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ParentsKids

The Kids Online Safety Act: Protecting Kids & Free Speech

Big Tech has long been concerned about the potential end to unrestricted access to our children. With their business models relying on luring minors, they have good reason to be paranoid about the Kids Online Safety Act. This bill has emerged as one of the most sought-after pieces of legislation in the 118th Congress. It aims to provide nonintrusive social networking protections for children and has gained the support of over 240 organizations, a supermajority in the Senate, more than 30 state attorneys general, and even free speech champions like Elon Musk and Donald Trump Jr.

Key Changes in the Latest Draft

Rules of Construction

The bill always had a Rules of Construction stating that nothing in the Duty of Care provision should be construed to require a covered platform to prevent a minor from searching for content or accessing information regarding harm prevention. Skeptics were initially wary, but the revised version added a provision forbidding government entities from enforcing the Duty of Care based on the viewpoint of users expressed through protected speech. This is a significant safeguard that gives users and platforms more confidence.

Users and platforms alike should appreciate this addition. In the past, there were concerns about potential overreach by the government. Now, with this clear protection, they can operate with more certainty.

The government's tendency to work closely with Big Tech to censor COVID-19 content was a cause for alarm. When President Joe Biden's press secretary said the White House was in regular touch with social media platforms regarding misinformation, it raised questions about the balance between free speech and content moderation. This revised bill helps address those concerns.

First Amendment Concerns

Some critics raised concerns that the Kids Online Safety Act would incentivize platforms to overcomply and mark conservative content as anxiety or depression-inducing. The bill's authors addressed this by clarifying that platforms should create design features to prevent depressive and anxiety disorders when such conditions are related to compulsive usage and the design feature, not the content, is a contributing factor.

For example, design features like infinite scrolling, auto play, push alerts, and personalized recommendation systems can keep users engaged and even addicted to the platform. These features directly relate to compulsive usage and can have an impact on mental health. The revised bill ensures that platforms focus on the right aspects when addressing these issues.

Just because a platform provides a means to convey speech doesn't mean everything it does is protected by the First Amendment. This distinction is crucial in ensuring that platforms operate within the boundaries of the law and protect the well-being of users.

House Committee Changes

The updated Kids Online Safety Act draft incorporated many changes from the version that passed committee in the House. It no longer cedes authority to the controversial Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders and eliminates the government study on social media harms. It also tightens the size and scope of the Kids Online Safety Council with appointments made by members from both chambers, both parties, and the administration.

These changes show a commitment to streamlining the process and ensuring that the council is more effective in its role. By removing unnecessary elements and strengthening the oversight, the bill is better positioned to protect children online.

Another important change is that the revised bill expressly forbids platforms from conducting market or product-focused research on users they know are children under 13. This is in line with the platforms' terms of service and the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act of 1998. It gives parents more control over how their children's information is used.

Parental Consent

The revised Kids Online Safety Act requires platforms to obtain verifiable parental consent for research involving kids older than 13. This gives parents greater autonomy over how Big Tech companies use their children's information.

It's been 26 years since the US passed a law protecting children online, and during this time, we've seen an epidemic of child exploitation and social media addiction among our youths. The Kids Online Safety Act is an important step in addressing these issues and changing the trajectory.

Big Tech has a significant role to play in this, and with the implementation of this act, there is hope for a safer online environment for our children.

12 hour ago

Review: Walmart Toy for Kids - Quick Arrival & Fun!

The arrival of this particular item was a pleasant surprise. It came promptly and was packaged discreetly, ensuring a seamless unboxing experience. Once unboxed, it was quite straightforward to get started. After a single demonstration, my children, aged 4 and 7, were eager to give it a try. Since then, they have been playing it almost daily, and on some days, multiple times a day. We even organized family competitions, and this game has truly been a source of fun and nostalgia. It is a game that holds special memories from both my and my husband's childhood. Not only does it provide entertainment but also helps the kids develop motor and listening skills. It's a great investment that creates wonderful memories while having fun.

Experience Fun and Skill Development with This Item

Prompt Arrival and Discreet Packaging

The item's quick arrival was a significant advantage. It arrived at our doorstep in a timely manner, allowing us to start enjoying it without delay. The discreet packaging added an extra touch of privacy, making the unboxing experience even more enjoyable. It was clear that attention to detail was given to ensure a smooth start.

