The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently announced a Honda recalls for potential fuel pump failure. If you have a Honda, read on to see if your car is part of the 628,000+ vehicle recall.
Nearly one year ago in May of 2020, Honda recalled more than 135,000 Acuras, Accords and Civics due to the possibility of fuel pump failure. The latest recall includes more vehicles—also with the same fuel pump failure issue.
photo courtesy of Honda
According to NHTSA’s recall notice, the affected Honda’s “low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.” This can cause the engine to stall when driving. The recall includes Hondas with model years between 2018 and 2020. The specific vehicles are certain 2019-2020:
Acura MDX, MDX Sport Hybrid
Acura RDX
Acura TLX
2019 Acura ILX
Honda Accord, Accord Hybrid
Honda Civic Hatchback, Civic Coupe, Civic Coupe Si, Civic Sedan, Civic Sedan Si, Civic Type R
Honda Insight
Honda Fit
Honda HR-V
Honda Odyssey
Honda Passport
Honda Pilot
Honda Ridgeline
2018-2019 Honda CR-V
If you have an affected vehicle, Honda will notify you. The recall will begin on May 18, 2021. You can also call Honda customer service at 1-888-234-2138 before the company contacts you. The dealer will need to replace the fuel pump assembly (free of charge) to correct the problem.
The initial 2020 fuel pump failure recall included 2018-2019 Acura NSX, 2019 Acura RDX, RLX and RLX Sport Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Accord, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R and HR-V, 2019-2020 Insight and 2019 Fit vehicles. If you own one of these calls, Honda should have contacted you about a replacement fuel pump assembly.
Get more information on the recall from NHTSA here.
Are you ready to shop for a new car? Before you buy, check out U.S. News & World Reports’ 2021 Best Cars for Families!
U.S. News & World Reports reviewed nearly 90 cars, SUVs and minivans from the 2021 model year to choose the best of the best for fams. Winners were chosen based on safety and reliability ratings, professional auto reviews, seating and cargo volume and family-friendly features.
Photo: Toyota
The big winner in the 2021 model year was Toyota, with four awards total. Honda was a close second, with three top honors. Overall, the winners for each category were:
2021 Best SUVs for Families
Toyota RAV4: Best Compact SUV for Families
Chevrolet Suburban: Best Large SUV for Families
Honda Passport: Best 2-Row SUV for Families
Kia Telluride: Best 3-Row SUV for Families
Toyota Highlander Hybrid: Best Hybrid or Electric SUV for Families
2021 Best Cars for Families
Honda Accord: Best Midsize Car for Families
Toyota Avalon: Best Large Car for Families
Toyota Avalon Hybrid: Best Hybrid or Electric Car for Families
2021 Best Minivan for Families
Honda Odyssey: Best Minivan for Families
Of the awards, Jamie Page Deaton, executive editor of U.S. News Best Cars, said in a press release, “Families come in many forms, and with nine different categories to choose from, there’s a Best Cars for Families award winner that will work for any family.” Deaton continued, “The award winners have the space, safety and features to satisfy any family, from new parents to parents with new drivers to households that may be welcoming grandparents.”
Get more info on the winners and the full list of finalists at U.S. News & World Reports here.
Arden Pala is like most kids his age. The 11-year-old attends hybrid learning and wants to be a movie director when he grows up.
As a Turkish-American, he’s also experienced bullying. Deciding to turn his experience into a positive, he set out to write a book to help kids learn about other cultures and celebrate them––and three years later he’s on the third book of his series.
Red Tricycle sat down with Pala to talk about his new book, The Adventures of Noah’s Flying Car: Through Mexico ($7.85), and give us all the deets on his extraordinary vision for helping kids learn about the world and cultures around them.
photo: Courtesy of the Arden Pala Family
When asked about the main reason Pala decided to write his books he explained that he wanted to make a fun way to learn about countries, to “show diversity and that it’s ok to be different.”
In the newest book of the Adventures of Noah series, our main character is off to discover the bejeweled country of Mexico. Together, Noah and his friends Scotty and Kaden experience dolphins in Baja California, a butterfly biosphere and much more.
photo: Amazon
Pala admits his favorite part about his newest book is the butterflies, due to the amazing job of illustrator Pavel Goldaev. When asked about what he enjoys most about writing, he shares that putting his thoughts into a document and finding a place to write about really motivates him to put together a great story.
And he’s not done yet. Most likely, the young writer will take the summer to formulate a new tale as he’s done in years past.
When it comes to encouraging other young writers, Pala has this advice: don’t rush, put together a good story board, have a good theme and make sure your story is something you want to write about.
