South Jersey Mom Magazine

June

2009

Natural Remedies for Hot Weather Worries Natural Remedies for Hot Weather Worries Make Him Smile This Father’s Day Make Him Smile This Father’s Day Perfect Gifts for Dads of All Kinds Perfect Gifts for Dads of All Kinds Throw a Party on a Budget Throw a Party on a Budget Still Looking for the Right Summer Camp?

Still Looking for the Right Summer Camp?

Check out our Special Camp Section Check out our Special Camp Section

Don’t miss those SPECIAL MOMENTS! As a mother, I want the best of both worlds. I want to be home to care for my children when they are not feeling well, attend all of their activities, spend quality time with them AND still earn an income.

This may seem impossible, but I do it! And, I can help you do the same.

Brenda Regalbuto, mother of five, with youngest daughter, Isabella.

Vineland, NJ.

If you have desire and motivation, I’ll show you how to have personal time and financial freedom. Best of all, we’ll work around the important things in our lives. If you are like me, we need to talk.

Call me today 856.305.7680

2 | June 2009

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Table of Contents mom 2 mom 8 Explaining Death to Children 10 Make Yourself Dispensable 12 Natural Remedies for Hot Weather Worries 13 Recipes for Working Your Way Out of Your Parenting Job

moms R women 2 14 Five Essential Fitness Moves 15 Hope Is Not a Plan for Children with Special Needs 16 Chick Lit 2009 Beach Reads

know 2 grow 20 Appointing Guardians for Your Children 21 Is Your Child at Risk for Diabetes?

features 18 Make Him Smile This Father’s Day 24 Throw a Party to Remember 27 Summer Camp Guide

also in this issue 3 5 6 17 22 23 26 31 32 33 34

publisher’s note nana’s 2 sense life sentences just born penny-pinching pointers green mama business spotlight the food meister book review things 2 do resource guide

Dear Readers, E

very June, we put a local father and his children on our cover. This doesn’t mean dads are only important one month out of the year, but we all know dads don’t read parenting magazines.

Why do you think that is?

Ok, I can’t say there aren’t any dads that read SJM. I’ve been stopped in many parking lots by dads that say, “Are you South Jersey MOM? My wife loves your magazine! I read it too!”

But I’m sure most of us moms can admit dad doesn’t get all the gratitude he deserves. In many homes, he gets boring socks, ties and cologne for each and every holiday where gifts are involved. We don’t often ask his opinion and, many times, we blow off his ideas and feelings. I know I’m guilty of it.

The funny thing about all this is that dads are usually very easy to please.

Give them a little love and attention, a pat on the back for any little extra thing they do…and fill their stomachs with warm food…and you’ve got a happy man! So why is it so hard for us to do that?

A common, ongoing disagreement in my home is over who works harder.

We are both always trying to prove who works harder, is more tired, deserves more appreciation, etc. If we just spent more time thanking each other, and less time proving ourselves worthy, everyone would be a lot happier.

So here is my attempt at a peace offering: Honey, I appreciate everything

Are You a Member of the

South Jersey MOM VIP Member’s Club?

publisher’s note

June 2009

you do for our family. Thank you for going to work each and every day so our family has a roof over our heads and food on the table. Thank you for giving the kids their baths and getting them ready for bed. Thank you for working in the yard, taking out the trash and washing the cars. Thank you for all the compliments you give me, putting up with my “deadline” weeks and all the stress that goes along with them. Thank you for being such a wonderful dad and making the kids feel loved and cared about. We love you!

There. I think that should hold him over until next year! LOL!✲ Your Friend and Fellow MOM,

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MOM 2009

Publisher/Editor: Adrienne Richardson adrienne@southjerseymom.com Editorial Associate: Jeanette Giza jgiza@southjerseymom.com Advertising Inquiries: Camden County: Colleen O’Brien-Fleisher • 856.905.5046 colleen@southjerseymom.com Burlington County: Jeanette Golden • 610.223.0837 jeanette@southjerseymom.com All Other Areas: Orin Jespersen • 856.690.5565 orin@southjerseymom.com General Advertising Info: ads@southjerseymom.com Copy Editor: Gaily Von Schlichting Production Manager: Lisa Celfo lisa@southjerseymom.com Communications Manager: Nicole Hyde nicole@southjerseymom.com Photographer: VioletBrown Photography Contributing Writers: MaryKate Cochran, James F. Fahy, Esq, Gwen Faulkner, Dolores Hoffman, Jessica Humphrey, Fran LoBiondo, Cheryl Meister, Keri Mikulski, Kelsey Pollard, Gwen Recinto, Kathryn Ross, Bernadette Smith, Sheila Taney Submit Calendar Listing: calendar@southjerseymom.com Letters to the Editor: editor@southjerseymom.com For Any Other General Information: info@southjerseymom.com www.southjerseymom.com South Jersey MOM is published monthly and distributed throughout the region.

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Focus few weeks ago, I found myself on a small step ladder, leaning into a dumpster, poking around with a broomstick, in the dark, IN THE RAIN, trying to retrieve the trash bag I disposed of the night before. Why? To get that lottery ticket that I forgot to take out of the grocery bag I threw away. I buy one lottery ticket once in a while. I always tuck it in my purse. This time I did not; instead, I put it in the bag of groceries I’d purchased. I put the groceries away and threw the bag in the trash. I just knew if I did not retrieve that ticket, I would be the winner who never claimed their prize! Wouldn’t that have a been a lesson in recycling grocery bags instead of throwing them in the trash?!?

Since I did not win the Mega Millions that week, it’s back to life as usual… work, family and taking care of me. I have not given up on the dream. I have a list of what to do first and what to spend the money on. It’s very important to have this list because I am quite sure I will not be thinking straight for at least a week after my big win.

I walked back to my little condo wet, smelly and a bit embarrassed, and started my inventory of what I do have… my valuables.

I have a roof over my head and all the necessities. I have two beautiful daughters and six grandchildren. Ok, I will include my sons-in-law. Like most moms, I initially had my doubts, but they are taking good care of my daughters.

And they are good fathers. Just one of the reasons I know this to be true is the “welcome home” ritual.

A

nana’s 2 sense

South Jersey

I recently had the pleasure of witnessing the daily “welcome home, dad” ritual. Dad makes his entrance by first peeking through the window of the front door. The kids catch him and exclaim, “Daddy!” They then run to the door, screaming with excitement. Daddy enters and says, “Who wants a hug?”

Kayden smiles, gallantly steps back and says, “Sissy first.” Daddy swoops up Camille, throws her in the air then smothers her with kisses with Kayden laughing the entire time. Now it’s Kayden’s turn. Daddy lifts Kayden high, gives hugs and kisses, flips him over into a handstand and they end up wrestling on the floor. They love their daddy and he loves them. Now it’s mommy’s turn.

I’ll still dream of what I would do with all those millions, but that yucky walk back from the dumpster reminded me to focus on all the good stuff in life right here, right now.✲ With loving thanks to all the great dads out there,

—Nana Jean *This month my first grandchild graduates from high school. Congratulations Brianna, I am so very proud of you!

Nana Jean is a South Jersey grandmother with two daughters and six grandchildren. Enjoy her stories about her 37+ years as a mom and 18 years as a grandmother as she shares her experiences and lessons learned with lots of laughs and tears along the way.

On the COVER

“Cutest Kid in Town” winner: Spencer (10), Loves playing sports, especially soccer, baseball and basketball and anything else that involves being outside and running around! He is the most reserved one of the three however. Ethan (7), is Mr. Social Butterfly! He loves spending time with his friends, whether it's playing sports, video games or Pokemon. He s also the family comedian, who will do anything for a laugh. Isabella (3 1/2), takes ballet, but can hold her own with her big brothers on the ball fields as well. She loves playing with her Barbies, babies and "cooking" in her kitchen. She’s quite the little chatterbox too. Len is their proud father! Photo by VioletBrown Photography.

June 2009 | 5

life sentences

Riding Shotgun On a College Road Trip

ecently I took a road trip to Ithaca, NY to visit a school with my son. He is 22 and unsure whether he wants to attend graduate school in the city or in the sticks.

I was along for the ride. While I have some input in how much of the family home we will ransom for his tuition, the two schools he has to decide between are equally pricey and, anyway, the best one to make this decision is the guy who has to live with it.

Having said that I really liked Ithaca, winters are long, according to the students who live there, but the fall and spring are beautiful and summers are idyllic. Gorges with waterfalls burble through the campus, students and grown-ups dine and attend concerts together and a post-hippie era mellowness prevails.

I am a great fan of the Moosewood Cookbooks and I was delighted to stumble upon the Moosewood Restaurant right there in downtown Ithaca. There was no problem getting a seat. The menu was small, mostly organic and largely meatless – except for the Haddock topped with perfectly piquant sauce – and we both ate our veggies that night. My son ordered an asparagus-cheese phyllo pie which was a delight as well. You can see why I am not a food critic. But I was charmed to see that one of the campus buildings featured takeout from the Moosewood. My son spent four years at an urban campus where I never got a good meal. But, no, I am not trying to influence his decision.

R

By Fran LoBiondo

When I was a senior in high school, in Indiana,” or even that sappy ‘70’s hit my parents let me go on a week-long col- song, “Indiana Wants Me.” Never heard of lege road trip with two of my best girl it? Here’s the ending: friends. We followed a serpentine route to “Indiana wants me, Lord I can’t go small colleges in Pennsylvania, Ohio and back there (This is the police. You are West Virginia, eating huge plates of pan- surrounded. Give yourself up.)” cakes at truck stops, chugging up and down After all these years, going on the winding roads in November snow and stop- road and exploring a new possibility is ping every few hours to pour another quart still inspirational even though I am 50 of motor oil into our tiny white Chevy this month and I have already made my Vega. I can still recall the expansive feeling choices. of being out of touch with our dowdy little I will not try to influence my son’s life high school existence for a magical week of decision by making up foolish lyrics. But talking late into the night, sleeping bags just out of curiosity, can anyone think of a laid out on the floor in a shabby motel, word that rhymes with Ithaca?✲ telling each other which adult privileges we Fran LoBiondo of Vineland has children in grade school, high school and college. A Purdue University were going to enjoy most.

