November 2012 - South Jersey MOM Magazine

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2012

November

Special KIDFUN Thanksgiving Idea

CABIN FEVER!

5

STORM SURVIVAL SOLUTIONS

GET ON THE MOVE!

• 7 Pregnancy Fit Tips • Groove to Zumba • Cold & Flu Prevention Pointers

WRITER’S WORKSHOPS: Local Author’s Inspiring Ideas Visit

Everything you need for Thanksgiving!

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Table of Contents Holiday Resource Guide page 16 mom 2 mom 8 Surviving the Storm

moms R women 2 12 Movin’ With the Zumba Groove 14 7 Things You Didn’t Know About Getting Fit While Pregnant 15 Stress On Purse Strings Equals Stress On Heartstrings

features 11 20 21

28

Popcorn Park Zoo...Come Visit!

Working Out Young Writers’ Muscles Teach Your Children the Real Meaning of Thanksgiving Adoption Options: Home vs. Abroad

know 2 grow 22 23

24

Momma’s Gonna Buy You a Winter Coat Rock-A-Bye the Vote: Talking to Your Kids About the Election Step Away From Cold & Flu Unscathed

also in this issue 6 business spotlight: coco key water resort 18 recipe corner 26 making a difference 27 mom’s mall 29 things to do 30 resource guide

Dear Readers,

E

lections may come and go each November; sometimes, changes occur, but this year brings more weight since it’s a Presidential election. We’ve gathered the information, heard the smear campaigns, and measured how each candidate may fulfill or not fulfill our needs. In our daily lives, we make choices on everything from what breakfast food to eat to what time the kids should turn in for bed. When you really think of it, you’re constantly “voting” on what choice works best for you and your family.

You can choose how to celebrate Thanksgiving, whether you want to rush around visiting every family member, spread out visits or even alternate among the family. The choice is yours!

Expanding your family by adopting a child means more love and also more choices. So many things to be considered and decisions to make for any family.

Should you adopt a child here at home or venture overseas to bond with one from a foreign land? In Dr. Kelly N. Moore’s article, “Adoption Options: Home vs.

Abroad,” she discusses the differences in adopting stateside or abroad; and also the importance of embracing your child’s culture, if different from your own.

Weather experts keep predicting a rough winter ahead. It’s even extended into the Weather Channel devising a list of names for possible storms this season.

One mom, Samantha Gill, who successfully survived the Derecho Storm in July recounts her experiences in keeping young

november

letter from the editor

November 2012

children occupied and positive in a trying time.

Read her story, “Surviving the Storm”, and see the lessons she learned and choices she made about coping with a storm from her two young daughters.

Avoiding the cold and flu season can be tricky. Some people run out for the latest slew of vaccinations; others rely on their own immunity to fight fevers, colds, aches and pains. Still others are overwhelmed by all the diverse information and medications available and don’t know which way to go. Pick up some prevention pointers from Dr. Trina Gipson-Jones’s article, “Step Away from Cold & Flu Unscathed.” What will you decide to do to keep everyone healthy in your home?

And don’t forget to check out Christi Fox’s article, “Momma’s Gonna Buy You a Winter Coat.” She’ll provide tips on what to look for when searching for the safest, warmest, coziest coat for your child as well as considering how child car seat restraints should influence your coat purchasing decisions.

So this Thanksgiving, give thanks not only for your family, your friends, your home, your job, the things you love and cherish – give thanks for the freedom to make choices about what you want out of life and what you don’t want. Happiness can be your choice.✲ Your friend and fellow MOM, M.B.

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South Jersey November

MOM 2012

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 chris@superiorgx.com (609) 670-1794 Production Manager Lisa Celfo lisa@southjerseymom.com Photographer Perfect Day Photography www.perfectdayphotography.com (856) 241-3850 Contributing Writers Sharla Feldscher, Christi Fox, Samantha Gill, Dr.Trina Gipson-Jones, Dolores Hoffman, Carolyn Leigh Kellerman, Ellen Parry Lewis, Deb McCarson, Dr. Kelly N. Moore, Lisa Ann Panzino DiNunzio, Jina Park Submit Calendar Listing: michelle@superiorgx.com

Tape a Thank-You! T

hanksgiving’s coming, and it’s time to seriously think about sharing appreciation. How does this fit into KIDFUN? Well, it just so happens I have an idea.

Use a tape recorder or, even better, a video camera and start recording your child’s “thank you’s” to family members with whom you share Thanksgiving. Start now, in the beginning of the month, and keep going.

You might want to start with a discussion about gratitude — get your kids warmed up for the taping and talk about the things you appreciate about certain relatives and close friends. Then ask if you can record it. Turn on the tape or camera and let it roll! Don’t force it. Wait until your child is relaxed. Stop and start, capturing his thoughts throughout the month and imagine how wonderful it will be at Thanksgiving to play this tape for everyone to hear.

About KIDFUN by Sharla Feldscher: Sharla Feldscher created and edited The KIDFUN Page for the Philadelphia Daily News, appeared on KYW Newsradio and WTXF-TV (now FOX) as well as being the KIDFUN consultant to The Phillies. She’s the author of six books , has her own public relations business in Philadelphia and was the first PR Director of the Please Touch Museum and spent 26 years as the PR Consultant for Sesame Place. Not only a South Jersey Mom, she’s a South Jersey Grandmom (Grammy). Read her blog at www.kidfunandmore.com for more easyto-do, KIDFUN ideas.

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.

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On the Cover

Cutest Kid In Town Winner: Christina is an energetic 3-year old whose smiles and laughter can light up a room. She loves listening to all kinds of music, but especially gospel music.

She loves to sing and dance. She has a great imagination and enjoys playacting with her siblings.

A few of her favorite things are floating in the pool, family bike rides, the color purple, ferris wheels and strawberry Jell-O! Photo by Perfect Day Photography, www.perfectdayphotography. com. Cover shoot was taken at Rastelli’s Foods Group in Swedesboro, NJ, www.rastellis.com

November 2012 | 5

business spotlight

CoCo Key Water Resort: The Great Family Escape

By M.B. Sanok

D

uring my childhood summer beach vacations, I visited the boardwalk water slides. Every time I hear “Our Lips Are Sealed” by the Go-Go’s I recall the exhilaration and spray of sluicing down the slides and splashing into the pool below. Families luck out these days – they don’t have to wait for summer vacation or hot weather anymore to experience the swirling water slides and exciting aquatic attractions found at CoCo Key Water Resort.

CoCo Key is an indoor park made from dreams. Attached to the Hotel ML in Mt. Laurel, it boasts a 55,000 square foot aquatic environment with beautiful weather year-round.

General Manager Jason Dowd describes it as an “affordable vacation or escape from the day to day… mimicking a Key West theme… the fun and excitement of an amusement park with great customer service.” With multiple water slides, water-drenched play structures and the attached full-service-hotel, they provide that splash of entertainment and relaxation families need.

Soaking wet fun for the whole family resides in this “aquatic environment.” Climb your way through Parrot’s Perch, an “interactive jungle gym,” with 300-gallon dump bucket; take a relaxing spin down the Lazy River; challenge yourself in the Lilly Pad Adventure and basketball pools; or relax by the Dip-In Theater, specifically designed for little visitors, with family movies and cartoons playing on the boat’s 6 | November 2012

sail. Five different slide locations, amounting to nearly 1,000 ft. of slides, from the tidal force of stories high body and raft slides to the easy slosh of the Dip-In’s baby slides, means fun for everyone!

