Lifestyles

(Family Features) Scaring up a good time this Halloween starts with spooky costumes, ghoulish decor and treats you can share with your favorite ghosts and goblins. For an extra haunting twist, skip the store-bought candies and break out your cauldron for tempting homemade sweets.

You can celebrate the seed-to-snack simplicity of one of fall’s favorite snacks – popcorn – with crunchy desserts that pair perfectly with your favorite spooky traditions. Popcorn’s smell, taste and versatility help it enhance Halloween as a budget-friendly solution for ghostly gatherings.

Embrace the taste of autumn – pumpkin spice – with a snack that allows you to indulge throughout the season. These White Chocolate and Pumpkin Pie Spice Popcorn Bites offer warm flavor without the scare. Simply pour melted pumpkin pie spice-seasoned chocolate over popped popcorn, toss with toffee bits and sea salt then break into bite-sized chunks for a seasonal sweet that’s perfect for celebrating National Popcorn Poppin’ Month.

Visit Popcorn.org to find more Halloween-inspired snacks.

Go for a Ghoulish Snack Bar

Encourage a little devious creativity this Halloween with a popcorn bar (char-boo-terie board) that features everyone’s favorites. Start with enough freshly popped popcorn to feed all your little zombies and vampires then add seasonal favorites like candy corn, chocolate candies, individually wrapped treats, dried fruit, nuts and beyond.

To pop popcorn on a stovetop, cover the bottom of a 3- to 4-quart pan with a thin layer of vegetable oil (don’t use butter, it will burn). Place 3 kernels of popcorn in the pan, cover with a loose lid that allows steam to escape and heat. When the kernels pop, pour in enough popcorn to cover the bottom of the pan, one kernel deep, then cover the pan and shake to evenly spread the oil. When the popping begins to slow to a few seconds apart, remove the pan from the stovetop. The heated oil will still pop the remaining kernels.

White Chocolate and Pumpkin Pie Spice Popcorn Bites

Servings: 12

• 12 cups unsalted, unbuttered popped popcorn
• 3 cups chopped white chocolate or white chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon light olive oil
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 cup toffee bits
• 1 teaspoon flaked sea salt, crushed

1. Line large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. Place popcorn in large mixing bowl.
2. In microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate, olive oil and pumpkin pie spice; microwave on medium 2-3 minutes, or until melted and smooth, stirring after each minute.
3. Pour melted white chocolate mixture over popcorn; add toffee bits and toss to combine. Transfer to prepared baking sheet, spreading to edges of pan; sprinkle sea salt over top.
4. Let cool; refrigerate 1-2 hours, or until set. Break into chunks for serving.

Tip: Homemade pumpkin pie spice can be made by combining 3 parts ground cinnamon with 1 part ground nutmeg, 1 part allspice and 1 part ginger.

SOURCE:
Popcorn Board

(Family Features) Take a deep breath. Now ask yourself: When was the last time you thought about breathing? For people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), breathing is often front of mind because it can be difficult, and it gets worse over time.

There is no cure yet for COPD, but experts from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) recommend these strategies to protect your lung health at every age.

Younger Adults: Prevention is Key
COPD is less common in younger adults, but it’s never too early to protect your lungs. The most important way to prevent COPD is to not smoke. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 75% of people with COPD have a history of smoking. Smoking isn’t the only risk factor for COPD. Exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, chemical fumes or dust from the environment or workplace can also increase your risk. If you breathe in lung irritants at work, talk to your employer about how to limit exposure.

People with a genetic condition called AAT (Alpha-1 Antitrypsin) deficiency, sometimes known as Alpha-1, may have COPD-like symptoms as early as age 20. If you have symptoms or a family history of COPD, talk to your health care provider about being tested for AAT deficiency.

“It’s a simple, quick and highly accurate test that could improve the lives of some people with COPD,” said Dr. Mihaela Stefan of the NHLBI.

Middle-Aged Adults: Know the Symptoms and Seek Help
Most people are 40 or older when COPD symptoms start. Symptoms include shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and fatigue. These are not just signs of getting older, and they’re not the same as seasonal allergies.

If you have symptoms, ask your health care provider if you should be tested for COPD. Discuss your smoking habits, family history of COPD and long-term exposure to lung irritants. Your health care provider may recommend lung function tests or imaging to diagnose COPD.

If you smoke, get help to quit. You don’t have to go it alone. Family, friends, your health care provider and support groups can all lend a hand.

Older Adults: Take Steps to Manage COPD
Older adults are at greater risk of COPD. If you’ve been diagnosed, follow your treatment plan and take medicines as prescribed.

Lifestyle changes can help people with COPD breathe better. Talk to your health care provider about pulmonary rehabilitation, a personalized treatment program that teaches COPD management strategies. Ask about an eating plan that will meet your nutritional needs and what types of physical activity you can safely do. Stay up to date with vaccinations against flu, pneumonia and COVID-19.

If you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do to slow the progression of COPD and is an important part of COPD treatment plans. Ask your provider about options for quitting.

At any age, taking care of your lungs is crucial. Learn about COPD from Learn More Breathe Better^® at copd.nhlbi.nih.gov.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

SOURCE:
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Bring loved ones together with protein-packed peanuts

(Family Features) Between juggling work, family, friends and social activities, powering through busy day-to-day schedules requires a lot of energy. Building meals around recipes packed with a plant-based protein such as peanuts or peanut butter can help your family come together to refuel.

