St. Croix is rich in educational opportunities. Our history and culture alone is a lifetime of education. Combine that with our many public, private, parochial, technical, and adult education schools and programs. Then add in our local libraries and book stores and you have no excuse for not seeking to further your education on St. Croix.

If you have ever dreamed of flying, then Joe Bagjer is the person to see. He is the enthusiastic Flight Instructor at the Bohlke International Airways Flight School. Using the state-of-the-art Diamond DA-20 and DA-40 aircraft and the ground school simulator system, Joe will take you from your first flight all the way through multi-engine training. You can earn your Basic Pilot's License in as little as 40 flight hours. Call Joe today at 778-9177 to book your $49.99 "Discovery Flight" and you are on your way to learning to fly. If you already have your pilot's license, but want to upgrade to the Garmin G1000 glass cockpit, or get your instrument rating or multi-engine rating, then call Joe today. He's the best instructor in the Virgin Islands according to some of his students who have received training elsewhere.

(MS) — As any teacher can attest, getting kids back into the swing of things after summer vacation is akin to pulling teeth. And when it comes to certain subjects, doing so is more like a root canal. Among the subjects that students typically find most difficult is multiplication. Fourth, fifth and sixth grade teachers often cite the multiplication tables as one of the biggest sources of struggle for their students.

One of the easiest ways to help a child excel in school, whether it’s mastering the multiplication tables or enhancing reading comprehension, is to make learning enjoyable. As we grow older, the teachers we seem to remember most are the ones who made the subject matter seem compelling, opened our eyes to new ways of understanding difficult topics, or those who used unconventional tools and strategies that made learning that much easier. With this in mind, there are several ways to give your student a boost by changing the way he or she looks at learning. Here are some tips from the education experts who created Learning Wrap-ups:

• Set daily attainable goals. Like adults, kids respond better when they see results. If a student continues to work hard at school but doesn’t see immediate results, that student is more likely to throw in the towel on his studies. In addition, with more difficult topics such as the multiplication tables, it’s important for teachers to provide daily “check-ups” to make sure kids aren’t falling behind.

With “10 Days to Multiplication Mastery” from Learning Wrap-Ups, teachers and parents alike can use the workbook to track their student’s progress on a daily basis. Students can follow the steps in the classroom and at home, and then see the fruits of their labor for themselves. By charting their own progress when filling in a basic 12 x 12 multiplication chart both horizontally and vertically, kids gain a greater confidence when it comes to the multiplication tables, as each correct answer gives them credit for learning two facts instead of just one.

“[‘10 Days to Multiplication Mastery’] has helped my child very much,” says Cindy Burton, whose daughter has some learning disabilities that affect retention. “Over the summer she forgot every one of her times tables. But by the end of three weeks she was whipping through those babies. We started doing long division and she said, ‘Math is so much easier now.’ This, of course, has really helped to build her confidence and she is doing much better in all of her subjects.”

• Combine different methods that are educational and fun: Getting kids excited about their progress in the classroom can also be easier when teachers add a little fun into their lesson plans. The creators of Learning Wrap-Ups have been making learning fun for 25 years. Developed by teachers to help students master the basics in elementary subjects ranging from Math, Vocabulary, Pre-Algebra, Sight Words, Spanish, and more, Learning Wrap-Ups act as a portable, hands-on alternative to flashcards. The student simply wraps a string from the problem on the left side to the answer on the right. When done correctly, the string will cover the lines on the back, for instant self-correction. Hands-on, fun and self-correcting, Wrap-Ups, when combined with a step-by-step lesson plan for difficult subjects like multiplication tables, show kids they know more than they think they do.

Educators who have used these kits in their classroom have found them valuable in a variety of ways and for a variety of subjects. Results have included improved test scores to reducing the time spent in preparing lessons and correcting assignments. Kits can even include Audio CDs with the “Wrap-Up Rap,” which randomly generates questions pertaining to each lesson plan three times. By the time a student takes the third randomized test, chances are he’ll have learned his stuff, and done so in a way that was both fun and valuable.

• Share your experiences with others: Because so many teachers find their students struggling with multiplication tables, it’s important for parents and teachers to share both their successes and their failures. If you’ve found workbooks such as “10 Days To Multiplication Mastery” to be effective with your students, by all means let your colleagues and parents of your students know. Parents should speak to a child’s teacher or administrators about exciting ways to spark interest in school or learning. If a teacher encourages students to use flashcards, see if that teacher would consider incorporating Learning Wrap-Ups into the curriculum. Discuss with friends and fellow parents the ways in which they encourage their children to learn.

For more information about Learning Wrap-Ups and workbooks, visit  www.learningwrapups.com, or call (800) 992-4966 to find a retailer in your area. BS087102

(MS) — Perhaps no sound in the world is more musical to a kid’s ears than the final recess bell on the last day of school. Summer vacation has long been a time for kids and educators to relax, and for parents to spend more time with their children.

But as the saying goes, “All good things must come to an end.” As summer vacation nears its inevitable end, reacclimating students to a more academic mindset is something with which parents and teachers alike often struggle. Largely gone are the days of required summer reading lists, which were used to keep kids minds’ sharp and ease their transition into the next grade level. What’s left is a collective group of parents and educators who work to find ways for kids to continue to have fun during their summer vacations but also stay sharp so they can excel when it’s time to go back to school.

“Back-to-school is a good time to ‘take stock’ and do an inventory of what children are playing with, what is not used and what they need next in their development,” says Dr. Stevanne Auerbach (a.k.a. “Dr. Toy”), a childhood development specialist and expert in play, toys, children’s products, and education.

Barb Metroff, a junior high math teacher in Illinois, says she has found something that provides both entertainment and educational value that can help kids stay sharp through the summer months without feeling as though they’re doing schoolwork.

“I have been collecting challenging puzzles for my students to work on during free time,” says Metroff. “I recently came across Scramble Squares puzzles, and my students, children and relatives have been having a great time playing with them.”

Scramble Squares® puzzles, from b. dazzle, inc., offer precisely the type of stimulation educators and parents hope to provide their children through the dogs days of summer and into the school year. Dr. Auerbach has determined the entertaining nature of the puzzles keeps kids engrossed enough that they hardly realize the fun they’re having is also of great educational value.

“Although each puzzle has only nine 4” x 4” pieces, they are perhaps the world’s most challenging puzzle,” says Auerbach. “Puzzle play teaches patience, perseverance, fine motor skills and critical thinking skills and helps maintain mental agility while providing stimulating entertainment as a either a solitaire game or a cooperative activity.”

As Auerbach notes, puzzles can stimulate the brain in a number of ways, which is beneficial for youngsters heading off to school for the first time or even adults who are returning to the classroom after a long layoff from academia. Scramble Squares have even proven beneficial beyond the parameters of the traditional classroom, as school social worker Gwendolyn Russell, who works with at-risk youth, found out when she first tried them with two of her students.

“I met with two teen males and they could not get enough of the puzzles,” says Russell. “They opted to miss dinner to stay with me, the therapist, to conntinue to solve their puzzles. They both seemed so delighted that I was able to easily engage them with the therapeutic process and they even indicated they were looking forward to my return.”
For more information on Scramble Squares, visit www.b-dazzle.com. BS087089

Puzzles: An Educational Tool Through the Grades

• Early education: Even if a child isn’t going “back” to school but rather just beginning their life as a student, puzzles can be a great way to give a child a head start. Toddlers will learn to recognize shapes and solve problems by matching puzzle pieces to complete beautiful illustrations on a broad range of subjects in which they are interested, like pirates, baseball, fairies, puppies, butterflies, frogs and many others. As a child ages, brain teaser puzzles like Scramble Squares will help strengthen logic skills.

• Elementary school: Elementary school children are often exposed to puzzles depending on their course of study. For example, word puzzles are used to boost vocabulary, while logic puzzles are often used to foster arithmetic skills. As Metroff has in Illinois, educators across the country have now begun to use Scramble Squares in their classrooms as well.

• Upper grades: Middle and secondary school math and science teachers often use puzzles to challenge their students’ skills. Science experiments and mechanical puzzles that emphasize building and design help to foster a student’s knowledge of physics and geometry. Other puzzles can stimulate different learning skills and may even offer trivia tidbits. For example, each Scramble Squares puzzle package includes an interpretive panel of fascinating facts on the subject of the puzzle, as well as a trivia question and the hidden answer to the trivia question. This is all packaged in a unique and handy resealable clear vinyl travel pouch which can be collected and stored easily in the classroom or at home in a standard 3-ring binder.

• Continuing education: Getting back in the swing of things can be tough for students after a few months, but adults returning to school may find it even more challenging after being removed from the school scene for several years. As teachers across the country have learned, puzzles can be a productive activity for students of all ages.

(MS) — High school and college students returning to classes this year or just starting their upper-level education may find that these gadgets are just what they need for school success and more.

• Never miss a word: Taking notes and rembering important lectures is much easier if you record just what the professor is saying. While you can purchase a separate recorder for this purpose that saves the recording as an MP3 file or on a compact cassette tape, keep in mind that many MP3 players can also record, like Apple’s ubiquitous iPod. Invest in the iTalkPro by Griffin Technologies, which plugs right into the iPod. The gadget contains a tiny microphone to catch all of those lectures, even if you doze off for a few minutes.

• Life of the party: While we’re talking MP3s, what good are they if they’re stuck on your player or PC, especially when you’re holding your first dorm bash? You’ll need an external set of speakers or a device that can broadcast your favorite tunes for the masses. Cisco’s Linksys boombox has a WiFi connection that can pull songs off your PC and play them back on its own speakers or a different stereo system altogether.

• Talk and more: A mobile phone has virtually become standard issue for today’s students. Newer models can do so much more than the cell phones of years past, like play music or video, take pictures, or send text messages typed on a QWERTY keyboard.

• Information at your fingers: A USB thumb drive is another gadget you won’t want to pass up. While many students are toting laptops around to classes these days, there are still times when you may need to transfer files from one computer (say a home desktop) to another one (school computer lab). A thumb drive enables you to save a set amount of megabytes in folders and transfer as needed. Thumb drives come in all brands and prices.

• Wake up on time: Part of school success is getting to class on time and not being hindered by weather conditions. A projection alarm clock, like those offered by Oregon Scientific in their ExactSet line can be just what you need. This clock sets itself automatically, self-corrects for daylight savings time, projects the time in soft glowing red numbers on the wall or ceiling and now provides you with the indoor temperature. Learn more at www.oregonscientific.com.

