July 2011 - South Jersey MOM Magazine

July

perfect PICNIC PLANNING

your child can

2011

THE STATE OF EDUCATION What parents should be asking about schools today

OVERCOME STUTTERING with 3 steps

SLOW, SHORTEN AND SIMPLIFY Check It Out! 101 THINGS TO DO this summer

THREE PARKS ONE DESTINATION!

Conquer 13 intense coasters, including Kindga Ka, El Toro and Nitro plus the all-new Green Lantern stand-up looping coaster! And the littlest thrill seekers will enjoy our three amazing kids areas, Safari Discoveries and much more!

Visit our 45-acre tropical water park, Hurricane Harbor, where thrills turn to spills and water goes crazy. Offers nearly 20 speed slides and one of the world’s longest lazy rivers.

Discover the world’s largest drive-thru Safari outside of Africa! Take your family on an up-close encounter with over 1,200 animals all from the comfort of your own car.

NEW!

Buy a Regular Theme Park ticket, get a FREE Water Park & Wild Safari ticket good any day thru Sept. 5.

GREEN LANTERN: TM & © DC Comics. (s11)

2 | July 2011

IT’S TRIPLE THE FUN FOR THE PRICE OF ONE! For more information, visit sixflags.com Visit our website and sign up for our e-newsletter

Table of Contents pg. 15-18 101 Things to Do This Summer

mom 2 mom 8 10 11 13

Protect Your Skin This Summer Beach Safety for Tweens 12 Weeks of Cheap Summer Fun Perfect Picnic Planning

moms R women 2 20 The State of Education: What Parents Should Be Asking About Schools Today 21 How to Avoid Going Goofy at Disney 23 When Baby Made Three the Bedroom Became PG

Dear Readers, am so excited for summer. All winter long, the kids and I talk about all the fun things we are going to do when it gets warm outside. I’m sure as the kids get older, they will enjoy outdoor winter activities more, but right now their little bodies get so cold...

We are looking forward to the beach, the zoo, fun in the pool (if daddy ever cleans it), the park and so much more. In fact, we searched the area to bring you ideas for great family fun this summer. Check out page 15 for 101 Things to Do This Summer! I’m looking forward to new experiences and revisiting some old ones too!

Speaking of the old and new...Kayden graduated from PK-4 last month and will start Kindergarten in the fall. It’s hard to believe my boy is already moving up. And Camille will start preschool in the fall. For the first time since I had kids, I will have time to do whatever I want during the day...What will I do with all that time? It will only take a day or less to clean my house...maybe I will start going to the

letter from the editor

July 2011

I

gym. I haven’t exercised in six years! Maybe I will take up the violin again... the possibilities are endless. What I do know, is that I’m going to enjoy every day this summer with my “babies” before they are off to school full time in September!

Whether you are a working mom, or a stay-at-home mom, plan some special days this summer to create memories with your children...pretty soon they won’t want to hang out with you anymore!

Please share your favorite summer activities with us on our Facebook page, or email them to me at adrienne@ southjerseymom.com. Also, be sure to visit our website and enter to win great prizes and while you’re there, sign up for our e-newsletter at www.southjerseymom.com.✲ Your Friend and Fellow MOM,

know 2 grow 24 Overcome Stuttering: Slow, Shorten and Simplify 25 Grocery Store Tantrum Tips: Check It Out!

also in this issue 3 5 6 26 29 30

editor’s note nana’s 2 sense life sentences just born things 2 do resource guide

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SAVE THE DATE

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2011 Child Development Conference

October 10th

“Building Relationships for Our Children” WORKSHOPS: • Child Development Skills • Facing the Bully • Better Business Tips • Positive Discipline • Marketing Strategies • CDA Classes • Etc.

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July

MOM 2011

CEO/Publisher: Christopher Ognibene • (609) 670-1794 chris@superiorgx.com Executive Editor Adrienne Richardson • (856) 305-3490 adrienne@southjerseymom.com Marketing & Business Development Specialist Randi Bresalier • (856) 986-9606 randi@superiorgx.com For General Advertising Inquiries: randi@superiorgx.com (856) 986-9606 chris@superiorgx.com (609) 670-1794 Production Manager Lisa Celfo lisa@southjerseymom.com Special summer section designed by Sherrii Brentari Photographer Allyson Crozier www.allysoncrozierphotography.com 609.410.0620 Contributing Writers Janine Boldrin, Robert and Ginean Crawford, Jeanette Giza, Carolyn Leigh Kellerman, Maisie Knowles, Fran LoBiondo, Heidi Smith Luedtke, Kerrie McLoughlin, Belinda J. Mooney and Sharon Pearl Submit Calendar Listing: calendar@southjerseymom.com www.southjerseymom.com Created by Markations Adam Nichols • (215) 825-7499

Sweet Summer Pickin’ outh Jersey farms are packed with fun filled summer activities. I’ve been on two farm trips already this year. The first was for my grandson Kayden’s birthday, the second, his class field trip.

The best part is always the picking.

Picking your own berries is almost as good as growing your own. Everyone boards the hay wagon and the tractor pulls you to the strawberry patch. Let the picking begin. There are rules: stay in your row, do not step on the berries as this makes for dirty jam and yes, they are safe to eat right off the vine. Kids love picking and getting to eat the berries while they pick. Just remember, do not pick the green ones.

This reminds me of a recent car ride home with the children. Kayden and Camille are snug in their car seats and very quiet.

Mommy drives and I ride passenger. I glance back to check for head-bobbing. I don’t know why I always want to catch their little heads before they drop forward in that deep travelinduced sleep. I suppose it’s my overprotective nature. Still, I’ve never heard of a child breaking their neck from falling asleep in a car seat.

This time when I look back I notice something odd on the door next to Kayden.

Most of the door and half the window is covered with brown flecks. I imagine a swarm of Kamikaze mosquitoes, splat. “What’s that on Kayden’s door?” I ask Adrienne. “Boogers,” she says, “You should see the wall next to his

S

nana’s 2 sense

South Jersey

bed.” Until now he always asked for a tissue. What happened?

Through many years of observing children I’ve noticed that boys seem to enjoy booger picking much more than girls. Boys get very creative at hiding the “evidence” as well. I really blame parents for this part. Hiding comes from mom and dad catching them and telling them, “Don’t eat that!” Now what do you do with the boogers?

You still have to get rid of them. Camouflage, that’s it. Dark colored pants are good hiding, but that gets sticky, then really hard…and they are constantly with you — and so the budding artist emerges.

The following weekend, post overnight with the kids, I do my usual cleanup. Next to the toilet on the wall I notice one little brown spot. Could it be … a booger? I try to wipe it off with a wet cloth but it’s as hard as concrete. How do I get this off without taking the paint off the wall? I suppose I could just leave it. What’s one little spot? Very hot water finally melted the fleck back to its original soft slimy consistency. Booger gone. Maybe I’m just too picky. ✲

—Nana

Jean

Nana Jean is a South Jersey grandmother with two daughters and six grandchildren. Enjoy her stories about her 39+ years as a mom and 20 years as a grandmother as she shares her experiences and lessons learned with lots of laughs and tears along the way.

