ParentsKids
Top 2024 Science Books for Kids: Recommendations from Experts
2024-12-09
Science Friday's podcast Universe of Art offers a delightful journey through the realm of science and art. With hosts D Peterschmidt and a team of experts, it brings you the best in kids' science books and more. Tune in on various podcasting apps and get ready to be inspired!

Unlock the Magic of Science and Art with Universe of Art

Listen and Explore on Podcasting Apps

Immerse yourself in the world of Universe of Art by listening on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, or your favorite podcasting app. It's a convenient way to bring the wonders of science and art right to your ears. Whether you're on the go or relaxing at home, this podcast has something for everyone. 1: These podcasting platforms provide a seamless listening experience, allowing you to delve into the diverse topics covered by Universe of Art. From the latest scientific discoveries to the intersection of art and creativity, each episode offers a unique perspective that keeps you engaged. 2: With a wide range of podcasts available, you can easily find the ones that suit your interests. Whether you're a science enthusiast or an art lover, Universe of Art has it all. It's a one-stop destination for those who want to expand their horizons and explore the fascinating world of science and art.

Holiday Gift Guide for Kids

During this special time of the year, it's time to make your list and check it twice for the perfect gifts that spark a love of science in the kids in your life. Ira engages in delightful conversations with Mahnaz Dar, the young readers' editor at Kirkus Reviews, and Carrie Wolfson, the collection development librarian at the Boulder Public Library. They round up the top kids' science books of 2024 and offer recommendations based on listener questions. 1: These experts bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to the table, helping you find the most engaging and educational science books for kids. Their recommendations cover a wide range of topics, from astronomy to biology, ensuring that there's something for every young scientist. 2: By following their suggestions, you can give the gift of knowledge and curiosity this holiday season. These books not only entertain but also inspire kids to explore the world around them and develop a love for science. It's a gift that will last a lifetime.

Expert Recommendations and More

Still looking for a specific kids' science book but didn't get a chance to ask our experts in advance? Don't worry! Carrie and Mahnaz will be on hand to give a few more recommendations in the coming week. Submit your additional requests, and come back to this page on December 14 for their expanded recommendation list. 1: The team at Universe of Art is dedicated to providing you with the best resources and recommendations. Their expertise and passion shine through in every interaction, making them a valuable source of information for parents and educators alike. 2: By submitting your requests, you can play an active role in shaping the future of kids' science books. The experts will take your suggestions into account and add them to their list, ensuring that there are even more great options available.

Meet the Creators

Shoshannah Buxbaum is a producer for Science Friday, with a particular interest in stories about health, psychology, and the environment. As a proud New Jersey native, she's passionate about sharing the beauty and importance of her home state. 1: Her work on Universe of Art showcases her dedication to bringing meaningful stories to life. Through her production skills, she helps to create a listening experience that is both informative and engaging. 2: Shoshannah's contributions to Science Friday add a unique touch to the podcast, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of science and other fields.D Peterschmidt is a producer, host of the podcast Universe of Art, and a talented composer. His D&D character, Chip Chap Chopman, adds a touch of whimsy to his creative endeavors. 1: Peterschmidt's music sets the tone for each episode, enhancing the listening experience and adding an extra layer of depth to the stories. His passion for both music and science is evident in every note he composes. 2: As the host of Universe of Art, he guides listeners through the fascinating world of science and art, making it accessible and enjoyable for all. His enthusiasm is contagious and keeps audiences coming back for more.

Share Your Science-Inspired Art

Do you have science-inspired art that you'd like to share with us for a future episode? Send us an email or a voice memo to universe@sciencefriday.com. Let your creativity shine and be a part of the Universe of Art community! 1: We believe that art and science go hand in hand, and we want to showcase your unique creations. Whether it's a painting, a sculpture, or a digital art piece, we're excited to see what you have to offer. 2: By sharing your science-inspired art, you can contribute to the ongoing conversation about the intersection of these two fields. It's a chance to connect with like-minded individuals and inspire others with your work.
When Buying Toys, Consider Ages of All Kids, Not Just the Recipient
2024-12-09
An emergency physician is emphasizing the importance of closely following toy labeling and purchasing age-appropriate gifts during the holiday season. Dr. Benjamin Orozco from Gundersen Health System highlights the need to consider all children in the house and not rely solely on age recommendations on packaging. Disasters are rare, but each year, about a dozen kids in the US die from toys and 250,000 get injured. Common sense is crucial, especially for younger siblings. Toddlers are most vulnerable to choking and ingestion hazards. For older children and teenagers, safety gear is essential. Scooters cause significant injuries like broken wrists and head injuries. It's advisable to include safety equipment with toys. Agencies like the Consumer Product Safety Commission do a good job, but sometimes dangerous items slip through. Some new toys still have hazardous lead-based paint. Dr. Orozco encourages purchasing games and activity-related toys to get kids outside and stimulate them. Gundersen Health System has clinics in Calmar, Decorah, Fayette, Lansing, Postville and Waukon, and a hospital in West Union.