Once the packaging was opened, we were greeted with the item in its pristine condition. The simplicity of the unboxing process made it accessible for both kids and adults. It set the tone for the fun that was about to follow.

Easy to Use and Engaging for Kids

After the initial demonstration, my 4 and 7-year-old kids were immediately hooked. They found it easy to understand how to play and were quickly immersed in the game. The simplicity of the controls and the engaging nature of the gameplay kept them entertained for hours. It became a regular part of their daily routine, with them often asking to play.

The fact that they could play it independently or with family members added to its appeal. It became a source of bonding and competition within our family. The kids loved the challenge and the sense of achievement they got from playing.

Building Skills and Creating Memories

Beyond the entertainment value, this item has been instrumental in helping the kids build important skills. The motor skills developed as they interacted with the game were noticeable. They became more coordinated and dexterous in their movements.

At the same time, the listening skills were also enhanced. The kids had to pay attention to the game's instructions and cues, which improved their concentration and focus. These skills will serve them well in various aspects of their lives.

And most importantly, it has created countless memories. The family competitions and shared moments around the game have become treasured memories that we will always cherish. It's a reminder of the simple joys of life and the importance of spending time together.

15 hour ago

Lawsuits against 11 food corps for addictive kids' foods

In a significant legal development, a lawsuit has been launched against 11 prominent food corporations. These giants in the food industry, such as Kraft Heinz, The Coca-Cola Company, PepsiCo, Nestlé USA, and Mars Incorporated, are accused of deliberately engaging in a conspiracy. The aim is to create addictive products and market them specifically to children, thereby fueling health crises in the United States.

Uncovering the Dark Side of Food Corporations

How the Conspiracy Unfolded

Morgan & Morgan is representing Bryce Martinez from Pennsylvania. At the young age of 16, he was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which he blames on these companies' ultra-processed products. Mike Morgan, a partner at Morgan & Morgan, stated in a press conference that the invention of ultra-processed foods in the 1980s has systematically and irreversibly changed the health of children. This is a moment when science has caught up with justice, and it is time to address this case to seek justice for Bryce Martinez and others like him.Rene Rocha, an attorney at Morgan & Morgan, added that they believe this is a turning point and hope it changes the status quo forever. Ultra-processed foods are defined in the lawsuit as industrially produced edible substances that imitate food and are made with chemically modified ingredients, additives, and industrial techniques. Rocha emphasized that these are new inventions stitched together with laboratory chemicals and additives, differing fundamentally from what we used to consider as food throughout human history.

The Impact on the American Food Supply

Up to three-quarters of the American food supply and two-thirds of children's diets consist of ultra-processed foods. Studies cited in the lawsuit have linked these foods to higher risks of various diseases, including cancer, heart disease, irritable bowel syndrome, obesity, diabetes, dementia, and poor mental health. The lawsuit alleges that large food corporations were taken over by "Big Tobacco" in the 1980s and then used their tactics to develop addictive products. They aggressively marketed these products to children and minorities. Rocha explained that they used the same scientists who studied the addictiveness of cigarettes to formulate ultra-processed foods.Quoting scientific studies, the lawsuit claims that 14 percent of adults and 12 percent of children in the US show addictive behaviors in response to ultra-processed foods, attributing this to the deliberate strategy of large food corporations. Morgan stated in a statement that the story of ultra-processed foods is an example of companies prioritizing profits over the health and safety of consumers. Executives at the defendant companies are alleged to have known for at least a quarter-century that these foods would contribute to illnesses in children but ignored the public health risks for the sake of profits.

