Is Ms. Rachel a closet baddie? It’s probably the last question you’d expect to ask yourself about the perpetually cheery YouTube star, who sings tunes like “Icky-Sticky Bubblegum” and “The Wheels on the Bus” to babies and toddlers while rocking precious overalls and a pink Tee.
But a TikTok video with “leaked Ms. Rachel photos” is going viral. In the past, “photo leaks” have had a negative connotation. But in 2023, fans are loving it!
Ms. Rachel herself caught wind of the TikTok fervor. “I have to Google what a baddie is because I’m old,” Ms. Rachel—AKA Rachel Griffin Accurso—tells Parents. “Hang on. OK, I’m definitely not a baddie.”
It all started a couple of days ago when a TikToker and mom, Karmen (@karmengonewild), posted a video that now has more than 190K likes.
“Have you heard about the Ms. Rachel leaks?” Karmen asked.
If your answer is no because you were busy changing diapers, reading the same book over and over, and watching Ms. Rachel videos on YouTube, don’t worry. Karmen spilled all the tea.
“I just found out something a little spicy about this nice, amazing woman who we all co-parent with,” Karmen said.
Yes, parents and kids under 4 absolutely adore Ms. Rachel for her unicorn-like ability to provide quality screen time that parents swear has helped their kids with speech development. Her personality is way more sugar than spice and oh-so-nice. So what’s Karmen talking about?
“Before she was Ms. Rachel, she was Rachel Griffin,” Karmen continues as a photo of Ms. Rachel in a cute strapless floral dress comes up in the background. Her hair is down—unlike her persona these days, where it’s pulled back in a ponytail and held in place with a bandana headband. Another photo shows then-Ms. Griffin in shorts, a cropped top, and on roller skates. Citing one of her songs, “Give It Up,” Karmen notes, “I always had an inkling that deep down Ms. Rachel was a baddie. I was right.”
Courtesy of Rachel Griffin Accurso
The more than 2,000 commenters are so here for “baddie” Ms. Rachel:
“I thought you were about to drag her. I was about to get defensive over my kids’ bonus [mom],” raved one fan who was digitally breathing a sigh of relief.
“I think we all were a bit Rachel Griffin before we had our kids,” said another.
“I love how instead of canceling her, we all relate to her. Mommy baddies reunited!” applauded another.
What does Ms. Rachel have to say about all of this? We asked everyone’s favorite co-parent and YouTube star to chime in. “The photos are from when I was a singer-songwriter here in New York City in my 20s,” she explains.
Yes, she read your comments—and thanks you for the love. “The comments are very sweet,” Ms. Rachel says. “They make me laugh. But honestly, I’m the happiest I’ve ever been as a mom and teacher in overalls.”
But seriously, is she a baddie? “I’m not cool—I’m dorky and not put together,” she says. “I like to stay home and watch TV and eat snacks.”
Don’t we all? Though Ms. Rachel used to think she’d be singing different kinds of tunes, she loves the harmony her current life has brought her.
“Sometimes, we have a dream, and then something even more rewarding and perfect is in store for us,” she says. “My dream was to be a singer-songwriter. Then it was to be an excellent public school teacher, then a mother. Now, I’ve combined my dreams into the perfect job for me. I get to write songs, teach, and help kids, and I’m so lucky to be a mom. It all sort of happened by accident but feels meant to be.”
If you thought you could coast when it comes to talking to your younger child about social media, think again. Your tween may be counting down the days until they turn 13. Not only do they officially become a teenager, but they are also now technically allowed to use social media accounts like Instagram.
If were up to the country’s top doctor though, 13 is still too young for children to be on social media. U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy told CNN kids this age are still developing their identities. He says the environment on social media often creates a distorted view of self-worth and relationships. The Surgeon General adds he knows it’s hard to keep kids off social media due to its popularity. But, he suggests parents create a united front and not allow their kids to get accounts until later in their teenage years.
Still, children will find a way online anyway. The number of children under 13 using fake birthdays and a parent’s email address to create accounts on popular social media sites (whether they have permission or not) is a bit startling.
According to 2022 research from Ofcom, the regulator for communications services in the United Kingdom, 33% of parents of children ages 5 to 7 said their child had at least one social media account. About 60% of children ages 8 to 11 owned an account. That means instead of kickball, conversations at recess for your fourth grader may very well be focused more on who posted what on Instagram or TikTok last night. Scary, we know.
There are undoubtedly perks to having kids the proper age connecting with their peers on social media. Platforms like Instagram are full of inspiration and allow kids to creatively express themselves. But parents should also be aware of potential exposure to cyberbullying and inappropriate content. Younger children in particular may not realize the consequences of their online actions, which may put them in compromising situations. These are risks that the popular photo-sharing app is taking seriously.
Over the years, Instagram has unveiled numerous safety upgrades to protect kids and teens online. Some recent implementations: an education hub for parents, supervision tools, automatic private accounts for young users, a “Take a Break” feature that discourages endless scrolling, and more.
But Eddie Ruvinsky, director of engineering at Instagram, says monitoring isn’t the end-all solution. “It’s really about making sure that you have trust and you have ongoing dialogue for any activity that they do,” he says.
Here are a few tips to get you started when it comes to teaching your child good social media habits.
Start Talking About Social Media Early
Ana Homayoun, M.A., P.P.S, a social media expert and the author of Social Media Wellness: Helping Tweens and Teens Thrive in an Unbalanced Digital World, who worked with Instagram to create parental safety guides, says parents should start the conversation around social media early. “Even if kids aren’t on social media, many are online from an early age and using different websites,” she says. “In my experience, kids aren’t being informed about Instagram and other social media apps from their parents—they are learning from friends, peers, older siblings, and other influencers—so it’s important that parents take an active role in encouraging conversations.”
Make a Game Plan
“I encourage coming from a place of curiosity and asking open-ended questions to help children identify why they want to join Instagram, what they think a positive experience on Instagram would look like for them, and who they could turn to if something feels uncomfortable and doesn’t go as planned. Doing so allows them to proactively think about how they would define and create a positive online use experience,” says Homayoun. She suggests using the the three S’s—healthy socialization, effective self-regulation, and overall safety—as a guide for framing the discussion.
Prioritize Privacy
“A lot of people don’t always know they have the ability to be private on Instagram,” says Lori Malahy, research lead at Instagram. Turning your account on “private” mode means that only approved followers can view, comment, and like your content. This could prevent your child’s personal information from ending up in the wrong hands. Take a cue from Dan Zigmond, former director of analytics at Instagram, who required his kids to have a private account and personally know all their followers. (Note that Instagram automatically signs up teens for private accounts).
Enforce Good Social Media Etiquette
Receiving mean comments on social media can hurt a child’s self esteem—and writing the comments can get them into trouble. Talk with your child about proper social media etiquette, and utilize the tools outlined in Instagram’s resource guide. For example, the app lets you filter out offensive or inappropriate words from your comments.
Set Time Limits
Tweens are still developing self-discipline, so it’s not unusual for them to spend hours on social media platforms. Work together to determine an appropriate amount of time they should spend on apps each day, whether it’s 15 minutes or one hour. You can also take advantage of Instagram’s Activity Dashboard, which lets you set daily time limit reminders, mute push notifications, and more.
Teach Kids Accountability
Cyberbullying is increasingly common nowadays. According to the 2019 Youth Risk Behavior Survey from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 16% of surveyed high school students were electronically bullied in the previous 12 months. Thankfully, Instagram lets users control bullying by removing hateful comments, reporting negative behavior, and blocking individuals. “One of the most important things I’d like my son to understand is that things that happen online can affect how people feel offline,” says Ian Spalter, former director of design at Instagram. “It’s really important for them to take that into account with whatever actions they take online.”
