WENDY AND DB BACK HOME

GRAMMY nominated in 2023 for their Chicago homestyle tribute to the blues, Into the Little Blue House, the multicultural, Chicago-based duo Wendy and DB revisits the blues genre with a deep dive into traditional acoustic styles on their newly released sixth family album, Back Home. The children's music album which captures the essence of traditional blues styles in a way to entice the ears of young listeners is available at major online music outlets and streaming platforms as well as at wendyanddb.com.

To ensure authenticity, the duo traveled to the original home of the blues, Memphis, Tennessee, to collaborate with Blues Music Award-winning guitarist, singer, and songwriter, Doug MacLeod, traditional Delta blues vocalist Libby Rae Watson, and multiple GRAMMY nominee Shardé Thomas and her Rising Stars Fife and Drum Band, which is devoted to preserving the vanishing Mississippi Hill Country fife and drum blues tradition and presenting it in combination with other blues, jazz, hip hop, and R&B stylings. Shardé Thomas ​​is the ​granddaughter of Otha Turner, one of the best-known exponents of the African American fife and drum tradition.

In Austin, Texas, Wendy and DB recorded with three-time GRAMMY nominee Ruthie Foster, whose work travels through a variety of genres: Texas blues, gospel, folk, soul, and jazz. When Wendy and DB returned to Chicago, many blues musicians from Into The Little Blue House contributed their talents to Back Home, including harmonica wizard Billy Branch, GRAMMY-winning drummer Kenny “Beedy Eyes” Smith, and iconic guitarist Mike Wheeler.

Noteworthy tracks include “Back Home,” on which Ruthie Foster sings out the verses in her pure, honest voice, helping create a musical landscape that’s sure to make listeners think, “If this is what ‘home’ sounds like, I want to go there!” “Be You/Walk To Your Own Beat” highlights the African rhythms and and sounds of fife and drum of the Rising Stars Fife and Drum Band, with Wendy Morgan’s heartfelt vocals encouraging kids to celebrate the uniquely beautiful people they are. The exhilarating “Moving Mountains” and wistful “Reflection” are replete with stunning blues harp work from Billy Branch, while Memphis legend Doug MacLeod takes center stage on “Come To Your Senses” and “Move Them Bones.” 

“Watching the River Flow” and “Hum Away” are graced by gorgeous down-home vocals from Mississippi’s Libby Rae Watson. Darryl “DB” Boggs brings loads of personality to “Hemingway,” with his friendly, joyful style really lighting up this number about Wendy’s “Wonderdog.” Throughout Back Home, Wendy and DB celebrate traditional blues music through a rich variety of originally crafted songs for young souls and longtime blues enthusiasts alike.

In addition to being GRAMMY nominated, Wendy and DB are winners of the Parents’ Choice Gold, NAPPA, and Creative Child Awards. Previous albums include Into the Little Blue House (2022 release; 2023 GRAMMY nomination), Hey Big World (2020; NAPPA Award, Mom’s Choice Award, Creative Child Album of the Year), HomeEarth (2017; NAPPA Award), It’s A Doo Da Day (2015; Parents’ Choice Gold Award, NAPPA Award), and Pockets Seasons Rhymes & Reasons (2013). 

DEXTERS LABORATORY THE COMPLETE SERIES ON DVD

Warner Bros Home Entertainment provided ageekdaddy.com with a free DVD set of Dexter's Laboratory: The Complete Series

For the first time ever on DVD, all 78 episodes of the cartoon series DEXTER'S LABORATORY are brought together in one set. Dexter's Laboratory: The Complete Series on DVD is available now at major retailers including Target and Walmart.  Dexter's Laboratory is also available to purchase digitally from Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and Fandango at Home.

Dexter's Laboratory is about half-Einstein, half-third grader, Dexter. This boy genius creates the most amazing inventions in the top secret and highly advanced laboratory attached to his room. But his genius can't stop his space-brained sister Dee Dee from messing up his work and pushing his buttons. Or his annoying rival Mandark from constantly trying to one-up him. Can Dexter use his intelligence to solve his problems? Time to fight fire with ... SCIENCE!

Dexter's Laboratory ran from 1996 - 2003 on Cartoon Network. Dexter's Laboratory: The Complete Series includes all the episodes from the show plus the television special Dexter's Laboratory: Ego Trip. The DVD set has a runtime of 1,791 minutes and its content is rated PG.

EMPIRE OF THE ANTS VIDEO GAME

Entomologists, zoologists who study insects, as well as those of us who are fans of Disney's "Honey I Shrunk the Kids" movies are sure to be geeked about an upcoming video game coming to PC, PlayStation and Xbox later this year. Video game publisher Microids is creating a 3D strategy game based upon author Bernard Werber's popular Empire of the Ants novel. In Werber's science fiction fantasy, ants are the heroes of the story while humans are the pesty antagonists. The upcoming video game will allow players to explore a vast photo-realistic world inspired by Bernard Werber's book viewed from an ant's perspective. 

