Be SMART Helps Parents Start the Conversation About Gun Safety

Play comes naturally to kids. They use it as a way to express their feelings and learn new things. But in the age of electronics we live in, video games and screens can take over a child’s free time. Screen-free, or traditional play, offers benefits kids just don't get from playing on an iPad or on the latest game console.

On Saturday, November 3, the Challenger Learning Center will celebrate 15 years of bringing the wonders of space and STEM to local kids with a free community event. But before lift-off this fall, the Center is hosting a special logo competition that will give one young artist the chance to put their stamp on history.

Perhaps the most important new discovery in early learning is the fact that children can either shut down or expand their learning successes based solely on the way they think about themselves as learners. Here's how to tell if your child needs an attitude check. 

I will never be the mom whose kids show up at doorsteps on Halloween as anything other than what you can buy in a bag. No – mine are the children sporting the “five-piece pirate suit” and answering the question of “What are you this year?” with “A medium.”