Practice What You Preach
You know that kids are sponges, and they’re constantly learning by example. By practicing positive social media habits yourself, you’re setting up your children for a rewarding and inspiring experience.
February 14 is arguably the most romantic day of the year. If you’ve always loved the sweet holiday—or if your due date is in mid-February—you might be looking for a Valentine’s Day-inspired baby name. There are plenty of monikers to choose from, ranging from historic picks (like Romeo, Eros, or Paris) to symbolic ones (such as Ruby, Dove, and Hart). You can also pick a baby name that means “love” or “beloved;” some examples are Annabel, Esme, and David.
For even more inspiration, check out our round-up of 42 Valentine’s Day baby names. Whether you want an obvious reference to the holiday (we’re looking at you, Valentino) or a more subtle association, these names all evoke love, sweetness, and affection. They might also guarantee your little one a lifetime of chocolate kisses!
Baby Names That Symbolize Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day brings to mind all things sweet and romantic. From hearts and flowers to precious gems and candy, these Valentine’s Day baby names are sweet as can be.
Dulce – Girl’s name of Latin origin meaning “sweet” (A similar name with a slightly different pronunciation is Dulcie)
Candy – A fitting name for your favorite sweetie
Dove – The bird symbolizes peace, love, and softness
Ruby – After the precious red gemstone
Hart – An English name pronounced like “heart;” it’s typically used for boys, but we also love it as a girl’s name or middle name
Rose or Rosa – One of the most popular Valentine’s Day flowers to gift your lover
Teddy – For your sweet little bear (Can also be a nickname for Theodore, Edward, Edmund, and Ted)
Honey – A unique name to celebrate a super-sweet baby
Redd – A boy’s name inspired by the color often associated with Valentine’s Day
Scarlett – A girl’s name after the vibrant hue that denotes passion and joy
Historic Valentine’s Day Baby Names
Parents seeking a Valentine’a Day baby name can take inspiration from the pages of history, timeless myths, and great works of literature.
Valentino– Inspired by St. Valentine, the patron saint of love and happy marriages
Valentina –The feminine version of Valentino
Eros– The Greek god of love
Venus – The Roman goddess of love and beauty
Paris– The capital of France known as the “city of love”
Romeo – One of the star-crossed lovers from William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet
Juliet – The other famous lover from Romeo and Juliet
Freya– The Norse goddess of love
Aphrodite – The Greek goddess of love and beauty
Amadeus – A name of Latin origin meaning “lover of god”—and also the middle name of composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Archer – Cupid, the Roman god of love, is an archer with his bow and arrow set
Sonnet – A classical form of poetry that’s often romantic
Baby Names With Loving Connotations
Valentine’s Day names don’t always need to be obvious. If you’re looking for a subtler alternative, consider choosing a name whose meaning relates to love or beauty.
Annabel – Scottish name meaning “loving”
David – Hebrew name meaning “beloved”
Amora – Spanish name meaning “love”
Beau – French name meaning “beautiful” or “handsome”
Mila – Slavic/Russian name meaning “dear one” or “gracious”
Howard – English name meaning “brave heart”
Bella – Italian name meaning “beautiful”
Esme – French name meaning “beloved”
Jonah – Hebrew name meaning “dove”
Amy – French/ Latin name meaning “beloved”
Lev – Hebrew name meaning “heart”
Cordelia – Latin/Celtic name meaning “heart” or “daughter of the sea”
Have you visited the [email protected] Ridge gym before? Whether you are a seasoned climber or just starting out, you’ll fit right in at CBR. With classes for kids, homeschool events, parent’s night out events, high school hangouts, and lots more special events it’s a place for families, kids, adults, and everyone! [email protected] Ridge is one of the more affordable climbing gyms in the Greenville, SC area and has an extremely supportive, helpful, and personable staff. Here’s everything you need to know about [email protected] Ridge to plan your awesome climbing day.
This article is pretty much not necessary. Yep.
We said we’d tell you what you needed to know to have a great time at CBR. But the bottom line is, you don’t need to know much of anything. Really.
Want to climb? Total 100% complete beginners of all ages can have a great time climbing at CBR, and so can seasoned climbers. The gym has everything you need from harnesses to climbing shoes that you can rent for a small fee when you climb. Just show up.
The staff is awesome, and they’ll help you get the right size shoes and get your harness and point you in the right direction of climbing walls and bouldering spaces. I say this to you as a non-athletic and sometimes painfully introverted mom. (Really, I write so I don’t have to talk to people.) But seriously, at CBR they’ll teach you to belay for your kids and show you how to hook up to the auto-belays. There are no stupid questions. Your kids will be climbing before you know it, and so will you!
But, there are so many cool things happening at CBR, so, we’ll use the rest of this article to tell all about the programs for kids, families, and adults, plus those nitty-gritty details like hours and cost.
Climbing at CBR
[email protected] Ridge has climbing spaces for bouldering, top roping, and lead climbing.
There are several places for bouldering at CBR, a cave area, a small tunnel area, and a room off the main gym. These areas do not require the use of harnesses or ropes as they don’t go high. These areas are about traversing across or up, around, or under obstacles.
Top roping is the style of climbing with ropes. Basically, this is what you’re doing when you are hooked to a harness with a rope up above you and either a human or auto-belayer. The gym has three auto belays so you can climb even if you don’t have a climbing partner.
Last but not least, lead climbing is more like outdoor climbing. You must have your own equipment to lead climb at CBR.
The routes at CBR are always being changed. This means in all of the climbing areas you’ll find new challenges and problems to solve.
For the Kids at CBR
Homeschool Kids
Intro to Climbing Class:My kids have been taking an introduction to climbing class at CBR for homeschoolers since the fall. Each semester is 10 weeks of classes that cover top roping and bouldering, plus safety! The tuition is $200 for the semester and that includes harness and shoe rental plus a gym membership. That means your climber can climb for free anytime the gym is open.
Homeschool Climb: Every second Monday from 2 to 4 pm, homeschoolers can climb at CBR for just $12 which includes the harness and shoes.
Parents’ Night Out
Every second Saturday from 6:30 to 9:30 pm bring the kids to CBR for parents’ night out. This parents’ night out is for kids ages 6 and up. They’ll have a blast climbing while you get a night out. The cost is $20 per child. Do sign-up in advance because the program only runs if there are at least 3 kids enrolled.
Preschool Rocks
It’s CBR’s version of tot time. At Preschool Rocks, kids 2-6 get the gym all to themselves with their parent or guardian from 8 to 10 am on Tuesdays. The cost is $20 per parent/child team and that includes harnesses. CBR has full-body harnesses for little ones. And don’t forget, kiddos don’t need to harness up if they are bouldering. So, even if your little one won’t want to put on a harness, there’s still plenty of climbing fun.
Highschool Hang Out
High school kids climb at CBR on Saturday nights for just $10, including harness and shoes. It’s a great deal and a great way to spend a Saturday night.
Climbing Team
Have kids who want to learn more about climbing? The climbing team meets weekly for beginning through advanced students. Kids learn climbing skills and encourage each other to be better. The team even takes outdoor climbing field trips!
Climbing team is $65 a month and also includes a gym membership. That means kids can climb anytime the gym is open for free. Gear rental is another $15 a month, or kids can purchase their own.
