1
79
0
Millie Millie_Zemlak
(NewsUSA) - Although it happened nearly 30 years ago, the story of Lorena Bobbitt and the domestic violence she endured still resonates today in the MeToo era. Lifetime kicks off Memorial Day with the Ripped from the Headlines feature premiere of "I Was Lorena Bobbitt" on Monday, May 25, at 8pm ET/PT.
Lorena Bobbitt (now Lorena Gallo) serves as one of the executive producers on the film, as well as its narrator.
The story follows her journey from a young and innocent immigrant bride to a victim of domestic violence. In 1993, after years of abuse at the hands of her husband, John Bobbitt, Lorena fought back, cutting off her husband's penis with a knife and becoming an unlikely international media sensation. The film follows her evolution into a strong and thoughtful woman who has devoted her life to advocating for abused women.
"There are many reasons why I feel it's important to share my story now," Ms. Gallo says in an interview.
"Lifetime gave me a platform and truly listened to my message about domestic violence, and I was actively involved in telling my story. I believe with the #MeToo movement and increased awareness of domestic violence and sexual assault that my message would be heard."
The process of making the movie was very emotional, Ms. Gallo says.
"With me being so young and an immigrant, new to the United States and to endure the type of abuse that I went through, along with the court case and the media frenzy that followed, it is a reminder of what I had to go through to help to become the person that I am today. The work that I do with the Lorena Gallo Foundation and other organizations is based upon my own experiences," she explains.
"I Was Lorena Bobbitt" stars Dani Montalvo ("Dispatches from Elsewhere") and Luke Humphrey ("Tiny Pretty Things") as Lorena and John. Ms. Gallo spent time discussing her past with Ms. Montalvo to help her prepare for the role. "We learned a lot from one another and I'm grateful for our time together," Ms. Gallo says.
The take-home message from the movie, according to Ms. Gallo, is "that domestic violence is real and doesn't discriminate. It can happen to anyone and there are definitely signs showing that someone is abused and it should be taken seriously and not overlooked."
Ms. Gallo's advice to others who are dealing with abuse: "Never give up hope and be resilient."
She emphasizes, "You are not alone and there are options and resources. Do not keep it to yourself. Contact family and friends and understand the resources available to you now, such as shelters, domestic violence hotlines and social service organizations. First responders and doctors are better trained to understand and deal with domestic violence-related problems." She adds, "Do not deal with the situation with the false hope that it will get better. Silence is not an option!"
Domestic and sexual violence is on the rise with many stuck at home with their abusers because of Covid/stay-at-home orders, so this movie is more timely than ever to help women with resources. During the film, Lifetime will run a public service announcement for the National Domestic Violence Hotline and the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence featuring the actors and Lorena Bobbitt, as part of Lifetime's public affairs campaign, Stop Violence Against Women.
Visit mylifetime.com for more information about upcoming programs.
Follow on social @LifetimeTV and using IwasLorenaBobbitt.
Ref: Acting - in Blogs
Lorena Bobbitt (now Lorena Gallo) serves as one of the executive producers on the film, as well as its narrator.
The story follows her journey from a young and innocent immigrant bride to a victim of domestic violence. In 1993, after years of abuse at the hands of her husband, John Bobbitt, Lorena fought back, cutting off her husband's penis with a knife and becoming an unlikely international media sensation. The film follows her evolution into a strong and thoughtful woman who has devoted her life to advocating for abused women.
"There are many reasons why I feel it's important to share my story now," Ms. Gallo says in an interview.
"Lifetime gave me a platform and truly listened to my message about domestic violence, and I was actively involved in telling my story. I believe with the #MeToo movement and increased awareness of domestic violence and sexual assault that my message would be heard."
The process of making the movie was very emotional, Ms. Gallo says.
"With me being so young and an immigrant, new to the United States and to endure the type of abuse that I went through, along with the court case and the media frenzy that followed, it is a reminder of what I had to go through to help to become the person that I am today. The work that I do with the Lorena Gallo Foundation and other organizations is based upon my own experiences," she explains.