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[

On the COVER Cutest Kid In Town Winner: Kayla, age 3, is from Lawnside. She loves to dance, sing, paint and hang out with Mommy and Daddy! Kayla enjoys going on adventures to the zoo, park, pool and Sesame Place.

Kayla loves having her picture taken! She dresses up in tutus and her mommy's high heels and prances around like a princess. She is loving and sweet.

Photo by Allyson Crozier Photography.

] July 2011 | 5

life sentences

Tripping Around the ‘Hood

A

llow me to recount my Mother’s Day....my sister and I honored our mother the day before. That left the day clear for whatever my three children had planned for me.When it became clear there was no plan at all, I suggested that my husband and I take a walk on a local nature trail and then go out to dinner with our autistic son, Greg, who was the only one home. But Greg started acting up because he didn’t want to go.

I got annoyed at him, put on my sneakers and went for a walk in my neighborhood alone.

I walked about three blocks before I tripped over an uneven spot on the sidewalk. I flailed clumsily for a couple more steps, almost caught myself, but hit another dip and crashed down with all of my weight on my chin. Skinned the palms of my hands, bruised my knees and punched a gaping hole in my chin. I hit so hard, I am amazed I didn’t spit out all of my molars.

And here, I must apologize to my husband.

I used to joke that he was not observant of home design or any changes I might make to the décor. In fact, I used to say, if I were ever

facially disfigured in an accident, it would take him three days to notice.

That was wrong. He took one look at my face and gasped.

“That’s a deep cut, Fran. You need to get it stitched.”

We spent the rest of the day in the Emergency Room. They scoured all of my wounds, x-rayed my knee and put my chin back together with glue. Apparently, they had extra glue, so they brushed it all over a big clot of blood around the wound as well. For the next week, I looked like I was eating raw calf’s liver and drooling. And my skinned palms hurt enough to make me cry every day until they healed. I have not scraped the flesh off my hands since childhood and I was much braver then.

But wait. There’s more.

The next day, I had an appointment with my doctor to get the results of my first (annual) screening test since the Clinton administration.While driving there, a pickup truck crossed the road in front of me and we crashed. No one got hurt and I was not ticketed. But the front bumper of my car ended up on the pavement.

After the tow truck left, I drove on to the doctor in my husband’s car. My screening

By Fran LoBiondo test was fine, but another of my parts was iffy, so she strongly recommended a more invasive biopsy.

“Well, I’m not coming back,” I said bluntly.

“Do it now. How much more can it hurt?”

Never ask that question.

It hurt so much I forgot my raw palms.

It was not the way I had hoped to spend the holiday, but I was honored later that week when my husband took a rare vacation day.

While the kids went to school, we drove to the beach, took a walk, breathed in the healing sea air and ate pecan pancakes and coffee at my favorite place. I savored every minute of that day and I felt very fortunate. The last time we got out of the house together was when the furnace exploded.✲ Fran LoBiondo of Vineland has children in grade school, high school and college. A Purdue University graduate with a degree in Journalism, she has written about parenting, food and fun for 25 yrs.

Spectacular Summer of Giveaways We are so excited to announce our Spectacular Summer of Giveaways!

South Jersey MOM is giving away one prize every week for 8 weeks this summer!

You could win one of the following prizes: Week 1, July 3–The Wiggles Big Birthday Tickets Week 2 , July 10–A family four pack to Morey’s Piers Week 3, July 17–A family four pack to Six Flags Great Adventure Week 4, July 24–A 1 year membership to Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia Week 5, July 31– Movie Night DVD Package

Week 6, August 7–A $50 gift certificate for jewelry of your choice from Premier Designs Jewelry Week 7, August 14–A $50 gift certificate for candles of your choice from PartyLite Week 8, August 21–A $75 Spa gift certificate (location TBA in August issue)

HOW CAN YOU WIN? Entering is easy! There are just 2 things you must do!

1. “Like” South Jersey MOM on Facebook. Go to www.facebook.com/SouthJerseyMOM and “Like” us.

2. Subscribe to South Jersey MOM’s e-newsletter. It’s FREE! Just go to www.southjerseymom.com and enter your information in the Newsletter Sign Up box and be sure to click on (win prizes) and select the prize of your choice!

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July 2011 | 7

SKIN

YOUR

mom 2 mom

PROTECT THIS SUMMER

By Carolyn Leigh Kellerman

promised by the SPF label. “I recommend staying out of the sun during peak hours (10am to 4pm), wearing protective hats, glasses and clothing.

The sunscreen should have titanium or zinc oxide listed as an ingredient,” explains Perilstein.

How to Choose the Right Sunscreen Selecting the right sunscreen can be overwhelming. Which is the right one for your skin? For everyday coverage, Perilstein suggests, Cetaphil UVA/UVB Defense SPF 50, ROC Complete Life Daily Moisturizer SPF 30, Olay Complete All Day Moisture Lotion SPF 15 and Clinique SPF 30 Face Cream.

For babies and toddlers, sprays are good; however, a baseline cream or lotion should be applied as the first coat of protection.

Pregnancy and Sun There is a misconception about pregnant women and their skin. Mindie Lichterman of Marlton is 22 weeks pregnant. She says, “I’m more prone to sunburn now and use a higher SPF because of it.” But according to Perilstein, pregnant women do not need to be more cautious than normal and should protect themselves the same as they do when not pregnant. It’s well known that their moles can change during pregnancy.

A change in a mole should be evaluated by a dermatologist. ummer means beautiful weather and, for many, getting that perfect tan. Sandy Barnett of Medford, loves spending her summer days at the beach. “I feel more attractive when I have my summer glow,” says Barnett.

This summer take a minute to think again before going out in the sun. Our skin is as thin as a pencil line. It consists of a protective layer of skin cells that continually shed and give way to new cells. Below the epidermis are the dermis and hypodermis, two layers that produce the oil and collagen that give skin support, elasticity and shine.

Taking care of your skin is extremely important. Dr. Erica Perilstein, a board certified dermatologist says the first sunscreens were developed to prevent severe sunburn for military personnel spending long hours under intense sunlight. Today, sunscreen is also credited with reducing signs of aging and decreasing the risk of skin cancer.

S

What is SPF? SPF stands for “sun protection factor.” High SPF products, which protect against sunburn, often provide very little protection against UVA radiation, the type of sunlight that does not burn, but is responsible for considerable skin damage.

Products with high SPF ratings sell a false sense of security because most people mistakenly think they can stay out in the sun longer. Few people even use enough sunscreen to benefit from the UVB protection 8 | July 2011

Lip Protection Don’t forget about your lips! Lips can burn and also wrinkle over time.

Make sure you wear lip protection. Perilstein recommends Nivea A with SPF 30, Blistex Daily Condition treatment with SPF 20 or NeoStrata Lip Condition with SPF 15.

Remember your skin is your largest organ. Take care of it. Use the right SPF for the amount of sun exposure you will have. Make sure you protect yourself and your child and don’t forget to reapply lotion every two hours.

Important Info About Children And Heat Children can get overheated more easily in hot weather, especially when it’s also humid. Young children produce more heat when they exercise and have larger skin surface relative to their small bodies, so they absorb more heat from the sun and air. Because they don’t sweat as much, their bodies don’t cool off as well, and they get so absorbed in their playing they aren’t aware they need to rest, cool off and drink liquids.

