97Apprenticeship Alum
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The Best Guide to Camping in Yellowstone National Park
Check out this comprehensive guide to understanding the reservation policies, locations, and rules for campgrounds inside Yellowstone!
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30 Deer-Resistant Flowers, Shrubs, and Trees for Your Garden
From daffodils and lavender to ginkgo biloba, there are many plants that can help you create a deer-resistant landscape. Learn which plants prevent or repel deer from garden beds.
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15 Plants That Like Wet Soil (Plus Growing Tips and FAQs)
Bog-like conditions can be difficult, but selecting groundcovers and plants that like water will result in a beautiful, robust garden!
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11 Trees and Shrubs That Like Wet Soil (Plus Growing Tips)
Wet soil can cause problems like fungal infection and poor growth in the garden. Select the right trees and soil amendments to have a flourishing garden.
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What Can Epsom Salts Do for Your Plants?
Magnesium sulfate, also known as Epsom salt, will improve plant vigor, productivity, and the quality of fruits and vegetables in soils with magnesium deficiency.
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How to Kill Poison Ivy: A Complete List of Methods and Tips
Permanently eliminate poison ivy from your yard or wooded areas using physical or herbicidal methods, such as Epsom salt and vinegar.
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Leaf Galls: Ugly Bumps and Spikes on Tree Leaves
Disturbed by leaves with bumps? These wart-like bumps and spikes are usually caused by mites and are generally harmless to the infested tree.
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How to Get Rid of Ants Without Toxic Chemicals
There are several natural, safe ways to prevent or eliminate ants from your house, including vinegar, baking soda, and diatomaceous earth.
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How to Get Rid of Weeds Naturally With Homemade Weed Killer
Make your own three-ingredient DIY weed killer with common household items like vinegar to eliminate pesky weeds from your garden and sidewalk paths.
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How to Fix a Wobbly KitchenAid Stand Mixer in 5 Easy Steps
Shaking or jumping KitchenAid mixers are easily repaired by tightening the neck pin. Learn how to perform this easy repair to prevent further damage to your mixer.
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Why Are Chicken Eggs Different Colors?
Different chicken breeds lay eggs in many colors, including blue, green, brown, and white. The differences in color result from the pigment that permeates through the shell or is applied to the exterior of the shell.
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How to Remove Rust From a Dryer in 3 Simple Steps
This article will show you how to refinish the surface of your rusty dryer with epoxy spray paint made for appliances.
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25 Helpful Tips for Camping With a Toddler
Camping with very young children can be a rewarding experience with the proper preparation and a few helpful tricks to make the adventure a little easier!
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Disney World vs. Disneyland: Which Park Is the Best?
Located on opposite sides of the United States, many potential visitors to the Disney parks ask the question: Which park is better? There are differences in the size, type of planning required, and the amount of time needed for each park.
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8 Neanderthal Traits That Are Found in Modern Humans
Did you know that up to 2% of genes in the human population are actually from Neanderthals? Mood disorders and sleeping patterns are among the traits influenced by these genes. Read on to learn more about the traits modern humans have in common with Neanderthals.
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25 Cool Activities for Teens at Disney World
Disney World offers many unique experiences for teenagers. Try your hand at archery, horseback riding, or driving a motor boat on Bay Lake for a one-of-a-kind Disney experience!
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Formation of Acne: Genetic vs. Environmental Causes
What causes one person to have clear skin and another person to have severe, cystic acne? Discover the genetics behind the development of this skin condition, in addition to understanding how different treatment options work.
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The Best Guinea Pig Diet (Plus Which Foods to Avoid)
What should you feed (and not feed) your beloved small pet to ensure a long and healthy life? Here are the appropriate foods for your hamster.
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The Top 8 Best Restaurants in Epcot
One of the four major parks located at Disney World, Epcot has the greatest variety and quality for in-park restaurants. International cuisine and unique dining experiences enhance everyone’s day at this exciting park!
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Genetic Testing in Pregnancy
Genetic testing is often recommended for women who have abnormal first-trimester screening tests, for women of advanced maternal age, and for those considered high risk for certain genetic diseases.
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Twelve Tips to Avoid Waiting in Line at Disney World
Did you realize that it is possible to avoid waiting in long lines at the Disney World Theme Park? It's true! Here are the strategies you can use, including the single rider line, the use of Extra Magic Hours, and more!
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The Best Toys for Speech and Language Development
Discover the best toys and techniques to encourage the development of receptive and expressive language for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.
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Easy STEM Activities for 4th-Grade Students
Four simple activities for fourth-grade students to explore science, technology, engineering, and math concepts.
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10 Best Places to Visit in Dominica: Canyoning, Tubing & More
Dominica is a mountainous, actively volcanic island in the Southern Caribbean. Discover some beautiful places to visit and adventures to take on this gem of an island!
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Star Wars Blue and Gold Banquet Idea
A full Blue and Gold ceremony script and program to have an exciting Cub Scout Star Wars banquet and crossing-over event.
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Best Activities in Epcot With Kids
Discover the best things to do in Epcot with small children. While Epcot is often thought of as a theme park suited better to adults, the park offers a wide variety of rides, shows, and activities for kids of all ages.
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Bearded Ladies in History
Women with facial hair have drawn interest and have been exploited throughout history. Causes of female facial hair growth are also explored in this article.
