#learn and demonstrate real life skills in game

[13thpythagoras]

seeking video game beta testers - "Is progress just a myth? Can we abstain from total destruction?"

Developing a video game to be released on this blog under this name

This game contains a package of minigames that govern the overall game. Educational and mysterious, free form and non-dual.

13th Pythagoras's Abstainment & Advancement, is the game's working title

Graphic design styles to work with

Definitely in graphic designer co founder search mode

[paper-mario-wiki]

Shangri-La Frontier mid-season review

This is by far the best fake video game I've ever seen written in fiction.

Most MMO-centric isekai stories have trouble with providing accurate and realistic depictions of the complexities and minutia that give MMOs the allure they have. I've seen so much handwavey bullshit tacked onto fake-games that introduce unrealistically overlooked mechanics for reasons like giving the protag immense power just because they're the protag and the story is about them. A good example of this is another MMO Isekai airing this season, "A Playthrough of a Certain Dude's VRMMO Life", wherein the main character becomes extremely rich, powerful, and famous by episode 2 because he stumbled into a stealth archer playstyle, a build which apparently no human in that universe had ever conceived of before, and then making a fortune by selling basic potions to everyone after NPCs stopped selling them (another thing he was uniquely able to do because not a single other player had the forethought to spec into alchemy). These lesser, dime-a-dozen isekai add up to be boring fantasy strories with gaming elements clumsily put in so that the author can demonstrate how powerful the world's inhabitants are by showing their stat allocation screen instead of, say, explaining anything about what they do that's so uniquely powerful and how they figured it out. Ya know, stuff you'd hope to hear about from any competent story.

Shangri-La Frontier is a breath of fresh air for anyone who, like me, is sick of authors ignoring the things that actually make video games compelling in service of creating a stock-standard narratives in fantasy worlds because it allows them to get away with bullshit. I've always found it very convenient that many isekai narratives indulge in things like chattel slavery, because it's societally normal enough for the protag to purchase a beautiful, vulnerable girl to add to his harem (dont worry, she is always inexplicably in love with him no matter what because he's SUCH a kind master). And it never really seems to go anywhere. Because the Video Game Isekai, while an interesting premise in theory, is more often than not used exclusively as a means to simplify the structure of a world's power scaling to abide by an arbitrary set of omnipresent universal rules (e.g. what people who have never cared to look into game development think of video games). This anime, by comparison, is VERY clearly authored by someone who plays a LOT of games.

Every piece of logic used to drive the plot forward, so far, is congruent to a real-world example of video game conventions, and I'm not just talking about levelling up and selling monster parts. Story elements that I've rarely (if ever) seen explored in other isekai are ever-present and genuinely clever and amusingly introduced. My favorite example of this so far has been the way the protagonist has been able to go head to head with so many overlevelled foes in the first 9 episodes. The story of course makes note of how good of a gamer Sanraku (our hero) is, but much like in real life games, being super duper good at dodging attacks doesn't really make up for a 70 level gap in items and learned skills. For that reason, he gets his ass whooped more often than he actually outsmarts others (so far he hasn't beaten a single player in pvp). So how is he getting out of these situations without dying so frequently? Simple: he got access to a later area too early relative to his level (sequence break) and got access to a high level follower NPC that's been carrying him. This is something he acknowledges directly several times, specifically using words like "Emul has been hard-carrying me for a while." This, to me, is extraordinarily meaningful. That's something you can exploit in Skyrim, man. That's REALISTIC CHEESE STRATS. The excitement and wonder I find in this show doesn't come from watching the protag do something unexpected, but by watching him do something that I would think to do.

This knowledge the author has demonstrated regarding modern gaming culture extends further into the actual realistic nature of game design and community. The story exists in a reality where full-dive VRMMOs are the be-all-end-all of gaming, and given the prohibitively expensive nature of developing and designing expansive, immersive worlds, most games are pretty shit. It's been hinted at so far that this is due to a monopolistic megacorp which is one of the only entities rich and powerful enough to make a good game (the game in question being the one that shares the title of the anime), but so far the strife of the characters have been pretty centralized to the happenings of the game world and its politics. By the way, lets talk about the game world's player base politics, which I'm also quite pleased with. It exists in the form of guilds and clans who struggle for power not by participating in seemingly random pvp with other powerful players to see who is the most epic and badass warrior (again, like many contemporary isekai typically opt for), but by gaining actual realistic support from a fictional playerbase with realistic desires and playstyles. Some guilds are interested in lore, some gather for alliance and boss raids, some for things like animal husbandry, and (naturally) at least one is dedicated to trolling and PKing. Each of these factions, through the very little that we've seen of them so far, communicate on forums and only know as much as is reasonable for them to know. The only reason they give a shit about the protagonist at all is because he gained access to a high-level unique scenario quest that they want information on how to access, and the only reason word of that got out in the first place was because someone posted a screenshot of him with a unique NPC onto a forum, asking about it as "where can i find this pet summon, its super cute!" That's real. That's video games, baby.

I like this show a lot so far. I like that it cares about video games, but I also like its writing. I like the main character and how hes less of an ultra badass super cool guy, and more of an earnest challenge-run lets player. Like, a lot of his dialogue straight up sounds strikingly similar to Japanese youtubers. And he's naturally always quick to point out inconsistencies in the game world's logic. I ALSO really like his community of pals from a janky old fighting game, and I ADORE the girl from his school who has a crush on him and also just so happens to be an exceptionally high level player from a top clan, and how she had to spend 9 episodes working up the courage to send him a friend request. I love that so, so much, dude.

I highly recommend this show if you're into a single thing I've mentioned. The animation is great. The world is beautiful. The character design is immaculate. And I'm looking forward to watching it continue.

[but-a-humble-goon]

It feels so fucking weird that Rockstar of all studios somehow created one of the most subversive and well written female supporting characters in gaming's recent years.

Sadie's introduced, shall we say, exactly as you'd expect a woman to in these kinds of stories. She's a damsel in distress, horrifically victimized by a gang of violent thugs who the "heroic" Dutch gang demonstrate they are better men than by rescuing and comforting her then being motivated by her suffering into taking action to kill the guys who did this to her. And if that had been the last we'd ever seen of Sadie she would fit right in with so many women in the background of so many westerns.

Instead though, she sticks around for the whole story, learns the gun, eventually becomes one of the most reliably skilled (and unhealthily enthusiastic) killers in the gang and wreaks her own bloody path of vengeance against what's left of the O'Driscolls, mercilessly hunting them to the last man in a fashion so violent even the hardened lifelong criminals are a little taken aback.

Now that's already doing a lot to be subversive but I think the thing that most got me about her story is it avoids becoming straightforwardly a "good person becomes corrupted into a monster by trauma and violence" story. Sadie goes very, VERY dark sure and she even gets the Unforgiven/Shane ending where there's no going back from the killing for her. John Marston gets to go live a mostly peaceful domestic life on a ranch with his family (at least until RDR1 happens) but Sadie decides this is all she has left and becomes a bounty hunter

Despite all that though, Sadie Adler never really stops being a good person. At least good relative to RDR2 where everybody's a criminal and a murderer. She takes charge, saves the whole gang and holds them all together when things are at their worst and even when the chips are down and the gang turns on itself and begins to drown in its own blood she remains one of the real ones. She comes to be one of the last people Arthur can rely on in the world. She consistently protects the others and puts them before herself. She always helps without ever needing to be asked. She never leaves anybody behind.

Something that stands out to me is there's multiple times where she assertively protects the male protagonists. She orders Arthur to stay well behind while she goes in to save Abigail by herself because he's sick and she keeps trying to talk John into going home to be with his family because unlike her he has something to lose.

Basically Sadie Adler is great and I love her. She's so much more textured, nuanced and just plain awesome than we normally get especially in stories of this kind and her story is handled with an honestly shocking amount of sympathy that I have come to really not expect from Rockstar.

