On Exhibition April 9 - September 2016
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APRIL
MODERN MOM 16 FASHION CAPSULE REVEAL 18 GET INTO A STRESS-FREE FLOW
SAVVY FAMILY 21 PICNIC & PLAY 24 BOSS MOMS 31 OUTSHINING THE SPECTRUM 34 THE SAVVY GUIDE TO A PERFECT SMILE KENNEDY IS FAITHFUL CHICS' NO. 1 FAN!
IN EVERY ISSUE 6 EDITOR’S NOTE 12 NEWS & NOTES 38 BAG CHECK
ON THE COVER: ANNA DICKINSON WITH HER DAUGHTERS EVELYN AND MARY HARMON. PHOTOGRAPHY BY LILY DARRAGH.
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APRIL 2016 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM
11501 Financial Centre Parkway Little Rock, Arkansas 72211 501. 223.3322 • 800.880.3322 www.PinnaclePointeHospital.com
This month, I got to meet some amazing, fearless women who are carving their own paths all while being fantastic moms. We introduce three of these super moms in the Boss Moms feature, which focuses on business-owning mothers who are blazing trails in their fields. Crystal Perkins is full of love and inspiration, which shines through in her apparel company, Faithful Chics Boutique. Rachel Haynes launched a wedding planning business straight out of college, and is opening her own wedding venue while raising 18-month-old Nora Cate. Anna Dickinson opened up White Goat the same year she had her first child, raising her shop and her baby together—two of the most difficult jobs of her life. I am in awe of the determination and strength of all of these women and know you will be, too, once you read their fascinating stories starting on page 24. I love tales of moms and kids fearlessly staring down the odds. Stacy Kinzler and her daughter, Mabry, offer an honest, heartfelt take on their journey with autism in “Outshining the Spectrum,” on page 31. I know Mabry’s awe-inspiring spirit and creativity will have you rooting for her right along with us! While it’s great to be a conquer-the-world kind of mom, we all need time to relax, de-stress and reinforce our mental well being. I began practicing yoga a little over a year ago, and I can’t cheerlead enough for its benefits. Strength, flexibility and most important—the tools you need to keep a calm state of mind in those moments when you feel like you are about to go over the edge. Instructor Stacey Faught walks us through a few tips to get you through that next board meeting or screaming car ride to school, because a calm mom is a true boss mom.
Yoga is a great way to center yourself and the kids!
Namaste,
Amy Gordy (an aspiring boss stepmom) Editor, Savvy @SavvyAR
We practice yoga at home with Peaceful Piggy Yoga by Kerry Lee MacLean.
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APRIL 2016 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM
PHOTOGRAPHY: LILY DARRAGH
A CALM MOM IS A TRUE BOSS MOM.
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Your toddler is constantly on the move. She is
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Visit our website to find quality child care that provides a safe environment and all the right stuff.
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PUBLISHER REBEKAH HARDIN | rebekah@arktimes.com EDITOR AMY GORDY | amy@arktimes.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR MANDY KEENER | mandy@arktimes.com ADVERTISING DIRECTOR ELIZABETH HAMAN | elizabeth@arktimes.com NEW BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT BLAKE HANNAHS | blake@arktimes.com SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE LESA THOMAS | lesa@arktimes.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES MANDE JILL CORBETT | mandejill@arktimes.com RHONDA CRONE | rhonda@arktimes.com ADVERTISING TRAFFIC MANAGER ROLAND R. GLADDEN | roland@arktimes.com ADVERTISING COORDINATOR JIM HUNNICUTT | jimhunnicutt@arktimes.com DIGITAL MEDIA PRODUCER BRYAN MOATS SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR LAUREN BUCHER | lauren@arktimes.com
501-315-4414
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS BRYAN MOATS | MIKE SPAIN | KEVIN WALTERMIRE PHOTOGRAPHER BRIAN CHILSON PRODUCTION MANAGER | CONTROLLER WELDON WILSON IT DIRECTOR ROBERT CURFMAN
Visit our website for information on services, upcoming events, and access to our resources! Kidsourcetherapy.com Services We Provide: •Early Intervention Services •Therapy Evaluations •Speech/Language Therapy •Occupational Therapy •Physical Therapy
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APRIL 2016 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE/OFFICE MANAGER KELLY LYLES BILLING/COLLECTIONS LINDA PHILLIPS CIRCULATION DIRECTOR ANITRA HICKMAN
ALL MATERIALS ARE HANDLED WITH DUE CARE; HOWEVER, THE PUBLISHER ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR CARE AND SAFE RETURN OF UNSOLICITED MATERIALS. ALL LETTERS AND PICTURES SENT TO SAVVY™ WILL BE TREATED AS INTENDED FOR PUBLICATION AND ARE SUBJECT TO SAVVY'S™ UNRESTRICTED RIGHT TO EDIT OR TO COMMENT EDITORIALLY. 201 E. MARKHAM ST. SUITE 200, LITTLE ROCK, AR 72201 501-375-2985. ALL CONTENTS ©2016 SAVVY™
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We are excited to be partnering with NITRO Circus and their SOLD OUT show at War Memorial! Come participate in our Mini Golf tournament & go-kart race for a chance to win tickets to the show!
contributors APRIL 2016
APRIL 16TH
Golf tournament starts at 10:30 AM Go-kart races start at 12:00 PM No Entry Fee, compete for just the price of the activity!
Come Be Part of the Fun!
www.bigrockfunpark.com 11411 Baseline Road, Little Rock (near Bass Pro Shops)
Call Us Today! 501-455-3750
AMY CARPER is going on her18th year as a photographer. She works in the commercial market as well as the private sector from her downtown Little Rock studio right in the middle of an exciting area. Her clientele consists of some of Arkansas’s most elite families and companies.
MELISSA TUCKER spends her days in marketing as a copywriter for the Sells Agency. When not at work, you'll probably find her at roller derby practice, on the playground with her kids or checking out too many books from the library.
LILY DARRAGH is a photographer in Little Rock. She studied photography at Parsons the New School of Design in New York. Currently working out of a photography studio in downtown Little Rock, Lily loves to shoot people and places unique to Arkansas.
ASHLEY PEEPLES & CARRIE HURLEY worked together to purge and simplify Carrie's wardrobe in a total closet cleanse. Ashley is a local fashionista, mother of two, and owner of clothing boutique Beige in Little Rock. Carrie owns The Rendezvous, an antique venue in Round Top, Texas, operates a local creative services company, and is the mother to a very active18-month-old.
10 APRIL 2016 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM
D
&
present the all-new, interactive exhibit where you can pet, groom Q feed the animals and learn all about AGRICULTURE!
OPENING APRIL 2
LITTLE ROCK ZOO ~ ONE ZOO DRIVE ~ LITTLEROCKZOO.COM
LIKE US!
Better Weight Management.
PUBL Savvy INSER April, MATE 03-11 CLIEN Arkan Hosp
Healthier, Happier Kids. Introducing the COACH program, the new streamlined obesity initiative from Arkansas Children’s Hospital.
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The Center for Obesity and its Consequences in Health (COACH) offers comprehensive prevention, treatment and maintenance of weight management issues in kids. With us, they’ll receive the care they need from the area’s most committed team – including our newly appointed Chief of Endocrinology, Jon Oden, MD. If you have concerns about your child’s weight, ask your primary care doctor for a referral to the COACH program at Arkansas Children’s Hospital.