"I Was Lorena Bobbitt" stars Dani Montalvo ("Dispatches from Elsewhere") and Luke Humphrey ("Tiny Pretty Things") as Lorena and John. Ms. Gallo spent time discussing her past with Ms. Montalvo to help her prepare for the role. "We learned a lot from one another and I'm grateful for our time together," Ms. Gallo says.
The take-home message from the movie, according to Ms. Gallo, is "that domestic violence is real and doesn't discriminate. It can happen to anyone and there are definitely signs showing that someone is abused and it should be taken seriously and not overlooked."
Ms. Gallo's advice to others who are dealing with abuse: "Never give up hope and be resilient."
She emphasizes, "You are not alone and there are options and resources. Do not keep it to yourself. Contact family and friends and understand the resources available to you now, such as shelters, domestic violence hotlines and social service organizations. First responders and doctors are better trained to understand and deal with domestic violence-related problems." She adds, "Do not deal with the situation with the false hope that it will get better. Silence is not an option!"
Domestic and sexual violence is on the rise with many stuck at home with their abusers because of Covid/stay-at-home orders, so this movie is more timely than ever to help women with resources. During the film, Lifetime will run a public service announcement for the National Domestic Violence Hotline and the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence featuring the actors and Lorena Bobbitt, as part of Lifetime's public affairs campaign, Stop Violence Against Women.
Visit mylifetime.com for more information about upcoming programs.
Follow on social @LifetimeTV and using IwasLorenaBobbitt.
Ref: Acting - in Blogs
(NewsUSA) - Although it happened nearly 30 years ago, the story of Lorena Bobbitt and the domestic violence she endured still resonates today in the MeToo era. Lifetime kicks off Memorial Day with the Ripped from the Headlines feature premiere of "I Was Lorena Bobbitt" on Monday, May 25, at 8pm ET/PT.<br />
<br />
Lorena Bobbitt (now Lorena Gallo) serves as one of the executive producers on the film, as well as its narrator.<br />
<br />
The story follows her journey from a young and innocent immigrant bride to a victim of domestic violence. In 1993, after years of abuse at the hands of her husband, John Bobbitt, Lorena fought back, cutting off her husband's penis with a knife and becoming an unlikely international media sensation. The film follows her evolution into a strong and thoughtful woman who has devoted her life to advocating for abused women.<br />
<br />
"There are many reasons why I feel it's important to share my story now," Ms. Gallo says in an interview.<br />
<br />
"Lifetime gave me a platform and truly listened to my message about domestic violence, and I was actively involved in telling my story. I believe with the <a class="btn-scroll hashword" href="https://stallios.com/search/hashtag/MeToo">#MeToo</a> movement and increased awareness of domestic violence and sexual assault that my message would be heard."<br />
<br />
The process of making the movie was very emotional, Ms. Gallo says.<br />
<br />
"With me being so young and an immigrant, new to the United States and to endure the type of abuse that I went through, along with the court case and the media frenzy that followed, it is a reminder of what I had to go through to help to become the person that I am today. The work that I do with the Lorena Gallo Foundation and other organizations is based upon my own experiences," she explains.<br />
<br />
"I Was Lorena Bobbitt" stars Dani Montalvo ("Dispatches from Elsewhere") and Luke Humphrey ("Tiny Pretty Things") as Lorena and John. Ms. Gallo spent time discussing her past with Ms. Montalvo to help her prepare for the role. "We learned a lot from one another and I'm grateful for our time together," Ms. Gallo says.<br />
<br />
The take-home message from the movie, according to Ms. Gallo, is "that domestic violence is real and doesn't discriminate. It can happen to anyone and there are definitely signs showing that someone is abused and it should be taken seriously and not overlooked."<br />
<br />
Ms. Gallo's advice to others who are dealing with abuse: "Never give up hope and be resilient."<br />
<br />
She emphasizes, "You are not alone and there are options and resources. Do not keep it to yourself. Contact family and friends and understand the resources available to you now, such as shelters, domestic violence hotlines and social service organizations. First responders and doctors are better trained to understand and deal with domestic violence-related problems." She adds, "Do not deal with the situation with the false hope that it will get better. Silence is not an option!"<br />
<br />
Domestic and sexual violence is on the rise with many stuck at home with their abusers because of Covid/stay-at-home orders, so this movie is more timely than ever to help women with resources. During the film, Lifetime will run a public service announcement for the National Domestic Violence Hotline and the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence featuring the actors and Lorena Bobbitt, as part of Lifetime's public affairs campaign, Stop Violence Against Women.<br />
<br />
Visit mylifetime.com for more information about upcoming programs.<br />
<br />
Follow on social @LifetimeTV and using IwasLorenaBobbitt.<br />
<br />
Ref: Acting - in Blogs
Read more
1
60
0
0
Aric Aric_Feeney
Category: Photography - in Blogs
<br />
<br />
<span style='display:none' class='DO NOT REMOVE - THIS CATEGORY CODE WILL BE HIDDEN - IT IS NEEDED TO BE FOUND BY CATEGORY AND ONE-CLICK SEARCH'>Category: Photography - in Blogs</span>
Read more
1
72
0
0
Nichole nlschack
Follow me as I explain a different way to view the mundane of everyday life. Sometimes it's better to take a good look around you and discover the beauty that is right infront of you.
