(StatePoint) If you’re the parent of a college-bound student, you’ll soon be receiving financial aid award letters. Making sense of these letters and planning your next steps can help you navigate the years ahead.

(StatePoint) While spring cleaning is not the most dreaded seasonal task among Americans — in an American Cleaning Institute survey, 80% of respondents said they would rather spring clean than fill out their tax forms — there’s no reason to make it harder than it needs to be.

(StatePoint) What if memorable home-cooked meals didn’t have to take hours to prepare to be healthy and wholesome? By getting smart about how you stock your pantry, you can speed up food prep while still serving up flavor in every bite.

(StatePoint) Spring is the perfect time for a home refresh! While dusting the ceiling fan and scrubbing the tub are likely already on your to-do list, the most essential task of all may not be on your radar: cleaning and testing your smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms. A fresh home is great, but a safe one is even better. Did you know that working smoke alarms in the home doubles your chances of safely escaping a house fire? That’s according to the National Fire Protection Association. This spring, Kidde, a pioneer in early smoke detection for over 100 years, is highlighting the importance of keeping your smoke and CO alarms up to date. Here’s what they want you to know:

(StatePoint) Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is spreading across the country, but it’s not too late to take steps to protect babies from severe illness associated with the virus.

(StatePoint) Every year the Bluegrass State is home to more than 700 festivals and fairs, all of which celebrate some aspect of Kentucky culture, food, arts and so much more.

(StatePoint) With warmer weather here, spring cleaning and hosting season are in full swing. While you prep your home for guests, you may also be seeing an uptick of insect activity.

(StatePoint) Looking for simple ways to elevate your spring celebrations? This spring, home bakers are embracing bright colors, playful details and easy upgrades that turn classic treats into eye-catching centerpieces.

(StatePoint) For travelers, diners, lunch counters and soda shops have stood the test of time as excellent places not only to get a meal, but to get a feel for the local culture.

(StatePoint) American educators work every day to give their students a brighter future. Unfortunately, not all classrooms are equipped with tools and resources that match the dedication of teachers and the potential of students.

(StatePoint) When families have safe, stable housing, access to high-quality early development programs, and other supports that meet their needs, young children have a strong foundation to grow. However, too many families are struggling to meet children’s basic needs.

(StatePoint) Money management is not only a logistical challenge for many families, it can be an emotional one too, especially when it comes to transferring wealth from one generation to the next. Open, honest conversations about your financial values and intentions can cut through some of the stress, and help family members avoid resentment, confusion and even legal strife down the line.

(StatePoint) Cult-favorite products acquire that status for a good reason. They’ve already been purchased, tested and adored and by other consumers. The good news is that identifying the fan favorites that can help you revamp your routine doesn’t have to require hours of research. Simply looking for The Product of the Year red seal of approval when shopping means the product has the thumbs-up from consumers like year.

(StatePoint) Ever take a trip to the grocery store and feel overwhelmed by all the choices available? Save time and money by opting for products already tested by other consumers.

(StatePoint) Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) and paid sick leave help workers maintain their livelihoods while taking care of themselves and their families. And now, several states in the South have begun to expand worker access to these critical benefits.

(StatePoint) When it comes to learning history, there is something about the act of walking around a historical site that will drive a lesson home in a way that is nearly impossible to replicate with films, books and other media.

(StatePoint) Early experiences during the prenatal period and first three years after birth shape brain development and the development of all other systems in the body — with substantial effects on learning, behavior, and physical and mental health. Unfortunately, there is a great discrepancy between the rising costs of raising young children and the level of federal government investment in them.

(StatePoint) Looking to stretch your dollar further in 2026? Here’s how your family can get more bang for your buck on the items and services you use most:

(StatePoint) The beginning of the year is a natural time for a reset, especially when it comes to budgets and better-for-you habits. With cold and flu season still in full swing, it’s also a time when many people start thinking about how to stay healthy without spending more than they planned.

(StatePoint) Living to 100 may sound extraordinary, but research suggests it’s more achievable—and enjoyable—than many people think. Studies show the majority of centenarians rate their health as good, and large numbers of people in this age group are mobile, active and optimistic.