My two friends went off together to graduate with a degree in Journalism, she has written Heidelberg College in northern Ohio and I about parenting, food and fun for 25 yrs. enrolled, sight unseen, at Purdue University in Indiana after a month-long campaign by my father who loved the idea of a Big 10, state-funded (cheap) college with lots of opportunities. by “I’m not going VioletBrown Photography to try to influence your decision, but 609.369.4478 …” he would say and then burst into a soulful rendition of “The Wabash Cannonball,” or “Back Home Again

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mom 2 mom

Explaining

Death to Children

For children 13 and older, the more you smother them with, “Are you ok?” all the time, the less likely they will be to approach you with honest concerns or questions. Let them know they can ask you anything, any time and then, let them mourn. Being there silently is more productive than overwhelming them with pressure to feel a certain way.

Never make a child go to a viewing or funeral. All children are different and the maturity level, not the age, rules. Keeping your children busy with activities related to the deceased, for instance, drawing pictures, making sympathy cards and even poster boards with photos, can help them transition from death to mourning to celebrating the person’s life.

If your child continues to struggle months after a death, seek help from the school counselor, clergy or family therapist.✲ Dolores Hoffman and husband Jim own Pancoast Funeral Home in Vineland.

Working with families over the years, Hoffman has learned everyone grieves differently, especially children.

By Dolores Hoffman alking with your children about death is never easy. As adults, we never quite understand it, so how are we supposed to convey any kind of logic to our children?

The simplest answers are the most effective. Dying is a natural part of life. Children have witnessed this in many ways, through plants, animals and insects. Children understand more than we think. The natural order of life helps us explain it better; such as, grandma lived a long and healthy life and, like all livings things, people die.

Breaking the news to a youngster can be heart-wrenching.

Children feed off their parents’ reactions. The calmer you are and the less frightened you seem, the better they will handle it. But how about when a young person dies? Your first instinct might be to shield them from the truth or sugar-coat it as best you can.

Children always imagine the worst when you do this. Be straightforward and talk on a level they understand.

Depending on your religious beliefs, you may help your child find comfort by telling them that a part of that person called the spirit, or soul lives on and that part of them goes to heaven. It may make them feel better to know they will see them again in heaven some day.

Never use the analogy that death is like sleeping. You may think it comforts your child because sleep is a peaceful state.

However, equating death with sleep may make them fearful of night time altogether.

T

8 | June 2009

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June 2009 | 9

Make Yourself Are you at all interested in raising a 30-year-old Nintendo player who lies around your house all day, eating cold pizza and sucking up diet sodas? Probably not. If you are like many parents, you are probably a lot more interested in raising a responsible, caring, conscious youngster who, somewhere between the ages of eighteen and twenty-five, is capable of leaving home and living successfully on his or her own.

Raising a young adult to function effectively in today’s world does not happen by luck, coincidence or magic. It “happens” only when parents work diligently and purposefully throughout a child’s life to see that he or she learns about independence, responsibility and personal power. It “happens” when parents work intentionally to make themselves dispensable in a child’s life.

The suggestions below can help you move closer to your goal of raising an independent, autonomous, fully functioning young adult.

Believe that making yourself dispensable is your main job as a parent. If you believe your job is to be needed, that your central role is to do for your children, you will have a difficult time implementing the ideas that follow. Helping does not always help. Sometimes it creates learned

1.

10 | June 2009

helplessness. When you do for your children the things they can do for themselves, you are overfunctioning.

Overfunctioning begins with the belief that “my children need me to do for them.” Change that belief to “my job is to help my children do for themselves.”

Refuse to do for your children what they can do or can learn to do for themselves. Do you do laundry for a teenager? Do you pack your fifth-grader’s lunch? Do you tie the shoes and zip the coat of a 6-year-old?

Do you look up phone numbers for your fourth-grader? If so, you could be overfunctioning. Remember, the more you function, the less your child has to.

2.

If you want a behavior, you have to teach a behavior.

Children do not naturally know how to bring in firewood, clean the fishbowl, set the table,

3.

dry the dishes or take their own dishes to the sink after dinner. If you do not teach behaviors, you could end up doing them all yourself.

Refrain from answering for your child. When the doctor asks, “Why are you here today?”, when the neighbor inquires, “What was your favorite birthday present?”, or when Grandma wants to know, “How do you like school this year?”, stay out of it. Allow your child to answer for him/herself.

4.

Teach your child to ask for help. One way to do this is to not help them until they ask.

Parents often rush in with help before the child has articulated a desire for help. Why would a child ever need to ask for help if help always arrives without asking?

5.

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DISPENSABLE

By Thomas Haller and Chick Moorman Teach children to solve their own problems.

Do not say, “Don’t say anything to your mother. I’ll handle it for you. I know your mother well and I can catch her in a good mood.” Say instead, “You’re going to have to handle this with your mother. I generally try to catch her in the afternoon because she gets real busy in the morning. I know you can handle it.” This style of speaking announces to your child that you believe in him and that you see him as capable.

6.

Refrain from rescuing children from experiencing the legitimate consequences of their actions. Do not rescue, save, bail them out, let them slide, accept excuses or fail to hold them accountable for the choices they make. When you refuse to protect children from the choices they make, you allow them to take responsibility for their lives.

Relax Mom—We Take the Fear Out of Visiting the Dentist!

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Raising responsible children is not an easy task. It takes effort, energy and persistence. You can do that best when you make yourself dispensable.✲ Thomas Haller and Chick Moorman are the coauthors of “Teaching the Attraction Principle to Children: Practical Strategies for Parents and Teachers to Help Children Manifest a Better World”. They are two of the world’s foremost authorities on raising responsible, caring, confident children. They publish a free monthly e-zine for educators and another for parents. To sign up for them, or to learn more about the seminars they offer teachers and parents, visit their websites today: www.thomashaller.com and www.chickmoorman.com

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June 2009 | 11

Natural Remedies for Hot Weather Worries ummer should bring relaxation, vacation and lots of fun activities. But hot weather can literally become a pain and be especially troublesome to your skin. Try these natural remedies for hot weather worries.

S

By Kelsey Pollard COLD SORES – As soon as it feels like a cold sore is emerging rub an ice cube over the area for 10 minutes three times a day. This can prevent the cold sore from swelling and may prevent it from forming altogether. Grapefruit seed extract (GSE) is another way to help treat cold sores. Mix a few drops of GSE with aloe or olive oil and dab it on the sore. GSE is very strong, so only a small amount is needed. Also, applying mint to the sore will often speed the healing process, usually within five days. Tea tree oil is another effective treatment.

SUNBURN – Aloe Vera gel is the most common natural remedy for sunburn.

Aloe Vera lotions can be used; however, fresh Aloe Vera will help the skin recover faster. This healing plant helps prevent skin from swelling and enhances tissue regeneration. A bath in lukewarm water with a cup of baking soda or apple cider vinegar also cools down the skin.

Chamomile, Lavender, Eucalyptus, Rose Hips and Buckthorn essential oils are beneficial for inflamed skin. They can be 12 | June 2009

applied directly to the skin or added to bath water. There are some raw vegetables that, when sliced and applied to the burns, have a soothing effect: potatoes, tomatoes, cucumbers and cold juice from lettuce leaves. For sensitive areas such as the eyes, cool a tea bag and place over the sunburned area.

does not go away quickly, mix together two tablespoons each of powdered calendula and chamomile and one tablespoon cornstarch. Use this as a powder to soothe the rash. Then rub cucumber slices around the skin for a soothing coolness. Cooled chamomile tea helps calm irritated skin as well.

RAZOR BURN AND BUMPS – For razor burns and bumps, dissolve two uncoated aspirin in a teaspoon of warm water and mix into a paste. Apply the paste on the affected area. Wash it after a short time with lukewarm water. This will take care of the burning sensation. Aloe Vera gel also helps with irritated, razorburned skin. When shaving, stick with a shaving cream containing aloe or other soothing ingredient. After shaving, apply a moisturizing body lotion to the area to reduce dryness and itchiness.

Stay away from lotions that are heavily scented.

OTHER SKIN RELATED PROBLEMS – For dry, chapped lips use castor oil instead of Chapstick or lip balm. To treat dry skin, moisturize with almond and grape seed oil or avocado oil which usually work faster than commercial moisturizers. Make sure pores are open before applying this treatment.

Applying once in the morning and once at night should help alleviate dry skin.

HEAT RASH – Heat rash usually goes away on its own within a day or two. If it

These natural remedies are the most popular and effective. However, not all natural remedies are for everyone. If any of the above treatments cause dry or irritated skin, or worsen the problem, discontinue use.✲

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Out of Your Parenting Job! “There are two things you give your children – one is roots, the other wings” hen my children left for college, I was nervous. Not because my nest was now empty, but because I was about to see the results of my parenting style. Would I pass my parenting exam?

Although I studied and taught parent education for years, what I knew for sure was there are neither perfect parents nor perfect kids. All in all, we did fine. What I did notice was that my children demonstrated life skills that gave them the confidence they needed to be successful on their own for the first time.

I invite each of you to review and consider today how you would like to begin working your way out of your parenting job. The earlier parents hand over age appropriate responsibility, the better!

Time really does fly and your children will be out of the nest before you know it!

community and in the world. Help them discover their interests. Notice their natural abilities and strengths and begin building on them! We all like to do things that come naturally.

W

4.

5.

