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Have a child with Autism or ADHD? Yes, long-term bedwetting happens and you’re not alone

2023-05-25T10:33:00

(BPT) – Bedwetting, also known as nighttime wetting/incontinence or nocturnal enuresis, can affect any child. For some children, bedwetting may be an unavoidable part of growing up. In general, children with intellectual disabilities such as autism and/or ADHD are more often affected by bedwetting than typically developing children.1 The impact of bedwetting goes beyond wet sheets and can affect the mental and emotional well-being of both kids and their caregivers.

Families of children with autism and/or ADHD are likely to face unique developmental and behavioral experiences and often feel they lack support and understanding from family and friends, even among those in the neurodivergent community. One of these shared experiences is bedwetting. In fact, 1 in 10 children who experience bedwetting has a disability, with Autism and ADHD being most prevalent.2

Goodnites®, the #1 bedwetting underwear brand,3 conducted a survey among parents of children with Autism and/or ADHD, ages 3 to 17, to uncover the physical, emotional, relational and mental impact of bedwetting.4 Parents of children who experience bedwetting report that both they (60%) and their children (41%) have experienced increased feelings of anxiety surrounding bedwetting. About two-fifths also state that bedwetting has made their children more anxious (41%) and lowered their children’s self-esteem (38%).

Bedwetting also has a deep impact on caregivers: Half (50%) of parents say their child’s bedwetting has caused them to feel like a failure as a parent and roughly half (48%) of parents feel bedwetting has led to concerns that others will judge them. Surveyed parents whose children experience bedwetting expressed that they feel friends (71%) and family (65%) don’t understand the challenges of parenting children with autism and/or ADHD. Goodnites recently partnered with the Autism Society of America to support education and community efforts throughout 2023.

“While many children in the Autism community experience bedwetting for longer periods of time, sometimes into their adolescent years, it is often not talked about, leaving families feeling isolated,” said Christopher Banks, President and CEO of the Autism Society of America. “By working with partners, like Goodnites, to provide education and resources, we can support families of children with autism, show that they are not alone, and help break the stigma surrounding bedwetting.

The Autism Society of America shares these tips to help children who experience bedwetting at any age:

Establish a consistent bedtime routine

Knowing what to expect every evening can help calm children and set them up for a successful night of rest. Go to bed at the same time each evening. Create a list of activities to do every night, such as going to the bathroom, brushing teeth and reading a book.

Use bedwetting underwear at night

Stock up on Goodnites bedwetting underwear, which are absorbent, disposable garments made for children ages 3 to 17 who experience bedwetting. To better serve the needs of children who experience longer-term bedwetting and provide size-inclusive products, they launched a dedicated XL size in 2021 that fits kids up to 140 pounds. Only Goodnites bedwetting underwear holds three water bottles5 and has 35% better leakage protection.6 They help enable your child to conquer bedwetting with confidence and wake up awesome!

The brand also recently partnered with the Autism Society of America to raise awareness for the needs of families that experience extended bedwetting, smash the bedwetting stigma and support the autism community.

Stay positive and supportive

Longer-term bedwetting can be a challenge for both caregiver and child. It’s time to break the stigma and ensure both you and your child understand that it’s not either of your faults. You can be your child’s biggest help in achieving dry nights by always approaching bedwetting with empathy and understanding. Never shame a child, even if you feel frustration. Once kids start using bedwetting products, such as Goodnites, they will feel more confident surrounding their bedwetting as they wake up dry. Your goal is to empower them to manage their bedwetting and celebrate the successes while being understanding during any setbacks.

To learn more about bedwetting, visit Goodnites.com or AutismSociety.org and follow @goodnites on Instagram and @goodnitesbrand on TikTok and @autismsociety on Twitter and Instagram.

1. von Gontard, A., Pirrung, M., Niemczyk, J., & Equit, M. (2015). Incontinence in children with autism spectrum disorder. Journal of Pediatric Urology, 11(5). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpurol.2015.04.015

2. Goodnites Bedwetting Diary Study, ©Burke, Inc. 2021

3. Youth Pant Category Share Data

4. Goodnites conducted an online survey among n=1,000 U.S. parents of child(ren) ages 3-17 diagnosed with any form of Autism ADHD/ADD or spectrum disorders, including a subsample of n=353 whose neurodiverse child experiences nocturnal enuresis. The study fielded between Nov. 11th – 21st, 2022. The margin of error (MOE) is +/- 3 percentage points for the total sample and +/- 5 for the subsample who experience nocturnal enuresis.

