"GET OUT THERE AND EXPLORE” WITH THE MAGIC SCHOOL BUS® DVDS RELAUNCHING THIS SEPTEMBER

THE COMPLETE SERIES, Singles and Multi-Packs Featuring Many Episodes Never Before Available on DVD will be In Stores September 4th

NEW YORK – June 13, 2012 -- Not many children’s brands can stand the test of time, entertaining and educating generation after generation. THE MAGIC SCHOOL BUS, which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, is one such brand.  This September, as children head back to their classrooms, they can hop aboard the world’s most famous school bus for exciting and unforgettable lessons as Scholastic Media re-launches to DVD the timeless, Emmy Award winning TV series.

On September 4, Scholastic Media and New Video, the distributors of the award-winning Scholastic Storybook Treasures series are partnering to release the perennially popular series in several configurations featuring all new packaging and never-before-released content.  THE MAGIC SCHOOL BUS: THE COMPLETE SERIES ($79.95srp) brings together all 52 episodes of the program – including 30 which are available for purchase for the first time – on 8 DVDs. Featuring a striking 3D lenticular cover with new artwork that makes the vibrant characters leap off the page and that will encourage kids to ask the question “how did they make that?” , the collectible thin-pack set also includes a guide for kids with teasers, trivia and experiments, plus a Parents’ Guide with lessons and learning options. This interactive guide creates wholesome and healthy entertainment for the entire family.

Also new to the line – and just in time for Back to School activities -- will be two special 3-pack configurations, which will each include more than four hours of THE MAGIC SCHOOL BUS adventures!  Join Ms. Frizzle to explore everything from the smallest cell to the largest galaxy in the universe with THE MAGIC SCHOOL BUS: BLAST OFF! FROM SEA TO SPACE and THE MAGIC SCHOOL BUS: FIELD TRIP FUN AND GAMES.  Both, priced to add to every home library at $24.95srp, feature 12 episodes, some releasing for the first time.

Finally, released day-and-date will be four THE MAGIC SCHOOL BUS singles ($12.95srp ea.), each featuring 90 minutes of science fun with Ms. Frizzle and her students:

•     The Human Body – Science topics include digestion and body mechanics.
•     Super Star Power – Science topics include stars and cells.
•     Takes a Dive – Science topics include coral reefs and tidal zones.
•     Takes Flight – Science topics include weather and flying.

Poised to deliver fun and learning in a whole new way with the massive THE MAGIC SCHOOL BUS: THE COMPLETE SERIES, two new DVD sets and four single titles, excitement will soon be rolling into the marketplace on the heels of an enormous 25th Anniversary push for the brand.

The only question?  Where will the Bus take you?

The Magic School Bus® books, published by Scholastic, have been capturing children’s imaginations since they first book rolled onto shelves in 1986.  Since then, the acclaimed series has sold over 60 million books and spawned a successful animated TV series, which premiered in 1994, with support from The National Science Foundation. Now the longest-running science series to air on television, the star-studded program features the voices of Lily Tomlin, Wynonna Judd, Dolly Parton, Tony Randall and Malcolm-Jamal Warner.  Along with the adventurous and energetic Ms. Frizzle and her pet lizard, Liz, the entire class – along with the audience –invites students to explore volcanoes, the inside of the human body and much, much more!

Scholastic Corporation (NASDAQ: SCHL) is the world’s largest publisher and distributor of children’s books and a leader in educational technology and related services and children’s media. Scholastic creates quality books, print and technology-based learning materials and programs, magazines, multi-media and other products that help children learn both at school and at home. The Company distributes its products and services worldwide through a variety of channels, including school-based book clubs and book fairs, retail stores, schools, libraries, on-air, and online at www.scholastic.com.

New Video, a Cinedigm company, is a leading entertainment distributor and the largest aggregator of independent digital content worldwide. Headquartered in New York City, with an international presence in 45 territories, the company delivers feature films, TV programs and web originals via digital download, streaming, video-on-demand, Blu-ray, DVD, and theatrical release. In 2011, New Video bowed Oscar-nominated Hell and Back Again and international blockbuster Elite Squad: The Enemy Within in U.S. theaters.

The company’s library includes original TV series and movies from A+E Home Entertainment, HISTORY™, and Lifetime, unforgettable games and trophy sets from Major League Baseball, storybook treasures from Scholastic, award-winning documentaries from Docurama Films, next-gen indies from Flatiron Film Company, and acclaimed independent films and festival picks through partnerships with the Sundance Institute and Tribeca Film. New Video is proud to distribute many Oscar-nominated films including GasLand, Waste Land, The Secret of Kells and Chico & Rita.

Cinedigm Digital Cinema Corp. (CIDM) is a leader in providing the services, expertise and technology that are critical to transforming movie theaters into digital entertainment centers. Its deployment entity, state-of-the-art distributor and exhibition software, and marketing and distribution platforms are cornerstones of the digital cinema revolution. The company recently acquired New Video to form a full-service, end-to-end digital studio that acquires content for theatrical distribution and across digital, mobile and home media platforms. New titles poised for release in 2012 include The Invisible War, Citadel, In Our Nature and 22 Bullets.

Lifeables Will Make Sure Parents Never Miss a Memory

New service automates the collection of memories for today's digital family

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., April 10, 2012 -- Because of work conflicts, distance, or mismatched schedules, members of today's modern family often miss a memorable event like a game, school play or birthday party. Those who attend capture great pictures and videos on their mobile phones and digital cameras. They might even share funny stories or pictures on Facebook or Flickr. But in the end, no one knows exactly who has managed to capture what, and on which device or social network, making it nearly impossible to later relive the event and protect its memories.

Lifeables will make sure family members "Never Miss a Memory" -- it's the ultimate collection (and curation) engine for today's modern family, retrieving pictures, videos and posts from every possible source while eliminating the privacy concerns still plaguing other social networks.

According to Lifeables' CEO Karen Macumber, "Today's digital family generates more content -- in more formats (pictures, videos, posts, Tweets) than ever before. Yet this content is spread everywhere. There's no simple way to retrieve it, find the really meaningful memories, pull them together in a way that tells a story, and make sure that story is safeguarded for all generations. That's why we've created Lifeables."

With just one click, Lifeables starts pulling in pictures and posts from across all family member social accounts, using advanced filtering to eliminate the clutter and highlight the best content. And best of all, the Lifeables system learns as it goes -- the more it is used, the more accurate it becomes. Along with mining items from social networks, Lifeables also allows family members to chronicle memories from items stored in their e-mail, mobile phone, and computer.

The true value of Lifeables goes well beyond collection, with easy-to-use tools that give families the flexibility to organize the memories they've found (or created) into living collections -- by person, event, date or theme -- whatever makes sense to them. Each collection is then continuously updated as Lifeables finds new content related to memories in that collection. The service goes further, allowing individual memories or entire Lifeable collections to be selectively shared with trusted family and friends in the format they each prefer without extra work. So Grandma gets her email, Aunt Cathy views rich displays within Lifeables (which can be turned into hard-copy keepsakes), and Facebook friends get to enjoy posts from mom and dad's wall.

