's according to a national sportsmanship survey fielded by TNS for the Awards and Recognition Association (ARA), an international trade association whose members are specialists in recognizing people through awards, trophies and other forms of appreciation.
Learn More
To learn more, visit www.arasportsmanshipaward.com.
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Monday, September 14, 2009
HHS Awards $35 Million to States for Increasing Adoptions
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) today awarded $35 million to 38 states and Puerto Rico for increasing the number of children adopted from foster care. States use the funds from the adoption incentive award to enhance their programs for abused and
neglected children.
"Adopting a child from foster care is a wonderful way to enrich any family's life," said HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. "We congratulate the states that performed so well this year and we thank the parents who are providing loving and permanent homes."
The Adoption Incentives program was created as part of the Adoption and Safe Families Act of 1997. The original program authorized incentive funds to states that increased the number of children adopted from foster care. In order to get payments, states had to increase the
number of children adopted relative to baseline data.
Under the Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act of 2008 (P.L. 110-351), the adoption incentives were revamped to provide stronger incentives for states to redouble their efforts to find children - particularly older children and children with special needs - loving adoptive homes. In addition, the law introduced the concept of an adoption rate, which is derived from comparing current year adoptions to the number of children in care at the end of the previous year. States receive additional money if they exceed their highest foster
child adoption rate for previous years back to 2002. The Adoption Incentive program gives states $4,000 for every foster child adopted above their 2007 baseline, plus a payment of $8,000 for every foster child age nine and older and $4,000 for every other special needs child
adopted above the respective baselines. In addition, states receive $1,000 for every foster child adopted over and above the level of the state's highest foster child adoption rate for previous years.
"We are pleased with the positive results states have achieved under the new adoption incentive guidelines," said David Hansell, acting assistant secretary for children and families. "Older children with special needs are the hardest to find homes for, but they are especially deserving of
the safety and stability of an adoptive family."
States receiving today's funding are Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania,
Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, and Wyoming. Puerto Rico also qualified for an incentive award.
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neglected children.
"Adopting a child from foster care is a wonderful way to enrich any family's life," said HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. "We congratulate the states that performed so well this year and we thank the parents who are providing loving and permanent homes."
The Adoption Incentives program was created as part of the Adoption and Safe Families Act of 1997. The original program authorized incentive funds to states that increased the number of children adopted from foster care. In order to get payments, states had to increase the
number of children adopted relative to baseline data.
Under the Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act of 2008 (P.L. 110-351), the adoption incentives were revamped to provide stronger incentives for states to redouble their efforts to find children - particularly older children and children with special needs - loving adoptive homes. In addition, the law introduced the concept of an adoption rate, which is derived from comparing current year adoptions to the number of children in care at the end of the previous year. States receive additional money if they exceed their highest foster
child adoption rate for previous years back to 2002. The Adoption Incentive program gives states $4,000 for every foster child adopted above their 2007 baseline, plus a payment of $8,000 for every foster child age nine and older and $4,000 for every other special needs child
adopted above the respective baselines. In addition, states receive $1,000 for every foster child adopted over and above the level of the state's highest foster child adoption rate for previous years.
"We are pleased with the positive results states have achieved under the new adoption incentive guidelines," said David Hansell, acting assistant secretary for children and families. "Older children with special needs are the hardest to find homes for, but they are especially deserving of
the safety and stability of an adoptive family."
States receiving today's funding are Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania,
Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, and Wyoming. Puerto Rico also qualified for an incentive award.
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Saturday, September 5, 2009
"Mom, Am I Good Enough?"
(NAPSI)-Girls today are facing increasing pressure to do it all- and do it perfectly-which is stressing them out and causing their self-esteem to plummet. Parents can make a difference by helping girls navigate difficult issues around body image, boys and the pressure to do well in school. While the top wish among girls is for their parents to communicate better with them, according to Real Girls, Real Pressure: A National Report on the State of Self-Esteem (Dove, 2008), many parents just do not know how to start the conversation.
The Dove® Self-Esteem Fund, established as part of the Campaign for Real Beauty, is committed to reaching 5 million girls globally by 2010 with self-esteem building programming. That is why it has collaborated with Jess Weiner, best-selling author and self-esteem expert, to create tips to help parents tackle some of the toughest subjects that teen girls face today.
1. Supergirl Syndrome: Girls may respond to the pressure around them from school, media, parents and peers by trying to do it all (look perfect, get good grades and have a busy social life) and do it all perfectly.
Tip: Encourage your daughter to find her favorite one or two activities and focus on doing them well, rather than being the very best at everything. Set an example for her by doing the same thing in your life.
2. Body Image Breakdown: When girls feel bad about their looks, more than 70 percent age 15 to 17 avoid normal daily activities such as attending school, going to the doctor or even giving their opinion, as Beyond Stereotypes: Rebuilding the Foundation of Beauty Beliefs (Dove, 2006) revealed.
Tip: Your daughter's body image starts with you. Show her each and every day how great you feel about your body and your looks-you will build the foundation for how she sees her body and the importance of how she looks.
3. Cyberbullying: The Internet has become an additional platform for the teasing and taunting of vulnerable girls. More than one in ten girls age 8 to 17 have been bullied online Real Girls, Real Pressure: A National Report on the State of Self-Esteem (Dove, 2008) revealed.
Tip: If you find your daughter is participating in cyberbullying (by bullying or being bullied), do not ignore it, thinking it is harmless. Talk to your daughter about how it feels and let her know you understand it hurts. If your daughter is engaging in cyberbullying, talk to her about how it feels to be on the receiving end and ask her what is making her do this. If you find your daughter is being victimized, remind her that while she cannot always control what is said in school, she can control her reactions to it.
4. Frenemies: Frenemies are defined as relationships in which girls behave as half friends and half enemies. Self-esteem plays a crucial role in determining a girl's tendency to engage in this type of behavior.
Tip: Talk to your daughter regularly and let her know you are aware of things that go on in school. Encourage her to walk away from a friendship that harms her and make other friends.
5. Clashing with Cliques: From jocks and geeks to drama queens and cheerleaders, cliques are rampant in middle school and high school.
Tip: Help your daughter recognize that being authentic is better than any label out there.
Every person can make a difference in the life of girls. To learn more, visit campaignforrealbeauty. com, where you can download free self-esteem building tools for girls, moms and mentors.
"Self-esteem can be a tough subject to discuss, but it is more important than ever for parents and other role models to talk to girls and get involved. Every person has the power to help girls gain confidence and reach their full potential."-Jess Weiner, Global Ambassador for the Dove Self-Esteem Fund.
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The Dove® Self-Esteem Fund, established as part of the Campaign for Real Beauty, is committed to reaching 5 million girls globally by 2010 with self-esteem building programming. That is why it has collaborated with Jess Weiner, best-selling author and self-esteem expert, to create tips to help parents tackle some of the toughest subjects that teen girls face today.
