Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2024-08-08T11:05:00

(BPT) – As kids retreat back indoors after a long summer outside, back-to-school season provides a good opportunity for parents to revisit how their children are using social media to stay connected with their friends.

If heading back-to-school wasn’t already an emotional experience for kids, a new global survey commissioned by LG Electronics found social media can be a source of anxiety for young people. Almost half of the respondents (45%) reported their social media feeds consist of an equal or greater amount of negative rather than positive content. In fact, more than 1 in 4 (28%) claimed negative content on social media feeds has increased their anxiety, and 1 in 5 (20%) said it has made them unhappy.

While it can be normal to worry how social media impacts your child’s mental health — especially if you struggle to limit their time spent on social media — there are simple ways your child can adjust their feeds to provide more positive scrolling experiences.

Social media expert and information science professor Casey Fiesler, Ph.D., explains how algorithms affect the content everyone sees.

“Algorithms determine what users see on social media by predicting content they’re likely to engage with based on past engagement,” said Fiesler. “These algorithms can send anyone down specific niches — for good and bad. Research shows that it’s possible to quickly go down negative rabbit holes and encounter harmful content.”

How can you help your kids enjoy the positive benefits of social media — like connecting with friends and family, being entertained and sharing happy moments — without experiencing potential harm?

Here are concrete actions that can help your kids enjoy what’s good about social media.

Model good behavior

It’s often said kids pay more attention to what you do than what you say. With that in mind, consider how you use social media. Are you glued to your feed for hours? Do you vocalize negative content you’re seeing?

Notice how much you’re scrolling, and what you say about it. Can you share positive, upbeat content with your kids instead of the negative? If you do see something negative, consider how you communicate the feelings it brought up for you and why you chose not to interact with it.

Open the conversation

By talking about what you see on social media and how it makes you feel, you’re opening a conversation with your kids — and letting them know you’re there to listen when they have feelings about what they see.

Ask them what they enjoy about social media and what they don’t. What do they do when they encounter something that makes them uncomfortable or sad? Listening is crucial to keep communication channels open.

Find workable limits

While it may be impossible to completely prevent your kid from using social media, you can impose limits. Your home’s Wi-Fi router likely has features allowing you to control when your kids have access to the internet and the ability to ban sites. You may want to ensure they’re interacting with social media in common areas rather than spending too much time alone with internet access.

It’s also recommended to keep phones and other devices out of bedrooms, to limit social media exposure as well as promoting a good night’s sleep. Need kids to wake up early? Use an old-fashioned alarm clock.

How much control you impose will be based on your child’s age and other considerations unique to your family. Again, talking with your kids is the best way to ensure they know the pitfalls and red flags they should be aware of online.

Improve their feeds

LG is tackling negative content on social media by helping more people discover upbeat, positive and optimistic content through its new “Optimism Your Feed” playlist. This is a simple way to help reset your kids’ and your own social feeds, inviting more uplifting content you can feel good about.

“This is one way you can exert some control over what your social media algorithm serves you,” explained Fiesler. “When you engage with optimistic content, it’s kind of like telling the algorithm, ‘I want more of this,’ and as a result you might see more positive content the next time you start scrolling.”

The “Optimism Your Feed” playlist includes original content from global influencers and content creators known for their positive content like Victoria Browne, Tina Choi and Josh Harmon. Featuring 20 short-form videos, when interacted with, the playlist is designed to help pull more positive content into your feed. This is part of the Life’s Good campaign that LG introduced last year to inspire and encourage people to approach life with an optimistic attitude.

As social media continues to be an integral part of everyone’s lives, by being more conscious about what you and your kids interact with, you’ll be choosing to bring stronger optimism, balance and happiness to your lives this school year.

Explore the “Optimism Your Feed” playlist on LG’s global TikTok channel @lge_lifesgood and YouTube channel @LGGlobal.

2024-08-08T02:01:00

(BPT) – Cybercriminals are increasingly attacking rural hospitals across America, posing a direct threat to patients. For many Americans living in rural areas, the nearest emergency room may be miles and miles away – and in an emergency, every second counts. Cyberattacks can disrupt the essential operations of hospitals, leaving people at risk.

