Friday, October 23, 2026

Healthy Habits - Dentist Warns That Everyday Habits May Be Scarier For Your Smile than Halloween Candy

According to the National Retail Federation, Americans are expected to spend over $4 billion on Halloween candy this year. Many children will get buckets or pillowcases filled with the sweet stuff after spending time trick-or-treating, attending parties, and going to trunk-or-treat events. While much of the media attention surrounding Halloween focuses on candy and its impact on children's teeth, one pediatric dentist Dr. Mira Albert is pointing out that everyday habits throughout the year have a bigger impact and can quietly take a toll on children's oral health long after the Halloween candy is gone.

“It's much scarier to look at the habits we have all year long when it comes to what impacts our children's teeth,” said Dr. Mira Albert, board-certified pediatric dentist and founder of Brush Pediatric Dentistry. “The things we do on a regular basis all year have a huge impact on the health of our teeth and smile. Now is a great time to look at those and see if there are improvements we can make.”

While eating too much Halloween candy can affect children's teeth, Albert says frequent sugar exposure, improper brushing techniques and other seemingly harmless habits can contribute to cavities, enamel erosion and other dental problems throughout the year. The good news is that recognizing these habits and making small adjustments to daily routines can help protect children's oral health year-round.

Here are some of the scary everyday habits that families should be aware of that may be negatively impacting their teeth:

Grazing. It’s common practice for many people to snack or sip non-water beverages throughout the day. This grazing keeps a continuous supply of sugar and acid in the mouth, which can lead to the enamel being worn down and too much acid exposure.
Brushing too soon after acidic foods or drinks. While it is great to brush your teeth, it’s not good to do so right after having acidic foods or drinks. This can temporarily cause the enamel to soften and lead to abrasive damage. Ideally, wait at least 30 to 60 minutes after having acidic food and beverages before brushing your teeth.
Biting things you shouldn’t. Far too often, people use their teeth as tools to open packages or chew on objects that they shouldn’t be chewing on. This can lead to the teeth being damaged, chipped or cracked.
Chewing on ice. Chewing on ice can damage the teeth or lead to gum injury and should be avoided. Plus, it can be a sign of an underlying health condition, such as iron deficiency anemia. Those who like to chew ice regularly should consult with their doctor to ensure there is no underlying health issue prompting it.
Not brushing before bed. Brushing the teeth before bed is crucial to help remove any bacteria and food particles. When this is not done, those things can end up creating bacteria in the mouth that can lead to cavities and gum issues.
Brushing too hard. People often think they have to scrub their teeth hard to get them clean, but that’s simply not the case. Brushing hard can lead to gum recession and can erode the tooth enamel. Using a gentle brushing movement will help remove the plaque. Keep in mind that a frayed and hard-bristled toothbrush can also do harm.

“Kids are going to eat a lot of candy on Halloween and for a few days following it,” added Dr. Albert. “Let’s instead focus on what they are doing on a daily basis all year that has a much bigger impact. We want to take the best care of our teeth all year, not just in October.”

While Halloween candy may be a temporary concern, Albert encourages parents to focus on the habits that shape their children's oral health every day. Establishing consistent brushing routines, limiting frequent snacking and teaching children how to protect their teeth can make a lasting difference long after the Halloween decorations come down.

Dr. Albert welcomes patients at two locations in Illinois, including Hinsdale and Downers Grove. Brush Pediatric Dentistry specializes in helping children with all aspects of preventive, restorative, and emergency dental services. To get more information and schedule an appointment, visit the website at: https://www.brushforkids.com/

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ABOUT DR. MIRA ALBERT

Dr. Mira Albert, DDS, MBA, MS, is a board-certified pediatric dentist, national spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, examiner for the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, and Trustee of the AAPD Foundation. She founded Brush Pediatric Dentistry in 2011, with locations in Hinsdale and Downers Grove, Illinois, and serves on staff at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. Dr. Albert is known for her prevention-focused, judgement-free approach to pediatric dentistry. Her clinics specialize in comprehensive pediatric dental care, offering preventive and restorative treatments, sedation options, emergency services and tooth extractions. Through her advocacy and national leadership, Dr. Albert works to reduce dental anxiety while helping children build confidence in their oral health. To learn more, visit BrushforKids.com and follow Brush Pediatric Dentistry on Instagram @BrushforKids.

