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Morgan Wallen, the country pop singer behind the No. 1 hit "Last Night," continues to cement his status in music after scoring another impressive milestone on the Billboard charts.

From his appearance on The Voice in 2014 to his professional debut in 2018, the 33-year-old shows no signs of slowing down.

In an update released by Billboard, Wallen returned to the spotlight after topping the weekly music chart’s Artist 100.

Moving up from No. 2, the country star reclaimed the No. 1 spot, extending his career total atop the chart to 35 weeks.

Joining him in the top five are Gracie Abrams at No. 2, Olivia Rodrigo at No. 3 followed by Ella Langley and Michael Jackson in the No. 4 and No. 5 spots.

Morgan Wallen and Ernest at the T.J. Martell Foundation 49th annual New York Honors Gala.

Mike Coppola/Getty Images for The T.J. Martell Foundation

In the comments section, fans are also celebrating Wallen's milestone as he climbed back to No. 1 on the Billboard Artist 100 chart.

“MORGAN BACK ON TOP WHERE HE BELONGS,” one wrote.

“Morgan is the face of the music industry,” a fan said.

“Wallen THE GOAT!” a commenter added.

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The same goes for another who wrote: “35 weeks at #1 been listening to Morgan since 2017.”

Followers are also calling the Tennessee native “KING MORGAN WALLEN” for his strong streak on the Billboard chart.

In addition to this, Wallen's song with fellow country star Ella Langley, "I Can't Love You Anymore," jumped from No. 7 last week to No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The singer-songwriter has become one of the dominant forces in country music of his generation, helping the genre reach a broader mainstream audience.

Wallen now has 21 No. 1s on Billboard's Country Airplay chart, including his smash hit "Don't We."

These include songs from his debut album If I Know Me in 2018 such as "Up Down" (featuring Florida Georgia Line), "Whiskey Glasses" and "Chasin' You" as well as several tracks from his fourth studio album, I'm the Problem, including "Lies Lies Lies," "Love Somebody," "I'm The Problem," "Just in Case," "I Got Better," "20 Cigarettes" and the latest, "Don't We."

Amid the achievement, Wallen still sees fame as something unusual and even calls the feeling “weird.”

"It's still weird, and there's parts of it that I don't like,” he mentioned on a podcast, as cited by Backstage Country. “I mean, I think anybody who has to deal with that, it's not ideal.”

According to him, fame has made it difficult for him to “go everywhere” and live a normal life.

“It's like, there's things that you just don't do anymore. You just don't do 'em anymore,” he added.

Related: Country Music Star, With Best-Selling '90s Song, Involved in First-Ever Move

Don Knotts appeared as Deputy Sheriff Barney Fife on The Andy Griffith Show, which aired from 1960 to 1968. His daughter, Karen Knotts, recently spoke with Woman’s World about his time on the series and why he ultimately decided to leave.

“We didn’t see him a lot, because he worked 10, 12 hours a day,” she explained. “And when he was home, he was always holed up in his room working on his lines and stuff like that.”

She continued, “Put yourself in his place. That show was hard, hard work. Then think of the character, and also the energy that it took to play him. Imagine the intensity, plus the level of perfection that was being strived for. Then, all of a sudden, you get offered a five-picture deal to be a star in your own right and make all the decisions.”

Related:‘Happy Days’ Legend Just Helped a Former Child Star After She Fainted at a Convention

Don left the series when he was offered a five-picture contract from Universal. He ended up starring in The Ghost and Mr. Chicken in 1966, where he played newspaper reporter Luther Heggs.

 “He was absolutely terrified, excited, overwhelmed—everything about this movie because it was the one he left The Andy Griffith Show to do,” Karen explained. “I mean, he left for the five-picture deal, but on this one, I just remember him being extremely nervous, pacing around the house, and just completely consumed with it. He had his own little bungalow at Universal Studios with an office and a secretary. He would go down there to work with the writers. He actually hired Jim Fritzell and Everett Greenbaum, who were two of the top writers on The Andy Griffith Show. Part of his nervousness is that he didn’t have the safety net of The Andy Griffith Show.”

Related:'80s Soap Star, 76, Reveals Why She Turned Down a Full-Time Role on ‘Dallas’

Don starred in many more projects throughout his career, including The Incredible Mr. Limpet, The Reluctant Astronaut, and The Shakiest Gun in the West. He won five Emmy Awards for Best Supporting Actor in a Television Comedy.

Don died in 2006 due to complications from lung cancer. He was 81.

Is there anything more relaxing than reading at the beach? Being under the warm sun and listening to the waves puts you at ease as you flip through the pages of your book. All you have to do is find the perfect beach read, which you can determine by looking at your birth date.

Using your birth date to find your next book requires a bit of astrology and numerology. All birth dates can be reduced to the numerological traits associated with a single-digit number between 1 to 9, as well as an astrological planet. Once you figure out what this is, your birth date’s unique energy will be attuned with a specific book. Depending on your birth date, you may feel called to read a daunting thriller, swoony romance, or adventurous epic at the beach. With so many books, genres, and tropes to choose from, read on to discover your beach read for birth dates 1 to 31.

Your Beach Read, Based on Your Birth Date

Check if your date of birth is listed. Disregard birth months.

Born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, and 28th: Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir

The ideal beach read should be enthralling for someone born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, or 28th. Numerology says these birth dates share 1’s independence, courage, and thirst for adventure. Their ideal beach book should keep them on the edge of their seat, which they’ll find in Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir. People born on these dates will see themselves in Ryland Grace, an amnesiac astronaut tasked with saving humanity while aboard his spaceship. Project Hail Mary has the grit, the science, and the excitement that these birth dates crave in their perfect beach read. 

Born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, and 29th: Heart the Lover by Lily King

People born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, and 29th aren’t afraid to bring a tearjerker to the beach. Between being ruled by the moon and 2, these birth dates are known for being deeply emotional. They feel everything very strongly, so their perfect beach read should reflect their depth. Heart the Lover by Lily King is the number one pick for these birth dates, because it follows a friendship triangle that spans decades. It might sound simple, but Heart the Lover is anything but. These birth dates will feel every emotion reading this book, because Heart the Lover will remind them of the friendships that impacted their journeys. 

Born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, and 30th: Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt

Reading at the beach should be a fun, enjoyable experience for those born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, and 30th. Being ruled by Jupiter means that these birth dates want something light-hearted; however, 3 also inspires them to look for a book with a miscommunication trope or easygoing mystery. Luckily, Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt ticks off all these boxes. These birth dates will become immediately invested in how Marcellus, the giant Pacific octopus, will help Tova Sullivan heal and reconnect with her long-lost family. Remarkably Bright Creatures has the humor and heart these birth dates cannot resist. 

Born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, and 31st: Kin by Tayari Jones

An insightful, beautifully written novel is found in the beach bags of those born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, and 31st. Numerology says that 4 bestows intelligence and determination in these birth dates. They’re often considered world builders, since they have the power to bring ideas to life. Kin by Tayari Jones matches these birth dates’ resiliency and tenacity. This contemporary work of fiction follows the lives of two motherless friends. People born on these dates will see their humanity, grace, and complexity in this compelling novel, which is why Kin is their perfect beach read. 

Born on the 5th, 14th, and 23rd: The Shampoo Effect by Jenny Jackson

Those born on the 5th, 14th, and 23rd love a rambunctious, twisty beach read given that they’re influenced by rebellious Uranus and open-minded 5. Since these birth dates have a voracious reading palette, the perfect book should have a bit of everything. They’ll find exactly what they need in The Shampoo Effect by Jenny Jackson. This steamy, dramatic story follows a group of childhood friends who are forced to reconcile with growing up despite wanting to cling on to their youth. Between the friend group drama, questionable life choices, and hilarious moments, The Shampoo Effect is everything these birth dates want and more. 

