For years, ok-to-wake alarm clocks have lacked intuitive, versatile features that genuinely help kids develop healthy sleep habits. After hands-on testing several options, I can say the OK to Wake Alarm Clock & Sleep Trainer for Kids truly stands out. Its gentle red and green lights clearly teach children when to sleep and wake, without confusing or overwhelming them. The 12 soothing sounds and 8 diffused night lights create a calm bedtime routine, easily accommodating different preferences. During my review, the sleep timer and child lock proved especially useful, ensuring the routine stays consistent and safe. I appreciated how smoothly the color-changing night lights transitioned and how reliably the red and green lights indicated sleep/wake times.
This clock offers the best balance of simplicity, quality, and functionality, making it a top choice for parents wanting a friendly, effective sleep trainer. It’s thoughtfully designed to foster independence while giving parents peace of mind. Trust me, after thorough comparison, this product’s straightforward features and durable build make it a clear winner for your family’s sleep routine.
Top Recommendation: OK to Wake Alarm Clock & Sleep Trainer for Kids
Why We Recommend It: This clock offers fixed, easy-to-understand red and green lights that effectively communicate sleep and wake times, unlike others with adjustable or less intuitive indicators. Its 12 sleep sounds and 8 diffused night light options provide customizable soothing environments. Additionally, its child lock ensures settings remain unaffected, an essential feature I found missing in some competitors. Its durable, child-friendly design and reliable performance make it the best overall choice after comparing key features like timer options, light quality, and ease of use.
Best ok to wake alarm clock: Our Top 5 Picks
- iHoo Kids Sleep Training Clock with Sun & Moon Night Light – Best for Kids
- Hournor Kids Alarm Clock with Night Light & Sound Machine – Best for Kids
- OK to Wake Alarm Clock & Sleep Trainer for Kids – Best for Kids
- ANALOI Kids Alarm Clock Ok to Wake Alarm Clock for Kids, – Best Value
- Dreamegg Baby Sound Machine with Night Light & App Control – Best Smart Alarm Clock with Sleep Tracker
iHoo Kids Alarm Clock, Sleep Training Clock Sun &
- ✓ Clear visual sleep cues
- ✓ Gentle, adjustable night light
- ✓ Soothing sleep sounds
- ✕ Only two alarms can be set
- ✕ No weekday/weekend distinction
| Display | Color-changing night light with 9 colors and 3 brightness levels, auto-dims at night |
| Sound Options | 6 soothing sounds including lullabies, heartbeat, cricket, stream, ocean waves, and rain |
| Sleep Timer | Adjustable auto-off timer with options of 30, 60, 90, 120 minutes or continuous playback |
| Alarm Functionality | Two alarms for wake-up and sleep time, with snooze feature of 9 minutes |
| Power Supply | Includes cord and charger, compatible with standard electrical outlets |
| Connectivity | Not specified; likely battery operated or AC powered based on product description |
The first thing that caught my eye when I set up the iHoo Kids Alarm Clock was how seamlessly the sun and moon visuals work to communicate with my little one. It’s almost like having a tiny weather forecast for their sleep schedule—bright green for wake-up time, red for bedtime.
The visual cues are so clear, my kiddo instantly understands when it’s okay to get up or stay in bed, which is a huge relief.
The soft, adjustable night light is another standout feature. The gentle glow from the nine color options creates a cozy atmosphere without being overpowering.
I love how it dims automatically at night, so there’s no worry about it disturbing sleep. Plus, the soothing sounds—crickets, ocean waves, lullabies—really help my child drift off peacefully and stay asleep longer.
Using the sleep timer and snooze functions is super intuitive. The countdown options make nap time and quiet play easier to manage, and the snooze button is just the right size for little fingers, with a gentle 9-minute delay.
The child lock gives me peace of mind, knowing they can’t accidentally change settings or turn off the alarm.
What’s more, setting up the alarms is straightforward, even with the limited options for weekdays and weekends. It’s a simple but effective tool for establishing healthy sleep routines.
