Baton Rouge Parents Magazine December 2021

DECEMBER 2021

T H E M A G A Z I N E T H AT B AT O N R O U G E FA M I L I E S L I V E B Y

Gentlemen in Training

Toxic Baby Food

Holiday

Gift Guide

Top 10 Holiday

Destinations

EDUCATION BUILT FOR YOUR B

usy Life!

• Flexible 8-week online and on-site classes

• Transfer up to 90 credits • Master’s, bachelor’s and associate degrees

BATON ROUGE

Register soon – classes start January 10 LEARN MORE > 225.923.2331 | batonrouge@uiu.edu

UIU.EDU/BatonRouge B R PA R E N T S . C O M | D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 1

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inside FEATURES

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DECEMBER 2021 • ISSUE 377

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Find a present for everyone on your Christmas list.

BY BRPM

TOP 10 HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS

Have a season to remember at these fun events and hot spots.

BY BRPM

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SARY

IVER

ANN

DEPARTMENTS 10 12 50 61 62 64

CONNECTING A NOTE FROM MOM THINGS TO DO MARKETPLACE THE LAST WORD SNAPSHOTS

CONNECT

SANTA GIFT SWAP

Should expensive presents come from Santa or the parents?

BY SARAH BATROUS

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GENTLEMEN IN TRAINING

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YEAR

IN EVERY ISSUE

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Photo by Kleinpeter Photography 2021-22 Cover Kid Evelyn D.

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Tackle learning obstacles by first knowing what route to take.

BY ANTHONY BUI

TOXIC METALS IN BABY FOOD

14 COMMUNITY 18 EDUCATION 19 ONE AMAZING KID

LIVE

24 DAD NEXT DOOR 26 THRIVE 28 FAITH

PLAY

44 A DAY IN THE LIFE OF DAD 46 OUT & ABOUT 48 THINGS WE LOVE

What families can do to protect their little ones.

BY MALIA JACOBSON

on the

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COVER

ON THE COVER

Look for the Christmas cookie in Things to Do for holiday events.

24 Photo by Lauren Ashton Lights Design & Photography

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2021-22 Cover Kid Cassius T. is full of life. He’s talkative, energetic, and caring, and he enjoys being surrounded by friends and family. He hopes to become a YouTuber and felt at ease in front of the camera during his photo shoot.

Cassius is very active. He enjoys being outdoors, playing sports, and spending time with family.

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connecting

THE MAGAZINE THAT BATON ROUGE FAMILIES LIVE BY

MEET OUR TEAM AMY PLAISANCE

POLL

Founder

What’s the greatest gift you’ve ever received?

BRANDON FOREMAN Publisher

AMY L. FOREMAN

Associate Publisher

EDITORIAL

“My best gift was a sweatshirt.

I know that’s a simple answer, but the reason it was my best gift was because I mentioned it once that I was looking for a sweatshirt, and my sister listened, remembered, and got it for me as a Christmas present.

The fact that she remembered I mentioned something so long ago was amazing.”

– Ann M.

AMANDA MILLER

Managing Editor

EMILY DREZ

Assistant Editor

SARAH BATROUS ANTHONY BUI

Editorial Interns

ART/PRODUCTION JENNY ZIGLIN

Production Manager

MELODY TAUZIN

Senior Graphic Designer

“Next to my wife, my girls.”

– Rickey M.

ALEX HERRING

Graphic Designer

“My kids.”

– Emma A. We all have that one gift that we remember fondly.

Whether it be the Barbie you hoped to receive when you were a child or a sentimental gift that you received as you got older, there’s always that one gift that stands out to you. We wanted to hear about those special gifts you received. Here’s what you shared.

MADELENE SOILEAU

Multimedia Specialist

CHANEY RAY

“Life.”

– Tanya L.

Multimedia Assistant

KLEINPETER PHOTOGRAPHY

Cover Photography

“My family, of course, and my first baseball glove. It led to my love of baseball, which opened many doors.”

– Larry J.

ADVERTISING/MARKETING LAURIE ACOSTA

Director of Sales

CRYSTAL BARRETT JESSICA LAMBERT CAMILLE MILLER JASON WALL RYN WHITESIDE

A mother’s arms are more comforting than anyone else’s.

–Princess Diana

Account Executives

EMILY MANCUSO

Marketing Specialist

MAGGIE SHARP

Marketing Assistant

VICTORIA COTEJAR

Social Media Coordinator

freebies

BUSINESS OPERATIONS

TERI HODGES

Director of Community Partnerships

ROXANE VOORHIES

Visit brparents.com and click “Register for Freebies.” | Deadline to enter is December 13, 2021.

Keep your phone’s energy flowing with the Qi-certified Pad. Magnetically attach the battery to your phone for portable power wherever you go. myzerocharge.com

Ready Go Bento has everything you need for meals away from home. The insulated liner keeps foods hot and cold, and the containers are versatile. miniware.com

LAST MONTH’S WINNERS Look who won November’s Freebies: Sara Frank won Paper Sunday’s Joy Planner and Leslie Gibson won Huggaroo’s Weighted Plushie.

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/brparents

/baton-rouge-parenting-magazine

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/br parents

CONTACT US EDITORIAL@BRPARENTS.COM OFFICE (225) 292-0032 11831 WENTLING AVENUE BATON ROUGE, LA 70816-6055

Community Outreach

SARAH MILLER

Administrative Coordinator

BATON ROUGE PARENTS MAGAZINE is published monthly by FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. and distributed free of charge. Subscriptions accepted. Only authorized distributors may deliver and pick up the magazine. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all materials contributed. We cannot be responsible for the return of any unsolicited material.

BATON ROUGE PARENTS MAGAZINE Copyright © 2021.

All rights reserved. ISSN # 1050-8708. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission prohibited.

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IN EVERY ISSUE

a note from mom

Oh, Christmas Tree

F

I NA L LY, we have made it to the last month of the year. I know I mentioned months ago that April is my favorite month because of everything we celebrate, but during Christmastime, I shine. I love pulling down all the decorations and planning out what will go where.

I like to randomly buy new things throughout the year, so my collection has really grown. I enjoy hosting all of the Christmas parties for dance teams, the office, friends, and family. I was born to host parties. Well, I feel that way in December!

We put up five Christmas trees every year.

Yes, that sounds crazy, but I do have my reasons behind each one. The one in my dining room is in honor of Munner. This tree is decorated by my daughter each year. It has all of the old wooden ornaments, gold bulbs, and colorful lights, and is topped with a very old angel. It is how I try to keep her memory alive during the season. The second, third, and fourth are for my kids.

These trees are only three feet tall each, and they can decorate them however they want with all of the handmade ornaments they have made over the years at school. They each have their own tub so we can keep all of their ornaments separate and continue to add to each December.

Finally, there is my tree. I am so overprotective of my tree. Why? I have no clue! I like to specially place the ornaments and plan where each ribbon or poinsettia goes. I want pure perfection on my tree. This tree is nine feet tall and is the centerpiece of my living room. It’s my pride and joy each year. I guess thinking about it, I can’t really control much during December. Everything goes so fast, and we forget the reason for the season. Tension and stress are at such high levels, and the one thing I can control is my Christmas tree.

Am I the only crazy momma out there who does this? Email me; I would love to hear your Christmas tree traditions.

Merry Christmas from my family to yours!

Amy L. Foreman Associate Publisher

P.S. I do this every year and my kids love it,

so if you are looking to change things up, try this. Each of my children get their one and only color wrapping paper. I wrap their gifts in this paper and they have no clue which paper is theirs until Christmas morning. The anticipation is so much fun!

Email amylynn@brparents.com to tell me about topics you’d like to see in future issues.

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CONNECT

community LASM’S FREE FIRST SUNDAYS RETURN Free First Sundays are back at the Louisiana Art & Science Museum through September 2022. Sponsored by Mr. Madison Lamar, First Free Sundays at the Louisiana Art & Science Museum ensure free admission on the first Sunday of each month between the hours of 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. to all the museum has to offer, including for the first time in First Sunday history, an array of shows in the Irene W. Pennington Planetarium.

First Free Sunday’s benefactor has sponsored this program to ensure that for 12 months, anyone who visits the Louisiana Art & Science Museum on the First Free Sunday of the month, regardless of financial standing, will be able to experience exposure to the arts and sciences with no charge.

■ lasm.org

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

After a difficult year in 2020 and theatre performances coming to a halt for several months, local theatre company, Playmakers of Baton Rouge will finally take the stage once again for their upcoming Home for the Holidays performances.

Home for the Holidays is a musical revue that will include everyone’s favorite holiday carols, while also taking time to celebrate moments from past Playmakers’ productions. Performances will be held at Reilly Theatre on Friday, December 10 at 7 p.m., December 11-12 at 2 p.m., Friday, December 17 at 7 p.m., and December 18-19 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 for children and $20 for adults. Masks are required on the LSU campus.

■ playmakersbr.org

ALMA LOUISE STARS IN A SERIES

New-to-Baton Rouge author and artist, Melissa Turner, has created her own line of children’s books. The Alma Louise Children’s Series is based on the life of her real-life grandmother.

Titles in the series include Alma Louise, Alma Louise Wears a Cape, Alma Louise Makes a Cupcake, Alma Louise Gets a Hole in her Sock, Pack for the Beach with Alma Louise, Alma Louise Plans a Picnic, Alma Louise Leaves a Note, Alma Louise Picks a Mask, and Alma Louise and the Christmas Trees.

The series also includes a Doodling Book for drawing, and an Activity Book that allows young readers to write their own stories. Turner recently moved to Baton Rouge with her husband and five children.

■ facebook.com/ almalouisebooks 14

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SANTA’S WONDERLAND EXPERIENCE

Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s are proud to invite families to the beloved tradition of visiting Santa Claus this holiday season during the annual Santa’s Wonderland experience.

Santa will arrive from the North Pole during a free outdoor tailgate event that transforms the retailer into a magical Christmas village with free games, fun activities and giveaways.

The festive Contactless Claus experience begins with Santa’s arrival and runs through Friday, December 24.

Photos with Santa are available with free advance reservations, and there will even be a spot for children to drop off their wish lists for the North Pole.

■ basspro.com/santa or cabelas.com/santa

FATHER & DAUGHTER DANCE

Fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers, uncles, and men are invited to escort the special lady in their lives to an evening of laughter, fun, and love. The Fathers on a Mission (F.O.A.M.) Father & Daughter Dance will be held on Saturday, December 18 at 5 p.m. at the Helix Aviation Academy Hangar. The fourth annual event will include dinner, a DJ, raffles, and gifts. Cost is $5 per person, and there is no age restriction. Tickets can be purchased online through Eventbrite.

F.O.A.M.’s mission is to promote responsible committed fatherhood through education, strong relationships, holistic health, and socioeconomic improvement opportunities. This will be one event that your little princess won’t want to miss.

■ eventbrite.com

NUTCRACKER–A TALE FROM THE BAYOU

After Hurricane Ida caused delays to renovations at the production’s usual home, the Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre has officially found a new home for the upcoming The Nutcracker–A Tale from the Bayou performances.

Now held in Raising Cane’s River Center’s Ballroom, The Nutcracker–A Tale from the Bayou will be holding performances from December 18-19 at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tickets are now on sale and going fast. Don’t miss this annual holiday production, where you and your loved ones will be enchanted by beautiful choreography, fun magic, and new twists on many scenes. The performances will feature the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra. Tickets are $30-65.

■ batonrougeballet.org B R PA R E N T S . C O M | D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 1

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CONNECT COMMUNITY

EBR LIBRARY’S FOOD FOR FINES

The East Baton Rouge Parish Library is teaming up with the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank again this year with the return of the Food for Fines holiday incentive. Starting Wednesday, December 1 through Friday, December 31, library patrons who owe fines may have $1 deducted from their account for each canned good or non-perishable food item they drop off at the Circulation Desk at each library location. All donated items will go to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. It is important to note that this applies only to charges for overdue fines. Examples of suitable items include canned vegetables, canned soup and meat, flour, rice, peanut butter, pasta, corn meal, breakfast cereal and bars. ■ (225) 231-3740

LIVE NATIVITY & CONCERT AT FIRST PRESBYTERIAN

Start a new tradition with your loved ones this holiday season by attending First Presbyterian’s Live Nativity. See the beautiful reenactment of the birth of Jesus Christ as told in the Gospels during First Presbyterian Church’s Live Nativity. Performances are approximately 30 minutes long and will be held on Friday, December 3 at 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. This year, attendees will have the added joy of experiencing performances by the Foto Sisters and Michael O’Brien after the Nativity. O’Brien is the former lead singer of the Christian band, Newsong.

The concert, The Incarnation of Christ, will be held in the Sanctuary at 7 p.m.

For the children, there will also be a petting zoo as a part of the event.

■ fpcbr.org

NOLA CHRISTMASFEST HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE New Orleans kicks off this year’s holiday season with the return of the highly anticipated NOLA ChristmasFest.

The one-of-a-kind indoor holiday extravaganza is presented by Coca-Cola and will feature spectacular festive events and holly jolly activities for the whole family.

The event, produced by The New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center (NOENMCC), will run from December 17-22 and December 25-30.

This year, NOLA ChristmasFest will return to in-person festivities with its re-imagined ice zone, The Big Freezy, which will include New Orleans’ only real ice-skating rink, an expanded magical slope slide area with three lanes, plus a brand-new ice bocce court. Space will be limited, so be sure to get your tickets early.