For more information, visit archildrens.org/coach
ACH150009_EndocrAd_SAV_MECH_v2.indd 1
THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2016
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3/10/16 2:39 PM
NEWS & NOTES
THE LATEST FOR PARENTS & KIDS CULTURE
STYLE
Magic Springs will open its doors on April 9 and offer discounted admission on Saturdays and Sundays all month long. Spend the day exploring a great offering of kiddie rides and extreme rides including the Arkansas Twister and X-Coaster. During this promotion, admission is $15 plus tax each Saturday and Sunday in April. Park hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visit magicsprings.com.
GINGIBER’S ZOO ANIMAL BIRTHDAY CALENDARS
Gingiber creator Stacie Bloomfield designed these new calendars with children in mind. The classic black-and-white design features a parade of Gingiber zoo animals on every page that you will cherish for years to come. The calendar is 14 pages and 5-by-14 inches. Available at gingiber.com.
DID YOU KNOW? MEOW!
PURR CATFÉ GRAND OPENING
Indulge in some purr-therapy at this new cat café in Fayetteville. All ages are welcome to pet and play with the cats, all of which are available for adoption. The Purr Catfé works with local animal shelters to help find homes for all of their adorable kittens. They will open at 125 E. Township St., on April 6. Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Entry: $8 for adults; $4 for kids 5-12; kids 5 and under are free. Visit purrcatfeandlounge.com.
12 APRIL 2016 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM
APRIL IS A GREAT TIME FOR FUN, FAMILY-FRIENDLY FESTIVALS IN THE NATURAL STATE! Springfest, April 2, Little Rock Jewish Food and Cultural Festival, April 10, Little Rock 13th Annual Arkansas Literary Festival, April 14-17, Little Rock 52nd Annual Arkansas Folk Festival, April 15-16, Mountain View Toad Suck Daze, April 29-May 1, Conway
PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY GINGIBER, PURR CATFÉ AND MAGIC SPRINGS
DEAL ALERT!
TIME TO LOAD UP ON FRESH FRUITS & VEGGIES!
habitatcentralar.org/ReStore
habitatcentralar.org/ReStore 501.771.9494
501.771.9494
MARKETS
ARGENTA FARMERS MARKET
Verified Arkansas farmers and artisans selling products grown or made only in Arkansas. Hours: 7 a.m.-noon, each Saturday beginning April 2. 6th and Main St., Little Rock 501-831-7881, argentaartsdistrict.org/argenta-farmers-market
BERNICE GARDEN FARMERS MARKET
A Sunday market that only includes Arkansas growers and producers. Hours: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. each Sunday, May-Oct. 1401 S. Main St., Little Rock 501-617-2511, thebernicegarden.org
DOGTOWN FARMERS MARKET This new market, opening in North Little Rock next to the Laman Library Argenta Branch, will offer local produce and other goods, as well as special events throughout the season. Hours: 9 a.m.-1 p.m., each Saturday April 23-Oct. 29. 420 Main St., North Little Rock dogtownfarmersmarket.com
LITTLE ROCK FARMERS MARKET
This open-air farmers market beneath the River Market pavilions in Little Rock has a wide selection of produce, prepared food and crafts from around the state. Hours: 7 a.m.-3 p.m., each Saturday May 7-Sept. 24; 7 a.m.-3 p.m., each Tuesday May 3-July 6. 400 President Clinton Ave., Little Rock 501-375-2552, rivermarket.info CHECK OUT ARKANSASFOODANDFARM.COM FOR MORE ON LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS.
Every mother needs to know her children have a safe place to call home, and your donation will help make that happen for other moms in need. DONATE TO ReSTORE AND HELP HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF CENTRAL ARKANSAS BUILD HOMES FOR FAMILIES IN NEED, WHILE ALLOWING YOURSELF TO DESTRESS AND DECLUTTER YOUR HOME. • EVERYONE HAS CLUTTER, BUT FOR FAMILIES WITH KIDS, EXCESS “STUFF” DISRUPTS ORGANIZATION AND WASTES TIME. • DON’T HAVE TIME? THAT’S OKAY! THE ReSTORES WILL COME PICK UP YOUR DONATION. CALL 771-9494 TO SCHEDULE A PICK-UP. • YOU’LL ALSO RECEIVE A TAX DEDUCTION FOR YOUR DONATION.
Visit habitatcentralar.org/ReStore for a list of acceptable donation items. THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2016
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APRIL 2016
The Little Rock Zoo and Heifer International collaborate to bring the Arkansas Heritage Farm to the zoo grounds. The exhibit focuses on sustainable farming and shows how farm animals can provide life-changing benefits to families. It features interactive elements and a petting zoo that includes common farm animals as well as interesting heritage breed species such as Katahdin sheep, Blackberry sheep and heritage chickens and turkeys. The grand opening of this new permanent exhibit is April 2, and will include celebratory events all day long. Admission is $12.95 for adults; $9.95 for children 12 and under. Visit littlerockzoo.com.
Imaginate is a fun new exhibit at the Museum of Discovery that helps kids discover the innovator within. The exhibit will explore five broad themes of innovation: Dream Big; Expect the Unexpected; Collaborate or Compete; Try, Try and Try Again; and Look to the World. Tons of new interactive, hands-on elements will encourage kids to think outside the box. Admission is $10 for adults; $8 for children 12 and under. On display April 9 through Sept. 1. Visit museumofdiscovery.org.
PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY LITTLE ROCK ZOO, MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY, JUNIOR LEAGUE OF LITTLE ROCK AND ARKANSAS LITERARY FESTIVAL
DO THIS!
Throw a party! Awesome kidÃÊdeserve awesome party themes! Over 50 themes to choose from!
LITTLE ROCK
NORTH LITTLE ROCK
501.223.4929
501.978.3154
11218 N. RODNEY PARHAM RD.
14 APRIL 2016 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM
4822 N. HILLS BLVD.
Get your little bookworms to the Little Readers Rock event at the Hillary Rodham Clinton Children’s Library & Learning Center, hosted by Junior League of Little Rock and Head Start. This fun event features professional storytellers, puppeteers, snacks, music, crafts, pet therapy pups and more! Every child age 3-5 will receive a free book. April 9, at 9 a.m.; free admission. Visit cals.org.
The Arkansas Literary Festival aims to encourage a love for reading in children. There are many great events designed with kids and teens in mind including a session by Nikki Grimes, activity hour, concert by the Kinders and a play based on “How the Camel Got His Hump,” a short story by Rudyard Kipling. Children’s activities will be held at the Hillary Rodham Clinton Children’s Library and the Youth Services Department at the Main Library. Special events for teens include a reader’s theater led by North Little Rock High School and a teen poetry competition. Most events are free and open to the public. Visit arkansasliteraryfestival.org.
Spring is the perfect time to run Junior League of Little Rock’s Downtown Dash. This 5K/10K running event begins at 8:30 a.m., in front of the Junior League Building on Scott Street and will feature many downtown landmarks. Children can participate in a 1K fun run, Downtown Dash, Jr., which kicks off at 8 a.m. Visit jllr.org/downtowndash for more information.
THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2016
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A rack of clothes, shoes and accessories Hurley can mix and match for a wide variety of outfits.
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FASHION CAPSULE REVEAL
Carrie Hurley has finally recovered from the massive closet cleanse featured in Savvy’s March issue! Ashley Peeples, owner of Beige in Little Rock, helped her to downsize and organize her beautiful walk-in closet to create simple looks that are easily accessible for Hurley’s wardrobe needs. BY AMY GORDY PHOTOGRAPHY BY LILY DARRAGH
16 APRIL 2016 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM
We love these frayed Mother jeans!