No “right” fighting. This is a hard one – especially for those of us who grew up in “my way or the highway” households. It will take some new skills, and a change of requesting instead of demanding what you want, to be totally successful. Commit that it is better to be “close” than always “right!”

6.

See your child’s mistakes as opportunities, not failures. If approached the right way, most mistakes are wonderful opportunities for us to learn. Do not scold or discipline your child when he or she makes a mistake.

Instead ask your child, “What could you do differently next time?” Shame, blame or guilt based approaches to mistakes might seem to work in the short run but, in the long run, they offer your child little in the way of positive reinforcement or better ideas.

Ultimately, it’s the child who learns how to productively take responsibility for their mistakes, repair whatever damage has been done and act differently next time.

Here are a few tips to get you well on your way!

1.

2.

3.

Discipline with the end in mind. Ask yourself, “Is my parenting style helping my child build a positive self image?” Remember how you parent today will powerfully contribute to the kind of adult your child will become in the future. It may not always seem so, but the day-to-day issues that arise in your family are nowhere near as important as the kind of relationship they lead you to form with your child.

Try and keep that in mind!

Provide your child with the opportunity to be of service to others.

Cultivating social interest is an important part of responsible parenting.

Teach your child that, ultimately, the key to high self-esteem is finding a way to selflessly share their talents and abilities with others.

Find ways for children to be valuable at home, at school, in their

www.southjerseymom.com

Stress the importance of selfknowledge. At home and in the wider world, happiness comes to those who know what they want – and know how to “go for it” with poise and confidence. Teach your child to look within themselves for motivation, purpose and direction and you will be laying the foundation for later real life success.

7.

Be a role model for your children. If hitting or screaming is not allowed in your household, be sure you do not send mix messages to the children.

parenting recipes

Recipe for Working Your Way

By Bernadette Smith Parent Coach

They may not always listen, but beware they are always watching!

8.

Schedule a one-on-one date with each child. Children do better when they feel better. In today’s hurried world of adult responsibilities, this BIG request goes a long way. When your children feel loved, valued, listened to and important, you will see less misbehavior! I guarantee your “dates” will become cherished memories for each of you.

9.

Hand over age-appropriate responsibility. Never do for a child something they can successfully do for themselves. If you are unsure what your child may or may not be able to do for themselves, break a particular task down into baby steps and then walk your child through each one, remembering encouragement goes a long way!

10.

Catch them doing something right and tell them. In school, at home or just out visiting with relatives, children are reminded of what they did not do or did wrong. Try redirecting with a positive discipline that helps them make better choices. Better choices will give them better results!

Focus on the good!

Wishing you all the best with your most important job in the world!✲ If you enjoyed this article, visit Bernadette’s web site www.MpoweringYou.com for more articles that keep kids encouraged and moms calm! Everyone is invited to join our Ultimate Mom’s Club on Monday nights—sign up on line. Parenting Recipes book is also available on the web and includes a free session with the author. Bernadette Smith is a certified Life Coach with the International Coach Federation since 1998 and a certified Parent Educator since 1990.

June 2009 | 13

moms R women 2

Essential 5FITNESS MOVES

By Gwen Recinto

Y

ou know those days when you feel like doing “something” but can’t make it to the gym? Or those days when you are sick of your at-home fitness routine?

There are five exercises you can do to get your whole body conditioned — without a trip to the gym or an exercise DVD. Start with a three to five minute warm-up, such as marching in place, jogging in place or jumping jacks. Then, try these essential full-body fitness moves recommended by Lauren Titterington, ACSM, certified personal trainer and AFAA certified group exercise instructor: Squats — With or without weights, act as if you are going to sit on a chair by bending at the knees with chest lifted. Try to get your thighs parallel to the ground. Push your glutes back and keep your knees

14 | June 2009

behind your toes. Always push through your heels as you return to the standing position. Then, vary the amount of time it takes to squat. For example, try lowering into squat position for four counts and standing for four counts — or try lowering for three counts and coming up for one count.

Push-ups — According to Titterington, whether you are doing “military” or modified push-ups, form is more important than anything. If you are on your knees, make sure you are never directly on your knee caps. Keep your glutes down, and make sure you are aligned from your head all the way down to your knees. Lauren advises, “If you’re on your toes, lower the entire body as if you were a stiff board. Do not cheat — your chest should hit the floor before your chin.” For a different feel, widen your arms or make a diamond shape with your thumb and forefingers.

Pull-downs (or Pull-ups) — If you do not have access to a pull-up bar, a great alternative is to drape exercise tubing over a high structure. Depending on the structure’s height, sit on the ground with your legs extended in front of you and sit tall. Hold the tubing so your palms are facing each other and keep your elbows tight toward your body. Pull the tubing down — from above your head — to align with your shoulders. You can vary the exercise count or change your hand position — such as keeping your palms facing down — to target different back muscles.

Lunges — Start with feet together — with or without weights in your hands — and take a big step forward with one leg.

Lower your body so the front thigh is parallel to the floor. Try alternating legs and pulsing. “If space allows, take your lunges and move! Walking lunges are a great way to get a lot done in a little amount of time,” says Titterington.

“If counting repetitions is getting old, you could challenge yourself to do each exercise for 90 seconds or two minutes each, depending on your fitness level. If time permits, try going through the circuit a couple of times,” says Titterington. “It’s not about reps; it’s about completing the time for each exercise.”✲

www.southjerseymom.com

Hope is Not a plan for Children with

Special Needs

By Gwen Faulkner

f you are the primary caregiver for a loved one with a disability or other special needs, it’s important you have a “life care plan” in place to help ensure their care will continue if you yourself are faced with a personal emergency or extended illness.

giver, and for your child during your lifetime and beyond. You will learn how to properly fund a special needs trust and understand what those funds can do for your child’s future when you are not around to provide income.

What will happen to your loved one’s quality of life if you are not able to oversee the details, even for a short time? Who will step in at your death or if you are ill? Who will make sure that your child or loved one has those critical things that affect his or her quality of life, such as certain equipment, special treatments, outings and activities? Having a backup plan in place for these contingencies is as important as planning for the day-to-day care for your loved one.

Without such planning, it’s possible that your state and/or federal government will make the decisions about benefits, medical care, finances, living arrangements, custodians and guardians.

Parents of special needs children know this is not an acceptable option.

Think of special needs planning as building a house for your child. Every segment of the house is important and must be designed to support the entire house so it can weather any storm.

The goal is to provide for your child when you are no longer able to and to utilize the available public benefits without disruption of care.

4. Annual Review. Every house needs periodic repairs. Your special

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Four Steps to a Solid Special Needs Financial Plan 1. Legal Documents are the foundation of special planning. Wills and trusts should be in place to express and execute your message, to be the voice of your child when you can no longer serve in that role. Included in this process is the choice of guardians and trustees. Who will care for your child and monitor and protect the benefits and services they need? A particular type of trust designed specifically for your child – a special needs trust – may also be required.

2. Financial Planning serves as the walls of your home. Throughout the planning process, you will discover and consider strategies for providing and managing resources and benefits for you, as carewww.southjerseymom.com

3. The Letter of Intent is the roof. This document gives parents the opportunity to record and share information needed for their child’s everyday care and quality of life. It provides direction to medical care providers, daily care providers and family members. needs plan needs adjustments and improvements as your circumstances change. Be sure to update your plan accordingly.

Planning is the only way to ensure your special child’s future well being. Take action today.✲ Contact Gwen Faulkner at (856) 673-4045 or visit www.Faulkner-Financial.com.

Gwen Faulkner began to dedicate her practice to the special needs community five years ago. More than 50 percent of her practice is now spent working with families and a team of professionals to help design a life care plan to help better their children’s future.

Trust services can be funded by The MassMutual Trust Company, FSB, a wholly-owned stock subsidiary of MassMutual, or seek trust services from other sources. MassMutual’s SpecialCare program provides access to information, specialists and financial products and services that can help improve the quality of life for people with disabilities and special needs.

Gwen Faulkner is a Registered Representative of, and offers securities through, MML Investors Services, Inc. Member SIPC. Supervisory office: 2 Bala Plaza, Suite 901, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004, (610) 766-3000. Insurance offered through Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual) and other fine companies.

Expert Counseling for Women Specializing in treatment of pregnancy and postpartum depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, depression, and relationship issues Our experienced counselors will: • Help you understand the problem you are facing • Find solutions when your best efforts haven’t worked • Support you to achieve emotional well-being Special Postpartum Support Group Meets 1st and 3rd Monday of each month 4:30-6:00pm

most insurance plans accepted For information call:

856.751.0505 www.meridiancounseling.net 1930 E. Rt. 70, Suite M 68, Cherry Hill

June 2009 | 15

chick lit

Chick Lit Picks

2009 Beach Reads

By Keri Mikulski

The Year of the Fog

Fairy Tale Blues

By Michelle Richmond

By Tina Welling

During a shoreline stroll, Abby Mason stops for a split second to snap a picture of a baby seal and when she looks up, her soon to be stepdaughter, Emma, is gone.

Follow Abby and her family as they enter the tormenting world of searching for a missing child. Get swept away by this edge-of-your seat emotional thriller.

On the night of Annie Laurie McFall’s twenty-sixth wedding anniversary, she deserts her husband at a restaurant and takes off to Florida for a marriage break.

So Happy Together

The Spare Wife

By Maryann McFadden

By Alex Witchel

Twenty years after single mom Claire Noble gave up her dreams, she is about to embark on a brand new adventure when her daughter returns pregnant and alone.

At the same time, her aging parents begin to consume her life. Out July 09, New Jersey author Maryann McFadden pens another unforgettable beach read.

Beautiful, rich widow Ponce Morris is known as the perfect “spare wife” in the upper-class New York social circle, until her reputation is shattered after journalist Babette Steele uncovers a scandalous story involving Ponce and a married man.

