KidsCast

Halloween Games Can Be Played Online

A safe site to check out is Kaboose. They've compiled a group of fun and entertaining Halloween games you can play right on your computer. In addition to the games, you can find spooky crafts to make for scaring, or delighting, the trick-or-treaters that visit your home. Get busy, there's not much time left.

Teeth Care or Holiday Scare

Halloween is obviously a holiday that can wreak havoc on your teeth. All the sugar and sticky stuff in candy that you'll probably be eating can get in your teeth and cause decay. It's always important to brush, but even more so when you're putting food in your mouth that you know can cause problems. If you're eating a lot of sugary, sticky treats, take the time to take care of your mouth and brush after every meal. You should be brushing at least twice each day no matter what time of year it is.  Make sure you get all your teeth, as well as your tongue. And don't forget to floss. 

Tell Us About Your Friends

If you haven't yet entered our writing contest, there's no better time than the present.  Listen to this week's show to get ideas about this month's topic...friendship. In early November we'll choose a winner to send a great prize to. We'll also feature the winning entry right here. So pick up that pencil and get to work. 

Download/Listen to 5min mp3

Are you being safe online?

October is National Cyber Security Awareness Month.  KidsCast spoke with online safety experts Tracey Mooney and Parry Aftab about what kids should know about spending time online. Here are some tips:

• Don't share personal information, like your passwords, even with your friends.
• If you feel uncomfortable, log off.
• Yahooligans! is a safe sight to help you search. 
• Ask your parents and teachers if specific websites are safe.
• Encourage your friends to avoid dangerous websites.
• Talk to your parents about it if someone is bothering you online.
• Stop, Block and Tell.

Download/Listen to Full Interview

Find Out About Your Area's Fall Colors

The Missouri Department of Conservation is a great resource for Fall colors. That's where you can go to find regional updates on what colors you can expect the trees to carry.  Mid-October is traditionally the height of the Fall color season.  It only lasts around six weeks. So take a walk and check out the scenery. If you get some pictures, send them in. We'll put them on our website.

All About Science

Science is not the easiest subject to master. So why not find an interesting website that can help you figure out some of the information you're trying to learn?  We've done that.  Check it out at Rader's Biology 4 Kids. It's a great source for answers about your science questions.

Road to the White House

We're mere weeks away from voting for a new President of the United States. Even though you're too young to vote, you should still pay attention to what's happening with the election. Weekly Reader is a great source for information about the latest happenings on the campaign trail. Go there to learn about what the candidates are doing to win a spot in the White House. 

Most kids don't drink alcohol because...

Those are the words you can start writing with this month.  KidsCast's writing contestis underway for October.  Figure out what you want to say and you could win a great prize. Plus have your work featured on our website.  Get to writing kids and submit it today. 

World Mental Health Day

Everyone knows how important it is to keep your body healthy. But your mental health is just as important. Since 1992, October 10th has been marked as World Mental Health Day. Your feelings, the things you think, and the way you act all deserve time and attention. KidsCast's sponsor, the Missouri Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse, is part of the Missouri Department of Mental Health. There you can find resources to help answer question you have about your mental health and well being.

Share Your Thoughts on Politics

KidsCast is a great place to share your stories and ideas for being a healthy kid. One way to keep your mind healthy is to stay up on current events. When you share your thoughts and opinions about what's going on in the world, you'll be less likely to let others make up your mind for you. PBS has a great forum called NewsHour Extra.  There you can write about the world of politics and current events. Share your opinions and read those of others. Don't forget to post here too.