■ nolachristmasfest.com

OCHSNER OPENS PEDIATRIC SUPER-CLINIC

Ochsner Baton Rouge has officially opened its pediatric super-clinic inside Ochsner Medical Complex–The Grove. The announcement of the clinic opening was made via a Facebook video highlighting the clinic space. In the video, children serve as clinical staff, while the patients are represented by superheroes. The new space–which accounts for approximately 18,000 square feet and nearly the entire fifth floor of the building– combines pediatricians with pediatric specialty services all under one roof. In addition, the new super-clinic architecture provides children with a fun, friendly and welcoming environment. The Grove also offers same-day surgical procedures for children through its hospital component. ■ ochsner.org 16

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PREGNANCY/INFANT LOSS SUPPORT

Experiencing a pregnancy or infant loss can be an isolating feeling, and the Woman’s Hospital Pregnancy/Infant Loss Support Group is a way for families to share their stories and find support in one another.

During the virtual sessions, a licensed social worker will guide discussions and help grieving families as they navigate the many emotions that follow the loss of a baby.

This free, virtual support group meets on the first and third Wednesday of every month at 7 p.m. Registration is required for all members, and information to access the Zoom meeting will only be shared with users after registration is completed.

■ womans.org or (225) 924-8456

NEW ALL-ABILITIES FIELD IN ASCENSION

It’s game time in Ascension Parish, as a new ball field has officially opened. The City of Gonzales and Parish of Ascension opened its first all-abilities baseball/softball field, allowing children and adults who are wheelchair-bound or living with disabilities to play the sport they love.

The new Team of Dreams league and field were made possible through the Leadership Ascension Team of Dreams project and the Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation. The City of Gonzales is currently fielding a Team of Dreams Baseball League that will play on the new field. The inaugural season is scheduled to start play in Spring 2022. This league is for persons who use wheelchairs, persons with physical disabilities, or persons with intellectual disabilities. ■ gonzalesla.com B R PA R E N T S . C O M | D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 1

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CONNECT

education PILOT STEM PROGRAM IN LIVINGSTON PARISH

Improved mechanisms and strategies to teach new skills are at the crux of a pilot program in Livingston Parish. The school district is partnering with the LSU Gordon A. Cain Center to integrate STEM learning at the middle and elementary levels.

Twelve schools are participating in the pilot effort, and implementation of the program is underway with each participating campus customizing the program to best fit their needs. “This program is offering our educational team a unique opportunity to see concepts put into action in the classroom, and we are receiving immediate feedback from the teachers and the students who are participating in the learning activities,” says Instructional Supervisor, Kelly LaBauve.

PARKVIEW’S CANNED GOOD OLYMPICS

Parkview Baptist School’s Early Childhood students competed in the fifth annual Canned Good Olympics held on the school’s football field. The students were introduced, passed the torch, and took the field for some amazing events. Each event revolved around a canned good that was donated with love. All of the canned goods from the event will be donated to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. Parkview students donated a total of 825 canned goods this year and learned the importance of giving back to the community. They look forward to sharing the gift of giving this holiday season. “We want our students to experience the gift of giving and blessing others at an early age,” says Cathy Wilson, Early Childhood Division Head.

WOODLAWN NAMES STUDENT OF THE YEAR

EPISCOPAL’S PORTRAITS OF OTHERNESS

Episcopal Upper School students created business plans, budgets, and mission statements, as part of an assignment to develop a nonprofit to address an issue in the world today. The assignment was a project in an English senior seminar course, “The Other: Portraits of Otherness in Literature and Beyond.”

The exercise required the students to read, research, write, present and revise. Students chose the topics and elected to tackle everything from assisting incarcerated people with mental health challenges to creating awareness about discrimination against Asian Americans. Students also brainstormed ways to ensure safe transportation on college campuses and created an anonymous portal for discussing sexual harassment.

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Seema Kawji has been named Woodlawn High School’s 20212022 Student of the Year. During her four years at Woodlawn High School, Seema has maintained a 4.6 GPA while in the Great Scholars program. She is currently ranked first in the 2022 graduating class. She has participated in soccer all four years and is adding cross country, powerlifting, and track to her list of extracurriculars. Seema is a three-time All-District Soccer player. During her sophomore year, she was a member of the Beta Club and a member of the National Honor Society (NHS), and she has once again joined NHS. After graduation, Seema plans to major in Kinesiology and eventually become a physical therapist.

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amazing kid

Leah Warr, a student at Glen Oaks Magnet High, was awarded a $1,000 prize as part of the Forcepoint and Girls with Impact venture competition. Girls with Impact operates the nation’s only live, online business and leadership program, providing classes led by trained business coaches. Students move from venture ideas to business plans and pitches. The competition was open to all program graduates, awarding the top venture that addresses an issue facing consumers or businesses in the cyber world.

Leah’s winning idea is Metro Underpass, a global transit app that securely monitors train locations and times.

The inspiration for the app came from her sister who wanted a better way to navigate the train system. “She talked to me about having a website that shows the arrival and leaving times of all types of trains. I asked her if we could work together to get her ideas out. I told her that she could design the website, and I could design an app for it,” says Leah.

Leah was excited to join Girls with Impact because she knew the program would help build her business skills.

While she is the CEO of Metro Underpass, she also runs a boutique with her cousins, Classy Mini Boutique. They sell backpacks, purses, hats, jewelry, makeup palettes, lip gloss, and lashes.

Leah is quite the businesswoman, however, she does enjoy taking some time for herself. She enjoys science class, watching Jumanji, and listening to Chris Brown. She is also a senior Girl Scout with Troop 10995, and she is truly one amazing kid. ■ DO YOU HAVE ONE AMAZING KID? Email: education@brparents.com B R PA R E N T S . C O M | D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 1

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CONNECT EDUCATION

RED STICK RUMBLE ROBOTICS COMPETITION

Denham Springs High School (DSHS) bustled with competition during the Red Stick Rumble Robotics Competition. The hum of giant robots were mixed with the clamor of cheers and instructions being yelled out to drivers who were manipulating the robots’ moves. In the competition, called Infinite Recharge, student drivers remotely controlled their “bot,” while competing in a variety of competitions. This year’s competition featured students from schools in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Oklahoma. The winners of this year’s competition, part of an alliance of three robots, were Team Fusion from Gulfport, Team Prometheus from Mandeville, and Denham Venom #2 from DSHS. The Denham Venom #1 team was named runner-up.

OUTSTANDING YOUTH IN PHILANTHROPY St. Amant Middle School student, Anna Jusselin, was awarded the Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy award by the Association of Fundraising Professionals. This award recognizes service by an individual ages 10-23 who demonstrates outstanding commitment to the community through direct financial support, development of charitable programs, volunteering, and leadership in philanthropy. Anna has been helping others since she was four years old. When she was four, Anna began selling pink lemonade and cupcakes to donate the funds to cancer research. Later, she expanded her fundraising pursuits into also selling breast cancer awareness t-shirts. Over the years, Anna has raised over $21,000 to donate to those in need.

ST. MICHAEL’S WARRIOR GOLF CLASSIC

St. Michael the Archangel High School’s 32nd annual Warrior Golf Classic was recently held at Greystone Country Club. This event was in the format of three-man scramble and helped to raise funds to help support Warrior athletic teams, clubs, and extracurricular programs. The teams, sponsors, volunteers, and players are always an integral part of the success of the entire Warrior Family.

The day of play included golf, lunch, door prizes, and fun giveaways, all ending with an award ceremony. The first place overall team included Cole Permenter, Justin LeBlanc, and Brad Schaeffer. Nathan Robert was awarded Closest to the Pin. R.J. Perault was awarded the Longest Drive, and Dean Schmitt won first place in the Putting Contest.

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DUNHAM SCHOOL SUPERHEROES SAVE THE DAY

Young superheroes and their families recently converged on The Dunham School’s gym for Lower School Innovation Night with activities focused on all things STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics).

Tiger superheroes tackled a variety of challenges using their super skills–solving puzzles, using their super force to move iron filings with magnets, conquering the impossible obstacle course, and constructing superhero masks and cuffs. “At Dunham, we are preparing students for their futures. Our Innovation Lab allows them to create, design, collaborate and problem solve,” says Nikole Blanchard, Director of Innovation and Technology. “Innovation Night helps Lower School families gain insight into the learning that takes place in our Innovation Lab.”

LDOE LAUNCHES BE ENGAGED® INITIATIVE

The Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) has announced the launch of BE ENGAGED®, an initiative focused on encouraging parents, families and communities to work together to transform student outcomes. The initiative is powered through an innovative technology app, PimsPoints. The app rewards parents with PimsPoints for engaging with their child’s education. Parents can earn points by participating in activities such as an open house or a parent-teacher conference. The app will also send notifications of opportunities to be engaged at their student’s school as well as general information about student learning.

Parents can exchange their PimsPoints for digital rewards and coupons provided by local businesses.

PRAISE AND ADORATION NIGHT

St. John Primary and St. Theresa Middle’s seventh annual Praise and Adoration Night was a huge success.

Students from St. John Primary, St. Theresa Middle, and surrounding area schools all came together and had a great time dancing and enjoying musical performances by Cooper Ray and his band.

However, the highlight of the evening was spending time in Adoration with Jesus while being surrounded by other disciples of Christ from the community.

As a part of the evening, there were exciting door prizes for everyone to have a chance to win, including a movie basket that was donated to the event by Neighbors Federal Credit Union. The event will return once again next school year.

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Toxic Metals in Baby Food WHAT FAMILIES CAN DO

BY MALIA JACOBSON

PODCAST

P

ediatricians have long recommended simple, fresh staples like bananas and peas as healthy options for baby’s first solid foods–the less processing, the better. Those recommendations took on added importance when a new government report revealed neurotoxins like lead and arsenic in well-known packaged foods for babies.

The report, called Baby Foods Are Tainted with Dangerous Levels of Arsenic, Lead, Cadmium, and Mercury, was released in February 2021 by the Subcommittee on Economic and Consumer Policy Committee on Oversight and Reform in the U.S. House of Representatives.

In it, the subcommittee reported that high levels of toxic metals were found in popular products made by seven of the most recognizable baby food brands in the U.S., including Nurture (maker of HappyBABY and Happy Family Organ22

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ics), Beech-Nut, Hain (maker of Earth’s Best Organic), Gerber, Walmart, Campbell, and Sprout Organics Foods.

Within two weeks of the subcommittee’s report, the FDA released a response that emphasized regulations in place to protect consumers from harmful toxins in foods. The report reminds us that even with regulations in place, it’s easy to unknowingly purchase potentially harmful products, says Sheela Sathyanarayana, MD, MPH, a principal investigator in the Center for Child Health, Behavior

and Development at Seattle Children’s, an associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Washington, and an adjunct associate professor in the UW Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences.

Rigorous testing of food products may not adequately protect consumers, either. Aside from FDA-imposed regulations, many companies conduct their own tests for unsafe toxins, says Dr. Sathyanarayana. “The report showed that many of these companies had their

“For something like arsenic, you can avoid rice cereal, but arsenic is naturally occurring and unfortunately, it’s not easy to get out of the food supply.”

own internal tests for toxins, and that they were having trouble meeting their own internal standards.”

The news is particularly troubling because toxic metals can negatively impact brain development during an important stage in a child’s growth.

Research links lead exposure in early childhood to developmental delays and decreased intelligence. Because lead and other metals are environmental toxins present in everything from soil to paint to lead-glazed ceramics, and because pound per pound, children take in more food, water, and air than adults, young children can accumulate more lead than adults with similar levels of exposure.

“Parents are very concerned,” says Dr. Sathyanarayana. “They saw this on the news and are coming in and asking questions, so we’ve been aware of this and talking to families about it.”

WHAT FAMILIES CAN DO

Toxic metals are hard to avoid, because they’re part of our environment, notes Dr. Sathyanarayana. “For something like arsenic, you can avoid rice cereal, but arsenic is naturally occurring and unfortunately, it’s not easy to get out of the food supply.”

However, there are a few things consumers can do. Avoiding processed foods and opting for foods with fewer ingredients and less packaging can help reduce the risk of consuming toxic metals. The more points of contact for processing, the more likely a food is contaminated, says Dr. Sathyanarayana. “If you look at an ingredient list and it’s just carrots and water, that’s less processing than something with a longer ingredient list.”

Offering babies and toddlers a broad selection of foods and not relying on one food too heavily has always been healthy habits for families, and that’s still true,

she notes. “Eating a variety of foods and not feeding any food every single day are some of the things I talk about with families, and those were the things we talked about before this report.”

Families concerned about exposure to lead or other toxins can talk to their pediatrician about testing; however, infants are usually tested for lead at their nine-month well-child appointment, and tests for other toxins are available.

“Families can talk to their doctor or contact the University of Washington Pediatric Environmental Health Unit about testing. It’s a free service,” says Dr. Sathyanarayana.

However, she is adamant about reminding families that avoiding all toxic metals just isn’t possible. “There’s no way to get to zero risk and you can’t avoid everything,” Dr. Sathyanarayana says. “So, we talk about ways to reduce exposure.” ■

Great things are happening here » Apply now enrollBASIS.com

Open Enrollment for 2022–23 November 10–December 10

Grades K–7 B R PA R E N T S . C O M | D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 1

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LIVE

dad next door Daniel Thompson

BY EMILY DREZ PHOTO BY LAUREN ASHTON LIGHTS DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY

OCCUPATION: Chef at Yes Chef Foods WIFE: Charlene Thompson CHILDREN: Douglas, 13, and Daniel, 11 HOBBIES: hunting, fishing, cooking, going to concerts

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A N I E L Thompson is a great chef, and an even better dad. When he is not cooking dinner for his family, he is taking on catering events and selling his own dips, chicken salad, and other delicious foods in Baton Rouge.

He has stressed the importance of respect and good morals in raising his two boys, and in the process, the boys have taken on big roles in Daniel’s business. They have even started their own successful business making tasty treats. You can find Chef Daniel Thompson at Main Street Market on Saturdays from 8 a.m.-noon, and in the parking lot at Pennington Biomedical Research Center from 8 a.m.-noon.