Try to schedule outdoor activities before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m and dress your children in light-colored and lightweight clothes and a hat with a brim. For protection against the sun’s ultraviolet rays, be sure to apply sunscreen with a minimum SPF 15, 30 minutes before going outdoors and reapply it every two hours. Also, encourage them to wear sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection.✲

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Offering help and hope for children with autism Bancroft offers a full continuum of programs and services for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, and acquired brain injuries. Programs are outcomes-focused, and based on best practices in the field, and range from individualized supports several hours a week to the Lindens Program, a JCAHO-accredited neurobehavioral stabilization program.

To learn more write, or call: (800) 774-5516 425 Kings Highway East • Haddonfield, NJ 08033-0018 www.bancroft.org Bancroft, a New Jersey Non-Profit Corporation

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July 2011 | 9

Beach Safety for Tweens

By Heidi Smith Luedtke othing beats the beach on lazy summer days. But don’t leave your tween high and dry with just a cell phone and some spending money. Beach safety begins at home.

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Before You Go Talk safety first. Centers for Disease Control data show more than 20 percent of fatal drowning victims are kids age 14 and younger. And for every fatality, four kids suffer nonfatal injuries that may cause brain damage.

Consult weather forecasts. Lightning, wind and strong currents can spell disaster. Stay home if lightning is expected.

At the Beach Heed posted signs and flags, which are color-coded to signal threat level (green means “calm,” yellow means “caution,” and red means “danger”). A double red flag usually means the beach is closed. If so, stay away.

10 | July 2011

Choose to swim near a lifeguard. United States Lifesaving Association data show the chance of drowning at a beach without lifeguard protection is almost five times higher. Even then, use the buddy system.

Tweens may balk, but weak swimmers should wear life jackets approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. Rafts and swim noodles are not adequate. If kids fall off, they can quickly get into trouble.

Finally, avoid rip currents. If the current is forcing you away from the beach, don’t fight it. You’ll only wear yourself out. Swim parallel to shore until the current eases and then swim for the sand.

At the Limit Stay close to your tween at the beach, even if she’s hanging with friends. Your presence may keep her from getting in over her head in more ways than one.✲

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12 weeks of

cheap summer fun Kerrie McLoughlin oo often summer goes so fast that before you know it the kids are back in school and schedules fill up with sports, lessons and other activities. If you are looking for some cheap, fun activities to do with your kids during the summer, I have an idea for every week. Some can be done in the evening, all can be done on weekends, so whether you work full-time or have the summer off with your kids, pick and choose a few of your favorites from the list below and turn them into summer traditions!

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1.

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3.

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Plant a garden as soon as school is out and your family will see the fruits (or vegetables!) of your labors by the end of summer.

If you don’t have a backyard or much space, many vegetables can be grown in pots on a deck railing or even inside. Head to www.kidsgardening.org to get started.

Read all about it when you join a summer reading program, like one your local library system might offer (check www.publiclibraries.com). Other organizations that offer rewards for reading over the summer are Chuck E. Cheese’s (www.ChuckECheese.com), Scholastic (www.Scholastic.com) and Barnes and Noble (www.BarnesandNoble.com).

Do the drive-in. Pack up some chairs and a cooler of drinks, wrap some hot dogs in foil and pop some popcorn and head to Vineland to visit the one and only drive-in movie theatre in NJ. Get wet. Take a swim at your local pool or head to the shore.

You could also go jump in a lake (with life jackets), set up a cheap backyard pool or hook up a sprinkler to a hose.

Go to a park you haven’t been to before. Wait for the perfect windy day, then head to a wide open space with a park for some kite-flying fun. Parks are also great for their playgrounds, for hide-and-seek and for an evening game of flashlight tag.

Pick some fruit. Blueberries, strawberries, peaches, apples, or whatever you can find at the local farms. Go at dusk when it’s cooler and fewer people around.

7.

8.

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Act like a monkey. No kid is ever too old to enjoy a trip to the zoo! Don’t overlook the Cape May Zoo. It may be smaller and a bit of a longer drive from your home, but it’s FREE and they have a lot of cool animals. Also check out the Cohanzick Zoo in Bridgeton.

Camp out. Camping doesn’t have to be a big ordeal. In fact, it can be as simple as setting up a tent in your own backyard (or Grandma’s or someone else’s if you live in an apartment). Don’t forget the flashlights, snacks, sleeping bags and scary stories!

Chill out. One of my kids’ favorite parts of summer is our ice cream dates. You can simply grab a cheap soft-serve cone on the fly. If you’re looking for healthy, try out one of the new flavored frozen yogurt places where you can add your own toppings. Another option would be to borrow or buy an electric ice cream machine and make your own ice cream in any flavor you like!

Catch a fish. Buy (or borrow) a rod, reel and bait and head to any small or large lake to fish off the bank. Keep the fish for dinner or throw them back. (You will need a fishing license.)

Fishing provides a great opportunity to just hang out and talk with your kids.

Hit a carnival or fair. If a carnival never comes to your town, consider making a weekend trip to a fair. Every kid will forever remember the games, the attractions, the greasy food and the fast rides.

Tee off. An evening game of miniature golf is a great way to top off the summer. Make the game competitive and keep score, or just play for fun.✲ Kerrie McLoughlin (TheKerrieShow.com), her husband and 5 kids attempt all 12 summer traditions above every year. Email her your favorites at mommykerrie@yahoo.com.

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July 2011 | 11

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12 | July 2011

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Perfect Picnic Planning S

ummer is the perfect time for family gatherings, reunions or just getting together with good friends. Often this means eating outdoors in a picnic type setting. Most of us pack up our picnic baskets, gather up the kids, the swim toys, the insect repellant lotion, grab some ice at the corner store and head off to the local park or beach.

Traditional picnic foods such as potato salad, hot dogs and hamburgers, potato chips and soda are usually brought along. But why not consider breaking the mold this year and do something a bit different? Below are some ideas for picnics along with food safety tips.

Safety First Picnics can be a lot of fun but not if you end up with a bout of food poisoning. Careful planning can prevent food spoilage. Here are some simple safety rules to remember when planning your picnic: w Keep foods properly chilled. Meats and other foods that spoil easily, such as salads prepared with mayonnaise, need to be kept properly cold. Place them in coolers with plenty of ice. Put them in the cooler

By Belinda J. Mooney

directly from the refrigerator. Don’t let them sit out in the kitchen at room temperature before packing them. w Handle raw meat carefully. Keeping it in a separate cooler is a good idea but if that isn’t possible, place it on the bottom of the cooler, packed in plenty of ice. You want to avoid having the other foods come in contact with the raw meat. w Don’t let food sit out for long periods on the picnic table. Foods should only sit out for an hour or two before being placed back in chilled coolers. w Place grilled foods on a clean plate. Don’t use the same plate the raw meat was on.