In fact, at 7 grams per serving, a nutrient-rich powerhouse like peanuts delivers the most protein of any nut and contains six essential vitamins – vitamin E, folate, riboflavin, thiamin, niacin and vitamin B6 – and seven essential minerals – phosphorus, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, copper and calcium.

As a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed as a standalone snack or part of a variety of recipes from morning to night, peanuts can take center stage at the family table when it’s time to recharge at the end of long days. Start with an appetizer like Broccoli and Edamame Salad with Peanut Dressing, which can be on the table in 10 minutes, to hold over hunger ahead of a protein-packed main course like Chicken with Peanut Sauce in Lettuce Wraps. Finish off the evening meal with Peanut Butter Cottage Cheese Cheesecake as a better-for-you dessert.

Find more delicious ideas for keeping your family energized at gapeanuts.com.

Chicken with Peanut Sauce in Lettuce Wraps

Recipe courtesy of Parker’s Plate on behalf of the Georgia Peanut Commission
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

• 2 pounds ground chicken
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 3/4 cup diced shiitake mushrooms
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, grated
• 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh grated ginger
• 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
• 1/2 cup water chestnuts, diced
• 3 green onions (both white and green parts), chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, grated
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped, for garnish
• 1/4 cup crushed peanuts, for garnish
• iceberg or butter lettuce, for wraps

Peanut Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce
• 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

1. In pan, saute ground chicken in sesame oil until cooked through. Drain if mixture is watery.
2. Add shiitake mushrooms and onion; saute until mushrooms have softened and appear caramel colored.
3. Add garlic, ginger, hoisin, water chestnuts and green onions. Let chicken mixture simmer on low.
4. To make peanut sauce: In saucepan over medium-low heat, mix peanut butter, brown sugar, lime juice, chili garlic sauce, ginger and soy sauce until smooth, warm and thinned slightly.
5. Fold into chicken mixture. Stir until combined and simmer on low until peanut sauce is evenly distributed.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and crushed peanuts. Serve in lettuce wraps.

Broccoli and Edamame Salad with Peanut Dressing

Recipe courtesy of Parker’s Plate on behalf of the Georgia Peanut Commission
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time 5 minutes
Servings: 4

Dressing:

• 1/2 fresh lime, juice only
• 1/4 cup toasted sesame seed oil
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
• 1 teaspoon chili oil
• 1 garlic clove, grated
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• kosher salt, to taste
• 1 tablespoon hot water, plus additional for thinner consistency (optional)

Salad:

• 2 cups broccoli slaw
• 1 cup shelled edamame, cooked
• 1 1/2 cups chopped raw broccoli
• 1/2 cup English cucumber, quartered and chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup salted peanuts, roughly chopped
• toasted sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

1. To make dressing: In bowl, whisk lime juice, toasted sesame seed oil, honey, tahini, peanut butter, chili oil, garlic, ginger and salt, to taste. Add hot water, adding additional, if necessary, until dressing reaches desired consistency. Set aside.
2. To make salad: In large bowl, combine broccoli slaw, edamame, broccoli, cucumber, mint, cilantro and peanuts. Toss with dressing to combine and garnish with toasted sesame seeds, if desired.

Peanut Butter Cottage Cheese Cheesecake

Recipe courtesy of Parker’s Plate on behalf of the Georgia Peanut Commission
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 2 hours
Servings: 8 (1 slice each)

Crust:

• 2 cups pretzels
• 1 1/2 cups vanilla-flavored wafer-style cookies
• 1/2 cup peanuts
• 12 tablespoons unsalted butter
• nonstick cooking spray

Filling:

• 1/2 cup cottage cheese
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup roughly chopped dark chocolate
• 1/2 cup roughly chopped peanuts
• 1 pinch sea salt

1. To make crust: In food processor, pulse pretzels, wafer-style cookies and peanuts until chopped but not powdery.
2. In skillet, melt butter. Add pretzel mixture until combined with butter.
3. Spray pie pan with nonstick cooking spray and spread mixture on bottom of pan and slightly up sides; press down until even.
4. To make filling: In bowl using hand mixer, whip cottage cheese until lumps are smoother, 3-4 minutes.
5. In separate bowl, use hand mixer to whip heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form.
6. Add cottage cheese and peanut butter to heavy cream mixture; whip until combined, about 1 minute.
7. Top pie with chopped chocolate and peanuts and freeze 2 hours. Remove from freezer 15 minutes before ready to serve.
8. Before serving, sprinkle with sea salt.

SOURCE:
Georgia Peanut Commission

5 Reasons Family Meals are a Recipe for Success

(Family Features) Americans face a lack of social connection that poses a significant risk to individual health and longevity, according to the U.S. Surgeon General.

Address the epidemic of loneliness by joining the Family Meals Movement and sharing a meal with friends and family today.

Watch this video to learn how you can join the Family Meals Movement!

Encourage Togetherness
Research finds the more people eat together, the better they function. Specifically, frequent shared family meals improve connectedness, communication, expressiveness and problem-solving. Conversation is key during family meals to take advantage of the one-on-one time without distractions.

Strengthen Mental Health
Family meals also support mental health, restoring a sense of peace, bolstering self-esteem, increasing happiness and boosting a sense of resilience.