5. Size Boy XL. Three 8 oz. Water bottles, 24 oz. total. Among national brands.

6. Boy Large vs. Ninjamas Boy Large

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A gift for every dad: Five perfect books for celebrating Father’s Day

2023-05-25T10:01:00

(BPT) – Struggling to find the right gift for Dad this Father’s Day? Consider showing your appreciation for all that he does with a worthwhile book!

Whether he is a home chef, has a serious case of wanderlust, or is a sports fanatic, there’s a book geared to his favorite hobbies and pastimes. So show Dad just how much you care with one of these great reads!

1. Got Your Number

Help settle once and for all which sports legends flat-out own which numbers. In his best-selling book of short essays, ESPN personality Mike Greenberg (aka Greeny) uses his lifetime of sports knowledge to spin yarns of athletic immortals and tell you who has proven great enough to own each number 1 through 100.

Whatever the sport, there’s something for every fan. Your dad will come away enlightened, occasionally surprised, and, depending on who he roots for, maybe a little enraged after reading this endlessly entertaining book.

2. The Bob’s Burgers Burger Book

If your dad is a fan of Bob Belcher, make sure to gift him a copy of The Bob’s Burgers Burger Book. Filled with 75 original and practical recipes, this cookbook brings the flavors of the hit animated series home with edible versions of the show’s Burgers of the Day.

Fully illustrated with all-new art in the series’ signature style, The Bob’s Burgers Burger Book showcases the entire Belcher family and other beloved characters, including Teddy, Jimmy Pesto, Jr., and Aunt Gayle. All recipes come from the fan-created and extremely popular blog The Bob’s Burger Experiment.

3. Never Give Up

Has your dad ever thought he could survive Man vs. Wild? Then he’ll love reading Bear Grylls’s book Never Give Up. In this follow-up to the internationally bestselling Mud, Sweat, and Tears, Grylls shares valuable lessons he’s learned in the wild, personal challenges and achievements, the true value of adventure, and the enduring importance of courage, kindness, and resilience. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and armchair adventurers alike, Never Give Up offers an inspiring path to help your dad live his best life.

4. Gordon Ramsay’s Uncharted

Fans of hit National Geographic TV series Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted have seen chef Gordon Ramsay travel to some of the most remote locations on Earth in search of culinary inspiration. Now your dad can bring the flavors home with this beautifully illustrated book, a mouthwatering journey to 21 destinations, featuring 60 recipes. Inspired by behind-the-scenes stories, cultural insights, and tips from local chefs, Dad just may find his next great bite from places as near as Louisiana and as far as New Zealand.

5. 50 States, 500 Campgrounds

For the outdoorsman, this camper’s guide by travel writer Joe Yogerst highlights the best tent and cabin campsites, RV resorts, and glamping destinations across the United States and Canada, with 10 sites in every state and province. Each entry also offers insider tips for when to go, reservation requirements, and more.

From a cabin at family-friendly Yogi Bear’s Delaware Beaches–Jellystone Park Camp Resort to a tent near the stunning waterfall at the Havasupai Campground deep in the heart of the Grand Canyon to a cozy yurt in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, your dad will find detailed destination information and nearby attractions—and might even invite you along for his next camping trip.

Make sure to pick up one (or all!) of these exciting and entertaining reads to celebrate Dad’s big day. You can find these and other titles from Disney Publishing Worldwide and National Geographic Books wherever books are sold.

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Essential tech gear to elevate your next outdoor adventure

2023-05-25T11:01:00

(BPT) – Hiking, biking, camping, road-tripping and much more — participation in outdoor activities continues to grow at record levels.

According to the 2022 Outdoor Participation Trends Report from the Outdoor Industry Association, more than half of Americans ages 6 and over participated in at least one outdoor activity, and the outdoor recreation participant base grew to a whopping 164.2 million participants in 2021.

Whether you’re a hardcore outdoors enthusiast, a weekend warrior or someone who occasionally dabbles in outdoor activities, there’s gear that’s worth investing in. Here are the top five outdoor items with a tech twist that everyone should bring on their next outdoor adventure in 2023 and beyond.

Car vent mounts for convenience

When you hit the road, possibilities are endless, but that doesn’t mean your power supply will be. Your smartphone is important for outdoor adventuring, from providing navigation to capturing the perfect selfie. Use your drive time to charge it with the mophie wireless charging vent mount with MagSafe that holds your iPhone securely where you can see it. This wireless charger comes with an optional offset extension arm that holds the phone above or below the vent, and a 20W USB-C car adapter that delivers up to 15W of fast wireless charging speed.

