🧒 Aha Trivia Kids: the Study Guide

Is it true that bats are blind?

Short answer: No, they can see, even in dim light

• Too little: Bats can't see at all
• Too much: Bats see sharp colors like us
• Just right: Small eyes, very sensitive in the dark

Bats have small eyes with very sensitive vision for the dark. They don't see sharp colors like we do, but they don't need to.

Worth remembering: Bats use echolocation to navigate and find insect prey by listening for returning echoes.

Groan of the day: What's a bat's favorite dessert? Upside-down cake.

Sources: USGS: Are bats blind?; National Park Service: Echolocation

What does a camel store in its hump?

Short answer: Fat, for energy

• Too little: The hump is just extra fur
• Too much: The hump holds gallons of water
• Just right: A store of fat for energy

A camel's hump is a big store of fat. When food is scarce, the camel uses that fat for energy. It drinks water and keeps it in its body, not the hump.

Worth remembering: Dromedary camels have one hump and Bactrian camels have two. Tip a capital D or B on its side to remember.

Groan of the day: What do you call a camel with no humps? Humphrey.

Sources: San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance: Camel

In fall, the green leaves on a maple tree turn red and yellow. Why?

Short answer: The green color breaks down

With less daylight, the tree stops keeping its green chlorophyll. When the green breaks down, colors that were hiding show.

Worth remembering: In a cool fall, red maple leaves look even brighter.

Groan of the day: What did the tree say when autumn came? Leaf me alone!

Sources: National Park Service: Why Do Leaves Change in the Fall?

You dig in the garden and find lots of earthworms. How do they help?

Short answer: They dig tunnels and feed the soil

Worm tunnels help water move and give roots room to grow. Worms also pass soil through their bodies and leave it in better shape.

Worth remembering: Where earthworms are busy, they can turn over the top 6 inches of soil in 10 to 20 years.

Groan of the day: Why did the worm take a nap? Because it was tired from turning the spring soil.

Sources: USDA Agricultural Research Service: Soils and Organisms

A bean plant grows leaves. What does it need to make its own food?

Short answer: Sunlight, water and air

Plants take in water through roots and a gas called carbon dioxide from the air. Sunlight gives them energy to make food.

Worth remembering: When plants make food, they also make oxygen that people breathe.

Groan of the day: What kind of plant grows in the dark? A light bulb.

Sources: NASA Kids Science: What Is the Carbon Cycle?

Many birds fly far south every fall. What is the main reason?

Short answer: To find more food

In winter up north, many bugs and seeds are hard to find. Many birds fly to warmer places where food is still easy to find.

Worth remembering: The arctic tern migrates more than 55,000 miles from pole to pole.

Groan of the day: What do you call a bird in winter? Brrr-d.

Sources: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: Migration, It's a Risky Journey!

A butterfly changes a lot as it grows. What is the right order?

Short answer: Egg, caterpillar, chrysalis, butterfly

A butterfly starts as an egg and hatches into a caterpillar. The caterpillar makes a chrysalis, then comes out as a butterfly.

Worth remembering: This big change is called metamorphosis.

Groan of the day: Why are butterflies not allowed at dances? Because it's a moth ball.

Sources: National Park Service: Butterflies and Moths

Your friend asks for your game password. Who should know your password?

Short answer: Only your parents

If someone signs in as you, they can do or say things and everyone will think it was you. Keep passwords just for you and your parents.

Worth remembering: KidsHealth says to guard your passwords, because if someone signs in as you, you have no control over what they do.

Groan of the day: Have you heard the joke about the spy? No, tell me. Sorry, I can't. It's top secret.

Sources: Nemours KidsHealth: Online Safety (for Kids)

Someone in your online game says they are a kid named Alex. What should you remember?

Short answer: They might not be who they say

People online can lie, even if they seem really nice. If a stranger asks for your information or a secret, tell your parents right away.

Worth remembering: KidsHealth says never to meet someone in person who you met online.

Groan of the day: Why was the computer so good at making friends? It always knew how to network.

Sources: Nemours KidsHealth: Online Safety (for Kids)

Someone keeps sending you mean messages in a game. What should you do first?

Short answer: Tell a trusted grown-up

A parent, teacher or school counselor can help you stop it. Do not answer the bully, and block them.

Worth remembering: KidsHealth also says to save the messages, for example with screenshots.

Groan of the day: Why was the computer so angry? Because it had a chip on its shoulder.

Sources: Nemours KidsHealth: Online Safety (for Kids)

You are making a username for a new online game. Which one is safest?

Short answer: A fun made-up nickname

A username should not give strangers clues about who you are, how old you are or where you live.

Worth remembering: KidsHealth says to talk with a parent before you make an account on a new app, game or website.

Groan of the day: Why did the spider cross the road? To get to the other website!

Sources: Nemours KidsHealth: Online Safety (for Kids)

You are making a new password for a game. Which one is strongest?

Short answer: A long mix of random words

Long, random passwords are much harder to guess. Names and birthdays are easy for others to figure out.

Worth remembering: The FTC says to aim for a password with at least 12 characters.

Groan of the day: What did the programmer use to open the lock? A keyboard.

Sources: FTC: Creating Strong Passwords and Other Ways To Protect Your Accounts

A new game app asks to use your camera and location. What should you do?

Short answer: Ask a grown-up first

Some apps try to get more access than they need. A parent or trusted grown-up can help you decide.

Worth remembering: Apps also ask for your microphone, photos and contacts. Some of those make sense and some do not.

Groan of the day: Whenever I lose my TV controller, I always find it in a remote location.

Sources: Nemours KidsHealth: Online Safety (for Kids)

A thunderstorm chases you away from the campfire. When is it safe to go back out?

Short answer: 30 minutes after the last thunder

• Too little: As soon as the rain stops
• Too much: Stay inside for the rest of the day
• Just right: 30 minutes after the last thunder

Lightning can strike up to 10 miles from a storm, even after the rain stops. Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder. Tents and picnic shelters don't protect you; a building or a hard-topped car does.

Worth remembering: Tents and picnic shelters don't protect you from lightning; a building or a hard-topped car does.

Groan of the day: What does a cloud wear under its raincoat? Thunderwear.

Sources: National Weather Service: When a Safe Building or Vehicle is Nearby; National Weather Service: Social Media Lightning Safety

You're at the lake all day. How often should you put on more sunscreen?

Short answer: About every 2 hours, and again after swimming or sweating

Sunscreen wears off as you swim, sweat, and towel off, even the strong stuff. Put more on about every 2 hours, and right after you get out of the water. A grown-up needs about enough to fill a shot glass to cover the whole body.

Groan of the day: Why do bananas wear sunscreen at the beach? They peel easily.