Other Handy Tips w To avoid bees and ants keep sodas and other sugary foods covered and away from the table where everyone is eating. w Use citronella candles to keep mosquitoes away as the sun goes down. w Make sure you bring plenty of water with you if there is no source of water at the location. w Bring baby wipes to wipe hands and faces. w Pack the basic supplies: aluminum foil, plates, cups, tableware, plastic wrap, garbage bags, can opener, tongs for the grill, plates to place hot food on (not Styrofoam), toys for the kids, charcoal and matches. w Make a list and check it off as you go. w Be sure to remember your camera so you capture all the day’s fun.

Picnic Ideas Not many of us have a problem planning for your basic picnic. You take your food, (hamburgers, coleslaw, buns, ketchup), your picnic blankets, suntan lotion, Frisbee and drink coolers and head off for a day in the sun.

That is the simplest form of picnicking and can be wonderful. But why not do something slightly different? Here are some other ideas for picnics as well. w Try a themed picnic. Why not host a luau? Have everyone wear brightly colored Hawaiian shirts, bring luau foods such as pork and fruit salads, serve alcohol free piña coladas and use tropical themed tablecloths, plates and flatware. Have a hula contest and let the kids decorate coconuts. Other fun theme ideas might be a pirate theme, a shipwreck theme, western round-up theme or even a dessert theme. w Try some place new and different. If you typically go to the local beach plan your next picnic along a local hiking trail. Have everyone pack their own picnic backpack for this picnic with their foods, tableware and drink in the backpack. Include foods that won’t spoil such as peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, trail mix and fresh fruit. Pre-freeze drink bottles so they thaw slowly as you hike. Take along plenty of water. w Bad weather? Don’t let that stop you! Picnic indoors! If a rain storm moves in the day you have the big event planned, don’t panic. Picnicking indoors can be fun. Instead of swimming you might play board games, broil your meat instead of grilling and spread your blanket on the living room floor.

Picnics are a great way to spend a summer afternoon. They don’t have to be limited to just eating hot dogs and hamburgers either. A few minutes of extra planning can make your picnic picture perfect.✲

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July 2011 | 13

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And Ask a about bout our Studio Classes in Acting, Dance, V Voice, oice, & Piano!!

Available on Request 14 | July 2011

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Enroll in Abrakadoodle today!

Camps for 3 to 5 and 6 to 10 yrs.

To find a camp near you visit us at www.abrakadoodle.com or call 856.914.0521

KINGDOM CARE EDUCATION AND COUNSELING SERVICES, LLC • Providing individual, family and group mental health therapy • Training for mental health agencies, school systems, parents and care givers

(856) 254-CARE Shannon White, MSW, LCSW—Owner Serving Cherry Hill, Gloucester, Winslow and Washington Townships

Call for information about our summer Socials Skills Mini-Camp!

New Toddler Program Opening September 2011

NAUDAIN ACADEMY A Montessori School • • • • •

Individualized curriculum Enrichment programs Half, full and all day programs Trained Montessori teachers State licensed, non-profit facility

• Two administrators on-site • Enrolling now for 2011-2012 school year • Ages 1 1⁄2 - Kindergarten • We offer a summer enrichment program

Naudain Academy 6 School Lane Voorhees, NJ 08043

856-751-1510 www.NaudainAcademy.com www.southjerseymom.com

Family owned and operated non-profit organization Founded in 1977 Opened and still owned

by Leddy M. Naudain

" !% !

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• Swimwear • Shoes • Accessories

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! # # $! # " ! % • Toys & books • Baby gifts • Baby registry

Large selection of special occasion and casual girls dresses KIDRAGEOUS • 8009 Ventnor Ave • Margate, NJ (Across from Casel's supermarket)

609.487.0488 July 2011 | 19

moms R women 2

The State of Education:

What PARENTS should be ASKING about SCHOOLS today

By Janine Boldrin

ith school funding cuts dominating the headlines this summer, many families are wondering what the upcoming school year holds for their child. While the fallout leaves some parents considering trying to move their child to a new school, others may feel their child is “trapped” in a poorly funded school.

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Education choices, or the lack thereof, may seem harder than ever.

If you are choosing a new school for your child or need suggestions on how to face the upcoming year, there is definitely a lot to consider in today’s education environment.

Molland suggests the first place to start is to see how you and your child feel about the school by visiting while it is in session. Parents should meet with the principal since she sets the tone for the school. Molland also says to observe how the teachers and students interact, determine whether the classroom atmosphere is lively and if the teachers seem excited about what they are teaching, even look at the artwork on the walls.

“Talk to other parents of enrolled students,” says Molland. “That may be your best bet for finding out what’s really going on in a school.

“Ask them all the nitty gritty questions about how well the school is run.”

Stay Strong While Staying Put While some families may be in a position to chose another school option they feel is better for their child, others may feel trapped in a poorly funded school. If budget decisions will adversely impact the quality of education your child is receiving, Hassel and Molland have recommendations for parents.

Hassel suggests parents may need to make up for a school’s shortcomings if a school is unable to give a child what she needs. Parents must first identify what their child is missing, like more challenging assignments, more personal help, motivation, etc.

“With the growth of online learning, parents have more and more options for supplemental school, from free sites to help with specific challenges to fee-based online courses and tutoring,” says Hassel.

Molland suggests parents talk to their child’s teacher and try to figure out how they can assist.

“Teachers are also discouraged by the huge budget cuts, but they will definitely take heart if they know they have some parents on their side willing to help out,” says Molland. “There are many ways in which parents can help, from the big fundraisers to the much smaller assistance like filing papers, providing some school supplies or helping out with crossing guard duties.”

Molland says, most importantly, there is “power in numbers, so get together with other parents to see how you can create parent power.”✲

Economics of Education “Parents need to ask hard questions to find out whether budget cuts will adversely affect their schools,” says Bryan C. Hassel, Co-Director of Public Impact, a national education policy and management consulting firm.

Hassel says to find out if the schools are laying off teachers and, if they are, to ask if they are letting go the most junior teachers, who may Janine Boldrin is a freelance writer and mother of three. be excellent, or less effective teachers. Additionally, if the schools are increasing class sizes, parents should ask if the schools are making an effort to give more students to mostly their best teachers or increasing across the board. Hassel also suggests asking if districts are aggressively cutting central office costs to preserve dollars for the classroom.

Once the tough questions are asked, parents need to decide whether they should keep their LET US DESIGN YOUR DREAM KITCHEN! child in their local public school or switch to a private alternative. And, if they are unable to switch schools, what they can do to make up for the shortfall, if there is one.

KITCHEN RENOVATION & FLOORING SPECIAL

Choosing for Your Child Judy Molland, award winning teacher and author of Straight Talk About Schools Today: Understand the System and Help Your Child Succeed, has several suggestions for parents who are in the process of deciding what school to send their child to next year.

“Spend time researching the right school for your child,” says Molland. “After all, you probably spend hours checking out cars when you’re ready to purchase one, so you should definitely spend many more hours on finding the right school for your child.”

856.769.2490 Come visit one of the largest showrooms in South Jersey— 16 full kitchens displays

Kitchens • Bathrooms • Countertops • Entertainment Centers Carpet • Vinyl • Laminate • Hardwood • Ceramic 3.5% Sales Tax

20 Old Salem Road • Woodstown, NJ

www.matteokitchens.com 20 | July 2011

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How to Avoid Going Goofy at Disney I

just returned from a spontaneous weekend trip to Disney with my husband and two daughters, ages 11 months and 3 1/2 years. Most of my friends thought we were crazy and, in hindsight, we may have been!