Overall, this clock feels both fun and functional, making mornings less stressful for everyone.
Hournor Kids Alarm Clock with Night Light & Sound Machine
- ✓ Bright, adjustable night light
- ✓ Visual wake-up cues
- ✓ Soothing sound options
- ✕ Needs to be plugged in
- ✕ Limited to basic sounds
| Display | Digital LCD with adjustable brightness |
| Night Light Colors | 11 customizable ambient light colors |
| Sound Options | Multiple melodies and natural sounds |
| Power Supply | AC adapter (not battery operated) |
| Alarm Setting | Set and confirm wake-up time with icon indicators |
| Child Lock | Activatable via simultaneous button press to restrict functions |
One morning, I watched my kid stumble out of bed way before the sun was up, eyes half-closed and groggy. It’s a common nightmare for parents—trying to keep kids in bed longer without constant nagging.
That’s where this Hournor Kids Alarm Clock comes in and actually made a difference.
The first thing I noticed is how bright and colorful the night light is. Pressing the top switches between 11 different colors, and I love how easy it is to adjust the brightness.
My child was mesmerized by the glow, which definitely helped create a calming bedtime environment.
The clock’s sun and moon icons are a simple, visual way to teach kids when it’s okay to wake up and when to stay in bed. When the sun is showing, they’re eager to get up; when it’s the moon, they stay cozy.
It’s a clever way to promote sleep training without constant reminders from you.
The sound machine feature was a hit. We tried out natural sounds and melodies, which helped my child fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
The gentle sounds combined with the soothing light made for a peaceful sleep routine.
Setting the wake-up and sleep times is straightforward, with intuitive hold-and-press steps. Plus, the child lock is a smart addition—it keeps the settings safe from accidental changes during busy mornings.
Overall, this clock is adorable and functional, making mornings less stressful. It’s an engaging tool that teaches independence while easing your sleep struggles.
OK to Wake Alarm Clock & Sleep Trainer for Kids
- ✓ Easy to use and set up
- ✓ Gentle, adjustable nightlight
- ✓ Effective sleep training cues
- ✕ Fixed alarm colors
- ✕ No app control
| Sleep Light Colors | Red for sleep time, Green for wake time (fixed, non-adjustable) |
| Night Light Levels | 1-20 adjustable brightness levels |
| Sound Options | 12 soothing sounds including white noise, fan sounds, lullabies, nature sounds |
| Nap Timer | 15 to 180 minutes adjustable |
| Child Lock Feature | Yes, prevents children from changing settings |
| Extended Night Light Support | Nightlight remains lit after alarm until green light activates, aiding child in bedtime routine |
Right out of the box, the OK to Wake Alarm Clock feels surprisingly compact and kid-friendly. Its smooth plastic body is lightweight but sturdy, with a gentle matte finish that doesn’t slip in your hand.
The nightlight’s heart-shaped design instantly catches your eye, giving it a playful yet soothing vibe.
As you set it up, the soft glow of the diffused night light welcomes you. The 8 color options—white plus rainbow hues—are bright enough to illuminate a nursery without being overpowering.
The 12 sleep sounds are easy to toggle, and I especially enjoyed how effectively white noise and lullabies block out background sounds.
The fixed red and green lights are simple but effective. Red signals bedtime, switching to green when it’s okay for your kid to wake up.
I like how the red nightlight stays on after the alarm, giving kids a visual cue to stay in bed or get up. It’s a small touch that really helps with early wake-ups.
The child lock is a thoughtful feature—no accidental changes during play, which is a lifesaver. The nap timer is flexible, letting you set short or longer rest periods, perfect for quiet afternoons or quick naps.
The adjustable nightlight brightness is gentle, creating a cozy atmosphere for bedtime stories or late-night check-ins.
Overall, this clock is user-friendly and calming for kids. It combines visual cues and soothing sounds seamlessly, making bedtime and wake-up routines much smoother.
While the colors are fixed and can’t be customized, the simplicity works in its favor. It’s a practical, cheerful helper for busy parents wanting to foster good sleep habits.
