Category: Well-Being | Human Interest

Doodle for Google: The Student Contest Unleashing Creativity

Attention all K-12 students in the United States. Doodle for Google submissions are now open for the 2024 contest!  It’s time to Doodle Your Future!  In celebration of Google’s 25th anniversary, the theme this year is “My wish for the next 25 years”.  Entry deadline is March 21, 2024.

This contest for kids takes place in other select countries as well, but not always at the same time.  To find out more search ‘Doodle for Google’ followed by your country name.

Get all the details and submit your entry at https://doodles.google.com/d4g/.

What is Doodle for Google?

Doodle for Google is a drawing contest where school aged kids from K-12 and compete by submitting their personal Google logo drawings.

It happens every year from around the end of January to mid March when submissions are due.

Contestants must be enrolled in a school in the United States, or a school Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory, freely associated states, or The District of Columbia.

Every year, Doodle for Google has a new them that kids are to base their Doodle on.

The History of Doodle for Google

Imagine: The year is 1998, the internet’s still figuring itself out, and Google’s already on its way to ruling the web as a search engine. But hey, even tech ventures need a bit of creative flair, right?

So, even in these early days, Google was just a baby, fresh out of the garage. And Google’s founders, Larry and Sergey, had this neat idea to spruce up their logo. And bam! The first-ever Google Doodle was born!

Fast forward a few years, and in 2008, Larry Page and Sergey were out of the office attending the Burning Man festival. They added a simple stick figure drawing behind the second ‘o’ in the word “Google.”  People loved it. It was like a little burst of joy on their screen, like finding a surprise in your cereal box.

So, Google was like, “Hey, let’s do more of this!” And the tradition of creating doodles to celebrate holidays, anniversaries, and notable events started from there.

Since then, it’s been a wild ride of creativity, with kids from all over the U.S. doodling their hearts out for a chance to feature on Google’s homepage. Each year, there’s a different theme that gets those creative juices flowing. It’s a chance for young artists dream big and doodle bigger.

But it’s not just about the fame and glory (although that’s pretty sweet). Google also hooks up the winners with some epic prizes, like college scholarships and tech goodies.

That’s a very brief story of Doodle for Google: turning doodles into dreams and making the internet a whole lot more colorful, one click at a time!

Doodle for Google Contest

The Google contest is an awesome opportunity for students to let their creativity shine on a global stage. Every year, the search engine throws open its virtual doors and invites K-12 students across the United States. It unleashes imaginations as kids doodle their hearts out around a specific theme.

How the Contest Works

First, Google announces a theme that’s all about sparking creativity and getting those artistic gears turning. Themes can range from “What Inspires Me” to “My Best Day Ever” to “Inventions That Make the World a Better Place.” Then, it’s up to the students to let their imaginations run wild and turn that theme into a one-of-a-kind doodle masterpiece.

Once the doodles are doodled, students submit their entries, crossing their fingers for a shot at Google fame. There is a round of online voting by the public, followed by a panel of judges sifting through the entries and choosing the finalists.

What is Doodle for Google?

Finally, after much anticipation and nail-biting, Google announces the winners. These lucky doodlers not only get the bragging rights of having their artwork showcased on Google’s homepage for millions to see. Various prizes are awarded.

So, whether you’re a budding Picasso or just love to doodle in your spare time, the Doodle for Google contest is your chance to make your mark on the internet and maybe even change the world, one doodle at a time.

Read about Doodle for Google Games that Google lovers can play.

Doodle for Google in other countries:

Google is a global search engine with head offices in multiple countries.  So, it only makes sense there are Doodle for Google contests in various countries besides as well.

Each country where the contest is held may have its own set of rules, themes, and prizes tailored to the local context.

Some Google Doodles are limited to Google’s country-specific home pages while others appear globally.

To find Doodle for Google in your country, just Google it!  😊

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Can Excessive Screen Time Fuel Compulsive Behaviors and Addictive Patterns?

Person holding a phone with a purple flower on the screen

Every day, our lives grow more intertwined with technology. This shift brings numerous advantages but also introduces some challenges. From the moment we open our eyes in the morning until we close them at night, we’re constantly connected through various gadgets that serve as our windows to the outside world.

This constant connectivity brings to light a significant concern: the possibility that too much screen time could encourage addictive behaviors and patterns. Here we aim to dissect how our engagement with technology affects our sleep habits, mental health, and overall wellness.

Grasping this connection is vital for safeguarding our health and that of our communities as we move deeper into a digital-dominated era.