Born on the 6th, 15th, and 24th: Good Material by Dolly Alderton

Venus guides those born on the 6th, 15th, and 24th to the romance section of the bookstore. Between their astrological planet and numerology’s 6, it’s safe to say that these birth dates love love. While there are many touching romances available, Dolly Alderton’s Good Material has the distinctly realistic vibe these birth dates cannot resist. This romantic comedy resonates with these birth dates, because they’ve either acted like Andy or have dated an Andy before. Not to mention that the dual ending leaves these birth dates with much to ponder, as well as laugh and cry over. 

Born on the 7th, 16th, and 25th: The Correspondent by Virginia Evans

Everyone else might want something light-hearted, but those born on the 7th, 16th, and 25th want an unforgettable beach read. They cannot stand something that lacks nuance or meaning given their profoundness. Numerology’s 7 encourages these wise, introspective birth dates to pick up The Correspondent by Virginia Evans. This deeply reflective novel follows Sybil’s introspective journey through the letters she writes to her family members, friends, exes, and more. People born on these dates will feel endlessly inspired reading Sybil’s letters, as The Correspondent encourages them to reflect on how their relationships have impacted their lives. 

Born on the 8th, 17th, and 26th: Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke

Leave it to someone born on the 8th, 17th, and 26th to pick up the perfect beach read. These Saturnian birth dates have high expectations for their reading experience, so they’ll look for a reputable novel. Not to mention that money’s not a problem, since they’re ruled by affluent 8. After browsing all the best seller lists, Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke will be the obvious winner. People born on these dates cannot deny that a satirical thriller about trad wives, religious psychosis, and capitalism is just what they’ve been waiting for. 

Born on the 9th, 18th, and 27th: The Wedding People by Allison Espach

Similar to some other birth dates, those born on the 9th, 18th, and 27th are impartial to a tearjerker. Given that they’re influenced by numerology’s 9 and astrology’s Mars, these birth dates want an impactful beach ready. A novel should open their mind and heart, so they should read The Wedding People by Allison Espach. Don’t let the title fool these birth dates—The Wedding People is so much more than a story about love. A wonderful sense of humor and a desire for connection permeates the pages, leaving these birth dates with a new perspective on life. 

Browncoats have spent nearly a quarter century hoping for one more chapter of Mal Reynolds and his crew, and the actors steering that revival offered an honest gut check instead of a premiere date. Nathan Fillion and Alan Tudyk used an old-school photography metaphor to explain why Firefly's animated continuation still doesn't have a home.

The update came Sunday, July 27, when Fillion and Tudyk appeared together at MCM Comic Con in London, four months after Fillion first revealed the project at Awesome Con in Washington, D.C. When a fan referenced having already seen an announcement video, Fillion clarified that what people saw back in March was "not announcing a series, but announcing the development of the series." Getting a script finished is one milestone. Finding a network or streaming platform willing to greenlight production is another, and that piece is still missing.

Tudyk compared the process to dropping off film to be developed decades ago, describing a wait with no fixed timeline and no guaranteed outcome, but promising fans would hear something the moment there was news to share.

Related: Before the Firefly Revival, Jewel Staite Revealed Why the Cast Never Really Left Each Other

The two actors first confirmed the project was real at Awesome Con in March, where Fillion appeared alongside costars Gina Torres, Morena Baccarin, Jewel Staite, Sean Maher and Summer Glau, all expected to reprise their roles, along with Adam Baldwin. The series is being developed through Fillion's production banner, Collision33, in partnership with 20th Television Animation, which holds the underlying rights, with Arrowverse veteran Marc Guggenheim and his wife Tara Butters attached as showrunners. A pilot script was already completed by the time of that announcement, and the story is expected to unfold in the timeline between the original 2002 Fox series and its 2005 film continuation, Serenity. Joss Whedon, who created Firefly, is not involved in the new version, though Fillion has said the writer-director gave the project his blessing.

Fillion made the emotional case for reviving the show back in March, telling Deadline that "the dedication of Firefly fans has kept this 25-year-old show relevant." That fan base has proven itself more than once. Firefly ran for a single, truncated season before Fox canceled it, only to watch the show build one of television's most durable cult followings through home video, comics and conventions in the decades since.

For now, the revival remains exactly what Fillion called it in London: a project in development, not a series with a release date. Fillion and Tudyk's own podcast, Once We Were Spacemen, has become the unofficial hub where fans track the search for a buyer, and both actors have said the campaign of fan support helps make the case to potential platforms.

Fillion has also urged fans to boost the signal on social media to help it find a home. Fan organizations are mobilizing to get it done, and we’ll be following the progress in the coming weeks and months.

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Glen Hansard, an Irish musician who starred in the 2007 movie “Once,” has died at the age of 56.

The BBC reports that Hansard was killed in a single-vehicle crash, with The Irish police issued a news release asking for any witnesses to come forward.

"Shortly before 4:30am, Gardaí and emergency services were alerted to a collision involving a motorcycle on the R109 Lower Road, between Tinkers Hill (R121) and Rugged Lane," the news release reads. "The motorcyclist, a man in his 50s, was treated at the scene but was pronounced deceased a short time later."

Following news of his death, ATC Management, which represented Hansard, issued a statement.

"With broken hearts we announce the passing of Glen Hansard who passed away, in the early hours of this morning, following a road traffic accident in Dublin. Glen’s family is deeply shocked and heartbroken by this tragic loss and respectfully requests privacy at this extremely difficult time. The family is grateful for the support they have received and wishes to thank the emergency services who attended the scene," they said, per the BBC.

Hansard was the frontman of Irish rock band The Frames and also starred in the 2007 movie “Once” alongside singer Markéta Irglová, which told the story of two struggling musicians in Dublin who fall in love. In the movie, Hansard won the Best Original Song Oscar for “Falling Slowly” at the 80th Academy Awards.

Fans paid tribute to the singer on social media.

"Incredibly shocked and saddened to hear this. What an amazing life he had. Ive many many found memories him and his music. Rip Glen," one person commented.

"Absolutely heartbreaking. Glen Hansard's music, especially Falling Slowly, touched so many people. Rest in peace, and condolences to his family and loved ones," another person shared. "A huge loss for music and film. His work inspired so many people around the world. Rest easy, Glen Hansard."

Six Flags Great Adventure just announced its next record-shattering attraction: BAKUNAWA, the world's tallest and fastest spinning launch coaster, set to debut in 2027 as the anchor of the park's revamped Boardwalk area.

Inspired by the sea serpent of Philippine mythology, the giga-coaster reaches a staggering 382 feet in height and tops out at 100 mph. It features the world's first free-spinning, floorless coaster vehicles, meaning the trains rotate naturally throughout the track so no two rides are ever identical.

Related: This Amusement Park Just Ranked No. 1 for Daredevils

BAKUNAWA POV VIDEO (0:50)

The coaster is breaking six world records upon opening, including the fastest spinning coaster (100 mph), tallest spinning coaster (382 feet), fastest inversion (80 mph), longest stall inversion, the first floorless spinning coaster, and the world's first upside-down launch.

Six Flags Great Adventure

The two-minute, 17-second ride spans 3,163 feet of track and includes three linear synchronous motor launches. The second launch accelerates riders from 60 to 80 mph while completely inverted, sending the train soaring up a massive tower before spiraling into a 180-degree bank overlooking the resort. Riders must be at least 48 inches tall.

Related: The Roller Coasters Amusement Park Superfans Are Most Excited to Ride

Six Flags Great Adventure

The coaster serves as the centerpiece of The Boardwalk, the park’s modern seaside-themed area, which also recently expanded with five new family rides, seaside dining, and evening live entertainment.

