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14 hours ago
- General
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A Parent's Guide to College Visits and Admissions
Experts share what to know, ask, and do at every stage. Fact checked by Sarah Scott Blink and your little one will headed to college. I speak from experience as my 16-year-old was a baby five minutes ago—I swear! And yet, here we are. Our college visit and admissions journey is well underway, but I'm still feeling very overwhelmed. We've made mistakes—including not thoroughly researching a school we trekked more than ten hours by car to visit. I can't be the first parent to find the college admissions process more than a little complex. Thankfully, there are experts who have been there, done that, and can help answer questions about everything from when to visit prospective schools to the difference between early decision and early action. The only thing they can't assist with? Getting me ready to say goodbye to my baby! College Visit Prep The very first step in planning college visits is having honest conversations about goals and values, says Irena Smith, a Bay Area-based college admissions expert, former Stanford admissions officer, and author of The Golden Ticket: A Life in College Admissions Essays. She tells Parents that this doesn't have to be a one-time 'big talk,' but getting on the same page about fundamentals, such as what you can afford, can save everyone a lot of heartache later. Next, it's all about planning ahead—as I learned the hard way. Before you set foot on a campus, do some preliminary research to ensure the visit is worth your time. Laurie Kopp Weingarten, CEP, President and Chief Educational Consultant of One-Stop College Counseling, recommends checking out majors, academic programs, student body size, location and surrounding area (including safety), and both academic and social opportunities before scheduling an on-campus visit. Cost is also a key factor. Jed Macosko professor of physics at Wake Forest University, urges parents to gauge whether a school is financially feasible before your child falls in love with it. College Visit Timing Once you have completed your school background checks, so to speak, Kopp Weingarten says you can start on-campus visits as early as freshman year. By junior year, students are typically ready to think more seriously about whether a college is the right fit. Experts agree this is the ideal time to visit. Start with schools within driving distance—and maybe even turn it into a mini-vacation by exploring local sites and attractions. But Marc Zawel, co-founder and CEO of AcceptU cautions, 'Don't over schedule.' He says families should visit one or two schools per day, max. As far as the season to plan a visit, summer is often more convenient for both parents and students. However, Kopp Weingarten cautions that campuses can feel empty, 'Since many college students won't be on campus, sometimes it's harder to get a true sense of campus life.' Spring of junior year of high school is often better, according to Zawel. Experts recommend not waiting until senior year to start visiting colleges, as that time is packed with schoolwork and college applications. Ultimately, Kopp Weingarten suggests exposing your student to a wide range of schools—big and small, urban and rural—to help them figure out what might suit them best. Planning a Productive College Visit After doing the leg work, you'll want to make your time on each campus as meaningful as possible for your family. Start by scheduling a campus tour, which in most cases can be done online. Otherwise, contact the admissions office for information. 'The self-guided tours, which are available on off-times, aren't great at showcasing the colleges,' warns Kopp Weingarten. 'Students walk around, looking at buildings, without having the tour guide bring the campus to life.' Also, book info sessions ahead of the visit—but be sure leave space for organic, unscheduled experiences at each school as well. 'Eat in the dining hall, grab coffee in the student center, read the school paper. Talk to random students, not just the tour guide,' Zawel recommends. Meeting with a professor from a study area of interest can also help students get a sense of the school, according to Kopp Weingarten. They may even be able to sit in on a class. Finally, Mocasko tells Parents that if your child already knows a student at the school, even casually, spending time with this person will give them insight into what life on campus is really like. As an added bonus, if they end up at the school, they will already have a friend. 'It will make the first year of college less scary!' he says. Questions to Ask During Campus Visits Parents naturally have questions about cost, financial aid, and safety on campus, but experts say that college visits are a perfect opportunity for kids to develop confidence and grow their independence. "I always suggest students take the lead on these visits,' Kopp Weingarten advises. 