Simply stated, Lifeables creates a new paradigm for family memory collection and curation by:

• Allowing the preservation of a family's history to become full-blown multimedia collections that constantly evolve
• Involving all generations -- parents, kids and grandparents -- and all family members (not just Mom) in both the telling and recollection of the family's story
• Creating an ultra-secure environment where elements for precious family memories (digital pictures, personal reflections, etc.) can be safely stored and shared

Lifeables.com (beta) is available free to all consumers, with mobile/tablet extensions to be available soon.

SOURCE Lifeables

Multi-Platinum Pop Sensation Katy Perry to Perform Live at Nickelodeon's 25th Annual Kids' Choice Awards, Saturday, March 31, at 8 p.m.

Star-Studded Presenter Lineup Joining Host Will Smith in Celebrating 25th Anniversary Milestone Includes Chris Rock, Emma Stone, Andrew Garfield, Zac Efron, Heidi Klum, Victoria Justice, Miranda Cosgrove, Big Time Rush, Chris Colfer and Cee Lo Green

LOS ANGELES, March 12, 2012 -- Multi-platinum recording artist and global superstar Katy Perry will break the sound barrier at USC's Galen Center with her first live performance at Nickelodeon's 2012 Kids' Choice Awards on Saturday, March 31, at 8 p.m. (ET/tape delayed for West Coast).

Perry, topping the number of Kids' Choice Award nominations by an individual this year, will join host Will Smith and a powerhouse roster of celebrity presenters, including Chris Rock (What to Expect When You're Expecting), Emma Stone (The Amazing Spider-Man), Andrew Garfield (The Amazing Spider-Man), Zac Efron (The Lucky One), Heidi Klum (Project Runway), Victoria Justice (Victorious), Miranda Cosgrove (iCarly), Big Time Rush, Chris Colfer (Glee) and Cee Lo Green (The Voice) as well as recently announced performers, UK pop sensation One Direction.

Kids can cast their votes until March 31 in 20 total categories across all of Nickelodeon's digital outlets, including Nick.com, Nick Mobile app as well as Nickelodeon's Facebook page and Twitter feed.

"Katy Perry has doubly earned her position as kid favorite -- through her music of course -- but also for reveling in an outrageous sliming on the show two years ago," said Marjorie Cohn, President, Original Programming and Development, Nickelodeon/MTVN Kids and Family Group and Executive Producer of the show. "She works hard and plays hard and that's what makes her performance on the KCA's one to look forward to."

A global superstar whose two albums have generated a record-breaking string of #1 hit singles and multiplatinum sales during the past four years, Katy Perry has just concluded her sold-out "California Dreams Tour" with124 arena performances internationally. The special edition Teenage Dream: The Complete Confection will be in stores March 27th and features three new songs, including "Part Of Me," which debuted at #1 on iTunes, with over 400,000 downloads in its first week, after an electrifying performance at this year's Grammy Awards.

Perry is nominated for three Kids' Choice Awards this year, including Favorite Female Singer, Favorite Song ("Firework") and Favorite Voice in an Animated Movie for her role on The Smurfs.

Fans can now vote for their favorite stars on Nick.com and via a Facebook application that will live on the Nickelodeon Facebook page. Users will be able to vote from a tab on the page and, for the first time ever, the entire voting experience can be embedded directly into Facebook wall posts. Also new this year, fans will be able to vote for their favorite nominees on Twitter through the use of custom hash tags.

This year, kids not only pick the winners, but they get to help host Will Smith pull off the greatest celebratory silver anniversary slime moment. Through a brand-new iPad, iPhone and iPod app, and the KCA website , kids need to find slime hidden throughout the photo galleries, news, and videos. If kids collect enough slime, Will Smith will pull off the biggest slime event ever in this year's show. Aided by weekly mission videos featuring iCarly's Jennette McCurdy, Jerry Trainor, and Nathan Kress, kids will have the chance to earn digital rewards and move up the slime operative ranks.

Leading up to the show, the apps and website will also feature daily KCA news, video updates, photo galleries and videos from past KCAs, behind the scenes video of this year's preparations, and dedicated information pages on the host and nominees. In addition, the entire Orange Carpet pre-show will be streamed live through the apps and website, followed by a live backstage companion stream during the main show.

Last year, Nickelodeon's 2011 Kids' Choice Awards, hosted by actor/comedian Jack Black, ranked as basic cable's top telecast for the week (March 28, 2011–April 3, 2011) with 7.3 million total viewers. The show also ranked as the week's top telecast with kids and tweens on all TV, averaging a 9.8/3.5 million K2-11, 12.7/2.7 million K6-11 and 11.7/2.5 million T9-14.

The star-studded telecast also scored the most votes in the show's history—a record 200 million (+70%, over 2010) votes were cast across Nick.com, Nick's mobile site, an iPhone application, an iPad-optimized site, TeenNick.com and Nick's Facebook page. Nick.com celebrated its highest trafficked day ever on April 2, earning 42 million page views (+9%) and reaching over 2.2 million visitors across its website, mobile and tablet sites (+14%). Additionally, the audience for the live simulcast of Countdown to Kids' Choice across these digital platforms posted double-digit increases (+39%) over the previous year.

Nickelodeon's Kids' Choice Awards is more global than ever in 2012, seen in over 300 million households around the world. Within hours of airing live in the United States and Canada, the show will roll out in additional international markets, providing kids around the world the opportunity to tune into their local Nickelodeon channel to enjoy the show faster than ever.

In many international markets, the 2012 KCAs will feature country-specific award categories and nominees, such as Nickelodeon Italia's Favorite Star and Nickelodeon UK's Favorite Show. Voting for the 2012 KCAs will span over six continents across 13 localized voting sites in 10 different languages, giving kids practically everywhere the chance to decide who takes home a coveted blimp.

Presenting sponsors of Nickelodeon's 2012 Kids' Choice Awards are General Mills, Hasbro, Honda and Target. Associate sponsors are Bounty™, McDonald's, Nintendo and Skechers.

Nickelodeon's 25th Annual Kids' Choice Awards is being produced by Nickelodeon Productions in association with Bob Bain Productions. Bob Bain, Marjorie Cohn and Paula Kaplan are Executive Producers.

Nickelodeon, now in its 32nd year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books and feature films. Nickelodeon's U.S. television network is seen in more than 100 million households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for 17 consecutive years. For more information or artwork, visit http://www.nickpress.com. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB).

SOURCE Nickelodeon

Netflix "Just for Kids" Now Available on PlayStation® 3

Unlimited Instant Access To Large Variety Of Streaming TV Shows And Movies Picked Especially For Kids 12 And Under Now on PlayStation 3

LOS GATOS, Calif., March 12, 2012 -- Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX) today announced the availability of "Just for Kids" on the PlayStation® 3 (PS3) game console, further expanding the availability of the section popular with kids and caregivers.

Netflix "Just for Kids" makes it easier and more fun for kids and families to browse and instantly watch a large selection of kid-friendly TV shows and movies. Since introducing the section in August 2011, Netflix members have watched more than one billion hours of kids titles.

Now Netflix members who use a PS3 can select "Just for Kids" to enter an experience designed for children 12 and under. Kids can click and instantly watch their favorite characters, including "Kick Buttowski," "Bob The Builder," "Thomas the Tank Engine," "Backyardigans," "Caillou," "Curious George," "Power Rangers" and "Arthur."