Allegations Against the Companies

Among the allegations are that the companies failed to disclose or warn consumers about the dangers of eating ultra-processed foods. They falsely marketed their products as safe and frequently consumable by children. They also knowingly subjected consumers to the risks of lifelong illnesses. Rocha said in a statement that their goal is to hold these companies responsible for their efforts to make ultra-processed foods as addictive as possible and get them into the hands of children.Sarah Gallo, senior vice president of product policy at the Consumer Brands Association, representing the food and beverage industry, told Newsweek that food safety and protecting the integrity of the food supply is the top priority for manufacturers. She argued that classifying foods as unhealthy simply because they are processed or demonizing food by ignoring its nutrient content misleads consumers and exacerbates health disparities. She emphasized that food and beverage manufacturers are continuously innovating to meet the health and lifestyle needs of their customers.If you have a tip on a food story that Newsweek should be covering or a nutrition concern that worries you, please let us know via science@newsweek.com. Our experts can provide advice, and your story may be featured in Newsweek.
16 hour ago

Dear Moms: Don't Stress Over Seasonal Bucket Lists With Kids

Like many individuals, I possess vivid childhood memories of gearing up for family outings during each season. In the summer, we would roll onto the grass of the local all-you-can-pick farm. During the fall, we explored apple orchards. And in the winter, we went on Christmas tree hunts. Year after year, there were always disputes about the exact number of berries required for the perfect pie or whose turn it was to handle that large apple-picking pole. It was an integral part of the fun. Living at home made the drives quick, the baking leisurely, and the memories lasting. After each seasonal experience, I would happily doze in my own bed and count the days until we could do it again the following year.

My Insatiable Quest in New York

When I moved to New York for college, I had an unquenchable desire to make the most of everything the city had to offer. Plays, concerts, and restaurants - my bucket list was expanding by the minute. To further challenge myself, it became evident that I needed a separate Christmas bucket list for the holiday season.Soon enough, my list was as extensive as Santa Claus's naughty or nice inventory. My essential holiday experiences included ice skating, seeing the Rockettes, attending The Nutcracker at Lincoln Center (made possible only by student ticket prices), shopping in any type of "winter village," and admiring the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree - all the major ones.But there were also the ones I "had to claim" I did: seeing a jazz band play holiday classics, standing in line with every other person in New York for the Macy's windows, and looking at Christmas trees other than the one at Rockefeller Center. If I was spending Christmas in New York, I had to go all out.Nearly 20 years later, as I reflect, I am amazed. Firstly, at how much energy I had. But truly, at how determined I was to do everything - even things I didn't truly care about - to fill my Christmas cup.Today, I still live in the city, but with my own family, coordinating any seasonal excursion requires significantly more effort. It's because of the kids and because I live in a different state from my parents and don't have a car. To try to recapture some of the magic of those hectic seasons of my youth would involve renting a car, making the trip, and then rushing to avoid the traffic. It's overwhelming.Four years ago, after the pandemic and having a baby, I didn't have the energy to make the trip for family apple day in the fall. At that time, it truly felt heartbreaking: Was my favorite tradition now forever ruined, like the ninth apple that had spoiled by the time I finally got around to eating it?No, it just meant that things were different now.This year marked the second time we missed the trip. It was a busy season. Not only did we have school-related activities, but my husband and I also had a destination wedding that we had been looking forward to all year. While we were away, my parents took my daughter apple picking. I wonder if they didn't tell me until later because they didn't want to upset me. And initially, I was upset. But then I realized that if I couldn't make the day happen for her, I was glad that they could.Nowadays, my bucket list (especially around Christmas) is much shorter. It's one or two things long. Taking pictures with Santa? Sign me up. Attending the local tree lighting? Sure, maybe I'll see you there. Otherwise, we are staying at home - a far cry from my previous winters when I tried to fit every possible seasonal activity into a few months.I now understand that trying to schedule fun into every minute of every night and weekend takes away the entire "savor the season" atmosphere. And I think it's extremely important for my young daughter to see me enjoying the holidays along with her. With all the adult responsibilities that the season brings, all I want for Christmas is to put on some absurd pompom socks and sit down somewhere. Because in those quieter moments, there is their own holiday magic: introducing your child to Home Alone, reminiscing about souvenir Christmas ornaments, and devouring Reese's shaped like Christmas trees.So, here is a permission slip that I am giving to myself and to you as well: You don't have to do all the seasonal activities. Make time for one or two favorites because if you try to pack it all in, there won't be much room left for joy. And I want to create as much space as possible - for joy, of course, but also for store-bought Christmas cookies.When she is not practicing drums or folding sweatpants, Meredith Begley enjoys reading and writing about health. You can find her on Instagram @meredithbegley.
18 hour ago

How Holiday Stress Affects Kids and Ways to Cope

During the holiday season, a parent's to-do list seems to stretch endlessly. Buying gifts, scheduling activities, and decorating - it all takes a toll. This stress not only affects parents but can also spill over onto their children, leading to various issues. Let's explore how to make this holiday season less stressful for both.