'Parents can accompany them, but they shouldn't be the one asking questions!' So, what to ask, you ask? Students should ask anything that helps them to envision daily life on campus. Depending on what they value most, some questions to ask include: How easy is it to change majors? What is a typical class size? How would you describe the political climate on campus? Does your school have a Greek system? Can you have a car on campus freshman year? How are the dorms set up? When can you live off campus? What are the meal plan options? Understanding the College Admissions Timeline Once you and your child have determined which colleges are at the top of their list, the next logical question is: When are applications due? The short answer is that it depends on how your child applies. If your child has fallen in love with a school, they may wish to apply early decision, or early action. It's important to know that early decision, which may be offered in two rounds, is binding, while early action is not. With early decision, Kopp Weingarten explains, 'The student, parent, and college counselor sign a binding contract stating that if the student is admitted, they must attend and also remove all other pending college applications.' If your child has their heart set on a certain school, then according to Kopp Weingarten, 'Typically, applying early decision greatly increases your chances of admission.' Early action, which is non-binding, is sometimes a strategic choice. Students can demonstrate their interest for a school without the decision being binding. Since they'll hear back earlier than with regular decision, applying early action can also take the pressure off, per Kopp Weingarten. Finally, some schools offer an admissions advantage to early action applicants. 'Others tie merit award eligibility to EA, making it a smart move financially as well,' she adds. With all of that in mind, here's a breakdown of various application deadlines for most colleges: Early Decision 1: Nov. 1 or 15 (hear back in Dec.) Early Decision 2: Early Jan. (hear before regular decision) Early Action: Similar deadlines to early decision (hear in Dec. or Jan.; decision due May 1) Regular Decision: January. May 1st will also often be the deadline to accept or decline. Rolling Admission: Renewal as received. Clearly deadlines will in large part determine when your child works on their applications, but in general Kopp Weingarten says that the summer before senior year is a good time to begin applications, request teacher recommendations, and complete financial aid forms. For student-athletes, the timeline is different, with the process kicking off as early as sophomore year. High school and club team coaches are great resources to help guide you through the process. It's also a good idea to reach out to other parents who have been down that road with their student athlete. They'll likely be happy to help you get a lay of the land. Supporting Your Teen Without Taking Over Experts emphasize that allowing your child to take charge during on-campus visits is a powerful way to help them feel self-assured and develop more autonomy. Maintaining an open dialogue about their process helps you support them, without taking over. Remember, keeping your child on track with college visits and applications is a parent's role—doing it for them is not. As Smith says, encouraging independent decision-making prepares kids to self-advocate and handle challenges down when you aren't there to provide guidance 24/7. Meanwhile, if they're unmotivated, she says, 'Yelling or lecturing is unlikely to motivate them.' And, according to Smith, a child who is showing little or no interest in the process may be signaling that they aren't ready to dive into it just yet. If you notice that your child seems stressed around the issue, it can help for parents to set boundaries around when and where you discuss college with your child. For instance, not at the dinner table, or on weekends. 'They're hearing about college from everyone—teachers, friends, and social media,' Smith assures parents. Finally, Smith encourages parents to find a hobby to keep their own minds engaged other than thinking about college. Read the original article on Parents Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
What's Really Behind the 'Gen Z Stare' and Why Does It Matter?
If you've caught your teen glaring at you with a blank, expressionless stare, here's what's behind it. Fact checked by Sarah ScottKey Takeaways Teens today often show a blank look called the "Gen Z stare" that can signal discomfort, not disrespect. Experts say social anxiety, pandemic isolation, and growing up online may shape how Gen Z connects in person. Even if it looks like attitude, this stare may just mean your teen feels misunderstood or a mom of three teenage girls, the "Gen Z stare' is a look I know well. Other parents of adolescents and young adults can likely also easily identify that blank, expressionless gaze that is ever-so-slightly tinged with the faint notion of being so over whatever you are saying. Not yet familiar with the "Gen Z Stare" that is also trending online? A TikTok shared by mom and creator @rileysomsendespot nails how an interaction between a millennial and a Gen Zer might play out, with the older person perceiving the stare as rude. But do younger people really intend to be giving off side-eye vibes with this behavior? Comments on the TikTok post are divided