Safe Search Kids - Education, Parenting, Internet Safety for All

For years, school administrators have focused on enhancing security in schools. This has involved installing security cameras, employing law enforcement, and other measures. Today, over 92% of public schools in the U.S. use security cameras for monitoring the school grounds and surrounding areas.

Besides video surveillance, about 97% of schools track their visitors by asking them to sign into the front desk. This is only one of the safety and security measures that have been on the rise in U.S. public schools. 

Sure, it’s essential to keep all the outside doors of a school locked and take note of who is in your building, but not all threats are face to face.  We live in a digital world where student data privacy in the classroom is of utmost importance.  And, a lot of your preventative maintenance needs to take place in that same cyber environment. 

So, when threats are made, schools need to right tools to spread the word to teachers and staff quickly.

Ideas To Help Increase School Safety

Social Net Watcher

School shooters tend to be narcissists. They often use social media, especially Instagram, to proclaim their manifestos.

One start-up out of Indiana, Social Net Watcher, watches students’ social media accounts for specific phrases that may indicate warnings of violence. They can also be programmed to alert school officials to acts of cyberbullying.

TextMagic

In an emergency, fast communication is essential. TextMagic allows schools to send immediate texts to the staff, students, or parents at the touch of a button.

Texts are the most effective form of communication in an emergency. Teachers may not have access to their computers while they are barricaded in their classrooms.

TextMagic can also be used to alert parents if their children are not in attendance. Parents who may be concerned about the mental health of their children can be warned immediately that their child is not where he is supposed to be. 

Visitor Management System

While most schools have visitors sign in at the reception desk, some schools are taking this precaution to the next level.

Visitors at some schools must present their state or federal ID to the school. These IDs are checked against a national database of registered sex offenders.

Alertus Desktop

Although text messaging is the most effective form of communication during an emergency, at times, a back-up plan is needed. Alertus Desktop can send an immediate alert to every computer screen on campus. This system is particularly helpful for buildings that have notoriously bad cell coverage.

Take a look at what Gordon College learned by implementing Alertus Desktop.  The school felt that its checklist for notifications in emergency systems was too long.  And, It wanted one unified system for keeping people informed.  

The college reports that its decision to streamline communications was extremely beneficial.  “Being able to setup pre-scripted alerts to fire off with one button press or one-click during a crisis can help save lives during an emergency.”

GPS Systems

Schools not only need to keep students safe on campus, but they also need to protect their students on buses as well. GPS systems are so sophisticated now that the district will be notified if a driver is reckless.

This software has the added benefit of protecting the school from parent complaints. If parents complain that the bus did not pick up their children that morning, the district can check the GPS to see whether or not the driver really missed the stop.

Edgewood Independent School District in Texas utilized this technology on its fleet of school buses. The system proved beneficial when the local sheriff was able to send the closest officer immediately to a driver who needed assistance.

Safety and Security Film

The doors of a school may be locked, but that doesn’t mean that school shooters can’t break into a building through a window. An American company now has made a thin film that can be placed over the windows of a school building to keep them from breaking.

Fortify the windows of your school with this 3M product. This product will enable responders to have more time to arrive in the event of an emergency.

The Use of AI to Protect Students in Schools

AI is increasingly being used in school security systems to enhance safety and protect students. Here are some examples of how AI is being applied in this area:

• AI-Powered Surveillance Systems: AI-driven security cameras use advanced image recognition to detect suspicious behavior, unauthorized individuals, or weapons on campus. These systems can analyze footage in real-time, identifying potential threats and alerting security personnel automatically.

• Facial Recognition: Some schools are using AI-based facial recognition software to monitor who enters and exits the campus. This technology can identify individuals who are flagged as potential threats, such as known offenders, and prevent unauthorized entry.

• AI for Social Media Monitoring: AI tools like Social Net Watcher scan social media platforms to detect keywords, phrases, or behaviors that may indicate threats, such as violent intentions or bullying. AI can analyze vast amounts of data much faster than humans, providing early warnings to school administrators.

• Predictive Analytics: AI can analyze historical data on school incidents to identify patterns that may predict future security risks. For example, predictive algorithms can assess attendance records, behavior reports, and external threats to give administrators insights into possible concerns.