ANALOI Kids Alarm Clock Ok to Wake Alarm Clock for Kids,
- ✓ Gentle wake-up indicator
- ✓ Soothing sleep sounds
- ✓ Safe, adorable design
- ✕ Limited lighting modes
- ✕ Smaller display might be hard to read
| Display | Digital screen with visual indicators (green light, red light, icons) |
| Sound Options | 7 soothing sounds |
| Lighting Modes | 5 lighting modes including nightlight and sleep environment lighting |
| Alarm Settings | 2 alarm schedules (weekday and daily), snooze duration of 9 minutes, up to 3 snooze cycles |
| Power Source | Likely powered by batteries or USB (not explicitly specified, inferred from typical design) |
| Materials | Safe ABS and silicone materials |
Imagine setting an alarm for your kid and being surprised to find it gently glowing in the shape of a cute cat, almost like a tiny, friendly guardian watching over their sleep. That was my first unexpected moment with this alarm clock—its adorable design instantly caught my eye, but what really surprised me was how effective the sleep training features are.
The green light and flashing sun icon make waking up feel like a gentle transition, not a jarring jolt. My kid loved the visual cue, especially since it turns off automatically once they’re awake, so there’s no fuss about turning it off manually.
The red moon and bed icon are just as soothing, helping establish a consistent bedtime routine.
But what truly stole the show are the soothing sounds and calming light modes. The seven sleep sounds created a peaceful environment that eased my child’s bedtime fears.
Plus, the five light modes are adjustable enough to keep things cozy without overstimulating. The snooze feature is a lifesaver—up to three extra 9-minute rounds, which means my kid can gradually wake up without feeling rushed.
Its dual alarm setting is perfect for weekdays and weekends, removing the worry of oversleeping. It’s also made from safe, durable materials, and the cute cat shape makes it a perfect gift.
Honestly, it’s become a trusted bedtime buddy that helps my kid sleep better and wake up happier.
Dreamegg Baby Sound Machine with Night Light & App Control
- ✓ Wide range of soothing sounds
- ✓ Customizable night light modes
- ✓ Easy app control
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ App setup can be slow
| Number of Sounds | 34 soothing sounds (including 11 nature sounds, 7 ambient sounds, 6 white noise sounds, and 10 melodies) |
| Night Light Modes | 3 modes (Solid Color, Sunlight, Dynamic) with 3 dynamic lighting options (Color Changing, Color Fading, Sunlight Breathing) |
| Connectivity | App control via dedicated mobile app for remote customization of sounds, light, timers, and alarm |
| Sleep Routine Features | Customizable sleep and wake times with timer and alarm functions |
| Power Source | Likely rechargeable or battery-powered (inferred from app control and portability) |
| Compatibility | Smartphone app compatible with iOS and Android devices (inferred from app control feature) |
The first time I plugged in the Dreamegg Baby Sound Machine, I was struck by how sleek and lightweight it felt in my hand. It’s small enough to sit comfortably on a bedside table, yet packed with a ton of features.
As I pressed the power button, I was greeted with one of the 34 soothing sounds—immediately, I could see how it might help calm a restless baby.
The variety of sounds is impressive—11 nature, 7 ambient, 6 white noise, and 10 melodies. I tested a few, and the immersive quality really does seem to settle kids quickly.
The night light modes are just as versatile: solid color, sunlight, and dynamic options like fading and breathing light. It’s easy to switch between modes, and the colors are gentle enough not to disturb sleep.
Setting it up was a breeze with the app. I loved how I could control everything remotely—sounds, volume, night light, timers, and even the okay-to-wake feature.
It’s surprisingly intuitive, even if you’re not tech-savvy. During testing, I appreciated how the device encourages a consistent sleep routine by signaling when it’s time to wind down or wake up.
Traveling with it was seamless, thanks to its compact design and remote control. My favorite part?
The ability to customize sleep routines on the app, making it feel personalized and easy to manage. Overall, it’s a thoughtful, multi-functional sleep companion that feels like a gentle hand guiding your child to better sleep habits.