about the impetus behind the stare, with some millennials testifying that the up-and-coming generation doesn't have 'social decency' and that their 'disinterested' expression "immediately ruins the interaction.' But other commenters defend the 'Gen Z stare,' saying that it's a symptom of social anxiety, or that the look can be explained by pure and simple apathy over small talk. The common theme is that adults and kids alike are familiar with the 'loading screen'-like glare that seems to characterize Gen Z. Is the 'Gen Z Stare' Really Anything New? It's a natural conclusion to wonder if the look I get when I dare to ask my teen a question resembles the put-out expression I'd give my mom back when I was her age. Like, did Gen Z invent anything that other generations haven't been doing since the dawn of time, when cave-teens glared at their parents? 'Teens getting annoyed by certain questions and situations has been a constant throughout history,' confirms Matthew Solit, MSW, LMSW, an executive clinical director at LifeStance Health. Also, not exactly groundbreaking is that adolescence has always been an awkward time, when communicating with adults can be challenging. Just watch any John Hughes movie from the 1980s for confirmation of this strained dynamic. Even with those factors in play, however, there's no doubt that Gen Z has grown up with unique circumstances that may be impacting their behavior. Social Media and the 'Gen Z Stare' Gen Z is the first generation to grow up with social media and online access being a part of their lives from birth, and that has to have mattered in ways we are still figuring out. But is there any truth to the notion that the 'Gen Z stare' is evidence teens interact online without so much as a wobble, but struggle to engage in real-life, everyday situations? 'Many young people have become more comfortable expressing themselves through text or curated content than in spontaneous, in-person interactions,' says Sanam Hafeez, PsyD, a New York City-based neuropsychologist and Director of Comprehend the Mind. Solit agrees, telling Parents, 'The shift to more digital communication can be a big factor in social anxiety with face-to-face encounters, particularly with other generations.' He goes on to explain, 'The rules of digital communication are different. There is not the same pressure of having someone physically in front of you who needs a response when communicating via chat or social media.' But social media alone can't explain the behavior, especially since a major milestone in Gen Z's formative years was the pandemic. COVID-19's Impact on Gen Z's Social Skills The pandemic most certainly robbed our kids of at least a year that they should have been among peers in person. 'Many teens lost opportunities to engage in daily peer interactions that are foundational for building emotional attunement and social confidence,' says Judy Ho, PhD., clinical and forensic neuropsychologist and professor of psychology at Pepperdine University. According to Dr. Ho, studies have found that the pandemic increased rates of social anxiety and avoidance in teens, who may also experience more discomfort in social situations. 'It's hard to imagine that a year away from the intensive social interaction we get in school did not have an impact on Gen Z,' agrees Solit. But he also notes that the extent to which Gen Z was affected by the pandemic will be studied for many years to come. Gen Z May Be Rebelling Against Small Talk Few people enjoy small talk, such as 'Nice weather we're having.' But Gen Z is not afraid, in many cases, to show it with the 'Gen Z stare.' According to Dr. Hafeez, their particularly short attention spans in the age of social media and instant gratification may in part explain this phenomenon. 'When faced with repetitive questions or forced small talk, they don't always have the patience to respond in a way that feels genuine or worthwhile,' she tells Parents. Similarly, ask my teens, and they say that the stare signals unadulterated annoyance with questions they view as having obvious answers. Dr. Ho has seen this in action as well. 'For many teens, the stare is a subtle protest—a nonverbal way to signal discomfort with questions that feel condescending, repetitive, or judgmental,' she says. Adults May Be Misunderstanding The 'Gen Z Stare' To be clear, not all teens are taking part in some sort of mass rebellion by staring us down. In fact, experts agree that many adults may be misinterpreting the expression as rudeness, when that is not at all what's behind the 'Gen Z stare.' In addition to the possibility that some young people are experiencing social anxiety or awkwardness, thus, the stare, they may also be attempting to manage the overstimulation that runs rampant in our modern world. 'Parents should know that the 'Gen Z stare' isn't always about attitude or disrespect,' says Dr. Hafeez. 'A lot of the time, it's just how teens are managing overstimulation or trying not to show too much. They've grown up watching people online who stay calm, detached, or sarcastic as a way of being cool or in control.' Young people are navigating a uniquely pressurized world in which they face constant social comparison, according to Dr. Ho. She theorizes that the 'Gen Z stare' could be a coping mechanism. 