All proceeds from The Adventures of Noah’s Flying Car: Through Mexico go to the San Diego Community Covid-19 Response Fund, which supports low-income workers, families and those deeply affected by the pandemic.
Today LEGO Education released two tech-free solutions for hands-on STEAM instructions in schools. LEGO Education BricQ Motion resources are introductory learning solutions that enable teachers and students to feel more confident in STEAM learning by removing digital barriers and teaching physical science through fun and engaging sports-themed lessons for grades K-8. BricQMotion offers two classroom sets: BricQ Motion Essential for ages 6+ and BricQ Motion Prime for ages 10+.
Through BricQ Motion, students experiment with forces, motion, and interactions in the context of sports, such as skiing, gymnastics, derby car racing, and more. The action-packed curriculum meets core science standards across grades, fosters creativity and develops engineering and math skills.
Esben Stærk, president of LEGO Education, said: “Making learning engaging is more crucial than ever, and we are excited to bring two solutions to market that support teachers in the classroom and encourage students in the field of STEAM from a very young age. From understanding the cause and effect of push-pull forces via a tight rope walker balanced with weighted bricks to exploring Newton’s laws through land yachts and propeller cars, BricQ Motion was designed to engage even more students and teachers in the discovery of STEAM concepts.”
Designed for teachers by teachers, three curriculum units offer hours of educational content, as well as limitless possibilities with open-ended projects. Primary students plan and conduct investigations as they explore push and pull forces and observe patterns of motion, while secondary students apply their scientific inquiry skills based on an object’s force and mass. BricQ Motion also includes new elements to easily gather data (variables, angles, heights, and lengths) for analysis and synthesis, using visual math for a more creative, relevant, and fun way to learn.
Getting started is easy with teacher video guides, student videos and worksheets, assessment rubrics, tips to simplify or extend the lesson, and math and language arts extensions. Comprehensive professional development will be available for teachers to learn, practice, and master competencies to facilitate playful STEAM learning with confidence.
“I’ve used LEGO Education solutions for years, but I have colleagues who are nervous about diving into their technology rich solutions. BricQ Motion is perfect for them – it’s easy to get started, and without the technology aspect, adaptable to use with students whether it’s in-person, hybrid, or remote learning,” said Kristin Williams-Luthi, Science Instructional Coach at Gwinnett County Public Schools. “Even for experienced STEAM teachers like myself, I’m excited to get hands-on with BricQ Motion.”
In the U.S., BricQ Motion is available today for $99.95 per set at education.lego.com or as part of a Hybrid Learning Classroom Starter Pack that includes supplementary Personal Learning Kits. Flexible to use in classrooms and remote environments, the starter pack is designed to let students continue learning about forces, motion, and interactions no matter where the learning happens.
In other markets, BricQ Motion will be available for pre-order starting this month. You can contact your local sales representative or LEGO Education authorized reseller for complete pricing and availability.
In the market for a new set of wheels? Finding the perfect family car can be a daunting task when you’ve got kids to consider. After all, you’re not just looking for a car that looks good; you’ve also got to make sure your ride has the best safety features, is roomy enough to fit your brood, and has enough trunk space to haul all that parenting paraphernalia (sports gear, stroller, diaper supplies, etc.). Not sure where to start? We scoured expert reviews to find the best all-wheel cars, SUVs and minivans for families in 2021. Keep reading to see them all.
Best Sedans
2021 Honda Accord (Hybrid or Standard)
Last year's winner of Edmund's Mid-Size Sedan category was also named one of the "Best Cars for Families" by U.S. News & World Reports—and this year's model offers a hybrid model so you can save money on gas and teach your kids a little about environmental stewardship. Hybrid or not, the Honda Accord is an inexpensive, reliable car that has everything a small family needs to stay safe and happy on the road.
Best family-friendly features:
U.S. News calls the interior "cavernous," with comfortable seating for five and room for three car seats/boosters in the back row
16.7 cubic feet of trunk space makes for one of the biggest in its class, says Edmunds.
Passenger seats have tons of pockets and bins for all your kids' books and small items
Available heated and ventilated seats
Dual-zone climate control keeps everyone happy and warm (or cool)
Drawer inside the trunk for storing smaller items that may roll around while you're driving
Cargo hook for hanging grocery bags in the trunk
Wireless phone charger
Apple Car Play and Android Auto for connecting your phone's apps and music to the car
WiFi hotspot connectivity
Impressive fuel efficiency at 30 city/38 highway mpg for the standard model; 48/47 mpg for the hybrid model
Safety features:
Collision mitigation braking system will automatically apply brakes when the car detects a collision is unavoidable
Road departure mitigation system detects if you're straying from your lane and will help correct you or apply brakes if needed
Available Head Up display shows important driving information—speed, directions and incoming calls—in the driver's line of sight.