[sergeifyodorov]

hmm i was scrolling through Twitter earlier and as the designated leafs blog in my mind, what are your thoughts on fraser minten? like he’s so interesting to me because in the narrative i’ve created of him he was tavares’ fifth child but then was our balanced by knies being better, but then wjc happened and he still couldn’t crack it. now he’s on the blades (one of the best whl teams i think??) very interesting

NARRATIVELY he's definitely The Tavares Child -- okayyyy so. Sew. this New Generation of leafs (imho starting at Knies and including Easton Cowan as well as minten) kind of... each parallel a member of the Core: Knies is Auston's child (Arizona boy, big strong forward), Cowan is Mitch's child (London Knight, small winger with endless energy) and Minten is JT's child (Captain anywhere he goes, known for maturity and intelligence)... william child + morgan child ->

anyHWAY the real life scouting report under the cut (not too long i don't think)

Minten's a high second-rounder, which is the type of player that's generally designated as an "upper maybe" NHLer -- by which I mean odds-on he'll get NHL games (as Mints has) but it's less likely he'll become a serious full-time player (although many a second-rounder can and does do so!) The most interesting thing about his draft position was that the Leafs, under Kyle Dubas, traded DOWN to get him -- we had a low first-rounder, then traded it to Chicago to get rid of the Mrazek contract and got the pick that would become Mints in return. Many a source says that Kyle wanted Mints anyway and would have taken him with the first-round pick.

The general consensus is that Mints tops out as a middle-six centre, a 3C on a good team or a 2C on a worse one (or a 1C on the Boston Bruins.) His ceiling is probably about 40 or 50 points, maybe more depending on how much power-play usage he gets.

However, it's also noted (and was pretty obvious to me, even watching him at the WJC -- which I'll get to in a second!) that his real value is not and will likely never be in point production. He's a natural centre, good-to-great at faceoffs (a skill that he learned in part from JT!!) and very good defensively. Because he's still a kid, plays a bit physically and tends to be involved in the play at both ends, he probably takes a few too many undisciplined stick infractions, but these things of course can be straightened out with time and wisdom. Also, he's a touch of a personality hire: he was the youngest A on the all-timer Kamloops Blazers last year and was pretty much immediately named C after the Leafs sent him home this year; he was named captain of the CANADIAN WORLD JUNIORS team with zero other experience playing for Canada on the national level. He plays the piano! He's smart, polite, doesn't cause a fuss, wise beyond his years. Takes a guy far.

Anyway, the WJC: just an absolute hackjob by the coach and one of those years that really demonstrates that Hockey Canada still thinks it can get ahead by being Canada (the ol' throw bodies at the wall shtick) and not, like, because of its actual quality of development. I think bowing out when they did was a bit unlucky, but they absolutely were NOT primed to win it all -- especially because the coach basically seemed to have no concept of... line construction? or anything of the sort? Like he just tossed players together from a hat once (1) and decided they were just going to play out the tourney like that -- no real concept of "x is the playmaker, y is the shooter, z is the forechecker" or "these three are the transition line that take d-zone draws and use their speed to create rush chances/o-zone draws" or even something so simple as "this defensively-minded, slower centre is perhaps not the best match for the winger notorious for being opportunistic and shooty." Also, not to put too fine a point on it but a player can have a bad WJC and it doesn't mean anything, or a good WJC and it also doesn't mean anything -- Jesse Puljujarvi rose his draft stock by a good chunk in 2016 by having a FANTASTIC WJC, and he's currently on an AHL tryout. It's a small sample size, mostly played with teammates they barely know and against competition about a half-step up from what they're used to. Weird statlines happen.

Back to MINTS because we're still talking about him. Yess currently he's on the Blades -- traded from the Blazers because the Blazers are garbage and they want to Do Right By The Player and put him on a competitive team (done for two reasons: one, because it can be demoralizing to be the best player on a bad team, and two, because being on a good team in juniors often means you get actually good-for-your-development linemates and usage). He was generally not expected to make the Leafs at ALL this season (I mean, 20-year-old second-rounder, right?) and cracking the roster out of camp, even though he only got three games and has a rather blank statline is SUPER impressive. I'm pretty sure this is his last year of CHL eligibility, after which he'll probably either get put on the Marlies for a year to keep cooking or he'll make the Leafs again and stick around. Either way, he's slid twice I think so we burn a year of his ELC.

and my opinion of the boy? I love him. Let's go baby leafs baby leafs forevar

[hurlumerlu]

The waiting game.

A short THK fanfic (AO3)

Kant had winked before his jump.

He had looked pitiful, barefoot in his hospital gown, so out of place on the deck of the boat, and about ready to piss himself – but he had winked. As if he couldn’t leave Bison without giving him one last crumb of connivance, one last we’re gonna be fine. All this had told Bison was that Kant wasn’t so sure of it himself.

Bison hadn’t rushed to the side of the boat, nor watched the waters for a sign, and he certainly hadn’t dived in. He had stuck to the plan – Kant’s plan – and fled the fast-arriving cops.

"Relax", Kant had said on the drive from the hospital. "Kidnapping me was the hardest part."

Alone now, in another car, Bison begs to differ.

But no need for dramatics. Kant’s a great swimmer, and greater yet at getting out of a bind. He had spent an evening demonstrating this skill very literally, back when Bison still thought it was all just games, and it had taken some real creativity to keep him tied-up. It had been worth it, then, to see the confidence give way to frustration, to helplessness, to pleasure.

It’s worth far more now.

Sure, there’s a difference between freeing yourself to show off in bed, and doing the same thing underwater. Panic makes you clumsy and dumb. But Kant’s steady under pressure, right? Even starring down the barrel of a gun, at the wrong end of Bison’s wrath, he had kept his head. One life-threatening situation’s the same as another, Kant would say if he was here.

Then he would add something like "the sea’s got nothing on you, my love", with sly bedroom-eyes, and Bison would bury his fingers in his man’s hair and pull, hard, until – hmm. Maybe not that. Kant would be at the wheel.

Bison would say "you’re going to stop the car" and Kant would only hum, but he’d already be looking for a place to pull over, and when Bison would specify "if you know what’s good for you" he would get that slow widening smile, anticipatory and provocative, and – fuck, Bison hates driving.

Hates it now more than ever, in this busted car on these busted roads with a busted radio, and nothing but the cloying, cloying silence.

The safe house is empty when he arrives, like he knew it would be. Bison had to evade patrols, he took a number of detours and bumpy, winding paths, but Kant will likely have to come on foot, and before that he’ll need to reach one of their supply caches – he also warned that the captain was a canny old bastard and might not be convinced by Kant’s showy execution.

For all Bison knows, Kant is still waiting for the coast to clear.

He could also have gotten lost. He had assured he wouldn’t, that he knew the area well , but every word out of his mouth is a trust exercise, so...

The safe house is empty. Bison was not hoping he’d find Kant there.

He inspects the premises on autopilot. Anyone good enough to locate the place would have shot or arrested him the second he appeared, but Fadel would bitch about complacency, and he’d be right. Bison will have all the time in the world to become slow and unguarded once they’ve all regrouped outside the country.

He can’t grow careless so close to the finish line.

There’s nothing for him to do, here. Fadel would be working on straightening the bathroom cabinet’s door, or fixing the kitchen’s window screen, but Bison doesn’t even know how to try. There’s not much he’s good at besides murder, and nothing that would help now. He’s a decent bowler, a terrific dart thrower, pretty alright with young children. He’s learned basic first aid. He’s a competent waiter and his English’s serviceable. His flirting gets results, though in many cases just looking willing is enough. Mostly, he’s good at killing time.

Usually.

He could clean his gun. He’s already done it twice, and by now all it would do is open the possibility for mistakes in the reassembling, but he could clean his gun.

He doesn’t. Puts it on the coffee table, next to the burner phone that isn’t getting any signal. Bison knew what to expect. They talked about this, he and Fadel, agreed not to contact each other before the end of the week. Everything is going as it’s supposed to.

Any minute now, Kant will walk through the door, grumbling about the heat, or bug bites, or both. Bison will get up slowly from the couch, not daring to let himself believe, but there will be no denying it once they come face to face. He won’t even try to hide his relief.

Kant will get that look, the smug knowing one, with the raised eyebrows and downturned mouth that together form a smile, and Bison will cross the room, press himself against Kant’s salt-smelling clothes and burrow, burrow, burrow, until he’s home.

Any minute now.

[upismediacenter]

FEATURE: More than just a game: The impact of sports on student life

Think sports are just about winning and losing? Think again. Sports are a hidden gem in student life, offering lessons that extend far beyond the playing field. The long hours of practice, the pressure to perform, and the balancing act between school and athletics requires student-athletes to deal with various challenges. These moments of growth translate into real-world skills, helping students navigate life's challenges with confidence.

Character Growth Through Athletic Participation

Sports demand a high level of commitment, cultivating perseverance and self-discipline. Through rigorous training and competitive events, students learn to manage their time, set goals, and work as a team.

When asked how being part of a sports team has shaped their personal development, these UPIS student-athletes shared valuable insights.