Six Flags Great Adventure

Along with the announcement, Six Flags put its 2027 Gold Season Passes on sale, which will offer passholders early access to ride BAKUNAWA when it opens.

Related: Six Flags Over Texas Officially Opens World's Tallest, Fastest, Longest Dive Coaster

Geddy Lee, the bassist, keyboardist and singer of the legendary rock band Rush, is celebrating his birthday on Wednesday, July 29. He turns 73 years old and has an impressive musical legacy.

Lee joined Rush in 1968 after the original bassist left. He has been involved with every album the band has ever released. While the late drummer Neil Peart was the band's main lyricist, Lee did a lot of the musical composition with guitarist Alex Lifeson.

The bassist has been a member of Rush ever since he joined in the 1960s. Along with the other band members, he took a break between 2015 and 2025. But he returned for the ongoing reunion tour.

One of Lee's biggest accomplishments is his band's discography, with Rush releasing 19 studio albums throughout the group's long career. While fans often debate what album is the best, the eighth studio album, Moving Pictures, is undeniably a landmark accomplishment.

It was included in Rolling Stone's list of "The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time," which is updated every couple of years or so. The publication listed Moving Pictures at No. 379. Rolling Stone stated that this "was the record where they proved they could say as much in four minutes as they previously had in 20."

With songs like "Tom Sawyer," "Vital Signs," and "The Camera Eye," the album showed just how talented Rush is. The album was also a big success. It become Rush's best-selling record in the U.S.

Related: ’70s Rock Legends Perform Their 20-Minute Rock Epic for the First Time in Almost 30 Years

Like his fellow members, Lee played a huge part in putting together Moving Pictures. In a 1981 issue of Music Express shortly before the album's release, Lee talked about what went into making the record.

He described Moving Pictures as a continuation of the previous album, saying, "With Permanent Waves we very much wanted to get back to writing good songs, and this time we took it one step further."

"I think on Moving Pictures we developed the confidence to stay with something simpler and interesting in more subtle ways," Lee went on, talking about the band's aim with the album. "I think in the process of attempting that, we learned it's not so easy to write something simple. It was a difficult adjustment for us."

Decades later, Moving Pictures is remembered as one of the best albums in rock music.

Related: 1977 Rock Song, Written in 15 Minutes, Remains a Classic 49 Years Later

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French countryside-inspired decor brings a sense of gentle romance and charm to any home. Inspired by garden scenes and country cottages, this style features delicate bird motifs, soft florals, and airy colors that evoke peaceful mornings in the countryside. The look creates a welcoming retreat where nature, whimsy, and elegance meet.

Martha Stewart's Songbird 100% Cotton Reversible Duvet Cover Set is a perfect example of that signature style. Currently on deep discount at Wayfair, this set is making waves among design enthusiasts for its charming French country inspiration and everyday practicality. At just $70, down from $217, it is a rare opportunity to infuse your bedroom with an air of effortless elegance.

Martha Stewart Martha's Songbird 100% Cotton Reversible Duvet Cover Set, From $70 (was $217) at Wayfair

Courtesy of Wayfair

Shop at Wayfair

The Songbird collection stands out for its delicate artistry and attention to detail. The 100% cotton duvet cover and matching pillow shams feature soft blue botanical florals and graceful songbird accents set against a crisp white backdrop. The effect is serene and uplifting — like waking up in a sunlit garden in the French countryside. The scattered flowers and birds bring just enough visual interest to your space. Whether you are reimagining your main suite or updating a guest room, this set feels both inviting and fresh.

Crafted from 100% cotton sateen, the fabric offers a smooth, breathable finish that feels luxurious against the skin. The natural cotton fibers are gentle and comfortable for year-round use, keeping you cool in the summer and cozy in the winter. 

Like most Martha Stewart classics, this duvet cover has all the special details, including a neat and secure button closure. Meanwhile, the shams feature a European cap closure for a secure fit and tailored look. The set is fully reversible, so you can choose from two beautiful options to switch up your style in a snap. Flip the floral side to chic Parisian polka dots whenever the mood strikes you. 

Shoppers said this "gorgeous" duvet "worked perfectly in my guest room" because of its lovely "design and color." 

"This duvet cover and pillow cases fit our bedroom perfectly," one reviewer stated. "They are soft and smooth and beautiful."

Related: Macy’s Reversible 8-Piece Floral Comforter Set Is ‘Fluffy’ Yet ‘Lightweight’ for Summer, Now 70% Off

The Songbird set is machine washable for easy care, and the high-quality cotton is Oeko-Tex certified, meaning it is free from harsh chemicals. Shoppers said the sizing is generous on the duvet, which ensures a perfect fit for twin, queen, or king beds, and the matching pillow shams offer a coordinated finish. The tailored flange edges add a refined touch, elevating the overall look without fuss.

Shop More Deals

• Martha Stewart French Bird Floral Cotton Green Quilt Set, From $61 (was $184) at Wayfair
• Martha Stewart Kerry Plastic Stacking Desk Drawer Organizers, $18 (was $25) at Wayfair 
• Martha Stewart Luna Natural Rattan Round Wall Mirror, $59 (was $140) at Wayfair

Martha Stewart's Songbird 100% Cotton Reversible Duvet Cover Set is more than just bedding. It is a simple way to bring a sense of peace, beauty, and classic charm into your home. Grab your set while it's 67% off, and pretend you're on the Parisian vacation of your dreams. 

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No matter how organized you keep your home in the summer, once the kids go back to school, things often become chaotic—especially if you have children of all different ages. Trying to keep track of everyone's homework, play rehearsal, T-ball games, and SAT prep is no easy feat.

But there's one mistake that parents—even those who are typically organized people—often make when getting ready for the school year: They don't set their kids up for success when it comes to staying organized.

Fortunately, there's a way to avoid this, according to the three professional home organizers whom Parade consulted: Cynthia Kienzle, founder of The Clutter Whisperer; Ann Dooley, founder of Simple Joy with Ann and a Master Level Certified KonMari Consultant; and Liora Seltzer, founder of What U Keep, LLC and a certified KonMari Method professional organizer.

"In general, my rule of thumb is that organizing products should support your systems and be convenient for everyone who is using them," Seltzer tells Parade. "The best thing to do is to map out your morning routine, getting ready for school, and figuring out which areas need support."

Keep reading for Kienzle, Dooley and Seltzer's best tips and product recommendations for keeping kids organized this school year.

Related: These 155 Instagram Expert-Approved Organizing Tips Will Help You Tidy Your Entire Home

The Organizing Mistake Parents Make With Back-to-School Prep

According to Kienzle, Dooley and Seltzer, before the school year starts, you should set your home up with the right organizing products and systems. And most importantly, you must teach your kids how to use them.

In fact, there are a few products and methods that professional organizers agree can help children stay organized, save time and even reduce stress.

How to Keep Kids Organized When Going Back-to School

Beyond buying any organizing products, Kienzle, Dooley and Seltzer have a few general tips for getting kids ready for the school year before summer ends.

1. Turn the morning routine into a game

"Before heading back to school, gather everything they need to play a game of dress rehearsal," Dooley tells Parade. "Work with your kids to map out the sequence together: backpack on the hook, shoes in their spot, lunchbox in the kitchen—then make it a game. Time them putting everything away and challenge them to beat their own record. Do the same for the morning routine: how fast can they get ready to walk out the door? The fun is in the repetition, and the repetition is what builds the habit."

2. Archive last year's school books and clothes

Kienzle recommends starting the "new school year with a clean slate" by archiving all of last year's notebooks, workbooks and binders before summer ends. Then, allocate a special place to hold the current year's books.