Category: Motivation - in Blogs
Category: Motivation - in Blogs
Follow me as I explain a different way to view the mundane of everyday life. Sometimes it's better to take a good look around you and discover the beauty that is right infront of you.<br />
<br />
<span style='display:none' class='DO NOT REMOVE - THIS CATEGORY CODE WILL BE HIDDEN - IT IS NEEDED TO BE FOUND BY CATEGORY AND ONE-CLICK SEARCH'>Category: Motivation - in Blogs</span>
Read more
2
37
0
0
Aric Aric_Feeney
Category: Photography - in Blogs
<br />
<br />
<span style='display:none' class='DO NOT REMOVE - THIS CATEGORY CODE WILL BE HIDDEN - IT IS NEEDED TO BE FOUND BY CATEGORY AND ONE-CLICK SEARCH'>Category: Photography - in Blogs</span>
Read more
1
89
0
0
Joshua joshua
Struggling to keep up with endless customer questions? You’re not alone. Businesses are realizing that AI-powered chatbots are no longer just “nice-to-have” tools they’re essential for delivering fast, 24/7 customer support.
But here’s the real challenge: with so many chatbot platforms out there, how do you know which one fits your business?
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the 5 best AI chatbot builders in 2025. These tools are not only user-friendly but also designed to help businesses of all sizes automate conversations, save time, and increase customer satisfaction.
What Makes a Great AI Chatbot Builder?
Before diving into the list, let’s set some standards. A solid chatbot builder should offer:
Ease of use – No-code or low-code platforms are best for beginners.
AI capabilities – Natural Language Processing (NLP) for smarter conversations.
Integrations – Works seamlessly with CRMs, websites, or apps.
Scalability – Can grow with your business.
Analytics – Helps you measure performance and customer interactions.
If a chatbot builder ticks most of these boxes, it’s worth considering.
1. ManyChat – Best for Marketing Automation
manyChat is a go-to chatbot builder if you’re running an online store or want to automate conversations on social media platforms like Facebook Messenger and Instagram.
Key Features:
Visual drag-and-drop builder
Automated workflows for lead generation
Supports SMS, WhatsApp, and email campaigns
Integrates with Shopify and HubSpot
Best For: E-commerce stores and social media marketers who want to convert followers into paying customers.
2. Intercom – Best for Customer Support
Intercom is one of the most popular customer communication platforms, and its AI chatbot functionality is top-notch. According to TechCrunch, Intercom has been a pioneer in scaling customer support with conversational AI.
Key Features:
AI-powered resolution bot
Proactive customer engagement
Powerful integrations with Slack, Salesforce, and Zapier
Real-time analytics
Best For: SaaS companies and customer support teams needing advanced automation.
3. Tidio – Best for Small Businesses
If you’re just getting started and want something simple yet effective, Tidio is a fantastic option. It combines live chat with AI automation in one platform.