Enhance Nutrition
Research shows family meals improve fruit and vegetable consumption. It also indicates families who eat together frequently have a better overall healthy diet and lower body mass index.

Boost Academic Performance
Eating more meals together is associated with improved overall adolescent health, including higher grades. Multiple studies show students whose families eat together frequently perform better academically in reading and vocabulary.

Model Civility
The family dinner table is a great place to show younger generations how to communicate respectfully. In fact, 76% of Americans agreed family meals are a good opportunity to have and teach respectful interactions, according to the FMI Foundation’s “Staying Strong with Family Meals” Barometer.

Learn more about the physical, mental and social benefits of family meals at familymealsmovement.org. Share how you’re participating by tagging #familymealsmonth and #familymealsmovement on social media.

SOURCE:
FMI Foundation

(Family Features) Dine together, shine together. Weekly sit-down meals with family can reduce stress, boost self-esteem and make everyone feel more connected – all while sharing delicious, healthy and easy-to-prepare food.

Give your family the opportunity to refuel and reconnect each week with recipes that bring everyone together. Whether it’s 10 people or two, research shows that those who enjoy frequent meals with others, particularly parents with their children, have better social and emotional well-being, according to the American Heart Association.

Enjoying great conversation and camaraderie is at the heart of every meal, and with the right dishes, you can make every bite as delicious as it is nourishing. Ingredients like eggs are affordable, easy to use and versatile, making them the perfect choice in the kitchen to help you cook up conversation.

Gently cooked egg yolks take center stage in this Egg Ravioli with Sage and Almonds recipe, and delicate poached eggs rest atop whole grains in the Poached Eggs with Pesto Bulgur recipe. If breakfast is the best time of day for your tribe to gather, whip up these Southwestern Quinoa and Egg Breakfast Bowls for added protein and fiber.

These egg-inspired recipes and more are part of the American Heart Association’s Together Tuesdays and Healthy for Good Eat Smart initiative, nationally supported by Eggland’s Best. Both initiatives stress the importance of gathering at least once a week around the table with family or friends to satisfy cravings for connection, a delicious meal and overall healthy living.

In addition to the social and emotional benefits of dining together, shared family meals can help promote healthier choices at the table.

Eggs, for example, can be included as part of a heart-healthy diet that emphasizes vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds, whole grains, lean protein and fish, according to the American Heart Association. Remember not to isolate just one food – it’s not only about the egg, but also about what’s eaten alongside it. For example, eating eggs alongside foods high in saturated fat – like bacon – is different than eggs eaten with steamed veggies, whole grains or a side of fruit.

For more heart-healthy recipe ideas and conversation starters to make Together Tuesdays a tradition in your household, visit heart.org/together.

Egg Ravioli with Sage and Almonds

Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association
Servings: 4

• 8 cups water
• 1/2 cup fat-free ricotta cheese
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh, chopped thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 gyoza wrappers, shumai wrappers or wonton wrappers
• 4 large egg yolks, unbroken
• 1 large egg white, lightly beaten
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds, chopped
• 1 tablespoon chopped, fresh sage
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped red bell pepper (optional)

1. Fill large pot with water. Bring water to gentle boil over medium-high heat.
2. In medium bowl, stir ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, thyme, orange zest and pepper.
3. Place four wrappers flour sides down on cutting board. Spoon 1 1/2 tablespoons cheese mixture onto center of each wrapper. Using back of spoon, press down on cheese mixture to create well about 1 1/2 inches across (width of large egg yolk), leaving at least 1/2 inch space around edges of wrapper. Without breaking it, carefully place one egg yolk in center of each well.
4. Using pastry brush, brush edges of wrappers with egg white. Place one top wrapper with flour side up on each bottom wrapper. Using thumbs and forefingers, firmly press edges together to tightly seal each ravioli. Set aside.
5. Using slotted spoon or spatula, carefully drop each ravioli into boiling water. Cook 2 1/2-3 minutes, or until wrappers are al dente (cooked not too soft but not overdone). Using slotted spoon, gently remove raviolis from pot, draining well. Transfer to plates. Drizzle with oil. Sprinkle with almonds, sage and bell pepper, if desired.

Tips: Gyoza wrappers (or shumai wrappers) are preferred because they're thinner than wonton wraps. Look for gyoza wrappers in the dairy aisle, deli department or freezer section.

Use these guidelines to determine how you want eggs cooked: At 2 1/2 minutes, eggs are yellow and slightly thickened but not set around edges, similar to sunny-side up. At 3 minutes, eggs are deeper orange and slightly set around edges, similar to over-easy.

Poached Eggs with Pesto Bulgur

Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association
Servings: 4

• 2/3 cup uncooked instant or fine-grain bulgur
• 1 1/3 cups, plus 2 tablespoons, fat-free, low-sodium vegetable broth, divided
• 1 cup tightly packed fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts, dry roasted
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1 dash cayenne
• 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow or red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
• 4 cups water
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 medium lemon, cut into 4 wedges

1. In medium saucepan, prepare bulgur according to package directions, omitting salt and substituting 1 1/3 cups broth for water. Fluff with fork.
2. In food processor or blender, process basil, walnuts, garlic, salt, cayenne and remaining broth until smooth. Stir basil mixture, bell pepper and green onions into bulgur.
3. In large skillet, bring water and vinegar to boil over high heat. Reduce heat and simmer. Break one egg into cup then carefully slip egg into simmering water. Repeat with remaining eggs, placing in water so they don't touch. Simmer 3-5 minutes, or until whites are completely set and yolks are beginning to set but aren't hard. Using slotted spoon, drain eggs well and place on bulgur mixture. Serve with lemon wedges.