These attacks are increasing in number: In 2023, the healthcare sector reported more ransomware attacks than any other critical infrastructure sector, and attacks involving ransomware against the healthcare sector were up nearly 130%.

Cybercriminals are also increasingly targeting rural communities, where digital defenses may not be as robust due to resource constraints. These attacks can be devastating, particularly to smaller, independent hospitals with limited means of protecting themselves.

When a rural hospital falls victim to a cyberattack, it’s not just the institution that suffers; the entire community feels the ripple effect. Just last year, an Illinois hospital permanently shut its doors partly due to a devastating ransomware attack. NBC News reported that because of the hospital closure, some residents are now more than thirty minutes away from emergency services.

Here are three ways people in rural communities can help:

1. Strengthen rural hospital cybersecurity

Hospitals need tools to protect themselves. That’s why the White House along with cybersecurity experts like Microsoft, are providing free and low-cost resources available to every rural hospital across the nation. This includes advanced security products along with free cybersecurity assessments and free training for frontline and IT staff. Rural hospitals can sign up for the program or learn more at nonprofits.TSI.microsoft.com/security-program-for-rural-hospitals.

2. Explore a cybersecurity career

America is facing a cybersecurity skills crisis. There simply aren’t enough people with the skills to defend against cybersecurity attacks: There are nearly half a million job openings requesting cybersecurity skills, but there are only 85 cybersecurity workers available for every 100 cybersecurity jobs demanded by employers, according to Cyberseek.

Anyone, anywhere can take advantage of the opportunity and start a career in cybersecurity. Building the skills necessary is easier than ever, especially given the free classes and tools available. For example, the Career Essentials in Cybersecurity learning path from LinkedIn and Microsoft allows you to earn professional certification in the field.

3. Protect yourself

Rural communities can protect themselves by strengthening vital infrastructure and hiring cybersecurity professionals, but the most important step is personal. Whether you work in a hospital or elsewhere, it’s critical to understand cybersecurity threats and prepare yourself.

Cyberscams are a pervasive threat in our increasingly connected world, and no one is immune to their risk. These scams, often disguised as tech support, prey on the unsuspecting, exploiting trust and causing harm. It’s essential to be vigilant and informed to protect yourself and your loved ones on how you can identify these online con artists. By staying aware and cautious, you can defend against the tactics of cybercriminals and keep your digital life secure.

Learn more about the threats to rural hospitals at nonprofits.TSI.microsoft.com/security-program-for-rural-hospitals.

2024-08-07T05:01:00

(BPT) – Spend a few days in a waterfront town, vacation destination or golf community, and you’ll likely see a surge of local electric vehicles on neighborhood streets. The street-legal, low-speed vehicle category extends the fun, yet practical vehicles to suburbia and urban downtowns as the market for sustainable transportation grows. Low-speed vehicles (LSVs) offer a safe, more efficient and more enjoyable drive– especially when highway speeds and 300 miles of range aren’t required for daily drives.

Here’s what you need to know about low-speed EVs and why you should buy one.

What is an LSV?

LSVs are a specific, federally designated class of motor vehicles, not to be confused with golf carts. These elevated EVs have significant safety upgrades and they are generally street-legal across the country on roads with a posted speed limit of 35 mph or less. Perfect for everyday errands.

What sets these EVs apart?

These head-turning EVs are stylish and fun to drive. Flexible charging can plug into any standard 110V outlet with fast-charging options available when needed. And with battery packs providing upwards of 100 miles, LSVs have more than enough range for multiple trips in a day. GEM LSVs even offer an optional rooftop solar panel that further increases range and reduces reliance on the grid.

Unlike a golf cart, LSVs are legal after dusk, just like a full-size EV, but at a much lower purchase price. A fully enclosed cab with hard doors and automotive-grade windows provides comfort and peace of mind from weather while containing kids, gear and groceries. Or remove the doors for a breezy, open-air ride. They are also incredibly durable and easy to clean, so don’t worry about dirty feet, sports bags or potted plants for the garden.

