(StatePoint) Once the domain of lawnmowers and gardening tools, today’s backyard sheds are being repurposed into unique, functional spaces (think: she-shed, bunkhouse or even a bar pub) complete with plumbing and electricity.

(StatePoint) It’s time to celebrate colorful falling leaves and cooling weather with fun seasonal activities. The good news? You don’t have to travel far from home to get your fall fix.

(StatePoint) When you see a product labeled “eco-friendly,” or “environmentally sustainable,” it can be tempting to take this at face-value and feel good about your purchase. However, a new report shows that while many major companies are making claims that they are tackling the plastic pollution crisis, there are reasons to be skeptical.

(StatePoint) Picture this: you’re getting ready for the day and check your phone to see what the weather will be like. Your weather app shows 58 degrees, so you throw on a light jacket and head out the door. By the time you reach the end of the block you’re hit in the face with a blast of wind and cold air. It feels more like 35 degrees.

(StatePoint) The average menstruating woman uses 11,000 feminine hygiene products over her period lifetime. End-on-end, that amounts to eight times the height of the Golden Gate Bridge! For this reason, experts say the products you choose can make a significant impact on your health and the environment.

(StatePoint) Before the action and drama on the field comes the action in the stadium lot, and if you’re looking to be the most valuable player of the tailgate party, college football legends say it’s all about the food, friends, and fans.

(StatePoint) Do seasonal temperatures sometimes leave you frustrated with your home’s lack of insulation? Staying comfortable indoors is a top priority for most people, and luckily, it’s easy to ensure your home is an optimal temperature.

(StatePoint) The devastation of recent hurricanes has left an indelible mark and also served as a reminder of the importance of being prepared for the unexpected. Worldwide, 281 natural disasters impacted more than 60 million people in 2018, according to the Centre for Research on the Epidemiology of Disasters. As unexpected occurrences continue around the globe, it is important to plan how to keep your family healthy and safe in the event an emergency or national disaster strikes close to home.

(StatePoint) Want to bring your A-game to tailgating season? For a winning strategy, you’re going to need the right grill and great recipes.

(StatePoint) Plastic pollution is a crisis for communities, oceans and waterways, according to environmental experts, who point out that supermarkets -- as major contributors to the growing problem -- are in an important position to acknowledge and address the issue.

(StatePoint) The games children play can inform the way they see the world. Here are some fun ways to make playtime an opportunity to help young kids explore new ideas and develop their interests:

(StatePoint) Any time of year makes a fine time to learn a new skill, take up an old hobby or set a goal. Here are five cool ideas to try:

(StatePoint) Firing up the grill is a year-round pastime for many, especially in fall, when tailgating takes over stadium parking lots nationwide.

(StatePoint) From cleaners and sprays to air fresheners and more, essential oils are making their way into the mainstream as commonplace, common sense household solutions. 

(StatePoint) Biking to work is good for your health and good for the planet. If you are new to cycling in general or commuting to work by bike, there are a few things to consider before hitting the streets.

(StatePoint) Whether it’s uncomfortable furniture or utilitarian light fixtures, you’re probably used to making some concessions when it comes to comfort, style and convenience in your home’s outdoor spaces.

(StatePoint) Songbirds are not only beautiful, they are a vital component of the ecosystems they inhabit. If you have a garden, you may have observed this in action.

(StatePoint) Having a home cooling system that is working optimally is crucial to keeping your family comfortable.

(StatePoint) Getting regular physical activity helps children meet developmental milestones and promotes mental and physical wellness. However, forming this healthy habit works best when you get started early. To motivate your kids to move more, consider the following ideas:

(StatePoint) Current research shows that contaminants in school drinking water can pose a threat to student health. Municipal water, which is not always optimal quality, may contain chemicals, bacteria, lead or microplastics -- all contaminants which have been found in tap and fountain water in schools nationwide.  

(StatePoint) While a pest problem can cause embarrassment and concern, you can take comfort in the fact that not only is the problem is more common than you may think, but there are new ways of dealing with insects that can help you manage the problem without using harsh chemicals.

(StatePoint) Fall means family outings and spending time outdoors. Amid all the fun, it’s important to be conscious of your environmental impact. One small way you can be a force for positive change is by properly disposing of old rechargeable batteries once they no longer power devices. You probably don’t know it, but battery recycling touches more areas of your life (and outings) than you realize.

(StatePoint) Whether it’s dance lessons, computer projects, art class or yoga, kids these days are busy bees. And while such activities are enriching and fun, experts say that many kids aren’t spending enough time doing something much simpler and every bit as important as structured programming: playing outdoors.

(StatePoint) While we all get bored from time to time, it’s important to know that chronic boredom may be bad for health, as experts have found it can be associated with depression, anxiety and even bad habits like smoking and overeating.

(StatePoint) June to November is known in many parts of the country as hurricane season. As a growing area of the U.S. becomes susceptible to the effects of tropical storms, tornadoes and hurricanes, it’s important to have a plan for your home and family.

(StatePoint) Throwing a backyard bash for kids? Here are a few festive ideas for a day of fun:

(StatePoint) Many homeowners spend time and money perfecting curb appeal, but forget to make it shine at night. Experts say a well-lit home exterior and surrounding landscape is both beautiful and functional.

(StatePoint) A large amount of food in the U.S. is never eaten. However, there are many easy ways families and communities can eliminate food waste in their daily lives, while also protecting the environment.

(StatePoint) Only 39 percent of respondents in a FEMA survey say they have developed an emergency plan and discussed it with their households.

(StatePoint) Want to create the world’s best ribs?

(StatePoint) When you look down at the ground you may not realize the millions of miles of buried utility infrastructure that keeps society clothed, fed, powered, connected, and a whole lot more. Unfortunately, many of us are on an out-of-sight, out-of-mind basis with the pipes, wires, and cables situated right under our feet, and this can have disastrous consequences when we try to dig without doing our homework first.

(StatePoint) At-home and on-the-go, it may be time to take stock of the way you are quenching your thirst.

(StatePoint) If it’s time to upgrade your home exterior, you may need some guidance, particularly if you want to make on-trend choices that will instantly boost your curb appeal.

(StatePoint) Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, it always helps to have a little guidance and inspiration.

(StatePoint) As the popularity and availability of electric vehicles (EV) continues to grow in the U.S., a new survey suggests that many consumers still have a lot to learn about the technology.

(StatePoint) When visiting one of the stunningly diverse 419 national park sites nationwide, experts say it is important to recognize the individuals who have spoken up over the decades to protect and enhance these incredible places, as well as the work that is still needed.

(StatePoint) More than 26 million Americans are living with asthma, including 6.2 million children. While there is no cure, asthma can be managed and treated so that those with the condition can live normal, healthy lives -- indoors as well as outdoors.

(StatePoint) Chances are high that you know someone with COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It’s the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S., and more than 16 million Americans have been diagnosed with it. But according to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), millions more people have COPD and don’t realize it. Could you or someone you know be among them?