1. Supergirl Syndrome: Girls may respond to the pressure around them from school, media, parents and peers by trying to do it all (look perfect, get good grades and have a busy social life) and do it all perfectly.
Tip: Encourage your daughter to find her favorite one or two activities and focus on doing them well, rather than being the very best at everything. Set an example for her by doing the same thing in your life.
2. Body Image Breakdown: When girls feel bad about their looks, more than 70 percent age 15 to 17 avoid normal daily activities such as attending school, going to the doctor or even giving their opinion, as Beyond Stereotypes: Rebuilding the Foundation of Beauty Beliefs (Dove, 2006) revealed.
Tip: Your daughter's body image starts with you. Show her each and every day how great you feel about your body and your looks-you will build the foundation for how she sees her body and the importance of how she looks.
3. Cyberbullying: The Internet has become an additional platform for the teasing and taunting of vulnerable girls. More than one in ten girls age 8 to 17 have been bullied online Real Girls, Real Pressure: A National Report on the State of Self-Esteem (Dove, 2008) revealed.
Tip: If you find your daughter is participating in cyberbullying (by bullying or being bullied), do not ignore it, thinking it is harmless. Talk to your daughter about how it feels and let her know you understand it hurts. If your daughter is engaging in cyberbullying, talk to her about how it feels to be on the receiving end and ask her what is making her do this. If you find your daughter is being victimized, remind her that while she cannot always control what is said in school, she can control her reactions to it.
4. Frenemies: Frenemies are defined as relationships in which girls behave as half friends and half enemies. Self-esteem plays a crucial role in determining a girl's tendency to engage in this type of behavior.
Tip: Talk to your daughter regularly and let her know you are aware of things that go on in school. Encourage her to walk away from a friendship that harms her and make other friends.
5. Clashing with Cliques: From jocks and geeks to drama queens and cheerleaders, cliques are rampant in middle school and high school.
Tip: Help your daughter recognize that being authentic is better than any label out there.
Every person can make a difference in the life of girls. To learn more, visit campaignforrealbeauty. com, where you can download free self-esteem building tools for girls, moms and mentors.
"Self-esteem can be a tough subject to discuss, but it is more important than ever for parents and other role models to talk to girls and get involved. Every person has the power to help girls gain confidence and reach their full potential."-Jess Weiner, Global Ambassador for the Dove Self-Esteem Fund.
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Thursday, September 3, 2009
DVD Addresses School-age Children’s Concerns about Stuttering
Stuttering is a frustrating and embarrassing problem for millions of people, but it can be especially tough on elementary school-age children.
Help is available for parents, teachers, and speech-language pathologists at many public libraries including the Fayette County Public Library in Fayetteville in the form of a DVD designed to help school-age children who stutter.
"It's meant to give speech-language pathologists the tools they need to deal with stuttering in this age group, but it also offers good ideas for parents and teachers," said Professor Peter Ramig of the University of Colorado at Boulder. Ramig is one of five nationally recognized experts appearing in the DVD produced by the nonprofit Stuttering Foundation.
The DVD features students from first through sixth grade, some of whom talk about their experiences with stuttering. They talk openly about the teasing they face from classmates and how their stuttering sometimes makes them feel about themselves.
"We focus on demonstrating a variety of therapy strategies that are appropriate in working with children who stutter," adds Ramig. He appears in the DVD along with speech-language pathologists Barry Guitar, Ph.D., of the University of Vermont, Hugo H. Gregory, Ph.D., and June Campbell, M.A., of Northwestern University, and Patricia Zebrowski, P.D., of the University of Iowa.
These five experts answer questions about stuttering, refute myths and misconceptions, and present examples of therapy sessions showing how stuttering can be reduced.
More than three million Americans stutter, yet stuttering remains misunderstood by most people," said Jane Fraser, president of the Stuttering Foundation. "Myths such as believing people who stutter are less intelligent or suffer from psychological problems still persist despite research refuting these erroneous beliefs."
The 38-minute DVD, entitled Therapy in Action: The School-age Child Who Stutters, is being distributed free of charge to public libraries nationwide. If you wish to check it out and your library does not have it, ask them to contact the Stuttering Foundation toll-free at 800-992-9392, visit www.stutteringhelp.org and www.tartamudez.org, or e-mail info@stutteringhelp.org for a copy. Some libraries have an older video version.
---
Community News You Can Use
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Help is available for parents, teachers, and speech-language pathologists at many public libraries including the Fayette County Public Library in Fayetteville in the form of a DVD designed to help school-age children who stutter.
"It's meant to give speech-language pathologists the tools they need to deal with stuttering in this age group, but it also offers good ideas for parents and teachers," said Professor Peter Ramig of the University of Colorado at Boulder. Ramig is one of five nationally recognized experts appearing in the DVD produced by the nonprofit Stuttering Foundation.
The DVD features students from first through sixth grade, some of whom talk about their experiences with stuttering. They talk openly about the teasing they face from classmates and how their stuttering sometimes makes them feel about themselves.
"We focus on demonstrating a variety of therapy strategies that are appropriate in working with children who stutter," adds Ramig. He appears in the DVD along with speech-language pathologists Barry Guitar, Ph.D., of the University of Vermont, Hugo H. Gregory, Ph.D., and June Campbell, M.A., of Northwestern University, and Patricia Zebrowski, P.D., of the University of Iowa.
These five experts answer questions about stuttering, refute myths and misconceptions, and present examples of therapy sessions showing how stuttering can be reduced.
More than three million Americans stutter, yet stuttering remains misunderstood by most people," said Jane Fraser, president of the Stuttering Foundation. "Myths such as believing people who stutter are less intelligent or suffer from psychological problems still persist despite research refuting these erroneous beliefs."
The 38-minute DVD, entitled Therapy in Action: The School-age Child Who Stutters, is being distributed free of charge to public libraries nationwide. If you wish to check it out and your library does not have it, ask them to contact the Stuttering Foundation toll-free at 800-992-9392, visit www.stutteringhelp.org and www.tartamudez.org, or e-mail info@stutteringhelp.org for a copy. Some libraries have an older video version.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Survey Suggests Children's First Instinct in an Emergency Might Not Be the Safest
/PRNewswire/ -- Darkened skies, emergency warning sirens or smoke creeping under the bedroom door in the middle of the night - would your family react safely? Emergencies can happen anywhere, at any time, and often without warning. Therefore, it is critical to discuss - and practice - emergency and disaster preparedness plans, such as a home fire escape route and severe weather safety plan.
A national survey released by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), an independent product safety organization, reveals that children's initial reactions might actually put them in danger during an emergency. While more than 90 percent of children said they would know exactly what to do if there was an emergency like a fire, only 47 percent chose the safest option - get out of the building immediately.
