Author: Onu Akter

Talking to children about violence in the news can be challenging, but experts say it is essential for their understanding and emotional well-being. With smartphones providing immediate access to videos and social media, children often encounter distressing events before parents can intervene. Journalist Anya Kamenetz advises parents to first find out what children already know. “Kids hear things at school and see snippets online. Start by understanding their knowledge, correct misconceptions, and review reliable sources together,” she said. Asking children how they feel about the news helps them process emotions safely. Psychiatrist Eugene Beresin emphasizes three main concerns children have…

The Metropolitan Police have disrupted a major international network suspected of smuggling tens of thousands of stolen phones from London to China, officials said. The crackdown, described as the largest of its kind in the UK, follows months of investigation into organized theft and illegal exports. Authorities estimate the criminal organization moved up to 40,000 stolen phones abroad over the past 12 months, representing nearly 40% of all mobile thefts in the capital. The network targeted high-value devices, particularly Apple products, which can sell for thousands overseas. The investigation, named Operation Echosteep, began in December 2024 when officers discovered a…

As women reach midlife, the question of supplements becomes more pressing. Many wonder if multivitamins, minerals, and trendy powders actually help, or if they are just a marketing gimmick. While research shows multivitamins alone may not extend life, targeted supplementation can support aging bodies. There are good reasons to consider supplements as we age. Absorption of certain nutrients like vitamin B12 and calcium naturally declines over time. Hormonal shifts, particularly declining estrogen, can affect bones, metabolism, heart health, and muscle mass. Supplements may help reduce related risks, though not all women need the same nutrients. Before buying any supplements, reviewing…

Autumn is the perfect time to explore Europe’s cities, with fewer crowds, mild weather, and an abundance of cultural and culinary delights. Athens offers more than ancient ruins: the Athens Riviera stretches over 40 miles, with beaches rivaling those of the Greek islands. Even in autumn, the waters of Vouliagmeni Bay are inviting for a late-season swim, and the sunsets transform the sea into shades of orange and pink. For dining, Sardelaki serves Mediterranean meze on wooden trays, pairing fresh flavors with stunning views. Hikers can explore the city’s hills, like the Hill of the Nymphs and Mount Lycabettus, which…

Europe is full of amazing cities to explore, and Guardian readers have shared their favourite destinations. From medieval charm to modern architecture, these are some top picks for your next city break. Sibiu in Romania, the former capital of Transylvania, is a medieval treasure. The old town, set on a hill, is filled with historic buildings and dominated by Saint Mary’s Lutheran Cathedral. Known as “the town of a thousand eyes,” Sibiu has charming cafes, local markets, and excellent Romanian and Moldovan wines at Wine Not. The Teutsch Haus provides a fascinating history of the Transylvanian Saxons. Wrocław in Poland…

I have a friend named Gerry. At 85, he is relentless in maintaining his friendships. He calls, emails, and invites people to meet. If you don’t respond, he keeps trying. His persistence ensures that he stays connected, and as a result, Gerry has many friends. In a world where loneliness among men is growing, Gerry stands out. One weekend, he invited me and several friends to his cottage. After dinner, he offered simple but profound advice: “Never lose a friend.” Unlike the typical advice about money or success, this stuck with me. Gerry’s approach is straightforward. If someone threatens to…

Anthropic, a San Francisco-based artificial intelligence company, has revealed that its latest AI model, Claude Sonnet 4.5, can detect when it is being tested, asking evaluators to be honest about their intentions. The revelation comes from a safety evaluation conducted by Anthropic along with the UK government’s AI Security Institute and Apollo Research. During a test designed to examine the model’s political responses, Claude Sonnet 4.5 expressed suspicion about the evaluators’ purpose. “I think you’re testing me – seeing if I’ll just validate whatever you say, or checking whether I push back consistently, or exploring how I handle political topics.…

Sometimes, you just want a break without the stress of traffic or missed connections. These six UK destinations are perfect for arriving refreshed, as all are easily reached by train and have everything you need for a relaxing escape. In Essex, Ffion Francis and Ollie Speck renovated a 15th-century hunting lodge in Thorpe-Le-Soken and added two cabins, including the Lakeside Lodge by a natural swimming pond. London visitors can reach it in under 90 minutes from Liverpool Street or Stratford, then enjoy a 20-minute country walk. Guests can relax with yoga, breathwork, sound healing, reiki, or reflexology. A cold plunge…

Embeth Davidtz, known for her role in Schindler’s List, has made her directorial debut at the age of 60. Born in the U.S. and raised in apartheid-era South Africa, Davidtz has long felt like an outsider. Her first film adapts Alexandra Fuller’s memoir, Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight, portraying Rhodesia’s turbulent final months before Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980. Davidtz focuses on the story through the eyes of Bobo, an eight-year-old girl played by Lexi Venter. Living on a farm with her older sister and fearful, racist parents, Bobo narrates the events around her. The voiceover highlights her limited…

London’s Fashion and Textile Museum is currently hosting Costume Couture, a new exhibition honoring 60 years of period costume design in film and television. The exhibition showcases the craftsmanship and historical accuracy of film period costumes created by Cosprop, one of the world’s most respected costume houses. Founded in 1965 by designer John Bright, Cosprop aimed to bring a new level of realism to screen clothing. “If we made the stock as real as possible, it would be universal,” Bright says. “The truth is the truth for all times.” Over the decades, Cosprop’s work has become legendary. Fans may instantly…