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Source:

National Retail Federation. Halloween Data and Trends: Halloween shopping highlights for 2026. https://nrf.com/research-insights/holiday-data-and-trends/halloween

Music Minute - Hunter James: Chasing a Sound

Is where I’ll find my peace.”
“‘Chasing a Sound’ captures the struggles of the last 3 years of my life—riding the highways, travelling from place to place and refusing to settle until the music coming through the speakers matched what I felt in my soul and heard in my head,” he says. “Ironically, I was travelling the roads looking for my sound and I ended up finding it right here at home.”

“For years, my dream was to make a record with my own band, the way many of my idols did. I faced pushback and pressure to use studio musicians, but I knew in my heart that these guys were capable of making the record with me,” he says. “Somehow, it was the right fit, immediately.”

Since being released “Chasing A Sound” has earned James the playlist cover of “Canada’s Country” on Apple Music.
Most recently James has joined Gord Bamford for select dates on the “As Long As There’s A Bar” tour and opened for the Reklaw’s at the Kee To Bala. Other notable performances include North of Nowhere, Departure Fest and winding Roads Live.
He chased it through Nashville, Georgia, Kentucky and everywhere in between. In the end, Hunter James found his sound waiting for him back home in Ontario, with his own band beside him.

Parenting Pointers - The Complete Guide to Easing Separation Anxiety at Daycare Drop-Off (by Age: 6 Weeks to Pre-K)

Originally posted here

That moment when your child clings to your leg and the tears start? You are not doing anything wrong, and your little one is not broken. Finding the right daycare for kids who have separation anxiety, plus a few reliable drop-off habits, can turn those hard mornings into quick, confident goodbyes.

Separation anxiety is a normal stage of development. It happens when a child becomes distressed at being apart from a parent or primary caregiver, usually because they have grown attached to you and have not yet learned that you always come back. The good news: it is a sign of healthy bonding, and it resolves with time, patience, and consistency.

Why Separation Anxiety Happens (and Why It’s Actually a Good Sign)

Around the time babies understand that you exist even when they can’t see you, they also realize you can leave. That awareness is a milestone, not a setback.

For most children, the feeling peaks and then eases as they build trust in their caregivers and their routine. A supportive daycare for kids who have separation anxiety works with that natural process rather than against it, giving your child a warm, predictable place to land.

Separation Anxiety by Age

Every child moves at their own pace, but knowing what’s typical for each stage helps you set realistic expectations.

6 Weeks to 6 Months

Infants this young rarely show classic separation anxiety yet. What they need most is consistency: familiar faces, gentle handling, and a calm handoff. Babies pick up on your mood, so a steady, reassuring goodbye helps them feel secure.

6 to 12 Months

This is often when separation anxiety first appears. Your baby may cry or reach for you at drop-off. Keep goodbyes short and loving, and trust that most infants settle within minutes of you leaving.

12 to 24 Months (Toddlers)

Toddler separation anxiety can feel the most intense. Toddlers have big emotions and strong opinions but limited words to express them, so drop-off protests can be loud. Routines, comfort items, and a consistent goodbye ritual are your best tools here.

2 to 3 Years

Language and independence grow, but toddler separation anxiety can still flare, especially after a weekend, an illness, or a change at home. Simple explanations help: tell your child where you’re going and when you’ll be back in terms they understand (“after snack and playtime”).

3 Years to Pre-K

Preschoolers usually adapt faster, though new classrooms or transitions can bring nerves back. At this stage, involving your child in the routine and celebrating their bravery goes a long way.

Drop-Off Strategies That Actually Work

You don’t need a perfect morning, just a plan you can repeat.

Create a goodbye ritual. A quick hug, a special phrase, and a wave from the same spot each day builds predictability.
Keep it short. Lingering tends to make it harder. A confident, loving goodbye signals that everything is okay.
Arrive with time to spare. Rushing raises everyone’s stress. A few unhurried minutes help your child settle in.
Bring a comfort item. A small blanket, photo, or stuffed animal can bridge the gap between home and classroom.
Stay consistent. Same routine, same words, same reassuring tone, even on tough days.
Trust the teachers. Ask how your child does after you leave. Most parents are surprised by how quickly the tears stop.

How the Right Daycare Makes a Difference

The environment matters as much as the routine. A strong daycare for kids who have separation anxiety focuses on warmth, structure, and communication.

Look for a program that offers:

Consistent caregivers who get to know your child individually
Predictable daily routines that build a sense of safety
A gentle, welcoming approach to drop-off
Open communication so you know how your child is doing throughout the day

At Little Sunshine’s Playhouse, nurturing, familiar routines help children feel secure from the very first goodbye, so trust can grow at each child’s own pace.