'It speaks volumes about how young people today are managing overstimulation, performance pressure, and emotional fatigue,' she says. The 'Gen Z stare' May Have Consequences No matter the reasons behind the flat, unimpressed look that Gen Z has seemingly mastered, experts also agree on what commenters assert in the TikTok example: Since many older people view the glare as being rude, it can have serious consequences in the real world, such as lost job opportunities and the inability to form lasting relationships. 'As parents, ideally, we are responsible for raising our kids to become confident, functional, and happy adults,' asserts Solit. He says the behavior is worth addressing if you observe your teen coming across as rude to a teacher, coach, or at their job. 'For Gen Z to be successful, they will have to navigate how to talk with individuals from other generations.' And, as Dr. Hafeez points out, 'The longer it goes unaddressed, the more natural it can feel, and the harder it will become to relearn more open, connected ways of interacting.' Here's some advice for helping your teen become aware of their stare, and potentially correct it, include: Don't take the look personally. 'Coming at it with curiosity instead of judgment makes it easier to actually talk about what's going on,' advises Dr. Hafeez. Don't call out the stare in the moment. Dr. Hafeez recommends letting the behavior ride for a beat and then talking about it later when things are calm. Model the behavior you want to see in your teen. Parents should show open body language and eye contact as counterexamples to the 'Gen Z stare,' according to Dr. Hafeez. Give teens opportunities to engage with others in person. Dr. Hafeez recommends facilitating low-pressure chances to talk with adults or peers offline as much as possible. Ask questions to understand the why. Dr. Ho cautions parents not to view the stare simply as a bad habit, but to treat it as a meaningful piece of data. Ask questions such as, 'When you go quiet like that, what's going through your mind?' or 'I've noticed that you've been staring off more and more, what's going on and how might I be able to help?' Mirror back what you see. Solit says giving your child a 'Gen Z stare' may help them understand what they are putting out into the world. Solit warns parents that it may not be possible to eliminate the behavior altogether. And, as he points out, every older generation is convinced that younger generations are doomed. But, it's likely that this is not the case with Gen Z, just as it wasn't with previous generations. So, ultimately, deep breath, millennials. It'll be OK. Read the original article on Parents 😵💫 Need to unwind after a long day?
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Entertainment
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14 Films and Television Shows With Strong Role Models for Girls in STEM
Fact checked by Sarah Scott Think back to your childhood for a minute. What did you want to be when you grew up? Were you ever inspired by a character you saw on TV or in a movie? Of course you were. For many kids, discovering their interests, hobbies, passions, and career inspirations can start onscreen. TV and movie characters can be powerful role models for children of all ages who are learning about the world and their place in it—so it's important that parents be intentional about the stories they share with their kids, especially when they are part of a marginalized group. Why Do Girls Need Positive STEM Role Models? A recent study by Ruling Our eXperiences found that while many young girls were interested in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, math), they aren't confident in their abilities, possibly in part because they don't see themselves represented in the space. Women represent only 28% of the workforce in STEM—even more unfortunate is that women of color are even more underrepresented. How Can Entertainment Inspire More Girls to Pursue STEM? In the past, many STEM-related shows were centered on male characters, with women playing supporting roles if they appeared at all. But thankfully all that is changing. There are so many great options for entertainment that feature brave, intelligent, curious women and girls as leaders in science, available today—including some created with young girls in mind, who they want to inspire to pursue life-long careers in science, inventing, technology, engineering and other similar fields. Parents can help inspire their daughters to pursue their interest in these fields by showing them TV shows and films with strong STEM role models putting its principles to work in everyday situations. Here are some of our favorite options. Movies Hidden Figures This popular 2016 film, based on a book of the same name, tells the story of three Black women at NASA who helped fuel the Space Race. Young viewers will be inspired by the African-American women working at NASA in the early sixties: Katherine, Mary, and Dorothy, who persevered despite racism and sexism to launch astronaut John Glenn into orbit. Hidden Figures also illustrates the many ways an aptitude for math can come to life as a