Similarly, Seltzer feels "summer is a great time to have a reset for the year." You can do this by going through old school papers "and only keep the ones that are special," and reviewing last year's clothing and making sure everything fits.

3. Have kids do a nightly reset

Once the school year starts, a nightly reset can help keep things smooth the following morning—and you can get your kids in the habit of this during the summer.

"Before bed, clear their desks and set out anything needed for the next morning," Dooley says. "Let them choose a song that gets their feet moving. A two-minute reset means no last-minute searching in the morning. The workspace is clear, everything is ready, and the next day starts calm instead of chaotic."

Professional Organizers Say These 7 Products Organizing Products Are Worth Buying for Back-to-School

As long as you explain how these products work to your kids, they can help keep kids organized all year long.

1. A desk or dedicated work station

Jordi Salas / Getty Images

According to Kienzle, having a dedicated work station is the best way to keep your child organized and on top of their assignments during the school year. For older kids, this should be a "desk with storage and a comfortable chair that is free of distracting trinkets and "zoned only for schoolwork."

For younger kids, having a clear area in the dining room or kitchen where they can do homework is sufficient.

The most important thing is that the space is conducive to working. "The homework station should be neat (even if the rest of the room is a mess, it’s important to do homework in a clear and clean area)," advises Seltzer.

Kienzle adds that having good lighting at your children's work stations is vital, as proper lighting can help improve focus and prevent eye strain.

2. Magazine holders

Noah Saob / Getty Images

To help keep kids organized, Seltzer recommends having a magazine holder (or another bin) labeled with each child's name at their work station. Try and get your children in the habit of putting all their schoolwork in their dedicated bins when they get home.

3. A shared calendar

Halfpoint Images / Getty Images

Seltzer is a big fan of having a shared calendar for the entire family where you can keep track of homework assignments, tests, swim meets, birthday parties and more.

"You can use an erasable calendar, paper calendars, or fancy digital calendars on the wall," she says. "Whichever works for your family, do your best to update it!"

4. A foyer drop zone

Jessica Peterson / Getty Images

Kienzle, Dooley and Seltzer all agree that having a "drop zone" by the front door is key for smooth mornings.

For one thing, a drop zone can ensure that "items don’t migrate to other parts of home," says Kienzle. She also believes a drop zone can save "time and stress in the morning when getting ready for school."

How intricate your drop zone will be depends on the size and shape of your foyer, but in general, each child should have their own dedicated hooks for coats and backpacks, as well as a cubby for shoes. Seltzer also suggests a catch-all tray in your drop zone for shared items that kids might need to grab on the way out the door, such as snacks and umbrellas.

Or, if you have a spacious entryway, Dooley recommends making things simple with a one-stop "hall tree" that features hooks, shelves, a bench and shoe storage.

5. A school supplies station

IKEA

"Kids are more likely to put things away when there's zero friction involved," explains Dooley. "When even opening a desk drawer can feel like 'too much,' a pegboard mounted by their desk with hooks for scissors, clips for a multiplication table, and small baskets for pencils and supplies provides visual cues and quick access."

If you don't have room for a pegboard, or if your kids do their homework at the dining table, Dooley suggests a "caddy with dividers to keep supplies handy while it can easily be moved to get ready for dinner."

6. Simple lunch boxes and water bottles

ingwervanille / Getty Images

Having an A+ lunchbox can help keep kids organized and nourished, says Kienzle. Personally, she is a fan of a freezable lunch bag or a bento box.

Additionally, Seltzer encourages parents to make sure little kids can easily open lunchboxes and reusable water bottles on their own. She also recommends keeping all lunchboxes and water bottles "in one spot in your kitchen where everyone can access them and they’re easy to retrieve in the morning."

7. Closet hanging organizers or clear bins for clothes

Alex Potemkin / Getty Images

To save your kids (and yourself) the daily headache of picking out clothes for school, Dooley advises encouraging children to plan their outfits out in advance.

"On Sundays, let the kids pick out complete outfits down to the socks for each day of the week," she advises. "Kids can get dressed independently, and it’s especially helpful if they need a specific type of clothing for sports on a certain day."

Dooley suggests buying a hanging closet organizer for this task, and labeling each shelf with a different day of the week.

Kienzle also recommends planning out school outfits a week at a time, as this "saves time and stress from scrambling around last minute," and "helps to ensure a thoughtful, polished look."

That said, if picking out clothes for the entire week each Sunday is too much, Seltzer says you can just have kids pick out their outfits the night before school. Have one clear bin labeled for each kid, where they can stash their clothes for the following day. "Do not leave picking out an outfit for the morning!" she advises.

Dooley also recommends keeping a hamper in children's rooms to keep dirty clothes off the floor, as well as adding "a hook on the inside of the closet door to hang up clothes they’ll wear again."

Up Next:

Related: 3 Psychologists Agree This Is the Most 'Underrated' Positive Parenting Habit

Sources:

• Cynthia Kienzle, professional home organizer
• Ann Dooley, professional home organizer and Master Level Certified KonMari Consultant
• Liora Seltzer, professional home organizer and certified KonMari Method professional organizer

The Buoys turned a radio ban into a chart breakthrough with their 1970 song "Timothy," a dark pop-rock track about three miners trapped underground and the disturbing fate of one of them. 

The song was pulled from some radio stations after listeners and programmers understood its implied cannibalism, but the controversy helped push it into the U.S. Top 20.

Released by Scepter Records in December 1970, "Timothy" reached the Billboard Hot 100 in April 1971. It spent eight weeks on the chart and peaked at No. 17. The song also reached No. 13 on the Cash Box Top 100 and No. 9 in Canada.

https://t.co/Zcz5J8D3TK
The Buoys - Timothy pic.twitter.com/U14CkpWE1J

— JeI(😊)SoL (@JeI_SoL) May 12, 2025

Although it never reached No. 1, "Timothy" became The Buoys' best-known song and the biggest Billboard hit of their career.

The unusual success began with a problem. The Pennsylvania pop-rock band had signed with Scepter Records, but the label did little to promote its first single. After "These Days" failed to make an impact, the group needed a way to get attention without a large promotional budget.

Songwriter Rupert Holmes, who wrote "Timothy" and played piano on the recording, came up with a risky plan. He wanted to create a song that could be played on the radio long enough for listeners to discover its controversial subject, but not so openly offensive that stations would refuse to play it from the start.

The song tells the story of three miners: Timothy, Joe and the unnamed narrator, who are trapped after a mine cave-in. They have water but no food and remain underground until rescuers arrive. Only two of the miners are found alive.

The lyrics never directly say what happened to Timothy. Instead, the song leaves clues. The narrator says his "stomach was full as it could be," while Timothy is never found. He also admits that he cannot remember what happened during part of their time underground.

That mystery led listeners to the disturbing conclusion that the two surviving miners may have eaten Timothy.

According to Far Out Magazine, Holmes drew inspiration from the 1947 country song "Sixteen Tons," which dealt with the difficult life of coal miners, and the 1959 film Suddenly, Last Summer, which included references to cannibalism. He combined those ideas into a story that was dark enough to attract attention but vague enough to make listeners work out the meaning for themselves.

The song's story also became linked by some people to the 1963 Sheppton Mine Disaster in Pennsylvania. Holmes rejected that connection, saying he did not know about the disaster when he wrote the song. He later said, "If I had known about [Sheppton] at the time, I probably never would have written the song, because I don’t want to make fun of something that’s tragic."

"Timothy" became the band's signature recording, but its success proved difficult to repeat. Scepter re-signed The Buoys for an album, yet the group struggled to find another song that could match the attention created by its unusual breakthrough.