My oldest daughter had a great time touring Disney and she will always remember meeting Mickey and Minnie Mouse. However, I learned a lot from this trip and the next time we make a visit to the “happiest place on earth,” I’ll spend more time planning. So to help other mothers plan a more perfect Disney getaway, I put together several tips based on the lessons I learned during this experience.

1. BEST TIME TO GO Crowds are overwhelming during school holidays and three-day weekends. The summer months are extremely busy as well, but the park is open longer and most of the rides and attractions are operating. Try Sundays, when the park is usually less busy. January and February weekdays are the least busy times, but the park is open fewer hours.

2. FAST PASS AND RIDER SWAP TIPS Every Disney ticket comes with the opportunity to receive Fast Passes for specified rides. A Fast Pass will give you a return-time window so you can skip the standby line and head to the front. If used correctly, Fast Passes allow you to maximize your time at the park. Usage is complex, however, so make sure you know all the rules before buying a pass.

3. CHEAP TICKETS Discounts on Disney tickets are hard to find. If you purchase your tick-

By Maisie Knowles

ets online in advance, you can save a couple dollars through travel sites like Priceline, Expedia, Orbitz and Disney.com. AAA also offers discounted tickets.

4. DISCOUNT DISNEY GIFT CARDS Before your trip to Disney, buy discount Disney gift cards on GiftCardGranny.com and save up to 10 percent at Disney’s ticket counters, stores, restaurants and food stands.

If you are willing to take a risk, however, you might try buying tickets on eBay. Alternately, you can try hitting up a cast member for the complimentary passes they receive (make sure you tip) or ask patrons leaving the park if you can have their tickets. Look for the most expensive tickets that have not been signed.

5. TIME TO RIDE People tend to head to the right side first when entering the park, so go to the left side of the park in the morning. The rides with height restrictions had smaller lines first thing in the morning during our visit. Another good time to ride is during parades and fireworks shows, but be aware that some will close. You also might check with your hotel to see if they offer extended Disney hours.

6. STROLLERS Tie a brightly colored ribbon to the stroller so you can locate it easily.

You will also want to write your name on a piece of tape and hide it somewhere on the stroller for identification in case of theft.

Do not lock strollers to anything or leave them in one spot for an extended period, as cast members will remove them.

7. BABY CARE CENTERS The Baby Care Centers include rocking chairs, nursing rooms, filtered water for formula, changing tables, etc. There is also a kiosk that sells diaper-changing kits and such basic baby-care items as food and formula.

8. SAVE ON FOOD Even though there are plenty of food kiosks at Disney, you will find most food is overpriced. Instead, pack food in a cooler and store it in a locker. If you are traveling from out of town, there is a Target nearby where you can stock up on supplies. Be sure your hotel has a mini fridge if you plan on storing cold food items during your stay.

If you are traveling with older children, buy a discounted gift card for them to use in place of cash when they are touring the park on their own.

9. SAVE ON PICTURES Park photographers will give you a Photo Pass so you can view your pictures online and pay between $10 and $30 for prints. Instead, use the Photo Pass to view your photos, then download a screenshot.✲ Maisie Knowles is the founder of BestBabyStuff.com, a website reviewing only the best baby products, and co-founder of FreeShipping.org. She earned a B.A. in Communications from the University of Colorado and currently spends most of her time at home with her two young girls.

www.southjerseymom.com

July 2011 | 21

Calling All Little Learners!

Does your little one love to learn?

Experience Early Learning at The Ellison School

Classes filling up fast...call to reserve a spot!

856.691.1734 • www.ellisonschool.org

The Center for Autism Research at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia is looking for participants for a research study focusing on early brain development.

22 | July 2011

Who are we looking for?

• Infant siblings of typically developing children • Infant siblings of children with autism

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When BaBy Made ThRee...

The bedroom became PG

By Robert and Ginean Crawford

T

he arrival of a baby into a couple’s life is rightfully a time of great joy. It’s also an event that dramatically and permanently changes every relationship. Few couples are ever truly prepared, let alone aware of the changes that await them.

Through years of counseling couples, we have too often seen the very best relationships falter after the joyful arrival of a baby and struggle to reestablish and renew a healthy, satisfying sexual connection. Sadly, if patterns of sexual disconnect and relational distance begin during the first few years as new parents, having children again tends to widen the emotional distance in a couple’s relationship.

There are as many reasons for a couple’s disconnect as there are names you considered for your baby. There are also many ways to light that fire again, even when the only heat seems to be the sweat from not having time to shower in three days. Here is the safety device that is needed as much as those plastic cabinet locks: intention. The key idea is to have an active intent — openly and regularly discuss your sexual relationship as something to be protected, honored and rightly enjoyed.

Enjoyed? Have you seen my body these days? Did you see how my wife looks at me

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when I even hint at sex? Do you know how tired I am? Do you know how much more pressure is on me to work now? Did you see the puke on me? So what happened to your sexual relationship? It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that raging hormones, changing bodies, new money worries, nighttime feedings, diapers and crying can radically change your bedroom from “pleasure palace” into a “recovery room.” But something even more radical has changed your relationship.

The addition of your baby dramatically changed your relationship’s orientation.

You began your relationship together as “partners.” As partners, you could be focused on one another and more available and attentive to each other’s needs. But something powerful happens during the earliest days of pregnancy, as well as in the early months of a baby’s addition into the relationship. You are no longer only his or her “partner” but now a “parent.” Panic, excitement, joy and many other emotions can flood a new parent’s focus. And sex? “Moms” do not have sex. And, Dads can get a little freaked out about how their wives are now “moms” and isn’t there something wrong with seeing them as sexy?

Let alone, possible flashbacks of the delivery room no one wants to admit!

Does this sound too familiar? Don’t panic.This is not an uncommon experience for new “parents.” So what can you do? Reclaim your partner! Recognize that as you both work together to find balance in your roles as “partner” and “parent,” sex in your relationship may have a different priority for each of you. But make no mistake about it; the sexual intimacy between “partners” is part of the essential connection that holds a relationship together.

RENEW YOUR SEX LIFE 1. Your relationship as “partner” must remain a focused priority. Relationships must be active and growing — and so must your sexual relationship! Begin now with an “end-in-mind” mentality. Statistically, you will live more years together as partners without children in your home than with them. One day your life together will come to a close.

How do you want to remember your life together? Remember you were “partners” before you were “parents” and someday you will be again. So begin to date your partner all over again as soon as you can!

2. Good sex is more than technique and orgasms. A satisfying sexual relationship is built upon a strong friendship. Is your partner your best friend? If not, then develop your relationship as the most important friendship in your life. Get rid of the guilt and get that babysitter!

3. So, what about the “Big O”? Sexual pleasure physically, emotionally, spiritually and mentally is so important. Women may not have the same desire after children; however, many women say they are glad they “did” once they got started. Men have a surge in hormones of vasopresson and oxytocin during sex, which are called the “relationship” hormones. This not only increases the connection with their partners, but with their children afterwards.