What does a normal day look like for you?

DANIEL: I cook all day long before I get the kids from school and help them with after-school activities. If I’m not helping out with the kids, I’m at catering events.

What are some of the joys and challenges of raising your children?

DANIEL: The joys are that they work with me a lot. I teach them about work and money. They make chicken salad and dips and sell it at the farmers’ market, where they’ll run the booth for me and do everything from taking credit cards and helping out customers. They’ve even opened up their own business making treats and sold $2,000 worth. They’ll buy a share of Amazon when they get to $3,000. As for struggles, I’d say it’s been difficult helping them grow into young adults, but it’s part of a normal process.

How would you describe yourself as a father?

DANIEL: I’m their best friend, but also, they respect me and listen to me, so it’s a thin line between joking around and making sure they know I’m serious when I say something.

What do you like to do as a family?

DANIEL: We watch movies, and we have a tradition where we go to New Orleans, eat turtle soup at Palace Cafe, and then go to the Audubon Zoo. The boys also like to cook on the barbecue with me.

What’s your favorite thing about being a dad?

DANIEL: It’s rewarding to see them use their manners and

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I’m their best friend, but also, they respect me and listen to me, so it’s a thin line between joking around and making sure they know I’m serious when I say something. know that came from my wife and me. My children are very respectful; they say “yes, ma’am” and “no, sir,” and they open doors and pull out chairs. That’s the way I was brought up.

What is your favorite food to make?

DANIEL: I enjoy making chicken salad the most. From a work perspective, I love to see the joy people have for something I created. At home, I love being able to make it with my kids. Not only do we get to spend time together making chicken salad, but in the process, they are learning to cook. My children have picked up on my love of food and cooking. It’s a hobby we get to share together.

What has parenthood taught you?

DANIEL: That I have to grow up and not be the child anymore.

It teaches me things every day, and it’s a new experience. I’ve never held a baby until I had my own!

What are some things you hope to teach your children?

DANIEL: I hope they learn how to watch their money and how to be great hunters and fishers.

What is something your job has taught you about parenting?

DANIEL: For my last chef job, I was working 60-65 hours per week. My only time off was Sunday afternoons. Then, I wound up working so I could be at home with my family more. That meant more to me than following my career. Now I work for myself, and I get to cook dinner for them every night.

What has been your biggest challenge in parenting during the pandemic?

DANIEL: Getting them off the computers and making them go

outside. I try to convince them to ride bikes or shoot basketballs, or something.

What has been your biggest challenge for your job during the pandemic?

DANIEL: I haven’t had as many catering parties, but on the other hand, I made up for it. People come to the drive-thru farmers market because they have nothing to do but to buy chicken salad and cheese spreads. It has made me sort of lazy, though, because now I don’t want to work catering jobs until 11 o’clock at night.

How do you make time to relax?

DANIEL: Since I work at home, my time to relax is usually when I get the kids from school or when I’m waiting for them to finish their after-school activities.

What personality trait of yours do your children also have?

DANIEL: They are respectful, polite, loving, giving, and they love dogs.

What do you want to do that is still on your bucket list?

DANIEL: I’d like to leave the country more for vacations. The vacations we take can be a lot more fun now that the kids are getting older.

Do you have any advice for other parents?

DANIEL: Teach your kids to treat others the way you want to be treated. If you teach them the right way, they’re going to have great morals. ■

Q&A Before I go out, I always check to make sure I have… my wallet.

In my fridge, you will always find… coffee.

My favorite dessert is… chocolate cake.

My favorite food is... lamb.

My guilty pleasure is… pasta salad.

The first thing I do when I wake up is... get a cup of coffee.

I’m always laughing at… my kids.

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LIVE

thrive Knocking Out MS Christina Carville is Raising Her Voice Against a Silent Disease

BY SARAH BATROUS PHOTO BY LAUREN ASHTON LIGHTS DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY

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O U N D E R and President of the Knock Out MS Foundation, Christina Carville, is thriving despite her Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis by dedicating herself to helping others afflicted in Baton Rouge and the surrounding areas.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disease that affects the central nervous system, causing the body’s immune system

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to attack myelin, a sheath that protects the nerves. While the cause is unknown, it is believed to be an autoimmune reaction that not only affects the body as a whole but can target the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. This attack on myelin causes extreme discomfort through a wide variety of symptoms, including vision problems, muscle weakness, pain, fatigue, and both cognitive and mobility issues.

Carville was diagnosed with MS in 2017 and has since fought hard to battle the disease and work towards a cure. She started off in the MS Society but found that support was lacking in Baton Rouge due to budget cuts and the consolidation of support events for both Baton Rouge and New Orleans. To improve the lives of MS sufferers in Baton Rouge, she knew she needed a platform for her voice and found it when she started the Knock Out MS Foundation. Her foundation was built to give victims a space to be heard, find fellowship, and renew hope of finding relief.

“I made a promise to my son when I was first diagnosed that I would always do what I could to not only fight the disease but to make a difference and work towards raising awareness and improving quality of life for others affected,” she shares.

This August, Carville held the inaugural Knock Out MS Gala but was wrecked with worry when another COVID outbreak affected the nation two weeks prior to the event. She feared the outbreak would affect the event’s turnout but was pleasantly surprised when over 250 people attended. Twenty-five sponsors helped the foundation meet their goal to provide low-profile cooling vests for people living with MS. These vests give them the opportunity to enjoy events like tailgating without having to worry about a bulky, attention-grabbing vest taking away from their experience.

On top of hosting more fundraisers, she has a more ambitious plan to collaborate with local grocery stores. She would like to either have a gift bag day where stores can donate daily proceeds towards the foundation or set up a donation option at the cash register. This would allow shoppers to easily donate towards the cause and help Carville buy much-needed weighted blankets. In colder weather, MS patients tend to suffer from muscle spasms, and the extra weight and warmth from the weighted blankets would help alleviate this symptom.

The lack of public awareness is due to MS being a “silent disease,” Without the use of a cane or wheelchair, most people would not realize a patient is sick and in pain. Other than donations, helping raise public awareness is one of the best ways to aid in the fight. Social media is one of the most powerful tools Carville and other sufferers have at their disposal when it comes to spreading the word.

“Go to our website to join the email list or follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date on fundraisers,” she says. “Word of mouth can help others learn about this disease and the reach of it. Our caretakers, families, friends, coworkers and bosses are all affected by it.”

Ultimately, Carville would like to urge the public into action.

She is challenging Baton Rouge to step up and help build this platform beyond fundraisers. Where most MS patients suffer in silence every minute of the day, having their community band together to give them their voice back and understand this disease would help make advancements towards a brighter, awareness-driven future. ■

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LIVE

faith

The Three Anchors

BY ANTHONY BUI PHOTO BY PAVEL DANILYUK

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U R I N G my college career, my campus pastor emphasized three anchors that are designed to anchor me in my faith. Through the years, I’ve been taught these three things: know God, live life together, and take responsibility. Some of these anchors were tough to build, but I can say that all of the time and effort that it took was well worth it.

KNOW GOD This seems like a hard thing to do. How can you know someone that you can’t physically see? Well, it is a lot easier than you would imagine. Understanding God’s character and having a personal relationship with him is both an easy thing to do and an essential part of your faith life. To know God, you must dive into the word. Spending daily time reading and studying the Bible is such an important thing that most Christians often neglect. You cannot have Sunday mornings in church be the first time that you open up your Bibles.

In addition to spending time reading the word, to know God, you must spend intimate time with him. You cannot truly know someone if you do not spend time with them. To Christians, prayer is our way of communicating our needs, concerns, and thankfulness to God. It is supposed to help us realize our dependence on God and put our faith in knowing that God has the ultimate wisdom to know how to handle every situation. As

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Understanding God’s character and having a personal relationship with him is both an easy thing to do and an essential part of your faith life. a result, your faith and relationship with God will grow deeper and stronger.

LIVE LIFE TOGETHER This anchor is oftentimes one we overlook or do wrong. We say “hi” to people before and after church; we have all these contacts on our phones, so we must be living life together right?

It is a sad realization, but to a lot of us, these are the relationships that we have. The perfect example comes directly out of the Bible. Acts 2:42-47 shows exactly how a group of believers truly live together. They devoted themselves daily to prayer; they sold personal possessions to help out one another when in need, and they spent intentional time together. In all of these things, they made it top priority to keep God at the center of it all. In doing this, they were able to push each other to grow spiritually in relationship to God as well as each other.

By living life together in a biblical community, no one was left alone during hard times. When you are going through difficult times in your life, you are going to need the help and encouragement of fellow believers to lift you up, because no matter how much you think you can, you can’t do it alone.

TAKE RESPONSIBILITY This is the most important anchor. You can know God and live life together, but if you do not actively live out your faith then there will be no growth. If you read Acts 2:42-47 and you do not actively live that out in your own community, you are not showing that you know God, you are not living together, nor are you taking responsibility. But, when you apply all three of these anchors to life, that is when true change happens. That is when you will find yourself truly anchored to God. ■

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2021

GIFT

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GUIDE

1 3 Photo by Kleinpeter Photography 2021-22 Cover Kid Eric “Trip” D.

It’s the season of giving, but sometimes we don’t always know what to get everyone on our Christmas list.

With the 2021 Gift Guide, you can find something for everyone on your list, whether they’re young or old.

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Baby & Toddler

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1. Maxx 2-N-1 Action Dig Rig With realistic sounds and lights, this construction truck will make playtime even more fun.

Ages three and up. target.com 2.Baby Shark’s Big Show Shark House Playset Dive into Baby Shark’s watery world with the Baby Shark’s Big Show! Shark House Playset.

This playset includes 25+ pieces and many awesome ways to play with Baby Shark and William.

Ages three and up. walmart.com 3. Blue’s Clues & You! Wooden Handle Stamps Activity Set Create your own paw-some adventures with Blue’s Clues & You! Wooden Handle Stamps Activity Set. Includes 15 pieces and helps promote kindergarten-readiness. Ages three and up. melissaanddoug.com 4. Character Toniebox Give the gift of adventure this year with Character Tonies. Your little ones will love this screenless box that plays multiple stories and songs. Ages three and up. us.tonies.com 5. CoComelon Deluxe Interactive JJ Doll With CoComelon’s Deluxe Interactive JJ Doll, you can dress him up and play pretend. JJ also sings songs, giggles, and says phrases. Ages two and up. walmart.com

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6. Cry Babies Help soothe your Cry Babies. Each Cry Baby comes with a pacifier and a cute animal print onesie. Add water for the babies to cry real tears and insert their pacifier to help soothe them.

Ages 18 months and up. crybabies.toys 7. Dimpl Pops Perfect for all ages, Dimpl Pops encourage fine motor skills, sensory learning and calmness. All ages. fatbraintoys.com 8. HABA Tree Maze Magnetic Puzzle Game Challenge your little ones with the Tree Maze Magnetic Puzzle Game. Your little ones will love guiding the magnets through the tree. Ages two and up. habausa.com

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9. Kid Trax USPS Mail Delivery Truck Ride-On Your little ones will love driving around and dropping off mail in this cool mail truck. Inclues mail slot, opening rear door, working headlights, and horn. Ages three and up. kidtraxtoys.com 10. LeapFrog On-The-Go Story Pal Have story time everywhere you go. LeapFrog On-The-Go Story Pal features 70+ stories, poems, songs and lullabies. Ages three and up. store.leapfrog.com 11. Potty Train With Pinky Bear Enjoy potty training with Pinky Bear. Potty Train with Pinky Bear helps make potty training fun and easy. Ages 18 months and up. pinkybear.com 12. Sense & Grow Sensory Textured Matching Game Sense & Grow Sensory Textured Matching Game helps teach textures and shapes while having fun. Ages two and up. senseandgrow.com 13. Rollplay MINI Cooper Countryman Ride into the holiday season with Rollplay’s B R PA R E N T S . C O M | D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 1

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MINI Cooper Countryman. With working engine noises and horn, your little one’s adventures will never stop. Ages three to six. walmart.com 14. Anime Heroes Be the hero with Anime Heroes. Imagine your biggest battles and save the day. Ages four and up. bandai.com

Youth

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15. B-Kind Eco-Friendly Doll Line Promote kindness and positive messages with B-Kind Eco-Friendly Doll Line. Ages six and up. walmart.com 16. Blank Slate Board Game Don’t blank on this challenging and fun word association game. Ages eight and up. amazon.com

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17. Candy Claw Machine Arcade Game Maker Lab Be an engineer and create your own wacky claw machine with the Candy Claw Machine Arcade Game Maker Lab. Ages 6-12. store.thamesandkosmos.com

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18. Crayola Light Up Activity Board Light up and color your world with Crayola Light Up Activity Board. Display your artwork in a bold way by letting it glow. Ages six and up. walmart.com

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19. Color Fusion Nail Polish Maker With over 200+ colors, you can let your creativity soar as you make your own nail polish. Ages eight and up. target.com 20. Colors Live Game for Nintendo Switch Create and color in Colors Live. This Nintendo game lets you color and paint like never before.

All ages. nintendo.com 21. Mane Beauty Sunset Styling Head Create unique styles on Sunset. Includes styling booklet. Ages four and up. beyerhorses.com

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22. Disney 5 Second Rule Don’t crack under pressure and don’t run out of time with Disney 5 Second Rule. Ages six and up. playmonster.com 23. Funko Snapsies Gems Collect all your best friends with Funko Snapsies Gems. Mix and match and even collect all new friends in a snap this year. Ages five and up. amazon.com

25. Honey Bee Acres Buzzby Farmhouse Dollhouse Set Play and create the best stories with Honey Bee Acres Buzzby Farmhouse and Friends. These adorable creatures will have your little one busy for hours. Ages three and up. walmart.com 26. KeyWe Make sure the mail gets out in this adorable co-op Nintendo game. In KeyWe, it is up to you to make sure things stay running smoothly. All ages. nintendo.com 34

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Photo by Kleinpeter Photography 2021-22 Cover Kid Nora M.