Key Features:
Easy to install on WordPress, Shopify, and Wix
AI bot trained to answer FAQs
Mobile app for on-the-go support
Affordable plans
Best For: Small businesses that want a budget-friendly AI chatbot solution.
4. Drift – Best for B2B Sales Conversations
Drift positions itself as a conversational marketing platform, and for good reason. It focuses on creating real-time, personalized chat experiences that drive sales.
Key Features:
AI bots qualify leads automatically
Custom playbooks for B2B sales
Integration with major CRMs like Salesforce and Marketo
Personalized chat based on visitor data
Best For: B2B businesses that rely heavily on lead generation and relationship building.
5. HubSpot Chatbot Builder – Best All-in-One CRM Integration
HubSpot offers a free chatbot builder inside its all-in-one CRM. This makes it incredibly useful for businesses already using HubSpot for marketing and sales.
Key Features:
No-code chatbot builder
Automated lead qualification
Seamless integration with HubSpot CRM
Free plan with premium upgrades
Best For: Businesses already in the HubSpot ecosystem who want a cost-effective chatbot solution.
Final Thoughts
The right AI chatbot builder depends on your business goals:
Use ManyChat if you’re focused on social media and e-commerce.
Choose Intercom for powerful customer support automation.
Try Tidio if you’re a small business on a budget.
Go with Drift for B2B lead generation.
Pick HubSpot for all-in-one CRM integration.
At the end of the day, the “best” chatbot is the one that fits your audience, budget, and growth strategy. Start small, experiment, and optimize as you go.
Have you tried any of these chatbot builders before? Share your experience I’d love to hear which one worked best for you!
Category: Technology - in Blogs
But here’s the real challenge: with so many chatbot platforms out there, how do you know which one fits your business?
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the 5 best AI chatbot builders in 2025. These tools are not only user-friendly but also designed to help businesses of all sizes automate conversations, save time, and increase customer satisfaction.
What Makes a Great AI Chatbot Builder?
Before diving into the list, let’s set some standards. A solid chatbot builder should offer:
Ease of use – No-code or low-code platforms are best for beginners.
AI capabilities – Natural Language Processing (NLP) for smarter conversations.
Integrations – Works seamlessly with CRMs, websites, or apps.
Scalability – Can grow with your business.
Analytics – Helps you measure performance and customer interactions.
If a chatbot builder ticks most of these boxes, it’s worth considering.
1. ManyChat – Best for Marketing Automation
manyChat is a go-to chatbot builder if you’re running an online store or want to automate conversations on social media platforms like Facebook Messenger and Instagram.
Key Features:
Visual drag-and-drop builder
Automated workflows for lead generation
Supports SMS, WhatsApp, and email campaigns
Integrates with Shopify and HubSpot
Best For: E-commerce stores and social media marketers who want to convert followers into paying customers.
2. Intercom – Best for Customer Support
Intercom is one of the most popular customer communication platforms, and its AI chatbot functionality is top-notch. According to TechCrunch, Intercom has been a pioneer in scaling customer support with conversational AI.
Key Features:
AI-powered resolution bot
Proactive customer engagement
Powerful integrations with Slack, Salesforce, and Zapier
Real-time analytics
Best For: SaaS companies and customer support teams needing advanced automation.
3. Tidio – Best for Small Businesses
If you’re just getting started and want something simple yet effective, Tidio is a fantastic option. It combines live chat with AI automation in one platform.
Key Features:
Easy to install on WordPress, Shopify, and Wix
AI bot trained to answer FAQs
Mobile app for on-the-go support
Affordable plans
Best For: Small businesses that want a budget-friendly AI chatbot solution.
4. Drift – Best for B2B Sales Conversations
Drift positions itself as a conversational marketing platform, and for good reason. It focuses on creating real-time, personalized chat experiences that drive sales.
Key Features:
AI bots qualify leads automatically
Custom playbooks for B2B sales
Integration with major CRMs like Salesforce and Marketo
Personalized chat based on visitor data
Best For: B2B businesses that rely heavily on lead generation and relationship building.