Ready for a water break? Dry off in their locker rooms and game away in the state-ofthe-art arcade. Maybe you’ll run into their mascot CoCo, a snorkeling parrot who just turned 4. Hungry? Grab a table and order for your appetite at Gator’s Grab and Go, serving family-friendly fare or watch your kids at play with a frozen cocktail or frosty beer at their full-service bar, overlooking the park . For more full-scale dining, get changed and walk over to Talia’s Restaurant at the Hotel ML. CoCo Key provides many diverse packages, whether you want to spend the day or make it an overnight stay. “We partner with local attractions and offer packages that include meals,” says Jason. One package is a zoo trip or breakfast and water resort access. Celebrations and gatherings, including birthdays, corporate get-togethers and even educational outings, are just a few of the resort’s offerings.

“A lot of local guests and out-of-town families stay overnight or just visit for the day,” says Jason.

“We take feedback and guest experiences seriously.” In addition to the many hotel renovations, “starting this fall, we’ll be adding a sit-down restaurant… [with] family-friendly shows and fare” for completion this spring.

Safety and sanitary conditions are paramount. Jason says, “Lifeguards are trained, certified and regularly audited by Jeff Ellis and Associates, an authority on aquatic training.

We’ve received multiple Exceeds Standards [recognition].” Guests are required to abide by water safety rules. Some rules to consider: children under 14 must be accompanied and supervised by an adult; slide height restrictions; no outside food and drink (except baby food in plastic); and swim diapers must be worn by non-potty trained children. “We strive to provide a clean, safe and unique environment for families to spend quality time and make lasting memories,” adds Jason.

Committed to the community, CoCo Key participates in numerous fundraisers; most recently donating $5000 to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, which derived from a portion of proceeds and ticket donations, says Jason.

Each month, special deals and discounts on passes and food, and exciting events are listed on their website, so check before scheduling your next visit or sign up for their “CoCo Mail” for specials automatically sent to your inbox.✲ Take the plunge and escape to Co Co Key by contacting them at (877)-494-COCO(2626) or www.njcocokey.com.

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November 2012 | 7

mom 2 mom

Surviving the Storm

By Samantha Gill

I

learned how to prepare for a storm the hard way: during the 7-day power outage we recently experienced this past summer from the devastating Derecho storm. 7 days of no power with 2 kids under the age of 3 and a full-time job certainly teaches you many lessons! As the fall and winter are creeping up on me, I keep this experience in my head as I am ready for it should we get a bad snowstorm this year.

It’s funny, my 3-year old Audrey and my 1-year old Addie managed just fine during our last power outage.They didn’t sleep very well, and it was hot, but they did much better than us grown-ups. It made me remember that when I was a kid I didn’t have air conditioning, a dishwasher, the Internet, a cell phone or cable, and I was a very happy kid. I remember we had one metal green square floor fan. It would sit in the hall and rattle all night. It shook like an offloaded washing machine! I also remember we had one wood-burning stove that heated the whole house.

Here are some things I learned from my kids and some tips to help me (and maybe you) get through a power outage: Don’t Think Too Much Don’t dwell on it. Once a storm is over, it’s really OVER for the kids.

They’re ready to move on to the next thing. They don’t need to talk about it, read the newspaper or dwell on the fact that they can’t update their Facebook status; kids literally wake up happy. They focus on the positive. I noticed during our summer storm how my kids never once complained about what wasn’t working. They just went with the flow; lived in the now.

Make Up Storm Rules I let Audrey sleep with us during the night of the actual storm this past summer, because she was scared. Inadvertently, I said to her, “You’re getting to sleep with Mommy and Daddy because there’s a storm”. So we really did come up with a rule. She was allowed to sleep with us only if there was a hurricane, a blizzard (or a freak windstorm with a name I still can’t pronounce...) or if we lost power.

Make It Fun My kids helped me with this part this past summer. Since it was a heat wave and we had no power, I bought a cheap baby pool from the local drug store, blew it up and filled it with water.Then I hooked the hose up to the sprinkler, lathered the kids in 50 SPF, put on our bathing suits and had a good old-fashioned summer party in the yard. They LOVED it. And although it was hard at times to turn off my grown-up-brain (i.e., anxiety over missing work and still no power), I have to admit it was good quality time with my girls. I was forced to chill out. This applies to the winter, too. No better time to make snow forts, snowmen or pull the kids around in a sled (sorry to your back ahead of time…) then during a blizzard!

Be Prepared This seems like the simple one, but really how many times can you remember yourself saying, “I’ll make a box of stuff in case we lose power” and then when you lose power you shake your head thinking, “Shoot…. I really meant to make that box…,” so put together flashlights, candles, lighters, batteries. For the winter: warm clothes, hats, mittens, socks, etc.

Show By Example And finally, this past summer it turned out to be a good time to teach my girls early, to be kindhearted and thoughtful. I made sure we checked on our older neighbors, and when I went to get ice, I would bring bags for them, too.

In the end, having no power, while at the moment seems catastrophic, really helped me realize how fortunate I am. I have two wonderful daughters who taught me how to go with the flow. ✲

8 | November 2012

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10 | November 2012

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TIGERS ROAR...HORSES NICKER...

MONKEYS CALL… ALL AT NEARBY POPCORN PARK!

! t i s i V e Com

What makes Popcorn Park THE place for animal lovers to visit?

• Popcorn Park is home to a wide variety of animals … exotics, wildlife, farm animals and birds.You’ll see tigers and lions, horses and llamas, pigs and monkeys and a whole lot more! There are over 200 animals waiting for your visit.

• Popcorn Park is a sanctuary. That’s what makes it so special -- every animal here was saved from neglect or cruelty, abandonment or death, or from being an illegal or inappropriate “pet”. Visiting Popcorn Park not only supports our efforts to rescue animals, but is also an education about how animals are sometimes treated and how people like you can make a difference in their lives.

• Seeing the animals at Popcorn Park is a chance to see animals you otherwise may not get the chance to see and it’s right near home in South Jersey for an admission fee that won’t break the bank.

And if you join the Zoological Society, you’ll find incredible savings on visits with your family!

MEET – Seven is a Belgian draft horse. As you can see, she’s a real beauty. She was rescued in 2003 and barely survived starvation; she had eaten fencing, wire and rocks just trying to stay alive. Today Seven is doing fine. She and her other horse buddies -- we have quite a few! -- and donkeys, too -- love visits.

Dante is a Bengal tiger. Who would imagine that a tiger would need rescuing?

Believe it or not, plenty do, and Dante, along with Caesar and Bengali, were in desperate need of rescue. All were once starved and severely neglected; now, thanks to the good care at Popcorn Park, they’re in the peak of health. Come see them and maybe you’ll even hear them roar.

Buster - - Love the antics of monkeys?

Buster and his best friend, Kay Leigh, are

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white-faced capuchins, but we also have macaques of all kinds and a tufted capuchin!

They always have plenty to say -- perhaps the TIGERS ROAR ... HORSES NICKER ... MONKEYS CALL … ALL AT NEARBY POPCORN PARK! Come visit! They’ll have a conversation with you!

Seven

Dantes

Buster

Would you like to help the animals at Popcorn Park? You can!

You, your family, class or service group can help support a particular animal by sponsoring him or her through the Wildlife Club. It makes a great school project -- if you sponsor for a year you’ll receive photos and letters three times a year either snailmailed to you or by e-mail online. Send $2 to Popcorn Park for a Wildlife Club booklet or check on our web site at www.ahscares.org and click on Wildlife Club for more details.

You can also feed the residents! How? You can collect and donate the foods many of them eat. Here are some ideas: cracked corn for all the free-roaming birds; timothy hay for the horses, steer, goats, sheep, llamas and deer; molasses-based horse feed for the deer; dried fruits and nuts for the monkeys; apples and carrots for the farm animals, deer and bears. And we always need straw for bedding for the farm animals, cleaning supplies, muck rakes, clean towels in new or very good condition, plastic feed buckets, paper towels, etc.