As part of National Preparedness Month, UL encourages parents to prepare children for a variety of unexpected situations like home fires, severe weather and natural disasters.
"It's natural to get confused when sudden danger demands quick action," says John Drengenberg, director of Consumer Safety at Underwriters Laboratories. "Children may say they know what to do, but as parents we need to be diligent and provide them with the guidance, resources and skills to make the right choices."
UL urges families to consider the following safety tips before, during and after any type of emergency situation.
Preparing for the Unexpected
Families that have discussed where they'll meet and what to do in different situations are always better prepared when disaster strikes. Preparation is key to keeping your family safe; here are some crucial safety tips from UL:
-- Make sure children can spell their name, parents' names and know their
phone number and address. Children should know their full name,
parents' full names, address (including city and state), home phone
number (including area code) and parents' work phone numbers or cell
phones before leaving the home.
-- Designate an out-of-town relative or friend to be your family's
emergency contact and keep their information with you at all times.
-- Prepare an emergency kit, including: five days worth of non-perishable
food and water, a can opener, flashlight, portable emergency radio
(hand-crank, solar-powered or battery-operated), batteries, any
prescription medication needed by family members, a first aid kit,
list of phone numbers for relatives, neighbors and utility companies,
and pictures and descriptions of your family. If you have pets,
include five days worth of canned pet food and water, sturdy leashes,
harnesses or carriers, current photos and descriptions and a litter
box.
-- Develop and practice several disaster preparedness plans. Make sure
your child knows the first thing he/she should do in the event of a
storm or other disaster, regardless of their location.
-- Practice a fire escape route by drawing out a floor plan and
mapping out each family member's route of escape making sure each
room has two exit options. Designate a meeting place where your
family will reunite if separated. Consider posting the fire escape
route on refrigerators and in each family member's bedroom.
-- Make sure your children know how to respond to an emergency in the
environments they frequent, including schools, friends' houses and
public buildings like grocery stores. Point out exit signs in
public buildings, ensure they actively participate in school fire
drills and talk to their friends' parents about their individual
escape plans.
Stay Connected
While it might prove challenging to stay connected with family during a disaster, parents can use the following to help them stay connected and re-connect with their family.
-- Keep your child connected. If you're not with your child, make sure
they have your family's emergency contact information on-hand.
Additionally, whether your child is at school, at a friend's house or
participating in an extracurricular activity, make sure you have the
appropriate contact information should an emergency occur.
-- Identify your family's "ICE" (in case of emergency contact). If you
have a cell phone, program your emergency contact as ICE - in case of
emergency. ICE is recognized by police and first responders across the
nation. In addition, identify an out-of-town contact. In a disaster
situation they may be in a better position to communicate among
separated family members.
-- Subscribe to alert services. Check with your local Office of Emergency
Management to see if your community has an alert system that will send
instant text or e-mail alerts to let you know about bad weather, road
closings, local emergencies, etc. If listening to an emergency radio,
make sure you know the most appropriate station for your community.
-- If separated from family members, call your designated out-of-town
contact. It is often easier to make a long distance phone call than a
local call from a disaster area. Keep in mind, telephone lines are
frequently overwhelmed in disaster situations, so try to keep regular
telephone use to a minimum.
Post-Disaster: Don't Take Safety For Granted
While the winds may have calmed or fire debris has been cleaned up, it's not a time to let down your guard when it comes to keeping your family safe.
-- Watch animals closely after returning home. Pets may become
disoriented, particularly if the disaster has affected scent markers
that normally allow them to find their homes. Be aware of hazards at
nose and paw level, particularly debris, spilled chemicals,
fertilizers, and other substances that might not seem to be dangerous
to humans.
-- Stay clear of downed wires and power lines and be extremely cautious
of floodwater - it is frequently contaminated with septic waste, oil
and/or dangerous debris. If appliances are water damaged have them
inspected by a qualified technician and then either refurbish or
replace.
-- Keep generators outside of the home and garage and away from doorways
and ventilation systems. A potential post-storm danger is carbon
monoxide (CO) poisoning, especially if generators are being used as an
alternative source of electricity.
"The first step towards safely handling an emergency is planning ahead," says Drengenberg. "Take the time to ensure your child is Safety Smart in emergency situations and know how to empower them to respond safely."
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Ready Campaign, National Preparedness Month helps raise awareness and promote action by Americans, businesses, and communities on emergency preparedness.
For more information on disaster preparedness, please visit http://www.ul.com/.
Survey Methodology
The Safety Smart Survey was conducted by Kelton Research on behalf of Underwriters Laboratories, between April 16 - 23, 2009, using the phone, an email invitation and an online survey. Results of any sample are subject to sampling variation. The magnitude of the variation is measurable and is affected by the number of interviews and the level of the percentages expressing the results. In this particular study, the chances are 95 in 100 that a survey result does not vary, plus or minus, by more than 5.6 percentage points from the result that would be obtained if interviews had been conducted with all persons in the universe represented by the sample.
----
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Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
A national survey released by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), an independent product safety organization, reveals that children's initial reactions might actually put them in danger during an emergency. While more than 90 percent of children said they would know exactly what to do if there was an emergency like a fire, only 47 percent chose the safest option - get out of the building immediately.
As part of National Preparedness Month, UL encourages parents to prepare children for a variety of unexpected situations like home fires, severe weather and natural disasters.
"It's natural to get confused when sudden danger demands quick action," says John Drengenberg, director of Consumer Safety at Underwriters Laboratories. "Children may say they know what to do, but as parents we need to be diligent and provide them with the guidance, resources and skills to make the right choices."
UL urges families to consider the following safety tips before, during and after any type of emergency situation.
Preparing for the Unexpected
Families that have discussed where they'll meet and what to do in different situations are always better prepared when disaster strikes. Preparation is key to keeping your family safe; here are some crucial safety tips from UL:
-- Make sure children can spell their name, parents' names and know their
phone number and address. Children should know their full name,
parents' full names, address (including city and state), home phone
number (including area code) and parents' work phone numbers or cell
phones before leaving the home.
-- Designate an out-of-town relative or friend to be your family's
emergency contact and keep their information with you at all times.
-- Prepare an emergency kit, including: five days worth of non-perishable
food and water, a can opener, flashlight, portable emergency radio
(hand-crank, solar-powered or battery-operated), batteries, any
prescription medication needed by family members, a first aid kit,
list of phone numbers for relatives, neighbors and utility companies,
and pictures and descriptions of your family. If you have pets,
include five days worth of canned pet food and water, sturdy leashes,
harnesses or carriers, current photos and descriptions and a litter
box.
-- Develop and practice several disaster preparedness plans. Make sure
your child knows the first thing he/she should do in the event of a
storm or other disaster, regardless of their location.
-- Practice a fire escape route by drawing out a floor plan and
mapping out each family member's route of escape making sure each
room has two exit options. Designate a meeting place where your
family will reunite if separated. Consider posting the fire escape
route on refrigerators and in each family member's bedroom.
