Baton Rouge Parents Magazine January 2021

JANUARY 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

The Private

School Edition

Meet the Faces of 2021 Got Tummy

Troubles?

Make Healthy a Habit

Free to be more McDonald’s® works for me — so I can work on my education Earn a high school diploma Take ESL classes Get tuition assistance Free guidance from advisors

Speak up and move forward If you are a non-native English speaker, you can be more confident conversing in English with customers and staff. Learn to improve your speaking, listening, reading and writing skills.

Smart move Get up to $2,500 a year in tuition assistance paid directly to any accredited four-year university, community college or trade school ($3,000 for managers). You can be eligible after working just 90 days and averaging at least 15 hours a week. Financial support from McDonald’s makes it easier to achieve your education goals.

Your future is golden Earn your high school diploma by taking classes online. It’s convenient and free — plus you can even share this benefit with family members.

Take a step in the right direction Get free help with an education or career plan. Our advisors can help you and your immediate family members find your golden future.

You can do this Find all the information you need, including eligibility details, at ArchwaysToOpportunity.com Questions? Contact us at Archways_to_Opportunity@us.mcd.com

© 2019 McDonald’s. Most McDonald’s restaurants are operated by independent franchisees who are independent employers, and set their own employment policies and practices, including pay and benefits for the people working in their restaurants. McDonald’s does not control the independent franchisees’ employment policies and practices and does not employ those working at franchised restaurants. The programs described here are available at McDonald’s-owned restaurants and the restaurants of participating franchisees. McDonald’s and its franchisees are equal opportunity employers committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce.

COMMITTED TO BEING AMERICA’S BEST FIRST JOB.®

B R PA R E N T S . C O M |

JANUARY 2021

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est. 1998

ACS Montessori Preschool • Preschool ages 2 1/2 to 5 years • Full Time/Part Time • Hours: 7 am – 5:30 pm

POSITIONS AVAIL ABLE Summer Session 2021: June 1st – July 23rd School Session: 2021/2022 Call for an appointment/tour:

225-315-8140 20440 A Highland Rd (near Old Jefferson)

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J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 1 | B AT O N R O U G E PA R E N T S

DIOCESE OF BATON ROUGE DEPARTMENT OF SPECIAL EDUCATION

I I I

III

OPENINGS for 2021-2022

for students with intellectual disabilities, autism, Down Syndrome, specific learning disabilities and other health impairments

B R PA R E N T S . C O M |

JANUARY 2021

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y Saturdiang Morn JAN 9 On a Roll FEB 13

Sustainable Sculptures

MAR 13

No Paintbrushes Allowed!

APR 10

Toute Naturelle

MILTON J. WOMACK PARK 10:30 A.M.-NOON / AGES: 8-12 / $10 PER SAT

brec.org/brecart 6

J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 1 | B AT O N R O U G E PA R E N T S

Upload pics of your kids to brparents.com to be featured in the magazine!

B R PA R E N T S . C O M |

JANUARY 2021

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Inside

JANUARY 2021 • ISSUE 366

30

FEATURES

35

36

2021 PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE See what our private schools have to offer for 2021.

DEPARTMENTS

BY BRPM

IN EVERY ISSUE

36

10 CONNECTING 12 A MOTHER’S VOICE 96 CALENDAR 103 MARKETPLACE 104 THE LAST WORD 106 SNAPSHOTS

MAKING IT STICK Learn the art of studying.

BY ANITA RAJEAN WALKER

50

STUDENTS TELL ALL Hear from real students on what private schools are like.

BY AMANDA MILLER

62

CONNECT 14 COMMUNITY 18 EDUCATION 19 ONE AMAZING KID

LIVE

MANAGING TUITION COSTS Find out how private school is more affordable than you think.

2020-21 Cover Kid: Estrella V.

YEAR ANNIVERSARY

24 MOM NEXT DOOR 26 THRIVE 28 FAITH

BY MELANIE FORSTALL LEMOINE, PH.D.

PLAY

22

94

88 A DAY IN THE LIFE OF DAD 90 OUT & ABOUT 92 THINGS WE LOVE

BY AMY L. FOREMAN

BY SARAH LYONS

THEY’RE ALWAYS WATCHING How to set a better example for your children in 2021.

GOT TUMMY TROUBLES? Discover how to soothe tummy aches and when to contact the doctor.

Thank you to Inka’s Uniforms for providing us with a uniform for our photo shoot.

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TRENDY NICKNAMES FOR FAMILY MEMBERS Choose your grandparent, uncle, or aunt name from these ideas.

BY EMILY DREZ

ON THE COVER 2020-21 Cover Kid: Tripp M.

Photo credit: Kleinpeter Photgraphy

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2020-21 Cover Kid Rylan K. felt like a celebrity at her photoshoot. Rylan enjoys gymnastics, dance, and playing basketball. On the weekends, she likes to go fishing and hunting. She’s always full of energy and loves everyone, especially her baby sister, Charlotte.

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Connecting

THE MAGAZINE THAT BATON ROUGE FAMILIES LIVE BY

MEET OUR TEAM

POLL What I really want right now is…

BRANDON FOREMAN Associate Publisher

“A new cat.”

– Christa C.

AMY L. FOREMAN Director of Operations

“Sleep.”

– Paola A. “Sleep, a lifetime of money, and lobster.”

– Jacklyn S. “Holiday vacation.”

– Michael L.

Have you ever stopped to think about what you want? We’re not talking about what you hope to have one day in the future; we’re talking about right now. Like if it “fell out of the sky and landed in your lap” right now. We asked our readers what they were wanting right now and here is what they had to say.

AMY PLAISANCE Founder and Editor in Chief

EDITORIAL AMANDA MILLER Managing Editor MARI WALKER Section Editor VICTORIA COTEJAR Social Media Coordinator

“To be with my husband.

He’s overseas right now.”

– Camille O.

EMILY DREZ Editorial Intern

“World peace.”

– Silver S.

ART/PRODUCTION MELODY TAUZIN Senior Graphic Designer

“A sausage pizza from Fleur de Lis Pizza.”

– Amanda M. “A new puppy!”

– Dylan M. “To be on a beach with my family, enjoying the sun.”

– Amy F.

There’s obviously a learning curve. You just have to be kind to yourself with that because you do feel like you’re doing everything wrong, especially in the early days.

– Anne Hathaway

MADDIE SOILEAU Graphic Design Intern KLEINPETER PHOTOGRAPHY Cover Photographer ADVERTISING/MARKETING LAURIE ACOSTA Director of Sales CRYSTAL BARRETT JO LYNN BURNS JASON WALL RYN WHITESIDE Account Executives TERI HODGES Director of Community Partnerships ROXANE VOORHIES Community Outreach

Freebies

CONTACT US

Visit brparents.com and click “Register for Freebies.” | Deadline to enter is January 22, 2021.

Family game night gets even better with the Stick Together Let’s Celebrate Puzzle. letsticktogether.com

Quench your thirst and show your Tiger pride with Corkcicle’s Louisiana State University Tumbler. corkcicle.com

LAST MONTH’S WINNERS Look who won December’s Freebies: Danielle Taylor won the Loog Mini Guitar and Jennifer Bordelon won the Scratch & Shimmer Spirograph.

/brparents

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JANUARY 2021 |

/brparents

/baton-rouge-parenting-magazine

B AT O N R O U G E PA R E N T S

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BRPARENTS.COM EDITORIAL@BRPARENTS.COM CALENDAR@BRPARENTS.COM OFFICE 225-292-0032 11831 WENTLING AVENUE BATON ROUGE, LA 70816-6055

Copyright © 2021. All rights reserved. ISSN # 1050-8708. Reproduction prohibited without permission. The opinions expressed in Baton Rouge Parents Magazine are those of the authors or advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products or services herein. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any paid advertisement. Baton Rouge Parents Magazine is a division of Family Resource Group Inc.

WITH 21 PEDIATRICIANS, 39 INTERNISTS, ON-SITE FULL-SERVICE LAB AND RADIOLOGY, AND NUMEROUS SPECIALTIES, WE HAVE EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KEEP YOU AND YOUR LITTLE ONE

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OFFERING TWO PEDIATRIC LOCATIONS PEDIATRICS AT PERKINS 7373 PERKINS RD, BATON ROUGE, LA 70808 PEDIATRICS AT INDUSTRIPLEX 12351 INDUSTRIPLEX BLVD, BATON ROUGE, LA 70809 TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT PLEASE CALL (225) 246-9290 B R PA R E N T S . C O M |

JANUARY 2021

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IN EVERY ISSUE

A Mother’s Voice

It’s a New Year

2

020 WAS DEFINITELY a whirlwind that none of us were expecting.

I think it’s safe to say that many of us experienced things we never once dreamed we would be going through. There were highs and plenty of lows along the way, but despite everything, we made it through to 2021, and that is something we should all be thankful for.

A new year is all about new beginnings, and that’s precisely what I want to focus on this year more than ever. I encourage you to join me in dreaming even bigger and creating even more memories, even if you’re still hunkered down at home. My resolution is to make 2021 full of light and positivity because we really need it.

Among the many unexpected things we experienced in 2020, one of them was virtual learning. Luckily, our schools quickly adapted to help us through this time and help keep our children learning. Our January issue is a special one in that it highlights some of those schools.

It’s a fact...perhaps...that learning is a lot more fun for your little learners when they’re at the right school. Baton Rouge

offers great public schools, but it’s also home to many incredible private schools. If you’re looking for the right private school for your child, this issue provides a listing, open houses, virtual tours, and profiles to help you narrow down your choices. In this list, you will find schools with strong college preparatory programs, religious schools, schools with programs for children with special needs and schools with great extracurricular activities and athletics.

Another exciting part of this issue is that we have the opportunity to introduce you to the 2021 Faces of Greater Baton Rouge.

Learning about these incredible business owners, doctors, and administrators has been a joy, but sharing their incredible work with you is even better. Get to know these Faces because they’re what help make the Greater Baton Rouge area so special.

This issue is packed with things to help you as 2021 unfolds. May this year be as productive and stress-free as possible and, most importantly, may thankfulness overwhelm you. Let’s joyfully continue on in this journey of parenthood together.

AMY PLAISANCE Founder and Editor in Chief

HAVE IDEAS? I’d like to hear from you.

By mail: Amy P. 11831 Wentling Ave., Baton Rouge, LA 70816 Email: editorial@brparents.com Be sure to include your name, address and daytime phone number.

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B R PA R E N T S . C O M |

JANUARY 2021

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CONNECT

Community READ TOGETHER EVEN WHEN APART STORYTIME WITH GRANDPARENTS still looks different for those of us who are not living close to our extended family.

Many options for virtual meetings exist, but Readeo is one that’s designed specifically for reading together across the distance. Its patented BookChat platform makes sharing stories easy, no matter the distance. Readeo provides access to a growing library of children’s books online, and either side of the video call can flip a book’s pages easily. This interactive experience helps to capture little readers’ attention longer, and if no one is available to meet, your kiddos can still read the books on their own. The monthly subscription is $10, or $100 for a year, and Readeo can be accessed on computers and tablets. When you create a Readeo account, your family also gets full access to the library for free. readeo.com

TIKTOK INCREASES SECURITY FOR FAMILIES HELPING TEENS NAVIGATE the digital world is next-level parenting. So many apps are popping up daily that it seems the second we get comfortable with one, there’s a new one to learn. One favorite app is trying to make things easier for parents. TikTok has expanded its Family Pairing service, which allows a parent to link their account to their teen’s, providing parents with oversight and tools to help shape their teen’s TikTok experience. Parents can now have controls for search, screen time, comments, discoverability, liked videos, and direct messages. Family Pairing is available only for users older than 13. TikTok for Younger Users allows a view-only experience with curated content and additional safety and privacy protections for the under-13 audience. tiktok.com

A SAFER SEARCH ENGINE FOR KIDS ONLINE SEARCHES ARE a part of modern life, but introducing our kiddos to the wonders–and dangers–of Google is something for which parents may never be fully ready. The simplest and most innocent searches can bring up the most unexpected and shocking results. Kiddle.co is a search engine designed for kids that can be a softer entry point for younger ones needing or wanting to look up information online.

The illustrated, large-font search engine is powered

by Google Safe Search, although it’s not affiliated with or created by the tech giant. “Bad” searches will return an “Oops, try again!” page. As with all things Internet, parental guidance is needed, but this may be a good starting point for our mini investigators to be set loose. kiddle.co 14

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B AT O N R O U G E PA R E N T S

LASM OFFERS NEW VIRTUAL REALITY TOUR AS COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS shift, museum-going hasn’t been a priority. The Louisiana Art & Science Museum has launched LASM 360 to provide access to its collections from home. The fully immersive virtual experience is accessible on computers, phones, tablets or with a virtual reality headset. The first of its kind, the free-access digital museum and planetarium experience provides education and entertainment for everyone. “LASM 360 is our creative solution to a significant problem,” says Serena Pandos, LASM president and executive director. “Many people are not currently able to visit LASM in-person for myriad reasons.” The program is sponsored by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana, Healthy Blue Louisiana, AT&T, Louisiana Lottery Corporation, and BASF. virtual-lasm.org/lasm-360

SURVEY SAYS: DADS TAKE MORE ‘ME TIME’

RUNNING A FAMILY can absolutely be done by one person–major props to all single parents!–but in two-parent families, the imbalance persists with moms reporting that they are taking less time to themselves.

In a recent national survey commissioned by online retailer Zulily, 68 percent of moms say that they take between one and five hours of “me time” each week. However, 37 percent of dads say they are clocking 6-10 hours to themselves every week. The Zulily survey also found that 88 percent of moms say “giver” best describes their role in the family. Individual families can find better balance, as time for parents’ self care can make life better for everyone. Moms, make sure you are giving yourself time, too! We all need time to recoup.

WOMAN’S RECEIVES INFANT SEAT DONATION

WOMAN’S HOSPITAL NICU was a winner of Project 4 from Project Sweet Peas, a nonprofit supporting NICUs and NICU families, and 4moms, makers of the mamaRoo infant seat. With nearly 200 nominations, the most of any hospital in the country, Woman’s was one of 10 hospitals that received donated infant seats. Used in hospitals across the country, the mamaRoo’s natural bouncing and swaying motion can be transformational in preemies’ care. “We are grateful for the donation and honored to have the support from those who nominated us,” says Laurel Kitto, Woman’s NICU director. “The mamaRoo is a favorite with NICU nurses and families, and now more of our tiny patients will have access to one while in the hospital.”

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CONNECT • COMMUNITY

PHONE SCREENSAVER APP FOR KIDS HANDING YOUR PHONE to your preschooler can be a gamble, especially since they could accidentally send an email or text, or even post to your social media pages. If they find your phone on their own, they can lock you out with one too many incorrect passcode entries. Enter Lockitz!, a $4 lock screen app that provides farm, sea or space themed scenes complete with sound effects on the lock screen.

“Every parent I know has had that moment where they had to race after their kid and grab a cell phone out of their hands,” says app creator Melanie Lefkowitz. “Lockitz! gives them the peace of mind that their kids are enjoying themselves and learning something, and their data and phone access is protected.” getlockitz.com

NEW TRAY OFFERS SHOPPING CART SAFETY SOMETIME THIS YEAR, we’ll all surely venture back to the grocery stores with our little helpers in tow. A new product has been designed to help keep toddlers safe and entertained when they are riding in the shopping cart. Buggie Huggie was invented by Nichole Clark after her son hit his head after falling from a cart. The $40 tray helps keep toddlers from standing up while in the car and gives them space for entertainment, including toys, snacks and drawing supplies. “As parents everywhere face decision fatigue from months of quarantine with their little ones, we are passionate about reducing their stress of running errands in-store with their toddlers,” says Jack Clark III, Buggie Huggie chief stewardship officer. buggiehuggie.com

AUDUBON NETWORK HELPS COLD-STUNNED SEA TURTLES THE GULF OF Mexico is a popular destination, especially in the winter months. That’s true for people and Kemp’s ridley sea turtles, which migrate to our warmer waters in the fall.

Thirty of the endangered sea turtles that didn’t make the migration in time, suffered hypothermia or cold-stunning, and washed up on the beaches of Cape Cod. However, the turtles got to hop a flight to New Orleans for rehab at the Audubon Coastal Wildlife Network.

“We were more than happy to jump in and offer our help with the rehabilitation of these sea turtles,” says Gabriella Harlamert, Audubon marine mammal and sea turtle stranding, rescue and rehab coordinator. The turtles will be released in the Gulf once they’re healthy.

DESIGN YOUR OWN OREO FOR A UNIQUE TREAT NOTHING BEATS AN Oreo cookie (or seven) with a tall glass of milk, but imagine the experience with an Oreo you designed yourself. The sandwich cookie company has a new program, Oreo ID, which allows customization of the beloved Oreos. Using their website, you can choose the flavors, icing colors, fudge dips, sprinkles and even add your own personalized images and text to them. Prices vary based on your choices, starting at $2.50 per cookie, and the minimum order is 20. The online ordering interface is easy enough for kids to get in on the action, and it could make for a fun project, a unique gift, or simply something to look forward to when your cookies get delivered to your doorstep as the pandemic winter continues to roll on. oreo.com/oreoid-1 16

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B AT O N R O U G E PA R E N T S

OLOL CLINIC OPENS IN CAPITAL HEIGHTS A NEW HEALTH care option is now

available in Mid City Baton Rouge. Our Lady of the Lake Physician Group has opened a new clinic in the Capital Heights neighborhood. Led by Manish Mishra, DO, the clinic offers primary care services and the diagnosis, treatment, and care of simple to complex illnesses in adults including musculoskeletal care for aches and pains at the Government Street location. “This new clinic provides access to primary care

in a patient centered environment for those living in and around Baton Rouge’s Mid City,” says LaDonna Green, CEO of the group. “Dr. Mishra is a welcoming presence for patients seeking comprehensive services paired with compassionate care that you can expect with any one of our providers, but now closer to home.” ololrmc.com

HOMEGOODS TO LAUNCH ONLINE ONLINE SHOPPING WAS huge in

Make this year the healthiest one,

yet!

Flu shots, flu tests, and COVID-19 tests are available at 18 locations.

Together we can slow the spread of flu and COVID-19.

Walk-In

Check-In Online

Schedule a Virtual Visit

LakeUrgentCare.com Our Coursey location does not allow COVID-19 patients or testing in order to serve as our “Clean Clinic”.

2020. In fact, it was encouraged...or so we tell ourselves that after all of our packages come in! The online shopping trend is likely to continue into this year. But not all of our favorite stores offer that “add to cart” option. Thankfully, HomeGoods, the decor retailer without an online shopping presence, has announced that it will launch an online store in 2021. “We are pleased to share that we plan to roll out e-commerce on HomeGoods.com,” says Ernie Herrman, CEO and president of The TJX Companies, Inc. that owns HomeGoods. Virtually browsing through an array of throw pillows, cozy blankets, candles and more sounds like a great way to scratch the shopping itch while adhering to CDC recommendations. homegoods.com B R PA R E N T S . C O M |

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CONNECT

Education PARKVIEW BAPTIST HOSTS CANNED GOOD OLYMPICS

KINDERGARTENERS CREATE CAVE ART

“FASTER. HIGHER. STRONGER.” is the motto of the Olympic Games, and the delayed 2020 summer games are scheduled to take place in Tokyo this year. Early Childhood Education students at Parkview Baptist School caught the Olympic spirit a little early by participating in the school’s fourth annual Canned Good Olympics.