24. HABA Little Friends Petting Zoo With the Little Friends Petting Zoo, your child can enjoy imaginative play while taking care of the ponies and goats in this adorable playset. habausa.com

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28. Madame Alexander Peekaboos Enjoy playtime with these adorable dolls that are perfect for tiny hands and contain non-toxic materials. Ages five and up. madamealexander.com

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29. Moji the Loveable Labradoodle Have a new bestie with Moji the Loveable Labradoodle. Give Moji a bath and see what he is thinking with his emoji collar. Ages four and up. target.com

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30. NeeDoh Knead out the stress or keep your hands busy with this ultimate stress ball. Ages three and up. schylling.com 31. Peek-a-Roo Which baby will you get with Peek-a-Roo? This adorable little plush has an interactive pouch that includes a mystery baby. Ages five and up. spinmaster.com 32. Plus-Plus Learn to Build Spinning Tops Learn to build four different spinning tops, then see who can spin the longest, build the biggest top, or knock over the most obstacles. Ages seven and up. plus-plus.com 33. Things That Geaux Things that zoom, things that crawl, things that dance, things that roll, things that fly, and things that run are all featured in this fun-filled book for emerging readers who need to move. Ages five and up. amazon.com

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27. Kitaria Fables Farm and craft in Kitaria Fables. In this Playstation game, the adventure is for you to explore.

All ages. store.playstation.com

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34. Rainbocorns Epic Golden Egg Discover the most amazing glittering golden surprises with Rainbocorns Epic Golden Egg. Hatch the egg to reveal a brand new Rainbocorn.

Unbox over 25 layers of golden surprises, including Boo-boocorns, hair accessories and glitter.

Ages three and up. zuru.com 35. VTECH Marble Rush Roll through thrilling stunts and exciting challenges with the Marble Rush Ultimate Set. This 145-piece color-coded building set includes a spinning ferris wheel, a swirling cone that plays a musical light show, thrilling ramps, fast tracks, extreme launchers, and bases that all easily connect together. Ages four and up. vtechkids.com

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36. Itty Bitty Pretty Angel High Collect all of the fashionistas. With 10 surprises in each, you will be able to create the most fashionable outfits for your dolls. Ages three and up. amazon.com

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Tween/Teens

37. A Little Off Topic Board Game Race against the time to write answers that may be a little off topic. Ages 8-12. offtopicgames.com 38. All of Us Trivia Game Go head to head or team up with family and friends in the ultimate trivia battle. Ages 12 and up. whatdoyoumeme.com 39. Block Chain Put together the puzzles with Block Chain.

Figure out the brainteasers and combinations until you have solved them all. Ages eight and up. thinkfun.com 40. Double Ditto Double Ditto is a family party game that will challenge players to be clever and quick. The object of the game is to write down answers you think other players will write. Match an answer with another player to score a “ditto!” Match both answers and score a “double ditto!” Ages 12 and up. amazon.com

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43. Hip Town Buy, sell, bid, and build to create your own hip town in this strategy-filled game. Ages 13 and up. endlessgames.com 44. Ka-Blab Think fast. Roll the dice and say the amount of words to match the category before time runs out. Ages 10 and up. hasbrogaming.hasbro.com

47. Rotor Riot MFi Controller Enhance your gameplay experience with this unique controller that allows gamers to play without touching their phone screen. All ages. rotorriot.com 48. Spoof “Spoof ” your friends by making up clever, fake answers to fun trivia such as “_______ is the national bird of Japan.” Ages 10 and up. amazon.com

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45. Loungefly Backpack, Accessories, and Apparel Display your favorite games, shows and movies with Loungefly. From a wide range of backpacks, accessories, and apparel, you’ll never go out of style. All ages. loungefly.com 46. Not Parent Approved A Card Game for Mischief Makers Both parents and kids will love this exciting game. Get your cards and make the funniest statements to win. Ages eight and up. notparentapproved.com

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41. GibGab Can you be quick enough to win? In this exciting game, say a word that matches the category before your time runs out. Perfect for family or friend game nights. Ages eight and up. fatbraintoys.com 42. HEX Kick Scooter Be ready for an endlessly fun ride. This scooter comes in a selection of fun colors. Ages eight and up. ridejetson.com

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Adults

49. Tamagotchi Star Wars R2-D2 Become best friends with R2-D2 in the palm of your hand. Ages eight and up. bandai.com

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50. Buddy Beat Speaker Light Exercise at night with ease with Spice of Life’s Speaker Light. Not only does this product play music, but it also acts as a light to help keep you safe. spiceoflifeusa.com

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51. GTS 2 Mini Sleek and stylish, the GTS 2 Mini will be your new best friend in tracking your health and fitness this holiday season. us.amazfit.com 52. Hatch Restore A sleek bedside sleep assistant designed to help users fall asleep, stay asleep and wake up more easily. Restore helps users maximize the power of sleep and wake up feeling their best. hatch.co

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53. Lasko My Heat Never go cold with Lasko My Heat. My heat is a small and portable heater that can sit on the floor, on your desktop, or wherever you need it. lasko.com 54. LumiCharge II Desk Lamp and Charger Upgrade your electronics this holiday season with Lumicharge II Light and Charger. Lumicharge is more than just a lamp; this awesome product can also tell time, temperature, and even charge your phone. thelumicharge.com

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55. Sugarwish Treats and Assortments Build the perfect gift box for a friend with Sugarwish. With a wide range of gifts and assortments to send in gift boxes, gifting this holiday season will be a breeze. Sugarwish also has treat boxes for your furry friend. sugarwish.com

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56. Pillow Talk Mobile Pillow Sit back and relax with the Mobile Pillow. This comfy neck pillow has a spot for your phone so you can relax hands free. All ages. spiceoflifeusa.com 57. Vellabox Candle Subscription Breathe easy and delight your home with candles that are made from all natural ingredients and shipped to your home every month. vellabox.com

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58. Thermacell Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller Never deal with mosquitos again with Thermacell Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller. The repeller creates a 20-foot zone of protection to keep mosquitos away. thermacell.com 59. Tubble Hot Tub Relax, anytime, anywhere with Tubble. This inflatable hot tub is easy to set up and comfortable so you can relax with ease. tubble.com

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Top 10 Holiday

Destinations Zoolights at BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo Join BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo for Zoolights through Thursday, December 30. This nightly event is presented by Children’s Hospital of New Orleans and features more than 50 illuminated sculptures of animals and traditional holiday displays for the whole family to enjoy. Again this year, every guest presenting a non-perishable food item during Zoolights, will receive half off of regular admission price. All donations benefit the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. Now, that’s a dazzling way to make a difference this holiday season.

■ brzoo.org

Red Stick Rising There’s nothing like ringing in the new year in Louisiana’s Capital City. And this year before the countdown to 2022 begins at Baton Rouge’s annual New Year’s Eve celebration–Red Stick Revelry, presented by BankPlus–the kids can start their own New Year’s tradition. Red Stick Rising is the ultimate event for the whole family, complete with storytelling, arts and crafts activities, a special performance from Clay Achee and his puppets, and an “Auld Lang Syne” sing-along while Baton Rouge prepares for the red stick drop. From 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., there’s no shortage of fun for children as we toast to the new year and rock around the clock in Baton Rouge.

■ visitbatonrouge.com

Ice Skating on the River The Raising Cane’s River Center will once again magically transform into a “Winter Wonderland” just in time for you to create your holiday memories. Ice Skating on the River is an annual holiday tradition that will kick off on Friday, December 17, 2021. A funfilled holiday event for all ages, Ice Skating on the River will have 75-minute sessions nearly every day from December 17, 2021 until January 3, 2022. Ice Skating on the River has group pricing, birthday packages and skating lessons available. For more information, visit them online. ■ raisingcanesrivercenter.com

Perkins Rowe Perkins Rowe is the ultimate place to be during the holidays. From clothing to sports memorabilia, visitors can cross off their entire holiday shopping list at the Rowe. While shopping, they can enjoy the twinkling Christmas tree in Town Square and have their photo taken with Santa in the Cajun Night Village. Visitors can also stop by on Saturday, December 11 from 5-8 p.m. for the annual Santa Rocks the Rowe event to enjoy live music, children’s activities, and surprises.

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Now Hear This!

Looking for a day trip for the entire family? USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park is your destination. Step back in time as you board the WWII battleship the Mighty A. See how the crew lived, worked, fought and played.

Explore 10 decks on your self-guided tour. From battle stations to the ice cream parlor, this floating city is full of stories. Tour the WWII submarine USS Drum and learn about her dog, Stateside. The Aircraft Pavilion has a collection of historic aircraft, including a spy plane, military trucks and jeeps, and a Flight Simulator. The park is open every day except Christmas Day. Free kennels, picnic area, and fishing pier.

■ ussalabama.com

Christmas on the River The lights will be bright this holiday season at Monroe-West Monroe’s Christmas on the River. Through December 31, visitors will enjoy the sights and sounds of Christmas. The season begins with the Freedom Trees at the Chennault Aviation and Military Museum, followed by Santa’s Christmas Village at the Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum, open wagon rides through the lights, holiday outdoor movies, and Candy Cane Lane, a drive-through light park in Calhoun. Festival Weekend is packed full of holiday cheer with two parades, the Kiwanis Club of Greater Ouachita Christmas Parade and the Bawcomville Redneck Parade. Additional events this weekend include a Downtown Gallery Crawl, a 5K, live entertainment, and fireworks. ■ christmasontheriver.org

New Orleans City Park’s Celebration in the Oaks Celebration in the Oaks presented by Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust in New Orleans City Park, the Park’s largest fundraiser, has fascinated guests for years as one of the most spectacular holiday lights festivals in the country. This year, the highly successful Driving Tour–featuring City Park’s famous giant live oak trees swathed in more than a million twinkling lights throughout the 2.25-mile ride–will return, in addition to an expanded experience in the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the Botanical Garden, including rides, marshmallow roasting, and hot chocolate. ■ celebrationintheoaks.com

French Market District Immerse yourself in the holiday season at the French Market District. We’ve decked our halls from Jackson Square to the Flea Market to celebrate the season, including our Christmas tree adjacent to Café du Monde in Oscar Dunn Park (formerly Washington Artillery Park). Don’t forget to mark your calendar to join us for our annual family-friendly St. Nick Celebration in Dutch Alley on Saturday, December 11 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m., featuring live music, kid’s activities, a petting zoo, and the St. Nick Second Line. More information about St. Nick Celebration and more holiday offerings can be found online.

■ frenchmarket.org

Celebrate the Holidays with Audubon Nature Institute Help make a positive impact on the natural world this holiday season with a visit to Audubon Zoo and Audubon Aquarium.

From lions and sharks to otters and orangutans, have a memorable time with your whole family.

Reach into the ocean at the Shark Discovery, the new shark and ray touchpool at the Aquarium, and swing to the Zoo to experience unique natural habitats such as the award-winning Louisiana Swamp and Jaguar Jungle. While you’re there, discover how you can do a world of good to protect these animals. Reserve your tickets online. ■ audubonnature insitute.org/tickets

Barn Hill Preserve For the animal lover in you, come take a walk on the wild side at Barn Hill Preserve. Barn Hill Preserve is a zoological facility located in Ethel, Louisiana.

Barn Hill promotes animal education through unique hands-on experiences.

The most popular and unique experience at Barn Hill is the otter swim. Guests have the opportunity to have a two-hour guided tour and meet and hold a two-toed sloth on a pillow on their lap, and then they will get in a climate-controlled pool with asian small-clawed otters. Barn Hill also allows guests to bottle feed a six-month old giraffe, T’challa. Guests can learn about reticulated giraffes while having a once in a lifetime experience feeding one up close. To learn about every experience Barn Hill Preserve offers, visit their website barnhillpreserve.com, or email office@barnhillpreserve.com. Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. B R PA R E N T S . C O M | D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 1

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Santa Gift

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WHO GIVES THE GIFTS?

BY SARAH BATROUS PHOTO BY KLEINPETER PHOTOGRAPHY 2021-22 COVER KID EVELYN D.

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H R I STM A S is

full of rituals for parents, whether it’s preparing the traditional Christmas Eve feast, arduously keeping track of Elf on the Shelf, or covertly finding the best hiding spot for those prewrapped presents. The most popular tradition of all is part of a heated debate. Are expensive presents supposed to be from the parents or Santa?

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THE DEBATE Gifts from Santa While children are enjoying the magic of Santa, parents struggle with whether or not big-ticket presents should come from Santa. Let’s talk about the benefits of letting Santa get the credit for the more expensive items.

A lot of letting Santa deliver the trampolines, bicycles, and massive dollhouses is letting your child have fun with the mystery of it all. While you will have the joy of giving them much-appreciated birthday gifts for years to come, your child won’t believe in Santa forever. Letting them believe for as many Christmasses as possible is magical–take joy in it.

Another good option for letting Santa give the expensive gifts is having someone else to take the fall if something goes wrong. My parents were clever with Santa. When certain gifts were late

or unavailable, I would receive letters from Santa telling me he couldn’t find the present I asked for or that he would deliver it after Christmas. It threw me for a loop, but why be mad at Mom and Dad when Santa was the one to apologize?

GIFTS FROM PARENTS

What about letting the parents get the credit? Maybe Santa doesn’t need to do the heavy lifting. Having a much-wanted gift come from you is personal and shows how much you care.

