When it comes to babies, safety is every parent’s top priority. Toys play a big role in early development, but not all toys are created equal. Some may contain harmful chemicals, paints, or plastics that are unsafe for infants who often explore the world by putting things in their mouths. Choosing non-toxic toys is an essential step to protect your child’s health while also encouraging safe play and learning.

One of Chicago’s most beloved summer traditions is back this weekend as the Taste of Chicago kicks off its 45th year. The popular food festival begins at 11 a.m. on Friday in Grant Park and runs through Sunday, welcoming thousands of visitors eager to sample a wide variety of dishes, desserts and drinks from dozens of vendors across the city. The event will be open daily until 9 p.m., giving attendees three full days to enjoy Chicago’s vibrant culinary scene and a packed lineup of

Authorities in Collin County are investigating a road rage shooting that left one person injured and led to an unusual scene in Plano on Thursday morning. The incident began in the city of Lucas, where officials believe the shooting took place, and ended when the injured individual arrived at a church in Plano seeking help. The case has drawn attention across the region as investigators work to piece together what happened and identify those involved. The Collin County Sheriff&rsquo

San Jose has been named the safest major city in the United States, according to a recent analysis that compared the 50 largest cities across the nation. The recognition comes from a financial technology company’s study that weighed key indicators of safety, including violent and property crime rates, traffic fatalities, drug overdose deaths and lifestyle risk factors such as excessive drinking. While the ranking places San Jose above other large metropolitan areas, city leaders and law

Portland leaders are heading overseas in hopes of finding solutions to the city’s growing housing affordability crisis. This week, around 20 people including three city councilors, their chiefs of staff, and members of the Portland Housing Bureau will travel to Vienna, Austria, to study the city’s internationally recognized social housing model. The trip is taxpayer funded and has already generated debate among residents and officials about its cost and purpose. Social h

The US Open 2025 semifinal promises a blockbuster as Novak Djokovic takes on Carlos Alcaraz at the Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York. Djokovic, 38, is eyeing another Grand Slam triumph and already boasts four US Open titles (2011, 2015, 2018, 2023). Alcaraz, who won his maiden US Open in 2022, is determined to stop him and add another chapter to their growing rivalry. So far, Djokovic leads their head-to-head 5–

Lego has made a major announcement that is set to excite collectors and Star Wars fans around the world. The company revealed it will release its largest and most expensive building set ever, designed around the iconic Star Wars Death Star. This upcoming release will not only break records in terms of size and price but also offer fans one of the most detailed and immersive Lego experiences to date. The new Death Star Lego set is expected to retail for nearly $1,000, making it the m

Every parent knows the challenge of dealing with a picky eater at home. Children often go through phases where they refuse to try new foods or stick to eating the same meals repeatedly. While this can be frustrating, it is a normal part of childhood development. The key is patience, creativity, and consistency in mealtime habits to ensure kids get the nutrition they need without turning every meal into a battle. One of the best strategies is to make mealtime fun and stress-free. Pre

Halloween is one of the most exciting times of the year for children, and dressing up is the highlight of the celebration. Parents often search for fun, creative, and affordable costumes that bring joy to their kids without overspending. With so many options available online and in stores, finding great deals on Halloween costumes has become much easier. The key is knowing where to look and planning early to grab the best discounts.

Early detection of autism or ADHD can make a big difference in helping children get the right support. While every child develops at their own pace, there are some signs parents and teachers can watch for. Why Early Detection Matters The earlier a child’s needs are recognized, the sooner therapies and support can begin. Early help improves learning, communication, and social skills. Common Early Signs of Autism in Children Limited eye

Most parents expect some moodiness or occasional emotional outbursts from their children, especially during times of stress or change. But what happens when those moods hide something deeper? Childhood depression doesn’t always look like sadness or crying—it can wear a lot of different masks. And because children don’t always have the words to express what they’re feeling, their struggle often goes unnoticed. It’s a common misconception that depression

With the rationalisation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) completed, the Indian government is preparing a targeted relief package for exporters impacted by steep US tariffs. According to official sources, the Centre is working on a set of schemes designed to help sectors that have been hit hardest by the 50 per cent import duties imposed by President Donald Trump, which included a 25 per cent penalty linked to India’s Russian oil purchases.

It’s natural for parents to compare their child’s development to others, especially when it comes to talking. While some children start speaking early and build a large vocabulary quickly, others take a more gradual path. But when a child’s speech seems significantly delayed, it can be hard to know what’s normal and what’s cause for concern. Speech and language development can vary widely, especially in the first few years of life. Some children ma

Parenting is tough, and in the heat of the moment, many parents end up yelling at their children. Whether it's because of stress, repeated misbehavior, or simply being overwhelmed, shouting often feels like a quick fix. But while yelling might seem effective in the short term, it can leave lasting emotional and psychological scars on children. Children are especially sensitive to their environment and the emotional tone of their caregivers. When yelling becomes a regular form of

Scientists assumed that decision-making in mammals was controlled by a single brain region. A new study published in Nature has now challenged that long-held belief, showing that decision-making is a much more distributed process involving multiple areas of the brain. The research highlights the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and the hippocampus as two central hubs of decision-making. While the PFC is known for planning, ev

An unusual legal battle has emerged in the United States where an Indiana-based attorney named Mark S Zuckerberg has filed a lawsuit against Meta, the parent company of Facebook, for repeatedly banning his account. The lawyer, who has practiced bankruptcy law for nearly 38 years, says Facebook suspended him five times in the past eight years on allegations of impersonating Meta CEO Mark Elliot Zuckerberg. According t

Ohio is facing a growing public health debate over the future of kratom, a substance that has seen rising use but also an alarming increase in overdose deaths. Recent state data shows overdoses where kratom was listed as a cause of death have tripled in the last five years. As the number of cases rises, the distinction between natural and synthetic kratom is driving disagreement among state leaders, health officials, business owners, and advocates. Governor Mike DeWine has called fo

Former United States National Security Adviser John Bolton has revealed that the once close personal relationship between US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has collapsed, largely due to tensions surrounding tariffs and trade disputes. In a recent interview, Bolton reflected on how Trump’s friendship with Modi had given the impression of stability in India-US ties, but the imposition of nearly 50 percent tariffs on Indian goods led to a deep rupture i

The FBI is urging the public to come forward with any information that may lead to the capture of a serial bank robber who has targeted financial institutions across Chicago since early May. Authorities say the man, who remains unidentified, has carried out four successful robberies and attempted two others, all within a span of a few months. Investigators have labeled him armed and dangerous and are emphasizing the urgency of the search. According to officials, the pattern of crime

The Denton community is mourning the sudden death of Tro’mario Allen Jr, an 18-year-old senior at Denton High School who was a valued member of both the football and track teams. His passing was confirmed by Denton ISD over the weekend, leaving friends, teachers, and teammates shocked and heartbroken. Allen, remembered for his vibrant energy and ever-present smile, had become a familiar figure on campus and on the field. As a player for the Denton High Broncos football team, h