• Caffeine boost: If you’re like many students who need a cup of Joe in the morning to get started for school, or rely on a cup for all-night study sessions, then investing in a quality coffee maker could be the affordable way to go. Try the Phillips Senseo Coffee Machine. This gizmo brews a cup of coffee in less than a minute and will taste better than left-over coffee from an all-night diner. BS087078

(MS) — Do you greet the day with “I have nothing to wear,” yet your closet is overflowing and drawers are bulging? It’s time for fashion rehab, the latest style trend. Change it up, change it out, cut it up, and put it back together again to create your own runway style with the clothing you already own. As millions of savvy fashionistas have already found, you’ll save money and natural resources when you restyle the clothes you have.

What about those blah and boring jeans and T’s? Add paint, embroidery and other embellishments to create a fresh new look that goes from ho-hum to hip. If you’re not sure where to start, page through catalogs or your favorite fashion Web sites. Visit a high-end clothing boutique with the knowledge that you can recreate their looks for a fraction of the price. Then, make a quick stop in your local craft store or discount store to pick up the paints and other items you’ll need for the project.

If you’re a little overwhelmed and not sure where to start, consider spraying on the style. Spray paint, a favorite of home decorators for the speedy, easy way it transforms furniture and other decorative items, can transform your wardrobe, too. From take-it-to-the-street everyday fashion to after-hours evening wear, spray paints punch it up, creating custom designs with the push of a button. Spray on freehand, or pair with stencils and masks to create stylized looks. Change up accessories, too, and paint shoes, purses, belts and headbands.

Get the Look: To create the look shown here, determine the colors and design you’d like. From everyday denim to a one-of-a-kind evening gown, consider the fashion-forward paint palette available from Krylon. Krylon® Indoor/Outdoor Paints are available in 75 on-trend shades, from Totally Tangerine to Raspberry and Pistachio. Krylon Brushed Metallic spray paint, sold in five, shimmering shades, adds a subtle, glittery sparkle to wearables. The paints will retain their colors and stay soft, wash after wash. And, the fast-drying paint is ready to go in 10 minutes, so you won’t be late for that important date.

Always pre-wash your clothing or fabric, and paint in a well ventilated area. Cover your work surface to protect it from overspray and consider wearing rubber gloves, too. Choose a pre-made stencil or mask, or make your own with clear acetate or paper. To hold the stencil or mask in place while you spray, use Krylon® Easy-Tack™ Repositionable Adhesive. Easy-Tack will temporarily hold your stencil or mask in place, which can then be repositioned as you shift your design. Mix and match your design elements and colors to create a layered look, making sure each color is dry to the touch before you add another. Once you’re done, let dry for 10 minutes and you’re ready to go!

For more information on fashioning your own runway drama, visit www.krylon.com. BS087105

(MS) — For the millions of junior high, high school and college students heading back to school shortly, the idea of returning to the classroom may be met with mixed emotions.
While the school experience is built upon educational advancement, attending school is also laregly a social experience. Many students find themselves working as hard to “fit in” as they do to improve their grades. These pressures can take a toll on someone already susceptible to emotional and behavioral conditions, such as depression or anxiety and eating disorders, or trigger feelings in someone who never struggled before. Centers like Timberline Knolls, a 43-acre residential treatment center for women and adolescent girls, want to educate students and parents about potential problems, and let them know assistance is available when necessary.

A common concern of students of all ages is body image. Many students admit to feeling the pressure to have a good body, whether to fit into a certain clique or meet the weight requirements of a scholastic sports team. Others want to emulate their favorite stars they see in movies and on television. Eating disorders like anorexia nervosa and bulimia are growing concerns in schools around the country.

As many as 10 million females and one million males are fighting a life and death battle with anorexia or bulimia and another 25 million are fighting a binge eating disorder, according to the National Eating Disorders Association. Others are exhibiting borderline symptoms of these conditions, including poor attitudes about body weight and food.

Eating disorders are usually shrouded in secrecy, but those who are suffering should realize that reaching out for assistance is the first step to getting back on track.

“We want to share the message of hope and acceptance with students everywhere,” says Kimberly Dennis, M.D., Timberline Knolls’ medical director. “We show individuals how to take a positive step toward recovery, and educate families on how they can support their loved ones.”

Timberline Knolls offers cutting edge psychiatric and psychological therapeutic approaches coupled with constant attention to an individual’s strengths and disorders. Their goals are to work with women and their families to develop a program that celebrates successes. There are programs tailored for eating disorders, substance abuse, risk-taking behavior, and depression. Learn more by visiting www.timberlineknolls.com.

Treatment for eating disorders is best when started at the onset of any indicators of a problem. Here are the top signs that someone you know may be suffering from an eating disorder:

• Exhibits concern about her weight and attempts to control weight by diet, refusal of food, vomiting or laxative and diuretic abuse.

• Does prolonged exercising despite fatigue and weakness.

• Has peculiar patterns regarding handling food. May eat in secrecy.

• Exhibits abnormally fast weight loss, without any other known medical condition. Bulimics might be slightly underweight or overweight.

• Experiences depressive moods and self-deprecating behavior.

Physical symptoms other than weight loss that could be indicators of an eating disorder include:

• Dry skin and thinning scalp hair.

• Stomach and intestinal problems.

• Cessation of menstruation.

• Growth of lanugo (fine hair on body surface).

• Errosion of tooth enamal; tears in the esophagus. (from vomiting).

For more information on identifying the signs and symptoms of eating disorders, visit www.timberlineknolls.com or call (877) 257-9611 to speak with a Timerbline Knolls staff member.

Support and professional help can go a long way toward helping students through the myriad of pressures they face. BS087152

(MS) — Summer is crunch time for millions of parents whose toddlers must be potty-trained before they can be admitted to preschool programs in the fall. In the U.S., there are about 20 million parents with children under the age of 4, and more than 4 million of those children are enrolled in nursery or kindergarten programs where children are not permitted to move up to preschool until they are potty-trained.

Combine that with the fact that, according to the Children’s Hospital Guide to Your Child’s Health and Development, 40 percent of 3-year-olds still use diapers, and the rush is on. But how can you tell whether a child is ready? Here are 5 signs provided by Teri Crane, (www.thepottypro.com), best selling author of Potty Train Your Child in Just One Day: Proven Secrets of the Potty Pro.

• He’s/She’s interested in trying to do things “by him or herself.”

• He/She understands the meanings of using the potty and no more diapers and can discuss the subject.

• His/Her diaper is staying dry for longer.

• He/She frequently wakes up with a dry diaper.

• He/She stops playing to squat for a bowel movement

When you’ve determined that a child is ready for potty training, you can do it in a single day. Crane, who has developed the “One-Day Potty-Training Party” and taught the method to parents in her Potty-Training Boot Camp, offers these party guidelines:

STEP ONE: Give your child a new doll (preferably one that “wets”), Crane recommends Paul and Emma by Corolle (www.corolle.com), and have a two-person party (just you and your child) that entails playing games, reading books, and “potty training” the doll.

STEP TWO: Shift the focus to potty-training your child. Reward your child for his or her success.

STEP THREE: To celebrate your child’s success, the party expands to include his or her other parent, siblings, grandparents and other close relatives, all of whom offer their congratulations.

The method has been tested and approved by pediatricians and parents alike, Crane attests. Dr. Phil says, “A potty party is the way to get your child to go, literally!” At the end of the day, your child is potty trained for preschool and has a new best friend in their Paul or Emma potty training doll. BS087116

(MS) — Millions of students will head off to college soon, which means this year’s crop of high school grads (and their parents) will be brimming with anticipation, excitement … and a touch of apprehension. Soon they’ll be thinking about outfitting an entire dorm room, cramming all of their worldly possessions into a fuel-efficient hybrid and then fitting them into a room the size of a closet.

“Simple steps can make the transition to home sweet dorm simple, easy and stress-free,” comments Bari Fagin of Bed Bath & Beyond. “Tuition may have increased over time — but the size of the average dorm room has not. Planning in advance and using some basic tools will help make getting to college a lot easier than it was to get into college.”

Fagin offers the following tips for both students and parents to help you get started:
Check it Off. Use a comprehensive checklist to figure out what you need to buy and what you can take from home. Bedbathandbeyond.com offers a checklist broken down by category.

Split it Up. Students should reach out to their roommates before they shop to decide who is bringing what so they avoid bringing (and buying) duplicates.

Check it Out. Before you shop, check with your college or university on the size of your mattress. Is it a twin or extra long twin? It would be a shame to buy the perfect sheets and then find out they are too small.

Don’t Drive Yourself Nuts! Gone are the days of bungee cording the trunk closed. Bed Bath & Beyond stores offer a unique “Pack & Hold”™ service that eliminates the hassle of packing the car. Students simply shop at a store near home and then pick the items up at a store near their college, or choose to have the items shipped directly to their school.

Don’t Forget to Make Your Bed. When you get to your dorm room, cover your mattress with a mattress protector, a quilted mattress pad, a feather bed, and finally new sheets and comforter. You’ll feel like you’re sleeping at a four star hotel, not the freshman quad.

Don’t Panic. As prepared as you are, chances are you will forget something. Relax … bedbathandbeyond.com offers a college/store locator that makes it easy to find the store closest to your college to get the things most likely forgotten, such as hangers, extension cords and surge protectors.

Get Help! With over 890 stores, the “Shop for College” experts at Bed Bath & Beyond are there to help you — let them. Can’t get to a store? Visit “survival 101” at bedbathandbeyond.com for expert help.

After all, getting into college was the hard part, shopping for it is the fun part! BS087115

(MS) — ‘Green’ is in. Most people want to protect the environment. And as a number of students head back to school, they will want to make sure their vehicles are environmentally ‘green,’ because going green could add up to significant savings and trouble-free driving as well.

Ensuring vehicular environmental responsibility goes hand-in-hand with ensuring vehicular efficiency. Most cars, SUVs, vans, or light trucks operate when an air and fuel mixture is ignited within the engine, and this combustion provides the energy that propels the vehicle. The ideal ratio of air and fuel is 14 parts air to 1 part fuel (14:1), called stoichiometric. When the ratio strays too far away from this mixture, the engine operates less efficiently — fuel economy suffers, power decreases, and pollutants entering the exhaust increase.

Powerful Spark Enhances Efficiency

“One of the best ways to maximize fuel efficiency and environmental protection is by installing a fresh set of premium spark plugs, such as Bosch’s Ir Fusion Platinum Iridium plugs. The Fusion spark plug produces the most powerful spark available, which ignites the air/fuel mixture more efficiently, and the Fusion plug with its combination of rare metals and surface air gap design produces this powerful spark for tens of thousands of miles,” notes Reid Smith, product manager, Spark Plugs, for Bosch.