Joining the UPIS Girls Volleyball Team proved to be a turning point for Trisha Leguiab, who found that being part of a team helped her overcome one of her biggest personal challenges—socializing. Through countless practices and shared experiences with her teammates, she slowly became more comfortable in group settings. “My fear of socializing with people dissipated gradually after spending years training with the team,” she reflects. However, she still grappled with comparing herself to others and the pressure to constantly improve.

Involvement in sports had a different impact on Faye Obaña, captain of the UPIS Table Tennis Team. For her, it was a journey of learning accountability and mental resilience. “I learned that responsibility comes with everything, and you shouldn’t let negativity take you out of the zone,” she explains. This shift helped Faye cultivate her confidence and prioritize her own well-being, regardless of outside opinions.

For Joannah Aguinaldo, the captain of the UPIS Pep Squad, sports are an avenue for developing essential life skills. “Being part of a sports team improved my time management, leadership, and communication skills,” she shares. Joannah also acknowledges how her involvement opened doors to diverse experiences and interactions with people from various walks of life, something she may not have encountered outside of athletics.

These student-athletes demonstrate how participation in sports can profoundly shape character, resilience, and personal growth. Beyond physical fitness, the lessons learned—teamwork, discipline, and self-awareness—equip students to face life’s challenges.

Balancing Academics and Athletics

The relationship between sports and academic performance is complex. The direct impact on grades varies as some students may find that the discipline and time management required in sports enhance their focus in academics, while others may struggle to balance the demands of both commitments.

In response to inquiries about how her academic performance had changed since joining a sports team, Trisha observed that her grades remained relatively consistent. Though sports didn’t directly affect her academic performance, the impact on her routine was undeniable. “Comparing my grades before and after I joined the team, I would say that the sport had surprisingly no effect whatsoever on my academics. My grades were in the same range as before, but what I've noticed is that my eyebags were getting bigger because I was losing sleep. Even though I'd managed to keep my grades stable, I had to pull all-nighters multiple times a week because our trainings would end at night, which gave me less time to do my homework and study for my quizzes. I also developed an unhealthy habit of cramming because of this.”

On the other hand, Faye’s experience with balancing sports and academics led her to become more disciplined. She shared, “I became more conscious about schoolwork and made sure to finish my assignments before heading to training.” This shift in focus helped her manage her responsibilities more effectively, ensuring that neither her studies nor her athletic commitments were compromised.

Similarly, Joannah found that the demands of sports pushed her to improve her academic habits. She explained how dedicating time to both training and games encouraged her to adapt smarter study strategies: “My study habits and consequently, my academic performance have improved ever since I started playing sports. Dedicating most of my time to trainings and games, I needed to find ways to study smarter so that my sport wouldn't get in the way of my academics,” Joannah stated. Her experience reflects how sports can also help instill better time management and efficiency in student-athletes.

These accounts highlight the diverse experiences student-athletes face. While others may struggle with adjusting their schedule at first, others find that the structure of sports pushes them to focus more on their academics. The key takeaway is the importance of finding strategies to balance both passions.

Sports as a Catalyst for Social Skills

Being part of a sports team fosters essential social skills, such as leadership, cooperation, and communication. Each athlete reflected on how sports helped them form connections and develop socially.

Trisha spoke about the bonds she formed through volleyball, emphasizing how the team became a second family to her. For her, being part of the team wasn't just about playing the sport but about forming lasting relationships. “If I hadn't passed the tryouts for the volleyball team, I wouldn't have met my teammates, especially those from the lower batches. As the oldest in the team, I view them as my younger sisters and to be able to grow with them as a player and a person was an experience I would always be thankful for. I'm glad to have met this group of humorous, thoughtful, and loving people and to be able to spend the last years of my high school life here at UPIS with them.”

Reflecting on a pivotal moment during UAAP Season 86, Faye shared how she discovered a new found connection with herself: “I remember a game where I had a highlight play that felt incredible. During that moment, something clicked, and I realized how important confidence is to a person. Since then, I’ve started to cultivate confidence in everything I do. It’s not always easy, but I’m still working on it.”

Evaluating team dynamics, “There are members in our team who are quiet and aren't vocal, but through working together in our stunts and cheering together during games, we were able to help them open up and build more trust in the team,” Joannah observed how sports encouraged quieter members to come out of their shells.

These experiences show how sports create lasting connections, help students develop social skills, and encourage them to step outside their comfort zones. The bonds formed through shared challenges enhance both personal growth and teamwork.

The Impact of Sports on Mental Health and Stress Levels

The mental health benefits of sports are well-documented. Physical activity helps reduce stress and anxiety by releasing endorphins and providing an outlet for energy.

Opening up about her struggles as an athlete, Trisha shared a candid reflection on the difficulties she encountered along the way. Balancing the demands of being both a student and an athlete can take a toll, especially on one’s mental health. “I would say that being an athlete is hard, especially for my mental health. Aside from the class-training-study-sleep cycle, the constant pressure from myself and the training environment caused me to lose confidence in myself and what I can do. I developed an unhealthy way of thinking and started to shut others out while constantly blaming myself for my incompetence and lack of skill. Luckily, after talks with my family and friends, I began to regain my old self and be able to enjoy the sport again.” Her journey highlights the importance of support systems and self-reflection during challenging times.

The emotional rollercoaster of being a student-athlete presents both challenges and opportunities for growth. “There are definitely times when it’s exhausting, and I feel like giving up. Yet, there are also moments when sports helps me relax and reflect on everything going on in my life. It’s a balance that really depends on how I’m feeling at the moment. Overall, I can say it has helped me grow significantly, both as a person and an athlete,” Faye shared. 

Amidst the chaos of responsibilities, Joannah finds that incorporating movement into her routine helps manage the pressure. Reflecting on the benefits of physical activity, she remarked, “It's inevitable to be overwhelmed with all the responsibilities a student-athlete has lined up, but participating in sports allows me to incorporate movement into my routine, which is beneficial to my mental well-being. Aside from that, with my sport being a team sport, I'm able to destress whenever I'm doing what I love with my team.” 

While the pressures of sports can lead to stress and self-doubt, they can also create an environment in which athletes can receive emotional support from their teammates. This aspect of camaraderie, along with the opportunity for regular physical activity, may offer a way to address some of the challenges that arise from competitive participation. Engaging in sports can provide an outlet for managing pressure, contributing to a complex experience for student-athletes.

The Power of Inclusivity and Diversity in Sports

Sports can bridge gaps between students from diverse backgrounds and promote inclusivity in schools. Participating in team activities helps students appreciate and respect a range of perspectives and experiences.

The value of diverse perspectives within a team is crucial. As Trisha explains, “From the seniors to the juniors, you will have to play inside the court with people with values that may differ from yours. Playing alongside these people made me see things from a different perspective and helped me come out of my comfort zone.”

For Joannah, the dynamics of a large team bring both challenges and opportunities. With over 40 members in her team, she explains how this exposure has shaped her ability to adapt and interact with people of various backgrounds: “Being in a team that comprises more than 40 members, it's not a rare occurrence for us to meet new people. This exposure taught me how to connect with others who have different life experiences or viewpoints by understanding that not everyone we meet would get along and/or agree with us, and by being more open-minded as well with our differences.” Her insight highlights the importance of flexibility and openness when navigating diverse team dynamics.

These stories show how sports foster inclusivity, respect, and empathy. The connections formed within the team can transcend differences, fostering an environment where every individual is valued. In this way, sports become a platform for building community, encouraging students to embrace diversity and grow together.

The Journey Ahead

When asked what advice they would give to fellow students considering getting involved in sports, each athlete offered valuable insights drawn from their own experiences. 

For students, the decision to join a sport can be intimidating, but the rewards are often worth the effort. Trisha, for instance, emphasized the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone: “If you are interested in a sport, don't be afraid to pursue it and join for the tryouts. Yes, balancing academics and training is hard, but that does not mean it's impossible. Inside the team, you may meet people who will support your journey as an athlete and help you become the best version of yourself. You will experience hardships—but from those hardships, you'll be able to grow as a person who can overcome any hurdle life throws at them.”

Another important aspect of being a student-athlete is maintaining balance and building connections. “Be content with what you have. Try to make time for everything, especially your priorities. Don’t forget to connect with people. Building relationships is just as important as honing your athletic skills,” Faye shared. Her advice underscores that while sports are important, personal well-being and relationships are equally vital.