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The two fashionistas examined everything in Hurley’s closet and asked the questions, “Do you love it?” and “Do you feel good in it?” Anything that didn’t pass the test got the unfashionable boot. Once they cleared through all the clutter, there were some holes that needed filling. After a trip to Beige for a few timeless, classic pieces, Hurley’s wardrobe was complete. Here are a few of her favorite highly-versatile looks that incorporate some of her own pieces and additions from Beige.
1. IN THE GROOVE
“I love this outfit, the flares really bring out the hippie in me,” Hurley said. This outfit easily transitions from day to night, when you remove the sheer cardigan to show off the blousy tunic underneath. On Carrie: Jenni Kayne tunic, Leo & Sage cardigan, Paige flare jeans, her own bag and earrings.
This neutral shirtdress is easy to dress up or down.
2. EASY BREEZY
This blush-colored shirtdress is comfy, breezy and can easily be dressed up for work. “It feels like it could withstand the Arkansas heat,” Hurley said. On Carrie: Leo & Sage dress, Jerome Dreyfuss gray leather purse, Rachel Comey mules, Steven Alan sunglasses.
3. CASUAL CHIC
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The perfect weekend wear, this outfit is causal, trendy and great for lazy days at home or on-the-go with the kids. “I love this outfit for just days where I’m running around town,” Hurley said. On Carrie: James Perse cotton drawstring pants, Rachel Comey mules, her own shirt.
4. ROCK 'N' ROLL
Hurley was coveting Peeple’s personal leather jacket during the closet cleanse, and she finally got one of her own to pair with a casual everyday outfit. “I feel a little rock 'n' roll in this! I would wear this all the time to meetings or just out for drinks,” she said. On Carrie: leather jacket by Mackage, Mother jeans, her own shirt and shoes. Finally, the perfect blazer! A little stretch makes it comfy.
5. BUSINESS CASUAL
Blazers are great to add a professional touch to any outfit. This look is good for casual meetings and afterschool functions. The cotton blazer has some stretch for a comfy yet polished look. On Carrie: A Line tunic, T by Alexander Wang stretch crepe blazer, Bird & Knoll scarf, her own jewelry.
6. SPORTY STYLE
Sneakers add instant sporty appeal to any outfit. Pair them with a blazer and shorts and you become queen of the urban jungle. This outfit is great when you are on-the-go, running errands, picking up kids, grabbing coffee with friends or exploring a new city. On Carrie: Emerson Fry slip-on leather sneakers, Alexander Wang shorts, T by Alexander Wang stretch crepe blazer, her own shirt.
THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2016
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If you are stressed to the max, you can be sure your kids feel it. Yoga and meditation are a great, easy way to manage your stress levels, feel better and get into the flow of a positive life change.BY KD REEP
Y
Stacey Faught, owner of Blue Yoga Nyla Sanctuary in North Little Rock.
“WHEN LIFE GETS CRAZY, YOGA CAN HELP KEEP YOU ON A STRAIGHT PATH.”
ou thought your life was busy with a career, home and hobbies. Then you had children. No one knows what busy is until they have added children to their lives. While children deepen and enrich a person’s life in wonderful ways, they can take their toll on patience and mental and emotional stability. “Mothers feel responsible for so many aspects of their family’s life,” said Stacey Faught, owner of Blue Yoga Nyla Sanctuary, assistant director of Balance Yoga and Wellness Teacher Training Program, and Lululemon ambassador. “They can’t carry that psychological weight without some relief. Learning ways to relax, let go of responsibilities, duties and to-dos puts moms on a more even keel, makes them better parents and, overall, a happier, more well-adjusted adult.” Blue Yoga Nyla is a warm and welcoming space for anyone who is interested in practicing yoga. In fact, you don’t need any yoga experience to practice at Blue Yoga Nyla. “Yoga is a way for the person doing it to focus on one thing and nothing else,” Faught said. “It frees you to connect with your spirit, which knows what is best for you and your life. When life gets crazy, yoga can help keep you on a straight path.” She explains that yoga is important today for any and every body, mind and spirit. “In the 15 years I have been teaching, I have taught five-year-olds to 100-year-olds, and the commonality between them is everyone is seeking a level of peace and calm. Raising children well is the hardest job parents ever take on. We deal with daily shortcomings and try to overcome the pressure of responsibility and failure, even when we have done our best. It is the most humbling role, just like yoga.” The practice of yoga has many health benefits, including managing stress, anxiety, lowering blood pressure, increasing flexibility and gaining mental and physical strength. There are different types of yoga, but all center on focus. Hatha yoga is great for beginners. The term “hath” means any practice combining poses, or asanas, with breathing techniques, or pranayamas, so you can develop flexibility and balance. Through this practice, you integrate a breath into every movement, which helps you to relax. Vinyasa is a faster practice of yoga that has the practitioner moving continuously, which helps her develop strength, flexibility and balance. Vinyasa can burn up to seven calories a minute so it is a workout and stress reducer in one. Bikram, or hot yoga, is practiced in a room heated to 105 degrees Fahrenheit with a 40 percent humidity level. The heat helps loosen muscles so the practitioner can stretch more fully. “The word ‘yoga’ literally translates to yoke, union or to bind,” Faught said. “The union of the breath with the movement of the body brings balance, clarity and conjunction to the body, mind and spirit. The actual physical part of the practice is designed to move ‘dukha’ or shadow debris, meaning stress, fatigue, anger, frustration, sorrow and feelings of being overwhelmed out of the body to make space for what we want to be filled with: love, compassion, grace, forgiveness. The movement of the practice is the vehicle to relieve our beings from what keeps us stuck, undone and broken.
*RESEARCH SUGGESTS MEDITATION MAY PHYSICALLY CHANGE THE BRAIN AND BODY, AND IMPROVE MANY
18 APRIL 2016 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM
PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY STACEY FAUGHT
GET INTO A STRESS-FREE FLOW
“Whatever type of yoga you practice, you’ll become more flexible, build muscle strength, increase your blood flow and decrease your blood pressure, which helps offset stress hormones,” Faught said. “The most important part of yoga is the focus on the present. You slow your breath, relax into the rhythm and put all thoughts aside.” The meditative aspect of yoga is particularly beneficial for mothers as it helps induce relaxation for practitioners who may be managing consistent stress. Meditation costs nothing, and anyone can do it. In fact, all you need is a place where you are comfortable, can close your eyes, relax your muscles and focus on a single thing. That can be your breath, an object like a flower or picture, or an image in your mind. The purpose is to maintain focus on one thing, eliminating distractions to let the mind reset. “The stresses parents and children face, and the pace a family keeps in general are enough to lead to mental and physical exhaustion,” Faught said. “Kids are enrolled in afterschool activities as well as multiple activities at night. Parents are running them back and forth, working all day, coming home to figure out dinner and homework, bath and bedtime. There is no Zen in that pace or schedule, and we can busy ourselves to breakdown. Yoga and meditation in particular help calm and settle the mind. In fact, with busy, stimulated brains and electronics, kids need calm minds and still bodies more than ever. Yoga and meditation can be done anywhere. You don’t need any equipment. All you need is a desire to learn and practice. The rest follows.”