The band later released "Give Up Your Guns," another song written by Holmes, with D. Jordan. It reached only No. 84 in the U.S. but became a major hit in mainland Europe, where it was successful both after its original release and again after a 1979 re-release.

The Buoys eventually broke up. Bill Kelly and Jerry Hludzik later formed Dakota, which opened for Queen on a sold-out tour in 1980. The Buoys were inducted into the Luzerne County Arts & Entertainment Hall of Fame in 2023 as part of its inaugural class.

Holmes went on to build a successful career of his own. By the end of the 1970s, he had become a recording artist with major hits including "Escape (The Piña Colada Song)" in 1979 and "Him" in 1980. He also later wrote Broadway musicals.

For The Buoys, however, the story remained tied to "Timothy." The song did not need a No. 1 ranking to become their breakthrough smash.

Related: 1984 Rock Song, Lasting Nearly 14 Minutes, Is Still a Powerful Hit 42 Years Later

Set Your Goals, the punk rock band from California, is officially back and their return was made even more special with an exciting surprise.

Following a massive 14-year break from releasing studio music, the six-piece band, composed of lead vocalists Jordan Brown and Matt Wilson, guitarists Audelio Flores Jr. and Daniel Coddaire, bassist Joe Saucedo and drummer Mike Ambrose, announced the release of its single, "Accelerate."

In an Instagram update, the band delivered a special message to fans as they celebrated their first new song in 14 years.

Matt Wilson and Jordan Brown of Set Your Goals perform on stage during Slam Dunk Festival 2016 in Leeds, England.

Andrew Benge/Redferns

“We’re beyond excited to kick off this next chapter with @inbloommusic,” the caption reads, adding “All the love to In Bloom for making this real, and to all of you for sticking with us over these years. We can’t wait for you to hear what we’ve been working on together.”

Shared on the band’s official YouTube channel, the song was accompanied by a lyric video that showcased the band’s distinct energy while highlighting its musical evolution over the years.

View this post on Instagram

On Reddit, fans were thrilled to hear new music from Set Your Goals.

“This is amazing. Exactly what a comeback song should be,” one wrote.

“Glad they’re back. Good song,” a commenter said.

“One of my favourite 2000s/2010s Pop Punk bands coming back with absolute heat has made my day,” a fan remarked.

“The band that got me invested into pop punk. Stoked they are back!!” a Reddit user echoed.

The last time Set Your Goals released new studio music was in 2012 with a two-song EP featuring “Only Right Now” and “I’ll Walk It Off.”

Apart from releasing new music, Set Your Goals has continued to build excitement among fans after announcing its anniversary tour celebrating 20 years since the release of its seminal debut album, Mutiny! in 2006.

Billed as the Mutiny! 20-Year Anniversary Tour, the eight-date run features two legs.

The East Coast run kicks off on Oct. 1 in Baltimore, Maryland, followed by shows in Pennsylvania, New York and Massachusetts with special guests The Warriors, Restraining Order and Stateside.

The second leg begins in December with four shows in California. The band has invited I Am The Avalanche, Doomsday, Bad World and Giveaway as supporting acts.

“This October and December, we’ll be celebrating 20 years of Mutiny! by playing the album in its entirety. We hope to see you all there. More new music + shows coming in 2026 and beyond!!!” the band said in an Instagram post.

Beyond the highly anticipated tour, the punk rock band has scheduled appearances at Within These Walls and Warped Tour Mexico in September, while its appearance at Warped Tour Orlando is set for November.

Set Your Goals 2026 Tour Schedule:

Sept. 12 – Granjas, Mexico, MX @ Warped Tour: Mexico
Sept. 19 – Mesa, AZ @ Nile Theater (Within These Walls)
Oct. 1 – Baltimore, MD @ Soundstage
Oct. 2 – Philadelphia, PA @ First Unitarian Church
Oct. 3 – New York, NY @ Le Poisson Rouge
Oct. 4 – Boston, MA @ The Sinclair
Nov. 14 – Orlando, FL @ Tinker Field History Plaza (Warped Tour: Orlando)
Dec. 17 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Regent
Dec. 18 – Santa Ana, CA @ Observatory
Dec. 19 – Sacramento, CA @ Ace of Spades
Dec. 20 – San Jose, CA @ The Ritz

Related: 1971 Rock Song, Never a No. 1 Hit, Ranked Among Best ‘Classic Rock Songs’ of All Time

Seth Meyers didn't waste any time taking aim at Donald Trump during his latest monologue, imagining the remarks the president might deliver at Lindsey Graham's funeral in a biting joke that drew laughs from the audience.

The Late Night host riffed on recent political headlines before turning his attention to Trump's planned appearance at the late senator's funeral. Meyers launched into an exaggerated impression of the president, joking that Trump would use the solemn occasion to revisit familiar grievances and controversies — including the 2020 election and his connection to Jeffrey Epstein.

Doing his best Trump impression, Meyers said, "I know if he were here now, he'd say the 2020 election had massive voting irregularities and Trump barely knew Jeffrey Epstein," imagining what the president might have said at Graham's funeral.

The joke was one of several Trump-focused moments in Meyers' monologue, which also touched on recent headlines involving Iran and the White House.

"During an interview yesterday with Axios, President Trump said that he decided to pause U.S. strikes on Iran to give peace negotiations another chance, but added that he would resume operations if talks fail," Meyers joked. "And trust me, he has plenty of experience with talks failing."

The segment continued a recent stretch of Trump-focused jokes from Meyers, who has repeatedly returned to the president's ties to Epstein. During Monday night's "A Closer Look" segment, Meyers highlighted Trump's reaction at the White House Correspondents' Dinner as The Wall Street Journal received an award for its reporting on Trump's relationship with Epstein.

Meyers joked that Trump looked "like a teenager getting a lecture from the principal" as the newspaper's coverage was praised, before pointing out the awkward moment when Trump later had to shake hands with the reporters behind the story.

"It got even weirder," Meyers said, imagining Trump's reaction: "Well, you got me, guys. You know, I was friends with a sex trafficker. I tried to cover it up. You found the proof. And now I’m the one with egg on my face. Congratulations. Congratulations."

Keira Knightley has found herself at the center of an online backlash after an old behind-the-scenes story about late actor Donald Sutherland has gone viral.

In an Vanity Fair interview with Rosamund Pike from last year, published to mark the 20th anniversary of Pride & Prejudice, Knightley told a story about Donald Sutherland. The Canadian actor played her father, Mr. Bennet, in the Jane Austen adaptation.

The duo was telling behind-the-scenes stories when Knightley started talking about the Kelly's Heroes star. "There was the party that Donald Sutherland came to, because the whole thing was that you weren't allowed to smoke. He had it in his contract that nobody on the set was allowed to smoke anywhere near [him] and you couldn't smell of smoke."

The Pirates of the Caribbeanstar added: "But of course everyone smoked — back then, anyway, everyone smoked. We'd be running off," she said, before miming covering herself with spray to mask the scent of cigarettes. The UK banned smoking in enclosed spaces like bars, restaurants and workplaces in 2007.

"The party he came to, he came in the center of it in a gas mask," Keira added with a laugh. "Because he knew that everybody was smoking, and he was like, 'I want you to all be able to smoke, and I wanted to come to the party.' So we were there smoking [with] him and the gas mask."

(L to R) Actors Jena Malone, Donald Sutherland, Keira Knightley, Matthew MacFadyen, Brenda Blethyn, Talulah Riley, Simon Woods and Rosamund Pike arrive at the UK premiere for the film "Pride & Prejudice" at the Odeon Leicester Square on September 5, 2005 in London, England. (Photo by Dave M. Benett/Getty Images)

When this resurfaced, the internet was not pleased with Knightley's behavior. They called her out for being "selfish," for not considering Sutherland's wishes.