-- Make sure your children know how to respond to an emergency in the
environments they frequent, including schools, friends' houses and
public buildings like grocery stores. Point out exit signs in
public buildings, ensure they actively participate in school fire
drills and talk to their friends' parents about their individual
escape plans.
Stay Connected
While it might prove challenging to stay connected with family during a disaster, parents can use the following to help them stay connected and re-connect with their family.
-- Keep your child connected. If you're not with your child, make sure
they have your family's emergency contact information on-hand.
Additionally, whether your child is at school, at a friend's house or
participating in an extracurricular activity, make sure you have the
appropriate contact information should an emergency occur.
-- Identify your family's "ICE" (in case of emergency contact). If you
have a cell phone, program your emergency contact as ICE - in case of
emergency. ICE is recognized by police and first responders across the
nation. In addition, identify an out-of-town contact. In a disaster
situation they may be in a better position to communicate among
separated family members.
-- Subscribe to alert services. Check with your local Office of Emergency
Management to see if your community has an alert system that will send
instant text or e-mail alerts to let you know about bad weather, road
closings, local emergencies, etc. If listening to an emergency radio,
make sure you know the most appropriate station for your community.
-- If separated from family members, call your designated out-of-town
contact. It is often easier to make a long distance phone call than a
local call from a disaster area. Keep in mind, telephone lines are
frequently overwhelmed in disaster situations, so try to keep regular
telephone use to a minimum.
Post-Disaster: Don't Take Safety For Granted
While the winds may have calmed or fire debris has been cleaned up, it's not a time to let down your guard when it comes to keeping your family safe.
-- Watch animals closely after returning home. Pets may become
disoriented, particularly if the disaster has affected scent markers
that normally allow them to find their homes. Be aware of hazards at
nose and paw level, particularly debris, spilled chemicals,
fertilizers, and other substances that might not seem to be dangerous
to humans.
-- Stay clear of downed wires and power lines and be extremely cautious
of floodwater - it is frequently contaminated with septic waste, oil
and/or dangerous debris. If appliances are water damaged have them
inspected by a qualified technician and then either refurbish or
replace.
-- Keep generators outside of the home and garage and away from doorways
and ventilation systems. A potential post-storm danger is carbon
monoxide (CO) poisoning, especially if generators are being used as an
alternative source of electricity.
"The first step towards safely handling an emergency is planning ahead," says Drengenberg. "Take the time to ensure your child is Safety Smart in emergency situations and know how to empower them to respond safely."
Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Ready Campaign, National Preparedness Month helps raise awareness and promote action by Americans, businesses, and communities on emergency preparedness.
For more information on disaster preparedness, please visit http://www.ul.com/.
Survey Methodology
The Safety Smart Survey was conducted by Kelton Research on behalf of Underwriters Laboratories, between April 16 - 23, 2009, using the phone, an email invitation and an online survey. Results of any sample are subject to sampling variation. The magnitude of the variation is measurable and is affected by the number of interviews and the level of the percentages expressing the results. In this particular study, the chances are 95 in 100 that a survey result does not vary, plus or minus, by more than 5.6 percentage points from the result that would be obtained if interviews had been conducted with all persons in the universe represented by the sample.
----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Monday, August 31, 2009
Disney's Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey Begins Looking for 2010 Class
/PRNewswire/ -- Do you know a high school student that could use some encouragement in their lives or a push of excitement toward their goals?
Disney's Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey, an event created to inspire and enrich high school students, has started accepting nominations for the Class of 2010. From now until Oct. 2, 2009, parents, teachers, family and friends can nominate the high school students for the highly successful event, which will return to Walt Disney World Resort Feb. 11-14, 2010. Students can even nominate themselves.
One hundred teens from across the country with big dreams and aspirations will be selected to pack their bags - and their dreams - and head to Walt Disney World Resort, where they will learn about careers in everything from culinary arts to animation, set design and show production to the business of sports and more.
The Disney's Dreamers Academy class of 2010 will be made up of teens nominated through Oct. 2, 2009. Young dreamers - who must be enrolled in high school for the 2009-10 term - can be nominated by anyone, including parents, guardians, teachers, church members, social organizations - even themselves. Although a high GPA is not required, students must exhibit a desire to learn, perhaps needing only additional motivational support to excel. Nomination forms can be found at www.SteveHarvey.com/disneysdreamersacademy.
A select panel of judges including national radio personality Steve Harvey, community leaders and Disney representatives will choose the 100 finalists. The Disney's Dreamers Academy class of 2010 will be announced in November 2009.
"We are very proud of the work we've done with Disney's Dreamers Academy," said Meg Crofton, president of Walt Disney World Resort. "This program not only celebrates the achievements of the 200 students involved, it also demonstrates the part dreams play in realizing personal and professional goals."
During Disney's Dreamers Academy in 2010, the students will participate in workshops with Disney cast members and executives, hear inspirational stories from entertainment celebrities and professional athletes, and enjoy the Disney theme parks - where they can see, first-hand, the results of people who turned their dreams into careers as "Disney dreamers." During the 2009 Disney's Dreamers Academy, some of the guest speakers were Chef Jeff Henderson, National Football League Hall of Famer Kellen Winslow, pop/R&B recording artists Fantasia and Keyshia Cole, ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith and, of course, Steve Harvey.
Harvey said Disney's Dreamers Academy "is about inspiring our young people who oftentimes don't have the chance to be exposed to a variety of job skills and job opportunities and meet with people in the fields they're interested in. We want to give our young achievers the tools to become overachievers - to make their dreams a reality."
-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Disney's Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey, an event created to inspire and enrich high school students, has started accepting nominations for the Class of 2010. From now until Oct. 2, 2009, parents, teachers, family and friends can nominate the high school students for the highly successful event, which will return to Walt Disney World Resort Feb. 11-14, 2010. Students can even nominate themselves.
One hundred teens from across the country with big dreams and aspirations will be selected to pack their bags - and their dreams - and head to Walt Disney World Resort, where they will learn about careers in everything from culinary arts to animation, set design and show production to the business of sports and more.
The Disney's Dreamers Academy class of 2010 will be made up of teens nominated through Oct. 2, 2009. Young dreamers - who must be enrolled in high school for the 2009-10 term - can be nominated by anyone, including parents, guardians, teachers, church members, social organizations - even themselves. Although a high GPA is not required, students must exhibit a desire to learn, perhaps needing only additional motivational support to excel. Nomination forms can be found at www.SteveHarvey.com/disneysdreamersacademy.
A select panel of judges including national radio personality Steve Harvey, community leaders and Disney representatives will choose the 100 finalists. The Disney's Dreamers Academy class of 2010 will be announced in November 2009.