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Patent Medicine in the 1800s
Entrepreneurs created a variety of “patent medicines” in a lucrative and dangerous business model prior to the advent of federal regulations to prevent patient harm.
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Family White Water Rafting in West Virginia
Did you know that children as young as 9 years of age may take to Class V rapids in an oar raft in West Virginia? Here's how to ride nature’s best roller coaster by braving the rapids in the New River.
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Best Day Hikes in New River Gorge, West Virginia
New River Gorge National River offers hikers a spectacular view from the rim of a canyon and unique vantage points of the third-highest bridge in the United States.
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Sea Kayaking in Channel Islands National Park
Sea kayaking through caves at this National Park off the coast of Southern California is a magnificent experience. Learn more about this family-friendly activity.
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Best Outdoor Activities in Québec
Quebec offers many adventuresome activities for the entire family, including wildlife safaris, via ferrata routes, and the ability to see beluga whales in the wild.
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How to Make Color-Changing Thermochromic Slime
This slime changes color with the temperature due to the heat-sensitive pigment embedded in the recipe.
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Easy STEM Activities for 3rd Graders
Explore science and engineering activities geared for third-grade students using inexpensive and accessible materials. Lava lamps, helicopters, and marble mazes allow young scientists to explore!
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Camping With a Cochlear Implant
Did you realize that primitive camping with a cochlear implant can be a challenging experience? Here is what it was like for our family in general.
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How to Make Your Chicken Coop Predator-Proof
Prevent predators from entering your chicken coop and killing your chickens by creating a predator-proof chicken coop and chicken run.
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Candy Geode Recipe
Create an edible, candy geode with this recipe that uses simple sugar crystals and chocolate.
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The Best Backyard Chicken Breeds
The best types of backyard chicken breeds are friendly and provide a sufficient quantity of eggs. Breeds such as the Silver Gray Dorking and Buff Orpington are excellent choices for a backyard flock.
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How to Fly Model Rockets
Learn about the materials needed to fly a model rocket for the first time. Ready-to-fly rocket kits are fun for the entire family!
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How to Play the "Steal the Bacon" Children's Game
Basic rules for playing Steal the Bacon, a fun game for a large group of children. Academic variations are listed to add an educational twist.
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How to Create an Amazing Outer Space Bedroom Theme
This article will share creative ways to create an outer space or Star Wars-themed bedroom.
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Supraglottoplasty Surgery for Laryngomalacia: What To Expect
Surgery is typically performed for severe laryngomalacia when sleep apnea or growth failure is present. What to expect when your child has a supraglottoplasty or epiglottopexy.
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My Son's Sweat Test for Cystic Fibrosis
The sweat chloride test for cystic fibrosis measures chloride ions in an individual's sweat. A positive result indicates the presence of cystic fibrosis.
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How I Helped My Children Recover From Tonsillectomies
While tonsillectomies are relatively common, the recovery is grueling and longer than many parents expect it to be. What to expect after a tonsillectomy in children.
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What Are the Earliest Blooming Spring Bulbs?
What bulbs bloom first in spring? Find the best early blooming spring bulbs that put a punch of color in the garden as the snow begins to melt.
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Rabies in Humans: Symptoms and Treatment
Rabies, a member of the genus "Lyssavirus," is found throughout the world and is transmitted through bite wounds. The disease is now treatable, though the success rates vary immensely.
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Supervolcanoes Around the World
Where are the world's supervolcanoes? The Western United States, Italy, New Zealand, and Asia all contain volcanoes capable of catastrophic eruptions.
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What Is Sleep Architecture?
Sleep architecture is the amount of time spent in each sleep cycle. Abnormal architecture may be caused by sleep-disordered breathing, periodic leg movements, or other sleep disorders.
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Huffy Green Machine Bike Reviews
The Green Machine Big Wheel is a bike that allows for spins and slides and offers a great deal of fun for kids (and even adults)! Here is my review of the original model and the junior version.
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How to Make Homemade Carpet Cleaner
Treat your carpet stains with simple and inexpensive DIY homemade carpet cleaning solutions.
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Tips for Preventing Heartburn During Pregnancy
Prevent heartburn in pregnancy by avoiding fatty foods, caffeine, and elevating the head of your bed. Ginger and calcium carbonate (Tums) are effective at alleviating acid reflux symptoms!
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The Best Ovulation Predictor Kits
Pink dye ovulation testing kits, digital kits, and a fertility monitor system are available to help women pinpoint ovulation. Learn about the pros and cons of each testing system.
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Pink Lakes Around the World
There are several pink lakes around the globe, caused by a high level of salinity and the growth of archaea that produce a rosy color to the water.
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How to Make a Salt-Dough Volcano
Make a baking soda volcano in this classic science project for kids.
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Understanding Tubal Pregnancy and Ectopic hCG Levels
Confused about tubal pregnancy? Not sure what to make of your hCG levels? Slow-rising hCG levels may indicate an ectopic pregnancy. Normal pregnancies should demonstrate a hormone doubling time of 48-72 hours.
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What to Expect in the 11th Week of Pregnancy
Pregnancy symptoms like nausea and low energy levels may change in the 11th week. The first-trimester screening test is offered sometime between 11–13 weeks of pregnancy.
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How to Make Fresh Pumpkin Puree (And a Pie Too!)
Make a pie using real pumpkins with this easy recipe!