Bosch’s Fusion is the industry’s only spark plug that combines iridium and platinum in a patented fused fine wire center electrode design. “This combination provides a more durable and long lasting center electrode, better heat dissipation, and lower, more stable ignition voltage requirements,” explains Smith. “Bosch’s exclusive surface air gap technology and yttrium-enhanced ground electrodes deliver better performance.

Durability Keeps It ‘Green’

“This long-term durability is very important. Wear can erode the electrodes and widen the gap the spark must jump to ignite the air/fuel mixture. This increases stress on the ignition system and can result in less efficient ignition, decreasing performance as well as gas mileage. Durability tests indicate that reduced gap wear in the Bosch Platinum Ir Fusion lowers the voltage requirement on the ignition system as the plug gets older, yielding better, more consistent performance and economy and longer service life,” says Smith.

And don’t forget to check and see if underhood heat has cooked the spark plug wires. Installing fresh premium wire sets will ensure that the spark plugs get the proper electricity and yield peak, long lasting engine efficiency.

Oxygen Sensors Very Important to Vehicle Operation

Another very important aspect of proper vehicle maintenance is making sure all the vehicle’s oxygen sensors are operating properly. The oxygen sensor measures the oxygen in the exhaust to determine if the correct air/fuel ratio is being burned in the engine, and is crucial to efficient fuel management and engine operations. When operating properly, the oxygen sensor helps keep harmful emissions at a minimum, and vehicle performance and fuel economy at their peak operate under hostile conditions.

Oxygen sensors are subjected to intense heat, severe cold, thermal shock, vibration, and the ravages of exhaust and external contaminants — but they still are expected to function properly for tens of thousands of miles. This is made possible by engineering excellence and manufacturing precision. Quality definitely counts, and sensors that go the distance are produced in plants such as Bosch’s facility in Anderson, SC.

“Have the oxygen sensor or sensors checked and if worn out replaced with the appropriate top quality premium technology sensor, such as those available from Bosch, the inventor of the automotive oxygen sensor. This often improves fuel efficiency as well as drivability, especially in older vehicles.”

Don’t ignore vehicle maintenance as you get set to return to school. Don’t ignore vehicle maintenance as you get set to return to school. Periodic maintenance can save you money, is better for the environment, and allows you to focus your attention on your studies. For more tips and technique, visit www.boschautoparts.com. BS087106

(MS) — New research showing that some artificial food additives can trigger ADHD-type symptoms has led Britain to begin the removal of these chemicals from their food supply. Now the British government, along with scientists, consumer groups, and parents in countries throughout Europe, are calling on the European Union’s Health Commissioner to remove artificial food dyes from food in all of Europe. But in North America changes aren’t so forthcoming.

Food dyes listed by a color + number (such as Red 40 and Yellow 5) are made from crude oil, and have been linked to many health problems, including headaches, asthma, DNA damage, nerve damage, and cancer, as well as learning and behavior problems. Since natural colorings are available, the dyes are not necessary.

Dr. Jim Stevenson, a professor at Southampton University in England who led the most recent study published in the September 2007 issue of the leading British medical journal, The Lancet, warns that these additives can affect all children, not just those diagnosed with ADHD. He cautions that, like the lead which used to be in gasoline, the additives can lower a child’s IQ score.

“Before you conclude that your child has a disorder,” says Kathy Bratby, M.S.N., R.N., clinical assistant professor at the State University of New York at Stony Brook School of Nursing, “take a look at what he or she is eating.”

The non-profit Feingold Association of the U.S. shows families how to find the food they enjoy, but without the unwanted additives. Visit www.ADHDdiet.org for information and assistance. BS087059

(MS) — With the costs of a college education continually on the rise, more students than ever before are looking for part-time jobs that can help them earn some money. Whether they’re hoping to contribute to their tuition or simply gain spending money, the question for many students these days isn’t “Should I work?” but “How much should I work?” What’s more, many college freshmen will be balancing work and school for the first time, as many high school students only work during the summer. While academics should always be first and foremost on a student’s priority list, the College Board, a not-for-profit association aimed at helping students be as successful as possible, offers the following tips for balancing work and school.

• Talk with parents and/or counselors. Parents might not be on board with their children working, particularly if they think it will distract them from their studies. Counselors can be an asset in helping to make the decision by suggesting job opportunities or offering time-management tips to help the transition go more smoothly. Colleges with work-study programs, for instance, often offer jobs with flexible schedules aimed at ensuring students can work without sacrificing their studies.

• Schedule classes and work as far ahead of time as possible. If students know what their time commitments will be far in advance, they can find a suitable job that meshes well with their class schedule. The longer a student waits to schedule classes, the less likely he or she is to get a class schedule that’s amenable to working.

• Use your commute. Commuter students who take public transportation to school should use their commuting time to catch up on studies or homework. Oftentimes, successfully balancing work and school comes down to simple time management, so any free time that is routine, such as that during a daily commute, should be optimized as much as possible.

• Be sure to schedule relaxation time. Burnout is common for students who work too hard, whether they’re engrossed in their studies, taking on too many hours at work, or a combination of both. Semesters are long and tend to get more difficult as they go on, so students need to recognize the need for relaxation time throughout the semester to make sure they make it through and do their best.

• Take it easy at first. For college freshmen who didn’t work during the school year when they were in high school, adapting to classes and working can be tough. Because the first year of college and the freedom that comes with it is tempting on its own, students should start slowly and see what they can handle. Scheduling too many hours at first could negatively impact a student’s studies. Students should take it easy at first, see what they can handle, and then add more hours if they can effectively manage it.

To learn more about successfully adapting to college, visit the College Board Web site at www.collegeboard.com. BS087049

(MS) — Success in school is a marriage of many factors. Proper study habits and continued education at home are some of those factors.

“The assignment of homework, over time, serves to foster the kinds of qualities that are critical to learning — persistence, diligence, and the ability to delay gratification,” says Janine Bempechat, author of “Getting Our Kids Back on Track: Educating Kids for the Future” (Jossey-Bass, 2000). “These [skills] become increasingly necessary as students graduate to higher levels of scholarship in middle school, high school, and beyond.”

To facilitate the homework process and good study habits at home, create a study/homework area at home that can help students along the way. Here’s what can be included.

Desk

A desk is the centerpiece of any homework area. Think about the purpose of the desk and what activities it should be able to handle. You may want the desk to be able to grow with the child. Do you envision it holding a desktop computer or a laptop at some time? Keep these factors in mind when purchasing a desk.

Size is an important component, too. A desk that is too tall or large may not fit into the space you have in your home, and it simply may not be comfortable for the student using it. He or she should be able to sit at the desk with feet flat on the floor and arms clearing the top of the desk. If placing a computer monitor on the desk, it should be eye level and a foot or more away from the person using it.

Quiet

Most students find a quiet place is conducive to studying. Therefore, the study area should be placed in a quiet part of the home. Is there a spare bedroom that can be used? What about a nook in a finished basement? The student’s own bedroom may not be the best place, because he or she may be distracted by other things in the room, such as televisions, phones, or toys.

Proximity

Study supplies, such as pens, paper, reference books, and other items, should be located nearby to the homework station so that it does not necessitate a trip into another room to retrieve something. Consider a desk that has drawers for small supplies. A bookcase or storage container placed next to the desk can house larger items. Allowing for the fewest distractions possible, including getting up and leaving the study area for supplies, are ideas for promoting good study habits. BS087048

(MS) — The Internet has revolutionized daily life in many ways. It has also drastically transformed the education landscape. From online assignment postings to virtual classrooms to entire degrees obtained via the Internet, this medium provides a level of convenience that is difficult to surpass.

Online learning, once called distance learning, has grown by leaps and bounds. Eduventures, a Boston-based education research firm, estimates about one in 10 college students will be enrolled in an online degree program for 2008. In March of 2006, Congress passed a law that dropped the requirement that colleges offer at least half their courses face-to-face to receive federal student aid. The law is one factor in the growing popularity of online education.

Online schools offer educational options to a person who would be unable to attend a university for reasons such as time, proximity, or transportation. But opponents say that there are also downsides to getting a degree online. Critics offer that a student does not receive the enriching intellectual exchange that sitting in a classroom can provide. Others say that young students may not have the discipline to work independently, as most online programs require.

Another downfall to online educations is the abundance of diploma mills out there that avid students must weed through on their way to finding a reputable institution. A diploma mill is actually a business that makes a profit by selling bogus degrees. It may by an institution that offers low-quality programs and issues a degree, or just a place that prints a diploma for a price.

It is not difficult for a business to register a domain name with the .edu suffix and design a professional looking Web page, and the anonymity of the Internet makes it difficult to tell diploma mills from reputable schools.

How to Recognize a Diploma Mill

• The “school” may have a similar name to a well-known college or university.

• The school is not accredited. Reputable U.S. colleges and universities will be accredited. Accrediting occurs by an accrediting agency or state approval agency recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education as a “reliable authority as to the quality of postsecondary education” within the meaning of the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended (HEA).

• Degrees can be earned in less time than normal, such as one month.

• Degree requirements are vague or unspecified, lacking class descriptions and without any mention of how many credit hours are required to complete a program.

• Tuition or fees are charged on a per-degree basis rather than per credit.

• Academic honors, grade point average, and even diploma date can be prespecified.

• Admissions selectivity is virtually nil, and there is no question of grades or previous test scores.

• Do some homework:

- Check accreditation of the online degree at the the U.S. Department of Education www.ope.ed.gov/accreditation/Search.asp

- Check legitimacy of the Internet University with the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

- Write to the Diploma Mill Police, which that authenticates Internet Institutes of Education, at www.geteducated.com/services/diplomamillpolice.asp. BS087041

(MS) — By the year 2030, it is estimated that 20 percent of the population will be 65 or older with time on their hands and potentially new interests to be satiated.

Forty years ago, seniors pretty much worked their entire lives. The retirement age was 68, and the average life expectancy was roughly the same. Today there is an entirely different picture. Retirement occurs by age 62 and seniors are living longer than ever before thanks to a healthier lifestyle and advanced medical treatment. There is the potential for 10 to 20 additional years to fill post-retirement. And many seniors are choosing to spend a portion of that time going back to school.

Research indicates that adult students (ages 25 and up) are becoming the new majority on college campuses nationwide. Older students say they relish the freedom of being able to focus on education now that they fulfilled their responsibilities to families and work.

'”When they started careers and families, they had to set things aside, and now in their 60s or 70s or 80s they’re saying, ‘I never did read Plato,’ or ‘I always wanted to learn Italian,’” says Michael Shinagel, dean of continuing education at Harvard Extension School.

