August 2013 - South Jersey MOM Magazine by Adam Nichols

AUGUST

Desperately Seeking

COLLEGE SAVINGS!

2013

Avoiding Allergy Attacks!

Picking a Pediatrician

BACK-TO-SCHOOL GUIDE!

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Table of Contents

pg 13 ol Back-to-Scho e Survival Guid mom 2 mom 6 Giving Savings the College Try

moms R women 2 8 Q&A with Mastering the Mommy Track Author, Erin Flynn Jay

features 13 Back-to-School Survival Guide

Dear Readers,

henever my kids complain of boredom during the summer, I remind them how precious this time is and to savor the endless, blissful amount of free time they have to do whatever they want. As an adult, these times seem fewer and farther between due to life’s roller coaster ride of ups and downs. Bills, deadlines, responsibilities, requests, demands, and relationships – we welcome the rare calm and relaxing, quiet times when and where we can find them. Those childhood summer memories stay with us and provide comfort when adulthood seems exhausting. Sometimes, being a kid is the best fun there is! Even though August masquerades as the lazy, hazy days of summer, it’s the perfect time to plan for the upcoming school year and to schedule those doctor’s appointments you just never seem to get to -- the dentist, for instance, or the eye doctor. Unbelievably, NJ schools do not require a full eye exam for students. Seems unlikely in a state where every T is crossed and every I dotted, but it’s true. Eyes are the window to the soul, some say, and your child’s eye health is vital to success in life and school. Check out our Business Spotlight on South Jersey Eye Associates to see why it’s so important and what their experienced, caring doctors suggest.

letter from the editor

August 2013

Not every mom gets to bask in the daily glow of summer – many moms work full- or part-time for an outside employer either inside or outside the home. Balancing everything can be a challenge, especially with little ones. Whether you chose to work due to career satisfaction or to maintain your current lifestyle or finances dictated your choice, with this difficult economy, you’ll need some reassurance and guidance that how you’re living your life is working for you. Read “Q&A with Mastering the Mommy Track Author Erin Flynn Jay” – she’s been there and, like a good friend, she’ll walk you through the tough times. Please join us for our annual Schoolapalooza on Sunday, August 25, from 11am to 4pm at the Moorestown Mall. We welcome the chance to meet our readers, and don’t want you to miss the entertainment, enlightenment and expertise from local experts. And don’t forget our second American Girl Store trip to NYC is afoot for Thursday, August 29. Treat your own favorite American girl and her beloved doll to an exciting, funfilled trip to the Big Apple! Visit www.SouthJerseyMOM.com or www.facebook.com/SouthJerseyMOM for more information.✲ Your friend and fellow MOM, M.B.

know 2 grow 15 Gotta Get Back-to School 17 Picking a Pediatrician 18 When Allergies Attack 19 Preserving Your Summer Seashells

also in this issue 10 20 21 22

business spotlight: SJ Eye Associates recipe corner things to do resource guide

“Like” South Jersey MOM magazine on Facebook and find out about local events, win prizes and connect with other moms in the area! www. facebook.com/SouthJerseyMOM Visit our website and sign up for our e-newsletter

AUGUST

Giveaways

H 6 tickets to the Palace of Sweets & Adventure Maze located on the Wildwood Boardwalk at Poplar Avenue

Visit www.southjerseymom.com to enter to win these prizes August 2013 | 3

INSPIRE LIFE SM

South Jersey Healthcare and UnderwoodMemorial Hospital have joined forces to bring inspiring medicine, including the region’s first Level IIIa NICU, to expecting mothers all across New Jersey. Learn more at InspiraHealthNetwork.org © Inspira Health Network

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South Jersey August

MOM 2013

CEO/Publisher Christopher Ognibene • (609) 670-1794 chris@superiorgx.com Executive Editor M.B. Sanok mbsanok@comcast.net Marketing & Business Development Specialist Michelle Scianni • (856) 986-9606 michelle@superiorgx.com For General Advertising Inquiries: Marissa Josephick • (856) 537-7089 ocrazyjane@comcast.net Jennifer Kahoun • 856-906-7260 jenniferkahoun@me.com Randi Wall • 609-412-5888 Wall.randi@gmail.com Chris Ognibene • (609) 670-1794 chris@superiorgx.com Production Manager Lisa Celfo lisa@southjerseymom.com Photographer Perfect Day Photography www.perfectdayphotography.com (856) 241-3850

Sandy Shadows

he beach…total heaven for most kids! But even with all that glorious sand and the ocean filled with ripples and waves, some need a break from the “same old” routines. Here’s a memory of something I did with Maxie Mandel when she was five. We left our group and took a walk on the beach. It was a fun distraction, but I couldn’t just walk — I had to do something a little more, so we started stepping on each other’s shadows. She thought that was pretty silly. At one point, I stood directly behind her, and our shadows looked like one giant shadow instead of two. We put our arms out waving them like wings.Ya’ coulda’ sworn a giant four-winged seagull was swooping down on the shore! It added a few giggles to our walk and what could be better than that! Walk silly, follow the leader, play with those mysterious sandy shadows, and see what you both come up with! A real kid-believer, Sharla Feldscher, a proud South Jersey Grandmom (Grammy) and owner of her own public relations business in Philadelphia, is the author of six books on creative ideas to do with young children including two KIDFUN Activity Books. Her blog at www.kidfunandmore.com has more easy-to-do KIDFUN ideas.