In addition to climbing, CBR also offers weekly Yoga and Tai Chi classes. There’s also a ladies’ meet-up on Monday nights, plus special events, competitions, and more throughout the year.
CBR also offers a place for parties, lock-ins, and group events.
Just want to go climb?
Do it!
When you climb at CBR you get full gym access for the entire day. You’re not limited to an hour or two, and you’re not limited to certain areas of the gym or certain routes.
Adult day passes are $12. Kids 10 and under are $10. If you want to rent harnesses and shoes, they are $3 each.
First-time climbers pay $24 and that includes both harness rental, shoes, AND some time with the staff for them to show you how to belay, ensure that you can do it safely, and make sure you don’t have any questions. Don’t worry about this, it’s really easy.
That’s it. You’re ready to go!
If you love climbing, you’ll want to check out the [email protected] Blue Ridge memberships. A family membership is just $75 a month. Individual memberships start at $50. This doesn’t include gear so you’ll need to buy your own or plan to spend a couple of dollars each visit to rent a harness and shoes.
Trying Something New: The adult beginner
This is the section where I admit I am not athletic. I was the kid in gym class who kept sneaking to the back of the kickball line so I didn’t have to actually participate. I was also the kid who couldn’t climb to the top of the ladder in the elementary gym because I was terrified of falling. Yes, I went my entire elementary school career without my name on that PE ladder sticker chart.
So, here I am, with kids who are taking climbing classes and recently joined their climbing team. They’re at the gym a couple of times a week and are really loving it. I have a strong belief in taking an interest in your kids’ hobbies. (You’ll always have something in common and have ways to share quality time when you’re active in your kids’ interests.) So, that’s how I found myself in a harness and climbing shoes one afternoon for a little climbing myself, having never climbed before. This is how I can say with absolute certainty that total skill-less beginners are welcome at CBR!
We had a blast.
Let me just take this one moment to encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and try something new with your teens and preteens! I did get to the top of a couple of routes, if you’re wondering, along with some seriously ungraceful falls and trips down the auto-belay. But, the best part was having my 13 year-old son coach me through my attempts on the wall. It was priceless. And, so was watching him encourage and cheer on his younger sister. I’m looking forward to going again!
Where do you go for great bubble tea in Greenville, SC? Our writer, Kristina, goes on a mission to find the best bubble tea in Greenville, SC. Here’s what she found!
I was on a media trip with my kids, writing about another city and things to do there, and kept passing bubble tea shops. I was intrigued. What was this concoction? So I decided to try it out, asking the employees what it was and which one to order. I ended up with a Taro tea and popping strawberry bubbles.
Oh my gosh. This thing called bubble tea was amazing. I was hooked. So when I got back to Greenville, I was determined to find the best bubble tea. Greenville, SC has to have some pretty good bubble tea, right? I searched so I could experience it whenever I wanted right at home. So that’s what I did. And, now you can enjoy amazing bubble tea, too!
What is Bubble Tea?
Bubble tea, sometimes called Boba Tea, is tea mixed with milk or sometimes fruit and topped with tapioca pearls. These are usually chewy or can be filled with a fruit juice concotion so they pop when you eat them. The drink is of Tiawainese origin and was invented in the 1980s in Taichung.
Bubble tea isn’t the same everywhere and if you go to any bubble tea shop, there is a massive number of combinations you can choose, which is why I need to give credit to every place I tried because they were all so nice and patient. All the employees helped me out to choose the best bubble tea for myself and my tastes.
Bubble Tea Greenville, SC Tour
I went to Kung Fu Tea, Cosmic Rabbits Tea Company, Asia Pacific, O-CHA Tea Bar, and Ding Tea, all in Greenville. I also tried out the make-your-own bubble tea packets from Trader Joes. Here are my reviews of each one.
Kung Fu Tea
Kung Fu Tea has an extensive menu with both caffeinated and decaf teas, milk teas, slushies, milk caps, milk strikes, and seasonal specials. It’s overwhelming but the staff can help you out. I got a Taro Milk Tea with strawberry bubbles and low sugar level. I really appreciated that you could choose the sugar level here because I prefer usually to eat my calories and not drink them. This tea was awesome. It was so flavorful and I had to stop myself from drinking it all within a few minutes. I loved the texture of the bubbles (it’s a thing I like about bubble tea in general).
My rating: 5/5
581 Haywood Road, Greenville 233 N. Main Street, Suite II Greenville (this location is not open yet as of this writing) Kung Fu Tea Website
Kung Fu Tea
Ding Tea
Ding Tea has an enormous menu, offering everything from milk tea to fruit juice to yogurt to coffee. Again, pretty overwhelming for a new bubble tea drinker like myself but the staff here were so patient and helpful. I told them what I like and they pointed me in the right direction. I got a Taro Boba Green Milk Tea and it was delicious. This was another place where you could pick your sugar level, which I appreciated.
O-CHA Tea Bar is right along the Reedy River, an ideal location for picking up a bubble tea and walking in Falls Park, which is exactly what my daughter and I did after visiting here. My daughter got a Strawberry Milk Tea and I got the Taro Tea (you can tell by now this is my favorite tea). Both were really good but very sweet. You can’t choose the sweetness level at O-CHA Tea Bar but it was still good. You can also get sandwiches and pastries here.
Asia Pacific is a huge Asian supermarket that I love shopping at but they also have a restaurant in the back with authentic Chinese cuisine. I have a list of things I want to order here but haven’t got to yet. But I did try the bubble tea and it was awesome. They have several different kinds of tea here and what I liked most was that they gave you a sample before you bought anything. Of course, I went with the Taro because by now, I knew this was my favorite. I can’t remember the other kind of tea I sampled but the Taro won out. I do want to try their Lavender Milk Tea next time. There’s no option to adjust the sweetness level here.
Cosmic Rabbits Tea Co. is a beautiful shop right in downtown Greenville where you can get really whatever you want when it comes to tea, both in-store and at the counter. Their bubble teas are green tea based. Cosmic Rabbits describes their bubble tea as a “creamy dessert beverage with a chewy topping at bottom” so yeah, not an everyday thing if you’re trying to stay away from the sugar, but oh-so-good. They have a lot of options for the bubbles, including the popping ones. The staff can help you choose the best option if you tell them what you’re looking for. My daughter and I got a Strawberry Milk Tea and Taro Tea.
I wasn’t sure if I needed to include this but here we are. I had heard about the boba tea kit on some online forum so I figured I would test it out and found it easily at the Trader Joe’s in Greenville. It’s $5.49 for the Instant Boba Kit, which is about what one glass of Bubble Tea costs anywhere else, and includes four packets of brown sugar tapioca balls and four straws. You just heat up the packets for a few seconds in the microwave and pour them into a glass of cold milk or tea or other beverage of your choice. I was pleasantly surprised by how good these were and how easy they were to make! I’d get them again.
Do you have a preschooler? It is a full-time job to keep them entertained and making sure they are getting the best education. This guide offers a list of things to do with a preschooler in Greenville, SC and the Upstate, plus classes, preschools, and resources for your family. Your preschooler will love these activities and you will love making memories.
Summer Camps for Preschoolers
The Greenville area offers a lot of summer camp options and it can be difficult to sort through them to find camps that are open to preschoolers. So, we made this list of Preschool Summer Camps because there are some really fun options for the 4 and under crowd when it comes to summer camps! Don’t miss them.
Things to With Preschoolers Indoors Near Greenville
Indoor Activities in Spartanburg, SC: We haven’t forgotten about our neighbors! We have a list for indoor activities for preschoolers in Spartanburg.