Durable water bottles for hydration

You need adequate water to keep your body cool and hydrated during your time outdoors. Invest in a high-quality water bottle that’s portable and maintains your preferred water temperature. While water bottles can be made from a variety of materials, kitchen-grade stainless steel is often the material of choice for its performance and durability. For a futuristic spin on hydration, consider a smart water bottle that reminds you to drink and tracks the amount of water you’ve consumed so you know you’re primed to feel your best.

Travel chargers for flexibility

ZAGG recently found that 89% of people consider a portable charger or power bank an essential when traveling. Fortunately, charging when out and about is easy with the mophie 3-in-1 travel charger with MagSafe that keeps each device in its designated space and charging on contact. With three charging spots you can get all your Apple devices primed for your outings, and when you’re done, it folds up into a light, convenient carrying case.

Solar-powered flashlights

Even if you’re not planning on being outdoors into the evening, packing a trustworthy flashlight in your car and in your backpack is a smart idea. Modern options with solar technology mean you can charge your device simply by placing it in the sun, which works even on cloudy days. This can bring you peace of mind that you’ll have light no matter what — whether skies grow dark due to a storm, you get lost or you need to signal for help. Look for options that come with additional features such as a compass or the ability to flash in an emergency.

Power stations for big energy

Sometimes you need big power to keep up with big outdoor adventures. The mophie powerstation plus has a USB-C PD port that puts out up to 20W of fast-charging power for your mobile devices. It also conveniently includes two integrated charging cables — Lightning and USB-C — so you always have the right charging cable for your device. Need even more? Upgrade to the powerstation pro AC, which can charge four devices at once and includes a fast-charging USB-C PD port, a USB-C port and a USB-A port. Charge your most demanding devices, like laptops and tablets, with 100W AC output.

For more inspiration and tech gear that fuels outdoor fun, visit ZAGG.com.

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5 expert tips to help you prioritize your pet’s health

2023-05-25T10:05:00

(BPT) – A healthy pet doesn’t happen by accident. Even a dog or cat without preexisting health conditions needs their owner’s help to live their best life and maintain their well-being. Check out these five tips from pet experts at Purina who explain how to prioritize your pet’s health to keep your four-legged companion happy and healthy.

1. Provide complete and balanced nutrition

Ensuring your pet is receiving proper nutrition is key. “Many pet foods on the market today are meant to be the only source of nutrition for pets,” said Jason Gagné, DVM, DACVIM (Nutrition), Veterinary Technical Communications. “That’s why it’s critical that they’re 100 percent complete and balanced for the intended life stage.

When you see “complete & balanced” on your pet’s food, it means that it provides your pet the right amount of all essential nutrients and in the right proportions that their bodies need.

2. Get plenty of exercise

Nothing strengthens the bond between you and your pet like doing something energetic together. Whether you take your dog for a walk in a place you both love or play a new game with your cat, spending quality time together is top of the list when it comes to showing your pet you love them and care for their well-being. Not only are pets kept active, but pet owners also reap the health benefits here.

3. Take care of their skin and coat

Brushing your pet isn’t just for looks. Taking care of your dog’s skin and coat is important for your pup’s health. “A dog’s skin and coat is their largest organ and protects their bones, muscles and other organs,” says Gagné. “It also plays a vital role maintaining body temperature.”

Using a supplement like EverRoot Skin & Coat oil is a great option if your dog has sensitive skin, as it includes skin-loving nutrients like MCTs, vitamin E, DHA & EPA.

4. Teach them new skills

Investing time in your pet is a wonderful way to show them how much you care, and it’s another great way to care for their physical and mental health. “Teaching new skills will help keep their minds sharp, is a great form of entertainment and can incorporate physical activity as well,” said Dr. Ragen McGowan, PhD, Animal Behavior Scientist. “Interactive puzzle toys for dogs or food maze bowls for cats and dogs are great ways to keep them mentally fit.”

5. Consider using supplements

To make sure you’re doing everything you can to keep your pet as healthy as possible, consider using supplements to help address their specific needs.

Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements offers options to help with a variety of circumstances pet parents may encounter. For example, FortiFlora is a probiotic supplement that contains a safe and effective strain of beneficial bacteria to promote normal intestinal microflora, which means digestive and immune support for cats and dogs.