Remotely lock your car or see fuel status from your phone
Blind spot information system
A multi-angle rearview camera with available cross-traffic monitor
Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto-lock lets you lock and unlock your car without taking out your keys
Rear occupant seat reminder makes sure you don't forget anyone in the back when you exit the car
Sure, the Toyota Camry used to have a reputation for just-blah styling, but the 2021 version of one of America's most popular car now looks as sleek and stylish as its pricier colleagues. New this year, all models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, the automaker’s newest version of the groundbreaking driver assist technology suite that includes automatic emergency braking.
Best family-friendly features:
Two sets of LATCH car seat anchors in rear seats and upper anchor point for the middle seat
38 inches of rear legroom that make it easy to install car seats
Available heated and ventilated seats
Dual zone climate control keeps everyone comfortable
Apple Car Play and Android Auto for connecting your phone's apps and music to the car. Amazon Alexa compatible, if you'd like Alexa's help while driving
WiFi hotspot connectivity
Economical gas mileage at 25 to 52 mpg depending on whether you're driving the standard or hybrid model
Safety features:
Integrated backup camera with projected path helps you park safely and easily
Toyota’s Safety Sense includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection that can detect not only the vehicle ahead but also a preceding bicyclist in the daytime and even a preceding pedestrian in low-light conditions. At intersections, the system may detect an oncoming vehicle or pedestrian when performing a left-hand turn and may provide audio/visual alerts and automatic braking.
Lane departure alerts
Automatic high beam headlights automatically switch from high to low beams when it detects an oncoming car
Road sign assist can recognize some road signs and display them on the information screen
Adaptive cruise control
Rear seat reminder prompts you to check the back seat before you get out of the car
Rear cross traffic alert notifies you if there are cars coming your way as you back up
Starting price: $24,970 for the standard LE model/ $27,270 for the hybrid model
A stylish choice for small families who prefer a more sophisticated look on a budget, this five-person crossover was rated as one of the top Small SUVs by Consumer Reports, and is described by Edmunds as a "top contender in the compact crossover segment." It's a good choice if you're going to drive the same car to soccer as you are to the office.
Best family-friendly features:
Roomy interior
Remote start abilities let you warm up or cool down the car before you step inside
Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto
10.5-inch infotainment screen
Available heated front and rear seats
Wifi hotspot capabilities
Two USB ports
Rear power liftgate available in upper trims
Safety features:
Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
Blind spot monitoring
Lane departure warning
Rear cross traffic alert helps detect if there's a car coming your way as you're backing up
Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go will let the car do the driving for you, maintaining a safe distance with the car in front of you (and stopping if the car in front of you stops)
Day and night pedestrian detection will detect and, if necessary, apply the brakes to avoid hitting a pedestrian
Connect to the car via the Mazda app to start the engine remotely, lock and unlock the doors (so if you can't remember whether your kids left the doors unlocked, you can always check via your phone), check whether your lights are on and more. It can also help you find where you parked your car
Rear seat occupant reminder reminds you to check the back seat before you get out of the car
Comfortable and supple, according to Consumer Reports, the Subaru Forester works great for smaller families who don't want an SUV but still want a car with good off-road capabilities and standard all-wheel drive. New for 2021, the top safety-rated Subaru added steering responsive headlights (the lights move in the direction you steer) high beam assist and a rear seatbelt reminder that tells you exactly which passenger in your car is unbuckled).
Best family-friendly features:
Comfortable seating for five
11.6-inch vertical touch screen in the center console
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
Roomy rear seats
Two USB ports in front; two optional in the rear.
Built-in WiFi hotspot connectivity
Power rear gate
Remote engine start lets you warm up or cool down your car from your smartphone
Safety features:
Standard all-wheel drive on all models
EyeSight with advanced safety keeps you a safe distance from the car in front of you; it also detects objects in front of you that you're likely to hit and reduces power to the engine to help minimize the force and impact of a collision
Blind spot detection system notifies you if it detects vehicles in your blind spots
Automatic pre-collision braking
Adaptive cruise control with lane-centering technology
Lane departure warning will notify you if you stray out of your lane
Subaru Starlink will alert an operator if your car is involved in a crash and get you roadside help at the push of a button
Front and rear camera views keep you from missing anything on the road in front or behind you
Standard rear seatbelt reminder will tell you which seat is unbuckled.