In addition to the character-based selection, "Just for Kids" displays rows of titles organized by easy-to-understand genres such as superheroes, princesses, dinosaurs and girl power, featuring clear and simple descriptions of the plot of each title. Unique Netflix technology provides each member with a personalized "Just for Kids" experience based on taste and favorites.

Parents can feel comfortable letting their children browse and watch titles in the "Just for Kids" section. As always, there are never any commercials displayed on Netflix and independent ratings and reviews from Common Sense Media were used to make the selections. Common Sense Media is a leading non-profit that provides independent, trustworthy ratings, reviews, and information to help parents make great media choices.

In addition to PS3, Netflix "Just for Kids" is available on the PC and Mac, Nintendo Wii and Apple TV. Other devices including Xbox 360 and tablets are scheduled to follow this year.

Some of the titles available in the Netflix section "Just for Kids" in the US include:

Jonah: A Veggie Tales Movie (Lions Gate)	Ballet Shoes (ITV Global)
Good Luck Charlie (Disney)	Shine of Rainbows (Turtle's Crossing)
Wallace & Gromit: A Matter of Loaf and Death (Aardman Animation)	Fraggle Rock (Lions Gate)
Angelina Ballerina: Love To Dance (Lions Gate)	The Little Engine That Could (Universal City Studios)
Inspector Gadget (Universal Music Group)	Metajets (Cookie Jar)
Thomas & Friends: Calling All Engines (Lions Gate)	Babe: Pig in the City (Universal City Studios)
Spy Kids (Miramax)	The Care Bears Movie (MGM)
A Wrinkle In Time (Miramax)

About Netflix:

With more than 23 million streaming members in the United States, Canada, Latin America, the United Kingdom and Ireland, Netflix, Inc. [NASDAQ: NFLX] is the world's leading internet subscription service for enjoying movies and TV programs. For about US$7.99 a month, Netflix members can instantly watch unlimited movies and TV programs streamed over the internet to PCs, Macs and TVs.

Among the large and expanding base of devices streaming from Netflix are the Microsoft Xbox 360, Nintendo Wii and Sony PS3 consoles; an array of Blu-ray disc players, internet-connected TVs, home theatre systems, digital video recorders and internet video players; Apple iPhone, iPad and iPod touch, as well as Apple TV and Google TV. In all, more than 700 devices that stream from Netflix are available. For additional information, visit www.netflix.com. Follow Netflix on Facebook and Twitter.

SOURCE Netflix, Inc.

Tom's of Maine to Host National Story Hour with Olympian Kristi Yamaguchi and Her New Children's Book

Free Anticavity Silly Strawberry Toothpaste Samples and Book Giveaway During Live Event

KENNEBUNK, Maine, March 6, 2012 -- As nature begins to bloom this spring, Tom's of Maine is inviting parents to think about what's in their children's toothpaste and to enjoy a natural bedtime routine. On March 14 at 7:30 p.m. EDT, families can join the Tom's of Maine Silly Strawberry Story Hour on Facebook for a reading of the new children's book It's A Big World, Little Pig by author and Olympic gold medalist Kristi Yamaguchi.

 

 

Tom's of Maine Anticavity Silly Strawberry toothpaste is the first and only natural kids' toothpaste to earn the American Dental Association's Seal of Acceptance for cavity prevention. Free Anticavity Silly Strawberry samples will be provided during the live story hour while supplies last. Additionally, the first 50 people to respond to the offer will receive a copy of Kristi's new book. To receive a free sample or the book, parents will be provided an email address during the story hour.

"As the daughter of a dentist, I grew up in a household that put a major emphasis on the impact of a beautiful, natural smile," said Kristi Yamaguchi. "The theme of my new book is about how smiles make everyone feel happy and are universal around the world. I love to read aloud to my two daughters, so I'm excited to share the story with families across the country."

"After a lively day, bedtime rituals can be comforting and meaningful for kids," said Susan Dewhirst, PR and Goodness manager at Tom's of Maine. "We hope the story hour adds some natural fun, and we encourage families to swap sparkles for the taste of real strawberries when they brush. It can be rewarding to try new things as children grow and develop healthy habits."

With no artificial dyes or sweeteners, Tom's of Maine Silly Strawberry Toothpaste has real strawberry flavor derived from strawberry extract and other natural extracts. It's perfectly paired with a good book before bedtime. Available in Fluoride and Fluoride-Free varieties, Tom's of Maine Silly Strawberry toothpaste can be found at www.tomsofmainestore.com or in the children's toothpaste section at retailers nationwide. The suggested retail price is $3.79. As with all of its products, Tom's of Maine donates 10% of its profits back to the community.

Tom's of Maine

Tom's of Maine is a leading natural products company focused on oral and personal care. TOMs sells high quality toothpaste, mouthwash, dental floss, deodorant, bar soap, and body wash products. The company has a long-standing commitment to supporting people, communities and the living planet.

For over 40 years, Tom's of Maine has sponsored hundreds of nonprofit efforts by giving 10% of its profits back to organizations that support human and environmental goodness and encouraging employees to use 5% (12 days) of employee time to volunteer. Tom's of Maine employees regularly contribute suggestions for improving the company's high sustainability standards. And their ideas, from wind power to ways to improve recycled and recyclable packaging options, are critical to the company's sensitive way of doing business.

Tom's of Maine enjoys partnering with its consumers, vendors and community organizations to support lasting, positive change that is good for people and the planet. Visit us online at http://www.tomsofmaine.com/ or at http://www.facebook.com/TomsofMaine.

SOURCE Tom's of Maine

Dribble, Dunk and Dazzle on the Basketball Court, Without Injury

ROSEMONT, Ill., March 5, 2012 -- The basketball season is in full swing, and while players and spectators love the on-court action, all that fancy foot and hand movement can cause a wide range of injuries – from sprained ankles and knees, to jammed fingers and stress fractures.

STATISTICS
According to the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission, nearly 1.5 million basketball injuries, in children and adults, were reported in 2010.

EXPERT ADVICE
"Basketball is a fast moving, intensely competitive sport, with a significant potential for injury," said J.R. Rudzki, MD, a Washington D.C. orthopaedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, and spokesperson for the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). "Dressing appropriately, ensuring a safe play environment, and maintaining consistent flexibility and strength training can help avoid injury."