Josie-Grace Bridges, a licensed master social worker at Daybreak Therapy Solutions discusses how gifts being from the parents is a considerate practice for children who will get less expensive gifts from Santa.

“If Santa brings the expensive things, then other kids whose families can’t afford those kinds of gifts sometimes start to internalize that something must be wrong with them in order to explain to themselves why Santa didn’t bring them better or more exciting gifts,” explains

Bridges. “If anything, ‘big-ticket’ presents that are from parents can be a good way to start conversations about money, how jobs work, and saving money for desired items.”

With this in mind, say you still want the Santa experience in a smaller dose.

How about letting him fill the stockings?

Stocking stuffers can still have a “wow” factor. Your child’s favorite candies, some simple toys, clothes, or smell-goods can all be great options.

WHAT PARENTS THINK

In the spirit of giving, local parents share their thoughts on Santa and their households’ gift-giving traditions.

Jamie Ingrassia, a mother of four, says, “Growing up, Santa has always brought one big gift along with other small stocking stuffers. Our parents would then give a few gifts from them. We have continued this for our kids. Santa brings one big gift for each of them, and we give each of our kids three gifts, just as the three wisemen brought Jesus three gifts. Usually the kids ask for one thing they want, one thing they need, and one thing they read, like a spiritual item like a devotional book or any other type of religious item.”

Mom to three Shanna Bryant notes, “In our family, the kids get one thing from Santa. We usually remind our kids that Santa has a lot of kids to take care of and we shouldn’t take advantage of that. Everything else comes from mom and dad. The first year we did it, the kids asked Santa for a doll, a football, and a hula hoop!”

Becky Fehr introduced a different perspective on when it comes to being “out-gifted” by Santa. She comments, “My husband didn’t allow Santa to outgive us as parents. My husband works hard for the money to purchase the gifts, so he should get credit for them before Santa.”

Sometimes the simplest option is best.

Amy Mattson-Dykes says, “In my house, the stuff that was difficult to wrap was from Santa.” Really, who hasn’t had that moment? Once, my parents just draped a sheet of wrapping paper over a present that was too tall to wrap.’

Whether you decide to have Santa give out the big-ticket presents on Christmas morning while you remain more “in the background” with who really gifted what present this year, it shouldn’t detract from your child’s experience or excitement of the whole moment.

The most important part of the holiday season is having fun as a family, enjoying the holiday and making memories together. ■ B R PA R E N T S . C O M | D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 1

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Gentlemen in Training

BY ANTHONY BUI PHOTO BY KLEINPETER PHOTOGRAPHY 2021-22 COVER KID CASSIUS T.

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H AT’S a gentleman? Jill Rigby

Garner, founder of Manners of the Heart whose mission is to reawaken respect in society for the next generation, puts it best. “A true gentleman is a humble warrior who puts the needs of others ahead of his wants.

A man with a strong moral compass who will defend the defenseless and stand up for the right. A man who protects his family,” she explains.

Garner goes on to emphasize the most important heart attribute you can instill in your young gentleman in training, and that is respect. She explains, “An attitude of respect is the foundation of being a true gentleman.”

The initial picture that floats into my mind is Captain America with his shield in hand ready to defend anyone in need. As I think about it more though, I realized that he was willing to do that before the super soldier serum even flowed through his veins. While he was just a young, scrawny kid from Brooklyn, Steve Rogers displayed the markings of a true gentleman: honor, courage, kindness, respect, compassion, and a true genuine heart for others.

You do not need to be the tallest or the strongest individual in the room. You need only a heart for others, and that is something that can be modeled to young boys, so they can hopefully one day blossom into men.

A PARENT’S ROLE When it comes to raising a boy to become a gentleman, it is imperative that parents lead by example.

How a father treats others, how he speaks to his wife, how he treats his kids; young boys see all of this, and they will imitate it. That is why it is so vital that good manners and respect be taught from a young age.

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PODCAST

Garner expresses, “A boy with a kind heart becomes a man with a good heart.

Teaching young boys how to treat girls and ladies with respect enables them to restrain from inappropriate behavior as they mature. Well-developed manners in the early years become the foundation for morals in the teen years.”

Something as simple as teaching three year olds to put their toys away so no one trips over them shows how their actions affect others and helps develop a perspective of living that is centered around others and not just themselves.

A mother must also encourage her son to be a gentleman towards herself and to others. Grandparents as well have a role to play. The truth is, it is a family effort.

Not only does it teach boys what it means to be a gentleman, but it also teaches girls what kind of man to seek when she is looking for a husband. A father should model that by how he treats his own wife.

PRACTICAL LESSONS TO TEACH There are many practical lessons that parents can teach their young boys.

1. Speaking to anyone who enters the room.

2. Putting down electronic devices to look someone in the eye who is talking to you.

3. Greeting store clerks and asking, “How’s your day?”

4. Opening car doors for ladies.

5. Pulling out chairs to seat ladies and rising when a lady approaches the table or leaves the table.

6. Offering his help to those with their hands full.

7. Respecting others the way you want to be respected.

8. Saying, “Have a good day,” when leaving someone’s presence.

9. Being a good listener.

10. Being mindful of foul language.

At Manners of the Heart, two attributes are instilled into children: gentle and gracious. Speaking and acting with tenderness while being courteous, understanding, and generous in all situations are things that boys learn by looking for ways to be helpful. As parents, you must give children opportunities like this, and you must raise them in a way where they look forward to and delight at opportunities to help others.

You can never have too many gentlemen in the world. If there were a plethora of gentlemen out in the world willing to put the needs of others ahead of their own, the world would be a safer place for everyone. ■ B R PA R E N T S . C O M | D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 1

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a day in the life of dad An Open Letter to Our Readers, Advertisers, and Our Staff

BY BRANDON FOREMAN

S

O, how was it? It has been a crazy year, to say the least, but guess what? We all got through it. We are all now a year old, and our families are a year stronger. So, congratulations, and job well done. For those who have lost some loved ones along the way this year, my heart goes out to you, but we will all get through this.

As I write this column, the last one of the year, I think back over what all we have been through–not just this year–but the last two years, and all I can say is, “WOW, did that really happen?”

I would like to take some time to take a break from the normal stories and tone of this column to talk to you, our readers, openly and say thank you. This next year will be our 32nd year serving you, our community, and we love every minute of it.

I have preached to our staff over the years that we only have two jobs we do here and that is: 1. Inform and educate and be a resource for our community.

2. Make our advertisers wildly successful.

Even with all that we have been through, I feel we have done these two jobs very well this year. After all, if we did not produce high-quality content that kept our readers engaged, then our advertisers who support our mission and allow us to be that resource for our community would not keep coming back. So, another huge thank you to our advertisers, as many of you have been with us since the first issue and that means the world to us. For those who are new to our family, we welcome you, and we will fight every day to make sure you and your families and businesses are successful. Thank you for allowing us the opportunity to grow with you!

We strive everyday to keep the focus on these two jobs, and our staff could not have done a better job this year, as I look at all the hard work they put into not only our magazines and online properties here in Baton Rouge, but also the many new publications in New Orleans that are now part of our family here. They have accepted us, and we have built an incredible team. I don’t say it enough to our team, but thank you all, from myself and Amy, and our community. You don’t know how much of an impact you have made, not only in our lives, but in this community. Not only did they do a great job, but they 44

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For those who are new to our family, we welcome you, and we will fight every day to make sure you and your families and businesses are successful. knocked it out of the park with eight International awards (last November) in both editorial and design. So again, great job, everyone.

So, have a great Christmas and have a happy New Year. Let’s do it again in 2022.

Life is what happens when you’re doing other things.

P.S. We are hiring. ■

PIC OF THE MONTH Scott T. and his kiddos–Colston, Rowan and Reeves–are all about spending time together.

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PLAY

out & about ‘cause parenting is a trip

Hersheypark HERSHEY, PA

BY EMILY DREZ

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N 1906, Milton S. Hershey found the perfect spot to build a park for his employees of Hershey’s Chocolate Factory to relax, have a picnic, or go canoeing. Since then, Hersheypark has turned into an amusement park with awesome rollercoasters, a water park, and even a zoo! It’s always a good time for families to visit Hersheypark. The Park hosts special events for each season, so you might meet Rudolph and all of Santa’s reindeer, walk down the Trick or Treat trail, or meet the Hershey characters at Springtime in the Park. No matter the season, you’ll never miss out on chocolate. There are also hundreds of species of animals waiting for you on the other side of the Hersheypark bridge at ZooAmerica. And, don’t forget to visit the newest addition to the Park: Hershey’s Chocolatetown.

WHERE TO STAY A few miles away from Hersheypark is Hershey Lodge, the perfect place for your family to relax during your stay. It features comfortable rooms with warm tones, chocolate-themed decor, and top-tier hospitality. From cozy guest rooms and spacious suites, to the year-round indoor pool Hershey’s Water Works and access to the Hershey Gardens, you are guaranteed to have the sweetest dreams at Hershey Lodge.

Coordinates: 40.2888° N, 76.6547° W Distance from Baton Rouge: 1,210 miles Flying Time: 4 hours, 43 minutes Driving Time: 17 hours, 43 minutes

The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen Save room for dessert! Your visit to Hersheypark will be even sweeter at one of the park’s latest additions, The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen. This collection of decadent sweets includes homemade fudge, chocolate-dipped treats, and mouth-watering cakes all topped with the classic Hershey’s candies.

WHAT TO DO During wintertime at Hersheypark, you’ll be surrounded by five million twinkling lights and tons of holiday cheer. Some rides will include festive thrills while you zip around in loops, twists, and turns. Santa and his reindeer will make an appearance at the Christmas Candylane event, and you’ll even get to see the reindeer up close at Santa’s Reindeer Stables. Don’t forget to stop by before Santa heads back to the North Pole on Christmas Eve.

WHERE TO EAT 1906 Grill When you’re in Hersheypark, stop at 1906 Grill for a bite of the best burgers. Grab a hamburger, cheeseburger, or a bacon burger as you explore the park, or opt for the chicken tenders instead. There are also salads, kids meals, and gluten-free options. Whatever you’re hungry for, don’t forget to add fries and cheese sauce on the side.

At the 11-acre ZooAmerica, you’ll discover over 200 species of North American wildlife. This December, the Wild Winter Adventure is back for kids to explore the zoo and learn how each species adapts to the cold in their winter habitats. Kids will be able to come face-to-face with some animals and even visit the reindeer in Hersheypark. ZooAmerica also has behind-thescenes tours, camps, and group programs throughout the year.

Chickie’s and Pete’s You can find Chickie’s and Pete’s world famous Crabfries in Hersheypark. But, the menu doesn’t stop with those hot, crinkle-cut fries topped with cheese sauce and special spices; you’ll want to have the buffalo chicken cutlet sandwich to go with the Crabfries, or maybe a specialty cheeseburger instead. If you and your family are looking to grab dinner outside the park, Chickie’s and Pete’s has other locations outside of Hersheypark with even more delicious menu items, including crabs, cheesesteaks, and Pete-zzas.

Visit the all new Hershey’s Chocolatetown featuring Hersheypark’s fifteenth rollercoaster, Candymonium. It is the tallest, fastest, and longest rollercoaster in Hersheypark, reaching a maximum speed of 76 MPH and a maximum height of 210 feet.

If roller coasters aren’t your idea of fun, Chocolatetown has new restaurants like Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor, The Chocolatier restaurant and bar, and The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen.

You can also ride the historic carousel and capture memories at the Kisses Fountain before souvenir shopping at Hersheypark Supply Co. ■

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things we l ve Winter Wonderland

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F you’re headed out to look at the Christmas lights this month, you’ll want to stock up on these must-have items to make the stroll a little more warmer and a lot more fun. Cozy up with your kiddos with this comfy sweater, sip on your hot cocoa using this unique smart mug, or if traveling is on your radar this month, keep the children busy and organized with this travel tray while in the car and on the go.

little

LOVE

3-IN-1 ACTIVITY WALKER & SCOOTER Grows with your little one and encourages motor skills development, balance, and coordination at playtime.

EMBER TEMPERATURE CONTROL SMART MUG It’s time for hot chocolate with extra marshmallows. With this smart mug, you can set your preferred drinking temperature. From the first sip to the last drop, your drink will stay your chosen level of warmth throughout your drinking experience.

FURTALK KNITTED BEANIE Wear your hair in a bun or ponytail while keeping your ears warm while on a Louisiana winter walk.

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LAMBSKIN HOODED SWEATER Stay warm, cozy and stylish this holiday season with this oversized sweater that’s perfect for your next stroll.

TRAVEL TRAY FOR KIDS You will be able to keep the kiddos entertained and the car organized with this awesome travel tray and car seat organizer.

XDEMODA SEAT BELT PILLOW This pillow attaches to the seatbelt to keep your little ones comfortable while they snooze.

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IN EVERY ISSUE

things to do GO. SEE. PLAY. LEARN. EXPLORE.

FREE: DEAR SANTA LETTERS DECEMBER 3-23 EBR Main Library, all day until December 23. Write a letter to Santa and mail it in the official North Pole mailbox. ebrpl.com PHOTO BY COTTONBRO

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There are so many holly jolly holiday events to attend this month. Look for the Christmas cookie for events you don’t want to miss.

1

WEDNESDAY NATIONAL PIE DAY

1968: A FOLSOM REDEMPTION. West Baton Rouge Museum through January 9.

