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3 Tips for Creating a Summer of Unplugged Fun

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(Family Features) Between school, work and entertainment, there are times when screens can seem like a pervasive part of modern life. For all the positive aspects of technology, there can also be a desire for children to have stretches of unplugged learning and participate in educational activities that do not require a screen.

Why Unplugged Learning Matters
“Unplugged learning is important to balance the screen time children may experience with other forms of learning; to promote physical activities, social interaction and creativity; and develop the essential skills that bolster them throughout their exploration and growth as individuals,” said Rurik Nackerud from KinderCare’s education team.

Summer can be an ideal time to focus on unplugged learning as it often brings a break from the traditional academic year and activities.

“We want summer to be a time when children can put down technology and connect with one another face-to-face, build important creativity skills and learn how to be social with one another without the buffer of screens,” said Khy Sline from KinderCare’s education team. “They can play, run, be immature and laugh with their friends, giggle at the silly things and find joys in those in-person interactions with one another.”

Tips for Creating Unplugged Fun as a Family

  1. Get Outdoors. Make time as a family to get outside and explore, even if it’s simply a walk around the block after dinner. Help children notice the little things like a bug on the sidewalk or the way the sun filters through tree leaves to make patterns on the ground. Ask them about the things they see and give your children the space to ask questions and work together to find the answers. This helps teach children collaborative learning skills: asking questions, sharing ideas and working together to reach an answer.
     
  2. Read Together. This could mean going to the library to check out new books or exploring your family’s bookshelves for old favorites. Snuggle up together for family story time. If children are old enough to read on their own, invite them to read to you or their younger siblings. Talk about the story or even act out favorite parts to help your children actively participate in story time, which may help them better understand the story’s concepts.
     
  3. Encourage Creative Thinking. Help children expand their ability to think creatively by working together to make a craft or project. For example, the next time a delivery box arrives at your home, encourage your children to turn it into something new using craft supplies on hand. A blanket could turn a box into a table for a pretend restaurant while some tape or glue could transform it into a rocket ship or train. When everyone’s done creating and playing, the box can be broken down for recycling. This activity can help children literally think outside of the box and apply their own unique ideas and creativity to create something new.

For more tips to encourage unplugged learning this summer, visit kindercare.com.


SOURCE:
KinderCare

Rebecca Jo is a mother of four and is a creative soul from Phoenix, Arizona, who also enjoys new adventures. Rebecca Jo has a passion for the outdoors and indulges in activities like camping, fishing, hunting and riding roller coasters. She is married to Rod Washington

Consumer Corner

LITTLEST PET SHOP CELEBRATES THE YEAR OF THE BOBBLE BY ENCOURAGING FANS ACROSS THE GLOBE TO ‘BOBBLE TO THE BEAT’

Following an Epic NYC Premiere Event, Basic Fun! Invites Fans Around the World to Unleash the Bobble with a Custom Song and Dance Challenge Inspired by the Pets

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BOCA RATON, Fla. /PRNewswire/ — Today, LITTLEST PET SHOP, one of the most well-known collectible toy brands in history, released a call to action to fans around the world to ‘unleash the bobble’. In celebration of the franchise’s long-anticipated return to retail in January – this is sure to be the “Year of the Bobble”! Debuting last week with a pop-up performance at Toys”R”Us at Macy’s Herald Square, Macy’s flagship location in New York City, the Bobble to the Beat social campaign encourages kids and kidults alike to showcase their dancing skills and bobble along with LITTLEST PET SHOP wherever they are, featuring custom choreography alongside an original LITTLEST PET SHOP brand anthem. 

LITTLEST PET SHOP celebrates its’ long-anticipated return to retail with the #BobbleToTheBeat social campaign encouraging kids and kidults alike to bobble along to the custom brand anthem.

To kickstart the craze, TikTok creators @Alexdwong, @GiaNina and @MelissaBecraft, along with the iconic @ToysRUs Geoffrey the Giraffe™ led a flash mob performance of 20+ dancers through Macy’s, and are helping LITTLEST PET SHOP rally fans with dance tutorials, already sparking over 3 million views across Instagram and TikTok. Both the brand anthem and dance challenge, choreographed by acclaimed New York City-based professional director, choreographer, content creator, and producer Michael McCrary, are inspired by the beloved bobblin’ motion of LITTLEST PET SHOP pets, which is featured across figures in the latest Generation 7 of the line. Consumers around the world can join in on the LITTLEST PET SHOP relaunch celebration by gathering their own crew to show off their take on the dance on social media using the hashtag #BobbleToTheBeat.