Microids just released a trailer of its work in progress for Empire of the Ants. The video game looks amazing! Check out the Microids Empire of the Ants trailer:

In the Empire of the Ants video game, use every move to your advantage on the path to world domination. Strategy, exploration, conflict, and alliances with local wildlife species will be essential for your colony’s survival. Stand out elements of the game include:

• Take part in an epic adventure - Take the role of a brave ant through a third person view and explore unique abilities that can help you in battle and exploration. 
•  A 3D real-time strategy game with progressive difficulty - The game offers an intuitive experience with tutorials for newcomers to learn RTS fundamentals, while providing scalable difficulty and advanced mechanics for veteran players. 
•  Explore vast environments and meet the local wildlife - Empire of the Ants will invite players to sink their teeth into a photorealistic forest where they will meet and interact with other ants and forest dwellers throughout their journey. 
•  Immersive and photo-realistic - Unreal Engine 5 pushes the boundaries of photorealism - just look at the plants and wildlife! 
•  Narrative based on the seasons - The game features a narrative that follows the rhythm of the seasons and affects wildlife attributes such as speed, resistance, buffs, and more. 
•  Day and night environments - The maps in the game will also change depending on the time of day (day, night, dawn, and twilight).

For more updates on the video games release, visit microids.com

One of my favorite scenes in the Empire of the Ants video game trailer was watching the appearance of the Praying Mantis. They are one of my favorite insects. I'm always geeked when catching a glimpse of them hunting around our backyard landscape and pool.

If you want to get a close up look at insects like praying mantis, ants, butterflies, and lady bugs in real life check out insectlore.com. They have kits where you can order insect eggs or larva and watch them hatch. My kids loved it when we watched caterpillars that arrived in an Insect Lore kit create cocoons them emerge as butterflies. Read our Insect Lore review here. You can find Insect Lore kits on Amazon.com. 

This post has affiliate links, which means this blog could earn advertising money if you buy something. This doesn't cost you anything extra, ageekdaddy.com just has to give you the heads up for legal reasons. Click away!

PERFORM THESE 5 CHECKS BEFORE DRIVING YOUR CAR IN WINTER

You should be taking steps to maintain your car at all times, but let’s be honest, most of the time your car won’t face problems if you forget a few of the small maintenance tasks. You can go a month or two without checking the tire pressure and it won’t be a huge deal. 

Unless you’re driving in the winter… Winter car maintenance is far more important thanks to the temperature dropping. It can be well below freezing overnight and this has an impact on your car. If you jump in and drive off without performing some key checks, your car may face a mixture of problems. This can hinder your safety and damage critical components of your vehicle. 

So, before you set off for winter journeys, make sure you perform these five checks: 

Fuel 

Always check that you’ve got enough fuel in your car throughout the winter. If you don’t, you can face a couple of problems: 

•  Running out of fuel in the middle of nowhere when it’s very cold 
• Your car not starting because there’s not enough fuel in it 

 The latter can happen when your fuel is in the red zone. There’s technically enough fuel in there to get you to a gas station, but the cold weather makes it harder for your engine to ignite such low levels of fuel. As such, you turn the ignition but the engine doesn’t kick into action. When you’re heading home from a journey, double-check that there’s enough fuel for the next one. If not, fill up on gas and then head home. 

When you’re not sure if there’s enough fuel to take you to a gas station, you should try to get there by other means. Perhaps a friend will let you ride with them and you can fill a jerry can up with fuel to take back home. Or, if you break down due to a lack of fuel, call a towing service to take you to the nearest gas station. 

Oil 

Next, you need to check your car’s oil levels. This is a crucial part of winter maintenance as oil will lubricate the moving parts of your car engine. When the temperature drops, these parts can get a lot stiffer and will need even more oil. 

So, if there’s not a good supply of oil in your car, these parts will struggle to function properly and can cause catastrophic issues. If you’re not careful, it could permanently damage the engine and mean you need a replacement. 

Some cars have oil level indicators but the manual way of checking is easy. Open your hood and locate the oil compartment - it’ll be on the engine. Pull out the dipstick and see if it is between the min and max levels. When the readings are below the minimum level, your car needs an oil top-up! Keep in mind that oil contracts when it’s cold, so you should check these readings when your car is still warm. Otherwise, it may seem like you’ve not got enough oil, causing you to overfill. 

Tires

You put a lot of faith in your tires when driving in the winter. Rain, snow, and ice lead to terrible driving conditions as the roads have less grip. For this reason, experts suggest having double the minimum tire tread level for additional traction. 

It’s really smart to get a tread depth gauge to perform this check. Some people use the quarter or penny method, but a proper tread depth gauge will give the most accurate readings. It helps you see how much your tires have worn down and if it’s time to replace them. 

Consider getting special winter tires for your car if you live in a freezing area with lots of snow and ice. Winter tires are designed to be a lot thicker and grippier, so they can handle these conditions better than normal tires. 

Coolant 

All car engines will need coolant to…well…cool the engine down. It’s what stops your engine from overheating, though you may assume it’s not as important during the winter. After all, cold weather means your engine will be colder, right? Surely low coolant levels aren’t an issue as there’s less chance of the engine overheating in these conditions…right?! 

Surprisingly, car engines can still overheat in the winter. If anything, there’s just as big of a chance as there is in hot weather. Because the engine starts cold, it tries to work harder to compensate. Without the right coolant levels, this can lead to overheating. 