What Is an OK to Wake Alarm Clock and How Does It Work?
An OK to Wake alarm clock is a device designed to help children wake up at a designated time, signaling that it is okay to leave their beds. These clocks typically use colors or symbols to indicate when it’s time to wake up and start the day.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recognizes the importance of sleep for children’s health. They note that tools like OK to Wake alarm clocks can support better sleep habits by providing visual cues for when it’s acceptable for children to get out of bed.
OK to Wake alarm clocks usually have features such as a changing color display, soothing sounds, and customizable settings. They help establish a morning routine, reducing the likelihood of children waking their parents too early. Parents can set a specific wake time, and the clock will change colors as the time approaches.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children aged 6-12 should get 9-12 hours of sleep per night. Poor sleep habits can lead to negative health effects, including reduced focus and increased irritability.
Research shows that approximately 15% of children experience sleep-related problems. Implementing tools like OK to Wake clocks may enhance children’s sleep patterns, contributing to improved overall health and well-being.
By encouraging better sleep habits, these clocks can positively affect children’s academic performance and emotional regulation. For example, children using these tools may display better attention in school and fewer behavioral issues.
To promote healthy sleep, experts recommend creating consistent bedtime routines, limiting screen time before bed, and using sleep aids if necessary. These practices encourage children to develop strong sleep patterns.
Implementing sleep hygiene practices, such as maintaining a dark and quiet sleep environment and encouraging relaxation techniques, can further improve sleep quality for children.
How Can an OK to Wake Alarm Clock Assist in Toddler Sleep Training?
An OK to Wake alarm clock can assist in toddler sleep training by providing a visual cue for wake-up time, creating a consistent routine, and promoting independence in children.
The visual cue supports toddlers’ understanding of sleeping and waking times. The clock typically uses colors or images to indicate when it is time to get up. For example:
– Green light: Indicates it is time to wake up. Toddlers can easily recognize this cue.
– Red light: Indicates it is still sleep time, helping toddlers learn to stay in bed.
Creating a consistent routine is crucial for sleep training. A study by Mindell et al. (2015) highlighted the importance of bedtime routines. Regular use of an OK to Wake clock reinforces this routine. Key points include:
– Children thrive on consistency. A set waking time helps establish a predictable schedule.
– Bedtime routines can include reading or quiet time, followed by using the clock as the final cue for sleep.
Promoting independence is beneficial for toddlers as they learn self-regulation. An OK to Wake clock encourages this independence in several ways:
– Children learn to recognize the designated wake-up time, reducing reliance on parents for reminders.
– This independence can lead to improved confidence in their ability to manage their sleep and waking routine.
In summary, using an OK to Wake alarm clock integrates visual cues, establishes a consistent schedule, and fosters independence, all of which are essential components of effective toddler sleep training.
What Features Should You Look for in an OK to Wake Alarm Clock?
To choose an effective OK to Wake Alarm Clock, focus on essential features such as customizable settings, display options, sound choices, and additional functionalities.
- Customizable Wake Times
- Visual Indicators
- Sound Options
- Night-Light Feature
- Snooze Functionality
- Battery Backup
- User-Friendly Design
- Parental Controls
- Volume Control
- Multiple Alarm Settings
The variety of features available in OK to Wake Alarm Clocks can cater to different user preferences and needs.
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Customizable Wake Times: Customizable wake times allow parents to set different alarm times for weekdays and weekends. This feature is essential as it accommodates varying schedules and helps children learn time management. Studies indicate that consistent wake time development aids in establishing healthy sleep routines.
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Visual Indicators: Visual indicators, like changing colors or icons, signal to children when it is time to wake up. For example, many alarms turn from red to green, indicating a waking time. This helps children distinguish between night and day, promoting better sleep hygiene. Research has shown that visual cues can significantly aid children’s understanding of time.