Your group can come down and have a clean-up day in the zoo. Or you can hold a collection for Popcorn Park residents at school. You probably have some great ideas yourself! Contact us at (609) 693-1900 or njhumane@aol.com if you need additional information. And thanks for thinking of our animals!✲ Popcorn Park, 1 Humane Way at Lacey Rd., P.O. Box 43, Forked River, NJ 08731. www.ahscares.org, e-mail: contactus@ahscares.org. Popcorn Park is a 501 (c) 3, not for profit organization.

November 2012 | 11

moms R women 2

Movin’ With the Zumba Groove

By Christi Fox

L

ooking for a fun way to exercise and learn a few dance moves along the way? Maybe traditional aerobics aren’t your thing? Well, look no further because Zumba is one of the hottest fitness trends out there. Since Zumba is such an effective workout, there’s plenty of time to rock your body in a swimsuit. If you like to get the most from your workout, then Zumba just may be your ticket to a sleek and slimmer new you.

Zumba was conceived in the mid-90s by Alberto “Beto” Perez in Cali, Columbia, in an accidental twist of fate when Perez arrived to teach an aerobics class without his aerobics music and improvised with a mix of music that he happened to have in his backpack. When his students were moved by this nontraditional aerobics class, Perez introduced his new fitness style to Miami, Florida, where he met entrepreneurs, Alberto Per-

king a M

dreams come t Birthday parties with character appearances available at DANCE!

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o n e li me! ttle girl at a ti

• Dancing with Mommy, ages 1 to 3 yrs old • Creative dance, ages 3 to 5 yrs • Hippity Hop, ages 4 to 6

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lman and Alberto Aghion, and in 2001, Zumba was born. With four dance moves including Salsa, Meringue, Cumbia and Reggae Tone, it’s no doubt that this workout will benefit your physique while making you come back for more (Zumba.com).

Zumba instructor Jennifer Kauffman from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and mother of four-year old twins, says, “Zumba is a big phase; it’s not boring, it’s not lifting weights. It’s all about having fun.” In one hour of Zumba, you can count on burning anywhere between three hundred to a thousand calories. When students ask how that varies, Kauffman says, “It depends on how much you put into it. If you are doing the moves, you burn more calories than someone who is hardly moving during the workout.” To demonstrate this, Kauffman wore a heart-rate monitor during her class. At her slender 5’6” and 124-pound frame, she burned 830 calories in one hour. Kauffman has been able to see her students transform through her classes. One of her students lost forty pounds and a few dress sizes in just a short nine-month time period. She also has students that come just to de-stress and enhance their moods.

For those who may be worried about their footing or feel that Zumba may be only for the young and hip, Kauffman can assure you that Zumba is for everyone. Her students vary in age from the very young to those who are well into their seventies. “As long as you’re having fun and keep moving, that’s all that matters,” says Kauffman.✲

Calling All Vendors… for South Jersey MOM Magazine’s 2nd Annual Camp and Education Expo

Sunday, January 20, 2013 Moorestown Mall • 11-4pm

Additional classes available at DANCE! Ballet, Acro, Hip Hop, Musical Theater, Lyrical, Modern, Jazz, Contemporary, Vocal Private and Group Lessons, Tap & Irish Step Dance

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MAGAZINE

2013

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7

Things You Didn’t Know About Getting Fit While Pregnant

By Jina Park

P

regnant mothers are tired of doing the same little-to-no, overly safe workout, so we asked parental expert Jina Park to come up with 7 things to get you fit.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Shoes and attire make all the difference in preventing stress to joints and accidents to the body.

Just because a woman is pregnant doesn’t mean she has to limit her exercise, but instead use creativity to inspire methods that are fun to do with family.

Hiking tightens up the body, leaves you feeling leaner and stronger, and clears your head for a busy week ahead.

Swimming makes your baby happy! Meanwhile, you feel light and can get in those stretches without any stress to your joints.

Yoga DVDs like “Body by Trimester” prenatal workout DVDs by Joy Southworth are a great way to give you energy while you relax. Owning several DVDs allows you to change up your workout.

Dance is a great form of exercise that can incorporate your kids’ interests, such as Dance Central 2 for the Xbox.

Amusement parks and parks alike are great as family outings that give mom some exercise and her children the freedom to run around.

Parental expert, mother of two with one on the way, Jina Park, is the founder of PLUSH LLC and the driving force behind the luxury baby and toddler show, PLUSH. With her experience in baby and childcare, Jina has become the ultimate source for parenting advice, offering top reviews on popular products, advice for moms-to-be, and fun party planning ideas. Celebrities such as Jessica Alba were a title sponsor and host at last year’s PLUSH show.✲ For more information please visit: www.PlushLittleBaby.com & www.PlushShow.com 14 | November 2012

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Stress on equals Stress on Purse Strings Heart Strings

I

By Deb McCarson

n a season when spending is generous and tradition can be costly, managing a tight family budget is not only challenging, it can be dangerous.

According to a survey by the American Psychological Association, nearly half of all women in the United States experience heightened stress during the holidays at great risk to the health of their mind and bodies. If you add a financial burden, the holidays threaten to compromise a mother’s emotional and physical well-being.

Women experiencing financial difficulty during the holidays should plan to manage the season realistically. Dr. Alice Boyles, PhD and APA columnist, offers this advice, “Identify what your specific options are. This will help you counteract hopelessness and reduce anxiety because it involves ‘approach coping’ rather than ‘avoidance coping.’” Once you identify your options, you can make a plan and avoid managing the season by default. You’ll be less likely to make impulsive decisions and unwise choices.

Once you have a plan for managing the holidays, make a plan for managing stress.

The APA offers these suggestions:

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v Identify your stressors and avoid them if possible. When do you most have stressful feelings? Is there something you can do to eliminate the things that cause them? v Identify the way you handle stress. Do you immediately reach for chocolate or a glass of wine, things that are readily available during the holidays? Dr. Russ Newman, Ph.D., executive director for APA professional practice warns, “These behaviors may relieve stress in the short term, but end up creating significant health problems in the long run, and ironically, more stress.” He adds,“Research shows that stress, and the unhealthy behaviors people use to manage it, contribute to some our country’s biggest health problems. It’s imperative that people take steps to address issues like holiday stress in healthier ways.” v Find healthy ways to manage stress.Take a walk, exercise or talk things out with a friend. v Share the workload. Assign holiday chores to other family members. v Don’t neglect your own well-being. Happy holidays shouldn’t be at the expense of mom’s health. Relax and enjoy the festive season that you work so hard to create.✲

November 2012 | 15

Holiday Resource Guide HAND AND STONE MASSAGE and FACIAL SPA Providing first-class spa experiences at affordable prices with same day walk in convenience. Your visit will leave you feeling relaxed, restored and refreshed.

Introductory pricing for a relaxation massage $49.95; Intro facials $49.95; Intro signature Hot Stone Massage $59.95.