Ensure Holiday Gifts Keep Kids Safe with Physician's Tips

Age-Appropriate Toy Purchasing

Dr. Benjamin Orozco stresses the significance of closely following toy labeling. He explains that while age recommendations on packaging are important, they shouldn't be the sole deciding factor. When shopping for toys, one must consider all kids in the house. Disasters are rare, but the statistics are concerning. About a dozen kids die each year from toys, and 250,000 get injured. This highlights the need for careful consideration.For younger siblings, especially those in the toddler range, choking and ingestion hazards are a major concern. Toddlers are likely to put things in their mouths, and unfortunately, this leads to a few deaths each year from small pieces of toys or wrapping.

Safety Gear for Different Age Groups

The hazards for older children and teenagers are different. Scooters, for example, cause most significant injuries like broken wrists, bumps, and bruises, and sometimes even significant head injuries. Dr. Orozco advises putting safety equipment right with the toy. When buying a scooter, it should come with a helmet and other necessary safety gear.This shows that safety gear is crucial for different age groups and activities. It helps prevent serious injuries and ensures the well-being of children.

Avoiding Hazardous Toys

Agencies like the Consumer Product Safety Commission work hard to keep dangerous toys off the shelves, but occasionally, something slips through. For example, there were some powerful magnets that were fun for teenagers but could be dangerous if ingested by a small child. Two magnets could stick together and pin pieces of the intestine together, causing the intestines to burst.It's important to be aware of such hazards and avoid purchasing toys with potential risks. Some new toys may still be coated with hazardous lead-based paint, typically items imported from other countries. Parents need to be cautious and choose safe toys for their children.Dr. Orozco encourages parents to purchase games, balls, and other activity-related toys that get kids outside to play. This helps stimulate their minds and bodies, promoting a healthy lifestyle.Gundersen Health System's clinics and hospital in Iowa provide valuable healthcare services and support in ensuring the safety of children during the holiday season and beyond.
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Stray Kids Set to Shine at the 2024 Billboard Music Awards
2024-12-09
Stray Kids are all set to make a grand appearance at the highly anticipated 2024 Billboard Music Awards. They join a star-studded lineup that includes SEVENTEEN, Teddy Swims, Tyla, Coldplay, Jelly Roll, and Megan Moroney. This event is set to be a musical extravaganza.

Stray Kids' Billboard Music Awards Journey

Stray Kids' Performance Lineup

Stray Kids are gearing up to take the stage at the 2024 Billboard Music Awards. They will be sharing the spotlight with fellow K-pop stars and other renowned artists. This performance is expected to be a highlight of the event, showcasing their talent on a global stage.The 2024 BBMAs, hosted by Michelle Buteau and presented by Marriott Bonvoy, is set to air on Thursday, Dec. 12, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on FOX and Fire TV Channels. Viewers can also catch the performances on-demand on Paramount+ and via @BBMAs and @Billboard social channels. This wide reach ensures that fans from all over the world can enjoy the show.

Stray Kids' Award Nominations

Stray Kids are finalists for four awards at the BBMAs. They have been nominated for top duo/group, top global K-pop artist, and two bids for top K-pop album – ROCK-STAR and ATE. In August, ATE achieved a significant milestone by becoming Stray Kids' fifth No. 1 on the Billboard 200. Additionally, their single "Chk Chk Boom" reached No. 49 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking their highest-charting single to date. Their previous No. 1 albums or EPs include Stray Kids Mini Album: Oddinary, Maxident, 5-Star, and ROCK-STAR.

Previous Billboard Music Awards Stars

As previously announced, Zach Bryan, Taylor Swift, Morgan Wallen, and Sabrina Carpenter are the leading finalists for the 2024 Billboard Music Awards. This shows the high level of competition and the significance of the event.The show's return to FOX, which carried it from 1990 to 2006, is a major milestone. Paramount+ will provide on-demand streaming, and the Fire TV Channels app will offer one-click access to fans using Amazon devices. This ensures that fans can enjoy the show in multiple ways.

BBMAs Celebration and Performances

The BBMAs will celebrate music's greatest achievements with exclusive original performances, artist interviews, and award celebrations. Shaboozey will deliver a special performance from W Hollywood, part of the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio. Additional performers and special guests will be announced soon, adding to the excitement of the event.The Billboard Music Awards honor the year's biggest artists, albums, songs, producers, and songwriters across multiple genres. The eligibility dates for this year's awards align with Billboard's Year-End Charts tracking period, measuring music consumption from Oct. 28, 2023 to Oct. 19, 2024.The Billboard Music Awards are produced by Dick Clark Productions, owned by Penske Media Corporation, which is also the parent company of Billboard. The show is presented by Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International's travel program with over 30 hotel brands. For more information, visit MarriottBonvoy.com.
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