Note: White vinegar helps firm egg whites quickly, preventing them from spreading too much.

Southwestern Quinoa and Egg Breakfast Bowls

Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association
Servings: 4

• 1/4 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed and drained
• 2 medium tomatoes (about 2 cups), chopped
• 1 cup no-salt-added frozen corn, thawed
• 1/2 medium avocado, pitted and diced
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• nonstick cooking spray
• 4 large eggs
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• red hot pepper sauce, to taste (optional)

1. Cook quinoa according to package directions. Remove from heat.
2. Spoon quinoa into four bowls. Top each with even amounts of tomatoes, corn, avocado, green onions and cilantro, if desired.
3. Lightly spray large skillet with nonstick cooking spray and set over medium-high heat. Crack eggs into skillet. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook, uncovered, 3-4 minutes, or until egg whites are set but yolks are still runny. Using spatula, carefully transfer one egg, sunny side up, into each bowl. Sprinkle with hot sauce, to taste, if desired.

SOURCE:
American Heart Association

(Family Features) For teenagers, retirement may seem like a lifetime away, but it’s never too early to start saving for the future. Because financial habits can be created at a young age, the sooner kids begin to save and learn about investing, the less likely they’ll face worries about money when they eventually stop working.

Teens are already thinking about retirement, according to the Achievement Teens & Retirement Survey conducted by Wakefield Research on behalf of Junior Achievement and MissionSquare Retirement’s Foundation. Among young adults ages 13-18 surveyed, 83% have thought about their retirement and 78% believe they’ll be able to retire comfortably when the time comes. However, only 60% view retirement as living on investments and savings after leaving work, believing instead retirement could mean taking extended time off for travel, study, illness or taking care of family matters.

“This research shows retirement is more top-of-mind for teens than one might think,” said Tim Greinert, president of Junior Achievement USA. “While young people have given retirement planning some thought, it’s apparent they still need information on the best way to go about it.”

Because nearly half of U.S. households (46%) report having nothing saved for retirement, according to the Survey of Consumer Finances, taking steps early to save and invest can help teens get a head start on achieving a successful retirement.

1. Start now. The sooner you start, the longer you have to save and for investments to grow. Even though contributions may be small during your teens and 20s, it can make a dramatic difference in the long run.
    
2. Pay yourself first. Whether through a dedicated savings account or an employer’s retirement plan, set aside a set percentage of each paycheck. Then prioritize spending on what you truly need and want.
    
3. Invest what you save. Unless you save a lot, you’ll need to make the most of your savings by investing them to help them increase in value. According to the survey, teens believed investing in stocks and bonds with the help of a financial advisor (45%) or researched online (38%), buying real estate or property (30%) and buying cryptocurrency or non-fungible tokens (15%) are among the best ways to save for retirement.
    
4. Find the right balance between investment risk and potential return. The ideal mix is one most likely to help meet investment goals with a level of risk you can handle. The longer you have to invest, the more risk you can likely take.
    
5. Spread savings across different types of investments. This helps you manage risk. As some investments go through rough stretches, others are likely to hold steady or grow.
    
6. Stick with your investing plan. Avoid making decisions based on emotions or in an attempt to time the ups and downs of the market. Focus instead on meeting goals over time.

“The fact that so many young adults in the early stages of their careers are aware of a variety of investment strategies is encouraging news,” said Deanna Santana, president, MissionSquare Foundation. “Over the course of our lifetimes, investment approaches, the economy and our priorities will change, so planning for life after work is an ongoing necessity – for teens and adults alike.”

Find more advice to plan for the future and achieve economic success at ja.org and missionsq.org.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

SOURCE:
Junior Achievement

(Family Features) Staying healthy goes far beyond physical activity. If you’re laying out a path toward healthier living, keep your brain’s fitness top of mind. As the command center of the body, it influences every aspect of life and requires healthy stimulation, nourishment and adequate rest.

Consider a few key suggestions from the experts at the Mayo Clinic to keep your brain sharp:

Satisfy Cravings with Healthy Foods
You can establish a strong foundation for brain health by consuming healthy, whole foods such as whole grains, fish, legumes and healthy fats, plus an abundance of fruits and vegetables, including grapes and leafy greens. Research suggests grapes help maintain a healthy brain. In a human study of elderly subjects with mild cognitive decline, UCLA researchers found consuming 2 1/4 cups of grapes every day preserved healthy metabolic activity in regions of the brain associated with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. 

Combinations of these healthy foods can be made into tasty dishes that support brain health such as this Chicken and Grape Cauliflower Rice Bowl, which features fresh Grapes from California alongside grilled chicken, cauliflower, zucchini, garbanzo beans and healthy spices.

Sleep Well
Health experts recommend aiming for at least seven hours of sleep per night. As noted by the Mayo Clinic, adequate sleep may help boost overall memory and brain health by giving the brain time to effectively consolidate memories.