The students competed on the football field, using the donated goods to complete a variety of fun challenges. The student-athletes were introduced, passed the torch and took the field for events revolving around canned goods donated with love. The donations were picked up by the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. Students donated 943 canned goods and learned the importance of giving back to their community.

KINDERGARTEN STUDENTS AT the Baton Rouge Center for Visual and Performing Arts have been exploring the question “What is art?” First, they read the book The First Drawing by Mordicai Gerstein and learned about the earliest cave drawings when humans discovered how to share what they could envision in their minds through drawing. Students then got the chance to make some art of their own in the same style. “They began their roles as little cave people by foraging for natural art media,” says teacher Kelly Adkinson. “Students began using those materials to create their very own cave drawings by rubbing leaves and painting with mud that they mixed.” In addition to art, science and social studies lessons came into play during the project.

LIVINGSTON LAUNCHES GIRLS WHO CODE CLUB

NORTHSIDE ELEMENTARY A TOP-PERFORMING SITE QUALITY EDUCATION MATTERS, especially when students are young. Northside Elementary Pre-K program in Denham Springs has been named a Top 10-rated early childhood education site by the Louisiana Department of Education. Five other sites in the parish received the state’s top excellent rating. Northside tied for number eight in the rankings. “We are proud of the growth we are seeing across our district in our early childhood classes,” says Stacey Milton, supervisor of instruction for the parish. “Through collaboration and professional development focused on a more blended learning environment this year, our teachers are continuing to work hard in providing a high-quality education for our youngest learners to prepare them for kindergarten and beyond.”

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THE INAUGURAL EVENT for the Livingston Parish chapter of the Girls Who Code Club drew more than 20 girls from across the parish. The students were introduced to educational opportunities and high-paying career possibilities that are available to women with strong computing skills. The event was hosted at the Denham Springs High School STEM and Robotics Center and was sponsored by the local Raising Cane’s, Chick-fil-A and Starbucks. Girls Who Code is a national nonprofit focused on educating, equipping and inspiring girls to actively seek out careers in technology, while also closing the gender gap in new entry-level tech jobs. The local chapter was started by Denham Springs teachers Chris Thorne and Sarah Halphen. girlswhocode.com

NE AMAZING KID

WHEN SO MANY things shut down last year, Matteo Runge was lucky to find a silver lining. The sixth grader at Baton Rouge International School became a 2020 Louisiana state chess champion and credits his success to extra practice time.

“Since coronavirus happened, I improved on chess,” Matteo says. “I wouldn’t have gotten second in the state if it weren’t for coronavirus because I was online and practicing every day for that state championship.”

Now 11, Matteo has played chess for several years and is a member of his school’s chess club. “I thought he was too young to learn the game of chess when he was in Kindergarten,” says Donald, Matteo’s dad. “I didn’t learn myself until I was about in seventh grade. But he kept insisting on learning how the pictures moved.” Matteo’s mom, Isabella, first taught him the basics.

Virtual tournaments have allowed chess competitions to continue during COVID-19, but Matteo is looking forward to in-person tournaments again. “I like going in real life,” he says. “It’s so good to see people and the chess pieces because I like to move them around.”

Also an athlete, Matteo has played football, baseball and has a taekwondo blue belt.

He enjoys video games and playing with friends and younger brother, Jack.

Matteo’s determination is impressive. “He is remarkably focused when it comes to the things he enjoys,” Donald says. “I’m amazed at how rapidly he’s advanced in chess.”

With a goal to grow up and become a chess master and for many other reasons, Matteo is certainly one amazing kid.

DO YOU HAVE ONE AMAZING KID? Email: education@brparents.com B R PA R E N T S . C O M |

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CONNECT • EDUCATION

ST. JOSEPH’S ACADEMY HELPS FEED HURRICANE VICTIMS BUILDING ON THEIR successful partnership with St. Vincent de Paul providing 250 brown bag lunches each Tuesday, St. Joseph’s Academy students, faculty and staff expanded their “Sticker Sacks” project to feed those impacted by Hurricane Laura in Iowa, Louisiana. Sister Chris Pologa, the academy’s pastoral care minister, challenged the school to “roll up their sleeves and serve the dear neighbor with loving compassion.” The goal was to collect 1,000 lunches, but the school’s generosity far exceeded expectations, and more than 8,000 brown bag lunches were donated. “I was overwhelmed, thrilled and humbled by the response of SJA Sticker family,” Sister Pologa says. The Iowa Sticker Sack effort began when alum Mary Miller and her family asked if the school could help.

NEW SCHOOL IN ASCENSION

ASCENSION PARISH PUBLIC Schools marked the opening of a new middle school campus in Prairieville with a ribbon cutting ceremony. The 19-acre campus of Bluff Middle School is the system’s first new middle school construction in recent history. With 137,000 square feet, the campus includes a two-story academic building that includes an open-concept media center and a gymnasium complex.

Costing $25.7 million, the project was part of a $120 million school construction initiative approved by voters in 2016. The school opened for students in grades sixth through eighth last August.

Matthew Monceaux, EdD, is principal, and Dawn Williams Alston, MEd, is assistant principal.

FIFTH GRADERS FIX UP PRE-K4 GARDEN WEEDING, PAINTING AND other get-your-hands-dirty projects were recently enjoyed by Episcopal School of Baton Rouge fifth graders as they spruced up the school’s Pre-K4 garden. Working with QUEST Center coordinator Dr. Elizabeth Lewis and several other fifth grade teachers, the students re-imagined the space, drawing up their own proposals and working together on implementing them, bringing their unique ideas to life. The resulting space includes a bird sanctuary, construction zone, prehistoric place, milkweed monitoring, a mudpie kitchen, and patches for growing herbs and various vegetables. The brightly colored outdoor learning environment is just outside of the Pre-K4 classroom, and the younger students are thrilled with their reimagined garden.

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VETERAN ZOOMS WITH U-HIGH FIFTH GRADERS VIRTUAL MEETINGS MAY get a bad rap sometimes, but they have definitely expanded what is possible in the classroom for our little learners. Fifth grade students at University Laboratory School were recently able to interact with a military veteran after they read his story in Scholastic News. Joe Worley received a service dog as part of his recovery after he lost a leg while serving in Iraq. “The students were quite interested in learning how service dogs help military veterans physically, mentally and emotionally,” says teacher Ben Hartman. Worley is a volunteer motivational speaker with America’s VetDogs, an organization that trains service dogs for veterans, including his own. Via Zoom, Worley shared his story, introduced his dog, Galaxie, and engaged with Hartman’s fifth grade classes. vetdogs.org

DONATED KEYBOARDS MAKE MUSIC AT HOME

LEARNING AT HOME is hard.

Learning music at home without an instrument is nearly impossible. Early in the school year, music teachers at McKinley Middle Academic Magnet School had to improvise for their piano classes. “If families couldn’t come up with something for their student to practice on at home, students could print a paper keyboard and use that as a practice too,” says Michelle Wilkinson-Nelson, orchestra teacher. A sixth grader told his parents about other kids having to play “paper pianos,” and they donated keyboards for students to take home. “They were bigger and nicer than the ones I had suggested,” Wilkinson-Nelson says. “Thanks to this new student and his family, 10 students are learning piano at home!”

GIFT CARD DRIVE SUPPORTS LAKE CHARLES SCHOOL STUDENTS FROM THE Baton Rouge area continue to help those in Calcasieu Parish who were devastated by Hurricane Laura. St. Michael the Archangel High School students, faculty and staff came together and collected gift cards for St. Louis Catholic High School in Lake Charles, raising more than $10,000. Joey Sanchez, dean of students and head football coach, and the SMHS football team spent the day in Lake Charles, delivering the gift cards, serving food and volunteering in other ways. “It was a humbling experience to see everyone so thankful for our help,” Sanchez says. “Living in Louisiana, we all know the devastating effects that hurricanes can bring, so it felt good to give back to our neighbors in their time of need.”

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They’re Always Watching

L

8 Habits to Have a Healthier 2021

BY AMY L. FOREMAN

PODCAST

ET’S CALL IT like it is! 2020 was a rough year for all of us. Our lives were

basically flipped upside down Fresh Prince style, and we were left to completely learn a new system on how to parent, how to work from home, how to live! It certainly hasn’t been easy and we’ve acquired a few bad habits along the way.

Daily online shopping? Yes. Delivery instead of cooking? Sign me up. More couch time instead of working out? Absolutely. We’ve been through an emotionally challenging time, but now with 2021 here, it’s time to flip the script.

As we continue to navigate through a worldwide pandemic, let’s put a positive spin on 2021 and make some new healthy family lifestyle changes. It will help to put the good vibes back into our lives. We know that our children learn most of their habits from what they see us doing anyway, so let’s encourage them to pick up a few good ones this year. Here are a few to get you started.

1. Start exercising. Why is exercise important in your daily life? Well, the health benefits of regular exercise and physical activity are just too hard to ignore. Everyone benefits

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from exercise, regardless of age, sex or physical ability. Exercise helps control weight, improves your mood, and boosts your energy. And, you don’t have to be in a class or following along to a video to exercise. Take the family for an evening walk around the neighborhood. If you have younger children, turn it into a nature hike.

Instead of sitting at home all weekend, take your bikes out for a spin around the LSU lakes and have a picnic along the way. If the weather is nice, go for a swim or out to a park and actually run around and play with your littles on the swings. Leave your cell

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phone in the car and enjoy this time you have together.

2. Go to the doctor. Yes, regularly. When you’re scheduling all of your child’s appointments, don’t forget about yourself! When your children see you going to the doctor, it sets an example for them to want to get their well visits done, too. If you go to the doctor and have to get a shot, let your kids see if they aren’t too nervous. Just by doing this simple action, they will be able to see that shots aren’t so bad after all, and when they have to get one, it won’t be so hard.

3. Stop buying junk food! We know it’s hard, but you’ll be happier and save on money in the end. Make easy-to-access healthy snacks for your crew for when your kiddos want a snack. Cut out the sugar and soft drinks, and go to the produce stand or to the farmers market instead. This is also a great way to spend time with the family each weekend.

4. Don’t skip breakfast. The number one tip? Always eat breakfast. It’s important for a bunch of reasons. It jumpstarts your metabolism and stops you from overeating later.

Plus, studies show that adults who have a healthy breakfast do better at work, and kids who eat a morning meal, score higher on tests. If a big plateful first thing in the morning isn’t for you, keep it light with a granola bar or a piece of fruit. Just don’t skip it.

5. Drink plenty of water. Water can do so many good things for you. Staying hydrated is at the top of the list, but it may also help you lose weight. Another reason to go for H2O? Sugary drinks are linked to obesity and type 2 diabetes. If you aren’t a fan of plain water, add flavor with slices of orange, lemon, lime, watermelon, or cucumber.

6. Mind your mental health. Mental health is so important, especially with the pandemic affecting all of us. Date nights with your

littles once a month can help keep everyone smiling and in a good mood. Make sure to give each child his or her own night. Having these date nights helps to give them each time to talk about what has happened at school, what’s going on with their friends, how they feel about the pandemic, and what keeps them up at night. Or, make it a family affair and schedule nights with other family members to chat. If they are not local, set up Zoom or FaceTime calls. And most importantly, don’t forget to take time for you and your significant other.

7. Unplug the devices. Technology has many benefits, and yes, we use it every day. While I would never argue against the responsible use of it, it is becoming increasingly obvious that our world is developing an unhealthy attachment to it. Addiction to any device is common. When you unplug from technology, it doesn’t just mean turning off your phone. You also need to turn off the television and your computer and any other electronic device. It can also include taking a step back from stressful environments. After a long day of work, both your brain and your body need to recover. Being “on” 24/7 isn’t healthy for you. Take time to reconnect with yourself by unplugging from work-related technology after work hours. Once you get home, the work should stop. We often want our kiddos to put away the devices, so by

following suit, they may begin to enjoy the screen-free, stress-free time as well.

8. Use social media less. Studies have shown the benefits of unplugging from technology, but there are even more studies about how social media use can affect our well-being.

It’s so tempting to hop onto social media first thing after opening our eyes, but try to resist that urge. Start your day another way by appreciating the world around you.

By avoiding social media first thing in the morning, you can start your day in a better place. Social media, despite its connectedness, can cause you to feel lonely, depressed, envious, jealous, or even dissatisfied with your life. Taking a break from seeing what others are doing or have, and instead, focusing on being grateful for what you have, is important. It’s also a good idea to recognize that what’s on social media is not always an accurate representation of someone’s life, and comparing yourself and your posts to them is not a healthy practice.

According to a study published in the European Journal of Social Psychology, it takes 66 days for a new behavior to become something we do without thinking about it. Not all great things can happen overnight, but as long as we take baby steps, we will absolutely create change and establish new healthy habits for ourselves (and our children to follow) before 2022 rolls around.

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LIVE

Mom Next Door

Colleen Waguespack

BY AMANDA MILLER PHOTO BY KLEINPETER PHOTOGRAPHY

Occupation: Interior designer and owner of Fig & Dove Husband: Stephen Children: Craig, 17; Christopher, 15; and Brady, 13 Hobbies: Cooking, designing and creating, & walking and running

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IFE AS A mom is busy, real busy. When you add on your career, which includes owning your own business, things can begin to get even more hectic and harder to juggle. However, Colleen Waguespack has found a way to always live her life on the go, but to do it all with grace. Her secret? Knowing that you simply can’t do it all.

As a mother of three, Colleen encourages all moms to look at what’s most important and when. While the laundry may be overflowing or the dishes may need to be done, Colleen wants fellow moms to know that your kiddos won’t remember those things. What they will remember, though, is the time that you spent with them.

How would you describe raising your children?

C: I’m a mom of three boys and they’re three completely different children. I’ve had them at three different schools for most of their lives. Our middle son is on the autism spectrum and he has a completely different set of academic and social needs than my other two sons. One of my sons is really into sports and another is really into leadership exercises and youth government, so it’s interesting because they’re three boys, but they’re three very different people.

What are some things you like to do together as a family?

C: We love to play cards. I can’t recommend playing cards enough.

There’s something about what your kids will tell you over a card game. There’s a natural family chatter that is really healthy. I also like to cook as a family and give everybody their task. It drags them away from their phones and gets them doing something with their hands.

What’s the greatest thing about being a mom?

C: Just getting to know your children, especially as they get older.

There’s a big difference between moms and dads. When a kid gets sick, they call their mom. Kids will let their guard down in front of their mom in a different way than they will with their dad, and I’ve always liked that.

How has parenthood changed you?

C: A lot, especially because I have a child with special needs. It has given me perspective, so I feel like I’ve done such a better job of seeing other people’s sides of things. I’m way softer on people.

What do you love most about your job?

C: It’s creative. You have to love what you do to be a working mom

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PODCAST

Kids will let their guard down in front of their mom in a different way than they will with their dad, and I’ve always liked that. because it takes so much energy and extra effort and coordination to just get work. You’ve already done 20 things to just show up at the door at work. I love mine because I was always creative, always had a thousand ideas, and I love that I found a way to come up with a creative career that allows me to do that. It gets me excited about work.

What has your job taught you about parenting?

C: In owning my own business, I’ve very much tried to involve my kids with my business and get them excited about our growth and sales. They come to the office and help us ship and pack and they help us load the car when we’re going to a show. I’ve learned to make my kids a part of the business and that has been a real feel-good thing for us. They feel like they’re a part of it.

How do you make time to relax?

C: I only relax one time, one place: in the bathtub every night. Anybody who knows me knows there is no relaxation, no stop, no pause, except for the bathtub. What I love about the bathtub is you can’t bring your phone in the bathtub. I take a bath every single night and I bring a book. It flips my brain from work and kids to a different place.

What’s your favorite date night with your husband?

C: Going to Houmas House because you can walk the grounds, have a drink, and have dinner.

What’s the best parenting advice you have ever received?

C: From Maria Shriver’s Ten Things I Wish I’d Known - Before I Went Out into the Real World, you can do everything in life but not all at the same time. There’s a season for everything in life and it doesn’t mean if you’re not doing it now, you won’t do it. You need to decide what phase of life you’re in.

What personality trait of yours do your children also have?

C: The biggest one is optimism. I’m an eternal optimist. No matter how bad it gets, I can see the positive spin. I’ve got a lot of grit, but the glass is always half full to me and my sons are like that, too.

What are some things you want to do that are still on your bucket list?

C: Take the kids to Europe, design and build my own house, and play tennis.

What’s something a lot of people don’t know about you?

C: My tip for keeping my energy up is brushing my teeth! Whenever I get tired at work or drowsy in the afternoon, I brush my teeth. It wakes you up as if the whole day is starting over.

What was your first job and does it help you now?

C: My dad had this idea that I should pot mint and herbs and sell them to the neighbors when I was younger. It was very entrepreneurial looking back and I did always like making things.

Which family member has been your greatest role model in life?

C: My dad. I was one of six kids and my youngest sister has special needs, and he worked so hard with her. He had so much patience and he just exhibited 100 percent love for her at all times, and that was the best example for me with Christopher coming along. I’d see my dad do it with complete joy and patience. My dad was an attorney and successful, but he was able to feel like a present father and that was a great example for me.

Do you have any advice for other parents?

C: It’s really hard to juggle working and being a parent, but finding a way to make your children feel that you’re present when you’re there is really important. It isn’t easy to do; it’s something you have to be thoughtful about and make the conscientious decision to be a present parent.

Q&A The parenting item I couldn’t live without… navigation tool on my phone.

In my fridge, you will always find…

CoolBrew.

Favorite movie growing up…

Mary Poppins.

My guilty pleasure is…

Blue Bell Pecan Pralines ‘n Cream Ice Cream.

My dream travel spot is...

Paris.

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LIVE

Thrive

Powering Through While Beating Rare Bone Cancer

BY MARI WALKER

PODCAST

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LTHOUGH 2020 WAS a hard year for everyone, the White family’s experience was extra challenging.

Their eight-year-old, Hayden, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma. His victory over the rare bone cancer was complete when he finished chemo on December 11, one of the first in-patients to do so at Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital.

“Hayden started having leg pain probably in February,” says his dad, Corey. An X-ray in March led to consultations with orthopedists and soon thereafter an orthopedic oncologist, and chemo began in April. “It happened really fast,” Corey says.

Hayden’s mom, Karen, says, “From the time we saw the pediatrician to the time we started chemo, it was about three weeks.”

COVID-19 complicated everything, with only one parent being allowed with him during some of Hayden’s procedures. Karen and Corey were even told separately about their son’s diagnosis. They 26

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would switch off which parent stayed in the hospital and who stayed home with Hunter, four.

The White family does have grandparents who live nearby who can help with childcare, but early on they managed alone to help minimize everyone’s exposure to COVID-19.

Hayden completed eight months of chemo as an in-patient, with a break for surgery on July 11 to remove the tumor in his leg. “The (chemo) regime he (was) on is pretty hard to tolerate,” Karen says.

“He pretty much lived in the hospital.” Although Hayden doesn’t like the way it makes him feel, “he never complains about having cancer or getting chemo.”

In between rounds of chemo, Hayden would get to go home for a few days, but there were further challenges even then.

“He would start getting really weak and basically pass out,” Corey says. “One time, we went by ambulance to the ER because he had passed out. We’ve been able to avoid doing that lately because they now send him home with IV fluids,” which have helped resolve those episodes of faintness.

After the successful tumor-removal surgery, doctors reported clean margins and 100 percent necrosis, which are both positive outcomes.

Hayden’s medical journey is far from over, though. His surgery also included installing a growing prosthesis, a rod in his leg that will need to be lengthened as he grows.