Where can LSVs go?

Business and residential areas in every U.S. state have speed limits between 25-35 mph, making LSVs an increasingly viable, safe and community-friendly option. Check out the GEM GO web-app for an easy-to-use map of posted speed limits legal for LSVs. And many cities are going even further and adopting Vision Zero’s 20 is Plenty policy in an effort to curb traffic deaths by posting 20 mph speed limits.

Additionally, in populated urban and community environments with congested roads, LSVs arrive at the same time as high-speed, full-size vehicles. While the compact footprint takes up less space on crowded roadways, with a variety of models and seating options, GEM electric LSVs come in two-, four- or six-seat models and provide an automotive-like driving experience for enhanced comfort.

Top reasons to buy an LSV

1. Eco-Friendly Transportation
2. Cost-Effective Operation
3. Ideal for Local Trips
4. Fun for the Whole Family
5. Ease of Parking
6. Safety Features
7. Promotes Community Interaction
8. Incentives and Benefits
9. Versatility and Customization

How much are LSVs?

Like any vehicle, there is a range. Starting MSRPs for GEM LSVs are e2: $15,240, e4: $17,490 and e6: $21,240. At a cost-per-mile of just $.03, they are as inexpensive as it comes, drawing less from the grid than full-size EVs and delivering a 30-50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions over combustion vehicles.

Save your SUVs and full-speed sedans for the highway. The experience of cruising in an LSV offers a sense of calm, ease and fun that’s often missing from the fast-paced world of conventional driving — making it more than just a practical choice and providing an opportunity to Reimagine your Ride.

2024-08-07T10:01:00

(BPT) – For 35 years, Polly Pocket™ has always been, well, pocket-sized — that is, until now. This summer, Polly’s iconic home straight out of a ‘90s dream is now open for an adventure of life-sized proportions, only on Airbnb.

To celebrate Polly Pocket’s 35th birthday, the pocket-sized doll is becoming an Airbnb host and opening her vintage-themed, two-story Slumber Party Fun compact, bringing to life a tiny world where imagination has no bounds. The pad is packed with nostalgic surprises to take guests right back to their childhoods while getting the 411 on the pocket-sized life.

“I can’t wait for you to visit and help celebrate my birthday in my most epic compact ever,” said Polly. “Let’s have some serious slumber party fun in my hometown of Littleton, where we make the ordinary extraordinary. There’s adventure to be had from my closet full of nostalgic fashion fun to the surprises I’ve left hidden around the compact. The fun is endless!”

About the Stay

Located in the quaint town of Littleton, Massachusetts, Polly’s 42-foot-tall compact takes “tiny but mighty” to a new level. Guests can request to book one of three one-night stays occurring September 12 to 14 for four guests each, at $89 per person — a nod to Polly’s debut on the scene in 1989. As they step into Polly’s world, guests can:

• Explore every nook and cranny of the iconic compact, where a few hidden surprises await
• Get ready at Polly’s vanity, stuffed with nostalgic hair and nail accessories of her favorite colors. Did someone call for press-on nails?
• Check out the retro fridge and craft the snack-filled picnic every ‘90s kid wanted
• Try the doll life on for size in Polly’s closet, where her most iconic throwback looks hang waiting to be worn in joyful hues and glossy silhouettes in the beloved signature gummy texture
• Kick back in the living room with some popcorn, a movie and plenty of pillows
• Doze off on Polly’s pull-out couch or cozy up in her life-sized Action Park Tent just 10 feet away from the compact after filling up on slumber party fun
• Make custom, Polly-approved charm bracelets to match with your BFF

How to Request to Book

Ready to try adventure on for size? Those ready to become a doll for the day can request to book¹ a one-night stay at Polly Pocket’s compact starting August 21 at 6:00am PT at airbnb.com/pollypocket through August 28 at 11:59pm PT when request periods close. Guests are responsible for their own travel to and from Littleton, Massachusetts.