Sources: FDA: Sunscreen Requirements Questions and Answers; American Academy of Dermatology: Sunscreen FAQs; American Academy of Dermatology: Sunscreen Amount Guidance

Can you get a sunburn on a cloudy, cool day?

Short answer: Yes, UV rays get through clouds

• Too little: Skip sunscreen because it's gray out
• Too much: Stay indoors every cloudy day
• Just right: Protect your skin on cloudy days too

The CDC says the sun's UV rays reach you on cloudy and cool days. Feeling cool doesn't mean you're safe from a burn.

Worth remembering: UV rays also bounce off water, cement, sand and snow.

Groan of the day: What do clouds do when they itch? Find the nearest skyscraper.

Sources: CDC: Sun Safety

When are the sun's rays strongest during the day?

Short answer: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The sun's rays are strongest in the middle of the day. Wear sunscreen and take breaks in the shade during those hours.

Worth remembering: A hat and sunglasses that block UV rays protect your face and eyes.

Groan of the day: What did the ice cream say to the sun? You melted my heart.

Sources: Summer Safety (KidsHealth for Kids)

You are playing soccer at the park and hear thunder. What should you do?

Short answer: Go inside a building right away

If you can hear thunder, you are close enough for lightning to reach you. Get inside a building right away.

Worth remembering: There is no safe place outside when thunderstorms are around.

Groan of the day: What should you do if it starts raining cats and dogs? Please seek shelters.

Sources: National Weather Service: Lightning Safety Overview

A pan of grease catches fire on the stove. What should you do?

Short answer: Cover it with a lid and turn off the burner

Water makes burning grease splash and spreads the fire. A lid cuts off the fire's air, and turning off the burner stops the heat. Baking soda also works on a small grease fire.

Groan of the day: What's on every fire department menu? Five Alarm Chili.

Sources: U.S. Fire Administration: Cook Top Fire Safety Tips; U.S. Fire Administration: Kitchen Fires

The smoke alarm goes off and you smell smoke. What do you do first?

Short answer: Get outside right away

In a fire, every second counts, so get out first. Someone can call 911 once you are safely outside.

Worth remembering: Firefighters say smoke, not flames, hurts most people in a home fire.

Groan of the day: What is fire's least favorite month? No-ember.

Sources: What to Do in a Fire (KidsHealth for Kids); Fire Safety Tips (Safe Kids Worldwide)

Your family makes a fire escape plan. What special place should everyone pick?

Short answer: A meeting spot outside, away from home

A meeting spot outside lets everyone see that the whole family got out. It could be a tree, a mailbox or a neighbor's porch.

Worth remembering: A nearby porch can be an easy-to-find family meeting spot.

Groan of the day: How do you make a fire with two sticks? Make sure one of them is a match.

Sources: Fire Safety Tips (Safe Kids Worldwide)

There is smoke in the hallway while you are getting out. How should you move?

Short answer: Get low and crawl out

Smoke rises, so there is usually less smoke near the floor. Crawl on your hands and knees to get out.

Worth remembering: Fire safety teachers call this 'get low and go.'

Groan of the day: What did the firefighter say to the baker? "Stop dropping rolls."

Sources: Fire Safety Tips (Safe Kids Worldwide); What to Do in a Fire (KidsHealth for Kids)

Smoke blocks your way out of your room. Where should you NOT go?

Short answer: Under the bed or in the closet

Firefighters look for you, and hiding makes you hard to find. Go to a window and yell so they know where you are.

Worth remembering: Firefighters can look scary in their masks, but they are there to help you, so go toward them.

Groan of the day: Why did the closet stay quiet? It didn't want to come out.

Sources: What to Do in a Fire (KidsHealth for Kids)

Which one of these is a reason to call 911?

Short answer: There is a fire in the house

911 is for when someone needs help right away because of an injury or danger. Lost or broken things are not emergencies.

Worth remembering: 911 operators are used to talking with kids and will help you stay calm.

Groan of the day: A book never written: "Pick Up the Phone" by Al Geddit.

Sources: How to Use 911 (KidsHealth for Kids)

Your friend dares you to call 911 for fun. What should you do?

Short answer: Say no, 911 is only for emergencies

A joke call keeps the operator busy while real people may need help. In most states, a prank 911 call is against the law.

Worth remembering: If you call 911 by accident, stay on the line and tell them it was a mistake.

Groan of the day: What sound does a turkey's phone make? "Wing! Wing!"

Sources: How to Use 911 (KidsHealth for Kids); Frequently Asked Questions About Calling 911

No grown-ups are around, and you're not sure if it's a real emergency. What should you do?

Short answer: Call 911 anyway

If no adults are around and you aren't sure, calling 911 is the safe choice. You could help save someone.

Worth remembering: Talk with your family ahead of time about when to call 911.

Groan of the day: What's the best way to talk to a shark? Long distance.

Sources: How to Use 911 (KidsHealth for Kids)

You're lost in a store. A shopper says, 'Let's go look outside.' What should you do?

Short answer: Stay inside and ask a cashier

Your grown-up will look for you inside the store. Staying put and asking a worker helps them find you fast.

Worth remembering: Families can choose a meeting spot before visiting a busy place.

Groan of the day: Why do people like shopping for flashlights? Because it's the highlight of their day.

Sources: Going Out Checklist (National Center for Missing and Exploited Children)

You're walking home and need help. Which place is a good 'safe spot'?

Short answer: The library

Safe spots are busy places with grown-ups who can help, like stores, libraries and fire stations. Notice them on your way.

Worth remembering: Police stations, restaurants and friends' houses can be safe spots too.

Groan of the day: Why are libraries so tall? They have the most stories.

Sources: Do You Know How to Be Street Smart? (KidsHealth for Kids)

Your ball rolls into the street between two parked cars. What should you do?

Short answer: Ask a grown-up to get it

Drivers can't see you when you pop out between parked cars. Let a grown-up get the ball safely.

Worth remembering: Crossing at a corner or crosswalk lets drivers see you coming.

Groan of the day: Why did the duck cross the road? Because it was the chicken's day off.

Sources: Pedestrian Safety Tips (Safe Kids Worldwide)

You're crossing the street while watching a video. What should you do?

Short answer: Put the phone down until across

Phones and headphones pull your eyes and ears away from cars. Put them away while you cross.

Worth remembering: If you need to use your phone, stop walking and step to a safe spot first.

Groan of the day: Who helps little pumpkins cross the road to school? The Crossing Gourd!

Sources: Pedestrian Safety Tips (Safe Kids Worldwide)

You fall off your bike and your helmet hits the ground hard. What now?

Short answer: Get a new helmet

A helmet can be damaged inside even if it looks OK. After a fall where you hit your head, replace it.

Worth remembering: Reflective stickers on your helmet help drivers see you.

Groan of the day: What does the bike instructor always say about helmet safety? "It's wheelie important."