Contributing Writers Lisa Ann Panzino DiNunzio, Sharla Feldscher, Lisa Figueiredo, Dolores Hoffman, Erin Flynn Jay, Deanna Robinson Submit Calendar Listing: michelle@superiorgx.com www.southjerseymom.com Created by Markations Adam Nichols • (215) 825-7499 Superior Graphics Print Management LLC publishes South Jersey MOM™ monthly and distributes it throughout the region. The publication is available free of charge at select locations. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is not permitted without the authorization of the publisher. Superior Graphics Print Management, LLC Publisher of South Jersey MOM P.O. BOX 268 Wenonah, NJ 08090 Main: (609) 670-1794 Fax: (856) 210-1524

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On the Cover Cutest Kid In Town Winner: Ellie of Elk Twp. is a cheerful seven-year old who loves ice cream and everything about the beach. She enjoys cooking and snuggling with Mom, boardwalk games and rides, swimming, singing, reading, movies, outdoors, playing dress-up, vacations to the Jersey Shore, and visiting family and friends.

August 2013 | 5

mom 2 mom

Giving Savings the

College Try By Dolores Hoffman

ollege Board, the average cost in 2012 was $22,261 at public institutions and $43,289 at private institutions. By the year 2030, the cost will balloon to $41,228 for a public college and $130,428 for private institutions. If you’re saving for college, it’s a good idea to start as early as possible. Just investing $100 a month for 18 years will yield $48,000 -- that’s including interest of 8%. Here are a number of different options to consider when planning your child’s future. 529 Plans 529 plans enable you to save money for college tax-free. Most 529 plans can be used to pay costs for a college in any state, not only your own. Although your contributions aren’t tax-deductible, earnings are tax-free when used for education expenses of the student, such as tuition, fees, books, as well as room and board. A 529 plan can provide a very stress-free way to save for college. Once you decide which 529 plan to use, you simply make your depos-

6 | August 2013

its or automatic payments, then just relax and watch the savings grow. You also have the freedom of moving your investment around every year or you can rollover your account into another program. Unlike IRAs, the amounts you can put in are substantial (over $300,000 per beneficiary). Borrowing from Your Retirement Plan You can borrow money from your retirement plan to pay for college expenses for yourself, your spouse or your children. You can borrow up to half your vested balance in your company 401(k) plan or $50,000 -- whichever is less. The advantages of borrowing from your retirement plan are: m The interest you pay goes back into your retirement account, so you’re paying yourself. m The loan will have no bearing on the need for financial aid. m The funds are still tax-deferred. m Funds from a retirement plan loan are not subject to income tax or the 10% early withdrawal penalty.

Life Insurance Another option is a permanent life insurance policy that accumulates cash value throughout your lifetime and can be used for education funding. A loan can be taken from the policy or can be redeemed for the cash value. The good news is this won’t be taken into consideration when determining your child’s eligibility for financial aid. Life insurance on a child isn’t for everyone. However, it gives you another option when planning for your child’s college education. The main thing to keep in mind, as you plan your child’s education, is that there are many options available to you that offer flexibility and control. With a little research or assistance from your advisor, you’ll be able to give your child a head start while minimizing financial burden down the road.✲

First Financial Group Joseph Tortis • 856.334.5099 jtortis@financialguide.com

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August 2013 | 7

moms R women 2

with Mastering the Mommy Track Author, Erin Flynn Jay

What’s the biggest issue career moms are facing today and why?

How can moms carve out more personal time for themselves? What has to give to accomplish that?

A: The downward mobility of the American mid-

dle class continues. Most of the new jobs being created are in the lower-wage sectors of the economy. Millions of Americans who remain working agreed to cuts in wages and benefits. Others are settling for jobs that pay less than the jobs they’ve lost. Other people are falling out of the middle class, and many have also lost their homes. So many women are in a panic mode, afraid of losing their job or struggling to find work and concerned about their family’s financial situation. Career moms should realize that the economic downturn is nationwide; millions of others are experiencing the same hardships. The events happening today will turn around in the future.

Q: You mention that many women experienced

burnout and depression during the economic downturn, putting their children and spouse’s needs above their own. How can women avoid this?