AAOS BASKETBALL SAFETY TIPS
The AAOS has recommendations to help you enjoy the game of basketball, without injury:

• Wear appropriate equipment. Shoes should fit snugly and offer support. Ankle supports can reduce the incidence of ankle sprains in patients with a history of injury (this should be discussed with your doctor); protective knee and elbow pads can protect players from bruises and abrasions. Consider wearing a mouth guard. Do not wear jewelry or chew gum while playing. Other helpful equipment may include eye protection, ankle braces or sports tape.
• Ensure a safe play environment. Outdoor courts should be free of rocks, holes and other hazards. Players should avoid playing on outdoor courts that do not have appropriate lighting. Indoor courts should be clean, free of debris and have good traction. Baskets and boundary lines should not be too close to walls, bleachers, fountains or other structures. Basket goal posts, and the walls behind them, should be padded.
• Maintain fitness throughout the year. Ideally, players should maintain an exercise and training regimen during the basketball season, and throughout the year.
• Warm up before play. Consistent warm up and stretching exercises may reduce injuries. Initially stretch the spine and legs in a relaxed but thorough fashion. Warm up with jumping jacks, stationary cycling, or running or walking in place for 3 to 5 minutes. This should be followed by slow and gentle stretching, holding each stretch for 15-20 seconds.
• Stay hydrated. Even mild levels of dehydration can hurt athletic performance. Ideally, players should drink 24 ounces of non-caffeinated fluid two hours before exercise, and an additional 8 ounces of fluid or sports drink immediately before play. While playing, break for an 8 ounce cup of water every 20 minutes.
• Use proper passing and play techniques. Practice good technique. For example, when you jump for the ball, land on a bent knee rather than a straight knee. Play only your position and know where other players are on the court to reduce the chance of collisions. Do not hold, block, push, charge, or trip opponents. Use proper techniques for passing and scoring, and most importantly, don't forget sportsmanship!
• Prevent overuse injuries. Because many young athletes focus on just one sport and train year-round, doctors are seeing an increase in overuse injuries. The AAOS has partnered with STOP Sports Injuries to help educate parents, coaches, and athletes on how to prevent sports injuries. STOP Sports Injuries recommends:
  • limiting the number of teams in which your child is playing on in one season
  • not letting your child play one sport year round, and
  • taking regular breaks and playing other sports to improve skill development and prevent injury.

STOP Sports Injuries

SOURCE American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

New App for Teaching Language to Children with Autism is Now Available!

NEW YORK, March 5, 2012 -- Different Roads to Learning, Inc., a global retailer of educational products for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental disabilities, today announced the launch of Tell Me About It! Learning Language by Receptive Function, Feature & Category , an iPhone/iPad app for developing early language skills.

This app uses Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), a systematic teaching approach that involves breaking down skills into small, easy-to-learn steps. ABA is the only evidence-based effective intervention treatment for Autism endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the United States Surgeon General. The Tell Me About It! App is now available for $9.99 at iTunes.

"A new wave of educational apps has been on the rise since the iPad first launched; now, they are more efficient and visually stimulating than ever. These apps are especially pertinent in the early education of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. We are pleased to develop the Tell Me About It! App, which covers the basic foundations of language for children diagnosed with Autism. Our Tell Me About It! App for the iPhone and iPad allows parents and professionals to apply ABA in any setting," said Julie Azuma, CEO of Different Roads to Learning, Inc., which she founded in 1995 after her daughter was diagnosed with Autism.

"Mimicking an actual one-on-one instructional session with a therapist, the app utilizes Discrete Trial Teaching, a method of teaching students with Autism and other language or developmental delays by breaking skills into the smallest possible steps, teaching each step intensively until its mastered, providing repetition, prompting incorrect responses, and using positive reinforcement. It's like having a personal tutor at your fingertips," said Abigail Schlaifer, VP Sales & Marketing. She added, "Teachers, parents, and psychologists can delve into the Teacher's Console to control the difficulty settings for each student, and will appreciate the Student Report Card, which displays data for each student with an option to email results."

About the Development of the Tell Me About It! App
The concept for this app was developed by Stacy Asay, LMSW, and Abigail Schlaifer for Different Roads to Learning and created by Infusion, which combines expert software engineering with appealing user experiences.

Different Roads to Learning was one of ten small businesses selected for the CEO-UBS Small Business Advisory Program, a philanthropic partnership between UBS Wealth Management Americas and the William J. Clinton Foundation. As a participant in the Program's New York Metro Area pilot, Different Roads to Learning received six months of pro-bono strategic financial and business advice from a UBS Financial Advisor and a dedicated client. The app is a product of this mentorship program. For more information, visit iTunes.

Here are the reviews on the app:

• Best Apps for Kids (editor's choice!)
• I Heart This App
• Special Apps, Special Kids

About Different Roads to Learning
Founded 17 years ago by the mother of a child diagnosed with Autism, Different Roads to Learning understands and embraces the unique needs of every child on the spectrum and strives to enable parents and professionals to help children grow to their full potential by offering over 500 of the most progressive and carefully researched quality products in support of the Autism Community. Visit www.difflearn.com. Read our blog. Like us on Facebook. Follow us on Twitter.

For more information, please contact:
Product: Abigail Schlaifer, (212) 604-9637 or abigail@difflearn.com .

Media: Julie Huang, Kaimen Company for Different Roads to Learning, (888) 989-8808 x703 or (917) 807-0718 or julie@kaimenco.com .

SOURCE Different Roads to Learning, Inc.

Parents Need to Have "The Talk" About Smartphone Security with Their Kids

NQ Mobile and NCSA Consumer Survey Shows That Many Parents Lack Awareness of Mobile Security

SAN JOSE, Calif., and WASHINGTON, D.C., March 1, 2012 -- NQ Mobile Inc., (NYSE: NQ), a leading provider of consumer-centric mobile security and productivity applications, and the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA), a non-profit public-private partnership focused on cybersecurity awareness and education for all digital citizens, today released findings from a recent consumer survey(1) that shed light on how parents think and act in order to protect the mobile privacy and security of their children.

The newly released findings show that a majority of parents have not talked to their children about protecting their privacy when using a mobile phone (56%), or talked to their children about security measures for their phones (63%).

The survey also found that while the majority of parents (71%) are aware of parental controls that can help protect their kids by monitoring usage, establishing time limits and blocking websites, apps, GPS location, and access to personal data, 60% have never used them. Of those surveyed, moms were more comfortable and more likely to have actually used parental controls.

"Too few parents are talking with their children about malware, hacking and other threats to mobile security and privacy," said NQ Mobile co-Chief Executive Officer Omar Khan. "That is no surprise, when many adults don't feel they know enough to protect themselves. Talking to your kids about how to protect the personal information on their phones, however, is every bit as necessary as having 'The Talk' about 'the birds and the bees.' Smartphones can provide a young person with independence and information. Used carelessly, they can also provide hackers, bullies and thieves with access to your child's personal information, expose them to theft, and even track their location. Parents need to learn more about threats like this, and the very real steps they can take to protect their whole family."

Parents whose kids own smartphones tend to be less aware of security threats and mobile security solutions that combat those threats than parents whose kids don't own smartphones. This surprising result may suggest that parents who are highly aware of mobile threats are so concerned they decide not to give their children phones at all.
Overall, parents who are more aware of and concerned about security threats and privacy issues are more willing to talk to their children about them.

"As smartphone use increases, more and more parents are going to be buying mobile devices for their children at earlier ages, and we want to make sure they are armed with enough information to make safe, sensible decisions," said Michael Kaiser, executive director of the National Cyber Security Alliance. "A young person who is responsible enough to own a smartphone, can also take responsibility for protecting their phone and the information on it. Some security measures are simple and straightforward: create strong passwords and don't share them with friends or anyone but your parents, exercise caution in sharing personal information online, don't lose or misplace your phone. We always encourage digital citizens -- especially young ones -- to take an active role in learning safe practices and behaviors, and follow three simple steps: STOP. THINK. CONNECT."

