Electric Cars

This weekend, residents of Iowa will need to adjust their clocks forward by an hour as the region transitions into Daylight Saving Time. For parents with young children, this change can be challenging. Dr. Casy Freymiller, a pediatrician, advises that preparation is key to ensuring a smoother transition for kids. He suggests gradually adjusting bedtime routines in the days leading up to the time change. This proactive approach can help minimize disruptions and maintain healthy sleep patterns for children, who are particularly sensitive to changes in their daily routines.

Dr. Freymiller recommends a technique known as "bedtime fading" to ease the adjustment process. This method involves making small, incremental changes to bedtime over several days. By shifting the bedtime earlier in 15-minute intervals, the overall impact of losing an hour of sleep becomes less abrupt. According to Dr. Freymiller, these minor adjustments can significantly reduce the stress associated with the time change, especially for children who may not handle sudden shifts well.

The importance of adequate sleep cannot be overstated, particularly for children and teenagers. Research has shown that insufficient sleep can have adverse effects on mood, emotional regulation, memory formation, and academic performance. Dr. Freymiller emphasizes that proper rest is essential for maintaining focus and staying on task during school hours. Furthermore, studies indicate that only a fraction of high school students meet the recommended eight hours of sleep per night, with recent data showing a decline in sleep duration among adolescents over the past decade.

In light of these findings, preparing children in advance for the time change is crucial. Parents should communicate openly with their kids about the upcoming shift and involve them in the adjustment process. By doing so, families can mitigate the potential negative impacts of the time change and promote healthier sleep habits. Ultimately, this preparation can lead to better overall well-being and improved daily functioning for both children and parents alike.

In an impressive display of talent and resilience, a young baker from Utah has captured the hearts of audiences across the nation. Arielle Yang, then a sixth-grade student at Waterford School in Sandy, competed on the popular Food Network show "Kids Baking Championship." Despite her young age, Arielle proved that she could hold her own against older competitors. Her journey from the initial rounds to the finale was nothing short of inspiring.

Arielle's ability to remain calm under pressure became evident as the competition intensified. During the final challenge, contestants were tasked with creating a zoo-themed cake within five hours. Arielle, who was the youngest finalist, faced a momentary setback when her chocolate cake with peanut butter filling began to bulge. However, she quickly regained her composure and turned the situation around. Her assignment was to create a forest predator enclosure, which she felt connected to deeply due to her surroundings in Utah. She skillfully crafted a three-tier cake adorned with bears, birds, mountains, and even a campfire scene, showcasing her creativity and attention to detail.

The judges praised Arielle for her decorating skills and innovative flavors throughout the season. Although she didn't win the $25,000 prize, her performance left a lasting impression. The experience brought her unforgettable memories and lifelong friendships. Competing alongside bakers from various parts of North America, Arielle found joy in sharing her passion for baking with others. For her, the true reward was not just the competition but the bonds formed along the way. This young baker’s journey reminds us that success is not only about winning but also about personal growth and the connections we make.