How technology enhances the back-to-school experience

It used to be enough to show up to the first day of classes with a spiral notebook and a blue or black ink pen. Not anymore. Students of all ages are sporting touch screen this and HD that. On the surface, the kids might seem to be the only ones who are benefiting from this technology but look a little deeper. Parents can get something out of it as well.

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    Pictures: Where your kids hang out online Photos

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  • Pictures:  2010 back-to-school fashion

    Pictures: 2010 back-to-school fashion Photos

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    Social networking ... for 6-year-olds? Photo

    I like social media. A lot. It's helped me keep strong friendships and network in my career. I want my daughter to experience the fun and necessity of online interaction too when she is older. Like, a teenager, right? more

  • Chill out with a salad and sandwich combo

    Chill out with a salad and sandwich combo Photo

    If you're like most cooks, the hotter it is outside, the less time you want to spend in the kitchen over a hot stove. Luckily, salads and sandwiches often can be prepared quickly with little to no cooking. This week we're featuring light and healthy summer salad and sandwich recipes that are long on... more

  • Mock Risotto: Making fun of food makes it... fun!

    Mock Risotto: Making fun of food makes it... fun! Photo

    For years, inventive cooks have developed alternative versions of favorite recipes to save time or substitute key ingredients. For instance, Mock Apple Pie features crackers and seasonings, but no fruit. more

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    Serve veggies first, and kids will eat them Photo

    Health officials and parents everywhere continue to puzzle over how to get kids to eat their fruits and vegetables. But I discovered the answer a few weeks ago. more

  • Switch up dinner by making breakfast

    Switch up dinner by making breakfast Photo

    Occasionally, serving breakfast for dinner can be a fun way to shake up your normal routine. Whether consumed in the morning or evening, breakfast foods often can be prepared and enjoyed quickly. In fact, each recipe featured this week can be prepared in 30 minutes or less, hence the emphasis on... more

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    A cheesy good meal: Southwestern cheese panini recipe Photo

    Milk and milk products provide an excellent nutritional and economical value for families. Milk is an excellent source of calcium and vitamin D and a good source of potassium, protein and vitamin A. Families can use milk, yogurt and string cheese to provide affordable, convenient and good-tasting... more