Understanding screen time

Smartphones and digital devices have drastically altered our interaction with the world and information at large. They’ve reshaped our entertainment, communication, and work habits. Concerningly, new studies show a significant increase in our daily screen time, with some individuals clocking in more than 11 hours a day attached to their devices. This development is not surprising, considering the pervasive role of technology in every aspect of our daily activities.

A notable study from Harvard Medical School focuses on the quality of screen time, examining its influence on brain development and its effects on sleep patterns, particularly among children and teenagers. Recognizing the risks associated with excessive screen use and finding ways to mitigate its effects are crucial steps toward healthier living.

Various tech devices, including tablets and phones, on an office table.

Unfortunately, some people spend up to 11 hours on their phones daily!

The psychology behind screen usage

The allure of phones lies in their ability to fulfill diverse human needs quickly and efficiently. They provide instant gratification, a sense of social connection, and endless avenues for information and entertainment. This multifaceted appeal is rooted in the brain’s reward system. When we engage with screens, especially in activities like gaming or social media browsing, our brain releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure and reward. This release can create a feedback loop, reinforcing usage and making it an increasingly desirable activity.

Delving into digital addiction causes and symptoms, we find that this pursuit of digital interaction begins to rewire the brain’s reward pathways. It can potentially lead to compulsive use patterns that resemble those seen in other forms of addiction. Understanding these psychological mechanisms is key to addressing the challenges posed by our digital lives.

Compulsive Behaviors and Addictive Patterns

Getting to the bottom of the impact of screen time requires understanding its connection to compulsive behaviors and addictive patterns. Despite negative consequences, these behaviors are characterized by an irresistible urge to engage in an activity. In more simple words, it means letting screen usage dominate your life. People who have this issue prioritize screen time over everything else and experience withdrawal symptoms when they are not using it.

Looking at digital addiction more closely reveals the link between excessive screen time and the risk of developing addictive behaviors. Specifically, it highlights the importance of conscious and regulated use of technology in our daily lives and the need for awareness and intervention in managing our digital interactions.

Word ADDICTION written on a dark background

Excessive screen time can lead to compulsive behavior and addictive patterns.

Navigating the digital landscape responsibly

Considering all these issues, responsibly navigating the digital landscape is very important. Thus, we must educate ourselves and the younger generations about all the risks of too much screen time. Also, we must understand the mechanics of this addiction and work on creating a healthier relationship with technology. Digital literacy should be taught and promoted in schools, workplaces, and family environments. Encouraging activities that improve our physical, mental, and social well-being away from the screens is also important.

In addition, policymakers and technology companies should be called upon to consider the implications of digital products. Specifically, they should advocate for designs that promote healthier usage patterns. If we all work together, we can extract the benefits of technology while minimizing its effects on our mental health.

Impact of excessive screen time on mental and physical health

Health issues that can arise from too much screen time are eye strain, disrupted sleep patterns due to blue light exposure, and a sedentary lifestyle.

However, the psychological consequences can be much harder to come back from. Using smartphones and other devices too much is not just a behavioral concern. Over time, excessive screen use can become a major health concern. It’s known to affect mental health significantly, leading to higher instances of anxiety, depression, and issues with concentration. Bright Futures Treatment Center, renowned for its expertise in substance abuse recovery, warns that too much screen time can cause feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can seriously impact mental health. This can drive individuals towards substance abuse as a form of escapism. It’s common for different types of addiction to coexist, which even further emphasizes the importance of seeking professional help early to stop the problem from getting worse.

Physical and mental health risks highlight the need for a more balanced approach to screen time usage. Plus, they show how important it is to seek professional help when necessary.

Man in a white shirt sleeping

Blue light from the screens can mess up your sleep patterns and affect your health.

Mitigating risks and healthy screen habits

In order to stay mentally and physically healthy, you must balance screen time. Taking breaks and digital detoxes from time to time can be very helpful. Also, parents must establish clear screen time limits for their children. That teaches them to have a healthy relationship with technology from a young age.

Additionally, you should always keep track of your usage as it can help you clearly understand your habits. Incorporating other activities into your daily routine is also helpful. You can take up physical exercise, reading, or hobbies to ensure a fulfilling lifestyle. Finally, preventing other health risks through regular eye exams and medical check-ups is a smart and responsible choice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the connection between excessive screen time and the development of compulsive behaviors and addictive patterns is a growing concern in our digitalized society. Thus, you should explore the impact of screen habits on your health and take the necessary steps toward fostering a healthier relationship with technology. If you want to continue integrating technology into your daily life, you must work to understand and manage your usage. Finding a balance is key. The aim should be to keep technology as a means of improvement, not something that harms our overall health and happiness.