Sources: Bike Safety (KidsHealth for Kids)

Kids 12 and younger should ride where in the car?

Short answer: In the back seat

The back seat is the safest place for kids. Front air bags are made for bigger bodies and can hurt kids.

Worth remembering: Never share a seat belt with a friend; everyone needs their own.

Groan of the day: What's a car's favorite meal? Brake-fast.

Sources: Car and Bus Safety (KidsHealth for Kids)

You get off the school bus and need to cross. Where should you never walk?

Short answer: Behind the bus

The driver can't see you behind the bus. Walk way out in front, make sure the driver sees you, then cross.

Worth remembering: If you drop something near the bus, tell the driver instead of bending down to grab it.

Groan of the day: Why did the kid bring a ladder to school? Because she wanted to go to high school.

Sources: Car and Bus Safety (KidsHealth for Kids)

Can you catch a cold just from going outside with wet hair in winter?

Short answer: No, you need to catch a virus

You can only catch a cold if you come into contact with a cold virus. Being chilly might make you shiver, but it cannot create a germ.

Worth remembering: People get sick more in winter because they stay indoors, breathing the same air as infected people.

Groan of the day: What do you catch but never throw? A cold.

Sources: CDC: About Common Cold

What temperature is generally considered a fever?

Short answer: 100.4°F

Many health organizations use 100.4°F as the standard fever threshold.

Worth remembering: A thermometer is more reliable than guessing by touch.

Groan of the day: Why did the thermometer get promoted? It had degrees.

Sources: CDC: Definitions of Signs, Symptoms, and Conditions of Ill Travelers

Does cracking your knuckles give you arthritis?

Short answer: No, it doesn't raise your arthritis risk

• Too little: Never move your fingers, just in case
• Too much: Crack them hard all day long
• Just right: Relax, but it's a habit worth dropping

The pop is just gas bubbles bursting in the fluid inside your joints. Studies comparing knuckle-crackers with people who don't crack found no extra hand arthritis.

Worth remembering: It still may not be a great habit: long-term knuckle cracking has been linked to weaker grip strength.

Groan of the day: What has five fingers but is not a hand? A glove.

Sources: Harvard Health: Does cracking knuckles cause arthritis?

Does reading in dim light damage your eyes?

Short answer: No, it just tires your eyes faster

• Too little: Read in near darkness for hours
• Too much: Never read unless the room is blazing bright
• Just right: Good light helps, dim light won't hurt

Eye doctors say reading in dim light doesn't harm your eyes. Good light just makes words easier to see, so your eyes don't get tired as quickly.

Worth remembering: Sitting close to the TV does not hurt a child's eyes, though vision concerns are worth checking.

Groan of the day: What did the light bulb say to its mom? I love you watts and watts.

Sources: University of Utah Health: Can Reading In Low Light Harm Your Eyes?; University of Utah Health: Causes of Bad Eyesight in Children

What kind of plunger are you supposed to use to unclog a toilet?

Short answer: A flange plunger with a flap

A flat cup plunger is only meant for flat sinks and tubs. The extra flap on a flange plunger fits perfectly into the toilet drain to create a seal.

Worth remembering: You can tuck the flap up inside the flange plunger to use it on a sink if you need to.

Groan of the day: Why did the plumber fall asleep? His job was too draining.

Sources: The Home Depot: Best Toilet and Sink Plungers

The package says the wipes are "flushable." Is it OK to flush them?

Short answer: No, only flush toilet paper

• Too little: Flush anything the label calls flushable
• Too much: Don't even flush toilet paper
• Just right: Toilet paper only, wipes in the trash

Toilet paper falls apart in water. Wipes, even ones sold as flushable, mostly stay whole and can clog your pipes and the sewer. Toss them in the trash.

Worth remembering: Wipes can tangle with cooking grease in sewers and form huge clogs called fatbergs.

Groan of the day: What did the plumber say to the singer? Nice pipes.

Sources: EPA: EPA Encourages Americans to Only Flush Toilet Paper; DC Water: The Unflushables

The dishwasher is half empty. When should it usually run?

Short answer: When it is full

Dishwashers use similar water and energy for small and full loads. Filling the racks makes each cycle count.

Worth remembering: For lightly dirty dishes, a light cycle uses less water.

Groan of the day: Knock, knock. Who's there? Dishwasher. Dishwasher who? Dishwasher ain't workin'!

Sources: Dishwashers

While brushing your teeth, what should you do with the tap?

Short answer: Turn it off

Water running while you brush goes straight down the drain. Turning it off can save gallons each day.

Worth remembering: Even small habits add up to saved water at home.

Groan of the day: What type of dance does a faucet like? Tap dance.

Sources: WaterSense for Kids

When should you turn off screens before bed?

Short answer: At least 30 minutes before

CDC lists turning off electronic devices at least 30 minutes before bed as a habit that helps sleep. A fixed bedtime helps too.

Worth remembering: A cool, quiet, relaxing bedroom is another CDC sleep habit.

Groan of the day: Why was the phone bad at sleeping? It kept getting notifications.

Sources: CDC: About Sleep

Does SPF 30 mean you can stay in the sun 30 times longer?

Short answer: No, it is not a timer

FDA says SPF is about how much sun it takes to burn, not clock time. Midday sun is stronger, so the same SPF does not buy a set number of hours.

Worth remembering: Pick broad spectrum SPF 15 or higher, and still reapply.

Groan of the day: Why did the tomato turn red? It saw the salad dressing.

Sources: FDA: Sunscreen and Sun Protection

At what UV Index should you start protecting your skin?

Short answer: 3 or higher

UV rays can damage skin even on cool or cloudy days.

Worth remembering: Snow and water can reflect UV rays.

Groan of the day: What does the sun eat for breakfast? Light toast.

Sources: CDC: Sun Safety Facts

Your eyes feel tired after a long time on a screen. What's the eye doctors' break rule?

Short answer: Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds

• Too little: Stare at the screen for hours straight
• Too much: Stop all screens for a week
• Just right: Look 20 feet away for 20 seconds regularly

Screens make your eyes refocus often, and you blink less. Looking at least 20 feet away for about 20 seconds every 20 minutes gives your eyes a regular break.

Worth remembering: People blink only three to seven times a minute at a screen, and blinking less dries the eyes' surface.

Groan of the day: What do you call an eye doctor living on an island? An optical illusion.

Sources: Cleveland Clinic: Computer Vision Syndrome; Cleveland Clinic: Computer Vision Syndrome (blinking)

In Yellowstone, how far should you stay from a bear or a wolf?

Short answer: 100 yards, about a football field

• Too little: Close enough for a phone photo
• Too much: Never visit the park at all
• Just right: 100 yards from bears and wolves

Yellowstone says stay at least 100 yards from bears, wolves and cougars, and 25 yards from all other animals, including bison and elk. If an animal moves closer, back away.