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Legoland California Review
Legoland California is a great amusement park designed for families with children under the age of 12. This is a review of the theme park rides and attractions.
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Things to Do in Washington, D.C. With Kids
Washington, D.C. is a fantastic city to visit with children. Take the metro and discover the best Smithsonian museums, monuments, and other kid-friendly attractions in our nation's capital.
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What to Expect in the 9th Week of Pregnancy
At nine weeks of pregnancy, baby is about the size of a grape or an olive. The baby is moving constantly, though these movements cannot be felt yet, as the baby is too small to generate a lot of force with those kicks!
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What to Expect in the 8th Week of Pregnancy
Have you been pregnant for 8 weeks? Here's what to expect in regards to embryo development along with symptoms and side effects (such as heartburn) at this stage.
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What to Expect in the 6th Week of Pregnancy
The sixth week of pregnancy is an exciting one: The baby's umbilical cord starts to develop, and the heart starts to beat! Many women have their first doctor's appointment at this stage of pregnancy.
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What to Expect in the 5th Week of Pregnancy
What happens during the fifth week of pregnancy? The spherical bundle of cells undergoes a radical transformation in the fifth week of pregnancy, developing the three layers that will create all of the baby's organs.
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How to Conceive: Natural Fertility Aids
There are many natural treatments for fertility, including Vitex, soy isoflavones, and maca root. Learn about the common dosages used by women trying to conceive!
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What to Expect in the 4th Week of Pregnancy
Congratulations! At four weeks of pregnancy, most new mothers are just discovering they are pregnant with a home pregnancy test. Read on to learn what to expect in this week of pregnancy.
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Using Cardboard Tubes for Toddler Toys
Recycle cardboard tubes like toilet paper rolls into binoculars, a kazoo, race tracks, marble runs, and other fun toys for toddlers. These inexpensive crafts will inspire a lot of imaginative play!
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How to Reduce a Child's Fever
Fevers are the body's way of fighting viral or bacterial infections. Learn how to bring down a fever in a child with a combination of fever-reducing medications and natural fever reducers.
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Miscarriage and Pregnancy Loss
Miscarriage is a surprisingly frequent occurrence in early pregnancy. Learn the signs of a threatened miscarriage - and the chances of having a healthy pregnancy after a loss.
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Pregnancy Spotting Questions and Answers
Spotting in pregnancy occurs in up to 1/3 of all pregnant women. What is normal, and what implies a problem with the pregnancy? Does spotting mean a miscarriage will occur? Here are common questions and answers about bleeding in early pregnancy.
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The Most Accurate Pregnancy Tests
The most accurate pregnancy test is a quantitative blood test ordered by your doctor, but home urine tests are increasingly sensitive to low levels of hCG.
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What to Expect in the 39th Week of Pregnancy
At 39 weeks your baby is full-term and gaining weight, while you become more and more uncomfortable! Learn more about what to expect during this week of pregnancy.
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Delayed Gastric Emptying in Children: Our Family's Experience
Delayed gastric emptying, or gastroparesis, causes bloating and a feeling of being "full," even when a small amount of food is consumed. The disorder ranges in severity and can be extremely debilitating for children.
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What Do You Need for a New Baby?
Here is checklist of items you will really need before you bring your baby home!
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What Causes Morning Sickness? (Plus Natural Remedies)
Morning sickness, which includes extreme nausea, usually occurs in early pregnancy. Learn more about how it has a surprising purpose in protecting the developing embryo.
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von Willebrand's Disease in Dogs
von Willebrand's Disease is the most common clotting disorder in dogs. There are three types of the disorder. The first type of vWD is the most common, and the mildest, of the disorders.
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Fall Garden Tasks
Putting the garden to bed for the winter is an important gardening task. Clearing up debris, cutting back perennials, composting, and mulching will create a healthier spring garden!
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Bacterial and Viral Infections and Miscarriage
Infectious diseases can cause harm to a developing baby, and may even result in miscarriage or stillbirth. Many of these diseases are preventable: learn how to avoid infection during your pregnancy.
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What to Do If Your Dog Is Stung by a Bee
Learn how to give your dog medication in the event of an allergic reaction to bee stings. This knowledge could buy your dog time and save his life!
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How Does the Cochlea Work to Let Us Hear?
The cochlea is located in the inner ear and is the main hearing organ. Outer and inner hair cells detect and transmit information about sound volume and frequency to the auditory nerve.
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Stages of Prenatal Development
Human babies develop from a single, fertilized cell to a full term infant in the course of forty weeks. Learn about the stages of prenatal development from the first signs of pregnancy through birth.
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Hearing Loss and Assistive Listening Devices
Hearing in the presence of background noise or from a distance is frustrating for those with hearing loss. The use of assistive listening devices (ALD's) increases sound quality for a variety of applications.
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What Are the Semicircular Ear Canals?
The semicircular canals are located in the inner ear and are responsible for detecting motion and acceleration. Disorders of the vestibular system include Meniere's Disease and Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo.
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Delays in Toddler Language Development
Speech and language delays are a concern for many parents, who wonder if their child is simply a "late talker" or if there is a true language disorder present. Learn the signs of a language delay: early intervention is vital to successful treatment.
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How to Make Soil Less Acidic
Acidic soil will cause growth failure in plants, as they are unable to take up the necessary nutrients to thrive. Increase soil pH by adding lime or wood ashes at the appropriate time of year!