4. As “partners” you met for each other’s fundamental human needs of emotional and sexual intimacy. However, these needs aren’t met through your roles as ‘’parents.”

The trap many couples can fall into is to experience their relationship only through the “parent” roles. But needs for emotional and sexual intimacy don’t just go away if they are no longer met by our “partner.” This is where the best of relationships can drift into a crisis.

The temptation arises when frustrated emotional and sexual needs begin to be met outside of the relationship. Pornography is the common escape for men and, believe it or not, we see so many women turn to Facebook for emotional affairs they often minimize or deny, even to themselves! However, a healthy emotional and sexual intimacy between you and your partner, based on an active and healthy friendship, offers significant barriers to the temptations that arise from a dull sex life with an emotionally disconnected or disinterested “partner.”

So “dads” get home and get connected by doing the laundry, changing diapers, letting her sleep as you get up to take care of the baby’s needs. Learn to touch your wife in a soothing way that doesn’t always need to lead to sex!

Why? Because she’s absolutely exhausted!

And “moms” he now takes a backseat for your attention but still desires to be noticed and cared for by you. You may not have your pre-baby body back yet, but that doesn’t matter to him because he still desires you and needs you sexually!

Most importantly, you are an example of a healthy relationship for your children. One of the most important messages you can teach your children, a message that will influence how they someday may parent, is that Mommy and Daddy come first to each other and that is rightly ordered.✲ Robert and Ginean Crawford are owners of Connections Counseling, LLC. They are therapists in the Gloucester County area who are parents, partners and best friends.

July 2011 | 23

know 2 grow

Overcome Stuttering...

SLOW, SHORTEN

AND

SIMPLIFY

By Sharon Pearl

he release of the award winning movie, The King’s Speech, focused media attention on the often misunderstood condition of stuttering.

No clear cut causes of stuttering have emerged, but stuttering seems to run in families and researchers are trying to determine which genes cause stuttering. Stuttering often starts at about 3 or 4 years of age and about 80 percent of these children will get over stuttering naturally. Stuttering is often episodic, which means a child may repeat words or sounds or “get stuck” on his words for a few weeks. The stuttering then disappears, only to start up again a few days, weeks or a month later.

How do you handle these irregularities in your child’s speech? A very matter of fact response to your child’s bumps and starts is the way to go. If your child is aware of difficulty speaking, let your child know that everyone’s speech is “bumpy” sometimes. Accept your child and the way your child is speaking.

Telling your child to “slow down,” to “think before you speak” or finishing his or her sentences does not help and may instead cause frustration. Instead, follow these three “S’s” in your speech model: Slow, Shorten and Simplify so that your speech is similar to the clear relaxed manner Fred Rogers used in Mr. Rogers Neighborhood.

If your instinct tells you there’s a problem, your child may benefit from a referral to a speech and language pathologist (speech therapist). If the stuttering lasts six months from the initial episode, if your child is concerned or embarrassed by his or her speech

T

24 | July 2011

or if there is anyone in your family who stutters, seek professional help.

If you observe symptoms including repetition of parts of words (m-m-m-mommy), prolonging of sounds in words (mommmmmmy) and if words seem to get stuck in your child’s throat or if there are visible signs of tension, your child may need help. Early intervention, before kindergarten, makes all the difference in whether a child will go on to stutter into adulthood.

If your child has been stuttering and is of school age, the best intervention at home is to surround your child with support from family, friends and teachers. Be good listeners, inter-

vene with teasers or help your child develop “comebacks” when teasing does occur.

Speech therapy helps to lessen the severity and intensity of the problem at any age. For additional information about stuttering, contact the Stuttering Foundation of America at www.stutteringhelp.org. If your child needs speech therapy, it’s best to look for a speech language pathologist who specializes in stuttering.✲ For more information, contact Sharon K. Pearl, M.A.,C.C.C.S.L.P., owner of Pearl Speech Associates at 18 Barclay Pavilion East, Cherry Hill at (856) 429-1505.

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GROCERY STORE TANTRUM TIPS:

Check It Out!

By Janine Boldrin

ven the shortest line can seem never-ending when you have a cranky kid. Especially if they are too big to sit in the cart! Here are some tricks to keep tantrums and candy grabbing at a minimum while trying to check out at the grocery store:

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PLAY “puppets” with a banana, soup can or a ketchup bottle from your cart. Make up a funny conversation with your child about what their new friend can do when they come to your house.

SPOT things around you that are a certain color or shape. Or let your child pick things for you to spot.

Have them keep one hand on the cart while they play so they don’t run toward the object.

SING a familiar song but have your child fill in the blanks instead of singing the whole song. It will keep them listening. Think: Twinkle, Twinkle, Little ______. How I wonder _____________.

PRETEND to be a chef by asking them what they would make with the things in the cart. Or ask them to tell you how they would make their favorite meal.

POINT to your ear! Stand on one leg! Wiggle your nose! Keep the game limited to things they can do while holding your hand or the cart.

COUNT the items as you unload them onto the conveyor. If they can only count up to a certain number, start over again when you reach their limit.✲

www.southjerseymom.com

July 2011 | 25

just born

Looking for the latest gadgets, toys, books or family related products? Look no further! Each month, we highlight the latest and greatest just for you. Take a look at these “just born” products and add them to your list of must haves!

3-in-1 Gardening Set The Miracle-Gro Kids 3-in-1 Gardening Set is a colorful and fun introduction to the wonders of nature and the importance of plant care. The convenient allin-one gardening system and table-top display keeps everything you need within reach. Inside you’ll find soil, flower pots, seed packets, watering can and care instructions. Ages 5 and up. $12.99 Sweet Tweets With text, e-mail, Facebook, Twitter, and other tech conveniences, we hardly take the time to write handwritten notes anymore. Still, that’s what makes it even more special when we receive a handwritten note from a loved one. That’s why Bazooka Candy Brands decided to launch a new product called Sweet Tweets. Sweet Tweets are small, decorated and colorful note cards featuring cute, candy emoticons attached to each.

Perfect for leaving little notes to let your children know how much you love them and are thinking of them.

10 per package for $0.99, retailers nationwide.

Edible Gifts Plus Edible Gifts Plus has delicious covered no matter what the occasion is this summer with gourmet goodies and gifts sure to be a hit with your guests or recipient.

Yummy gifts include Picnic Cookies Minis ($19.50), Happy 4th of July Grill Master Cookie Bouquet ($53.95), Fun in the Sun Lollipop Bouquet ($42.95), Ladybug Hand Decorated Oreo Cookies ($1.75 each), Hand Decorated Oreo Flower Cookies ($1.95 each), Flower Brownie Bites Gift Box ($37.50) and Pink Daisy Cookie Favor ($4.99 each). Available at www.ediblegiftsplus.com.

Babiators Babiators are sunglasses for kids’ age nine months and up.

They are BPA-free, protect 100 percent from UVA and UVB rays and are virtually indestructible as they are made of rubber. Babiators come in two sizes and four cool colors. $19, www.babiators.com.

Andrew & Audrey Summer Collection Andrew and Audrey offers a modern spin on classic American children’s fashion. Their collection present fully fashioned cotton sweaters that are comfortable for boys and girls, ages 4-14. Sporty yet swell, haute yet hip, these looks are stylish for kids and easy for parents to maintain. $29-110, www.andrewaudrey.com.