Sweat It Out
Physical activity provides well-known benefits for the entire body, including increasing blood flow to the brain. After breaking a sweat, make sure you refuel with a post-workout snack like Grapes from California for natural hydration and an energy boost.

For more information on grapes and brain health, visit GrapesfromCalifornia.com and find more tasty recipes that support brain health.

Chicken and Grape Cauliflower Rice Bowl

Servings: 4

Chicken:

• 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 1 pound (3-4 pieces) small boneless, skinless chicken breast halves

Zucchini:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 medium zucchini, trimmed and cut into 3/4-inch chunks
• 1 1/3 cups halved red Grapes from California

Cauliflower Rice:

• 1 bag (1 pound) thawed frozen riced cauliflower
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1/3 cup water
• 2 large garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 can (15 ounces) garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed well
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste

1. To make chicken: In medium bowl, combine oil, garlic, ginger and cumin. Add turmeric, season lightly with salt and pepper, to taste, and whisk to blend. Lightly pound chicken pieces to even them out then turn to coat in oil-spice mixture. Let stand 20-30 minutes.
2. Heat heavy, large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add chicken, smooth side down, and cook until golden brown underneath, about 4 minutes. Flip with spatula, reduce heat to medium and cook about 4 minutes until just cooked through. Transfer chicken to plate and tent with foil. Do not clean pan.
3. To make zucchini: In medium skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil until hot. Add zucchini pieces and cook, stirring often until crisp-tender, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. To make cauliflower rice: In colander, drain cauliflower well. In same large skillet used for chicken, add oil, onion and water over medium heat; cook, stirring until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic, ginger, cumin and turmeric; cook, stirring, 3 minutes. Add drained cauliflower and garbanzo beans; cook until hot, about 5 minutes. Stir in cilantro and season with salt and pepper, to taste.
5. Divide cauliflower rice among four large soup bowls. Slice chicken against grain and arrange on top of cauliflower rice along with grapes and cooked zucchini. Serve warm.

Nutritional information per serving: 420 calories; 34 g protein; 42 g carbohydrates; 14 g fat (30% calories from fat); 2.5 g saturated fat (5% calories from saturated fat); 65 mg cholesterol; 280 mg sodium; 10 g fiber.

SOURCE:
California Table Grape Commission

(Family Features) Keeping a watchful eye on your kids requires an increasing level of tech savvy many parents find intimidating. Not only are your kids vulnerable to bad actors online, but your family’s personal information could be at risk, as well.

Learn how to protect your children and family in this digital age with these tips:

Elementary-Age Children

• Encourage open communication. Have conversations about what your kids see and do online and talk with them about potential dangers. Avoid lecturing in favor of an open exchange of information.

• Make their inherent interest in privacy work in your favor. Kids in this age group, particularly toward the middle school years, understand the concept of privacy and value it immensely. Use that context to help them understand what goes online is there to stay. Talk about what kinds of information should always be kept private, including identifying details like addresses and social security numbers.

• Stay on alert. Not all apps are completely safe (even the ones you can access from trusted stores) and not all filters are foolproof. Keep close tabs on what your kids are downloading by reading comments and reviews, and regularly monitoring what kind of content they see.

Middle School and High School Kids

• Continue talking about privacy. You can never have too many conversations about privacy. What seems like harmless sharing on social media can be quite revealing. For example, frequent posts about visits to a favorite store or restaurant can allow a predator to begin tracking behavior patterns that make your child a target. It’s also important for kids to understand how their privacy settings work. For example, settings that allow exposure to friends of friends make their visibility to strangers much broader than they may realize.

• Help manage their online reputation. Behaviors that once resulted in a day or two of hallway chatter can now live forever. Documenting mischief online is only fun until it spills over into real life and everyone sees those mistakes in full color – including prospective future employers.

• Be clear about your position on bullying. From the safe distance of a screen, it’s easier for kids (and adults) to say things they’d never say in person. Teach your kids to handle problems constructively offline and avoid engaging in attacks on others through social media, email and other platforms.

College Students

• Reinforce the risks. Once they’re on their own, kids may feel more liberated to make their own choices online. However, college students are easy prey for identity theft and worse. Remind them what’s at stake if they fail to protect their identity and private information, like where they live and what they do on a regular basis.

• Teach smart practices. With all the independence that comes with college life, this is an ideal time for your student to take personal responsibility for his or her online security, including learning about virus protection, updating software, avoiding scams and backing up data.

If you’re looking for more practical advice for everyday family matters, visit eLivingtoday.com.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

SOURCE:
Family Features

(Family Features) Starting kindergarten is a major milestone, one that sets the stage for future learning. Ensuring children are well-equipped to enter kindergarten sets them up for a successful school year in the short term and academic career in the long term.

Kindergarten readiness encompasses a wide range of skills, including academic, social and physical abilities. Yet while many parents think of kindergarten as the formal start of their children’s learning, 90% of children’s brain development occurs during the first five years of life.

The brain is incredibly receptive during these formative years, making it a critical time for children to receive exposure and guidance in diverse areas. Enrolling them in a quality preschool or pre-K program is one way you can ensure they’re creating building blocks for the future, but there are also steps you can take at home.