Holiday Stress Affects Most Parents

According to a study by the American Psychological Association, two out of five American adults experience higher stress levels between November and January. As many as 89% worry about finances and family conflicts. The approaching holidays bring a busy social calendar, increased shopping, and financial pressures. Juggling all these tasks can significantly raise a parent's stress. Research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that stress leads to changes in sleep, appetite, and energy. It can also cause anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. In the end, stress takes away the joy of the holidays, and children are not immune to it.

Many Parents Feel Pressure Around the Holidays

The holiday season is a time of excitement but also a source of stress. With a packed social calendar, parents find themselves constantly on the go. Shopping trips become more frequent, and paychecks seem to disappear. Hosting gatherings, meeting work deadlines, and attending school parties add to the pressure. It's a juggling act that can leave parents feeling overwhelmed. This stress can have a negative impact on their physical and mental health.

Your Holiday Stress Can Affect The Kids, Too

Children are highly attuned to their parents' emotions. They can sense the stress around the holidays and it can create a disconnect between parents and kids. This may lead to mental and physical symptoms of stress. Other factors like overstimulation from school activities and changes in routines can also trigger a child's holiday stress. If children perceive their parents' high stress levels, they may believe that the holidays should be a tense and unenjoyable time. This can carry into adulthood as children learn through observation and imitation.

Signs Your Child Is Feeling Stressed

It's important to recognize the signs of stress in children. Excessive fussing or crying, increased worry or anxiety, withdrawing from favorite activities, and more fearful reactions than usual are common. Changes in sleep and eating patterns, clinginess, and physical symptoms like stomachaches or headaches can also indicate stress. For children with existing health problems like asthma or eczema, stress can cause flares.

How to Enjoy a Stress-Free Holiday Season

Sticking to a familiar routine during the holidays can provide stability. Don't over-schedule the family's calendar; leave some free time for relaxation. Replace stressful traditions with low-key ones. Schedule daily relaxation time by reading books, playing board games, or watching movies. Keep a good sleep schedule even during school breaks. Continue to exercise and eat healthy food to nourish the body. Talk to friends or family about your stress; sharing can be helpful. Listen to your kids if they want to skip an event. Ask for help when hosting gatherings and make it easier by catering meals. Remember to take breaks from the holiday hype.

Key Takeaways

As Botwin suggests, parents should be aware of their stress levels and set boundaries. Focus on spending quality time with family instead of giving in to the pressure to do too much. This is the key to fostering healthy connections and enjoying the holiday season.
22 hour ago

27 Under-$30 Toys Kids Are 'Obsessed' With from Amazon

Amazon offers a wide range of popular kids' toys that are sure to bring joy and entertainment. From hide-and-seek gadgets to baking sets and fidget toys, there's something for every child.

Discover the Best Amazon Kids' Toys for Endless Fun

Silly Poopy’s Hide and Seek

Take turns hiding this rainbow-colored gadget around the house. It shouts clues and plays a song when found. Relatable, a small business, sells card games/toys, plushies, and pool floats.My 6- and 3-year-old are extremely obsessed. They play for at least an hour daily since getting it. When it's my turn to hide, I make it challenging enough that I can be productive until it's my turn again. ($12.99 at Amazon)

A miniature baking set with a 48-page recipe book

This set comes with a storage tin, rolling pin, wee knife, pizza/dough cutter, mixing spoon, three wee spoons, mixing bowl, pizza/pie pan, pie server, sheet pan, silicone cake and cupcake molds, two silicone finger mitts, and a 48-page recipe book.My 9-year-old daughter loves it - she's actually obsessed! Everything is durable and the recipes are simple to follow. She takes over the kitchen and does everything by herself. She makes delicious cinnamon rolls, apple pies, pizzas, etc. Every kid needs one of these! ($27.99 at Amazon)