Many colleges and universities are realizing the zeal seniors have toward continuing education. Some matriculate adult students right into regular classes. Others have developed lower-cost enrichment programs designed especially for seniors looking to gain knowledge or pick up skills they may have missed in their younger days.

With senior citizen populations on the rise on college campuses, adults face a series of challenges and advantages being the non-traditional students. These students can contribute and receive much from their classroom and education experiences. Here are some things to consider:

• Old students bring life experience to the class as well as a richness in diversity.

• Senior students can engage in conversations during the lessons and change the dynamic of classroom interaction. Professors may readily gravitate toward older students because they may have real-world experience with some of the lessons being taught.

• Older students can become role models to younger students and offer sage advice.

• Non-traditional students with real-world experience and contacts could be a perfect networking contact for other students, making him or her sought out in the classroom.

Age is no longer a defining factor on college campuses. Now is the time to consider enrolling in higher education to obtain a degree or to simply take a few courses in interesting subjects. BS087093

(MS) — Parents wait for that wonderful day when their child learns to read. But reading words is only part of early literacy — writing is important to literacy, too. And, no matter what your child’s age, he or she is learning to write.

My baby can’t hold a pencil

“Long before a child can pick up a pencil, the stage is set for the development of writing,” says Jane Kostelc, early childhood specialist at Parents as Teachers National Center in St. Louis, Mo. “When your baby uses her index finger and thumb to grasp objects it is called the pincer grasp. This skill forms the basis for holding a pencil in a mature writing position.”

Being able to control a pencil depends on stability of the shoulder and arm, and strength and dexterity of the hand and fingers. A baby builds her strength by bearing weight on her hands when she is on her tummy and pushes up to raise her head or chest off the surface. So give your baby lots of tummy time to build strong back, shoulders and arms for crawling and writing.

Vision also plays an important role in writing. Children have to use their hands and eyes together to coordinate the movement of the pencil. When babies gaze and focus on their parents’ faces or accurately reach for and grasp objects, they are practicing eye-hand coordination.

Toddlers are scribblers

Toddlers are driven by their curiosity to explore with their hands and eyes. Kostelc recommends that you encourage your toddler play with materials of different textures and consistencies, such as shaving cream or play dough, to provide stimulation for fine motor development. Unscrewing lids or turning doorknobs helps your toddler’s wrist become strong yet flexible. Supply lots of paper and a variety of writing tools to encourage your child to scribble often. Drawing with a child helps him associate writing with comfort and enjoyment as he moves into writing in the preschool years.

Preschoolers are writers

Your child will probably show an interest in writing by using it in her pretend play, such as scribbling a “shopping list” while playing store. When they do this, preschoolers demonstrate an understanding that spoken language can be written down and that it must be read in the same way every time. They know that the symbols of writing have meaning and they begin to reproduce those that have the most meaning to them, like their names or M-O-M and D-A-D.

Says Kostelc, “Your child will begin to have more control over writing tools when she starts to use a mature grip, called a tripod grip, to hold them.” She recommends encouraging your preschooler’s writing by giving her old calendars, notebooks, or address books to write in. Point out letters you see while running errands, especially letters that are in her name. “Sit with her and let her enjoy the process of learning to write without pressure to make the letters right. That will come with time,” she adds. BS087090

The early childhood experts at Parents as Teachers National Center offer the following insights that your child is ready to learn how to write and read in school:

• Experiments with writing tools by scribbling
• Scribbles left to right
• Understands the difference between drawing and writing
• Makes letter-like forms and perhaps some letters
• Writes letters all over the page
• Strings letters together to represent writing
• Groups letters separated by spaces to imitate words
• Copies a letter by looking at a model
• Writes a first word, usually his name

(MS) — As any veteran educator can attest, no two students are the same. There’s no guarantee that an approach which works for one student will work for another. That’s part of what makes being an educator so difficult. With so many students depending on teachers to help them learn, how does a teacher identify or develop a method that helps all students?

While most educators would be quick to point out that there is no universally successful method to reaching students, there are some approaches that have proven effective when it comes to connecting with students who are struggling in the classroom. The Association for Psychological Science offers the following tips for educators looking to get through to students who might be struggling.

• Solicit information from students at the onset of the semester. This is essentially a preemptive measure that could help identify reasons for struggling down the road. This inventory should include questions about students’ time commitments, study habits, reasons for taking the course, whether or not they have a job, their major, and other questions that offer some background and potential clues that could be helpful if a student struggles with coursework down the road. This can be accomplished by asking students to fill out a simple questionnaire on the first day of class. Should a student begin to struggle, a teacher can then consult the students’ questionnaire to see if the cause of the struggles might be something related to poor study habits or working too much at a part-time job or having too many extracurriculars.

• Focus on development skills, not grades. In today’s competitive academic environment, the pressure to get good grades can be overwhelming. Sometimes an outcome-focused teaching strategy that emphasizes earning grades can alienate students who might start off struggling. A shift in teaching strategy to one more about developing skills, such as information processing and building better memory skills, might be necessary before a student can begin focusing on grades. Once a student masters or gains a better grasp of these skills, grades will begin to improve.

• Be accessible. Keeping accessible office hours outside of the classroom is one way to let students know you are there for them. However, thanks to technology, teachers can now be more accessible than ever before. With e-mail it’s easy for students to reach a teacher at all times of the day, and teachers should encourage struggling students to e-mail them with any problems. In addition, offer discussion forums through a school or university Web site that enable students to connect with classmates. Once their academic careers are over, students will need to work with others to solve problems, so why not institute this practice in the world of academia?

• Be sensitive. Few people are willing to admit they’re struggling. Therefore, getting struggling students to admit this often requires some clever thinking. For example, instead of asking “Is anyone struggling with this?” ask “Would anyone like me to repeat that information?” It might seem like a subtle difference, but the latter is more likely to draw a response than the former. In addition, privately ask struggling students, via e-mail or by pulling them aside after class, to meet with you. Doing so in front of the class could be humiliating, which might tune the student out entirely.

For more tips and information on helping struggling students reach their full potential, visit the Association for Psychological Science Web site at www.psychologicalscience.org. BS087077

(MS) — While textbooks and pop quizzes are largely associated with the school experience, for many students school is also equated to sports practice and band participation, among other after-school opportunities.

Many studies indicate that extracurricular activities are good for the body and the mind of students. Students who participate in these activities are often more successful academically than those who sit on the sidelines. Is it because those who participate in after-school clubs and such are generally the brighter students, or is it that the activities themselves boost academic performance? Many experts believe it’s a combination of both factors.

Apart from academic performance, extracurriculars have a number of advantages. Many of these activities are physical in nature, which is a help for remaining fit and healthy. They also test skills in patience, teamwork, perseverance, and problem-solving. Another advantage to after-school activities is that they can boost self-esteem, primarily for students who may not be as academically gifted as others. The chance to excel can lift spirits and even make a student want to try harder in the classroom.

Extracurricular activities may also keep children from risky behavior, such as promiscuous sex or drug/alcohol use. Recent research by the 4-H youth development program says that involvement in school extracurriculars and involvement in community clubs and organizations is important in fostering the strengths of youth — strengths that help young people steer away from undesirable behavior.

Despite these benefits, many parents inwardly sigh when they hear their child has signed up for an extracurricular activity at school. That could be partly due to the responsibility the parent now has to transport the student to and from, as well as other participation requirements. But Robert Needlman, M.D., F.A.A.P., the physician who has taken over the reigns from beloved childcare expert Dr. Benjamin Spock and oversees DrSpock.com, says parents should keep these pointers in mind as they support their children’s extracurricular endeavors:

• Remember that you are contributing to a different but important type of education for your child. Besides, you may even find the time you spend in the car with your child (and his friends) can offer you new insight into his life, views and friendships.

• If your child is engaged in a number of extracurricular activities, your challenge may be to help him balance all of the demands on his time. There is no hard-and-fast rule to tell you how much is too much at any given age. Instead, you need to help your child be realistic about how much time and energy he has.

• If your child isn’t involved in any extracurricular activities, he may need help identifying his options. You can call the school and ask about extracurricular offerings and about the teachers who supervise the activities. BS087076

(MS) — According to the U.S. Federation of Public Interest Research Groups (PIRG), students spend an average of $900 per year on textbooks. That equates to roughly 20 percent of tuition at an average university and half of tuition at a community college. Since 1994, textbook prices have increased at four times the rate of inflation. What’s more, many schools don’t include textbook costs in their overall cost estimates, and many parents and students are caught off guard when they visit the campus bookstore to purchase their textbooks for the first time. The U.S. PIRG feels the rising costs should be curbed, and that, if implemented, policy changes could make textbooks more affordable. One issue the U.S. PIRG cites is the production of new editions by publishers. The standard for new editions is every three and a half years, even in fields such as math and chemistry where information hasn’t changed significantly. These new editions, which are more expensive and often cannot be purchased used, prevent faculties and bookstores from using the old edition. Another driving force behind the escalating price of textbooks is the inclusion of supplementary materials, such as CD-ROMS or workbooks. Whether or not these items are used is up to the professor, but once purchased, books with these items become harder to resell. The U.S. PIRG feels a change in policy requiring publishers to curb practices that drive up costs could be the only way to offer some relief to college students and parents looking to lessen the annual costs associated with textbooks. BS087075

(MS) — As the cost of a college education continues to escalate, more and more families are looking to financial aid to pay the tuition. Whereas the upper-middle class might once have ignored financial aid altogether, nowadays financial aid is being relied on by nearly everyone to varying degrees.

In a 2005 survey conducted by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), 63 percent of students were receiving financial aid during the 2003-04 school year, a significant spike from the 1999-2000 school year, when 55 percent of students received aid. During the 2005-06 school year, Federal Student Aid, an office of the U.S. Department of Education, provided roughly $78 billion in new aid to nearly 10 million postsecondary students. Simply put, without financial aid, many of the nation’s students would not be able to afford a college education.

While the high cost of a college education might not come as a surprise to most people, to some the financial aid process might be unchartered territory. Financial Aid Officer, a financial aid help and advice service, offers the following financial aid calender to those who might be new to the process or simply need a refresher.

January
Begin compiling financial records, such as earnings statements, bank statements, reports of interest earned, etc. If possible, file your federal tax return as well. While this isn’t a requirement, filling out a financial aid application is much easier if you’ve already filed a federal income tax return.

February
Financial aid applications should be completed and mailed in February. Even if a student hasn’t chosen a school yet or even narrowed their list, simply list all schools on the financial application to which applications were sent. When filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), a report will automatically be generated for all schools listed on the application. Once the FAFSA has been filed, a “Student Aid Report” (SAR) will be sent out confirming the data submitted on the application. It’s important to keep a watchful eye out for this, as any mistakes or changes will need to be reported as soon as possible.