5. HubSpot Chatbot Builder – Best All-in-One CRM Integration
HubSpot offers a free chatbot builder inside its all-in-one CRM. This makes it incredibly useful for businesses already using HubSpot for marketing and sales.
Key Features:
No-code chatbot builder
Automated lead qualification
Seamless integration with HubSpot CRM
Free plan with premium upgrades
Best For: Businesses already in the HubSpot ecosystem who want a cost-effective chatbot solution.
Final Thoughts
The right AI chatbot builder depends on your business goals:
Use ManyChat if you’re focused on social media and e-commerce.
Choose Intercom for powerful customer support automation.
Try Tidio if you’re a small business on a budget.
Go with Drift for B2B lead generation.
Pick HubSpot for all-in-one CRM integration.
At the end of the day, the “best” chatbot is the one that fits your audience, budget, and growth strategy. Start small, experiment, and optimize as you go.
Have you tried any of these chatbot builders before? Share your experience I’d love to hear which one worked best for you!
Category: Technology - in Blogs
Struggling to keep up with endless customer questions? You’re not alone. Businesses are realizing that AI-powered chatbots are no longer just “nice-to-have” tools they’re essential for delivering fast, 24/7 customer support.<br />
<br />
But here’s the real challenge: with so many chatbot platforms out there, how do you know which one fits your business?<br />
<br />
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the 5 best AI chatbot builders in 2025. These tools are not only user-friendly but also designed to help businesses of all sizes automate conversations, save time, and increase customer satisfaction.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
What Makes a Great AI Chatbot Builder?<br />
Before diving into the list, let’s set some standards. A solid chatbot builder should offer:<br />
<br />
Ease of use – No-code or low-code platforms are best for beginners.<br />
AI capabilities – Natural Language Processing (NLP) for smarter conversations.<br />
Integrations – Works seamlessly with CRMs, websites, or apps.<br />
Scalability – Can grow with your business.<br />
Analytics – Helps you measure performance and customer interactions.<br />
<br />
If a chatbot builder ticks most of these boxes, it’s worth considering.<br />
<br />
1. ManyChat – Best for Marketing Automation<br />
manyChat is a go-to chatbot builder if you’re running an online store or want to automate conversations on social media platforms like Facebook Messenger and Instagram.<br />
<br />
Key Features:<br />
<br />
Visual drag-and-drop builder<br />
Automated workflows for lead generation<br />
Supports SMS, WhatsApp, and email campaigns<br />
Integrates with Shopify and HubSpot<br />
<br />
Best For: E-commerce stores and social media marketers who want to convert followers into paying customers.<br />
<br />
2. Intercom – Best for Customer Support<br />
Intercom is one of the most popular customer communication platforms, and its AI chatbot functionality is top-notch. According to TechCrunch, Intercom has been a pioneer in scaling customer support with conversational AI.<br />
<br />
Key Features:<br />
<br />
AI-powered resolution bot<br />
Proactive customer engagement<br />
Powerful integrations with Slack, Salesforce, and Zapier<br />
Real-time analytics<br />
<br />
Best For: SaaS companies and customer support teams needing advanced automation.<br />
<br />
3. Tidio – Best for Small Businesses<br />
If you’re just getting started and want something simple yet effective, Tidio is a fantastic option. It combines live chat with AI automation in one platform.<br />
<br />
Key Features:<br />
<br />
Easy to install on WordPress, Shopify, and Wix<br />
AI bot trained to answer FAQs<br />
Mobile app for on-the-go support<br />
Affordable plans<br />
<br />
Best For: Small businesses that want a budget-friendly AI chatbot solution.<br />
<br />
4. Drift – Best for B2B Sales Conversations<br />
Drift positions itself as a conversational marketing platform, and for good reason. It focuses on creating real-time, personalized chat experiences that drive sales.<br />
<br />
Key Features:<br />
<br />
AI bots qualify leads automatically<br />
Custom playbooks for B2B sales<br />
Integration with major CRMs like Salesforce and Marketo<br />
Personalized chat based on visitor data<br />
<br />