Meanwhile, Joannah focused on the advantages sports can bring to academic life, encouraging students to see athletics as a complementary experience. "Don't think about being a student-athlete as a disadvantage when it comes to your academics; think about it as another means to learn, develop, and gain experience that can be an advantage in academics and even in life." 

Participation in sports isn't limited to being an athlete; students can also engage by cheering for their teams and creating a supportive school environment. Embracing and supporting athletic programs not only enriches students' lives but also strengthens the broader school community, highlighting that sports are truly more than just a game.

//by Mira Leaño

[rpgsandbox]

Vault 5e: A Life Well Lived

Bring 5e characters to life outside the dungeon. Delve into their past and future with Cubicle 7

From the award-winning team that brought you award winning 5e Adventures in Middle-earth, Broken Weave, Uncharted Journeys  and Doctors and Daleks, comes A Life Well Lived! Bring your characters to life like never before with this game changing 5th edition supplement that explores what your adventurers get up to before, after, and in between dungeon crawling!

Every adventurer has a backstory, dreams for the future, and a life between adventures. All those amazing triumphs and disasters, and tender or tumultuous relationships are what makes our heroes feel like real people. A Life Well Lived brings your characters to life like never before. 

Take a deep dive into your character’s life before their adventuring days began. A richly detailed backstory complete with benefits and complications will forge the passions and connections that will bond your hero with the rest of the party. Allies and enemies spring from your story and enmesh you in the campaign world giving you an overwhelming purpose to see your quests through to the very end. 

Don’t hang around waiting for the old guy to stagger into the inn and die with a map in his hand! There’s a whole world of fun to be had between adventures. From pressing the flesh at high society parties, to weaving tall tales for villagers, or planning a meticulous heist —  and as this is your side-quest, you don’t have to split the loot five ways!

We created A Life Well Lived to bring our characters to life outside the dungeon. As players we get extremely attached to our characters, and want to explore a new side of them. Characters are more than just stats and numbers on a page, and A Life Well Lived allows us to delve deeper into the story behind our heroes in a way that seamlessly blends into the traditional gameplay of 5e and rewards the storytelling each player has within them.

A Life Well Lived is a companion to Cubicle 7’s Uncharted Journeys, and forthcoming C7D20 titles. These lovingly crafted volumes combine to enrich all pillars of 5e gameplay, and give you the tools and advice you need to tailor your game to the specific tabletop experience your heart desires. 

Our previous 5e games Doctors and Daleks, Adventures in Middle-earth, and Uncharted Journeys demonstrate how much we love designing richly thematic extensions to the 5e ruleset, and we are very proud of the many awards we’ve won for our work.

What's in the Book?

A Life Well Lived accompanies an adventurer throughout their life, from their humble origins through their heroic quest, and ultimately, if they’re lucky, their retirement from the dangerous path of adventure.

Create fully realised characters whose life experiences influence the skills they learn before the adventure begins. Give them a family to fight for, important experiences to treasure, a home worth defending, and more with Cubicle 7’s new Lifepath system. 

Return home and use our Downtime Activities to explore what your hero gets up to between adventures. Do you spend time preparing for the challenges ahead or grasp fleeting moments with friends and family? Do you have a business to run, or do you seek out work to earn a little extra coin? Maybe you have a masterwork weapon you’re working on or an old score you mean to settle?

Campcraft Activities let you enjoy the quiet moments around the campfire, as you share stories of the past, prepare for what is to come, and bond with your companions. 

Your Patron is a powerful ally who is the driving force behind your adventures. They may be a spymaster with access to dangerous secrets, or a stalwart champion of the divine who can heal wounds and return fallen friends to life. But beware, your Patron has enemies who may come at you to get to them. 

Hang up your sword and leave the adventuring life behind as you Retire, and see what life has in store for you after the swords and sorcery has in store for you… at least until trouble comes knocking once more, dragging you out of retirement and back into the action for one last adventure!

Kickstarter campaign ends: Tue, October 24 2023 1:00 PM BST

Website: [Cubicle 7] [facebook] [twitter] [instagram]

[im-just-noelfid]

Social Gaming: How is the Depiction of Friendships Beyond the Screen?

Introduction to Social Gaming and Friendships

Social gaming refers to a genre of video games that emphasizes interaction and collaboration among players, encompassing multiplayer games, massively multiplayer online games (MMOs), and cooperative (co-op) games. These platforms create immersive environments where individuals can connect, strategize, and compete together, fostering a sense of community and shared experience. As players engage in these interactive experiences, friendships often develop that extend beyond the digital realm, leading to meaningful relationships in real life. Through shared challenges and achievements, social gaming not only enhances the enjoyment of gameplay but also facilitates connections that can enrich players' social lives, demonstrating the powerful role that gaming can play in building lasting friendships.

How Friendships Form in Social Gaming

Friendships in social gaming often form through shared goals, as players collaborate to achieve common objectives, such as defeating a challenging boss or winning a competitive match. These collective efforts create strong bonds among players, as they rely on one another's skills and strategies to succeed. Frequent interactions during regular gameplay sessions further enhance these relationships, allowing trust and camaraderie to develop over time. Additionally, social gaming transcends barriers like geography, culture, and language, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds who might not otherwise connect. This inclusivity fosters a rich tapestry of interactions, enabling players to learn from one another and form friendships that can extend beyond the game itself, illustrating the unifying power of gaming in building meaningful connections.

Gaming as a Social Catalyst

Gaming serves as a powerful social catalyst, particularly for introverts or individuals with social anxiety, by providing a low-pressure environment where they can connect with others. In these virtual spaces, players can break the ice and engage in interactions without the immediate pressures often associated with face-to-face communication. Additionally, gaming facilitates cross-cultural exchange, allowing players to learn about different cultures and perspectives through collaboration with international teammates. This exposure fosters understanding and appreciation of diversity, enriching the gaming experience and broadening players' worldviews. Research supports the notion that online gaming environments can be socially accommodating, helping individuals develop social skills and build connections in a supportive setting (Kowert, R., Domahidi, E., & Quandt, T. 2014). Through these interactions, gaming not only enhances socialization but also promotes cultural awareness and empathy among players around the globe.

The Positive Impact of Gaming Friendships

In all according to the topics above, gaming friendships can have a profoundly positive impact on individuals, particularly in terms of providing emotional support and fostering a sense of community. Friends made through gaming often serve as a source of encouragement, helping one another navigate challenges and offering mental health support during difficult times. This emotional connection is vital, as it can mitigate feelings of loneliness and stress, allowing players to feel understood and valued. Additionally, the joy of celebrating milestones that is both in-game achievements and personal life events further strengthens these bonds. Sharing these moments of success creates a sense of camaraderie and belonging that enhances the overall gaming experience. Research indicates that gaming-related friendships can significantly contribute to emotional well-being, illustrating the importance of these connections in both virtual and real-world contexts (Fishman, A. 2023).

Challenges in Transitioning Gaming Friendships to Real Life

However, transitioning gaming friendships to real life can present several challenges that may complicate the process of deepening these connections. One significant hurdle is trust issues; the uncertainty surrounding meeting online friends in person for the first time can lead to anxiety and hesitation, as individuals may question the authenticity of their virtual relationships. Additionally, logistical barriers such as distance, time zones, and financial constraints can hinder in-person interactions, making it difficult for friends to coordinate meetups. These factors can create a sense of frustration or disappointment for those eager to solidify their friendships outside of the gaming environment. Despite these challenges, many gamers continue to seek ways to bridge the gap, often finding creative solutions to meet and connect in person, thereby enriching their friendships and enhancing their overall social experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, gaming has evolved from a solitary activity into a vibrant social phenomenon that fosters meaningful connections among players. These relationships enrich players' lives both online and offline, providing emotional support, shared experiences, and a sense of belonging. By highlighting the transformative power of social gaming, it becomes clear that these digital interactions transcend the virtual realm, leading to real-world friendships and lifelong connections that enhance the overall gaming experience.

