Kids & Family

Protect Yourself and Others This Flu Season

Protect Yourself and Others This Flu Season
(NewsUSA) - Several seasonal celebrations are nearly upon us, but an unwelcome time of year also awaits—flu season.The “flu,” short for influenza, is a viral respiratory illness that often …

5 Meaningful Holiday Gifts That Give Back All Year

(BPT) - The holidays are approaching, which means it's time to start thinking about what you'll give your loved ones. This year, go beyond traditional presents and give your friends and family a …

3 Ways Coaches Can Cultivate Joy and Confidence in Young Athletes

(Feature Impact) Youth sports can change lives - building confidence, resilience and lifelong friendships among the kids and teens who play. In fact, winning games is often the least important part of the experience. Creating an environment where young athletes feel seen and appreciated is its own reward. Consider these tips highlighting three ways coaches can help their players feel like they belong.

AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Beyond September: Building a daily culture of literacy for children
Literacy is described as the ability to read, write, speak, and understand information. September is recognized as Literacy Month. This year’s global theme is: “Literacy for people, the planet …
Can we get a little commotion for vanilla? It's having a moment – and Minnesota is here for it
Chocolate may get most of the attention, but vanilla is quietly making a statement — and Minnesota is helping lead the way.  A new University of Minnesota College of Food, Agricultural and …
Backpack giveaway at Eastside Salvation Army
The Salvation Army along with 125 volunteers distributed 1,200 backpacks, school supplies, food, clothing and more to an estimated 1,500 attendees at The Salvation Army Eastside Service Center (1019 …
Reading journey starts here: Helping your child connect with literacy spaces
When I was young, my mother would take me out of the house on weekends and during the summer. Among the amazing places we would visit were libraries, museums, and community literacy spaces. I …
ConneQt staff help a youth move from host home to stable housing. ConneQt is under the umbrella of Avenues for Youth, an organization founded in 1994 by Michelle Basham, a 19-year-old youth experiencing homelessness. The organization aimed to provide resources. (Photo submitted)
ConneQt offers youth solidarity not charity
It is a time of political and cultural assault on trans youth. That assessment was made by Ryan Berg, program manager for ConneQt, which provides host families for LGBTQI+ young people between the …
Curious Kids

Why does some rain fall harder than other rain?

A downpour or a drizzle: What causes the difference?
Some rainstorms drench you in a second, while others drop rain in a nice peaceful drizzle. A meteorologist explains how rainstorms can be so different.
AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD
St. Paul is a college town. It should start acting like one.
St. Paul faces a serious economic development challenge. Much of the discussion has understandably focused on downtown. Revitalizing downtown matters, but it cannot be the city’s entire strategy. …
Como Park High School students and chaperones enjoy the view above the harbor in San Sebastian, Spain. The group had 10 days of immersive learning in Spain through an Education First tour.
Students spend 10 days in Spain
As the new 2026-2027 school year begins, Como students returned to campus with a wide range of summer experiences. For 15 students and two staff chaperones, a long-planned trip to Spain was a …
Modern Germany: Takeaways from a teacher fellowship
As a social studies teacher at Como Park High School, Germany enters the scope of my U.S. History course at a predictable time. You can’t study the 20th century without recognizing the outsized …
Central High holds 50th reunion Aug. 21-22
The St. Paul Central Class of 1976 is holding its 50th reunion on Aug. 21 and 22, 2026. Events include a "meet and greet" at Mancini's Char House on Friday, Aug. 21 and a ride on a St Croix …
Como Park High School graduate Adayla Morant performs a tumbling pass during the floor exercise. She placed tenth in the nation for the vault at the USA Gymnastics Development Program Championships.
Adayla Morant vaults to next level
Como Park High School’s Adayla Morant humbly asked her AP Macroeconomics teacher if she could reschedule the College Board AP Exam in May. Her conflict was the USA Gymnastics’ National …
More news about your kids and family
(Feature Impact) The school year brings new classmates, routines and opportunities for children to learn about people whose experiences may be different from their own.
(BPT) - Key takeaways: Disasterville, a mixed-reality experience, shows students how Army National Guard Soldiers respond to natural disasters in their home states.Students spend time inside three of …
(BPT) - Sponsored by University of PhoenixKey takeaways:Key factors to consider when comparing online colleges include: recognized institutional accreditation, schedule flexibility, transparent …
“Sharing is caring” and other lessons children learn in pre-K that lead to kindergarten success
“Sharing is caring” and other lessons children learn in pre-K that lead to kindergarten success
(NewsUSA) - Many parents think kindergarten readiness starts with learning letters, numbers and how to write a name. Those skills matter, but educators know that the social-emotional and executive …
Toys for Tots’ Operation Turn the Page Unlocks Futures Through Books
Toys for Tots’ Operation Turn the Page Unlocks Futures Through Books
(NewsUSA) - Across the Nation, millions of children are preparing to head back to school—filled with excitement, opportunity, and promise. But for far too many children, the year begins with a …
Growing more than school readiness
Growing more than school readiness
(NewsUSA) - The back-to-school season isn't just for school-age children. For many families with preschoolers, late summer is a time to evaluate early learning programs and consider which experiences …
Be a Summer Santa: Support Toys for Tots’ Year-Round Mission
Be a Summer Santa: Support Toys for Tots’ Year-Round Mission
(NewsUSA) - The magic of Christmas doesn’t wait until December—and neither does Marine Toys for Tots. Nationally recognized as America’s flagship children’s Christmastime charity, Toys for …
Reel Moments Make Real Impact: Marine Toys for Tots Encourages Outdoor Play
Reel Moments Make Real Impact: Marine Toys for Tots Encourages Outdoor Play
(NewsUSA) - June marks the start of summer—a season defined by adventure, exploration, and the simple joys of childhood. June also highlights National Fishing Week, celebrated June 6-14, making it …

(BPT) - Parenting today isn't about following a single, rigid rulebook — it's about adaptability. As families celebrate National Family Day this fall, modern parents are moving away from the …
About our Furry Friends
How to manage the rising costs of being a pet parent
Current reports on managing rising costs as a pet parent, noting expenses for caring for pets range widely, with recommendations for emergency funds and insurance.
Uncover your kibble: 5 things to look for in your dog’s food
K9 Natural reports five key factors to consider when choosing dog food: protein quality, digestibility, ingredients, whole-body health, and avoiding unnecessary fillers.
What ingredients to look for in fresh dog food
Ollie reports that fresh dog food prioritizes real, recognizable ingredients like human-grade meats, vegetables, and healthy fats, ensuring quality and transparency.
How long does fresh dog food last in the fridge?
Ollie reports that fresh dog food lasts in the fridge for four days (unopened and opened), while leftovers should be consumed within 24 hours. 
Barkitecture: 12 dog-friendly landscaping ideas for your backyard
Lawn Love reports on "Barkitecture," a trend for dog-friendly backyards, featuring designs that cater to dogs' natural behaviors while preserving landscaping.