The prosthesis can grow four millimeters at a time, so Hayden has to have the leg lengthening procedures frequently, at least monthly.

The procedure comes with a lot of discomfort, as his leg gets tight and sore. Hayden will need at least one prosthetic replacement as he grows and will wear a brace every night for at least 10 years. “He will probably have three or four more surgeries,” Karen says.

In addition to the leg-lengthening procedures and surgeries, Hayden’s future will also include physical rehabilitation and regular scans to check for recurrence of the cancer.

“All of that is going to be nerve wracking,” Corey says. “Every time he goes for a scan, we’re going to be holding our breath.”

Having access to world-class care close to home has made such a hard experience easier for the Whites. “Normally, you’d be traveling to Memphis,” Corey says. “But having a local affiliate (at OLOL Children’s Hospital), it was a real blessing. Besides the blessing of Dr. (Shaun) Accardo, the nurses and the staff are excellent. In fact, it’s a home away from home for us. We’ve spent so much time there.”

A third grader at Galvez Primary in Ascension, Hayden keeps up with his classes as a homebound student. He loves 1000-piece puzzles, LEGOs, Hot Wheels, and participating in activities with Child Life at the hospital like bingo. Before the diagnosis, he was very active. He was always running, riding his bike, swimming, and playing soccer and baseball.

“We think he will be able to run,” Corey says. “But it’s going to be a little awkward” because his left leg will grow differently and more slowly than the right.

Hayden has kept a positive attitude throughout it all, amazing his parents and medical staff involved in his care. “He’s just powered through all of it,” Corey says. “It doesn’t get him down. He continues to play and be as active as he can be. He’s just limited by his endurance right now.”

Although COVID-19 limited the family’s ability to celebrate the end of chemo and Hayden’s clean scans, they are grateful. “We are thankful because we see a lot of other kids who may not be having the same journey,” Karen says.

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LIVE

Faith

PODCAST

Faith is a Certain Power for an Uncertain Year

BY TODD SHUPE, MEN’S MINISTRY SPECIALIST THROUGH THE GENERAL COMMISSION OF UNITED METHODIST MEN

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O THEN, FAITH comes from hearing the message, and the message comes through preaching Christ” (Romans 10:17 GNT).

A new year is once again upon us. Many people are entering into the new year with fear and anxiety due to COVID-19, economic uncertainty, and political turmoil. They want things to get back to “normal” but are starting to realize that many of the problems of 2020 will likely continue into 2021.

Others are approaching the new year with confidence and thanksgiving. They don’t know what lies ahead, but they know the One who does and have claimed His promise as found in Romans 8:28. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose.”

I think the major difference between these two ideologies is faith.

Hebrews 11:1 teaches how to put faith into action. “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” Faith is how we put one foot in front of the other when we can’t see the path. “For we walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7) Fear is the opposite of faith. It is what occurs by default when we don’t have faith. “Fear not” is the most repeated command in the Bible. It occurs 365 times in Scripture! Yes, 2020 has been a rough and dark year. However, our Lord often reveals Himself and His nature to us by turning bad into good. For many, 2020 has been a wasteland.

For me, I see it as a time of preparation for a “new thing.” Isaiah

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Your greatest ministry will come out of your deepest pain. If you’ll be honest with God, others, and yourself about whatever struggle you’ve faced, then that struggle will become your ministry.

43:19 reads, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”

As Christians, we know that there is a season for all things, and this too shall pass. The dawn is coming, and the light always conquers the darkness. The ultimate battle has already been fought, and we have been redeemed through the precious blood of our Savior.

One of the best ways we show our faith is through our service.

Our service or works are a natural product of our faith. “Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead” (James 2:17).

As a Christian, you are also a minister. Your ministry may not be to lead a church, but by helping others, you are a minister. Christians are sometimes derisively called “do gooders,” but I love this term because it is in accordance with our calling. “So then, as often as we have the chance, we should do good to everyone, and especially to those who belong to our family in the faith” (Galatians 6:10).

Your greatest ministry will come out of your deepest pain. If you’ll be honest with God, others, and yourself about whatever struggle you’ve faced, then that struggle will become your ministry. The Apostle Paul wrote, “In everything we do, we show that we are true ministers of God” (2 Corinthians 6:4). That includes how we handle COVID-19, economic and political uncertainty, pain, failure, defeat, problems, mistakes, sin, and all the things that happen in life. Your deepest ministry will come out of your deepest hurt–and your deepest life message will come out of your deepest pain. In every area of your life where you’ve had pain, you have a testimony. How will you use it to exercise your faith and help bring others from despair to fullness of life in Christ?

Faith is a powerful source of comfort and strength as we step into a new year full of uncertainty. Choose faith over fear. Choose to serve the Body of Christ. Choose to live boldly and courageously.

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To be the exception, I need exceptional care.

Exceptional care rises beyond one city, one hospital, one clinic. Exceptional care reaches for something groundbreaking, life-changing. Our Lake of the Lake Children’s Health believes connected healthcare across Louisiana helps build a stronger, healthier generation. Now is the time to be exceptional for Louisiana’s exceptional kids. Visit ololchildrens.org/believe for more.

Believe in me.

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Trendy Nicknames for Family Members Are You a Mimi, Gigi, Tia, Pop, or PaPaw?

BY EMILY DREZ

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F YOU’VE RECENTLY brought a child into the world, your parents and siblings

are likely brainstorming names they would like your child to call them. Mawmaw, Pawpaw, Auntie, or Uncle are more traditional names, but they may want to go down a more creative route. In this case, make sure the name is something easy for your child to pronounce.

While Tia Tina sounds cute, it may prove difficult for the little one to say. You also need to make sure the name has your siblings’ or parents’ approval before your child learns a name they u Shstarted: do not appreciate. Here is a list of unconventional names to h getuyou Uncle Some families use names like Unk, Unki, Bud, and Buddy as unique names for a child’s uncle, but there are interesting names other languages use such as Onkel in German, ShuShu in Chinese, Theios in Greek, and DyaDya in Russian. The romantic languages say Tio, Oncle, and Zio in Spanish, French, and Italian, respectively. Another popular name is Tito.

Aunt Lala, Nini, and Bubbie are cute and easy names for your child to call his or her aunt. Other fun names to be considered are Oba in Japanese, Guma in Chinese, Theia in Greek, Tia in Spanish, or Tante in French and German. Other names to consider include Auntie, MeMe, GiGi, LeLe, FiFi, TayTay, Tita, and Taunt.

Grandma MawMaw is the classic southern name that goes hand-in-hand with PawPaw. Your child may also enjoy saying Baba, Granny, Grammy,

S e Oncl Tia Nana, Gingie, Lola, or Geemaw, or using other languages like Abuela in Spanish, Grandmere in French, GiGi or Nonna in Italian. A few other fun names to try include KK, MiMi, Tita ShaSha, BeBe, Tolly, Nan, JoJo, Honey, YaYa, DeDe, and Oma. De e D Grandpa i Other options outside the beloved MiM Pawpaw and Papaw include Papa, Geepaw, Gramps, Boppa, Pops, ps m a Coach, Pop-Pop, Poppy, Papi, r G Captain, Pop, Lolo, Pappoús, and o Popeye, along with Abuelo in Spanish, Grandpere in French, or Nonno Nonn in Italian. y Popp Nan Oma

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Do you have a unique name that you would like to share with us? Email us at editorial@brparents.com with Trendy Nicknames in the subject line. We’d love to add it to the list.

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2021 Private School Guide

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BY BRPM PHOTO BY KLEINPETER PHOTOGRAPHY 2020-21 COVER KID: RYLAN K.

S A NEW year begins, so does the search for the perfect private school for your kiddos to attend next school year. We know that the search is a daunting task to take on. Just research alone could take hours due to all of the Internet surfing, interviewing of schools, and talking with friends on what their child’s experiences are like.

Luckily, we have compiled all the information you need to know right here in our 2021 Private School Guide.

This unique guide includes listings for private schools, profiles from a variety of private schools offering a closer look, and where to find the open houses for the year.

New this year? Virtual tours! Due to COVID-19, private schools have quickly adapted to help meet the needs of their potential families by providing virtual tours. Discover which schools are offering them inside this guide.

With this guide, we know you’ll find the perfect fit for your little scholars.

Who knows? You may even find more than one that you’re looking for.

36 Making it Stick 40 Private School Listing 40 Open Houses 50 Students Tell All 52 Private School Profiles 62 Managing Tuition Costs B R PA R E N T S . C O M |

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Making it Stick

BY ANITA RAJEAN WALKER PHOTO BY KLEINPETER PHOTOGRAPHY 2020-21 COVER KID: ESTRELLA V.

Teaching the Art of Studying

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HE HUMAN BRAIN takes in

massive amounts of information every single day. Now, think about all of the possible distractions, and it is no wonder that telling our kids to go to their room and study does not work.

The concept of studying to study seems redundant.

However, think of it as an art or a science. The skills and habits that come with learning how to study stick with a child for the rest of his life, and they go a long way towards general problem-solving in the future.

Cracking the Code Rarely does a person naturally know how to study. Most people have to practice and then practice some more to find the right combination of habits, techniques, and overall attitude. Once someone unlocks the gateway to learning, it becomes more about gaining knowledge than it does about grades. “A�s are simply the side effects.

Everyone learns differently, and the same steps will not work for every child. It takes patience and creativity to tweak an existing framework that builds your student up, and does not lead to burnout.

Learning About Learning Styles The first thing to understand is that there are different ways we learn. Repetition might work wonderfully for one student, while it may confuse another. Auditory or language learners thrive on lectures and discussions.

It is not only about listening. Students

who learn this way like to be a participant, because speaking about a concept or idea aloud helps them intake the information and process it.

Other students are visual learners and simply respond to stimuli differently. The design of most classrooms and curriculum utilize this method the most. It is these types of kids who always have a pen and paper handy, and while it seems like they are doodling rather than listening, they are merely mapping out what they hear so they retain it.

Tactile learners are another type of student. It is all about touching and doing for them. For example, just listening is not enough. They benefit from actively applying a concept and are literally hands-on learners.

Finally, you have the analytical learner. To some extent, we all respond to this method without realizing it. However, for this type of student, it becomes the primary way he

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intakes information. It is all about patterns and understanding how things relate to one another. This type of kid will take apart a computer to understand how it works.

Steps Towards Healthy Study Habits Distractions are the enemy of learning.

Reducing them is not easy, and eliminating them is nearly impossible.

Where does your little human study?

Is it consistent? A designated and well-lit study space goes a long way to rid them of distractions, for at least a little while. It helps with more than their learning habits, too.

Let them decorate the area, show them how to organize their supplies, and watch as they develop self-worth and independence with the added benefit of learning.

Most of us have time management issues.

A homework planner helps to reduce last minute cramming and general procrastination. It is a great habit, too. You can help them break down projects and assignments into milestones that keep them from feeling overwhelmed with their lessons.

Multitasking is not an easy skill, even for adults who do it for a living. For a student, it is a habit that can create unnecessary roadblocks. Develop a schedule or planner around the idea that they know what time to put away their devices and what tasks need to be focused on for the day. Planner or no planner, without structure, the ability to learn becomes more difficult.

One of the most critical skills a learner develops as he improves his approach to studying is to ask for help. Your student needs to know that he can ask for assistance without judgment. It will carry over into everyday life and empowers him to learn.

You are Not Alone Parents grapple with only having so many hours in the day. It does not reflect on you if you need a hand helping your child learn.

Tutors are out there waiting to help you and your student develop study skills and healthy learning habits.

Tutoring services like Sylvan Learning Academy apply tried and true strategies to bolster confidence in your learner. The expert tutors provide a range of services to teach your child how to study. They customize lessons based on how your student learns, what subjects he wrestles with, and sharpens the skills he already has.

Studying effectively will not happen overnight, but it is more than possible to unlock with the right combination. The biggest benefit of healthy studying habits is that the skills your child learns today will stay with him for a lifetime.

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OFFERING A 3-YEAR-OLD THROUGH 5TH GRADE MONTESSORI EXPERIENCE STATE ACCREDITED AND APPROVED

5064 Perkins Road Baton Rouge, LA 70808

38-YEAR HISTORY OF EXCELLENCE

(225) 769-2255

BEFORE & AFTER CARE OPTIONS

www.laprintaniere.com

La Printaniere Montessori School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.

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Private School Listing All the information you scour the Internet for about your child’s prospective school can be found right here in this easy-to-read listing. Discover what grades are taught at each school, the tuition and registration fees, if transportation is available, whether or not they provide virtual tours and IEP assistance, and what cafeteria services are provided.

Open Houses Amite Christian Academy Grade: PreK-6 Date: Jan. 21 Time: 9 a.m.

Bethany Christian School Grade: All Grades Date: Jan. 26 Time: 9 a.m.

Catholic High School Grade: All Grades Date: Nov. 2021 Time: TBA Covenant Classical Christian School Grade: K-8 Date: Feb. 11 Time: 7 p.m.

Dunham School, The Grade: PK3-12 Date: Jan. 22 Time: 8:30 a.m.

Episcopal School of Baton Rouge Grade: All Grades Date: Varies by grade Time: 8:30 a.m.

Family Christian Academy Grade: All Grades Date: Aug. 5 Time: 7 p.m.

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Greater Baton Rouge Hope Academy Grade: All Grades Date: Virtual Tours Time: Varies Holy Family School Grade: PreK4-8 Date: Feb. 4 Time: 9 a.m.

Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic School Grade: All Grades Date: Private Tours Time: Varies Parkview Baptist School Grade: 1-12 Date: Jan. 13 Time: 8:30 a.m.

Redemptorist St. Gerard Elementary Grade: All Grades Date: July 14 Time: 2 p.m.

St. Alphonsus Catholic School Grade: PK3-8 Date: Jan. 24 Time: 1 p.m.

St. George Catholic School

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Grade: All Grades Date: Virtual Tours Time: Varies St. Jean Vianney School Grade: PK4-8 Date: Jan. 14 Time: 10 a.m.

St. Joseph’s Academy Grade: 6-8 Date: Oct. 21 Time: 4 p.m.

St. Michael the Archangel High School Grade: 6-7 Date: Mar. 21 Time: Noon St. Thomas More Catholic School Grade: All Grades Date: Private Tours Time: Daily Trinity Episcopal Day School Grade: PreK3-5 Date: Private Tours Time: Varies Victory Christian Academy Grade: K4-8 Date: Jan. 9 Time: 10 a.m.

School Name Principal/Headmaster Address Phone Number Website

Grades Taught

Total Enrollment

Total Faculty

Tuition Range

Registration Fee

Transportation Service

Cafeteria B/L

Family Discount

Financial Assistance / Scholarships

Extended Day

IEP Assistance

Amite Christian Academy Lisa Perkins 7100 Amite Church Rd., Denham Springs (225) 665-2060 amiteacademy.com

PreK-6

180

26

$2,5004,200

$250-530

No

B/L

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Baton Rouge International School Vicki Jarrell 5015 Auto Plex Dr., Baton Rouge (225) 293-4338 brintl.com

K-12

300

70

$7,80011,300

$400-700

No

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Behavioral Intervention Group Katie Jenkins 8180 Siegen Ln., Baton Rouge (225) 757-8002 big-br.com

PreK-1

65

75

$1,000

$75

No

N/A

No

No

No

Yes

Bethany Christian School Stephanie Edmonds 11107 Honore Ln., Baton Rouge (224) 412-5335 bethanychristian school.com

K4-6

90

10

$5,825

$400

No

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Blessed Margaret of Castello REACH Program Kristy Monsour 1800 S. Acadian Thwy., Baton Rouge (225) 336-8735 csobr.org/special-ed ucation-1

K-12

56

14

$11,00015,000

$300

Yes

B/L

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Catholic High School Lisa Harvey 855 Hearthstone Dr., Baton Rouge (225) 383-0397 catholichigh.org

8-12

1,150

130

$11,00012,000

$450

No

B/L

No

Yes

No

Yes

Central Private School Robert Martin 12801 Centerra Ct., Central (225) 261-3341 centralprivate.org

K3-12

415

55

$5,7006,250

$450

Yes

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Covenant Classical Christian School George T. Thompson 8025 Antioch Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 751-2065 covenantbr.com

K-8

20

4

$5,000

N/A

No

N/A

No

Yes

No

No

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School Name Principal/Headmaster Address Phone Number Website

Grades Taught

Total Enrollment

Total Faculty

Tuition Range

Registration Fee

Transportation Service

Cafeteria B/L

Family Discount

Financial Assistance / Scholarships

Extended Day

IEP Assistance

Cristo Rey Baton Rouge Franciscan High School Claire Willis 4000 St. Gerard Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 615-7479 cristoreybr.org

9-12

165

16

$150$1,620

$40

Yes

B/L

No

Yes

No

Yes

Dunham School, The Steven A. Eagleton 11111 Roy Emerson Dr., Baton Rouge (225) 767-7097 dunhamschool.org

PK3-12

764

91

$10,55018,875

$750

No

L

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Elan Vital Montessori School Molly Smith Whitt 7518 Highland Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 767-6620 elanvitalmontessori. org

K

40

7

$5,3359,990

$300

No

L

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Episcopal School of Baton Rouge Dr. Carrie Steakley 3200 Woodland Ridge Blvd., Baton Rouge (225) 753-3180 episcopalbr.org

PreK3-12

950

102

$10,33018,744

$795

No

B/L

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Family Christian Academy Dr. Christopher Granier/Carolyn Richards 8919 World Ministry Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 768-3027 fcacademy.net

K4-12

178

50

$6,5007,500

$450

No

L

Yes

No

Yes

No

Gardere Community Christian School Lauren Darden 8538 GSRI Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 387-5082 gardereschool.com

PreK3-5

120

25

$26.408,800

$100

No

B/L

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Greater Baton Rouge Hope Academy Linda L. Stone 15333 Jefferson Hwy., Baton Rouge (225) 293-0141 hopeacademybr.org

K-12

75

25

$10,00012,000

$500-700

No

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Holy Family School Alise Ashford 335 N. Jefferson Ave., Port Allen (225) 344-4100 holyfamilyschool. com

PreK4-8

402

42

$4,7505,500

$150

Yes

B/L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

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School Name Principal/Headmaster Address Phone Number Website

Grades Taught

Total Enrollment

Total Faculty

Tuition Range

Registration Fee

Transportation Service

Cafeteria B/L

Family Discount

Financial Assistance / Scholarships

Extended Day

IEP Assistance

Hosanna Christian Academy Monique Burdette 8850 Goodwood Blvd., Baton Rouge (225) 926-4885 hcablazers.org

PreK4-8

496

38

$5,0006,300

$600-870

No

B/L

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Montessori School of Baton Rouge Molly Williams 8227 Wimbledon Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 766-9942 montessorischoolof batonrouge.org

PreK3-K

65

10

$6,2507,250

$250

No

N/A

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic School Cheri Gioe 8033 Baringer Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 751-0123 mbsbr.org

PK-8

518

62

$5,3807,095

$360

Yes

B/L

No

No

Yes

No

Our Lady of Mercy Catholic School Chris Porche 400 Marquette Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 924-1054 olomschool.org

PK3-8

982

89

$5,3507,020

$275

Yes

B/L

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Parkview Baptist School Dr. Don Mayes 5750 Parkview Church Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 291-2500 parkviewbaptist.com

PreK-12

1,162

170

$9,00012,150

$350-610

No

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Redemptorist St. Gerard Elementary Cheryl Domino 3655 St. Gerard Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 355-1437 rsgbr.org