HOW TO REDUCE EVERYDAY STRESS
Yoga and meditation are two ways moms can offset stress in their lives, but there are other habits mothers can incorporate into their routines to help reduce stress before it becomes unmanageable. They include:
SLEEP—parents may laugh at the thought of a full night’s sleep, but it’s needed in this stage of life more than ever. Being able to get sufficient rest allows the body to repair itself and recharge for tackling another day. DIET—it’s important that the fuel you put in your body is clean and provides the nutrients it needs to repair cells and stay strong. Plenty of fruit, vegetables, lean protein and water will give your body what it needs to fling off stress and keep going. EXERCISE—after a day of doing nothing but going from one appointment to another or running after a toddler, it seems counterintuitive that exercise is important to reducing stress. However, exercise helps the body manage the stress response and hormones to which it has been subjected, allowing your diet to work better and your sleep to be more sound. MASSAGE—it sounds decadent, but it is necessary for moms to feel appreciated, soothed and whole. Massage works toxins out of muscles and flesh, leaving you loose and relaxed. AROMATHERAPY—lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus and a host of other essential oils open the capillaries and help to relax, unwind and reset. JOURNALING—keeping a book for you and you alone where you can write anything you feel without fear of repercussion or judgment is a huge stress reliever. Consider journaling a safe place to put your fears and worries, then leave it behind. SOCIALIZING—nothing helps as much as to know you are not alone. Make time to meet with friends who are moms to commiserate, laugh and support each other. The camaraderie alone will have you feeling light again. HEALTH PROBLEMS.
*NATIONAL CENTER FOR COMPLEMENTARY AND INTEGRATIVE HEALTH THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2016
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HAPPY
TRAILS TO YOU.
Running, hiking, riding, floating or just wandering … whatever your pleasure, your Arkansas State Parks have trails galore. Wherever you are in Arkansas, there’s a state park nearby. So come on out.
Pinnacle Mountain State Park #ARStateParks
ArkansasStateParks.com My park, your park, our parks
We take your child’s education With quality public schools like Chenal Elementary, the education you want for your child is close at hand. Choose PCSSD schools with: • Test scores higher than other local districts • Millions in college scholarships awarded • Teachers with advanced degrees • Talented and gifted programs • State-winning sports teams
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501.234.2000 20 APRIL 2016 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM
CELEBRATE EARTH DAY AND ENJOY THE FLEETING SPRING WEATHER WITH A NATURE-THEMED SCAVENGER HUNT AND PICNIC IN THE PARK STORY & PHOTOGRAPHY BY KERRY GUICE
Turn the page for these Almond Butter & Strawberry Pinwheels & more!
THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2016
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Jett cools off after a big scavenger hunt! Tyce marks a square rock off the list!
W
hen the weather starts warming up, the kids and I can't get outside fast enough! We know spring doesn't last long in Arkansas and 90-degree days are soon ahead, so picnics at the park are on the top of our to-do list. We celebrate Earth Day, April 22, every year with a picnic and a fun naturethemed scavenger hunt. I reuse small paper produce bags from Whole Foods and glue the scavenger hunt lists to them, tying pencils to the handle. My kids and their friends had a ball helping each other mark off all the items as they collected them in their bags. I wanted to keep the list simple and chose items that would encourage the kids to engage with their surroundings and talk about what we see. We finished it off with a fun picnic, laid out on a blanket with colorful food and lots of laughs!
Violet found a wildflower!
Violet, Jett, Tyce and Archer discover nature during a fun scavenger hunt and picnic at the park. Borrow this great idea and healthy recipes for your next outing with the kids!
22 APRIL 2016 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM
ALMOND BUTTER & STRAWBERRY PINWHEELS Makes 24 pinwheels
2 large flour tortillas (white or whole wheat) 1/3 cup almond butter (add a tablespoon of peanut butter if it's hard to spread) 1 cup sliced strawberries Spread the almond butter in a thin layer evenly over the whole tortilla, then line the sliced strawberries in one even row at the top 1/3 of the tortilla. Carefully fold the top of the tortilla over the strawberries, and roll all the way up, being careful to keep the strawberries tightly rolled without tearing the tortilla. Repeat with second tortilla. Let sit 2-3 minutes to let the almond butter stick to the tortilla, then carefully slice the rolls into ½ inch pinwheels, wiping the knife clean in between slices. Serve cool. The pinwheels taste like a PB&J without all the sugar you'll find in jam!
we
all about wellness
With warmer temperatures and longer days, there is an excellent opportunity to increase your family’s outdoor activities. “Incorporating outdoor activities into the routine can help a family spend quality time together and get healthier,” said Shreelekha Nallur, M.D., a family medicine specialist at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS).
WHOLE WHEAT BANANA MUFFINS Makes 24 mini muffins or 12 regular muffins
1 large overripe banana ¼ cup melted butter 1 large egg ¾ cup milk 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 cup whole wheat flour
½ cup oats ¼ cup sugar 1 teaspoon baking soda 2 teaspoons baking powder ¼ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon cinnamon ¼ cup dark chocolate chips
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray muffin tin with cooking spray. In large bowl, mash banana with the melted butter. Add milk, egg and vanilla and stir to combine. In separate bowl, combine all dry ingredients except chocolate chips. Add banana mixture to flour mixture, and carefully combine. Fill muffin tins 2/3 full and sprinkle the tops with the dark chocolate chips. Bake 12 minutes. Sprinkling the chocolate chips on top of the muffins make them look like a special treat without having to add too much chocolate to the batter, keeping it healthier.
VISIT thesavvymoms.com for a printable scavenger hunt list & additional recipes.
No matter your location, fun, inviting outdoor adventures are never far away. Here are a few examples to try: Visit a Local Farmer’s Market. This can be a fun activity that might also spark your child’s interest in a new fruit or veggie. If you live close enough, walk to the market for exercise and more quality time together. Go for a Hike. Arkansas has an ample number of state parks with multiple hiking trails to enjoy the great scenery of the Natural State. Pick a nearby park as a family and set out for adventure. Picnic at the Park. Pack the kids’ favorite snacks and foods for an afternoon at your go-to local park. Bring along a football or Frisbee to add in a fun activity to the outing. Every family has different interests and passions. The important thing is to find engaging activities everyone will enjoy.
For an appointment, call 501-686-8000 UAMShealth.com/centerforprimarycare
THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2016 UAMS April advertorial Savvy.indd 1
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Evelyn and Mary Harmon add to White Goat's art collection.
BOSS MOMS
These three Central Arkansas women have mastered the delicate balance of owning a successful business and being amazing moms. Read how these dynamic ladies were able to boldly follow their dreams by building businesses from the ground up, all while holding the demanding, yet rewarding title of “Mom.” BY AMY GORDY PHOTOGRAPHY: LILY DARRAGH & BRIAN CHILSON
24 APRIL 2016 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM
THE INSIDE SCOOP with ANNA
Anna Dickinson was content as a newlypregnant art teacher when her sister-in-law Eleanor decided they were going to open up a home décor boutique. “We were both artists and had a similar quirky, edgy taste. Eleanor came to me and said, ‘Let’s open a store,’ so we started researching and setting up. It took us about a year before we opened the doors at White Goat,” Dickinson said.