"We are very proud of the work we've done with Disney's Dreamers Academy," said Meg Crofton, president of Walt Disney World Resort. "This program not only celebrates the achievements of the 200 students involved, it also demonstrates the part dreams play in realizing personal and professional goals."
During Disney's Dreamers Academy in 2010, the students will participate in workshops with Disney cast members and executives, hear inspirational stories from entertainment celebrities and professional athletes, and enjoy the Disney theme parks - where they can see, first-hand, the results of people who turned their dreams into careers as "Disney dreamers." During the 2009 Disney's Dreamers Academy, some of the guest speakers were Chef Jeff Henderson, National Football League Hall of Famer Kellen Winslow, pop/R&B recording artists Fantasia and Keyshia Cole, ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith and, of course, Steve Harvey.
Harvey said Disney's Dreamers Academy "is about inspiring our young people who oftentimes don't have the chance to be exposed to a variety of job skills and job opportunities and meet with people in the fields they're interested in. We want to give our young achievers the tools to become overachievers - to make their dreams a reality."
-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Friday, August 28, 2009
Kids Get Acid Reflux, Too
(NAPSI)-Did you know that 7 million babies and children in the U.S. have acid reflux?
Although a proper diagnosis is sometimes missed, some clues include a burning sensation in the throat or chest, tummy aches, spitting up, a sensation of food coming up, poor appetite, trouble swallowing, night waking, ear infections, sinus problems, asthma, wheezing, excessive crying, colic, tooth decay and bad breath. Untreated reflux can cause serious health problems.
The nonprofit Web site www.reflux.org has been providing information about acid reflux for 17 years. The site has now been translated into Spanish at www.ReflujoEnNinos.org. Patients, clinics and doctors can download free booklets and brochures in English and Spanish. The sites are supported by public donations and grants.
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Fayette Front Page
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Georgia Front Page
Although a proper diagnosis is sometimes missed, some clues include a burning sensation in the throat or chest, tummy aches, spitting up, a sensation of food coming up, poor appetite, trouble swallowing, night waking, ear infections, sinus problems, asthma, wheezing, excessive crying, colic, tooth decay and bad breath. Untreated reflux can cause serious health problems.
The nonprofit Web site www.reflux.org has been providing information about acid reflux for 17 years. The site has now been translated into Spanish at www.ReflujoEnNinos.org. Patients, clinics and doctors can download free booklets and brochures in English and Spanish. The sites are supported by public donations and grants.
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Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
Thursday, August 27, 2009
How Long Should Infants Be Left In Car Seats?
(SPM Wire) Car safety seats are one of the most effective ways to protect children from injury and death in the first years of life.
For the best protection in a crash, car seats require infants to be placed in an upright position. However, this posture can partially compress the chest wall and reduce airway size, resulting in lower levels of oxygen and breathing problems, according to new research published in the medical journal, "Pediatrics."
Never use a car seat as a replacement for a crib and only keep infants in these safety devices for protection during travel.
Researchers compared oxygen levels in 200 newborns while in a hospital crib, car bed and car seat. They found that babies seated in car seats for 60 minutes had lower oxygen levels in their blood than those lying on their backs in hospital cribs.
But parents shouldn't use the results of the new research as an excuse not to use car seats when traveling with small children or to position them in the seats in incorrect ways. Car safety seats have been proven to protect babies and small children from injury and death, stress experts.
-----
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Fayette Front Page
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Georgia Front Page
For the best protection in a crash, car seats require infants to be placed in an upright position. However, this posture can partially compress the chest wall and reduce airway size, resulting in lower levels of oxygen and breathing problems, according to new research published in the medical journal, "Pediatrics."
Never use a car seat as a replacement for a crib and only keep infants in these safety devices for protection during travel.
Researchers compared oxygen levels in 200 newborns while in a hospital crib, car bed and car seat. They found that babies seated in car seats for 60 minutes had lower oxygen levels in their blood than those lying on their backs in hospital cribs.
But parents shouldn't use the results of the new research as an excuse not to use car seats when traveling with small children or to position them in the seats in incorrect ways. Car safety seats have been proven to protect babies and small children from injury and death, stress experts.
-----
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Fayette Front Page
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Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Toys"R"Us, Inc. Launches National Program to Spotlight Potentially Unsafe Baby Products Still in the Marketplace
/PRNewswire/ -- Toys"R"Us, Inc. today unveiled a national program that provides customers the opportunity to trade-in used cribs, car seats and other baby products in exchange for savings on a new item. The "Great Trade-In" event is designed to call attention to the fact that, due to safety concerns, certain used baby products, such as car seats and cribs, are not the best candidates to be handed down or resold.
Safety experts have recently reported that sales of used products are on the rise and are warning consumers to be cautious about purchasing second-hand children's items. The "Great Trade-In" event places an emphasis on specific old or second-hand baby products that may be potentially unsafe, but are still in circulation. According to consumer advocacy organization Kids In Danger (KID), in general, less than 30% of affected items are returned when a baby product is recalled. Beyond recalls, certain older and used baby products can raise other concerns. This could include products that have been damaged or others where advances in product safety have rendered older models non-compliant with the latest standards.
During the "Great Trade-In" event, which begins Friday, August 28 and continues through Sunday, September 20, all Babies"R"Us and Toys"R"Us locations nationwide will accept returns of any used cribs, car seats, bassinets, strollers, travel systems, play yards and high chairs in exchange for a 20% savings on the purchase of any new baby item, in any of these product categories, from select manufacturers.
"In today's economy, we are all looking for ways to stretch our dollars, but in doing so, children's safety should not be compromised," said Jerry Storch, Chairman and CEO, Toys"R"Us, Inc. "We hope this program will help raise awareness of the importance of being vigilant about potentially unsafe children's items that may still be in the marketplace, while encouraging customers to use the 'Great Trade-In' event as an opportunity to remove used baby products, such as cribs and car seats, from their garages and attics."
Safety agencies, such as the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), have noted that it continues to be challenging to get dangerous products out of the home following a product recall. The CPSC advises parents to check its website, www.cpsc.gov, to make sure a product has not been recalled before using or purchasing it second-hand. In addition, parents should be aware that used baby products can raise other safety concerns. For example:
-- Federal and voluntary standards and regulations for safety testing,
particularly for cribs, have changed significantly over the past few
years, and older products may not have been produced to meet these
stringent requirements;
-- Car seats can sustain damage in an accident that may not be visible to
the naked eye, but could prevent the seat from functioning properly;
-- Car seats have expiration dates, as the materials can deteriorate over
time, potentially making the car seat less effective in a crash.
Parents can check with the car seat manufacturer to determine the
recommended period of use for a particular car seat;
-- Certain baby products, particularly car seats, are regularly
introduced with new innovations in technology that can improve the
products' safety efficacy;
-- Products made of or that contain certain materials, like wood and
plastic, for example, can deteriorate when exposed to extreme weather
conditions, like heat, potentially compromising safety integrity; and
-- Parts or instruction books for proper assembly, installation or use
may be missing.