career, so it's a great choice for kids who love math class and solving complex problems. Best for: Ages 8+ Where to watch: Disney+ Big Hero 6 If your child is into robotics and engineering, they'll love the story of Hiro, a talented robotics engineer who befriends a medical robot created by his brother, named Baymax. On the course of his adventures, he forms a group of superheroes, including two young women who study science alongside him at school. Big Hero 6 isn't just a story about building robots, however; it's about how friendship can help you heal from grief and the power of science to help others when it's in the right hands, with a strong message about embracing found family at its core. Best for: Ages 8+ Where to Watch: Disney+ The Lego Movie For many children, Legos are their first encounter with STEM principles as they build and create worlds of their own. The Lego Movie brings their amateur feats of engineering to life with a touch of comedy and adventure as the protagonists Emmet and Wyldstyle race to save the world—using their super power, the ability to use their imaginations to build and fix any object they need, along the way. Best for: Ages 6+ Where to Watch: Netflix Jurassic Park Jurassic Park is probably best known for its incredible dinosaur special effects, but its core characters—notably Laura Dern's paleobotanist Ellie Sattler—shouldn't be ignored. Ask any '90s kid and they'll probably tell you they wanted to become a paleontologist or archaeologist after seeing this blockbuster film. While Jurassic Park does have some scary moments that might be too intense for younger kids, older children may discover (or rediscover) a passion for history, science, and exploration—and absolutely nobody will forget the iconic scene in which Ellie tries to find out what ails a sick triceratops by digging through a pile of its poop. Best for: Ages 9+ Where to Watch: Peacock Black Panther T'Challa's (he's the titular Black Panther) little sister Shuri is one of the most accomplished (fictional) young women in STEM; the teenager is a masterful engineer and inventor who designs super suits—among many other things—and uses the many powers of vibranium, which helps protect Wakanda. Shuri's skills are irreplaceable and teach young viewers to believe in themselves, trust their talents, and help the people around them. Best for: Ages 13+ Where to watch: Disney+ Ghostbusters (2016) The all-female 2016 remake of the beloved '80s films centers on four women in STEM investigating the paranormal—including an engineer, a physicist, and a scientist. This is the perfect choice for viewers with an interest in the supernatural and science—and as an added bonus, it's hilarious. And in a twist on the typical movie cliches, guess who plays the ditzy character this time? Chris Hemsworth. Best for: Ages 13+ Where to watch: Hulu Contact In this 1997 movie, Jodie Foster plays scientist Dr. Ellie Arroway, who picks up a message from what could be extraterrestrials in outer space. Dr. Arroway has to use her skills to decode messages and eventually travel through space to make contact with aliens, all while facing doubt and opposition from people in power. Older kids who are curious about space and its mysteries will enjoy following Dr. Arroway's journey. Best for: Ages 10+ Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video TV Shows The Magic School Bus & The Magic School Bus Rides Again Whether you choose the original series starring Lily Tomlin as Ms. Frizzle or the 2017 reboot featuring Kate McKinnon as her sister Fiona Frizzle, your children are guaranteed to learn (and laugh) along with the students of Walkerville Elementary. Ralphie, Wanda, Carlos, Arnold, and the rest of the crew travel in the titular bus to learn about the human body, animal habitats, and so much more, and the Frizzle sisters serve as fun, silly, adventurous, and curious teachers who will spark your child's imagination. Best for: Ages 5+ Where to watch: Netflix Ada Twist, Scientist As its name suggests, Netflix's Ada Twist, Scientist—based on the book series by Andrea Beaty—is about Ada Twist, a young scientist, and her best friends, Rosie and Iggy. They're always discovering, researching, and studying something new, bringing together elements of science, engineering, architecture, and tech. Ada Twist is a thoughtful introduction to STEM principles for younger viewers who will appreciate the colorful animation, and the show explores everyday problems kids might encounter in real life, like power outages and how to revive wilting flowers. Best for: Ages 4+ Where to watch: Netflix Emily's Wonder Lab Watch real-life kids explore and experiment alongside host Emily Calandrelli, an aerospace engineer. Kids who are always begging to do hands-on experiments will find so much to love here. The series explores high-level scientific concepts like ultraviolet light and the laws of motion in accessible language, then applies to what they learn through a real-world experiment—in one episode the kids make a tornado in a bottle, in another they create their own fluorescent paint. The series is interactive and allows children to try what they see on screen at home. Emily's Wonder Lab is ideal for aspiring scientists