A set of Globbles

A huge hit with children, especially those with autism or sensory issues. They're not exploding or peeling paint. Christmas morning was pure joy for one child, and the whole family joined in the fun. ($11.74 at Amazon)

An interactive scissor skills activity pad

My son is obsessed with this activity scissor kit. The scissors are perfect for toddlers and are not dangerous. There are many pages to cut, and each page is an activity to play with repeatedly. Love this item! ($7.99 at Amazon)

A lightweight LCD writing tablet

I purchased this as a gift for my 2-year-old daughter, and she is obsessed - so am I! It's mess-free, non-toxic, and provides endless coloring fun. With one push of a button, she has a clean slate. The clearing function has a locking feature to prevent erasing. Highly recommend! ($19.99 at Amazon)

A pack of tangle-free parachute toys

My son loves playing with them and hasn't put them down since we received them. They are tangle-free and provide endless entertainment. ($9.29 at Amazon)

A value pack of 500+ puffy stickers

My 1.5-year-old is obsessed with these stickers. They're not sticky enough to do any damage but can be reused a few times. I love that they are removable and can be placed back on the plastic sheet. ($7.99 at Amazon)

A bestselling Take Along Tunes toy

My son has been obsessed with this toy since he was old enough to hit the button. It's endlessly entertaining and essential. Even now that he's almost 2, he still loves it. The sticker has become worn with use. ($8.99 at Amazon)

A logic puzzle Gravity Maze

My 10-year-old son is obsessed with this game. He loves figuring out each maze and using problem-solving skills and logic. It's a great toy for an only child when parents can't entertain them every minute. He chooses this over video games! ($22.99 at Amazon)

A sprinkle whale bath toy with colorful flashing lights

We got this for our 5-month-old as he loves to try and hold/catch running water. He still loves it at 8 months old. There are sensors on the bottom that turn it on when it hits water and shut off when it needs to be charged. A definite bathtub favorite! ($11.99+ at Amazon)

A colorful wooden puzzle to bring Tetris-like delight

My toddler is obsessed! The construction is solid, and the pieces are well-finished with no splinters or uneven cuts. He loves assembling different arrangements each time. ($9.99 at Amazon)

A game of Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza

This game is a hit! My 5-year-old is obsessed, and my teenage sisters fought over who got to bring it to camp, so I had to buy two copies. It's a fun party game that guarantees laughs. ($9.97 at Amazon)

A set of satisfying tempera paint sticks

These are my favorite art accessory ever! My girls are obsessed and can use them on paper, rocks, etc. We can't get enough. ($22.48 at Amazon)

Or a nostalgic scratch paper art set

My kids are obsessed with these. They can make their own designs, and there are plenty of papers. ($9.99 at Amazon)

An at-home scavenger hunt

Mollybee Kids is a family-run small business creating high-quality toys. My 2-year-old son is obsessed with the 'find you' game. He thinks hard and runs me through the house to find the object. Highly recommended! ($12.99 at Amazon)

A gorgeous Ariel Barbie doll

The doll is gorgeous with a well-done face sculpt and makeup, and a super detailed tail. My kid is obsessed, and I have zero complaints. ($14.99 at Amazon)

A silicone teething toy with a pacifier clip

My 5-month-old son is obsessed with it. I love the neutral colors and how easy it is to clean. We can clip it onto the Baby Björn or car seat. It's of great quality. ($16.99 at Amazon)

An itty-bitty Baby Yoda Bluetooth speaker

Bought this for my husband on Father's Day, but my kids (4/6) are obsessed. It's small, easy to carry, and the sound is good and clear. The price is great too! ($19.74 at Amazon)

A pair of GeoSafari kid binoculars

I got a set for my girls (3.5 and 1.5), and they are obsessed. We use them on hikes and at the zoo. I tied the string together as the anti-choke clasp kept coming undone. ($14.99 at Amazon)

A too-cute “Make a Fox Friend” kit

My niece was obsessed with this. It was a minor gift among other fun things, but it became her favorite. My sister-in-law now buys it as a gift for kid parties. ($19.99 at Amazon)