Parents and students should know that the report can be submitted to schools not listed on the original FAFSA, so students can apply to schools they didn’t include on the FAFSA without penalty. If you add schools, those schools will then receive a copy of the SAR as well.

March
Many schools begin making awards in March, emphasizing the importance of submitting a completed and correct FAFSA as early as possible once the new year begins. An awards report will include a package of information from a school’s financial aid program detailing the programs and amount of awards. This report will also include important dates and deadlines for accepting these awards. Make special note of these deadlines to avoid losing out on any awards.

May
May is the time to ensure all of the correct documentation (i.e., income tax returns, verification worksheets, etc.) has been provided to schools. This is also the time when parents and students should subtract their amount of aid from the total cost of attending a given school. The resulting figure is essentially what it’s going to cost to attend school right now. Determine if that figure is affordable, and examine different payment plans available to determine the best course of action.

If the immediate cost figure is deemed unaffordable, this doesn’t necessarily eliminate a school from a student’s list. A student could still attend the school if alternatives such as private loans are explored and subsequently granted. Because these are private loans, parents and students can apply for them whenever they choose, though it’s best to do so soon after receiving the SAR.

June-August
Tie up all loose ends, such as signing paperwork, making a list of your requirements as a borrower or aid recipients and contacting your chosen school’s financial aid office to see if there’s anything you need to do before the school year begins.

To learn more about financial aid, visit the FAFSA Web site at www.fafsa.ed.gov. BS087074

(MS) — By the time many high schoolers reach senior year, few things can faze them. After three years of moving up the totem pole, high school seniors often feel as if there’s nothing high school can throw at them which they can’t handle and that they’re on top of the world.

As many seniors find out, however, the last year of high school can be as hard or harder than the years that came before it and now is not the time to take a laid-back approach to schoolwork. Consider the following tips.

• Don’t procrastinate: Plenty of high school grads have put off their responsibilities until it’s almost too late and have then spent the last month or so of high school scrambling to catch up. Be sure to get college applications done in the first semester, and don’t put yourself in a position where you have to work extra hard at the end of the school year to pass all of your classes.

• Stay motivated: While it’s common for high school seniors to take a more lax approach to their studies during that final year, it’s also short-sighted. Students who worked hard for the first three years of high school should use that hard work as motivation to maintain their solid GPAs through the end of high school. Colleges with extra scholarship money might re-examine aide applications after you’ve enrolled, so maintaining good academic standing during senior year can earn applicants more money.

• Avoid burnout: While procrastinating and losing motivation are common pitfalls for high school seniors, burnout is as well. Many seniors find themselves overwhelmed when applying to and visiting colleges, keeping up with their studies, working a part-time job, and participating in extracurricular activities. Be sure to go out and have fun with friends as well. Senior year of high school should be an enjoyable time, too.

• Ask for help: Senior year of high school, particularly when applying to colleges, can be overwhelming at times. The good news is that many have been there before you. If you’re struggling with yet another college essay, ask an older brother or sister or a teacher for help. Help is even provided by schools in the way of guidance counselors, who are there to help navigate you through the process as smoothly as possible. BS087071

(MS) — For parents, educators and students alike, the issue of year-round schooling is one that seems to invoke a passionate response from people on both sides of the fence. For some people, the traditional summer vacations should continue, while others feel year-round schooling gives kids a competitive advantage over their peers.

When examing the issue objectively, it seems both sides might have a legitimate case, as the following pros and cons of year-round education make a solid case for both points of view.

• Kids in year-round schools are at an academic advantage. A Duke University study found that kids in year-round schools are less likely to forget what they’ve learned because they don’t experience the long break that occurs during summer vacations with traditional schools. That’s a sentiment echoed by Charles Ballinger, executive director emeritus of the National Association for Year-Round Education. “The longer students are away from material, the more forgetting occurs,” Ballinger says.

• Kids spend the same amount of time in the classroom, just on a different schedule. When many people hear “year-round schooling” they understandably assume kids will be spending more time in the classroom. In fact, many year-round schools have the same 180 days of schooling as their tradtional counterparts, they just have shorter, more frequent breaks. This schedule, proponents of year-round schools suggest, helps to keep the education process ongoing, unlike traditional systems wherein students must reacclimate themselves to school after long breaks.

• What about child care? Parents opposing year-round schools often cite the potential difficulty finding child care should their school system were to make the switch. Traditional summer vacations enable parents to use college students also on summer hiatus to look after their children, or send the kids off to day camp. Shorter breaks during fall and spring offer no such luxury, making it difficult, particularly for single parents, to find adequate child care.

• Aren’t kids busy enough as it is? Opponents of year-round schools also suggest kids today, who tend to be involved in more extracurriculars than their parents ever were, are busy enough and need the traditional summer break to relax and regroup.

To learn more about the issue, visit www.nayre.org. BS087070

(MS) — With soaring food costs, including record highs for eggs, wheat and rice, students may find they have to pay more for food in the cafeteria at school. Others may discover menu items have changed to circumvent pricier foods.

The price of school lunch at Norwich, CT public schools has remained steady for the last three years. But Food Services Director Roberta Jacobs says that next year the price will rise because of the higher cost of foods. Students in the Irondequoit school district of New York will find new menu selections, as food service employees work around costly foods such as grain-based foods. School Food Service Director Ann Smahol is hoping to stretch food dollars further. Similar concerns and changes are bound to occur all across the country.

The availability of nutritious school lunches is something many school districts pride themselves upon. Reduced-cost lunches enable disadvantaged students to enjoy a nutritious and tasty meal. For others, school lunches provide a convenience to busy parents who know they can rely on the cafeteria if they’re short on time or money to prepare a lunch at home. Students often enjoy the variety of menu items and a chance to make decisions about the foods they eat.

But food prices and shortages could start limiting the number of items available from which to choose. Many schools are already reducing the number of baked items they have available. Others are beefing up inventory of fruits and vegetables, which prove less costly than rice and grain.

What changes occur at a school near you may depend upon how the cafeteria is serviced for food supplies. Some schools lock in a rate for food delivery for the year with a delivery service. Food delivery operations that buy in bulk may be able to dissipate the rising costs of food or bargain for better deals. However, schools that privately manage their food supplies may be affected more by rising costs — something that’s bound to trickle down to the students.

Despite cost hikes at the cafeteria register or limited variety, supporters of school lunch still say that buying lunch at school is a cost-effective option for students. Commercially packaged lunches and fast food are often more expensive than cafeteria fare … and in some cases, less nutritionally sound. BS087062

(MS) — Every student has his or her way of making it through the school year. Some are very studious and regimented, working hard for good grades. Others coast through tests and homework with ease. Still, others have a more laissez-faire attitude toward school in general, preferring more of the social aspect of classes than the actual coursework.

Regardless of your son or daughter’s disposition, there are certain universal tips and techniques that families can use as a whole to help improve this school year. Here are some ideas to consider, courtesy of Dr. Fresh, makers of dental and hygiene products.

• Feed the body and the mind. A strong educational background can go a long way toward future success. However, just as a student feeds his or her mind with the many lessons learned at school, he or she should never forget to also fuel the body with a well-balanced diet. The time-honored cliché that breakfast is the most important meal of the day still holds true. Don’t let your kids skimp on breakfast no matter how time-pressed they may seem. Poor nutrition can cause energy levels to sag, therefore having a trickle-down effect on attention levels and classroom performance.

If time is always an issue in the morning, consider whipping up on-the-go meals that your children can eat on the way to school. Yogurt-and-fruit-based smoothies, breakfast bars, instant oatmeal, and so many other convenience items are just some ideas.

• Put pride in appearance. Although the adage of “don’t judge a book by its cover” is certainly something to consider, the fact of the matter is that outward appearance can influence others’ perceptions of a person. A student who dresses slovenly may give off the false impression that he or she is haphazard in attitude about schoolwork, when really the attire is just the student’s way of self-expression. Encourage your child to always put his or her best foot forward — advice that should follow through to adulthood and a business career.

Part of projecting a positive outward appearance involves daily hygiene, such as showering or bathing and teeth brushing. Having a fun toothbrush geared toward children, such as the FireFly® from Dr. Fresh, can help promote good grooming and hygiene habits. The FireFly blinks for 60 seconds so that kids know how long to brush each arch of teeth (one minute for the top, one minute for the bottom). The child simply presses the button to start the LCD light housed safely in the handle of the toothbrush. Once the light stops blinking, it’s time to move on to the other row of teeth. Push the button again to activate the light. Learn more at www.drfresh.com.

• Give organization an overhaul. Is yours a family that is very organized or more a jumble of activity? Organization and school success can very well go hand-in-hand. Consider your son or daughter’s personality and preferences. Is he a visual person? Think about color-coding folders and notebooks according to subject so work is seldom confused or overlooked. Is she a budding techy? Invest in a personal digital assistant that she can use to store assignment lists and class schedules.

Also think about yourself as a parent and your role in organization. Create an “in” and “out” system like you might see at an office. Your kids can simply drop in papers that need to be reviewed or signed, then you slip them in the “out” box when they’re completed. This way everyone in the house knows where to look for important school items. You can also designate a storage cubby or a coat hook for each child’s backpack, lunchbox, or any other pertinent school items.

These are just some of the many things your family should consider and implement throughout the school year. Working together, you can develop a system that works well for the entire household. BS087057

(MS) — Most adults can harken back to the days when they picked up their first instrument or learned their first melody. For many, these initial forays into musical education occurred at school. The instrument may have been the recorder and the tune “Hot Cross Buns,” but the first seeds of music appreciation were planted.

Music is all around us. Millions of people tune in to see their favorite “American Idol” advance to the next round. Scores line up for tickets to see area concerts. Many make a pilgrimage to New York City’s Broadway to take in a show. Despite how music can bring joy and pleasure, and reportedly improve performance in school, budget cuts in many schools are resulting in certain classes being removed from the curriculum — and music education lessons are often the first to go. But is music worth saving? Many people think so.

“A young person who studies music reinforces teamwork, communication skills, self-discipline, and creativity — all qualities kids need to be successful in their other schoolwork,” says Peter Nero, a Grammy Award-winning pianist, conductor and creative musical director in the public service announcement, “Why Music?” Teamwork is learned through participating in ensemble programs, such as chorus or band. Self-discipline is gained by practicing an instrument or fine tuning a voice. And music is a creative medium, offering chances for self-expression.

Music also creates an appreciation for other art forms, say proponents. An artist is an artist, whether he or she is using a paintbrush, an instrument, or a voice to create the masterpiece. In today’s increasingly technological society, some think it pays to sit back and enjoy art forms as a means of becoming a more well-rounded individual.