It can be difficult for consumers to determine whether used baby products are safe, and with so many ways to purchase used products, it's important for parents to be informed and vigilant when making purchasing decisions. And, because consumers often do not know the history of a second-hand baby product, leading safety organizations such as Safe Kids USA recommend not purchasing used car seats, for example. Additionally, the CPSC advocates not purchasing used items that have a history of safety problems, including cribs, play yards and bassinets.
Manufacturers participating in the "Great Trade-In" event include Baby Cache, Babi Italia, Baby Trend, Bertini, Britax, Chicco, Contours by Kolcraft, Cosco, Delta, Eddie Bauer, Evenflo, Graco, Jeep, Nature's Purest by Summer Infant, Safety 1st and Sorelle. Customers can save 20% on a new purchase, from any of the specified product categories and from any of the aforementioned manufacturers, in Babies"R"Us and Toys"R"Us stores nationwide on the day they trade in their used item. Day care centers or other organizations who wish to exchange items in bulk are encouraged to contact their local Babies"R"Us or Toys"R"Us store prior to returning their used items to ensure adequate availability of new merchandise.
Customers can visit the company's Safety website, Toysrus.com/Safety, for the latest information on product safety and to sign up to receive product recall notifications by e-mail.
-----
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Safety experts have recently reported that sales of used products are on the rise and are warning consumers to be cautious about purchasing second-hand children's items. The "Great Trade-In" event places an emphasis on specific old or second-hand baby products that may be potentially unsafe, but are still in circulation. According to consumer advocacy organization Kids In Danger (KID), in general, less than 30% of affected items are returned when a baby product is recalled. Beyond recalls, certain older and used baby products can raise other concerns. This could include products that have been damaged or others where advances in product safety have rendered older models non-compliant with the latest standards.
During the "Great Trade-In" event, which begins Friday, August 28 and continues through Sunday, September 20, all Babies"R"Us and Toys"R"Us locations nationwide will accept returns of any used cribs, car seats, bassinets, strollers, travel systems, play yards and high chairs in exchange for a 20% savings on the purchase of any new baby item, in any of these product categories, from select manufacturers.
"In today's economy, we are all looking for ways to stretch our dollars, but in doing so, children's safety should not be compromised," said Jerry Storch, Chairman and CEO, Toys"R"Us, Inc. "We hope this program will help raise awareness of the importance of being vigilant about potentially unsafe children's items that may still be in the marketplace, while encouraging customers to use the 'Great Trade-In' event as an opportunity to remove used baby products, such as cribs and car seats, from their garages and attics."
Safety agencies, such as the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), have noted that it continues to be challenging to get dangerous products out of the home following a product recall. The CPSC advises parents to check its website, www.cpsc.gov, to make sure a product has not been recalled before using or purchasing it second-hand. In addition, parents should be aware that used baby products can raise other safety concerns. For example:
-- Federal and voluntary standards and regulations for safety testing,
particularly for cribs, have changed significantly over the past few
years, and older products may not have been produced to meet these
stringent requirements;
-- Car seats can sustain damage in an accident that may not be visible to
the naked eye, but could prevent the seat from functioning properly;
-- Car seats have expiration dates, as the materials can deteriorate over
time, potentially making the car seat less effective in a crash.
Parents can check with the car seat manufacturer to determine the
recommended period of use for a particular car seat;
-- Certain baby products, particularly car seats, are regularly
introduced with new innovations in technology that can improve the
products' safety efficacy;
-- Products made of or that contain certain materials, like wood and
plastic, for example, can deteriorate when exposed to extreme weather
conditions, like heat, potentially compromising safety integrity; and
-- Parts or instruction books for proper assembly, installation or use
may be missing.
It can be difficult for consumers to determine whether used baby products are safe, and with so many ways to purchase used products, it's important for parents to be informed and vigilant when making purchasing decisions. And, because consumers often do not know the history of a second-hand baby product, leading safety organizations such as Safe Kids USA recommend not purchasing used car seats, for example. Additionally, the CPSC advocates not purchasing used items that have a history of safety problems, including cribs, play yards and bassinets.
Manufacturers participating in the "Great Trade-In" event include Baby Cache, Babi Italia, Baby Trend, Bertini, Britax, Chicco, Contours by Kolcraft, Cosco, Delta, Eddie Bauer, Evenflo, Graco, Jeep, Nature's Purest by Summer Infant, Safety 1st and Sorelle. Customers can save 20% on a new purchase, from any of the specified product categories and from any of the aforementioned manufacturers, in Babies"R"Us and Toys"R"Us stores nationwide on the day they trade in their used item. Day care centers or other organizations who wish to exchange items in bulk are encouraged to contact their local Babies"R"Us or Toys"R"Us store prior to returning their used items to ensure adequate availability of new merchandise.
Customers can visit the company's Safety website, Toysrus.com/Safety, for the latest information on product safety and to sign up to receive product recall notifications by e-mail.
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Thursday, August 20, 2009
Toys"R"Us Unveils Annual Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids
/PRNewswire/ -- Toys"R"Us, Inc. today announced the release of the 2009 Toys"R"Us Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids, an easy-to-use toy selection guide that matches specific skill sets with a wide range of everyday playthings. Released annually, this complimentary resource will be available in Toys"R"Us and Babies"R"Us stores nationwide and online, in English and Spanish, at Toysrus.com/DifferentlyAbled. Whoopi Goldberg, mother and grandmother, Oscar , Tony, GRAMMY and Emmy Award-Winner and child advocate, is featured on the cover along with Grace Kurowski, a five-year-old girl from Skillman, NJ.
New this year, the Guide features a special section dedicated to providing critical safety tips to help parents and caregivers avoid playtime injuries. While the 2009 edition includes updated features and an enhanced website, the fundamental elements that remain family favorites year after year, like the recognizable skill-building icons, still appear in this beloved resource.
"I am honored to appear on the cover of the 2009 Toys"R"Us Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids and advocate on behalf of children of all abilities who persevere in their efforts to reach new heights," said Whoopi Goldberg. "With the help of the Guide, caregivers can find appropriate toys for a child's individual abilities, providing an equal opportunity for all children to enjoy playtime."
"All children regardless of ability can imagine new worlds and share the joy of learning through the magic of play," said Jerry Storch, Chairman and CEO, Toys"R"Us, Inc. "We love kids and, as part of our ongoing mission to help keep them safe, we've included safety tips in the 2009 edition of the Toys"R"Us Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids, ensuring playtime is a positive, memorable experience."