Kowert, R., Domahidi, E., & Quandt, T. (2014). The Relationship Between Online Video Game Involvement and Gaming-Related Friendships Among Emotionally Sensitive Individuals. Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, 17(7), 447–453. https://doi.org/10.1089/cyber.2013.0656

Fishman, A. (2023). Video Games Are Social Spaces: How Video Games Help People Connect | ResponseCenter. Jcfs.org. https://www.jcfs.org/response/blog/video-games-are-social-spaces-how-video-games-help-people-connect

[frostise]

8. How do you view people without any superpowers? / 9. What was the most creative application of your ability?

𝐀𝐒𝐊𝐒 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐒𝐔𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐏𝐎𝐖𝐄𝐑𝐄𝐃 𝐌𝐔𝐒𝐄𝐒   ┇   accepting ♡

8. How do you view people without any superpowers?

in the early days of killer frost, she didn't respect non-metahumans for a long time. they were easy to squander and it quickly became boring to hunt/strike them down because the results were too predictable but she did learn to make due by making the chases last longer than necessary. it worked for awhile. there's been a lot of interrogation techniques and tricks used in those hunts. the most prominent one being—she would play pretend by making her target feel like they got away when in reality they never stood a chance or she'll intentionally 'miss' a shot just to install hope into their victim.

humans were a speck to be discarded and used to her own disposal during missions but if their intelligence was high? she can learn to respect them. that's what makes most fights fun. powerless people who can survive her attacks and outsmart her mind games fuelled her sadism because it was a real competition that required skill, time and effort. it would both surprise and trigger frost's curiosity which means bad news to anyone who survived. back then—it was uncommon to deem humans as threats to metahumans unless they were insanely smart. that's when the tables were flipped. frost doesn't have to hold back anymore or suffer from the dissatisfaction of the murder afterwards.

9. What was the most creative application of your ability?

i'll put out a tiny list for you because i can't pick a favourite canon/headcanon:

it's implied louise can drain the sun and cause earth to be damned in darkness. realistically though, she would die doing this because if she chose to live in the sun where would she get her food or water from?

louise's heat absorption is limitless. she can drain life and freeze them at will. most of her victims tend to end up looking like a raisin and have the appearance of fast ageing when that's not the case. she can also drain her own body heat which makes her extremely dizzy but with months/years of practise she was able to make her heart stop and play dead to avoid detection from heat signature scans

there was this comic that demonstrated how disturbing her powers can be. KF made an icy-like wheel with chained hostages, froze them and used their corpses as ice shards. the colours from her victims would turn from blue to a sickly brown. never red since she froze their blood completely

louise can get overheated without suffering from the side effects and possibly uses this to burn people or anything that's not heat-resistant. imagine a red hot knife. she's that red hot knife and it takes a tremendous level of heat to be that way so it's not a power she often gets the chance to use

[nessalochs]

n e s s a   l e i t h   b u c h a n a n

basics:

name: nessa leith buchanan. pronunciation: neh·suh leeth byoo·ka·nuhn. meaning: nessa- miracle, pure, butterfly, not gentle. leith- broad river. birthday: may 20th. age: twenty. pronouns: she & her. sexuality: pansexual. siblings: cooper buchanan, logan buchanan, ethan buchanan. parents: filip buchanan, fiona buchanan. other family: maisie buchanan (grandma). languages: english. scottish gaelic. current residence: tbd. hometown: scotland.

wizard fun:

hogwarts house: hufflepuff. year of graduation: 1977. occupation: general manager of hexcade. pet: a raccoon named pacman she found in the highlands one day and lured home in secret. blood status: halfblood. species: witch. patronus: weasel. those who cast a weasel are as playful and mischievous as anyone would expect. many of these witches and wizards are spontaneous and quick to make decisions without taking much thought on the consequences. this means they can bite off more than they can chew and get in way over their heads. in the long run, they rely on luck more often than not to keep them out of trouble. even if these witches and wizards can get themselves into deep trouble, they are feisty when threatened and can pack a punch when you least expect it. It is when they are faced with a real challenge that they start to show amazing strategy and wit. if it seems these individuals think everything is all fun and games your assumptions are all wrong. boggart: nessa is more terrified of cars or car crashes than anything else. especially when it could potentially involve one or any of her brothers. amortentia:   orange blossom. the sweet floral scent of notes just citrus enough to tickle your nose have always been among her favorites. it sparks an endless slew of happy memories, and her mother shared the preference. she always wore a perfume with that scent. static. the smell when the television first clicks and spatters to life or when a balloon pulls your hair up to a clingy end or a heat storm overhead leaves the whole world feeling tense with potential energy. fried eggs. nessa is a big believer of breakfast. she is a fan and tries her hardest never to miss one. if she does, you can catch her eating breakfast for supper that day. never forget the eggs and toast. wand type: 10 3/4″, sycamore wood wand with a thunderbird tail feather core, buzzing. the sycamore makes a questing wand, eager for new experience and losing brilliance if engaged in mundane activities. it is a quirk of these handsome wands that they may combust if allowed to become ‘bored’, and many witches and wizards, settling down into middle age, are disconcerted to find their trusty wand bursting into flame in their hand as they ask it, one more time, to fetch their slippers. as may be deduced, the sycamore’s ideal owner is curious, vital and adventurous, and when paired with such an owner, it demonstrates a capacity to learn and adapt that earns it a rightful place among the world’s most highly-prized wand woods. thunderbird tail feather wands are very powerful, but difficult to master. they have a skill in transfiguration. wands with thunderbird tail feather cores, like the birds the feathers are taken from, are able to sense danger and can fire curses pre-emptively when supernatural dangers are present. affiliation: neutral currently.

appearance:

height: 5′4″. hair color: flaxen. eye color: tawny. typical hair style: wavy and frequently unwashed while pulled into a scrunchie or stuffed under a hat. fashion style: nessa has probably never worn a shirt that didn’t at some point belong to one of her brothers or her dad. her preference is vibrant patterns and warm colors. she tends to lean towards sneakers with really good grip for skateboarding and accessorizes with scrunchies and old hats. [ fashion ] distinguishing features: nessa tends to look a little like she hasn’t slept in a really long time, but still has a wired amount of energy buzzing through her. her fingers, knees, and elbows are regularly covered in brightly colored bandages of various sizes from accidents. it regularly appears that her hair is frizzed out and static.

personality:

positive traits: sprightly. handy. engineering. negative traits: flaky. pesky. erratic. theme song: I like giants by kimya dawson

headcanons:

nessa has a personal goal to own the high score on every arcade cabinet in the shop, or anywhere else she’s seen one, and has put in hours and hours working towards that goal. her best scores are usually on pinball, though.

by the time it was nessa’s turn to start school, a brand new wand would be pushing the budget of what the buchanan’s could afford and instead suggested that nessa might like a wand that belonged to her great aunt instead. it has a rather rare core and a large personality that results in it occasionally casting spells of its own accord on nessa’s behalf.

nessa mostly skateboards everywhere she needs to go because she has a petrifying fear of cars and has never managed to figure out apparation. for distances too long to board, she sticks with the floo network or a broom. before the crash, her parents often had to reprimand her for leaving it out in dangerous places for others to slip on all the time.

biography:

tw: death, depression

at this point who doesn’t know the story of the buchanan family? it is certainly one that has been heard before; the dad’s a muggle and mam’s a witch. the lovely young couple were completely in love anyway. filip and fiona married without a regret and set about to begin an idyllic pastoral life right on the scottish borders. they built up a family farm and soon filled it to suit the name. cooper was first. an eldest boy dashing as he was daring, he always fearlessly lead the way, even if he didn’t know which direction he was going. next born was logan who certainly helped balance the scales with forethought and planning. he was always clever as he was capable. then came ethan. he was sensitive, sincere, and sometimes a bit secretive. yet the complete array of specific personality was never really complete until their little sister was finally born. nessa leith buchanan jolted into the world nearly at the dot of midnight right on the cusp of summer. she carried in her very presence a certain warmth and revitalized energy much like the season. their mother used to claim that nessa was like catching lightning in a bottle- breathtaking and so close to being a disaster. childhood bustling between the farm and the family was brimming with excitement, especially as each of the children began to discover their own talents. between sports, fine art, and music, it seemed like the only thing they shared was a devastatingly accurate hand-eye coordination. even nessa, who spent more than her fair share of time not thinking things through, figured out her love of game cabinets when she spent two months worth of saturday afternoons helping her dad rebuild an old pinball machine he recovered for them. she had a talent for the circuitry as well as ticking up a higher score every day. the fast pace matched her own. nessa always seemed to lean more towards the muggle side of things than the magic. yet still, she showed the signs early on of being a witch. a letter of acceptance to hogwarts came as no surprise. still by the time nessa received that simple wax sealed parchment with welcoming emerald ink, she could barely manage to contain the electric energy inside of herself. unlike any of her brothers, nessa was almost immediately sorted into hufflepuff house. it turned out that was where she belonged. nessa thrived amongst the hardworking and fair-minded yellow badgers. however, she never did show proclivity towards any particular magic. her marks remained average in every subject until graduation which did not leave her with much direction on what to do afterwards. nessa returned home to work on the farm until she could figure out what exactly she wanted to do in life, but nothing magic ever seemed to feel right. the options just never suited her. apparation even proved to be too tricky for her to ever get a license. admittedly, she probably lingered far too long with indecision. although it seemed obvious to everyone else, nessa had developed a real skill with electronics. there was nothing that she couldn’t eventually figure out how to rewire and fix. tinkering turned her ever jittery fingers adroit and adept. then the crash happened. it felt as sudden as that. their parents where here loving and living and laughing, getting ready to celebrate with them all, and then they were gone. the world seemed cruel for it. nessa still wonders if she hadn’t pretended to lose that damn necklace, could the timing have been different. would the collision go unmet? could everyone leave unscathed? should she have simply reminded her mother how beautiful she looked and let them go? was it her fault? the pointlessness of that question forced it’s way to the forefront of her mind on those days following when nessa no longer seemed able to light up the room or even pull herself out from under the covers. no one needed to know about those days, though. those days happened somewhat less often now. the distance between them much greater now that life had started to grow around the grief. nessa needed to find something else to do. she found a job as the general manager of an arcade that cater towards magic. it was a perfect fit for her, and recently, she took over all operations as the owner left town to go on tour. between fixing the broken machines, she spends her spare energy trying to get the high score on them all too. anything to distract from falling back into that listless lost absence again.