What to Avoid

A few small missteps can make mornings harder than they need to be.

Sneaking out. Slipping away without a goodbye can increase anxiety and erode trust.
Drawing it out. Long, emotional farewells often signal to your child that there’s something to worry about.
Reacting to the tears. Staying calm helps your child borrow your confidence.
Skipping the routine. Consistency is what makes the process work over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does separation anxiety usually last?

It varies by child and stage. Many children settle within a few weeks of starting a new routine, though it can come and go around transitions or changes at home.

Is it normal for my toddler to cry every morning?

Yes. Toddler separation anxiety is common, and morning tears often stop within minutes of you leaving. If you’re concerned, ask your child’s teacher how they do once you’re gone.

Should I stay until my child calms down?

Usually a short, confident goodbye works best. Prolonging drop-off tends to make it harder for everyone.

What if the anxiety seems to be getting worse instead of better?

Occasional setbacks are normal, especially after illness or a break. If the distress feels persistent or unusually intense, talk with your child’s caregivers and your pediatrician.

How can I tell if a daycare is a good fit for a child with separation anxiety?

Look for consistent caregivers, predictable routines, a warm drop-off approach, and clear communication with parents.

A Gentle Reminder for the Hard Mornings

Separation anxiety is a normal, temporary part of growing up, and it means your child feels deeply attached to you. With a steady routine and a caring environment, those tearful goodbyes give way to happy, confident hellos.

If you’d like to see how a warm, consistent environment can help your child feel at home, we’d love to show you around. Schedule a tour at a Little Sunshine’s Playhouse near you and discover a place where every goodbye gets a little easier.

Keep reading here!

Book Nook - The Leonardo da Vinci Book of Quotes

“The noblest pleasure is the joy of understanding.” —Leonardo da Vinci

One of history’s most brilliant minds, Leonardo da Vinci embodied the true spirit of the Renaissance through his endless curiosity and extraordinary range of talents. The Leonardo da Vinci Book of Quotes brings together his most insightful thoughts, offering readers a rare window into the mind of an artist, scientist, and philosopher whose ideas continue to shape the modern world.

Drawn from his notebooks and personal writings, this carefully curated collection explores his reflections on creativity, learning, nature, invention, and the pursuit of knowledge. His words—at once poetic and analytical—reveal a thinker endlessly driven to observe, question, and understand the world around him.

Thoughtfully organized for inspiration and reflection, it serves as both a practical companion and a philosophical guide. Perfect for artists, thinkers, and lovers of history, The Leonardo da Vinci Book of Quotes celebrates the timeless power of curiosity, imagination, and intellectual discovery.

Published by Hatherleigh Press.
Distributed through Penguin Random House.
Available wherever books are sold.
www.hatherleighpress.com

Area Attractions - Oceans of Empathy Exhibit at Boston Children's Museum

Boston Children's Museum recently opened Oceans of Empathy highlighting works from two New England-based artists. The exhibit brings together two timely areas of focus at the Museum—empathy development, and climate and nature education for young audiences.

The show invites children and caregivers to develop and practice empathy skills—understanding and caring about the thoughts and needs of others—through exploration of artwork and hands-on activities that deepen awareness of the ocean and the animals that live within it. Museum visitors will have the opportunity to practice close observation, ask questions about what they notice, and consider what it means to them and others.

"Looking at art helps children (and adults) develop and practice important skills of looking closely, noticing and naming emotions, and seeing things from someone else's perspective," said Sage Brousseau, Senior Art Educator. "Like any skill, the more we all practice empathy, the better we get!"

Oceans of Empathy features Brian Skerry's photographs of sea creatures that live in the waters of the Gulf of Maine. For five decades, Skerry has explored Earth's oceans across every continent and ecosystem. His photography reveals a world in trouble but also a place of hope, showing how thoughtful care and attention can help the oceans rebound. Skerry is based in Maine.

Oceans of Empathy also features the work of Rebecca McGee Tuck, a fiber artist, sculptor, and ocean activist who collects, takes apart, and transforms trash from the ocean into sculptures. With her work, she strives to illustrate the impact that humans make on the environment. Tuck lives and works in Massachusetts.

The exhibition is the second in the Museum's Gallery presented as part of Empathy at the Heart, the Museum's five-year initiative funded by a grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to foster empathy in young children and empower the adults in their lives to support this vital character development. The initiative helps children and caregivers explore the foundational skills that nurture empathy, including kindness, perspective-taking, self-respect, and respect for others. Exhibitions such as Oceans of Empathy give children and adults meaningful opportunities to strengthen these skills together.