A mini Waving Inflatable Tube Guy

My youngest loves seeing these guys everywhere. We got her a little one, and she's obsessed with having her own. It's made of great material, and the fan is strong. ($8.58 at Amazon)

A LeapFrog 100 Words Book

My baby has been obsessed with this since getting it. She can flip through the pages herself and loves touching the words she knows. It's built tough. ($13.99 at Amazon)

A pack of Mini Brands mystery balls

My 8-year-old daughter is obsessed with these. She uses them to play with her dolls as food. It's adorable to watch her play. I even join in. ($10.77+ at Amazon)

A mesmerizing fidget cube

I bought one for myself as a fidget desk object and found it entertaining. My 5-, 6-, and 7-year-old found it and are obsessed. They were fighting to play with it, so I ordered three more. Awesome product! ($25 at Amazon)

A sophisticated wooden piano

My 1-year-old is obsessed! I love that it will grow with her. Right now, she just loves the music and sounds, but later she can learn from the cards. ($28.14 at Amazon)

A Disney necklace activity set

My 4-year-old is so obsessed with this product that she has made me five or six different things. She really loves being creative. Great product for the price. ($14.99 at Amazon)
23 hour ago

A Pediatrician's Tips for Reducing Holiday Stress in Kids

The holiday season is a time of celebration and togetherness, yet it often brings with it a significant amount of stress. From busy social schedules to financial pressures, families face numerous challenges during this time. But with the right strategies, it is possible to find a balance and make the holidays more enjoyable for everyone.

Unlock the Secrets to a Stress-Free Holiday Season

Keep Your Calendar Manageable

During the holiday season, the pressure to attend every social event can lead to a rushed and chaotic experience. It's important to choose the events that you can truly enjoy and gracefully decline the rest. For example, if you're invited to a gathering by your child's soccer team and your work colleagues, assess which one truly matters to you and your family. If you face pushback, simply explain that you have other commitments. Long-distance visits and travel can also be rescheduled, adding an element of anticipation to the new year.

Prioritize Family Health

Maintaining family routines during the holiday rush can bring a sense of peace. Make time for exercise, healthy meals, and plenty of sleep, including naps for the little ones. Be mindful of the time spent on screens and replace digital entertainment with simple pleasures like sipping hot cocoa or taking a walk. It's also a great opportunity to introduce new relaxation techniques like meditation. Give your family the space to take care of themselves and slow down.

Watch for Signs Your Kids Need Extra Support

The holiday hubbub can have a significant impact on a child's mood. Toddlers may have meltdowns due to missed naps and excessive sugar intake, while older children may feel anxious about fitting in. Be attuned to your child's emotions and let them know that you are there to listen. Encourage open conversations about tough subjects, even when things are busy. If your family has experienced a loss, give yourselves permission to adjust the holiday script. Let your kids express their feelings through writing letters or holiday cards to the deceased.

Emphasize the Simple, Positive Side of Giving

The idea that we need to spend a lot of money to celebrate the holidays can cause stress. Set a holiday budget and stick to it as a positive example for your children. One special gift can hold more meaning than a dozen shiny packages. Focus on ways to give that bring joy, such as running errands for a neighbor or inviting friends' children over to play. Encourage your kids to come up with ideas and work together to make a difference.Alexandra Cvijanovich, MEd, MD, FAAP, a spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics and a general pediatrician in Albuquerque, New Mexico, emphasizes the importance of these strategies. She has prior experience in early intervention before attending medical school.
1 day ago

Bowie School Bands' Holiday Concerts & Christmas Shoppe

The Bowie Junior and Senior High School bands are gearing up for their much-anticipated annual holiday concerts. These events are a highlight of the school year, bringing together the talents of the jazz band, Mighty Marching Maroon, and the high school choir in the high school gym. The high school concert takes place at 7 p.m. on Dec. 9, offering a free evening filled with spectacular music and the cozy vibes of the holiday season.

Experience the Magic of Bowie's Holiday Concerts

The High School Holiday Concert

On Dec. 9 at 7 p.m., the high school gym will come alive with the sounds of the jazz band, Mighty Marching Maroon, and the high school choir. These talented musicians will perform a series of enchanting melodies that are sure to fill the air with holiday cheer. The concert is a free event, making it accessible to all, and it provides a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together and enjoy the magic of music during the festive season.