Celebrating a landmark event, 1968: A Folsom Redemption is a collection of photographs and memories of two journalists lucky enough to be among a handful of eyewitnesses to the historic Johnny Cash concerts at Folsom Prison. westbatonrougemu seum.org BABY FOOD BASICS. Center for Health on Summa at 4 p.m. Instructed by speech-language pathologist/ feeding specialists and registered dietitians. brgeneral.org BEADED SNOWFLAKE ORNAMENT. Greenwell Springs Regional Branch Library from 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Children are welcomed to make a beaded snowflake ornament to hang on the library’s children room christmas tree. Ages 6-11. ebrpl.com CELEBRATION IN THE OAKS. New Orleans City Party through January 2. Features a Driving Tour Experience and the Carousel Gardens Experience. neworleanscitypark. com DECORATE THE KIDS’ TREE. Ascension Parish Libraries, all day. Kids of all ages are invited to add their own creative touch to all of the libraries’ Christmas trees for kids and receive a prize for helping to make it look fun and festive. myapl.org

DREIDEL, DREIDEL, DREIDEL! STORY AND GEAUX. EBR Main Library and River Center Branch Library. Listen to My Family Celebrates Hanukkah by Lisa Bullard to learn about Hanukkah and then grab a DIY Dreidel craft.

For ages 6-11. Register by calling.

(225) 389-4959 FITNESS IN THE STACKS. Bluebonnet Regional Branch Library from 10-11 a.m. every Wednesday and Friday.

Patrons can get fit by participating in a beginner aerobics video. ebrpl.com FOOD FOR FINES. EBR Parish Main Library through December 31.

Library patrons who owe overdue fines may have $1 deducted from their account for each canned good or non-perishable food item they drop off. All donated items will go to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. ebrpl.com HOLIDAY LIGHTS. Baton Rouge General Bluebonnet through December 31. Enjoy a twinkling, singing and musically synchronized light display. brgeneral.org PARENTED TALKS: DO YOU HAVE YOUR S*%# TOGETHER? Virtual webinar with Baton Rouge Parents Magazine at 9 p.m. Author and mom Chanel Reynolds will share a practical guide for tackling important stuff. eventbrite.com ZOOLIGHTS. BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo through December 30.

See more than 50 illuminated display sculptures of animals and traditional holiday

HOLIDAY LIGHTS. See December 1.

displays on a mile-long trail through the Zoo. brzoo.org

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THURSDAY NATIONAL FRITTERS DAY

CANDY CANE FABRIC WREATHS. Livingston Main Library at 6 p.m. Celebrate the winter holidays by making a candy cane fabric wreath. Materials will be provided. mylpl.info CRAFTING FOR A CAUSE: WRAPPING UP CHRISTMAS! EBR Main Library and PrideChaneyville Branch Library from 1-3 p.m. every Thursday. Bring your presents and paper and get to wrapping! ebrpl.com CREATIVE FRIED CHICKEN. Louisiana Culinary Institute from 5-8 p.m. Join Chef Colt Patin to explore different techniques of preparing fried chicken. $125 per person. lci.edu HANUKKAH TIME! EBR Main Library and Carver Branch Library from 4:30-5 p.m. Read Hanukkah Cookies with

Sprinkles by David Adler. Then, make a Monorah using tissue paper. Ages 5-11.

(225) 389-7440 SNOW & GLOW. Baton Rouge General Bluebonnet from 6-8 p.m.

Santa, snow, and glow performers. $5. brgeneral.org WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY SEMINAR. Baton Rouge General Bluebonnet at 6 p.m.

Physician-led seminar about the types of surgeries and what to expect after. brgeneral.org

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FRIDAY

BATON ROUGE SYMPHONY HOLIDAY BRASS. St. Joseph’s Cathedral at 7 p.m. Get in the holiday spirit as you enjoy their performances of various holiday favorites and some custom arrangements. brso.org CONTACTLESS CLAUS. Bass Pro Shops and

[

Cabela’s at 5 p.m. through the 24. Families are invited to welcome Santa at an outdoor tailgate event as he officially arrives from the North Pole to Santa’s Wonderland featuring free games, activities, and festive giveaways. Register online. basspro.com/santa DEAR SANTA LETTERS. EBR Main Library, all day until December 23.

Write a letter to Santa and mail it in the official North Pole mailbox. ebrpl.com FITNESS IN THE STACKS. Bluebonnet Regional Branch Library from 10-11 a.m. every Wednesday and Friday.

Patrons can come to get fit by participating in a beginner aerobics video. ebrpl.com LE CAFÉ FRANÇAIS. West Baton Rouge Museum from 1-3 p.m. This program offers members of the community a space to speak French and discuss Louisiana’s unique culture. westbatonrouge museum.org

Find things to do by visiting us online at brparents.com or by downloading our app.

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IN EVERY ISSUE CALENDAR

ZOOLIGHTS. See December 1.

LIVE NATIVITY AND CONCERT. First Presbyterian Church Terraced Garden at 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. Re-enactment of the birth of Jesus Christ as told in the Gospels and a petting zoo. This year, they will have performances by the Foto Sisters and Michael O’Brien. fpcbr.org LSU MUSEUM STORE HOLIDAY SHOPPING EVENT. Shaw Center for the Arts from noon-8 p.m. Get 20 percent off one item and free gift wrap. Shop and enter to win raffle prizes. lsumoa.org WIGGLE WORMS: MUSIC AND MOVEMENT. Livingston Parish Main Library from 10:30-11 a.m. Creative program for children ages zero-five and their caregivers. mylpl.info

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SATURDAY NATIONAL COOKIE DAY

35TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS IN CENTRAL PARADE. Joor Road from 11 a.m.-noon. cityofcentralchamber.

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com

AGAPE’S 3RD ANNUAL FAMILY CHRISTMAS MARKET. 17170 Perkins Road from 4-8 p.m. Enjoy food, fun, and shopping with local vendors and makers. facebook.com/agape schoolofbatonrouge A VERY MERRY MUSEUM AT LASM. LASM at 10 a.m. Enjoy holiday-themed planetarium shows, engaging activities, and festive fun for visitors of all ages. lasm.org BODY BASICS FOR GIRLS. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting at 9:30 a.m. Includes informal, open discussions, a film presentation, and take home materials. womans.org BREASTFEEDING BASICS. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting at 1:30 p.m. Learn the benefits of breastfeeding. womans.org CANGELOSI DANCE PROJECT THE NUTCRACKER. EBR Main Library and Bluebonnet Regional Branch Library from 11 a.m to noon. Cangelosi Dance Project will give a 20-minute performance on excerpts from their production.

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ebrpl.com CARTOONING 2.0.

Greenwell Springs Regional Branch Library at 11 a.m. This session will be most helpful to cartoonists who already have some drawing skills and want to move on to creating comics, graphic novels and more sophisticated cartoons. ebrpl.com CHRISTMAS IN THE PLAZA. Scotland Avenue from 3-6 p.m. Includes food, art, entertainment, and celebrations in one place. $25. eventbrite.com CIVIC ORCHESTRA OF BATON ROUGE CONCERT. EBR Main Library and River Center Branch Library from 3-4 p.m. The Civic Orchestra of Baton Rouge will hold a concert featuring an all-Spanish music program. civicorchestrabr.org CHRISTMAS CHOCOLATE BOOT CAMP. Louisiana Culinary Institute from 2-5 p.m.

Join Chef Jeanne Mancuso to make holiday flavors with delicious chocolate bombs. $125 per person. lci.edu HANUKKAH STORY CRAFT. EBR Main Library from 2-3 p.m. Join them for a reading of How Do Dinosaurs Say Happy Chanukah by Jane Yolen. Then craft a “stained-glass” tissue paper menorah. ebrpl.com HOLIDAY STRINGS AT THE LIBRARY. Denham Springs-Walker Branch Library at 3 p.m.

Gifted local musician Kariina Nurkala-Persyn will perform Christmas carols on the cello, violin, and viola. Little ones can handle

instruments in her “petting zoo” of musical instruments. mylpl.info I WROTE A CHILDREN’S BOOK, NOW WHAT? Fairwood Branch Library at 3 p.m. While no one can give you a formula for getting your book published, there are things you can do to improve your chances of catching an editor’s eye. This session will help you get started. ebrpl.com OUTDOOR HOLIDAY MOVIE. Livingston Parish Main Library at 6 p.m. Join the Whos down in Whoville as they spread the holiday spirit. Enjoy sipping hot chocolate, munching on popcorn, and snuggling on your blankets, as you enjoy this holiday classic. mylpl.info RED STICK FARMERS MARKET. 5th and Main Street from 8 a.m.-noon.

Red Stick Farmers Market has over 50 member farmers with a variety of locally-grown products. breada.org ROCK RESCUE. Dutchtown and Galvez Libraries at 10 a.m.

Learn about rocks in a hands-on way during this multi-sensory experience. 6-11. myapl.org SATURDAY SCIENCE: SEEING WITH OUR PHYSICS EYE. EBR Main Library st 1 p.m.

This month, hear from LSU’s own Dr. Ravi Rau. ebrpl.com

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SUNDAY

INTERNATIONAL NINJA DAY A RURAL LIFE CHRISTMAS. LSU Rural Life Museum from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Enjoy the holiday season outdoors with a 19th century Louisiana

Christmas celebration. lsuagcenter.com AFTER BABY COMES. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting at 12:30 p.m.

Learn how to bathe, feed, diaper, dress, and hold a baby with a lifelike doll. womans.org GET ORGANIZED. EBR Main Library at 3 p.m.

Join Louisiana’s only Certified Professional Organizer, Alyssa Trosclair, to learn ways to approach and accomplish the mental and physical challenges associated with decluttering in any stage of life.

Registration required. ebrpl.com HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE. West Baton Rouge Museum from 2-4 p.m.

Enjoy musical entertainment, hot apple cider, gingerbread, making holiday crafts, storytelling, everyone’s favorite campus wide scavenger hunt, and shopping for unique gifts and stocking stuffers. west batonrougemuseum.org MEET THE MEAN ONE: HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA. Giggles from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sweets, small business pop ups, specials, and surprise guests. facebook.com/ gigglesbatonrouge SENSORY-FRIENDLY EVENT. Mall of Louisiana at 9:30 a.m. until December 12.

Sensory-friendly Santa experience. eventbrite.com WINTER CONCERT. EBR Main Library at 7 p.m. The EBR Schools Talented Music Orchestra and Choir will perform. ebrpl.com

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MONDAY

GET ORGANIZED. EBR Main Library at 1 p.m.

Join Louisiana’s only Certified Professional Organizer, Alyssa Trosclair, to learn ways to approach and accomplish the mental and physical challenges associated with decluttering in any stage of life.

Registration required. ebrpl.com PREGNANCY 101.

Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting at 6:30 p.m. Highlights nutrition, exercise, and physical discomforts during pregnancy. womans.org

Creek Regional Branch Library at 7 p.m. The local band, Jemini Venture, will perform as a five-piece instrumental, and the vocal group performs a diverse cross-section of genres on acoustic instruments. ebrpl.com LABOR & DELIVERY CLASS. Ochsner Baton Rouge Zoom at 6 p.m.

Learn about pregnancy, when to go to the hospital, the laboring process, and vaginal birth. ochsner.org

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WEDNESDAY

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TUESDAY

NATIONAL BROWNIE DAY

BOOK PAGE ART. Gonzales and Galvez Libraries at 4 p.m.

Repurpose loose pages from worn-out books and turn them into artful designs. myapl.org BUSINESS EXPO. Ponchatoula Lions Club at 6 p.m. Food and beverage samples provided by local businesses. $5. ponchatoulachamber. com CANDY CANE FABRIC WREATHS. Albany-Springfield Branch Library at 6 p.m.

Make a candy cane fabric wreath. Materials will be provided. mylpl.info FOLLOW ME DOWN: A POSTSCRIPT. West Baton Rouge Museum at noon. Museum welcomes Dr. Benjamin J. Harbert and Dr. Marianne Fisher-Giorlando. westbatonrougemuseum.org HOLIDAY MUSIC CONCERT. Jones

BE INSPIRED! BRCC PRESENTS: WHAT IS THIS THING CALLED ART? EBR Main Library at 6 p.m. Local artist Christopher Scott Brumfield will talk about the many meanings of art. ebrpl.com BODY BASICS FOR BOYS. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting at 6:30 p.m. Includes informal, open discussions, a film presentation and take home materials. womans.org DECORATE YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT! Fairwood Branch Library from 4:30-5:30 p.m. Supplies will be provided. ebrpl.com FITNESS IN THE STACKS. Bluebonnet Regional Branch Library from 10-11 a.m. every Wednesday and Friday.

Patrons can come to get fit by participating in a beginner aerobics video. ebrpl.com HOME ALONE INTERACTIVE MOVIE. Denham Springs-Walker Branch Library from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Guests will enjoy a

NATIONAL COTTON CANDY DAY NATIONAL PEARL HARBOR REMEMBRANCE DAY

Christmas classic in an interactive way. Every participant will receive a kit with all the necessities to participate. mylpl.info HORROR FOR THE HOLIDAYS. EBR Main Library at 7 p.m. See a horror-themed movie that will scare your holiday blues all the way into the new year. Adults only. ebrpl.com REINDEER PIN STORY/CRAFT. Delmont Gardens Branch Library from 4-5 p.m. Reading of Rudy’s WINDY Christmas by Helen Baugh and Ben Mantle.

Then, create your own reindeer clothespin.

(225) 354-7060

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THURSDAY CHRISTMAS CARD DAY

BATON ROUGE CAREER FAIR. Baton Rouge Marriott from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Recruitment event where you can connect with top employers. eventbrite.com CAROLS, CRAFTING, AND COCOA. Watson Branch Library at 5:30 p.m. Special holiday story time with carols, crafting, and hot cocoa. mylpl.info FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT: POLAR EXPRESS. Albany-Springfield Branch Library at 5:30 p.m. mylpl.info

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FRIDAY

DEWEY DECIMAL SYSTEM DAY FITNESS IN THE STACKS. Bluebonnet Regional Branch Library

from 10-11 a.m. every Wednesday and Friday.