Rear occupant reminder will remind you to check the back seat before you get out of the car
My Subaru app lets you set speed limits and boundaries to alert you if your (teenage) driver is speeding or going somewhere they're not supposed to go
This relative newbie in the midsize SUV class has wowed critics for its "cavernous interior, long list of creature comforts and long-trip-worthy road manners," according to Cars.com. Consumer Reports also hailed it as "surprisingly agile handling for its size." In a nutshell, this beauty's got some of the same style and upscale features as its higher-end counterparts—with a price far below them.
Best family-friendly features:
Seating for seven
Second-row captains chairs available, to make getting to the third row easier
Available panoramic sunroof
Second and third rows can be stowed flat for storage (or car camping!)
Apple Car Play/ Android Auto so you can easily play content from your phone
Five USB ports, two 12-volt outlets and a 115-volt household-style outlet keep everyone plugged in and entertained
Large second row and large door openings make it easier to get kiddos into those bulky rear-facing seats
Roomy third row makes seating easy, even when adults need to sit in the back
Safety features:
Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic warning and lane-keeping assist are all standard.
Road sign recognition
Rear view camera
Available with a turbo-charged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with all-wheel drive
The CarNet app allows you to remote start your engine, lock and unlock the doors, honk the horn and flash the lights—right from the app. It will also alert you when your vehicle has traveled outside of a preset "safe" zone (for when your kids are driving and you want to keep tabs on them)
The Intelligent Crash System will—in the event of an accident in which the airbags are deployed—turn off the fuel pump, unlock the doors and activate the hazard lights
Post collision Braking System that will slow the vehicle down after a collision, helping reduce the chance of any additional impacts
Named one of the Best Cars and Trucks for 2021 by Car & Driver magazine and Motor Trend's "Car of the Year" last year, the eight-passenger Kia Telluride has the tech to satisfy the kids and has the safety and reliability parents want. Plus, it's luxurious cabin earns rave reviews, with one C&D reviewer saying that "you get the experience of a luxury SUV without any pretense or badge-snob affectation."
Best family-friendly features:
Seating for up to eight
Available heated and ventilated front and second-row seats
In-car intercom to talk to rear passengers
Available reclining dual captain's chairs that slide forward with the push of a button for easy access to the third row
Dual rear sunroofs
USB ports for all passengers plus available wireless charging
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to easily connect your music and apps
Remote climate feature that lets you use your phone to warm up or cool down your car before you get inside
Find My Car system helps you locate your car in a crowded parking lot
One-touch sliding and folding second and third-row seats
Safety features:
Blind spot view monitor shows a live feed of your right rear blind spots and stops you if you try to change lanes while an object is detected in the blind spot
Rear occupant alert system can tell if you left your car with someone in the back seat—and alerts you accordingly
Standard Safe Exit Assist helps you get off the freeway without worry
Head Up display gives you important driving information (speed and road turns) on the front dash so you don't have to look down at your console while driving
Smart cruise control keeps your car a safe distance from the car in front of you and stops your car if needed
Emergency braking and warning system will warn you if you're approaching a stopped object and will apply brakes if needed
Lane-keeping technology keeps you from straying out of your lane
With its elegant interior and long range of safety features, the Volvo XC90 has consistently ranked highly in Edmunds list of Best Family Cars. New for 2021, Volvo has added adaptive headlights, front parking sensors, and a smartphone charging pad which now comes standard. Plus, there's also an optional hybrid version of the car that has all the stellar features of the original with the added bonus of a 55 miles-per-gallon fuel economy with the hybrid engine that allows you to use electric power when you want to and gas-power when you need to.
Best family-friendly features:
Comfortable seating for six (or seven if the second row middle seat is installed)
Apple Carplay & Android Auto comes standard
Two full sets of LATCH car-seat connectors in the second row, as well as a tether anchor for the middle seat
Massage function available for front seats (available in the T8 Hybrid model only)
Four-zone climate control keeps you cool up front even when your tots want it toasty in the back
Hands-free power liftgate
In-car WiFi hotspot
Safety features:
Intellisafe Assist offers adaptive cruise control, pilot assist and distance alert (all of which will keep you a safe distance from the car in front of you and in the center of your lane)
Road sign recognition
Rear cross-traffic alert will notify you if traffic is crossing behind you as you back up
Drowsy driver notifications
Forward collision warning sends a warning if a forward collision is imminent and automatically applies the brakes if needed
Blind spot and lane departure warnings
Optional protective grill keeps the contents of your trunk from flying forward in an accident (and works great as a barrier for your traveling dog).