But wait, there’s more! For any dolls and ’90s fans who are unable to book the stay, there’s another opportunity to experience Polly Pocket’s life-sized compact. Polly is also opening her home for 21 experiences for up to 12 guests each to embark on a day-time adventure fit for a doll from September 16 to October 6. Those interested can request to book this experience starting August 21 6:00am PT at airbnb.com/pollypocketplaydate through August 28 at 11:59pm PT when request periods close. Guests are responsible for their own travel to and from Littleton, Massachusetts.

Interested in other Airbnb Icons? Learn more at airbnb.com/icons.

¹ Brought to you by Airbnb. There is no cost to submit a request. See full rules for terms, including age and geographic eligibility, and how data is used.

2024-08-07T10:01:00

(BPT) – If you struggle to maintain smooth skin, free from unwanted hair all summer long, you might wonder how champions from a Team USA athlete to a top dermatologist manage it.

Team USA track and field athlete Tara Davis-Woodhall is competing in Paris this summer for her second Olympics, and she has a go-to hair removal brand she’s been relying on since her teens … it’s Nair, and she is loving the recently reformulated Nair™ products, now made with fresh scents for a pleasant experience that helps make the most of your skin.

A champion’s choice

Taking care of her skin so it always looks and feels great is one task Davis-Woodhall is happy to check off her list of things to do, so she can focus all her attention on this summer’s goal: training and competing in the Olympics.

“Oat Milk and Vanilla Body Cream is my favorite scent,” said Davis-Woodhall. “I love how it smells, and how quick and easy it is to use.”

For your busy summer — even if it doesn’t involve international travel and global Olympic competition — you can champion your skin by trying reformulated Nair products that work like magic: Now you see hair, now you don’t! Best yet, the products also help your skin look, feel and smell wonderful.

Not your mother’s hair remover

While your mom may have shown you how to use it, Nair has been perfecting hair removal for over 80 years and has evolved to meet today’s needs, improving care for your skin.

In addition to fabulous new scents, today’s products are free of dyes, parabens, phthalates and sulfates — and they’re dermatologist-tested. You can choose from these products to help you achieve your flawless summer look:

• Oat Milk and Vanilla Body Cream: A mix of natural extracts combining notes of creamy coconut milk, vanilla bean and sweet almond, with hints of fresh strawberry and soft musk, to give Tara Davis-Woodhall’s favorite hair remover an irresistible scent.
• Sensitive Coconut Oil Shower Cream Hair Remover with Natural Coconut Oil and Vitamin E: If you have sensitive skin, you’ll appreciate having blade-free, hair-free, carefree skin that stays smooth and touchable days longer than by shaving. The new fragrance technology uses natural extracts to blend notes of creamy coconut, warm amber and clean musk for a soothing scent.
• Prep & Smooth Face with Hydrating Watermelon Extract & Hyaluronic Acid: This one-step formula helps you create the perfect canvas for your skincare and makeup application, thanks to its easy, touch-free, mess-free way to exfoliate skin and remove fuzz. Infused with skin-loving ingredients and featuring an ergonomic applicator, this revolutionary hydrating formula can transform your routine — and boasts a fresh watermelon scent.

Skincare advice from a skin champion

To address your concerns about hair removal, board-certified dermatologist and skin champion Dr. Tia Paul answers a few frequently asked questions and highlights the benefits of going bladeless.

Do you need to be careful trying new products?

“If it’s a product you haven’t used before, always do a ‘patch test,'” Paul said. “Everyone has different sensitivities to ingredients, so it’s best to try the product on a small patch of skin for 5 minutes or whatever the instructions tell you. Then, wait one week to 10 days to ensure you don’t have a reaction. If you don’t see or feel any irritation, redness, swelling or itchiness, you can go ahead and use the product.”

Should you ditch your razor?

“You bet. The smooth, hair-free skin achieved with Nair™ products lasts days longer than shaving, because Nair hair removal creams chemically remove hair below the skin’s surface,” explained Paul. “Shaving physically removes it just above the surface. For even longer-lasting results, try Nair waxes. The results can last up to 4 weeks. Think of what you can do with all the extra free time!”

How can hair removal products actually benefit your skin?