PreK4-8

160

25

$6,000

$450

Yes

B/L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Sacred Heart of Jesus School Cecilia Methvin 2251 Main St., Baton Rouge (225) 383-7481 sacredheartbr.com

PreK-8

205

30

$5,6256,225

$420

Yes

B/L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Silliman Institute Kevin Lemoine 10830 Bank St., Clinton (225) 683-5383 sillimaninsititue.org

K-12

530

42

$4,0005,000

$75

Yes

B/L

Yes

No

Yes

No

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School Name Principal/Headmaster Address Phone Number Website

Grades Taught

Total Enrollment

Total Faculty

Tuition Range

Registration Fee

Transportation Service

Cafeteria B/L

Family Discount

Financial Assistance / Scholarships

Extended Day

IEP Assistance

Southern University Laboratory School Herman Brister, Jr. 129 Swan Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 771-3490 sulabschool.com

PreK-12

400

45

$3,5004,200

$50

No

L

No

Yes

Yes

No

St. Alphonsus Catholic School Dr. Cynthia Ryals 13940 Greenwell Springs Rd., Greenwell Springs (225) 261-5299 stalphonsusbr.org

PK3-8

400

45

$5,7606,290

$275

Yes

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

St. George Catholic School Angele Fontenot 7880 St. George Dr., Baton Rouge (225) 293-1298 | st-georgeschool. com

PreK4-8

1,125

65

$5,6007,500

$120

Yes

B/L

No

No

Yes

Yes

St. James Episcopal Day School Bridget Henderson 445 Convention St., Baton Rouge (225) 344-0805 stjameseds.org

PK3-5

275

60

$9,53511,170

$525

Yes

L

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

St. Jean Vianney School Wendy Ross 16266 South Harrell’s Ferry Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 751-1831 stjeanvianneyschool. org

PreK-8

470

45

$5,2105,560

$200-300

Yes

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

St. John Interparochial School Cherie Schlatre 58645 St. Clement Ave., Plaquemine (225) 687-6616 stjohnschool.org

PreK-12

440

52

$5,5007,500

$250

Yes

B/L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

St. Joseph’s Academy Stacia Andricain 3015 Broussard St., Baton Rouge (225) 383-7207 sjabr.org

9-12

1,121

73

$11,68412,124

$575

No

B/L

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

PreK-8

560

66

$5,0006,000

$250

Yes

B/L

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

St. Jude the Apostle School Michelle Gardiner 9150 Highland Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 769-2344 stjudebr.org

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B AT O N R O U G E PA R E N T S

AG E S 6 W EEKS TO G R ADE 12

B RINTL .CO M

Non-discriminatory admissions policy

TO INSPIRE HER FAITH

TO FUEL HIS VICTORY

E PARENTS UG

Family s Favorite 2020

AZINE AG M

Schedule a campus tour: Call 767-7097 ext 324 or visit dunhamschool.org

TO FORGE HIS PATH

BATON R O

TO IGNITE HER CREATIVITY

FINALIST

CHOOSE DUNHAM B R PA R E N T S . C O M

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School Name Principal/Headmaster Address Phone Number Website

Grades Taught

Total Enrollment

Total Faculty

Tuition Range

Registration Fee

Transportation Service

Cafeteria B/L

Family Discount

Financial Assistance / Scholarships

Extended Day

IEP Assistance

St. Lillian Academy Elissa McKenzie 9755 Goodwood Blvd., Baton Rouge (225) 771-8173 stlillian.org

K-12

50

10

$10,00014,500

$250-500

No

N/A

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

St. Luke’s Episcopal School Connie Bradford 8833 Goodwood Blvd., Baton Rouge (225) 927-8601 stlukesbrschool.org

PreK3-8

270

52

$5,00011,000

$250-750

No

L

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

St. Michael the Archangel High School Jack Nelson 17521 Monitor Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 753-9782 smhsbr.org

9-12

625

75

$9,125

$600

Yes

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

St. Thomas More Catholic School Brian Moscona 11400 Sherbrook Dr., Baton Rouge (225) 275-2820 stmbr.org

PreK3-8

670

80

$5,5007,600

$360

Yes

B/L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Trinity Episcopal Day School Marsha Palmer 3550 Morning Glory Ave., Baton Rouge (225) 387-0398 trinityshoolbr.org

PreK3-5

185

35

$9,00011,000

$125

No

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Trinity Lutheran School Marinea McGehee 15160 S. Harrell’s Ferry Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 272-1288 tlcbr.org

K-8

68

7

$5,6005,900

$475

Yes

L

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Victory Christian Academy Shannon Aaron 3953 North Flannery Rd., Baton Rouge (225) 272-8339 vcawarriors.org

K4-8

220

25

$4,950

$350

No

L

Yes

No

Yes

No

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B AT O N R O U G E PA R E N T S

SJA is a four-time National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence

Favorite P rivate High School S TA C I A A N D R I C A I N

Favorite P rivate High School P rincipal

Founded in 1868 by the Sisters of St. Joseph 3015 Broussard Street Baton Rouge, LA 70808 www.sjabr.org Contact the Admissions Team of Meredith Smith and Cori Martone at admissions@sjabr.org or (225) 388-2243.

SJA has a non-discriminatory admissions policy.

Faith Development

Academic Excellence

Personal Growth B R PA R E N T S . C O M

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W

HEN YOU’RE LOOKING for a

private school for your child to attend, one of the first things you do is go to the Internet. You search for the school, check out their website, read reviews, and eventually venture out to the school for a tour. While all of the information you can gather from these methods is crucial, there’s nothing more telling than the students who actually roam the halls. Get an inside look at what private school life is like from some of the students living it.

PODCAST

Students Tell All

BY AMANDA MILLER

Describe your private school experi-

ence?

Ann W., Senior at Southern University Laboratory School: I would describe my private school experience as remarkable.

Going to Southern University Laboratory School has provided me with endless opportunities. I have been selected to participate in the National Youth Leadership Forum STEM (Chicago) and Medicine (Houston) Programs. I’ve also been blessed to become the recipient of the Greater Baton Rouge State Fair Scholarship Award. As I enter college as a first time freshman, my academic courses will be that of a second year sophomore.

Ian S., Senior at Parkview Baptist School: My experiences at private schools have been influential for me in many ways. It has been a crucial part of who I am today. I went to Christian Life Academy until I moved to Parkview in ninth grade. I wasn’t used to being the new kid and it took some time for me to adjust and make friends.

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Anna L., Senior at Parkview Baptist School: My experience has been a blessing and a privilege. I have relationships with teachers and students that I will never take for granted. I have loved my time at Parkview and will be very sad to leave.

Miriam R., Eighth grader at Victory Christian Academy: My private school experience has been great, even with the Flood of 2016 and the coronavirus pandemic of 2020. The teachers, students, and faculty have made me feel welcomed and at home from the first day I walked into the school.

How was the process of choosing the right school for you?

Ann: The process of choosing the right school was fairly easy. Being that Southern University is across the street from our school, I knew that the school I chose would have to give me the same feeling of home that Southern gave to me.

Ian: The process of choosing the right private school has been important to my family.

The main goal for any school is choosing

B AT O N R O U G E PA R E N T S

which one will provide the best education to prepare me for college.

Anna: The most important thing to me about choosing a school was how the teachers interacted and helped the students, and at Parkview, I felt like the teachers really engaged with the students.

Miriam: My mom first heard about Victory Christian Academy from a close friend of ours and decided to enroll me for the fall of 2016. We had been looking for a small private school to meet the needs of our family.

How does school impact this transitional stage of life between childhood and adulthood?

Ann: School impacts this transitional stage of life between childhood and adulthood by forcing one to grow up and realize that the world won’t always be peaches and cream.

Life happens, and life goes on. You have other responsibilities to do and you won’t always have the luxury to sit back and feel what life has brought on. You have to keep pushing and striving everyday because your

success in life depends on it.

Ian: Going to school, for a lot of people, helps people my age learn about who they are and what they want in life. Being a part of the dramatic arts program at Parkview has been an important part of my high school career. The friends I have made while practicing for the spring musical are my closest friends.

Anna: School impacts lives by putting influential people and teachers in your life.

At school, you discover things about yourself and other people that help you later in life.

Miriam: Victory has prepared me for being an independent learner in high school. They have taught me study tips and tricks through the years that have helped me along the way in my school career, and the teachers’ support has encouraged me to push myself to work my hardest.

How does private school challenge you?

Ann: Private school challenges you with the type of work you’re given. You are given more work and harder work to prepare for greatness in the workfield.

Ian: The faculty at the private schools I’ve been to have always expected a lot from their students. They want you to do whatever is

possible for you to succeed. Your teachers want you to succeed.

Anna: Private school challenges me by keeping my relationship with Jesus Christ first above everything else that may also be important to me.

Miriam: Private school challenges me to have a personal relationship with God, to do my best and be the best person I can be.

How does private school help you keep up with technological advancements?

Ann: Private school helps with technological advancements by making you stay in touch with the newest fads in the world. It gets you up to speed with society in different ways to suit your future in the work world.

Ian: Being at a private school allows students like me to have access to new technology that helps with better learning. We also have the opportunity to take interesting electives.

I took an American Film class that I really enjoyed.

Anna: Private school allows students to have a one-to-one experience with technology. We have the opportunity to have a computer at school and to bring home, which also allows us to use programs for our academics.

Miriam: Private school has helped me keep up with technological advancements because we have computer classes where we can code, create projects, and finish schoolwork.

What are some of the reasons your family chose private school?

Ann: My family chose a private school because they were interested in their child receiving the best education opportunities and being in a comfortable, healthy, and loving environment.

Ian: The main reasons my family chose to put me in private schools is because they felt it would allow me to have a better education and to have better opportunities.

Anna: We chose private school because overall, my parents wanted us to have a Christian experience at school, where we learned how to keep our faith first over everything else, but also learning the things we need for later in life.

Miriam: My family chose the option of private school because of the smaller class sizes, the one-on-one learning, and the Biblical instruction and discipline.

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Private School Profiles Learn even more about your family’s top choice school through the profiles. Several schools have provided a closer look at their school’s history and achievements, educational and athletic programs available, and campus improvements they have made over the years.

Still wanting to know more? Visit us online at brparents.com to check out the private school listings, open houses, and profiles.

If you can’t make it to the school for a tour, we even have some schools who offer virtual tours through our website. Tour the school of your choice right in the comfort of your own home.

Amite Christian Academy

Baton Rouge International School

Amite Christian Academy (ACA), a ministry of Amite Baptist Church, began in 1986 as a preschool and now serves children from preschool to middle school.

ACA is certified through the Louisiana Department of Education as a state approved nonpublic school. ACA is accredited through Cognia, formerly known as AdvancEd. In-house enrollment begins January 13, 2021 and open enrollment begins February 17, 2021.

Our mission is to touch the lives of our students with the love of Jesus Christ through Christian training and a solid academic background. At ACA, we offer a low teacher-to-student ratio. We offer half-day kindergarten classes, as well as before and after school care. Traditional education is taught in the classroom with the help of Abeka & BJU curriculum. Ancillary classes such as music, art, physical education, computer and library are also offered.

Our purpose at Amite Christian Academy is to train our students in the knowledge of God and the Christian way of life and to give our students an excellent education.

Amite Christian Academy…… “Educating the next generation with the Gospel of Christ.”

At Baton Rouge International School (BRIS), our focus is international. With a rigorous and balanced curriculum unlike any other locally, our individualized, multilingual approach to learning offers students meaningful academic and cultural experiences that prepare them to succeed in an increasingly global and multicultural world. We serve students ages 6 weeks through Grade 12 and have the unique ability to provide true language immersion and language instruction in French, Chinese, and Spanish, beginning in preschool. No prior language experience is required.

Our students benefit from being part of a broader international community, which provides many additional learning and cultural opportunities. We are proud to be part of a world-class, global international school group called the International Schools Partnership (ISP). BRIS is also one of a select group of educational programs across the world accredited as International Baccalaureate® World Schools, and the only private school in Louisiana offering both the IB Middle Years (MYP) and Diploma (DP) Programs.

7100 Amite Church Road Denham Springs, Louisiana (225) 665-2060 amiteacademy.com

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5015 Auto Plex Drive Baton Rouge, LA 70809 (225) 293-4338 brintl.com

Blessed Margaret of Castello REACH Program 1800 South Acadian Thruway Baton Rouge, LA 70808 (225) 336-8735 csobr.org/special-education-1

Catholic High School 855 Hearthstone Drive Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 383-0397 catholichigh.org

Blessed Margaret of Castello REACH (Religious Education for All Children) Program in the Diocese of Baton Rouge is committed to providing measurably superior services that address the unique and diverse needs of all students. We believe that this focus on providing an effective education in an atmosphere of Catholic Faith Formation prepares students for their roles as Disciples of Christ. It sets the stage for them to become lifelong independent learners as well as compassionate and contributing members of a diverse society.

The REACH Program has two components–Special Education and Lab Services. There are seven special education classes located at four host-sites: Our Lady of Mercy, Redemptorist St. Gerard, St. Michael the Archangel High School and St. Thomas More. Our special education classes serve children with a variety of exceptionalities including autism, Down Syndrome, intellectual disabilities and other health impairments. Lab Services is a small group remediation of students with dyslexia or other reading deficits. Students get pulled out of class for 120 minutes of remediation. These labs are located at Most Blessed Sacrament, Our Lady of Mercy, Sacred Heart, St. Aloysius, St. Elizabeth, St. George, St. John Interparochial, and St. Jude.

Catholic High School has set the standard for excellence in education in Baton Rouge for more than 125 years.

Founded in 1894 by the Brothers of the Sacred Heart, CHS is an all-male college preparatory school for grades 8-12, dedicated to providing opportunities for the development of the spiritual, moral, intellectual, social, and physical growth of each student. Catholic High School’s mission is to teach gospel values in an environment of academic excellence according to Catholic tradition and the spirit of the Brothers of the Sacred Heart.

Recognized six times as a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence, CHS offers a rigorous academic program that includes a 1:1 laptop program, honors and AP courses, a STREAM curriculum, and various electives. In addition, students have the opportunity to excel in 14 different sports, with many competing for state titles each year. With more than 30 extracurriculars, students are able to pursue interests in clubs such as robotics, multimedia, fishing, and lacrosse.

CHS recently opened its new 32-thousand square foot Brother Donnan Berry, S.C. Student Center where students have access to a state-of-the-art dining room, campus ministry center, and learning spaces where they are able to socialize and interact with faculty.

Central Private School

Dunham School, The

Central Private School (CP), founded in 1967, is a college-preparatory school with a tradition of excellence in education for grades K312th. It is the mission of CP to cultivate college-ready graduates in a safe, nurturing, and faith-based environment. Central Private supports our mission by maintaining high academic expectations, inspiring leadership through community service, and funding dedicated faculty & staff committed to excellence. Students are continuously challenged to reach their full potential, and are encouraged to pursue individual interests beyond the classroom so that they will excel as productive leaders of the community. Our exceptional faculty and staff are committed to ensuring the success of each and every student. We strive to blend new and innovative ways of learning with traditional teaching methods to prepare our students to compete and succeed in the 21st century. With a low student to teacher ratio in every class, our students develop special relationships with their instructors and peers. In this way, the students’ individual needs are nurtured, while strengths are further developed.

The Dunham School is an independent Christian school serving girls and boys in grades PK3-12. Within the framework of Christian instruction and example, our students are challenged to think, empowered to lead, inspired to create, motivated to win, and prepared to reach their God-given potential now and in the future. Dunham students thrive in an academic environment characterized by small classes, skilled and caring teachers, and an innovative curriculum that blends a classical foundation with cutting-edge technology and innovative experiences that build creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, cross-cultural literacy, and self-management. Here, students find their voices, discover their passions, unleash their confidence, and grow in faith. Our unique and personalized approach to education is one of the reasons why Dunham leads the way in Baton Rouge when it comes to preparing students for college and for life.

12801 Centerra Court Central, Louisiana (225) 261-3341 centralprivate.org

11111 Roy Emerson Drive Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 767-7097 ext. 324 dunhamschool.org

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Episcopal School of Baton Rouge

Greater Baton Rouge Hope Academy

3200 Woodland Ridge Boulevard Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 755-2684 episcopalbr.org

15333 Jefferson Highway Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 293-0141 hopeacademybr.org

Episcopal School of Baton Rouge is a PreK3 through 12th grade college-preparatory, independent school serving diverse, multi-talented students. Rigorous academics, personalized learning experiences, small class sizes and exceptional faculty have made Episcopal a trusted educational institution for more than 50 years. The rich curriculum includes Advanced Placement courses, university collaboration, service opportunities and award-winning art and athletic programs.

A five-year College Counseling program is devoted to finding the best college match for each student. Episcopal welcomes students from a variety of religious, cultural and economic backgrounds and offers a range of scholarship and tuition assistance opportunities.

Learn more at episcopalbr.org or contact us at (225) 755-2684.

Hosanna Christian Academy

8850 Goodwood Boulevard Baton Rouge, LA (225) 926-4885 hcablazers.org “We are Hosanna. We seek spiritual, academic, and athletic excellence. We seek creative ways to serve our community. We seek to glorify God with excellence in everything we do. We are Hosanna!”

Established in 1979, Hosanna Christian Academy holds a high expectation of excellence for our teachers and students alike. Our class offerings are PreK4 through 8th grade. HCA’s state-approved facilities and curriculum serve 500 students from EBR and the surrounding parishes. Our mission is to offer a Christ-centered environment and superior education so as to build a solid foundation in the lives of our children. We provide consistent oversight and enforcement of good conduct to prepare each child for their future endeavors.

Hosanna offers a variety of sports for both boys and girls and has a history with many championships. HCA has a non-discriminatory admissions policy regardless of race, color, nationality and ethnicity.

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B AT O N R O U G E PA R E N T S

Greater Baton Rouge Hope Academy is a non-profit private school providing “Unique Solutions for Unique Learners.” Hope Academy opened in 2007 to serve students who benefit from individualized instruction.

Hope Academy currently serves 100 students from several Louisiana parishes in the Greater Baton Rouge metropolitan area. Individualized academics are provided in a school setting with a state-ofthe-art technology lab, sports program, cheerleading, and school dances. Diploma bound K-12th grade classes are offered, as well as specialized classes which include a Life Skills Lab through age 21.

Specialized instruction is provided for students with various learning challenges which include Autism Spectrum Disorder, dyslexia, and other learning differences. Bridges Learning Solutions, an ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) clinic, providing insurance-based therapy for students with autism, is located on the campus.

Please join us for one of our virtual Open Houses.

Montessori School of Baton Rouge 8227 Wimbledon Avenue Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 766-9942 montessorischoolof batonrouge.org

Our Montessori school is based on the philosophy and curriculum of Dr. Maria Montessori, an Italian physician and educator.

Specific educational practices found in Montessori programs include multi-age groupings, a focus on global education, careful design of the teaching/learning environment, and didactic classroom materials. In mixed age group settings, children learn from one another, gain autonomy, and develop positive self-esteem. In addition, having a culturally diverse mix in our classrooms helps prepare children to accept, respect, and understand the diversity in our society. We create communities where everyone learns, plays, works, shares, and celebrates together.

Our Lady of Mercy School

400 Marquette Avenue Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 924-1054 olomschool.org Established in 1953, Our Lady of Mercy is a PreK3 through eighth grade, Catholic co-ed school that is committed to the spiritual, social, and intellectual growth of each student. Mercy’s Mid-City campus includes an Upper and Lower School, consisting of two libraries, two media centers, two music centers, two cafeterias, science and computer labs, an athletics field, and a new gymnasium completed in August 2019.