Tot Times: Tot times are a designated time reserved for younger children. Places such as museums, bounce house, gyms, and more offer tot times.
Story Times in the Upstate: Storytimes are an important part of cultivating a love of reading. These events are usually free and make reading fun!
Children’s Museum of the Upstate: Greenville is home to the Children’s Museum of the Upstate. It is one of the largest museums and one of the first to be Smithsonian affiliated. The exhibits are hands-on, and they offer special educational programs.
From art to rock climbing there are opportunities for your preschooler to take a class in Greenville. Some are year-round and some are seasonal, but they all offer enriching experiences.
Things to Do Outdoors With Preschoolers
Greenville Zoo: Are you visiting the Greenville Zoo? Read this article to ensure you make the most out of your visit.
Zoo Tots: Zoo Tots for preschoolers is an educational and fun. It is geared towards preschoolers and offers sensory play while also meeting a zoo animal!
Hiking with Preschoolers: There are a lot of excellent hiking trails near Greenville, SC, but if you’re hiking with young kids, the trails on this list would be a great place to start.
Trains: Does your preschooler love trains? Greenville, SC has spots to watch trains, trains to ride and train-themed spots to play.
Ultimate Guide to Preschools: Are you looking for a preschool in Greenville or anywhere in the Upstate? Sort Upstate preschools by programs, location and hours.
Private Schools: Is it time for kindergarten? If you’re looking for the best private school K5 or kindergarten option, this list will help you sift through all the options with location filters.
Find more content perfect for families with preschool-age kids in Greenville, SC
The Ultimate Guide for Families With Preschoolers in Greenville, SC
Greenville Zoo: Go Globetrotting at Zoo Tots in Greenville, SC
First Steps 4K: Access to Free and Low-Cost 4K Childcare
In today’s bonus episode, we explore the concept of courage with specialist, Dr. Charles Smith. Whether standing up for a friend or acting heroically in a dangerous situation, we will learn about how courage develops, operates, and how we can foster it in our children.
Aunt of four unique kiddos. Passionate about figuring how small brains develop, process, and differ. Human Sciences Specialist, Family Life in western Iowa with a B.S. in Family and Consumer Sciences and Design minor.
Gunjan Seth is a family leader at Holland Bloorview who mentors parents of children with disabilities. It may be providing one-to-one support, running group coffee chats or co-leading parent workshops.
Gunjan has one motivation: To ensure parents get the emotional and practical support she missed out on when her son Ajay, now 13, was diagnosed with autism.
Fifteen years ago, Gunjan and her family immigrated from India to New Jersey, where Ajay was born prematurely. Then, just before moving to Toronto in 2011, Ajay was given a diagnosis of Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS).
“Imagine a person, new to the country, who doesn’t even understand the term PDD-NOS,” Gunjan recalls. While Gunjan spoke English, she struggled with the Canadian accent. “I used to listen so deeply, but think ‘What are they talking about?’
“When you’re new to a place, you’re not aware of the social rules, so you’re very scared to talk,” she says. “Was I asking the right question? Would a clinician be offended? I struggled to even share my simplest thoughts.”
Gunjan had no family or friends here and spent hours searching for services for Ajay on the Internet. “I felt very socially isolated,” she says. “I was going through a lot of stress and a kind of depression and I was trying to work with Ajay, but there was no one able to support me. No one came and asked ‘Gunjan, how are you doing?’ I ignored my physical and emotional health.”
An illness prompted Gunjan to recognize that she had to care for herself. These days that means: “Trying to be kind to myself, taking a small nap during the day, if possible, or a walk in nature, or some quiet time, listening to religious music that soothes my soul.”
Gunjan trained for her family mentor role at Holland Bloorview. “I support mental and emotional health in parents so they can have a good quality of life,” she says. “I listen to them, acknowledge their emotions, share some of my lived experiences, and connect them with resources and supports.”
Gunjan aims to create what she calls “safe, brave spaces. I share my vulnerable experiences so they also get the courage to share theirs. They share their hopes, challenges and successes.”
Gunjan says to be a good mentor you need to be honest, compassionate and a deep listener. “Parents are their own experts, and when you listen deeply you shine a light that helps them recognize the things that are working for them.”
Parents are hungry for one-to-one conversations where they feel valued and included, Gunjan says. “We need to lay the foundation to talk about self-care, emotional wellbeing and mental health, so they can continue to care for their child and don’t burn out.”
She advises clinicians to think about “how to create a welcoming space. Please do not rush, or look at papers while you’re talking, or look at the wall. Connect. Ask authentically: ‘How are you doing?’ ‘What do you need?’ If possible, guide them to resources.”
Gunjan notes there may be cultural barriers to asking for help. “Sometimes there’s a stigma to ask for support. Back home in India, people are scared to talk about mental health issues or a child with a disability.”
Gunjan’s son Ajay became a Holland Bloorview client in 2014, and Gunjan wishes she knew about services that were available to him when he was much younger. “For example, it’s easier for him to get dental check-ups here. Over time I found out about the Spiral Garden summer camp and arts and music programs and swimming. But when you’re new, you have no idea what services are available.”
Gunjan’s work as a family leader blossomed during COVID, because so many activities became virtual. “I don’t drive and I spend a lot of hours with Ajay’s needs, so it was challenging for me to come back and forth to Holland Bloorview,” she says. “During COVID I reviewed documents each week from Holland Bloorview for health literacy, and I gave input as a rapid response family leader.”
She also participated in the hospital’s solution-focused coaching course online.
Today, Ajay is in Grade 9 in an autism program. He loves comedy shows like Annoying Orange and joke books and building Lego structures. “He’s a happy, lovely boy who inspires me with a lot of love,” Gunjan says.
Learn more about our family mentor program or reach out to familypartner@hollandbloorview.ca. Visit our new Family Support Network Facebook page. Like this story? Sign up for our monthly BLOOM e-letter. You’ll get family stories and expert advice on raising children with disabilities; interviews with activists, clinicians and researchers; and disability news.
Gunjan Seth is a family leader at Holland Bloorview who mentors parents of children with disabilities. It may be providing one-to-one support, running group coffee chats or co-leading parent workshops.
Gunjan has one motivation: To ensure parents get the emotional and practical support she missed out on when her son Ajay, now 15, was diagnosed with autism.
Fifteen years ago, Gunjan and her family immigrated from India to New Jersey, where Ajay was born prematurely. Then, just before moving to Toronto in 2011, Ajay was given a diagnosis of Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS).
“Imagine a person, new to the country, who doesn’t even understand the term PDD-NOS,” Gunjan recalls. While Gunjan spoke English, she struggled with the Canadian accent. “I used to listen so deeply, but think ‘What are they talking about?’
“When you’re new to a place, you’re not aware of the social rules, so you’re very scared to talk,” she says. “Was I asking the right question? Would a clinician be offended? I struggled to even share my simplest thoughts.”
Gunjan had no family or friends here and spent hours searching for services for Ajay on the Internet. “I felt very socially isolated,” she says. “I was going through a lot of stress and a kind of depression and I was trying to work with Ajay, but there was no one able to support me. No one came and asked ‘Gunjan, how are you doing?’ I ignored my physical and emotional health.”
An illness prompted Gunjan to recognize that she had to care for herself. These days that means: “Trying to be kind to myself, taking a small nap during the day, if possible, or a walk in nature, or some quiet time, listening to religious music that soothes my soul.”