“In addition to ditching blades that may irritate your skin, Nair’s products are much gentler, and contain ingredients designed for each specific use (such as face, legs and the bikini area), including vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, Moroccan argan oil, cocoa butter, aloe and oat milk that can help exfoliate, hydrate and nourish your skin,” Paul said. “So, beyond hair removal, you’re getting extra benefits from each of these products that can improve and enhance how your skin looks and feels.”

Ready to ditch the blades and enjoy long-lasting, smooth and scent-sational skin? Visit NairCare.com or follow Nair on Instagram: @naircare to find your next favorite products to help champion your skin.

2024-08-07T09:31:00

(BPT) – It’s time for the yearly back-to-school excursion that almost every parent is familiar with — shopping for school supplies — and Crayola is here to help you get ready for a successful year ahead. Back-to-School season is in high gear and according to a national survey by TeacherLists, 84% of parents are likely to purchase teacher requested items found on the Back-to-School list*. Plus, many parents expect to make three or more shopping trips to hunt for deals and sales throughout the season.

Back-to-School shopping is a ritual that evokes nostalgia in parents and excitement in their kids, and no brand is more front-and-center when it comes to school supplies than Crayola. Last year, more than 37 million crayon boxes of Crayola 24ct Crayons were sold during back-to-school seasonal shopping thereby ranking them as the number one, non-grocery product within the U.S. retail market**. As you prepare for your kids going back to school, make sure to grab Crayola classics 24ct Crayons, 10ct Broad Line Markers, and 12ct Colored Pencils for a colorful year of learning!

Along with these classic Back-to-School coloring favorites, this trusted brand also provides a range of products designed to prepare kids for a creative and imaginative school year. Let’s check some out:

NEW! Color Swirl

Unleash creativity this school season with new Color Swirl. Available in 24ct Swirl Crayons, 10ct Twistables Swirl Crayons, 12ct Swirl Colored Pencils, Color Swirl is perfect for colorful adventures. Color variety enables children to express themselves in an assortment of colors. Multi-Color technology combines between three and four colors inside a single stick for unique swirled laydowns. The coolest coloring products for back to school this season!

Colors of the World

Crayola Colors of the World continues to help children color the world around them. The 24 formulated colors reflect more than 40 global skin tone shades and possess realistic skin tone names such as Light Golden, Deep Almond and Medium Deep Rose, to help kids more easily find the color that best represents them and the world as they see it. Add a pack of 24ct Skin Tone Crayons to your baskets for an expressive coloring experience this year.

And, when you’re not in the aisles grabbing your favorite Crayola products and new coloring favorites, enrich learning year-round with non-product learning tools like Crayola Education Thinking Sheets. Download and print Imagine What You’ll Learn and Create Friendships Thinking Sheets to give your kids fun activities to do before school starts and get them excited about the coming year.

Crayola can ignite your child’s creativity this school year. Find these supplies and more online or at retailers near you! To learn more, visit Crayola.com.

*TeacherLists 2024 Parent Back-to-School Shopping Survey, conducted in June 2024 included responses from 3,595 families with children in grades PreK-12. TeacherLists is the single national source of verified school supply lists.

**Source: Numerator TruView 7/9-9/16/2023 (Non-food category)

2024-08-07T07:03:00

(BPT) – Have you ever had the pleasure of tasting genuine Canadian snow crab? Known for its sweet and salty flavors, this delicacy often leaves you craving more. However, it’s not found in many sushi rolls, and the alternatives that are often used don’t quite hit the mark.

So, what exactly does it take for this prized ingredient to journey from the sea to your sushi roll? Let’s explore how Canadian snow crab makes its way to your table (and your favorite sushi)!

Canadian snow crabs live in the depths of cold ocean waters off Canada’s coastlines. Fishermen catch these succulent crustaceans by placing pots (metal cages) in the crabs’ habitat.

Of course, not just any snow crab will do. Fishermen that follow responsible fishing practices only harvest male crabs above a certain weight and do not exceed the quotas set by Canada’s Department of Fisheries and Oceans. By doing so, they’re helping preserve the population and environment for future snow crab harvests so you can continue to enjoy snow crab sushi season after season.

