WNC Parent - September 2008 by Stacey

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

contents This month’s features 3

When the ultrasound technician told me I was having twins, I promptly looked around the room to see if she could possibly have been talking to someone else. There was no one else there, so I figured it was me she was referring to — the one with the belly the size of a sumo wrestler. I had just starting getting comfortable with the idea of having one baby, but two? What did that mean? What would I do? I had many questions as a new parent, such as how do I get them to sleep? One of the first things I instituted after my girls were born was a specific sleep schedule for them that we strongly adhered to — for my benefit, as well as theirs. Getting your new baby to sleep can be one of the most challenging aspects of being a new parent. Find some helpful tips on Page 14 for getting baby to sleep. I also heard so many “baby myths” that I was completely confused. Some good advice is to listen to your pediatrician, not word-of-mouth. To find out what’s true and false with some of the more popular baby myths, see our story on Page 3. Having a new baby is a very exciting and wonderful time in any new parent’s life — enjoy every minute of it.

Baby myths Are those “old wive’s tales” really true? We asked area medical professionals.

The latest gadgets Beyond receiving blankets and Diaper Genies — the coolest items a new mom needs.

All about diapers Should you go with cloth or disposable? The options abound.

Birthing methods Have it your way. Birth, that is. We find out what’s available in WNC.

10 Babies 101

Answers to 10 common questions for new parents.

12 Cry babies

Yesterday’s colic is today’s “Period of Purple Crying.” Doctors weigh in on how to handle it.

16 Finding child care

18 Stimulating your newborn It doesn’t take much to keep the tiniest of babies entertained. We have 10 ways you can help baby learn.

22 So you’re pregnant

A checklist for what to do first.

40 Buckling in your baby

Learn more about car seats.

In every issue Kids Health by Linden Veillette ..................................26 Show and Tell .....................................................28-29 WNCmom.com page.................................................31 Divorced Families by Trip Woodard ............................34 Librarian’s Picks by Jennifer Prince ...........................39 Parenting in a Nutshell ............................................43 John Rosemond .......................................................44 Growing Together by Chris Worthy .............................47 Quick Dinners ..........................................................48 Puzzles for parents ..................................................50 Puzzles ....................................................................51 Calendar ............................................................53-63

Nancy Sluder Editor

Good help is hard to find for working parents with infants.

14 Getting baby to sleep

No one method works for every infant, but here are a few ways to get the little one some Z’s.

Babyhood is an exciting and precious time for the family

On the cover Simon Hughes, 1, of Asheville. Photo by Katy Cook Photography.

P.O. Box 2090, Asheville, NC 28802 828-232-5845 I www.wncmom.com PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER Randy Hammer WNC PARENT EDITOR Nancy Sluder nsluder@citizen-times.com

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10 babyandmyths... the truth behind them By Katie Wadington Staff writer

5. Newborns shouldn’t go out too soon.

Don’t hold the baby too much or you’ll spoil her. Get rid of your cat when your baby arrives. Put cereal in the baby’s bottle to help him sleep through the night. How many times have you heard these and other pieces of advice? And, as crazy as some may sound, is there a grain of truth to them or are they myths? “I’ve encountered some really strange ones,” said Cheryl Creasman, the nursing coordinator at Asheville Pediatrics. For instance, the belief that holding your baby upside down and letting blood rush to their head makes them smarter. (Not true, she said.) Here are some pieces of advice gathered over the years by area medical professionals, and the truth behind the recommendations:

Creasman says they recommend this to new parents in the wintertime, during flu and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) season. “Limit exposure to crowds,” she says.

6. Iron fortified formula is making my baby constipated. Not true, according to the Buncombe County Health Center’s nutrition staff. “The iron level in infant formula is not high enough to cause problems with constipation. In fact, it is the formula itself that can cause constipation; infant tummies are not meant to have formula — they are better able to tolerate breast milk (which also has enough iron for the infant),” the staff wrote.

1. If you go to the baby every time he cries, he will be spoiled. Or, “Don’t hold your baby all the time.” Buncombe County Health Center’s Mirlie S. Greene, maternity care coordinator, and registered nurse Susan Bolick, cite these as popular myths. Dolly Pressley Byrd, a certified nurse-midwife with MAHEC, says this is the biggest piece of advice she hears, too, often from an older generation. But according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, an infant “cannot be ‘spoiled’ by holding, cuddling and rocking her, or by talking and singing to her. Responding quickly to your baby’s cry will not spoil her, but it will teach her that she will be cared for.”

2. My baby sleeps better and more soundly on her stomach. This is what Arlene Whiteside, a maternity care coordinator at Buncombe County Health Center, has heard. Greene has gotten a similar refrain: “I don’t put my baby on his back to sleep, because if he spits up he will choke.” But pediatricians disagree. “‘Back to sleep’ is safest for babies. Therefore, always put your baby down to sleep on his back, not his tummy or side,” according to the AAP.

3. Cereal in the bottle will help my infant sleep better. The Buncombe County Health Center’s nutrition staff says this is false. “It is actually harmful to do

Other myths:

GANNETT NEWS SERVICE

One of the biggest pieces of advice new parents hear is “Don’t hold the baby too much or you’ll spoil it.” Is this true? Not at all. this because the cereal displaces the more nutritious formula or breast milk. Usually by the time an infant is on cereal, he/she is sleeping longer stints in the evening, so this is actually just coincidental, not a fact,” the nutrition staff wrote in an e-mail.

4. Babies need formula in their first days because mother’s milk hasn’t come in yet. Dr. Stephen J. Wall, of Haywood Pediatrics, says he’s heard this, often from grandmothers who come running in with bottles of formula. Not true, says Wall, a pediatrician for 20 years. According to La Leche League, mother’s milk is preceded by colostrum, which is the “perfect first food” for babies. Milk typically comes in within several days of birth.

Among other misconceptions Creasman says she has heard through the years: “If they (babies) look in the mirror too early it stunts their growth.” When babies pull on their ears, it means they have an ear infection. Breast-feeding moms have to eat a totally bland diet. You need to get rid of cats when a baby arrives. Yes, they’re all false. Another big one, not so much about the baby but the mom: You can’t get pregnant if you’re breastfeeding. Pressley Byrd says she knows a couple, both physicians, who found out the hard way that this is not the case.

Same old myths Creasman says the myths she encounters now are the same as those she heard before the Internet became popular as a place for parents to seek advice. On the Internet, “you can find any opinion you want,” says Wall. But it isn’t to blame for baby myths. ‘There’s always been word of mouth, superstitions about babies and then things that people think are true and just get passed on,” he says. Pressley Byrd agrees. “The ones that are out there have been out there forever,” she says.

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Gear up for baby Photos and story by Lockie Hunter WNC Parent contributor

It seems that each day new baby gadgets are appearing on the market. Here are 10 products that stand out from the crowd in their creativity and utility, and where to buy them locally.

1 Activity PlayMat by Gund. “This is perfect for newborn and up,” said Thea YoungbloodSailors at William and Grace. “You can lay the baby on the mat and they can feel different textures. It is perfect for the much needed tummy time. As they grow they can begin to play with the attachments.” $75 at William and Grace, 7 All Souls Crescent, Biltmore Village.

The Tuffet Too by Cute As Can Bee. “This is a cover for shopping carts and high chairs in restaurants,” said YoungbloodSailors. “It is 100 percent cotton and machine washable. It completely covers the handle of the shopping cart where babies tend to chew. It protects babies (through toddlers) from germs and provides a soft and safe seat.” $85 at William and Grace.

Weeblock by Sozo is an absorbent sponge-like cup that fits over a new baby boy to keep him from peeing on you during a diaper change. “The Weeblock is always the hit of the baby shower, especially for first time parents of a baby boy,” said Diana Eirhart, retail general manager at Just Ducky Originals. “It is also practical as you can toss it in the diaper bag and right into the wash when it is dirty.” $12 at Just Ducky Originals, 100 Charlotte St., Asheville.

Sweetpeace Newborn Soothing Center by Graco helps baby adjust to life outside the womb. Sweatpeace mimics the ways that parents naturally cradle their babies. The four settings create four soothing sensations. $179.99 at Target, 17 McKenna Road, Arden, and 115 River Hills Road, East Asheville.

5 Vicks Germ Free Humidifier is ideal for baby’s room as it humidifies the space with a calming mist that is almost 100 percent free of infectious bacteria, molds and spores. The blue dim light on the unit even doubles as a night light. $89.99 at BabiesRUs, 801 Fairview Road, East Asheville.

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6 Grimms Rainbow Ball Grasper by Grimms Spiel and Holz. Wooden ball secured together by a stretchy string. “When you hold them in your hand you can’t stop playing. They sound simple but they have been the best seller this season,” said Sonja Hernandez, one of the owners at The Littlest Birds, 647 Haywood Road, West Asheville. $14.99 at The Littlest Birds.

Natural Nurser from Adiri. “Adiri baby bottles more closely replicate the tactile bonding experience of breast-feeding than any other bottle,” said Hernandez. “The Natural Nurser Ultimate Baby Bottle is warm to a child’s cheek, like a breast, when filled with warm milk. ... Shaped like a breast, [the nipples] encourage the same type of openmouthed latching that is required for breast-feeding, making bottle feeding and breast-feeding more easily interchangeable.” $12.50 at The Littlest Birds.

Baby Briefcase by Organized From the Start allows the new mom to “file paperwork in one small carrying case from prebirth visits through vaccinations, etc.,” said Diana Eirhart, retail general manager at Just Ducky Originals. “The Baby Briefcase makes a great gift from the announcement of pregnancy through a first birthday. It is practical, unique and compact for the busy parents.” $32 at Just Ducky Originals, 100 Charlotte St., Asheville.

One Size Reusable Diaper from Happy Heiny. “You will find on your one size diaper a total of four snaps on the front,” said Hernandez. “This will give you a total of four different sizes for your diaper. This will allow the diaper to fit most babies from about 8 pounds to 35 pounds. An investment that will save you money throughout your diapering time.” $18.95 at The Littlest Birds.

9 Bundle Me by J. Cole. Tired of stuffing your child into a bulky winter coat or of having to retrieve a blanket that was kicked off in the stroller? This cozy bundler accommodates car seats, joggers, strollers, etc. The bottom piece can be left in the car seat providing a soft and snug cover. Variety of colors. $39.99 at Babies R Us.

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The lowdown on diapers By Rick McDaniel WNC Parent contributor About five minutes after your baby is born, he or she will be introduced to his or her constant companion for the next two years or so — the diaper. Choosing the right diaper for your baby may not be as simple as it sounds. You’ll have to weigh cost, comfort, convenience and even long term ecological issues to come up with the right answer. “There are a lot of options when it comes to diapering,” said Sonja Hernandez, one of the owners of The Littlest Birds, a natural baby store on Haywood Road in West Asheville.

What do you do about diapers? Visit WNCmom.com to join the discussion. Cloth diapers cost about $2.25 each and pay for themselves within six months. After that, you’ll be diapering almost for free. “Cloth diapers also have a resale value,” Hernandez said.

Diaper service Disposables

If baby has your washing machine working overtime, but you still like the idea of cloth diapers, a diaper service may be the answer. “A diaper service is equipped to handle the high washing temperatures that diapers need, so we use less detergent,” said Kris Akerson, owner of Natural Nursery, an Asheville-based diaper service. “We provides a weekly supply of cotton diapers with a pail and liners for about the same price as disposables, including pick up and delivery. This keeps the disposable diapers out of the landfill and saves energy over doing them at home,” Akerson said.

For most new parents, disposable diapers are a familiar choice — chances are, they wore them as babies themselves. Although disposables are convenient, they come at a cost, both in terms of the environment and to the wallet. According to DiaperingDescisions.com, the average child uses a total of 7,349 disposable diapers from birth to potty training. This also creates one ton of garbage per year per child. Disposable diapers range in price from $0.22 to $0.45 each, for a total estimated average cost of $2,694 to keep a child in disposable diapers from birth to age two. Parents who use disposables can save on the cost by purchasing by the case and checking store circulars and manufacturer’s Web sites for coupons.

Cloth diapers

Stacks of cloth diapers wait for buyers at The Littlest Birds in West Asheville.

“The gDiaper is a new alternative to disposables and cloth,” Hernandez said. “gDiapers are a washable, cotton outer cover and a plastic-free flushable diaper refill.” Since the gDiapers contain no chlorine or plastic, the liners can be flushed, tossed or even composted.

product called a Snappi, that looks sort of like an Ace bandage that holds the diapers on,” Hernandez said.

Rick McDaniel is a freelance writer. E-mail him at southerncooking@charter.net.

PHOTO BY BARBARA BLAKE

Cloth diapers have come a long way from the “one size fits none,” talcum powder and safety pin version your parents may have worn when they were babies. “Most of our cloth diapers use Velcro, or there’s a

The gDiaper

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She’s having a baby:

But how?

By Barbara Blake Staff writer

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT/ MONI TAYLOR

Proud father Fred Richardson greets his son Seth Aaron shortly after his birth on Oct. 3, 2007, in the labor and delivery department at Mission Hospitals. Seth’s mother, Rene’ Richardson, is a registered nurse in the unit.

Few would disagree that the one event in a woman’s life she should have exactly like she wants it is labor and childbirth. In the Asheville area, there are myriad options for birthing, from water births and births at home to more traditional births at a hospital with an epidural or other pain medication. “Asheville is a great place to be pregnant because there is such a strong holistic health-positive focus in this town,’’ said Trish Beckman, a certified nurse-midwife who co-owns Empowered Birthing on East Chestnut Street with Laura Beagle, a doula and pregnancy massage therapist. “Here you can see a massage therapist for relaxation and to reduce discomfort, a chiropractor to ensure proper alignment and help have a more effective labor, or an acupuncturist to stimulate labor if needed,’’ Beckman said. “There are incredible options for classes to get ready for your birth, breast-feeding support, doulas for labor and postpartum, doctors and midwives at both home and hospital. And we have a very progressive hospital system that supports women and their choices,” she said. Dr. Kellett Letson, women’s service line leader at Mission Hospitals, said

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the hospital strives to work closely with mothers-to-be, their partners and families to ensure that labor and delivery are positive events. “We’re extremely proud of our whole team in Women’s Services at Mission, and the fact that we participate in more than 4,000 births a year,” Letson said. “We urge women to talk about their birthing choices with their health care provider in advance, and we will do all we can to honor them,” he said. “We want births to be a safe and pleasant experience for mother, baby and family.” Mary Ann Somervill, a part-time resident of Asheville, is a strong proponent of water births and was present at the births of two of her grandchildren — one of them at Mission. “One advantage is that it somewhat reduced the intensity of the contractions. But the greatest advantage was when that tiny baby emerged from her mother’s body, gliding smoothly into the warm water,” Sommervill said. “The midwife gently moved her to her mother’s chest and softly rubbed her tiny back to start her breathing in the new environment. What a wonderful transition, from the warmth of her mother’s womb to the warmth of the water, and then to the warmth of her mother’s arms,” she said. “It was a peaceful birth, and these are peaceful babies.” Beckman said there is “no one way

to birth a baby — there is no right way — you just have to find the right way for you.” Here are some of the options for labor and childbirth in the Asheville area:

Mission Hospitals Mission serves low- and highrisk childbirth needs, with families given one room for labor, birth and recovery. All rooms have a homelike décor and are equipped with emergency equipment and a tub. After recovery, the family moves to the Mother-Baby Unit, where baby and parents stay together unless the newborn has special medical needs. Four rooms on the labor and delivery unit are designed for water labor and birth, with large, built-in tubs. Midwives on staff; doulas are welcomed. Mothers are invited to have up to three family members/friends with them during the labor and birth. Free programs and tours are available for big brothers and sisters. For children ages 3-8, call The Health Adventure at 254-6373, ext. 316. For children 8 and older, call Mission at 213-2222, option 2. For a virtual tour, visit missionhospitals.org.