2000 Clements Bridge Rd, Deptford 856-845-8888, www.handandstone.com IT WORKS! See results in as little as 45 minutes with the Ultimate Body Applicator. It tightens, firms and tones where applied to the skin. It also minimizes the appearance of cellulite and stretch marks. It Works! products are all natural, organic ingredients. Find out how to get a wrap for free! Home parties and events. Contact Marissa Hantman at Rissb515@verizon.net or 215-870-8070; https://getslimandsexy.myitworks.com mullica hill carveL This Holiday Season, choose Carvel and enjoy one of our specialty cakes. Custom designs and flavors available. Book your party here!! Open year round. Located in Mullica Hill Plaza, next to Toscana Restaurant: 127 Bridgeton Pike: Mullica Hill, NJ 08062; (856) 478-4599 ORIGAMI OWL Tell your story with an Origami Owl Living Locket! Birthdays & Bridal Party Gifts, New Moms, Sports, Travelers, Pet Lovers, Causes, Military… endless options. Host a party! Become a Designer! Contact Marcie Bono marcie1208@gmail.com yourstorymatters.origamiowl.com Pitman Children’s Theatre Peter Pan Nov 16-17 • Tickets $9 • Broadway Theatre of Pitman • 43 S. Broadway, Pitman, NJ 08086 pitmanbroadwaytheatre.com, (856) 384-8381

16 | November 2012

Pitman Children’s Theatre Magic Show The Amazing World of Magic 2011 Edition • Dec 28-31 • Tickets: $12-$15 • See magic & mystery presented in a humorous fashion! Broadway Theatre of Pitman • 43 S. Broadway, Pitman, NJ 08086 pitmanbroadwaytheatre.com, (856) 384-8381 Stubborn Weight Loss Problems Honest caring doctor has program of gently cleansing the body, initial average of 9 lbs.

Easily built upon with lasting results. Easy to do, life changing results. For information call John R. DeCotiis, D.C., Wellness Consultant. Call 856-218-1330 to make an appointment.

Tastefully Simple The food you love, the time you deserve.

Contact Lisa: FREE taste test at home/ work, corporate gift giving, hassle-free fundraising, business opportunity consults. tastefullysimple.com/web/llozadashaw; 856-224-0879 or 215-380-4215; id#0076036 the patchwork Bear Everyone has fabrics filled with memories: baby clothes, jerseys, and more. The Patchwork Bear turns YOUR clothes into keepsake bears, quilts, and bags. Make your memories last a lifetime. Recycled, remade, remembered - The Patchwork Bear.

Call us today at 1-888-609-BEAR www.ThePatchworkBear.com thirty-one GIFTS Finish your holiday gift shopping the easy way! Create one-of-a-kind personalized gifts with Thirty-One. South Jersey MOM readers get FREE local shipping through Dec 5th.

For more information, contact Jessica Martin at jlmartin31@verizon.net, 856-503-6196

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DON’T WAIT IN LINE AT THE MALL!

Children’s Wildlife Books Make the Best Gifts!

The photos will captivate them The stories will entertain them

These books by Daniel D’Auria MD, a local South Jersey Author, are written in lyrical rhyme and illustrated with his beautiful wildlife photographs. It’s a great way to entice your children to read.

Some of the book names are Polar Bear Dreams, I Wish I Had A Polar Bear, What Birds Eat, Moose Can Fly and Are You a Fish?

Available on Amazon.com (search Daniel D’Auria) or visit danieldauria.com or kidswildlifebooks.com

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856-241-3850 • www.perfectdayphotography.com Book your appointment today!

Santa dates and times listed on website Packages starting at $19.95 with Santa— *Bring this ad and receive (2) FREE 5X7s with the purchase of any package. *Cannot be combined with other coupons, discounts or offers

November 2012 | 17

recipe corner

Gather Together for a

Thanksgiving Feast

By Lisa Ann Panzino DiNunzio

Thanksgiving is such a special time of year as history shows. Thanksgiving has officially been an annual tradition since 1863 when during the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national day of “Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens”. Thanksgiving has continued to be one of the most celebrated holidays of the year. It’s truly a time for families to come together and prepare traditional favorite recipes, then gather around the table and enjoy a bountiful feast with grateful hearts. From my house to yours, have a Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving!

Mashed Sweet Potatoes 6 med. sweet potatoes 1/2 tsp sea salt 6 tbs. butter 3 - 4 tbs. maple syrup Ground cinnamon, to taste 4 - 6 tbs. milk, rice milk or half-and-half • Cook sweet potatoes in boiling water until fork tender.

• Let cool slightly, then peel and discard skins.

• In a bowl, mash sweet potatoes, salt, butter, maple syrup and cinnamon.

• Add milk, and continue mashing until you reach desired consistency.

• Give potatoes a taste and add extra butter, maple syrup, seasonings and milk if needed.

• Serve

Homestyle Mashed Potatoes 5 lbs. baking potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces 1 1/2 tsp. sea salt, divided 1 1/2 sticks butter 1/4 tsp. black pepper 1 cup milk, rice milk or low-sodium chicken broth • Place potatoes and 1 teaspoon of sea salt into a heavy medium-sized pot, cover potatoes with water and bring to a boil.

• Reduce heat to a simmer and cook until potatoes are fork tender (approximately 20–25 minutes).

• Drain potatoes in a colander, then return them to the pot.

• Add butter, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, black pepper and milk to the potatoes.

• Using a potato masher or electric mixer mash or beat potatoes until you achieve desired consistency.

• Give potatoes a taste, and add extra butter, milk, salt and pepper if needed.

• Serve

Turkey Gravy 1/2 cup butter 1/2 cup unbleached all-purpose flour 1 cup turkey drippings, taken from pan of cooked turkey 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth 1 cup water Sea salt, to taste.

Black pepper, to taste • In a saucepan over medium heat, add butter and allow to melt.

• Stir flour into the butter briskly with a whisk and cook until the mixture (roux) turns golden brown.

• Then add the turkey drippings, chicken broth, water, salt and pepper, and whisk vigorously until ingredients are well-blended.

• Bring to a boil until the sauce thickens into a gravy, stirring occasionally.

• Adjust seasonings if needed.

• Serve over mashed potatoes, turkey or rice.

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

18 |November 2012

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Advertorial

Kumon Develops Academic Excellence Report cards are one way to measure children’s growth and development, but when it comes to picking up on signs of school difficulties, parents usually have good intuition. An active and engaged parent is a teacher’s greatest ally for student development.

To help your children keep up with any academic challenges they might face this year, enroll them in Kumon, the world’s largest after-school math and reading program. We can help develop a positive attitude and confidence in their math and reading skills.

At the Kumon Math and Reading Center of Moorestown, we believe a student with confidence in their academic skills will achieve continued success for the rest of the school year.

Moorestown Kumon Center Director, Dr. Jasleen Sobti comes from a family of educators and opened the Moorestown Kumon center following a storied career in the Navy as a civilian research engineer Dr. Sobti invites parents to visit the center and see the program in action. She says, “Students will gain confidence in our center and feel the passion that we have for learning and helping them to succeed.” Her center is conveniently located in the Moorestown Commons on Centerdon Road, across from the Target/Wegmans . For more information about the Kumon Math and Reading Center of Moorestown or to schedule a free placement test, call Dr. Sobti at 856-924-8989 or visit www.kumon.com/moorestown.

© 2012 Kumon North America, Inc. All rights reserved.

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November 2012 | 19

Working Out Young Writers’ Muscles

By Ellen Parry Lewis

The wonderful thing about [writing] is that no one knows...whether or not it’s just the character saying the things or even you, too.

W

hen Ellen Parry Lewis was a freshman in college, she started writing a short story for fun. That short story quickly took on a life of its own and turned into her first published novel, Future Vision. After graduating from Rowan University in 2009, two other manuscripts, the epic adventure stories, An Unremarkable and Avenging Her Father, were accepted for publication.

Lewis is now twenty-four years old and completing her fourth novel. She and her husband live in Clementon, where they are awaiting the arrival of their first child this winter.