"Red Key" remote, which can be given to younger drivers (or valet drivers) to encourage responsible driving. When used, it won't let your car go above 75 mph and will emit a warning when the car goes over 30, 45, and 50 mph. Also, it can restrict the volume level so your kids can't blast the radio while driving
Integrated second row booster seat that can be hidden in the seatback when not in use
Optional hands-free park assist as well as surround-view parking camera system.
This hefty family hauler—which was named one of the best three-row SUVs of 2020 by Motor Trend, with Edmunds calling it "one of the most luxuriously trimmed vehicles in the class"—checks out at less than $50,000 but comes with upscale touches including heated (and ventilated) first and second-row seats, an available in-car intercom, and a slew of safety features. New for 2021, Hyundai introduces Calligraphy, the "most premium Palisade" available, with an extra-sleek design, lighting enhancements, exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels, and quilted leather seating and door surfaces.
Best family-friendly features:
Seating for up to eight
Available in-car intercom lets you break up drive-time squabbles without raising your voice
Second-row captains chairs available, to make getting to the third row easier
Available dual sunroof
Available third-row power-folding seats
One-touch second-row access (another way to get into the back seat easily)
Apple Car Play/ Android Auto so you can easily play content from your phone
Second-row/ Optional third-row USB ports, plus wireless device charging in the front seat
Hands-free lift-gate for easy access to the trunk
Safety features:
Forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection
Smart cruise control automatically slows your car down to keep a safe distance from the car in front of you—and will even bring your car to a complete stop on its own if needed
Lane-keeping assist
Blind spot collision avoidance assist (on SEL and Limited models)
Available all-wheel drive
Driver attention warning sounds an audible tone or visual alert if it detects driver fatigue or inattention
Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance lets you know if there is a car approaching from the left or right when you're backing up—and will apply the brakes automatically if needed
Rear occupant alert system will remind you to check the rear seats before exiting when you turn off the engine; additionally, overhead ultrasonic sensors will monitor the back seat and activate a honking horn and flashing lights—as well as send an alert to your smartphone—if any movement is detected
Safe exit assist won't let you open your car door if sensors detect a car approaching from the rear
Surround view monitor shows a top-down view of your SUV when you park so you can avoid curbs (and other cars)
For big families that need lots of space for stuff, pets or gear, Car & Driver magazine called the 2021 Yukon "hard to beat." Listed at the top of the magazine's SUV rankings, it's got three rows of seating plus a roomy trunk that'll easily fit strollers, bikes or your dog if that's what you're going for (especially if you go for the XL model). New for 2021: This year's version is said to be better equipped, have a roomier cabin and more cargo space than last year's model.
Best family-friendly features:
Seating for seven
Second-row captains seats with Power-Assist fold and a walk-through console so your kids can easily get to the third row
Power-fold third row for when you've got to carry gear, luggage, or the dog in the back
Hands-free liftgate for easy access into the trunk
Second-row USB ports, plus optional wireless device charging in the front seat
A 10.1-inch screen in the front seat looks like an iPad (in other words, kids will love it)
Remote start system lets the car warm up before you get in
Optional massaging seats in the ST and Platinum trims
In-car WiFi
Safety features:
Forward collision warning
Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
Lane-keeping assist
Blind-Spot warning
Available all-wheel drive
Cross-traffic alert
360-degree camera
Adaptive cruise control with speed sign recognition and lane-centering technology is available on upper trims
If you like a rugged-looking car that's big enough to carry all the kids, dogs and gear your gang takes on the road, the Expedition has an impressive interior, loads of fun tech (massaging seats!) and four-wheel drive capabilities that make it easy to traverse snowy terrain. Edmunds rated it as its favorite large SUV for 2021, while Car & Driver called it a "workhorse for active families."
Best family-friendly features:
Huge interior cargo space, especially in the MAX version (which is a foot longer than the standard model).
Seating for up to 8
Optional second-row captains seats with a walk-through console so your kids can easily get to the third row
Power-fold second and third row for when you've got to carry gear, luggage, or the dog in the back
Hands-free liftgate for easy access into the trunk
Second-row USB ports, plus optional wireless device charging in the front seat
8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; rear seat entertainment systems available on the Limited, King Ranch and Platinum trims.