NQ Mobile recently released the latest version of its award-winning antivirus software, Mobile Security V6.0 for Android. The state-of-the-art in mobile protection, NQ Mobile Security V6.0 includes several features designed to help parents protect their children's mobile lives:

• Award-Winning Mobile Security: Fights malware, spyware, phishing, viruses, hacking, and more.
• Privacy Protection: Protects the data stored on your phone, ensuring that your social networking, email, and financial accounts can't be hacked and your personal calls can't be recorded.
• Anti-Theft/Anti-Loss: Remotely locates, locks*, or deletes* information from a lost or stolen mobile device, and sounds an alarm to help you find it.
• Backup and Restore: Safely and seamlessly stores your contacts so you can easily access them from any Web browser.
• System Optimization: Provides control over running apps and power consumption.
• Traffic Monitoring: Provides real-time updates on data usage and caps on maximum data usage.
• Anti-eavesdropping protection*: With Anti-eavesdropping, users can be sure their calls are not being recorded by third party apps or viruses.
• Financial security protection*: When users access financial websites via their system browser or start e-bank/securities apps, NQ Mobile Security V6.0 automatically scans all running apps to determine if any active apps pose a security risk.

For additional information about the survey, and to view a full copy of the survey report, please visit NQ Mobile's blog at http://www.nq.com/blog/?cat=53. Regular updates will also be posted on NQ Mobile's Twitter and Facebook pages.

About NQ Mobile
NQ Mobile is the international brand of NetQin Mobile Inc. (NYSE: NQ), a leading global provider of consumer-centric mobile Internet services focusing on security and productivity. The company was one of the first to recognize the growing security threats targeting smartphone users and is now a leading Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) provider with over 120 million registered user accounts worldwide. As a market leader in mobile security, NQ Mobile's innovation and global significance have been widely recognized through distinctions such as the 2011 Technology Pioneer Award bestowed by the World Economic Forum. For more information on NQ Mobile, please visit http://www.nq.com .

About The National Cyber Security Alliance
The National Cyber Security Alliance is a non-profit organization. Through collaboration with the government, corporate, non-profit and academic sectors, the mission of the NCSA is to empower a digital citizenry to use the Internet securely and safely protecting themselves and the technology they use and the digital assets we all share.

NCSA works to create a culture of cyber security and safety through education and awareness activities. NCSA board members include: ADP, AT&T, Bank of America, Cisco Systems, EMC Corporation, ESET, Facebook, General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems, Google, Intel, Lockheed Martin Information Systems & Global Services, McAfee, Microsoft, PayPal, Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC), Symantec, Verizon and Visa. Visit http://www.staysafeonline.org for more information and join us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/staysafeonline.

(1) In support of Data Privacy Day 2012, NQ Mobile and NCSA previously announced results of their online survey of 1,158 smartphone-owning consumers conducted in December 2011, which showed that while almost three-fourths of A merican consumers are aware of -- and concerned about -- security threats to their smartphones, they aren't always taking active measures to protect their mobile lives. The survey included 500 parents of children under the age of 18.

* Denotes premium feature. Consult application for rates.

SOURCE NetQin Mobile Inc.

Scholastic Parent & Child® Magazine Launches Nationwide Search for the 2012 "Family of the Year"

WINNING FAMILY TO RECEIVE $20,000 IN COLLEGE SAVINGS BONDS

NEW YORK, Feb. 28, 2012 -- Scholastic Parent & Child magazine announced today the launch of the 2012 "Family of the Year," a nationwide search to find families who are giving back and paying it forward in their schools and communities. The winning family will receive $20,000 in savings bonds, appear on the June/July cover of Scholastic Parent & Child magazine and win a trip to New York City.

"Now in its third year, "Family of the Year" celebrates families across the country who are active, hands-on citizens," said Nick Friedman, editor-in-chief of Scholastic Parent & Child. "We are looking for feel-good entries that are inspiring, actionable and speak volumes about the importance of community involvement."

Two runners-up will receive a $1,000 savings bond, and Scholastic will donate $1,000 in Scholastic books to the school, library or community organization of each runners' up choosing; family will also receive recognition in Scholastic Parent & Child magazine.

The past "Family of the Year" winners include the Athanas family of Studio City, CA who created a social networking outreach organization that helps families participate in volunteer activities, and the Clifford Family of Belle Harbor, NY who actively volunteer in their community and participate in the Wounded Warriors Project.

To learn more about the 2012 Family of the Year contest, including complete rules, prize details and how to nominate your family and/or a family you know who is leading the charge on the charitable front, visit scholastic.com/familyoftheyear .

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Entry period closes on March 15, 2012. Void where prohibited.

About Scholastic Parent & Child®

Scholastic Parent & Child is one of today's leading parenting magazines, reaching more than 7.5 million parents. Parent & Child was created for families with children ages birth to 12, and one hundred percent of the editorial content is dedicated to informing parents on topics that serve the entire family, including child development, well being, health, activities, travel, fashion, and food. To visit the magazine's online site, log on to www.scholastic.com/parents. To learn more about Scholastic, visit our online media room mediaroom.scholastic.com.

SOURCE Scholastic Parent & Child

"Surprise, We're Going to Great Wolf Lodge!" New Contest Turns Children's Reactions Into a Splashy Competition

Public to Vote on Videos of Parents Springing Surprise Trips to Great Wolf Lodge

MADISON, Wis., Feb. 27, 2012  --Search "Great Wolf Surprise" online and you'll find video after video of children in the back seat beaming, and sometimes screaming, as they find out the family minivan is pulling up to Great Wolf Lodge resort. That first reaction is just one in many more unforgettable moments that will happen in the days ahead.

Taking a cue from its social media-savvy guests Great Wolf Resorts, Inc.® (NASDAQ: WOLF), North America's largest family of indoor waterpark resorts, today announced the launch of the Spring Surprises Video contest, encouraging guests and potential visitors to capture their children's responses when told they are about to take a surprise Great Wolf Lodge vacation.

From February 27 until March 12, families can upload videos of these priceless reactions to the video contest app on facebook.com/GreatWolfWaterpark for a chance to win a stay at the Great Wolf Lodge resort of their choice. A panel of judges from Great Wolf will select five finalists on March 14 and the public will then vote for their favorite entry. Great Wolf Lodge will announce the winning video on Monday, March 26.

"We see how excited our guests are during their Great Wolf Lodge stay, and discovered that they are almost as excited when they learn they are going to one of our resorts. We love seeing the expressions of pure surprise and delight in the videos posted online and thought this would be the perfect opportunity to engage our guests and truly surprise a Great Wolf fan family," said Nikki Donofrio, senior vice president of strategic brand marketing, Great Wolf Lodge, "This contest encourages families to share their Great Wolf vacation announcement moments with us."

Select videos submitted to the Spring Surprises Video contest may also be featured on Great Wolf Lodge's first-ever blog, "Behind The Howl", launching in early March. Fans of Great Wolf can visit blog.greatwolf.com to read exclusive news, "behind the scenes" stories and learn more about what it takes to create the Great Wolf experience. The blog is just another example of the two-way, transparent communication Great Wolf has with its guests, coming on the heels of its fully interactive website GreatWolf.com, which debuted six months ago. Posts from the Great Wolf "pack", along with guest posts, unique video and photo content, and "insider information" entries will keep the blog engaging and informative for readers.