A: Women can communicate their needs to others by letting their

spouse or partner, family members, and friends know what they need. This could be asking that groceries be purchased and put away, dinner be started, toys picked up, laundry folded, and so forth. Instead of reacting to unmet needs, moms can be proactive by expressing their needs from the start. When their needs are met, there is less exasperation. Based on my interviews with psychologists, here are two tips to help moms keep their cool at home: • Slow down after work. Spend some time with your children, even if it is just 20 minutes before you get dinner prepared and cooked. Appreciate the small moments you have. • Set the proper example. Children look up to parents and follow their role. Make sure you aren’t yelling at your kids over spilling snacks or drawing on the wall.

Your book raises the view that women become resentful of their partners. Why is that? How can they temper that resentment?

A: A June 2011 survey by ForbesWoman and TheBump.com con-

firmed that most moms resent their partners because they handle far less than their share of the housework and childcare. Most mothers said they feel like single moms despite being married or living with a partner. This is a sad revelation. Clearly, more fathers have to partake in the housework and become more active in their kids’ activities. This will temper resentment. 8 | August 2013

A: Women need to share family and home

obligations with their partner or spouse. Women have made great strides toward equality in the workplace, but not at home. Household chores largely fall on the mothers’ shoulders -- but these tasks and parenting responsibilities should be divided equally. Women will never have time for themselves until they can achieve this balance at home.

Q: What advice in your book will help women advance in their careers?

A: The final part of this book focuses on

Work-Life issues. Chapter 10 on Time Management offers stories from working mothers on their time challenges and how they overcame them; work-life experts weigh in on how to best maximize their time. Chapter 11 delves into Self-Care, advice on how moms can best care for themselves to avoid exhaustion and burnout. Chapter 12 closes on the topic of Work -- stories of women who altered their careers to make more time for their families. Career experts also share tips. This section will be helpful for women seeking to crack through the glass ceiling. Working mothers need periodically to evaluate their careers and determine their best growth opportunities. This decade more women will be seen altering their jobs to allow more time for their families.

You stress the importance of job flex time in your book. How can mothers secure more work flexibility?

A: Women can ask their current employer for a change in their

schedule -- whether that be the option of telecommuting, working flexible hours, working a compressed workweek or going part-time. They can build a solid case for changing their schedule and see if their boss will allow some flexibility. If not, then perhaps it’s time to find a job that allows flexible work options.✲ Erin Flynn Jay is a writer, publicity expert and author of Mastering the Mommy Track: Juggling Career and Kids In Uncertain Times (Business Books, 2012). Since 2001, Erin has been promoting authors of new books and small businesses in all industries.

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August 2013 | 9

business spotlight

Come See Quality Eye Care for Yourself!

South Jersey Eye Associates By M.B. Sanok

Dr. Robert Cole

eed an eye exam for you and your family? Tired of surly, unhelpful wait staff? Looking for experienced, knowledgeable doctors who keep up with technology and the freshest information available in quality eye care? If you answered “yes” to these questions, then South Jersey Eye Associates (SJEA) is for you. Based in Bridgeton in a safe, convenient location with ample parking, SJEA began after the merger of two practices led by optometrists Dr. Robert M. Cole III and Dr. Michael A. Feinstein back in 1987. Dr. Feinstein says, “[We] try our hardest to be considerate to our patients, build lifelong relationships [with them], and don’t tolerate anything less.” And Dr. Cole adds that, “We under promise and over deliver. We treat people the way they want to be treated.” Talking with both doctors, you see how warm and engaging they must be with their patients. SJEA is closely affiliated with Delaware Ophthalmology Consultants of Wilmington and has a referral relationship with sub-specialty “super specialists” at the renowned Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia. SJEA uses these highly qualified specialists, including Dr. Harry A. Lebowitz, to treat patients with conditions that require this highly specialized care. “Kremer handles our Lasik patients, and cat10 | August 2013

aract surgery is done at the Ambulatory Care Center in Vineland. We provide evaluations and diagnosis,” explains Dr. Cole. SJEA “selects specialists for you…the best of the best” and provides follow-ups to any procedures done in-house or by consulting physicians. This summer, they are welcoming new faces into their fold: Dr. Brandon Wuzzardo, a young optometrist who just finished his residency, and Dr. Ari Abel, an ophthalmologist specializing in oculo-plastic surgery. Both in-house doctors personally embrace new, high-tech instruments, so rest assured that the latest equipment, tests and treatments are at their fingertips in caring for your eyes. Comprehensive eye exams, treatment and prevention are available at their office, and they boast the most advanced eye care technology in the tri-state area. The range of eye maladies they cover is almost as extensive as the eyewear carried in their Eyewear Center which offers over a thousand styles and brands for every pocketbook. “[We] cover children with learning disabilities – we help identify and then refer those in need of visual therapy,” says Dr. Cole. Something many commercial eye care facilities cannot claim in their list of capabilities. Another way they excel in their field is the wonderful staff that’s the backbone of the