Try implementing these simple habits, recommended by Primrose Schools Chief Early Learning Officer Dr. Amy Jackson, into your family’s day-to-day routine:

• Read to your children daily to build early literacy skills. This is a good habit to begin as early as infancy because it promotes language development, literacy and understanding of others. Make library trips and story times a special treat for toddlers and encourage preschoolers to read to you by describing what is happening in the pictures or making up their own stories. Keep books in the car so you have a fun way to pass the time on long trips or while waiting for appointments.

• Schedule playdates for social development. Once babies are able to sit independently, they’ll likely enjoy playdates. At this age, playdates should be closely monitored since babies explore with their hands and mouths. At ages 1 and 2, young children tend to engage in parallel play rather than interacting, but organizing small groups of toddlers can continue to promote social development. Older toddlers enjoy more interactive play and begin to learn concepts like sharing.

• Practice counting objects to 10 or more together. It’s easy to make “math talk” part of your everyday experience in other ways, too. When reading a story, ask children to count the objects on each page. When eating, encourage math connections by having children count the items on their plates. Children can also explore math through common toys and games, like shape sorters, knob puzzles and nesting cups for infants and toddlers; and large puzzles, sand or water tables and card games for preschoolers.

• Encourage physical activities like playing on the playground. Play isn’t just for entertainment; it’s a building block for healthy growth. It helps children learn from the world around them and develop traits like generosity and honesty. Because it helps children release their full range of emotions and has therapeutic benefits, play also has positive effects on mental health. In addition to supporting their social-emotional well-being, children learn to navigate the world and practice motor skills while at play.

• Establish routines at home. A structured school day is filled with routines that provide familiarity and comfort. Routines can serve similar benefits at home by helping children clearly understand what is expected of them and when. A morning routine makes it easy to check the boxes as you prepare for the day and work to get out the door on time. An evening routine helps everyone settle down and prepare for a good night’s sleep. 

• Encourage self-regulation and social skills. Self-regulation is the ability to understand and manage your own behavior and reactions, often displayed during actions like taking turns, transitioning from one activity to another or cleaning up for dinner. Social skills include interaction and communication abilities like speech, body language and facial expressions, as well as the ability to play with others and make friends. As a parent, you can model these skills and play games that involve taking turns and cooperation. Playdates also help facilitate positive social experiences for children.

Learn more about preparing your child for success in kindergarten and beyond at PrimroseSchools.com/education.

SOURCE:
Primrose Schools

(Family Features) Resisting the weeknight urge to call for takeout or order delivery starts with an approachable at-home menu with recipes you can prep in an instant. Especially during back-to-school season when schedules are jam-packed with activities, easy meals and desserts you can rely on allow you and your loved ones to ease tension in the kitchen.

Simplicity is the key to putting dinner on the table in 30 minutes or less, and these Taco Salad and Taco Mac and Cheese recipes offer mealtime solutions that make cooking duty a breeze. Make all that classroom effort worth it with a kid-friendly dessert you can prepare over the weekend and keep refrigerated for weeknight treats with these No Bake Dragon Fruit Cheesecake Bars.

Find more recipe ideas to simplify hectic back-to-school schedules at Culinary.net.

Make Dinner Happen in 30 Minutes

If you’re looking for a go-to meal for your hungry family, search no more. This Taco Salad calls only for pantry staples so you can spice up busy evenings in just half an hour.

Visit Culinary.net for more quick dinner solutions.

Taco Salad

Recipe courtesy of "Cookin' Savvy"
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans
• 1 can (15 ounces) corn
• 2 cans (14 ounces each) diced tomatoes with chilies
• 1/2 cup half-and-half or milk
• 2 tablespoons onion powder
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons mesquite seasoning
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• salt, to taste
• 1 lime, juice only
• 1 cup chopped cilantro
• romaine lettuce
• 2-3 cups shredded cheese
• 1 tub (16 ounces) sour cream
• crushed tortilla chips

1. In pan over medium heat, brown beef until cooked through; drain. Add black beans and corn. Stir in tomatoes with juices and half-and-half. Add onion powder, garlic powder, mesquite seasoning and pepper. Season with salt, to taste. Bring to simmer.
2. Add lime juice; stir. Sprinkle with cilantro.
3. Wash and chop lettuce. Place cheese and sour cream in bowls for toppings.
4. On plates, top crushed tortilla chips with meat sauce, lettuce, cheese and sour cream, as desired.

A Sweet Treat to Make School Days Special

Sometimes a long day in the classroom and tough homework assignments call for a cool treat. Rewarding all that studying can be a cinch with a no bake cheesecake bar that lasts throughout the week.

These No Bake Dragon Fruit Cheesecake Bars allow you to keep things cool in the kitchen without cranking up the oven. Plus, they’re made with C&H Sugars that are perfect for adding a little something special to school days.

Find more back-to-school desserts at chsugar.com.