Enter to Win These Books Contest Rules: Enter to win two, three, or five brand new books. Just email your name and address, plus the title of the Beach Read book that catches your eye, to kerimikulski@gmail.com. The grand prize-winner will receive five brand new books, including your top choice, and two runners-up will each win three books, also including their top choice. The winners will be randomly selected and notified on July 1, 2009. All books will be mailed immediately following the selection. The contest is open until June 30, 2009. Good luck!

Keri Mikulski is a mom, author, and college writing instructor. Her young adult novels, SCREWBALL and the sequel CHANGE-UP are now available. Visit her blog and enter to win Chick Lit Pick novels at http://kerimikulski.blogspot.com.

She resides in Cape May County with her family.

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8

just born

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!

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Ridemakerz 4 Personalize a model car to match your model dad’s style. More than 40 different bodies and paint schemes to choose from. Customize your car with tons of options. Enter a code online to open a virtual world of racing & more. $10-$32 www.ridemakerz.com EZ Find A hand held transmitter that keeps track of important household items like cameras, toys, keys and the remote.

Receiver tags imbedded with microchips easily track up to 25 items at once.

LCD screen for quick tracking. $59.95, Amazon, Ebay, www.ez-find.com

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Built NY, Inc. Bags and Cases Transform the ordinary into the extraordinary with bold colors, graphic patterns, unique designs and affordable 6 prices on over 100 products from laptop sleeves to lunch totes to diaper bags. $12-$100, www.builtny.com

www.southjerseymom.com

The Baggler and Baggler Bags A handle with hooks enables you to carry multiple bags at once. Spacious and washable, the lightweight bags 7 come in a set of three that fold up to fit in a zippered pouch that has additional space for the handle. Small enough to fit in a jacket pocket, handbag, console or attach to purse or shopping cart. $4.99-$8.99, www.thebaggler.com Explorers Bounty Gallop-A-Loozas Organic puffed fruit with no added sweeteners. Only 100 calories/serving.

Made from real fruit, they provide genuine nutritional value other 8 grocery store 100-calorie snack pack competitors lack. Packaged for easy to carry, healthy, on-the-go snacking. $2.39-$2.49, Whole Foods What a Difference a Daddy Makes A book about fathering with funny, moving stories about parenting experiences. Gives practical ideas and inspiration for fathers and provides

specific direction for helping daughters grow into loving, confident, caring adults. $14.99, Amazon.com, Borders She Still Calls Me Daddy This book reminds fathers of the important role they play while offering insight as to how that role changes throughout their girls’ lives. Emphasizes now is the time to develop a relationship with their married daughter by covering issues in their new father-daughter bond and how to cultivate a relationship with their new son-in-law. $22.99, Amazon.com, Borders Lisa Leonard Designs Key Chains Sterling silver, square, hammered key chain with a touching message, monogram or inspirational quote of your choice. An affordable gift for Father’s Day. Dad will cherish this for years to come. $32, www.lisaleonardonline.com

June 2009 | 17

Make Him Smile This Father’s Day

By Jessica Humphrey

old the ties and cologne! Buy dad what he really wants this year, no tricky tie knots or glass bottles required.

Whether dad is a sports fan, gadget guru or music lover, these suggestions are bound to make him smile this Father’s Day.

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18 | June 2009

www.southjerseymom.com

THE SENTIMENTAL DAD

THE MUSIC LOVER DAD

You have grown from infant to toddler in the blink of an eye and Dad’s been there every step of the way. Remind him of your childhood days by customizing a jigsaw puzzle. Just be sure to help Dad put it together.

Personalized Jigsaw Puzzle; $11.89-$21.99, www.123photogifts.com

Are Dad’s old albums taking up all the space in the attic? Display his old vinyls in these album cover frames, sure to add spunk to any room.

Album Cover Frame; $14.95 for one; $49.95 for set of four www.Brookstone.com – Item #578690

THE BBQ DAD

THE BEER LOVER DAD

Your dad is the master of the barbeque so let him take pride in his creations by allowing him to mark his territory. The personalized steak brander lets Dad take his first pick.

Monogrammed Branders; $69.95-$79.95 www.Gifts.redenvelope.com – Item #30001577

If good friends, good poker and good beer are things Dad enjoys, perhaps a membership to a beer club is right up his alley. Each month, Dad will receive a shipment of unique premium beer sure to add to the excitement of Card Night with the boys.

Beer Club; $31 per month www.Amazingbeerclub.com

THE SPORTS DAD It may not be baseball or football season, but that does not mean Dad cannot cheer for his favorite team from a location beside the couch.

With every swing of the hammer Dad’s team pride is emitted.

Baseball and/or Football Hammer; $24.95 www.Gifts.redenvelope.com – Item #311146

THE ACTIVE DAD Maybe sitting on the couch is not your Dad’s thing. These two 3-pound silver tone barbells will remind Dad that with “no pain” there is “no gain.”

Executive Barbells; $14.99 www.Thingsremembered.com – Item #603533

THE FISHING DAD The Fish Finding Watch is worn on the wrist and doubles as a working wristwatch, complete with time and date, unlike other sonar sensors that are handheld or affixed to a boat. It operates in a wide 75' remote radius, transmitting real-time views of fish to the 1 1/4" LCD display. All controls are easily commanded from the waterproof wrist unit. $139.95, www.Hammacher.com✲

“Why I Love My DAD” Essay Contest Winners “I love my dad because he cares. We share a love for cars. We love playing paintball. We like the same kind of music. He created a herpetology club for me.

My dad cares about me. One time I had a broken wrist and he helped me make a guitar for a science fair. That’s why I love my dad.”

—Ian Parr, 13, Vineland “I love my dad because he is sweet to me.

When I am at home he takes care of me. I love to work on our old car together. My dad is the best in the world. Me and my dad are a lot alike.”

—Crystal Parr, 10, Vineland www.southjerseymom.com

Ian & Crystal w ith

their dad, Tom

June 2009 | 19

O

know 2 grow

ne of the greatest moments in any parent’s life is the birth of their child. It’s a day when the parent’s life is forever changed. It’s a day filled with joy, the desire to be a great parent, the desire to provide a warm and loving home, the desire to provide the child with every opportunity to succeed in life and countless other emotions.

It’s also a day when you are blessed with increased responsibilities as a parent.

One of the first responsibilities parents take on is planning and saving for their child’s college education. More often than not, however, one of the last responsibilities parents contemplate is the appointment of guardians for their children in the event both parents pass away while their children are still minors. It’s not something any parent wants to think about, but it’s an issue every responsible parent must address and consider.

The appointment of guardians for minor children is accomplished only through the execution of a Last Will and Testament of the parent(s). Parents have many reasons/excuses why they do not have a Last Will and Testament prepared and executed: ❑ I expect to have more children in the future ❑ It’s too difficult for me to think of the possibility of not being there when my children need me most ❑ I don’t have enough assets to warrant making a Will ❑ I have verbally told the persons whom I want to be the Guardians of my children ❑ I am too young to think about making a Will ❑ We can not agree on who to name as Guardians of our children Despite these reasons, or the multi-

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Appointing Guardians for Your Children—

a NeCessitY for every Parent

By James F. Fahy, esq. tude of other reasons a parent may have to justify not having a Last Will and Testament, nothing overrides this one simple rule: If you have a child, you must have a Last Will and Testament.

The need for the appointed guardian(s) will only arise in the event both parents die while the child(ren) are still minors. The only way for parents to ensure the person(s) whom they would want is appointed the guardian(s) of their children is through a valid Last Will and Testament.

A Will, among other things, allows a person to convey his/her final wishes in regard to the disposition of property and assets, the appointment of guardians for their minor children, the appointment of executors and trustees and the establishment of trusts for persons or minor children upon their passing.

If the parents of a minor child were to die without having Wills, then the

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Surrogates Court will have to render a decision as to the appointment of guardian(s) for the minor child(ren). This is a decision which should not be left to the Surrogates Court to render.

Although it’s difficult to think of one’s mortality, it’s a reality of life that needs to be addressed and planned for. It’s advisable to discuss your estate planning needs with an attorney experienced in Will drafting and Estate Planning. While self help programs, books and websites can educate you, they are rarely a substitute for professional legal guidance.✲ James F. Fahy, Esq. has been a licensed New Jersey Attorney since 1994 and operates his own law practice, James F. Fahy, Esq., LLC in Marlton, NJ., a general practice law firm specializing in Estate Planning and Estate Administration. For more information, visit www.jamesfahylaw.com. (This Article is a service of James F. Fahy, Esq., LLC. It does not constitute legal advice, nor does it create an attorney-client relationship.)

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fully licensed, bonded and insured

info@csicleaningservice.com • www.csicleaningservice.com

20 | June 2009

www.southjerseymom.com

Juvenile Is Your Child at Risk for Diabetes? uvenile diabetes mellitus is now more commonly called Type 1 diabetes. It’s a syndrome with disordered metabolism and inappropriately high blood glucose levels due to a deficiency of insulin secretion in the pancreas.

After a meal, a portion of the food a person eats is broken down into sugar (glucose). The sugar then passes into the bloodstream and into the body’s cells via a hormone called insulin. Insulin is produced by the pancreas.

Normally, the pancreas produces the right amount of insulin to accommodate the quantity of sugar. However, if the person has diabetes, either the pancreas produces little or no insulin, or the cells do not respond normally to the insulin. Sugar builds up in the blood, overflows into the urine and passes from the body unused.

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Types of Diabetes There are two main types of diabetes, Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes (also called insulin-dependent diabetes or juvenile diabetes) is caused by autoimmune destruction of the B cells of the pancreas, which normally secrete insulin. Those patients require insulin injections for survival.