Dr. Michael Feinstein

business. “We are dependent on our staff to be considerate, warm and helpful to customers and patients,” emphasizes Dr. Cole. They strive to make patients feel comfortable and welcome, and their personal experience with their own children allows them to be sensitive to young patients’ needs. Don’t be surprised if Dr. Cole breaks out his Donald Duck impression for the little ones! When asked what suggestions the doctors could make for parents, they stressed how important it is to take their children for regular eye exams by experienced physicians. Dr. Cole disclosed that NJ schools do not require children to have an annual eye exam which seems baffling when other medical exams and inoculations are mandated for entry into school – something most parents, including me, forget. “Don’t be misled that the eye exams done in school are complete – school nurses do not have the time, manpower and/ or expertise to administer a full eye exam the way an eye doctor would,” says Dr. Cole. Dr. Feinstein agrees and adds, “Hidden problems that require a more in-depth exam than school screenings provide [are important because a cursory school exam] is not enough.” When the doctors examine a child, they discovered that taking a photo of the child’s retina provides more information and can detect more problems than just examining the eye alone. It also “alleviates the issue of a child sitting still,” says Dr. Feinstein. So before school starts make an appointment to see the doctors at South Jersey Eye Associates. Seeing is believing; and your children’s eye health is vital to their success in life and at school. Call (856) 455-5500 or visit www. southjerseyeye.com for more information.✲

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August 2013 | 11

Join South Jersey MOM Magazine in partnership with the Moorestown Mall and area businesses as we showcase an array of after school programs, educational support services, healthy lifestyle activities and more.

MOORESTOWN MALLS’ 2ND ANNUAL BACK TO SCHOOL

hoolapalooza EXPO ScSunday, Aug 25th, 2013 11am-4pm

Start the school year off with an A+! There will be free face painting and a chance to win prizes!

Don’t miss our expo and a chance start the school year off on the right foot with lots of great information and handouts from our vendors. Hope to see you there!

Questions call Chris at 609-670-1794 12 | August 2013

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All Star Party Pros We specialize in Photo Booth Rentals, Children’s Entertainment, Moon bounce Rentals, Concessions, Balloon Columns & Arches and More! Visit us online today! www.AllStarPartyPros.com 856-297-6052

Congregation Beth El Early Childhood Center We Offer full-day childcare and half-day preschool (Infants-Kindergarten). Explore, share and learn in a warm atmosphere with experienced educators. Innovative programming includes Mad Science, handson-learning and Jewish culture. Megan Nachod Director, 856-675-1166, 8000 Main St, Voorhees, NJ 08043, www.bethelsnj.org

Give the gift of an education at THE ELLISON SCHOOL — where children reach beyond their wildest dreams! Toddlers - Preschool - Grades K-8 1017 S. Spring Road Vineland, NJ 08361

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Excellent, affordable instruction in a positive, relaxed atmosphere

Ages 3-Adult Tap • Jazz Hip Hop • Ballet Point • Lyrical

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“There are no small parts, only small actors.” –Konstantin Stanislavisky

Act Smart, Act Now

ACTING CLASSES & PERFORMANCE COACH

Audition Preparation • Improvisation • Monologues • Private Sessions Visit our website for more information: www.renees-studio.com Renee Weisband, Artistic Director x 609.220.7537

August 2013 | 13

Limited Openings For Fall 2013 www.staNurserySchool.com The Blessed Edmund Preschool is committed to providing a stimulating learning experience for young children in a sound, invigorating environment. Emphasis is placed on forming Christian character and values to help young children explore their relationship with God and to share their experiences in an atmosphere of joy, peace and goodness, flowing from love. • Preschool Class for age 3 • Pre-Kindergarten Class for age 4 • Mon-Fri from 7:30-6pm Flexible Customized Schedules • Computer Program • Modern Playground • Security System • Certified Teachers

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know 2 grow

Prepare a List. Likely your child will need pens, pencils, a backpack, possibly crayons, a calculator and notebooks. This is a great way to get your child excited for school. New things, like a cute outfit for the first day, always made me feel like it was a fresh start. And who can resist the feel of a fresh piece of notebook paper? Planning a Fun Family Activity on Labor Day weekend is also a good way to celebrate the summer’s end and school’s beginning. Pieczara gets her children excited for school by having a back-to-school party. “We make back-to-school projects -- toilet paper pencils, apple prints and kissing hands. We pack our lunches in lunchboxes and have fun music.”