Midwives and doulas There are a number of certified

WNC birth resources A sampling for moms-to-be: Midwifery services New Dawn Midwifery: 236-0032. Family to Family: 251-2700, familytofamily.org. MAHEC Midwives: 771-5500, mahec.net. Pardee Hospital Midwives: 698-7181, pardeehospital.org. Park Ridge Hospital: 684-8501, parkridge hospital.org. Has one midwife on staff and welcomes doulas. Breast-feeding La Leche League: lllofnc.org. WNC breast-feeding

nurse-midwives and doulas who attend births at Mission and at Pardee Hospital in Hendersonville. There is one midwife on staff at Park Ridge Hospital in Fletcher. CNMs attend hospital and home births, and work under a physician’s supervision in the event of complications, although they generally are left to practice midwifery without medical interference during a normal birth. Doulas are lay professionals who are hired and paid for by the couple to provide continuous support to the woman and her partner throughout the labor and delivery and after the birth.

Home births Home births are another option, but are not as frequent as hospital births, particularly since hospitals have progressed to having more home-like birth settings and equipment for water births and other alternatives for labor and delivery. The main obstacle to home birth is malpractice insurance, which is prohibitively expensive.

Water births Water births involve the mother being immersed in a tub of warm water up to the waist during the last stages of labor. The baby is born into the water, then gently moved to the mother’s chest as the doctor or midwife rubs the baby’s back to help him begin breathing on his own. Water births can occur at home or in hospitals.

center: 213-1103. Childbirth education Asheville Area Birth Network, ashevillebirthnetwork.com Empowered Birthing Childbirth Education Classes: 231-9337, empoweredbirthing.org. Buncombe County Health Department classes: 250-5040. Bradley classes: Judy Curtis, 669-6290, or Susan Mooney, 628-4438. Beginning with Birth classes: 777-8899. Mission Hospitals classes: 213-2222, option 2.

254-0380. Lighten up Yoga Center: 254-7756. Namaste Yoga: 2536985. Women’s Resource Center: 213-8250. West Asheville Yoga Studio: 350-1167. Prenatal massage therapists Laura Beagle: 2319227. Kathy Parry: 242-6881.

Doulas wncdoulas.com.

Chiropractic Care for Pregnant Women April Macary: 254-1767. Laura Gross: 891-8868. Michelle Greenspan: 252-1882. Drew Agular: 236-0330.

Prenatal yoga Asheville Yoga Center:

Prenatal accupuncure Natalie Allard: 275-6816.

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Babies 101 Doctors answer 10 common questions about your new bundle of joy By Michael Burns Gannett News Service His wife is a prenatal genetic counselor, but that doesn’t mean Burgess Metcalf doesn’t have questions when it comes to babies. It doesn’t even mean his wife, Lindsay, doesn’t have questions. The couple’s daughter, Charlotte, was born on July 6. “How much should they eat?” Metcalf, of Greenville, S.C., asked. “How much formula should they get? It seems like it’s never discussed.” Newborns should eat two to four ounces every three to four hours, on average, according to Dr. Marcia Parra of Palmetto Pediatrics-West in Spartanburg. That changes according to their growth and what they eat. Parra, Dr. Art Charowski and Dr. Bryan Hill of AnMed Child Health Center in Anderson, S.C., and Dr. Philip Manley of The Children’s Clinic of Greer, S.C., answered 10 of the most common develop-

mental questions from new parents. Hill said it is important that parents remember that milestone ages are averages. “A single milestone being a bit delayed, that in and of itself may be a normal variance,” he said. “If you’ve got a child who loses milestones, that’s most important. They could sit and all of a sudden they can’t, or they could walk and all of a sudden they can’t — that’s more critical. If you’ve got a child who globally is missing milestones or you see patterns like that, that’s when you worry about it. If you’re worried about it, see your pediatrician.” GANNETT NEWS SERVICE

1. When can I feed my baby solid food? You can begin at about 4-5 months of age, according to Charowski. Beforehand children may not be able to swallow appropriately, and there is a belief that early introduction of foods can lead to food allergies, Parra said. Manley said most parents

start with rice cereal, single grain oatmeal or barley, and then add pureed or Stage 1 fruits, vegetables and meats every three to four days. “Allowing an interval of time between the introduction of new foods lets the parent watch for signs of allergy or intolerance, such as rash, vomiting or diarrhea,” Manley said.

parents choose to introduce sign language at any early age to aid in communication.”

2. When will my baby get his first tooth? It could come as early as 4-6 months of age, but most infants cut their first teeth by about 12-15 months of age, Manley said. “The first teeth to come through are the bottom front two teeth, mandibular central incisors, followed by the central top two teeth, maxillary central incisors,” Parra said. “Left and right teeth should come in about the same time. You should let your doctor or dentist know if this does not occur.”

7. When will my baby walk? Infants begin to walk at about 12 to 14 months of age, on average, Manley said. Parra said an infant’s doctor should be alerted if the child isn’t walking by 18 months of age.

8. When should I start reading to my baby?

3. When will my baby roll over? Manley said infants usually roll over from front to back by about 4 months of age, and they roll both ways by 5 to 6 months. Parra said since it is recommended infants sleep on their backs, the first roll can be delayed up to 6 months.

4. When will my baby sit up? Most babies learn to sit independently after learning to roll over and before learning to crawl, and that usually occurs around 6 to 7 months of age, Charowski said.

5. When will my baby crawl? Babies usually begin to crawl around 9 months of age, Parra said, but that is an average. She said it could occur earlier or later and still be considered developmentally normal.

The sooner parents start reading to their babies, the better, the doctors agreed. It aids bonding, language development and more. Manley suggested parents include books with large images and bold colors to capture infants’ attention. “At the beginning it is just the sound of the parent’s voice that is soothing, but as a child grows older, this is an important way to foster verbal communication,” Parra said.

9. When should I potty-train my child? Potty-training may begin at 12 months of age, and it may begin as late as 4 years, Hill said. It typically occurs at 15 to 24 months, but it should wait until children show an interest, because that’s the sign that they are cognitively ready, according to Hill. Paying attention to the potty, wanting to wear “big kid” underwear and a simple fascination with going are among common expressions of interest. Girls typically train faster and easier than boys, Hill said.

10. When should I take my sick child to the doctor?

6. When will my baby talk?

Parents should feel free to seek medical attention for their children any time they have concerns, the doctors agreed. Children younger than 2 months of age with fevers greater 100.4 degrees need to be seen as soon as possible, Parra said, and after that age, how they look and feel matters more than temperature. “Parents really don’t mess this one up,” Hill said. “They will always go when they need to. They frequently go when they don’t really need to. I think it’s always a good idea that if you are really questioning whether you should go, call and leave a message for the doctor or talk to the nurse — and see what’s going on, whether it’s just your own insecurity or whether there is something that truly may be going on.”

Infants typically begin making repetitive babbling noises such as “ba ba ba” or “da da da” around 6 months of age, Manley said, then progress to one to two words other than “mama” or “dada” by 12 months. By 18 months most have a vocabulary of eight to 10 words, and by 24 months many are often using pronouns and speaking in two-word phrases. “This can be really variable,” Parra said. “Communication starts at a much earlier stage compared to verbal speech, which is why many TOP: SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT; MIDDLE AND BOTTOM: GNS

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Help! Colic! Inconsolable crying is normal for some infants — just try to remain calm By Barbara Blake Staff Writer

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Having a baby who cries for hours is one of the greatest stresses parents face. Research indicates that some babies are just more prone to crying when there is nothing wrong

Your mother called it colic. Your pediatrician may call it inconsolable crying. A new campaign to educate parents about shaken baby syndrome calls it the “Period of Purple Crying.” Whatever it’s called, having a baby who cries for hours at a time is one of the greatest stresses a new parent can face. It can even lead to shaking the baby and unintentionally inflicting abuse that can be deadly. Medical experts say normal, healthy babies may cry for hours each day, for no obvious reason. A generation ago, it was believed that colic was caused by digestive problems or lactose intolerance that caused pain — and the resulting tears — in infants. More recent

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research indicates that some babies are just more prone to crying — a lot — when there is nothing wrong physically. But the good news is that this Period of Purple Crying comes to an end. Dr. Ronald G. Barr, a Canadian child development expert and researcher who conducted the studies leading to the new “Purple” campaign, coined the acronym to remind parents and caregivers that all babies at some time have inconsolable crying bouts. The letters stand for: P: Peaks around 2 months old. U: Unpredictable, often happening for no apparent reason. R: Resistant to soothing. P: Painlike expression on baby’s face. L: Long bouts, lasting 30-40 minutes or more. E: Evening crying is common.

According to the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome, research by Barr and other experts showed that, like other personality differences later in life, “colic” was a natural variation of human behavior. That doesn’t make it any easier for the parents who must deal calmly with a purple-faced baby who might howl for hours on end. But having the knowledge that the inconsolable crying is not abnormal, and that it should end when the baby is 4-6 months old, might help weary parents cope better, experts at the center say. Dr. Cynthia Brown, a pediatrician and medical director of Mission Hospital’s Mountain Child Medical Evaluation Program, agreed that crying is normal infant behavior, and that some healthy babies may cry for five or more hours a day. But before parents resign themselves to hours of screaming, they should make sure nothing is physically wrong with the baby. “Undress your baby to make sure clothing is not uncomfortable or too tight,’’ Brown said. “Does your baby have any fever, vomiting or other signs of illness? If you are worried, have your baby checked by his or her

Have a ‘colicky’ baby? Try these 5 tips Walk and sing or hum to your baby. Give your baby a warm bath. Take your baby for a walk or ride in the car. Hold your baby close to you with skin to skin contact. Try to keep your baby in motion with gentle rocking, an infant swing or swaying back and forth. Source: Dr. Cynthia Brown

To learn more

the baby down, leave the room and give yourself a break,” Brown said. “Step outside for a moment. Play your favorite music loudly. Call a friend. It really doesn’t hurt to let the baby cry while you take a moment to collect your thoughts,” she said. According to the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome, the cardinal rule is to never, ever shake a baby. With just one shake, the baby may suffer a severe brain injury that can lead to death or cause lifelong neurological disabilities such as blindness, seizure disorders or learning problems.

“And if you leave your baby with someone else, choose a mature, caring person who does not have temper or anger problems,” Brown added. “Tell them to call you if they are getting frustrated with the baby’s crying.” Brown said that parents shouldn’t feel negligent if they can’t console their baby all the time. And they should hang on to the knowledge that the tears will eventually stop. “It’s normal to feel frustrated at times, but this will end,” she said. “And studies show that babies who cry a lot are not destined to be difficult, temperamental children.”

For more information about The Period of Purple Crying program, visit dontshake.org.

doctor.” If, however, there are times during the day when the baby is happy, and is growing and gaining weight well, “chances are that this is the normal and expected infant pattern of crying,” Brown said. If a parent has tried every tool to stop the crying and nothing is working, “give yourself permission to put

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Rock-a-bye baby 6 tips for getting your baby to sleep By Lockie Hunter WNC Parent contributor One of the biggest anxieties that plague new parents is how to get their baby to sleep. Since not all babies are the same, they will not respond the same way to the same techniques. But these tips, culled from local experts, may provide the sleepy parent with some relief.

Importance of routine Experts agree that a consistent routine may be a major key to success, especially for babies who tend to struggle with sleep. “Go through the same routine of putting them back on their bed and eventually they realize that they need to stay there and go to sleep,” advises Brianna Wilson, a preschool teacher at Country Bear Day School in Flat Rock. Caroline Martin, early childhood director of Shalom Children’s Center, agrees. “To keep on schedule we nap our babies

from 1-3 p.m. every day,” she said, adding that it is important to reinforce this custom at home. “Establishing the same routine at home with parents helps.” Lissa Calloway, owner of Asheville Area Nanny Network, said “even a newborn can get used to a routine. Children need structure; it helps them feel safe. If they know that they get a bath every night at 6 p.m., then get two SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT books and then are put down to bed, they will No one technique is going to work for all babies to get them to sleep. get used to that routine. Then they feel safe But try a routine, cuddling and persistence, for starters. with that routine and go to sleep much easigood night sleep, make sure babies are fed, comforter.” able and feel safe and secure.” Martin adds that contrary to some beliefs, “heavy Soothing atmosphere stimulus before nap time definitely does not work. Providing a relaxing atmosphere aids in the Things that soothe our children are CD’s playing sleep-time process. “We have to remember that very soft music or those offering natural sounds such babies spend the first nine months of life in a safe, as bird song, rivers and wildlife in the background.” warm, quiet, dark and cozy womb,” said Tracey A. Also dimming lights and having some system in McCrain, director of Child Development at Eliada the room for good airflow will make sure the room Home. “The womb is their Garden of Eden. So, for a is comfortable.

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“Keep trying until you figure it out. Don’t give up. Don’t give in.” Brianna Wilson, preschool teacher at Country Bear Day School in Flat Rock Heather McConnell, a teacher at Building Blocks child care center in Asheville, added, “bouncy seats are wonderful with their slow rocking motion.” Of course, every baby is different. “Most babies sleep fine with the typical sounds of your home but others need complete silence,” McCrain said.

“I tried everything to soothe him but nothing worked. One night while he was in the bassinet beside me, I flipped on the vacuum cleaner by mistake and he stopped crying. I thought the sound had just startled him, so I turned it on again when he started to cry. I could not believe it, but he closed his eyes and fell asleep.”

Warmth works

Persistence pays off

“In putting a baby to sleep the one main ingredient is the cuddle of warm arms,” said Wanda Harris, child care director at the YWCA of Asheville. “At night it is different because the baby gets the benefit of having a bath, which is calming within itself. The closeness of a warm body helps the baby when it has a jolting reaction and then they go back to sleep once they feel a body.” To maintain this warmth, Dr. Donna Page, a pediatrician at Asheville Pediatrics, suggests “warming their beds with a heating pad. Take it out prior to placing them in and the bed is warm from the transition from your arms to bed.”

One key to success may be persistence. “Keep trying until you figure it out. Don’t give up. Don’t give in,” said Wilson. Wendi Szabo, an Asheville nanny, agreed. “I guess what it comes down to is a schedule and stick-to-it-iveness. Meaning that you may not aim for the same exact time every day, but you follow a routine ... . And then I think that letting a baby cry for 10 minutes max is all right when putting them down to sleep. So many parents don’t like to hear their children cry, but it is healthy for them to learn how to put themselves to sleep.” On first impulse, many parents may wish to give up and rush to pick up a crying child, but this may be counterproductive. “It is important for children to teach themselves how to calm down,” said Szabo. Every baby is so different, McConnell added, “you have to find their niche.” Try a variety of strategies until one works.

Milk does a body good “Small infants have to be fed every 2-3 hours so night feeding is a must until they reach a healthy ... weight,” McCrain said. “Your pediatrician is a great resource in assisting you with the decision to stretch out the feedings or when to stop the night feedings.”

Special touches “My son Jacob had colic and cried for 4 hours every night,” said McCrain.

E-mail Hunter at lockie@lockiehunter.com.

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Parents face diverse child care options By Rick McDaniel WNC Parent contributor Finding the right child care arrangement for your baby is one of the most important decisions facing new parents. “Making a decision about the right type of child care is something every new parent faces,” said Marlene Breger-Joyce, co-director of Regent Park Early Childhood Development Center in Asheville. “Every family has unique needs, and what’s right for one family may not be right for another.” The ideal situation for some working mothers is to keep child care in the family. “I’m really fortunate that my mother-in-law is retired and she keeps my baby,” said Billie Glover, of Asheville. “If I had to pay for child care, it would pretty much wipe out what I make.”