Worth remembering: Yellowstone says the safest view of wildlife is often from inside your car.

Groan of the day: What do you call a wolf that gets lost? A where-wolf.

Sources: NPS Yellowstone: Safety

Which bug spray ingredient is on the CDC's mosquito repellent list?

Short answer: Picaridin

• Too little: A citronella candle on the table
• Too much: Soak your clothes in spray every hour
• Just right: An EPA-registered repellent, used as labeled

The CDC includes picaridin on its list of active ingredients in EPA-registered repellents. Follow the directions on the label.

Worth remembering: Picaridin is called icaridin outside the United States.

Groan of the day: What is a mosquito's favorite sport? Skin diving.

Sources: CDC: Preventing Mosquito Bites

A wild mushroom looks just like the ones from the store. Is it safe to eat?

Short answer: Only if an expert has identified it

• Too little: It looks like the store kind, so eat it
• Too much: Panic if you touch a mushroom
• Just right: Eat it only if an expert says so

Poison centers say never eat a wild mushroom unless an expert has identified it. Poisonous ones can look like safe ones, and cooking doesn't make them safe.

Worth remembering: If someone eats a wild mushroom, call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222 right away. Don't wait for symptoms.

Groan of the day: Why did the mushroom leave the party early? There wasn't mushroom.

Sources: Missouri Poison Center: Mushroom Hunting Safety; Minnesota Poison Control System: Wild Mushrooms

You find a fawn lying alone in tall grass. What should you do?

Short answer: Leave it alone and walk away

• Too little: Pick it up and take it home
• Too much: Call 911 for every fawn you see
• Just right: Walk away so the mother comes back

A fawn alone is usually not abandoned; its mother is probably nearby. Leave quietly, because she stays away until people and pets are gone.

Worth remembering: In South Carolina, removing a fawn is illegal because it takes deer outside the legal hunting season.

Groan of the day: Why did the deer need braces? It had buck teeth.

Sources: SCDNR: Leave 'lost fawns' alone

You receive an allowance. What is a smart first step?

Short answer: Plan how to use it

An allowance is a chance to practice money choices. Talk about what to save, spend, or use for another purpose.

Worth remembering: People get money in different ways, and they may spend it in different ways too.

Groan of the day: What do you call an ant who is great with money? An account-ant!

Sources: School-age children and earning

A dime is smaller than a nickel. Which coin is worth more?

Short answer: The dime

Coin size does not tell its value. A dime is 10 cents, while a nickel is 5 cents.

Worth remembering: The U.S. Mint says coin size and metal do not match a coin's worth.

Groan of the day: What did the nickel say to the dime? You make good cents!

Sources: Dime (U.S. Mint Coin Classroom); Nickel (U.S. Mint Coin Classroom); What Coins Are Made Of

Does the same U.S. agency make both coins and paper bills?

Short answer: No, different agencies make them

The U.S. Mint makes coins. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing makes paper money.

Worth remembering: The Mint makes circulating coins for people and businesses to spend.

Groan of the day: What did the dollar name its daughter? Penny.

Sources: About the Mint

You subtract expenses from income and get minus $8. What does that show?

Short answer: Your expenses exceed your income by $8

A simple budget subtracts expenses from income. A negative answer means you plan to spend more than you receive, so lower an expense or find more income before spending.

Worth remembering: Savings can be listed as a planned expense, which helps you pay your future self first.

Groan of the day: Why did the woman go outside with her purse open? She expected some change in the weather.

Sources: Making a Budget

How long should you wash your hands?

Short answer: 20 seconds, about two Happy Birthdays

• Too little: A quick splash, no soap
• Too much: Scalding water and half the soap bottle
• Just right: Soap, 20 seconds, rinse and dry

The CDC says scrub with soap for 20 seconds, about humming Happy Birthday twice. Warm or cold water both work. Get the backs, between fingers and under nails.

Worth remembering: Warm or cold water both work. Scrub the backs, between your fingers, and under your nails.

Groan of the day: I dropped the soap and it shot right down the drain. Guess it made a clean getaway.

Sources: CDC About Handwashing

How much Halloween candy should you eat?

Short answer: A couple of pieces after dinner, then brush

• Too little: No candy at all. Boo!
• Too much: The whole bucket in one night
• Just right: A couple of pieces after dinner, then brush

Right after a meal your mouth makes extra spit that helps wash sugar away. Have a couple of pieces, then brush. Plain chocolate is easiest on teeth.

Worth remembering: Plain chocolate is easiest on teeth. And let a grown-up check your bucket first.

Groan of the day: Why didn't the skeleton eat all his Halloween candy? He didn't have the stomach for it.

Sources: ADA MouthHealthy Halloween guide; FDA Halloween safety tips

When do you put sunscreen on before going outside?

Short answer: About 15 minutes before

FDA says apply 15 minutes before sun exposure so the sunscreen has time to work. Waiting until you are pink is too late.

Worth remembering: An average person needs about one ounce, a shot glass, to cover the body.

Groan of the day: Why did the kid bring a ladder to the beach? To reach the high tide.

Sources: FDA: Sunscreen and Sun Protection

How often should you clean the lint filter in your clothes dryer?

Short answer: Every load

A dirty lint filter raises the chance of a dryer fire. The U.S. Fire Administration says to clean it before and after every load. The vent that carries the hot air outside needs cleaning too.

Groan of the day: I saw my husband trip and fall while carrying a laundry basket full of ironed clothes. I watched it all unfold.

Sources: U.S. Fire Administration: Clothes Dryer Fire Safety; National Fire Protection Association: Dryer Safety Information

What is the main fire hazard of running an extension cord under a rug?

Short answer: The cord cannot release heat and could start a fire

Covering an extension cord traps heat, which can start a fire. Extension cords are temporary, not permanent wiring. If you rely on them, have more outlets installed.

Worth remembering: Heavy reliance on extension cords can mean you need more outlets.

Groan of the day: Where do lightbulbs go shopping? The outlet mall.

Sources: CPSC: Extension Cord Safety; Electrical Safety Foundation International: Extension Cord Safety Tips

You find a lighter on the floor at home. What should you do?

Short answer: Tell a grown-up right away

Matches and lighters are tools for grown-ups only. Telling an adult keeps everyone safe.

Worth remembering: Grown-ups keep matches and lighters up high and out of sight for this very reason.

Groan of the day: What did the match say to the candle? You light up my life.

Sources: Fire Safety Tips (Safe Kids Worldwide)

Why is it hotter in the summer and colder in the winter?

Short answer: The Earth is tilted on its axis

Earth's orbit is mostly round. We have seasons because the planet leans to one side. When your half tilts toward the sun, you get summer.

Worth remembering: During the Northern Hemisphere's winter, the Earth is actually at its closest point to the sun.

