Tinkers

Family toys and games have benefits other than just bringing families together to interact without cell phones, TVs, or computers between them.  In addition to learning, many important life skills are an integral part of playing family games—skills such as cooperation, compromise, acceptance of both victory and defeat, being part of a team, patience, and honesty. 

New research has begun to reveal that playing family games can help members who have suffered a stroke. Since the strategy used to play family games helps hone the brain’s ability to process information, elderly stroke victims can benefit. They may not be able to remember new information, but familiar family games are often something they can remember and participate in successfully. 

GPS stands for Global Positioning System.   The GPS uses a constellation of satellites (as of March 2008, there were 32) that transmit a certain signal, allowing GPS receivers to determine their location, speed, direction, and the exact time. 

Originally developed by the United States Department of Defense, GPS systems have become part of navigation, map-making, land surveying, commerce, and use by private citizens.  GPS also provides a reference for the precise time, aiding in the scientific study of earthquakes and the synchronization of telecommunications networks.