“It’s essential we relaunched LITTLEST PET SHOP with a creative call to action that would introduce this iconic brand to new audiences on the platforms where they are, and also excite our longtime collectors,” said Katy Katz, Head of Digital Marketing & E-Commerce at Basic Fun! “The ‘Bobble to The Beat’ social campaign perfectly captures the essence of the signature quirky, edgy, and undeniably cute pets that have been loved for decades. Ultimately, we hope to inspire kids of all ages to let down their guard and unleash their own ‘bobble’ with us and LITTLEST PET SHOP!”

With over 1 billion pets sold worldwide since the brand’s initial launch by Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAS) over 30 years ago, LITTLEST PET SHOP was the original pet collectible with more than 3,000 pets to collect, display, and trade. Returning to retail this January, the LITTLEST PET SHOP line will feature over 120 bobblin’ pets by the end of the year, including new pets, packs, and playsets available in more than 20 countries worldwide. The first series in Generation 7 features a wide range of new characters to collect and cherish, available within LITTLEST PET SHOP Pet Surprise Singles, LITTLEST PET SHOP Pet Pairs, and LITTLEST PET SHOP Pet Trios assortments, Play Packs and Playsets. Products are available at mass and specialty retailers worldwide, including Macy’s, Toys”R”Us, Amazon, Target, Walmart, Five Below, GameStop and more in the U.S. Learn more at LittlestPetShop.com.

To further the LITTLEST PET SHOP experience, Roblox players can also bobble with the brand on the global immersive platform, which will debut a custom bobble dance emote available in-game starting today! Following the wildly successful collaboration between LITTLEST PET SHOP Master Toy licensee, Basic Fun!, a leading global marketer of toys and consumer products, Hasbro, Inc., a leading toy and game company, and Suit Up Games, a Roblox development studio specializing in high-engagement branded experiences for young audiences, the LITTLEST PET SHOP pet-simulation gaming experience has surpassed over 3.5 million plays since launching in December 2023.

Ready to unleash the bobble? Follow the official @LITTLESTPETSHOP social channels, including Instagram and TikTok, to join in on the fun using #BobbleToTheBeat. For more information about the LITTLEST PET SHOP brand and product line, visit LittlestPetShop.com.

ABOUT BASIC FUN! INC.
Basic Fun! is a dynamic global marketer of classic and innovative children’s entertainment products for today’s kids. The company plays in many core toy categories including classic heritage toys, novelty collectibles, building toys, youth electronics, plush, vehicles, dolls and activity/discovery. Basic Fun!’s key brands include: LITTLEST PET SHOP, Care Bears, Cutetitos, POUND PUPPIES, TONKA, K’NEX, LITE-BRITE, Mash’ems, Playhut, Arcade Classics and more! For more information, please visit www.BasicFun.com.

ABOUT HASBRO
Hasbro is a leading toy and game company whose mission is to entertain and connect generations of fans through the wonder of storytelling and exhilaration of play. Hasbro delivers engaging brand experiences for global audiences through toys, consumer products, gaming and entertainment, with a portfolio of iconic brands including MAGIC: THE GATHERING, DUNGEONS & DRAGONS, Hasbro Gaming, NERF, TRANSFORMERS, PLAY-DOH and PEPPA PIG, as well as premier partner brands.

Hasbro is guided by our Purpose to create joy and community for all people around the world, one game, one toy, one story at a time. For more than a decade, Hasbro has been consistently recognized for its corporate citizenship, including being named one of the 100 Best Corporate Citizens by 3BL Media, one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere Institute and one of the 50 Most Community-Minded Companies in the U.S. by the Civic 50. For more information, visit https://corporate.hasbro.com.

SOURCE Basic Fun!

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amusement and theme parks

Magical News: Disneyland Expansion Plan Approved by California Officials!

Exciting news: California officials approve $1.9 billion, 10-year plan to expand Disneyland! More magic awaits! ✨🎢🏰 #DisneylandExpansion

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In a delightful turn of events, California officials have given their much-anticipated approval for a $1.9 billion, 10-year plan to expand Disneyland, making it the park’s first major expansion since the ’90s. The City of Anaheim’s planning commission meticulously evaluated the proposed upgrades during a recent meeting, paving the way for an exciting transformation. However, before we can grab our Mickey ears and start celebrating, the project still awaits final approval from the city council, which is expected to take place next month.