These AI-driven solutions not only improve the speed and accuracy of security measures but also allow schools to respond more proactively to potential risks

Conclusion

Schools have the moral and legal responsibility to keep their students safe.  What that means for school administrators is finding ways to maximize resources and strive for improvement.  While traditional methods remain crucial, schools must also address the growing need for digital security and advanced technologies to protect students and staff.

By integrating the innovative tools we’ve explored, schools can stay one step ahead in safeguarding their communities, ensuring a safer environment for everyone. These include implementing digital technologies and other strategies.  While safety is key, schools should also explore ways to also enhance the learning experience using technology and promote safer internet for schools.

The Great Smoky Mountains offer an ideal vacation destination for families looking to blend adventure, education, and bonding. This majestic landscape is known for its misty mountains, diverse wildlife, and rich history. But beyond its natural beauty, the Smoky Mountains provide families with a valuable opportunity—especially for children.

A family trip to the Smoky Mountains isn’t just about taking in stunning views; it’s about giving kids experiences that can build confidence, promote learning, and create lifelong memories. Let’s explore some key reasons why this mountain range is the perfect getaway for families with children.

1. Learn History Through Fun Experiences

The Smoky Mountains are not only rich in natural beauty but also steeped in history, providing an excellent opportunity for children to learn while having fun. One of the park’s most popular historical sites is Cades Cove, a valley that preserves the way of life for early settlers in the region. Families can explore 19th-century cabins, churches, and barns, gaining insight into how people lived before modern conveniences.

This hands-on experience allows kids to grasp the realities of early American life in a way that history books can’t provide. They’ll learn about farming practices, traditional tools, and the importance of community in early settler days.

2. Affordable Fun for Families on a Budget

Unlike many tourist destinations that come with hefty price tags for attractions and activities, the Smoky Mountains National Park is completely free to enter. This makes it an ideal option for families who want to enjoy nature without breaking the bank. Moreover, you can save more by staying at Hearthside Cabin Rentals. These cabins offer comfortable accommodations for families, and also come with incredible perks that can help you save hundreds of dollars on some of the best attractions in the Smoky Mountains. When you choose to stay with Hearthside, you’ll receive one Freedom Fun Pass per cabin as a thank-you for booking.

The Freedom Fun Pass gives you one free ticket to places like Soaky Mountain Water Park, where kids can splash around and enjoy water slides, or Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud, a thrilling outdoor show that’s perfect for families. You can also use the pass to play a round of mini golf, explore the fascinating exhibits at Alcatraz East Crime Museum, and much more. With these savings on entertainment, families can focus on having fun, knowing they’re getting the best value for their vacation.

3. Outdoor Adventures Build Confidence

Children thrive on challenges, and the outdoor activities available in the Smoky Mountains are the perfect way to help them grow in confidence. Whether it’s tackling a family-friendly hiking trail or experiencing the thrill of fishing in one of the park’s many streams, the variety of activities ensures that there’s something for everyone. Take, for example, a simple hike to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Smokies. The 0.5-mile trail is manageable for most children and rewards them with breathtaking panoramic views at the top. Successfully completing such a hike can give kids a sense of accomplishment that boosts their confidence.

Other trails, like Laurel Falls, are equally family-friendly and offer the added bonus of a stunning waterfall at the end. When children face these outdoor challenges, they learn to trust their abilities, pushing themselves beyond their perceived limits. This newfound confidence often translates into other areas of their lives, from academics to social interactions.

4. Unplug from Screens and Connect with Family

In a world dominated by smartphones, tablets, and gaming consoles, it’s increasingly difficult for families to spend quality time together without digital distractions. A trip to the Smoky Mountains offers the perfect solution. The park’s remote locations and vast stretches of wilderness naturally encourage visitors to disconnect from their devices. With no Wi-Fi in many areas of the park, families are given the chance to truly bond over shared experiences.

Whether it’s enjoying a campfire together, telling stories under the stars, or hiking through peaceful woods, these moments create lasting memories. Kids also benefit from this break from technology, allowing them to be present, engage with their surroundings, and develop meaningful connections with their family members. By setting aside screen time, families can build stronger relationships and teach children the value of spending time with loved ones in the real world.

5. Wildlife Encounters Are Exciting and Educational

Children are naturally curious about animals, and the Smoky Mountains are home to a wide variety of wildlife that can turn any family trip into an educational adventure. From spotting black bears and white-tailed deer to observing wild turkeys and elk, kids can experience the thrill of seeing animals in their natural habitat. The park’s abundance of wildlife offers teachable moments about respecting nature, animal behavior, and conservation efforts.