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Parthenogenesis: Virgin Births in Nature
Parthenogenesis is the development of an egg into a complete organism without the need for fertilization by a male. This process is responsible for "virgin births" in the animal world and has been recorded in several insect, amphibian, and reptilian species.
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The Pros and Cons of Ceramic Knives
Ceramic knives maintain a sharp edge and are extremely useful for cutting fruits and vegetables. The knives are not, however, universal kitchen knives and may not be used to cut frozen food or through bone.
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Activities on the American Side of Niagara Falls
Many activities are available on the American side of Niagara Falls, including hiking, riding jet boats, visiting an ancient military fort, and taking helicopter rides.
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Picky Eaters: When to Worry About Your Child’s Nutrition
What is the difference between picky eating and a feeding problem? Is your toddler losing weight? Learn the top 10 signs that signal the need for medical investigation of picky eating in children.
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The 11 Best Things to Do in the Finger Lakes
There are many outdoor activities in the Finger Lakes region of New York state. Hiking, fishing, camping, canoeing, geocaching, and pick-your-own farms are abundant in this natural playground.
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Conductive Hearing Loss Causes and Treatment
Conductive hearing loss is generally correctable through surgery or medication. In some cases, a bone anchored hearing aid solution may be required. Learn about the causes and treatment options for this type of hearing loss.
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The Best Strollers for Big Kids
Sometimes a stroller is needed for an older, larger child. This article reviews different stroller types for big kids and provides examples of stroller alternatives, jogging strollers, and large umbrella strollers.
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How to Make French Bread from Scratch
Make your own French Bread with some flour, salt, yeast, water, and a little sugar and vegetable oil. This recipe makes two baguettes that may be used as a side to a hearty soup, as crostini, or sliced and used to make French toast. While the dough takes time to rise, the process of making your own...
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Depression-Era Wacky Cake Recipe (No Dairy or Eggs)
This dairy-free chocolate cake recipe hails from the Great Depression, when milk, butter, and eggs were too expensive for use in desserts. Wacky cake is vegan and dairy-free.
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Easy Pasta Salad Recipe With Italian Dressing
This simple pasta salad recipe is a traditional side dish at picnics and summer potlucks. This dish takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it the perfect last-minute recipe for any gathering. Serve it as a side dish with BBQ chicken, or eat it on its own as a tasty lunch!
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How to Make Gummy Worms: An All-Natural Recipe
Three recipes for gummy worms: the first two are all-natural and great for families following the Feingold diet. The last recipe contains artificial dyes and colors but is made with fruit juice rather than high fructose corn syrup. Make your own gummy worms at home for a healthier candy treat!
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Uses of Freeze Drying
Freeze drying is used for many industrial purposes, including document restoration, taxidermy, and food preservation. Lyophilization is used by the military, drug companies, and NASA.
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Cancer Treatment and Biotechnology
Biotech companies are striving to find new cancer treatments using immune therapies and targeted biologics. New detection and screening tests are also under development to diagnose patients earlier.
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How to Put in a Child's Hearing Aid
Putting in a child's hearing aid requires more than simply inserting the aid: the hearing aid must be inspected daily and a listening check must be performed. Learn how to perform the Ling 6 Sound test with a child's hearing aids to ensure great hearing quality!
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Programs to Help Families Pay for a Child’s Hearing Aid
Many families are distraught when they learn most insurance companies do not cover hearing aids. There are many resources to help pay for a child's hearing aids: from charitable organization to insurance appeal letters, this article explores the options for families seeking financial assistance for...
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How to Design a Garden for Beginners
This article discusses how to create a simple garden plan, as well as the many considerations involved. Sample plans for different situations are included.
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How to Protect a Child’s Hearing
Noise induced hearing loss is on the rise in children: learn how to protect your child's hearing by preventing or reducing exposure to damaging noise volumes. Other causes of acquired hearing loss are explored, with ways to reduce or prevent the likelihood of childhood deafness. Hearing protection...
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Molecular Biology Laboratory Techniques
There are many techniques used in the microbiology lab. DNA cloning, polymerase chain reaction, and gel electrophoresis allow for the amplification and separation of genetic material. RT-PCR, Southern Blotting, and Microarrays allow for the quantification of nucleic acids: learn about the various...
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How to Identify Poison Ivy: Images and Treatment
How to identify poison ivy and distinguish it from other, similar plants in the woods. Poison ivy images and description, along with examples of mimic plants. This article also includes prevention tips and treatment options, including natural remedies.
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How to Make Skeleton Leaves
Skeleton leaves are beautiful and delicate. It is easy to make skeleton leaves at home! This video shows you how to make skeleton leaves with two different methods. Leaf skeletons are wonderful for use in many different paper-crafting projects!
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Blood Types: History, Genetics, and Percentages Around the World
Blood typing, blood groups around the world, and the genetics of blood types are discussed in this article.
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School's Out: The Loss of Recess in America
With increasing pressures for academic success, many schools are cutting recess, although research shows it actually boosts kids' test scores and attention.
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Trotula the Medieval Doctor: A History of Women's Health from the Middle Ages
Trotula was a female physician in the 11th century. Her medical writings influenced women's healthcare during this era. Medical advice on childbirth and women's health was based on Galen's philosophy. Trotula was a revered doctor, and her medical beliefs are fascinating.