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Keys to Maturity: How Cars Can Teach Teens Unique Life Lessons

Keys to Maturity: How Cars Can Teach Teens Unique Life Lessons

Finally being able to drive a car is a right of passage for just about every teenager. If your teen recently got behind the wheel or is about to, they’ve probably been looking forward to it for years. But, cars can teach teens life lessons about more than just road safety and getting from one place to another.

Vehicle ownership requires a lot of responsibility. Your teen being able to drive themselves places for the first time also puts a lot of weight on their shoulders, but that can be a good thing when you use those responsibilities as teachable moments.

So, while it’s great for your teen to be excited about getting a car and driving, don’t hesitate to teach them about the positive impact car ownership can have on their personal development. This can also encourage you, as a parent, to feel better about your teen getting behind the wheel.

Financial Responsibility

One of the first things your teenager will have to learn about purchasing and owning a car is the financial responsibility that comes with it. Even if you helped them out by gifting them a vehicle or paying for some of it, buying a car is really only the beginning. There are plenty of additional expenses to consider, including:

  • Fuel costs
  • Maintenance
  • Insurance

Talk to your teen about value-driven spending. It can be tempting for a new driver to want to get out as much as possible. For a teenager, that might include things like going to the movies with their friends every weekend, heading to a local fast food spot after school, or planning a road trip over spring break.

While there’s nothing wrong with those ideas, they can deplete your teenager’s funds quickly, leaving them with financial stress. Value-driven spending focuses on the things that matter most. Ask your teenager to break down their spending categories and determine which things are wants and needs. This is a good way to start building a budget with your teenager. It teaches them to take a look at where their money is going, where they can cut back, and how they can make the most of what they have.

Problem-Solving and Decision-Making

When your teen went through driver’s education to get their license, they had to learn a lot about making smart, quick decisions behind the wheel. While safety should be a top priority for your teenager, driving also gives them the opportunity to make decisions even when they’re not on the road.

As a parent, one of the best things you can do is to set clear expectations about your teenager and their car. Those expectations should include how often they can use the car, curfews, and where they can go. With those boundaries in place, it’s up to your teen driver to make smart decisions — sometimes at a moment’s notice. They have to prove that they can keep a curfew, stay in the safe parts of town, and use the car responsibly.

They’ll also have to learn how to solve problems that might come up with the car. What will they do if they get a flat tire while driving home? Who can they call if the “check engine” light comes on? Granted, it’s important for you to be able to help and guide them as they work through these problems. But, don’t solve every issue for them.

Giving them guidance and letting them solve real-world problems on their own will improve their decision-making skills. It will also help to boost their confidence, which can help their overall mental well-being. Building self-esteem now can help your teenager stand more firmly in who they are when they’re out on their own for the first time.

Moreover, if they learn how to fix mechanical issues that pop up, it can do even more than increase their self-esteem. Your teen’s interest in the workings of their vehicle could turn into a fascination with mechanical engineering or another STEM field as they grow older. Given that it’s important to boost participation in STEM, your teen’s experience with the mechanics of their car could see them excelling in a focus that is essential to the workings of society in general.

Depending on the type of car your teen has, you might be able to fine-tune the lessons you can teach them. For example, driving a truck is different from zooming around in a sports car. Teaching your teen how to properly drive a truck might include focusing on specific maintenance, accounting for the size of the vehicle while driving, and ensuring they understand the different parts of the vehicle.

It might seem overwhelming, at first, but helping your teenager understand these things can serve as a bonding opportunity for you, and it will give them the information they need to make decisions about their vehicle on their own if a problem arises.

Enforcing Accountability

Owning a vehicle can teach your teenager the importance of accountability. Being able to drive often means being able to take themselves to school, work, and extracurricular activities. They’ll be responsible for getting themselves to those places on time.

If they’ve struggled with time management in the past, owning a car can help them learn the importance of getting themselves ready sooner, knowing when they need to leave, and understanding how they can make the most of their schedule.

The most important thing you can teach your teen about driving is that it’s a privilege. They’ll learn plenty of life lessons behind the wheel, from keeping themselves and others safe to understanding the impact that driving will have on their lives. Keep the conversation open, and make sure you’re always available to guide them as they start this new chapter. It’s a big step into adulthood, and it’s essential not to ignore the life lessons that will naturally come from it.