There’s another key benefit to coolant; it contains something called anti-freeze. This solution stops the liquid from freezing inside your engine, so it doesn’t seize up in the winter. Check your coolant levels before every journey or you might end up with a frozen engine. 

Lights 

Lights are important throughout the year in all seasons, but winter is the darkest period of all. Consequently, your lights need to be on more often. You also need to ensure your fog lights work, just in case it gets hazy in the mornings. 

Turn your car on and go through all the light settings to be sure they work. This includes your blinkers - people need to see when you’re turning! It’s a good idea to wipe the lights as well before you get in the car, just to get rid of any dirt or ice that’s formed on them overnight. Even a thin layer of ice can obscure the lights for any cars behind or ahead of you. 

Speaking of ice, that’s sort of a hidden sixth check to do. Well, it’s not much of a check as you can clearly see if your car has ice covering it. Don’t drive off until it’s melted away. To do this, switch on the engine and turn the front screen de-misters on. This will heat the windscreen and you can sweep off any ice as it melts. If you’re in a rush, use an ice scraper to get as much off as possible. Never pour hot water on your windscreen as this can cause serious damage to the glass. 

Now, you’re all ready to head out on a winter journey without fearing what will happen to your vehicle!

HIDDEN BENEFITS OF BECOMING A TRUCK DRIVER YOU MAY NOT REALIZE

When you look at your previous experience, skill sets and talents you may still be unsure as to where you want to be and what you want to do in the future. It is normal for people to take their time in finding their ideal career path, so try not to feel any pressure to rush into something that doesn’t feel aligned to you. When it comes to enhancing your professional career, you need to keep an open mind and explore all of the options available to you. If you don’t try something, how do you know if you’ll like it? With that being said, more and more ambitious people are looking into the possibilities of becoming a truck driver. This type of job comes with a whole set of benefits that you may not even realize. If you want to find out more, here are a handful of things you should know. 

Thorough Training is Provided 

When you become a truck driver, you may not realize that you are enrolled onto an entire training program. Even if you don’t feel fully confident in this type of work yet, you won’t have to worry about taking on a job in the near future. With full truck driver orientation you will feel prepared and knowledgeable about everything you need to know when it comes to driving a truck. 

Flexible Working Hours 

If you’re looking to steer clear of regular office hours and you’re hoping for a level of flexibility, truck driving may be the ideal career for you. Although you may be required to travel and work unsociable hours, you will also receive longer stints of time off. This can mean that you get to pick up your children from school and spend more time with them when you’re not working. Each company will have their own policies, so this is worth asking if you’re serious about pursuing a job in this industry. 

Excellent Pay and Job Benefits 

 Depending on where you’re based and what your experience levels are, you could be earning a very generous salary as a truck driver. Some truck drivers can earn up to $70,000 depending on their level of experience, so it’s certainly worth exploring. As a truck driver you may also get a whole host of benefits that help you and your family. Your personal car insurance may reduce and you may also receive health benefits too. Medical checks are compulsory when you become a truck driver so you will also have peace of mind that your wellbeing is always taken care of in this type of job. 

As you can see, there are so many advantages that go hand in hand with being a truck driver in 2024. Whether you’re looking for flexible working hours or excellent pay progression, there is so much to consider when you enter this sort of industry. Look into your options and see how this type of role could benefit you and your family in the future. If it’s something you enjoy doing, you may soon find your long term career path!

KIDPIK BIG SALE

This post was sponsored by kidpik.com

Want your kids to look like a million bucks without busting the family budget? Check out KIDPIK! The brand is known for stylish head to toe looks for kids and tweens sizes 4-16 that won't break the bank. 

Better yet ... while the brand's prices always provide a nice bang for the buck, this weekend they are having a BIG SALE with up to 70% off items. Take an additional 20% off all clearance items using code: EXTRA20SALE.

Start off 2024 having your kids dressed to the nines by taking advantage of this KIDPIK BIG SALE. From complete outfits to separate apparel, parents are sure to find clothes that will have even the most finicky dresser in your household geeked about what they have to wear. 

PRIORITIZING MEN'S HEALTH AND HYGIENE: A COMPREHENSIVE PERSPECTIVE

In today's fast-paced world, the importance of men's health and hygiene often takes a back seat amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life. However, maintaining good health and hygiene is not just about looking presentable; it is a crucial aspect that impacts overall well-being, confidence, and longevity. This comprehensive guide aims to highlight the significance of men's health and hygiene, offering practical tips and insights for a healthier lifestyle. 

Understanding Men's Health: More Than Just Physical Fitness 

Men's health encompasses a broad spectrum, ranging from physical fitness to mental well-being. It is a common misconception that being physically fit equates to good health. However, true health involves a holistic approach, considering factors like diet, mental health, regular check-ups, and personal hygiene. 

Nutrition: The Foundation of Good Health 

Nutrition is paramount in maintaining optimal health. A diet rich in diverse nutrients, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, is essential. It's important to limit the intake of processed foods, excessive alcohol, and tobacco, as these can lead to long-term health issues such as heart disease and diabetes. 