"Image of Disneyland park with fireworks in the background, symbolizing the excitement of the approved expansion plan."

This ambitious expansion endeavor will require Disney to invest over $1.9 billion into various aspects of the theme park, including lodging, entertainment, and related facilities over the course of the next decade. Additionally, in any agreement reached between the city and Disney, the company will have to invest millions into essential infrastructure, such as street improvements and affordable housing, to support the expansion. It’s heartening to see Disney’s commitment not only to creating magical experiences but also to supporting the local community.

Disney’s ultimate goal with this expansion is to deliver even more immersive experiences for tourists, akin to the exceptional Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge attraction that took visitors by storm when it opened in California back in 2019. During the meeting, Rachel Alde, Disney’s senior vice president of global development and finance, excitedly spoke about the untold stories they hope to bring to life within the park. She mentioned beloved films like “Wakanda,” “Coco,” “Frozen,” and “Zootopia” as potential inspirations, expressing the need for guidance to understand how to create these captivating experiences.

It’s worth noting that while the proposed expansion won’t increase Disneyland’s current 490-acre footprint in Southern California, it presents an incredible opportunity for Disney to develop new features on a 50-acre parking lot. Imagine the possibilities! With the additional space, visitors can soon expect new rides and entertainment options, granting them the chance to dive deeper into the enchanting worlds crafted by Disney.

During the meeting, Ken Potrock, the president of Disneyland Resort, passionately highlighted the importance of continuing Walt Disney’s extraordinary legacy and bringing more Disney stories to life right here in Anaheim. His powerful statement echoed the sentiments of Disney fans around the world who are eagerly anticipating a future filled with remarkable adventures and cherished memories.

Now, let’s all keep our fingers crossed and twirl our magic wands for a favorable decision from the city council next month! If all goes well, Disneyland will embark on an incredible journey of expanding its horizons and captivating guests with even more enchantment than ever before.

Sources: AP News

Don’t miss out on the latest updates! Check out other noteworthy news related to the topic. It’s always better to stay informed and up-to-date. https://theconstructionbroadsheet.com/disney-advances-b-california-theme-park-expansion-p1735-174.htm

https://stmdailynews.com/category/entertainment/amusement-and-theme-parks/

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amusement and theme parks

Exciting Opportunities at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix: Join the 2024 Seasonal Team!

Join the exciting team at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix! Apply now for a thrilling 2024 season at www.sixflags.com/phoenix/jobs.

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As we gear up for an exhilarating season ahead, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix is thrilled to announce the opening of 500 seasonal positions in preparation for its much-anticipated March 13 kick-off. From lifeguards to food and beverage staff, cashiers to security, EMTs to supervisors, there’s a diverse array of roles waiting to be filled by enthusiastic individuals ready to be part of the adventure.

Tim Baxter, General Manager of Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix, highlighted, “Six Flags is a worldwide leader in service and entertainment, and we’re looking forward to hiring energetic, responsible team members for the 2024 season. New team members will have the opportunity to learn and grow as they’re trained on Six Flags’ unwavering standard of safety and guest service, ensuring a premium experience for our guests.”

If you’re eager to join this dynamic team, head over to www.sixflags.com/phoenix/jobs to submit your application. Remember, applicants need to be 16 or older to apply.

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix stands as Arizona’s largest waterpark, boasting over 30 attractions, ranging from the thrilling Bahama Blaster to the interactive Splashwater Beach. The park’s latest addition, Paradise Island, offers a refreshing 12,000-square-foot activity pool and a host of amenities to keep guests cool and entertained.

Exciting events like Memorial Day and Fourth of July fireworks add to the park’s vibrant atmosphere, promising a season filled with fun and excitement. The upcoming schedule includes spring break from March 13 to March 17, followed by weekend openings starting March 23 and March 24, before transitioning to a seven-day-a-week operation from May 18 onwards.

For those looking to make the most of their season, Six Flags’ 2024 season passes are now available. Visit www.sixflags.com/phoenix for more details and start planning your unforgettable experiences at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix. Join us for a season filled with adventure, thrills, and memorable moments!

Source: Glendale Star

https://www.glendalestar.com/business/article_a50636de-dc09-11ee-acde-1383c283add0.html

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