To enter the Spring Surprises video contest, and for a complete list of rules, anyone may log on to the video contest app at facebook.com/GreatWolfWaterpark. To learn more about Great Wolf Lodge, visit greatwolf.com.

About Great Wolf Resorts, Inc.
Great Wolf Resorts, Inc.® (NASDAQ: WOLF), Madison, Wis., is North America's largest family of indoor waterpark resorts, and, through its subsidiaries and affiliates, owns, licenses and/or operates its family resorts under the Great Wolf Lodge® brand. Great Wolf Resorts is a fully integrated resort company with Great Wolf Lodge locations in: Wisconsin Dells, Wis.; Sandusky, Ohio; Traverse City, Mich.; Kansas City, Kan.; Williamsburg, Va.; the Pocono Mountains, Pa.; Niagara Falls, Ontario; Mason, Ohio; Grapevine, Texas; Grand Mound, Wash.; and Concord, N.C.

The company's resorts are family-oriented destination facilities that generally feature 300 to 600 rooms and a large indoor entertainment area measuring 40,000 to 100,000 square feet. The all-suite properties offer a variety of room styles, arcade/game rooms, fitness rooms, themed restaurants, spas, supervised children's activities and other amenities. The company's consolidated subsidiary, Creative Kingdoms, LLC, is a developer and operator of technology-based, interactive quest adventure experiences such as MagiQuest®.

SOURCE Great Wolf Lodge

Tom Cruise, Lady Gaga, Tim Tebow, Johnny Depp, Big Time Rush, Daniel Radcliffe and Other Top Stars Receive Nominations for Nickelodeon's 25th Annual Kids' Choice Awards Hosted by Mega-Star Will Smith

Katy Perry, LMFAO and Taylor Swift Score Multiple Nominations; Bruno Mars, Kristen Stewart, Justin Bieber, Miranda Cosgrove and Sofia Vergara Also Nominated

Show Airs LIVE on Saturday, March 31, at 8 p.m. (ET/PT)

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 16, 2012 -- Nickelodeon announced today the nominees for the milestone 25th Annual Kids' Choice Awards, helmed by international superstar Will Smith and airing live from USC's Galen Center in Los Angeles on Saturday, March 31, at 8 p.m. (ET/tape delayed for West Coast).

A star-studded line-up will be vying for the coveted Kids' Choice Blimps at this year's show, as kids honor their favorites spanning the worlds of film, music, TV and sports, including Jessica Alba, Antonio Banderas, Justin Bieber, Big Time Rush, Jack Black, Ty Burrell, Jim Carrey, Miranda Cosgrove, Tom Cruise, Johnny Depp, Lady Gaga, Selena Gomez, Victoria Justice, Bruno Mars, Taylor Lautner, Danica Patrick, Katy Perry, Michael Phelps, Daniel Radcliffe, Adam Sandler and Kristen Stewart.

Beginning March 1, kids will be able to cast their votes in 20 total categories across all of Nickelodeon's digital outlets, including Nick.com, Nick Mobile app as well as Nickelodeon's Facebook page and Twitter feed.

Wizards, Smurfs and a martial arts panda dominated the movie categories, with the Harry Potter franchise conjuring up top nods with four nominations for Favorite Movie, Favorite Book (the Harry Potter series), Daniel Radcliffe for Favorite Movie Actor and Emma Watson for Favorite Movie Actress. The Smurfs nabbed three nominations, including Favorite Movie, Sofia Vergara for Favorite Movie Actress and Katy Perry for Favorite Voice in an Animated Movie. The mega-hit Kung Fu Panda franchise ate up nominations for Favorite Movie, Favorite Cartoon and Jack Black for Favorite Voice in an Animated Movie.

This year's dual nods include The Muppets for Favorite Movie and Amy Adams for Favorite Movie Actress and the Twilight franchise for Favorite Book (the Twilight series) and Kristen Stewart for Favorite Movie Actress. In the music categories, international superstars LMFAO, Katy Perry and Taylor Swift go head-to-head all receiving two nods for Favorite Group/Female Singer and Favorite Song.

In television, the stars of Nickelodeon's hit comedy iCarly - Jennette McCurdy, Nathan Kress and Jerry Trainor - duke it out as they dominate the Funniest TV Sidekick category. Additionally, American Idol grabs its eighth nomination for Favorite Reality Show up against returning contenders, America's Funniest Home Videos, America's Got Talent and Wipeout.

The complete list of nominees for Nickelodeon's 25th Annual Kids' Choice Awards is as follows:

Parents Can Now Ease Test Anxiety for Both Their Children and Themselves

ARISTOTLE CIRCLE INTRODUCES NEW ENRICHMENT LEARNING KIT FOR 4-10 YEAR OLDS

NEW YORK, Feb. 16, 2012 -- With more children taking school admission, gifted and talented, and other achievement tests for limited spots in school programs, parents are looking for ways to help their kids do well.

A new solution is coming from the national educational company Aristotle Circle, which has created a new Enrichment and Learning Kit for children between the ages of four and ten. The kit, consisting of books and educational toys, promotes learning through play and teaches patterning skills, sorting and classification, visual-spatial reasoning, vocabulary, memory, reasoning and creative problem solving. The kit is ideal for families who want to prepare their children for testing in a fun and interactive way.

"It's fun and challenging for kids," said Kim Har, PhD in childhood education and Aristotle Circle Director of Early Childhood Education. "Parents can use this kit to help their child prepare for a gifted and talented admissions exam or simply as a way to enrich their child's primary learning experiences. It will arm the children with the skill set they need to do well in the tests, while also easing some of the parents' anxieties about the tests."

The kit was developed by an Aristotle Circle expert team, including educators and learning specialists, led by Dr. Har. The comprehensive and engaging workbook is based on the core skills required for a number of K-5 admissions tests. In addition to the traditional workbook, it has toy-like sorting chips, counting rods and puzzle pieces to make it one of the most play-based prep kits available on the market. The included workbooks guide parents in selecting the activities appropriate for their child's age and abilities.

"The Enrichment and Learning Kit serves as a wonderful general resource for families and can be used at any time of the year, including summer vacations," said Dr. Kim Har.

The Enrichment and Learning Kit helps prepare children for the following tests:

• WPPSI-III
• WISC-IV
• Stanford-Binet 5
• OLSAT
• Raven's Matrices
• Naglieri Nonverbal Ability Test (NNAT-2)
• Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT)
• Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children (K-ABC II)
• Kaufman Brief Intelligence Test (K-BIT II)

The Enrichment and Learning kit can be purchased at http://store.aristotlecircle.com for $299.

About Aristotle Circle
Aristotle Circle's mission is to unlock the power and passion of students by delivering personal guidance and educational support. Working with a national network of recognized experts, Aristotle Circle specializes in school admissions, financial aid advice, peer mentoring and tutoring, athletic coaching and fine arts enrichment. All services are flexible, allowing for as little as one hour of expert time, and personalized for each student.