Show Them Their New School or Classroom. A good way to prevent first day meltdowns for little ones is to get them acclimated to their new surroundings. If possible, set up a meet-and-greet to orient your child with his/her new classroom or school. If they’re taking the bus, make sure you show them where their bus stop is. Also make sure your child knows where the school bathroom is. Prepare the Teacher. If your child has any food allergies or health or behavioral issues, make sure your child’s teacher knows about this in advance. Talk about School in a Positive Way. Talk about all the fun they’ll have and the importance of learning. You can read your kids stories about going back to school so they know what to expect. “My youngest son is starting kindergarten, so the older kids are sharing kindergarten storybooks with him that I read them when they were his age. We visit the library and do the Barnes and Noble free book activity.We also write in a journal about our thoughts, feelings or just summer fun times.”

ack to school is a stressful time for children and parents alike. In anticipation of a new year, there are ways to prepare your little ones and ease your own tension. Here are a few tips to get everyone back on schedule. Remember Routines. During laidback summer months, bedtimes are often adjusted as well as bedtime routines, and eating habits aren’t always what they are during the school year. Several weeks before school starts, it’s a good idea to get back into the old routine. Schedule bedtimes and nighttime stories like they are during school. Start eating nightly family meals. Enjoy exercise and sleep. Get Ready! As a child one of my favorite things was back-to-school shopping. Start this a few weeks before the big day to ensure you aren’t rushing. “We get lists at the end of the year with the children’s report cards of things we need to get,” said Lilli Pieczara, mother of Michael, 9; Mackenzie, 8; Miles, 5; and Morgan 2.

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Get Organized. It’s always a good idea to prepare ahead of time. You can lay your child’s clothes out the night before. Have them pack their backpack. Make sure you pack a healthy lunch and snack. Encourage Your Child’s Sense of Responsibility. With a new school year comes added responsibility -- writing down homework assignments, organizing school materials and getting assignments in on time. Talk to them about responsibilities in advance. Set Up a Time and Place for Homework. Even if you just use the kitchen table, have a space cleared and make yourself available if your children have any questions or need guidance. This also helps in establishing a routine. Make sure your child knows the scheduled time to sit down and do homework. With some good planning and a bit of enthusiasm, the transition from summer to school can be seamless. Good luck!✲

August 2013 | 15

Presents the

New York City Trip

You’re invited to the South Jersey Mom Magazine bus trip to American Girl Place in New York City! Spend an extra special day with your daughter that you’ll never forget!! Right in the heart of the Big Apple’s most prestigious shopping opportunities is the American Girl Place New York. As you will see, it’s much more than a store….it’s a magical experience and memories you will cherish for a lifetime. We will meet at a pick-up location in the Wal-Mart parking lot at 820 Cooper Street, Deptford Twp., NJ. We will board a motor coach bus that has amenities including DVD players for your enjoyment and a bathroom. And, of course, we will have an American Girl DVD available to play on the bus!

Travel Dates: August 29th

November 7th

December 27th

$105 per person The day’s package includes: H Round-trip Delux motorcoach trip H Lunch at the American Girl café H Free time in Manhattan

H Beverages, and snacks on the bus H 8:00 AM departure from Wal-Mart H Depart for home at 5:00 PM

Book your Tickets Online at www.southjerseymom.com or call South Jersey MOM Magazine—Marnie Meyer 856-803-8401 $7.00 event ticketing fee will be applied to the ticket price

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Picking a Pediatrician By Lisa Figueiredo

s a mother, the care your child receives, especially when they’re sick or injured is critical. Picking a pediatrician may seem like an overwhelming task. There are so many doctors in the area, but who can you trust to care for the love of your life? For me, a list of credentials is important, but the most important thing is bedside manner.You can have all the degrees and certifications in the world, but in a situation where your baby is hurt, you want someone who’s caring and doesn’t make you feel like a nuisance. Consider this also: when you take your child to a group practice, they’ll likely be seeing all of the doctors affiliated with practice. While you can likely schedule routine checkups with the doctor you prefer, there will be times when you have to see the doctor that’s available on staff for sick visits. The American Academy of Pediatrics and www.HealthyChildren.org is a good reference that can provide you with names of board-certified pediatricians in your community through the Find a Pediatrician tool. Certification means that the doctor has graduated from an accredited medical school, completed an accredited residency and passed the board exam in pediatrics. Most local or county medical societies provide referral services to pediatricians in their area who are taking new patients. If you’re located near a major medical center, community hospital or teaching hospital, contact its Department of Pediatrics for the names of doctors in your area. It’s also a good idea to rely on people you know and trust -- friends, relatives, neighbors and co-workers with kids who have the same ideas and outlook on life. I also did my homework online to see if there were any complaints or recommendations on sites like www.yelp.com or www. healthgrades.com that can provide you with other people’s opinions. Once you have narrowed down a list of doctors in the area, you can go online and check out certain criteria. Some things to look for are: Hours: Does the doctor have night hours or weekend hours in the event of a non-hospital emergency. Children get sick at all hours and times. Is there a doctor on call in the event of emergency? Is there an after-hours pager number or answering service you can call? Location: If you have an emergency situation, you don’t want to be far from the doctor. Often you’ll have to wait if you have an unscheduled visit. If your child’s not feeling well or cranky because of it you don’t want the added headache of a long commute.