Helping Kids with Special Needs Enjoy Safe Play
Research shows accidental injuries occur more frequently among children with special needs, and most significantly among children with cognitive, emotional or social limitations. To help those who care for a differently-abled child prevent accidental injuries during playtime, the 2009 edition of the Toys"R"Us Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids features safe play tips for children with special needs. Tips range from basic advice about supervision to suggestions for effective communication. These safe play tips include:
-- Never Leave a Child Unsupervised: It is especially critical that a
child with special needs is properly supervised by an adult or trusted
caregiver at all times.
-- Survey the Play Area: Designate a specific area of the home for
regular playtime - one void of hazards, such as electric wires across
the floor that a child could trip over, hanging cords that could cause
strangulation and pools or windows that may pose a threat.
-- Use Visual Warnings: Post notes with phrases, such as, "Don't Touch!"
and "Off Limits!" on toys for older children, as well as power tools,
the stove, the kitchen drawers or any other potential source of
injury.
-- Review and Repeat: After setting playtime rules, create visual
reminders to post somewhere in the house or play area to serve as a
constant reminder to the child.
National Lekotek Center Partnership and Toy Selection Process
Since 1994, Toys"R"Us, Inc. has partnered with the National Lekotek Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making the world accessible to children of all abilities, to assess the play value of hundreds of toys for children with special needs. Through therapeutic play sessions with some of the toughest toy critics - kids - the National Lekotek Center assigns at least two skill-building traits to each toy that appears in the Guide. Color-coded symbols signify the specific benefits of each item. Following are examples of the toys and corresponding skills featured in the Guide:
-- Auditory: Rock 'n Rollin' Piano from Sakar
-- Creativity: Fold & Go Barn from Melissa & Doug
-- Fine Motor: My First Duplo Set from LEGO
-- Gross Motor: Fold-2-Go Trike from Radio Flyer
-- Language: Laugh & Learn(TM) Say Please Tea Set from Fisher-Price
-- Self Esteem: Yo Gabba Gabba Muno's Groovin' Guitar from Spin
Master(TM)
-- Social Skills: Spongebugs Kids Fun Bowling Set from Gamenamics
-- Tactile: Color-Fillz(TM) from Crayola
-- Thinking: Disney Netpal(TM) Netbook from ASUS
-- Visual: Nerf(TM) Cosmic Catch from Hasbro
To further assist consumers, the Guide also includes a list of the "Top Ten Tips for Buying Toys" from the National Lekotek Center.
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New this year, the Guide features a special section dedicated to providing critical safety tips to help parents and caregivers avoid playtime injuries. While the 2009 edition includes updated features and an enhanced website, the fundamental elements that remain family favorites year after year, like the recognizable skill-building icons, still appear in this beloved resource.
"I am honored to appear on the cover of the 2009 Toys"R"Us Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids and advocate on behalf of children of all abilities who persevere in their efforts to reach new heights," said Whoopi Goldberg. "With the help of the Guide, caregivers can find appropriate toys for a child's individual abilities, providing an equal opportunity for all children to enjoy playtime."
"All children regardless of ability can imagine new worlds and share the joy of learning through the magic of play," said Jerry Storch, Chairman and CEO, Toys"R"Us, Inc. "We love kids and, as part of our ongoing mission to help keep them safe, we've included safety tips in the 2009 edition of the Toys"R"Us Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids, ensuring playtime is a positive, memorable experience."
Helping Kids with Special Needs Enjoy Safe Play
Research shows accidental injuries occur more frequently among children with special needs, and most significantly among children with cognitive, emotional or social limitations. To help those who care for a differently-abled child prevent accidental injuries during playtime, the 2009 edition of the Toys"R"Us Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids features safe play tips for children with special needs. Tips range from basic advice about supervision to suggestions for effective communication. These safe play tips include:
-- Never Leave a Child Unsupervised: It is especially critical that a
child with special needs is properly supervised by an adult or trusted
caregiver at all times.
-- Survey the Play Area: Designate a specific area of the home for
regular playtime - one void of hazards, such as electric wires across
the floor that a child could trip over, hanging cords that could cause
strangulation and pools or windows that may pose a threat.
-- Use Visual Warnings: Post notes with phrases, such as, "Don't Touch!"
and "Off Limits!" on toys for older children, as well as power tools,
the stove, the kitchen drawers or any other potential source of
injury.
-- Review and Repeat: After setting playtime rules, create visual
reminders to post somewhere in the house or play area to serve as a
constant reminder to the child.
National Lekotek Center Partnership and Toy Selection Process
Since 1994, Toys"R"Us, Inc. has partnered with the National Lekotek Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making the world accessible to children of all abilities, to assess the play value of hundreds of toys for children with special needs. Through therapeutic play sessions with some of the toughest toy critics - kids - the National Lekotek Center assigns at least two skill-building traits to each toy that appears in the Guide. Color-coded symbols signify the specific benefits of each item. Following are examples of the toys and corresponding skills featured in the Guide:
-- Auditory: Rock 'n Rollin' Piano from Sakar
-- Creativity: Fold & Go Barn from Melissa & Doug
-- Fine Motor: My First Duplo Set from LEGO
-- Gross Motor: Fold-2-Go Trike from Radio Flyer
-- Language: Laugh & Learn(TM) Say Please Tea Set from Fisher-Price
-- Self Esteem: Yo Gabba Gabba Muno's Groovin' Guitar from Spin
Master(TM)
-- Social Skills: Spongebugs Kids Fun Bowling Set from Gamenamics
-- Tactile: Color-Fillz(TM) from Crayola
-- Thinking: Disney Netpal(TM) Netbook from ASUS
-- Visual: Nerf(TM) Cosmic Catch from Hasbro
To further assist consumers, the Guide also includes a list of the "Top Ten Tips for Buying Toys" from the National Lekotek Center.
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Wednesday, August 19, 2009
The CDC and Lysol Partner to Educate Kids About How to Help Protect Themselves From Harmful Germs
/PRNewswire/ -- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)(1) and LYSOL brand products are proud to announce the launch of the Ounce of Prevention Kids web site www.oopkids.com, an interactive site featuring educational activities designed to promote good health and hygiene. The web site was created in a continued effort to educate children and their parents about everyday and seasonal health and safety issues. The site is adapted from a children's Activity Book created in partnership with the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP), and includes health information provided by the CDC that supplements the Ounce of Prevention campaign.
A recent survey revealed that a majority of parents (72 percent) feel they have minimal to no control over protecting their kids from germs at school.(2) With health officials warning that the number of H1N1 flu cases is certain to worsen when influenza-friendly fall temperatures arrive, parents are concerned, more so than ever, about the germs their children will encounter at school. Now, parents have a kid-friendly and entertaining resource to help teach their children healthy hygiene habits to practice at home and in school that will help prevent the spread of illness-causing germs.
"It's unrealistic for parents to think they can control all of the germs their children will encounter at school," says pediatrician Dr. Laura Jana, mother of three school-aged children and owner of an educational child care center. "However, they can teach their children about the importance of personal hygiene, at a young age, to help prevent illness. Turn necessary routines into entertaining games to get your children excited about what would otherwise be mundane chores."