Option 1

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Riley Roskamp, 9, from left, his sister, Kelsey, 3, their mother, Joleen, and the children’s nanny Vicky Stringer, and their sister, Baylee, in the backyard of the Roskamp family’s Johnston, Iowa, home. More and more parents are using the services of nannies.

For most parents who aren’t lucky enough to have retired in-laws living nearby, a day care or early childhood development center is a popular choice. “We take infants beginning at the age of 6 weeks,” Breger-Joyce said. “That age is pretty standard for day care centers.” Prices for infant care at day care centers can run close to $200 per week, but the money can buy peace of

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mind in the form of lower infant-tocaregiver ratios than at some in-home day cares. “We have one caregiver for every three infants,” Breger-Joyce said. “This ratio gives more individual attention to the infants.” Day care centers are subject to state and local licensing and inspection on everything from food preparation to fire safety, which can also offer peace of mind.

Option 2 Another option for child care is a â&#x20AC;&#x153;child care home,â&#x20AC;? where an individual offers to care for children in their home. Since overhead costs are lower, this arrangement can offer substantial savings over a daycare center (sometimes half or more), but there may be a trade off in the number of children to caregiver.

State regulations allow up to five infants per caregiver, which can cut down on the amount of personal attention each child receives. Also, child care homes can care for any number of children who are related to the caregiver and up to two children who arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t related to the caregiver without being subject to state licensing.

Option 3 The ultimate luxury in child care is a full-time nanny who cares for your child in your own home. Nannies can be live-in or work daytime shifts, and the costs vary widely. College students looking for extra money can be hired for significantly less than professional nannies. A search of online ads and placement

agency Web sites found fees ranging from about $100 per week for a college student to several hundred dollars per week for an experienced nanny. Rick McDaniel is a freelance writer. E-mail him at southerncooking@ charter.net.

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Stimulate your newborn Ways to keep your tiny one active and entertained By Barbara Blake Staff writer The most important developmental gift parents can give their newborn is also free and easy to provide — their own presence. That’s the word from the developmental and behavioral pediatricians at the Olson Huff Center for Child Development at Mission Children’s Hospital. Forget the toys, at least until the child is a few months old. Until then, the sight, sounds, smells and feel of parents and other caregivers are the keys to keeping those brainwaves fired and baby’s senses active. Here are some tips from Dr. Adrian Sandler, medical director of the Huff Center; Dr. Victoria Sheppard; and Dr. Melissa Thingvoll, who is the mother of 10-month-old twins. PHOTO BY BARBARA BLAKE

Laura Somervill and her 7-month-old daughter, Livea, play together outside their West Asheville home. Child development experts and pediatricians say tactile stimulation and close physical contact with parents is a crucial part of growth for babies, from birth to age 1.

Understand that newborns are born wired for social interaction Human social interaction is essential to strengthen and mature those neurological pathways and give babies the ability to have normal communication and social relationships. Otherwise, those pathways fail to develop. That’s why babies who are neglected so often have problems socially and with learning.

Involve dad While newborns are especially attuned to their mother, the presence and involvement of both parents is

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important. The different face, voice, smell, and feel give healthy stimulation and encourage essential social interaction.

Keep your face close to your newborn Aim for about the distance you use to breastfeed or snuggle a baby while you give him a bottle. It’s the distance she can see at this stage.

Talk to your newborn — all the time It doesn’t matter what you say at this stage, but it’s a good opportunity

to get in the habit of what pediatricians call “narrating” – talking to your baby about what’s going on and what you are doing as you do it. This will become even more important in a few months.

Sing to your newborn No matter how bad you think your voice is. Babies love and react to their parents singing.

unless it is extremely hot, cold or rainy. A change of scenery can work wonders for babies and moms.

Offer gentle massage Use a mild nonperfumed lotion and after diaper change or bath gently massage your baby in circular rhythmic motions.

Let your baby teach you Do not let newborns watch TV Developmental pediatricians recommend no TV until at least age 2, but absolutely none for newborns. This seemingly harmless diversion, which some doctors go so far as calling toxic, deprives the baby of what she needs, which is human contact, and many doctors suspect it may cause harm in itself.

Give your baby a change of scenery Go outside every day unless he has health problem that prevent it, or

Your baby may be one who is easily overstimulated, or a quieter baby who perhaps needs drawing out a bit. Watch his behavior for clues; if he cries, or starts avoiding eye contact, or even hiccups, it may be a sign he wants to take a break.

What you don’t need: Toys Newborns simply don’t respond to them until they are at least a month old. “Educational” video programs: Your presence, talking, singing, cuddling, are all your baby needs.

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Interaction with mom and dad is all that a new baby really needs, experst say.

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Brush now for a great smile later By Nanci Bompey Staff writer A baby’s first birthday marks many milestones, but a visit to the dentist is rarely one of them. Pediatricians have recommended since 2003 that infants have their first checkup by their first birthday, but few parents actually take their babies in to see the dentist, said Dr. Rocio Quinonez, a professor of pediatric dentistry at UNC School of Dentistry, She said less than 10 percent of children younger than 5 years old have had an oral exam, but about 40 percent of children entering kindergarten have some kind of history with dental disease, making it the most common chronic childhood disease.

A group of local dentists is working to improve those statistics. Great Beginnings Pediatric Dental Specialists recently offered free exams as part of the Baby Oral Health Program, an effort created by UNC School of Dentistry to increase access to dental care for small children. “It’s just really community outreach to stress how important it is to get established in a dental home by age 1,” said Dr. Angie Baechtold, with Great Beginnings. “The key is getting these families in early to understand the preventative nature of some of this.” Baechtold, who has worked with the Baby Oral Health Program, is one of the first providers in the state to offer these dental screenings as part of the program.

10 things you should do for your baby’s teeth now

PHOTOS BY JOHN FLETCHER

Robert Gay, 3, waits to get an X-ray at Great Beginnings Pediatric Dental Specialists in Asheville. Below, Dr. Angie Baechtold examines Grace Meinch, 3.

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1. Brush daily: Clean your baby’s teeth every night before bed. 2. Lift the lip: Look for changes on your baby’s teeth monthly. 3. Take your baby to the dentist: All babies should have their teeth checked by a dentist or doctor by the first birthday. 4. Protect teeth with fluoride 5. Limit sugar: Cut down on juice and save soda for special occasions. 6. No bottles in bed: If you must give your baby a bottle in bed, fill it with water. 7. Wean from bottle to cup by 1 year: Begin offering a sippy cup at 6 months, and avoid letting a child use a sippy cup as a pacifier. 8. Don’t share germs: Cavities are caused by bacteria, which is passed through saliva. Avoid sharing toothbrushes with your baby. 9. Help children brush to age 6. 10. Take care of yourself: Children will learn by example. Source: Great Beginning Pediatric Dental Specialists

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You’re pregnant. Now what? For starters, plan for the future but enjoy the here-and-now By Michael Burns Gannett News Service

Make plans

Allison Batson wasn’t expecting to be expecting. She and her husband, Chris, weren’t necessarily trying to procreate. They were used to being on their own in Lyman, S.C. So when her home pregnancy test revealed the big news in February, two pressing duties instantly popped into her mind — to go tell Chris and to figure out how to pay for the family’s well-being. “I realized we need to save money, especially with gas and everything going up,” Batson said. “We’re going to buckle down, not go out to eat as much and try to stash away some extra cash.” A plethora of plans to make and tasks to complete can leave expectant parents feeling overwhelmed, Batson said, but Dr. Shannon Bledsoe, chief of obstetrics and gynecology at AnMed Health in Anderson, S.C., said pregnancy is time to be enjoyed. “Don’t get consumed by all of the advice and the little details,” he said. “Everything will all sort out in the end.”

Look to the future and lay plans — figuring in one new member of the household. Craft budgets to accommodate the additional expense of a child, and determine what adjustments must be made in work schedules, living arrangements and anything else. Keith recommends parents seek and register for any classes at their hospitals that might interest them — childbirth classes, infant CPR, breast-feeding. She also suggests parents find out what to do upon the birth of their child to add the child to health insurance coverage. She said it is also a good time for parents and other family members to update wills. SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Bledsoe and Dr. Rebecca Keith of Carolina Women’s Health in Greenville, S.C., offered opinions to help form this list of five things to do for pregnant women and those close to them.

Go shopping From car seats, bassinets and baby monitors to gates that can block stairs and other child-proofing necessities, much must be gathered to prepare the home. Bledsoe said this is the time to do it.

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“Go on dates with your spouse. Quality time together is invaluable and will be rare once the baby comes.” Dr. Shannon Bledsoe “After you have the baby you will want to spend time with your child, not doing these types of things,” he said.

Find child care As they discover while making plans, working parents must find child care, if each plans to work after the birth of their child. Children may spend a majority of their waking hours in child care during the week, and the logistics of pick-up and drop-off must work in family routines, so the search and the choice is significant. “This is a very important decision and should be researched very well,” Bledsoe said. There are sometimes waiting lists at preferred providers, Keith said, so she recommended parents inquire and register as soon as possible.

Do what can’t be done later Bledsoe recommends expectant

parents take advantage of the time before baby makes three. “Go on dates with your spouse,” he said. “Quality time together is invaluable and will be rare once the new baby comes. Communicate with each other about things you expect from each other. This is key to keeping down frustrations once you have the baby. Travel, and take a trip or vacation. It may be a while before you are able to go on a trip with just the two of you.”

Try to enjoy pregnancy “Enjoy being pregnant,” he said. “Enjoy the feelings of your pregnancy and how special it is.” That’s what the Batsons plan to do. They know a girl is on the way, and they’re considering naming her Julie. “I’m still throwing around different ideas,” Allison Batson said. Before long it will be too late.

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Want to be unique in naming your baby? Avoid Jacob, Emily More than 23,000 baby boys were named Jacob and more than 19,000 baby girls were named Emily in 2007, according to the Social Security Administration. Both were also the top names in 2006. If you’d like for your child to be the only one in his or her grade with his or her name, here are some names you might steer clear of, otherwise known as the Top 20 names in the U.S. in 2007. Just 20 years ago, only Emily ranked in the Top 20, and then only at No. 19. Jacob didn’t make the 1987 list. The name landscape was completely different 40 years ago. In 1967, Michael and Lisa were tops. Other popular names — many of which aren’t even on last year’s list — include David, Kimberly, James, Michelle, John, Mary, Robert, Karen, William, Angela, Mark and Susan. Katie Wadington

2007’s Most Popular names Rank 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.

Boys Jacob Michael Ethan Joshua Daniel Christopher Anthony William Matthew Andrew Alexander David Joseph Noah James Ryan Logan Jayden John Nicholas

Girls Emily Isabella Emma Ava Madison Sophia Olivia Abigail Hannah Elizabeth Addison Samantha Ashley Alyssa Mia Chloe Natalie Sarah Alexis Grace

Source: Social Security Administration

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kids voices

What sibling rivalry?

We asked second-graders in Suzie Robinson’s class at Woodfin Elementary School to tell us about their experience having a new baby brother or sister, or about their older siblings. Here’s what they said.

Edder-Cruz Estrada

Chase Mease

Savannah Black

“My baby sister was born in August. She is cute. You will want to hold her. She cries a bunch, but her rattle toy makes her stop. She just wants milk.”

“I love my brother so, so, so much. My brother was getting his shots, and then we got a toy. My brother hates the doctors office, and I do, too.”

“My brother is awesome. He was born in 2001. Me and him play soccer and football, but we like football the most.”

Nick Johnson

Morgan Dillard

Jordan Jones

Erendira Leyva

“When my baby sister was born it changed my life for a long time. I was very excited, and the baby was very cute. We named the baby Tessa, and that was the cutest name.”

“When my baby brother was born, I loved him so much that I cried. He had chubby cheeks. He was born on Dec. 5. That means his birthday is on Dec. 5, too. It changed my life because I love to play with him and he’s really cute.”

“When I came home from the hospital, I was scared to meet my sister and my brother. My mom let my sister hold me because she thought that I was beautiful.”

“I like my baby sister. We went to the hospital with my family. I was happy, my family was happy and my mom was happy, too. We got home with the baby, we ate with the baby, we played with the baby. We like my baby sister.”

Jose Perez

Victor Dariy

“I have a big brother named Luis. He changed my life. But he is in Mexico. I miss him. He’s the best brother that I had. I was happy he was born.”

“My baby brother went to the hospital. It was not fun at the house because my baby brother was not home. When he came home, we were excited, and we had fun again.”

Tirzo Bridges “My baby brother was born on June the third, and it really changed my life.” Compiled by Barbara Blake

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kids health

Team sports are great for teaching teamwork, self-esteem By Linden Veillette WNC Parent columnist Team sports are a great way for kids to learn about cooperation and teamwork. Learning to get along with other kids while competing and learning to get along with teammates while

playing a sport reaches far outside of the game itself into other aspects of life. Children who participate in team sports learn healthy habits that last a lifetime. Sedentary lifestyles are more common now because of television, computers and video games. The chance that your kids will leave a team sport without a few new friends is pretty slim. Most likely, they will look forward to practices and

games with friends. Team sports are a way to help your children get enough physical activity while spending time learning and having fun with friends. Self-esteem is important for every child to build during these early years. Finding the right team sports for your kids to be a part of is key. Keep in mind your child’s level of ability when picking a sport. Placing your child on a team that is not challenging enough can lead to boredom and won’t hold his or her interest for long. On the other hand, selecting a team that is too far above your little athlete’s ability level can be frustrating and put a dent in his or her self-esteem. Choose a team that challenges your children’s athletic abilities but still sets them up for success. Being able to excel and learn during a sport while having fun is important. Set your children up for success by selecting a good balance between not too easy and not over challenging so that your kids will want to return to practices and games throughout the season.

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Ask your kids what sports they are interested in. Soccer, baseball, field hockey, swimming and basketball are just a few of the options. You may try to find a friend of your child who would like to participate as well. New experiences can be scary for anyone, so having a buddy to participate with can be more encouraging. Help your kids prepare for their sport by going for walks, bike rides, and staying active before the sport begins. This way, they show up for the first practice with a good baseline fitness level. Some kids need a little extra encouragement to join a team sport. If your child is hesitant, think about volunteering to help coach. Show enthusiasm by coming to games and practices. Being encouraging parents during a child’s first team sport experience can lead to a lifetime of good fitness. Linden Veillette is an ISSA-certified personal trainer who has developed a program for children called FitKids. Email her at linden_v@yahoo.com.

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Send us your photos We welcome photos of family, neighborhood, school, church and other social activities involving children. Send your high-resolution photos, along with a brief description of the event and names of everyone pictured. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget your name, address and phone number. Send to: Katie Wadington, WNC Parent photos, P.O. Box 2090, Asheville, NC 28802 or e-mail to kwadington@CITIZEN-TIMES.com

A.J. Casiano, 4, above, and Amaya Casiano, 2, below, play in an inflatable bouncer. They are the children of Robert and Summer Casiano.

Caleb Williamson, 11, plays second base for the South Buncombe All Stars during the Cal Ripkin 11-U Southeast Regional Baseball Tournament in Charleston, S.C., in July. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s joined by brother Andre Roy, 13, and sister Aubree Williamson, 5, of Brevard. Submitted by mom Andrea Williamson.

This is Aiyana Printz, age 2 1/2, enjoying a new can of shaving cream at bathtime. Submitted by her great aunt, Dori Woodard.