Patrons can come to get fit by participating in a beginner aerobics video. ebrpl.com LAUGHTER & LADIES NIGHT OUT. Raising Cane’s River Center at 8 p.m. Performances by Monica and Keke Wyatt. raisingcanesrivercenter. com POP-UP COVID-19 VACCINATION CLINIC & PCR TESTING. Gonzales Library from 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Pfizer vaccines available to all residents ages 12+.

(844) 888-2772 PREPARING FOR DELIVERY. Woman’s Hospital Zoom at 1 p.m. womans.org

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SATURDAY CANGELOSI DANCE PROJECT-THE NUTCRACKER. EBR Main Library from 11 a.m.-noon. Cangelosi Dance Project will give a 20-minute performance on excerpts from their production. ebrpl.com CHRISTMAS PARADE AFTER PARTY. Livingston Parish Main Library at 7:30 p.m. Enjoy cookies, cocoa, and a Christmas craft. mylpl.info FULL HOLIDAY MEAL. Louisiana Culinary Institute from 8:30-11 a.m. and 12:30-3 p.m. Kids will learn to create a full holiday meal. Participants will make herbed focaccia bread, a roasted pork loin with roasted vegetables, and a holiday decorated spice cake. lci.edu HOLIDAY STRINGS AT THE LIBRARY.

Denham-Springs Walker Branch Library at 3 p.m.

Gifted local musician Kariina Nurkala-Persyn will perform Christmas carols on the cello, violin, and viola. Little ones can handle instruments in her “petting zoo” of musical instruments. mylpl.info KIDS MAKERS MARKETS WINTER. MidCity Makers Market from 10 a.m-2 p.m. Kids ages 6-17 will be selling their creations with performances by Baton Rouge Music Studios. mid-cityartisans.com LADY CHOPS: HERE COME THE BELLS, SO MANY BELLS. South Branch Library at 10 a.m., Livingston Parish Main Library at 2 p.m., and Watson Branch Library at 5 p.m.

Elizabeth Vidos, also known as Lady Chops, is bringing her one-woman drumming show to the library for a holly jolly holiday. mylpl.info MINI HOLIDAY WORKSHOP:

ck COVER KIDS

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

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CHADRICK

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CONTACTLESS CLAUS. See December 3.

BOX OF CAKES, POPS & BOMBS. Louisiana Culinary Institute. Kids will learn to create and decorate a box of holiday themed cupcakes, cake pops and chocolate bombs.

Participants are given an apron and hat upon arrival. $65 per child. lci.edu POLAR BEAR STORY/CRAFT. Pride-Chaneyville Branch Library from 2:30-3:30 p.m. Listen to readings of two wonderful books featuring polar bears.

Afterwards, you’ll get to make your own polar bear picture using colorful tissue paper squares for the background. ebrpl.com PUNCH NEEDLE ART. Dutchtown Library at 10 a.m. Punch needling is an art style that has been used for centuries to handmake rugs or patches. Choose between Among Us characters, or keep it classic with Mario and Luigi. 9-11. myapl.org RED STICK FARMERS MARKET. 5th and Main Street from 8 a.m.-noon. breada.org THE NUTCRACKER. LSU Union Theater at 7 p.m. Enjoy this Christmas classic 54

presented by Tri-Parish Ballet. Be mesmerized by dancing dolls, snowflakes, and royal princesses. lsuunion theater.university tickets.com TRIM THE TREES. Louisiana Culinary Institute, all day. In this Holiday Mini Workshop, kids ages three to seven will create and decorate several holiday edible crafts to take home. $50 per child. lci.edu

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SUNDAY

GINGERBREAD HOUSE DAY POINSETTIA DAY LADY CHOPS: HERE COME THE BELLS, SO MANY BELLS. Denham-Springs Walker Branch Library at 2:30 p.m. and 4:15 p.m.

Elizabeth Vidos, also known as Lady Chops, is bringing her one-woman drumming show to the library for a holly jolly holiday. mylpl.info OLD TIME COUNTRY OPEN JAM. West Baton Rouge Museum from 3-5 p.m. This program allows musicians to

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come together informally to play acoustic instruments, including but not limited to, acoustic guitar, bass, fiddle, dulcimer, and accordion. westbatonrougemuse um.com THE NUTCRACKER. LSU Union Theater at 2 p.m. Enjoy this Christmas classic presented by Tri-Parish Ballet. Be mesmerized by dancing dolls, snowflakes, and royal princesses. lsuunion theater.university tickets.com

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MONDAY

NATIONAL COCOA DAY BATON ROUGE FILM CLUB: THE FRIENDS OF EDDIE COYLE. Bluebonnet Regional Branch Library at 6:15 p.m. The Baton Rouge Film Club is hosting a series of movies starring legendary actor Robert Mitchum. ebrpl.com HOLIDAY ADULT COLORING. Eden Park Branch Library from 4-5 p.m. Adults can enjoy some holiday coloring fun. ebrpl.com I WROTE A CHILDREN’S BOOK, NOW WHAT? Carver Branch Library at 4 p.m. and Zachary Branch Library at 3 p.m. While no one can give you a formula for getting your book published, there are things you can do to improve your chances of catching an editor’s eye. This session will help you get started. ebrpl.com LYRC READ-ALONG BOOK CLUB. EBR Main Library from 6:30-7 p.m.

Get a head start on your Louisiana Young

Readers’ Choice books. ebrpl.com

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TUESDAY BODY BASICS FOR GIRLS. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting at 6:30 p.m. Includes informal, open discussions, a film presentation, and take home materials. womans.org CHRISTMAS SQUASH BOOK. Albany-Springfield Branch Library from 6-7 p.m. This unique handmade card will delight and amaze everyone who receives one. Register online. mylpl.info FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT: POLAR EXPRESS. South Branch Library at 5:30 p.m. Popcorn and snacks provided. mylpl.info HOLIDAY MUSIC WITH MIKE ANDERSON THE DULCIMER GUY. EBR Main Library at 3:30 p.m. Enjoy an afternoon of holiday music performed by Mike Anderson. ebrpl.com HUGO KRINGLE. Delmont Gardens Branch Library from 10-11 a.m.

Hugo Kringle, Santa Claus’s younger brother, is a great holiday program.

(225) 354-7060 WEIGHT LOSS: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting at 11:45 p.m.

Learn about weight loss surgeries and get your questions answered. womans.org WINK DANENBERG: JUGGLER EXTRAORDINAIRE! Greenwell Springs Regional Branch Library from 10-11 a.m. Juggler extraordi-

naire, Wink Danenberg, will amaze and entertain with his juggling feats.

(225) 274-4460

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WEDNESDAY NATIONAL CUPCAKE DAY

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT: POLAR EXPRESS. Denham Springs-Walker Branch Library at 5:30 p.m. Popcorn and snacks provided. mylpl.info HOLIDAY BUCHE DE NOEL. Louisiana Culinary Institute from 5-8 p.m. Chef Jeanne Mancuso will break down this holiday classic and guide you to make all of its components. lci.edu HUGO KRINGLE. EBR Main Library from 7-8 p.m. Hugo Kringle, Santa Claus’s younger brother, will be here to present a great holiday program. ebrpl.com RED STICK FARMERS MARKET. Pennington Biomedical Research Center from 8 a.m.noon. Locally grown products. breada.org SNOW & GLOW. Baton Rouge General Bluebonnet from 6-8 p.m.

Santa, snow, and glow performers. $5. brgeneral.org TEA LIGHT SNOWPERSON ORNAMENTS CRAFT. Delmont Gardens Branch Library from 4-5 p.m. Make adorable sets of Snowperson LED Tea Light Ornaments.

(225) 354-7060 TEEN HOME ALONE INTERACTIVE MOVIE. Albany-Springfield Branch Library from

5:30-7:30 p.m. Guests will enjoy a Christmas classic in an interactive way. Every participant will receive a kit with all the necessities to participate. mylpl.info TEEN MOVIE NIGHT: THE GRINCH. Watson Branch Library from 5:30-7 p.m. Video games, activities, crafts, and snacks. mylpl.info WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY SEMINAR. Baton Rouge General Bluebonnet at 6 p.m. Physician-led seminar about the types of surgeries and what to expect after. brgeneral.org WINK DANENBERG, JUGGLER EXTRAORDINAIRE! River Center Branch Library from 10-11 a.m. Wink will amaze you with not only his juggling but his comedy too. (225) 389-4959

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NATIONAL UGLY CHRISTMAS SWEATER DAY CHILDREN’S POP-UP COVID-19 VACCINATION CLINIC & PCR TESTING. Dutchtown Branch Library from 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Pfizer vaccines will be available to all Louisiana residents ages 5-11.

(844) 888-2772 ICE SKATING ON THE RIVER. Raising Cane’s River Center through January 3. Raising Cane’s River Center will transform the arena into a “Winter Wonderland” just in time for you to create your holiday memories. raising canesrivercenter.com

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SATURDAY ANSWER THE

TELEPHONE LIKE BUDDY THE ELF DAY NATIONAL WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA DAY CATAN MINI-TOURNEY. Bluebonnet Regional Branch Library from noon-5 p.m. Join the Grown-Up Gaming League (GUGL) as they explore the world of Catan in a mini-tournament designed to introduce new players to the game and enthusiasts to the GUGL. ebrpl.com CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS. First Baptist Church at 7 p.m. Opéra Louisiane is thrilled to feature their long-time community partner, the Dance Center and School of Performing Arts, as the opening act for this holiday performance. Experience the joy of Amahl’s tale as he encounters the three magi on their way to meet Jesus. operalouisiane.com CHRISTMAS TREES. EBR Main Library from 2:30-3 p.m. Join them as they read from Cheryl the Christmas Tree Fairy by Daisy Meadows and make mini Christmas trees. All children under nine must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required. ebrpl.com LAMAZE: A LABOR OF LOVE. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting at 9 a.m. Learn how to apply Lamaze techniques. womans.org LSU MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE PRESENTS: WHERE DO ALL THE HERPS GO? EBR Parish Libraries from 10 a.m.-noon.

Find out where all the reptiles and amphibians go when it gets cold, with herpetologist and snake lover Jackson Roberts. Ages 5-11.

Registration required. ebrpl.com PUNCH NEEDLE ART. Galvez Library at 10 a.m. Punch needling is an art style that has been used for centuries to handmake rugs or patches. Choose between Among Us characters, or keep it classic with Mario and Luigi. Then, learn how to turn these video game characters into fun, fluffy 3-D patches.

9-11. myapl.org RECORD SWAP DAY. Bluebonnet Regional Branch Library from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Adults can connect and trade records with other vinyl collectors. There will also be local vendors with tables of records to browse for purchase. ebrpl.com ROCK RESCUE. Gonzales Library at 10 a.m.

Learn about rocks in a hands-on way during this multi-sensory experience. 6-11. myapl.org ST. ALBAN’S UKULELE ORCHESTRA. EBR Main Library at 12:30 p.m. Join everyone in the Plaza for a free holiday performance by the St. Alban’s Ukulele Orchestra. ebrpl.com THE NUTCRACKER–A TALE FROM THE BAYOU. Raising Cane’s River Center Ballroom at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. The Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre’s annual holiday production is finally returning to the stage. ticketmaster.com WINTER SNOWMAN STORY CRAFT. Greenwell Springs Regional Branch Library from 3-4 p.m. Children will make a scratch snowman to hang, following the winter stories. Ages 6-11.

ebrpl.com

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CAJUN JAM. West Baton Rouge Museum from 3-5 p.m. This jam will be led by special guest Beau Brown, of the bands, Choupique and Brown Town. westbatonrougemuse um.org THE NUTCRACKER–A TALE FROM THE BAYOU. Raising Cane’s River Center Ballroom at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. The Baton Rouge Ballet Theatre’s annual holiday production returns to the stage.

Tickets start at $30. ticketmaster.com

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MONDAY BOARD GAME NIGHT. Denham Springs-Walker Branch Library from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Bring your friends and family

to the library to learn new tabletop games or to play your old favorites. Roleplayers are also welcome to bring their group. Ages 12 and up. mylpl.info CHRISTMAS TEA! Carver Branch Library from 4:30-5 p.m.

Sipping warm spiced tea during the cold days of Christmas can be so warming, but how does that tea get to your cup? Hear The Tale of Tea by Shalini Vallepur and then make origami tea cups. Ages 8-11. Call to register.

(225) 389-7440 HOLIDAY BREAK MOVIES. EBR Main Library from 10-11 a.m. Take a break and join us in the Children’s Room for movie time! We’ll be showing the feature-length film Mickey’s Christmas Carol. All children under the age of 9 must be accompanied by an adult. ebrpl.com LYRC READ-ALONG BOOK CLUB. EBR Main

35TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS IN CENTRAL PARADE. See December 4.

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DINAIRE! Delmont Gardens Branch Library at 10-11 a.m. Juggler extraordinaire, Wink Danenberg, is back with more juggling entertainment. (225) 354-7060

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WEDNESDAY

A RURAL LIFE CHRISTMAS. See December 5.

Library from 6:30-7 p.m.

Each week, they will pair the first chapters of two LYRC books with a simple craft for participants to enjoy while listening. ebrpl.com

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TUESDAY

WINTER SOLSTICE ADULT COLORING. Fairwood Branch Library from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Join us for some coloring fun! ebrpl.com BOOK PAGE ART. Dutchtown Library at 4 p.m. Repurpose loose pages from worn-out books and turn them into artful designs. Ages 12-18. myapl.org CARVER MOVIE NIGHT! Carver Branch Library at 3:30 p.m. Join them for an afternoon movie. ebrpl.com CHRISTMAS SQUASH BOOK. Watson Branch Library at 5:30-7 p.m.