Mercy’s future-ready classrooms are equipped with iPads, Apple TVs, document cameras, as well as other tools necessary to ready our students for the future. Our goal is to equip our students with problem solving skills empowering them to be productive members of our community while building on the foundation of faith provided.

Sacred Heart of Jesus School 2251 Main Street Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 383-7481 sacredheartbr.com

Sacred Heart of Jesus School is a Catholic school educating PreK-4 through eighth grade students. Established in 1929, Sacred Heart not only prides itself on its historic campus and rich traditions, but on its inclusiveness within our community.

With rigorous academics and a strong commitment to the Catholic faith, we deliver a superior education in a caring and nurturing environment. Extensive use of technology such as 1:1 iPads for PreK through second grade and 1:1 Chromebooks for third through eighth grades, supports collaborative and complex real-world learning and prepares students to succeed in the digital world. With numerous opportunities for developing leadership, service, creativity, and athleticism through enrichments and athletics, Sacred Heart fulfills our mission to “educate the mind, body and spirit.” Located in Mid-City, minutes from downtown, Sacred Heart truly is the “Heart of Baton Rouge.” Visit sacredheartbr.com for more information and a virtual tour, or call (225) 383-7481.

Parkview Baptist School 5750 Parkview Church Road Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 291-2500 parkviewbaptist.com

Parkview Baptist School’s Christ-centered, Pre-K–grade 12, college preparatory education equips students with the intellectual, spiritual, social, physical, and emotional skills necessary for college, for life, and for eternity. Our exceptional educational program is built on the four As–Abundant Life, Academics, Arts, and Athletics. Each day, our team of nurturing, dedicated faculty support and challenge our students to grow and mature into the individuals God created them to be.

For students desiring a rigorous, college preparatory curriculum and a flexible schedule, Parkview also offers a Flex Program in Baton Rouge & St. Francisville. Learning coaches monitor student progress daily and our subject-area specialists facilitate students’ content mastery.

We are proud to be the only private school in Louisiana to receive national Blue Ribbon School recognition in 2019. We look forward to showing you everything Parkview has for your family!

St. Alphonsus Catholic School

13940 Greenwell Springs Road Greenwell Springs, Louisiana (225) 261-5299 stalphonsusbr.org St. Alphonsus Catholic School is committed to providing a Catholic, faithfilled education for students in PK3-8th Grade. The school day includes daily Catholic religion classes, weekly Mass, and strong academics. Student enhancement classes include computer lab, art, music, physical education, library, and Spanish. Numerous extracurricular activities include band, athletics, choir, cheerleading, Beta Club, 4H, Spirit Club, and Drama Club. Before and after care is provided. The school has enhanced efforts to assist all students in reaching their full potential through the Reading Lab Program.

St. Alphonsus is nationally accredited through Cognia (SACS). The school is located conveniently near the Central Thruway. St. Alphonsus School is committed to continuing a legacy of excellence in religious and academic education.

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St. James Episcopal Day School

St. John Interparochial School

St. James Episcopal Day School offers an exceptional education for children from 18 months of age through fifth grade. Named a National Blue Ribbon School in 2009 and 2015, St. James is recognized for providing a strong foundation of both academic skills and spiritual formation within a warm and loving community of faith in the Christian tradition.

Project-based learning and integration of technology are incorporated throughout the curriculum. St. James has been recognized as an Apple Distinguished School from 2017-2022 for its culture of innovation and creativity.

St. James Episcopal Day School enhances its challenging academic program through our STEM lab, Spanish and physical education programs, broadcast and art studios, and twice-weekly church services.

Since 1853, St. John School has been a model of excellence in Catholic education. SJS is a PreK-12, college preparatory school, committed to providing a disciplined, nurturing environment guided by Catholic values, where students grow through rigorous academic experiences, faith and moral formation, and opportunities for service and leadership. Our early elementary grades focus on developmentally appropriate learning and social experiences, while our elementary and middle school grades challenge students to work to their greatest potential while preparing them for high school. Various AP and dual enrollment courses are offered in high school; our students earn more than 300 hours of early college credit each year, and 93 percent of our graduates qualify for TOPS and other scholarships. Our Eagles also get a full religion curriculum in all grades, and perform more than 4,000 hours of service in line with Catholic social justice teaching. Students also have an opportunity to participate in athletics beginning in elementary school, and we offer nine high school sports as a member of the LHSAA. For more information, visit stjohnschool.org.

St. Joseph’s Academy

St. Michael the Archangel High School

445 Convention Street Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 344-0805 stjameseds.org

58645 St. Clement Avenue Plaquemine, Louisiana (225) 687-6616 stjohnschool.org

3015 Broussard Street Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 383-7207 sjabr.org

St. Joseph’s Academy (SJA) is a Catholic, college-preparatory school serving girls in grades 9-12. SJA has been named a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence four times: 1991, 1996, 2002 and 2016.

SJA was founded in 1868 by the Sisters of St. Joseph. For 152 years, this ministry of the Congregation of St. Joseph has stood as a pillar of excellence in the Baton Rouge community. SJA is a place where relationships are strengthened and young girls become women of faith, hope and love.

SJA’s 10,480 graduates are leaders in business, industry, academia, government, their churches and communities. They’re advocates, volunteers, wives, mothers and grandmothers. They serve the dear neighbor as women for others.

The mission of St. Joseph’s Academy is to educate young women as responsible and unifying members of the world community. In the spirit and charism of the Sisters of St. Joseph, St. Joseph’s Academy offers opportunities for faith development in the Catholic tradition, academic excellence, and personal growth.

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17521 Monitor Avenue Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 753-9782 smhsbr.org Founded in 1984 by the Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge, St. Michael High School is a co-educational, college preparatory school for students in grades 9-12 seeking a comprehensive, Catholic education. St. Michael High School provides a rigorous academic curriculum which offers 26 AP and Honors courses, Dual Enrollment courses through LSU and nontraditional electives ranging from Forensics to Engineering.

Since 1990, we have had 121 National Merit and Advanced Placement Scholars. Our school utilizes a fully implemented 1:1 laptop program and offers over 50 sports and clubs for student development. Through Catholic formation, we build on a student’s spiritual foundation by providing a modern and inclusive campus experience where students enjoy smaller class sizes that nurture their God-given talents.

The mission of St. Michael High School is to foster the spiritual, intellectual, and personal development of young men and women as committed disciples of Christ.

Trinity Lutheran School 15160 S. Harrell’s Ferry Road Baton Rouge, Louisiana (225) 272-1288 tlcbr.org

Trinity Lutheran School offers an Education Anchored in Christ–attending weekly chapel services, daily religion classes and celebrating the JOY of Jesus; an Education Anchored in Academics– inspiring and cultivating intellectual curiosity and a lifelong love of learning in our students from kindergarten through eighth grade; an Education Anchored in Character–developing leadership and good character in students and offering a broad range of opportunities to expand their God-given abilities; an Education Anchored in Service–working together to build a strong community of students, faculty, and families who care for one another and have a true passion for serving others; and an Education Anchored in Diversity–educating, mentoring, loving, coaching and sharing hope with students of all backgrounds. We offer before and after-school care, small teacher-to-student ratios in multigrade settings, weekly class newsletters, and private access to online student information. Extracurricular offerings include Yearbook Staff, Student Council, Band, Cooking Club, Athletics, and Art. We develop not only life-long learners, but life-long relationships.

Victory Christian Academy

3953 North Flannery Road Baton Rouge, LA 70814 (225) 272-8339 vcawarriors.org For the past 40 years, Victory Christian Academy has served area families by providing a quality education in a Christian environment.

With a low teacher to student ratio, we can provide individual attention to students as we partner with their families to help them grow spiritually, academically, physically, and socially. To nurture the spiritual development of our students, we have daily Bible lessons and weekly chapel services. Our academic program challenges students to think critically about the world around them as they master the core content of each subject.

We also offer weekly enrichment classes in Spanish, computer, art, and music. There are many opportunities to become involved outside the classroom. We offer clubs such as Jr. Beta and Student Council to allow students to strengthen their leadership skills and to encourage service to others. There are athletic opportunities through team sports including volleyball, basketball, softball, flag football, and cheerleading. We also provide a hot lunch program as well as extended care services for our families. It is our prayer that you will join us as we seek to equip the next generation for lives of Victory!

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Managing Tuition Costs Private School is More Affordable Than You Think

BY MELANIE FORSTALL LEMOINE, PH.D. PHOTO BY KLEINPETER PHOTOGRAPHY 2020-21 COVER KID: TRIPP M.

L

PODCAST

OUISIANA IS KNOWN for food,

festivals, and an eclectic culture that is deeply rooted in religious beliefs. For many, Mardi Gras is simply a time to indulge in good food and drink, however, the celebration actually began as a religious holiday. Understanding the state’s religious heritage may help explain why Louisiana is third in the nation for private school enrollment. Approximately 19 percent of Louisiana schools are private, and the majority of these are faith-based, with the highest percentage either Catholic or Christian. For the current school year, there are approximately 68 private schools in East Baton Rouge serving over 19,000 students.

Private schools offer an option for families who want to provide their children with a faith-based education. However, this often comes at a significant cost. In fact, tuition for private schools has increased 20 percent over the past eight years, making this a burdensome expense for many families. Despite the costs, there are many ways families can manage the expense.

Investing in the Future According to Jennifer Barrett, AMS, CRPC, Financial Advisor with Edward Jones, the key 62

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to managing tuition costs for families is balance. “The challenge for families is often trying to save for tuition costs while also saving for retirement,” says Barrett. “But it doesn’t mean you have to pick one or the other.”

One option, explains Barrett, is setting up a 529 account. Funds contributed to this type of account can be used for K-12 tuition expenses and provide the family with tax benefits. This can be a real win-win for families. “The growth is tax deferred, and withdrawals are tax-free as long as the money is used for qualified education expenses,” says Barrett. As an added plus, it’s not only the parents who can contribute. Friends or family looking for a non-traditional gift?

Anyone who contributes to a child’s 529 fund can also potentially earn tax credit for the donation.

Bottom line, when it comes to financial savings, there are many options and plenty of things to consider. Barrett reminds families, “Time is the biggest tool we have, so the sooner families look at their options, the better. It never hurts to talk with an advisor; have a conversation so you know your options.”

School-Based Assistance In order to make tuition more accessible for families, many schools offer payment plans, financing options, and tuition assistance.

Many schools offer a loan option in which tuition is paid in installments over a time period. An installment plan is usually financed through a bank or other institution, and payments are subject to interest rates.

However, having a payment plan can be more manageable for families instead of one lump sum payment.

Another option is school-based tuition assistance. According to Head of School, Dr. Carrie Steakley of Episcopal School of Baton Rouge, tuition assistance awards are provided to students based on need and spread across all grade levels. “Last year, Episcopal awarded over $2.6 million in assistance to 33 percent of students,” says Dr. Steakley. Episcopal, like other faith-based private schools, also offers merit scholarships.

Taking advantage of these opportunities can help make tuition more manageable.

Often, schools have specific offices or people such as the Director of Tuition Assistance or Director of Admissions ready to assist.

Families are encouraged to visit a school’s website or call for specific information.

Balancing the Budget While many schools offer a variety of ways to assist families, for some families, making tuition manageable simply means balancing the budget. For local mom, Jennifer J., paying for private school tuition requires

a lot of planning. “School tuition is in the top ‘Big Three’ of my monthly payments, including the house note and car note,” she says. “But I have to spread the payments out so that the big three come out of alternating paychecks, and my paydays rotate, so this takes planning.”

Local mom, Annie S., has four children in private school. “We have made the choice to send our children to schools that reflect our religious beliefs,” says Annie. “Ultimately, we believe it is our job as parents to raise our children in our faith.” To successfully manage tuition payments, it takes sacrifice.

Annie explains, “We get a tax refund every year and that is how we pay for most of tuition.” But to really make things work, there are other adjustments. “We don’t go on big vacations and my kids don’t go to camp.

I am very happy with my nine-year-old vehicle because it’s paid for and still running well. Our clothing budget is very small,” she continues. While the sacrifices may be hard sometimes, she believes they are worth it. “The sacrifices we are making for our children are worth more than material things– not to mention the valuable lessons these sacrifices we make as a family are teaching our children.”

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Meet the Faces of Baton Rouge When choosing our care, it’s important to us to find a professional who provides us with the help we need. However, we also strive to form a relationship with them in order to feel comfortable and well taken care of. These Faces are the best of the best in their fields.

They provide a helping hand, a friendly conversation when one is needed, and care that is unmatched.

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Photo Credit: Aimee Rabb Photography

Lasting Impressions & Granite, Rounding out the team is Cathy Williams, the design consultation Inc. Design House

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The Face of

FLOORING, GRANITE & REMODELS Rene and Emily Tassin

With so much time being spent at home, we’re finally finding time to do more of those home improvement projects we’ve envisioned since we moved in. However, knowing where to start, determining what looks best, and finding the right people to get the job done isn’t always easy. Until now.

Whether you’re looking to install new floors or granite, or you’re wanting a full remodel, Lasting Impressions & Granite, Inc. Design House is your one-stop shop. Visualize your dream project, no matter how big or small, and their team of licensed designers and professional consultants will bring your vision to fruition.

Lasting Impressions & Granite, Inc. Design House opened in 1999 and has been a family-owned business ever since. Owners Rene and Emily Tassin are natives of Baton Rouge, have been married for 21 years, and they have two teenagers.

expert who has been in the design industry for over 30 years and with Lasting Impressions for over 15 years; Denise Fitzgerald, the licensed designer; and the large inhouse crew of installers and fabricators. For the Tassins and everyone at Lasting Impressions, nurturing relationships, whether with staff or clients, remains the most important part of the whole experience.

At Lasting Impressions, it’s about the passion and being able to provide a service and do it right.

The team strives to provide every client with an experience that is free of stress, joyful, and leaves them with a feeling that their desires were realized. To the staff at Lasting Impressions & Granite, Inc. Design House, it’s not just another job to them, every project is art.

Get the help you need with planning and designing renovations, flooring, and granite with Lasting Impressions & Granite, Inc. Design House by visiting granite-inc.com.

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LOCAL CUISINE Chef Brandon Odom

Odom’s Kitchen

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Food has a special way of bringing everyone together, and at Odom’s Kitchen, togetherness is key.

Whether you’re dining in, having them cater your event, or having them prep your meals for the week, you can always expect great food that has been cooked just the way you like it.

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Head Chef Brandon Odom has been cooking up incredible food for over 15 years. After losing his grandmother, Chef Odom decided it was time to chase his dreams, and he did. Despite his success, Chef Odom has dreams of expanding and continuing to serve our community in a big way.

As a husband and father of two, Chef Odom knows the importance of family and always providing excellent care. His family can often be seen together in the kitchen, but they also can be found out in the community, giving back and sharing their blessings in any way possible.

For Chef Odom and everyone at Odom’s Kitchen, it’s all about making people happy through the art of food.

Odom’s Kitchen provides customized menu options, first-rate customer service, Send a Chef opportunities, catering, and they are even available for events. They are located inside of Tops Ultra Lounge.

Visit Odom’s Kitchen, where food is family, at eatwithodoms.com.

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GYMNASTICS Bryan Kiser

Valor Gymnastics When Bryan Kiser was a child, his mother encouraged him to try gymnastics because she felt it was a much safer option for a sport than football. At age 5, neither she nor him would realize that this would become not only his primary sport but his primary career focus now some 43 years later.

As a competitor, Bryan moved quickly through the Junior Olympic Men’s Program of USA Gymnastics to finish his career as an Elite, the “professional” competitive level of Gymnastics. At age 14, he began coaching as an assistant to his coach and well… he’s still doing what he loves to this day now as the owner of Valor Gymnastics here in Baton Rouge.

Bryan and his wife, Jennifer, completed their move to Baton Rouge in January of 2020 at the same time Bryan took full ownership of Valor and began the transformation of the programming, the facility, and the staff.

Photo Credit: Aimee Rabb Photography

Today, Valor provides a warm and welcoming environment for ages 18 months to 18 years old. With the renovations and upgrades the gym and the program exemplifies the USA Gymnastics slogan: “Begin here, Go anywhere”...

As a Member Club of USA Gymnastics, Bryan has created a culture within Valor where each child, no matter talent level or interest, can come, take classes, and be part of something that is bigger than themselves. The staff strives to make each child feel like they are a champion by challenging them to learn, grow and experience the sport of gymnastics.

Bryan recently added former National Team Coach Russ Ward and new Women’s Program Director Julie Clark to the staff.

This dynamic duo brings years of experience and the expertise to provide World Class Gymnastics training and development to Louisiana.

Bryan suggests every child, boys and girls, start with gymnastics as it is proven to develop the mind as well as the body in a way few other activities can. At Valor Gymnastics, a child can really “begin here and go anywhere.” It starts with a FREE trial class which can be easily set up by calling (225) 650-3911.

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ORTHODONTICS Dr. Bryan Hollis

Hollis Orthodontics

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For 25 years, Dr. Bryan Hollis has been at the forefront of making beautiful smiles. As a Board Certified Specialist in Orthodontics, he is committed to a standard of excellence while also providing patients a warm and inviting experience throughout their treatment.

At Hollis Orthodontics, you’re family. Dr. Hollis and his staff

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work diligently to ensure that they continuously improve the lives of their patients, not only through their smiles but also by serving the community they grow up in.

By participating in community activities, supporting local schools and various causes such as the annual Sock it To Me Sock Drive, Dr. Hollis and his team are always looking for ways to serve and give back where it is needed the most.

In addition to his unending support to the community, establishing positive relationships with patients and their families is Dr. Hollis’ ultimate goal. In a unique, state of the art, and comfortable setting, patients have an opportunity to get to know his fun, friendly and down to earth personality, which they come to love. He is a perfectionist in the field of Orthodontics, but what sets him apart is his genuine interest and care for his patients.

Dr. Hollis has been married to his wife, Celeste, for 30 years. Together, they have four children and one grandson. When he’s not in the office perfecting smiles, he enjoys spending time traveling with his family and hunting.

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PUBLIC EDUCATION Adam Smith

East Baton Rouge Parish Schools When asked about his motivation for his career as a lifelong educator, Adam Smith smiles fondly recalling, Mr. Jackson, his former high school social studies teacher. As a teenager, he was certain of one thing: he wanted to teach social studies to be “just like Mr. Jackson.” More importantly, he wanted to answer a calling that would leave a meaningful, lifelong, positive impression while serving others.

As a veteran educator with over 23 years of experience–all in East Baton Rouge Parish Schools, Adam Smith has risen through the ranks, serving in multiple roles as a teacher, school administrator, district leader and now Interim Superintendent of Schools. Originally from Chicago, Mr. Smith and his wife of over 28 years are the proud parents of four children, all of whom are EBR Schools graduates. As a father and now grandfather, Adam Smith’s overarching approach is simple– make decisions that best serve all children–just as he would for his own. Over the years, Mr. Smith recalls a variety of changes in public

education and particularly within the EBRP School System. When asked about the recent state of education, he is hopeful and optimistic about the opportunities for change and innovation that lie ahead.

“Now more than ever, we are increasing focus on individual student needs on and off campus; specifically, how they progress both academically and socially,” says Smith. “Throughout COVID, we have placed intentional focus on Internet connectivity, child nutrition, and resources for all students to succeed, especially those most at risk of falling behind. It is crucial to help our families and students overcome the challenges of transitioning between virtual and face-toface learning environments to avoid disruptions wherever possible.”