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Four generations of Gretchen Morgan’s family gather recently. Morgan, 92, of Candler, sits in the middle, with her great-grandson Tate, 7 weeks, in her arms. Behind her are, from left, granddaughter Kristin Mitchell holding great-granddaughter Kendyl Mitchell, granddaughter Allison Barrows holding great-granddaughter Ella Barrows, and Marji Satterthwait, Gretchen’s daughter and the mother of Kristin Mitchell and Allison Barrows. Submitted by Karey Norris.

Daniel Reid Gunton, 6, is the son of Lisa and Dave Gunton of Spartanburg, S.C. Lisa is formerly of Sylva. Daniel’s grandmother, Betty Reid, of Sylva, submitted this photo and says he loves baseball, soccer and golf. His grandfather is Del Reid.

Lauryn Ricco celebrates Independence Day at home in Arden, just a few weeks before her 1st birthday on July 27. Submitted by parents Kaye and Ralph Ricco.

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This is just a sampling of the posts and photos at WNCmom.com. Visit the site for lots more.

Discussion from the forums Jinmeil asks in ‘Fun place for my son to play’: I am from Raleigh. I spend some weekends here in Asheville. My son is 2 years old and very much likes to play: jumping, cars, blocks, etc. I am looking for a place for him to play. In Raleigh, they have a kids play area in the mall. They also have drop-in child care place for kids to play for one to two hours with staffs overseeing their activity. I am looking for something like this in Asheville. If you know of a place or have some ideas, I would love to hear from you. I am also looking for other parents who have similar age child and looking for play dates.

Mirror, mirror on the wall ... who’s the cutest baby of all? Posted by Leslie.

A few of the nearly 450 photos posted

Amanda asks in ‘Moving to the area’: I’m so happy to find an online forum for moms in this area! My husband just received a job offer so we will be moving somewhere near Asheville by November. We live in Titusville, Fla., (near the Space Center) and I have been researching the WNC area but it’s a lot more reassuring to be able to discuss things with people who actually live there. I welcome any advice or information about the best schools ..., best towns to live in ... and other things to expect. I appreciate any input and look forward to further discussions with everyone!

, hters g u a My d d by poste lle. e Dani

Notoverthehillyet responds: ... I would stay in either the Reynolds District or the Roberson District based on current school performance. ... Good luck. Fairview is a great community to live, in by the way.

2008 Rams youth football and cheerleading, posted by Tina Holcombe.

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divorced families

Marriages fall apart over desire for children, but parental fulfillment can still be found By Trip Woodard WNC Parent columnist Believe it or not, there have been numerous illuminating studies conducted throughout the years to show what gender differences can exist in adults relating to babies. For example, one past skin response test I read from a professional journal indicated that men tend to sweat more than women when listening to screaming, crying babies. I probably could have told any interested people that same information and would have willingly taken only half of the research money involved. Sadly, babies can intertwine with divorces in less obvious ways. On one hand, many people are quite aware that some couples get married in the

first place because of pregnancy and that other couples attempt to save a troubled marriage by becoming pregnant. Both types of marriages, unfortunately, tend to have more of a likelihood of heading toward divorce. Then again, fewer people are aware that there seems to be a growing number of divorces caused by couples who disagree over time about a desire to have children as a part of their marriage. A double tragedy can then result if a divorcing person believes that he or she has spent the better part of his or her life waiting for a spouse to “come around” and that the childbearing years are either strongly diminished or over. My heart goes out to you if you fall into this camp, because I don’t think that there are any easy answers for your pain. I do know, however, that it is all too easy to fall into the trap of “how it could have been” and never get past your sadness and into having a life. I would like to respectfully suggest

the following considerations, if having a child in your life feels necessary to your life’s desire and purpose: Don’t do the comparison game of looking at you versus other “happy families” that you think you see in public or especially in entertainment like the movies. It simply is not fair because you never really know their true and personal stories. Movies, also, are made up. I used to have clients who watched “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous” on TV and complained they were depressed, for example, because “I’ll never own my own Greek island.” Consider informally “adopting” some children. I mean, through Big Brothers Big Sisters or a similar organization. Don’t want to do the paperwork? No problem. If you socially network enough, trust that there are plenty of single parents who could use support once they get to know you. Consider adopting children. Yes, I know that sounds like a suggestion

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from the Department of Redundancy Department based on what I just said, but many adoption agencies do seriously consider single parent adoptions, especially for special needs children. Think about trying foster care. Organizations sponsoring foster care are not necessarily opposed to single parents, and it may put you into the running for “foster to adopt.” This can also result in giving a legitimate overall understanding if parenting is for you. Remember that a child may not be biologically related to you, but there are no guarantees about any child, their future or their relationship with you. It is ultimately a question of what you have to give and how your child chooses to respond. Trip Woodard is a licensed marriage and family therapist and a clinical member of the N.C. Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. Contact him at 274-9031.

Story times Buncombe County public libraries Story time at the library focuses on early literacy to help children develop a love of language and books. Buncombe County Public Libraries have story times for every age group. For more information, call 250-4720, visit www.buncombecounty.org or any local library. Mother Goose Time is a lively language enrichment story time serving the youngest folks, the 4 month-old to 18 month-old set. Fairview, 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays Pack Memorial, 10 and 11 a.m. Tuesdays Swannanoa, 11 a.m. Wednesdays West Asheville, 10 a.m. Thursdays

Weaverville, 11 a.m., second and fourth Wednesdays Toddler Time is an interactive story time with singing and activities for children ages 18 months to 3 years. Black Mountain, 10:30 a.m. Thursdays Enka-Candler, 10:30 a.m. Thursdays Fairview, 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays Leicester, 11 a.m. Tuesdays North Asheville, 10 a.m. Wednesdays Pack Memorial, 10 and 11 a.m. Thursdays Skyland/South Buncombe, 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays Swannanoa, 11 a.m. Tuesdays Weaverville, 11 a.m. second and fourth Thursdays West Asheville, 11 a.m. Wednesdays Preschool Story Time is geared towards 3 to 5 year-olds and includes songs, stretchers and cre-

ative activities. Black Mountain, 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays East Asheville, 11 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays Enka-Candler, 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays Fairview, 10:30 a.m. Thursdays Leicester, 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays North Asheville, 10 a.m. Saturdays and 11 a.m. Wednesdays Oakley/South Asheville, 10 a.m. Wednesdays and 10:30 a.m. Thursdays Pack Memorial, 11 a.m. Wednesdays Skyland/South Buncombe, 10:30 a.m. Thursdays Swannanoa, 11 a.m. Thursdays Weaverville, 11:15 a.m. Tuesdays West Asheville, 11 a.m. Thursdays Reading Corner Story Time is for kids ages 5-7. Pack Memorial, 10 a.m. Wednesdays.

After-School Story Time for kids ages 5-8. North Asheville: 3:30 p.m. Thursdays (starts Sept. 18) Family Story Time: A different theme every week integrating longer books, storytelling, flannel board stories, finger plays, songs and an occasional craft. Weaverville: 11:15 a.m., first and third Tuesdays Asheville-Buncombe Library System Storyline Call 251-5437 to hear a story anytime. Spanish Story time Asheville-Buncombe County Library System, West Asheville Library, 942 Haywood Road, Asheville. Free story reading in Spanish for preschool through kindergarten. Parents need to remain in the library. Call 251-4990 for more information.

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Trying to raise smarter kids tives said that could happen,” said Brett Scott. “In fact, we think it has definitely been the opposite. She became obsessed with the videos and then started talking early.” Like Ava, babies seem to like signing because they exhibit a preference for languages over “nonlanguages.” A 2002 study by Ursula Hildebrandt, then a doctoral student at the University of Washington, showed hearing 6-month-olds two television monitors; one told a story in American Sign Language and the other showed the same story in pantomime. Babies showed longer eye contact and attention to the ASL version, Hildebrandt reports.

Parents use sign language, music, more to get an advantage By Elizabeth Cohen Gannett News Service Ava Scott, a Newark Valley, N.Y., 20-month-old, puts down a plastic container of crackers and suddenly her hands begin to dance and flutter before her, like someone who let two butterflies out of a jar. “It’s sign language. She’s saying we are being silly,” says Lisa Scott, her mother, as Ava wiggles her fingers before her nose. “We started teaching her to sign when she was 6 months,” says Brett Scott, Ava’s father. “We used videotapes called ‘Signing Time.’ ” In Owego, N.Y., Hannah Koroluck, 2, also signs, especially to say “please,” “more” and “thank you.”

Bright futures A series of books out from the Putnam Publishing Group offers titles like “How to Teach Your Baby Math” and “How to Give Your Baby Encyclopedic Knowledge.” The box of a DVD and word card set called “Your Baby Can Read!” created by Smart

The jump-start theory GANNETT NEWS SERVICE

Researchers say there is a window of time between 5 months and 5 years when children can learn sign language easily. Kids, promises it “delivers tools that will make an incredible difference in your child’s life!” These products all make big claims. But can they back it up? “We were worried at first that teaching Ava to sign could delay her speech, and some of our rela-

Tom Kelleher, of Binghamton, N.Y., says he and his wife see results using educational products with their baby, Noah. “We have used and continue to use many tools to help develop our baby’s brain,” says Kelleher. “This, of course has contributed to him being the smartest baby on the planet,” he says, laughing. Researchers say there is a window of time between 5 months and 5 years when babies can learn easily. These products seek to capitalize on that opportunity.

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Linda Acredolo, a professor emeritus of psychology at the University of California, Davis, and Susan Goodwyn, professor of psychology at California State University, Stanislaus, are largely credited with creating the popularity of sign language for babies through 20 years of research. Their long-term study, funded by the National Institutes of Health, tested more than 140 children at intervals from age 11-36 months and then again at age 8. Though some educators caution that signing may delay language development, Acredolo and Goodwyn found that babies who had been taught to sign began talking earlier and in longer sentences than those who didn’t sign. At 3, children who signed talked at 4-year-old levels; at 8, those children scored an average of 12 points more on IQ tests.

Let them be babies Naysayers range from those who raised smart kids the old-fashioned way, without fancy products, to researchers who actually think that watching videos can harm infants, by “addicting” them to a medium statistically associated with obesity and a sedentary lifestyle.

While Theresa Partell, of Binghamton, N.Y., saw great results for son Matthew with the “Baby Mozart” video and a book called “Baby Signs,” by Acredolo and Goodwyn — his IQ today is in the 96th percentile — Barb Surek, of Windsor, N.Y., says she raised a bioengineer and teacher using “books, pencils, crayons, paper and their imaginations.”

Real parents, real time In the end, it may be the parental attention children get and the time parents spend with them, rather than videos and educational toys that best boost learning. “I myself don’t agree with trying to teach babies to actually read; they lack the cognitive abilities,” says Brandi Craver, who teaches education workshops for parents at the public library in Greene, N.Y. “What you can do is prepare them for literacy.” “Games like patty cake, singing, nursery rhymes and other traditional infant play are all ways to get a baby ready for reading,” Craver says. “A real person, not a video person, interacting with active speech with infants may be the best approach.”

Sign language and enrichment products for babies Baby Signs — Books, videos, research conducted by educators on signing; babysigns.com. “Signing Time” instructional videos; signingtime.com. Sign2Me — Flashcards, sign2me.com. Handspeak — Online dictionary; handspeak.com. Little Signers Inc. — Books, videos, software, novelty items, classes; littlesigners.com. Get started signing, reading and ciphering with these enrichments: Baby Einstein — It all started here: toys, books and videos teach babies colors, shapes, reading, math, music (Mozart) and more; babyeinstein.com. “Your Baby Can Read!” — Flashcards, video, book; yourbabycanread.com. Baby BumbleBee — Videos to teach babies math, reading; babybumblebee.com. Bilingual Baby Talk — Teach baby Spanish, German, Italian, French, etc.; bilingualbabytalk.com. Baby Genius — Videos and CDs for babies with lots of singing and dancing; babygenius.com.

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Grandparents Day facts Grandparents Day is Sept. 7. It was the brainchild of Marian McQuade of Fayette County, W.Va., who hoped that such an observance might persuade grandchildren to tap the wisdom and heritage of their grandparents. President Jimmy Carter signed the first presidential proclamation in 1978 — and one has been issued each year since — designating the first Sunday after Labor Day as National Grandparents Day. 6.1 million: The number of grandparents whose grandchildren younger than 18 live with them. 2.5 million: The number of grandparents responsible for most of the basic needs (i.e., food, shelter, clothing) of one or more of the grandchildren who live with them. These grandparents represent about 40 percent of all grandparents whose grandchildren live with them. Of these caregivers, 1.6 million are grandmothers, and 896,000 are grandfathers. 1.4 million: The number of grandparents who are in the labor

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force and also responsible for most of the basic needs of their grandchildren. 918,000: Number of grandparents responsible for caring for their grandchildren for at least the past five years. 544,000: Number of grandparents who speak a language other than English and who are responsible for caring for their grandchildren. 5.7 million: The number of children living with a grandparent; these children comprise 8 percent of all children in the United States. The majority of these children, 3.7 million, live in the grandparent’s home. 30 percent: Among children younger than 5 whose mothers worked outside the home, the percentage cared for on a regular basis by a grandparent during their mother’s working hours. Grandparents and fathers were the two biggest sources of child care by relatives when mothers went to work. Source: Census Bureau

librarian’s picks

Get-well picture books are sure to amuse, comfort By Jennifer Prince Children’s Librarian Every year, on the heels of fall’s rustling feet, come countless varieties of colds and bugs. To make it through the ailments of colder weather, keep a ready supply of chicken soup, warm socks and, of course, good books. For the preschooler who is feverish and fretful, two new picture books about being sick are sure to amuse and comfort. One book, “Bear Feels Sick” is the latest tale in the life of Bear, author Karma Wilson’s large, lovable character. Achy and congested, Bear does not feel like playing with his friends. So,

his friends decide to help Bear feel better. Told in quatrains, Wilson’s story hums along in lilting rhymes that are a pleasure to read aloud. Each economically worded quatrain conveys perfectly the misery Bear’s illness brings him, and the gentle devotion of his friends. Through coughing fits and feverish chills, “the friends fuss and fret./The friends cook and care./They keep a close eye/ on their poor sick bear.” Jane Chapman, the artist who illustrated Wilson’s other Bear books, wields her paintbrush to delightful effect once more in this book. Rendered in a pleasing contrast of warm and cool hued acrylics, Bear and his friends Hare, Mouse, Gopher and the others are portrayed in realistic proportions and

colors. The realism is balanced with touches of whimsy that children will love: the easy companionship of the animals, a patchwork quilt for Bear, and get well drawings made by Bear’s friends. Another picture book about being sick is “Albert the Fix-It Man” by Janet Lord. Albert is an old man who goes around the neighborhood fixing all kinds of broken things for people. Among them, he fixes Mr. Jensen’s green truck, he mends auntie Millie’s fence so the goat will not eat the beans, and he fixes Mrs. Peabody’s leaky faucet. It is just as Mrs. Peabody says. Albert “[takes] care of everything!” One morning, Albert wakes up with a bad cold. When his neighbors learn that he is not well, they plan a get-well surprise. Aunt Millie fixes a big pot of beans, Mrs. Peabody fixes

some mint tea and Mr. Jensen drives them all over to Albert’s house with gifts in tow. Julie Paschkis’ watercolor illustrations abound in details children will enjoy: car parts, tools, animals and flowers. The clothes, rugs and curtains are plaid or floral. These details give the illustrations a cheerful, busy look akin to some American folk art. Albert is amiable in his overalls and plaid shirt. His fluffy white beard and kind smile give him a bit of the Santa Claus look. “Bear Feels Sick” and “Albert the Fix-It Man” are great titles not only about being sick, but also the qualities of true friendship. Look for these titles at the Buncombe County Public Libraries. For information, visit www.buncombecounty.org.