The high school choir's harmonious voices will blend seamlessly with the lively rhythms of the marching band, creating a truly immersive musical experience. The jazz band will add a touch of sophistication with their improvisational skills, taking the audience on a journey through different musical styles. It's an evening that no one should miss.

The Junior High Holiday Concert

On Dec. 17 at 6 p.m., the junior high band will take the stage. This concert will feature the sixth grade white and maroon bands, as well as the junior high choir. The young musicians will showcase their progress and talent, performing a variety of holiday-themed pieces that are sure to delight. The junior high concert is another great opportunity for the community to support and enjoy the musical endeavors of the Bowie schools.

The junior high choir's sweet voices will add a touch of innocence to the concert, while the bands will demonstrate their precision and energy. It's a wonderful way to introduce younger students to the world of music and the holiday spirit. The junior high concert is a must-see for those who love to see the next generation of musicians in action.

Travel Size Toiletries Collection

In addition to the holiday concerts, the Bowie bands and choirs are collecting travel size toiletries to be distributed to residents of Advanced Rehab and Independence Hall facilities. This is a meaningful initiative that shows the caring and community spirit of the school. Toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorants, unscented lotions, shampoos, and conditioners are all needed items.

Donations can be made from all four campuses and at the Christmas concerts. The decorated box on each campus and in the band halls of the junior and high school provides a convenient way for students, parents, and community members to contribute. By donating these items, we can make a difference in the lives of those in need during the holiday season.

The Annual Christmas Shoppe

From 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 12, the Bowie Band Boosters will host the annual Christmas Shoppe in the high school cafeteria. This is a great opportunity to shop for friends and family, with items ranging from 25 cents to $15. The Christmas Shoppe offers a wide variety of gifts, from small trinkets to more substantial items, making it a one-stop shop for all your holiday shopping needs.

Whether you're looking for a stocking stuffer or a special gift, the Christmas Shoppe has something for everyone. It's a fun and festive event that brings the community together and supports the Bowie bands and choirs. So come and browse the aisles, find the perfect gifts, and support local talent.

1 day ago

Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro Tablet on Sale - Skip the iPad!

Amazon's Fire HD 10 Kids Pro tablet is currently on sale for an amazing $140, offering a significant savings of $50. This tablet is designed specifically for older children aged six to 12 and comes with a slimmer design and faster performance compared to other Fire kids tablets. It also includes strong parental controls and a worry-free guarantee - Amazon will repair or replace the screen if it breaks within two years of purchase.

Key Features and Benefits

Performance and Design

The Fire HD 10 Kids Pro tablet is available for $190 and offers a 25% faster performance than the Fire HD 10 Kids. It has a longer battery life and a higher-quality front-facing camera at 5MP, up from 2MP. This makes it a great choice for kids who need a device that can keep up with their activities.The slimmer design is more kid-friendly and easier for them to hold and carry around. It's built to withstand the rough and tumble of kids' play, as evidenced by the fact that it has remained completely unaffected even after being dropped countless times and stepped on at least a dozen times.

Parental Controls

Amazon's Kids+ subscription included with the Fire HD 10 Kids Pro tablet gives parents full control over what their kids watch and do on the device. They can easily approve app and purchase requests, set up time limits, and even block the device when it's time for bed. This helps parents ensure that their kids are using the tablet in a safe and healthy way.

Game Options

In addition to access to thousands of apps and games, the Fire HD 10 Kids Pro tablet also includes collaborative games like Sketch 'n Guess, Memory Match, Jigsaw, Chess, Checkers, Dessert Decorator, and Chain Reaction. These games are great for kids to play with each other and can help improve their cognitive skills.Even kids who can't read yet can enjoy these games as they can be read out loud. This makes the tablet accessible to a wider range of kids and helps them have fun while learning.