Does Music Makes Kids Smarter?

Up until recently, the benefits of music were backed up merely on personal beliefs about the advantages of a musical education. But today there are a number of studies that put some proof behind the theory that music is a boon to students.

A few years ago, Rhode Island researchers studied eight public school first grade classes. Half of the classes became a “test arts” group, receiving ongoing music and visual arts training. In kindergarten, this group had lagged behind the others in scholastic performance. After seven months, all the students were given a standardized test. The “test arts” group had caught up to their fellow students in reading and surpassed their classmates in math by 22 percent. In the second year of the project, the arts students widened this margin even further.

The benefits of music aren’t only for young students, either. The College Entrance Examination Board reports, “Students of the arts continue to outperform their non-arts peers on the SAT. In 2000, SAT takers with coursework/experience in music performance scored 57 points higher on the verbal portion of the test and 41 points higher on the math portion than students with no coursework/experience in the arts.”

Lewis Thomas, a biologist and physician, studied the undergraduate majors of students currently enrolled in medical school. He found that those who were undergraduate music majors were more likely to be admitted to medical school. Sixty-six percent of the music majors were, in fact, admitted. By comparison, 44 percent of biochemistry majors were admitted.

There is also evidence that music education improves students’ mood and behavior. According to a study conducted at the University of Texas, college-aged music students have fewer problems with alcohol, are emotionally healthier, and concentrate better than their non-musical counterparts.

Parents, students and administrators should get together to decide whether musical education is of importance in their schools and then take action. BS087056

(MS) — According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 33 percent of women ages 25 to 29 held at least a bachelor’s degree in 2007. Twenty-six percent of men in that age group had the same education. BS087055

(MS) — College admissions nowadays are as competitive as ever. While getting into Ivy League schools has always been difficult, more and more students are finding increasingly difficult admissions policies at non-Ivy League schools as well.

Much of that difficulty is likely due to the rising costs of a college education. As tuitions rise, colleges need to assure students and parents alike that the quality of the education is rising as well. More stringent admissions policies are often pointed to by universities as proof that they accept only the best. So what can students do to set themselves apart and get into the school of their dreams? Fortunately, students can help themselves in the college admissions process in a number of ways.

• Cultivate an interest: College admissions boards are often impressed when they see an applicant has achieved Eagle Scout status within the Boy Scouts of America. This has nothing to do with the college hoping they can utilize that applicant down the road in case they’re ever lost in the woods. Rather, achieving Eagle Scout status indicates that an applicant has stuck with something from start to finish and accomplished a goal few others have. Because college is a big commitment, this lets admissions officers know that an applicant is likely to stick it out, no matter how hard the work might get.

Students don’t need to achieve Eagle Scout status, but cultivating an interest, such as earning a varsity letter in sports or going from a writer on the school newspaper to managing editor, indicates a student’s willingness to work through tough times and achieve their long-term goals. These are attractive qualities that illustrate potential for success at the collegiate level.

• Read more: Students who might not be interested in English class can still hone their reading skills in other ways. Reading the newspaper every day, even if it’s just the sports section, or reading a favorite magazine will increase reading comprehension over time. Reading comprehension is an important part of standardized tests such as the PSAT, SAT and ACT, and the more capable a student is of comprehending what he’s reading the better he’s likely to perform on those tests, which still bear lots of weight with admissions boards.

• Take college level courses while in high school: Perhaps nothing will illustrate how well a student will be able to handle college than if he or she takes college courses while in high school and performs well. Advanced placement courses indicate that an applicant isn’t afraid to challenge himself and that he’s ready to handle a college courseload. While good grades in high school are important, a great GPA with an easy courseload likely won’t be as impressive as a solid GPA with a demanding slate of classes.

• Get involved: Many high school students are involved with athletics. However, very few students go on to play sports at the collegiate level. If a student is not planning on playing sports beyond high school, he or she should consider participating in activities that aren’t sports-related while in high school. Doing so will indicate that an applicant is a well-rounded person, and is likely to contribute to the college community beyond the playing fields once enrolled.

• Finish strong: “Senioritis” is something most high school and even college seniors experience as their academic careers wind down. For high school seniors, this can be costly down the road. Oftentimes, colleges find they have additional scholarship or aid money available once they’ve found out which accepted applicants will be attending their school and which ones will be going elsewhere. That money can then go to students who will be enrolling in the fall. By working hard through the end of the school year, students are increasing their chances of getting more scholarship or aid money. Neglecting studies toward the end of senior year may eliminate students from contention for such money. BS087052

(MS) — There are many tips out there for back-to-school shopping, but some of the smartest advice is to get organized, make a list, and stock up on the sales/bargains you can find.

Parents may find that school supplies are becoming more expensive, and that a wider array of items are requested each and every year. It’s not uncommon to see tissues, antimicrobial soap, and snacks placed on school supply lists. That’s because many teachers’ budgets for school supplies are being cut, and parents must make up the difference.

In a 2005 Back-to-School Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey, families with school-aged children were expected to spend about $450 on school supplies each year.

To avoid breaking the bank on school supply shopping, consider the following ideas.

Separate wants from needs: Most school supplies do not go out of style, provided you buy book covers, notebooks and folders that do not play into the latest cartoon or movie craze. Buying generically styled supplies is often less expensive and will help ensure that you won’t have to purchase all new supplies the next time the latest blockbuster movie comes out. Think usefulness in supplies rather than fancy and fun.

Recycle and reuse: After each school year, sort through students’ supplies and weed out the ones that still have some utility and put them in a safe place. Not only will this save money, it’ll be just another way for your family to go green. Supplies re-used are supplies that don’t end up in the trash … or in landfills.

Begin shopping early: Don’t wait until the week before the school year starts to go shopping, because prices may be higher at this time. By starting early you can shop the sales and keep an eye out for bargains. And don’t limit yourself to one store. Check out office supply centers, warehouse clubs, department stores, and pharmacies to find the sales that are easiest on your budget.

Buy in bulk: It is often cheaper to buy in bulk, so think about doing so for the supplies you know your child will use up quickly, such as pens and pencils, paper, and paper clips. Think about getting together with other parents and negotiating with stores for a less expensive price if you buy in bulk. Set up a storage cabinet or supply cabinet in your home, like a business office would have, that can house the supplies. Send kids to school with only a few items at a time so they’re not lost or traded.

Shop best price for the value: You want supplies to last, so purchasing cheaply made items when quality counts could cost more in the long run. You may want to spend a bit more when shopping for electronics, such as scientific calculators. Definitely comparison shop if you’re thinking of purchasing your son or daughter a personal computer for school use.

Talk to the teachers: See if your child’s school can implement a policy to send home school supply lists at the end of the school year so parents can get a head start on purchases over the summer. Some tech-savvy teachers have their own Web pages where they list supplies, reading lists and homework assignments. So be sure to check that before heading to the store. BS087043

(MS) — As recently as 10 years ago, high schoolers faced many of the same problems their parents faced generations earlier. Fitting in with peers, doing well in school, and dealing with a host of extracurricular activities were the traditional problems associated with adolescence and high school.

However, today’s teens face a very different pressure — one their parents never had to encounter. Since 1999, when two Colorado high school students entered their school and killed 12 fellow students and one teacher, high schools students across the nation are on alert, wondering if such an attack will happen on their campuses. Recently, two incidents occurred within a week of each other which illustrated the very realistic danger of school violence, dispelling any notion that certain schools are safe or immune from such incidents. In mid April of 2008, a South Carolina high school student was arrested for planning to bomb his school. Less than a week later, an Indiana high schooler was accused of planning an attack on his school.

In the former case, the teen was actually turned in by his own parents, who were fearful of what might happen if they ignored what was a very dangerous situation. The parents likely saved many lives by turning their son in to authorities.

Recognizing the signs of a potentially violent teen isn’t easy, but the American Psychological Association (APA) offers these warning signs.

Immediate Signs

The following signs indicate that the threat of violence is a serious and immediate possibility:
• daily loss of temper
• frequent physical confrontations
• announcing threats or plans for hurting others
• taking enjoyment in the hurting of animals
• increased risk-taking behavior
• increased consumption of drugs or alcohol
• significant vandalism or property damage
• carrying a weapon

Signs That Continue Over Time

Some prolonged behaviors in teens could indicate a potential for violence. Those signs include:
• history of violent or aggressive behavior
• serious drug or alcohol use
• difficulty controlling anger
• lack of empathy
• constant feelings of being disrespected
• feelings of rejection or loneliness
• poor performance in school
• history of disciplinary problems or run-ins with authority figures
• threatening others regularly
• access to or fascination with weapons, especially guns
• withdrawal from friends and usual activities
• gang membership or strong desire to be in a gang

While no parent, sibling, or friend wants to think of a person in their life as capable of something as horrifying as the 1999 massacre at Columbine High School or the 2007 tragedy on the campus of Virginia Tech University, these instances do occur. If any of the above-mentioned warning signs are observed, APA offers the following advice for how to deal with the situation:

• Be safe. Do not spend any time alone with someone exhibiting warning signs of violence. If possible, remove the person from the situation that’s causing this behavior.

• Tell someone you trust, such as a family member, teacher, coach, etc.

• Don’t go it alone. Stopping a potentially violent person from acting out their anger is difficult even for trained professionals, let alone someone not trained. Do not try and go it alone if you suspect someone of acting out their aggression toward others.

To learn more, visit the APA Help Center online at www.apahelpcenter.org. BS087044

(MS) — According the U.S. Department of Education, the number of homeschooled children is on the rise. In 2003, roughly 1.1 million children were homeschooled, which equates to a little more than two percent of school-aged children across the country. That marks a significant increase since 1998, when estimates suggested the number of homeschooled children was in the neighborhood of 850,000. But Department of Education statistics might be grossly underestimating the number of kids across the country who are homeschooled. In a 2006 report for the National Home Education Research Institute, educator Brian D. Ray, Ph.D. estimated the number of homeschooled children was closer to 2 million during the 2005–06 school year. While the pros and cons of homeschooling remain open to debate, taxpayers should know that homeschooling appears to save substantial amounts of money. Estimates suggest that the roughly 1 million (estimate according to the Department of Education) children being homeschooled today save taxpayers anywhere between $4 billion and $10 billion annually, as those children are not relying on taxpayers to fund their educations. BS087042

(MS) — While a fresh crop of high school graduates is set to walk across the stage at high school commencement ceremonies across the country, for the many students about to become high school seniors now is an important time to start thinking ahead. That’s because the college application process is about to begin.