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Seated all safe and sound Good car seats fit your child, your car By Michael Burns Gannett News Service Sidney Strait didn’t like the first car seat her parents bought. It was difficult to secure, slid around in the car, jostled her and it wasn’t padded very much. It met regulations, was affordable and came recommended by consumer advocates, but it wasn’t right for Sidney — as she eventually convinced her parents, Will and Teresa Strait, of Greenville, S.C. “She hated it,” Teresa Strait said. “She cried in it all the time. It was this cute little pink and whatnot, but it just really didn’t fit in the car very well at all. It was kind of a nightmare. That’s why I decided I wanted to get it right on the second seat.” Kathy Moody, an advocacy specialist with Safe Kids Upstate in South

Carolina and a child passenger safety seat technician, said it is of the utmost importance that parents get it right when buying and using car seats. “It protects their child’s life,” she said. “Also, it’s the law.” Lance Cpl. Kathy Hiles of the S.C. Highway Patrol said fines up to $350 are levied for driving without children properly restrained. But it isn’t the threat of legal consequences that spurs Shane Sisi, of Anderson, S.C., to buckle her children into car seats. “It seems like people drive a lot faster these days,” Sisi said. “When there are accidents, you can hardly even tell what kind of a car it was. If you have that car seat, you know your child is not flying anywhere. It’s holding them in place.” Sisi swears by the Graco brand, while Strait touts Britax.

Moody said parents should follow a few basic steps to determine which car seat is best for them. “The seat has to fit the child, No. 1, and that is designed on the height and weight of the child,” she said. “You have to know what fits your vehicle. Before you purchase a seat, every parent needs to try that seat in the cars or trucks they’re going to use them in. You have to read the owner’s manual to your vehicle, because that tells you little nuances. It may even give a specific recommendation of where to place the car seat. And every parent needs to touch, feel, play with and adjust the parts and components of the car seat — to know that they can physically make it work.” Marilyn Bull, a representative of the American Academy of Pediatrics National Child Passenger Safety Board, said recent studies show that children are safer riding in rear-facing car seats as long as possible. That means that instead of infant-

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only seats, which are usually for children up to 20 pounds, parents may want to opt for seats that can convert from rear-facing to forward-facing as their children grow. Children must weigh at least 20 pounds and be 1 year old before they can ride legally in a forward-facing seat, Moody said, but they may remain rear-facing as long as they are within the safe range of height and weight. Always follow the car seat manufacturer’s guidelines, Moody said. After children reach the maximum weight for forward-facing car seats, which can be found on the seat’s owner’s manual, they must still ride in a booster seat until they are at least 4feet 9-inches tall, Bull said. Vigilance is required, but Strait said all the attention and adherence is the smartest of investments. “I feel like people will spend $30,000 on a car, but they won’t spend $200 and time researching a car seat,” Strait said. “That’s not good.”

“I feel like people will spend $30,000 on a car, but they won’t spend $200 and time researching a car seat. That’s not good.” — Parent Teresa Strait Here are examples of different types of car seats available that meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards according to the AAP.

Infant only

Convertible

Graco SnugRide Harness types: 3-point and 5-point Rear-facing weight limits: 5 – 22 pounds Height limit: 29” Approximate price: $119

Britax Decathlon Harness type: 5-point Weight limits: 5 – 33 pounds rear-facing or 65 pounds forward-facing Height limit: 49” Approximate price: $295

Forward-facing

Booster

Graco Toddler Safe Seat Harness type: 5-point Weight limits: 20 – 40 pounds Height limits: 27” – 43” Approximate price: $149

Cosco Complete Voyager Type: High back Weight limits: 40 – 80 pounds Height limits: 43”– 52” Approximate price: $25

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parenting in a nutshell

School’s back in session — let’s get organized By Doreen Nagle Gannett News Service Parents! School doors have opened all around and your sun- and fun-filled kids have now walked through them. How can we, as parents, help our children remain — organized this school year? A few tips: Take a hint from most teachers who know a transition needs to be comfortable in order to work. Give your children a little slack by being forgiving the first days when they forget their lunch or are reticent to get out of bed. But don’t go overboard holding their hands as you help them ease into the more rigid routine that being in the classroom requires. Remind them that it is their responsibility to remember their lunch or get out of bed on time. Where will your child do homework? Whether it’s the kitchen table or a room set aside for school tasks, your child needs to know where he or she can do homework. Keep a few things in mind when setting up the area: Lighting: Nothing makes a child’s eyes tire more

quickly than when the lighting is too dim over a project. Check your favorite lighting store for a lamp that gives off “task” lighting vs. atmospheric lighting. Your child needs a flat, hard surface to work on; this doesn’t necessarily need to be a desk. The surface can be a table top or large lap desk. Compartmentalize papers, books and other equipment (pens, rulers, miscellaneous). Your child’s desk should have drawers to hold these necessities. If you are not using a desk, implement file cabinets, baskets or plastic containers, each clearly labeled and organized with file folders when possible. Setting: Your child’s work station does not have to be in his or her room. Like adults, your child may appreciate having a desk in another area of the house. Get into the agenda habit. Your child’s life (no matter what age) is likely as busy as yours. One of the best ways to get organized is to keep an agenda for your child in which school assignments, events and activities are kept track of — in addition to after-school and social activities. If your children are young, sit with them each day to review what is coming up and help them to understand the importance of writing down important dates. As your children get older, put the responsibility more and

more on them to write in their own agendas each day. Teach your child to work backwards from a project’s due date by thinking about what needs to be considered. Is your first-grader responsible for a report on mice, complete with a drawing? Help them think through the steps they will need to finish, how long each step will take, what they need for each step, etc. Then count back that many days from the due date to see when your child needs to get started on the project in order to finish on time. Choose a set time for homework. Will your child tackle assignments directly after school, after a snack, after soccer practice or piano lessons? Keep this schedule as sacred as possible so that your child expects to keep his routine.

Parenting tip from the trenches While teaching your toddlers and preschoolers good study and work habits is no guarantee that they will be organized once they hit high school, the chances are that they will adopt the skills you teach them more readily if you start when they are young. Doreen Nagle is author of “But I Don’t Feel Too Old To Be A Mommy” (HCI, $12.95). She welcomes your parenting tips and concerns at parentinginanutshell@joimail.com.

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Quickest way to harmony is to put an end to bad behaviors that affect everyone in the family By John Rosemond Question: My 4year-old daughter still has very bad tantrums. When she throws a tantrum when we are on an outing, I immediately take her home. However, this affects her older sister, who complains that she did nothing wrong, but is also being punished. Is there something I can do so that the older girl is not affected by her sister’s punishments? By the way, I’m typically alone, so leaving the younger child with another parent is not an option. Answer: The perfect solution to any discipline problem would inconvenience no one but the perpetrator, but there is no such thing. Any effective disciplinary consequence is going to

have some negative “spillover” on other people. The mere fact that consequences must be enforced is going to inconvenience the enforcer, at the very least. In other words, you’re looking for a solution that doesn’t exist. Therefore, the most helpful thing you can do for your older child is to put an end to her sister’s emotional meltdowns. Needless to say, ending her tantrums is also going to be of inestimable benefit, socially and emotionally, to your younger daughter as well. It’s high time she learned the meaning behind the Mick Jagger Principle: You can’t always get what you want (but if you try, sometimes, you just might find, you get what you need). First, remove everything from her room except her bed, chest of drawers, and essential clothing. Box up what you remove and put the boxes

where she cannot get to them. I call this “kicking the child out of the Garden of Eden.” The purpose is to send a strong, visible message to the child that a certain misbehavior —in this case, tantrums — is no longer going to be tolerated. Tell her that you spoke with “the doctor” about her tantrums and he said she is too old to still be screaming and crying when she doesn’t get her way. The doctor said she cannot have her things back, or receive anything new, until the tantrums have stopped for two weeks. For whatever reason, children often respond more successfully to a discipline method if they believe that it has been prescribed by a third-party authority figure. (If the girls share a room, then have the doctor order bedtime immediately after supper for the younger one until the tantrums have stopped for two weeks. Everything else

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remains the same.) Put up a 14-block grid on the refrigerator. Every day that she does not have a tantrum, draw a star in one of the blocks and tell her that you’re proud of her. It’s important that a star and your matter-of-fact praise are her only rewards on a tantrum-free day. If she throws a tantrum, at home or elsewhere, before all 14 blocks are starred, take down the grid and put up a new one, explaining that you’re only following the doctor’s instructions. It may take three or four grids before she has success, but if my experience serves me well, she should be tantrum-free within a couple of months. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his Web site at www.rosemond.com. Copyright 2008, John K. Rosemond

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growing together

Canning fruits, veggies provides link to the past By Chris Worthy WNC Parent columnist On a recent visit to the Hendersonville Heritage Museum, I saw rows of Ball and Mason canning jars lined up in a display case. They were symbols of days when summer canning was necessary if the family was to eat during the winter. My own shelves are lined with a more modern — and safer — version of those same jars, some of which are already filled with strawberry jam and homemade relish. As I write this, most sit empty as they await more jam and a variety of heirloom tomatoes. Fortunately, my family’s winter food supply doesn’t depend on my ability to squirrel away summer’s bounty. Truthfully, the three grocery stores within a five-minute drive of my house could pretty much supply anything we could ever need or want and do so in ridiculous abundance. I like knowing where our food comes from and that it traveled from the farm to my kitchen in the back of my minivan rather than on a cargo ship. But that is only part of why I go through this process of sterilizing jars and running frantically between the boiling water canner and sink, all the while burning the ends of my fingers and fretting about botulism. (I rely heavily on prayer, boiling

water and the Clemson Extension Web site to save us from food poisoning.) Honestly though, those beautiful jars of red tomatoes and a freezer full of fresh corn, peaches and strawberries are a connection to the past that I can’t find anywhere else. With a few added safety precautions, I am preparing food in much the same way as women did generations ago — no microwaves or silicone baking mats in sight. For me, this route is a little like reading an old story that has remained timeless, its tale told without computer-generated animation or a high tech score. It is a slower, simpler way, but I savor it. Like most good things, it is worth the effort. Chris Worthy is an attorney who took down her shingle to be a stay-athome mom. Write to her at growingtogether@chrisworthy.com.

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quick dinners

Cumin-rubbed pork with fresh mango salsa Prep time: 5 minutes Total time: 25 minutes Servings: 4 1 pound pork tenderloin 1 tablespoon cumin 8 ounces jarred or fresh mango spears 1 cup pico de gallo (fresh salsa) Preheat grill to medium-high. Rub cumin all over pork. Grill pork 10 to 15 minutes, turning once or twice. Meanwhile, drain and finely dice mango spears and mix with pico de gallo. Remove pork from grill (leave grill on). Slice pork and check for doneness. If needed, place slices back on grill for 20 to 30 seconds. Serve pork topped with salsa. Approximate values per serving: 185 calories, 4 g fat, 74 mg cholesterol, 25 g protein, 11 g carbohydrates, 2 g fiber, 341 mg sodium, 20 percent calories from fat.

Kid-friendly salmon Prep time: 10 minutes Total time: 40 minutes (includes marinating) Servings: 4

4 skinless salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each) 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce 1/2 cup brown sugar Place salmon and teriyaki sauce in a resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour. Heat grill to medium-high. Grill salmon until it is cooked about halfway up the sides, 3 to 4 minutes. Flip salmon and sprinkle with brown sugar. Cook another 2-3 minutes. Approximate values per serving: 277 calories, 6 g fat, 88 mg cholesterol, 35 g protein, 20 g carbohydrates, 0 fiber, 638 mg sodium, 19 percent calories from fat. Gannett News Service

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Tailor lunch choices to individual tastes Gannett News Service Michael Violand, owner of Venture Catering in Indianapolis, says packing healthful lunches is one way parents can help kids eat better and develop good eating habits — or change bad ones. “Through education and habit, things can change, especially for school kids,” he says, noting that he packs lunches for his two youngest children. “It’s a learned behavior.” But kids aren’t the only ones who can benefit from a healthful packed lunch. Adults can cut costs as well as calories by bringing lunch, too. Instead of indulging in cafeteria or take-out fare that can quickly add up to loads of calories and a hefty lunch bill, bring your own eats. “Bagging lunch can pay off in health benefits as well as in your pocketbook,” he says. Violand created these lunch-worthy recipes, which focus on fresh, simply prepared vegetables, chicken and pasta, as a welcome change.

GANNETT NEWS SERVICE

Herbed penne with simple grilled vegetables, shows how easy it is to make lunch-worthy recipes that focus on fresh, simply prepared vegetables, chicken and pasta.

Herbed penne with simple grilled vegetables

Simple grilled vegetables

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided 4 servings simple grilled vegetables, cut into 3/4-inch pieces (recipe at right) 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper 4 cups hot, cooked wheat penne (about 8 ounces uncooked) 1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh basil 1/2 cup (2 ounces) shaved ParmigianoReggiano cheese

8 four-inch portobello mushroom caps (about 1 pound) 4 medium red bell peppers, quartered 2 medium Vidalia or other sweet onions, each cut into 4 slices (about 1 1/4 pounds) 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large, nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add grilled vegetables to pan; cook 4 minutes or until thoroughly heated, stirring occasionally. Stir in one-fourth teaspoon black pepper and crushed red pepper. Remove from heat. Combine pasta, basil, remaining 1 tablespoon oil and remaining 1/4 teaspoon black pepper in a large bowl. Toss well. Add grilled vegetables; toss well. Sprinkle with cheese. Serves 4.

Heat grill to medium-high. Arrange mushrooms (gill sides up), bell pepper quarters and onion slices on baking sheet. Coat vegetables with cooking spray. Sprinkle evenly with black pepper. Drizzle vinegar over mushrooms. Place vegetable on grill rack; grill 5 minutes on each side, or until tender.

Veggie chili 5 1/2 cups water 3/4 cup bulgur wheat 2 teaspoons olive oil 1 cup each chopped onion and red bell pepper 2 tablespoons salt-free chili powder 2 teaspoons each minced garlic and ground cumin 1 28-ounce can low-sodium crushed tomatoes 1 15-ounce can pumpkin puree 1 medium zucchini, diced 1 cup frozen corn 1 15.5-ounce can low-sodium black or white beans, rinsed 1/2 cup chopped cilantro Reduced-fat cheddar cheese, reducedfat sour cream, lime slices (optional) Put bulgur and 3 cups of the water in medium microwave-safe bowl. Cover; microwave until bulgur is tender, about 15 minutes. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet. Add onion and pepper; saute 5 minutes. Add chili powder, garlic and cumin; saute until fragrant. Add remaining 2 1/2 cups water, tomatoes, pumpkin, zucchini and corn; bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat; simmer 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are crisp-tender. Stir in beans and bulgur; heat through. Remove from heat and stir in cilantro. Garnish if desired. Serves 4.