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Null Hypothesis and Formulas: A Definition With Examples
A basic discussion on the null hypothesis, z-scores, and probability. Includes examples of the null hypothesis, one-tailed, and two-tailed tests. A coin is tossed and comes up tails ten times: is this just a random chance, or is an unfair coin being used? Learn when to reject the null hypothesis.
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Redheads: The Genetics of Hair Color
Hair color is primarily genetic, and red hair is caused by mutations in the MC1R gene. The gene for red hair also causes an increased sensitivity to sunlight and reduced sensitivity to anesthesia. Contrary to internet rumors, redheads are not going extinct!
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Review of Blue Wave Adventures Dolphin Tour in Myrtle Beach
There are many dolphin tours in Myrtle Beach, but our family prefers the Blue Wave Adventures tour operated out of Murrell's Inlet, South Carolina. The boat is small and able to get close to the wild dolphins, and the crew is environmentally conscientious and knowledgeable. A review of our dolphin...
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Broadway Grand Prix Race Park in Myrtle Beach: A Myrtle Beach Attraction Review
The Grand Prix Race Park (formerly known as Nascar Speedpark) in Myrtle Beach is a wonderful go-kart theme park for families with children between the ages of 5-18.
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Medieval Times in Myrtle Beach: A Myrtle Beach Attraction Review
A review of the Medieval Times dinner show and tournament in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Our family visited the Myrtle Beach castle with two children, ages six and four, and had a fantastic time watching jousting, falconry, and eating "medieval style" at the Myrtle Beach castle.
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A Review of Ripley's Aquarium in Myrtle Beach
A review of Ripley's Aquarium in Myrtle Beach. Our personal experience during Spring Break included large crowds and spending lots of time in line for the attractions.
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Easy 30-Minute No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Recipe
This no-bake cherry cheesecake recipe is extremely simple to make. As part of the Kids Cook Monday campaign, my four-year-old prepared this dessert with almost no assistance. The tart cream cheese filling balances off the cherry topping nicely, and makes a wonderful dessert for a hot day!
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Patter Flash: The Secret Language Used by Thieves in London
Pickpocket slang known as "Patter Flash" was used among thieves in 19th-century London. This criminal slang was used to confuse police and create a secret mode of communication.
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Braised Chicken With Rice Recipe
Make a complete, healthy dinner using economical chicken thighs, broccoli, carrots, rice, and a thin gravy sauce. This dinner is nutritious, and kids can help to prepare the vegetables: kids who cook are more likely to try new foods!
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How to Reupholster a Dining Room Chair (No Sewing Required!)
If you can use a staple gun and a pair of scissors, you can upholster a dining room chair with this simple DIY project.
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The Best Educational Toys and Games for 3-Year-Old Children
Great toys for three-year-olds are simple and meet the developmental needs of a child moving from babyhood to childhood. Don't break the bank—discover what toys matter for this age group!
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The Individuals With Disabilities Education Act: Why IDEA Is Crucial to Bridging the Gap
There is a lot of criticism regarding the IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act). This article examines the criticisms and provides a personal example of success. Equal opportunity and access to education are highly successful for the majority of students receiving specialized services.
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Music Lessons: The Importance of Music Education for Children
Music education is highly important for young children, increasing math skills, fine motor coordination, and helping children learn the benefits of perseverance and delayed gratification.
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Easy, Healthy Granola Bar Recipe for Kids
Make all-natural, delicious granola bars out of oats, dried fruit, and honey with this great recipe for kids to make with their parents. This recipe includes prunes and dried apricots, but the dried fruit can be modified to create endless varieties.
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How to Make Homemade Microwave Popcorn in Three Easy Steps
Avoid the artificial chemicals and flavors of commercial microwave popcorn packets and make your own nutritious, flavorful popcorn for pennies on the dollar! This video tutorial demonstrates how to make homemade microwave popcorn in three easy steps.
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How to Force Forsythia Branches to Bloom Indoors
Did you know Forsythia could be forced to bloom? This is done by bringing Forsythia branches indoors, even in the middle of winter! Bright yellow flowers are a welcome ray of sunshine during dreary winter months. Forcing forsythia branches is extremely easy to do!
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Chocolate Slavery: Slave Labor in the Cocoa Industry
Chocolate bars have a dark, often untold story of human trafficking and child slavery. Cocoa plantations on the Ivory Coast use unpaid child labor to harvest the cocoa beans, often employing tactics such as physical abuse by overseers on plantations in West Africa.
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Slavery in Virginia and the 1705 Virginia Slave Act
The 1705 Virginia Slave Act turned indentured servants into slaves for life, removed legal protection against torture and murder of slaves, and required runaway slaves to be returned to their owners.
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Deciding on Fundoplication: Surgery for Reflux in Children
The Nissen Fundoplication is an anti-reflux surgery used for uncontrollable reflux (GERD) in children. Our personal journey through the decision-making process for this surgery, after medical therapy for our son's LPR reflux failed. This article is for parents making the gut-wrenching decision to...
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Suzuki Piano Method: Music Lessons for Young Children
The Suzuki method allows very young children to play music by ear before progressing to sight-reading, allowing 3- and 4-year-old children to play the piano.