Choosing a college is a big choice for parents and children alike. For parents, it’s a financial commitment they’ve likely been preparing to make since the day their child was born. For kids, it’s more than likely the biggest decision they’ve ever faced. Before the process begins, consider the following tips for choosing the right college.

• Consider a possible career path. Most 18-year-olds have no idea what they might want to do for a living, and that’s perfectly fine. When looking at colleges, kids should look at all of the programs they offer, and make a list of the programs that most interest them. This isn’t choosing a career (as many students change majors while in college), but rather doing some preliminary research about what you may want to study. For students who really have no idea what they might want to study, consider applying to a larger state school, as those often offer the most programs of study, meaning a student won’t have to transfer once they do decide on a course of study.

• Make a list of what you want out of a school. For some kids, going to school too far away from home is a frightening prospect, while others might embrace the freedom. Also, schools vary greatly depending on the size of the college. Some students might prefer a smaller, more close-knit college community, while others might prefer a larger school with more students. Students should make a list of what their personal preferences are and seek out schools that match those preferences.

• Discuss finances. Thanks to the ever-increasing costs associated with higher education, finances figure heavily into the college decision. While parents would love to send their children to their first choices, sometimes finances mandate otherwise. Parents and children should discuss how much they can afford to spend, and how realistic some college choices might be. While financial aid and scholarships are options, they aren’t always enough to cover tuition and room and board costs. Rather than risk a heated argument when it comes time to make a decision, parents and children should get on the same page with respect to what’s affordable as soon as possible. EL086953

(MS) — Your concerns about the prom may center around finding a date and what to wear. But you should be thinking about safety above all else, say experts. That’s because proms are far different from what they used to be, with sex, drugs, alcohol, and heavy partying considered part of the package.

Many hope to have happy memories of dancing and having fun with friends permanently linked to prom. Unfortunately for many others the memories are not nearly as pleasant. A number of high school seniors find that automobile accidents, injuries and death are their most prominent prom memories.

Alcohol and drug use during prom season elevates the number of drinking and drug-related accidents. It also increases the propensity for sexual assault and violent behavior. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 40 percent of all 16- to 20-year-old deaths result from motor vehicle crashes, almost half of which are alcohol related. And about 90 percent of rapes and murders on school campuses can be linked to alcohol consumption.

With this in mind, keep alcohol and drug use out of the mix during prom, especially if you are underage. Many states employ a zero-tolerance policy regarding driving under the influence, and making the choice to drink and drive on prom night — or any other night — can irreparably change your life.

Some teens believe that because they are being chauffeured in a limousine that it is okay to drink. However, many promgoers continue on to after parties and being intoxicated can put them at risk. Besides, drinking could land you in the bathroom hugging the toilet all night instead of having an evening to remember with your closest friends. So why risk it?

Some students view their prom as a rite of passage and a night to throw inhibition to the wind. It is a common occurrence among seniors to plan a sexual encounter for prom night, or even consider losing their virginity. Renting a hotel room for post-prom seems as natural as renting a tuxedo or buying a prom dress.

Many teens get lured into the false notion that proms equal magic and romance and that sex would be the natural next step. However, despite how much you build up the prom in your head, it often fails to live up to the fantasy. Adding a hasty sexual encounter caused by pressure to perform on prom night to the mix can tarnish memories even further.

According to Janice Shaw Crouse, Ph.D., “There is no way alcohol-induced sex in prom-night circumstances can be ‘sweet and meaningful.’” Prom night is not the night to put sex ahead of all else. If you are considering becoming intimate with a romantic partner, talk about it more and plan a time other than prom if it is something you really feel is right. And certainly take safer-sex precautions when doing so.

There’s definitely an anticipatory culture to be reckless surrounding prom night caused by movies, media and peer pressure. However, by being your own person and setting limits before prom, you can have a safe and entertaining night. TF086935

(MS) — Many things about prom have remained unchanged throughout the years. They’re still a big social deal for students and often a rite of passage. But one thing about proms that has changed considerably is the cost of attending.

Recent polls by Your Prom magazine found that across the country the average cost couples spend on prom prep and attendance is $1,000. Surprisingly, the guys spend a touch more than the ladies, perhaps due to those who are being chivalrous and footing the cost of their date’s ticket.

As prices continue to rise, many enterprising students are making attempts to curb costs. It’s easier than you might think.

Attire: Guys can get good deals on tuxedo rentals, but do ladies need to spend big bucks on prom dresses? The answer is no. Consider renting a dress (yes, it can be done). After all, you’re only wearing it once. Also, many communities have dress swaps, where ladies can exchange gowns they already have in their closets from formal occasions, such as weddings and other school functions, with others. For example, The Pink Zebra Boutique in Bonner Springs, KS recently sponsored “Operation Prom Dress” allowing donations of gently worn dresses and shoes.

Flowers: A corsage and boutonniere are customary at prom. Save some money by choosing flowers that are in season rather than exotic blooms. Boutonnieres are easy to make, and with a little elastic and some fresh-cut flowers, even a low-cost corsage can be crafted.

Transportation: “Prom limousines are a great way of providing safe travel to high school students across the country on prom night,” says @Limousines in Flushing, NY. Because demand can raise prices of limousines and other rentals, try to book in advance to bargain for the best deal. Also, consider options outside of limousines. Party buses or towncars might be a more economical option. Going in a group also brings down the cost as more people will be chipping in toward the price of the ride.

Faux Tan: Many girls and guys drop a fortune on tanning salon visits prior to prom night. The reality is that tanning booths are no safer for the skin than baking in the sun, so skipping the tan altogether is an easy way to save cash. If you desire a golden glow at a cheaper price, consider artificial tan creams and sprays from your local pharmacy chain. Many cosmetic manufacturers also offer bronzing creams and powders that provide the sun-kissed color desired. According to members of iVillage, the top three bronzers available are Mary Kay Bronzing Beads, BeneFit Glamazon, and Bobby Brown Essentials Bronzing Powder.

Hair and Makeup: Salons are often the first choice for prom makeovers, if budget allows. For those looking to shave a few dollars here and there, choose the salon for hair and do manicures and pedicures at home. Also, consider beauty schools as an inexpensive way to have your hair and makeup done. The student gets the practice and you get the look you desire at a fraction of the cost. Also, don’t rule out cosmetic retailers at the department stores. Often you can get a free cosmetic application with the purchase of some products.

The After-Party: For many prom-goers the prom itself is only the start of the party. Many rent hotel rooms or other spaces to extend the fun. But these can be costly — even more so if party crashers arrive and potentially cause trouble and drive up the bill. Opt for budget-friendly options, such as having a get-together at someone’s house or building a bonfire at a beach (if this is allowed). Or end the prom with the prom. Your parents will probably thank you for it and you’ll save money in the process. EL086916

(MS) — A quick glance at box office receipts reveals that movies are more popular than ever. With each summer movie season comes several blockbusters poised to break box office records. As enjoyable and engrossing as movies have become, once the credits begin to roll, the film experience and all the adventure that comes with it is over. With video games you no longer have to leave the movie going experience at the theater. Activision’s video game Kung Fu Panda, based on the DreamWorks Animation film, continues the trend that allows families to take their favorite movies’ adventures from the silver screen to their video game console. In addition, parents have often found that such games provide benefits and bonding opportunities with their children in a variety of ways.

In the Kung Fu Panda video game, players embark on an epic, action-packed adventure as they master the specialized Kung Fu fighting styles of Po the Panda, the unlikely hero, his teacher Shifu, and the legendary Kung Fu masters, the Furious Five: Monkey, Tigress, Viper, Mantis and Crane. Through 13 legendary levels from the movie and beyond, and spanning land, water and air, players must work their way to become the Dragon Warrior and defeat the ultimate enemy, Tai Lung, as they battle a variety of foes, overcome dangerous obstacles, navigate multi-tiered environments and solve challenging puzzles.

• Share a few laughs. Activision’s Kung Fu Panda brings a unique and kid-friendly brand of humor into the living room for players of all ages to enjoy. Parents and children alike will appreciate Po’s sense of humor as the quick-witted dialogue and hilarious situations from the film are brought to life in the video game.

• Share a sense of adventure. Like their parents, kids need escapism too. Together, families can enjoy an adventure across ancient China featuring favorite movie moments that take place from the opulent Jade Palace to the challenging Training Dojo and the majestic Wudang Mountains. The game also takes the experience beyond the film with game-exclusive content as players navigate their way through never-before-seen locations such as the mystical Lotus Lake and Tai Lung’s training ground.

• Become a team. Children will bond with parents and friends as they team up with each other in various multiplayer battle arenas and work through a series of unique challenges as they defeat dangerous enemies and challenge one another in head-to-head face-offs.

• Learn the benefits of hard work. As kids continue to play the game, they’ll learn to utilize each character’s special abilities and combat skills to their advantage. When advancing through increasingly difficult levels, they will unlock special moves and earn upgrades to improve strength, speed and agility. For example, while playing as Shifu, Po’s wise teacher, players utilize his wisdom, speed and kung fu mastery to perfect his Whirlwind techniques in order to take out multiple enemies. They will also master Po’s signature “Panda Style” maneuvers including the Panda Quake and Panda Stumble. They can even use Monkey’s spring-loaded tail attacks and explosive style to execute a variety of lightening-fast platforming moves. With so many different characters and kung fu styles available, players will realize that their hard work in the early levels will pay off in the more advanced levels as they acquire new abilities and increased powers.

Now’s the time to get into the action with Kung Fu, Panda Style. For more information on Activision, Kung Fu Panda and other video game titles, visit www.activision.com. EL086923

Kung Fu Panda is rated “E 10+” (“Everyone 10 and older” – violence) by the ESRB.

(MS) — Hollywood blockbusters like “A Bug’s Life” and “Bee Movie” have tapped into the public’s fascination with the insect world. Although entertaining, cartoons don’t accurately portray how insects really live or interact — or why most people have a love-hate relationship with them.

Those interested in learning a lot more about what makes some bugs tick can follow live termite and ant colonies at the Termite Institute™ (TermiteInstitute.com) and the Ant Institute™ (AntInstitute.com), the Web’s premier destinations for learning about these common household pests.

On both Web sites, powerful Web cameras capture close snapshots of termites and ants 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Special attention is paid toward what it would be like if these pests invaded a typical home. A joint endeavor of the Institutes and the University of Florida in Gainesville, the video cameras offer Institute visitors a highly visual, interactive experience.

“Our entomology team has been working diligently to give Institute visitors a unique online experience, unlike anything currently available on the Web,” said Philip G. Koehler, Ph.D., urban entomologist at the University of Florida.