White Goat is full of chic home décor. It’s a one-stop-shop in the Heights for all your French-country-vintage styling needs. “We finally opened the store when my first daughter, Evelyn, was 6 months old,” Dickinson said. “The store is like a twin to Evelyn, like another baby I had at the exact same time.” Raising a newborn baby and a newborn shop was a difficult task, but Dickinson was able to do it with the help of her sister-in-law— who is now no longer a part of White Goat—and because of her passion and drive to make it work. “It was great fun, and I wouldn’t have done it any other way.” As a toddler, Evelyn spent a lot of time at the store and was surely glad when Dickinson and her husband, Thomas, added another little shopgirl, Mary Harmon, to the mix. “I had my second baby three years after Evelyn, and was back at work five weeks after giving birth. It was really a lot to take on at that point, but I have some great employees who pitched in, some of which have been with me since the beginning.” Now that the girls are older, it’s much easier for Dickinson to balance work and family time. “The girls love coming to the store and playing shop and getting into the paints. Evelyn plays interior designer and rearranges the furniture when she thinks it needs it.” No matter how busy she’s gotten, Dickinson has always made a point to stop and remind herself that “it’s always going to be there tomorrow.” Making time for her family is a priority, no matter how overwhelming things get with her business. “I get frustrated that I can’t get it all done in a day. There may still be invoices to pay and other ends to tie up, but sometimes I just want to go home and be with my family. I remind myself that it’s OK if I don’t get it all done, because the work will all be here tomorrow.”
RECALL AN INSTANCE WHEN YOU HAD TO SACRIFICE SOMETHING IN YOUR CAREER FOR MOTHERHOOD. The biggest sacrifice in my entire career was closing my second White Goat location. The Conway location was actually doing fine—my family was not. It was too much for all of us. One store is an incredible amount of work. Two stores is impossible, at least it was for me. Two locations were too much for me to manage alone and be the mother and wife I wanted to be. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE ANY MOTHER WITH A DREAM OF STARTING A BUSINESS? Make sure you have a wonderful support system. In business, things are unpredictable. I am so grateful to have the support of my husband and my parents. They are more than willing to step in and help with the kids. Running a business is hard and becomes very emotional at times due to your personal connection with what you have created. It is nice to have someone that understands that aspect of your journey. WHAT’S BEEN THE HARDEST THING ABOUT ENTREPRENEURSHIP? That you cannot always leave it at work. It follows you everywhere you go—the beach, Europe, the hospital, the grocery store— everywhere. No one else is going to make sure your business is taken care of except for you. WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST FULFILLING THING ABOUT BEING YOUR OWN BOSS? Getting to be with my children on my own time. I can be with them when they are sick without having to call in and find a sub. I can take them to all of their doctor appointments. I can bring them to work with me when needed! I also love knowing that something I have worked so hard
for and built from the beginning is successful. WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN IT’S JUST “ME TIME?” I love to watch TV! I hate to admit this but it’s true! I also am a sucker for spending alone time at local coffee shops. Then there is always the gym. Yes, I am a gym rat. I love when it’s my music, the weight room and me. WHO WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN YOUR MENTOR OR ROLE MODEL? My dad has owned his own business for 30 years. Growing up, he worked so hard to provide for his family and now has a very successful business himself. I have always been told I am just like my dad. I guess it’s true in more ways than one! WHAT IS NEXT FOR YOUR BUSINESS? So much is happening at White Goat. We are always growing and expanding in every way we can think of. White Goat has a huge announcement coming soon! Stay tuned for the great news! WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST PARENTING ACHIEVEMENT? Just the fact that I created and gave life to two wonderful little girls whom I would not change one thing about. They are the most precious humans I have ever been around. We laugh and cry and hug and kiss. There is so much life in our house, and for that I am most grateful. That alone is a great achievement. WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO? My favorite quote is one by Vincent Van Gogh and one that I live by, “If you hear a voice say ‘you cannot paint,’ then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced.” Sometimes it is hard not to listen to that inner voice or that person telling you it is not possible. It IS possible. THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2016
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Kennedy sorts T-shirts at her mom's Little Rock boutique.
26 APRIL 2016 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM
THE INSIDE SCOOP with CRYSTAL RECALL AN INSTANCE WHEN YOU HAD TO SACRIFICE SOMETHING IN YOUR CAREER FOR MOTHERHOOD. In my career I’ve had to make a lot of sacrifices with time, because I was forced to be an employee and miss out on school activities, lunchtime, etc.! However, as a boss mom, I refuse to miss any of those memories.
With a little faith and a lot of determination, Crystal Perkins discovered the path to her successful apparel business. “This all began when I was going through a really tough time with my husband—we had lost our home and I had lost my job. My daughter, Kennedy, was 3 years old at the time. My faith grew stronger during that hard time, though, and God spoke to me and let me know that he was going to get me though this but that it was my responsibility to share my story and inspire others,” Perkins said.
After a year, she and her husband, Remondos, were back on their feet, and Perkins found new employment. She was at her new job when she was suddenly inspired with the idea for Faithful Chics Boutique. “God spoke again to me and I left work right then and went to the store to buy a notebook. I sat in my car in the parking lot for the rest of the day and filled the notebook with my first designs for Christian T-shirts. I decided to follow my dream, and in 2014 I launched Faithful Chics Boutique.” Perkins started her venture in her home office; she then quickly had to move to her living room, and finally—after a stint at the Outlets of Little Rock and Park Plaza Mall, she opened her own brick-and-mortar store in January 2016. She started with women’s T-shirts, and has since added a collection for men and children. “I am very family oriented, and I needed shirts for my daughter,” Perkins said. Kennedy, now 6, is Faithful Chics’ biggest fan. “She loves the company and even comes up with her own ideas. I get her feedback on color choices and designs. She keeps business cards in her purse at all times, and will pass them out at the grocery store and at school. She has such an amazing entrepreneurial spirit!” While getting her business off the ground was a balancing act for Perkins, she said that being in the new location has offered a great sense of stability, and allowed her family to have some breathing room. “It was a challenge to balance it all, but now I’m in my own space and have employees I trust to run the shop if I need to leave to get Kennedy from school or make dinner. I’m just so fortunate to have my family, and to get to live my dream of sharing faith and God’s love through apparel.”
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE ANY MOTHER WITH A DREAM OF STARTING A BUSINESS? Balancing is difficult so don’t beat yourself up for not having it all together. My husband always tells me that I can’t put 100 percent toward all my roles in one day. Sometimes I commit 80 percent to our business and 20 percent to being a mom, and vice versa. That doesn’t make you a bad mom—you’re just focused on working hard and providing a future for your little one. Also, I’m big on leading by example with Kennedy. I always allow her to be a part of the business. We share a workspace in the back office. She attends all my speaking engagements and vendor events. It’s so important to allow your children to be hands-on with your business. When she’s at the store with me I give her little tasks to complete, like cleaning the windows or folding shirts. Most times, she just sits at my desk and writes inspirational notes to the staff. WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST FULFILLING THING ABOUT BEING YOUR OWN BOSS? Being able to inspire and encourage others to have faith, dream big and work hard! Also, having the flexibility of creating my own schedule. One of the highlights of each day is leaving the office and picking
up Kennedy from school. One of the worst feelings in the world while working my career was depending on afterschool programs until I left work at 5 p.m. Now, I no longer have that problem. WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN IT’S JUST “ME TIME”? I read devotionals and pray. My “me time” also includes getting a manicure and pedicure. WHO WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN YOUR MENTOR OR ROLE MODEL? My cousin, Chirie Bazzelle, is my mentor and role model. Also my sorority sister, Theresa Timmons-Shamberger, is one of my role models. Two of my celebrity role models are Oprah Winfrey and Tyler Perry. WHAT IS NEXT FOR YOUR BUSINESS? I plan to launch my nonprofit organization called The FAITH Project. FAITH is the acronym for Fueling Awareness in the Homeless. The FAITH Project is designed to cater to the homeless community. So often those who live on the streets are forgotten. However, I feel that it’s important to meet people where they are, and take faith, God’s love, awareness, resources, support and inspiration to the streets. WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST PARENTING ACHIEVEMENT? Instilling Christian values, faith, inspiration, confidence and dreaming big into Kennedy! WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO? Walk by faith, pray about everything, worry about nothing, dream big, serve others and give!