Type 2 diabetes (or non-insulindependent diabetes) is much more common and results from insulin resistance, mainly due to obesity, with inadequate additional production of insulin by the body.

Causes and Risk Factors of Juvenile Diabetes An estimated 1.4 million Americans have Type 1 diabetes, with approximately 35 children being diagnosed with juvenile diabetes every day.

The exact cause of Type 1 diabetes (juvenile diabetes) is still unclear.

However, it is not caused by obesity or by eating excessive sugar.

The risk of juvenile diabetes is higher than virtually all other severe chronic diseases of childhood. Juvenile diabetes tends to run in families. Brothers and sisters of a child with juvenile diabetes have www.southjerseymom.com

at least 100 times the risk of developing juvenile diabetes as a child in an unaffected family.

Symptoms may occur suddenly and include: • Frequent urination • Increased thirst • Extreme hunger • Unexplained weight loss • Extreme weakness and fatigue • Urinating at night (nocturnal enuresis) • Blurred vision • Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet • Heavy or labored breathing • Drowsiness or lethargy • Fruity odor on the breath

as soon as possible. Besides a complete history and physical examination, the doctors will do a battery of laboratory tests. There are numerous tests available to diagnose diabetes such as urine test, blood tests and glucose-tolerance tests. Treatment usually involves changes to your child’s diet, the use of insulin, monitoring their blood glucose levels and getting adequate exercise.✲

Diagnosis of Juvenile Diabetes A child with the above symptoms should see a physician

Children's Gently Hugged Clothing and Accessories Are your child's new clothes fighting for space in the closet? Clear some space AND make some extra cash!

Now Accepting the following We're Looking for Moms "like new" items:

856.213.6739

$5.00 OFF Any $35 purchase With this coupon. One coupon per visit. Expires 6/30/09.

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Sweetpea’s—A Children’s Shoppe 2757 S. Main Road, Vineland (Sherman & Main Rds.) M.-Th.10-5 • Fri.10-6 • Sat.10-4 • Sun. closed June 2009 | 21

penny pinching pointers

lanning new and exciting things can be difficult — especially if you are on a budget. But having fun does not have to be expensive!

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1. Take a walk

A stroll around the block, a nature walk, or going for a hike are great opportunities to get outdoors and stay active. Bring a friend with you or even a pet. They make great company.

2. Go to a bookstore

Have some free time? You can spend hours reading and browsing over books. Most bookstores even have a café where you can grab a coffee. The best part is that you do not have to spend any money — that is, unless you cannot resist that Caramel Macchiato.

3. Play board games

Game nights are a fun way to spend time with friends and family. Break out some board games from when you were a kid, or something as simple as a deck of cards.

If you are the competitive type, you can add some stakes to the game. Try, “Winner does not have to do the dishes.”

4. Camp out

Plan a night to head out to the backyard and set up camp. Pitch a tent and bring some sleeping bags. You can even add a campfire to toast marshmallows and tell stories over. It’s a great way to spend a summer night. Oh, and don’t forget the bug spray!

Cheap Things To Do with Friends and Family

By MaryKate Cochran

5. Go to a yard sale

If you are an early riser, this can be a fun way to spend a weekend morning. You can find great deals and have fun going from house to house. Set a small budget and see what interesting items you can find.

6. Start a hobby

Whether you are into sports or scrapbooking, getting involved in a new hobby is a great way to spend some free time. Go to the park and play soccer or stay indoors and do some arts and crafts. You never know what will become a permanent pastime.

7. Go to a museum

Many museums are free or have suggested donations, where you can pay what you can afford. They are great places to spend an afternoon and you just might learn something new.

8. Volunteer

Who does not enjoy putting a smile on someone’s face? Volunteering is a great way to do just that. Consider a local hospital or nursing home. You will feel great afterwards and the experience will keep you coming back.

9. Attend an outdoor movie or concert

Many communities offer movies and concerts at night. Just look for schedules in the newspaper or on your town’s web site.

These are great activities to enjoy with your friends and family. Bring a blanket and some snacks!

10. Drive to the beach

The beach is a fun place to walk, collect seashells and talk with friends. Beach towns also offer great mini-golf courses that are relatively inexpensive. As the sun goes down, try your hand at 18 holes.✲

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 to P.O. Box 2413, Vineland, NJ 08362-2413.

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.

Parent Name:____________________________________________________________________________________________ Address: ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone: ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Child(ren) Name(s) & Birthdates: __________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________

22 | June 2009

www.southjerseymom.com

Did you know...

• 19 out of 20 homes have more polluted indoor air than air we breathe outdoors.

• Children are 6 times more vulnerable to indoor air contaminants than adults.

• 1 out of every 6 allergy conditions are caused by fungi and bacteria in your air duct system.

Breathe easier today!

Call for your FREE inspection and we will make your home a safer and cleaner environment.

Why you should be a little

GREENER EVERYDAY PART 2

green mama

COULD THE AIR IN YOUR HOME BE MAKING YOU SICK?

By Sheila Taney, RN, MSN ast month, I wrote about the environmental implications of not recycling. Below are some simple things you can do to be a part of the environmental solution; just make some small changes to your everyday routine.

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r Bring your own canvas/cotton bag on all shopping trips.

Many stores are now giving away these reusable bags.

Just keep them handy in your trunk for your shopping trips.

Professional Air Duct Cleaning— 920 N. Delsea Drive, Vineland

856.205.9000

r Purchase one reusable water bottle and fill with tap water instead of purchasing cases of disposable bottles. Many outdoor/discount stores sell them.

n We Cleants e V r e y r D

r Purchase several reusable juice containers for your child instead of buying disposable juice boxes. Fill the containers with water or juice from large juice bottles. r Purchase fruits and vegetables from your local farmer’s market. The produce is fresher and you will be supporting local farmers. r Use rechargeable batteries. r Avoid products that contain PVC (recycling #3) and BPA. r Always decline a plastic or paper bag for one-item purchases, such as a movie rental or gallon of milk. r Recycle and compost at home whenever possible. r Skip the “baggie” for snacks for outings and lunches.

Use reusable containers instead. Many stores sell containers with kid-friendly logos.

FULL SERVICE INFERTILITY CENTER WITH: In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) • Inseminations - Ovulation Induction • Donor Eggs Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis • Laser Microsurgery and Tubal Reversals

Visit us on our Website www.sjfert.com Robert A. Skaf, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. Peter G. Van Deerlin, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. Stephen W. Sawin, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. Gary S. Packin, D.O., F.A.C.O.O.G., Dist.

Barbara Alice, APN-C, MSN Tracy Krause, APN-C, MSN 400 Lippincott Drive Suite 130 Marlton, NJ 08053 856.596.2233

Harbor Pavilions 570 Egg Harbor Road, #B4 Sewell, NJ 08080 856.218.8863

Some people question why I do all the “green” things that I do.

I feel it’s a small price to pay for a little peace of mind, for my family and the world we live in. I admit it takes a little more time, but it’s worth the effort. I’d have to disagree with Kermit the Frog and say, “It IS easy being green!”✲ Sheila Taney has two children and resides in Cherry Hill. She is passionate about teaching her children and others how they can participate in saving the environment.

2500 English Creek Avenue Bldg. 200, Suite 225 Egg Harbor Twp., NJ 08234 609.813.2191

South Jersey Fertility Center is looking for Egg Donors, ages 21-32.

Compensation will be $8,000.

Call 856.596.2233 ext. 260 for more information. www.southjerseymom.com

June 2009 | 23

By Jessica Humphrey

Throw a Party to Remember lanning a birthday party for your little one, yet can’t decide on a theme or activities that will push you to “Cool Mom” status?

These ideas are bound to have the kids begging to return to your house and are sure to be the icing on the cake at any birthday party.

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THEMES Superhero/Princess Party Every little girl dreams of becoming a princess and every young boy idolizes superheroes and the powers they possess.

Make their dreams reality by throwing a theme party where the guests can dress in their favorite superhero/princess attire. Be sure to ask the guests to RSVP with their superhero/princess of choice so there aren’t any doubles!

Backwards Party Does your child love dessert before dinner? If so, this theme is perfect for you.

24 | June 2009

Hold the whole party backwards – guests wear their clothes backwards, presents are opened first, and of course, your child’s favorite – cake before their nutritious meal!

ACTIVITIES Scavenger Hunt Whether the party is inside or out, this idea is always a hit. Create a scavenger hunt around your house or backyard and have the children work together to reach their common goal… finding their hidden treasure. Hide treasure – a bunch of candy or perhaps, their goody bags – and watch as they follow your clues.

Arts and Crafts Kids love being creative. Encourage them to do so, without making a mess of your house, by holding your child’s birthday party at a local craft store. Multiple craft stores, such as A.C. Moore and Michael’s Arts and Crafts, hold birthday parties

where the children get to be Picasso for the day.

Laser Tag Have a very active child? Not a problem!

Take the kids to play laser tag. By engaging in this energetic activity, they get to run and scream as much as they want in a confined space, which means less worrying and more relaxing.

Berry Picking No matter the season, there is always at least one berry or fruit ripe for the picking.

Take the children to a local farm to pick their own berries or fruit. Then instead of cake for dessert, sing “Happy Birthday” over ice cream sundaes – their picked berries and/or fruit make the perfect topping!

The themes and activities are endless.

With a little imagination you can entertain your guests and have fun too!✲

www.southjerseymom.com

• Serving the community for over 35 years • Great place for a play date • Beat the Heat in our super cool air conditioned facility!

• Open Skating June 22 thru the end of August • Monday – Friday 12:00pm-4:00pm • Saturday 11:00am – 1:00pm for children 10 years and younger • Saturday 1:00pm – 4:00pm • Closed Sunday’s July and Early August

Cherry Hill Skating & Fun Center 664 Deer Road (between 295 & Turnpike)

Cherry Hill, NJ 08034 www.cherryhillskatingcenter.com 856.795.1919

Public Birthday Party

A Summer Class Lesson One coupon per summer class season only

Offer expires 6/30/09 Must present coupon for discount Limit 1 coupon per customer for each activity

J U N E Giveaways!