Oceans of Empathy will be open through April 25, 2027.

For additional information visit www.BostonChildrensMuseum.org

About Boston Children's Museum
Boston Children's Museum engages children and families in joyful discovery experiences that instill an appreciation of our world, develop foundational skills, and spark a lifelong love of learning. More information about Boston Children's Museum can be found at www.BostonChildrensMuseum.org. Follow the Museum on Facebook and Instagram.

Hours and Admission
The Museum is open Wednesday–Monday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and is closed on Tuesdays. On the first Saturday of each month, the Museum opens at 10:00 a.m. Advance tickets and reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, holidays, school vacation weeks, and TJX $1 Sunday Afternoons. Admission is $24 for adults, children ages 1–15, and seniors. Children under 12 months and Museum members are always free.

Travel Tidbits - On-Time Airline Data

Global Work & Travel reveals how US airlines compare ahead of holiday travel, with its CEO explaining what passengers should check before booking. Travellers booking flights for Thanksgiving and Christmas are being encouraged to look beyond the ticket price, after newly released government figures revealed a substantial gap in US airline performance.

Analysis by Global Work & Travel of the US Department of Transportation’s October Air Travel Consumer Report found that Delta’s network recorded the highest on-time arrival rate in August, at 77.0%, while JetBlue recorded the lowest, at 59.7%, among the reporting marketing carriers. JetBlue also had the highest cancellation rate, at 6.2%, compared with 0.4% for Allegiant, the lowest in the table. The report was released on 19 October.

How US airlines compared

August 2026. Networks include branded codeshare partners where applicable.

Jurgen Himmelmann, co-founder and CEO of Global Work & Travel, says passengers should consider how much flexibility their itinerary gives them if something goes wrong.
“Before booking, ask yourself what a disrupted journey would mean for the rest of your trip. If you are travelling for Thanksgiving dinner, a wedding or a cruise departure, arriving late could affect much more than your airport transfer. Look at the route, the departure time, the connection and the other flights available that day. Those details deserve attention alongside the fare.”

Jurgen recommends checking the frequency of services on the chosen route, particularly when an itinerary involves a connection.
“Check whether your flight is the last service of the day and what later options exist if you choose an earlier departure. More scheduled flights can give you more possibilities, although an available seat is never guaranteed. For connections, allow for the practical steps between flights. Changing terminals, going through passport control or collecting and rechecking luggage can all make a short connection feel much tighter than it looked when you booked.”

The early-flight advantage

The report also found that 89.7% of departures scheduled between 6am and 6.59am were on time across the 30 largest US airports, compared with 52.8% between 8pm and 8.59pm.

Jurgen says an early departure is worth considering, provided travellers account for the journey to the airport.
“Before choosing a 6am flight, check the first train or bus and price up any taxi or overnight stay you would need. An early departure should work for your whole journey and your budget. If your arrival date is critical, consider travelling the day before where possible. Leaving some space between landing and an important commitment gives you more room to deal with disruption.”

He also recommends preparing essential information before leaving home.
“Keep your booking details, accommodation address and onward travel information accessible offline. If your plans change, having everything together makes it easier to explain your situation and work through the options.”

Methodology: Global Work & Travel reviewed Tables 1, 4 and 6 of the October 2026 Air Travel Consumer Report. Figures cover reported domestic services in August. On-time means less than 15 minutes after schedule. Airline rankings measure arrivals; hourly comparisons measure departures. Results reflect differing routes and operating conditions and do not predict holiday performance.

Post courtesy Global Work & Travel .

About Global Work & Travel: Founded in 2008, Global Work & Travel provides overseas travel experiences, including working holidays, volunteering, teaching, internships and au pair programmes.

Movie Minute - Above the Below

After three astronauts survive a disaster in space, their unscheduled crash-landing leaves them trapped in the crushing depths of the ocean with no contact with mission control and oxygen rapidly running out. In a race against time where every breath could be their last, the crew faces impossible choices, mounting odds, and new dangers in this pulse-pounding story about what we do when faced with the greatest stakes imaginable. Idris Elba co-directs with Martin Owen and stars in this survival-thriller alongside Caitlin FitzGerald and Hero Fiennes Tiffin.

Music Minute - Allie Colleen: Our Turn

Artwork Design: Allie Colleen
Photo Credit: Tony Sarria

Country artist Allie Colleen turns years of persistence into a declaration with “Our Turn,” a bold new release for those who have put in the work, challenged expectations, and refused to compromise the stories they believe deserve to be heard. Rooted in her own experience building a career one stage and one song at a time, the track captures the conviction of an artist no longer waiting for an invitation to step forward. “Our Turn” is both personal and universal, giving a voice to anyone determined to create a place for themselves rather than wait for one to be offered.