Mental Health: Breaking the Stigma 

Mental health often remains a taboo subject in many circles, particularly among men. It’s vital to acknowledge that mental well-being is as crucial as physical health. Regular mental health check-ups, open conversations about mental health struggles, and seeking professional help when needed should be normalized. 

Sleep and Stress Management: The Silent Pillars of Health 

Adequate sleep and effective stress management are crucial yet often neglected components of men's health. Poor sleep can lead to a myriad of health issues, including obesity, heart disease, and decreased mental function. Similarly, chronic stress can have severe impacts on both physical and mental health. Establishing routines that promote good sleep and adopting stress reduction techniques are essential. 

The Importance of Personal Hygiene 

Personal hygiene is a fundamental aspect of men's health that directly affects their physical and social well-being. Good hygiene practices not only prevent illnesses but also boost self-esteem and confidence. 

Skincare: Beyond Shaving 

While shaving is a major aspect of men's skincare, there's more to consider. Regular cleansing, moisturizing, and using sunscreen are essential steps in a skincare routine. Men should also be vigilant about changes in their skin and seek medical advice for any concerns. 

The Art of Shaving: Embracing the Straight Razor 

Amidst the array of modern shaving tools, the straight razor stands out for its precision and historical significance. Adopting a straight razor in your grooming routine is not just about getting a closer shave; it's about embracing an art form. 

The use of a straight razor demands skill and patience, offering a meditative experience that is often lost in today's fast-paced world. Additionally, it provides a cleaner shave, reducing the risk of ingrown hairs and skin irritation. Incorporating this traditional tool into your hygiene routine is a nod to the past and a step towards impeccable grooming standards. 

Dental Hygiene: The Gateway to Health 

Dental hygiene goes beyond maintaining a bright smile; it is a window to your overall health. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups can prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and even heart disease. Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to serious health issues beyond just cavities and bad breath. 

Regular Exercise: A Non-Negotiable Aspect 

Regular exercise, including a mix of cardiovascular, strength training, and flexibility exercises, is non-negotiable for maintaining health. Physical activity not only helps in controlling weight but also improves mental health and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.  

The Imperative of Health Screenings 

Regular health screenings are vital for early detection and management of health issues. Men should undergo regular check-ups for blood pressure, cholesterol levels, diabetes, prostate health, and other age-appropriate screenings. Preventative care is key in managing long-term health. 

Integrating Technology for Health Management 

In the age of digital innovation, leveraging technology for health management has become increasingly accessible and effective. 

Fitness Tracking and Health Apps 

With the advent of smartwatches and fitness trackers, monitoring physical activity, sleep patterns, and even heart rate has never been easier. These devices offer valuable insights into daily health metrics, encouraging a more active and health-conscious lifestyle. Additionally, health apps can assist in diet tracking, setting exercise goals, and even provide mental health support through meditation and mindfulness exercises. 

Telemedicine: Bridging the Healthcare Gap 

Telemedicine has revolutionized access to healthcare, especially for those in remote areas or with busy schedules. Virtual consultations can make it easier for men to seek medical advice, manage chronic conditions, and maintain regular check-ups, ensuring that health concerns are addressed promptly and efficiently. 

Conclusion 

The importance of men's health and hygiene cannot be overstated. By adopting a holistic approach towards health and hygiene, men can significantly improve their quality of life and well-being. It's time to shift the narrative and place greater emphasis on these crucial aspects of men's lives.

UNBOX BOARDOM SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE

My family LOVES family game nights, so we were GEEKED to be invited to participate in a review of the unboxboardom.com subscription service through this blog's affiliation with U.S. Family Guide. Turn off televisions and set aside electronical devices to spend some quality family time together playing a new game each month sent to you in the mail through this board game focused subscription service. For $29.99 per month your family will be sent a game to play for a night of family fun.

Each month you can select one of three games featured by unboxed.com to be sent to you or agree to be surprised with the subscription service choosing for you what will be received based upon information you provide the company about your family. We decided to choose for ourselves rather than be surprised during a trial month provided to us for free from unboxboardom.com. So, in early November we received in email with three game choices to choose from: Photosynthesis, Wordoku, or Fuse. We picked FUSE which was recommended for 1-5 players, ages 10+, with an average game time of 10 minutes.

Subscribers who choose their own games must make a selection within 5 days of receiving a notification email from unboxboardom.com which arrives at the beginning of the month or the service defaults to the surprise pick option. The game arrived at our house 2 weeks later. Games normally arrive around the 15th of the month and the service sends you an email with tracking information as it is in route to you. I found the communications from the company and delivery of the product very professional. 

Oh no! Intruders have made their way onto your ship and planted bombs all around with the goal of total destruction! In FUSE, players will have to work together in real-time to diffuse all the bombs in ten minutes or fewer (pressure much?!) You will diffuse the bombs by rolling different colored and numbered dice and have to match up specific combinations on the bomb cards to diffuse them. 

When the dice are rolled, players must decide who will get which dice, but each player must take one and only one. Add variety to the game with different difficulty levels and download the free companion app with a built in timer, sound effects, and voice overs for extra intensity! Godspeed!