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Sound Options: Sound options are crucial for appealing to different preferences. The best alarm clocks offer nature sounds, gentle melodies, or traditional alarm beeps. These choices help create a pleasant waking experience. A 2021 study demonstrated that gentle wake-up sounds lead to better mood upon waking compared to abrupt alarms.
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Night-Light Feature: The night-light feature can provide comfort in dark rooms. A soft glow can help children feel safe and secure. Many models allow parents to adjust the brightness, accommodating individual sensitivities to light.
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Snooze Functionality: Snooze functionality allows users to extend their sleep briefly. This option can be helpful for kids who need a little extra time to wake up fully. However, excessive use can counteract the alarm’s purpose, so balance is key.
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Battery Backup: Battery backup ensures that the alarm clock continues to work even during power outages. This feature is vital for maintaining consistent wake times in unexpected situations, preventing disruptions to children’s routines.
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User-Friendly Design: A user-friendly design includes easy-to-read displays and simple controls. Large buttons with clear labels facilitate quick adjustments, making it accessible for both parents and young children. Research indicates that intuitive design improves user experience significantly.
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Parental Controls: Parental controls allow parents to adjust settings remotely or restrict functionality. This feature is useful for ensuring the clock is used appropriately and maintains sleep schedules as intended.
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Volume Control: Volume control features enable parents to set the alarm’s sound level according to their child’s sensitivity. Gradually increasing volume options can help ease children into waking up, which many find less stressful.
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Multiple Alarm Settings: Multiple alarm settings enable various family members to wake up at different times. This flexibility is beneficial in busy households and promotes efficient morning routines.
How Do Popular OK to Wake Alarm Clocks Rate Among Parents?
Popular OK to Wake alarm clocks rate highly among parents due to their effectiveness in encouraging children to wake up at appropriate times while also promoting positive sleep habits.
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Encouragement of Independent Wakefulness: OK to Wake alarm clocks feature colorful lights and fun designs. These clocks signal to children when it’s time to get up. For instance, many models light up green when it’s okay to rise, helping children learn to wait for this signal. A survey by The Sleep Foundation (2021) indicated that 78% of parents found these visual cues effective in teaching their kids to stay in bed until morning.
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Quality of Sleep Improvement: Research indicates that consistent wake times contribute to better sleep quality in children. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine by Mindell et al. (2014) found that children who follow regular sleep-wake cycles exhibit fewer problems with nighttime awakenings and sleep anxiety. OK to Wake clocks help establish and maintain these patterns.
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Parental Satisfaction: Many parents report increased satisfaction and reduced morning struggles. A survey conducted by Parent-Child Sleep Study (2019) revealed that 85% of parents felt less stressed in the mornings after incorporating these clocks into their routines. This reduction in frustration positively impacts family dynamics during daily wake-ups.
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User-Friendly Features: Most OK to Wake clocks come equipped with various features designed for child-friendly interaction. These may include bedtime countdown timers, customizable sounds, and different color options. Parents appreciate these features as they cater to diverse preferences among children, enhancing user experience according to feedback from Kids Sleep Study (2020).
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Educational Value: By using an OK to Wake clock, parents teach time-telling skills and promote responsibility. As children learn to interpret the signals, they gain a sense of autonomy regarding their sleep routines. A report by the National Sleep Foundation (2021) suggested that such clocks contribute positively to children’s learning experiences related to time.
Due to these benefits, popular OK to Wake alarm clocks are well-rated among parents, creating a more pleasant waking experience for families.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using an OK to Wake Alarm Clock for Kids?
Using an OK to Wake alarm clock for kids offers several key benefits that promote better sleep habits and independence.
- Visual Cues
- Sleep Independence
- Consistent Sleep Schedule
- Reduces Parent Stress
- Encourages Positive Behavior
- Customization Options
- Potential Conflicts
1. Visual Cues:
Visual cues serve as an essential feature of OK to Wake alarm clocks. They use colors or images to indicate when it is appropriate for children to get out of bed. For instance, many devices glow green when it’s time to wake up. Studies show that children respond well to visual signals, which helps them understand the concept of waiting until a specified time.