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Insurance: It’s a good idea to call the office to make sure your insurance is one the doctor accepts. You’ll also want to ask them if they’re taking new patients. Visit: Once you’ve found a pediatrician, you may also want to visit them in person. Come prepared with a list of questions about things that are important to you.Visiting will give you a firsthand look at things like office staff, cleanliness, and wait time. This will also give you the opportunity to get a feel for the pediatrician’s personality and find out if you’re compatible.What looks good on paper in terms of credentials isn’t always good in person. Once you’ve found a pediatrician, the re-lationship you establish is one that can last throughout your child’s life.✲

August 2013 | 17

When Allergies Attack By Dolores Hoffman

hen your child has an allergy, whether it’s food or pollen, it can quickly take over your life. Food allergies are becoming more and more common affecting three million U.S. children. Almost 50% of them have a history of severe reactions. Fortunately, there are ways to make life less stressful by taking control and taking precautions. Plan Ahead Eating out can be tricky. Pack a lunchbox with your child’s favorite meal and plastic cutlery. A friend of mine packs her son his own cupcake or slice of cake whenever they go to birthday parties. Assembling a kit is a must. Keep it handy for babysitters, preschools and pack it when you travel. It should include oral antihistamines, such as Benadryl, Epipen (if prescribed by doctor), and a laminated card with your child’s name, emergency contact and your child’s physician. Also, remember to keep safe snacks on hand, so you don’t get stuck with a hungry child and no food choices. Read Labels Reading and understanding food labels is crucial to your child’s safety, particularly when trying a new product. If you’re not sure of an ingredient, don’t use it. Cross contamination is another concern. Look for products that are produced in a dedicated facility. Contact the manufacturer directly any with questions. They’re always helpful and reliable. Know the Enemy Educate yourself with foods that trigger your child’s food allergy. For instance, eggs are used as an ingredient in some vaccines. Wheat can be found in some hair and skin products and in craft supplies. Make sure that everyone caring for your child, including daycare workers, school staff and family members, understands what your child cannot eat and 18 | August 2013

what steps should be taken to ensure that safety. If an allergic reaction occurs, be sure to have a clear plan of action. When your child is old enough to understand, make sure they know never to accept food from anyone. If your child suffers from severe allergies, have them wear a MedicAlert bracelet and carry a medicine pack with them. Take Advantage of New Technology WebMD has introduced a new app for iPhone users. It’s called WebMD Allergy and can be customized for the entire family. We tested the app to see if it was worth the download. Here’s what we’ve found. Based on the allergies you have, the free WebMD Allergy app for iPhone helps prepare for each day with a personalized allergy and weather forecast. That way you can plan accordingly for that day’s outdoor activities According to Dr. Hansa Bhargava from WebMD, this app can be family optimized -- users can create multiple profiles and track different allergies for each family member. WebMD Allergy has a large library of allergy articles, slideshows and videos in seven categories: Outdoor, Indoor, Skin, Drug, Food, Insect Bites and Stings, and Latex. This app also allows users to schedule timely push notifications which alerts them of high allergen levels in their area. One of the keys to managing allergies is knowing the severity of your triggers before starting your day so you can customize your alerts based on the severity of the allergy forecast. Constantly worrying about your child’s food allergies can affect the mental and physical health of everyone in your family. Don’t spend your life waiting for disaster. Allergies can be scary, but it’s important to educate your child and instill a healthy outlook while making certain your child enjoys normal activities.✲

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Preserve Your Summer Seashells! By Deanna Robinson

Although your beach days are dwindling, your memories don’t have to! You Need: 2 cups of flour, 1 cup of salt, ½ cup of lukewarm water, seashells (painted or fresh from the beach), a baking pan, and an oven. Directions: • Pour the flour and salt into a large mixing bowl. • Slowly add the water into your dry mixture. Blend until the dough becomes tacky. (Add more water if necessary.) • Now that the prep work is done, hand it over to your little one, and let them start molding the dough! Depending on which picture you would like to make you’ll need to shape the dough accordingly. (Having a hard time deciding? Don’t worry! Just make all 3.You’ll have more than enough dough!)

1. Make a handprint: Roll the dough into

a ball. Now, apply some pressure to the top, so that it becomes flat. If the circle is too small to fit your child’s hand, just

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2. 3.

add some dough to make the circle larger. Once that’s complete take your child’s hand and push it into the dough! Make a paper weight: Roll the dough into a ball and apply just enough pressure to give it a flat bottom. Make a picture holder: Roll the dough, so that it’s long and skinny. Mine is 6”wide by 2” thick. Take a thick piece of paper (postcard, pizza menu, etc.) and push down about ¾ into the dough to create a crease. Just make sure you don’t push all the way through!