“If your dog or cat is displaying anxious behaviors, ask your veterinarian about Calming Care, a probiotic supplement that helps pets maintain calm behavior and cope with external stressors,” said McGowan. And for owners who feel their cat could use help staying hydrated, Hydra Care is a nutrient-enriched water which has been shown to increase total liquid intake when compared to cats consuming only water and dry food.*

To find more products that support pet health, visit ProPlanVetDirect.com and EverRoot.com.

*Cats must consume at least 2 oz per 5 lbs of bodyweight daily for benefit.

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Worried about hurricane season? Here’s how to protect your backyard pool

2023-05-25T07:01:00

(BPT) – If you live in hurricane-affected areas of the country, and you own a pool, it’s important to know how to best protect your pool investment. Taking a few simple steps before a hurricane hits can leave the pool in better shape after the storm passes, and may help you avoid the worst of the damage. While learning how to prepare your pool for a hurricane, take some time to review the steps you should take afterward, so you can enjoy your pool once again.

Preparing for a hurricane

Don’t just guess what might help your pool during a storm. These tips come from the experts at Leslie’s, who help homeowners care for their pools in any weather.

  • Don’t lower the water level: Elevated water tables caused by rain and flooding can pop a pool out of the ground. Keeping it full weighs it down.
  • Protect equipment: Turn off power and cover electrical components in tightly sealed, waterproof plastic. If flooding is expected, disconnect ground-level electrical items, such as the pump, and temporarily store them somewhere elevated and dry.
  • Prepare the area: Remove or secure loose items that could blow away or fall into the pool (chairs, tables, pool toys, etc.). Although tempting, don’t put furniture or other large objects into the pool. This can cause staining and damage to pool surfaces after the storm passes.
  • Add chlorine: Superchlorinating your pool before a storm can help fight off contaminants introduced into the water, and will come in handy if you’re without power for a few days.
  • Keep the pool uncovered: During a hurricane, large debris and high winds can easily ruin your pool cover. You’ll likely get debris into your pool, regardless of whether it’s covered or not — so protect your cover by leaving it off the pool.

Cleaning up after a hurricane

When the storm has passed and you have the “all clear” to return home and resume normal activities, follow these steps to get your pool safe to enjoy with your family once again.

Don’t completely drain the pool: Again, elevated water tables following a severe storm event may cause damage to an inground pool. If necessary, you can lower the water level to its normal position (halfway up the skimmer) with the help of a submersible pump or by backwashing the filter (once you get the equipment up and running).

In most cases, it’s possible to clean up what you have, and the following tips will help you get your sparkling pool back. On the other hand, if you’re dealing with ocean contamination or a situation where the water is not recoverable, always consult with a pool service professional first to avoid permanently damaging the pool structure.

Remove leaves and large debris: Use a skimmer net or leaf rake to scoop out as much debris as possible. Clean out the pump strainer and skimmer baskets.

Restore power to equipment: Reconnect equipment, remove waterproofing measures, and inspect all equipment for signs of impact or water damage. If your equipment is dry and appears to be in good condition, you can restore the power when it’s safe to do so. If not, seek the advice of a pool service professional.

Circulation and filtration: If you’re able to run the pump and filter system, run it 24/7 until the water turns clear again. If the water is especially dirty, you may need to clean the filter a few times since it may quickly fill with debris.

  • While the pump is running, brush and vacuum the walls and floor. You may need to do this a few times, depending on the pool’s condition. An automatic pool cleaner can help.
  • Balance and shock the pool. As soon as you’re able to use the pump, add chlorine to the water to keep contaminants under control. Balancing the water first is ideal, but may not be feasible for extremely soiled pools. In these cases, add the chlorine first, then balance later. Most local pool stores offer professional water testing to help you gauge the status of your water chemistry. Leslie’s offers free in-store AccuBlue® water tests, which precisely measure 10 water chemistry factors and provide step-by-step recommendations for recovering your post-storm pool water.
  • Use enzymes and clarifiers to help clear up the water faster. Severe storms can bring lots of microscopic debris into the water and make it cloudy. Use enzymes and clarifiers to help clear up the water faster.

Following these steps before and after a hurricane should help you keep your pool in good shape — or at least help restore water conditions quickly — so you can get back to your normal routine.

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Mental Health Awareness Month: What to Know About Schizophrenia

2023-05-24T08:01:00

(BPT) – This article was sponsored and developed by Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc.