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The Baggler Sets EZ Find Yo Gabba Gabba New Friends DVD The Wonder Pets Ollie’s Slumber Party DVD Sesame Street Being Green DVD Built Camera Case

June 2009 | 25

business spotlight

The Art of Dance

n 1962, Ronnie McLaughlin took a chance in Northeast Philadelphia by opening a school of dance. With energy and drive, her business flourished. With grace and flair, she put on shows that people cherished. In 1967, with her family and business still growing, she decided to pack up all her sequins and move to Merchantville, New Jersey.

Today, McLaughlin’s daughter, Anna Myles, along with a dedicated staff, continues the traditions started years ago at Ronnie McLaughlin Dance Center.

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26 | June 2009

Although the styles of dance may have changed over the years, the drive and energy still remain.

“What makes our studio different from others is the friendly and family oriented atmosphere,” says Myles. “Our staff has passion for the art of dance and instills the techniques and discipline in children in a fun, energetic atmosphere.”

The studio offers affordable classes and family rates with no contracts during signup. They offer classes for ages three and up. Early evening classes are also available to help accommodate parents’ busy work schedules; ask about special discounts for double sessions.

In addition to regular yearly classes, the dance studio has also been holding summer classes for over 20 years.

Summer classes are once a week, either Tuesday or Thursday evening, starting at 6:00 pm.

By Kelsey Pollard

Summer classes offered include: Creative Dance – Learn the basic arm and foot positions, movement across the floor and awareness of “space” balance and shifting of weight. All of this is done to a variety of music. Ages 2-3.

Combo classes – Learn ballet, jazz and tap movements, counting skills, imagination and music awareness.

Ages 4-7.

Hip Hop – Students explore various styles of commercial concepts of “freestyle”, “funk” and “street dance”.

Ages 7 and up.

Jazz – Teaches a stylized form of dance, utilizing ballet techniques to form proper body placement and to use muscles while stretching and dancing.✲ Ronnie McLaughlin Dance Center is located at 198 Church Rd, Merchantville. For more information visit www.mclaughlindance.com or call (856) 665-0442.

www.southjerseymom.com

5 Reasons Your Child Needs

participate in human powered activities. According to surveys, a child is six times more likely to play a video game on any given day than to ride a bike. According to ACA research, 63 percent of children who learn new activities at camp tend to continue engaging in these activities after they return home. This leads to continued physical exercise habits that last a lifetime.

Camp keeps all that hard work from going to waste – Camps understand the critical role they play in helping young people learn and grow. Many offer programs that help reduce summer learning loss, bolster academic enrichment and socialization, provide opportunities for leadership development and ensure that campers achieve their full potential.

here is no doubt that summer camp is fun. Kids get to sing silly songs, play funny games, swim in lakes and tell spooky stories around a campfire. This image of camp has been captured and memorialized in films, books and television programs for the past fifty years. But there is much more to camp than just a good time.

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Camp forever changes your child…for the better – American Camp Association® (ACA) research has confirmed that camps build skills necessary to prepare campers to assume roles as successful adults. Campers said that camp helped them make new friends (96%), get to know kids who are different from them (93%), feel good about themselves (92%), and try things they were afraid to do at first (74%).

Camp teaches your child to “move it, move it” – Camp provides children the opportunity to try new things and www.southjerseymom.com

Camp allows children to take a deep breath and feel nature – Camp is a great way for your child to unplug from the iPod and plug into the world around them. According to Cornell University studies by environmental psychologists, being close to nature can help boost a child’s attention span.

Additionally, a study conducted by the University of Essex in England concluded that nature can help people recover from preexisting stresses or problems, has an immunizing effect that can protect from future stresses and helps people to concentrate and think more clearly. In some instances, camp may be the only time a child is in contact with the natural world.

Camp is fun – It’s true; kids do sing silly songs and play funny games at camp. Children are allowed to play in a safe and nurturing environment and are allowed to just be kids. Play is a powerful form of learning that contributes to a child’s healthy physical, emotional, social and intellectual development. Creative free play protects a child’s emotional development and reduces a child’s risk of stress, anxiety and depression.✲ June 2009 | 27

summer camp guide

Liberty Lake Day Camp Conveniently located off Routes 295, 206, and 130, Liberty Lake Camp is a high quality, elective-based program for ages 4-14. Tuition includes transportation, lunch, and the most dynamic program in camping!

609-499-7820, www.libertylakedaycamp.com

Enchanted Dreams Princess Camp is back!!!

7 magical weeks to choose from w/ Ariel, Jasmine, Belle, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty or Snow White.

Dress-up, crafts & games, music & dance, tea parties and lunch. Memories that last happily ever after. Mon-Thurs.

10a-2:30p, Fills up fast! Call Now! (856) 429-9909, www.enchanteddreams.biz

Magic is Up Our Sleeve at Summer Stage Celebrating 21 years as SJ’s most affordable visual and performing arts camp, offering programs for 2nd grade & up. Summer Stage at Mainstage Center for the Arts, is a safe and creative place to send your children. www.mainstage.org or (856) 227-3091.âœ˛

28 | June 2009

"Jump" on over to...

Ronnie McLaughlin Dance Studio! (minutes from the Cherry Hill Mall!)

Offering specialized birthday parties!

Let your little one be the star of her own show! Call the studio for details!

Stay "cool" this summer Enroll in summer session classes!

Session I - July 7th - July 30th Session II - Aug. 4th - Aug. 27th Creative - ages 2-4 Combination Class (ballet and tap) ages 4-6 Jazz/Hip Hop - ages 7

Looking for a different class?

Call us and we can form one!

Merchantville, NJ

856.665.0442 www.mclaughlindance.com mclaughlindance@verizon.net

www.southjerseymom.com

For the girl who just loves being a girl, an exciting adventure awaits Basketball Day Camps FULL DAY CAMPS Mon–Fri # 9:00am–3:30pm Boys/Girls # 7–13 years old LITTLE SIXERS DAY CAMPS Mon–Fri # 9:00am–11:45am Boys/Girls # 5–7 years old # Meet Sixers Players, Coaches & other NBA Stars!

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The campers will be-a-twirl with dance class, arts-n-crafts, soothing story times, ballerina rehearsals, dress up and much, much more! Every moment will be filled with wonderful games and creative enchantment.

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Learn fun dance routines to your favorite groups! (High School Musical, Hannah Montana, etc.) Learn about make up, hair styles and modeling!

Boys/Girls # 5–7 years old # Meet the Sixers Dancers!

Overnight Camps in the Poconos # Weekly sessions for basketball or dance

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We illuminate the Hearts and Minds of Children Classroom time includes a mix of teacher-directed as well as independent learning center activities.

Experience acting, improvisation, dance, art, music, percussion, piano, vocal training and much, much more!

Broadway shows to Little Mermaid/Shrek

!

Call for a tour today and see if our center is the right place for your child.

We offer Summer Camp and Camp Explorer for school age children through 6th grade!

Shining Lights Preschool and Daycare Center 1720 Springdale Road • Cherry Hill, NJ 08003 Open 5 days a week from 7am-6pm www.shininglightsonline.org

Small class sizes Full and half day programs for children ages 2 1/2 through 5 years Low student/teacher ratios Great academic program with Biblical values Developmentally appropriate activities Field trips State licensed ACSI Accredited

Your Passport to Fun this Summer!

Seven weeks of Spanish for just $500!

Few spots left only $300!

Take advantage of this great deal. Call now! ­ Excellent program held completely in Spanish ­ Latin dance classes included ­ Certificate of Achievement for all participants ­ Crafts, songs, games and more!

The Williams Language Center (856) 701­8852 212 Haddon Ave Suite 12 Haddon Twp, NJ 08108 wlanguages@comcast.net | www.williamslanguagecenter.com

www.southjerseymom.com

Private lessons in eight languages also available!

Camp includes language immersion, field trips, community service and a whole lot of fun. Explore Australia, Switzerland, Japan, Mexico, China, Italy, USA, Africa, India and Brazil.

Ages 6-13 years. Camp runs from June 22nd to September 4th

Enrolling Now 856-691-7600 June2009 | 29

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Art & Music Classes for Adults & Children

Lots of Weekly Summer Classes New! Two Day Drum Clinic for Aspiring Drummers Cartooning/Animation Pottery Drawing/Painting Sewing Jewelry Making Piano, Guitar, Flute, Sax 100 W. Maple Avenue, Merchantville, NJ Five minutes from the Cherry Hill mall We also host birthday parties-your place or ours!

www.parsonsart.net

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Call 856.905.1971

June 24-Aug.18 (Flexible scheduling) Mon.-Fri. 9:30am - 4:00pm • Early & aftercare available See Shrek and Stomp in NYC Entering Kindergarten-12th grade CIT program 9th grade and up NEW LOCATION! Beth Judah, Ventnor, NJ Taught by professional working singers, dancers, actors, casting, on camera, artists and more Director Suzie Neustadter-Schneider and Musical Director Dean Schneider Contact Suzie: 609.823.4505 • www.susieanddeanmusic.com • www.suzieneu.com

Fun-filled camps with art, stories, music, games & more for kids 3-5 and 6-10 Now enrolling in a town near you in Burlington, Camden & Gloucester Counties Call 856.914.0521

30 | June2009

www.southjerseymom.com

the food meister

By Cheryl Meister

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emember those hazy, lazy days of summer? When long sunny afternoons were spent hanging loose by the lake or at the park, eating, drinking and being merry while, in the background, the birds were singing and bees were buzzing? Take a minute and imagine such a day – with no cell phones ringing, no iTunes blasting and no IMs flashing. Step out of today and take a break – into yesterday. Good for the soul, stress level and family, now is the right time to bring back the lost art of the picnic.