• Now that you have the shape, it’s time to decorate! Put the seashells on the table and let your little one start sticking them on the dough. • Once you’re happy with the results, give the shells a little push to ensure that they’re secured • Put your decorated dough balls onto a baking sheet, and place in the oven for one hour at 350 degrees. Depending on the thickness, you may need to bake for 2 hours -- just keep an eye on them. Just like cook-

ies, you want them to be slightly brown and hard enough to hold its shape. • Let it cool, and you’re done!!✲ Visit Deanna’s blog at http://fromwinetowhine.com

August 2013 | 19

recipe corner

Peachy Keen Recipes By Lisa Ann Panzino DiNunzio

It’s one of my favorite times of the year -- peach season! My family and I love peaches in pies, cobblers, pancakes, muffins -- even made as a sauce to go over chicken, but my personal favorite way to enjoy a peach is to give it a quick wash and go in for a bite! I don’t even mind the juice that usually runs down my chin. A wet paper towel in hand and all is good! Peaches are as nutritious as they are delicious, so go ahead and get yourself and your family some sweet Jersey peaches while they’re in season!

Fresh Peach Crumble

• 6 cups ripe peaches, peeled and sliced • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar or natural sugar substitute • 3 tbs. unbleached all-purpose or whole wheat flour • 1 tsp. lemon juice • 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

Crumble Topping

• 1 cup unbleached all-purpose or whole wheat flour • 3/4 cup raw sugar or natural sugar substitute • 1 1/2 tsp. non-aluminum baking powder • 1/4 tsp. sea salt • 1/8 tsp. ground nutmeg (optional) • 1 egg, lightly beaten • 1/2 cup butter, melted and slightly cooled Preheat oven to 375°. Place peaches in a greased 8-inch square baking dish. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, 3 tablespoons of flour, lemon juice and cinnamon; sprinkle mixture over peaches. In a separate bowl; combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and nutmeg. Stir in egg until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle over the peaches. Pour the melted butter evenly over topping. Bake 35-45 minutes or until peaches are cooked through. Serve warm, with ice cream or whipped topping, if desired.

Peach BBQ Sauce

• 2 tbs. extra-virgin olive oil • 2 garlic cloves, crushed • 1 cup ketchup • 2 tbs. yellow mustard • 2 tbs. apple cider vinegar • 1/4 cup lemon juice • 2 tbs. brown sugar or natural sugar substitute • 2 tbs. unsulphured blackstrap molasses • 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper (optional) • Sea salt, to taste • Black pepper, to taste • 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced In a saucepan over medium heat, add olive oil and garlic cloves, cook for 40–60 seconds, do not let garlic burn. Then discard garlic and add all other ingredients to the saucepan except the peaches and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes. While the sauce is simmering, puree the 2 cups of peaches, and after the sauce has simmered for 10 minutes, add the pureed peaches and stir until sauce is combined well with the peach puree. Spoon the peach BBQ sauce over grilled chicken, fish or steak before serving. As always, Bon Appetit!

Lisa Ann Panzino DiNunzio is the author of “Seasoned With Love,Treasured Recipes” & “Lisa Ann’s Seasoned With Love II”, and the children’s book, “Snicker Learns An Important Lesson.” Visit her blog http://lisaanndinunzio.blogspot.com/ or Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001935347501 20 | August 2013

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For a complete list of events, log onto www.southjerseymom.com

To submit your event, send an e-mail to michelle@superiorgx.com. Entries are due six weeks prior to the event and are filled on a first-come first-served basis. Space is limited.

BURLINGTON COUNTY

Fine Arts & Peach Festival -Riverton Saturday, August 3 – 10am – 4pm – rain or shine. Riverview Estates, 303 Bank Avenue, Riverton Riverview Estates is hosting its Annual Fine Arts & Peach Festival & Sale in “Historic” Riverton, right on the Delaware River. The show will bring together some of the finest artists in the area who will be happy to show you what they make and do. Exhibits will include framed and unframed works in oils, pastels, watercolors and acrylics; ceramics, glass, custom jewelry, black & white and color photography. Musicians, demonstrations, lunch, peaches, ice cream and peachy desserts will be available. Event will be held rain or shine. Arts and crafts vendors wanted. Opal Vogt at (856) 829-2274 or gro.setatseweivrevir@lapo www.riverviewestates.org DEBORAH Idol Singing Competition Auditions – Wednesday, August 21— 6pm BCC, Mt. Laurel Campus $1,000 – Grand Prize Pre-registration is required In its second year, DEBORAH Idol is a singing competition. Preliminary auditions are being held Wednesday, August 21, at 6pm at the Enterprise Center at BCC on Route 38 in Mt. Laurel. During the preliminary auditions, singers in two age divisions, 1016 years old and 17-25 years old, will have 45-seconds to sing an a capella selection that will wow the judges, and win one of the top ten finalists slots in the Grand Finale to be held on Saturday, October 19 in Pemberton Township.