The school system is home to unique, innovative, and award-winning programming inclusive of Magnet, Montessori, foreign language immersion, fine arts, and gifted education classes. Mr. Smith’s goal is for every school in every neighborhood of the district to offer

Photo Credit: Aimee Rabb Photography

something unique while continuing to meet the academic, social and emotional needs of all families.

“Every family deserves access to a premier, dynamic school community that fosters character building and student achievement. I’m deeply inspired and proud of our educators for not letting this pandemic slow down this important progress.

Our commitment to children prevails,” Smith says.

As a champion of teachers, students and staff across the district, Mr. Smith invites the community into the schools to get to know the district firsthand. “We want to be the first choice for our families across this city. It’s what I wanted for my children, my grandchildren, and what I want for all children.”

Smith encourages the community to join EBR Schools on its journey to “Building the Future of Baton Rouge.”

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Citizens Bank & Trust When BLDG 5 broke ground in January of 2019, owners Misti and Brumby Broussard asked their friends and family to contribute dirt from their own homes, businesses and places special to them so that they would all be a part of this business from the “ground up.” Citizens Bank & Trust Branch Manager/Vice President Karen Yonts and Senior Vice President Jim Purgerson were in attendance with their own dirt.

As the bank that helped BLDG 5 become a reality, they were now part of the family.

“We saw their business develop from the start,” says Yonts. “We were there for the whole process with a personal touch, whether it was delivering loan papers for them to sign or attending the ribbon cutting.”

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addition to providing a full range of business services, Citizens can also take care of customers’ personal financial needs–at six offices in the Baton Rouge area. Lending decisions are made locally with a team focused on helping businesses grow.

In the case of BLDG 5, which opened the doors on its market, restaurant and bar in November 2019, Citizens Bank “just got it,” says Misti. “They understood small business, saw our dream, and they have been our partners ever since.”

A native of New Iberia, Brumby wanted to move back to his home state from California to be closer to family. He stumbled upon the BLDG 5 location beneath the Perkins Road underpass by accident one day. BLDG 5 was an opportunity for the Broussards to invest in their new community and share their love of food and entertaining.

Citizens Bank made that happen.

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BANKING

Jim Purgerson and Karen Yonts Photo Credit: Aimee Rabb Photography

“Citizens supported us through everything–a pandemic, loans, the grand opening,” says Misti. “They made things so easy and were always hands-on. Now that we’re open, we see them often for lunch, dinner or drinks on the patio.”

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The Face of REALTY

Scarlet Callicoatte Latter & Blum The journey to finding the perfect home for your family is never an easy task. However, when you have a professional and experienced realtor such as Scarlet Callicoatte on your side, finding the perfect fit becomes a lot easier and a lot more fun.

Home has never been more important to us than now. Many of us are still working from home while also helping our children navigate school virtually. Having the perfect space to do it all is crucial, and Scarlet of Latter & Blum can help you find exactly what you are looking for in a home, so you can do it all.

Scarlet is not only knowledgeable about the market, she’s also caring and trustworthy, and she loves what she does. The entire journey of helping families find their perfect home is a joy to her, but it’s especially exciting when she sees her clients’ faces light up when they know they’ve found THE ONE! Buying and selling homes is more than just a transaction to her.

Scarlet builds relationships with her clients, keeping in touch with them

long after they have moved in. She’s also an incredible communicator and negotiator, helping each of her clients come out on top everytime.

A market expert in 11 parishes, Scarlet Callicoatte believes that for her, real estate is not just a job, it’s a lifestyle. So, whether you’re moving up, down or into a new home, Scarlet Callicoatte’s goal is to help you have a successful sale, no matter what. Start the journey of finding your perfect home today by emailing scallicoatte@latterblum. com.

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The Face of URGENT CARE HEALTH

Dr. Graham Tujague and Dr. Kevin DiBenedetto Photo Credit: Aimee Rabb Photography

Lake After Hours Urgent Care When we want to feel better, we know that Lake After Hours Urgent Care is around the corner. With an experienced medical staff, short wait times, and convenient hours, Lake After Hours Urgent Care strives to meet our health needs when we need them the most.

What makes the company so special are the doctors who always greet you with a smiling face.

A long-time Baton Rouge resident, Dr. Graham Tujague was inspired by his father, who is also a physician, and his colleagues to pursue medicine. “I noticed how these physicians interacted with their peers and families and realized that I wanted to focus in the same direction. I always had a deep respect for ‘the family practitioner’ and wanted to influence other families with the proper care and treatment,” Dr. Tujague says.

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After a lot of hard work, his dream became a reality. Dr. Tujague has been practicing for over 30 years, and he shares that the enjoyment of practicing medicine has different levels. He says, “Deciding how to treat people requires lots of time in the field. There can be many hidden disorders and diseases. It can be very challenging to make the proper call in addition to providing the proper treatment. One of the most enjoyable aspects for me is discerning all of the possible variables and how to find an endpoint.”

This is a tremendous responsibility and involves many decisions, but to him, the most important decision is ensuring that the patient is happy and satisfied.

Dr. Kevin DiBenedetto shares this sentiment. He says, “I hope each patient I see feels like they had a good experience and that their concerns were addressed. Most of all, I hope they feel and get better.”

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A Baton Rouge native, Dr. DiBenedetto realized he wanted to pursue medicine when he was a Boy Scout practicing First Aid. He attended medical school in New Orleans, where he met his wife, Suzy. Together, they have four wonderful children. He graduated in 1983, worked as an ER physician until 2000, and started Lake After Hours in 1999. The company will be 22 years old this month.

Dr. DiBenedetto finds his work to be very rewarding, especially when working with the community and correctly diagnosing patients.

He says, “I like practicing hands-on medicine, and the variety of injuries and illnesses in urgent care is what I enjoy the most. Making the correct diagnosis is also especially rewarding. In urgent care, our patients are mostly all walk-in patients, so I get to treat people from the entire community.” To learn more, visit lakeurgentcare.com.

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The Face of CHARTER SCHOOLS Roberto Ramirez

BASIS Baton Rouge Charter Schools Roberto Ramirez, Head of School at the K–7 BASIS Baton Rouge– Materra Campus, is dedicated to world-class, tuition-free education.

It’s no wonder Baton Rouge families have voted him the best elementary school principal, and BASIS Baton Rouge the best elementary school in its first two years.

His leadership has brought tremendous success and growth to the academic community. In 2021, a second campus, BASIS Baton Rouge–Mid City Campus, will open to serve grades K–5.

Mr. Ramirez joined the network of K–12 BASIS Charter Schools in 2008. While he served as Upper School Director at BASIS Tucson North, the school was ranked among the top 10 best high schools

in the nation, by U.S. News & World Report and The Washington Post.

The teachers are the true heroes, he says. “It is a pleasure to walk into a classroom and see firsthand the magic that happens when you have a strong curriculum delivered by subject expert teachers and absorbed by joyful and inquisitive students,” he shares.

Learn more at enrollBASIS.com.

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The Dunham School Over the last 40 years, The Dunham School has seen tremendous growth in all facets of the school– academically, athletically, and even in the school’s facilities. However, the heart of the school has always remained the same.

As one of the most innovative schools in the country, The Dunham School continuously delivers at the highest level. Dunham offers an individualized approach for each student, small classes, 1:1 technology, and an amazing staff to help students see the future and all the available possibilities.

Head of School Steven A. Eagleton has been with the school since 2000. He started as a teacher at the school and wore many hats over the years before reaching his current position. He, along with the faculty and staff, have helped 74

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Dunham continue to excel year after year.

Dunham educates students on a blend of grammar, logic, and rhetoric. At Dunham, students come prepared and are encouraged to bring their ideas to the table each day. Dunham’s teachers work closely with the students to highlight their strengths, work on their weaknesses, build their confidence, and become great citizens who know and understand their faith.

While Dunham has become one of the premier schools in our country, they’re not interested in standing still. Everyone at Dunham wants to continue moving forward, incorporating AI, virtual reality, coding, computer development...all the possibilities that are available, so they can become the school of the future.

At Dunham, there’s no ceiling to a student’s potential. They set

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The Face of

PRIVATE SCHOOL EDUCATION Steven Eagleton themselves apart by being able to quickly adapt to whatever is going on in the world, creating a space for students that accelerates them to becoming great thinkers, speakers, businesses owners, citizens, and leaders. To schedule a tour, visit dunhamschool.org.

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The Face of MODERN CONNECTIVITY Josh Descant Josh Descant’s role as CEO of REV Broadband–the parent company of EATEL, Reserve Telecommunications Company (RTC), Vision Communications and VENYU–has never felt more crucial. Connecting communities from the capital city of Baton Rouge to the water-andsand-seekers of Grand Isle and all

parts in between with consistent and future-facing technology is a challenge Descant and his team wake up to face each day.

“Now, more than ever, staying connected is vital to not only our jobs and our children’s educations,” says Descant. “But it’s central to who we are as human beings.”

“We’re social beings currently forced into rather isolated settings where traditional modes of socialization have been altered,” says Descant. “And as we see families and communities forced to come up with creative means to remain connected, our team simply has to offer a network that matches that very creativity and the demands of the people of South Louisiana.”

Linking the parishes of Ascension, East Baton Rouge, Iberville, Lafourche, Livingston, St. James, St. John the Baptist, Terrebonne, West Baton Rouge and parts of Jefferson, this locally led and growing network is lit up with over 2,700 miles of fiber and connects 60,000 South Louisiana customers.

“Each day, our 400-plus employees rise to the responsibility

of being the principal and constant conduit that ensures communities and families remain linked throughout the duration of these trying times,” says Descant.

Descant and his entire team fervently believe that Louisiana’s communities–be it rural, remote or urban–deserve equitable access to modern day technology when it comes to Internet access.

And while reliable connectivity is something most customers come to expect, Descant’s team recognizes the current need beyond the everyday expectation and is driven by a purpose to not only earn the trust of communities in their homes and their businesses, but to deliver uninterrupted and cutting-edge connections across an industry-leading, fiber-rich network.

“While 2020 has been a year burdened with challenges, it’s also been a year of creativity synergized by a desire to reach out to loved ones,” says Descant. “Our team has just been honored to help South Louisiana both keep that desire burning and effortless to achieve.”

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CONSTRUCTION & CRANE RENTAL Brad Kincaid

Eastern Constructors Inc At only 17 years old, Kentucky-native Brad Kincaid joined the military. After serving, he started a job as an ironworker the following summer where he stayed for eight years. It wasn’t until he turned 29 that he decided to set out on his own and start his own business. And so in 2011, Brad’s company, Eastern Constructors, Inc. was created.

Brad Kincaid eventually planted his roots in Louisiana; married his wife, Edwina; and became a father.

Along with those incredible life experiences, Brad Kincaid’s business was also growing.

Brad’s goal for Eastern Constructors, Inc. has remained the same over these last nine years: to be the best steel erection company in the United States.

Eastern Constructors Inc. provides steel erection, heavy haul, trucking and crane rental services from coast to coast. Their main focus is helping your business advance and reach new heights.

Eastern Constructors is the premier partner for executing steel projects of any size, to meet any 76

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condition. They will tackle industrial and commercial projects of all scopes and sizes with precision and quality. So regardless of the job, you can expect professionalism that is unmatched and a project that is always done the right way. Eastern Constructors prides themselves on innovative thinking, and they are always prepared to deliver. For more information, visit easternci.com and easternsi.com.

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CHILD DEVELOPMENT Anne Hindrichs, LCSW Photo Credit: Aimee Rabb Photography

McMains Children’s Developmental Center With a background in special education and social work, Anne Hindrichs, LCSW joined the incredible staff of McMains Children’s Developmental Center in 1988. She has been with McMains, wearing a variety of hats, for over the last 30 years. Hindrichs became the Executive Director in 2017 and shares that the people and the staff are what truly make the experience so special.

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With her husband and her two children, Hindrichs and her family have volunteered many hours in helping McMains succeed. “We call it the nonprofit family. My husband does a lot of maintenance around here and my children have volunteered here. I truly couldn’t do it without their support,” she says.

McMains Children’s Developmental Center has been around for 67 years, created by a group of families who came together to start The United Cerebral Palsy Association of Greater Baton Rouge, Inc. It eventually expanded and became what we now know as McMains Children’s Developmental Center.

McMains provides physical, occupational, and speech and language therapy; assistive technology assessment and therapy; learning disability evaluations and educational therapy, family programs, and social work services. The center even provides a Capable Arts Camp, an annual canoe trip, the Wheels to Succeed program supported by the No Such Thing As Impossible Bike Ride fundraiser, and even an

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adapted garden.

“I don’t want anyone to ever miss out on something out there. I want them to be connected to what we do, but also the community, so we act as a resource for families,” says Hindrichs.

Hindrichs strives to be that bridge for all families because the families are what it’s all about. ”The families who come are some of the most resilient and amazing families.

I love that they let us be a part of that. It’s hard to let people into your world and trust them and accept help. I have learned so much from them. The families and my staff are my biggest loves. I have a great staff. They’re very compassionate and really go above and beyond to help. It really becomes all of us working together to be able to help all of us become a little bit better,” says Hindrichs.

Hindrichs hopes to continue to expand McMains and provide even more for those in need, all while keeping that same family feel that McMains is known for offering. To learn more, visit mcmainscdc.org.

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BATTLING TRUANCY Stephanie Hicks Family & Youth Service Center A deputy and project specialist with the EBR Sheriff’s office, Stephanie Hicks was transferred to the Family and Youth Service Center in 2012 as an assistant to Roxson Welch, the Director of what would soon become known as the Truancy Center.

At the time, Stephanie had no idea what an impact the Center would have on her life. The Family and Youth Service Center has grown into something so much more than a Truancy Center, and her job is so much more than just a job. To Stephanie, it’s a mission and a calling.

Stephanie’s day starts and ends with trying to locate children. The in between is spent trying to locate services and help they need. Stephanie believes that truancy is merely a symptom of bigger problems, and if they do not get to the bottom of those problems, they’re not helping.

“Every child deserves an education. The pandemic is hard on

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everyone, but children have to go to school. Children want to learn.

They want to do well. They thrive when they have a routine. However, this is a team effort. One person cannot tackle these problems alone, but if one person has the means and ability to reach out and help one child, there would be one less child in need. That is how I look at this everyday,” says Stephanie.

Stephanie’s hard work does not go unnoticed. Over the years, she has received The Beyond the Badge Heart of Law Enforcement Award in 2018 and in 2019, Sheriff Gautreaux’s Above and Beyond Award, and the NAACP Humanitarian Award.

However, for Stephanie, the

real reward is seeing the children thriving after getting the help they need and on the right path.

“Children need a voice and advocates to help them open doors.

It’s been life changing for me knowing we have helped so many young people find their way. Truancy is just one way we are able to identify families who so desperately need the help. From Sheriff Sid Gautreaux to Roxson Welch and so many others, I have a support system that truly cares about families and children. There is strength in that. I am blessed to be able to serve the community in this capacity in an area so near to my heart.” says Stephanie. For more information, visit fysc-ebr.org.

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The Face of CHILDREN’S HEALTH Dr. Trey Dunbar

Photo Credit: Aimee Rabb Photography

Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital Providing care for children is what led Dr. Trey Dunbar, a Neonatologist, to Baton Rouge from North Carolina. Dr. Dunbar and his wife consider Baton Rouge as their true home and are thankful for the opportunities the city has provided not only to him, but also to his three children.

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cused health network, Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health provides patients with more access to physicians and providers specifically trained to care for children. The network includes hospital-based services at the main campus of Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital in Baton Rouge, as well as St. Francis Pediatrics in Monroe and Our Lady of Lourdes Women’s & for children, so they can all get the Children’s Hospital in Lafayette. highest level of pediatric care closOur Lady of the Lake Children’s est to home.

Health has built Louisiana’s largest “Whether it is thinking about pediatric health network to care for innovative ways to care for kids so any of the one million children in that our care team can provide the our state and deliver on the belief safest care more efficiently, recruit- that your child can be part of a ing new physicians to town, or help- stronger, healthier tomorrow.

Dr. Dunbar says, “Our goal is to ing build new programs to provide better care to more children, I enjoy demonstrably improve the care of knowing that at the end of the day, Louisiana’s children. It may seem simplistic, but needs to be stressed, we have improved the lives of children and families in our community, that we will never have a healthy Louisiana without healthy children.” now and for future generations,” says Dr. Dunbar.

Visit ololchildrens.org/believe for more.

With a collaborative, child-fo-

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PRIMARY CARE Dr. Melissa Love Ochsner Health Growing up, Dr. Melissa Love recalls having a family doctor–the one doctor you could go to for everything–and that is the mentality Dr. Love wanted to have when she began practicing medicine.

Originally from Starkville, Mississippi, Dr. Love received her degree from Mississippi College, went to medical school in Jackson, and then completed her residency in North Carolina. When her husband planned to get his PhD from LSU, the two moved to Baton Rouge and have been here ever since. Dr. Love is the mom to two happy and spunky boys, ages six and five. The family aspect has always been important to Dr. Love, and her love for family transcends into her work.

“I grew up with a family doctor and we went to one doctor for everything. I want my patients to feel like they have someone to identify with as ‘their doctor’ for everything they need,” says Dr. Love. “I like to see patients for yearly exams to get

Photo Credit: Aimee Rabb Photography

to know them. During these visits, I also perform medical screenings and help identify and treat various medical conditions.”

For Dr. Love, every patient encounter is unique, and she really enjoys the variety of primary care.

“We’re able to truly help people.

Our ideal goal is to improve the quality and health of every patient with each visit” she says.

Dr. Love embodies the “love” in her name. She demonstrates compassion and strives to make each patient feel valued and heard, whether through her virtual or in-person visits at Ochsner Health Center - Bluebonnet South.

Best of all? Bluebonnet South has same-day and next-day appointments. They offer primary

care; women’s health services, including OB/GYN care and ultrasounds; sports medicine, pelvic floor therapy; and speech therapy.

In 2021, they are planning to add more pediatric services and dermatology.

“We really work as a team and you have more than one set of eyes on you when you’re here. We like to bring the services to you, and we have so many more services to come,” says Dr. Love.

Whether you have a newborn or an older relative, Bluebonnet South is your one-stop-shop for all your healthcare needs, and with incredible doctors like Dr. Love, you can bet your health is in great hands.

For more information, visit Ochsner.org/batonrouge.

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The Face of MORTGAGE LENDING Chasity Graff

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LA Lending, LLC Owning a home is a dream that Chasity Graff, owner of LA Lending, gets to make come true each and every day. Chasity boldly started her own boutique brokerage in 2007, at only 27, and has helped hundreds of families become homeowners over the past 13 years. She quickly became one of the most sought-after mortgage professionals in town. Her company withstood the financial crisis meltdown, two floods and 2020!

LA Lending, LLC provides assistance with home purchase loans and refinances. They use state-ofthe-art technology to show rate and program comparisons. No one loan suits all, and Chasity makes it her mission to find the perfect fit for all her clients.

Chasity Graff has spoken on several national stages to teach other brokers and loan originators the importance of customer service and is also very happy to be servant leader in her peer group. Part of her

accolades include being a featured contributor in several national, well-respected financial magazines, even Time.com. She was also selected twice as one of The 40 Most Influential Mortgage Professionals Under 40 by the National Mortgage Professional Magazine. She’s a member of the National Association of Mortgage Brokers, the Louisiana Mortgage Lender Association, Association of Independent Mortgage Experts, the Woman’s Mortgage Network and the Greater Baton Rouge Association of Realtors.

Chasity’s a Baton Rouge native, alumni of Baton Rouge Magnet High School and Louisiana State University, and a member of the St. Aloysius Catholic community.