As part of her job as a full-time novelist, Lewis visits schools to talk about her career. “After a presentation at Williamstown Middle School, a couple of girls came up to me and introduced themselves, which I thought was impressive in and of itself since they were only in middle school.They told me that they were working on novels of their own and asked if they could send me a sample to look over. I agreed and was shocked that these girls were barely teenagers, and yet their writing was so vivid and their story ideas were so gripping.”

Soon afterward, Lewis met more outgoing, young writers at various schools.

“Honestly, I was never a big ‘kid person.’ Visiting these schools, though, opened my eyes to some really phenomenal kids. So I started playing with the idea of getting these students together for writing workshops,” explained Lewis.

Kennedy Cannon was one of the kids to attend the first writing workshop. “I went with my friend, Amanda, and we met a bunch of other kids who also wanted to be writers and shared our stories. It’s a great experience, and the writing exercises are so creative, fun, and helpful,” said Cannon, who is currently a tenth grader at Williamstown High School.

Lewis and the students try to focus on all different aspects of writing when critiquing a shared piece. “Where one student is weak, another might be strong, and so they’re all able to help each other grow as writers in a very encouraging way,” said Lewis.

Since the first meeting, the group has doubled in size. Each time that they meet, about once every other month, Lewis leads the students in a different writing exercise. “For a five senses exercise, I brought candies for taste, a piece of tulle for touch, and so on.They then closed their eyes, unless, of course, they chose sight and experienced just one sense at a time. Using that one sense as the trigger, they wrote short stories,” said Lewis.

Although Lewis charges money for private lessons, she volunteers her time for these writing groups, allowing them to be completely free for the participants. “I enjoy meeting with them on my own time because I truly want to see them succeed. I recently sat down with one of the kids and talked about what steps she needs to take so that her novel can possibly be published. I’m here to help all of them as they set their writing goals,” said Lewis.

Aside from the possibility of being published, the students find that there are many other great reasons to write. “It’s a chance to let your imagination run free, and you get to decide what happens,” said Cannon.

She also elaborated on the freedom of expressing herself. “The wonderful thing about [writing] is that no one knows…whether or not it’s just the character saying the things or even you, too.”

With benefits like these, Lewis plans on continuing these writing workshops for as long as students are interested.

“Ellen has just been amazing to us, and I know we all really appreciate it,” said Cannon.✲ For more information, visit www.ellenparrylewis.com .

20 | November 2012

Teach Your Children the

True Meaning of Thanksgiving

By Carolyn Leigh Kellerman

A

s Thanksgiving approaches, we’re busy inviting guests, cooking delicious food and setting our table. However, do we ever take time to have a conversation with our children about the meaning of the holiday? It’s crucial that children today take time to learn the true meaning of Thanksgiving. That’s what we do in our family of five. We don’t just decorate our side window with hand-print turkeys and beautifully decorated fall-themed pictures. We model our love and appreciation for life on an everyday basis.

It’s vital that kids learn appreciation for every kindness done for them, even those insignificant little things. Now that my daughter is five and is developing her writing skills, she writes her own thank-you cards after receiving her presents.

I feel it’s important to take the time and appreciate what she received from all of her friends.

If you teach a child early on to say thank you for everything, this attitude of appreciation will develop. It’s so important for kids to learn to be thankful for intangibles as well as gifts. They should be taught to appreciate kind words, wishes of success, and prayers offered to them.

The word appreciation means really seeing something for what it is. There are three words to keep in mind when teaching appreciation which are nature, care and affection.

Nature: This is a crucial doorway to teaching appreciation. Take your child for a nature walk with a bag. In your bag you can collect items such as sticks, flowers, leaves, pinecones and anything else that seems interesting to you. Also while you’re walking, listen to the sounds of birds chirping and notice squirrels and evaluate what they are doing. This not only teaches your child to appreciate their surroundings but it’s also a great science lesson! We take nature walks every week, and my son Zachary loves looking for fun items on the ground. When we get back to the house, we empty our bag and discuss what we collected. Sometimes, we make a collage of our items or I simply ask him what his favorite thing is and why.

Care: This is another important aspect of teaching appreciation.

Teaching your child to take care of their things will demonstrate the importance of them. Teach them to respect their belongings and also others’ belongings. Model an attitude of thankfulness in your home for what you have in your life.

Prayer and reflection on your life are simple ways to express appreciation. Also find a charity of your choice and donate items to others in need. Every day before school, I remind my children to be nice to everyone and always share. My quote of the day is, “Treat others the way you want to be treated.”

Affection: This is a powerful way to express appreciation. Loving words, hugs and kisses are all ways to show your child how much you appreciate them and others. My husband Josh always gives each child and myself a kiss goodbye before work. We believe this teaches our family the importance of affection.

There’s no better way than your own example.

So before you celebrate Thanksgiving this year, remember to teach your child the true meaning. Take the time to sit down and discuss what really matters in life and remember this quote… “Who is rich? He who is happy with what he has.”✲

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November 2012 | 21

know 2 grow

Momma’s Gonna Buy You a Winter Coat

By Christi Fox

I

f you’re like a lot of moms out there, going to pick out your child’s winter coat can be a fun experience since it’s one of the first things to welcome the winter season. The air is crisp and fresh, a new season is approaching and winter holidays are near. There are some things to consider to ensure your child stays safe and warm as the shift in temperature takes place.

Have your child go shopping with you and try on a few coats. You always want to check the zippers to make sure you don’t buy one that has a tendency to become stuck. Remember that you may be zipping your child’s coat on and off while wearing gloves, and you also want the zipper to be easy for your child’s little fingers to maneuver; therefore, a zipper that’s not too small will suffice. A coat with a hood can offer extra warmth in the winter months and a lot of hoods come removable. You also want to make sure that the coat isn’t too fitted since heavier clothes, such as sweaters and sweat shirts may be worn underneath once

22 | November 2012

the cold weather arrives; however, a bulky coat is not particularly comfortable for most children since their range of movement is restricted. One thing to remember about winter coats as well as snowsuits is the safety of a child in a car seat or booster.

The rule of thumb for a child’s car seat restraint is that you can only fit two fingers between the car seat and the shoulder bone of your child. Any more room than this can cause your child to be tossed around inside the coat in the unfortunate event of an accident and possibly be ejected directly from the coat and car seat as well.

Winter coats with fleece lining are a great choice since fleece is very warm and cozy without the bulk. If you or your child really likes a particular heavy coat, just make sure not to secure your child in the car seat with the coat on. Strap your child in the car seat with the coat off and then slip the arms of the coat on your child as if putting the coat on your child backwards for the ride.✲

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Rock-a-Bye the Vote:

Talking to your Kids about the Elections

By Dolores Hoffman

T

alking to your kids about voting is an important lesson in the way the system works, especially in this presidential election year. It’s also a good idea to tell them that everyone should be encouraged to vote in order to make a difference in our country.

Here are some tips to help your kids become more aware of the voting process: Explain to them why we vote We elect people to run the government. Voting gives people a say in how things are to be done. You can keep it simple by giving them an example of voting to build a new school or playground in your community or hiring policemen and firemen.

Who can Vote?

Make it clear to them that you must be at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen to vote in the elections. Gather brochures from a library or go to voting websites for children and share what you find with your kids.

Casting the Vote Take your kids with you into the voting booth on Election Day to show them firsthand how the process works. Explain to them that booths are used because everyone has a right to vote in private.

Who counts the votes?

After the voting booths close, poll workers count the votes with the help of computers and declare which candidate has won.

Be Reassuring When discussing the election, ask your child about any questions they may have. You’ll be surprised how many bumper stickers and political ads they see on a daily basis. They might be concerned that you could lose your job or the family will lose the house. Help them to understand the issues and calm any fears about the future.