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Rachel Haynes and baby Nora Cate plan the company's next big nuptials.
28 APRIL 2016 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM
THE INSIDE SCOOP with RACHEL WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE ANY MOTHER WITH A DREAM OF STARTING A BUSINESS? I would shadow someone for an extended period of time in your desired industry. There are a lot of idealistic misconceptions about small business, and really understanding the pressure and magnitude of owning a business is a wise place to start. If I didn’t have such a supportive husband and family, I truly couldn’t do it!
Rachel Haynes walked into college on her first day and asked, “Where do you put the wedding planners?” She knew at 19 that she was destined for planning romance. After being shuffled from the recreation department to hospitality, she graduated from the University of Arkansas, and this in-demand wedding planner began her journey. She started with an internship that turned into a three-year stint at Bates Events in Fayetteville before getting engaged and moving back home to Little Rock. “Once I was back home, my husband and I started doing weddings for people at our church,” Haynes said. Her husband, Ben, has been very supportive of the business from the beginning. “We just took the plunge and now we are in our ninth summer of wedding planning,” Haynes said. Rachel Haynes Events employs two additional event planners who are a big help to manage their busy lives—which became even busier when the couple welcomed baby Nora Cate in August 2014. “Everything has changed since we had a baby. I think the only reason we were able to make it work is because we had the business before kids. With small businesses—in the beginning stages especially—there are no hours, it is just all encompassing.” Haynes was adamant about not wanting to put Nora in daycare, and with the help of family members and home sitters, she’s been able to balance her ever-changing schedule, and become a dedicated mom. “Sometimes it’s chaos, and we have to take it one day at a time. But we make it work with lots of planning. Organization is like oxygen to me! I’m so fortunate to be able to work in a creative environment every day, and be part of this amazing family.”
WHAT’S BEEN THE HARDEST THING ABOUT ENTREPRENEURSHIP? Managing family life and work life. My husband and I decided from the very beginning that we would have boundaries around the business to protect family time. But so often, during wedding season especially, we are working long hours and seven days a week just to keep up. When you are in love with your family and feel like you have your dream job, it’s worth finding the balance! WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST FULFILLING THING ABOUT BEING YOUR OWN BOSS? I would say I find it so rewarding to customize each event we work on to every client. Our team works so hard to make sure no wedding is the same, and it truly expresses each individual girl. WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN IT’S JUST “ME TIME”? “Me time” is very rare! But I do make exercising and cooking a big priority! WHO WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN YOUR MENTOR OR ROLE MODEL? My mom. She knew how much I loved my business and she told me early in my pregnancy, “If your children aren’t your biggest
priority then they will be your greatest inconvenience.” I decided at that point my family would always come first! It’s a daily decision, but I’m so grateful for her wisdom. When your home life is well managed, it is much easier to be successful in business. WHAT IS NEXT FOR YOUR BUSINESS? Westhaven Event Center. My husband and I are opening a wedding venue! We are currently renovating a property we purchased in West Little Rock, and we will host weddings and receptions in a stone pavilion and creek-side reception studio! We are so excited about this new venture. WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEMORABLE PARENTING FAIL? I had a wedding four weeks after my daughter was born—tough lesson in realizing my new limits as a parent. WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST PARENTING ACHIEVEMENT? That we’ve made it this far! Being a working mom is the hardest and most rewarding thing in my life. I truly feel like being a mom is a daily self-improvement course. I am so grateful that through time in God’s word, He is refining me daily and allowing me to manage my family and our business. WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO? “And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:8.
THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2016
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Meet Leila. She came to Friendship Community Care and learned how to walk. We see success stories happen every day. To learn more about FCC programs for children with disabilities, please call us directly at 1-800-461-1793 or visit www.fccare.org. Now offering fun, healthy, educational opportunities at 11 locations throughout Arkansas.
30 APRIL 2016 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY AMY CARPER/COURTESY OF KINZLER
OUTSHINING the SPECTRUM
When Stacy Kinzler’s daughter was diagnosed with autism, the news felt bleak, and she took it hard. But she ultimately saw an opportunity to help others going through the same situation. BY MELISSA TUCKER
Stacy Kinzler and her daughter, Mabry, have had a truly remarkable journey.
S
tacy Kinzler began to suspect her daughter Mabry’s speech development was delayed around the time she turned 2. “She didn’t call me ‘mom.’ She didn’t call my husband ‘dad.’ She had about 30 words, and they were sometimes functional and sometimes not. So, she could point to a shoe and say ‘shoe,’ but she was just labeling an object,” Kinzler said. “She would use words accurately, but not to tell me what she was wanting or needing, which is really what communication is about at that age.” But as a first-time mother and the first in her family to have children, Kinzler didn’t have many toddlers in her circle for playdates or developmental comparisons. “I remember when Mabry was 18 months old, my sister, who is a speech therapist, suggested that I get a box with objects in it because at that time Mabry wasn’t really saying anything. And I remember thinking, ‘Why is she telling me to do that?’ So, at 18 months I wasn’t worried. At 2 years, I knew kids were supposed to be putting words together, and she wasn’t doing that,” Kinzler said. “I was beginning to get concerned because that was combined with her anxious tendencies. When I brought it up during a doctor visit, the pediatrician said, ‘She made eye contact with me. She’s probably just a late talker,’ and I took the doctor’s word for it because I wanted to.” Mabry’s speech delay continued, and so Kinzler took her in for a speech evaluation. “I remember going in for the results, and they categorized how severe her speech delay was with ‘mild, moderate, severe and profound,’ and hers was ‘profound,’” she said. “It was hard. It was really hard because I just wanted her to be OK. I didn’t want to be there.” Mabry was enrolled in speech and occupational therapy at Access Schools. Specialists prefer to wait until a child is older to declare an official diagnosis of autism, so it wasn’t until Mabry was 4 years old that the family received that diagnosis. “At that point, we knew autism was going to be her diagnosis, but getting that information helped us come to terms with it and give us a title for what we were working with,” Kinzler said. Though Mabry was on the right path, getting the guidance she needed, Kinzler still felt shaken and dazed following the diagnosis. THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2016
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"ONCE SHE BEGAN TO UNDERSTAND, SHE TOOK OFF, AND THAT'S WHAT'S SO AMAZING ABOUT HER."
(From the top) Mabry on her way to school. Smiles and snuggles with Mom and her Nana, Dena Noland. Mabry dressed as Amelia Earhart to present a report at school.