She has two beautiful children and one pretty large goldendoodle that keeps her on her toes. When she’s not helping families become homeowners, she can be seen with her kiddos, either at the soccer field or by the pool–when the weather allows! For more information, visit lalending.net.

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The Face of COSMETIC SPECIALTIES Abbie Woodard, CLS-A

Louisiana Laserderm

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A Baton Rouge native and mother of four, Abbie Woodard, CLS-A began working in aesthetics at Louisiana Laserderm in 2007 as a massage therapist and nursing school student. And now, for over the last six years, she has been the owner of the business.

In the beginning, Abbie had plans to serve in more of a medical role, but when she discovered cosmetic laser procedures and was touched by the power of helping others feel better about themselves, she began a new journey.

Combining her love for beauty, people, science and medicine, Abbie had found her true calling.

Abbie has worked alongside multiple dermatologists and industry leaders to gain paramount experience and

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knowledge of non-invasive cosmetic procedures. Her dedication and passion is apparent in everyone she treats, creating the perfect match between Abbie and Louisiana Laserderm.

Louisiana Laserderm was founded in 2001 by Reeves Durham as one of the first and only laser centers in the Baton Rouge area. Louisiana Laserderm embodies a deep passion for helping others and providing excellent care.

Louisiana Laserderm offers many aesthetic services, including laser hair removal, tattoo removal, permanent makeup, stretch mark reduction, and even HydraFacials.

Patients at Louisiana Laserderm know that services are not offered just because they’re the “latest and greatest,” but instead because the procedures are tested, researched and proven by Louisiana Laserderm, bringing all clients the real deal in aesthetics. For more information, visit lalaserderm.com.

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The Face of CHIROPRACTIC CARE Dr. R. Ken Coleman Capital City Chiropractic After a back injury he sustained while playing football in high school, Dr. R. Ken Coleman’s father encouraged him to see a chiropractor before deciding to have the surgery the doctors were suggesting. At the time, many people were not aware of all the benefits of chiropractic care, so Dr. Coleman had some reservations. However, Dr. Coleman went, was evaluated, and started treatment. Thanks to the chiropractor, Dr. Coleman never did have to have that back surgery.

Dr. Coleman grew up in Jena, Louisiana. He moved to Baton Rouge in 1990 to work as a strength coach for the LSU athletics department. Dr. Coleman says, “Being the strength coach for the 1993 National Championship baseball team was a great honor.” He received his Kinesiology Bachelor of Science from LSU in 1994, and Doctor of

Photo Credit: Aimee Rabb Photography

Chiropractic from Texas Chiropractic College in 1998. In 2001, he opened Capitol City Chiropractic.

At Capitol City Chiropractic, you will find a group of professionals who are committed to the goal of helping you return to and keep a natural state of good health.

“I enjoy seeing people get well and seeing them living a pain-free life. At Capitol City Chiropractic, we try to keep an upbeat atmosphere. When people are in pain, they are upset and aggravated, so I do my best to make it a friendly

environment,” says Dr. Coleman.

Dr. Coleman strives to help everybody. “When you come in, we give you a plan to get you out of pain,” he says. Capitol City Chiropractic treats a wide variety of conditions using the best combination of chiropractic techniques, massage, stretching, strengthening, and nutritional programs.

“I’m 55 and I’m pain-free. It worked so well for me. It’s amazing what it does,” says Dr. Coleman. To discover what it can do for you, visit facebook.com/capitalcitychiroservices.

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What the child becomes, the community becomes.

Baton Rouge Parents Magazine has committed to the families of Greater Baton Rouge and surrounding areas for 30 years now. We serve, and our primary goal is to make your life just a little bit easier.

We love our community and have a heartfelt and profound commitment to the children, families, and the community that we all call home.

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A Day in the Life of Dad

Well, Here We Are...

BY BRANDON FOREMAN

PODCAST

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HIS IS THE time we have all been waiting for…2021. I don’t know about you, but 2020 went by so fast and so much happened that I don’t even remember it all. I have talked to friends, co-workers and clients, and each time we talk about it, I hear a story and ask, “Did we really do that? I don’t even remember.”

I think we all were in a place of, “Let’s just get through this!” And guess what? If you’re reading this, it means you did! So, congratulations and welcome to 2021.

So, how do we do this differently, and is it really different? A lot of the same problems we had in 2020 are still with us. And just like 2020, there are things that are going to come up that we never expected. What can be different, however, is the way we approach it.

Over the last few years of writing this column, I have talked about taking time to spend with family and doing fun things together, and now is the time to do those things. I have always said that life is what happens when you’re doing other things.

Now, I am not talking about all the crazy New Year’s resolutions and let’s get motivated stuff. I am talking about the real deal, tactical stuff and how to make it happen. Let’s do those weekend trips. Let’s have a family game night or movie night. We should all know by now that things change and they can get worse or better. It is all about how we look at the situation. We can say that 2021 is going to be more of the same, or you can say the hell with it, we are going to do this. As far as I’m concerned, there isn’t anything happening in politics or a pandemic or the economy or any other major world affair that is going to stop you from sitting at a table and spending time with your family. The only reason that it’s not done is that you don’t have the time.

Well, let me let you in on a secret. We all have the same 24 hours in a day and how YOU CHOOSE to spend them is up to you. I hear people say that I am always busy and my calendar is always full, and yes that is right, but I also have the ability to say no, reschedule that meeting, go in advance, or block out time on my calendar, and so do you.

This year, skip the process of sitting around thinking of resolutions and think of two things: one of them being something you can do with your family every month and two being something you can do with your family every week. Great, now grab your phone and create a weekly, repeating event on your calendar and block out

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the time every week for it. Then, do the same thing for the monthly event. Look, now you have the time for it and no more excuses.

When 2021 gets crazy, you will have a solid foundation to fall back on. Remember, you got through 2020; you can do anything. And when people ask you what your New Year’s resolution is, you can tell There isn’t anything happening in politics or a pandemic or the economy or any other major world affair that is going to stop you from sitting at a table and spending time with your family. them you have a family plan instead.

Trust me, you can sit around being upset about all these world events, and I do understand, some of these things are downright bad and some are very scary, but if you make the choice and commit to having something to look forward to in this new chapter, it will make things better. Just like a new semester in school, we all start out with an A and it’s our job to keep it.

So remember that 2021 is an awesome year so far. It’s your job to keep it that way.

PIC OF THE MONTH

Trey K. and his daughters, Kadynce and Kensley.

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Out & About

‘CAUSE PARENTING IS A TRIP

Monmouth Historic Inn & Gardens Natchez, Mississippi

BY EMILY DREZ PHOTO BY MELODY TAUZIN

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LONG THE MISSISSIPPI River is this charming city renowned for its southern scenery, rich culture, and antebellum mansions. The history of Natchez dates back to its establishment as a French fort site in 1716 and is known as the birthplace of Mississippi. Since then, it has been shaped by African, French, and Spanish culture, from stunning architecture to classic Southern cuisine. It became the first capital of Mississippi in 1817 and remains a hot spot for tourists today.

Where to Stay As a National Historic Landmark, the Monmouth Historic Inn & Gardens is a 19th-century antebellum mansion brimming with history and nestled in 26 acres of gardens. The southern charm will greet you before you cross the threshold of the Main House. There are 30 suites between the mansion and its seven outbuildings, all with period furnishing and a long list of amenities that add a modern touch. Before resting your head in a four-poster bed, make sure to stop and smell the roses, azaleas, and magnolias while strolling along the beautiful gardens and angel statuary.

Where to Eat Restaurant 1818 Located in the mansion, guests can order from an expansive wine menu and an array of gourmet appetizers, soups, salads, entrees, and desserts a la carte. You can start with fried green tomatoes topped with crab meat and work your way to the Moulard duck breast or pasta primavera. Make sure you leave room for that bourbon pecan pie with chocolate ganache for dessert.

Bellemont Shake Shop If you’re looking for a quick bite to eat, this local favorite has it all.

There is an endless list of sandwiches, po-boys, baskets, sides, shakes, and malts, all made fresh to order. Check out their list of favorites, from the Bellemont Club to the Frito Pie. When you’ve finished, you can’t leave without trying one of their top-rated, homemade shakes.

Biscuits and Blues This is the perfect place for any live music enthusiast. Whether you’re hungry for Sunday brunch, some fried seafood, smoked meats, or a loaded po-boy, this spot is sure to satisfy those cravings while providing you with live entertainment every night. Don’t pass up those Natchez beignets on the dessert menu.

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Coordinates: 31.553296 N, 91.386844 W Distance from Baton Rouge: 91 miles Flying Time: 39 minutes Driving Time: 1 hour, 35 minutes

What to Do The Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile-long drive through 10,000 years of history and three states: Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee. It is a scenic drive and a recreational road that follows the “Old Natchez Trace” used by Native Americans, European settlers, soldiers, and future presidents. More than just a drive, the Natchez Trace Parkway is also used for camping, hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The trace from Natchez to Jackson to Tupelo includes a prehistoric mound site, short hiking trails, the “Old Trace,” scenic overlooks, and historic archaeological sites.

The Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture narrates the lives of Africans in the old American south and exhibits an important aspect of Natchez history such as historic African American sites, citizens, artifacts, and events. This 10,000 squarefoot museum recounts events from the establishment of the city of Natchez in 1716 to the present day, with the era of slavery, Civil War, Reconstruction, 20th-century wars, and the Civil Rights Movement in between.

Natchez is full of beautiful and historic mansions, but if you have to choose one, Stanton Hall is a perfect glimpse into the antebellum period. This Greek revival-style home occupies an entire city block and was originally named Belfast when Frederick Stanton built it in 1857. Today, it is known as a National Historic Landmark and one of the most extravagant mansions to remain standing in the southeastern United States.

At Natchez National Historical Park, you can explore the richest history on the Mississippi River. The historical sites of the Natchez natives include the pre-Civil War Melrose Estate, William Johnson’s townhouse, and Fort Rosalie. Here, the history of the antebellum and Reconstruction eras has been preserved for tourists and locals alike.

The Park is recognized as one of 13 national historic landmarks, so be sure to take a step into history before you conclude your visit.

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Things We L ve

Fresh Start

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ETTING TO START fresh with a new year is always exciting, and after the year we just had, we could all use some “me time.” Whether we need to relax, take better care of our bodies or organize a little better, January’s Things We Love helps in all of those areas this month. Find these products online at brparents.com/things-we-love.

We’ve made it easy for you to add these items right to your shopping cart.

GLOSS-C LIP GLOSS Nourish, hydrate and plump your lips with Gloss-C Lip Gloss. You’ll have fuller looking lips with the added bonus of sheer to buildable color.

LIVE LIFE BEAUTIFULLY PLANNER Plan the perfect 2021 with this planner, featuring daily inspiration, recipes, and motivational quotes.

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HANDS-FREE KEYCHAIN Have a touch-less entry with this Hands-Free Keychain. You’ll be able to avoid germs when opening doors, all in style with this amazing keychain.

LEVOIT SALT LAMP Using only authentic, Himalayan salt rocks, the Levoir Salt Lamp creates a peaceful environment to help you relax and even sleep.

ALOE VERA PLANT This medicinal plant produces oxygen and improves the air in your home. Best of all, it needs little maintenance to continue to thrive.

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Got Tummy Troubles?

Here’s What to Do About Them

BY SARAH LYONS

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UMMY TROUBLES ARE common in

young children and typically aren’t serious. Stomachaches can be anything from constipation to stomach flu to an excuse to get out of school. The tricky part is figuring out if the stomach pain is something serious that warrants a trip to the doctor or if it is a passing thing. Here are some common childhood tummy troubles and what to do about them.

Constipation It’s common for kids to have occasional constipation. This is usually something that can be improved by a higher fiber diet or by using over-thecounter stool softeners or laxatives.

Decreasing foods that cause constipation like bananas, milk, and cheese can also be helpful. Physical activity can also encourage the need to use the bathroom. If your child has chronic constipation that is not improving, speak to your doctor for more suggestions, or ask for a referral to a gastrointestinal physician.

Stomach Flu The stomach flu is an unavoidable part of childhood. Even with all the hand sanitizer in the world, your child is bound to catch it at some point.

While a GI bug is miserable for both the parents and the child, it doesn’t usually warrant a trip to the doctor.

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most important thing to remember during a stomach bug is to keep your child hydrated. Children, especially babies and toddlers, are more likely to get dehydrated during the stomach flu, which can be dangerous. If your child cannot eat during the flu, make sure he is drinking small sips of clear liquids as much as possible. If the bug persists longer than a few days and you feel your child is becoming dehydrated, see your child’s doctor as soon as possible.

Gas A common cause of stomach pain in children comes from trapped gas. Gas pain can be excruciating or make your child uncomfortable. If your child has frequent pain from gas, try changing his diet slightly. For example, many people with frequent gas are lactose intolerant. Reducing the intake of dairy products or trying lactose-free alternatives can help your child develop less gas-related stomach pain.

B AT O N R O U G E PA R E N T S

PODCAST

Acid Reflux Acid reflux, or heartburn, can be painful and persistent. If your child complains of a burning feeling in his upper abdomen or has a vomit taste in his mouth, he may be experiencing acid reflux. Try an over-thecounter antacid, a glass of milk, or prop up his pillow at night. You can also watch the foods he eats before bedtime. Acidic foods like tomato sauce, chocolate, sugary, sweet, and spicy foods can all be triggers for heartburn. If none of these ideas help, consult your doctor, who can prescribe medication for acid reflux and make sure nothing more serious is going on.

For the most part, childhood stomach pains are not anything to be concerned about. However, if your child has symptoms that persist over time, has unexplained weight loss, has blood in his vomit or stool, or doesn’t seem to be improving, there is nothing wrong with reaching out to your family doctor for advice on what the next steps should be.

When to Go to the Doctor Not all tummy troubles should be brushed off. Here are some “red flags” that should have you speaking to a doctor.

Severe pain: If your child’s stomach pain is severe and he cannot be distracted from the pain, it’s best to have him checked out by your doctor.

Blood: If your child has blood in his stool or vomit, check in with your doctor immediately.

Hives or swelling: If your child has hives or swelling of his face, this could be a sign of anaphylaxis. Call 9-1-1 immediately.

Lower right side pain: This could be appendicitis, or it could be nothing you need to worry about. In this case, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Give your doctor a call or head to the hospital.

Painful urination: Pain during urination could be caused by a urinary tract infection, which your child will need antibiotics in order to treat it.

Weight loss: It’s normal to lose a little weight due to a stomach flu, but if your child has significant weight loss, make an appointment with your physician to make sure nothing else is going on.

No improvement: If your child has had diarrhea, fever, severe cough, or vomiting with no improvement for days, it’s always the best practice to give your child’s doctor a call and make sure nothing more serious is going on.

For more information on common tummy troubles and what to do, visit health.harvard.edu.

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THINGS TO DO

GO. SEE. PLAY. LEARN. EXPLORE.

The Louisiana Marathon. Downtown Baton Rouge from January 16-17. The Ochsner Louisiana Quarter Marathon will be on January 16 and the half marathon and full marathon will be on January 17. thelouisianamarathon.com

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$12-14 per person. raisingcanesrivercen ter.com

FRIDAY CELEBRATION IN THE OAKS. New Orleans City Park through January 3. Driving tour through the park featuring over a million twinkling lights and breathtaking light displays. neworleansc itypark.com ICE SKATING ON THE RIVER. Raising Cane’s River Center through January 3.

Includes 75-minute sessions. Tickets are 96

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2

SATURDAY CELEBRATION IN THE OAKS. New Orleans City Park through January 3. Driving tour through the park featuring over a million twinkling lights and breathtaking light displays. neworleansci typark.com ICE SKATING ON

B AT O N R O U G E PA R E N T S

THE RIVER. Raising Cane’s River Center through January 3.

Includes 75-minute sessions. Tickets are $12-14 per person. raisingcanesrivercen ter.com RED STICK FARMERS MARKET. Downtown Baton Rouge from 8 a.m.-noon. Open-air, producer-only market. breada.org SATURDAY SHENANIGANS. EBR Main Library at 9 a.m. Each Saturday, kids ages two to five, and 6-11

can visit the library to grab a cool craft pack to take home. Supplies are available on a first come, first served basis while they last. ebrpl.com STEAM SATURDAY. Livingston Parish Library Facebook or YouTube at 10 a.m.

Join each Saturday for a fun STEAM project.

Each project utilizes hands-on creative learning to help students engage with educational concepts and develop problem-solving skills.

mylpl.info

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SUNDAY CELEBRATION IN THE OAKS. New Orleans City Park through today. Driving tour through the park featuring over a million twinkling lights and breathtaking light displays. neworleansci typark.com FREE FIRST SUNDAY. LSU Museum of Art from 1-5 p.m. Enjoy

free admission to the museum all day. Programs TBA. lsumoa.org

discomforts, and make you aware of preterm labor warning signs.

Free. womans.org

ICE SKATING ON THE RIVER. Raising Cane’s River Center through today.

Includes 75-minute sessions. Tickets are $12-14 per person. raisingcanesrivercen ter.com

READ TO ME MONDAY. Livingston Parish Library Facebook or YouTube at 10 a.m.

Every Monday, Livingston Parish Library is offering a virtual storytime for babies through age 11. Storytime helps develop pre-reading skills while children and their caregivers have lots of fun. mylpl.info

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MONDAY BEDTIME STORIES. Livingston Parish Library Facebook or YouTube at 6 p.m.

Grab your coziest pajamas and your warmest blanket because every Monday night, Livingston Parish Library is offering virtual bedtime stories for babies through age 11. Storytime helps develop pre-reading skills while children and their caregivers have lots of fun. mylpl.info HAIRCUTS FOR READING. O’Neil’s Barbershop from 4-7 p.m. Free haircuts for boys ages 4-14. Masks are required, and they will be practicing social distancing. Attendance will be capped in the barbershop, but activities will be available in the backspace. line4linebr.org PREGNANCY 101.

Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting from 6:30-8 p.m. Learn how to provide your baby with the best possible environment for growth and development. The class will discuss nutrition, practice exercise routines, offer tips for common

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TUESDAY HOPE CHEST BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP. Ochsner Medical Complex-High Grove at 6 p.m. Features topics that would be of interest to breast cancer survivors and their loved ones.

Light refreshments are served. ochsner.org TAKE HOME ACT PRACTICE TEST. Fairwood Branch Library. Teens can visit the Fairwood Branch Library to pick up a take home A.C.T. practice test. Teens will then be able to submit their answers online or return their sheet to the Fairwood Branch for an email of their practice test score. ebrpl.com VIRTUAL CRAFTS. Livingston Parish Libraries social media at 10 a.m. Join the library every Tuesday for a fun youth arts and crafts program.

Patrons are invited to visit their local branch to pick up a curbside craft kit, then join

ICE SKATING ON THE RIVER. See January 2.

them on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube to complete the craft.

Each curbside craft kit will feature all items needed to complete the week’s featured craft; and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Ages 5-11. mylpl.info

how to take care of themselves through informal, open discussions, a film presentation and take home materials. Cost is $20. womans.org

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BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT GROUP. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting from 9:30-11 a.m. Learn from a certified lactation nurse and other moms about their own successes and challenges with breastfeeding. womans.org

WEDNESDAY WACKY WIGGLE WEDNESDAY. Livingston Parish Library Facebook or YouTube at 10 a.m. Did you know that music and dance foster important literacy development in early childhood?