Ready, Set Learn! with School Zone Books Kids like to keep busy, but that can be difficult during the Summer when it seems like kids are always complaining, “I’m bored!” The new Little Get Ready! book collection provides big learning in a small format that requires no charger or batteries. Designed to keep little hands and minds productive! $2.99 and up, www.schoolzone.com.

Haiden Surf Swimwear Providing little boys everywhere with unique, personality inspired swimwear since 2008. Pairing rich, vibrant colors with fun, trendy patterns Haiden Surf offers board shorts, t-shirts, flip flops, rash guards, sunglasses and trucker hats in infant sizes 3M to boys size 7. Each piece of qualitymade swimwear comes sun protected with SPF built in for added protection against the harmful UVA & UVB rays.

Prices vary, www.haidensurf.com.

The Complete Walt Disney World 2011 Guide This straightforward guidebook rates nearly 700 attractions, restaurants, shops, hotels and offers hundreds of helpful tips. Each ride and show is showcased on its own page with an insightful description and frank reviews. The family focus offers creative ways to involve kids in planning a Disney vacation. $24.95 Hot Tot Hair Products All-natural hair products for stylish tots. The specialized formulas contain no parabens, sulfates, phthalates, petroleum, formaldehyde or synthetic colors. Gentle for sensitive skin and safe for tots with eczema. Products include detangler, styling gel, structure whip, finishing mist & sweet pea serum. $12 and up, www.hottot.com.

26 | July 2011

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Kiss My Face Sunblock for Adults and Kids Face Factor SPF 30 and SPF 50 for Face and Neck ($12.95/4 oz) provides UVA/UVB protection for the most over exposed and fragile areas—the face and neck. Face Factor is rich in natural peptides to help fight the signs of aging as well as skin soothing aloe, licorice & cooling cucumber extracts. Kids Sun Stick SPF 30 ($10.99/.5 oz) provides 100% natural mineral sun block and works for kids’ lips, nose, cheeks & ears and comes in blue, white and pink. Use this stick to block the sun, and then all day long have fun! On the beach, on a bike, on the slopes or on a hike, this convenient and 100% natural sunblock provides extra protection for sensitive, over exposed areas. Your parts will stay pink, blue or white when you smooth it on (it’s time to reapply when the color is gone)!

Herbal Mist Drink All Herbal Mist teas are naturally sweetened with Yerba Mate, a safe natural stimulant devoid of any side effects and toxicity — good for your body and good for your soul. In six distinctive flavors, (green tea, white tea, black tea, peach tea, lemon tea and raspberry tea), there is the perfect flavor for everyone with just a fraction of the calories found in an alternative fruit juice. The flavors are so delicious and the bottles include such fun packaging that your kids won’t even know they’re drinking something healthy! www.herbalmist.com.

Laser Pegs Lego sets can be found in nearly every home in America where children live. They are so popular they have become a part of pop culture with dedicated stores, amusement parks and professional building contests. Now, a spinoff is taking these basic toys high-tech – Laser Pegs are a new construction toy with LEDs inside each piece that can be snapped together to build hundreds of shapes including robots, helicopters, spaceships, giant bugs and more that light up in a variety of flashing and glowing colors. $24.95 and up, www.laserpegs.com.

Funky Monkey Snacks Funky Monkey Freeze Dried snacks create a fun and exciting new way for kids to want to eat fruit and enjoy it. Includes full slices and pieces of fruit in large or to-go size packages. Each ounce contains 3 servings of real fruit and contains no added sugar or sweeteners and no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. They are 100% natural! The snacks come in the following flavors: Applmon, Bananamon, Carnaval Mix, JiveALime, MangOJ, Pink Pineapple and Purple Funk. $2.49 and up, available at Whole Foods, Target, Acme and www.funkymonkeysnacks.com.

Company Kids Swimwear This year’s collection has no shortage of bright colors, patterns, and fresh designs for both girls and boys, from tankinis to Hawaiianstyle trunks. Plus, Company Kids also offers must-have accessories, like rash guards, cover-ups and beach towels. $26 and up, www.companykids.com.

Itzy Bitzy Seldom do we find a company whose products are just as amazing as the story behind its foundation! Meet Itzy Bitzy. Priding themselves in creating adorable, yet still affordable, footwear and accessories, Itzy Bitzy has a greater cause, which is to ultimately raise awareness and acceptance for children with physical differences. Designs including Velcro sneakers, girly mary janes, fashionable snow-safe boots, sweet sandals and irresistible headbands and flower hair clips as well as flip flops. Prices vary, www.itzybitzy.com.

Cars 2 Disney Interactive Studios has released Cars 2: The Video Game for the Nintendo Wii, DS, PS3, Xbox 360 and PC/Mac. In Cars 2: The Video Game, players train to become a world class agent at the C.H.R.O.M.E spy academy and take on dangerous espionage missions. While using their new spy skills in exhilarating, actionpacked combat racing, players compete to become the best race car in the world. $49.99, available where video games are sold. www.southjerseymom.com

The Jersey Shore: Atlantic City to Cape May This guide covers the best of the South Jersey Shore: Where to stay, where to play, what to do and—most importantly—where to eat. Award winning journalist Jen A. Miller takes you there in this new volume. Miller will send signed books via mail upon request. Contact her at jenmiller27@gmail.com for details. Available at Sun Rose Words and Music in Ocean City, Barnes and Noble, Amazon.com, Atlantic Bookstores, and your favorite Jersey Shore independent bookstore.

SQUIGGLE Pads SQUIGGLE Style Pad lets you mix and match clothing and accessories to create your own unique, hip, funny and wild outfits. This dry erase drawing art board includes 6 coloring dry erase markers. SQUIGGLE Monsters Pad is a fun and creative way to explore the wild and wacky side of your imagination! First you create a squiggly line on the dry-erase board, then you spin the wheels to select a combination of features to make your monster (ie. Two Heads - One Leg Monster). Next, it’s up to you to turn the squiggly line you created into that monster. They’re both great for travel too—no waste, no noise and the possibilities are endless! $14.99, www.amazon.com.

July 2011 | 27

South Jersey’s first pediatric integrative medicine practice Bringing together the best of conventional medicine and alternative therapies (609) 662-KIDS (5437) www.KidsWellPeds.com

475 Old Marlton Pike Marlton, NJ 08053

PLAY LIKE THE PROS! • Professional Baseball Instruction • Hitting • Fielding • Strength & Conditioning • Throwing • Base-Running • Softball Check out our indoor and outdoor summer baseball camp info at www.wedropbombs.com

609.408.8828 15 Fostertown Road Medford, NJ 28 | July 2011

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things 2 do

July Calendar

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

To submit your event, send an email to calendar@southjerseymom.com.

Entries are due six weeks prior to the event and are filled on a first come first serve basis. Space is limited.

ATLANTIC COUNTY Pink My Ride - 2nd Annual Boardwalk Rolling Chair Relay July 30 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Meet at the Atlantic City Boardwalk near Dennis Courtyard where teams of 3-4 people will compete in the relay pushing one of these historic pedicabs from Dennis Courtyard toward the Pier Shops at Caesar’s. (609) 896-1291 x 13 or www.komencsnj.org/pinkmyride.