Many families take scenic drives through the park, such as Newfound Gap Road, to maximize their chances of spotting wildlife. With guidance from park rangers or visitor center resources, children can learn the importance of observing animals from a distance and the role of wildlife protection in national parks. These encounters make the trip exciting for kids, while also teaching them valuable lessons about nature conservation.

6. Create Lasting Family Memories Through Unique Experiences

Family vacations are about more than just getting away—they’re about creating memories that last a lifetime. The Smoky Mountains offer countless opportunities for families to share special moments together, whether it’s hiking to a scenic overlook, roasting marshmallows by the campfire, or catching sight of a black bear in the wild. These shared experiences help to strengthen family bonds and give children memories they’ll cherish as they grow older.

Whether it’s the thrill of reaching the top of a mountain or the quiet of watching the sunset over the Smokies, these moments become stories that families tell for years to come. A trip to the Smoky Mountains is an opportunity for children and parents alike to step away from the pressures of everyday life and simply enjoy each other’s company in one of the most beautiful natural settings in the world.

A family trip to the Smoky Mountains offers far more than just breathtaking views and fresh mountain air. It provides children with the chance to grow, learn, and experience the world around them in meaningful ways. From building confidence through outdoor challenges to sparking creativity, the Smoky Mountains are an ideal destination for families looking to bond and make lasting memories. By disconnecting from screens, engaging with nature, and exploring the rich history and wildlife of the region, families can enjoy an unforgettable adventure that benefits both kids and adults. So, if you’re looking for a vacation that blends fun, education, and lasting family connections, the Smoky Mountains are waiting for you.

Dislocated joints and fractured bones aren’t picky about who they affect. Children aged 11 to 15 are especially prone to the latter, as bone mineralization tends to fall behind at this time of growth spurts. This leaves children with bones that won’t take much force to bend or crack, at least until bone growth finally catches up.

Anytime your child suffers a nasty fall or well-placed hit anywhere in the body, getting an X-ray is a good idea. That said, parents should know that X-rays are a form of radiation—and children are susceptible to it. One X-ray session may not seem harmful, but dozens of such sessions in succession might cause problems.

As such, rely on X-rays only when necessary. As to the situations that necessitate an X-ray, that’s what this article aims to discuss.

The Nuts and Bolts of X-Rays

To understand when an X-ray is necessary for your child, you first need a clear idea of how such tests work. X-rays are in the same high-energy grouping of the spectrum as ultraviolet (UV) and gamma rays. Whereas UV radiation can only penetrate up to the deepest layer of the skin, X-rays can reach up to the bones thanks to their shorter wavelength.

You can look up more information on how X-ray tests are done, but the gist is that the X-ray image everyone’s familiar with is produced when bones absorb the radiation. Calcium, the primary mineral in the human skeleton, has the highest atomic number among the other minerals in the body, allowing the bones to show up most prominently in an X-ray image.

Despite a high energy output, X-rays are one of the least intense sources of radiation. A single chest X-ray outputs 0.1 millisieverts (mSv) of radiation. By comparison, the earth your children stand, sit, or lie down on emits 0.21 mSv annually, and people in Denver are subjected to 0.8 mSv of cosmic radiation also annually.

So why are doctors cautious about overusing X-rays? As mentioned earlier, children are susceptible to ionizing radiation from medical or pediatric imaging, of which X-rays are one example. Too many X-ray tests across too short of a timeframe can quickly add up, increasing children’s risk of getting cancer or non-cancerous diseases later in life.

The good news is that today’s X-ray machines are capable of delivering quality imaging with less radiation. Still, authorities continue to advise doctors and healthcare professionals to use as little radiation as possible when screening patients under 21.

Justifying Undergoing an X-ray

When Your Doctor Says So

The most common scenario that endorses undergoing an X-ray is when the doctor or physician deems it necessary to deliver an accurate diagnosis or treatment. In most cases, a doctor’s referral is required before the child undergoes the procedure.

A consultation with a pediatrician before an X-ray is essential for several reasons. For starters, it’s where the medical professional delves deep into the nature of the young patient’s condition. Pain from a hit in the arm or leg may reveal an underlying condition that may be news to the parent and child.

The Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) advises healthcare professionals to reserve X-rays and other forms of diagnostic imaging for last. Instead, they may do the following first:

• Gauge if an examination is necessary to get to the truth of the matter

• Check the patient’s medical imaging history for any existing records

• Consider tests that use far less or no radiation, such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

As a parent, you’d want to ask your doctor and the referred imaging facility as many questions as possible. Always assume that the risks of pediatric X-rays are genuine.

When The Symptoms Are Visible

X-rays are the primary means of getting a complete picture of the source of excruciating pain from an injury. However, doctors can tell when the injury involves a dislocation or fracture through several telltale symptoms, such as:

• The shape of a limb out of place or protruding

• Bruising or discoloration in the affected area

• Having difficulty moving or placing weight on the limb

• Intense and unbearable pain, accompanied by swelling

While the doctor will still require further information, these signs almost guarantee an X-ray examination to follow. They need to see how severely the bone has moved out of its alignment or how deep the fracture is.

Sometimes, X-rays may not show any visible fractures or signs of damage, especially in the wrist area. In such cases, they may order a more thorough scan of the area through a computed tomography (CT) scan or bone scan. If the doctor suspects fractures in the skull, they may not order an X-ray anymore and proceed to a CT scan immediately.

When Other Diseases Are Suspected

X-rays aren’t limited to fractures and other bone and joint problems. They can also be helpful in producing images of diseases affecting certain internal organs, of which three common procedures come to mind.

The first is a chest X-ray, which targets the internal organs within the ribcage, such as the heart and lungs. Its results can help assess a range of heart and lung problems, from foreign bodies inhaled by accident to pneumonia.

Another is an abdominal X-ray, which is used to spot the source of pain in the abdomen and lower back, as well as nausea and vomiting. Conditions that can be diagnosed via this procedure include ingested foreign objects, intestinal blockages, and gallstones.

Finally, there’s the dental X-ray, which produces a two- or three-dimensional image of the jawbone to find problems with the child’s teeth. This is ideal for diagnosing dental conditions like impacted wisdom teeth or root decay. Given that their teeth have a lot of growing to do, children can expect to undergo dental X-rays more often than adults.

When The Doctor Asks for A Follow-Up

Follow-up X-ray exams are relatively common, as doctors need to monitor the progress of the child’s recovery from a disease or injury. As for when the follow-up can be done, the interval can be several weeks or months from the last one. Sometimes, the doctor may not ask for a follow-up at all.

Again, this will require a written referral from the pediatrician, especially if they expect the patient to undergo more X-ray tests than usual.

Preparing Your Kid

An X-ray exam needs no special preparation most of the time. However, at this point, you probably can’t help but need to ascertain your child’s well-being during the exam, which is understandable. At the end of the day, X-rays are still a form of radiation that must be used wisely to prevent complications in the long term.

As such, when your doctor recommends that your kid undergo an X-ray, here are several precautions and preparations worth doing.

Roleplay the Procedure with Your Child

X-rays are a prevalent trope in cartoons, with one common gag involving an unlucky soul getting shocked so badly that their entire skeleton becomes visible. Of course, that’s not how X-rays work, and your child may be none the wiser. Playtime is a great way to set their expectations and ensure a smooth exam.

Consider a roleplay X-ray setting where your child plays the patient getting scanned. Using toys and other media you can purchase at a toy store or online, you can teach your child how to behave during the procedure. Printouts of the part of the child’s body to be exposed to X-rays can be helpful guides.

This is a good idea for children undergoing an X-ray for the first time or those who have done so but aren’t too keen on having to undergo another one.

Dress Up Your Child in Comfy Clothes

Loose clothing is preferable in the radio imaging room that houses the X-ray machine. This can help your child stay calm and comfortable during the procedure, which won’t take longer than 15 minutes on average. Depending on the target part of the body, the radiologist may ask your child to wear a gown for the exam.

Avoid getting your child to wear anything that can affect the imaging results, such as metal accessories. If they insist on wearing accessories, make sure to take them off and hold onto them until the exam is finished.

Be advised that the radio imaging room will be cold, something your child may need to bear for the duration of the exam. The room is kept that way because X-ray machines and other equipment emit lots of heat when in use.

And that’s about it. Unlike a CT scan or ultrasound, there’s no need for your child to fast several hours before an X-ray. After the exam is done, they can proceed with their usual routines and even enjoy any meal they like. They mostly won’t feel a thing, all thanks to advances in diagnostic imaging technology over the decades.

