Hanukkah, Christmas and the irresistible urge to shop

Even sellers of autism-related products are jumping on the holiday bandwagon. Cafepress.com, Zazzle.com and Autismshop.com are just a few of the online retailers hawking goods carrying the universal symbol for autism — the puzzle piece.  But no matter what gifts are on your list, don’t let the good mood and generosity of the season tempt you to blow your budget. In this time of recession, frugal, practical gifts are the safer course. Especially for college students who are piling on student loans and other educational expenses. Know how much you want to spend and stick to it. Check websites like shopping.com, shopzilla.com and other price-comparison sites to make sure you get the best price. And steer of using credit cards, wherever possible. You’re much more likely to exceed your budget if you’re not paying cash. And don’t forget to use coupons and seek out discounts. Most retailers are struggling this holiday season as consumers tighten their belts. Good deals and sales abound.

Drop that video game guilt

DJ Hero is one of the hottest games for the holidays.

Just in time for Hanukkah, Christmas and Kwanzaa, there’s potentially good news for gamers. Lovers of computer and video games can breathe a bit easier as the medical establishment announces new research aimed at learning whether those games can have positive health benefits. Even for those with Asperger Syndrome and autism. The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation  is behind the national  Health Games Research program, which has award nearly $2 million in grants to study games and potential health benefits for people of all ages. Researchers at  Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia will test whether games can help people on the spectrum in picking up on subtle differences in body language and facial expression.  George Washington University will study games’ role in physical activity.