[cnacertificationprogram]

Open Your Potential: The Essential Guide to Clinical Pathways CNA Program

Unlock Your Potential: The Essential Guide to Clinical Pathways CNA ⁤Program

Unlock Your Potential: The Essential Guide to Clinical Pathways CNA Program

Are you looking to make a meaningful impact in the healthcare field? The Clinical Pathways Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) ⁢Program is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed⁤ to excel in this rewarding career. This comprehensive guide explores the intricacies of the program, its benefits, practical tips for⁢ success, and firsthand experiences from those who have embarked on this journey. Let’s dive in!

What is the Clinical Pathways CNA Program?

The​ clinical Pathways CNA Program is an intensive training program aimed at preparing aspiring nursing assistants for a promising career in healthcare. This program emphasizes ⁣hands-on training, theoretical knowledge, ‍and practical ⁢skills needed to support patients in various healthcare settings.

Key Components of the Program

In-depth theoretical learning covering anatomy, physiology, ‍and patient care.

Extensive hands-on training in real-world healthcare environments.

Preparation for state certification exams.

Support in job ⁣placement within hospitals, clinics, and long-term care‍ facilities.

benefits of the Clinical Pathways CNA Program

Choosing the right CNA ⁣program can be a game-changer ​in launching your healthcare career. Here are some compelling benefits of the Clinical Pathways CNA Program:

1.Comprehensive Curriculum

the program provides a well-rounded curriculum‌ that covers essential areas such as:

Patient hygiene and comfort

Basic nursing skills

Communication techniques with patients and families

Understanding medical terminology

2.Hands-on Experiance

Students benefit from practical training in clinical settings, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-life situations. This experience‌ is critical in bridging ‍the gap ‌between theory and practice.

3.State Certification Preparation

The program ensures that students are well-prepared⁤ to take the ‌state CNA ⁤certification exam, setting ⁢them up for success in obtaining their license.

4. Job Placement Assistance

Graduates receive support in finding job opportunities through partnerships with‍ various healthcare facilities, ensuring a smooth transition into the workforce.

Practical Tips for Success in the CNA‌ Program

Completing the Clinical Pathways ​CNA Program can be a rewarding experience,but it requires dedication. Here are some practical tips to help you succeed:

Stay Organized: keep track‌ of your ⁣assignments, ‍practical sessions, and study materials to manage your time effectively.

Participate Actively: Engage in class ⁣discussions and hands-on training sessions to enhance your learning.

networking: Build relationships with instructors ‌and peers; networking can open doors to job ‍opportunities.

Practice Self-Care: The healthcare⁢ field can be demanding. Make sure to take care of your mental and physical health to avoid burnout.

Case Study: A Accomplished CNA⁤ Graduate

To illustrate the positive impact of the Clinical Pathways‌ CNA Program, let’s​ share the‌ experience of Sarah, a recent graduate:

Sarah ‍enrolled in ⁤the program with⁤ a passion for helping others. Throughout her training, she demonstrated exceptional dedication, frequently asking questions and seeking ‌extra help when needed. After completing the program, Sarah was well-prepared for the ‌state certification exam, passing ⁣it with flying colors.

Within a ​few weeks,‌ Sarah secured a position at a local hospital, attributing her success to the ⁢comprehensive training and support⁢ she received during her time ​in the program. Her experience highlights how the right training can transform lives, enabling new⁢ CNAs to embark on ⁤fulfilling careers.

First-Hand Experience: What Students Say

Feedback from current and former students can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of the clinical Pathways CNA Program. Here are some testimonials:

Student Name

Experience

Alice M.

“The hands-on training was invaluable. I felt prepared and confident on my first‌ day as a CNA!”

John D.

“the instructors were supportive and really cared about our success. I ⁤couldn’t have ​asked for a⁤ better experience.”

Emma R.

“The job placement assistance made all the difference in helping me land my ‌dream⁢ job right after certification!”

Conclusion

The Clinical Pathways CNA Program is more than just a pathway to certification; ​it is indeed a launchpad for a successful ‌career in healthcare.With its comprehensive curriculum, hands-on experience, and robust support system, students‌ can unlock their potential and make‍ a difference in the lives of others. If you are ready to take the first step towards a rewarding ⁤career as a Certified ​Nursing Assistant, the Clinical pathways CNA Program might potentially be the perfect fit for you. Invest in ​your future today and⁣ start your journey toward becoming a valued member of the healthcare community!

https://cnacertificationprogram.net/open-your-potential-the-essential-guide-to-clinical-pathways-cna-program/

[bewise-in]

13 Reasons Why Every Child Should Learn Programming

Originally published on: https://www.bewise.in/articles-blogs/why-every-child-should-learn-programming

Programming has become an essential skill in today's fast-paced digital world. Like reading and writing, programming fosters creativity, problem-solving, and adaptability, equipping children with tools to thrive in a tech-driven landscape. Enrolling your child in the best coding classes near you ensures they start early and build a strong foundation. Let’s explore why every child should learn programming and how it can shape their future.

1. Programming Develops Problem-Solving Capabilities

Logical Thinking Programming helps children break complex problems into smaller parts, an essential skill for logical thinking. Whether solving a coding challenge or a math problem, this ability benefits them throughout life.

Adaptability in Solving Problems Debugging teaches kids to embrace mistakes, learn from them, and adapt their strategies. It builds resilience and encourages innovative thinking.

Want to help your child develop problem-solving skills? Introduce them to easy-to-use programming platforms today!

2. Inspires Creativity and Innovation

Bridging the Gap Between Thought and Reality Programming allows children to bring their imagination to life by creating games, apps, or websites.

Encouraging Creativity With programming knowledge, kids can design solutions for real-world problems. For example, Harshwardhan Zala, a 13-year-old from Gujarat, developed a drone to detect and defuse landmines. His innovative use of coding and robotics highlights how children can use their creativity to address significant global challenges.

3. Equips Children for the Future Job Market

Rising Demand for Technological Expertise Automation and AI are transforming industries, making programming a valuable skill across professions. The World Economic Forum notes that roles in programming and data analysis are among the fastest-growing.

Early Advantage Introducing programming early helps children gain a competitive edge in AI, robotics, and cybersecurity.

Secure your child’s future by enrolling them in the best robotics and coding classes in Chennai.

4. Programming Teaches Patience and Resilience

Embracing Challenges Coding requires patience, as children debug errors and approach challenges methodically.

Building Emotional Resilience The trial-and-error nature of coding fosters a growth mindset, encouraging children to view failures as opportunities to learn and grow.

5. Improves Academic Achievements

Better Math Competency Programming concepts like algorithms and variables reinforce math skills, making abstract concepts more engaging.

Multidisciplinary Applications Programming integrates subjects like science, art, math, and storytelling, fostering a well-rounded skill set.

6. Facilitates Collaboration and Teamwork

Group Projects Coding often involves teamwork, teaching kids to collaborate effectively. Whether working on school projects or participating in global competitions, children develop vital communication and collaboration skills.

7. Builds Confidence and Independence

Achieving Milestones Successfully completing coding projects boosts children’s confidence and encourages independent learning.