Wrapping Up

Despite X-rays being one of the safest means of assessing bone and organ health, it’s important not to underestimate their potential side effects. Always seek professional advice from your child’s doctor or pediatrician to determine whether or not your child needs an X-ray. If any side effects manifest, contact your doctor immediately.

Plants play a vital role in home learning spaces and can help enhance the educational experience by promoting focus, concentration, and much more. So, what is the best way to create this calming atmosphere?  Here are five prime benefits of placing plants in kids’ study spaces.

You will also learn practical steps to help you and your kids acquire and maintain your plants. The benefits of plants in home learning spaces include:

Improved Concentration and Focus

Fresh air has many benefits, including enhanced focus and concentration, an idea supported by a study showing how spending time in a green environment helps create a calming and relaxed mind.

From this, we can conclude that adding plants to home study spaces creates an ideal learning experience by reducing or removing stress and anxiety.

Furthermore, plants help improve cognitive functions, relieve physical tiredness, and promote focus for longer periods.

Air Purification

Air purification is one of the most foundational benefits of having plants in a home learning space.

As you know, the human body breathes in oxygen and releases carbon dioxide; plants, on the other hand, absorb and process CO₂ into fresh, clean air. This symbiotic relationship improves air quality. Breathing clean air reduces the chances of respiratory issues or allergies and creates a healthier learning environment for kids.

Certain plants, including aloe vera, weeping fig, peace lilies, friendship plants, and others that you can order online from providers like BloomsyBox, are great air purifiers, easy to care for, and ideal for dedicated learning spaces.

Aesthetic and Psychological Benefits

Adding plants to a home learning space can make it more visually appealing and inviting to kids. Placing decorative plants in kids’ study spaces also improves their mood and motivation and can encourage them to spend more time in their study area.

Indoor plants also help children feel more connected to nature, which can be very beneficial because they will want to spend more time around their inviting learning space. This kind of connection creates a sense of satisfaction.

Image by freepik

Educational Opportunities

Caring for plants can be an educational experience that gets kids into gardening. It can teach them about plants, how they grow, how they help the environment, and even how to care for them. Learning this helps complement their academic studies in STEM subjects like science and biology.

Adding plants to home learning spaces can also help kids acquire practical life skills they can use as they grow up. For example, plant-related activities like measuring plant growth, photosynthesis, or drawing plants can enhance their education and motor skills.

Teaching Responsibility and Care

Caring for plants in the home learning space can also teach children responsibility and care.

For example, since plants need regular watering, ideal light conditions, and good air circulation, teaching children how to do all this will instill a sense of responsibility and teach them valuable life skills.

Practical Ways to Incorporate Plants Into Home Learning Spaces

Now that you know the benefits of having plants in home learning spaces, let’s focus on a few key steps you can take to get started:

Step 1: Choose the Right Plants

For starters, do your best to choose the right indoor plants for your space based on your goals. Before buying plants, consider the maintenance options and check if they are safe for the children’s environment.

Select easy-to-care-for plants that thrive indoors. Pothos and succulents are good examples because they require minimal watering and can tolerate low light levels.

Step 2: Go for non-toxic plants

Choose plants that are safe for children and pets, aka non-toxic plants. Spider plants and Boston ferns are ideal examples, but since you have unlimited options, feel free to go for safe plants that meet your goals and needs.

Step 3: Strategically place the plants

Plant placement and care are also crucial. Place the plants where they can receive enough sunlight and air, which is important for their growth. Some ideal places to put your plants are window sills, desks, shelves, and other easily accessible and reachable areas so your kids can care for the plants.

Step 4: Create a maintenance plan

Involve your kids to create a maintenance plan detailing how often you’ll water and care for your preferred plants, including who’s responsible for what and when. Train them to do it daily or weekly to foster a sense of responsibility and ownership.

Step 5: Shop for the plants together

Online shopping is the easiest way to get plants. However, you could also get plants from local nurseries and garden centers. Either way, involve your kids in the shopping experience to ensure they choose plants they want in their learning spaces.

Conclusion

In conclusion, incorporating plants into home learning spaces creates a clean environment for studying by purifying the air. It also provides educational opportunities and enhances the overall aesthetic of the environment.