If you show them the importance of voting, they’ll learn that every vote counts. Encouraging a child to learn about the voting process allows him or her to use their voice when they get older. ✲

Truths from the Voting Booth Compiled by M.B. Sanok

TRUTH: Back in colonial times, people spoke their vote, saying “Yea” for yes and “Nay” for no.

TRUTH: Election Day was specifically scheduled for November due to the end of the harvest for most Americans.

TRUTH: Tuesday was selected as Election Day because voters wouldn’t travel on a Sunday due to religious reasons and traveled a significant distance to polling places.

TRUTH: No President ever elected has been an only child.

ONE VOTE DOES MAKE A DIFFERENCE! One vote made Texas a state in 1845, and, in 1867, one vote approved the Alaska Purchase.

Sources: www.gallopade.com; www.pbskids.org; www.internetfamilyfun.com; www.funfactz.com

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November 2012 | 23

Step Away from Cold & Flu Unscathed

By Dr. Trina Gipson-Jones

en, and persons who have certain medical conditions such as asthma, and other diseases. Check out www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/high_risk.htm for more information. Healthcare, daycare, eldercare providers should get vaccinated to decrease risk to vulnerable persons under their care.

Flu vaccines can be obtained from your healthcare practitioner and drug stores (at minimal cost). Health departments conduct flu clinics.

Individuals who should not receive the vaccine include anyone who (Center for Disease Control and Prevention-CDC, July 13, 2012): s Has allergies to chicken eggs s Had a severe reaction to the flu vaccine in the past s Is under 6 months of age s Is sick with a fever (consult with your healthcare provider) s Has a history of Guillain-Barré (causes serve paralysis) Nasal-spray vaccine is a viable option for individuals between 2 and 49 years old (CDC, March 28, 2012). Individuals who should not receive the vaccine include anyone who: s Has problems with their immune system s Is under 2 years old s Is over 50 years old s Has certain medical conditions such as heart or lung disease, diabetes, or kidney failure s Is a child or adolescent taking aspirin s Has allergies to chicken eggs s Has a history of Guillain-Barré (causes serve paralysis) From Hygiene to Health The common cold or influenza (the flu) are caused by viruses (germs) which spread from person to person. The main modes of transmission are coughing, sneezing, and hand-to-hand contact.Well-practiced hygiene and etiquette techniques can minimize your family’s risk. Here are some helpful protection strategies: s Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing s Only use hand sanitizer when water and soap are not available s Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze using a tissue; use your upper arm/shirt sleeve area if tissues are not available s Throw used tissues in a waste basket immediately s Stay home or keep your child home when sick s Teach your child to avoid touching his or her eyes after coughing or sneezing s Sleep, Eat Right & Exercise to Maintain Health

As soon as we say goodbye to the summer, before we know it falling leaves, crisp weather, and the cold and flu season hit us. Medicine hasn’t found a cure; however, here are a few preventive steps families can take to reduce their risk to these viruses.

You and your family can benefit from a decent night’s sleep. Check the National Sleep Foundation (2011) for the appropriate number of hours of sleep needed by age group (www.sleepfoundation.org/article/howsleep-works/how-much-sleep-do-we-really-need).

Encourage family members to eat five fruits and vegetables per day to keep healthy. Increased intake of processed, fatty, and sugar-laden foods doesn’t provide the immune-stimulating protection found in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Make the healthy choice the easy option by having healthy grab-and-go snacks (i.e., cut vegetables and fruits, wheat crackers, etc.) available, and supply plenty of water.

Make daily exercise a family affair. Walking, playing interactive video games, playing catch are all low-cost family-friendly options. Adults should get 60 minutes and children 30 minutes of exercise per day. This can be broken into smaller segments. Exercise has immune-system enhancing effects.

Vaccination Keeps the Flu at Bay Vaccination is the first line of defense in flu protection. Persons from 6 months of age and older should get vaccinated. This is essential for individuals at high risk for contracting flu-related complications such as children under five years old, elders 65 years or greater, pregnant wom-

Know the Symptoms Oftentimes, it is difficult to distinguish between a cold and the flu, check the following websites for cold and flu symptom information: s http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/ symptoms.htm s http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/coldflu.htm✲

24 | November 2012

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November 2012 | 25

making a difference

Leave Long Locks Behind – Donate to e

v o L f o s Lock

By M.B. Sanok

I

n 2005, pregnant with my son, my hair reached down to the middle of my back. Not much of a hairdresser myself, I decided to go for a drastic haircut and donate my hair to Locks of Love (LOL). The salon sent 13 inches of my hair to them. Certainly I felt free from the burden of too much hair, sloppy ponytails and potential hair pullers, i.e., my kids. I hoped it would help a child feel free enough to build back their confidence and enjoy real hair again.

LOL describes their mission as just that: “to return a sense of self, confidence and normalcy to children suffering from hair loss.”

At LOL, each prosthesis is custom designed to fit an individual’s head, using a “vacuum-seal that allows them to do anything including swimming, showering or even participating in gymnastics,” says Kukkamaa.

Locks of Love (LOL), based in West Palm Beach, FL, with a small staff of six, provides hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children, ranging from 6 to 21 years old, according to Communications Director, Lauren Kukkamaa.

These children suffer from long-term medical hair loss due to alopecia areata which disables the hair follicles, cancer, severe burns and other skin disorders that cause potential permanent baldness. LOL uses donated hair to produce hair prostheses and offers them to qualifying recipients. Kukkamaa says, “To date, 3000 children” have benefited from their services.

Originally, LOL began as “part of a for-profit hairpiece company,” says Kukkamaa, 26 | November 2012

and morphed into a separate non-profit entity in 1998. Madonna Coffman, current Board President and a former cardiac nurse with extensive non-profit volunteering experience, spearheaded the project. According to their website, “she developed alopecia after receiving a hepatitis vaccination.” Although she recovered, years later, “her 4-year old daughter developed alopecia and lost all her hair.” The effect of the illness on her daughter hit Coffman hard and urged her to create LOL. Kukkamaa says media and word-of-mouth have also helped to make the public aware of the organization.

“Head growth slows at age 6,” says Kukkamaa, so applicants must be 6 in order to wear the hair prosthesis. Since most adultsized wigs fail to fit children properly, there’s a risk that they may detach from the head, causing embarrassment. At LOL, each prosthesis is custom designed to fit an individual’s head, using a “vacuum-seal that allows them to do anything including swimming, showering or even participating in gymnastics,” says Kukkamaa.

LOL’s website states that “a molding kit and instructional DVD is sent to the parents… [who make] a plaster cast mold of the child’s head. From this mold, a plastic fitting cap is made.” The custom-made cap creates a vacuum seal with the head, so only the wearer can remove it. The hair’s color and length is chosen by the child, and they can style it as desired. The recipient receives a “custom-made prosthesis every 3 to 4 months until age 21,” continues Kukkamaa, and can reapply for new ones every 18 months.

Although LOL has experienced criticism for selling unusable donated hair, the Better Business Bureau accredited them as a reputable charity in 2010. Monies received go toward the production cost of prostheses and “they provide funding for alopecia medical research,” Kukkamaaa says. The many letters, phone calls and photos they receive attest to the organization’s powerful impact. For instance, Kukkamaa says that children return to activities they thought they’d never be able enjoy again. Like the child who won a gymnastics meet, wearing her prosthesis.

Four years ago, LOL started to provide a camp weekend once every summer for the children they serve. Located in W. Palm Beach, FL, the children embark on a “weekend of fun and fellowship” where they can find friends who share similar experiences.