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puzzles for parents Theme: Cowboys ACROSS 1. *”Howdy, ____!” 5. Health resort 8. A little wet 12. One of the hipbones, pl. 13. Oil group 14. Pertaining to hair 15. Grammy winner K.D. 16. This and the other 17. *Twirled above 18. *Movie: “_________ Cowboy” 20. Wildly, without self-control 21. Round openings 22. Skater’s turf 23. Spiky succulent 26. *Its crown is creased 30. H in HMS 31. Dances the bebop 34. Small ladies’ handbag 35. Resort-filled island in southern Caribbean 37. Water in Paris 38. Greek muse of love poetry 39. “In ____ of” 40. Tube-nosed seabird 42. Johnny ___ in Civil War 43. Red on kitchen table 45. What hair does on balding person 47. Barbie’s beau 48. *Cowboy’s turf 50. Defender of skies 52. On certain occasions 56. To utter suddenly 57. 15th of March, May, July or October 58. Not all 59. Bother 60. Belgian port 61. Revise for publication 62. Asian food thickener 63. For carrying bricks and mortar 64. “____ Make a Deal”

DOWN 1. Not spicy 2. Having wings 3. Hokkaido (Japan) language 4. Garbage lover 5. Thread reel 6. Bacteria dish 7. Typically dull and per-

sistent 8. r times two 9. In addition 10. Ball accoutrement 11. Plays for pay 13. Between 90 and 180 degrees 14. There’s none like home?

19. Aqua-lung 22. It is 23. Blackboard writer 24. Bird of prey nest 25. Oil or vinegar bottle 26. *Horse prod 27. Fixed look 28. Be disclosed or revealed

WNC PARENT I SEPTEMBER 2008

29. Wife of Amphion, king of Thebes 32. Road alert 33. Quaker grain 36. *a.k.a. cowboy 38. What voters do 40. Play on words 41. Hemingway 44. Sizeable

46. Michelangelo’s tool 48. *Where 8 seconds is the goal 49. Set straight 50. Long forearm bone 51. *What happened to Gene Autry’s songs

Solutions on Page 64

Kids page MAZE

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CONNECT THE DOTS

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WNC PARENT I SEPTEMBER 2008

calendar of events

Things to do To have your event included in October’s WNC Parent’s calendar, e-mail details to calendar@wncparent.com by Sept. 16.

Registration starts Sept. 2 Play and learn group Parents/caregivers and children ages 2-5 in Buncombe County who are not in regulated child care may attend a series of six free play and learn group sessions at 10 a.m. Tuesdays, Sept. 16-Oct. 21, and 10 or 11 a.m. Wednesdays, Sept. 17-Oct. 22. Each 45-minute session is at the Family Resource Center at Asheville City Schools Preschool, 441 Haywood Road, West Asheville. The program focuses on developing preliteracy skills through rhythm, rhyme and repetition. Each week, adults receive information for activities to do at home, and children ages 2-5 receive a free book. For information or to register, call Marna Holland at 255-5423 or e-mail marna.holland@ asheville,k12.nc.us. Must attend four sessions. New participants may register Sept. 2; continuing/past participants may register Sept. 10.

Starts Sept. 2 Childbirth classes Angel Medical Center in Franklin offers a series

of four weekly evening classes that provide information on the stages of labor and birth. Included is an infant care class on caring for your newborn in the hospital and at home. Classes run 6-8 p.m. Tuesdays, Sept. 2-23, in the ICU conference room. Call 369-4421 to register and for more information. Class fee may be covered by Medicaid. The course instructors are registered nurses who work in the Angel Medical Center Birthing Center and are Certified Childbirth Educators.

Pottery classes Three classes available for children, ages 3-12, at Odyssey Center for Ceramic Arts at Highwater Clays, 236 Clingman Ave., Asheville. Try Kinder Klay, ages 3-5, on Tuesday mornings; Gabe’s Groovalicious Clay Games, ages 8-12, on Tuesday afternoons, and Adventures in Clay, ages 5-12, on Wednesday afternoons. Cost is $110 per session. For more information, call 2850210, e-mail odyssey@highwaterclays.com, or visit highwaterclays.com.

Tots On Toes ballet, tap classes Build self-confidence and increase creativity through dance in a noncompetitive environment. Classes at the Stoney Mountain Activity center in Mountain Home, just south of Fletcher. Preschool, ages 3-5, kindergarten-second grade, third-fifth grade and sixth-eighth grade classes available. Classes are $30 per month with a

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Odyssey Center for Ceramic Arts is offering a fall session of pottery classes for children. $15 registration fee and $20 recital fee due upon registration. For a complete schedule and more information, contact Dory Jones at 6849201 or 242-6643, e-mail dory@TotsOnToes.com or visit TotsOnToes.com.

Sept. 2 and 9

ering the labor and delivery process, relaxation, breathing patterns, birth options, positioning and comfort measures. Bring two pillows and a blanket. Two Tuesdays, Aug. 5 and 12, 6:30-9 p.m. Cost is $90, or free with Medicaid. Registration required. At Pardee Health Education Center in Blue Ridge Mall, Four Seasons Boulevard, Hendersonville. Call 6924600 for information.

Childbirth 101 A two-session class for expectant parents cov-

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calendar of events Continued from Page 53

Register by Sept. 3 The 5 Browns concert The 5 Browns are a quintet of world-class concert pianists, performing on five Steinway grand pianos. The 5 Browns and Asheville Bravo Concerts will present an educational program at 2 p.m. Oct. 25 that will include a 30-minute musical presentation and a 30-minute question and answer session at Thomas Wolfe Auditorium. Tickets are free for students, community leaders and teachers. Reservations required by Sept. 3. For more information, call 225-5887.

Starts Sept. 3 MOPS Mothers of Preschoolers meets at Biltmore Baptist Church in Arden on the first and third Wednesday mornings of each month, 9:3011:30. For more information, call Biltmore Baptist at 687-1111.

Reading Corner story time Pack Library’s school-age story time is back at 10 a.m. Wednesdays for ages 5-7. September’s continuous read is “Ben and Me” by Robert Lawson. Listen to chapters and take part in activities about the American Revolution and its historical characters. Reading Corner is a regularly scheduled story time, September-May. Pack Memorial Library is at 67 Haywood St. For more information, call 250-4720 or e-mail pack.children@buncombecounty.org.

Sept. 4

Sept. 5

Mothers of Multiples

Asheville Arts Center South open house

Group for moms with multiples meets 7 p.m. the first Thursday of each month at the Women’s Resource Center on Doctor’s Drive, behind Mission Hospitals. Meetings are an opportunity to share experiences and offer support in a social setting. For information, call 444-AMOM or visit ashevillemom.com.

Family night at Oakley Library Join the Oakley/South Asheville Library the first Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. for an evening family story time. Tales and lore will span all places and times of oral tradition from Aesop to King Arthur to Uncle Remus and more. Children in pajamas with their stuffed animals are welcome. The library is at 749 Fairview Road. For more information, call 250-4754.

Begins Sept. 4 Clogging classes Beginner clogging lessons for children ages 5 and older. Learn to clog with Olympic junior medalist Ashley Shimberg. Introduction to clogging class begins Sept. 4, 4:15-5 p.m. Cost is $38 per month. Adult beginner class also available for parents. To register or learn more, contact Ashley Shimberg, 329-3856, or e-mail ashevillecloggingcompany@gmail.com

Weight-loss workshop Ten-week course covers body typing, metabolic typing, brain typing, personality, behavior, belief.

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Sew Simply in Black Mountain is offering morning and evening sewing “labs” for moms, starting Sept. 4. Class meets 6-8:30 p.m. Thursdays. Original content created by Asheville’s Dr. Todd Stone and therapist Gary Rollins. Tuition is $300 per individual, $550 per couple. Satisfaction guarantee, or tuition is refunded (see Web site for conditions). For details, visit thepentaprogram.com.

Sept. 4 and 28 Mom’s Night Out Sewing Work on an ongoing project or learn a new one from instructor Tracy Munn at Sew Simply in Black Mountain. From 6-9 p.m. Cost is $30. Students will have use of six computer Pfaff sewing machines and two sergers. Students are welcome to bring their own machines (must know how to operate before class). For information or to register, call 669-3978 or visit sewsimply.com.

WNC PARENT I SEPTEMBER 2008

Visit the new south location of Asheville Arts Center. The event, from 4-6 p.m., includes free sample classes in ballet, Irish dance, musical theater and acting; performances in Irish dance, rock band and musical theater; crafts; and free 10-minute music lessons for guitar, violin, drums, voice, piano and more. Asheville Arts Center South is at 9 Summit Ave., suite B, near the intersection of Hendersonville and Long Shoals roads. For more information, call 2534000 or visit ashevilleartscenter.com.

East Asheville Library Teen Advisory Group The East Asheville Branch Library is forming a Teen Advisory Group. Any high school, middle school or home-school student, ages 12-18, is invited to attend the first meeting, from 4-5:30 p.m., the East Asheville branch, 902 Tunnel Road, right beside the fire station. Snack, discuss interests and ideas, and begin planning fun future events for teens at the library. For more information, contact Alexa Duncan, 250-4738 or e-mail alexandra.duncan@buncombecounty.org.

Parents night out Malvern Hills Presbyterian Church offers a parents night out, 6-8 p.m. the first Friday of the month. Open to community children, ages 2-11. Pizza dinner included. Donations accepted, but not required. For more information, call the Rev. Sean Maney at 242-8402 or visit malvernhillspca.com.

calendar of events Preschool Play Date Formerly known as Fabulous Fridays, The Health Adventure’s Preschool Play Date series provides children 3-6 with a unique and safe venue to play and a chance for parents, grandparents, and caregivers to socialize and bond. Includes hands-on take-away activities led by an educator from the museum. Free for members or with museum admission. The Preschool Play Date series is 10:30-11:30 a.m. every first Friday of the month. No registration in required. Call 254-6373 or visit thehealthadventure.org.

Starts Sept. 5 $1 massages Growing Young Café will offer chair massages from a licensed massage therapist, from 10 a.m.-noon, for $1/minute. Walk-ins welcome. Child care is available for $5 an hour, or $2.50 for 30 minutes or less. The café is at 611 Tunnel Road. Call 299-4420 or visit growingyoungcafe.com for more information.

Sept. 5 and 19 Moms night out WNC PARENT PHOTO

Teenagers take a spin on the Paratrooper ride at the N.C. Mountain State Fair last fall. This year’s fair runs Sept. 5-14 at the WNC Agricultural Center in Fletcher.

“Fairies and Wizards” is the theme at Growing Young Café, 611 Tunnel Road. Children can dress up and join in some potion-making, a scavenger hunt and imaginative games. Nights out are the first and third Fridays of the month from 6:30-9 p.m. Cost is $20 for the first child and $15 for additional children in the same

family. Call 299-4420 or visit growingyoungcafe.com for more information.

Sept. 6

Library teen advisory group

Lap the Lake for Ladies

The library is looking for children ages 12-18 to share ideas in this group focused on teen involvement in developing the collection, creating library programs and more. At 4 p.m. at 41 N. Main St., Weaverville. Call 250-6482 for details.

Walk a lap (2.5 miles) around Enka Lake in Biltmore Park to raise funds for the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition. Event starts at 10:30 a.m., followed by a “Lunch and Learn” at noon. Lunch, with a speaker from Hope, A Women’s Cancer Center, will be provided by Carrabba’s Italian Grill. Registration begins at 9 a.m. on the day of the event. Walkers can also register by visiting lapthelake.org. A donation of $20 per walker is suggested and all walkers will receive a T-shirt. The optional lunch is $10, and advance registration for lunch is required by Aug. 23.

Sept. 5-14 N.C. Mountain State Fair Rides, exhibits, arts and crafts, livestock, competitions and concerts at the WNC Agricultural Center, off Fanning Bridge and Airport roads in Fletcher. For information, call 687-1414 or visit mountainfair.org.

Sept. 5-Oct. 5 Asheville Art Museum summer camp exhibition See the work of artists who participated in summer art camp. Celebrate the museum’s 60th anniversary and the exhibit’s closing with an afternoon of fun starting at 2 p.m. Oct. 5. There will be refreshments and family activities, as well as free museum admission for Summer Art Camp 2008 students. The museum is at Pack Place, 2 S. Pack Square. For more information, call 253-3227 or e-mail mailbox@ ashevilleart.org.

Organicfest A festive day of live music, organic food and drink, organic and green goods, informative info on organic cooking, gardening, shopping and fun activities for kids of all ages. From 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Battery Park Avenue in downtown Asheville. For information, visit organicfest.org.

Roberson rummage sale Bargains on electronics, cameras, furniture, sports equipment, tools, toys, books, clothes (all sizes, kids-adults), household items and more. Proceeds benefit Roberson High School’s band, which is traveling to Washington to play at the Kennedy Center. Use the school’s Long Shoals Road entrance and follow the signs to the PEP gym. From 7 a.m.-2 p.m.

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calendar of events Continued from Page 55

Toy-making workshop Make toys to experiment at The Health Adventure, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. See how linkages work by making a butterfly with wings you can flap. Make a silly Martian hat to play around with balance and movement. The Health Adventure is at 2 S. Pack Square. For more information, visit thehealthadventure.org or call 254-6373.

Friends of the Henderson County Library is hosting its 28th annual book sale with more than 100,000 available at a fraction of their original prices. At 1940 Spartanburg Highway, south of downtown Hendersonville. From Sept. 6-7, hardback book prices start at $1; paperbacks are 75 cents. Starting Sept. 13, all items are half price. On Sept. 20, all that a shopper can stuff in a brown paper grocery bag is only $4. Preview for members of Friends of the Henderson County Library is 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept. 5. Join at the door. PHOTO BY STEVE DIXON

Sept. 6-7

Learn about raptors during the Sept. 8 homeschool program at Chimney Rock Park.

Children’s Clothing Exchange

Students will learn what defines a raptor and what threats they face. Bring cameras for an up-close encounter. Call 800-277-9611 to register. Cost is $12 per student, $11.50 for parents (for passholders, $7 for students and free for parents).

Family Expressive Arts Workshop Experience how the arts can bring you together as a family. Enjoy an interactive, fun, guided expressive arts process that supports positive familial relationships. No art experience necessary. At Spark Creative Wellness Studio, 70 Woodfin Place, Asheville. Visit sparkcreativewellness.com and call Jessica Chilton at 301-5172 to schedule a two-hour session.

Sept. 8 Home-school program Explore “Radical Raptors” at Chimney Rock Park.

Sept. 8 and 22

Try a class at the Asheville Arts Center’s three locations: Main at 308 Merrimon Ave., South at 9 Summit Ave., suite B, and North at 633 Merrimon Ave., under Atlanta Bread Co. For details, call 253-4000 or visit ashevilleartscenter.com. Sept. 8-12 Kindermusik classes. At Main and South. Call 253-4000 for times and classes. Sept. 8: Irish dance class for beginners, ages 5-6, 3:304:15 p.m., North. Story theater class, ages 3-6, 3 p.m., Main. Youth acting class, ages 6-9, 3:30 p.m., South. Teen acting class, ages 10 and older, 5:45 p.m., South. Sept. 9: Youth acting class, ages 6-9, 3:30 p.m., Main Teen acting class, 10 and older, 5:45 p.m., Main Sept. 10 Ballet class, ages 3-4, 11 a.m., Main Story theater class, ages 3-6, 1:15 p.m., South. Musical theater, ages 7-12, 4:45 p.m., South. Theater dance, ages 7-12, 4 p.m., South. Sept. 11 Ballet class, ages 3-4, 1:15 p.m., South Mommy and Me ballet class, moms and 2- to 3year-olds, 12:30 p.m., South Intro Irish dance class, ages 5-6, 3:30-4:15 p.m., and ages 7-12, 4:30-5:30 p.m., South Broadway! Sing and Dance class, ages 7-10, 3:30 p.m., Main Sept. 13 Theatre Dance and Sing classes, ages 10-18, 11 a.m., Main.

A free program to help children ages 3-8 understand, accept and anticipate the changes that will happen as the family prepares for the birth of the new baby. Each child will see and hold life-like models that show how a baby grows and develops, make a kite mobile for the new baby’s room, receive an activity/coloring book and tour the Mother/Baby Unit at Mission Hospital to see where mom and baby will stay. Program runs 4-5 p.m. the second and fourth Mondays of each month at Mission Hospitals. (Enter the hospital at the visitor entrance off Biltmore Avenue. Take G elevators to the fourth floor.) Children older than 8 may attend the adult tour with their parent/s. To register, call 254-6373, ext. 316. For more information, visit thehealthadventure.com and click on the “Programs” tab.