32 APRIL 2016 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM
The hard part for Kinzler was not knowing how much her daughter would or could progress. “The thing about autism is you don’t know if they’re going to be able to catch on to language or if they’re going to be able to cope with sensory issues, and that’s what was so hard for me,” she said. “When it comes to other disorders or disabilities, a lot of times you know what you’re dealing with, but with autism, you have to wait and see how they develop.” Mary Garlington, the regional Autism Spectrum Disorder classroom supervisor for Pediatrics Plus, supported Kinzler’s thoughts. “It really is a wait-and-see game,” Garlington said. “I’ve had experiences where I’ve watched a kid grow from 2 years old to 10 years old and there wasn’t much change over that time. But I’ve also had a kid who was nonverbal and now he’s got a huge vocabulary. You can’t give a cookie cutter prognosis for a kid with autism.” The disorder is so unpredictable, the treatment for each child essentially must be individualized, Garlington said. “There’s not a blanket diet. You can’t say this is going to work for all children with autism. Each child develops regulatory behavior that works for them. Hand clapping calms down Sally. Jim’s regulatory behavior is rocking. Suzie sucks her thumb. You have to really look at why are they doing that—if it’s because they’re stressed out, or auditorily sensitive. Or they can’t tolerate the visual stimulation that’s happening around them,” she said. For Mabry, once she began occupational and speech therapy, Kinzler saw large improvements in her vocabulary and language. “It all started to come together for Mabry as far as communicating. They used picture symbols, and she’s really visual, so being able to see the word with the picture really helped her understand what communication was all about,” she said. “And once she began to understand, she took off, and that’s what’s so amazing about her. All of the things that were such an issue for her in the beginning, they’re no longer an issue.” When Mabry was halfway through her kindergarten year at Access Schools, her teacher reached out to her parents to suggest it was time for Mabry to transition out of her classes. “Her teacher told us that she felt like she had taught Mabry all that she could, and it might be time for her to move on to another school,” Kinzler said. Mabry was excelling in reading and communication and was ready to take those skills and enter a typical classroom. “That was very exciting and very scary for us. Access had become our home and we were comfortable there, and she was now going to be expected to keep up in a typical classroom setting. That transition was bittersweet, but she’s really been thriving in her new school. Her teacher is aware of her diagnosis, but I don’t think the kids in the class know.” Mabry has had an amazing transformation. She is a creative, energetic, highly social 9-year-old. “She loves to write books at the dining table, and loves to swim and wants to join a swim team. She is well-liked by her classmates and really loves hanging out with her friends.” Being the dedicated mother to a daughter with autism, Kinzler also had to discover her own path—with its own difficulties—in her journey with Mabry. Soon after Mabry was referred to local specialists for autism spectrum disorder, Kinzler realized she needed help, too, and that many other local parents might also need the same mental health support she was lacking. “I realized on my own I need to go talk to someone because I was struggling, even though I had an amazing support system. My family was incredible. I had great friends. We had the funding we needed,” she said. “I had everything in place, and I still was depressed and lost and struggled, so for those parents who don’t have the support system they need, I don’t know how they do it.” Once she spoke with a therapist and began working on her own state of mind, Kinzler wondered what her next step should be.
“When Mabry started school, I was home all day by myself, and I always thought I would have two kids, but this whole situation was so challenging for me, I wasn’t sure if that was best,” she said. “So, I started to think about how could I use this experience to better myself, and it made me want to go back to school.” She ultimately landed in the mental health counseling program at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, where she’s in her second semester of practicum. “I hope to one day have a practice that specializes in helping families with a member who has special needs. Because I think their challenges are so unique and being there, I get it. So, to work with a therapist who already understands, and who can be empathetic to what parents are going through, would be great,” she said. “I would really love to serve those families.”
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
FRIENDSHIP COMMUNITY CARE is a nonprofit organization serving children and adults with disabilities. They offer developmental preschools, outpatient therapy, community outlets, employment opportunities for adults navigating life with a disability and much more. 800-461-1793; fccare.org. GOODWILL HORIZONS PROGRAM was created to serve young adults with autism spectrum disorder. It is a job training program that allows individuals to identify their strengths, learn new skills and prepare to find a productive niche in the workforce. 501-372-5100; goodwillar.org. KIDSOURCE THERAPY has been providing services to children and families since 1998. They focus on child development and provide support, education and assistance to families with children from birth to 21. 501-315-4414; kidsourcetherapy.com.
ACCESS ACADEMY is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit offering evaluation services, full-time education, therapy and training for individuals ages 0-35 with disabilities such as autism, learning disabilities and ADHD. 501-217-8600; accessgroupinc.org.
PEDIATRICS PLUS THERAPY SERVICES is a growing outpatient therapy facility based in Conway with satellite offices in West Little Rock and Russellville. Currently, Pediatrics Plus offers play-based occupational, speech and physical therapy, as well as help with sensory integration and language pragmatics. 501-329-5459; pediatricsplus.com.
EASTER SEALS ARKANSAS has pioneered efforts to meet the needs of children and adults with disabilities and families throughout Arkansas. 501-227-3600; ar.easterseals.com.
THE ACADEMY AT RIVERDALE is a K-12 school for students with developmental disabilities and multiple learning differences. 501-6636965; academyatriverdale.com.
Beautiful Smiles, Happy Children... That is Our Goal.
Services include: •ORTHODONTICS •CONSCIOUS SEDATION •HOSPITAL DENTISTRY
501.868.3331
14114 Taylor Loop Rd., Little Rock kitchenspediatricdentistry.com
Pediatric Dentistry THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2016
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A PERFECT SMILE
34 APRIL 2016 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM
A SMILE WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS
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A healthy smile and strong dental hygiene habits are crucial at any age BY BLAKE HANNAHS
f a pediatric dentist creates positive experiences in the beginning, amazing dental groundwork can be set both physically and mentally for the child. In a perfect world, a parent will begin taking their child to the pediatric dentist around age 1, and continue to schedule visits twice a year after, all the while enforcing healthy dental hygiene practices at home. When a child reaches age 7, the first adult molars and some of the lower incisors will begin coming in, and then a parent and pediatric dentist must make the vital decision on if an orthodontist is needed. “The most common age for kids to begin navigating the need for braces is age 7,” said Dr. Bryan Hiller, orthodontic specialist at Westrock Orthodontics. “This is a great age because their adult molars are coming in. There are so many things that can be done when children are younger to help intervene and make sure corrections don’t get too dramatic later on in life.” When a skilled pediatric dentist can recognize early on when a child needs to see an orthodontist, the corrections can begin earlier and end up saving a lot of time. “Parents will sometimes say that as young as 9, their children are aware of dental imperfections, sometimes due to other children pointing it out,” Hiller said. Making these corrections early can help boost a child’s self-esteem, especially if the issues can be addressed before they enter their teenage years. While any kid or teen will groan at the idea of getting braces, there are many options available today to make orthodontic correction a breeze. “When choosing what correction to use, ceramic and metal brackets are still the overwhelming patient preference. They both treat the same type of mouth collusion, and the technology has gotten so much better,” Hiller said. Invisalign, which hit the market in 2000, consists of clear aligner trays made of smooth, comfortable, BPA-free plastic that are worn over the teeth to subtly and gently move them. It is growing in popularity, and can be used when the severity of the correction is minimal. “If you’ve got intervention early on, your ability to use Invisalign is much greater. However, the thing with Invisalign is it’s great that you can take it out, but it’s also terrible that you can take it out, and it must be worn 95 percent of the time,” Hiller said. He’s found that, surprisingly, teens will keep up with it better if being allowed to use Invisalign is viewed as a reward option. Adults seem to have trouble remembering to wear the device. Correction doesn’t end when the braces come off. Post-braces care almost always involves either a permanent or removable retainer. Permanent retainers offer guaranteed placement and a no-loss factor, but they also provide a space for plaque to build. If your child opts for the permanent retainer, there will be a need to place extra focus on hygiene. “It would be nice if I could follow kids around all day long and tell them to wear their retainer, but we obviously can’t do that, and parents can’t either, so we advocate for permanent retainers,” Hiller said. No matter what age, you want your kids to have a healthy smile to allow them to be a happier and healthier person, and you must start with a good pediatric dentist to achieve this. “The best part about my job is that it doesn’t feel like a job. Having the ability to make an impact in another’s life is a such a privilege.” For more information on pediatric dentistry visit the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry at aapd.org.