A picnic can be as simple or as fancy as you desire. Pack brown bags, your old Coleman cooler or even a gourmet wicker basket and head out to enjoy family, friends and food at any number of South Jersey’s beautiful settings. Believe it or not, most of today’s ‘tweens actually welcome the change of pace, time to explore outdoors, the chance to hang with peeps and yes, even parents. It goes without saying that babies and toddlers love picnic outings. Or, sneak off with your spouse for some (long overdue?) snacking and smooching in the shade.

Bring along a big blanket, colorful table cloth, bug spray, sun screen, portable basket or cooler for food and drinks, wipes and napkins, a plastic bag for trash (leave nothing behind) and a few rocks to skip on the lake. Oh, and nothing else (no cell phone, iPod, laptop, homework, work work, checkbook, etc.). Get the idea?

How Sweet It Is Bring along a pint of strawberries and some fruity yogurt for dipping. Serve alongside oversized chocolate chip cookies or brownie bites, and wash it all down with tart sparkling lemonade.

Yummmm. Now, you may have just enough time for a lakeside nap before returning to reality.

Happy picnicking!

Fun Food For easy eats and clean up, avoid foods that require utensils. Try adult and kid friendly “Cornflake Chicken Bites” (from Mark Bittman, The New York Times). Cut boneless chicken breasts into small pieces. Dip in milk or buttermilk, then dredge in seasoned, crushed corn flake crumbs, cornmeal or panko. Pan-fry in oil, drain and cool. Serve with celery sticks, with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Wrap a Caesar salad with grilled chicken strips into oversized flour tortillas for ease of transport and one-handed eating.

Kabobs are always a hit. On a skewer, alternate cubes of feta or cheddar cheese with grape tomatoes, bell pepper strips and/or red or green seedless grapes. If desired, marinate first in a light Italian salad dressing. Go to www.ivillage.com and search for perfect picnic ideas like the following fork-worthy recipe for picnic perfect pasta salad (serve in individual portioned tall plastic cups covered with saran).

Balsamic Marinated Pasta Salad ¼ cup olive oil 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 1 ½ cups cooked pasta (bowties or other small shapes) 2 tablespoons chopped sundried tomatoes 1 tablespoon chopped olives Salt and pepper Whisk together olive oil and vinegar. Toss together with pasta, sundried tomatoes and olives. Add S&P to taste.

www.southjerseymom.com

June 2009 | 31

book review

Tale Spin Stories Read-to-Me Book Reviews

By Kathryn Ross, a.k.a. “Miss Kathy”

y grandfather’s basement workroom was off limits to me as a child. So, too, was “Daddy’s Side” of the basement in our own house, where all manner of curious objects existed simply begging for exploration. But, Daddy and Grandpa were very clear in their sanctions against toddlers venturing near the “danger” that was “Daddy’s Tool Room!”

Grandpa was a career carpenter, having built many houses and public buildings in our home town. I was very proud of his handiwork.

Daddy learned the trade from Grandpa, using his skills to build our home and other handy-aroundthe-house projects. I loved the idea of taking wood, nails, paints and varnishes, working them with what I considered to be “tool toys,” and creating something wonderful and useful. Grandpa made my sister and me a toy box with a padded seat. I have the music cabinet he made to house his Victrola back when he was a young man. As a child, I watched my father in amazement as he used his tools to make our screened in porch and even a little playhouse for me in the back yard. The toolbox and workroom were magical places to me as a child – and Daddy and Grandpa were great magicians when they picked up their tools to create!

Such memories of dads and granddads flooded my heart when I discovered a classic little book newly re-released in boardbook form titled, The Toolbox, by Anne and Harlow Rockwell. A simple title for a very simple book inspired by their own toddler son, Oliver, who was awed by his father’s tools in much the same way I was always awed by Dad’s and Grandpa’s. As a husband and wife team, Anne wrote the text while Harlow used unique paper to create the luscious watercolor illustrations with accuracy and simplicity to capture the imagination of the budding carpenter. The mystery behind such hand tools as screwdrivers, wrenches, wood planes, pliers and more are cleared up with descriptive words that explain what they are and what they do. All these fascinating details ultimately lead to the basement work room where we find Daddy making magic with his toolbox. This book is a delight to read and re-read, with true-to-life pictures for detailed study.

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Follow-up Activity: Boys and girls will love this story because it’s about two things children love – using tools to create things, and daddy. So, Dad, for Father’s Day, plan a trip to your favorite home improvement mega-store and try to find all the hand tools in 32 | June 2009

T HEME : I Want to Build Like Dad! B OOK : The Toolbox A UTHOR : Anne Rockwell I LLUSTRATOR : Harlow Rockwell EAN: 978080279609

the book. Then purchase a few simple supplies and use your own tools and experience, no matter how limited, to create something.

There are plenty of things to make together, from Pinewood Derby cars to doll cradles, as simple or elaborate as your skills allow. The treasure is not in the thing you make, but the memory you make while making it.✲ Kathryn Ross is a professional storyteller celebrating the love of learning and literacy with children of all ages. She hosts Tale Spin Stories every Tuesday for preschoolers at the Cumberland Mall in Vineland. To learn more about Miss Kathy programs from Pageant Wagon Productions, visit www.pwpstorytellers.com.

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ATLANTIC COUNTY 22nd Annual Museum Fair June 20-22 from 9a to 3p Antique collectibles, quality crafts, children’s activities, food & more.

Ocean City Tabernacle, 500 Wesley Ave. (609) 399-1801 or www.ocnjmuseum.org.

Ocean City Restaurant Week May 28-June 7 Almost all Restaurants will offer special price menus, $10.09/lunch, $20.09/dinner and $5.99/kids meals.

Meals include beverage & dessert, www.eatinocnj.com.

BURLINGTON COUNTY NJAWBO Tri-County Live Auction June 11 from 7 to 10p Live auction, coffee, cake, wine and appetizers. $10, sponsorships available. The Community House, Moorestown, Ann Kravitz at (609) 499-3388 or annkravitz@gmail.com.

American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life of Medford June 20-21 A community wide, family-oriented event where teams come together for 24 hours to walk and take part in fun activities. Includes camping, refreshments, entertainment, contests, prizes, a luminaria ceremony and survivors lap. Freedom Park, 86 Union St., Medford. (800) ACS-2345 or www.RelayForLife.org/MedfordNJ. 16th Annual Earth Fair June 14 from 10a to 4p Learn how to “go green” while having fun at an event featuring vendors, environmental displays, demonstrations, kids activities, guided nature walks, animal presentations, a recycled art show, canoeing on the Rancocas, live entertainment, refreshments for sale and more! FREE. Historic Smithville Park in Eastampton, (609) 265-5068 Walk for Life June 6 at 10 a.m.

A two mile walk for all ages will help Choices of the Heart provide medical care, counseling, ultrasounds, pregnancy tests and more to clients. Burlington Center Mall Court at JC Penney, 2501 Burlington Mt. Holly Rd., Burlington.

www.southjerseymom.com

Another walk will take place on the same day at Washington Lake Park, 626 Hurffville Crosskeys Rd., Sewell. (856) 374-2833 or www.choicesoftheheart.com.

CAMDEN COUNTY If You Give a Pig a Pancake & Other Story Books June 2 at 10 a.m. & 12:30 p.m.

Seven stories come to life in this lively musical. In If You Give a Pig a Pancake and Other Stories include: Diary of a Worm, Fluffy’s Silly Summer, Horace & Morris but Mostly Dolores, How I Became a Pirate Lilly’s Big Day and The Paper Bag Princess

by Robert Munsch. Rutgers-Camden Center for the Arts, 3rd and Pearl Streets at the Ben Franklin Bridge, Camden, (856) 225-2700 14th Annual Golf for Lives Tournament June 8 at 10:30 a.m.

Help raise funds to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma and to improve the quality of life of patients and their families.

Cocktail reception with dinner and prizes at 5:30 p.m. $195/Individual, $750/foursome and $75/Non-Golfer Dinner. Ramblewood Country Club, 200 Country Club Pkwy, Mt. Laurel, (888) 920-8557 x 202 Toddler Art Class June 18 at 10 am Join Otherhood for breakfast and art class presented by Abrakadoodle.

Toddlers enjoy a yummy breakfast and have fun making a Father’s Day art project. Pop Shop, 729 Haddon Ave, Collingswood, www.otherhoodllc.com.

The Art of Sand and Dinosaurs June 6 at 9:30 a.m.

Celebrate the official opening of the Land of Sand Dino Dig while sand sculptor extraordinaire Karl Wirtz demonstrates his craft and guides kids as they make sand creations.

T-Rex the Turtle will present his show about dinosaurs and their modern-day counterparts. The Discovery Museum, 2040 Springdale Rd, Cherry Hill. $9.95/12 months and older, $8.95/seniors, (856) 424-1233 or www.discoverymuseum.com.

CAPE MAY COUNTY 5th Annual Celtic Festival June 6 & 7 from 10a to 4:30p Featuring pipe bands, dance workshops, children’s programs, storytelling, traditional instruments, food, craft vendors and a pub area with live music. $6 or $10 for 2-day pass. Historic Cold Spring Village is located on Route 9, three miles north of Victorian Cape May, (609) 898-2300 ext.10 Harborfest June 20 from 10a to 5p A celebration of the sea, harbor safari, tours, kayaking, street festival, fresh seafood and Blue Grass entertainment. FREE. Historic Cape May, call Barbara Downs at (609) 884-5508 x 104

CUMBERLAND COUNTY Summer Shore Music Festival June 20 from 10:30a to 8p Celebrate the 40th anniversary of Woodstock and the Summer Solstice. Enjoy music, food, crafts & children’s activities. $25/advance, $35/gate, Kids 12 & under/FREE. Free Parking. Cumberland County Fairgrounds, 3001 Carmel Rd, Millville, (800) 838-3006 or (856) 453-2184 Titanic Tea June 19 at 7 pm Celebrate the sailing of the Titanic at a fun night and dinner with Captain Edward John Smith of the Titanic.