The selection emails includes the following:

• Number of players;
• Average time the game takes to play;
• How "family friendly" is the game; 
• How much complexity is involved; 
• Is it a good game for groups;
• The UnboxBoardom team's "insider" thoughts/advice about the game.

We picked FUSE based upon it having a high rating for being family friendly and low level of complexity so it would easy to play right out of the box. We weren't disappointed when it arrived. 

The game provided an energetic, exciting family game night experience. Though the countdown timer has each game last just ten minutes, it was providing such a good time we kept playing it over and over again for more than 2 hours.

If game nights are part of your family routine, unboxboardom.com is a nice way to keep the enthusiasm alive. Based upon my family's experience, this board game themed subscription service earned a Geek Daddy nod of approval. It provides fun games from a company that provides quality customer service and reliable deliveries. 

FIVE WAYS DADS CAN SUPPORT THEIR DAUGHTERS

The father-daughter relationship is special; every girl needs her daddy to support her and love her as she finds her way through the world and where she fits into it. While it can be instinctual to want to protect your daughter and shield her from the big bad world, that can backfire and lead to stress and strain the relationship. But as a father, how can you help your daughter as she ages and dips her toes into the world? 

Listen to Her 

In many cases, what children need, both sons and daughters is for their parents to listen to them, not preach to them. While you have been there and done that, or you want your child to avoid something altogether, you cannot live their life for them, and you also can't shield them from the world forever. So take your time to listen to them, look at how they act, the words they use, and any changes in their behavior. In many cases, if there is a problem, your daughter won't need you to find a solution for her or take charge. Simply listen to what she has to say. This can be for anything, even if it seems trivial to you. 

Discussions are Key 

Avoid dictating to your daughter wherever possible. It doesn't matter how old she is, be it 13, 19, or 35; discussion will always have a better outcome than dictating. The reality is if you forbid something, then it instantly becomes more desirable. 

Allow the opportunity for a discussion and talk through things logically to help her make the right decisions. It might mean she needs to make mistakes before you come around to your way of thinking, but mistakes are essential for building character in many cases. You can still use this opportunity to discuss what you would do differently next time. Whether it is something as minor as discussing curfew times or more serious, such as choosing the right car for her, relationship worries, or something career-based, discuss, not dictate. 

Be Interested 

Or if you aren't fake it. This is especially important if you're a parent to both sons and daughters, as dads can sometimes prefer to be more active with their sons due to having more common interests. 

But girls will pick up on this even if you don't think they have. They will know if you aren't interested, so try to take the initiative and be present in their life as much as possible. While a topic like Textured Bangs Vs. Wispy Bangs: How To Tell The Difference might not be something you necessarily want to spend your time talking about; it might be important to your daughter to get your input, so at least pretending to be interested in decisions can help you to build a bond and support her when she needs it, It isn't always about the big protective gestures she will remember later in life. It will be how much support you gave her, even for the small, seemingly insignificant details. 

Praise Her 

Everyone needs a confidence boost from time to time, and your daughter is no exception. But think about how you compliment your daughter. Not all girls want to be told they look pretty only. Try complimenting your daughter on other aspects of her personality and character, such as when she shows exceptional kindness or does something without asking. Celebrate new achievements, her intelligence, or sense of humor, for example. Focus on all parts of who she is as a person to show her that you see who she is and what she is about and you are paying attention. 

Be an Ally 

There is no denying it's a different world for girls and women than it is for men, and it doesn't matter how old your daughter is; she will need an ally, not just a parent. Being in her corner means giving her help and support when needed without judgment or fear of retribution. 

This applies even if it makes you feel uncomfortable. Don't be the dad who shies away from broaching the more personal topics or changes in a woman's body. If she needs help with her periods or is unsure of what to buy or how to understand what's going on, find it out for her and show her you aren't worried and are there to help. If she's experiencing a broken heart, to her, it's a big deal even if you don't feel it is, so offer her a shoulder to cry on and make her feel better. Avoid dismissing or minimizing her feelings, and give her the space to express herself and share with you how she feels so you can support her and show her you take her seriously. 

There are many small things you can do on a day-to-day basis as a good dad to support your daughter, and these tips can help you connect with her more and support that relationship.

HOW TO MAKE SPORTS FUN FOR KIDS

If you’re a parent, you’re going to want to do the best for your kids, and you’re going to want them to be as healthy as possible. So that means trying to get them to do more sports, which isn’t always easy. Yes, some little ones love sports, but others would much prefer to sit inside playing games, enjoying screen time, reading a book, or anything else. What can you do? 

One option is to make sports more appealing by making it as fun as possible, and the good news is there are loads of ways you can do exactly that. With that in mind, keep reading to find out what some of those ways are so you can help your kids get more active. 

What Do They Like? 

The reason your kids might not like sports very much is that they’ve not found something they like. They might have tried football, baseball, hockey, soccer, basketball, and all the other ‘usual’ sports, but nothing really clicked, and it just didn’t interest them. If that’s the case, of course, they’re not going to want to play sports when they’re given the option. 

The great thing is there are hundreds of different sports they can try, and if you keep giving different things a go, you might come across something that really piques their interest, like disc golf, for example. It might be unusual, but that doesn’t matter because they’ll want to play, and that means they’ll choose to be active more often - and that’s the point of the whole exercise (pun intended). 