"That Keira Knightley clip is not funny and just shows how selfish everyone is when it comes to disabled people. Like why is that a haha heehee story to be telling right now?" wrote one user.

"Disregarding the wishes of a chronically ill person b/c they wanted to smoke knowing it would affect him, is depraved," wrote journalist Carolyn Hinds.

Related: Keira Knightley Confesses There’s One of Her Movies She’s Never Seen

Sutherland passed away in 2024 at the age of 88 after battling a "long illness". While it was reported his death was caused by lung disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, his team never confirmed it.

In 1981, Sutherland confirmed to the New York Times that he had quit smoking. "I was a four-pack-a-day smoker, but I finally said, 'I'll never smoke again,' and I just stopped. I did the same with drinking: I used to drink a bottle of Scotch a day.''

His rules about not smoking around him on set date back as far as 1992. “Before we began production on Backdraft, ” producer Richard B. Lewis declared to the New York Times, “Donald Sutherland came to us and asked that there be no smoking around the camera when he was on camera. It really bothers him; it affects his breathing. Our cinematographer smokes but he didn’t when Don was around.”

Related: 1973 Hit Horror Film, Whose Production Nearly Killed a ’70s Icon, Ranked Among Best Movies of All Time

Bosun Nathan Gallagher is addressing Luke Brumer's controversial Below Deck Mediterranean departure for the first time, sharing a lengthy statement defending his former deckhand while acknowledging that his actions "crossed a line."

After more than a month away from social media, Nathan returned to Instagram to explain why he had remained silent for the past year before finally weighing in on the incident that led to Brumer's exit.

The controversy began when Luke and stew Genevieve Lillie sparked backlash for using Nathan's bed for a late-night hookup while he was away visiting his girlfriend and baby. The next morning, Luke attempted—but failed—to secretly wash Nathan's sheets before anyone noticed. Because he never managed to get them into the laundry, Nathan unknowingly lounged in and slept on the soiled bedding for days.

When Luke eventually confessed, Nathan was so disgusted he struggled to speak to his deckhand and ultimately informed Captain Sandy Yawn about what had happened. Captain Sandy considered firing Luke and was required to file a formal report documenting the incident. Realizing Nathan was unable to move past the betrayal, Luke ultimately chose to leave the yacht.

While Gallagher made it clear that what happened "wasn't okay" and that it deserved consequences, he also praised Brumer's work ethic, said he would gladly work with him again off the show, and urged fans to stop the "bullying and hateful DMs," reminding followers that "none of us are defined by our worst mistake."

"I also got to know Luke as a deckhand," Nathan wrote. "I respected his work ethic, the respect he showed me, and his willingness to learn every single day. I trusted him on deck, and that doesn't disappear because of one bad decision. One of the things I looked forward to this season was going through the season with this guy. On and off camera we had some really good life chats. As a bosun on the show I don't get to choose my deckhands, but if I were to decide who, I'd had Luke on the show and I'd have him again on another boat away from the show."

Nathan also explained why he reported the incident to Captain Sandy, saying he wanted her to know she could trust him to always be transparent about what was happening with his team. "If someone was to get ill, I would've been disappointed in myself for not telling hierarchy," he wrote.

Below Deck Mediterranean is on Mondays at 8 p.m. on Bravo.

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Believe it or not, back to school season is nearly upon us. That means that our go-to retailers are already rolling out items that are perfect for your kids ahead of the new school year. Macy's is a great place to easily curate your child's seasonal wardrobe with clothing and accessories, like a backpack. We're currently eyeing the JanSport Cool Student 17-Inch Backpack, which is 25% off right now.

The backpack originally cost $89, but has been reduced to just $67. The popular style is being sold in one size and eight colors and patterns: beige, black, navy, comic book graphics, dark grey, light pink, lavender, and sage. We love the minimalist colors for those who want more of a versatile bag, while the brighter hues offer a pop of color that kids may enjoy more. It may be a fun activity to have your child pick out their favorite. 

JanSport Cool Student 17-Inch Backpack, $67 (was $89) at Macy's

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

The backpack is 17 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 8 inches tall, and weighs only 1.3 pounds. The style features two large compartments, a side water bottle pocket, and a 15-inch laptop sleeve that's padded to keep technology safe. There's a front utility pocket that has several miniature pockets within it so that you can organize your supplies with ease. 

There's also a pleated hidden pocket in the front of the bag that you can place small miscellaneous items in, like your phone or sunglasses. What we like about this backpack is that the back panel is fully padded and the shoulder straps consist of an ergonomic S-curve for ultimate comfort. The handle at the top also allows you to carry it without placing it on your back. 

The backpack is made of 80% polyester and 20% polyurethane, so it's recommended that you hand wash it for best results. Shoppers described the accessory as "excellent quality," "dependable," "gorgeous," "functional," "very durable," "sturdy," "cool," and "definitely worth the money." Customers additionally noted that the bag is "spacious," so you can use it beyond just schooling. 

Shop More Deals 

• Jordan Kids Mini Air Patrol Backpack, $27 (was $32) at Macy's
• Arch Studio Tartan 3-Piece Comforter Set, $32 (was $160) at Macy's
• SKNY Pull-On Wide-Leg Pants, $40 (was $89) at Macy's

Aside from the fact that this JanSport backpack will last you years, the style is also super trendy. This affordable find is the perfect addition to your child's school year. Shop it for 25% off at Macy's before the sale disappears! 

Related: Clarks’ ‘Pretty’ Wedge Sandals Keep Shoppers Comfortable for ‘10 Hours Straight,’ and They’re 55% Off

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

Southern California water park fans have a major upgrade to look forward to in 2027. In celebration of National Waterpark Day, Knott’s Soak City announced a massive footprint overhaul featuring two brand-new, record-setting family slide attractions: Coral Craze and Kelp Kraze.

Built by industry-leading manufacturer ProSlide, the duo will replace the existing Shore Break slide complex at the Buena Park destination, bringing both a West Coast debut and a North American first to the 15-acre water adventure park located right next door to Knott’s Berry Farm.

Related: Six Flags Debuts First-of-Its-Kind Regional Monthly Membership Program

Knott's Soak City Sizzle Reel 2026 (0:38)

Leading the expansion is Coral Craze, which will debut as the West Coast's first triple Family FlyingSAUCER attraction. Engineered for five-person rafts, the high-speed slide draws direct design inspiration from giant slalom ski courses.

Riders will sweep through steeply banked, gravity-defying turns across giant saucer-shaped elements, creating the sensation of carving down a mountain at high speeds while holding onto friends and family.

Related: This Summer's Biggest Travel Hack? These 8 Under-the-Radar Regional Theme Parks

Knott's Soak City

Directly adjacent to the raft conveyor, guests will find Kelp Kraze, making history as North America's first double Family HIVE attraction and the longest HIVE-style ride in the United States.

Also holding five riders per raft, Kelp Kraze sends tubes twisting through a sequence of tight turns and continuous spiraling helixes designed to make riders feel as if the slide structure itself is revolving around them. High-speed G-forces will push rafts up against the outer walls, where translucent slide panels offer riders sweeping, panoramic views of the water park below as they race through the circuit.

A look at Coral Craze and Kelp Kraze, two new record-setting family slide attractions debuting at Knott’s Soak City in 2027.

Knott's Soak City

The twin slide debut marks the latest major investment in Knott's Soak City, expanding its lineup of 23 speed, tube, and body slides alongside existing fan favorites like the 750,000-gallon Tidal Wave Bay wave pool, the one-third-mile Sunset River lazy river, the 63-foot Old Man Falls speed slide tower, and the interactive three-story Beach House splash area.