Groan of the day: What happens when winter arrives? Things go downhill fast.

Sources: NASA Space Place: What Causes the Seasons?

Rain falls, puddles dry up, and clouds form again. What is this called?

Short answer: The water cycle

The sun warms water so it rises into the air. It cools into clouds and falls as rain or snow, again and again.

Worth remembering: Energy from the sun and the pull of gravity keep water moving around Earth.

Groan of the day: What did the evaporating raindrop say? I'm going to pieces.

Sources: USGS Water Science School: The Water Cycle

What is at the center of nearly every cloud droplet?

Short answer: A speck of dust, salt, or another particle

Water molecules need a tiny surface on which to gather. When moist air cools enough, water vapor condenses onto dust, salt, smoke, or another cloud condensation nucleus and forms a droplet.

Worth remembering: NOAA says the speck at a cloud droplet's center is about 1/100th the size of the droplet.

Groan of the day: It was raining cats and dogs. I almost stepped in a poodle.

Sources: How Clouds Form

If there is no soap, what hand sanitizer should you use?

Short answer: At least 60% alcohol

CDC says soap and water is best. If you cannot wash, use sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol and rub until your hands are dry.

Worth remembering: Do not wipe it off early. That can make it work worse.

Groan of the day: Why did the germ cross the playground? To get to the other slide.

Sources: CDC: About Hand Sanitizer

How long, and how often, should you brush your teeth?

Short answer: 2 minutes, twice a day

• Too little: A quick 20-second scrub in the morning
• Too much: Scrubbing hard after every snack
• Just right: 2 minutes, twice a day, gently

The ADA recommends brushing for 2 minutes, twice a day, with a soft brush. Brushing for 2 minutes removes a useful amount of plaque.

Worth remembering: Hold the brush at an angle to your gums and gently move it in short, tooth-wide strokes.

Groan of the day: What time should you go to the dentist? Tooth-hurty.

Sources: American Dental Association: Toothbrushes; ADA MouthHealthy: Brushing Your Teeth

Your friend has a cold and offers you a sip of their drink. What should you do?

Short answer: Say no thanks

Cold germs get on cups, forks and towels. Using your own keeps the germs from jumping to you.

Worth remembering: Many different viruses cause colds, so there is no single cold vaccine.

Groan of the day: What's a scuba diver's favorite drink? Bubble tea.

Sources: Colds (KidsHealth)

During a common nosebleed, which way should you lean while sitting up?

Short answer: Forward

Sit up and lean forward. This keeps blood from going down your throat.

Worth remembering: Pinch both nostrils shut for 10 to 15 minutes, breathing through your mouth.

Groan of the day: Why did the golfer bring two pairs of pants? In case he got a hole in one.

Sources: Mayo Clinic: Nosebleeds, First aid

You are pressing a cloth on a bleeding cut. Should you lift it to check?

Short answer: No, keep pressing without peeking

Lifting the cloth again and again can start the bleeding over. Keep steady pressure, and get a grown-up if it won't stop.

Worth remembering: If blood soaks through, you add a new cloth on top instead of pulling the first one off.

Groan of the day: Why don't mountains ever get lost while camping? They always "peak" at the map.

Sources: Cuts (KidsHealth)

A bee stings you on the playground. What should you do first?

Short answer: Tell a grown-up right away

A grown-up can help take care of the sting. Some people are allergic, so an adult needs to know.

Worth remembering: Wasps and many bees can sting more than once.

Groan of the day: How did the bee get out of timeout? He was on his best bee-havior!

Sources: What to Do About Bee Stings and Other Insect Stings (KidsHealth for Kids)

There's a thunderstorm outside. Which phone is risky to use indoors?

Short answer: A corded landline phone

• Too little: Use a corded phone during the storm
• Too much: Avoid every phone, even an unplugged cell
• Just right: Use an unplugged cell or cordless phone

Lightning can travel through phone lines and wiring into a house. Cell phones and cordless phones are safe to use. Just don't use one while it's plugged in.

Worth remembering: Metal does not attract lightning. Height, pointy shape and isolation matter most.

Groan of the day: What happens when it rains cats and dogs? You might step in a poodle.

Sources: National Weather Service: Lightning Safety Indoors; National Weather Service: Lightning Myths

You're inside a hard-topped car in a lightning storm. What protects you?

Short answer: The metal shell around you

• Too little: Leaning on the car outside is fine
• Too much: Cars are never safe in storms
• Just right: Inside a hard-topped car, windows up

Lightning runs through the car's outer metal shell and down to the ground, around the people inside. The tires don't stop it. Stay inside with the windows up.

Worth remembering: Standing outside and leaning on the car is not safe. The protection only works if you're inside.

Groan of the day: What's worse than raining cats and dogs? Hailing taxis.

Sources: National Weather Service: Lightning and Cars

How hot can lightning heat the air around it?

Short answer: 5 times hotter than the sun's surface

• Too little: About as hot as a campfire
• Too much: Hotter than the center of the sun
• Just right: 5 times hotter than the sun's surface

Air is bad at carrying electricity, so lightning heats it up fast, to about 50,000°F. That sudden heat makes the air burst outward, and we hear thunder.

Worth remembering: When lightning hits a tree, the heat can boil the water inside and blow off a strip of bark.

Groan of the day: What's the hottest letter of the alphabet? B, because it makes oil boil.

Sources: National Weather Service: How Hot Is Lightning?; National Weather Service: Understanding Lightning: Thunder

Viewed from below in summer, which way should your ceiling fan spin?

Short answer: Counterclockwise, to blow air down

• Too little: Never check the fan's direction
• Too much: Run fans in empty rooms all day
• Just right: Counterclockwise in summer, off when you leave

Spinning counterclockwise pushes air down on you. The breeze makes you feel cooler, so you may be able to set the AC a little higher.

Worth remembering: Ceiling fans cool people, not rooms. Turn the fan off when you leave the room.

Groan of the day: A kid wore an 'I love ceilings' sign. What was the costume? A ceiling fan.

Sources: ENERGY STAR (EPA and DOE): Ceiling Fan Installation and Usage Tips

The washer has only two shirts. What usually saves more energy?

Short answer: Wash a full load

A washer uses about the same energy for many load sizes. Full loads make better use of each cycle.

Worth remembering: Dryer drums are usually bigger than washer drums so clothes can tumble.

Groan of the day: What did the first sock say to the second sock in the dryer? I'll catch you the second time around.

Sources: Clothes Washers

Your shirt can hang safely. Which drying choice saves energy?

Short answer: Air-dry the shirt

Air-drying does not use a dryer's heating energy. First check the care label and ask where clothes may hang.

Worth remembering: Air-drying can also help some clothes last longer.

Groan of the day: Why did the shirt go outside? It needed some fresh air!