“Many children, about 80%, give their hair because of personal experiences with other kids or they see a commercial,” Kukkamaa says. Donation events advertised are generally run independently by volunteers. “Anyone can provide an event to collect hair donations,” she continues, so check for trademarks showing the event is registered with LOL.

If you’re ready to free yourself of long locks, consider donating them to a child who needs it. Donate to Locks of Love, (888) 8961588, www.locksoflove.org✲

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mom’s mall 2

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moms mall

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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 “mom’s mall” products and add them to your list of must-haves!

Buddy Fruits Pure Blended Fruit – A new and fun way of eating fruits. No spoon, no knife, no mess. A squeezable 3.2oz pouch is made with blended fruit flesh and nothing else! The product is all natural, does not contain any preservatives, coloring, additives or fat. Also available are squeezable fruit smoothies and fruit bites.

Prices may vary, www.buddyfruits.com Chef-K “The Fruit Group” & “Vegetables Aren’t Just Green” Activity Books These books are filled with whimsical graphics that help the preschool-aged child consider different fruit/veggies to eat. They also provide tips on getting your child to try new fruits/veggies. $12.99 each or both for $20, www.chef-k.com

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Night Owl Paper Goods Night Owl Paper Goods is devoted to creating eco-chic wooden stationery goodies in a style they like to call “modern yet folksy.” From patterns to critters to botanicals and more, they offer a breadth of styles and designs to help you express your unique personality. Their line of 1,000+ unique & whimsical cards, gifts & goodies are available via their online shop. www.nightowlpapergoods.com The i like Book The “i like book” is the newest and best way to really connect with your children. Through positive affirmations you write down daily, your kids can see themselves through your eyes, learning what you love and value and how precious they are to you. $20, www.theilikebook.com Skullduggery Combine the racing excitement of mini-toy sports cars and the classic amusement of marbles to create a fun new toy for boys and girls 3 years of age and older. Kids customize their Marble Racers with themed, easy to use, crack-&-peel racing decals, race their creations on standard tracks, and then watch as the flashing LED marble rolls to keep pace with their speeding car. $6.99, www.skullduggery.com

Loveable Labels Give your envelopes a special touch with these Return Address Labels!

These Designer Address Labels add a punch of color to your white envelopes! Choose from a variety of exclusive full-color designs that suits your personality! 240 Labels per pack. $18.50. Teach your child the importance of a “thank you” note or the joy that comes from writing a card to that special person! Choose a card from any of our beautiful collections and customize it with your child’s name or nickname. $16.95 for 12, www.lovablelabels.ca Valentina Shoes Lace-up boot, genuine leather and suede in a soft mocha color. Comfortable and very stylish! $69, www.valentinashoes.com

Move-With-Me The Birthday Gift – Magic Scooter which is the first video from the multiple award-winning 9-DVD Scooter & Me Series of movement stories that combine creative movement, yoga and Brain Gym for active fun, physical fitness and socialemotional learning. $24.95, www.move-with-me.com Pizza Party - a yummy yoga class for preschool - kindergarten that offers a totally engaging yoga session complete with songs, breathing, animal poses, fun sequences and a relaxation and visualization that leaves kids calm, alert, learning able and emotionally stable. $24.95, www.move-with-me.com

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Makaboo Makaboo offers the ultimate DIY experience when it comes to personalization.

With exclusively designed icons that are one-of-a-kind, customers can customize gifts with a range of icon, color and even placement options. $40, www.makaboo.com School Zone Publishing School Zone’s new interactive flash cards are available in Sam’s Club and Costco from now until December! Available in Peek-a-Boo Preschool, Three-Letter Words and Bedtime Alphabet these flash cards offer kids variety, as well as a proven method for success when it comes to spelling and printing. $12.99, www.schoolzone.com

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November 2012 | 27

Adoption Options: Home vs. Abroad

By Dr. Kelly N. Moore

A

ccording to the US Bureau of Consular Affairs, there were just over 9,000 adoptions worldwide in 2011.The decision to adopt a child is a very big one for families. There are many things to consider when deciding: what age do we want to adopt? What about open adoption? Should we adopt a child of our same racial background? These, along with many other questions, are all important to talk through and seek support and information about what options will work for your family.

The Big Question One of the biggest adoption questions that families face is whether to adopt domestically or internationally. Potential adoptive parents should be sure to do a great deal of research and have sound legal counsel when the decision is made to adopt a child, regardless of where the child was born, and consider other factors that play into the process.

Medical History Obtaining a full medical history is very important in the adoption process and in domestic adoptions -- that history is much easier to obtain than in international adoptions.

This doesn’t mean that it’s impossible in international adoptions but can be much more challenging to collect, and the information that’s gathered may not be the most reliable.

Considerations Most websites and adoption resources agree that the major factors to consider with domestic vs. international adoptions are: costs, medical issues, legal concerns, timelines, etc.

The fact is that there are challenges in both cases, but the ultimate decision is to do what’s best for your family.

Timelines Parents choosing to adopt also should consider that there may be timeline differences depending on adoption of US or internationally born children. Some may believe that domestic adoptions wouldn’t take as long. In some cases, this may be true, but many resources report that the length of time for the adoptive child to be placed in a home can be just as long as an international adoption (most adoption resources state two years or more as a maximum timeline).

Cost The cost to adopt internationally can be similar to domestic adoptions, especially if the parents adopting domestically are paying for the medical expenses of a birth mother.

International adoption costs include travel and visa expenses as well as cost for the child to travel to the US.

28| November 2012

Culture One other point to consider when deciding to adopt is the issue of the adoptive child’s culture. When parents adopt a child of a different culture, they should consider how they will raise the child to be connected to their native culture. In the case of international

adoption or domestic adoption across cultures (a Caucasian parent adopting an AfricanAmerican child), this is an aspect of parenting that adoptive parents should integrate into the lives of the family. Family meals, story time, family outings, playdates with children, etc., should all be used as opportunities to include aspects of the child’s culture in some way.

Children should feel connected to all aspects of their culture of origin and that of their new family, as this will foster the development of high self-esteem and self-awareness later in life.

Ultimately, adoption is a wonderful way to become a parent and the decision to adopt domestically or internationally lies with each individual family that pursues it.There’s no right or wrong way to adopt. The most important aspect of the decision is that a child’s life will be forever changed and, hopefully, enriched by people that want nothing more than to share their love with a child searching for a family.

For more information, try the following resources: http://adoption.state.gov/index.php www.holtinternational.org www.adopting.com www.adoption.com✲

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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.

ATLANTIC COUNTY Downtown Hammonton, NJ Thursday, November 15 - 6-9 p Start your holiday shopping now!

Stores are open later. Enjoy food, art, music and shopping specials.

BURLINGTON COUNTY Looking at Leaves Children’s Program Thursday, November 8am - 10am Free! Students will start off collecting different leaves that have fallen on the ground and try to find what tree the leaves came from. We’ll look at the size, color, shape and differences between the various kinds as a group. Then we’ll do leaf rubbings with crayons as a conclusion. Bring a bag to collect leaves in. Registration required, recommended for ages 5-8. Raindate Friday, November 9.

Smith’s Woods Historic Smithville Park, E. Railroad Ave., Eastampton, NJ (609) 265-5858 Seasonal Changes Children’s Program Thursday, November 8 – 1 pm Free! Students will take a closer look at leaves that have fallen on the ground and try to classify them based on their characteristics, like leaf shape, edge and structure.

Then we’ll discuss other signs that the seasons are changing and how everything in nature prepares for winter. We‘ll do leaf rubbings as a conclusion. Bring a bag to collect leaves in. Registration required, recommended for ages 9-12.

Raindate Friday, November 9.