Best For: B2B businesses that rely heavily on lead generation and relationship building.<br />
<br />
5. HubSpot Chatbot Builder – Best All-in-One CRM Integration<br />
HubSpot offers a free chatbot builder inside its all-in-one CRM. This makes it incredibly useful for businesses already using HubSpot for marketing and sales.<br />
<br />
Key Features:<br />
<br />
No-code chatbot builder<br />
Automated lead qualification<br />
Seamless integration with HubSpot CRM<br />
Free plan with premium upgrades<br />
<br />
Best For: Businesses already in the HubSpot ecosystem who want a cost-effective chatbot solution.<br />
<br />
Final Thoughts<br />
The right AI chatbot builder depends on your business goals:<br />
<br />
Use ManyChat if you’re focused on social media and e-commerce.<br />
Choose Intercom for powerful customer support automation.<br />
Try Tidio if you’re a small business on a budget.<br />
Go with Drift for B2B lead generation.<br />
Pick HubSpot for all-in-one CRM integration.<br />
<br />
At the end of the day, the “best” chatbot is the one that fits your audience, budget, and growth strategy. Start small, experiment, and optimize as you go.<br />
<br />
Have you tried any of these chatbot builders before? Share your experience I’d love to hear which one worked best for you!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style='display:none' class='DO NOT REMOVE - THIS CATEGORY CODE WILL BE HIDDEN - IT IS NEEDED TO BE FOUND BY CATEGORY AND ONE-CLICK SEARCH'>Category: Technology - in Blogs</span>
Read more
0
4
0
0
Alesha momoftwo24
I sit here
all alone
Empty rooms
Quietness
Other than the whirring of a fan
No screaming of a young child playing
No cooing of a happy baby
Whirr whirr whirr
Which once was a house full of love and joy
Now feels like a nightmare I cant escape
Wishing
Hoping
Dreaming
That one day ill have that back again
The coos
The screams
The noises that irritate most parents are the ones I long for the most
The endless cuddles
The mommy mommy mommy
I just want it all back
I want a reason to get out of bed and do something
The darkness with them gone keeps closing in and I feel like it will never end
I feel like those coos
Those screams
Those giggles
Those cuddles
Those cries
Will never come back
I feel like the life im living now
Visiting my own kids like theyre my niece and nephew will never end
I've thought of burning cutting smoking drinking anything to concrete that pain and maybe just maybe take it all away
but I know if I do the pain will never go away because it may be the thing that takes it away forever
Those cries
Those coos
Those screams
Those giggles
Would never come back
So I sit here listening to the whirr of the fan hoping that one of these days that whirr isn't the only thing to fill these rooms
Category: Reading - in Blogs
Category: Reading - in Blogs
all alone
Empty rooms
Quietness
Other than the whirring of a fan
No screaming of a young child playing
No cooing of a happy baby
Whirr whirr whirr
Which once was a house full of love and joy
Now feels like a nightmare I cant escape
Wishing
Hoping
Dreaming
That one day ill have that back again
The coos
The screams
The noises that irritate most parents are the ones I long for the most
The endless cuddles
The mommy mommy mommy
I just want it all back
I want a reason to get out of bed and do something
The darkness with them gone keeps closing in and I feel like it will never end
I feel like those coos
Those screams
Those giggles
Those cuddles
Those cries
Will never come back
I feel like the life im living now
Visiting my own kids like theyre my niece and nephew will never end
I've thought of burning cutting smoking drinking anything to concrete that pain and maybe just maybe take it all away
but I know if I do the pain will never go away because it may be the thing that takes it away forever
Those cries
Those coos
Those screams
Those giggles
Would never come back
So I sit here listening to the whirr of the fan hoping that one of these days that whirr isn't the only thing to fill these rooms
Category: Reading - in Blogs
Category: Reading - in Blogs
I sit here <br />
all alone <br />
Empty rooms<br />
Quietness<br />
Other than the whirring of a fan<br />
No screaming of a young child playing<br />
No cooing of a happy baby <br />
Whirr whirr whirr <br />
Which once was a house full of love and joy<br />
Now feels like a nightmare I cant escape<br />
Wishing<br />