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A Brief History of Testosterone
With the discovery of this "elixir of life" came anabolic steroid abuse, treatments for those suffering from low testosterone, and research into the effects of testosterone on the developing fetus.
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How to Clean Silver With Homemade Tarnish Remover
A DIY demonstration on how to clean silver with baking soda and aluminum foil. Aluminum reduces the oxidation of the silver, allowing the silver metal to return to its shiny state. Silver tarnish is silver sulfide, and heavily tarnished items may create a sulfur odor when this method is employed.
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Best Things to See at Glendalough Monastery in Ireland
A photo gallery of Glendalough, an ancient monastery in County Wicklow, Ireland. The area boasts ancient churches, a man-made "cave" used for private worship or sleep, two lakes,and spectacular scenery. Glendalough is also part of the Wicklow Way hiking trail.
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Early Childhood Education: Choosing a Preschool Program
Choosing a preschool program is a difficult choice for parents seeking a quality early childhood education curriculum for their children. This article addresses several areas of concern and suggests questions and observations parents should make before deciding on a preschool program for their...
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Pictures of Mushrooms in Western New York
The state of New York has a beautiful array of mushrooms and other fungi. This photo gallery of orange and yellow mushrooms was taken in Frewsburg in western New York. Many of these mushrooms can be found in the wider Great Lakes geographical area.
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Chimeras: Transplants, Failed Paternity Tests, and Spider Goats
Chimeras contain DNA from two different sources. An unusual case of human chimerism and animal chimeras created for commercial use are explored in this article.
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Car Seat Expiration Dates: Keep Your Baby Safe
Why do car seats expire? The reason is not due to the manufacturer's desire to sell more car seats: in truth, the plastic in car seats breaks down over time and the seats become weak and unsafe for use in the event of a car accident. Learn how to identify a car seat's expiration date and how to...
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Letterboxing for Kids: What Is It and How to Get Started
Letterboxing is a great low-tech, low-cost activity for families. Learn how to find letterboxes and how to engage in this fun pastime!
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Vintage Lego Sets: How to Identify and Collect Classic Lego Bricks
The Lego company didn't always manufacture little plastic bricks—the first interlocking bricks were made in 1947! In the 60s, they became wildly successful with a series of motorized trains, still prized by collectors. Learn how to identify vintage Legos and buy cheap sets online through eBay.
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Auditory Illusions: A Virtual Barbershop and the McGurk Effect
Auditory Illusions are created by the human mind, in an attempt to make sense out of incongruous noise. Vision, stereo hearing, and the brain's ability to fill in the gaps create reproducible sound illusions. This article contains the McGurk Effect, Falling Bells, and Shepard tones, among others.
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The Best Travel Toys and Tips for 2 Year Old Children
Traveling with a 2 year old child can be quite challenging, particularly when the travel plan includes a long flight. Tips for entertaining toddlers on long road trips, including safety in major airports, changing diapers in airplane bathrooms, and great toys to keep kids entertained!
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How to Make a Dinosaur (from Chickens)
Paleontologist Jack Horner has a plan to reverse-engineer dinosaurs from modern birds. Believe it or not, a chickenosaurus (or, more likely, an Emu-Saurus) may be headed to a laboratory near you!
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Homemade Gummies in Three Easy Steps (With Real Fruit Juice)
Did you know you can make homemade gummy candies with real fruit juice? This recipe is simple and only requires three ingredients. Make your own homemade gummies in half an hour!
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How to Grow Tomatillos From Seeds to Salsa Verde
Tomatillos are easy to grow and are resistant to many pests and diseases. This fruit is extremely nutritious and is the main ingredient in salsa verde. Learn how to grow and prepare tomatillos. It's a simple recipe!
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C-Pap Masks for Children: C-Pap and BiPap Mask Review
There are few CPap masks for children on the market. Our personal experience with three Cpap masks, used for preschool-aged children. The Minime, FitLife, and Child Lite Masks are reviewed.
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How to Make Homemade Fruit Rollups
Make your own fruit leather with three simple ingredients. Homemade fruit leather is much healthier than the commercial "fruit roll-ups," which are made with high fructose corn syrup and artificial dyes and flavors.
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How to Make Watermelon Jelly With Four Simple Ingredients
Watermelon jelly is delicious and very easy to make. This bright and flavorful jam cannot be found in supermarkets and makes a unique homemade gift. Watermelon, pectin, lemon juice, and sugar are the only ingredients required!
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24-Hour pH/Impedance Probe Test in Children: What to Expect
Know what to expect when a 24-hour pH/impedance probe monitoring study is ordered for your child to verify the presence of acid reflux and to determine the severity of any GERD that is present.
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Queen Anne’s Lace Jelly Recipe
Make jelly from Queen Anne's Lace: The flower creates a beautiful pink jelly with the flavor of honey. Making jelly from edible flowers creates beautiful homemade gifts for friends and family alike!
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How to Make Candy Apple Jelly With Only Four Simple Ingredients
Candy apple jelly is a simple apple jelly recipe that uses only four ingredients. The jelly tastes like baked apples, and makes a wonderful Christmas or Thanksgiving gift!
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How to Identify Queen Anne's Lace (Wild Carrot)
The edible Queen Anne's lace (wild carrot) can sometimes be confused with the deadly hemlock plant. Find out how to properly identify and know the differences between these two plants, which could literally save your life!
