Volcano Science Experiments

When it comes to kids and science fair projects, the classic "Erupting Volcano" wins hands down. There just something magical about mixing vinegar and baking soda to create a foaming bed of lava. However, if you're looking for more than just…

R U TXTing?

The phenomenon of TXTing on cell phones amongst the younger generation has really taken off. It's transforming how kids interact with peers. In many instances they opt for the impersonal virtual communication versus in-person one-on-one communication,…

Reality Shows – bad for young minds

I'm getting sick of this trend of pumping out more and more vapid reality shows. It's really gone downhill. It all started with American Idol. Now our children consume daily doses of Extreme Makeover where they get to feel bad about their bodies…
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Certified Speaking Professional – Spangler Earns His CSP from the National Speakers Association

I remember attending my first National Speakers Association (NSA) convention in 2000 and being blown away by the wealth of talent and expertise in one place. The National Speakers Association (NSA) is the leading organization for professional…

Neopets… Part 2

Ok, I've decided I'm going to sign up and really "experience" Neopets.com, in order to better understand the allure of this site. If I get stuck, I'll get my 4 year old son to help me figure it out. I'll let you know how I got on in a later…

Neopets

Neopets.com is an interesting fad. Millions of kids are hooked on it. On the site, you can adopt virtual pets and take care of them. Instead of the in-your-face banner ads that you normally see on websites, Neopets has cleverly folded advertisers…

Our kids are blogging. Are you listening?

As blogging is becoming more mainstream for kids and teenagers, we need to train ourselves to become more alert for how kids could come to use their own blogs as an outlet for frustration and to cry out for help. We as parents and teachers should…

Scientist of the Week – Great Idea!

Here's an idea submitted by Candice Ware - a really creative teacher who is getting her kids doing science. This idea originated with Dr. Jean. I just carried it a step further. I have an attache case labeled Scientist of the Week. Each week…

Launching Potatoes on the Morning Show

Over one million viewers tuned in to learn how to spice up their 4th of July activities by making Steve Spangler's potato gun. The original potato launching segment that aired a week earlier on the 9NEWS 4 O'Clock show prompted viewers to email…

Amazing Optical Illusion

Here's an amazing optical illusion from from Zack Lynch who has a very interesting blog called Brain Waves. Believe it or not, your eyes are making the wheels move... it's not animated! To test this, stare at one spot for a couple seconds and…