Give Them Goals 

When we talk about giving kids goals, we don’t mean telling them they have to score a certain number of goals or points in a game - although that could be part of it. What we mean is that if you can set realistic and achievable goals every time they go and do whatever sports it is they’ve chosen to do, they’ll be a lot more interested. In other words, they’ll have something to prove and potentially something to lose (if they’re being rewarded for reaching their goals), and they’ll push themselves further as a result. 

By doing this, you’ll also be proving to your kids that they can do things if they try. Sometimes it’s less about not enjoying a sport and more about not thinking you’re very good at it that stops you from playing, but every time they reach a goal, they’ll see that’s not right at all. 

Do It With Them 

Kids love it when they get to spend time with their parents (especially when they’re younger, and even more so if your work-life balance isn’t ideal, so you sometimes don’t get to see them as much as you’d like. 

So, why not join in with their sports with them? You could play, and that would certainly be something fun you could do together, but if that’s not possible, then you can at least be there in a moral support capacity, watching every game and helping to make them feel good about what they’re doing. That really is what could make all the difference.

URBAN AIR ADVENTURE PARK COMMERCE TOWNSHIP

Are you up for an adventure? With 23.5” high-foot ceilings in a 55,872 square foot space the state-of-the-art Urban Air Adventure Park in Commerce Township, Michigan offers a full line-up of activities the entire family can enjoy. Unique attractions inside the park aim to help foster physical and emotional well-being encouraging an “aim higher” attitude and challenge people to get out of their comfort zone building confidence. 

Platinum Attractions at the Urban Air Adventure Park in Commerce Township include: 

Drop Tower // Mini Go-Karts // Spin Zone Bumper Cars // Flip Zone Bumper Cars // Laser Tag //VR Spree // ProZone Performance Trampoline // Ropes Course //Climbing Walls / Sky Rider // Dodgeball // Tubes Playground // Warrior Course // Slam Dunk Zone // Battle Beam // Runway (Tumble Track) // Basic Trampolines

Want to try out what this adventure park has to offer? This Geek Daddy has a family four pack of platinum tickets to Urban Air Commerce to giveaway. A $100 value! Who wants to go?!

Complete the rafflecopter entries below before 11:59 pm ET on Friday, November 24th, 2023 for a chance to win a platinum level ticket package for your family to enjoy. Wouldn't this be great to use over the holiday school break? Must be over 18 years old and a Metro Detroit resident to participate. One randomly selected winner will be selected from all eligible entries. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Urban Air Adventure Park is located at 3010 Union Lake Rd., Commerce Township, MI 48382. Hours are: Monday-Friday 4:00pm-8:00pm / Saturday 10:00am-9:00pm / Sunday 12:00pm-8:00pm. For more information about the facilities, visit urbanair.com

GLENLORE TRAILS AURORA

My family had an exciting adventure taking a trek through a haunted forest on the wooded grounds of the Multi-Lakes Conservation Association in Michigan's Commerce Township. The Glenlore Trails Haunted Forest CarnEvil located there provided impressive illuminated decorations and interactive activities providing an entertaining outdoor experience. A spooktaculer way to have some Halloween fun!

The good times aren't over yet though at Glenlore Trails! Thursdays - Sundays from November 17 - December 30, 2023 will be transformed into a wintry wonderland to explore. Glenlore Trails: Aurora will provide a dazzling night time display of lights, sound and wonder. Have a merry time getting some fresh air and exercise walking along a one mile trail illuminated for the holiday season.

Tickets must be purchased online to reserve a timeslot. General admission (13+) is $25; kids are $15 ( 4 - 12 years old); and children 3 & under are FREE. There is a Senior Discount for those 65+ with admission priced at $20. Visit glenloretrails.com for more information and to buy your tickets.

Glenlore Trails: Aurora takes place at 3860 Newton Road, Commerce Township, MI 48382. Must have made reservations and purchased tickets prior to arrival at the event. Add some merriment to your holiday season with a fun activity that is all ages family friendly.

Note there is a Visit with Santa special event for kids on December 7 and an Adults Only (21+) Party Night on December 15. These two special event nights sell out so don't wait around to purchase tickets on those dates. Enjoy an out of the ordinary night outside with a visit to Glenlore Trails: Aurora.

WELL VERSED SOUND TRACK

In election years like 2023 where Presidential, Gubernatorial, Congressional and State Legislative candidates aren't on the ballot voter turnout tends to fluctuate around 15%. Yet, there are still important issues to be determined via the ballot box such as mayoral, city council, and school board elections and millage approvals. While local issues don't attract as much attention as national and state elections, they actually can have a more profound effect on the daily lives of the average voter. 

These elections determine the people who will make decisions such as the staffing levels of local police and firefighting departments, whether zoning will allow a controversial business activity to take place in a community or if a neighborhood school will remain open or be shuttered. Millages approved or denied in these elections determine if public transit will operate, the hours museums are open, and the quality of parks and recreations facilities and services among other things. Local elections matter!  