Gunjan trained for her family mentor role at Holland Bloorview. “I support mental and emotional health in parents so they can have a good quality of life,” she says. “I listen to them, acknowledge their emotions, share some of my lived experiences, and connect them with resources and supports.”
Gunjan aims to create what she calls “safe, brave spaces. I share my vulnerable experiences so they also get the courage to share theirs. They share their hopes, challenges and successes.”
Gunjan says to be a good mentor you need to be honest, compassionate and a deep listener. “Parents are their own experts, and when you listen deeply you shine a light that helps them recognize the things that are working for them.”
Parents are hungry for one-to-one conversations where they feel valued and included, Gunjan says. “We need to lay the foundation to talk about self-care, emotional wellbeing and mental health, so they can continue to care for their child and don’t burn out.”
She advises clinicians to think about “how to create a welcoming space. Please do not rush, or look at papers while you’re talking, or look at the wall. Connect. Ask authentically: ‘How are you doing?’ ‘What do you need?’ If possible, guide them to resources.”
Gunjan notes there may be cultural barriers to asking for help. “Sometimes there’s a stigma to ask for support. Back home in India, people are scared to talk about mental health issues or a child with a disability.”
Gunjan’s son Ajay became a Holland Bloorview client in 2012, but it took her a few years to figure out all of the services available for him. “For example, it’s easier for him to get dental check-ups here. Over time I found out about the Spiral Garden summer camp and arts and music programs and swimming. But when you’re new, you have no idea what services are available.”
Gunjan’s work as a family leader blossomed during COVID, because so many activities became virtual. “I don’t drive and I spend a lot of hours with Ajay’s needs, so it was challenging for me to come back and forth to Holland Bloorview,” she says. “During COVID I reviewed documents each week from Holland Bloorview for health literacy, and I gave input as a rapid response family leader.”
She also participated in the hospital’s solution-focused coaching course online.
Today, Ajay is in Grade 9 in an autism program. He loves comedy shows like Annoying Orange and joke books and building Lego structures. “He’s a happy, lovely boy who inspires me with a lot of love,” Gunjan says.
Learn more about our family mentor program or reach out to familypartner@hollandbloorview.ca. Visit our new Family Support Network Facebook page. Like this story? Sign up for our monthly BLOOM e-letter. You’ll get family stories and expert advice on raising children with disabilities; interviews with activists, clinicians and researchers; and disability news.
I see the look on your faces as you all sit around the dinner table and talk about the upcoming Homecoming dance. I remember the excitement of the leaves changing, getting a new dress, and being in someone’s arms while dancing awkwardly to Stairway To Heaven.
It was almost too much for my body and soul to handle. The rush made it so I couldn’t eat. I wanted to do everything right for the boy I had my eye on, so much so that it was probably painful to watch.
I’m going down memory lane with you (and ignoring the eye rolls) because the years the three of you are in right now — smack dab in the middle of your teenage-ness — is when young love comes out of nowhere and does a number on your heart and your head, and can steal you away from yourself.
Some people might tell you there’s no way that you can be in love at thirteen or sixteen, but I say that’s bull.
Love knows no age. It looks and feels different each time you fall. And every time you feel it, you will learn something through joy and pain.
I hate that you will all feel the shooting, pounding hurt of heartbreak, but it’s inevitable. And when you come to me with a broken heart, I won’t tell you there are plenty of fish in the sea. I won’t tell you to get over it. I won’t tell you to forget about them. Because in my 44th year of life, I’ve been in love a few times, and when it’s over, and people say things like that to me, I feel like punching them in the throat.
But, there are some things worth saying about love; I’ll take the time to tell you, knowing that you must go through the situations and feelings on your own and do what you will. I wish I could be your greatest teacher, but I know your experiences will be.
Love knows no age. It looks and feels different each time you fall in love. (Pixabay)
9 pieces of advice about love:
1. Don’t lose yourself.
If you are compromising parts of yourself and giving up things you love to do to make another person happy, take a step back and realize you are putting their feelings before yours. To fully love someone, you have to show up for yourself first.
2. Don’t chase love.
If someone isn’t putting in equal effort, or they don’t feel the same about you as you do about them, don’t wait around. And for the love of all things holy, don’t hope they will change their mind. The number one thing you should look for in a partner is someone who wants to be with you, too — that’s attractive. No matter how hard it hurts you, someone who isn’t interested in you shouldn’t get your attention.
3. Don’t try and change someone.
Think about how hard it is to do something new or break a habit. Then, think about how difficult it would be if someone else tried to get you to change if you didn’t want to. It would probably never work. So, why would you try to get someone else to change to fit your manual? That’s not fair.
It doesn’t mean that your partner won’t piss you off sometimes; it simply means that when they do, you need to allow them to be themselves. Then, it would be best to decide whether it’s good enough for you. This is so much easier than white-knuckling it, hoping they will be who you want them to be in time.
4. Don’t be afraid to speak up.
Communication is huge and you should never feel like you can’t give voice to your true feelings. Relationships should be a safe place to be open and honest. If you hide that you love sports or fast food because your partner hates both, you aren’t being your true self, and the truth will come out eventually.
5. You also show people how to treat you.
If your partner has hurt you, tell them. If you are with someone who talks to you in a way you don’t approve of or is constantly checking out other people in front of you, let them know where your boundary is.
6. It might not last.
This isn’t a reason not to expose your heart to someone else. Yes, heartbreak is one of the worst pains we can feel. I don’t want you holding back from something that could be life-changing and the best thing ever happening to you because you are afraid it will go away. Nothing in life is certain, but some experiences and people are worth the risk.
7. Don’t put your life on hold waiting for the right person.
You might get married, and you might not. You might fall in love ten times in your life or just once. Regardless, live your life and do the things you want to in the now. Don’t think it will be better when “they” come along. Time is going to pass whether you are with someone or not, so you might as well live it up now. Take the trip, join the club, and watch the movie, even if you do it alone.
Looks fade. For various reasons, you might not always be able to go on hikes or travel with someone. Find someone who makes you laugh; laughter lasts much longer than money or looks. I promise.
My biggest dream is for you all to be happy. Chances are, that will include someone else is a big part of your life. As you start learning about love, know that I am always here to help you figure it out.
Love,
Your mom, who knows a thing or two about love and loss.
Searching for some delicious dessert in Spartanburg? Cakes, pudding, ice cream, we love them all. We visited Spartanburg’s Big Ben’s Desserts. And I think we’re all in agreement… it was a great spot to pick up a dessert treat. We’ve got some advice for what you should order when you visit Big Ben’s Desserts!
What do you get when you combine a hometown football hero and a love of baking?
After opening in the fall of 2018 with a grand opening that left every last crumb sold, the Upstate has continued to show their love for Ben Hall and his dessert shop.
Big Ben’s Desserts offers ice cream, cake slices, cheesecake, and his famous banana pudding. A quick visit to one of the shop’s social media accounts will have you drooling and wanting to try it all. Ben loves to tease online with Insta-worthy photos of his creations.
Well, we’re here to tell you. They taste even better than they look!
Favorite Menu Items at Big Ben’s Desserts in Spartanburg
One bite, and you’ll be hooked. The hardest part of a visit to Big Ben’s Desserts will be deciding what to order.
I chose four items to share with my family and I recommend doing the same! We all enjoyed the honeybun cake, strawberry cake slice, banana pudding, and a chocolate cheesecake slice.
Big Ben’s Cheesecake
Forget what you think you know about cheesecake! Not only is it the best I’ve had, it comes with unlimited toppings. I’ll say it again: the cheesecake comes with unlimited toppings! Even ice cream! I added Oreo, hot fudge and whipped cream to my slice. This is one of those times when you hate being a good example for your children. I totally hated sharing that cheesecake.