The Finalists will each have 3-1/2 minutes to sing to pre-recorded background music, where a panel of professional singers, songwriters, and musicians will judge the performances. The winner in each division will be awarded a $1,000 grand prize. First Runner-Up will win $300, and 2nd Runner-Up will win $200. For more information, contact Tina Bialt (609) 893-3372 or visit our website www.deborahfoundation. org Back to School Schoolapalooza Expo Sunday, August 25 Moorestown Mall, Moorestown 11am-4pm South Jersey MOM Magazine invites you to join us for lots of fun, and you’ll be able to talk to professionals for all you need to get ready for back-to-school. Vendor tables are still available -call Chris at (609) 670-1794. Speed Raceway Hosts Blood Drive with the American Red Cross August 1, 2013, from 1:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Located at 1103 Route 130 S., Cinnaminson, NJ. All blood donors will receive a coupon for 50% OFF a race at Speed Raceway (Cinnaminson, NJ location), and be entered to win a Free Family Pack of seven (7) races, t-shirt and hat. Donors will also get a coupon for a free iced coffee and donut from a participating Dunkin Donuts. To reserve a blood donation time go to redcrossblood.org and use sponsor code: 02216325 or call Speed Raceway at 856.735.0040 ext. 306. Also, Speed Raceway offers all Military a 10% discount on racing and the driving license fee is waived with valid ID -- every day of the year.

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CAMDEN COUNTY

Camden Riversharks SleepOver Friday, August 2, rain date Friday, August 16 Campbell’s Field 401 N. Delaware Ave, Camden All Scouts and families are welcome to attend. Package Includes: 200-Level Ticket to see the Camden Riversharks, dinner at the game (hot dog, chips, drink), post-game fireworks show, movie on our video board with snack, sleep in the outfield of Campbell’s Field, breakfast Saturday morning at 7am, baseball clinic with Riversharks players Saturday morning from 9-10:30, Riversharks Patch and Pre-game Parade. All Of This For ONLY $25! For Groups of 10 or more. $30 for individuals. For groups of 10 or more, please contact Kim Perno by email kperno@riversharks.com or phone (856) 831-0431. Lindenwold Friday Family Fun Nights Lindenwold Park Friday, August 2 at 7pm Eric Dasher’s Family Magic Show August 2 at 8:15 Hotel Transylvania (Movie) playing under the stars

CAPE MAY COUNTY

Baby Parade Ocean City 104th Annual Baby Parade – One of the oldest baby parades in the country. On the Boardwalk, 6th – 12th Sts. Parade begins at 5pm. For more information, call (609) 525-9300. Family Night Thursday Nights Ocean City Boardwalk Entertainment on the boardwalk 7:30-9:30pm between 6th–14th Sts. Sponsored by: Congo Falls, Gillian’s Wonderland, Johnson’s Popcorn & Playland’s Castaway Cove

things 2 do

August Calendar

CUMBERLAND COUNTY New Jersey Motorsport’s Park American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association Festival Friday, Saturday & Sunday, August 2, 3 and 4 – 8am-5pm each day. 8000 Dividing Creek Rd, Millville The American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association Ltd. is a non-profit organization dedicated to restoring and competing on classic motorcycles. With about 4,000 members, AHRMA is the largest vintage racing group in North America and one of the biggest in the world. The association has grown steadily over the years, reflecting the increasing interest in classic bikes. www.njmp.com

GLOUCESTER COUNTY

Hotel Transylvania Wednesday, August 14 West Deptford Township Riverwinds Community Center 1000 Riverwinds Drive Gather the family and bring your blankets and chairs for a free movie. Show begins at Dusk (88:30pm) Madagascar 3 Friday, August 23 Elk Township 667 Whig Lane Road Gather the family and bring your blankets and chairs for a free movie. Show begins at Dusk (88:30pm)

SALEM COUNTY

Salem County Fairgrounds Tuesday thru Friday – August 6, 7, 8, & 9 – 9am-10pm 735 Harding Highway, Woodstown Annual Salem County Fair event with livestock shows, evening entertainment, nightly BBQs, tractor pulls, horse shows, crafts, and many other activities. See website for vendor information. www.salemcountyfair.com

August 2013 | 21

resource guide

Home Owners Free Offer Accurate pricing is the first and most important step towards successfully marketing your home. To receive your Free Comparative Market Analysis from The Ron Bruce Team at Prudential Fox and Roach. Call 609-670-1794. There is no obligation,The team will promptly provide you with a comprehensive report on the value of your home. Begin your free, no-obligation market value analysis today! www. smartmovenow.com

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August 2013 | 23

lifebankusa.com

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