To combat voter apathy in future generations, iCivics, a non-profit founded by Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor to promote nonpartisan civic awareness with young Americans, and Nickelodeon, Paramount's entertainment brand for kids, have created WELL VERSED, animated music videos about civics for kids. WELL VERSED has eight videos aimed for an elementary school aged audience ( 6 - 11 years old ) and four meant for preschoolers ( 2 - 5 years old ). These videos can be viewed for FREE on the Nick Music YouTube channel and iCivics website. 

Now Republic Records has expended on these music videos by releasing an audio soundtrack of the songs from WELL VERSED. Click here to listen to original pop songs that teach kids about democracy from music services that include Apple Music, iTunes, Pandora, Spotify, SoundCloud and more.

Told from a kid point of view, Well Versed centers on an animated group of diverse friends who introduce and musically explain a range of civics topics and concepts. The voice cast for Well Versed features: Tickwanya Jones (LOL Surprise: The Movie) as Jade, a funny 14-year-old who is passionate about community engagement; Mykal-Michelle Harris (Raven's Home, Disney Junior’s Ariel) as Ava, Jade’s optimistic seven-year-old sister; Michael Johnston (Teen Wolf) as Max, Jade’s easy-going pal who is often uninformed about civics; Jamila Velazquez (West Side Story, Empire) as Carla, a popular and studious 12-year-old; and Jacob Pham (A Christmas Story at Ahmanson Theatre, Sesame Street) as Johnny, Ava’s high energy and chatty friend who is curious about everything.

The civic topics covered in Well Versed include: 

● “Functions of Government” – Jade explains the functions of government, such as keeping citizens safe and protecting their rights, to Max. 

 ● “It’s All Local” – Jade outlines the importance of local government and how the people in the community are the best local decision makers. 

● “A Part of Something” – At the park, Jade gets recognized frequently for her community activism, inspiring Ava and Johnny to learn about different ways kids can get involved. 

● “Our Voices” – Carla compares voting for a school class party to voting in the larger world, explaining the importance of making one’s voice heard and having a say. 

● “Differences, Disagreements, and Democracy” – When Jade and Carla argue about the school mascot, Max explains that disagreements should always be civil and based on evidence with a goal of compromise. 

● “Rules” – On their way to school, Ava explains to Johnny that rules exist so everyone can stay safe and well. 

● “Differences” – While eating at a diner, Johnny explains to Ava and Jade that everyone has different tastes, traditions and identities that make them special. 

● “Disagreements” – When Ava and Johnny have a disagreement about what game to play next, she learns to take a breath and calm down. 

● “Do Your Part” – Johnny explains to Ava why it’s important for kids to be a good friend and neighbor, and how all contributions are valuable, whether big or small.

BREAKFAST AND A MOVIE

Each month, Emagine hosts a Breakfast and a Movie showing, at select theatres in Metro Detroit, of one of the newest family-film releases. Tickets are $24 per person and include a full breakfast buffet, a 44oz. popcorn, and a 21oz fountain drink as well as a ticket to the featured presentation. 

This month's Breakfast and a Movie event will take place on Sunday, November 19, 2023 featuring TROLLS BAND TOGETHER. The event will take place at the Emagine Royal Oak, Emagine Palladium, and Emagine Canton locations. Breakfast Buffet: 10:00 A.M. / Film Begins: 11:00 A.M. 

After two films of true friendship and relentless flirting, Poppy (Anna Kendrick) and Branch (Justin Timberlake) are now officially, finally, a couple (#broppy)! As they grow closer, Poppy discovers that Branch has a secret past. He was once part of her favorite boyband phenomenon, BroZone, with his four brothers: Floyd (Golden Globe nominated electropop sensation Troye Sivan), John Dory (Eric André; Sing 2), Spruce (Grammy winner Daveed Diggs; Hamilton) and Clay (Grammy winner Kid Cudi; Don’t Look Up). BroZone disbanded when Branch was still a baby, as did the family, and Branch hasn’t seen his brothers since. 

 But when Branch’s bro Floyd is kidnapped for his musical talents by a pair of nefarious pop-star villains—Velvet (Emmy winner Amy Schumer; Trainwreck) and Veneer (Grammy winner and Tony nominee Andrew Rannells; The Book of Mormon)—Branch and Poppy embark on a harrowing and emotional journey to reunite the other brothers and rescue Floyd from a fate even worse than pop-culture obscurity. TROLLS BAND TOGETHER is rated PG by the Motion Picture Association of America.

For more information, visit emagine-entertainment.com 

FRIDAY THE 13TH FUN

Get into the Halloween spirit with some Friday the 13th fun this year. A number of Detroit area locations that parents normally would associate as places for family outings with the kids are having 21+ adult focused Halloween festivities on Friday the 13th this year. Moms and dads get yourself a babysitter and enjoy a terror-ific date night at one of these spooktacular events:

GLENLORE TRAILS HAUNTED FOREST

This immersive outdoor Halloween attraction in Commerce Township has a CarnEVIL theme this year with creepy clowns on display and interactive carnival games. For Friday the 13th admission will be only adults (21+) and in addition to this Halloween trail's impressive light displays and special visual effects the evening will feature bourbon and wine tastings along with music from a live DJ. 