Mental health issues impact many families in the country. One in five adults in the U.S. experiences a mental health event every year, and more than half of all Americans will be diagnosed with a mental health condition at some point in their lives.1,2 In May, Mental Health Awareness Month focuses our attention on those affected by mental health challenges.

Mental Health Awareness Month was established in 1949 to increase awareness of the importance of mental health and to support those living with mental illness. The month is also a time to highlight the need for new treatment options that are critical to lessen the personal, social and economic toll of these disorders.

May 24 is World Schizophrenia Day, when we recognize a mental health condition that impacts 24 million people globally.3 Schizophrenia is a serious and complex disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels and behaves. The symptoms of schizophrenia fall into three categories: positive symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations; negative symptoms such as social withdrawal and an absence of emotions; and cognitive symptoms characterized by difficulties paying attention, processing information and making decisions.4 As one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, schizophrenia often results in significant emotional burden for those who experience symptoms, as well as their family and friends.3,5

One young man recalled that his “friends and family suddenly realized my behavior was off, but I wasn’t fully aware of what was happening.” After he was diagnosed with adult-onset schizophrenia and had begun taking medication, “I started to see for myself that what I was experiencing, the television talking to me or the radio referring to me by name, was not normal. For me, it had become normalized because I had been in psychosis for several months or years, if not longer.” Such situations are not uncommon, with only about 31 percent of people with psychosis receiving specialist mental health care.6

World Schizophrenia Day is dedicated to raising awareness about this serious disorder and the need for new treatments.

Traditional treatment options for schizophrenia include the use of antipsychotic medications that have been associated with metabolic syndrome as well as neurologic symptoms.7 However, approximately 30 percent of patients living with schizophrenia in the U.S. fail to respond to currently available antipsychotic therapies.8 Additionally, at least 40 percent of patients report bothersome side effects with their current antipsychotic medications.9,10

The young man went on to say, “I’m optimistic and hopeful that better treatments for schizophrenia are in the pipeline. My hope is that we have treatments that treat a broader swath of the population more safely and more effectively, and that treat the more difficult-to-alleviate symptoms such as the cognitive or negative symptoms.”

Neurocrine Biosciences is dedicated to developing potentially life-changing treatments for patients with unmet medical needs, including schizophrenia. It has multiple compounds that employ novel mechanisms that are in development targeting various aspects of this disorder. These include compounds currently in Phase 3 and Phase 2 clinical studies.

Neurocrine Biosciences is a leading neuroscience company that is dedicated to supporting people impacted by schizophrenia — on World Schizophrenia Day and every day. The company is investigating potential treatments to address the unmet needs of those living with schizophrenia and other mental health conditions.

Learn more about schizophrenia, including advocacy resources, here.

REFERENCES

  1. Mental health by the numbers. National Alliance on Mental Illness. Updated June 2022. Accessed March 3, 2023. https://www.nami.org/mhstats
  2. Kessler RC, Angermeyer M, Anthony JC, et al. Lifetime prevalence and age-of-onset distributions of mental disorders in the World Health Organization’s World Mental Health Survey Initiative. World Psychiatry. 2007;6(3):168-176.
  3. Schizophrenia. World Health Organization. Accessed March 3, 2023. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/schizophrenia
  4. What is Schizophrenia? American Psychiatric Association. Accessed March 3, 2023. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/schizophrenia/what-is-schizophrenia
  5. Schizophrenia. National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed March 3, 2023. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/schizophrenia
  6. Jaeschke K et al. Global estimates of service coverage for severe mental disorders: findings from the WHO Mental Health Atlas 2017 Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2021;8:e27. doi:10.1017/gmh.2021.19
  7. Schizophrenia: Diagnosis & treatment. Mayo Clinic. Accessed March 3, 2023. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/schizophrenia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354449
  8. Quarantelli M, Palladino O, Prinster A, et al. Patients with poor response to antipsychotics have a more severe pattern of frontal atrophy: a voxel-based morphometry study of treatment resistance in schizophrenia. Biomed Res Int. 2014; 2014:325052. doi:10.1155/2014/325052
  9. Cascade E, Kalali AH, Mehra S, Meyer JM. Real-world data on atypical antipsychotic medication side effects. Psychiatry (Edgmont). 2010;7(7):9-12.
  10. Conley RR, Kelly DL. Management of treatment resistance in schizophrenia. Biol Psychiatry. 2001;50(11):898-911. doi:10.1016/S0006-3223(01)01271-9

This article was sponsored and developed by Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc.