who can't wait to get into a lab of their own. Best for: Ages 6+ Where to watch: Netflix Sci Girls Sci Girls, which premiered in 2010, was created to appeal to middle school-age girls interested in STEM, and it's still available to watch on PBS Kids. The show was a mix of live-action and animated content. Each episode features real-life scientists and tween girls, who explore nature, space, national parks, and many other spaces to create their own experiments and investigations into topics as wide ranging as nutrition to the environment. Best for: Ages 7+ Where to watch: PBS Kids Odd Squad This PBS series is all about math. The Odd Squad is a group of government agents (though they are all kids) who put their math skills to investigate seemingly strange events, aided by a lab of hardworking scientists and their boss, Ms. O. Like many other beloved kids shows, this one was produced by The Fred Rogers Co. The show makes math feel exciting and important, and because the actors who play the agents are young kids, viewers can see their peers onscreen solving problems and having fun doing it. Best for: Ages 5+ Where to watch: PBS Kids Miles from Tomorrowland This animated series follows Miles Callisto, a space adventurer. Meanwhile, Miles's sister Loretta is a tech whiz; their mom is a space captain; and their dad is an inventor. The Callistos have to work together as they travel through outer space using their science, engineering, and math skills. Young girls will be inspired by both Loretta and mom Phoebe, as well as the adventurous Miles. The family even has a robotic pet ostrich named Merc. Best for: Ages 4+ Where to watch: Disney+ Ironheart This new Marvel series centers on Riri Wiliams, a talented engineer who is also dealing with trauma, grief, and finding her place in the world. Riri is an inventor, and the story revolves around the mechanical suit she constructs, modeled after Iron Man. But it also touches on family dynamics, responsibility, and navigating common teenage emotions like anger and doubt. Can you be a superhero while you're still figuring yourself out? Riri Williams hopes so. Best for: Ages 13+ Where to watch: Disney+ Read the original article on Parents Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
15-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
What Parents Should Know About the FDA's Latest Food Additive Approval
Fact checked by Sarah ScottThe FDA is attempting to phase out petroleum-based dyes from the nation's food supply. It approved one more natural food additive, gardenia (genipin) blue, in addition to three previous one: Galdieria extract blue, calcium phosphate, and butterfly pea flower extract. These approved food additives are generally considered safe, and some are already being U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just approved a new food additive: gardenia (genipin) blue. It can be used in sports drinks, flavored or enhanced non-carbonated water, fruit drinks and ades, ready-to-drink teas, as well as hard and soft candy. The move comes about two months after the FDA approved Galdieria extract blue, calcium phosphate, and butterfly pea flower extract, in an attempt to phase out petroleum-based dyes from the nation's food supply. 'The FDA's approval likely reflects a response to consumer demand for more natural food coloring options,' says Daniel S. Ganjian, MD, a board-certified pediatrician at Providence Saint John's Health Center in California. 'These additives are derived from natural sources—algae and a flower—which differentiates them from many synthetic food dyes that are chemically manufactured.' But what do we know about the roots and safety of the new FDA-approved food additives? Experts share their thoughts on the FDA's decisions and offer guidance on how parents can select safe, nourishing foods for their children. The word 'additives' gets thrown around a lot when discussing food (and body care products, for that matter). It might be helpful to have a primer or reminder on what experts refer to as additives. 'Food additives are substances added to food to perform specific functions, such as enhancing flavor, color, texture, or preserving freshness,' Dr. Ganjian says. 'They help maintain consistency, improve appearance, and extend shelf life.' However, recent data has pointed to a potential link between synthetic food dyes and behavioral issues and developmental delays in children. "While not all experts agree on the level of harm, one thing is clear: These petroleum-based dyes don't offer any health benefit," says Don Thushara Galbadage, PhD, MPH, an associate professor at Texas Christian University and an expert on food additives and dyes. And that's a key objective of the FDA's approval of these new additives. 