While the new attractions won't officially splash down until 2027, summer parkgoers can get a head start on access. The water park remains open on select days through September 7, and guests who secure a Gold Membership gain unlimited visits for the remainder of the 2026 season along with guaranteed entry for the 2027 debut of Coral Craze and Kelp Kraze.

Related: Six Flags Great Adventure Is Revealing Its Next Big Coaster Tomorrow

Raising children comes with plenty of moments of joy, but the parenting experience is also filled with challenging times that inspire teaching moments. Take lying, for instance. When your child lies, it presents you with the opportunity to reinforce the idea that honesty is always the best policy. The way you approach the conversation can make a world of difference, so Parade consulted two psychologists and asked them to share the phrase they recommend using when you know your child is lying.

Lying is an inevitable part of human nature, and many kids are tempted to double down on a fib when they feel boxed into a corner. For that reason, psychologists have plenty of practical tips on how to handle a dishonest child. They also have valuable insight into why kids lie about small things.

If you're wondering how to encourage honesty in kids while also teaching them about the natural consequences of not telling the truth, the pros share some age-by-age scripts below for a range of potential scenarios you might encounter. They also break down the psychology behind why asking "Did you do this?" can backfire and feel like entrapment when you're trying to teach your children not to lie.

Related: 27 Funny Lies Parents Told Their Kids Growing Up

The Exact Phrase Child Psychologists Recommend Using When You Know Your Child Is Lying

There are times when you're not sure if your child is telling the truth, but there are also scenarios where it's crystal clear that they're lying. When the latter occasions arise, board-certified clinical psychiatrist Dr. Tamir Aldadrecommends using the following phrase: "I already know what happened. I just want to hear it from you."

"This works because it takes the trap out of the moment," Dr. Aldad, CEO of the mental health clinic Mindful Care, says. "You're not testing them; you're inviting honesty. That shift matters more than people realize because it changes what the child is being asked to do. They're not choosing between confession and denial anymore. They're just being given a chance to be truthful with someone who already has the facts."

Related: 3 Psychologists Agree This Is the Most ‘Underrated’ Positive Parenting Habit

The 'Entrapment' Mistake: Why Asking 'Did You Do This?' Backfires

When you do happen to know that your child is lying, you may be tempted to ask them, "Did you do this?" But board-certified clinical psychologist Dr. Jenny Yip says this can create an entrapment question.

"The child quickly realizes this isn't genuine curiosity and is instead a test. Once children feel tested, they stop thinking about honesty and start thinking about escape," Dr. Yip, the author of Hello Baby, Goodbye Intrusive Thoughts, says.

As children's brains develop, they learn impulse control, emotional regulation and future thinking. She says the threat of danger—punishment, disappointment or losing connection—sparks a change in their behavior.

"The survival part of the brain often takes over before the reasoning part has a chance," she notes. "Instead of asking a question you already know the answer to, state what you observed. For example: 'I noticed the lamp is broken. Help me understand what happened.' This invites explanation rather than forcing denial."

Dr. Aldad adds that children are wired to avoid "short-term threat over long-term consequence," and says most will lie in that moment when faced with an entrapment question.

"And it has a compounding cost. Over time, kids start to feel like they're being set up rather than invited to be honest, which erodes trust in the relationship you're trying to protect," he tells Parade.

Related: ‘I’m a Psychologist, and I’m Begging Parents to Stop Using This 1 Common Phrase’

The Psychology of Lying: 5 Reasons Good Kids Hide the Truth

Psychologists tell Parade there are five common reasons children are dishonest.

1. They're afraid of punishment

When kids lie, Dr. Aldad says they're often thinking, "I didn't want to get in trouble, so denying it felt safer."

Dr. Yip notes that most childhood lying isn't about manipulation. Rather, it's about avoiding consequences.

"Children often believe telling the truth will make things dramatically worse," she says.

2. They want to protect the relationship

Punishment is a big motivating factor for lying, but Dr. Yip notes that children are also afraid of disappointing the people they love most.

"Especially sensitive children may hide mistakes because they cannot tolerate seeing disappointment on a parent's face. For many children, disappointing a parent feels more painful than the mistake itself," she shares.

3. They're protecting someone else

When kids are roughhousing, they have a tendency to break things around the house or spill drinks. Still, getting them to admit to what they did can sometimes feel like an uphill battle.

In these scenarios, Dr. Aldad says children are often trying to protect someone else when they hide the truth from you.

"They may be thinking, 'My friend asked me not to say anything, and I didn't want to be the one who told,'" he explains.

Related: We Asked 3 Child Psychologists What Hobby Is Best for Kids—They All Said the Same Thing

4. They struggle with shame

"Children who believe mistakes mean they're 'bad' often hide those mistakes," Dr. Yip says.

In other words, shame can create secrecy.

"Accountability creates growth," she shares. "Children who feel ashamed hide mistakes. Children who feel accepted are more willing to repair them."

5. Their brain is still developing

Making mistakes is part of growing up. As it turns out, there's an actual biological reason why kids tend to lie.

"Executive functioning (i.e., impulse control, planning and considering long-term consequences) is still under construction," Dr. Yip explains. "Children often lie impulsively before they've had time to think. A child's first response isn't always their most thoughtful response. Their brain is still learning how to slow down."

Age-by-Age Scripts To Encourage Honesty

Lying is inevitable as your child grows up, but knowing how to address the situation can help guide your child in the right direction. To get you started, we asked the pros to share a few phrases you can use to address common lies.

Age Group: Toddlers (2-4)

• The Common Lie: "I didn't spill it."
• The Psychologist-Approved Phrase: "I can see the juice spilled. Everyone makes mistakes. Let's clean it up together."

• The Common Lie: "I didn't hit him."
• The Psychologist-Approved Phrase: "I saw what happened. Let's use our words to express what you were feeling."

Age Group: School-Aged (5-11)

• The Common Lie: "I already finished my homework."
• The Psychologist-Approved Phrase: "Let's check together. I'm not upset about unfinished homework. I want us to practice being honest."

• The Common Lie: "My brother/sister did it, not me."
• The Psychologist-Approved Phrase: "I want to understand what actually happened so I can be fair to both of you."

Age Group: Teens (12+)

• The Common Lie: "I was at Jake's house last night. I didn't go to a party."
• The Psychologist-Approved Phrase: "I already know you weren't at Jake's. I'd rather you tell me the truth, even an uncomfortable one, than lose the ability to trust what you tell me."

• The Common Lie: "I didn't break curfew last night."
• The Psychologist-Approved Phrase: "I'm not trying to catch you. I'm trying to build a relationship where you can be honest with me."

Related: Child Psychologists Say This Is the Parenting Phrase That Calms Kids Fastest

How To Set Healthy Consequences Without Shaming

Making sure your child knows that lying is wrong is your responsibility as a parent. However, there's a delicate balance between teaching them about consequences and reinforcing feelings of shame.

To find a happy medium, Dr. Aldad recommends separating the act from the identity.

"'You lied about this' lands very differently than 'You're a liar.' The second one tends to become a self-fulfilling label over time," he states.

The punishment should also fit the crime, so to speak.

"If a child lies about screen time, losing some screen privileges makes sense. If they lie about breaking something, helping repair or replace it makes sense. Avoid unrelated punishments that simply increase resentment," Dr. Yip says.

Addressing your child's lying in private is also important.

"Correcting a child in front of siblings or friends adds shame on top of the consequence, and shame tends to drive kids toward better lying, not more honesty," Dr. Aldad notes.

When your child does express the truth, make sure to encourage them.