Smith’s Woods Historic Smithville Park, E. Railroad Ave., Eastampton, NJ (609) 265-5858

CAMDEN COUNTY Camden County Library LEGO Block Party Ages 8 – 18 Friday, November 2, 6:30 – 8:30 pm Join us for an evening of building with LEGOs! Bring your

imagination and build whatever comes to mind. You can bring a friend to build with you or meet a new building buddy. Contact: Mark Amorosi, Assistant Public Relations Officer, (856) 7721636, ext. 7323, mamorosi@ camdencountylibrary.org, www. camdencountylibrary.org Camden County Library Bouncing Babies and Books!

Babies up to 18 months Tuesdays, November 6 & 20, 11 am - 12 Noon Babies and their caregivers listen to stories, bounce to the music, and engage in finger play for the first half hour. For the second half hour, babies explore new toys and make new friends while parents do the same! Contact: Mark Amorosi, Assistant Public Relations Officer, (856) 7721636, ext. 7323, ,mamorosi@ camdencountylibrary.org, www. camdencountylibrary.org Camden County Library Fun Time Storytime Ages 3 - 5 Wednesdays, Nov 7 & 14, 11am Have fun with stories, songs and crafts. Registration is required.

Contact: Mark Amorosi, Assistant Public Relations Officer, (856) 772-1636 ext. 7323, mamorosi@ camdencountylibrary.org, www.camdencountylibrary.org Camden County Library Fall Craft Ages 8 and up Friday, November 16, 4 pm Bring a photograph of your family and we’ll produce a beautiful scrapbooking page that you can share during your family gathering.

Berlin Farmers Market Fall Festival and Craft Fair Saturday, November 17th – 8 am to 4 pm. There will be over 200 vendors. We’ll have crafts for the

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kids, facepainting and balloons.

Enjoy music and fun. Inside we’ll be kicking off our holiday season with cheesecake and pie giveaways every hour from 1-5pm.

Also, receive your coupons to be used throughout the holiday season. Don’t forget to stop by all participating merchants with your non-perishable food donations for the Boys Scouts’ food drive. It’s a free event. For more information, call (856) 7671246. The Berlin Farmers Market is located on 41 Clementon Road, Berlin, NJ 08009.

CAPE MAY COUNTY

Camden County Library Book Buddies for Kids, Ages 5-7 Wednesdays, November 21 & 28, 4:00pm - 5:00pm Get paired up with a teen or ‘tween book buddy. May include stories, games and crafts. Registration is required.

Contact: Mark Amorosi, Assistant Public Relations Officer, (856) 772-1636, ext. 7323, mamorosi@ camdencountylibrary.org, www.camdencountylibrary.org

CUMBERLAND COUNTY

Kids’ Connection Super Saturday Saturday, December 1–3p to 5:15p Age 4 through Grade 6. Multimedia Bible fun. Explore the story of Jesus’ birth through crafts, games, drama and computers.

Parents may join in or drop off children. Episcopal Church of St John in the Wilderness, 77 Hilliards Rd., Gibbsboro, NJ 08026.

Call Cathy (856) 728-5393 or Chris (609) 313-0585.

Holiday Market Haddon Hgts PTG Craft & Vendor Show, Nov. 17th from 10-3pm Atlantic Avenue School 211 Atlantic Avenue Haddon Heights, NJ 08035. Unique gifts, Handmade items, books, handbags, children’s items, jewelry and much more!

Call Nancy at 267-816-2767 for more information.

things 2 do

November Calendar

Christmas Arts & Crafts Festival – Ocean City, NJ Sat, Nov 10th and Sun Nov 11th Parking. $3 contribution benefits local charities. Children under 12 free. For more information, call 1-800-822-4112.

Christmas in the Downtown “Our Miracle on Asbury Avenue” – Ocean City, NJ Friday, November 23, 2012 Join the merchants & Chamber in kicking off an old-fashioned Downtown Christmas. For more information, call (609) 399-1412.

New Jersey Motorsports Park Millville, NJ (856) 327-8000 Bring the family and check out some of our races and special events. www.njmp.com

GLOUCESTER COUNTY Broadway Theatre of Pitman 43 S. Broadway, Pitman, NJ 08071 (856) 384-8381 www.thebroadwaytheatre.org FREE- Deptford Barnes & Noble Storytime Tuesday, Nov 13, 10am – 11am The Court at Deptford II 1553 Almonesson Road Deptford, NJ 08096 856-232-3123

MERCER COUNTY Disney’s Phineas and Ferb: The Best LIVE Tour Ever!

Sunday, Nov 25 at 1pm & 4pm Monday, November 26 at 7pm Sun National Bank Center 81 Hamilton Avenue Trenton, NJ 08611 Tickets: $15, $30, $45, $80 (additional fees may apply)For Tickets Call 1-800-298-4200, group sales call (609) 656-3234.

November 2012 | 29

resource guide

CLASSES Enrichment Classes & Workshops for Home School Families Constellation Academy offers Christ-centered resources and teaching at affordable rates. Services include academic and elective subject tutoring and/or class instruction, workshops, teacher mentoring, student contests, field trips and fellowship opportunities! Visit ConstellationAcademyHSRN.blogspot.com for more info or call (856) 205-9334.

GIFT IDEAS GREAT PERSONALIZED GIFTS FOR ALL AGES At JUST FOR LITTLE PEOPLE (and others, too!) we specialize in new baby gifts both hand-painted and/or embroidered. Beautifully wrapped and available for pick-up at our new Gibbsboro location or we can ship it for you. Call (856) 627-8901 or check out www.justforlittlepeople.com

PARTIES CELEBRATE CREATIVELY! Abrakadoodle’s CUSTOMIZED CELEBRATIONS are perfect for BIRTHDAY, PLAY DATES and SCOUTING events. Every child takes home a FRAMED masterpiece! Hosted at your location, we provide an ARTFULLY FUN teacher, materials & frames. Call (856) 914-0521 or visit www.abrakadoodle.com/nj01

INSURANCE FAMILY INSURANCE Farmers Insurance offers hundreds of insurance options and a variety of discounts. Let Jason Rameriz help you select the right coverage for all of your insurance needs and make sure you get all the discounts you deserve! We offer auto, home, life, and business insurance. There’s no cost or obligation for a quote. Call us today at (856) 979-6091 or visit us at www.farmersagent.com/jrameriz

EVENTS SOUTH JERSEY MOM MAGAZINE TO HOST THE 2nd ANNUAL CAMP AND EDUCATION EXPO You’re invited on Sunday, January 20, 2013 11am-4pm, to the Moorestown Mall. Join South Jersey MOM Magazine and area businesses as we showcase the array of after school programs, educational support services, healthy lifestyle activities and more that are available in our community. If you are interested in vending, please call Chris Ognibene at (609) 670-1794 or e-mail chris@superiorgx.com

30 | November 2012

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relax Choose Christopher Ognibene and the Ron Bruce Team to help with ALL of your REAL ESTATE NEEDS.

Sleep like a baby when you are buying or selling a home One of South Jersey’s Top Producing Real Estate Teams

Fox & Roach, Realtors

Prudential Fox & Roach, REALTORS® Mullica Hill Sales Office 157 Bridgeton Pike, Suite 100 Mullica Hill, NJ, 08062 856.343.6000 ext. 6103 Cell: 609.670.1794

Christopher Ognibene Sales Associate, REALTOR® Chris@prufoxroach.com www.prufoxroach.com “The Ron Bruce Team” Cell: 609.670.1794

©2012 BRER Affiliates Inc. An independently owned and operated broker member of BRER Affiliates Inc. Prudential, the Prudential logo and the Rock symbol are registered service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. Used under license with no other affiliation with Prudential. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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November 2012 | 31

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