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How to Grow Sugar Baby Watermelons
Learn how to grow a Sugar Baby watermelon from seed, determine when these watermelons are ripe, and how to harvest them.
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How to Grow Orange Tendersweet Heirloom Watermelons
Here's how to grow and harvest Orange Tendersweet watermelon from seed. This watermelon has a pale-orange flesh and a crisp, light flavor.
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Real Zombies, Haitian Voodoo, and a Man Named Clairvius
Voodoo zombies are an actual phenomenon discovered by Wade Davis, an ethnobiologist who researched the astonishing case of Clairvius Narcisse. Skeptics question Davis's findings: are zombies real?
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Witch Hunts and Trials in History
This article contains a synopsis of witch hunts and trials across Europe, including witch tests and real examples of accused witches in France and Scotland.
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Children and CPAP: Adjusting to Continuous Positive Airway Pressure
CPAP use is not common in children, and it can be hard to find practical advice for helping children adjust to this therapy. A basic guide for starting CPAP therapy in children with sleep apnea.
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Blue People of Kentucky: Why the Fugate Family Had Blue Skin
The "Blue People of Kentucky" are not a myth. They are members of the Fugate family, who carry a rare, recessive gene that makes their skin appear blue.
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Traveling With a One-Year-Old: The Best Toys and Travel Tips
Whether you're traveling by car or by plane, it can be hard to keep your one-year-old entertained. Here are some great travel tips and toys that will make it a little easier.
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Laryngomalacia in Infants and Children
Laryngomalacia is a fairly common problem in infants and can sometimes cause serious problems. Read about our journey with complicated laryngomalacia and about the causes and treatments for this disorder.
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Midway State Park in New York: A Travel Guide
Midway Park, NY offers rides and amusements for families with small children. Ride prices, photos, and location of Midway State Park.
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Pediatric Sleep Study: Our Son's Experience
What to expect when your child has a sleep study. This is our personal experience with pediatric sleep apnea.
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Artificial Chemicals and Additives in Food
Artificial chemicals are widespread in modern food, especially those that are mass-produced for convenience and a longer shelf-life. Which food chemicals are safe, and which are potentially harmful? This article explores chemicals that are commonly added to food in the modern age.
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Sailing With Children for the First Time
Sailing with children is a rewarding experience. This article contains tips for parents who want to instill a love of sailing in their children.
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DIY Strawberry Jam
How to make and can strawberry jam, including instructions for canning the jam and storing the jam.
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Driving From Buffalo to Disney World: Road Trip to Orlando With Children
Considering a road trip to Disney World? Get tips for making the journey! Based on my experience driving from Buffalo, NY, to Orlando, this option offers flexibility and cost savings to families.
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How to Care for and Chlorinate an Intex Metal Frame Pool
Intex pools are a wonderful, inexpensive option for families desiring an above-ground swimming pool. Learn how to care for yours.
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The Heterozygote Advantage: Examples of Disease-Causing Genes That Give Humans an Edge
The heterozygote advantage is shown in several genetic diseases: cystic fibrosis heterozygotes are resistant to cholera, and the thalassemia trait confers a benefit for coronary artery disease. This article explores different genes that have mutated with unexpected consequences.
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How to Crate Train a Golden Retriever Puppy
Crate training is the fastest way to achieve a potty trained puppy. Learn how it works!
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Magdalene Laundries in Ireland and Across the Western World
Magdalene Laundries were churches in Ireland that confined approximately 30,000 women in prisons. Both Catholic and Protestant Magdalene institutions existed as a way for the church to control the lives of Irish women—their children were stolen, along with their lives.
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The Best Hearing Loss Simulations: Understanding Audiograms and the Impact of the Speech Banana
Hearing loss simulations are very useful for educating parents, teachers, and friends about what a hearing loss "sounds" like. This article also explains the different levels of hearing loss.
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Kid’s Glasses: Choosing Eyeglasses and Frames for Children
How to choose glasses for children, and how to buy kids eyeglasses online, including measurements and online eyeglasses manufacturers for kids.
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The Y Chromosome: Ancestry, Genetics, and the Making of a Man
The Y chromosome contains haplogroups that allow people to trace their family history and genes that control male development which may actually be disappearing.
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Preschool Vision Screening: Detecting Eye and Vision Problems in Preschoolers
Preschool vision screening can catch many vision problems, but is not foolproof. How preschool vision screening works, and our personal experience with a failed preschool vision screen.
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Becoming a Zookeeper: Salary and Duties
What is the difference between a zoologist and a zookeeper? This article explores zookeeper careers, salary ranges, and educational requirements.
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Hearing Aids in Children: Adjusting to Hearing Aids
Toddlers and preschoolers may refuse to wear their hearing aids. This article offers practical advise for keeping hearing aids on a child for each developmental stage.
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Potassium Iodide: How Iodine Pills Protect Against Radiation
Potassium Iodide pills are given to victims of radiation exposure. This form of iodine blocks the radioactive iodine from binding to receptor sites in the thyroid. Chernobyl victims suffered from thyroid cancer, and the danger is elevated with the meltdown at the Fukushima nuclear reactor.
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How the Silver Fox Was Domesticated
Russia's domesticated silver fox experiment gives genetic clues to the process of animal domestication. Wild foxes from fur farms have been domesticated and made available for the pet trade.
