Newswise — 'Tis the season for holiday stories. Texas Tech University experts can speak on a range of seasonal topics. Learn which wines, toys and books to buy. Get tips on keeping the checkbook in the black. Host a party in style " and be stylishly dressed. And learn how to keep recovering drug and alcohol addicts from succumbing to holiday pressures.
Stimulating Learning
Playing with educational toys helps promote preschooler's emotional development because the play context is one in which emotions can be discussed in a non-threatening manner,, says Malinda J. Colwell, associate professor and director of Texas Tech University's Child Development Program. Colwell can talk about the benefits of rough and tumble toys, pretend play toys and children's books on the emotional development of preschoolers.
Holidays and Children's Books
Children's holiday books have a way of weaving themselves into the spirit and traditions of our cultures, from the classic poem 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, The Hanukkah Goblins to Seven Candles for Kwanzaa. Two professors are available to speak on the culture, tradition and history of holiday children's books; hot new books for this holiday season; and buying tips for parents.
Staying Solvent
Sure, the impulse is to buy, buy, buy. But don't spend New Year's Day suffering through a bankbook hangover. Vickie Hampton, program coordinator for Texas Tech's Personal Financial Planning program.
Red Wines Reign
The heartier fare favored during winter dining prompts many people to switch to red wines as temperatures drop, says Tim Dodd, director of Texas Tech University's Wine Marketing Research Institute. Dodd can talk about how wine sales should enjoy a healthy boost as holiday festivities continue through the New Year.
Wine Parties and Tastings
"There are many unique and fun things you can do with wine parties or tastings," says Tim Dodd, director of Texas Tech's Wine Marketing Research Institute. Hosts can serve wine using themes " such as color, country or region " or serve wines to compliment certain foods. Dodd suggests giving "blind" tastings. Also, keep the gathering small and limit sampling quantities.
Clothing Etiquette
In today's casual business and social climate, picking an outfit for a holiday event can be confusing. Valerie Hlavaty, an instructor in the Department of Nutrition, Hospitality and Retailing, can give basic tips on how to differentiate between "formal," "semiformal," "business casual," and other designations that could appear on an invitation.
Holiday Tips for Recovering Addicts
The holidays can be fraught with anxiety, depression and excessive indulgences of every stripe. For these reasons, the season can be especially perilous for those recovering from addictive disorders. Kitty Harris, director of Texas Tech's Center for the Study of Addiction and Recovery, can give tips for remaining sober. These include anticipating pitfalls, keeping realistic expectations and drawing on support networks.
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