Once caught, these crabs are transported to restaurants, where they’re expertly prepared and served to delight your taste buds!

Taste the difference

Sustainably caught snow crab isn’t just good for the environment. How crab is caught impacts the ingredient quality and, ultimately, taste. That’s why Kura Revolving Sushi Bar restaurants choose premium, ethically sourced Canadian snow crab, ensuring a delicious choice for sushi lovers like you!

To highlight this amazing ingredient Kura Sushi USA, Inc. has crafted a new Snow Crab California Roll. Made with quality ingredients, this new offering is packed with coastal flavor!

The roll is made with mouthwatering snow crab swooped from Canadian Pacific waters, fused with avocado wrapped in sushi rice and dried seaweed topped with sesame. You’ll enjoy every bite of this crustacean creation that’s had an exciting journey from tide to table.

Food and fun, all in one place

What sets Kura Revolving Sushi Bar apart from other restaurants? The restaurant chain offers a unique eater-tainment experience, blending interactive dining with authentic Japanese cuisine. At each of their 64 locations across the U.S., you’ll enjoy an innovative dining experience with trailblazing systems that have been passed down and improved upon since its first restaurant opened in Japan in 1977.

Experience the taste of the new Snow Crab California Roll, as well as a variety of more than 100 offerings, including noodles, sides and desserts. Each dish is prepared using real, premium ingredients free of artificial sweeteners, seasonings, preservatives and colorings.

Whether you’re a sushi connoisseur or a new fan, you can enjoy the seafood cuisine brought to you on a double-layered conveyor belt, which consists of a revolving sushi bar (bottom layer) and an express belt (top layer). Food isn’t the only thing you’ll find at this engaging restaurant. You’ll also see prizes, drink delivery robots and more!

“As we continue to innovate and surprise our guests with new menu offerings, the Snow Crab California Roll stands out as an excellent example of our commitment to sustainability and culinary excellence,” said Hideto Sugimoto, Kura Sushi USA’s SVP of Supply Chain and Menu Development. “We are dedicated to crafting memorable dining experiences and pushing the boundaries of creativity and quality.”

Are you ready to taste a delight from the sea? The Snow Crab California Roll is available for purchase at a Kura Revolving Sushi Bar near you and online for pickup and delivery orders. To learn more about this roll and new offerings to come, visit KuraSushi.com.

2024-08-06T10:01:00

(BPT) – As summer winds down and families look to squeeze in one last adventure before the weather cools down, Americans are capitalizing on the freedom to travel on their own terms and avoid airline hassles. According to the latest data from Hankook Tire’s Gauge Index, 91% of Americans planned to drive for their vacations or road trips over the summer. Whether it’s exploring national parks, visiting relatives, or embarking on cross-country adventures, driving offers flexibility and freedom that other modes of travel cannot match.

The preference for driving highlights several factors, including the ability to control one’s itinerary, avoid crowded airports, and enjoy the journey itself. For many, the open road represents adventure and discovery. Families, in particular, find road trips to be a convenient and cost-effective way to travel, allowing for spontaneous stops and detours that can create memorable experiences.

Here are four ways Americans are preparing for their road trips, from selecting a vehicle to ensuring it’s ready to hit the open road.

Embracing long-distance travel

Americans are not just sticking to short day trip drives; many are preparing for lengthier journeys. The Gauge Index reveals that, this summer alone, 25% of Americans planned to drive more than 1,000 miles — for reference, that is approximately the distance from Portland to San Diego — with 17% planning to cover 1,000 to 2,000 miles and 8% anticipating journeys exceeding 2,000 miles. Such extensive travel plans highlight the need for dependable vehicles and robust tires to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Long-distance travel requires careful planning and preparation. Travelers should consider the reliability of their vehicles, the condition of their tires, and the overall readiness of their cars for extended periods on the road. Ensuring that the vehicle is in top condition can prevent breakdowns and delays, allowing for a smoother journey. Additionally, planning for rest stops, overnight stays, and route options can enhance the travel experience, making long distances more manageable and enjoyable.