"Praise honesty, even when it comes late," Dr. Yip shares. "If your child eventually tells the truth, acknowledge the courage it took. You can still address the behavior while reinforcing honesty. For example: 'I'm really glad you told me. The consequence still needs to happen, and I'm proud you chose to be honest.'"

Up Next:

Related: We Asked 4 Child Psychologists What Actually Motivates Kids—They All Said the Same Thing

Sources:

• Dr. Tamir Aldad is a board-certified clinical psychiatrist and the CEO of the mental health clinic Mindful Care.
• Dr. Jenny Yip is a board-certified clinical psychologist and the author of Hello Baby, Goodbye Intrusive Thoughts.

When Grease landed in theaters in the summer of 1978, no one could have predicted just how massive its music would become on its own.

On July 29, 1978, the film's soundtrack officially reached No. 1 on the charts. It proved that audiences didn't just want to watch Rydell High on the big screen; they wanted to take the movie home with them.

The Greasesoundtrack topped the charts the last week of July 1978, coming in ahead of some of the biggest music stars of the era. Behind the double LP at No. 2 was the Rolling Stones' Some Girls, followed by the Commodores' Natural High, Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band's Stranger in Town, and Bruce Springsteen's Darkness on the Edge of Town.

The double LP set was released ahead of the movie's big-screen debut. The soundtrack hit stores, per Billboard, on April 14, 1978, and the film opened in theaters on June 16 that same year.

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Two singles from the LPs went straight to No. 1 as well. "You're the One That I Want," by John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John, topped the charts on June 10, and the movie's title track, "Grease," by Frankie Valli, peaked at No. 1 for the week of August 26, 1978.

Additionally, Newton-John reached No. 3 with “Hopelessly Devoted to You,” and the cast ensemble performance of the song “Summer Nights” made the Top 10. Of all the soundtrack's songs, "Summer Nights" was the only song that hailed from the original Broadway musical the film was based upon.

Valli explained to Billboard in 2013 how he became involved with the project. "Barry Gibb called and said, 'I wrote a song. I think it’s for you. It’s going to be the title song for this motion picture.'”

He continued, "My manager at the time was Allan Carr, who was partners in Grease with Robert Stigwood. He called and said, 'What do you want to do? Do you want to be in the movie? Or sing the title song?' Well, I had already heard the title song, and I loved it."

Valli concluded, "I called [arranger] Don Costa up and told him to come over right away and hear this song. He said, 'If you don’t record this song, you’re crazy.' So I said, 'What’s the song if I want to be in the movie?' And they said, 'Beauty School Dropout,' [later recorded by Frankie Avalon]. It never became a hit, but he made a lot of money from it being on the soundtrack. But “Grease” was one of the biggest records I ever had in my career."

Newton-John's hit was the John Farrar-penned tune "Hopelessly Devoted to You." She told Billboard, "I loved it. It’s a hard song to sing; it’s rangy, and so it was challenging. But I thought it was a knockout song.” 

In 1979, Newton-John's "Hopelessly Devoted to You" was nominated for an Oscar at the 51st Academy Awards. The song lost to the title track of the film Thank God It's Friday.

Finally, "You're The One That I Want," an original song penned specifically for the film musical, also hit the top of the Billboard charts. Newton-John admitted the vocals were “challenging for [John] Travolta to do because it was really, really high. But he just did an amazing job with it. It was a great stretch for him.”

The soundtrack has since ranked as one of the greatest in movie history. It ties with Prince's Purple Rain, with sales of 13 million, according to the website Music Goldmine.

In 1978, Grease wasn't just a movie hit. It was the soundtrack of a generation. Decades later, those songs haven't lost a bit of their magic.

Related: John Travolta Snatched Classic 'Grease' Song From Co-Star

August is just around the corner, but Halloween shoppers are already on the hunt for one of The Home Depot’s most recognizable seasonal staples.

The retailer’s cult-favorite Halloween bucket is back for 2026, and the $2.98 find is already making the rounds on social media as shoppers share their latest Halloween haul.

Home Depot

The classic orange bucket has become an unexpected part of Halloween season for Home Depot fans, and this year’s limited-edition design is giving shoppers another reason to make a trip to the store. According to the retailer, the buckets are rolling into stores nationwide throughout August, while supplies last.

And for the first time, there’s another way to get one: The 2026 Halloween bucket will launch online at the end of August.

At just $2.98, it’s an easy addition to a Halloween display, trick-or-treating setup or seasonal candy stash. The Home Depot’s standard two-gallon orange Halloween bucket is also designed for practical use beyond Halloween, with the retailer noting that it can be used for storage and small household projects.

The bucket arrives as part of The Home Depot’s larger 2026 Halloween collection, which is already available online and includes plenty of spooky-season décor for shoppers who apparently believe there is no such thing as too early for Halloween.

And the retailer says this is just the beginning.

"We know our customers look forward to Halloween every year, and we’re excited to bring back this fan-favorite bucket with a new design for 2026,” Will Hudson, Senior Merchant of Paint Accessories, said in a statement.

"And this is just the beginning—there are even more surprises to come."

If you’re the person who starts decorating for Halloween before summer is officially over, consider this your sign. The $2.98 bucket is already back in stores, but you may want to grab one before everyone else does. 

RELATED: Lenox Just Released a Halloween Spice Village Set That’s Perfect for Fall

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Everything that goes out of fashion usually comes back around, including jelly flats. The nostalgic footwear has been making rounds for the last few years, especially in the summer months, because the style is breathable and fashionable. Thanks to Macy's, you can add the Sam Edelman Michaela Jelly Mary Jane Flats to your online cart for over 50% off before the season ends.

The flats originally cost $65, but have been reduced to as low as $34 during a limited-time clearance sale. This price will become available once you add the discounted hues to your cart, but if it's not, use the promotional code BUYMORE in your cart to receive the lowest price. The shoe is being sold in seven colorways, with four currently on sale: pale blue, lime green, navy, and pink. 

Sam Edelman Michaela Jelly Mary Jane Flats, From $34 (was $65) at Macy's

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

The current sizes range from 5 to 11, with shoppers saying that they're true to size and "fit perfectly." There are a few size and color combinations already out of stock, so make sure to act fast in order to snag your preference. The design features a 0.25-inch flat heel, round toe, and buckled ankle strap that you can adjust to your comfort.

Sam Edelman Michaela Jelly Mary Jane Flats, From $34 (was $65) at Macy's Shop at Macy's

The flats are entirely manmade and have cutouts around the entirety of the shoe that lends to the iconic jelly look, but also prevents overheating. Shoppers described the style as "so comfortable," "stylish," "super cute," "fashionable," "very trendy," and "cool," adding that they're the "best summer shoes" that come "with a bit of nostalgia."

"These don't rub blisters and are comfortable for all day wear," another reviewer wrote. "The pink rose color is surprisingly versatile," they continued. The shoe can be worn with dresses, wide-leg pants, shorts, and virtually any outfit that you want. Plus, shoppers say that there's no break-in time needed, as you can sport them right out of the box.

Shop More Deals 

• Jessica Simpson Danive Raffia Fringe Flat Slide Sandals, $63 (was $89) at Macy's
• On 34th Sasha Double Band Dress Sandals, $31 (was $90) at Macy's
• Sam and Libby Flash Block Heel Western Booties, $48 (was $95) at Macy's

Whether you want a pop of color or a funky everyday shoe, these fun jelly flats are a must-have. Some customers even purchased them in multiple colors due to the affordable price. Shop them now at Macy's for just $34!

Related: Pandora's Delicate Gold-Plated Stone Earrings Radiate Quiet Luxury, Now 50% Off at Macy's

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