Big Ben’s Honey Bun Cake
The honey bun cake is even better than it sounds and came with a full recommendation from one of the servers. My family only left me a small bite of the cake, but that bite was so good. The cake was moist and it was just the right amount of sweetness. I would definitely try this again. Ben also makes a lemon pound cake that is very popular with regulars.
Big Ben’s Strawberry Cake with Buttercream
The strawberry cake with buttercream icing was a huge hit with my family. My daughter has just discovered she loves strawberries. The cake had big juicy chunks of berry baked into it. This cake makes me excited to try the other flavors Ben makes, red velvet, chocolate, and key lime. Keisha, one of Ben’s fulltime associates, insisted that I try the key lime cake next time. It’s a hit even with people who think they don’t like key lime! There are also cupcakes available in these flavors plus an Oreo flavor.
Big Ben’s Banana Pudding
Now, on to the banana pudding – my husband’s favorite. Apparently, they can’t keep them on the shelves! I was told they started out with 80 orders for the day and they were already down to six, with 4 hours to go. Judging by my husband’s reaction, I can see why! He says it’s light and fluffy and creamy and wonderful and might even be better than his sister’s recipe.
Have you been to Big Ben’s desserts yet? Which yummy treat
was your favorite?
Big Ben’s Desserts 297 Spartanburg Highway South Lyman, SC 29365 864.485.2001
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Check out Big Ben’s Desserts for a Slice of Something Delicious in Spartanburg, SC
Cherry Orchard Pediatric Dentistry has KABOOM! One step into the their office and you will understand why they were chosen as a 2023 KABOOM Awards Finalist Winner!
Cherry Orchard Pediatric Dentistry‘s mission is to make you and your family smile. From the very first moment you walk through their doors, your child will learn to love taking care of their oral health and feel safe and comfortable during their visit.
The Cherry Orchard team builds a relationship with your child at their individual pace, using songs, games, and kid-friendly terminology to create a fun and relaxing experience. As a parent or guardian, you stay informed of your child’s dental health, treatment recommendations, future appointments, and more, so you know what to expect. Cherry Orchard truly takes a team approach in everything they do and treat everyone like family.
Dr. Lisa M. Cherry, Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Lisa M. Cherry received her dental degree from Marquette School of Dentistry in Milwaukee. She then completed her specialty training in Pediatric Dentistry at Boston University School of Dental Medicine. Dr. Lisa is passionate about working with children and their parents to create an enjoyable experience and build a strong foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Combined with her extensive training and education, Dr. Lisa has the skill, compassion, and enthusiasm to make a trip to the dentist something to look forward to.
KAG: “What do you most look forward to when meeting with your patients?” Dr. Lisa: “I look forward to seeing their precious smiles and listening to their life stories.”
KAG: “What is your favorite family-friendly activity in Greenville?” Dr. Lisa:“My family and I enjoy the Downtown Farmer’s Market on Saturdays mornings.”
Ashley E. Harclerode, Clinical Coordinator
KAG: What is your favorite aspect of Cherry Orchard Pediatric Dentistry? Ashley:“The relationships I can create with our patients. I enjoy watching them grow up.”
KAG: What do you love about Greenville? Ashley: “I like the diversity that Greenville offers.”
Lauren E. Nelson, Front Office Associate
KAG: What do you love most about Cherry Orchard patients? Lauren: “We see many patients that initially have a lot of anxiety about going to the dentist. It’s wonderful to see them overcome their fears and see just how fun the dentist can be.”
KAG: Why do you love Greenville? Lauren: “After living across several different states, I would say Greenville is my favorite place I’ve lived. I love the restaurants, family-friendly events and the Swamp Rabbit Trail!”
Dental Home Away from Home
Cherry Orchard’s focus is to build a lasting relationship with your child and to partner with you in maintaining your child’s healthy smile. This relationship begins early in life and continues until your child’s dental needs grow beyond their practice. Cherry Orchard believes in the TEAM approach and encourages parental participation in the services they provide.
Ready to set sail? We’ve collected 8 of the greatest pirate songs of all time. From classics like ‘Dead Man’s Chest’ to new favorites, there’s something for everyone!
Want to join in a rousing sea shanty? Check out our top 8 pirate songs and start singing along! With some classic songs plus modern additions, this is one voyage you won’t want to miss.
Add some swashbuckling fun to your day with the 8 best pirate songs ever created! Our list includes unforgettable classics and awesome new tunes that will transport you back to the seven seas.
Ahoy Matey! Are you ready to set sail and sing some sea shanties? Get your pirate hat on and dive into our collection of the top 5 greatest pirate songs of all time. From timeless classics like ‘Dead Man’s Chest’ to more modern songs, you’re sure to find something that will have you singing and swashbuckling!
“A-Rovin’ on a Sunday Afternoon” – Capt. Basil B. Frankfurter
“A-Rovin’ on a Sunday Afternoon” is a deep sea folk song by Capt. Basil B. Frankfurter, and it’s sure to get your feet tapping aboard your pirate ship! This Caribbean inspired tune tells the story of a captain that spends his Sundays roving around in search of buried treasure. The upbeat melody with its catchy chorus will have you dreaming of sunny skies and swaying palms in no time!
“Sea Shanty” – Stan Rogers (Pirate Songs)
Stan Rogers’ “Sea Shanty” will take you back to the days of old-fashioned pirate sailing, when crew members sang traditional sea shanties to keep spirits high and pass the time as they sailed for weeks on end. With its jaunty rhythm and refreshingly honest lyrics, this song is sure to get your feet stomping and hands clapping. Whether you another salty dog or just a land-lubber, this classic piratical tune is sure to become one of your favorites.
“Dead Man’s Chest” – King Louie & The Lawbreakers
Ooey, gooey and full of grog, this song will have you singing along with the crew as you search for treasure. With a catchy yet classic sound grounded in classic blues rhythms and adorned with good-time sing-alongs, “Dead Man’s Chest” is sure to soundtrack your next voyage. Whether searching for trouble or treasure, no pirate worth their salt should set sail without this track as part of their playlist!
“The Cambria” – Marianne Faithfull (Pirate Songs)
As she infuses her signature heartache and nostalgia into this traditional Irish-pub shanty, Marianne Faithfull explores the poignancy of a bygone era with “The Cambria.” The story starts off in good spirits with a cheery freshness that would make even the most weathered sailor feel keenly alive. But as the song goes on, Faithfull’s heartfelt tales of loss and longing fill each creaking line — reminding us to seek solace in connection even during times of distress.
“Whiskey in the Jar” – Thin Lizzy
“Whiskey in the Jar” by Thin Lizzy is a classic pirate song filled with raucous energy. The catchy chorus follows the story of an Irish bandit who is caught stealing whiskey from an English tavern and forced to face the consequences. Even after being warned of capture, our jolly outlaw doesn’t give up — making this folk tune a foot-stomping tribute to overcoming adversity.
Other Popular Pirate Songs Among Kids
Silly Pirate Song
Silly Pirate Song by Jack Hartmann is an educational song for kids that covers sequencing, following a growing pattern, comprehension, and story recall. All these skills are very important developmental skills for young children.
Over The Deep Blue Sea
Pirate Song By Blippi
Arr!! Ahoy matey, ready to set sail! Blippi sings about pirates in this fun cartoon music video. Pirates can be scary but they’re pretty funny too! Watch Blippi’s adventures with pirates in this educational song.