Choosing the right ride

When it comes to choosing the right vehicle for a road trip, Americans favor practicality over fun. The Gauge Index found that 58% of Americans would prefer to drive a practical vehicle (such as a sedan) to their destination rather than a fun vehicle (like a convertible) that enhances the travel experience. The preference for practicality is particularly pronounced among Boomers, with 71% favoring more sensible vehicles. This trend suggests that for many travelers, reliability and comfort may outweigh the allure of a more entertaining or stylish ride.

Focus on durable tires

Part of ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey is making sure your vehicle is road-trip ready, and that includes having the correct tires. Durability in tires is crucial for long-distance travel, where road conditions can vary significantly. The Gauge Index reveals that when purchasing tires, Americans prioritize durability, with 30% indicating it as their primary consideration. Durable tires offer better resistance to wear and tear, providing a safer and more reliable driving experience. Price follows closely behind at 22%, while performance comes in third at 20%. The focus on price and performance also highlights the importance of finding a balance between cost-effectiveness and quality. By investing in high-quality tires, travelers can reduce the risk of issues on the road and enjoy a smoother ride.

Tire maintenance habits

Regular tire maintenance is crucial for road safety and optimal vehicle performance, and that is especially important before heading out for a long distance drive. However, the Gauge Index found only 47% of drivers check their tire pressure regularly, and only 28% check their tread regularly. A mere 20% check alignment regularly. As these maintenance habits are crucial for optimal tire performance and longevity, a quick and easy way to check the health of your tires is through the penny test: place a penny upside down in the center of the tread, and if you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time to replace the tires.

With the roads calling and adventures awaiting, these insights can help travelers make informed decisions about their vehicles and tires, ensuring they hit the road with confidence and peace of mind.

2024-08-06T09:49:00

(BPT) – If you have ever watched your children doing something at home that made you think to yourself, “I wonder how they learned to do that,” then you’ve witnessed “transfer of learning” — a process that takes previously introduced information or skills and applies them in a new situation. This action is useful for school-aged children when absorbing a variety of academic subjects, but toddlers and preschoolers also take life skills they’ve encountered in a child care setting and apply them at home.

Every day, children are learning principles through play that will help them develop lifelong skills. When young children demonstrate transfer of learning from their child care classroom to their play at home, parents can take an active role in encouraging it.

Whether it’s singing the rhyming song your children learned at school with them in the car or going to the bear exhibit at the zoo after they read a book about bears, there are many ways to facilitate the school-to-home connection. Experts at Kiddie Academy^® Educational Child Care recommend three specific methods to support this process.

1. Establish clear communication channels between parents and educators

The best approach to start helping your little ones build on the skills they’re learning at school is to make sure you’re communicating with their educators. Many child care facilities offer a daily report as a way for parents to stay informed about what their children are learning, in addition to hosting quarterly parent-teacher conferences. You might also spend a minute or two talking with your child’s caregivers at drop-off and pick-up times. All these moments offer parents the chance to check in and discuss their child’s learning, helping to pinpoint areas to focus on at home. It’s also an excellent opportunity for parents to share any concerns or special moments they’ve observed with the educator.

2. Introduce activities at home to expand on learned skills and do them together

Once parents have established an open line of communication with their child’s educator, the next step is fostering those skills learned from school at home. This can be as simple as recognizing a topic your child is learning at school, such as recycling, and then highlighting for your child the steps taken at home to recycle. Another great way is to identify your child’s interests and tailor activities to incorporate them. Does your child like coloring and is learning about kindness in school? Help your child draw pictures and give them to family members as a special gift.

3. Offer positive affirmation

Children respond well to encouragement from their parents and family caregivers. When your children demonstrate something organically at home from their day at school, recognize their efforts. You can say something like, “Is that a new song you’re singing? Can you teach it to me?” Not only will the positive words you speak to your children motivate them to continue what they are doing, they will help to build their confidence and self-worth as well. Be sure to name the skills and qualities you’re admiring out loud to better help your children internalize the feedback and associate positive emotions with the skills they’re learning.