©2023 Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. All Rights Reserved. CAP-PIP-US-0052 04/2023

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Whether you’re looking for a new job or trying to set your career on a new trajectory, here’s where you need to start

2023-05-24T15:31:00

(BPT) – Anyone who has lived through the last few years knows how dramatically the world of work has changed — and how it continues to evolve in ways that are not always predictable. As advanced technology, business environments and the ways people work are all hurtling toward the future, it stands to reason that employees and employers alike are constantly reevaluating what’s next in terms of their needs, goals, and ambitions. If you’re one of the many professionals currently looking for the next great opportunity to advance your career during these complex times, you’ll want the right partner to help you develop and implement your career plan.

To help you get started, Dexian, a new enterprise brand built on the combined legacies of leaders in the staffing, IT, and workforce solutions industry — including DISYS, Signature Consultants, D2M, and others — is bringing together the best talent, technology and top businesses around the world to create trajectory-changing outcomes that help everyone fulfill their ambitions and achieve new levels of success.

“The launch of Dexian reflects a forever-changed world of work that requires new, focused solutions to new modes of work,” said Maruf Ahmed, DISYS president and COO. “It’s not just the way we work, where we work and how we work that has changed. If we can do right by our employees, our clients and our consultants, we are in the business for good.”

Dexian partners with hundreds of leading organizations every year to help modernize their workforce with scalable, specialized talent who bring ingenuity and experience and are ready to help support key programs, eliminate technology barriers, and accelerate digital transformation. If you’re looking to further your career and work with some of the most prestigious companies, here are some of the ways that Dexian can help you prepare for and accomplish your next great career move.

Train for the future of work

No matter where you currently are in your career, the fast-changing nature of technology means that there will always be more to learn. To help you stay up-to-date and to continue growing in your career, Dexian provides top-notch training opportunities including upskilling and reskilling through virtual learning, bootcamps and advanced workshops.

Develop a personalized career plan

To optimize your next career move, it’s best to have a concrete, well-thought-out plan, rather than simply bouncing from position to position. Your skills, your experiences, your talents and your ambitions are all unique to you, so your career path needs to reflect that, too. Specialist advisors at Dexian can help you with creating and executing your personal, bespoke career plan. You’ll receive agent-like support and career guidance every step of the way, whether you’re looking for consulting opportunities or a permanent position.

Find not just a job, but a position curated for you

To achieve success today, it’s not just about finding someone to fill a position — it’s about finding the right solution, curating the best talent and the best opportunities, to create the perfect fit. In order to reach your personal career goals, you’ll want to partner with a team that works with top-tier businesses as your trusted advisor — a team not only committed to finding you a job, but one that is also focused on delivering a bespoke fit for you, your career and for the company you’ll be working for.

Dexian puts their candidates first. One of the many benefits of working with Dexian is the access that you will have to clients working in all industries across the globe — and the opportunity to help leverage technology to address core challenges and drive innovation for Dexian clients. And, as Dexian partners with companies to deliver tailored staffing and IT solutions that help drive their business forward, its career advisors identify opportunities that help execute on your personal career plan, working with you as needed to continue to up-skill and train so you can achieve your goals in your unique career trajectory.

“As the company that is in business for good, Dexian believes the most critical way for us to deliver on this promise is through the advanced workforce solutions we are providing today and will continue to innovate as we move forward into the future,” added Ahmed. “We work with talent to find the best jobs, and we work with clients to find the best talent, bringing organizations and individuals together so each can fulfill their ambitions and succeed.”

Ready to get started? Visit Dexian.com to learn more.

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5 ways for military families to stay safe online this PCS season

2023-05-24T20:01:00

(BPT) – Are you an active-duty service member or military spouse planning a permanent change of station? Now is the time to protect your family’s information online.

A third of the military — nearly half a million families — make a PCS move every year. According to the Federal Trade Commission, active-duty service members are three times more likely to be victims of digital theft than the general public.

While financial and identity theft can happen any time of year, military families are especially vulnerable when moving for a permanent change of station. Anyone managing a move risks sensitive data being stolen. In fact, personal information is shuffled from one location to another, leaving it accessible to movers, family members, dumpster divers, real estate agents and home buyers, contractors, appraisers and more. That’s why it’s critical to be proactive and secure your digital lives before a move so you don’t leave yourself open to digital attacks. Here are five ways to keep your family safe before, during and after relocation.