Cool Pirates Images With Some Interesting Information
What is the famous pirate song?
Top 10 Pirate Songs
1. ” 15 Men On A Dead Man’s Chest” – traditional.
2. ” The Gruesome Death Of Edward Teach” – Scissorfight. …
3. ” Professor Booty” – Beastie Boys. …
4. ” Jolly Roger” – Roger McGuinn. …
5. ” Yo Ho A Pirate’s Life For Me” – traditional. …
What is that pirate song called?
Shanties are songs that were sung by sailors and pirates as they sailed the seven seas, intended to keep the men both entertained and motivated during their long spells at sea. The word shanty is sometimes spelled “chanty” as it is derived from the French word “chanter,” which means to sing. (source)
What are some real pirate shanties?
Sea Shanties for Pirates
Shantyman: Come to all ye young fellows that follow the sea.
All crew: To me, way hey, blow the man down.
Shantyman: Now please pay attention and listen to me.
All Crew: Give me some time to blow the man down.
What does pirate music sound like?
Pirate music is often based on folk-style melodies which are heavily swung, with lots of dotted notes.
What is a famous pirate saying?
Ahoy, Me Hearties!All Hand Hoy!Everyone get on deck!Pay attention and check this out!
Why do pirates say Arrr?
Pronounced also as “Yarrr!” and “Arg!”, the word “Arrr!” is traditionally said by pirates when responding “yes” or when expressing excitement. Source
What is a song sung by sailors?
Sea shanties
What is the oldest sea shanty?
How a pirate says hello?
Ahoy – A pirate greeting or a way to get someone’s attention, similar to “Hello” or “hey!”. Arrr, Arrgh, Yarr, Gar – Pirates slang used to emphasize a point. Avast – Pirate speak for pay attention.
Here’s the counterintuitive thing about a college search: it’s not about the college. Oh sure, you’re looking at colleges as you check out a campus and ponder its program, culture, and vibe. You wonder if it’s affordable, far enough from home, and whether its degree will enhance your resume. Those are important considerations, but lack context as a search commences or concludes.
Dartmouth College Baker Tower at sunset. (photo credit Robert Gill)
Take an “existential selfie”
A search requires a more personal reflection as the queue of institutional priorities takes shape. High school juniors and seniors need to ask themselves: Who am I? What’s the best environment for me to learn and thrive? What are my hopes and aspirations? A college search and the ultimate decision on the destination it produces is your search. It is intensely personal. So, start with you. Hello, you.
I’m not advising narcissism. What I am advising is that you take an “existential selfie,” of sorts. By this I mean: hold up an imaginary camera or mirror, and take an extended moment to pause and ponder what you see.
Students should begin by asking themselves: What animates my personality, talents, interests, and goals? Write those things down. Add a degree of weighting to each item as a priority of more or less importance to you. Now, guided by that vivid, “high-res” selfie, assess your higher ed options.
Students should start with the “program”
Start with what I call a “program.” Do you like exploring, or are you ready for a specific academic path? Do you favor words more than numbers or equations more than languages? Hands-on learning more than notetaking? Open options versus requirements?
Every college offers a different answer to those personal inquiries, which are important clues for you to examine. Do you favor discussion or listening familiarity or more anonymity? Do ten seats around a conversational table with a professor feel cozy and stimulating or too confining? Does a lecture hall of 500 with a faculty member presenting to you feel exciting or intimidating? Would you raise your hand? Do you want to raise your hand?
Those are clues about campus scale and classroom size from your perspective. My answer to those questions might not be yours. (I always preferred a small circle, and I raised my hand. But that’s me, not you.)
An aerial view of Dartmouth College (credit Eli Burakian)
Next, consider “place”
Now to a sense of place. Are you a city slicker, outdoorsy, cosmopolitan, a hip kind of cat, a tinkerer, crunchy? Are you entrepreneurial, conservative, an activist, or a geek? Are you laidback, or do you thrive on competition? Those qualities will ultimately inform the application you submit (more on that later), but they also inform the list you explore.
Do you need a jazz scene nearby or a place to cut your hair? Do you hope to watch your university play its football games on ESPN, or is club soccer okay with you? How close is a major airport, and how straightforward would the semesterly trek to and from campus be? Do you want to drive or fly? Maybe it doesn’t matter. Maybe it does. You tell me.
What else matters to you? How do you feel about snow? Humidity? Subways? Cows? Diversity? Brick sidewalks? Museums? Religion? Partying? Open spaces? Required courses? Politics? Night skies? A rah-rah vibe? Quarters versus semesters? Nightlife? Intensity versus chill? Are you a nerd who needs a community of nerdy peers? So many questions. Only you know the answers.
Your sibling’s search last year wasn’t your search, even if you tagged along on most of the visits. Similarly, your best friend’s list does not need to sync with your options. Maybe it’s time for you and your twin to go solo. Maybe mom’s Alma Mater doesn’t sing to you even though you’ve been wearing the sweatshirt since you were in diapers. This is about you. Own it.
Begin your exploration and discovery phase — whether you are a senior with a decision to make or a junior bouncing at the starting line — with self-assessment — then progress to your list of options. Your list (or your decision) will shift as priorities rise and fall. A few might evaporate, and others might reveal themselves as you learn more about the various options and consider them through your prism. It’s a fluid process. Shifts are normal, good even.
A college that feels appealing might yield a type that hadn’t occurred to you — like a women’s college or rural campus. If so, check out a second one. Is a theme emerging, or was it a one-off reaction?
Be open to surprises. Set aside “reputation” and consider the substance of each place as you meet it. For juniors, today’s list won’t necessarily be the one you end up with at the application deadline. And seniors, the journey through April offers a fast-track version of the same idea as campus visits and open houses, and the conversation with your head and heart unfolds.
This is the time to explore, try things on, and sort things out. When something doesn’t resonate, let it go. When it does, look closer, and add more options that channel whatever theme you’ve identified as important.
Make sure your selfie is “in focus.” Ready, set, click. What do you see?
Lee Coffin is the Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid at Dartmouth College. He also hosts a podcast, Admissions Beat, which kicked off its third season on Jan. 24, 2023, and provides high school juniors, seniors, and parents, as well as their counselors and other mentors, with “news you can use” at each step on the pathway to college.
He was the guest on a Grown and Flown Facebook Live session for parents of high school students hosted by Grown & Flown.
ngerMany Indians, especially those living in the south, used to regularly consume ragi, also known as finger millet (Eleusine coracana L.).
Although it was once a staple in most people’s diets, this once-popular cereal has all but disappeared. Given finger millet’s beneficial nutritional and therapeutic properties, this is shocking and unfortunate.
Its importance is doubled by the fact that this is a highly flexible crop that thrives in the humid conditions typical of India. Let’s check out some ragi laddus, cookies, and pakodaas, as well as the many advantages of finger millet.
Ragi, or Eleusine coracana as it is known in the scientific community, ragi meaning in hindi is a type of cereal that is grown commercially every year in the humid tropics of Africa and Asia. It is especially common in Ethiopia, India, and Sri Lanka. Ragi’s nutrient density makes it a useful aid in a variety of medical contexts, including but not limited to improved digestion, decreased cardiovascular risk, slowed aging, and better control of diabetes.