8. Opens Doors to Exciting Careers

Diverse Opportunities Programming forms the foundation for exciting careers in game development, AI, robotics, and even creative fields like animation and fashion.

 

9. Programming as a Universal Language

Bridging Gaps Coding connects people across cultures and geographies, enabling children to collaborate with peers worldwide.

 

10. Back-to-Life Success Stories

Inspiring Young Coders Rifath Sharook, a 17-year-old from Tamil Nadu, developed the world’s lightest satellite, "KalamSat," using his coding and programming skills. His achievement demonstrates how Indian kids are making waves globally with early exposure to technology and innovation.

 Read full article.

[voltsim]

Discover VoltSim: The Best Electronic Circuit Simulator for Realtime Circuit Design and Learning

In the ever-evolving world of technology, mastering electronics has become an essential skill for students, hobbyists, and professionals alike. But navigating the complexities of circuit design and simulation can be daunting without the right tools. Enter VoltSim Circuit Simulator, the ultimate solution for anyone looking to learn electronics and bring their ideas to life. Designed with innovation and user convenience in mind, VoltSim is your go-to realtime circuit simulator for all your electronic design and simulation needs.

Why VoltSim Stands Out

VoltSim is not just another online circuit simulator; it’s a game-changer. As one of the top circuit simulation tools, it offers a seamless and interactive platform that caters to both beginners and advanced users. Whether you are designing a simple LED circuit or a complex microcontroller-based system, VoltSim’s real-time capabilities ensure you see the results of your design instantly, making it one of the best electronic circuit simulator available today.

Real-Time Simulation for Real-Time Learning

What sets VoltSim apart is its realtime circuit simulator feature. This allows users to visualize how their circuits behave as they make changes. Forget the days of tedious calculations and trial-and-error methods; VoltSim provides instant feedback, empowering users to learn by doing. This hands-on approach makes it an invaluable tool for students and educators aiming to simplify complex concepts in electronics.

Free and Accessible for Everyone

Unlike many tools that come with hefty price tags, VoltSim is a free circuit simulator that doesn’t compromise on features or quality. Its user-friendly interface and rich library of components make it the ideal choice for anyone looking to explore electronics without breaking the bank. As a free online circuit simulator, VoltSim ensures that high-quality resources are accessible to everyone, fostering a global community of electronics enthusiasts.

Features That Empower Creativity

VoltSim offers a plethora of features designed to enhance your learning and design experience. From a vast component library to customizable settings, this online circuit simulator provides everything you need to bring your ideas to life. Its intuitive drag-and-drop interface makes it easy for beginners, while its advanced analysis tools cater to the needs of experienced engineers. With VoltSim, the possibilities are endless.

Perfect for Education and Beyond

VoltSim is not just a tool; it’s an educational platform. Teachers can use it to demonstrate real-world applications of theoretical concepts, while students can experiment and learn electronics at their own pace. Professionals can prototype and test designs, saving time and resources. This versatility makes VoltSim one of the top circuit simulation tools for learning and innovation.

Join the Revolution

The world of electronics is at your fingertips with VoltSim Circuit Simulator. Whether you’re a student, a hobbyist, or an engineer, VoltSim empowers you to explore, learn, and innovate like never before. As one of the best electronic circuit simulators, it combines ease of use with powerful features, ensuring that you have the tools you need to succeed.

Don’t settle for outdated methods or overpriced software. Experience the future of electronics design with VoltSim – the free online circuit simulator that’s changing the game. Start your journey today and discover why VoltSim is the ultimate choice for anyone passionate about electronics.

[lifetotravel]

How Child Psychologists Help Foster Social Skills in Kids

When you consider the importance of social skills in a child's development, it's clear that child psychologists play a crucial role in this area. They use methods like role-playing and play therapy to help kids practice interactions in a safe environment. By collaborating with parents and employing structured training, these professionals create a comprehensive approach to social skill enhancement. However, the techniques vary widely, and understanding how each contributes to a child's growth can reveal deeper insights into effective strategies. What specific methods stand out, and how do they impact a child's everyday life?

Understanding Social Skills Development

How do kids learn to navigate social interactions? Social skills development is a crucial part of growing up, and it starts early.

You'll notice your child observing and mimicking others, picking up cues from family, friends, and even media. They learn about sharing, taking turns, and the importance of body language.

This process isn't just about watching; it involves active participation. As your child engages in play, they experiment with different roles and scenarios, refining their social skills.

You might see them role-playing or negotiating rules with peers, which helps them understand empathy and perspective-taking. Encouraging open communication at home also plays a vital role.

When you discuss feelings and social situations, your child starts to comprehend their own emotions and those of others. Mistakes are part of the learning process.

When your child faces challenges in social settings, it's an opportunity for growth. By providing guidance and support, you help them develop resilience and problem-solving skills.

Ultimately, understanding social skills development is about creating a safe environment where your child can explore, learn, and thrive in their interactions with others.

Techniques Used by Child Psychologists

As children develop their social skills, they may encounter challenges that require additional support.

psicólogo infantil Zaragoza use various techniques to help kids navigate these hurdles effectively. One common approach is role-playing. By simulating social scenarios, you can help your child practice responses and develop confidence in real-life situations.

Another effective technique is modeling. You can demonstrate positive social interactions, showing your child how to engage with peers.

This method reinforces learning by providing a clear example of appropriate behavior.

Cognitive-behavioral strategies can also be beneficial. By guiding your child to identify negative thoughts or feelings during social interactions, you can help them reframe their mindset and respond more positively.

Additionally, child psychologists often utilize social stories, which are short narratives that depict social situations and appropriate responses.

These stories make complex social cues more understandable, allowing your child to grasp essential concepts.

Lastly, feedback is crucial. Providing constructive feedback after social interactions helps your child learn from experiences and encourages them to try again.

The Role of Play Therapy

Play therapy is a powerful tool that child psychologists use to help children express their feelings and navigate challenges.

Through play, kids communicate in ways that words often can't capture. When you engage in play therapy, you create a safe space where your child can explore their emotions, understand their experiences, and develop social skills.

In these sessions, your child interacts with toys, games, and art materials, allowing them to act out scenarios that reflect their world.

This form of therapy encourages creativity and spontaneity, providing insights into their thoughts and behaviors. You might notice your child mimicking social interactions or role-playing different scenarios, which can highlight areas where they struggle, such as sharing or taking turns.

As a parent, you can observe how your child approaches play and interacts with the therapist.

You'll see firsthand how they learn to manage conflicts and express emotions. Play therapy not only fosters emotional growth but also builds essential social skills.

Structured Social Skills Training

While play therapy lays the groundwork for emotional expression, structured social skills training takes a more direct approach to help children interact successfully with peers.

In this setting, you'll see focused activities designed to teach essential social skills, like sharing, taking turns, and effective communication. Your child might participate in role-playing exercises where they practice initiating conversations or responding to others appropriately.

This training often involves small groups, allowing kids to engage with peers in a controlled environment. You'll notice that structured lessons provide clear expectations and guidelines, making it easier for your child to learn and apply these skills.

As children practice these interactions, they receive immediate feedback from the psychologist, which helps them adjust their behavior in real-time.

You might find that your child becomes more confident in social situations, as they learn to recognize social cues and respond effectively.

Structured social skills training can also include video modeling, where children observe positive interactions, reinforcing the behaviors they should emulate.

Collaborating With Parents for Success

Successful collaboration between psychologists and parents is crucial in fostering a child's social development.

When you and the psychologist work together, you create a consistent environment that reinforces social skills at home and in therapy sessions. Regular communication helps both parties understand the child's unique needs, strengths, and challenges.

You should actively participate in sharing observations about your child's behavior and social interactions.

This information allows the psychologist to tailor strategies that fit your child's specific context. Additionally, the psychologist can provide you with tools and techniques to reinforce positive behaviors at home, making practice more effective.

Setting goals together is essential.

Discuss what skills you'd like your child to develop, whether it's making friends, sharing, or expressing emotions. This way, you can track progress and celebrate successes, which boosts your child's confidence.

Don't hesitate to ask questions or express concerns.

Your insights are invaluable, and addressing worries promptly can enhance the child's therapeutic experience. By actively engaging in this partnership, you not only support your child's growth but also strengthen your own understanding of their needs, making the journey toward improved social skills a collaborative effort.