'This approval will hopefully make it easier for food companies to use them in their products," says Sotiria Everett, EdD, RD, CDN, CSSD, a clinical assistant professor at Stony Brook Medicine. The FDA-approved gardenia (genipin) blue, Galdieria extract blue, calcium phosphate, and butterfly pea flower extract are not petroleum-based. Some already serve purposes in commonly used items. Here's the breakdown. This is a natural blue food color additive derived from the gardenia fruit. This is already widely used in Asia for food products, such as frozen desserts, jams, baked good, and beverages. Research has found it is not carcinogenic, even in high doses. Galdieria extract blue comes from Galdieria sulphuraria, a species of red algae, explains Dr. Everett. The FDA approved its use in numerous foods, including fruit smoothies, juices, milkshakes, candy, yogurt drinks, and other processed foods. Dr. Everett shares that studies in rats didn't show adverse effects in daily doses of 4,000 milligrams per kilogram of bodyweight and says the estimated exposure to Galdieria extract blue will be far less (325 to 525 milligrams per kilogram daily). The FDA and outside experts currently recognize Galdieria extract blue as generally safe. Butterfly pea flower extract is an additive used to color foods various shades of blue, purple, and green, explains Anthony Hudson, MD, FAAP, ABOM, a pediatrician with Manning Family Children's in New Orleans. 'It is produced through the water extraction of the dried flower petals of the butterfly pea plant,' Dr. Hudson says. Dr. Everett notes that you and your children may have already had foods and drinks with this food additive. It is already in certain foods and beverages, like: Sports drinks Fruit drinks Dairy drinks Candy Yogurt Ice cream 'The FDA approval will expand its use to ready-to-eat cereals, crackers, snack mixes, hard pretzels, plain potato chips, corn chips, tortilla chips, and multigrain chips,' Dr. Everett says. She notes that the Taiwanese government issued a warning in 2019 about using butterfly pea extract in large quantities, with side effects potentially including nausea and diarrhea. However, the Taiwanese government said it could be used in the minimum amount to achieve the desired color. Dr. Galbadage also says butterfly pea flower extract is generally considered safe as a food additive in small quantities. Calcium phosphate is a white, naturally occurring mineral compound that Dr. Ganjian says is also used as a food additive. 'It serves multiple purposes, including as an anticaking agent, a source of calcium, and to modify texture,' Dr. Ganjian says. You also may use it to clean food off your teeth—calcium phosphate is commonly used in toothpastes, explains Lacy Puttuck, MS, RDN, a registered dietitian with Top Nutrition Coaching. 'It's not new, as this additive has been in baby formulas and cereals for years and is usually recognized as safe,' Dr. Galbadage adds. 'Now, it's approved for things like doughnut sugar, white candy melts, and some ready-to-eat meats.' While some changes take significant time, experts believe parents will begin to see these items on more food labels soon. But the full effects are likely at least a year away. 'The FDA has set a timeline for phasing out synthetic dyes, and companies are already responding,' Dr. Galbadage says. 'Some major brands have committed to removing artificial dyes by the end of next year. That means by 2026, your child's cereal, snacks, and even yogurts may still be colorful, but with more natural ingredients behind their color.' How can parents navigate the grocery store in the meantime, and even after the new additives become more prevalent? Trust your eyes when deciding what to put in your mouth and gut. 'Read the ingredients list of food products,' suggests Puttuck. 'Make sure you can read and understand all of the ingredients in a food. This will allow you to make more informed choices for your family.' 'Natural' doesn't always mean 'healthiest' or 'without any risk." Candy and chips with butterfly pea flower still may have more than the daily recommended values of sugar and salt, for instance. Dr. Hudson suggests consuming a diet of single-ingredient foods, like an apple, broccoli, and unprocessed proteins, including legumes, and omega-3-packed fish, such as salmon, without tons of salt. 'Children will follow their caregivers' example,' Dr. Hudson says. 'If the caregivers prepare single-ingredient foods at home and include the children in the growing or purchasing of food and the preparation of the food, they too will eat healthy options.' Repeat after us: You cannot control what your child eats at a birthday party or eats out of a goody bag on the carpool ride home. 'It is hard to completely eliminate these foods, especially in many social occasions, such as birthday parties, movie outings, and other events that families enjoy,' Dr. Everett says. She suggests focusing on practical steps and balance. Swapping foods with 'unnaturally bright colors' like chips for crunchy veggies and hummus at meals and for snacks, is one way to bump items with synthetic dyes into the 'sometimes' territory. Also, whole fruits like watermelon have natural but not added sugars, as many juices do. 'Stay informed but maintain perspective,' Dr. Ganjian agrees. 'Keep up with information from reputable sources like the FDA, but remember that the agency has processes in place to ensure the safety of approved additives. Avoid unnecessary anxiety and focus on a balanced and varied diet.' Read the original article on Parents
Yahoo
03-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
Parents Want a ‘90s Kid Summer' for Their Families—but Is It Realistic?