Hoping<br />
Dreaming<br />
That one day ill have that back again<br />
The coos<br />
The screams<br />
The noises that irritate most parents are the ones I long for the most <br />
The endless cuddles <br />
The mommy mommy mommy<br />
I just want it all back<br />
I want a reason to get out of bed and do something <br />
The darkness with them gone keeps closing in and I feel like it will never end <br />
I feel like those coos<br />
Those screams <br />
Those giggles <br />
Those cuddles <br />
Those cries <br />
Will never come back<br />
I feel like the life im living now <br />
Visiting my own kids like theyre my niece and nephew will never end <br />
I've thought of burning cutting smoking drinking anything to concrete that pain and maybe just maybe take it all away<br />
but I know if I do the pain will never go away because it may be the thing that takes it away forever<br />
Those cries<br />
Those coos <br />
Those screams <br />
Those giggles <br />
Would never come back <br />
So I sit here listening to the whirr of the fan hoping that one of these days that whirr isn't the only thing to fill these rooms<br />
<br />
<span style='display:none' class='DO NOT REMOVE - THIS CATEGORY CODE WILL BE HIDDEN - IT IS NEEDED TO BE FOUND BY CATEGORY AND ONE-CLICK SEARCH'>Category: Reading - in Blogs</span><br />
<br />
<span style='display:none' class='DO NOT REMOVE - THIS CATEGORY CODE WILL BE HIDDEN - IT IS NEEDED TO BE FOUND BY CATEGORY AND ONE-CLICK SEARCH'>Category: Reading - in Blogs</span>
Read more
0
9
0
0
Aric Aric_Feeney
Category: Photography - in Blogs
<br />
<br />
<span style='display:none' class='DO NOT REMOVE - THIS CATEGORY CODE WILL BE HIDDEN - IT IS NEEDED TO BE FOUND BY CATEGORY AND ONE-CLICK SEARCH'>Category: Photography - in Blogs</span>
Read more
2
85
0
0
Millie Millie_Zemlak
(NewsUSA) - If you're reading this story, that probably means you're a concerned parent who wouldn't dream of buying your 8-year-old the new "Battlefield 4" video game for the holidays, no matter how many hissy fits are thrown. But let's face it, you've also got a zillion other things on your mind right now -- how's that work deadline coming? -- and not every title is so obviously age-inappropriate.
What to do?
Well, first, remember the reason most kids enjoy playing video games is a positive one. "When kids are asked, in focus groups and surveys, what they like about video games, they generally talk about freedom, self-direction and competence," Peter Gray, a research professor at Boston College, wrote in Psychology Today. And second, know that you're not without helpful resources.
Here's how to ensure you make a smart choice:
* Check the box. Not only does each one include a letter on the front indicating the maturity level assigned by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) -- i.e., "EC" for early childhood, "E10+" for those 10 and over, and "T" for teen -- but the cover's flip side provides the basis for the grade. Meaning, if you're unsure whether a video game rated "E" for everyone (or even "M" for mature, 17 or older) is right for your child, content descriptors like "fantasy violence" could be the clincher.
And while producers aren't required to submit games for review, retail partners of the ESRB like GameStop (www.gamestop.com) say they make a point of only carrying ESRB-rated games. "Each child has a unique personality, and we believe in helping parents protect younger players from overly mature content," says Jason Cochran, vice president of store operations and strategic initiatives at the company, which is the world's largest multichannel retailer of video games.
* Understand the gaming lingo. You know that clueless feeling you get when your child drops gamer terms like "FPS" around the house? The website RespectTheRatings.com explains their meaning -- in this case, "first person shooter," signifying a game where the player sees the action through the eyes of its main character -- and also offers such other handy tips as the availability of built-in parental controls on consoles and handheld devices.
* Ask the experts. About 73 percent of all video games are rated "E" through "T," and GameStop actually has "Game Advisors" in every store who can tell you which ones harness creativity ("Disney Infinity"), say, and which are delightful fantasies ("Angry Birds: Star Wars").
One last tip: When in doubt, try the games in stores yourself.