SOURCE Aristotle Circle

Holy Smokestacks - It's "The Choo Choo Bob Show"

Locally produced children's TV builds momentum in the Twin Cities and regionally

MINNEAPOLIS, Feb. 15, 2012 -- Introducing "The Choo Choo Bob Show," coming soon to a TV station near you. The live-action television show, based in the Twin Cities, will debut regionally on broadcast television this spring, hearkening back to whole-family-friendly children's television programming like "The Muppets" or "Yo Gabba Gabba."

The first season features the main character, Choo Choo Bob, hanging out at his clubhouse with his best friend Richard W. Kornbelt and other pals, talking about trains and having all kinds of adventures. In each episode, there are trips to Tinyland, visits to real working railroads across the United States, questions from kids, musical guests and mischievous puppets. Twenty-six shows have already been produced for broadcast.  Watch the trailer here:

While the TV Choo Choo Bob and his friends are played by local actors, there is a real Bob behind it all, Bob Medcraft, the show's producer and owner of St. Paul, Minn. retail store Choo Choo Bob's Train Store.

"Our show is about friendship and social learning. But it's also educational and fun. Trains are so much a part of our country's history — it's great to introduce this generation to them," says Bob Medcraft. "What people like about 'The Choo Choo Bob Show' is that it's simple, and demonstrates good values. It's the live action fun many of us enjoyed when we were small. Everyone on our show's nice, not cynical or rude. And sadly, that's unusual to find on TV in this day and age."

The show grew from the popularity of the original Choo Choo Bob's Train Store, a St. Paul, Minn. landmark for kids and their parents. "It dawned on me that the train thing was popular. Model train sets inspire nostalgia in many people, and media —Mr. Rogers Neighborhood, Casey Jones —mythologizes the railroad for young children who may have never touched or even seen an actual train," adds Medcraft. "So I created a place to introduce the World's Greatest Hobby to younger generations in a different way—by letting them touch and play with train engines and cars. And it's grown from there."

"The Choo Choo Bob Show" will also tour a live show around the region, beginning this year. The live performances, first created for and staged at the 2010 Minnesota State Fair, will include the Choo Choo Bob cast performing original music, dance and vignettes from the series.

"The Choo-Choo Bob Show" is a production of Birdhouse Holdings, LLC, founded by Bob Medcraft, owner of St. Paul, Minn. train mecca, Choo Choo Bob's Train Store. For more information about where to see the show both on television and live, how to visit the store, and for other news, visit choochoobobs.com.

SOURCE Birdhouse Holdings, LLC

Win a Chance to Make Your Child a Magazine Cover Star: Time Out Kids Announces Photo Contest Sponsored by Polarn O. Pyret

NEW YORK, Feb. 13, 2012 -- Time Out Kids announces the start of its "Cover Star Photo Contest," in which one lucky winner will be featured on an upcoming cover of Time Out Kids magazine. The contest, sponsored by leading eco-friendly clothing company Polarn O. Pyret, invites parents to enter a photograph of their child through February 27, 2012.

Time Out Kids' editors will select 20 semifinalists to feature online, and will allow users to vote for their favorite adorable shots. The child in the winning photograph, selected by reader and editorial vote, will be professionally photographed to be the cover star on an issue of Time Out Kids magazine and also receive a free ice-skating birthday party, provided by prize partner Chelsea Piers. The grand-prize winner and ten finalists will receive gift cards from Polarn O. Pyret.

"New York families have been incredibly involved as we continue to expand Time Out Kids, and what better way to honor their ongoing participation both in print and online than by dedicating our next cover to one adorable mini star?" says Time Out Kids editor Rory Halperin.

Photo submissions are being accepted at timeoutnewyorkkids.com/covercontest from February 10 to February 27, 2012. Users will be able to vote for their favorite photos at timeoutnewyorkkids.com beginning March 1.

About Time Out Kids
Time Out Kids is the leading resource for city parents to discover the best arts, entertainment, classes, camps and events for their kids. Imbued with expert opinion and leavened with a casual tone, Time Out Kids is uniquely positioned as the definitive source of local information and cultural guidance through multiplatform products including a city magazine, online presence, events and partnerships. Comprehensive guides to planning birthday parties, navigating the city as a new parent, school-break activities, the best play spaces and more complement the up-to-the-minute event listings and deals. Time Out Kids is part of Time Out Group, the global media business delivering comprehensive, relevant and engaging information in 35 cities across 24 countries and encompassing a worldwide audience of more than 17 million. Visit timeoutnewyorkkids.com.

About Polarn O. Pyret
Polarn O. Pyret, Sweden's leading children's wear brand since 1976, made its much-anticipated arrival to America three years ago and now has three stores and a website in the U.S. Two of the stores are in Manhattan. We have over 130 stores in Europe. This beloved premium brand is best known for its playwear, outerwear, and iconic navy and red stripes. PO.P helps preserve the simple pleasures of childhood by offering clothing that lets kids play freely wherever they are and in all weather conditions. Best of all, the clothing can be worn, washed and passed down for generations to enjoy. We believe both boys and girls need good fit and function. Our coveted UNIsex concept was one of the first in children's wear. We design clothing for all children, not just girls or boys. Who wears what — and in what color combination — is up to you.

SOURCE Time Out Kids

Tell the World Your Story - Enter The Art Institutes Storytellers Photography Scholarship Competition

Those With an Eye for Photography Challenged to Compete for Tuition Scholarships

PITTSBURGH, Feb. 9, 2012 -- If you see the world in photographs, then The Art Institutes schools challenge you to put your skills to the test in the third annual Storytellers Photography Scholarship Competition. Submit six original photographs that tell a visual story for your opportunity to earn up to a $40,000 tuition scholarship to study at one of 39 participating Art Institutes schools.

The Storytellers Photography Competition has categories for both high school seniors and high school graduates. Along with the photos, entrants are required to submit a 500-800 word artist statement describing the entry and a high school transcript or proof of high school graduation demonstrating a GPA of 2.0 or higher. Entries will be judged on their ability to communicate a story based on the theme Storytelling Through the Lens.

The grand prize winner in the high school senior category earns up to a $40,000 tuition scholarship and the grand prize winner in the high school graduate category earns up to a $10,000 tuition scholarship to one of 39 participating Art Institutes across the U.S. Submissions are initially judged at the local level, with one finalist from each participating school advancing to the national level.

"The Storytellers Photography Scholarship Competition provides students with the opportunity to tell their stories in a way that showcases their passion, vision and creativity," said John Pufahl, Vice President of Academic Affairs for The Art Institutes. "We are continually impressed with the caliber of the entries received, and we look forward to helping these students cultivate their talents."

The deadline for entries into the competition is March 2, 2012.

To view complete rules and entry requirements for the Storytellers Photography Scholarship Competition, visit www.artinstitutes.edu/photocompetition.

The Art Institutes (www.artinstitutes.edu ) is a system of more than 45 educational institutions located throughout North America. The Art Institutes schools provide an important source for design, media arts, fashion and culinary arts professionals. Several institutions included in The Art Institutes system are campuses of South University. OH Registration # 04-01-1698B, AC0165, AC0080, Licensed by the Florida Commission for Independent Education, License No. 1287, 3427, 3110, 2581. See aiprograms.info for program duration, tuition, fees, and other costs, median debt, federal salary data, alumni success, and other important info.