This unique handmade card will delight and amaze everyone who receives one, whether it contains a gift card, family photos, or a personal holiday greeting. We provide everything you need to make your own. Ages 18+. Register online.

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mylpl.info HOLIDAY BREAK MOVIES. EBR Main Library from 10-11 a.m. and 2:30-3:30 p.m. Take a break and join them in the Children’s Room for movie time. All children under the age of nine must be accompanied by an adult. They’ll be showing the feature-length film Onward. ebrpl.com INTRODUCTION TO MICROSOFT WORD. Carver Branch Library from 10 a.m.-noon. ebrpl.com MORAVIAN STARS. PrideChaneyville Branch Library at 4-5 p.m. Four simple strips of paper woven into perfect 3D Moravian Stars. You’ll have a star-filled New Year. ebrpl.com MOVIE: THE BEST MAN HOLIDAY. Delmont Gardens at 2 p.m. Watch a movie about college friends who reunite after 15 years during the Christmas holidays and find that old romances and rivalries die hard in this emotionally-charged comedy. ebrpl.com WINK DANENBERG, JUGGLER EXTRAOR-

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BINGO IN THE GARDENS. Delmont Gardens Branch Library from 9:30-11 a.m. Adults of all ages are invited to play morning bingo in the gardens. Are the numbers in your favor?

Win and earn a small prize of your choice. ebrpl.com FITNESS IN THE STACKS. Bluebonnet Regional Branch Library from 10-11 a.m. every Wednesday and Friday.

Patrons can come to get fit by participating in a beginner aerobics video. ebrpl.com HOLIDAY BREAK MOVIES. EBR Main Library from 10-11 a.m. and 2:30-3:30 p.m. Take a break and join in the Children’s Room for movie time. All children under the age of nine must be accompanied by an adult. They’ll be showing the feature-length film The Secret Life of Pets (rated PG). ebrpl.com REINDEER STORY CRAFT. Greenwell Springs Regional Branch Library from 5-6 p.m. Children will celebrate the upcoming Christmas holiday by making a cute reindeer headband following the stories, Five More Sleeps by Jimmy Fallon, and Good Night, Reindeer by Denise Brennan-Nelson. Ages three to five. ebrpl.com SANTA STORY/ CRAFT. Pride-

Chaneyville Branch Library from 11 a.m.noon. Enjoy readings of Santa’s Story by Will Hillenbrand and The Night Before Christmas

by Clement C. Moore, then put together a cute Santa’s Workshop craft kit to take home. They’ll also play a game of Christmas Bingo! For children ages 3-11.

Registration required. ebrpl.com

FITNESS IN THE STACKS. Bluebonnet Regional Branch Library from 10-11 a.m. every Wednesday and Friday.

Patrons can come to get fit by participating in a beginner aerobics video. ebrpl.com

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THURSDAY FESTIVUS

CRAFTING FOR A CAUSE: WRAPPING UP CHRISTMAS! East Baton Rouge Parish Library Pride Chaneyville from 1-3 p.m. every Thursday.

This holiday season, they will be “Wrapping up Christmas” with creative ways to gift wrap and make bows.

Bring your presents and paper and get to wrapping. ebrpl.com HOLIDAY BREAK MOVIES. EBR Main Library from 10-11 a.m. and 2:30-3:30 p.m. Take a break and join in the Children’s Room for movie time. All children under the age of nine must be accompanied by an adult. They’ll be showing the feature-length film Frozen (rated PG). ebrpl.com RED STICK FARMERS MARKET. Pennington Biomedical Research Center from 8 a.m.noon. Red Stick Farmers Market has over 50 member farmers with a variety of locally grown products. breada.org

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FRIDAY

CHRISTMAS EVE

NATIONAL EGGNOG DAY

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MONDAY

ASB BOOK CLUB. Albany-Springfield Branch Library from 10 a.m.noon. The ASB Book Club meets on the last Monday of the month.

Check with the branch for details or if interested in joining. Space is limited. mylpl.info BINGO. Carver Branch Library from 11 a.m.noon. Join us for bingo. ebrpl.com HOLIDAY MOVIE BREAKS. EBR Main Library from 10-11 a.m. and 2:30-3:30 p.m. Take a break and join us in the Children’s Room for movie time. All children under the age of nine must be accompanied by an adult. They’ll be showing the feature-length film Big Hero 6 (rated PG). ebrpl.com LYRC READ-ALONG BOOK CLUB. EBR Main Library from 6:30-7 p.m.

Each week, they will pair the first chapters of two LYRC books with a simple craft for participants to enjoy while

listening. Read Max and the Midknights & Tito and the Bonecrusher. ebrpl.com

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TUESDAY 20-SOMETHINGS: ONE, TWO, SWITCH. Fairwood Branch Library from 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Enjoy a rousing game of One Two Switch on the Nintendo Switch. ebrpl.com HOLIDAY MOVIE BREAKS. EBR Main Library from 10-11 a.m. and 2:30-3:30 p.m. Take a break and join in the Children’s Room for movie time. All children under the age of nine must be accompanied by an adult. They’ll be showing the feature-length film Lady and the Tramp. ebrpl.com INTRODUCTION TO FACEBOOK. Carver Branch Library from 10 a.m.-noon. Registration is requested. Visit the reference desk or call to register.

(225) 389-7450 MAIN BRANCH BOOK CLUB. Livingston Parish Main Library from 10:30 -11:30 a.m. Join them for the Main Branch Book Club. mylpl.info

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WEDNESDAY ACRYLIC ART WORKSHOP. Jones Creek Regional Branch Library from 1-2 p.m. Make beautiful Louisiana-inspired art while learning the basics of acrylic painting. ebrpl.com FITNESS IN THE STACKS. Bluebonnet Regional Branch Library from 10-11 a.m. every Wednesday and Friday.

Patrons can get fit by

participating in a beginner aerobics video. ebrpl.com HOLIDAY MOVIE BREAKS. EBR Main Library from 10-11 a.m. and 2:30-3:30 p.m. Take a break and join in the Children’s Room for movie time. All children under the age of nine must be accompanied by an adult. They’ll be showing the feature-length film Annie (rated PG). ebrpl.com NEW YEARS COUNTDOWN STORY/CRAFT. Delmont Gardens Branch Library from 4-5 p.m. Reading of I Am Every Good Thing by Derrick Barnes and creating a New Years countdown craft. ebrpl.com PUNCH NEEDLE ART. Gonzales Library at 10 a.m. Punch needling is an art style that has been used for centuries to handmake rugs or patches. Choose between Among Us characters, or keep it classic with Mario and Luigi. Then, learn how to turn these video game characters into fun, fluffy 3-D patches.

9-11. myapl.org WHAT’S IN THE BAG? Jones Creek Regional Branch Library from 2-5 p.m. Stop by the Children’s Room for a mystery grab bag with a craft inside to take home and make, while supplies last. Ages 2-11. ebrpl.com

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THURSDAY CELEBRATION IN THE OAKS. New Orleans City Party through January 2.

Features a Driving Tour Experience and the Carousel Gardens

Experience. neworlean scitypark.com CRAFTING FOR A CAUSE: WRAPPING UP CHRISTMAS! East Baton Rouge Parish Library and Pride Chaneyville Branch Library from 1-3 p.m. every Thursday. Bring your presents and paper and get to wrapping. Learn a new skill and join other adults for a chance to create something beautiful while enjoying the company of fellow crafters. ebrpl.com HAPPY NEW YEAR’S - CONFETTI POPPER! Carver Branch Library from 4:30-5 p.m. Get ready to celebrate New Year’s Eve with your very own confetti popper. They will read Shante Keys and the New Year’s Peas by Gail Piernas-Davenport.

Then, using a paper tube, balloon, and construction paper confetti, everyone will leave with a popper ready to go for New Year’s Eve. Ages 7-11.

(225) 389-7440 HOLIDAY MOVIE BREAKS. EBR Main Library from 10-11 a.m. and 2:30-3:30 p.m. Take a break and join in the Children’s Room for movie time. All children under the age of nine must be accompanied by an adult. They’ll be showing the feature-length film Balto. ebrpl.com ICE SKATING ON THE RIVER. Raising Cane’s River Center through January 3. Raising Cane’s River Center will once again magically transform the arena into a “Winter Wonderland” just in time for you to create your holiday memories. raising

canesrivercenter.com RED STICK FARMERS MARKET. Pennington Biomedical Research Center from 8 a.m.noon. Red Stick Farmers Market has over 50 member farmers with a variety of locally-grown products. breada.org ZOOLIGHTS. BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo through today. See more than 50 illuminated display sculptures of animals and traditional holiday displays on a mile-long trail through the Zoo. Admission is $3-5. brzoo.org

for a mystery grab bag with a craft inside to take home and make, while supplies last.

Ages 2-11. ebrpl.com

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FRIDAY

NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION IN THE OAKS. New Orleans City Party through January 2.

Features a Driving Tour Experience and the Carousel Gardens Experience. neworleanscitypark.com ICE SKATING ON THE RIVER. Raising Cane’s River Center through January 3.

Raising Cane’s River Center will once again magically transform the arena into a “Winter Wonderland” just in time for you to create your holiday memories. raisingcanesri vercenter.com FITNESS IN THE STACKS. Bluebonnet Regional Branch Library from 10-11 a.m. every Wednesday and Friday.

Patrons can get fit by participating in a beginner aerobics video. ebrpl.com WHAT’S IN THE BAG? Jones Creek Regional from 10 a.m.-noon. Stop by the Children’s Room

MORE S T N E EV S NT @BRPARE Editor’s Note Occasionally the date or location of an event may change after publication.

Always phone ahead or check the website to confirm important information.

Submissions Baton Rouge Parents Magazine welcomes submissions of events of interest to families. Send all calendar submissions to calendar@brparents. com. Include dates, times, location with address, recommended ages, cost, public phone number, website, and photos.

Deadline Submit information for the January calendar by December 10, 2021.

No part of this calendar can be reproduced in print or web.

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IN EVERY ISSUE

marketplace MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS TO KNOW THEIR BUSINESS (225) 292-0032

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the last word

PODCAST

Eat, Pray and Bring a Change of Clothes

BY CHERYL MAGUIRE

I love to travel. Before becoming a proud parent of three darling cherubs, everyone said to me, “Enjoy traveling now because once you have kids, you won’t be able to do it anymore.”

Well, I proved all the naysayers wrong by hopping on that plane with three kids in tow, sometimes internationally. I didn’t let their age stop me either, they all flew before the age of two.

I

T wasn’t always easy though. In fact, it was downright disgusting at times but definitely worth it. I’m going to share some tips with you to save you the headache and messes I suffered.

BRING A CAR SEAT The first time our twins flew internationally, they were 18 months old. Most airlines do not require you to purchase a ticket if a child is under the age of two, so this seemed like a no-brainer to me. The entire ride both ways was a wrestling match between us and our twins–they definitely won in case you were wondering. There was no way they wanted to sit quietly on our laps for five hours–they wanted to roam freely through the airplane. When we traveled with their younger sister, I purchased a ticket for her, which meant I could strap her into her car seat. She slept the entire flight both ways.

PACK A CHANGE OF CLOTHES FOR THE PLANE Sometimes you learn the “hard way,” and other times, you learn in a repulsive way. When my son flew for the first time, we didn’t know he was prone to motion sickness (we now also pack Dramamine). I bet you are wondering, “How did you figure it out?” While cruising at an altitude of 36,000 feet, my son vomited his egg and cheese sandwich all over the person to his left: me. Of course, I had nothing to change into for the rest of the five-hour flight. Be sure to pack at least something to change into or you will wish you did.

PACK A CHANGE OF CLOTHES FOR YOUR DESTINATION Add clothes for your destination (such as a bathing suit, summer clothes, etc.) to your carry-on bag. Your luggage could get lost or it could take time getting to your room, so if you have other clothes accessible, you can change. You don’t want to be the family dressed in a hoodie and pants by the pool.

BRING A PEN (OR TWO) It took me at least three international flights before I remem62

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bered to add two pens to my passport holder. On the plane you receive immigration and customs forms which you need to fill out for each child, and the airlines will not provide a pen for you. Sure, you could wait until you get there, but if your child is strapped into their car seat, then you have time to fill it out.

BRING LOTS OF FOOD I pack an entire carry-on suitcase of snacks. Have you ever gone to the zoo or a farm and fed the animals? It’s fun, right?

The animals are happy to receive some food and you feel happy that you made the animal happy. Well, traveling on a plane for hours in a small confined area requires some moments when you want to “feel happy,” so food is a great way to achieve this effect. You have to save up these moments for when your child is about to lose it because even if you bring a whole carry-on suitcase filled with food, it’s going to run out if you overuse it.

PLAY OLD SCHOOL GAMES Let’s face it, things can go wrong with electronics and kids can get bored with it. If you are relying on that cool TV in the seat, don’t because I’ve been on at least three flights where none of the TVs worked. There are lots of old school games like a deck of cards, Tic Tac Toe, or iSpy that are easy to play in a confined space yet don’t take up much space in your carry-on bag.

PUT THE NAME ON OUTSIDE OF PASSPORT I’ve probably heard more compliments about my passport cover than any other parenting technique I’ve tried. So, if for no other reason, you could put the label on just to hear, “what a great idea.” The main reason for putting your name on the front cover is when you are in charge of five passports, it prevents you from having to open each one to figure out who it belongs to.

Now that I shared my mishaps with you, hopefully you can have a fun flight with your wee ones. You have to make the best of it because once you get to your destination, it will all be a distant memory, unless you forgot your change of clothes. ■

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