1. Don’t overshare on social media.

You may be tempted to share the excitement of your move online, but doing so can make you vulnerable. Avoid sharing information about your family’s relocation, or any personal information for that matter, on social media.

You may think sharing your new neighborhood, children’s school or duty station is harmless, but cybercriminals can use these tidbits of information to steal your identity. Even when you’ve settled into your new home, stay vigilant. Use caution when sharing information like your location, favorite sports team, children’s birthdays or any details that could help hackers guess your passwords.

2. Update passwords.

Speaking of passwords, you should update your passwords as you prepare to move. Even better, create complex passphrases with multiple digits, special characters and letters in various cases. Don’t pick phrases a stranger could guess by looking at your social media or publicly available information.

Even if you have a strong passphrase, don’t reuse it across multiple accounts. If a cybercriminal successfully breaches one of your accounts, they could use it to access the others with the same passphrase.

Finally, don’t write your passwords or passphrases down digitally or on paper. To make it easier to remember your credentials and keep them secure, consider using a password manager, like Aura’s, which alerts you when you need to change your password, if there has been a data leak or breach.

3. Keep track of your credit.

It’s important to monitor your credit and bank statements for suspicious activity, especially if you’re in the military. The FTC found that active-duty service members report problems with debt collectors and credit bureaus at more than twice the rate of other adults.

If you haven’t already, set up active-duty credit alerts with any of the three credit bureaus. This encourages lenders and creditors to take extra steps to verify your identity, making it more difficult for bad actors to open new credit lines in your name.

If you want to be extra safe, freeze your credit when you move so you don’t have to worry about it as you navigate your permanent change of station. If you see anything unusual, take action immediately.

4. Have “the digital talk” with your children.

According to Ipsos research, 21% of parents surveyed have never started a conversation with their children about online safety. However, those same parents were concerned that their children would be tricked into sending money to someone online (30%), ordering or over-ordering food (22%), making unauthorized purchases (31%) or spending money on online games without their consent (35%).

If you haven’t talked with your children about online safety, or it’s been a while since your last conversation, make sure to discuss it with them before your move. Set an example and talk with your children about online safety. Highlight the importance of keeping personal information private and not sharing it with strangers or on social media. Beyond identity theft, sharing information like where they go to school or where they frequently hang out can allow predators to stalk them.

5. Explore digital security solutions.

Simplify your digital safety before your move and beyond by exploring digital security solutions. Consider signing up for an all-in-one online security platform like Aura. This easy-to-use security solution keeps your and your family’s personal information, devices and finances safe from online threats.

Aura offers everything you need to proactively control your digital life and keep your finances and identity safe and secure. This includes lost wallet recovery, antivirus, VPN, multi-device protection and monitoring for credit, bank accounts, Social Security numbers, home and title use, and criminal and court records.

To thank military members, Veterans and their families for their service, Aura offers up to 50% off its protection plans, starting with a two-week free trial. Learn more by visiting https://aura.com/military.

Don’t wait for cybercriminals to strike. Using these five tips, you can help your family stay safe online before, during and after your permanent change of station.

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Travel Tips for Your Next Family Vacation

2023-05-23T09:31:00

(BPT) – Summer is the perfect time to travel as a family, and it’s never too early to think about your next trip. Between coordinating family activities with your work schedule, looking ahead to maximize hotel and flight deals, or researching the best excursions for the whole family, it’s always helpful to think ahead. As you plan your next family getaway, these tips will help ensure you—and your whole family—have the ultimate travel experience.

Pack Like a Pro

When traveling as a family, the necessities pile up quickly. Consider using packing cubes, doubling up children’s travel essentials into one bag, or vacuum sealing bags to help fit your things into a smaller carry-on. Be sure to check out airline baggage requirements ahead of time to ensure you don’t get hit with additional fees or costs when you get to the airport. For example, when flying Southwest®, bags fly free® (first and second checked bags, weight and size limits apply), so families have a little extra room for all their additional needs.

Leverage Credit Card Rewards and Benefits

Using a travel credit card is a great way to earn rewards on everyday spending throughout the year, as well as providing certain perks and benefits that can make future travel more convenient. If you choose the right credit card, you might even be able to optimize your travel from the second you leave home to when you touch back down from your trip, earning points all along the way.

Southwest Rapid Rewards™ Credit Cardmembers from Chase, for example, have access to opportunities to earn toward travel, like 2X points on Rapid Rewards® hotel and car rental partners. If car rentals aren’t in your plans, Cardmembers also earn 2X points on local transit and commuting purchases, including rideshare. Either way, your transportation will earn you more Rapid Rewards points towards a future vacation.