Library book sale

Sept. 6 and 20

Sept. 8-13

‘My Mom Is Having a Baby’

Starts Sept. 6

Find gently used clothes (newborn to size 16), shoes, toys, books, games, and baby equipment. Sale runs 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Sept. 6 and 12:30-3 p.m. Sept. 7 at the National Guard Armory, 75 Shelburne Road in Asheville, near the Brevard Road exit off Interstate 240. For more information, call Kristie Roswech at 667-0703.

Studio, 70 Woodfin Place, Asheville. For details, visit sparkcreativewellness.com or call Jessica Chilton at 301-5172.

La Leche League meeting La Leche League of Asheville and Buncombe hosts Baby, Pregnant Mamas and Toddler meetings at 10 a.m. the second Monday of each month at First Congregational Church, Oak Street, Asheville. Enter behind the church. For information, call Susan at 628-4438 or 2802895, Jane at 670-1032, Jenn at 713-3707 or Adrienne at 713-1534.

Sept. 8 and 22 Mom’s Morning Out Sewing Work on an ongoing project or learn a new one from instructor Tracy Munn at Sew Simply in Black Mountain. From 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Cost is $40. Students will have use of six computer Pfaff sewing machines and two sergers. Students are welcome to bring their own machines (must know how to operate before class). For information or to register, call 669-3978 or visit sewsimply.com.

Free sample arts classes

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Starts Sept. 8 Expressive Arts Workshop for home-schoolers Make new friends, expand your creativity, and express yourself through the arts. Runs 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Mondays, Sept. 8 and 15, for 13-17 year-old home-schoolers. Runs Tuesdays, Sept. 9 and 16, for 5- to 8-year-olds at 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., and for 9- to –13-year-olds at 2:30-4:30 p.m. At Spark Creative Wellness

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calendar of events Continued from Page 57

Sept. 9 Family night at Enka Library “Grandparents are Grand!” will be a special story time celebrating our grandparents and grandfriends at 6:30 p.m. Grandparents, come with your grandchildren for stories and songs. Enka-Candler Library is at 1401 Sandhill Road. Call 250-4758 for more information.

Moms group A Christian moms group meets at 6:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Church, 1095 Hendersonville Road in South Asheville. Moms with any age children are welcome. Light refreshments and childcare will be provided. For information, contact 388-3598.

Starts Sept. 9 Art classes Asheville Art Museum offers after-school and home-school art classes: Drawing for high school students, 4-5:30 p.m., Sept. 18-Oct. 23; cartooning for fourth- to -seventh-grade students, 3:30-5 p.m. Sept. 16-Oct. 21; and a home-school program for first- to sixth-graders, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Sept. 9, Oct. 14 and Nov. 11. To register or for more information, call 2533227, ext. 121 or 122, or visit ashevilleart.org.

Sept. 10 and 16 Parents morning out open house Learn more about Asheville Arts Center’s art-based

morning out programs at these open houses: 2year-old class, 4-6 p.m., Asheville Arts Center North, 633 Merrimon Ave., under Atlanta Bread Co.; 2- to 5-year-olds, 4-6 p.m., Asheville Arts Center South, 9 Summit Ave., Suite B. For details, call 253-4000 or visit ashevilleartscenter.com.

Sept. 11 Support group Join moms-to-be and new moms at a support group, 6-7:30 p.m. at Positive Transformations, 107 Merrimon Ave. Babies welcome. Call Sheila McKeon at 808-2860 for details.

Sept. 13

Sept. 12

American Girl party

Parents night out Calling all “Umpa Lumpas”! There will be a golden ticket for everyone at this Willy Wonkathemed night out with singing, dancing, acting, crafts and refreshments. Cost is $20 for first child, $15 for each additional child. Reservations and advance payment required. Ages 2-10. At Asheville Arts Center Main, 308 Merrimon Ave. For information, call 253-4000 or visit ashevilleartscenter.com

Sept. 12-14 Creative wellness workshops for parents Take a mini-retreat from your role as parent and

ignite inspiration, insight, creativity, playfulness and transformation in your life. Enjoy a supportive environment where creativity leads to refreshing clarity and a renewed sense of self. No art experience necessary. Runs 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Sept. 12 at Conn-Artist Studios and Art Gallery, 611 Greenville Highway, Hendersonville, and 3-6 p.m. Sept. 13 and 14 at Spark Creative Wellness Studio in downtown Asheville. Visit sparkcreativewellness.com for more information. Call Jessica Chilton, expressive arts therapist and educator, at 301-5172 to enroll. For directions to Conn-Artist studios, visit conn-artist.com.

WNC PARENT I SEPTEMBER 2008

The history of the American Girl dolls comes to life at 2 p.m. at Fairview Library. Take part in activities and crafts representative of some of the American Girls’ different eras and view specially designed exhibits. Also, Civil War-era living history re-enactors will demonstrate the complexity of women’s dress during that time. For ages 8-12. Attendees must be accompanied by an adult. Fairview Library is at 1 Taylor Road. Call 250-6485 for information.

calendar of events Asheville Area Birth Network

“Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood,” a memoir about growing up in Iran. Pizza and drinks will be provided, and there will be a drawing for door prizes. To get a copy of the book and sign up for the discussion, contact the Swannanoa Library at 250-6486 or e-mail swannanoa.library@buncombecounty.org. The library is at 101 W. Charleston St.

Group meets at 10:30 a.m., the second Saturday of each month, at True Health Family Wellness Center, 1095 Hendersonville Road, Suite A, Asheville. For more information, visit ashevillebirthnetwork.com or contact Sonya Stone at 335-0224 or sonya@ashevillebirthnetwork.com or Jenn McCormack at 713-3707 or jenn@ashevillebirthnetwork.com.

Sept. 18

Literary festival Carolina Mountains Literary Festival offers events for kids on its second day, Sept. 13. Learn about new and exciting books from an editorial panel of high schoolers, jump into the creative process by taking part in part in an open mike poetry session (middle school ages especially). For the younger set, Penland School of Crafts will hold a workshop on book and paper making. Miller will also present on the topic of her book “Monsters and Water Beasts: Creatures of Fact or Fiction.” For more information, visit cmlitfest.org.

Open house

East Asheville Library book sale

The North Asheville Library’s after-school story time for ages 5-8 is at 3:30 p.m., with intermediate level picture books, crafts, songs and other activities for young readers. The library is at 1030 Merrimon Ave. For details, call 250-4752.

The Friends of the East Asheville Library is hosting a book sale with hardbacks, paperbacks, adult books, children’s books and more. Proceeds benefit East Asheville Library. Runs 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. For more information, call 250-4738 or email eastasheville.library@buncombecounty.org. The library is at 902 Tunnel Road.

Finnegan’s Fabulous Flea Festival and Pig Pickin’ Find a treasure at St. Joan of Arc Church’s flea festival, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Come back later that evening for the Pig Pickin’, 7-10 p.m. Tickets for the Pig Pickin’ are $5 and must be purchased in advance. The church is at 768 Asbury Road, Candler.

Get Fired Up for Art in Henderson County The VISION Henderson County class of 2008 is hosting Get Fired Up for Art in Henderson County. A cocktail party and silent art auction will be 6-9 p.m. at Cummings Cove Golf & Country Club clubhouse in Hendersonville. Cost is $50 per person. All proceeds will go toward purchase of an electric art kiln for Balfour Education Center. Any proceeds above what is needed for the kiln installation and peripherals will go toward other art programs in Henderson County Schools. For tickets or to make a monetary contribution to this project, call Carol Kaczmarek at 388-0059. All contributions are tax deductible.

Punt, Pass & Kick Competition Buncombe County Parks & Recreation will host an NFL Pepsi Punt, Pass & Kick Competition from 10 a.m.-noon at Enka Middle school. The competition is free and open to boys and girls ages 8-15. (Age classification is as of Dec. 31 of the current year). Please bring birth certificate to verify age and tennis shoes with rubber soles no cleats. The competition allows kids to showcase their talents in punting, passing and kicking with scores based on distance and accuracy. The top finishers from each of eight age groups at the local competition will advance to a sectional competition. For more information, call Jay at 250-4269 or e-mail jay.nelson@ buncombecounty.org.

World War II theme party Learn about World War II at the Smith-McDowell

Enjoy snacks and socializing at an open house for Positive Transformations, 107 Merrimon Ave., from 4-6 p.m. Call Sheila McKeon at 808-2860 for details.

Starts Sept. 18 After-school story time

PHOTO BY ERIN BRETHAUER

Mara Koslen reads to a group of 5- to 7-year-olds during Reading Corner in the children's section of Pack Memorial Library. The story time returns Sept. 3. North Asheville Library’s afterschool story time for ages 5-8 resumes Sept. 18. House Museum. For boys and girls, ages 7-12. Cost is $25 for an adult and $20 for children. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Make reservations with the Smith-McDowell House Museum at least a week before the program. The museum is at 283 Victoria Road, on the campus of Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College. For information and tickets, call 253-9231.

Sept. 15-19

Sept. 14

Sept. 15-30

Asheville Music School open house

Free sample music lesson

Celebrate the school’s 12th year of private music lessons and meet your new music teacher. Free T-shirt with enrollment during the open house. Refreshments will be served. From 2-4 p.m. at 250 Charlotte St. Call 252-6244 for details.

Sept. 15 Rock U open jam Come out and jam with Asheville Arts Center’s Rock Band Conservatory. All instruments and voices are welcome. Bring an instrument and rock out. For ages 7-11 and 12-18, from 6-7:30 p.m. at Asheville Arts Center Main, 308 Merrimon Ave. Call 253-4000 or visit ashevilleartscenter.com for more information.

Starts Sept. 15 SAT prep class Registration is open for the fall session of the SAT prep class offered by UNC Asheville’s Professional Education Programs. Classes will meet 6-9 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays on the UNCA campus for three consecutive weeks. Cost is $275. For information or to register, contact Nancy Williams at 250-2353 or nwilliam@unca.edu or visit unca.edu/distedu/ce.

Home-schoolers Week

Sept. 19-20 Southeastern Tribes Cultural Arts Celebration

Meet with Asheville Arts Center instrumental lesson instructors and enjoy a 15-minute introductory lesson. Call 253-4000 to schedule a time. At Asheville Arts Center Main and South. For information, visit ashevilleartscenter.com.

The third annual event at the Cherokee Indian Fair Grounds brings together master dancers, craftsmen, artists and athletes from five main Southeastern tribes: Cherokee, Creek, Chickasaw, Seminole and Choctaw. The Museum of the Cherokee Indian is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday and Saturday for arts and crafts demonstrations. On Friday, school groups are invited for a field day with museum tours and festival activities at discounted rates. Saturday events include a book signing and storytelling at 2 p.m., Cherokee Stickball demonstration at 5 p.m. and traditional dance performances from 7-10 p.m. Adult admission is $10; children 6-12 are $6; younger than 6 are free. Call 497-3481 for details. The fair grounds are at 745 Tsali Blvd., off U.S. 441 in Cherokee.

Sept. 16

Sept. 19-21

Breast-feeding class

Children’s Super Sale

Learn the art of breast-feeding. Class covers breast-feeding basics to help give moms a good start. From 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Pardee Health Education Center in Blue Ridge Mall, Four Seasons Boulevard, Hendersonville. Call 6924600. Class is free; registration is not required.

The Junior Women’s Club of Hendersonville is hosting a consignment sale of children’s fall/winter clothing, toys, baby gear and more. At National Guard Armory, 2025 Spartanburg Highway. Consignors receive 50 percent and ticket to presale. Drop-off times are 8-11 a.m. and 3-7 p.m. Sept. 15-17 and 8-11 a.m. Sept. 18. Presale is 7-8 p.m. Sept. 19, with consignors shopping free and the public shopping for $10 admission, and 7:30-9 a.m. for a donation of $5. Sale hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sept. 20 and noon-3 p.m. Sept. 21. Items are half price on Sept. 21. For details, call 685-2291 or visit jwcHendersonville.org.

Enjoy a free 15-minute music lesson and learn about the many offerings in drama, dance and music the Asheville Arts Center has for homeschoolers. Call 253-4000 to schedule a time. At Asheville Arts Center Main and South locations.

Library family fun night Bed Bug Story Time is back by popular demand at Weaverville Library. Come to an evening version of family story time, featuring some of our favorite bedtime stories and lullabies. Wear your pajamas and bring your teddy bear. At 6:30 p.m. at 41 N. Main St. For details, call 650-6482.

Sept. 19-23 Sept. 17 Teen Book Club The Swannanoa Library is starting a teen book discussion group. The first meeting, at 5 p.m., will discuss Marjane Satrapi’s graphic novel

Munchkin Market consignment sale Fall and winter clothing, toys, furniture and baby

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calendar of events Continued from Page 59 equipment for sale at Biltmore Square Mall. Consignors earn 60 percent of sale price. Sale begins accepting items Sept. 13. Volunteers shop early on Sept. 18; consignors shop Sept. 19. Sale hours are 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Sept. 20, 1-5 p.m. Sept. 21, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sept. 22, and 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sept. 23 (half-price day). Pickup is Sept. 25. For information, visit munchkinmarket.com, e-mail misty@munchkinmarket.com or call 230-8909.

Sept. 20 ArtVenture

and why it is important to humans. Participants will take home a starter worm composting bin. Cost is $7/per child per session. Each session is limited to 12 participants and takes place at the Botanical Gardens at Asheville, 151 W.T. Weaver Blvd. Contact Heather Rayburn for additional information or to register at 252-5190.

self-confidence. Expand creativity and self-expression through visual arts, drama and creative movement. Runs 12:30-2:30 p.m. for 5- to 8-year olds and 4-6 p.m. for 9- to 13-year-olds on Sept. 21, 28, and Oct. 5. At Spark Creative Wellness Studio, 70 Woodfin Place, Asheville. Visit sparkcreative wellness.com or call Jessica Chilton at 301-5172.

Community party

Sept. 21-22

Malvern Hills Presbyterian Church, at the corner of Bear Creek and Patton Avenue, is hosting a kid-friendly party. It will include inflatables, live music, clowns and more. From 1-4 p.m. The event is free to the community. For more information, call 258-8624.

A day for ages 6-106 to play together. From 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. at Fletcher United Methodist Church. A Christ-centered faith and arts adventure to bring generations together. Young and old will experience a connection to God by creating with one another through music, pottery, visual arts, storytelling, liturgical dance, and balloon art. Call 254-8564, ext. 303, to register or for more information. A parent or grandparent must accompany children. Child care provided for younger children. Cost is $5 per person or $20 per family max. Sponsored by the Asheville District of the United Methodist Church.

La Leche League meeting

Garden Science Investigation

Join Osondu Booksellers for a pirate adventure. Meet Captain Teach, hear real pirate tales and take home some pirate booty. At 2 p.m. at 184 N. Main St., Waynesville. For more information, call 456-8062 or visit osondubooksellers.com.

Garden Science Investigation at the Botanical Gardens is a series designed to engage kids in observation and investigation of living and nonliving things using their senses and simple tools. Classroom and around the garden activities will engage kids, ages 5-11, in each program. This month’s topic is worm composting and soil. Learn about soil, what it is made of

Rummage sale Beth Israel Congregation is hosting a rummage sale, 8 a.m.-3 p.m., at 229 Murdock Ave. near Weaver Park in North Asheville. Bargains galore for kids and families.