Remote start system lets the car warm up before you get in
Optional massaging front seats available in higher trims
In-car WiFi
Safety features:
Forward collision warning
Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
Lane-keeping assist
Blind-Spot warning
Available all-wheel drive
Cross-traffic alert
360-degree camera
Adaptive cruise control with speed sign recognition and lane-centering technology is available on upper trims
Sure, there's no denying it's a "Mom car," but there's a reason the Honda Odyssey has won Kelley Blue Books "Minivan Best Buy" award three years in a row, with Forbes calling it "still the best family car you can buy": It's got everything a parent needs to haul around a small tribe of children. If the interior vacuum cleaner doesn't sell you (seriously, so necessary), here are a few more reasons to check it out.
Best family-friendly features:
Seats up to eight, with LATCH accommodations for up to five car seats (it's also the only minivan to earn an IIHS top rating for ease of use of its LATCH child seat attachment hardware)
Built-in vacuum helps keep all those crumbs away
Interior camera helps parents keep an eye on the back seats, even in the dark
DVD player and folding 10-inch screen for movies and games
"Cabin Talk" feature helps the driver talk to the rear passengers through the rear speakers and the DVD headphones
Split-folding third row offers room for strollers (even unfolded ones) and offers hefty storage space when seats aren't folded into the floor
Remote start abilities let you warm up or cool down the car before you step inside
Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto
Optional cellular plan that'll allow you to stream videos directly to your car
In-car WiFi supports 4G LTE wireless streaming
Wireless charging pad in front seat as well as front and rear USB ports
Sun shades for second and third row passengers
Tri-zone climate control
Hands-free power tailgate lets you open the trunk by kicking your foot under the rear bumper
Safety features:
Eight standard airbags, including knee airbags for the front seats and side-impact curtain protection for all three rows
All trims include Honda Sensing (which features Collision Mitigation Braking System with Pedestrian Detection; Forward Collision Warning; Road Departure Mitigation, incorporating Lane Departure Warning; Lane Keeping Assist System; traffic sign recognition; and Active cruise control with a forward-collision warning system)
Automatic emergency braking applies the brakes when the car detects that a frontal collision is unavoidable
Lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist and Road Departure Mitigation all help keep you from veering off the road
Blind spot information system will alert you if vehicles are detected in your blind spots when you're changing lanes
Multi-angle rearview camera gives you extra eyes when you're backing up
Snow Mode recalibrates the car's traction system to give you more control in winter weather
Rear seat occupant reminder notifies you to check the back seats before you get out
The top-rated minivan by Consumer Reports, the 2021 Toyota Sienna has a slew of tech and safety features that make it a perfect people mover—and now all Siennas come standard with a gasoline-electric hybrid engine to save you a little on gas money. Plus, the 2021 debuts a redesigned look, and while the Sienna still looks like a Mom Car, it's got a slightly sportier look than in years past.
Best family-friendly features:
Seating for eight
Dual Blue Ray disc entertainment center featuring a 16.4 inch split-screen capable overhead display for kids to watch movies—plus two wireless headphones so those movies are for their ears only;
ISD and HDMI inputs plus two AC power outlets
Dual moonroofs give everyone in the car a view of the sky
Available dual power sliding doors that can be activated from the car's remote
Smart Key system lets you open the car doors by touching the handle and start the car with the push of a button (as long as the key is in your pocket or nearby)
Split & Stow third-row seat makes for plenty of available cargo space by folding the third-row seat into the floor
Auto access seat helps people with disabilities easily get in and out of the car by rotating the second-row seat outward and lowering it to nearly ground level
Driver Easy Speak System projects your voice to the back row, so your kids will hear you talking to them (most of the time, anyway)
Available WiFi connectivity through Verizon allows up to five users to connect to the car at one time (monthly charges apply)
Five USB ports to keep all those devices powered
With standard hybrid powertrain, you get up 36 mpg, a rare feat for a minivan
Sliding second-row seats can help third-row passengers get a little more legroom
Lower floor makes it easier for kids (and grandparents) to climb aboard
Safety features:
Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection will stop your vehicle if needed
Brake assist plus Smart stop technology
Dynamic radar cruise control keeps you at a safe distance from other cars
Available all-wheel drive (unusual for a minivan)
Blind spot detection system alerts you if a car or object is in your blind spot
Read cross traffic alert provides audible and visual alerts if there's something behind you or approaching your car when you're backing up
Lane departure alert with steering assist will detect if you're straying from your lane and help you by making "corrective steering inputs" to keep you in your lane
Automatic high beams activate high beams when it is night and the in-vehicle camera doesn't detect any cars in front of you
Backup camera plus Birds Eye View panoramic camera lets you see everything that's around you
With a mix of hybrid and remote learning models parents are looking for ways to keep their kids entertained while learning. The Britannica Kids Holiday Bundle and the Britannica Family Holiday Bundle are the perfect gifts this holiday season. Plus, both bundles are on sale just in time for the holidays.