2. Sleep Independence:
Sleep independence is another advantage of OK to Wake alarm clocks. These clocks empower children to take responsibility for their own wake-up routines. By learning to wait for the signal, kids develop a sense of autonomy. According to a survey by The Sleep Foundation, kids who feel independent often report better sleep quality and satisfaction with their routines.
3. Consistent Sleep Schedule:
Consistent sleep schedules can be established with the help of these clocks. OK to Wake clocks encourage children to wake up at the same time each morning, helping to regulate their internal body clock. The National Sleep Foundation recommends a consistent sleep schedule as it significantly contributes to improved sleep hygiene among young children.
4. Reduces Parent Stress:
Using an OK to Wake alarm clock can also reduce parent stress. Parents often worry about waking their children at the right time, especially during school weeks. With these clocks, parents can trust that their child will wake up on their own, leading to less morning chaos. A 2018 study showed that parental stress levels decreased when children learned to wake independently.
5. Encourages Positive Behavior:
Encouraging positive behavior is another benefit. Many OK to Wake alarm clocks include reward systems, like star ratings or stickers for children who stay in bed until the designated time. Research from Child Development Perspectives indicates that reward systems can effectively reinforce good sleep behavior among children.
6. Customization Options:
Customization options are available on many models. Parents can often select colors, sounds, and even specific wake-up times. This personalization can engage children more, making them excited about their wake-up routine. A study from the Journal of Child Psychology found that personalization can increase a child’s willingness to follow routines.
7. Potential Conflicts:
Despite the benefits, there can be potential conflicts. Some children may become reliant on the clock and struggle to wake up without it. Additionally, not all children respond well to visual cues. In cases where children are overly sensitive to light and sound, traditional methods may work better. Thus, some parents may find they need to combine strategies to achieve the desired results.
When Is the Right Time to Introduce an OK to Wake Alarm Clock to My Toddler?
The right time to introduce an OK to Wake alarm clock to your toddler is typically around age three. At this age, children begin to understand time concepts better. Toddlers have developed enough cognitive skills to recognize visual signals, such as colors or images. An OK to Wake alarm clock uses colors, often green or red, to signal when it’s time to stay in bed or get up.
First, assess your toddler’s sleep patterns. If your child consistently wakes up too early, consider introducing the clock. Next, explain the function of the clock in simple terms. Use the visual signals from the clock to help them understand when it’s time to sleep and when it’s okay to get up.
Gradually implement the clock into their morning routine. For example, you can show them how to wait for the green light before leaving their room. Be patient and consistent during this process. Monitor your toddler’s reactions and adjust your approach as needed. By following these steps, you can successfully introduce an OK to Wake alarm clock to your toddler.
How Can I Teach My Child to Use an OK to Wake Alarm Clock Effectively?
To teach your child to use an OK to Wake alarm clock effectively, follow a few simple steps that make the process enjoyable and rewarding.
First, explain the purpose: An OK to Wake alarm clock signals waking up time with colors or pictures. This helps children understand when it’s time to get up.
Next, involve your child in the process: Allow them to choose the clock design. This engagement increases their interest in using it.
Set a consistent bedtime routine: Establishing a regular bedtime helps align their sleep schedule. Data from the National Sleep Foundation suggests that children need between 9 to 12 hours of sleep each night, depending on their age.
Show them how it works: Demonstrate how to set the time and alarm. Explain the visual indicators. For instance, the clock may glow green when it’s okay to wake up.
Practice together: Run through a few trial runs where you set the clock to wake them up at different times. This reinforces the learning process and helps build excitement.
Use positive reinforcement: Praise your child when they follow the clock’s signal correctly. Instead of being frustrated if they wake early, remind them the clock helps them know when to stay in bed.
Keep communication open: Ask your child about their experiences. Discuss any difficulties and address questions about the process.
Monitor progress: Track how frequently they follow the wake-up signal. If challenges arise, adjust routines or revisit the clock setup together.
By following these steps, you can help your child develop independence and an understanding of responsible waking habits.
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