Sources: Clothes Washers

Two kids want the same game piece. What is a fair choice?

Short answer: Take turns

Taking turns lets everyone join the activity. It is a simple way to practice fairness and good manners.

Worth remembering: Children learn manners by watching adults model sharing and taking turns.

Groan of the day: Why did the hockey player bring rope to the game? To tie the score.

Sources: How to Shape and Manage Your Young Child's Behavior

You hurt a friend's feelings. What makes a better apology?

Short answer: Own what you did

A good apology takes responsibility instead of blaming the other person's reaction. Honest apologies can help repair trust.

Worth remembering: The other person may need time before feeling ready to move on.

Groan of the day: Why did the pencil apologize? It knew it had crossed a line!

Sources: Apologizing

You feel upset but are unsure how to explain it. What helps?

Short answer: Say how you feel and why

Putting feelings into words can make them easier to understand. Try saying, 'I feel upset because...'

Worth remembering: If you do not know the reason, you can still say that you feel upset.

Groan of the day: Why was the cucumber mad? Because it was in a pickle.

Sources: Talking About Your Feelings

Time to leave camp. What's the right way to put out the campfire?

Short answer: Drown it with water, stir the ashes, then drown it again

Dirt or sand alone is not enough to put a fire out. Pour water until the hissing stops, stir the ashes with a shovel, and add more water. Hold your hand over the ashes: if it's too hot to touch, it's too hot to leave.

Groan of the day: What does a campfire say after a long day of work? I'm burned out!

Sources: National Park Service: Minimize Campfire Impacts; Smokey Bear: How to Put Out a Campfire

What starts most wildfires in the United States?

Short answer: People

• Too little: Leave the campfire while you hike
• Too much: Never go camping again
• Just right: Watch every fire, follow fire bans

The Park Service says nearly 85 percent of wildland fires in the US are caused by people. Unattended campfires and burning debris are common causes.

Worth remembering: NPS lists unattended campfires, burning debris, equipment, cigarettes and arson as human causes.

Groan of the day: Why did the tree go to the dentist? To get a root canal.

Sources: NPS: Wildfire Causes and Evaluations

When typing, how should your wrists line up with your forearms?

Short answer: Straight and in line

Keep wrists straight and in line with your forearms. Adjust your chair or keyboard to avoid bending them.

Worth remembering: Keyboard feet are useful only when they help your wrist position.

Groan of the day: Why did the keyboard go to bed? It needed some space.

Sources: OSHA: Computer Workstations, Keyboards

Your desk chair leaves your feet dangling. What helps?

Short answer: A footrest that supports your feet

Support your feet on the floor or a footrest. Dangling feet are not the recommended desk position.

Worth remembering: Your knees should be about the same height as your hips.

Groan of the day: What do you call a dinosaur with a large vocabulary? A thesaurus.

Sources: OSHA: Computer Workstations, Good Working Positions

Your day hike should end by lunch. Which item still belongs in your pack?

Short answer: A headlamp or flashlight

• Too little: Just a phone and a water bottle
• Too much: A full camping kit for a short walk
• Just right: The Ten Essentials, every hike

The Park Service's Ten Essentials include light, even for day hikes. A slow trail, a wrong turn or an injury can keep you out after dark.

Worth remembering: The other Ten Essentials are navigation, sun protection, extra clothing, first aid, fire, a repair kit, extra food, water and emergency shelter.

Groan of the day: Camping is so intents.

Sources: NPS: The 10 Essentials

Your family is going on a hike. What should you do before you leave?

Short answer: Tell someone the plan and return time

If you are late, someone knows where to look. Leave the plan with a friend or family member who is not going.

Worth remembering: Phones may not get a signal in parks, so do not count on calling.

Groan of the day: What has cities, but no people, has forests, but no trees, and seas, but no fish? A map.

Sources: National Park Service: Hiking Safety

What temperature range do many phones work best in?

Short answer: About 32°F to 95°F

• Too little: Leave it on the dashboard in summer
• Too much: Keep it in the freezer to stay cool
• Just right: Keep it between about 32°F and 95°F

Many phones are built for about 32°F to 95°F. Heat can permanently shorten battery life, and a parked car can get much hotter than that.

Worth remembering: When a phone gets too hot, it may stop charging or dim the screen to protect itself.

Groan of the day: What do you call a dog on a hot day? A hot dog.

Sources: Apple Support: If your iPhone or iPad gets too hot or too cold; Apple Support: If your iPhone or iPad gets too hot or too cold; Samsung Support: Galaxy phone or tablet temperature issues

Does charging a modern phone overnight automatically ruin its battery?

Short answer: No, modern phones use charging controls

• Too little: Let it die before charging
• Too much: Unplug it the second it hits 100
• Just right: Charge overnight, smart charging on

Modern phones can stop or pause charging to reduce battery wear. Some learn your routine, pause at 80 percent, then finish before you usually unplug.

Worth remembering: All rechargeable batteries become less effective as they chemically age.

Groan of the day: Why did the boy run around his bed? To catch up on his sleep.

Sources: Apple Support: Charge and maintain your iPhone battery; Samsung Support: Will charging your Galaxy phone overnight damage the battery?; Apple Support: About Charge Limit and Optimized Battery Charging on iPhone

The rain just stopped and you want to spot a rainbow. Where should the sun be?

Short answer: Behind you

• Too little: Look straight at the sun
• Too much: Wait for the sun to be overhead
• Just right: Sun at your back, rain ahead

Sunlight goes into raindrops, bounces off the back of each drop and comes out split into colors. That light comes back toward you, so the sun must be behind you.

Worth remembering: A full rainbow is a complete circle, but from the ground we usually see only part of it.

Groan of the day: What bow can't be tied? A rainbow.

Sources: NOAA NESDIS: What Causes a Rainbow?

Is the "dark side of the moon" always dark?

Short answer: No, it's the far side, and it gets sunlight too

• Too little: One side never sees the sun
• Too much: The moon has no dark at all
• Just right: Far side we can't see, sunlit half the time

The moon always shows Earth the same face, so we never see the other side. But the moon spins, so the sun shines on that far side just as much.

Worth remembering: During a new moon, when our side looks dark, the far side is in full sunlight.

Groan of the day: When is the moon the heaviest? When it's full.

Sources: NASA StarChild: The Dark Side of the Moon; NASA Science: Moon Facts

Your dog begs for a bite of your chocolate bar. Why should you say no?

Short answer: Chocolate is poison for dogs

Chocolate has stuff in it that dogs cannot handle. It can make them throw up, so tell a grown-up right away if a dog eats some.

Worth remembering: Coffee and caffeine are also on the ASPCA list of foods that are bad for dogs.

Groan of the day: What's a puppy's favorite dessert? Pupcakes!

Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control: People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets

You are helping take care of the family dog. What does it need all day long?