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When Easter and Christmas Were Banned
Learn about when Christmas and Easter were banned in England and Boston by Puritan leaders who rejected the holidays as excuses to indulge in sin.
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What Sound Does a Giraffe Make?
Adult giraffes do vocalize, but the sound is low-frequency and barely within the hearing range of a human's ear. Baby giraffes make an audible sound, similar to a cow's moo!
- 2
Swim Floats: Swimming Aids for Toddlers and Children
Different swim aids and toddler swim floats are discussed in this article, from all-in-one flotation swim suits to inflatable arm bands (water wings).
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The Mayville Ice Castle: A Festival in Mayville, NY
The Mayville Ice Castle is built in Mayville, New York, each President's Day weekend, bringing a festive atmosphere of winter celebration to Chautauqua County.
- 14
Wishing Wells: An Uncommon History of Coin Tossing, Water, and Hope for Divine Intervention
What is the history behind the common wishing well? Why do people throw money into water? Discover the origins of the wishing well: appeasing water gods in ancient lands eventually led to the quaint practice of tossing a coin and believing on a wish.
- 2
Skiing With Preschoolers for the First Time
Preschoolers will love to ski as long as their specific needs are kept in mind! Use ski gear meant for preschoolers, such as a ski bib with handles to help little ones on and off the lift.
- 4
How to Patch Jeans With Iron-On Patches and Cool Appliques
How to patch kid's jeans and add appliques to make cool knee patches. Instead of throwing jeans away, simply patch the hole: it saves the environment and your wallet at the same time!
- 4
How to Buy and Display Antique Marbles
The oldest marbles were made from clay, though old marbles may also be made from metal, glass, or stone. Learn how to identify and display vintage marbles.
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Vintage Hawaiian Shirts: How to Find, Maintain, and Store a Piece of Hawaiian History
Owning a vintage Hawaiian shirt is like owning a piece of island history. Learn how to identify and care for vintage Hawaiian shirts!
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How to Use GIMP to Colorize an Old Black-and-White Photo
Black-and-white photographs can be colorized using digital photo editing software. This tutorial offers step-by-step instructions on how to use GIMP to add a touch of color to old photographs.
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Hockey Themed Rooms: Bedding and Accessories
Whether a child plays youth hockey or simply adores watching the sport, creating a hockey room will create much joy in the life of the little hockey player. Several products are listed to create the perfect hockey room.
- 2
Kindle Book Review: Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl by Harriet Jacobs
A review of the Kindle book Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, Written by Herself. This riveting book was written by Harriet Jacobs (Linda Brent), a young girl terrorized by slavery.
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Free Resources for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children
How and where to find the information you need. Free resources for parents of deaf and hard of hearing children. Free advocacy training, distance education courses, and magazines are available to families of young children diagnosed with hearing loss.
- 2
How to Do Chroma Key in Gimp: A Gimp Tutorial on Changing a Photo Background
How to do chroma key in GIMP: replacing a plain (blue or green screen) background with a new scene.
- 13
The Esteem Hearing Implant: An Invisible Hearing Aid Alternative
Traditional, acoustic hearing aids have come a long way. The Esteem Hearing Implant overcomes the problems with traditional hearing aids: eliminate feedback and go swimming with the Esteem Implant!
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How to Turn Photos Into Coloring Pages for Children: A GIMP Tutorial
Could regular photographs be transformed into coloring book pages? Check out this helpful tutorial for creating coloring book pages from photographs, using GIMP, the free photo editing software.
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Creating Metallic Color Images: A GIMP Tutorial
Create photos with a unique metallic tinge - this method creates beautiful gold-tone, copper-tone, or silver-tone images using GIMP, the free software editor.
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How to Turn Photos Into Cartoons: A GIMP Tutorial
Learn how to turn photos into cartoon drawings using GIMP, the free photo editing software.
- 5
Chautauqua Gorge: A Hidden Gem in Chautauqua County, New York
The Chautauqua Gorge is a beautiful swimming hole with waterfalls, a short distance from the world-famous Chautauqua Institute.
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How to Make Photos Black and White With a Splash of Color: A GIMP Photo Tutorial
Any photo can be turned into a stunning piece of art by using selective colorization. Use the free GIMP photo editing software to create a black and white photo with a splash of color!
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How to Make a Digital Scrapbook With GIMP
Learn how to create digital scrapbook pages with GIMP, the free photo editor. This article includes a video tutorial for those new to the GIMP photo editing program.
- 4
17 Best Rides for Toddlers and Preschoolers at Disney California Adventure
A summary of the best rides at Disneyland's California Adventure theme park that are suitable for toddlers and preschoolers.
- 0
Simple Oreo Turkey Cookies for Thanksgiving
These simple-but-festive turkey cookies are made from Oreos, candy corn, and Whoppers candy. They are an excellent dessert idea for Thanksgiving!
- 2
How to Make Snowman Pretzel Rod Snacks
Looking for cute snacks that your children will love? These snowman pretzel rod snacks are simple to make! Here's how.
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Does the Duggar Family Homemade Laundry Detergent Really Work? A Soap Recipe Review
A review of the Duggar family laundry soap recipe and the effectiveness of homemade laundry detergent.
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Best Pittsburgh Activities for Preschoolers
Pittsburgh is a wonderful city to visit with preschoolers. A sample three day touring plan and links to the wonderful child-friendly destinations in Pittsburgh.