No Bake Dragon Fruit Cheesecake Bars

Prep time: 35 minutes
Rest time: 6 hours
Yield: 16 bars

Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons C&H Light Brown Sugar
• 1 pinch salt

Bars:

• 1 small fresh dragon fruit, peeled and cubed small
• 1/4 cup C&H Granulated Sugar
• 12 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1 1/2 cups C&H Powdered Sugar
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, full fat, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, cold

1. To make crust: Line 8-by-8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Leave 2-inch overhang of paper on both sides. In medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, butter, brown sugar and salt until well combined. Pour mixture into prepared pan and press into even layer. Place in freezer.
2. To make bars: In small saucepan over medium heat, cook dragon fruit and granulated sugar until sugar is completely dissolved, dragon fruit is soft and mixture reduces in size, 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and cool completely.
3. In large bowl, beat cream cheese until soft. Add powdered sugar and mix until fluffy. Scrape sides of bowl. Add vanilla and yogurt. Beat until combined.
4. In separate bowl, beat heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Fold cream into cream cheese mixture. Pour half of mixture into prepared crust. Add 5 tablespoons dragon fruit mixture to remaining cream cheese batter. Mix until well combined. Pour over plain cream cheese mixture. Place in refrigerator to set at least 6 hours, or overnight.
5. Cut into 16 bars.

Spice Up Weeknights

Macaroni and cheese is a beloved comfort food that’s easy to make on busy weeknights. With just a few extra ingredients and steps, you can turn boxed mac and cheese into a filling dinner.

To make this Taco Mac and Cheese, simply prepare your favorite boxed mac and cheese according to the package instructions and stir fry the meat and vegetables together. (Hint: You can even chop vegetables the night before to make cooking the next day even easier.) Then add taco seasoning and combine for a new take on a classic dish.

Visit Culinary.net to find more quick and simple recipes.

Taco Mac and Cheese

• 1 box macaroni and cheese
• 1/4 cup milk
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 orange bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 teaspoons taco seasoning

1. Prepare boxed mac and cheese with milk and butter according to package instructions.
2. In skillet, brown ground turkey over medium heat. Add bell peppers and onion. Add taco seasoning.
3. Stir turkey mixture with mac and cheese to combine.

SOURCE:
C&H Sugar

Make back-to-school shopping fun and easy

(Family Features) Picking out new clothes and shoes, and gathering notebooks, pens, pencils and other supplies is part of the annual back-to-school tradition, but there are other important tools to consider for the classroom – and beyond – when the school bells signal the start of a new year.

This year, make sure your students have everything needed to make the grade with must-haves like the latest tech, on-the-go snacks and tools for organizing and securing valuables, lunches and other supplies on-the-go.

Find these ideas, plus more ways to simplify back-to-school shopping, at eLivingtoday.com.

Reward Your Student with an Energizing Snack

Fuel up for homework time and after-school activities with a back-to-school snack hack like Sabra Snackers. The pre-portioned snacks make snack time easy by providing a single serving of creamy, delicious hummus served with pretzel crisps or chips. Containing 10 grams of protein (11% Daily Value), Smart Snackers are a perfect way to give your student an A+ treat that makes the grade both on flavor and convenience. After long days in the classroom, they’re an ideal way to reward all that hard work. Find more back-to-school snacking solutions and nutrition information at sabra.com.

Secure, Convenient, On-the-Go Valuables Storage

Built to provide premium protection for smartphones, cameras, keys, cash, jewelry and more, the Master Lock 5900D Portable Safe keeps items secure whether on or off campus. It features durable construction made to withstand everyday use and is water resistant, so students can lock up valuables using their own combination for keyless convenience. The cable can wrap tightly to the safe then be securely fixed around an object or used as a carrying handle. Shock-absorbing foam lines the storage area and an ear bud or charging cable access port offers on-the-go convenience. Find more information at MasterLock.com.

Pack Hassle-Free Lunches with an Eco-Friendly Lunchbox

Designed for variety and versatility at mealtime, the PlanetBox Rover Stainless Steel Lunchbox is an eco-friendly solution that makes packing school lunches easy. It has four main compartments and one spot that holds a treat plus two leak-proof containers for “wet” foods. It’s perfect for small portion sizes and keeps foods separated for picky eaters. Start by filling the larger, sandwich-sized compartment with the main dish then add fresh fruit, veggies and other snacks to the smaller compartments. This durable lunchbox is built to last, dishwasher safe and toxin-free (no lead, PVC, phthalates or BPA materials). Visit PlanetBox.com for more information.

Select a Stylish, Sturdy Mobile Organization Accessory

A reliable backpack is a must-have for every student. It’s not just a stylish accessory, but also a practical tool for carrying textbooks and school supplies. When choosing a backpack, look for features like padded shoulder straps, built-in organizational tools and multiple compartments – including padded ones for laptops or other electronic devices – to help distribute weight evenly and keep belongings organized. Additionally, select one that reflects your personal preferences. From classic designs to trendy patterns, there are nearly options available to suit students from kindergarten to college.

Enjoy a Seamless Audio Experience

Whether you’re listening to music during your commute, participating in online classes or working on multimedia projects, headphones are an essential school supply for many students in today’s digital age. To enhance your learning experience, choose headphones that provide noise cancellation, comfort, durability and superior sound quality. Over-ear headphones typically provide better sound isolation and are more comfortable for extended use, but in-ear headphones provide ultra-portable convenience. Decide which type best suits your needs best and choose a color or pattern that also reflects your personal style.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock (kids in classroom)
Photos courtesy of Unsplash (backpack, headphones)

SOURCE:
Sabra
Master Lock
Planet Box

(Family Features) Jam-packed calendars and little spare time at home can make heads spin. When those hectic weeknights are giving your family fits, turn to delicious recipes you can have ready in 30 minutes or less.

