more... > Parishes > Jefferson > Family & Consumer Sciences > State consumer credit scores near bottom (Distributed 02/15/08) Louisiana consumers have an average credit score of 672. At 20 points below the national average of 692, Louisiana ranks near the bottom nationally, with 48 states having higher average credit scores, according to the Experian National Score Index. Savings are key to financial security (Distributed 02/08/08) One of the most powerful ways to increase your financial security and grow wealth over time is to develop a savings habit. Form that habit by “paying yourself first” and saving regularly. Financial tips offered for marital harmony (Distributed 01/15/08) The church and reception hall are reserved, the dress is selected, the invitations are addressed, the photographer and caterer are ready. You might even have your new residence “ready-to-go.” Nutritionist Looks At Good And Bad Mold On Food [Image: Cheese Tray] When you see mold on food, is it safe to cut off the moldy part and use the rest? For most foods the answer is no, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.  more articles... Policies That Exclude Sick Children Protect Others [Image: pediatrician with baby] Typically, providers require that children be kept from care for a minimum of 24 hours or until symptoms disappear. Be On Guard When Shopping For Holiday Gifts Online Online shopping in the United States rises approximately 30 percent each holiday season, because it can save time, money and effort. But sizing up your finds on the Internet is a little different from checking out items at a mall or shop, says LSU AgCenter family economist Dr. Jeanette Tucker. Reading To Infants Prepares Them For Success In School (Radio News 11/19/07) Parents are a child’s most important teacher. LSU AgCenter’s family and child development expert Dr. Becky White is encouraging parents to read to their infants. Research shows that this could have a lasting effect on the child. (Runtime: 60 seconds) Certain Pies Dangerous At Room Temperature (Distributed 11/09/07) The holidays are time to enjoy special desserts you may only make once a year. To prevent getting foodborne illness, refrigerate pies containing eggs and milk, such as pumpkin, custard and cream pies, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames. Attitude Of Gratitude Important For Youth To Learn (Distributed 11/06/07) Thanksgiving offers families an opportunity to reflect on their many blessings. Youth, however, often take their blessings for granted. How can parents and educators teach young people an attitude of gratitude? Make Your Diet '100% Fad Free' In March Consumers are encouraged to go "100% Fad Free" during March Nutrition Month, sponsored by the American Dietetic Association. This year’s theme reinforces the importance of nutrition as a key component of good health along with physical activity, according to LSU AgCenter nutritionist Dr. Beth Reames. Child Care Environment Rating Scales [Image: Child Care] Four environmental rating scales are in use now: (1) Early Childhood Environment, (2) Infant and Toddler Environment, (3) Family Day Care Environment and (4) School-Age Care Environment. (PDF Format Only) Looking for Child Care? Need Training? [Image: Child Care] Use this state map to locate your contact for assistance or training. (PDF Format Only) Give Books To Preschoolers For The Holidays [Image: little girl reading a book] Books make great holiday gifts for your preschooler. They can be fun and engage your child’s developing mind. Types of Child Care [Image: Child Care] Finding just the right child care setting for your child can prove to be a difficult task. Being informed can help make your decision a little easier. (PDF Format Only)