Fact checked by Sarah Scott Riding bikes to the local library. Splashy days at the public pool. The thrill of chasing ice cream trucks. The hunt for open fire hydrants. Unstructured playtime outside until the first whispers of dusk flutter across the sky. These are just a smattering of memories of a '90s summer that parents online are sharing as they consider the type of summer they want to provide for their kids. I get the appeal. I grew up in Trinidad & Tobago and often spent summers in New York City with my family. The heat coupled with the energy of the city created unforgettable childhood memories that I yearn for my kids to experience. A new Instacart x Harris Poll reveals that 71% of parents reminisce about their childhood summers and want to give their kids the same experience. For those who grew up in the '90s that figure jumps to 79%. Fewer screens, more outdoor play, and nostalgic snacks were some of the things that made these summers so memorable. There are benefits to this type of summer, such as increased self-mastery skills, more opportunities for creativity, emotional regulation, and stress reduction, says Sarah Harris, LMFT-S, a play therapist and family therapist. But the reality is it's not attainable for everyone. In a viral video, one mom points out that the '90s kid summer' trend doesn't work for every family for various reasons. Her takeaway: 'Do a '90s summer if it works for you and your family.' And if it doesn't work, that's OK too. My partner and I usually lock in our children's summer camp registrations by mid-March. We get nervous about the notion of having to entertain two restless children—with our jobs pressing from all ends—for the months of summer break. When we do try to capture some of the '90s summer vibe and keep them home, the balance of screen-free time, unstructured play, meal prep (three times a day every day!), and a healthy dose of sibling bickering can be, well, not great. And in 2025, all parents in a home may work because of the increased cost of living. That makes it that much harder to be around to support a child's '90s summer. 'There is privilege in being able to offer your child/ren a '90s summer,' says Amanda Hambrick Ashcraft, a mother of four and producer of the Freedom Summer Camp in New York City. 'To do this, normally, at least one parent is working from home, and can take on the emotional and practical labor of making sure the kids are fed and not on screens all day. Plus, not everyone has a backyard or otherwise accessible and available outdoor place to roam.' As mentioned in the aforementioned Instagram video, for some kids who are neurodiverse, a summer that lacks structure and routine may spell disaster. And many families live in cities where free play in the streets for little ones simply isn't logistically safe. So, us parents are left with that yearning for the childhood we wish our kids could have and, as is often the case, we blame ourselves for not doing our best to provide them with that. 'I'm also thinking about the social and political background of the world that I also feel heavily as a parent, and wonder how that plays into my kids ability to have a '90s summer, and mine to parent for one,' Ashcraft adds. 'It's all very heavy, and shutting it all out is an act of privilege. Even so, cultivating rest and joy are necessary for collective liberation. So that balance is necessary and important.' Could there be a middle ground, though? Is there a way to include the elements of a '90s summer even as we deal with the realities of being parents in 2025? Unstructured play and minimal screen time are just a few of the tenets of the summer many parents may dream of and there are ways to infuse some of that into our kids' lives. Parents can plan with their kids on how to make it work for them. 'Over the summer, kids need a blend of unstructured and structured time,' explains Harris. 'Blended time can look like a child and parent collaboratively planning how they will spend the next day.' This mixture allows for some autonomy on the part of the child to aid in helping their creativity. For parents who need or prefer to put their little ones in summer camp, Harris recommends a few things to look out for when choosing one. 'Camps with mainly outdoor activities, or ones that incorporate free play in their schedule or have very limited screen time are ideal,' she advises. Camps can be a relief for parents whose work schedules remain unchanged in the summer months and it doesn't have to mean that their kids miss out on the fun. 'Summer camp gives kids and families something they often can't get during the year: time to play and learn without the pressure of testing and grades," says Adam Jacobs, a former summer camp director for 20 years and the current co-executive director of the National School Climate Center. That can even be the case in camps that focus on a specific theme, such as music, basketball, or theater, because there's typically still time for unstructured free play. "That's when kids learn from each other, interact with camp staff informally, pretend, imagine, try new things, and sometimes fail, all in a monitored, safe environment," explains Jacobs. And what can us parents do at home? Families can try a '90s summer morning or evening routine, Harris recommends. Pick a day or two a week, leave the phones indoors, invite some neighborhood kids to join, and engage in outdoor activities like a short hike, a scavenger hunt, or a walking tour of a new neighborhood. If you have sprinklers, turn them on or search for an open fire hydrant, if you're a city family. Families can also try outdoor reading time together in their backyard, local park, or front lawn. Ashcraft, who lives in the city with her family, says they're able to let creativity flow, even when indoors. 'On the second day of summer, I found my children making a fort and producing a stop motion film, simply because I'd let them know the night before that it was going to be a screen-free day without any plans,' says Ashcraft. Whether a family chooses summer camp, a completely unstructured summer, or a mix of both, parents should try to shift away from the guilt of not providing their children with exactly what they had as children. After all, our children are living in a different time which comes with a unique set of opportunities and choices. So, don't get too stuck in nostalgia. Find the right fit for your children and have a bit of fun with them along the way. 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