About the Author
About the AuthorKatie Brenneman is a passionate writer specializing in education, mental health, family lifestyle and online safety. When she isn’t writing, you can find her with her nose buried in a book or hiking with her dog, Charlie. You can follow her on Twitter.

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Unplugged Services: Helping Parents Establish Healthy Tech Foundations

Helping Parents Establish Healthy Tech Foundations

When you think of all the technological advancements throughout human history, technology used primarily for communication to the masses was relatively new. And compared to the last 15 years, the rate of progression was gradual; from radio in the 1920’s, to television in the 1930’s, to the first personal computer in the 70’s, and the creation of the internet.

For those of us growing up before there was a personal computer in every home or school, you would still hear about kids spending too much time in front of the TV. Who would have predicted there would be personal TV in everyone child’s pocket, much less a TV that communicated both ways.

The Need to Unplug

Besides entertainment in the palm of our hands, the ability to connect with anyone in the world at any time has also brought additional challenges. It’s easy to forget how fast it happened.

At Safe Search Kids, we have extensively covered the topic of screen time and the need to unplug relative to a child’s well-being. Our writers have explored the effects on a child’s social life, cyberbullying, early child development, lack of physical activity, anxiety, addictive behavior for gamers and on social media.

Even for adults, it’s a struggle for us to see how well our friends are doing when we compare ourselves with “the moments best of their lives” on social media posts.  A lack of screentime boundaries for people of all ages has led to an increase in people feeling alienated, lonely, and depressed.

Unplugged Services

Safe Search Kids is proud to support the work of organizations that promote well-being in our quickly advancing technological world. Unplugged Services focuses on Helping Parents Establish Healthy Tech Foundations for Their Children. They seek partnerships to gain traction and promote a shared goal of ensuring children’s safety online.

Company Overview:

Unplugged Services was founded in October of 2023 by David Grajzl and two other partners.

They work to ensure that parents of today’s youth are properly equipped with the knowledge and resources necessary to instill screen time maturity, social media safety, and overall awareness of the multiple dangers associated with the use of devices.  Unplugged Services provides education on how decisions they make now can and will affect them later, as well as impacting their own children.

Products and Services:

Unplugged Services currently provides:

  • 5+ online courses that help guide parents to ensure digital safety for their child.
  • A free monthly newsletter. Unlock a wealth of invaluable insights with Unplugged Services complimentary monthly newsletter, designed to keep you well-informed and intrigued about your child’s digital behavior. Explore the details of this exclusive resource here and elevate your understanding of your child’s online experience.
  • Online events and seminars led by subject matter experts. Granting passionate and caring parents like you the opportunity to voice your questions and opinions to experts and professionals.
  • To view their courses, newsletter, and online events please website follow this link, Unplugged Services.

Client Testimonials and Endorsements

Client Testimonials

“Unplugged Services has been a game changer for my teenager. I absolutely love their monthly newsletter. Thank you!” – Anonymous

“I’m grateful for the guidance provided by Unplugged Services. My child now understands the importance of responsible social media usage.” – Anonymous

Unplugged Services as recently been endorsed by Delaney Ruston who has produced numerous films regarding teen screen safety reaching audiences in the millions.

Final Thoughts

It would be foolish to think that the human race has reached the precipice of technological advancement.  We have not even mentioned the future advancement coming in virtual and augmented reality, robotics, quantum and edge computing, and of course artificial intelligence.

All these new and wonderful things can improve efficiency and better our society in numerous ways. There are also benefits in education as we offer effective resource tools to parents and schools. But we must also ask the question.  What is the human cost if we forget where we came from as family units and communities.  What new problems will we face if we forget to set up consistent ways to unplug from the technology?

The future is in the hands of educators and parents alike. We can better connect if we learn to unplug and teach our children to do the same.


Quotes to Live and Unplug By

Unplugging helps you refocus on yourself instead of being pulled in a zillion different directions. Those directions may all be important, but you are just as important. – Arin Murphy-Hiscock (Author)

Especially when you have a lot going on, you must find a way to unplug and focus on yourself. – Mandy Ingber (Author)

I try to make a point in my life to leave the cellphone in the car sometimes, to try to unplug as much as possible. – Tom Green (Comedian)

We do well to unplug regularly. Quiet time restores focus and composure. – Daniel Goleman (Psychologist)

Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes … including you. – Anne Lamott (Novelist and Non-Fiction Writer)

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