Ref: Gaming - in Blogs
What to do?
Well, first, remember the reason most kids enjoy playing video games is a positive one. "When kids are asked, in focus groups and surveys, what they like about video games, they generally talk about freedom, self-direction and competence," Peter Gray, a research professor at Boston College, wrote in Psychology Today. And second, know that you're not without helpful resources.
Here's how to ensure you make a smart choice:
* Check the box. Not only does each one include a letter on the front indicating the maturity level assigned by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) -- i.e., "EC" for early childhood, "E10+" for those 10 and over, and "T" for teen -- but the cover's flip side provides the basis for the grade. Meaning, if you're unsure whether a video game rated "E" for everyone (or even "M" for mature, 17 or older) is right for your child, content descriptors like "fantasy violence" could be the clincher.
And while producers aren't required to submit games for review, retail partners of the ESRB like GameStop (www.gamestop.com) say they make a point of only carrying ESRB-rated games. "Each child has a unique personality, and we believe in helping parents protect younger players from overly mature content," says Jason Cochran, vice president of store operations and strategic initiatives at the company, which is the world's largest multichannel retailer of video games.
* Understand the gaming lingo. You know that clueless feeling you get when your child drops gamer terms like "FPS" around the house? The website RespectTheRatings.com explains their meaning -- in this case, "first person shooter," signifying a game where the player sees the action through the eyes of its main character -- and also offers such other handy tips as the availability of built-in parental controls on consoles and handheld devices.
* Ask the experts. About 73 percent of all video games are rated "E" through "T," and GameStop actually has "Game Advisors" in every store who can tell you which ones harness creativity ("Disney Infinity"), say, and which are delightful fantasies ("Angry Birds: Star Wars").
One last tip: When in doubt, try the games in stores yourself.
Ref: Gaming - in Blogs
(NewsUSA) - If you're reading this story, that probably means you're a concerned parent who wouldn't dream of buying your 8-year-old the new "Battlefield 4" video game for the holidays, no matter how many hissy fits are thrown. But let's face it, you've also got a zillion other things on your mind right now -- how's that work deadline coming? -- and not every title is so obviously age-inappropriate.<br />
<br />
What to do?<br />
<br />
Well, first, remember the reason most kids enjoy playing video games is a positive one. "When kids are asked, in focus groups and surveys, what they like about video games, they generally talk about freedom, self-direction and competence," Peter Gray, a research professor at Boston College, wrote in Psychology Today. And second, know that you're not without helpful resources.<br />
<br />
Here's how to ensure you make a smart choice:<br />
<br />
* Check the box. Not only does each one include a letter on the front indicating the maturity level assigned by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) -- i.e., "EC" for early childhood, "E10+" for those 10 and over, and "T" for teen -- but the cover's flip side provides the basis for the grade. Meaning, if you're unsure whether a video game rated "E" for everyone (or even "M" for mature, 17 or older) is right for your child, content descriptors like "fantasy violence" could be the clincher.<br />
<br />
And while producers aren't required to submit games for review, retail partners of the ESRB like GameStop (www.gamestop.com) say they make a point of only carrying ESRB-rated games. "Each child has a unique personality, and we believe in helping parents protect younger players from overly mature content," says Jason Cochran, vice president of store operations and strategic initiatives at the company, which is the world's largest multichannel retailer of video games.<br />
<br />
* Understand the gaming lingo. You know that clueless feeling you get when your child drops gamer terms like "FPS" around the house? The website RespectTheRatings.com explains their meaning -- in this case, "first person shooter," signifying a game where the player sees the action through the eyes of its main character -- and also offers such other handy tips as the availability of built-in parental controls on consoles and handheld devices.<br />
<br />
* Ask the experts. About 73 percent of all video games are rated "E" through "T," and GameStop actually has "Game Advisors" in every store who can tell you which ones harness creativity ("Disney Infinity"), say, and which are delightful fantasies ("Angry Birds: Star Wars").<br />
<br />
One last tip: When in doubt, try the games in stores yourself.<br />
<br />
<br />
Ref: Gaming - in Blogs
Read more
2
1008
0
0