It’s well-known that the greatest amount of brain development takes place in the first five years of a child’s life. So, using this time to focus on taking the life skills your children are discovering at school and applying them at home is beneficial to their lifelong learning.

2024-08-06T09:01:00

(BPT) – As engines roar and tires screech across the track, the Porsche Carrera Cup North America continues to captivate racing enthusiasts all over. The growth of motorsports culture and the fanfare surrounding the professionals behind the wheels has taken off thanks to the popularity of hit television programs, cutting-edge technology, and intense team rivalries.

This year, the momentum of the Carrera Cup teams on the track will be fueled by ExxonMobil and its Synergy Supreme+ premium gasoline as the official fuel of the series. And, whether it is powering racers around high intensity speedways, or keeping everyday drivers’ vehicles in top performance, Synergy Supreme+ premium gasoline keeps your engine 3x cleaner for better gas mileage.*

Tips from the professionals

The keys to performance success and safety on the road remain the same — professional racecar driver or not. Get the most out of your driving experience with these five tips from the Porsche Carrera Cup North America Championship leader, Loek Hartog:

Limit distractions: Maintaining a stable environment inside your car helps avoid any instability outside the car. While racecar drivers will do things like breathing exercises to stay calm, everyday drivers should mitigate distractions like loud music or phones to focus. Zeroing in on nothing but the road will allow for the smoothest driving experience.

Stay mentally sharp: Driving is as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one. During a race, professional drivers rely on their teams’ communication to help them avoid fatigue. You’ll often notice racers communicating with their pit crew or over the radio to discuss the car or racetrack’s conditions. While this information is helpful for their performance, it also assists their mental engagement during a race. For any long distances, plan breaks to disrupt your routine and stay engaged. Hydrate and eat well to avoid heavy foods that could lead to drowsiness.

Fuel up smarter: Make sure you are always putting high quality fuel into your car to get the most premium performance possible. We fuel up with Synergy Supreme+ premium gasoline on the track, and you can too! By downloading the Exxon Mobil Rewards + app to sign up for ExxonMobil Rewards+, you can find your nearest Exxon or Mobil station and use the app to earn points to save every time you fill up.

Plan your route ahead: Just like racecar drivers meticulously prepare for their tracks, planning your route in advance can give you a significant advantage. Familiarizing yourself with your route beforehand helps you stay focused and confident on the road while eliminating the distraction of relying solely on GPS. Being aware of potential hazards can help you avoid surprises and drive more confidently. One fun tactic racecar drivers often use to study and practice their tracks is VR simulators to ensure they’re prepared for every twist and turn. Apply this same level of preparation to your daily driving for a smoother, safer journey.

Drive on the defense: While a racecar driver will do things like avoid unnecessary lane changes and check their blind spots, the everyday driver can stay alert and on the defense by scanning the road ahead of you (10-15 seconds ahead) instead of staring in one place. Keeping an eye out for hazards and preparing by lane positioning and changing speed/gears is what makes defensive drivers the best drivers — both on and off the track.

Tips and practices such as these are what make a sport as exhilarating and exciting as motorsport racing possible. But these tips don’t just apply to the professionals. The everyday driver who employs these tactics from school drop-off to long road trips is far less likely to experience danger and collisions on the road.

Join the racing revolution

Now that you have what you need to be the best driver possible, you can enjoy the safety and relaxation of smooth driving — and save the thrill and excitement of motorsport racing for watching from the comfort of your home.

ExxonMobil and Porsche invite fans to buckle up and get ready to embrace the exhilarating fun and excitement that can only come from Motorsport racing. Be sure to follow @exxonmobilstations and @porschemotorsportnorthamerica on Instagram to stay updated on the latest news.

*Based on comparison of Synergy Supreme+ gas compared to Synergy regular gas in port fuel injected engines. Actual benefits are based on continuous use and may vary depending on vehicle type, driving style, and gasoline previously used. Concentration and availability of our proprietary additive package may vary based on factors beyond our control.