Prepare and Plan Travels and Itineraries

Timing is everything when it comes to planning summer travel. Costs and availability can fluctuate regularly depending on your destination’s peak seasons, especially while everyone is trying to take advantage of summer break. Think about what you and your family love to do to determine your destination and timing in advance, easing the stress of last-minute scheduling.

On top of planning departures and travel itineraries, factoring in time to check-in to the flight and get to the airport on time is an important step, especially when adding family to the equation. To ease this stress, the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus and Premier Credit Cards from Chase offer Cardmembers two EarlyBird Check-Ins® per year, providing the convenience of automatic check-in 36 hours ahead of the flight. Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Cardmembers can receive four Upgraded Boardings per year when available, resulting in a preferred boarding position and earlier access to store their carry-on luggage.

Between May 23 and June 26, 2023, new Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus, Premier, and Priority Credit Cardmembers can earn 60,000 points plus a 30% promotional code to use towards future travel (based on base fares when applied before taxes and fees) after spending $3,000 in the first three months from account opening. The promotional code expires October 31, 2024. Offers like this can give you and the family a massive head start on booking your dream vacation.

We all deserve a little rest, relaxation, and time with our families. Although traveling with the whole family can seem daunting, using these tips can ease the burden and help you travel like a pro this upcoming summer season.

*Accounts subject to credit approval. Restrictions and limitations apply. Cards are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. All Rapid Rewards rules and regulations apply and can be found at Southwest.com/rrterms.

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5 home cleaning hacks to save time, energy and the planet

2023-05-23T09:01:00

(BPT) – Everyone loves a clean home, but as the weather gets nicer, many of us want to spend less time sprucing up and more time enjoying summer with family and friends. This is when a few good cleaning hacks can come in handy.

In a recent Bona/Harris Poll online survey, most Americans (92%) noted they’d like some type of cleaning “hack” to save time and energy. To help get the job done faster and easier, consider these home cleaning tips and tricks. Bonus: They all take a greener approach to cleaning so you can feel good about your home and your impact on the planet.

Use ice to clean your garbage disposal

A lot of crud goes down your kitchen sink drain. If you have a garbage disposal, it can get dirty and stinky over time. The blades of the disposal system are dangerous to clean directly, so instead, toss in a few ice cubes and run the system for a minute. Better yet, freeze a bit of lemon or orange rind into the cubes to clean the blades and leave behind a fresh scent.

Steam clean the microwave

Instead of scrubbing a grimy microwave, use the power of steam. Place a cup of water in a large microwave-safe bowl or container like a glass measuring cup and add a splash of lemon juice for a citrus scent. Run on high for 3-5 minutes so the water steams the microwave and softens the food and grime. Carefully remove the container and wipe down the inside with a soft cloth — no scrubbing required.

Use biobased cleaners and reusable cloths

Avoid bringing toxins into your home by using biobased products like the new USDA Certified Biobased Bona All-Purpose Cleaner. As one of only a few 99% biobased surface cleaners available, it’s safe for all the surfaces in the home while still being tough on grease and grime. In addition, skip the wasteful paper towel by using washable and reusable microfiber cloths, like the Bona Microfiber Cleaning Cloths. These new cloths are customized for every cleaning chore — from the kitchen cloth’s tight zig zag weaves to catch food particles, to the bathroom cloth’s looser zig zag design to help clean hair and soap scum. Made from 80% post-consumer recycled material, these cleaning cloths can be washed and reused up to 300 times.

Soak shower heads in vinegar

There’s nothing like jumping into a shower and looking forward to a warm cascade of droplets, only to be met with a frantic spray with unsatisfying pressure. Over time, minerals in the water can build up on the shower head and block the flow. An easy solution is to remove the head and place in a bowl of vinegar. A quick soak loosens buildup that you can easily clean off with a small brush so your shower flows again.

Use baking soda to deodorize carpet and more

Baking soda is one of the most versatile natural cleaning ingredients. Known for its ability to absorb scents and deodorize, it’s great for cleaning tough spots around your home. Have a carpet that could use a refresh? Sprinkle baking soda on the carpet, let it sit for half an hour and then vacuum. You can also do this for other soft-surface areas of the home that are hard to deodorize, such as couches, chairs and mattresses.

These hacks help save time and energy cleaning, plus you can feel good that you’re being kind to the planet. The only thing left is to enjoy your summer time fun!