DELIGHTFUL OFFICE DESIGN
It’s almost unimaginable to think a dentist office could be a fun place to go! One local pediatric dentist office is making huge strides toward creating a fun, exciting office that children want to visit. Kitchens Pediatric Dentistry in Little Rock invites kids to play while they wait in their interactive waiting room. Kids can watch TV on a small screen hidden within a tree, or explore a cave containing a game console. The fun forest-themed murals showcase all kinds of friendly creatures and woodland scenes for kids to enjoy. These characters follow them into the exam room on ceiling murals painted above the reclining chairs.
THESAVVYMOMS.COM | APRIL 2016
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BRUSHING IS FUN!
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There are many products available to make your child’s dental hygiene routine fun. Check out these suggestions from Westrock Orthodontics and Savvy!
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Choose a soft bristle toothbrush with a small head for kids!
1. ORAL-B TOOTHBRUSH Be sure to check the age range when selecting a toothbrush for your child. Oral B categorizes ages 2-4, 5-7 and 8+. Depending on the size of the mouth, most kids are ready to graduate to adult toothbrushes at 13.
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2. TOM’S OF MAINE FLUORIDE-FREE SILLY STRAWBERRY This fluoride-free toothpaste is designed with children’s taste buds in mind. It uses calcium and silica to gently clean, with real fruit flavors. When choosing toothpaste, opt for fluoride-free for little ones so they don't ingest. A fluoride version is also available.
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3. GUM SOFT-PICKS Kids and adults love these. They are great for use around braces and other orthodontic appliances. 4. DENTAL TAPE For kids without braces, dental tape works best. It has a flat, ribbon-like surface.
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5. KIDS CREST PRO-HEALTH JR. These character-themed toothpastes use a mild gel formula that is made to provide effective cavity protection, with a sweet, minty flavor.
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6. PLATYPUS ORTHO FLOSSER These are great for kids with braces. They fit under the braces, so no threading is necessary. This app turns brushing into a game!
DID YOU KNOW?
7. DISNEY MAGIC TIMER APP This free app encourages kids to brush for the full two minutes with interactive games and a sticker reward system for thorough brushing. Just scan any Crest or Oral-B Pro-Health Stages or Jr. product to use.
TAKING COUGH SYRUP BEFORE BED CAN INCREASE A CHILD'S CHANCES OF TOOTH DECAY. BECAUSE OF INGREDIENTS SUCH AS HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP, CITRIC ACID AND SUCROSE, BE SURE AND BRUSH AFTER TAKING MEDICINE.
36 APRIL 2016 | THESAVVYMOMS.COM
Be good
to your teeth!
DID YOU
VISIT THE DENTIST!
KNOW?
YOUR CHILD SHOULD HAVE HIS OR HER FIRST DENTAL VISIT AROUND THEIR 1ST BIRTHDAY.
Most children spend less than a minute brushing their teeth!
Bryant 501.315.7800
ensure he or she is brushing long enough.
1 OUT OF 5 KIDS,
Hot Springs 501.321.2211
ages 5-11, have at least one untreated decayed tooth.
Pine Bluff 870.534.1200
BRUSH!
+ Remember, swallowing too much fluoride can cause problems in the future. Teach your child to spit and rinse properly!
What about TEETHING?
TWICE A DAY
How to
BRUSH YOUR CHILD’S TEETH
1. Place the toothbrush alongside the teeth at a 45-degree angle to the gum line. 2. Gently move the brush in a small circular motion cleaning one tooth at time. 3. Brush all surfaces of the teeth using a circular motion.
+ Rub your child’s gums with your finger, a small cool spoon, or a frozen teething ring from the freezer. + If your child contracts a fever when teething, contact your physician.
...and thumb sucking?
Thumb sucking is normal and healthy! However, if it continues after permanent teeth have erupted, the habit can cause problems with the growth of the mouth and jaw.
4. Brush your child's tongue lightly to remove bacteria and keep breath smelling good. 5. Have your child rinse his or her mouth with water.
+ If your baby is bottle-fed, don’t let him or her go to sleep with a bottle. + Choose sugary foods less often.
51 MILLION SCHOOL HOURS HAVE BEEN MISSED DUE TO ORAL DISEASE.
Our LOCATIONS Geyer Springs 501.565.0444
+ Have your child brush for the duration of their favorite song to
your child is proficient in brushing alone.
PEDIATRIC DENTISTS
Rodney Parham 501.224.5548
{Recommended time: 2-3 minutes}
+ Monitor brushing closely until
James L. Bevans, DDS, MS Bryan K. Angel, DDS
+ Avoid sweets between meals. + Eat a variety of fruits and veggies.
FOOD & DRINK
Searcy 501.588.3144 Cabot 501.843.0200
LEAPKIDSDENTAL.COM
FLOSS! EVERY DAY
How to
FLOSS YOUR CHILD’S TEETH 1. Take about 18 inches of dental floss and wrap one end around each of your middle fingers. 2. Using your thumbs and index fingers as guides, gently slide the floss between two teeth. 3. Once at the gum line, pull both ends of the floss in the same direction to form a C shape against one tooth. Pull the floss tightly and move it up and down against one tooth. 4. Pull the floss against the other tooth and repeat the motion.
+ Steer clear of soda or pop. + Brush your child’s teeth with fluoride toothpaste after snacks, meals, and sugary drinks!
5. Repeat this for all of the teeth. Be sure to floss both sides of the teeth farthest back in the mouth.
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PHOTOGRAPHY: LILY DARRAGH/STYLING: MANDY KEENER
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NANCY NOLAN, commercial, advertising and editorial photographer in Little Rock. With son Henry.
A SCHOOL AND AN OUTPATIENT PEDIATRIC THERAPY CLINIC’ A place where children with developmental disabilities and learning differences can grow and develop in an environment tailored to meet their unique needs.
OUTPATIENT THERAPY SERVICES OCCUPATIONAL PHYSICAL • SPEECH
IF YOUR CHILD HAS BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH A DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDER: Autism • Asperger Syndrome Pervasive Developmental Disorder Down Syndrome • Apraxia Other Language Disorders Sensory Integration issues
Contact us today for more information or to schedule an evaluation for your child. (501) 663-6965 • AcademyAtRiverdale.com • 1600 Riverfront Drive, Little Rock, AR 72202 We work with a variety of private insurance providers as well as ARKids 1st, Medicaid, TEFRA and TRICARE.
Taking the
Next Step toward Recovery…
Detox & Acute Psychiatric Care Inpatient Hospitalization for Adults
Partial Hospitalization & Recovery 2 Week Day Program for Adults
No Cost Confidential Assessments
Private Insurance Certified
24 Hour Emergency Admissions
Monday-Friday 8:30am-3pm
Depression Screenings
4 Hours of Therapy Sessions Daily
Psychiatric Evaluation
Medication Management
Detox Program
Lunch & Refreshments Included
Counseling & Education
Guided Journaling
On Site AA/NA Support
Life Skills Seminar led by MD
Friend & Family Visitation
Local Transportation
Aftercare Planning
Outpatient Referrals Arranged
Please call us for more information on how we’re helping our patients create the life they’ve imagined!
Call Today. 1-800-264-5640 www.rivendellofarkansas.com - Located at 100 Rivendell Dr. - Benton, AR 72019