Period dress is encouraged, $40/pp, seating limited. Registration Required. Vintage Rose Tea Room, 132 N High St, Millville, (856) 293-0500

GLOUCESTER COUNTY The Odd Couple June 5, 6, 11, 12, 13 at 8 pm June 7, 14 at 2 pm This classic comedy opens as a group of guys assemble for cards in the apartment of divorced Oscar. Late to arrive is Felix, just separated from his wife. As the action unfolds, the clean freak and the slob decide to room together with hilarious results as the Odd Couple is born. Sketch Club Players performances held at 433 Glover St, Woodbury, (856) 848-8089 or www.sketchclubplayers.org.

things 2 do

June Calendar

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

Disney’s High School Musical June 12 -21 Join the whole gang as they rock the stage this summer. Be there as the antics fly during this fast-paced musical filled with high school drama, rivalry and of course a happy ending. Sing along to all your favorite high school musical hits. Broadway Theatre of Pitman, 43 S. Broadway, Pitman, (856) 384-8381 or www.thebroadwaytheatre.org.

SALEM COUNTY A Little Help from My Friends June 7 from 2 to 6 pm Join Guy Davis, Jeffrey Gaines, Vance Gilbert, Grey Eye Glances, John Gorka, Gillian Grassie, The Guggenheim Grotto, The Kennedy’s, The Nields, Phil Roy and Livingston Taylor as they share the stage in one memorable afternoon concert. Appel Farm Arts and Music Center, 457 Shirley Rd., Elmer, (800) 394-1211

Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape Indians 29th Annual Pow-Wow June 13 from 10a to 9p June 14 from 10a to 6:30p Join the fun at this all day event.

The Pow-Wow at the Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape Indians and other neighboring Indian Tribes will display, practice and share skills acquired through their rich heritage. Salem County Fairgrounds Rt. 40, Pilegrove. www.discoversalemcounty.com.

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

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

June 2009 | 33

resource guide

CLASSES LEARN TO SEW THIS SUMMER! Sew away the summer with a skill that will last a lifetime! Hand sewing, beginning at age 5; machine sewing, age 8-adult, mother-daughter classes; day & evening classes; machines available.

Contact Lori @ (856) 358-8553 or Lorizstudio@aol.com.

CLASSES, PARTIES & PLAY! FREE TRIAL CLASS, ages 6 months to 6 years. Develop self-esteem, social and motor skills creatively through sports.

Complimentary Arena Family Play on the day of your trial class; 7 day-a-week Arena Family Membership included w/class enrollment.

(856) 234-6445, www.littlesport.net.

EXERCISE AND FUN FOR YOU AND THE KIDS! Now available: Music for little ears. Tues/Wed mornings. Yoga T/Th am, Wed evenings. *NEW CLASS, “HULA”, now forming.

Also Natural Childbirth Classes and gentle Chiropractic care for children. The Cafe of Life, 1 N. Valley Ave., Vld. (856) 794-9888 or www.thegoodlifefamily.com TIME 4 DRAMA REGISTERING FOR SUMMER CLASSES We enhance your child’s self-esteem and confidence through physical exercise, roleplay, vocal exercises, music, costumes, masks, etc. Locations at Kid Junction and Little Sport.

July 1-Aug 19. 8 weeks=$80 plus FREE play at participating facility. www.time4drama.com or call (609) 502-4112.

KIDS MUSICROUND OF CHERRY HILL & MOORESTOWN AWARDED BEST OF PHILLY 2008!

Fun, high-energy interactive music for infants and toddlers with their special adult! For info or to visit, call Miss Marcia (856) 278-0473 or email marcia@singmarcia.com. Ask about musical parties too! www.singmarcia.com.

COOKING SERVICES INTIMATE CUISINES Stay in, relax and let us prepare great cuisines for you at home! Our services include event catering, weekly stress-free meal plans for your family, cooking lessons and in-home cooking parties for kids. Great gift for busy moms. (609) 556-5005, www.intimatecuisines.com

HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING LOOKING FOR A RELIABLE, HONEST, AFFORDABLE HEATING CONTRACTOR? Then you’ve found them! For new construction, including custom homes, upgrades,

34 | June 2009

change outs or renovations call RJ Mechanical for all your HVAC needs. (856) 690-9692.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES NEED EXTRA INCOME? If you need to make money without putting the kids in daycare, call us today. Work from home; set your own hours. Great local support.

No billing, no collections, no carrying inventory. For more info call (856) 305-7680.

MONDAY MORNING MOMS® Family Childcare Management consulting with Stay-At-Home Moms who make home-based, full-time childcare their career! We’ll help with the equipment, screening, advertising and support!! (856) 802-0500 or MomsNSoNJ@aol.com

MENTAL HEALTH DEFIANT? OPPOSITIONAL? RESTLESS? INATTENTIVE? DEPRESSED? ANXIOUS? Struggling with your child’s behavior? Then the time to call Dr. Katherine Perez-Rivera is NOW! A licensed psychologist specializing in clinical pediatrics, she offers individual, group, marital and family therapy, behavior modification services, play therapy and more. Call today! (856) 383-0585.

PARTIES – ADULT NOOKIE PARTIES Host a Nookie Party & earn loads of FREE romance products! Cash-n-carry available!

Free 2- night vacation for party hostesses!

Earn 50% as a Consultant w/no quotas or requirements. Couples parties also available.

Book your party today! (856) 397-2234 or www.NookieParties.com. Use coupon code SJMOM at checkout for 10% off online orders.

PARTIES – CHILDREN SMILE-A-GRAM Bring a Smile to Someone’s Day! Have a Clown, Princess or Super Hero drop in Monday thru Thursday to bring a smile to their face: Elmo, Dora, Diego, Thomas, Sponge Bob & more.

BonBon’s Parties & Events. (856) 701-8734; www.bonbonsparties.com HOST A BIRTHDAY PARTY IN YOUR BACK YARD OR OTHER LOCATION! Tumblin’ Tots brings the music & activities for 1 hour of FUN! Ages 2-5 yrs. Includes musical warm up, obstacle course, parachute play & more!

Visit www.TumblinTots.net or call (856) 912-3079.

More! Visit Kathryn Ross at (856) 205-9334 or www.pwpstorytellers.com for consultation, fees and booking.

PEDIATRIC OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY NEED HELP GUIDING YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENTAL JOURNEY? At The Schlinic, happy childhoods are our specialty. Kids come for awesome motor equipment, fun sensory experiences and developmental play. Parents come for answers, professionals who listen, assessments and research-supported intervention.

Learn more at www.schlinic.com or call Dr. Jodi and Karen at (856) 692-9292.

WEIGHT LOSS LOSE WEIGHT FOR THE LAST TIME AND ACHIEVE MAXIMUM HEALTH & WELLNESS! Lose weight, gain weight, or improve your overall health. Yes You Can! Live healthier, live better. Get started today with our all-natural products. Free samples available. Free Wellness Evaluation with a Personal Coach. Call today (856) 346-1198, www.gnpnutritionmall.com

WILLS/ ESTATE PLANNING WHO WILL TAKE CARE OF YOUR CHILDREN? Appointing Guardians for your minor children is one of the most important aspects of Estate Planning. Complimentary initial consultation. Mention this ad and receive 15% discount for June. Contact James F Fahy, Esq., LLC to learn more. Call (856) 287-3107 or email JFahylaw@verizon.net.

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arning Cen ter

• Drama • Gymnastics • Academics • World History Class • Dance

• Music • Swimming at the YMCA • Cooking Classes • Arts and Crafts • Weekly Field Trips

Full Days: 7am-6pm Half Days: 9am-1pm or 1pm-5pm

A SPECIAL BIRTHDAY FOR YOUR CHILD Tale Spin Stories’ Miss Kathy visits children’s birthday parties with games, stories and crafts customized to themes children love! Tea parties! Pirate adventures! Zoo tales!

www.southjerseymom.com

Incontinence is more than inconvenient, it’s embarrassing.

South Jersey’s new urogynecologist can help

Physicians of Southern Jersey is proud to introduce the community’s first fellowship-trained urogynecologist Gary Mirone, D.O. Specializing in urinary and pelvic health, Dr. Mirone understands women have unique health care needs.

Pelvic floor disorders affect millions and Dr. Mirone specializes in the treatment of prolapse of the bladder, rectum and/or the uterus, urinary or fecal incontinence and interstitial cystitis.

Conveniently located in Vineland, Dr. Mirone offers a full array of testing and the latest treatments available including surgical options at SJH Regional Medical Center and SJH Elmer Hospital.

Find out how Dr. Mirone can help improve your quality of life. Call 856-641-8680 to schedule an appointment today.

Gary Mirone, D.O., Urogynecologist

Physicians of Southern New Jersey

2950 College Drive, Suite 2D • Vineland, New Jersey 08360 Phone: (856) 641-8680 • Fax: (856) 641-8679

DOES YOUR CHILD STRUGGLE WITH SPEECH? Therapy by an experienced professional that is designed specifically for your child Quicker results with parent involvement I make learning fun so kids love to come Call me for an appointment

PEARL SPEECH ASSOCIATES Sharon K. Pearl, M.A., C.C.C.-S.L.P. Licensed Speech Language Pathologist 18 Barclay Pavilion East, Cherry Hill, NJ (Located in the Barclay Farms Center on Route 70)

856.429.1505 www.southjerseymom.com

June 2009 | 35