Jewelry Fundraiser and Luau July 24 at 3 p.m.

All proceeds benefit the South Jersey All Breeds Horse Rescue, a rescue dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and sanctuary of unwanted, neglected and abused horses. 5745 Pleasant Mills Rd, Weekstown. Contact Cathy for more info at (856) 506-4149 or http://sites.google.com/site/sjabhr.

BURLINGTON COUNTY City of Burlington Car Show & Fundraiser July 23 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Car show fundraiser to benefit the Police and K-9 Unit. Over 50 trophies and dash plaques to the first 50 entrants. All types of classic show cars, antiques, custom hot rods & muscle cars. Goodie bags for the first 100 entrants and door prizes. Music, food, dunk tank & more. Free admission. High Street and the Promenade, (100, 200, 300 Blocks of High Street and the Riverfront Promenade), Burlington City. (609) 386-0200 x 114 or lschiller@burlingtonNJ.us

CAMDEN COUNTY Independence Day Splash July 2 from 7 to 10 p.m.

Celebrate our nation’s birth with a special visit to Adventure Aquarium and get the best viewing of the fireworks from inside or out.

Choose a regular visit or reserve now to get a seat in CURRENTS ballroom for a special BBQ buffet. www.southjerseymom.com

Adventure Aquarium, 1 Aquarium Dr, Camden. (856) 365-3300 or www.adventureaquarium.com.

Breakfast Car Show July 3 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Start your holiday celebration a day early with the Cherry Hill Silver Diner’s Breakfast Car Show.

The Silver Diner, Cherry Hill.

(856) 524-2588.

BlueBEARy Blast and Celebrate NJ Day Family Festival July 9 and 10 Join Mum Bear and Garden staff for crafts and a planting activity, celebrating this delicious and nutritious fruit as well as the great state of NJ. Families get their fill of NJ’s official State Fruit at the Very Berry Blueberry concession stand.

Camden Children’s Garden is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday, from 10am-4pm, and Thursday by reservation. $6 for adults; $5 for children (3-11). Camden Children’s Garden, 3 Riverside Dr., Camden. (856) 365-8733 or www.camdenchildrensgarden.org.

THE DIRTY SOCK FUNTIME BAND July 3 at 4 p.m.

Beloved by millions of families for their high-energy music videos on Nick Jr.’s Jack’s Big Music Show, The Dirty Sock Funtime Band will celebrate 4th of July weekend as part of Fam Jams at Wiggins Park, Mickle Blvd. at the River, Camden.

Their shows are interactive spectacles involving rock band, dancers, comedy and costumes. Free.

(856) 757-9154 or www.camden waterfront.com/events/fam-jamscamden.

CAPE MAY COUNTY Harbor Safari Now through September 1 The Harbor Safari, one of the Nature Center of Cape May’s most popular family programs for over a decade, is back with its walking and wading tour of Cape May

Harbor. Participants help Nature Center naturalists pull a 40-foot seine net through calm harbor waters to discover the incredible diversity of marine life living under the surface. Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. $10/adults, $5 children ages 3-12, and free children under 3. The Nature Center, 1600 Delaware Ave., Cape May. (609) 898-8848 or www.njaudubon.org/centers/nccm Sports Card, Toy, Comic and Collectibles Expo July 1 to 4 Fri 3pm-9pm, Sat 10am-9pm, Sun & Mon 10am-7pm. Free Admission!

Autograph guests to appear.

Wildwoods Convention Center, Wildwood. (732) 422-9365 or www.RKSportsPromotions.com.

Independence Day Celebration July 2 and 3 Celebrate Independence Day the traditional way! Enjoy a vintage baseball game played by 1873 rules on Saturday at noon, featuring the Flemington Neshanock vs.

Elkton Eclipse. Sunday: Afternoon concert by the Cape Community Band plus family activities, patriotic programs and more. Historic Cold Spring Village, Cape May. (609) 898-2300 x 18 or www.hcsv.org.

CUMBERLAND COUNTY

Cumberland County Fair July 4 to 9 Stilt Walkers, Racing Pigs, Daily 4-H Activities, Free Hayrides, Monster Truck Rides, Farm & Garden Exhibits, Home & Arts Exhibits, great food, lots of rides! Children 3 and under, Free; Children Ages 4 to 9, $3; Ages 10 and older, $5. Free parking. July 6 is Kid’s Day. First 500 kids through gate receive free gift. Kid’s under 4 ft tall admitted free all day. Check the calendar for daily special events. www.cumberlandcofair.com.

GLOUCESTER COUNTY The Wedding Singer July 15-August 7 Showtimes: Friday & Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Sunday 7/31/11 at 7:30 p.m. $25/person.

Broadway Theatre of Pitman, Pitman. (856) 384-8381 or www.thebroadwaytheatre.org Winnie the Pooh July 22 and 23 Live Children’s Theatre Friday at 10 a.m. and Saturday at 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. $7/person. Reserved seating (Sat. only) $9. Broadway Theatre of Pitman, Pitman. (856) 384-8381 or www.thebroadwaytheatre.org

SALEM COUNTY

26th Antique Show and Sale July 9 and 10 The Village is lined with furniture, collectibles, books, jewelry, ephemera and much more.

Saturday afternoon performance by the Bob Ferris Orchestra.

Historic Cold Spring Village, Cape May. (609) 898-2300 x 18 or www.hcsv.org.

Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Social July 16 from 4 to 7 p.m.

Civil War Era band, period costumer, banjo player and refreshments. Dunn’s Park, Sheil Rd, Carney Point. (856) 299-7434 or http://scartsalliance.org/ice_cream _social Cowtown Rodeo July 30 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Event features bareback riding, calf roping, saddle bronco riding, steer wrestling, bull riding, team roping and barrel racing. Cowtown Rodeo, 780 Rt 40, Pilesgrove. (856) 7693200 or www.cowtown.com July 2011 | 29

resource guide

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POSTPARTUM CARE

TENDER MOMENTS MOM CARE Postpartum Doula, Mary Kling provides a helping hand for new moms. Providing in-home newborn education, breast feeding support, laundry, meal preparation, infant massage and a listening ear. Contact Mary at (856) 889-9800 or www.tendermomentsmomcare.com.

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Is your child the CUTEST KID IN TOWN? Every month, South Jersey MOM will feature a local child on the cover!

If you think you have the cutest kid in town, send a 4x6 photo and a $15 entry fee (per household) to P.O. Box 2413, Vineland, NJ 08362-2413. Please make checks payable to Superior Graphics.

If your child(ren) is/are selected, we will arrange a FREE professional photo shoot and they could be on our next cover for all your friends and family to see! Sorry, photos cannot be returned.

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H Clifford: Dog Days of Summer DVD H Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules DVD H Leap Frog Sing and Learn With Us Visit www.southjerseymom.com to enter to win these prizes 30 | July 2011

Address: ____________________________________________________ City______________________ State_____ Zip ____________________ Phone:______________________________________________________ Child’s Name & DOB: ________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ Email: ______________________________________________________

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July 2011 | 31