For more information, visit glenloretrails.com

SPOOKY SPIRITS AT THE DETROIT ZOO

Explore the Detroit Zoo after its normal closing hours at its Spooky Spirits (21+ only) event on Friday the 13th which goes from 6pm - 10pm). Wearing Halloween costumes is encouraged!  Event activities include: 

• A wide selection of themed specialty cocktails, classic spirits, beer, wine, canned cocktails and seltzers – meaning plenty of grim and tonics and Pino Grave-gios to choose from;
• A spooky screening of “Friday the 13th movie” in the 4D Theater (exclusive studio-edit, 20-minute 4D feature); 
• A complimentary welcome drink, courtesy of welcome sponsor Griffin Claw Brewing;
•  Live entertainment and life-sized games; 
• Music from Michigan band Weekend ComeBack; 
• A haunted trail full of pirates;
• Habitat chats with Detroit Zoo animal care staff; 
• Themed photo opportunities.

For more information, visit detroitzoo.org

MICHIGAN SCIENCE CENTER AFTER DARK

Find yourself in an eerie atmosphere where science meets the supernatural during After Dark: Friday the 13th at the Michigan Science Center. This 21+ event will feature a Stranger Things Laser Show, alchemically inspired elixirs, captivating music, and more. Each admission ticket includes a free drink ticket. While there check out the new exhibit Towers Of Tomorrow and get up close with mesmerizing creatures at the Reptarium.

For more information, visit mi-sci.org

FRIGHT AT THE MUSEUM

Throughout the year, St. Louis' CITY MUSEUM provides a fun menagerie of unique environments and exhibits that kids and kids at heart are sure to be geeked to explore. What was once a ten story shoe factory and warehouse has now been transformed into an artistic wonderland that will put your curiosity and imagination into overdrive. 

Do you have the courage to thrust yourself down a ten story slide that was originally a shaft used to transport finished shoes from the building's factory area to its warehouse? Brave enough to tackle a subterranean maze called "the caves?" Have the stamina to navigate a vertical climbing course on the exterior of the building complete with planes to leap into that gives you the feeling of soaring over the cityscape? These are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the exciting and exhilarating experiences to be had at the City Museum. 

And while visiting this St. Louis, Missouri attraction anytime during the year will be entertaining, a visit at Halloween is extra special. From September 29th - October 28th the City Museum is going all out to amaze and mystify. FRIGHT AT THE MUSEUM will feature special Halloween themed exhibits and entertainment. There will also be two pop up pubs for the occasion for adults to enjoy, Vampire Bar and Coven & Cauldron featuring some spooktacular cocktails. 

For more information about Fright at the Museum, visit citymuseum.org

NEW LAURIE BERKNER HALLOWEEN TUNE: WHICH WITCH

With Labor Day having passed it is now officially Halloween Season! If you have little tots around the house, check out the new kindie rock tune for preschoolers by musician Laurie Berkner for Halloween. Recognized as “the queen of kids’ music” by People magazine, Laurie Berkner is a singer, songwriter, performer, author, and founder of Two Tomatoes Records, LLC.

The song is about two little friends who decide to dress like witches. But which witch is which? Laurie wonders as they cast their spells, stir their potions, and wave their magic wands. She can’t tell! Can you?

"Once I got into the studio and started to record the song, I also realized I wanted to make it into a larger production and really give the listener a feeling of being transported to a world of magic, playfulness, and mystery,” Laurie commented to ageekdaddy.com. “I hope the harmonies and soaring quality of the chorus, along with the addition of a theremin toward the climax of the song, really help lift listeners up and take them flying in the sky in their imaginations along with the little witches. I also hope it will inspire kids to play their own version of ‘Which Witch?’ at home!”

For more information about the artist and this Halloween tune, visit laurieberkner.com

THE HAPPY SHOP

Cartoonist Brittany Long Olsen will be having a new graphic novel for middle grade readers, THE HAPPY SHOP, released by Eisner and Havey award winning publisher Oni Press in February 2024. It is promised to be a heartwarming story that tweens and teens are sure to be able to relate to. Do you have a middle grade reader in your home. If so, keep an eye out for Brittany Long Olsen's THE HAPPY SHOP.

In THE HAPPY SHOP, eleven-year-old Darcy is feeling sad and alone after she moves to a new country when she accidentally stumbles into a magical store that sells happy feelings. But when Darcy witnesses a sad feeling accidentally being sold at work, she begins to wonder. Is happiness really the only emotion people need?

“THE HAPPY SHOP shines a light on the deep importance of experiencing a whole range of human emotion, not just happy feelings, and building community with the people we care about,” Brittany Long Olsen commented to ageekdaddy.com about the graphic novel release.

“The story features a contemporary setting with just a light touch of magic," added Oni Press Editor Grace Scheipeter. "And much of that magic is in the dynamic cartooning of Brittany Long Olsen, whose graphic novel is a delight and inspiration."

Brittany Long Olsen is an author, illustrator, and editor. She has lived in three different countries over the past ten years and made comics about her adventures (and culture shock!) in each one. Her happy jar would contain videos of unlikely animal friends. She currently resides with her partner and their dog, Jetpack, near Portland, Oregon.