SOURCE The Art Institutes

'Facing the Bully' Special Edition of Weekly Reader's Current Health Magazine Focuses on Defusing Bullying

In-Depth Advice for Children, Parents and Teachers Available in Free Online Publication

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y., Feb. 7, 2012 -- With one in five high school students saying they've been bullied, this societal ill is reaching epidemic proportions. To address this crisis, Weekly Reader's Current Health magazines have assembled special issues – one for grades 4-7, the other for grades 7-12 -- highlighting practical solutions for parents, teachers, and children. Current Health is offering free online versions of the "Facing the Bully" issues at www.weeklyreader.com/CHbullying. [An extensive teacher's guide is also available online for classroom use.]

"There are meaningful steps that everyone can take to combat bullying and we want to reach as broad an audience as possible with this important information," said Erin King, Current Health's Senior Editor.

A few of the surprising facts about bullying cited in the special issue include:

• The most powerful person in any bullying situation is often the bystander.
• Bullies are frequently popular with other children.
• Children most likely to be bullied are not the kids at the bottom of the social prestige ladder but actually those somewhere in the middle.

Additional articles define different forms of bullying, expose the myths surrounding cyberbullying, and outline ways to develop empathy in children and teens. Current Health editors spoke with experts and students and compiled a variety of simple steps that children can take to begin to solve the problem such as:

• Speak up, stand up. "When one person stands up against the bullies, other people will stand up against them. Anyone could be the hero in the hallway," says New Jersey teen Ashley Craig, founder of Students Against Being Bullied — a group she started after being bullied herself.
• Acknowledge your own actions. Children should ask themselves: "Have I done or said something hurtful?" Thoughtless phrases such as "That's so gay" can hurt even when no harm is meant. If children have done or said something, it's never too late to apologize—and change that behavior.

Parents are encouraged to listen carefully to their children's comments about bullying and to take them seriously. Mothers and fathers should avoid making potentially hurtful comments about people, as children mimic adults. Parents can also help their children care about others by volunteering together at a nursing home or animal shelter, as empathy has been linked to lower levels of bullying.

ABOUT WEEKLY READER
Current Health is a monthly magazine published in two editions by Weekly Reader, publisher of quality, groundbreaking educational materials since 1902. Weekly Reader's unique digital products and 11 award-winning classroom magazines give teachers tools that help them achieve their goals while inspiring students and igniting a love of learning. Every year, Weekly Reader materials reach more than 150,000 teachers and 6 million students from Pre-K to grade 12. Weekly Reader is part of the Reader's Digest Association, Inc. For more information, visit www.weeklyreader.com.

SOURCE Weekly Reader

Scholastic to Launch New Series by #1 New York Times Bestselling and Award-Winning Author Maggie Stiefvater

THE RAVEN BOYS TO BE PUBLISHED SEPTEMBER 18, 2012

NEW YORK, Feb. 2, 2012 -- Scholastic, the global children's publishing, education and media company, announced today that it will publish a new four-book series by #1 New York Times bestselling author Maggie Stiefvater, whose Shiver trilogy has more than 1.7 million books in print and whose most recent novel The Scorpio Races was just named a Michael L. Printz Honor Book by the American Library Association. The Raven Boys (978-0-545-42492-9, $17.99 hardcover; 978-0-545-46979-1, $17.99 e-book; 978-0-545-46593-9, $39.99 audiobook; Ages 13 and up) will be published on September 18, 2012, to be followed by three additional novels in The Raven Cycle.

Scholastic holds world rights to the series, and The Raven Boys will launch simultaneously in English September 2012 in the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.

"When Entertainment Weekly called Maggie Stiefvater 'one of the finest YA novelists writing today,' it couldn't have been more on the mark. Maggie has an extraordinary ability to balance epic storytelling and deeply personal truths, exploring both the mythology that surrounds us and the myths we tell about ourselves. The Raven Boys is a remarkable next step in an already remarkable career," says David Levithan, Publisher and Editorial Director, Scholastic Press.

Author Maggie Stiefvater says, "I grew up on a diet of exceptional fantasy series for children—The Dark Is Rising, The Black Cauldron, A Wrinkle in Time, The Chronicles of Narnia — and I've always wanted to write one of those sprawling epic sagas built from intimate moments. I sat on a draft of The Raven Boys for a decade, but it wasn't until I had the tools I learned from writing the Shiver trilogy and The Scorpio Races that I knew how to do it."

Filled with mystery, romance, and the supernatural, The Raven Boys introduces readers to Richard "Dick" Campbell Gansey, III and Blue Sargent. Gansey has it all—family money, good looks, devoted friends—but he's looking for much more than that. He is on the hunt to find Glendower, a vanished Welsh king. Legend has it that the first person to find him will be granted a wish—either by seeing him open his eyes, or by cutting out his heart. Blue Sargent, the daughter of the town psychic in Henrietta, Virginia, has been told for as long as she can remember that if she ever kisses her true love, he will die. But she is too practical to believe in things like true love. Her policy is to stay away from the rich boys at the prestigious Aglionby Academy. The boys there—known as Raven Boys—can only mean trouble. When Gansey and his Raven Boy friends come into her life, Blue realizes how true this is. She never thought her fortune would be a problem. But now she's not so sure.

About Maggie Stiefvater

Maggie Stiefvater is a writer, artist, and musician and the New York Times bestselling author of Shiver, hailed by Publishers Weekly in a starred review as, "a lyrical tale," and by BookPage as, "beautifully written, even poetic at times, and a perfect indulgence for readers of all ages." There are more than 1.7 million copies of the trilogy in print. Since publication, rights to more than thirty-six foreign editions of Shiver have been licensed. Linger, the second book in the Shiver trilogy, debuted at #1 on the New York Times Bestseller list.

The Scorpio Races, Stiefvater's latest novel, received five starred reviews and was named to the following best of the year lists for 2011: Publishers Weekly, School Library Journal, The Horn Book and Kirkus Reviews. In addition, The Scorpio Races was named a 2012 Michael L. Printz Honor Book by the American Library Association, a New York Times Notable Children's Book, and The New York Times Book Review raved, "[Stiefvater] not only steps out of the young adult fantasy box with The Scorpio Races but crushes it with pounding hooves....If The Scorpio Races sounds like nothing you've ever read, that's because it is." Stiefvater lives in Virginia with her husband and their two children. You can visit her online at www.maggiestiefvater.com and follow her on Twitter @mstiefvater. For more information, please visit: http://mediaroom.scholastic.com/maggiestiefvater .

 

 

About Scholastic

Scholastic Corporation (NASDAQ: SCHL) is the world's largest publisher and distributor of children's books and a leader in educational technology and related services and children's media. Scholastic creates quality books, print and technology-based learning materials and programs, magazines, multi-media and other products that help children learn both at school and at home. The Company distributes its products and services worldwide through a variety of channels, including school-based book clubs and book fairs, retail stores, schools, libraries, onair, and online at www.scholastic.com.

SOURCE Scholastic Corporation