Short answer: Clean, fresh water

Dogs need water just like people do. Check the bowl and refill it when it is low or dirty.

Worth remembering: The ASPCA says to limit people food for dogs.

Groan of the day: Which kind of construction are dogs best at? Roofing.

Sources: ASPCA: General Dog Care

Before washing a new shirt, where should you check first?

Short answer: The care label

Clothes can need different water, drying, or ironing choices. The care label tells how to clean that item safely.

Worth remembering: A U.S. rule has required care labels on clothes since 1971.

Groan of the day: What do you call Santa Claus with unfolded clothes? Kris Wrinkle.

Sources: FTC Votes to Reverse Course on Repeal of Fabric Care Labels

A recyclable container still holds food. What should happen before recycling?

Short answer: Empty and clean it

Food and liquids can spoil other recyclables. Check local rules, then empty and clean accepted containers.

Worth remembering: Plastic bags and wraps usually do not belong in a curbside recycling bin.

Groan of the day: Why did the bottle recycle? It wanted another turn!

Sources: What You Can Do to Improve the Recycling Rate

Where is the best place to keep eggs in the fridge?

Short answer: In their carton on an inside shelf

The door is the warmest spot in the fridge and warms up every time it opens. Keep eggs in their carton in the coldest part of the fridge, and raw eggs in the shell will keep 3 to 5 weeks.

Groan of the day: Why shouldn't you tell an egg a joke? Because it might crack up.

Sources: FDA: Are You Storing Food Safely?; FDA: Food Safety for Pregnant Women, Their Unborn Babies, and Children Under Five

Is the glass in old windows thicker at the bottom because glass slowly flows down?

Short answer: No, glass is a solid

Hundreds of years ago, glassblowers spun glass into flat discs that were thicker at the edges. Builders usually put the thicker edge at the bottom for stability.

Worth remembering: Ancient Roman glass looks exactly the same today as it did when it was made, proving it does not flow.

Groan of the day: Why did the window go to the doctor? It was in a lot of pane.

Sources: Corning Museum of Glass: Does Glass Flow?

Is there zero gravity in space where the space station orbits?

Short answer: No, they are just falling constantly

Gravity up there is almost as strong as on Earth. But the station is moving sideways so fast that as it falls, the Earth curves away beneath it.

Worth remembering: This constant freefall is what makes the astronauts float around inside the ship.

Groan of the day: Why did the cow go to outer space? To visit the milky way.

Sources: NASA: What Is Microgravity?

How much of the grass blade should you cut at one mowing?

Short answer: No more than one third

Removing too much leaf at once can shock the plant, dry the tips, and reduce lawn health.

Worth remembering: The correct finished height depends on the grass species and season.

Groan of the day: Why did the lawn mower go to therapy? It had deep seeded issues.

Sources: University of Maryland Extension: Maintaining an Established Lawn

If your clothes catch fire, what do you do?

Short answer: Stop, drop, and roll

US Fire Administration says stop, drop, cover your face with your hands, and roll until the fire is out. Running feeds the flames.

Worth remembering: If you cannot roll, a nearby blanket or towel can help smother flames.

Groan of the day: What is a firefighter's favorite card game? Go fish, after the fire is out.

Sources: U.S. Fire Administration: Stop, Drop and Roll

Most kids need a booster seat until about what height?

Short answer: 4 feet 9 inches

Most seat belts do not fit correctly until kids reach about this height.

Worth remembering: Many children need boosters longer than parents expect.

Groan of the day: Why did the seat belt break up with the chair? No support.

Sources: HealthyChildren.org: Booster Seats for School-Aged Children

What does the small arrow by the fuel gauge show?

Short answer: Fuel door side

The arrow points to the side of the car with the fuel door.

Worth remembering: Helpful when driving an unfamiliar vehicle.

Groan of the day: Why did the car bring a map? It liked directions.

Sources: Ford Owner's Manual: Fuel Gauge

What should you use to wash an apple before eating it?

Short answer: Plain running water

Rub the apple gently under running water. Soap and special produce washes are unnecessary.

Worth remembering: A clean vegetable brush helps scrub firm produce such as melons.

Groan of the day: What do you call a sad strawberry? A blueberry.

Sources: FDA: 7 Tips for Cleaning Fruits, Vegetables

Where should raw meat sit while it marinates?

Short answer: In the refrigerator

Keep marinating meat in the fridge. Bacteria can multiply quickly at room temperature.

Worth remembering: Used marinade needs a rapid boil before it becomes a sauce.

Groan of the day: What do you call a cow with two legs? Lean beef.

Sources: FDA: Refrigerator Thermometers, Cold Facts about Food Safety

How long can properly handled cooked meat leftovers stay in a fridge at 40°F or below?

Short answer: 3 to 4 days

Eat refrigerated cooked meat leftovers within 3 to 4 days. Freeze them if you need longer storage.

Worth remembering: The same chart gives refrigerated pizza a 3 to 4 day limit.

Groan of the day: Why did the cookie go to the hospital? It felt crummy.

Sources: FoodSafety.gov: Cold Food Storage Chart

Does a familiar caller ID prove who is calling?

Short answer: No, the displayed name can be faked

Scammers can fake the displayed name or number. Caller ID alone does not verify a caller.

Worth remembering: The name for faking caller ID is spoofing.

Groan of the day: Why did the telephone wear glasses? It lost its contacts.

Sources: FTC: Phone Scams

A tornado warning reaches your house. Where should you go?

Short answer: Basement or interior room away from windows

Go to a basement, safe room, or interior room away from windows. Act when the warning arrives.

Worth remembering: Bring pets along if time allows.

Groan of the day: What do you call a tornado’s favorite game? Twister.

Sources: National Weather Service: What to do During a Tornado

Which PC shortcut helps you find a word in a long document?

Short answer: Ctrl+F

Use Ctrl+F to find text. Type the word you want instead of scanning every line.

Worth remembering: Ctrl+H opens find and replace in supported text-editing contexts.

Groan of the day: Why did the book join the police? It wanted to go undercover.

Sources: Microsoft Support: Keyboard shortcuts in Windows

You drop a snack on the floor and grab it in 2 seconds. Are germs on it yet?

Short answer: Yes, germs can transfer in under a second

• Too little: Trust the five-second rule every time
• Too much: Bleach the floor after every crumb
• Just right: Dropped food can pick up germs instantly

Scientists at Rutgers found bacteria can move onto dropped food in less than a second. Wet foods pick up the most germs. Speed doesn't make it safe.

Worth remembering: In the Rutgers tests, carpet transferred fewer germs than tile or stainless steel, and watermelon picked up the most.

Groan of the day: What did the floor say to the desk? I can see your drawers!

Sources: Rutgers University: Rutgers Researchers Debunk 'Five-Second Rule'

Your block of cheddar has a small spot of mold. What should you do?