Starts Sept. 22

La Leche League of Asheville and Buncombe hosts a meeting at 10 a.m. the third Saturday of the month at Awakening Heart Chiropractic, on the corner of Merrimon Avenue and Hillside Street, across from Claxton Elementary. Enter on Hillside and park in the back of the building. All ages of nurslings and their moms are welcome. For information, call Susan at 628-4438 or 280-2895, Jane at 670-1032, Jenn at 7133707 or Adrienne at 713-1534.

Pirate Day

Scary storytelling Historic Johnson Farm features storytellers Virginia “Blackfeather” Thompson, Jerry and

After-School Blues Buster

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Bring your young Jedi to the Fairview Library on Sept. 20 for a “Star Wars” party. Ingrid McNair, and Lisa Whitfield from 7-9 p.m. Children will roast marshmallows. Hot dogs and beverages will be available for purchase. Adults $4, Students K-12 $3, preschool free. Call 8916585 for more information. The farm is at 3346 Haywood Road, Hendersonville. For more information, visit historicjohnsonfarm.org or call 8916585.

‘Star Wars’ celebration Come to the Fairview Library at 2 p.m. and be transported to a galaxy far, far away. Take part in a variety of activities that bring the “Star Wars” universe close, and view a short video about the transformation of Anakin Skywalker to Darth Vader. Hone your Jedi reflexes and boost your metachlorian count with doses of Yoda Soda and C3P-Os. For ages 8-12. Attendees must be accompanied by an adult. Fairview Library is at 1 Taylor Road. Call 250-6485 for information.

Starts Sept. 21 YouthSpark Creativity Class Let your child’s spark shine in a fun and interactive expressive arts class that builds friendships and

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A three-week expressive arts group to offer a creative way to unwind, express emotions that can build up in school and give children the feelgood boost they need to end the day on a high note. At Spark Creative Wellness Studio, 70 Woodfin Place, Asheville. For 9- to 13-year-olds from 4-6 p.m. Mondays, Sept. 22, 29 and Oct 6. Visit sparkcreativewellness.com or call Jessica Chilton at 301-5172.

Sept. 23 Pardee parenting classes Classes at Pardee Health Education Center in Blue Ridge Mall, Four Seasons Boulevard, Hendersonville. Call 692-4600 for information. Classes are free. Registration is not required. Infant care class: Learn the basics of infant care. From 6:30-8 p.m. Prime-time with a pediatrician: Learn from a local pediatrician what to expect with a newborn in your home from 8-9 p.m.

Starts Sept. 23 Sparkle Sisters workshop A three-week expressive arts workshop offers girls, ages 9-13, a supportive place for selfexpression, overcoming “girl drama,” sparking friendships and encouraging healthy self-esteem. Runs 4-6 p.m., Sept. 23, 30 and Oct. 7, at Spark Creative Wellness Studio, 70 Woodfin Place, Asheville. Visit sparkcreativewellness.com or call Jessica Chilton at 301-5172.

calendar of events

Sept. 24 Kids book club Join the organizational meeting for Weaverville Library’s new kids club. Programs will range from crafts, author talks, book discussions and films and more. At 4 p.m. the fourth Wednesday of the month at 41 N. Main St. Call 250-6482 for more information.

Sept. 25 Polymer clay class Learn the basics of working with polymer clay, which can be used to make flower designs, beads, necklaces and more. Bring a flower design that you would like to mold. Register by Sept. 22. At 9:30 a.m. at Buncombe County Parks and Recreation offices, 40 Mount Carmel Road, Asheville. Cost is $15 per person. To register or for information, call Grace Young at 250-4265.

Women’s group Process group for professional women, focusing on fulfilling relationships, personal growth, spirituality and balance. At 6-7:30 p.m. at Positive Transformations, 107 Merrimon Ave. Call Sheila McKeon at 808-2860 for details.

Sept. 26 Fall festival North Buncombe Elementary School will hold its annual fall festival, Mountain Living, from 5-9 p.m. with food, booths, games, art tiles to decorate and inflatables. The school is at 251 Flat Creek Church Road in Weaverville.

Parents night out Spend an evening under the big top at this circus-thumbed night out with singing, dancing, acting, crafts and refreshments. Cost is $20 for first child, $15 per additional child. Reservations and advance payment required. Ages 2-10. At Asheville Arts Center Main, 308 Merrimon Ave. For information, call 253-4000 or visit ashevilleartscenter.com

Sept. 26-28 Flat Rock Music Festival The three-day festival marks its 13th year with performances by Sonny Landreth, The Iguanas, The SteelDrivers and others. Children’s activities include a Kids Village with crafts, music, face painting and more, and water play at the waterfront. For more information, visit flatrockmusicfestival.com.

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calendar of events Continued from Page 61

Saving Our Kids, Healing Our Planet: Green Expo A green expo at Charlotte Convention Center focused on how to raise healthy children in a toxic world. It will bring together renowned medical doctors, authors, activists, celebrities, chefs, nutritionists and more to provide credible information on naturally oriented, yet scientifically based options for people seeking effective ways to prevent and reverse the health and behavioral problems that are negatively affecting our children. Presenters include New York Times science writer and author David Kirby; environmentalist and activist Deirdre Imus; actress and autism activist Holly Robinson-Peete; Dr. Elizabeth Mumper, the medical director of the Autism Research Institute; ADHD expert David Stein, and more. The Planet Kids area will feature live world music, storytellers, puppet shows, yoga demonstrations, snacks and more. Cost is $10 if registered at SOKHOP.com or $12 at the door. Children are free.

Sept. 27 Craft fair Sardis United Methodist Church, at the corner of Brevard and Sardis roads, will sponsor a craft fair 9 a.m.-4 p.m. A 10x10 outside space is available for $25. The fair is free and open to the public with food and drinks for sale, bluegrass music and performances by local square dance teams. For information, call Carole Campbell at 667-4861 or e-mail carolecampbell@charter.net.

Marching band festival Land of the Sky Marching Band Festival at Enka High School stadium, behind Enka Middle School. Cost is $5 for adults, $3 for students. For more information, call 670-5000 or visit enkaband.com.

Rummage sale Asheville Catholic School is hosting a sale, 7 a.m.-1 p.m., with 100+ families. Children’s clothes, toys, household items, books, DVDs, sporting goods, toys, furniture, antiques, appliances and more will be fore sale. At the ACS School Gym, 12 Culvern St., off Beaverdam,

behind the Merrimon Avenue Ingles. All proceeds support the school. Cash only. For more information, call 252-7896.

and healer Dielle Ciesco. From 2-5 p.m. at The Light Center in Black Mountain. Tickets are $30, or $50 per couple. Adults only. For more information, visit urlight.org or call 667-2967. For directions, call 669-6845.

Through Sept. 28

Scarecrow Festival and Craft Show

Toys: The Inside Story! The Health Adventure is the first museum in the country to show this exhibit all about toys. It includes 12 different hands-on stations illustrating the simple mechanisms commonly found in toys, and lets visitors create their own toy-like combinations of gears, pulleys, linkages, cams, and circuits. Runs through Sept. 28. For more information, visit TheHealthAdventure.org.

Buncombe County Parks & Recreation is hosting its fourth-annual Lake Julian Scarecrow Festival at Lake Julian, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For information, contact Grace Young at 250-4265.

Starts Oct. 10 Make herbal medicine

Oct. 3-5 Southeast Women’s Herbal Conference A weekend gathering for women with inspiring workshops, food and sisterhood in Black Mountain. Child care for ages 2-10 and Young Women’s Circle for ages 11-17 are available. For information, visit sewisewomen.com.

Oct. 3 Preschool Play Date Formerly known as Fabulous Fridays, The Health Adventure’s Preschool Play Date series provide children 3-6 with a unique and safe venue to play and a chance for parents, grandparents, and caregivers to socialize and bond. Includes hands-on take-away activities led by an educator from the museum. Free for members or with museum admission. The Preschool Play Date series is 10:30-11:30 a.m. every first Friday of the month. No registration in required. Call 2546373 or visit thehealthadventure.org.

Oct. 4-5 Autumn at Oz Celebration Follow the yellow brick road to the 15th annual Autumn at Oz celebration atop Beech Mountain. The celebration pays homage to the Land of Oz theme park that operated on Beech Mountain

WNC PARENT PHOTO

The Erwin High School marching band performs at the 2007 Land of the Sky Marching Band Festival. This year’s festival is Sept. 27. from 1970-80 and allows visitors to take a nostalgic stroll through Oz while meeting Dorothy and friends. Park in the town of Beech Mountain and take a hayride or shuttle to Emerald Mountain. Autumn at Oz includes photo opportunities with the characters, a mini Oz museum, magic shows and face painting. Food will be for sale. Runs 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tickets are $15 per person and include parking, hayride or shuttle, and admission. A portion of the proceeds goes toward restoring the park for future celebrations. For information, call the Beech Mountain Chamber at 800-468-5506 or visit beechmtn.com.

Oct. 4 Mommy Concerts Celebrate the universal experience of birth and come away illuminated and inspired at the area’s first performance of The Mommy Concerts with poet and lyricist Candace Gale and vocalist

WNC PARENT I SEPTEMBER 2008

Experience the ancient art of creating herbal remedies first-hand with Toyia Hatten. Leave each class with a new remedy and create your own herbal medicine chest. Classes run 6-8 p.m. Fridays, Oct. 10-Nov. 21, at Appalachia School of Holistic Herbalism. Cost is $30 per class or $150 for all six sessions. Topics are: magical meads, Oct. 10; oils, salves and lotions, Oct. 17; herbal potions, Oct. 24; syrups and honeys, Nov. 7; herbal baths and body care, Nov. 14; and cooking with herbs, Nov. 21. For more information, call 350-1221 or visit herbsheal.com.

Oct. 10-Jan. 25 ‘Curious George’ The Health Adventure’s new exhibit is based on the beloved “Curious George” books and the new “Curious George” PBS Kids series. The exhibit will pique visitors’ curiosity and engage children in key math, science and engineering experiences. Like George, visitors will let inquiry and curiosity be their guides as they explore and experiment with new ideas, challenges and materials. Exhibit messages will emphasize the critical role parents and caregivers play in supporting children’s early learning. For more information, visit thehealthadventure.org.

Oct. 13 Home-school program Take a “Woodland Walk-A-Bout.” In celebration of

calendar of events autumn, take an interactive stroll on one of Chimney Rock Park’s five trails. From 10:30 a.m.-noon. Cost is $12 per student, $11.50 for parents (passholders are $7 for students and free for parents). Call 800-277-9611 to register.

Asheville Music School lessons

Through Oct. 25

Swimming lessons

The Asheville Music School is now enrolling new students for fall. Private lessons, all instruments, ages and voice ranges. Fall music classes also available. Call 252-6244 or visit ashevillemusic.org.

Learn to swim at the YWCA of Asheville. Red Cross certified swim lessons are now in session and can be joined at any point in the session. Classes are offered for babies, preschoolers, youth, teens and adults. Call 254-7206, ext. 110, for more information or sign up at the YWCA, 185 S. French Broad Ave. For more information, visit ywcaofasheville.org.

‘Kidding Around Downtown’ See how many goats you can find on the sidewalks of Hendersonville, which is putting on a public art display featuring outdoor fiberglass goat sculptures on the sidewalks of Main Street.

Asheville Area Music Together

Oct. 25

Try a free demo class of Music Together, an internationally recognized early childhood music program for children age 0-5 and the adults who love them. Each class is a rich, playful, family experience full of new and traditional songs and chants. Music Together applies the latest research in early childhood music development to the program. Fall session begins in September in Asheville, Black Mountain and Weaverville. Contact Kari Richmond at karirichmond@charter.net or 545-0990. More information at AshevilleAreaMT.com or musictogether.com

Fertility awareness class Learn about fertility awareness for pregnancy achievement or natural birth control with Corinna Wood. Fertility awareness is a scientifically validated day-to-day method of determining when in a woman’s cycle she is fertile. This information can be used to plan or prevent a pregnancy, or simply to learn more about your body’s cycles. Registration required. Sliding scale $75-$95. From 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Appalachia School of Holistic Herbalism. Call 3501221 or visit herbsheal.com.

YWCA After-School Program Registration is now open for the YWCA of Asheville’s five star-rated after-school program for kindergarten to sixth grades. Hours are 26 p.m. Monday-Friday at the YWCA, 185 S. French Broad Ave. The YWCA provides transportation from area schools. Participants receive homework assistance and participate in enrichment activities like swimming lessons, gardening, dance and field trips. Space is limited. Cost is $67/week for YWCA members and $104/week for nonmembers. Pick up an application at the YWCA or download it from ywcaofasheville.org. The YWCA After-School Program is open on teacher workdays, snow days and select holidays. For information call 254-7206, ext. 111.

Nov. 14 ‘Playhouse Disney Live! on Tour’ Join characters from Playhouse Disney TV shows like “The Little Einsteins,” “Handy Manny” and more in this live show. At 6:30 p.m. at Asheville Civic Center. Tickets start at $15. Visit ticketmaster.com or call 251-5505.

Ongoing Asheville Creative Music School lessons Aimed toward those who favor the post-conventional, holistic approach to making music and developing a personal style and love for their instrument, the Asheville Creative Music School is now open in West Asheville, at 178 Westwood. Percussion, brass, winds and strings are taught in a musically progressive environment. Seven-week session starts Sept. 15. First lesson is free. For more information, visit ACMS.vpweb.com or call 333-2000.

Preschool classes Merrimon Avenue Baptist Church PMO is enrolling for its preschool classes for ages 3-4. Classes run 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Cost is $15 per day. The school is also offering a structured prekindergarten class focusing on kindergarten readiness, which will be taught by a licensed birth-tokindergarten teacher. This classroom will be open for students who will begin kindergarten in the fall of 2009. Call Sara Calloway at

Asheville Hiking Moms Myrakle Hammond swings from the jungle rings at the YWCA After School Care program. The program continues to enroll students for the new school year.

Join a group of moms that takes babies and kids hiking in Asheville and surrounding areas. Most of the hikes are between two to six miles in length with one or two breaks along the way to eat and let the kids play or swim. Most hikes take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays. For more information please e-mail avlhikingmoms@gmail.com.

252-2768, ext. 315, or e-mail scalloway@mabaptist.org for more information.

Kindermusik classes

PHOTO BY BILL SANDERS

Spanish immersion program Immersion programs are the most effective way to teach children Spanish. We offer classes taught by professional native speakers that are age and grade appropriate. Kids will learn naturally, in small, age-appropriate classes taught by professional native speakers, through fun experiences, music, visual aids, books and games. Enrollment is year-round. For children ages 3-12, with discounts for siblings. Contact Claudia McMahan at 681-0843 or Beatriz Riascos-Socarras at 687-9620 or e-mail mm_spanish@hotmail.com.

Fall registration is open for children newborn-6 years with their parents. Four unique curricula promote creativity, listening skills, self-esteem, problem solving, vision and focus, language and literacy, hand-eye coordination, emotional and social skills, balance and coordination — all the while providing a joyful introduction to music. For information, contact Lora Scott, 649-2320 or allsoulscathedral.org/ministries/servanthood/kindermusik (Biltmore); Beth Magill, 298-9350 or magills.net (Asheville); Patty Lee Book, 253-4000 or ashevilleartscenter.com (Asheville); Linda Boyle-Smith, 768-9625 or kinderwithlinda.com (Mills River); Debra Huff, 206-3145 or 689-1128 (Madison County); or Sonja Gorsline, 883-8538 (Brevard).

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Solutions for puzzles on Page 50

Zachary Wetzel Fairview

Jasmine Mattson Asheville

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