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It’s Mando Monday and Columbia just announced its fifth collaboration with Star Wars. In December, you’ll be able to shop the special-edition Columbia Sportswear and Star Wars: The Mandalorian collection online and in select stores.
The five-piece lineup ranges from $40 to $300 and is rich in detail with fabrics that resemble the Mandalorian’s beskar armor and winks to storylines and characters. There are even secret messages written in the Mandalorian tongue, Mando’a. The collection includes an infant bunting inspired by The Child, kids jacket, heavyweight hoodie and gaiter and technical 3-in-1 jacket.
The Mandalorian Interchange Hybrid Jacket ($300) is inspired by Din Djarin’s armor and is constructed with a durable canvas and softshell construction with lightweight insulation and a powerful Omni-Heat™ 3D thermal-reflective lining. The Helmet Gaiter ($40) is made with water-resistant fabric, fleece lining, and stretchy soft shell construction. It comes with a coded message written in Mando’a on the fleece lining and a Mudhorn signet on the back label.
Keep your baby cozy in The Child Bunting ($50), with iconic ears and microfleece and ultra-soft Sherpa lining. Bigger kiddos can cuddle up with The Child Jacket ($75-$80), a water-resistant shell and Omni-Heat™ thermal-reflective lining, Sherpa fleece, a hood with stowable ears, a snackable Sorgan frog label, coded messages written in Mando’a, and a graphic screen print of the Child.
Finally, adults can layer up with the Heavyweight Hoodie ($120), a special-edition hoodie with a tonal Mando’a message.
Shop the new pieces at columbia.com/StarWars starting at 12:01 a.m. EST on Dec. 4 and at select Columbia-branded retail locations in the U.S.
Check-in: How is homeschool going? If you’re struggling to juggle everyone’s Zoom calls or just miss the everyday structure of school, a learning pod could be just what you and your family need to get some normalcy (not to mention your sanity) back.
Wondering how to put together a pod? We found a local company that does the work for you! Read on to learn more about what makes Scout next level and how they can help create a custom learning pod that will make this school year the best yet!
Learn more about Scout and book a free consultation with one of their pod coordinators today!
The Remote Learning Help You Need
Scout helps families navigate a remote or hybrid school year by making it easy to create a local learning pod. Schools (and parents!) are not necessarily equipped to offer a quality remote learning experience. A learning pod facilitator supports students, making sure they attend their online classes and grasp class material so they can dominate classwork, homework and beyond!
Who can benefit from a learning pod? Any school-aged kid! Remote schooling is even more difficult for elementary and middle school students, who are in the most critical years of their education. A learning pod can offer the opportunity to get ahead academically and help kids develop socially during this crucial period.
With the NYC Department of Education giving families one opportunity to decide on in-person or virtual learning for the year, now is the perfect time to look into learning pods! Scout is even offering families their first week in a learning pod free if they sign up before the decision window for in-person or virtual learning closes on November 15th.
Bring on the Dream Team
Scout provides the structure for learning pods to thrive by matching families with their network of high-achieving learning facilitators. Their learning facilitators are comprised of recent alumni of top universities like Columbia and Princeton along with veteran educators. They have been vetted, interviewed and trained to support students through their remote schooling. You can create your own group for your pod or Scout can help you create a pod by putting you in touch with families that have similar learning goals.
Together with families, facilitators cultivate a safe environment where kids can learn, socialize with their peers and give parents peace of mind (and a much-needed break) during the workday. Once your family is matched with a pod facilitator, you can rely on them to keep your child on track with their studies while also helping them grow socio-emotionally. Some learning facilitators even offer extracurricular activities!
Affordable + Flexible = YES
Families are matched according to their specific needs, which means more flexible and competitive pricing—as low as $12 an hour per family! Scout also offers flexible payment options.
Not only is Scout more affordable than many alternatives, it’s also flexible to fit your family’s schedule. Choose to meet daily or three times per week, either throughout the full school day or after school only. Another benefit we love is the ability to host your pod wherever your group feels best; whether it’s at home, outdoors, or a commercial space.
Learn more about Scout and book a free consultation with one of their pod coordinators today!
With remote and hybrid learning becoming the norm many kids are missing the excitement of in-person field trips. Kansas City-based Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) decided to create a cure for the “Zoom fatigue” facing countless kids and teachers. Hundreds of students across the country have been treated to surprise virtual field trips when local dairy farmers interrupted their classes with very special guests – their cows!