Short answer: Cut 1 inch around and below it, keep the rest

• Too little: Scrape off just the fuzzy spot
• Too much: Throw away the whole block
• Just right: Cut 1 inch around and below the mold

Mold has a hard time spreading through hard cheese like cheddar. Cut at least 1 inch around and below the spot, keeping the knife out of the mold, and the rest is fine.

Worth remembering: Soft cheeses like cream cheese or cottage cheese are different: if they get mold, throw them out.

Groan of the day: What did the cheese say when it looked in the mirror? Halloumi.

Sources: University of Georgia Extension: Best By vs. Sell By; University of Georgia Extension: Best By vs. Sell By (soft cheese)

Your little brother may have swallowed a cleaner. Which number reaches Poison Help?

Short answer: 1-800-222-1222

Tell a grown-up and call Poison Help for expert advice. If the person collapses or can't breathe, call 911 instead.

Worth remembering: Poison experts can also help online at poison.org.

Groan of the day: How did the telephone propose to his girlfriend? He gave her a ring.

Sources: Contact Poison Control

You're going for a boat ride and you swim really well. Do you need a life jacket?

Short answer: Yes, always on a boat

A boat can tip over by surprise, even on a calm day. A Coast Guard-approved life jacket keeps you floating.

Worth remembering: Life jackets come in sizes; the right one fits snug and doesn't ride up over your chin.

Groan of the day: What is a boat's favorite part of a birthday party? The pin-yacht-a!

Sources: Water Safety (American Red Cross); Water Safety (KidsHealth for Kids); Life Jacket Wear (U.S. Coast Guard)

Your friend is struggling in the water. What should you do?

Short answer: Reach or throw something, don't go in

A scared swimmer can pull you under too. Reach with a pole or throw a float from the shore, and shout for help.

Worth remembering: Shout for help before you try a reach or throw rescue from shore.

Groan of the day: How do you communicate with a fish? You drop a line.

Sources: Water Safety (American Red Cross)

At the pool, which spot should kids stay away from?

Short answer: The drains

Pool drains can pull hard enough to catch hair or swimsuits. Keep away from them and tell a grown-up if a cover is broken or missing.

Worth remembering: Public pools and spas must have special drain covers that help prevent trapping.

Groan of the day: Where do cats go swimming? The kitty pool.

Sources: Swimming Safety Tips (Safe Kids Worldwide); Pool and Spa Drain Covers (CPSC)

How much active play do kids ages 6 to 17 need each day?

Short answer: 60 minutes

Kids need at least an hour a day of moving that gets the heart pumping. Biking, dancing and tag all count.

Worth remembering: The hour can be split up, like recess, a bike ride and a game of tag.

Groan of the day: Why did the gym close down? It just didn't work out.

Sources: Top 10 Things to Know About the Physical Activity Guidelines (health.gov, HHS); Making Fitness a Way of Life (HealthyChildren.org, AAP)

What is the nature-friendly reason to stay on a marked trail?

Short answer: It protects plants and soil

Walking off the trail can trample plants and make new paths. Leave No Trace says to use trails already there.

Worth remembering: Walk single file in the middle of the trail, even when it is muddy.

Groan of the day: If you're on a hike and find a fork in the road, what do you do? Stop for lunch.

Sources: National Park Service: Leave No Trace Seven Principles

Dinner is cooking. Where is the safest place for kids to play?

Short answer: Three feet away

Space around the stove helps prevent bumps and hot spills. Keep toys and play outside the cooking zone.

Worth remembering: The safety zone also includes places where hot food and drinks are carried.

Groan of the day: Why did the toy leave the kitchen? It could not take the heat!

Sources: NFPA Educational Messages Desk Reference

Your phone keeps buzzing during homework. What helps you focus?

Short answer: Put the phone away

Messages and videos take attention away from homework. Put devices aside unless the assignment needs one.

Worth remembering: A regular homework place can make it easier to get started.

Groan of the day: Why did the pencil get kicked out of class? Because it was drawing too much attention.

Sources: Organize, Focus, Get It Done

Friends pressure you to do something wrong. What can you do?

Short answer: Walk away

Real friends should not require you to do something wrong. Leave the situation and ask a trusted adult for support if needed.

Worth remembering: One friend who also says no can make pressure easier to resist.

Groan of the day: Why did the fork stop hanging around with the spoon? Because the spoon kept stirring up trouble.

Sources: How to Handle Peer Pressure

You have limited money. Which should usually come first?

Short answer: Things you need

Needs are essentials, such as basic food and clothing. Wants are optional, so they can wait when money is limited.

Worth remembering: Knowing the difference helps families make spending choices.

Groan of the day: What kind of piano can you buy for $1,000? A grand piano.

Sources: Budgeting for needs and wants

On a Windows PC, a fake virus pop-up traps your browser. How can you close it without touching the pop-up?

Short answer: End the browser task with Task Manager

A scam page can make the browser seem locked. Use Task Manager to end the browser task instead of clicking inside the page. Then run a malware scan if the pop-up may have been a tech-support scam.

Worth remembering: Microsoft's steps: right-click Start, open Task Manager, find the browser under Apps, and choose End task.

Groan of the day: Why did the computer visit the doctor? It caught a virus.

Sources: How to close a pop-up window if Microsoft Edge isn't responding

A simple game wants your contacts, photos, and location. What is the privacy-smart response?

Short answer: Deny unneeded permissions or delete the app

Apps can ask for location, contacts, or photos even when those details are not needed. Check phone privacy settings and turn off unnecessary access. An app demanding many unrelated permissions may not be worth keeping.

Worth remembering: Phone privacy settings can show which installed apps can reach your contacts, photos, and location.

Groan of the day: If you want a job in the moisturizer industry, the best advice is to apply daily.

Sources: How Websites and Apps Collect and Use Your Information

You changed a new router's Wi-Fi password. Which other default password may still need changing?

Short answer: The router admin password

A router usually has a Wi-Fi password for joining the network and an admin password for changing settings. Reset both defaults. Someone with admin access could change the Wi-Fi password and undo other protections.

Worth remembering: The FTC also recommends changing a router's default network name so it does not reveal personal details or the router brand.

Groan of the day: How do trees get on the internet? They log on.

Sources: How To Secure Your Home Wi-Fi Network

The metal hook on a tape measure wiggles slightly. Is it broken?

Short answer: No, the designed movement improves accuracy

The hook moves by its own thickness on purpose. It slides out when hooked over an edge and pushes in against an inside surface, allowing both kinds of measurement to start at zero.

Worth remembering: Stanley says the gap the hook leaves on an outside measurement is already built into the markings on the blade.

Groan of the day: I bought a three-foot ruler yesterday at a yard sale.

Sources: Why does the hook on the end of the Stanley tape rule move?