Through years of writing, recording, touring, and independently growing her audience, she has built a career that includes nearly 12 million lifetime streams, national and international touring opportunities, and performances across an increasingly diverse range of stages. Allie has been selected to support nationally recognized headlining artists on major tours across the country while continuing to expand her own touring footprint. Her music and live performances remain grounded in the independence, resilience, and work ethic that have shaped her career from the beginning.

“Our Turn” is an anthem; our turn is a guarantee, a promise to be recognized and seen. “Our Turn” was written for the kids 10+ years into this 10-year town, for the outliers and the underdogs, for performers like me who do their best to treat bars the same as arenas. “Our Turn” is a revolution for those of us writing songs that save lives and push boundaries. No one is excluded. If you’re working your tail off representing yourself and the stories you believe have a life and a place out there with the number ones and overnight successes, then “Our Turn” was written for you,” expressed Allie Colleen.

“Our Turn” is available today on all streaming platforms HERE.

Our Turn,” penned by Allie Colleen alongside trusted collaborators Stephen Hunley and Eric Dodd. Both songwriters previously joined her in writing “Halos and Horns,” a fan favorite that surpassed 1 million streams on Spotify and helped further define her unapologetic country sound. Dodd, a CMT Discovery Artist, has built a songwriting catalog with more than 75 million streams. Together, the three writers channel years of persistence, hard work, and life in Music City into an anthem for those determined to earn their place and make their voices heard.

Stay current with everything Allie Colleen HERE.

About Allie Colleen:
Allie Colleen is a country artist, singer, and songwriter whose impeccably strong voice, rooted in timeless tradition yet fresh with modern influence, has made her one of today’s most compelling independent acts. Known for silencing a room with heartfelt stories of love and heartbreak, and for penning witty, relatable lyrics that connect deeply with audiences, she is quickly earning recognition as one of country music’s breakout stars. She has accumulated 11.9 million total streams across various platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. She has been named an “Artist to Watch” by People Country, Holler, Wide Open Country, Nashville Music Guide, Country Evolution, and more. Allie has also been highlighted as Artist of the Week on Bobby Bones’ Top 30 Countdown, featured on Apple Music Country’s Best New Songs, and celebrated by outlets including Nash News, Music Mayhem, and Country Thang Daily. Her duet with Lee Brice, “While We’re Still Friends,” was spotlighted by The Morning Hangover as one of the day’s hottest releases, further fueling her momentum. With more than 250K followers across social platforms and accolades spanning playlists, radio, and national press, Allie Colleen continues to cement her reputation as a fearless songwriter and powerhouse vocalist destined for stardom.

Book Nook - The Tragedy of the People of the Lost Colony

When the first English settlers came to America, all the land was owned and controlled by various Indian tribes. In many ways, things happened that cannot be fully explained, including the Lost Colony of Roanoke. The Tragedy of the People of the Lost Colony is a gripping and heartfelt exploration of one of history’s greatest mysteries – the fate of the Roanoke settlers. Told from the perspective of one of the settlers, readers are drawn into the struggles, hopes, and challenges faced by the settlers as they attempt to build a new life in an unfamiliar land.

John “Sonny” Robinson was born and raised on Solomons Island, close to the Chesapeake Bay in southern Maryland. He had loving parents who spent their lives working on the water with other family members to earn a living. After graduating from high school, he was accepted into the Apprentice School in Newport News, Virginia, where he spent many years studying nuclear reactor design. He worked his way up to the position of waterfront material superintendent, with the responsibility for scheduling and distribution of all material when and where it was needed during construction. After forty-two years of service, he retired and wrote for Pleasant Living magazine prior to publishing his first book, Morning on Solomons.

Healthy Habits - Wellness Trends 2027

PartnerCentric just released its 2027 wellness forecast and found:

97% are prioritizing wellness in 2027
61% view their wellness as an investment in themselves

Top goals include improving physical health (76%), increasing exercise (64%), and improving hydration (52%)

To pursue this, 63% are starting a wellness subscription or service next year, with gym memberships, supplements, and telehealth leading the pack.

Customization is key: 55% indicated preference for a medicine or supplement tailored to their specific health data rather than mass produced items.

The full report is linked above; click through to see how consumers are planning on finding the right doctors, brands, and supplements to meet their needs.

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