Comparison with iPad

While the Fire HD 10 Kids Pro tablet is better than other Amazon Fire Kids tablets, it doesn't outperform an iPad. An iPad has more high-end features like a better processor and camera, and is a more grown-up platform that is perfect for older kids. However, the Fire HD 10 Kids Pro is a fraction of the price of an iPad, making it a more affordable option for families.If you're trying to choose between an iPad or a Fire HD 10 Kids Pro tablet, it will depend on your kid's age and how they will use the device. Amazon has refined the Amazon Kids platform into a kid-friendly user experience that doesn't feel childish for older kids but that younger kids can still navigate.

Customer Service

When my oldest child accidentally cracked the Fire HD 10 Kids Pro tablet's screen by leaving it on the floor, I contacted Amazon customer service. A representative instructed me to send the tablet in for assessment, and in the end, Amazon sent us a new tablet to replace the broken one. The whole process took under two weeks, which was very convenient.This shows that Amazon's customer service is reliable and responsive, which is an important factor to consider when choosing a tablet for your kids.
1 day ago

New Renderings of Tuscaloosa's Saban Center at Nick's Kids Event

The final form of Tuscaloosa's Saban Center, an interactive learning campus set to grace downtown Tuscaloosa in the coming decade, took on a more distinct shape on Tuesday. During a luncheon hosted by Nick and Terry Saban, a new rendering was unveiled, shedding light on this remarkable educational project.

"Saban Center: Transforming Education in Tuscaloosa"

Honoring Educators and Their Impact

Each year, the former head coach and first lady of the Crimson Tide football program, along with their Nick's Kids Foundation, pay tribute to area educators at the Teacher Excellence Award Luncheon. This year marked the 13th such ceremony, where 70 teachers from various schools in Tuscaloosa and its surrounding counties were honored. Each teacher received a certificate from the foundation and $500 in gift cards for the holiday season. Terry Saban emphasized, "We are honored to recognize these amazing teachers at the 13th Annual Teacher Excellence Awards Luncheon. As a teacher myself, I know how hard they work."These educators play a crucial role in shaping the future of students, and their dedication is truly remarkable. They inspire and educate the next generation, laying the foundation for a better world.

The Saban Center: A Hub of Learning and Innovation

The Saban Center is more than just a building; it is a place of learning and innovation. It will include space for the Tuscaloosa Children's Theatre and Ignite, formerly known as the Children's Hands-On Museum. Early plans envision moving into a renovated Tuscaloosa News headquarters on Nick's Kids Avenue.Governor Kay Ivey's pledge of $25 million has significantly expanded the scope of the Saban Center. It will now feature a STEM learning hub for teachers and students across the state, connecting with various institutions such as the Alabama Water Institute, Shelton State Community College, Stillman College, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.Nick Saban explained, "The Saban Center is a passion project for Mrs. Terry and me. We're building Saban Center to support these teachers and all the teachers in Alabama. Education provides opportunities, and our life's work is about providing opportunities for kids. Saban Center will allow us to continue that mission, providing opportunities for students, teachers, families and visitors to Alabama for generations to come."This center will offer a unique learning environment, combining STEM, arts, and cultural activities. The curved facades crafted from recycled Alabama marble add a touch of elegance and sustainability to the design.

The Construction Journey and Future Outlook

Instead of renovating the 20-year-old newspaper building, it will be demolished to make way for the Saban Center. The new renderings give a glimpse of what the new construction will look like. Bidding for the project will take place next spring, with a groundbreaking planned for April 2025. The completed Center is expected to open to the public in 2027, marking a significant milestone in Tuscaloosa's educational landscape.Malcolm Holzman of the architecture firm Steinberg Hart expressed, "It has been an honor to collaborate with Saban Center stakeholders on the design of this project, a place which will inspire visitors of all ages. Home to a multitude of interactive and energizing STEM, arts and cultural environments, the Saban Center will feature curved facades crafted of recycled Alabama marble, at once enclosing and presenting these engaging activities to the world beyond its walls."Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox added, "The Saban family's commitment to education is unparalleled, and Saban Center will serve as a testament to their transformative impact not only in Tuscaloosa but throughout the entire state of Alabama. The City of Tuscaloosa is profoundly grateful for their vision and generosity. We eagerly anticipate seeing these remarkable renderings brought to life, as well as the lasting benefits the Saban Center will bring to students, educators and families across our state and beyond."For updates on the project as they become available, stay connected to the Tuscaloosa Thread.
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