Family farmers who supply milk to local DFA dairy brands, such as Kemps, and their cows have been welcomed with cheers from the students as each farmer taught how the milk makes it from their farms onto families’ tables.
“It was priceless to see the kid’s reactions as they noticed a not-so-familiar face during our classroom Meet,” said Tricia Casey, a science teacher at Bryn Mawr Elementary School in downtown Minneapolis.
Unbeknownst to Casey’s kindergarten and first-grade students, local dairy farmer Charles Krause and his cow popped into the virtual classroom. “They went from bouncing around with excitement to hyper-engaged as they peppered Mr. Krause with questions,” Casey added.
“Milk from my farm travels less than 50 miles to the Kemps processing plant in Minneapolis,” said Krause. “Dairy milk was a farm-to-table food long before farm-to-table was trendy, and it’s fun to show kids exactly where their next glass comes from.”
Krause, along with family farmers across the Midwest, taught students a little cow biology, discussed the nutritional benefits of simple, wholesome milk and gave students an overview of a cow’s typical day on the farm. Students also learned the steps involved in getting milk ready for drinking, and how it’s transported from the farm to local stores.
“As kids continue to adjust to new ways of learning, we wanted to provide local students with a fun, educational experience that they wouldn’t get in a regular classroom,” said Rachel Kyllo, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Innovation, DFA Dairy Brands. “Making the ‘farm-to-table’ concept relevant for younger generations through the dairy milk they know and love helps spread awareness of the sustainability and local benefits associated with knowing who produces your food.”
On average, milk travels just 315 miles from the farm to a local store. It goes through strict controls to ensure its quality, purity and great taste. Dairy farmers and companies are often local small-business owners, parents, school supporters, and active members of community organizations.
This fall our schedules are ever-changing and the “morning craze” is real whether your kids are in school full-time, hybrid or remote. Kellogg’s Frosted Mini-Wheats knows how embarrassing a growling stomach from missing breakfast can be. Inspired by real families’ stories, Kellogg’s Frosted Mini-Wheats’ Morning Craze game serves up helpings of hilarity, perfect for adults and kids alike
Kellogg’s Frosted Mini-Wheats’ Morning Craze is the first board game designed with cereal-lovers in mind. Your beloved whole wheat cereal can help you avoid those awkward mishaps that occur if you miss breakfast, like snacking on your grocery order while you are standing in the check-out lane.
Kristin Hensley and Jen Smedley — comedians, best friends, mothers and creators of the #IMOMSOHARD community — know firsthand how accidentally skipping the first meal of the day brings on “The Growl.” True to their brand, they aren’t afraid to laugh about it.
“Parenting has been turned on its head in 2020, and with most family activities being relegated to our homes, the ‘morning craze’ is more real than ever,” Hensley said. “We’re Kellogg’s Frosted Mini-Wheats superfans and Morning Craze gives us much-needed comic relief.”
Smedley agreed. “We need laughs with our kids and love to get them around the table. Whether it’s at breakfast, second breakfast, lunch, snacktime, dinner or over a take-no-prisoners game round — we’re here for more crazy fun,” she said.
Kellogg’s Frosted Mini-Wheats wants to give families a chance to bring more than just breakfast to the kitchen table. Starting today, fans can enter for a chance to win their own Morning Craze board game and a box of Kellogg’s Frosted Mini-Wheats. Simply visit kfr.com/MorningCraze and submit a growl story of your own and you could win the only game (and cereal) that helps the whole family silence “The Growl.”
In Morning Craze, you’ll face “The Growl” together and travel around the game board to brave the silly consequences of missing your morning bowl of Kellogg’s Frosted Mini-Wheats, while gathering pieces of cereal as you go. Beware: If “The Growl” gets you, like when you score the game winning goal in the other team’s net, you’ll be forced to face the fallout. The player who ends up with the most Kellogg’s Frosted Mini-Wheats pieces silences “The Growl” and wins.
“Kellogg’s Frosted Mini-Wheats solves your breakfast dilemma and keeps ‘The Growl’ at bay,” said Daya Pillai, brand manager for Kellogg’s Frosted Mini-Wheats. “Morning Craze embraces the humor of jam-packed morning schedules and allows families to poke fun at their own growl stories.”
Join the conversation on social using #FrostedMiniWheats and #MorningCraze, and hear more from #IMOMSOHARD on Facebook and Instagram. For more information, follow @FrostedMiniWheats on Facebook and Instagram and visit FrostedMiniWheats.com.