The Ounce of Prevention Kids web site www.oopkids.com, is designed for children ages six to nine, and features a range of activities, for kids to play on their own or with a parent, that focus on personal hygiene, nutrition, exercise and safety. Children can follow guides R.B. and Scrubs, animated characters, around the site to learn about the importance of hand washing, computer safety, healthy food choices and more. Activities can be played online or printed for later use.
Kid-friendly health and hygiene tips include:
-- Wash your hands often to keep them germ-free
-- Cough and sneeze into a tissue to prevent spreading germs to others
-- Eat healthy to keep your energy high and immune system strong
-- Keep your smile bright and mouth healthy by brushing twice a day
-- Stay safe in the kitchen to prevent injury or illness
-- Have fun to stay healthy and happy
"We are pleased to bring parents and health educators alike this high-quality, educational health and hygiene program. The content has been reviewed by experts who specialize in the care of children and recommend it as a valuable resource for childhood development," said Tom Bach, Professional Relations Manager of Germ Protection at Reckitt Benckiser, makers of Lysol.
Additionally, there are helpful tips for parents about proper food handling and surface disinfection with links to partner web sites, including CDC's Ounce of Prevention campaign home page www.cdc.gov/ounceofprevention and LYSOL's Germ Information Center www.lysol.com/germ-information-center/.
More helpful information and interactive activities will be added throughout the year.
-----
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Arts Across Georgia
A recent survey revealed that a majority of parents (72 percent) feel they have minimal to no control over protecting their kids from germs at school.(2) With health officials warning that the number of H1N1 flu cases is certain to worsen when influenza-friendly fall temperatures arrive, parents are concerned, more so than ever, about the germs their children will encounter at school. Now, parents have a kid-friendly and entertaining resource to help teach their children healthy hygiene habits to practice at home and in school that will help prevent the spread of illness-causing germs.
"It's unrealistic for parents to think they can control all of the germs their children will encounter at school," says pediatrician Dr. Laura Jana, mother of three school-aged children and owner of an educational child care center. "However, they can teach their children about the importance of personal hygiene, at a young age, to help prevent illness. Turn necessary routines into entertaining games to get your children excited about what would otherwise be mundane chores."
The Ounce of Prevention Kids web site www.oopkids.com, is designed for children ages six to nine, and features a range of activities, for kids to play on their own or with a parent, that focus on personal hygiene, nutrition, exercise and safety. Children can follow guides R.B. and Scrubs, animated characters, around the site to learn about the importance of hand washing, computer safety, healthy food choices and more. Activities can be played online or printed for later use.
Kid-friendly health and hygiene tips include:
-- Wash your hands often to keep them germ-free
-- Cough and sneeze into a tissue to prevent spreading germs to others
-- Eat healthy to keep your energy high and immune system strong
-- Keep your smile bright and mouth healthy by brushing twice a day
-- Stay safe in the kitchen to prevent injury or illness
-- Have fun to stay healthy and happy
"We are pleased to bring parents and health educators alike this high-quality, educational health and hygiene program. The content has been reviewed by experts who specialize in the care of children and recommend it as a valuable resource for childhood development," said Tom Bach, Professional Relations Manager of Germ Protection at Reckitt Benckiser, makers of Lysol.
Additionally, there are helpful tips for parents about proper food handling and surface disinfection with links to partner web sites, including CDC's Ounce of Prevention campaign home page www.cdc.gov/ounceofprevention and LYSOL's Germ Information Center www.lysol.com/germ-information-center/.
More helpful information and interactive activities will be added throughout the year.
-----
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Arts Across Georgia
Thursday, August 13, 2009
First Lady Mary Perdue to Host Reading Under the Stars
Event to support Georgia’s One Millionth Pre-K child campaign
First Lady Mary Perdue announced today that she will host Reading Under the Stars at the Georgia Governor’s Mansion on Tuesday, August 25 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. First Lady Perdue will host Georgia’s Pre-K students for a live reading in the mansion gardens of Bedtime in the Jungle by John Butler.
Bright from the Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning is celebrating a significant milestone this year. During the fall of 2009, the one millionth child will pass through the doors of a Georgia Pre-K Program. The program was established in 1993 to provide the state’s four-year-old children with high quality preschool experiences. In conjunction with the Millionth Child celebration, Georgians are encouraged to read to children in child care programs, family day care homes, at home, in schools, in church, in public libraries, at fairs or anywhere there is an opportunity to share the love of reading. Readers can visit Bright from the Start's website to log the number of books read at www.decal.ga.gov .
Families who wish to attend should RSVP in advance by calling the Constituent Services Hotline at (404) 656-1776. Only phone reservations will be accepted. Reservations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until capacity is reached. Due to space limitations, the number of chaperones must be limited to no more than one adult per two children. Each person will be asked to provide the name and Pre-K program the student will be attending this coming school year.
Activities at the Reading Under the Stars event will include face painting, music, giveaways and information on the Millionth Child campaign. Peachtree Publishers and the Junior League of Atlanta are providing books and volunteers for this event. Light refreshments will be provided. Families are asked to bring blankets for seating during the reading.
Participants are asked to arrive at the Governor’s Mansion at 6:30 p.m. Guests with reservations should enter at the main security gate.
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First Lady Mary Perdue announced today that she will host Reading Under the Stars at the Georgia Governor’s Mansion on Tuesday, August 25 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. First Lady Perdue will host Georgia’s Pre-K students for a live reading in the mansion gardens of Bedtime in the Jungle by John Butler.
Bright from the Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning is celebrating a significant milestone this year. During the fall of 2009, the one millionth child will pass through the doors of a Georgia Pre-K Program. The program was established in 1993 to provide the state’s four-year-old children with high quality preschool experiences. In conjunction with the Millionth Child celebration, Georgians are encouraged to read to children in child care programs, family day care homes, at home, in schools, in church, in public libraries, at fairs or anywhere there is an opportunity to share the love of reading. Readers can visit Bright from the Start's website to log the number of books read at www.decal.ga.gov .
Families who wish to attend should RSVP in advance by calling the Constituent Services Hotline at (404) 656-1776. Only phone reservations will be accepted. Reservations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until capacity is reached. Due to space limitations, the number of chaperones must be limited to no more than one adult per two children. Each person will be asked to provide the name and Pre-K program the student will be attending this coming school year.
Activities at the Reading Under the Stars event will include face painting, music, giveaways and information on the Millionth Child campaign. Peachtree Publishers and the Junior League of Atlanta are providing books and volunteers for this event. Light refreshments will be provided. Families are asked to bring blankets for seating during the reading.
Participants are asked to arrive at the Governor’s Mansion at 6:30 p.m. Guests with reservations should enter at the main security gate.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
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