Start with kitchen staples like chicken and rice – they’re easy to prepare and versatile enough to let you cook a variety of meals without feeling like you’re stuck in a dinner rut. For example, these Air-Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Tenders with Rice offer a kid-friendly take on bang bang chicken that’s both sweet and spicy.

This air-fryer favorite requires just half an hour in the kitchen and calls on the quality and convenience of Success Boil-in-Bag Jasmine Rice to make busy weeknights a breeze. In just 10 minutes, the aromatic rice cooks up soft and fluffy with a uniquely delicious flavor that’s naturally gluten free, Non-GMO Project Verified and free of MSG and preservatives.

For a real escape from the everyday hustle and bustle, invite island flavors to dinner with this simple yet satisfying Grilled Hawaiian Chicken and Coconut Rice. Remember, high quality doesn’t have to be high maintenance.

Ready in 10 minutes, Success Boil-in-Bag Basmati Rice is a quick, easy and mess-free option that is guaranteed to always cook right. It’s an appetizing addition to this tropic-inspired meal that can help you tackle hectic schedules without sacrificing flavor.

Find more ways to solve dinnertime dilemmas at SuccessRice.com.

Air-Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Tenders with Rice

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce, divided
• 1/4 cup sriracha hot sauce, divided
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 bag Success Jasmine Rice
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 bag (12 ounces) coleslaw mix
• 1/2 English cucumber, thinly sliced
• toasted sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
• green onions, for garnish (optional)

1. Toss chicken tenders with 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce and 1 tablespoon sriracha. Drizzle with sesame oil.
2. Preheat air-fryer to 400 F. In two batches, without overfilling basket, air fry chicken tenders, turning basket halfway during cook time, 10-12 minutes, or until chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
3. Prepare rice according to package directions. Stir mayonnaise with remaining sweet chili sauce and sriracha until blended. In large bowl, toss coleslaw mix with 1/4 cup bang bang mayo sauce.
4. Divide rice among four bowls. Top with chicken, coleslaw mix and cucumber. Drizzle with remaining bang bang mayo sauce.
5. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and green onions, if desired.

Grilled Hawaiian Chicken and Coconut Rice

Prep time: 5 minutes, plus 4 hours for marinating
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

• 4 chicken breasts, skinless and boneless
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 cup white onion, chopped
• 1 bag Success Basmati Rice
• 2 cups coconut milk
• 4 pineapple rings
• 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut, shredded

1. In 1-gallon bag, combine chicken with soy sauce, water, sesame oil, brown sugar, garlic and onion. Marinate in refrigerator about 4 hours.
2. Heat grill to medium heat.
3. Prepare rice according to package directions, replacing 2 cups water with coconut milk.
4. Once finished marinating, remove chicken and pat dry. Grill about 7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165 F.
5. Pat pineapple rings dry and grill about 1 minute per side.
6. Mix shredded coconut with rice. Place pineapples on top of chicken and serve with rice.

SOURCE:
Success Rice

(Family Features) Today’s students are tomorrow’s leaders. Young people who aspire to become prominent business professionals can now get a head start on the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful entrepreneurs before they ever leave high school.

Training for a particular field is an essential step in career preparation, but success comes from more than academic training. Developing ingenuity and creativity can take young professionals far, and those skills aren’t necessarily found in a classroom.

If you, or a student in your life, is set on embarking on a challenging and rewarding path toward economic success, explore those entrepreneurial interests with these tips from the experts at Junior Achievement (JA), whose research shows 61% of teens would rather start their own businesses than have traditional jobs.

Tap Into Your Network
Role models can provide immeasurable insight into the world of business and economics, demonstrating what it takes to build a successful and sustainable career. Identify someone in your circle who can serve as a mentor as you plan for the future. This might be a teacher, neighbor, someone who attends your church or a business owner in your community. Meeting and chatting even a couple of times a month can help you channel your ambition.

Participate in Leadership Events
Leaders put their skills into action. As a student, you can begin practicing your leadership skills by participating in events that challenge and engage you. For example, the JA National Summit allows student teams – through the support of leading businesses like Staples, the Pacific Life Foundation and Chick-fil-A – to demonstrate their business acumen, creativity and entrepreneurial thinking in a competitive environment, showcasing their companies to Members of Congress.

Through one of the four dynamic competitions, the Company of the Year Competition, students launch and operate real business enterprises under the guidance of dedicated local business volunteers, conceptualize and market a product or service that addresses unmet consumer needs and attracts investors for their ventures. By most effectively demonstrating its company’s achievements, as well as the personal development of each team member, FlameGuard, which offers a variety of fire safety products, was crowned this year’s JA Company of the Year.

Understand Your Intended Industry
It’s never too early to begin following notable happenings in professional fields that interest you. That might mean monitoring news stories and setting up search terms to alert you to the latest articles. You may also be able to subscribe to publications dedicated to the industry and join professional organizations connected to the field as a student ambassador. Researching the field can give you a stronger idea of how you can become more directly involved as a student.

Expand Your Education
As a student, you may have limited opportunities to explore your career field while also meeting the requirements for your high school diploma. However, you can join (or start) a club to sharpen your focus on areas you have a special interest. You can also look for ways to learn more about your chosen field outside of school hours by attending camps, seminars and workshops. You may even be able to land a part-time job, internship or apprenticeship that provides greater visibility to your future career plans.

Find more ideas to support your growth as a future business leader at ja.org.

SOURCE:
Junior Achievement