And since there’s no telling what those ants and termites may be up to, visitors are urged to come back often and check out the action. The sites are a great destination for children, students or adults looking for an insect education. They can also inform consumers about what works — and what doesn’t — in terms of keeping ants and termites from getting cozy in their homes.

The Termite and Ant Institutes were developed by the experts at BASF — The Chemical Company, manufacturer of Termidor® termiticide/insecticide and Phantom® termiticide-insecticide. Research is reviewed by a board of experts including Steven David, senior instructor from the Graduate REALTOR Institute, the American Society of Home Inspectors, and Dr. Harold J. Harlan, expert entomologist. The Institutes serve as round-the-clock resources built on the philosophy that an informed consumer is likely to make smart choices about the best ways to protect their home from termites or ants.

Additional interactive enhancements designed to capture visitors’ preferences and imaginations are available. These include robust multimedia galleries of videos, photos and audio; an informative podcast that captures the hottest new features from both Institutes; a news tool on the home page that refreshes to feature the latest termite and ant news; a poll feature allowing visitors to weigh in on the most timely pest-related topics; and a keyword search function that directs visitors to where they want to go in seconds.

Since 2006, both Institutes have garnered tens of thousands of visitors, detailing everything from termite and ant solutions, prevalence across the country, where to find a pest professional, and the most frequently asked questions about both pests.

“Our Ask an Expert sections have logged hundreds of questions from consumers, illustrating the fact that homeowners are concerned about pests and looking for guidance online. Now more than ever before, we are raising the bar with new enhancements for visitors to enjoy,” offers Dr. Bob Davis, chief entomologist for the Termite Institute.

Log onto to TermiteInstitute.com or AntInstitute.com to begin learning about these common insects. To learn more about protecting your home against termites and ants, visit Termidorhome.com. Phantom and Termidor are registered trademarks of BASF. © 2008 BASF Corporation. All Rights Reserved. EL086959

(MS) — With graduation on the horizon, many high school seniors are anxiously anticipating their exodus from Mom and Dad's house to the less restrictive dorms of their colleges of choice. Visions of parties, late school nights spent hanging out with friends, and no Mom and Dad to check in on them populate the dreams of many a high school senior as graduation draws closer and closer.

But as exciting as beginning college can be, it can also prove difficult in a number of ways if soon-to-be freshmen aren't prepared for what may lie ahead. Parents and college-bound kids alike should discuss the following topics before parting ways this fall.

Finances

It seems that no matter how much money kids head off to college with, it's never enough. This is especially true of entering freshmen, who have more than likely never faced living on a budget before. If a student will not be working and their parents will be sending them money during the semester, it's best to work out a payment schedule (once per semester, once per month, bi-monthly, etc.) and stick to it. Parents should avoid the temptation of bailing kids out if they've spent their allotted money too quickly, just like students should avoid the temptation of spending the money too fast.

Parents should also discuss credit cards with their children before the kids head off to school. College campuses are notorious breeding grounds for credit card solicitation. Kids who don't fully understand the concept of credit can, and often do, find themselves in deep financial trouble because of credit cards. If a student has his or her own cell phone (and who doesn't these days?), let your son or daughter begin paying for it in the months before he leaves for college. This should help get him or her acclimated to paying bills, and the importance of paying them on time, before heading off to school.

Academics

Understandably, most students start off struggling in the academic department. This often has nothing to do with the course load. Instead, it's typically the product of students being overwhelmed by their newfound freedom, resulting in studies sliding down their priority list.

Incoming freshmen should recognize that, while struggling to adapt to a new course load and new environment is to be expected, it's not an excuse for a prolonged academic struggle. The point of going to college is an education first and foremost. GoCollege.com, an online resource for college-bound students, recommends developing a diligent and consistent system of study habits to avoid digging an early academic hole. This can involve study groups, brief study periods after each class to make sure you understand all materials, or a number of things that might work for each individual. But the main thing is to be consistent in your study approach, as once you get it down, you'll be more efficient and able to enjoy more of that enticing free time.

Social Life

While education is the most important thing about college, developing socially is important as well. For some students, overfocusing on academics can make college a difficult period in their life. Particularly for entering freshmen, developing friendships is an important step in adapting to college. Students should embrace the chance to meet new people, many of whom might be from different parts of the country or even the world, which can be an educational process in and of itself.

While social life should never take precedence over academics, balancing work and play is something students will have to do the rest of their lives, and part of college is preparing them to do just that. Parents should make students aware that academics are important, but that developing as a human being and not just as a student is important as well.

For more tips on preparing for college, visit www.gocollege.com. TF086936

(MS) — Getting through to today’s tech-savvy kids is harder than ever before. With the Internet, DVDs, and video games so readily available, kids have many distractions at their disposal. While a few of these devices have some educational value, many do not — an unsettling thought when considering how much time kids spend parked on the couch watching movies, cruising the Internet or playing video games.

In many instances, technology has proven a formidable foe. Parents and educators often struggle to find educational tools or recreational activities of value that can compete with the barrage of electronic devices today, knowing full well that much of the content on both television and the Internet is not beneficial to kids.

No Puzzle to Getting Kids’ Attention

Ann Norton, a teacher in Minnesota, thinks she might have recently found the solution after attending a Minnesota Education Association conference in Minneapolis. At the conference, Norton discovered Scramble Squares®, a 12-by-12 inch puzzle made of nine 4-by-4 inch square pieces. Shortly after using Scramble Squares in her classroom, Norton discovered the puzzles were an instant hit with her students.

“I bought the ‘Sharks’ Scramble Squares® at the conference,” says Norton, “and I can’t seem to get it back from my students. I’m kicking myself for not buying a bunch of these puzzles while I was there.”

Though the puzzles might initially seem easy to solve, as Norton and her students found out, appearances can be deceiving. Designed to keep participants occupied — sometimes for hours depending upon a person’s puzzle prowess — the puzzles are the very essence of a brain teaser. They leave most players, adults and children alike, twisting and turning pieces for hours on end, oftentimes only to find they need to begin anew.

Educational Value

For educators, the difficulty in solving the puzzles, and the problem-solving skills the puzzles instill as a result, is not the lone benefit of bringing them into the classroom. Featuring over 125 exquisite styles ranging from nature to sports to history to geography to culture, Scramble Squares® have proven as versatile as the average lesson plan, making them valuable throughout the school year as students tackle a variety of subjects. What’s more, each puzzle package includes an interpretive panel of fascinating facts on the subject of the puzzle, as well as a trivia question and hidden answer.

According to childhood development specialist Stevanne Auerbach, that supplementary material, coupled with the puzzle’s difficulty, is one of the things that makes Scramble Squares® puzzles such a valuable learning tool, one that is gaining more and more recognition from parents and educators alike as the puzzles continue to grow in popularity.

The Institute for Childhood Resources in San Francisco gave Scramble Square puzzles its “Dr. Toy 10 Best Educational Products Award” for 2007, and the National Parenting Publications Award (NAPPA), a program sponsored by Dominion Parenting Media and promoted in association with parenting publications across the United States, named six Scrambles Squares puzzles as 2007 “NAPPA Honor Award” winners. Scramble Squares puzzles are also highly rated by Ableplay.org for the learning disabled, including those with Autism, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

“Parents must plan, prepare and shop ahead for their children’s leisure time,” says Auerbach, who’s also known as “Dr. Toy.” “These great products will help all parents and teachers to overcome the challenge of finding innovative, fun and interesting things for their kids and students to do.”

Puzzles Help Reduce Stress

As if all of these benefits aren’t reason enough to introduce puzzles to kids, adults, or even seniors, research also indicates that puzzles can help reduce stress. When the mind is fully engaged in a complicated puzzle or brain teaser, it generally blocks out everything else, including stress-inducing deadlines or assignments. And with so many school-aged kids succumbing to the strain of over-packed schedules, Scramble Squares® can help alleviate some of that stress.

Packaged in a heavy-duty resealable see-through vinyl pouch, Scramble Squares® puzzles can work well both in the classroom and at home. For more information or to find your nearest retailer, visit www.b-dazzle.com. FP085766

(MS) — Laptop users in the world number 100 million. In 2005, laptops sales surpassed desktop models for the first time in the U.S. thanks to a number of factors. Laptops have now become as powerful as desktop counterparts; prices have decreased on laptops; and built-in wireless connections make laptops more portable than ever.

In January of 2005, Intel vice president Mooly Eden was quoted as saying, “Between 2001 and 2004, we more than doubled the amount of notebooks in the market. Between 2004 and 2008, we believe the market will double again.”

More Laptops, Greater Theft Risk
With the rise in the number of laptops being used by consumers, the opportunities for theft also grow. A laptop computer represents the ultimate in mobility and convenience. It allows you to engage in entertainment or get work done from relatively any place at any time. This is why laptops are frequent companions — and thieves know it.

According to FBI estimates, the second most common crime, just after identity theft, is laptop theft. Each year, 2 million notebook computers are reported stolen, which doesn’t take into account the laptops left at airports, coffee shops, and bus terminals.

Many people take the steps to safeguard the information stored on laptops, using firewalls, passwords and other security systems. But far fewer put the same attention to safeguarding the laptop itself. All it takes is a few minutes of distraction for a laptop to be stolen. And when a laptop is stolen, you’re not only losing an expensive piece of equipment, you’re also losing any personal information stored on it.

Safeguarding Laptops
Here are ways to keep your laptop safe.
• Out of sight, out of mind: Would you keep a wad of cash in plain sight ripe for the taking? Probably not if you’re wise. But many laptop owners leave their computers in the back seat of cars or in other visible places, enticing thieves. Treat your laptop like cash — keeping it in sight at all times — and you’ll be less likely to lose it.

• Lock it up: Use a laptop security cable to make your laptop less portable when keeping it in a hotel room or other place. There are also other alarms, bells and whistles that can alert you if your laptop is moved.

• Keep it in view: Don’t put your laptop on the floor or in another place where your eyes aren’t constantly on it. If you’re dining out or at a business lunch with a laptop, keep the bag between your feet if you must store it below the table.

• Provide camouflage: Toting a laptop in a laptop bag is just advertising what you have inside. Consider using a backpack or a laptop bag that looks like a purse or a briefcase instead.

• Cars are a target: Keep in mind that parked cars are a favorite target for laptop thieves. Whenever possible, do not store your laptop there. If you must, keep it out of sight.

• Attention in airports. The confusion and shuffle of security checkpoints can be fertile ground for theft. Keep your eye on your laptop as you go through security. Hold onto it until the person in front of you has gone through the metal detector and remain watchful when it emerges on the other side of the screener.

Note: Other electronics, including portable DVD players, MP3 players, cell phones, etc., are also prime targets for theft. Use similar safeguarding measures for all of your electronic devices. TF082424