The Blog of P.U.R.E. and Sue Scheff

TeenHealth provides some great tips for this upcoming holiday weekend! Fireworks: Handle With Care Fireworks safety starts before a firework is even sold: It begins with the manufacturers, who need to follow strict quality controls in making their products. That doesn't mean every firework is guaranteed to be safe, though. Things can go wrong with fireworks, just as they can with any product, and most of the time it's because the fireworks aren't handled properly. That's the reason you see all those warnings on fireworks. Thousands of people are taken to hospital emergency rooms in the United States every year because of injuries from fireworks — including bottle rockets, sparklers, and firecrackers. The most common fireworks injuries involve the hands, fingers, eyes, head, and face. Some of these injuries are severe, resulting in permanent health problems such as missing fingers and limbs and vision loss . So what can you do to enjoy the Fourth of July and still stay ...

Hoping everyone has a safe and fun Memorial Day. Most importantly take the time to honor the many people that have served our wonderful country. Since I usually Blog about Parenting Articles, I have to bring your attention to a fantastic article from Educuation.com - The Real Meaning of Memorial Day - read more here: http://www.education.com/magazine/article/The_Real_Meaning_of_Memorial_Day/

What a beautiful day to spend with your family and loved ones. Holidays are a perfect reason to put aside your personal hectic schedules and celebrate what Easter means to you and share with those you love. In today's high-tech world, there doesn't seem to be enough one-on-one time together - but we can't give up that technology when we want to reach out across the country to touch more friends and families. Take the time today to smell the roses (tulips) or life in general.

As a Parent Advocate I am always looking for great parenting ideas, thoughts and articles. Now Education.com has given parents terrific gifts that can enhance your child's learning growth no matter what age they are! Check it out! Need gift ideas? We have you covered! We found the best toys, games, and books for each grade that will build your child's brain, as well as being chock-full of fun. We've also factored in the economy, with most gifts falling in the $20-$40 range, so you can shop smart. This list of loot is kid-tested, teacher approved, and easy on your pocket book. So check out our 2008 Gift Guide. Gifts for Preschoolers Gifts for Kindergartners Gifts for First Graders Gifts for Second Graders Gifts for Third Graders Gifts for Fourth Graders Gifts for Fifth Graders Gifts for Middle Schoolers Gifts for High Schoolers All these items and more are also available at our online store. Check Out the Education.com Store Happy Wrapping! The Education.com Team

With today's economy, many parents are working full time and/or two jobs leaving many teens home alone. Many will spend their days online - however it is important to get them involved in constructive activities outside the home. This can also help build self esteem! Is there a local Humane Society? A local Nursing Home that needs help? Maybe a Holiday Tree Stand that hires many teens to help carry the trees or deliver them? Booths in malls that wrap gifts? Jobs at movie theaters increase - check in your local area. Encourage your teen to get busy! Keeping your teen active can help prevent them from mixing and hanging out with peers that are less than desirable and looking for trouble. As difficult as it is, keep your lines of communication open! They may think they need a break from the structure of school and studies, but help them to see that all these activities could be fun! Parents, your employment is critical to feeding your family and keeping up with your mortgage or rent ...

2008 -Fourth of July Have a safe and fun holiday weekend! Take time to enjoy your family and friends!