Several debates continue to surround the idea of how video games affect childhood development. On one side, they have a reputation for causing violence and obesity in children, and on another, they prove to be very educational and encourage exercise. Because video games are so prominent in children’s lives, it is difficult to prevent them from playing video games entirely. However, when you truly analyze them, is it really necessary to rid children of video games completely? Research proves that while video games have their disadvantages, they also have advantages that can stimulate brain activity and help power tomorrow by assisting kids in setting and achieving their goals to reach their full potential.

Video games can be a powerful tool to help children develop certain life skills. They can help children’s brain development in several ways, including enhancing problem solving skills and creativity. They also induce quick thinking by having players solve problems to continue to a higher level, and create strategies to potentially win the game.

The most popular child development video games vary with a child’s age. For younger children, popular video games include: Wii Barbie Dreamhouse Party, Nintendo Super Mario 3D World, XBOX 360 The Lego Movie and Lego Marvel Super Heroes. For teenagers, popular video games include: XBOX 360 Transformers Fall of Cybertron, XBOX 360 Grand Theft Auto, XBOX 360 Guitar Hero II, Rock Band 2, Just Dance 2014 and FIFA 14.

Like so many other things in life, moderation is key, so monitoring a child’s video game intake is definitely important. Video games are a great form of entertainment that provide bonding time with friends and relaxation time during any afternoon. Although the negative effects of video games are very real, by allowing children to partake in developmental video games, the door is also opened for children to have a fun learning experience.

When you think about homes that rely on solar energy, you may think of rustic cabins that live in a very primitive fashion. That may have been the case 20 years ago, but today, some of the most luxurious homes are run off of solar power. There have been plenty of innovations and upgrades made to the world of solar energy and homeowners across the country are taking advantage. You don’t have to go all in if you don’t want. That is the beauty of solar energy. Your electrician in California can answer questions you may have about how you can make solar energy a part of your home. The team at The Electric Connection is well versed in the latest technology and can provide you with the information you need.

You have several options. The first and probably the most popular is to remain connected to the power grid. Basically, you use the solar energy you have and when it is depleted, your home relies on the main power grid or the electricity from the electric company. Even this small change can result in a great deal of energy savings in California homes and businesses. Every little bit matters and using solar power to run your home during the day and relying on the power grid when there is very little demand at night is an excellent choice.

You can choose to rely completely on solar power if you want. This will require the installation of a solar panel system that can run you upwards of $20,000 depending on the size of your home and your electric demands. Even though it is a big initial investment, there are tax breaks and you won’t be paying a monthly electric bill so it kind of balances out.

If you would just like to dabble a bit in alternative energy, consider starting with a solar powered water heater. This one change can save you a great deal of money on your electric bill. Again, every little bit helps. Give The Electric Connection a call today to take your first step into the world of solar power.

When the day comes for you to retire from work, you might find yourself with a lot more free time and a lot less money. Hopefully, you've planned your savings so you don't have to live your golden years on a shoestring budget, but in any scenario, it’s wise to rein in your spending once you're no longer receiving a regular paycheck. Read on for some advice on how to cut back on your energy usage after you retire and keep your monthly bills under control.

Combat Rising Utility Costs

Unfortunately, most people's energy bills actually go up after they retire. What's the difference? Now that you're home all day, you're paying to heat and cool the house and to power electronic devices during the hours you used to spend at the workplace. Essentially, you lost a little-recognized fringe benefit, since your employer used to pick up the tab for electricity and climate control eight hours a day.

To compound the issue, many retirees are recent empty-nesters as well. With the kids out of the house, you probably experienced a sharp downturn in your utility bills. Now, you'll be all the more likely to notice when they spike back up once you stop going to work.

You Have the Power to Save

You don't have to give in to sky-high utility bills, however. Check out these suggestions on how to save:

For a more thorough analysis of your individual circumstances, don't hesitate to contact an expert to conduct an energy audit on your house. You could see significant savings and enjoy your retirement all the more.