Ragi in English as finger millet because the grain’s head, which consists of five spikes, looks like the five fingers on a human hand. This annual grass belongs to the Gramineae family and can reach a height of 1–2 meters. The length of the leaves, which is between 30 and 70 cm and is narrow and green, varies greatly. Seeds of various hues (brown, red, and purple) are arranged in florets along the straight or curved branches. Its native Kannada, Hindi, and Telugu speakers call it “Ragi,” while those in Marathi, Bengali, and Tamil refer to it as “Nachni,” “Madua,” or “Kezhvaragu.”
Finger millet crops can survive in dry conditions and can even thrive in soils with a pH range from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. Because of this, these plants can be propagated year-round in a wide variety of Indian climates and topographies, including the mountains and the plateaus. Following maturation, the ragi plant’s seeds are harvested, cleaned, dried, and then stored as grains. Thus, ragi is either sold as a healthful super-grain or, after being subjected to various processing methods like milling and malting, as flour.
The Ragi grain is ground into a powder that is then used to make Flour. Specifically, the powdered form of finger millet. It’s rich in minerals and protein. For those who prefer a plant-based diet, this is the perfect protein option. There is a long list of advantages to using ragi flour, and its low-fat content and high fiber content are just the beginning.
Ragi Malt
Drinks called “ragi malt” are prepared by boiling flour in either water or milk. Ragi means finger millets, and malt means germinated grains. So, traditionally speaking, ragi malt is ragi flour that has been sprouted and then boiled in either water or milk. Alternatively, you can use regular ragi flour, either homemade or purchased.
Ragi Dosa Recipe
Prepared with finger millet and urad dal (lentil), Fi Dosa is an Indian breakfast recipe that is healthy, nutrient-dense, and high in protein. You won’t find any rice or rice flour in this dosa batter.
Dosa batter, whether made with whole ragi or i flour, can be prepared in a number of different ways. I could list more types indefinitely. There are numerous variations of raagi dosa, such as instant dosa, rava dosa, Finger millet dosa with rice, dosa without rice, ragi neer dosa, ragi set dosa, ragi roti, etc.
On the other hand, I think the Ragi urad dal dosa given below is one of the healthiest options out there. In this preparation, whole ragi is soaked, drained, combined with urad dal (lentil), and then fermented.
Kids especially enjoy this dosa because of its high protein content and spongy consistency.
Ragi Balls
Karnataka and the Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh are home to the healthful dish known variously as Finger millet mudde, Finger millet balls, finger millet sangati, or kali, but more commonly as mudde or hittu, meaning “flour.” The rural population of Karnataka is the main demographic that consumes it.
11 Amazing Ragi Benefits
These are the benefits of having Ragi:
Wholesome Morning Meals
Ragi contains a wide variety of important nutrients, including vitamins C, E, B-complex, iron, calcium, antioxidants, proteins, fibers, adequate calories, and beneficial unsaturated fats. Upon waking up from a night of restful sleep, the digestive tract and stomach are functioning at their metabolic best. Therefore, starting the day with a ragi-based meal like ragi uppma or ragi parathas stimulates the digestive juices and ensures complete assimilation of the nutrients found in finger millet, which are absorbed into the bloodstream and transferred to vital organs like the heart, brain, lungs, liver, and kidneys.
It gives You a Boost of Necessary Amino Acids
Due to its unique composition of essential amino acids, Finger millet is a rare and valuable plant-based protein source. It contains the amino acid threonine, which aids in the formation of teeth and enamel and protects the mouth from gum disease; valine and isoleucine, which aid in the repair of injured muscle tissue; and methionine, a sulfur-based amino acid that revitalizes skin and hair health.
Ragi Advocates for a Gluten-Free Diet
Unfortunately, wheat, a common ingredient in Indian cooking, is a common source of gluten intolerance in both young adults and the elderly. Finger millet is often recommended for people with celiac disease because it is naturally gluten-free and can be used in place of wheat to make chapatis, dosas, and sweets or mithaiis.
Keep in mind that due to the complexity of the digestive process necessitated by ragi’s high fiber content, it is best consumed first thing in the morning. This is especially true for people who have digestive issues or gluten allergies.
Increases Bone Density
Bones in developing children can benefit from finger millet because it contains a high concentration of natural calcium. Additionally, it helps elderly people regain their pre-osteoporosis bone density, which reduces their risk of developing the disease. Adults of middle age and older should eat moderate amounts of ragi to improve bone health and prevent gastrointestinal and kidney disorders.
Helps Maintain Healthy Blood Sugar Levels
Finger millet contains a lot of phytates, tannins, and polyphenols, which are plant chemicals that slow down digestion, but it’s also high in calories and carbohydrates for instant energy. Ragi is an excellent addition to a diabetes diet because it helps control high blood sugar. Ragi is the best food for adults to eat to speed up weight loss and control other lifestyle diseases like diabetes and obesity because of its low digestibility and high fiber content.
Ragi Reduces Iron Deficiency Anemia
Anemia due to a lack of iron Every year, millions of men, women, and children in India suffer from anemia, which causes them to feel constantly tired and hinders their productivity. Because of its high iron content, ragi is a wonderful remedy for anemia. You may want to learn more about anemia and its symptoms and how to treat them by reading Anemia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment.
Facilitates Optimal Performance of the Nervous System
Increased levels of the amino acid tryptophan in a diet that includes moderate amounts of ragi daily aid in facilitating nerve impulse conduction, stimulating memory centers in the brain, and calming the mind. Ragi aids in the treatment of anxiety and insomnia by maintaining positive emotions and promoting restful sleep due to the tryptophan content’s effect on serotonin levels.
Improves Cardiac Condition
Due to its lack of cholesterol and sodium, ragi flour-based dishes are safe for people with heart conditions to eat. The high levels of beneficial HDL and decreased levels of harmful LDL are also attributed to the abundance of dietary fibers and vitamin B3 or niacin. By preventing the buildup of plaque and fat in the heart’s blood vessels, enhances cardiac muscle function and general cardiovascular health.
Ragi Helps While Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pregnant and nursing women can greatly benefit from eating sprouted finger millet grains the morning after they have sprouted. Ragi’s high iron and calcium content makes it a great food for pregnant and nursing mothers looking to increase their milk supply and maintain hormonal equilibrium.
Provides Some of the Nutrients a Child Needs
Since Finger millet contain so many essential nutrients, it’s an excellent choice for satisfying a growing child’s appetite and fulfilling their expanding dietary needs. In the southern states of India, kanji or malt made with ragi flour is commonly given to infants and young children as a weaning food. Ragi’s starchy content means it can help young children put on weight, which is helpful for their healthy growth and development.
Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a digestive disorder that affects a large percentage of the population and is characterized by severe abdominal pain and other symptoms like constipation, diarrhea, and gas.
Ragi is superior to many other types of cereal, including wheat, barley, and oats, in terms of the quantity of beneficial dietary fiber it contains. Eating foods high in fiber helps regulate feces bulk and facilitates the smooth transit of food and other materials through the digestive tract. Having a breakfast of ragi porridge has been shown to improve metabolic rate, alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and even reduce the risk of developing colon cancer.
Final Thoughts
This is a healthy cereal crop that can be consumed by people of all ages. Since it does not contain any gluten or other grains, it is safe for people with certain cereal and gluten allergies, making it a true superfood.
Ragi, like any other food, should be consumed in moderation to prevent negative health effects. Finger millet, also known as ragi, may help reduce the prevalence of anemia and age-related diseases like osteoporosis, arthritis, and Alzheimer’s when consumed in moderation.
Use this nutritious crop in the form of sprouted seeds or ragi flour to make traditional Indian dishes like rotis, dosas, and halwaas with ease, and reap the many physical and mental health benefits it offers.
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