Conclusion

In conclusion, child psychologists play a crucial role in helping kids develop vital social skills. By using techniques like role-playing, play therapy, and structured training, they create a supportive environment where children can practice and grow. Collaborating with parents ensures consistency and reinforces learning at home. As you support your child's journey, remember that celebrating their progress boosts their confidence and encourages positive social interactions. Together, you can help them thrive in their relationships with others.

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What Secrets of Visual Effects Can You Learn in a VFX Course?

Visual effects (VFX) play an essential role in creating immersive experiences in movies, television shows, and video games. From fantastical creatures to jaw-dropping explosions, VFX allows creators to bring their imagination to life. If you’ve ever wondered about how these effects are made, enrolling in a VFX course can open the door to many fascinating techniques and skills. Whether you're just starting or aiming to sharpen your existing knowledge, VFX training can equip you with valuable tools to excel in this creative field.

Understanding the Basics of Visual Effects

Before diving into complex VFX techniques, it’s important to grasp the fundamentals of visual effects. VFX involves the integration of digital imagery into live-action footage. It allows filmmakers to create scenes that would be impossible or too expensive to capture in real life. In a VFX course, you will start by learning the core concepts, such as compositing, motion graphics, and 3D modeling. These are the building blocks that will prepare you for more advanced techniques.

Learning Popular Software and Tools

A crucial part of any VFX course in Udaipur is hands-on experience with industry-standard software. Programs like Adobe After Effects, Autodesk Maya, and Nuke are essential for creating high-quality visual effects. Through VFX training, you’ll gain proficiency in these tools, which will allow you to create and manipulate visuals with precision. Each software serves a different purpose, and mastering them can help you in various areas of VFX, such as animation, compositing, and digital painting.

Creating Stunning Visual Effects: From Concept to Completion

VFX is a multi-step process that starts with an idea and ends with a polished visual. In a VFX course, you’ll learn how to take a concept and turn it into reality. This includes designing and animating digital elements, integrating them with live-action footage, and adding lighting and textures. You’ll also learn about tracking, where the digital elements match the movement of the camera in the live shot, making them appear more realistic.

One of the most valuable skills you’ll acquire is the ability to work with green screen footage. This technique, known as chroma keying, allows you to replace the background of a scene with any digital environment or effect you want, from outer space to underwater cities.

Exploring Advanced VFX Techniques

As you progress through a VFX course, you will be introduced to more advanced techniques. This might include visual effects for explosions, fire, and water, or creating realistic 3D models and animations. Special attention is often given to simulations that mimic natural phenomena like smoke, dust, or even weather effects.

Learning these advanced techniques will give you the confidence to tackle challenging projects and push the boundaries of what’s possible in visual storytelling. A comprehensive VFX course will teach you how to apply these techniques creatively, whether you’re working on a short film, a commercial, or a video game.

Building a Portfolio and Gaining Practical Experience

In addition to learning the technical aspects of VFX, a key component of your training is building a portfolio. A strong portfolio showcases your best work and demonstrates your skills to potential employers or clients. As part of your VFX training, you will have the opportunity to work on real-world projects, which will help you apply your learning and gain practical experience. This hands-on approach will give you the confidence to take on larger projects once you enter the professional world.

Opportunities After Completing a VFX Course

After completing VFX training, there are many career opportunities available in a variety of industries. Visual effects artists are in demand in the film, television, advertising, and gaming industries. Whether you choose to work in a studio or as a freelance artist, your skills will be highly valued. Many studios look for individuals with strong creative and technical abilities who can bring innovative ideas to life.

Furthermore, there is always room for growth in the field of visual effects. As new technologies emerge, VFX artists continue to evolve, learning new techniques and pushing the limits of visual storytelling. A VFX course will give you the foundation to keep up with these changes and continually improve your craft.

Conclusion

Taking a VFX course is an exciting opportunity to unlock the secrets behind the magic of visual effects. From understanding the basics to mastering advanced techniques, VFX training will help you develop the skills necessary to create stunning visual experiences. Whether you aspire to work in film, television, or video games, a solid foundation in VFX can set you on the path to success in this dynamic and ever-evolving industry.

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The Importance of CPR Training in Public Spaces

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a life-saving technique that can mean the difference between life and death in emergency situations. While the importance of CPR training is widely acknowledged in healthcare settings, its significance in public spaces cannot be overstated. Public CPR training empowers everyday individuals to step in during critical moments and can significantly increase survival rates for sudden cardiac arrest victims. This article explores the reasons why CPR training in public spaces is essential, the benefits it offers, and how communities can implement effective training programs.

The Urgency of CPR in Public Spaces

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. According to the American Heart Association, over 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur annually in the United States alone. These incidents often happen in public places such as parks, shopping malls, airports, and sports arenas. In such scenarios, the immediate application of CPR can double or even triple a victim’s chances of survival.

When cardiac arrest occurs, every second counts. Brain cells begin to die within minutes due to lack of oxygen, and the chances of survival decrease by approximately 10% for every minute without CPR. Public spaces are often the first point of contact for emergency situations, making it vital for bystanders to have the skills and confidence to perform CPR before professional medical help arrives.

Benefits of Public CPR Training

Increased Survival Rates: One of the most significant benefits of CPR training in public spaces is the potential to save lives. When bystanders are equipped with CPR skills, they can provide immediate assistance, bridging the critical gap between the onset of cardiac arrest and the arrival of emergency services.

Community Empowerment: Public CPR training fosters a sense of responsibility and empowerment among community members. It transforms ordinary citizens into first responders who can act decisively in emergencies. This collective readiness creates safer and more resilient communities.

Reduced Fear and Hesitation: Many people hesitate to perform CPR due to fear of doing it incorrectly or causing harm. Training programs address these concerns by teaching proper techniques and emphasising that doing something is almost always better than doing nothing. Hands-on practice builds confidence and eliminates hesitation.

Increased Awareness of AEDs: Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are often located in public spaces but are underutilised because many people are unaware of how to use them. CPR training programs often include AED instruction, ensuring that more bystanders can effectively utilise these devices.

Better Outcomes in Diverse Emergencies: CPR training not only prepares individuals to handle cardiac arrests but also equips them to respond to other emergencies such as choking or drowning. This versatility enhances overall public safety.

Implementing CPR Training in Public Spaces

To maximise the benefits of public CPR training, communities and organisations must adopt a proactive approach. Here are some strategies to consider:

Public Awareness Campaigns: Raise awareness about the importance of CPR training through social media, local events, and partnerships with community organisations. Highlight real-life stories of lives saved through bystander CPR to inspire action.

Free or Subsidised Training Programs: Offer accessible training sessions in schools, workplaces, and community centers. Free or low-cost programs ensure that financial barriers do not prevent individuals from learning CPR.

On-Site Training at Public Events: Incorporate CPR demonstrations and mini-training sessions at events such as fairs, sports games, and concerts. These events provide an excellent opportunity to reach a broad audience.

Integration into School Curricula: Mandating CPR training as part of school education ensures that younger generations are equipped with life-saving skills. Many states in the U.S. have already made CPR training a graduation requirement.

Placement of AEDs and Signage: Ensure that AEDs are prominently placed in public spaces alongside clear signage. Training programs should emphasise the use of AEDs in conjunction with CPR to maximise survival chances.

Collaboration with First Responders: Partner with local fire departments, EMS agencies, and hospitals to conduct training sessions and simulate real-life scenarios. This collaboration enhances the quality and credibility of the training.

Addressing Common Barriers

Despite its importance, CPR training in public spaces faces several challenges. Addressing these barriers is crucial to expanding its reach:

Lack of Awareness: Many people underestimate the likelihood of encountering a cardiac emergency or overestimate their ability to respond without formal training. Public education campaigns can dispel these misconceptions.

Time Constraints: Busy schedules often deter individuals from attending training sessions. Offering flexible, short-format classes or online courses can help overcome this barrier.

Fear of Legal Liability: Some bystanders fear legal repercussions if their CPR efforts are unsuccessful. Educating the public about Good Samaritan laws, which protect individuals who provide emergency assistance, can alleviate these concerns.

Cultural and Language Barriers: Tailoring training programs to accommodate diverse populations—including multilingual instruction and culturally sensitive approaches—can ensure inclusivity.

Conclusion

CPR training in public spaces is a critical investment in public health and safety. By equipping everyday citizens with the skills to respond effectively in emergencies, communities can dramatically improve survival rates for sudden cardiac arrest victims. Implementing widespread, accessible training programs requires collaboration between governments, organisations, and individuals. The result is a safer, more prepared society where lives can be saved through the collective effort of informed and empowered bystanders.