Join the library for this fun and creative virtual program for children and their caregivers. mylpl.info

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THURSDAY BODY BASICS FOR GIRLS. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting from 6:30-8 p.m.

Preteen girls ages 9-12 will learn how their bodies grow, what changes to expect during puberty, and

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FRIDAY

CAFÉ FRANÇAIS. West Baton Rouge Museum at 1 p.m.

Speakers of all languages are invited to attend with appropriate facial mask or covering. (225) 336-2422

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SATURDAY RED STICK FARMERS MARKET. Downtown Baton Rouge from 8 a.m.-noon. This openair market features producers only. breada.org

SATURDAY SHENANIGANS. EBR Main Library at 9 a.m. Each Saturday, kids ages two to five, and 6-11 can visit the library to grab a cool craft pack to take home. Supplies are available on a first come, first served basis while they last. ebrpl.com STEAM SATURDAY. Livingston Parish Library Facebook or YouTube at 10 a.m.

Join each Saturday for a fun STEAM project.

Each project utilizes hands-on creative learning to help students engage with educational concepts and develop problem-solving skills. mylpl.info

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SUNDAY GET ORGANIZED: ORGANIZING YOUR WEIGHT LOSS GOALS. EBR Main Library at 3 p.m. Join Certified Professional Organizer, Alyssa Trosclair, as she discusses how the EMEND organizing method can help you tackle your clutter and your calendar to help

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IN EVERY ISSUE • CALENDAR

HAIRCUTS FOR READING. See January 4.

you get organized in 2021. In-person seating is limited and registration is required.

(225) 231-3750

birth. womans.org

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MONDAY

MARDI GRAS WREATH MAKING CLASS. BREC’s Lovett Road Park at 2 p.m.

Make a wreath to celebrate Mardi Gras. Participants will receive guided instruction and all art supplies to complete your masterpiece. Ages 16 and up. brec.org

OUTDOOR OLD TIME MUSIC OPEN JAM. West Baton Rouge Museum from 3-5 p.m. Musicians can play acoustic instruments. As space allows, this jam session will be open for any musician to join in to play Old Country, Bluegrass, and folk music. westbaton rougemuseum.org PREPARING FOR DELIVERY. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting from 1-5 p.m. Learn to recognize when labor starts, when to go to the hospital, what to expect when you arrive, and cesarean birth indications. Also, discuss options available for dealing with the pain of labor and 98

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NATIONAL HUMAN TRAFFICKING AWARENESS DAY BABY-SITTERS CLUB KID KITS. Ascension Parish Libraries, while supplies last. Do you love the Baby-Sitters Club series? Visit Ascension Parish Library and pick up a kid kit packet. The packet will have everything you need to create a kid kit just like the girls from the books. Grades four-eight. Gonzales (225) 647-3955, Dutchtown (225) 673-8699, Galvez (225) 622-3339, or Donaldsonville (225) 473-8052 BEDTIME STORIES. Livingston Parish Library Facebook or YouTube at 6 p.m.

Grab your coziest pajamas and your warmest blanket because every Monday night, Livingston Parish Library is offering virtual bedtime stories for babies through age 11. Storytime helps develop pre-reading skills while children and their caregivers

B AT O N R O U G E PA R E N T S

LUNCH WITH LEANNE. Opéra Louisiane virtual event with optional in-person dining at Crowne Plaza at 11:30 a.m. Luncheon concert series with six virtual performances featuring singers from across the country. Audience members enjoy a 30-minute cocktail meet and greet with the artist, followed by the concert. operalouisiane.com READ TO ME MONDAY. Livingston Parish Library Facebook or YouTube at 10 a.m.

Every Monday, Livingston Parish Library is offering a virtual storytime for babies through age 11. Storytime helps develop pre-reading skills while children and their caregivers have lots of fun. mylpl.info

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TUESDAY BUILDING BRAVE BITES. Baton Rouge General virtual event at 11:30 a.m. Led by speech language pathologists/feeding specialists and registered dietitians, this virtual class helps parents introduce their children to nutrient-dense foods that provide optimal health and wellness. Free. brgeneral.org USING DATA TO DRIVE BUSINESS GROWTH. Ascension Parish Libraries webinar at 1 p.m. Ascension Libraries are partnering with Grow with Google to help

our community learn digital skills with a free virtual workshop.

Enjoy a discussion on how to identify business goals and use the best practices to analyze trends about how customers engage with businesses online. aplbusinessresource. com

literacy development in early childhood?

Join the library for this fun and creative virtual program for children and their caregivers. mylpl.info

VIRTUAL CRAFTS. Livingston Parish Libraries social media at 10 a.m. Join the library every Tuesday for a fun youth arts and crafts program.

Patrons are invited to visit their local branch to pick up a curbside craft kit, then join them on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube to complete the craft.

Each curbside craft kit will feature all items needed to complete the week’s featured craft; and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Ages 5-11. mylpl.info

6

13

WEDNESDAY NATIONAL RUBBER DUCKY DAY COPING AFTER COVID SUPPORT GROUP. Behavioral Wellness Center at 4 p.m. This support group provides a safe, supportive environment for COVID survivors to share their experiences and coping tools. brgeneral.org WACKY WIGGLE WEDNESDAY. Livingston Parish Library Facebook or YouTube at 10 a.m. Did you know that music and dance foster important

14

THURSDAY

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ERIN J.

have lots of fun. mylpl.info

MARDI GRAS WREATH MAKING CLASS. BREC’s Lovett Road Park at 6 p.m.

Make a wreath to cele brate Mardi Gras. Participants will receive guided instruction and all art supplies to complete your masterpiece. Ages 16 and up. brec.org WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting from 6-7 p.m. Join a weight loss surgery physician to learn more about the different types of weight loss surgeries and get your questions answered. Free. womans.org

15

FRIDAY BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT GROUP. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting from 9:30-11 a.m. Learn from a certified lactation nurse and other

plies are available on a first come, first served basis while they last. ebrpl.com

3

STEAM SATURDAY. Livingston Parish Library Facebook or YouTube at 10 a.m.

Join each Saturday for a fun STEAM project.

Each project utilizes hands-on creative learning to help students engage with educational concepts and develop problem-solving skills. mylpl.info

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JAMES E.

moms about their own successes and challenges with breastfeeding. womans.org

TRIVIA NIGHT LIVE! Livingston Parish Library Zoom event at 7 p.m. Gather your friends and family, or play it solo. One lucky player will win a prize for participating and completing a survey after the program.

Theme is TV Trivia.

Pre-registration required. mylpl.info

16

SATURDAY LAMAZE: A LABOR OF LOVE. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting from 9 a.m.3:30 p.m. This class is recommended for couples wanting to learn how to apply Lamaze techniques for coping with pain in labor and birth. Cost is $75. womans.org

THE LOUISIANA MARATHON. Downtown Baton Rouge through January 17.

The Ochsner Louisiana Quarter Marathon will be today and the half marathon and full marathon will be on Sunday, January 17. thelouisianamarathon. com

17

SUNDAY

RED STICK FARMERS MARKET. Downtown Baton Rouge from 8 a.m.-noon. Open-air, producer-only market. breada.org

GET ORGANIZED: GAINING CONTROL OF PAPER CLUTTER. EBR Main Library at 3 p.m. Join Certified Professional Organizer, Alyssa Trosclair, as she discusses how the EMEND organizing method can help you tackle your clutter and your calendar to help you get organized in 2021. In-person seating is limited and registration is required.

(225) 231-3750

SATURDAY SHENANIGANS. EBR Main Library at 9 a.m. Each Saturday, kids ages two to five, and 6-11 can visit the library to grab a cool craft pack to take home. Sup-

GIRL TALK. Baton Rouge General Center for Health at 2 p.m.

One-day class led by OB/GYNs for girls ages 9-11 and a parent or trusted adult.

Focuses on what girls

experience during puberty, including skin changes, first periods, and breast development. brgeneral.org THE LOUISIANA MARATHON. Downtown Baton Rouge through today.

Includes the half marathon and full marathon. thelouisianamar athon.com

18

MONDAY MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY NATIONAL WINNIE THE POOH DAY BEDTIME STORIES. Livingston Parish Library Facebook or YouTube at 6 p.m.

Grab your coziest pajamas and your warmest blanket because every Monday night, Livingston Parish Library is offering virtual bedtime stories for babies through age 11. Storytime helps develop pre-reading skills while children and their caregivers have lots of fun. mylpl.info

NATIONAL POPCORN DAY SOUTHBOUND VIRTUAL ARTIST TALK SERIES. LSU Museum of Art Zoom meeting at 5:30 p.m.

Join the museum for a series featuring artists from Southbound: Photographs of and about the New South.

Tune in to listen and learn more about their creative processes as they have a conversation about their work. lsumoa.org VIRTUAL CRAFTS. Livingston Parish Libraries social media at 10 a.m. Join the library every Tuesday for a fun youth arts and crafts program.

Patrons are invited to visit their local branch to pick up a curbside craft kit, then join them on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube to complete the craft.

Each curbside craft kit will feature all items needed to complete

the week’s featured craft; and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Ages 5-11. mylpl.info

20

WEDNESDAY COPING AFTER COVID SUPPORT GROUP. Behavioral Wellness Center at 4 p.m. This support group provides a safe, supportive environment for COVID survivors to share their experiences and coping tools. brgeneral.org WACKY WIGGLE WEDNESDAY. Livingston Parish Library Facebook or YouTube at 10 a.m. Did you know that music and dance foster important literacy development in early childhood?

Join the library for this fun and creative virtual program for children and their caregivers.

READ TO ME MONDAY. Livingston Parish Library Facebook or YouTube at 10 a.m.

Every Monday, Livingston Parish Library is offering a virtual storytime for babies through age 11. Storytime helps develop pre-reading skills while children and their caregivers have lots of fun. mylpl.info

19

TUESDAY

BUILDING BRAVE BITES. See January 12.

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IN EVERY ISSUE • CALENDAR

GIRL TALK. See January 17.

mylpl.info

21

THURSDAY BODY BASICS FOR BOYS. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Preteen boys ages 1013 will learn how their bodies grow, what changes to expect during puberty, and how to take care of themselves through informal, open discussions, a film presentation and take home materials. Cost is $20. womans.org CRAFTING FOR A CAUSE. PrideChaneyville Library at 1 p.m. Learn a new skill and join other adults for a chance to create something beautiful. All skill levels are welcome to join. ebrpl.com SOUTHBOUND VIRTUAL ARTIST TALK SERIES. LSU Museum of Art Zoom meeting at 5:30 p.m. Join the museum for a unique series featuring artists from Southbound: Photographs of and about the New South.

Tune in to listen and 100

JANUARY 2021 |

learn more about their creative processes as they have a conversation about their work. lsumoa.org STRING CELEBRATION. Istrouma Baptist Church at 7:30 p.m. Performances featuring Melissa White on violin. brso org

22 FRIDAY CELEBRATION OF LIFE DAY BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT GROUP. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting from 9:30-11 a.m. Learn from a certified lactation nurse and other moms about their own successes and challenges with breastfeeding. womans.org

23 SATURDAY NATIONAL PIE DAY BODY BASICS FOR GIRLS. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting from 9:30-11 a.m.

Preteen girls ages 9-12 B AT O N R O U G E PA R E N T S

BREASTFEEDING BASICS. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting from 1:30-5 p.m. Learn about the benefits of breastfeeding, how to prepare for breastfeeding, how to get the baby on the breast properly, the father’s role, breastfeeding pumps and supplies, and how to avoid common problems.

Cost is $35. womans.org RED STICK FARMERS MARKET. Downtown Baton Rouge from 8 a.m.-noon. Open-air, producer-only market. breada.org SATURDAY SHENANIGANS. EBR Main Library at 9 a.m. Each Saturday, children ages two to five, and 6-11 can visit the library to pick up a cool craft pack to take home. Supplies are available to everyone on a first come, first served basis, but only while they last. ebrpl.com STEAM SATURDAY. Livingston Parish Library Facebook page or YouTube channel at 10 a.m. Join the library each Saturday for a fun STEAM project.

Each project utilizes hands-on creative learning to help students engage with educational concepts and develop import-

ant problem-solving skills. mylpl.info

24

pre-reading skills while children and their caregivers have lots of fun. mylpl.info

26

SUNDAY GET ORGANIZED: ORGANIZING YOUR PHOTOS & MEMORABILIA. EBR Main Library at 3 p.m. Join Certified Professional Organizer, Alyssa Trosclair, as she discusses how the EMEND organizing method can help you tackle your clutter and your calendar to help you get organized in 2021.

In-person seating is limited and registration is required.

(225) 231-3750

25 MONDAY NATIONAL OPPOSITE DAY BEDTIME STORIES. Livingston Parish Library Facebook or YouTube at 6 p.m.

Grab your coziest pajamas and your warmest blanket because every Monday night, Livingston Parish Library is offering virtual bedtime stories for babies through age 11. Storytime helps develop pre-reading skills while children and their caregivers have lots of fun. mylpl.info READ TO ME MONDAY. Livingston Parish Library Facebook or YouTube at 10 a.m.

Every Monday, Livingston Parish Library is offering a virtual storytime for babies through age 11. Storytime helps develop

TUESDAY

5 HAPPY BIRTHDAY KINGSTON W.

will learn how their bodies grow, what changes to expect during puberty, and how to take care of themselves through informal, open discussions, a film presentation and take home materials. Cost is $20. womans.org

NATIONAL SPOUSES DAY SOUTHBOUND VIRTUAL ARTIST TALK SERIES. LSU Museum of Art Zoom meeting at 5:30 p.m.

Join the museum for a series featuring artists from Southbound: Photographs of and about the New South.

Tune in to listen and learn more about their creative processes as they have a conversation about their work. lsumoa.org USING GOOGLE SEARCH AND MAPS. Ascension Parish Libraries webinar at 1 p.m. Ascension Libraries are partnering with Grow with Google to help our community learn digital skills with a free virtual workshop. During the webinar, you will learn about Google My Business. aplbusiness resource.com VIRTUAL CRAFTS. Livingston Parish Libraries social media at 10 a.m. Join the library every Tuesday for a fun youth arts and crafts program.

Patrons are invited to visit their local branch to pick up a curbside craft kit, then join them on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube to complete the craft.

Each curbside craft kit will feature all items needed to complete the week’s featured craft; and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Ages 5-11. mylpl.info.

27 WEDNESDAY CHOCOLATE CAKE DAY COPING AFTER COVID SUPPORT GROUP. Behavioral Wellness Center at 4 p.m. This support group provides a safe, supportive environment for COVID survivors to share their experiences and coping tools. brgeneral.org

Southbound: Photographs of and about the New South. Tune in to listen and learn more about their creative processes as they have a conversation about their work. lsumoa.org.

29 FRIDAY NATIONAL PUZZLE DAY BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT GROUP. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting from 9:30-11 a.m. Learn from a certified lactation nurse and other moms about their own successes and challenges with breastfeeding. womans.org RED STICK FARMERS MARKET. Downtown Baton Rouge from 8 a.m.-noon. Open-air, producer-only market. breada.org

WACKY WIGGLE WEDNESDAY. Livingston Parish Library Facebook or YouTube at 10 a.m. Did you know that music and dance foster important literacy development in early childhood?

Join the library for this fun and creative virtual program for children and their caregivers. mylpl.info.

TRIVIA NIGHT LIVE! Livingston Parish Library Zoom event at 7 p.m. Gather your friends and family, or play it solo. One lucky player will win a prize for participating and completing a survey after the program.

Theme is 80’s Trivia. Pre-registration required. mylpl.info.

28

30

THURSDAY

SATURDAY

SOUTHBOUND VIRTUAL ARTIST TALK SERIES. LSU Museum of Art Zoom meeting at 5:30 p.m. Join the museum for a series featuring artists from

SATURDAY SHENANIGANS. EBR Main Library at 9 a.m. Each Saturday, kids ages two to five, and 6-11 can visit the library to grab a cool craft pack

to take home. Supplies are available on a first come, first served basis while they last. ebrpl.com STEAM SATURDAY. Livingston Parish Library Facebook or YouTube at 10 a.m.

Join each Saturday for a fun STEAM project.

Each project utilizes hands-on creative learning to help students engage with educational concepts and develop problem-solving skills. mylpl.info

31 SUNDAY BACKWARDS DAY AFTER BABY COMES (ABC): BABY CARE AND PARENT CARE. Woman’s Hospital Zoom meeting from 12:30-5:30 p.m. Learn how to bathe, feed, diaper, dress, and hold a baby with a lifelike doll.Plan to take this class in the sixth month of pregnancy or any time if you will be adopting a baby.

It’s for new parents, grandparents, adoptive parents or other caregivers. Cost is $35. womans.org GET ORGANIZED: ORGANIZING YOUR TIME. EBR Main Library at 3 p.m. Join Certified Professional Organizer, Alyssa Trosclair, as she discusses how the EMEND organizing method can help you tackle your clutter and your calendar to help you get organized in 2021.

Seating is limited and registration is required. (225) 231-3750

1

READ TO ME MONDAY. Livingston Parish Library Facebook or YouTube at 10 a.m. Enjoy a virtual storytime for babies through age 11 with the library. mylpl.info

MONDAY NATIONAL FREEDOME DAY BEDTIME STORIES. Livingston Parish Library Facebook or YouTube at 6 p.m.

Grab your coziest pajamas and your warmest blanket because every Monday night, Livingston Parish Library is offering virtual bedtime stories for babies through age 11. Storytime helps develop pre-reading skills while children and their caregivers have lots of fun. mylpl.info

MORE TTS EAN E@V S BRP REN

GOTH MASQUERADE MARDI GRAS MASKS: GRAB & GEAUX. PrideChaneyville Library, while supplies last.

Mardi Gras masks are beautiful, unique pieces of art that people wear in celebration of the holiday. A homemade Mardi Gras mask is a great way to celebrate Fat Tuesday no matter where you celebrate. Make your own with the library’s gothic masquerade design using Tulle, fabric paint, and ribbon. ebrpl.com

Editor’s Note Occasionally the date or location of an event may change after publication. Always phone ahead or check 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, recommended ages, cost, public telephone number, website, and photos.

Deadline Submit information for the February calendar

by January 10, 2021.

POM POM LOVE BIRD VALENTINE: GRAB & GEAUX. Pride-Chaneyville Library, while supplies last. These little birds are messengers of love. They’ll carry your love note in their beaks and deliver it to your Valentine. This is an easy and fun Valentine’s Day craft project for the family. ebrpl.com B R PA R E N T S . C O M

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Prevention: Teach kids how to identify bullying and how to stand up to it safely. stopbullying.gov B R PA R E N T S . C O M

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The Last Word

Mompetition … Don’t Play Along!

BY KERRIE MCLOUGHLIN

According to UrbanDictionary.com, mompetition is “the one-up rivalry that moms play, making their child seem better, smarter, and/or more advanced than yours. It may involve two or more moms and any number of children, even full-grown.” I like the “even full-grown” part of that because it is so true. Ever see a couple of 60-something women comparing the number of grandchildren and number of married children and their jobs? Oh, yes, it happens daily, and it has to stop.

I

’VE NEVER REALLY been competitive; maybe it’s the Only Child thing. I just don’t really care what other people are doing and don’t have the desire to one-up them. That being said, I always know when I’m dealing with mompetition.

At a random outing, a mom might start by asking you a lot of questions about your life. These are not normal questions in a normal manner, but they are lots of poking questions. These moms are trying to find your weak spots and decide in which areas of life they are better than you.

Here are some examples of mompetition, along with some ways you can go about handling it if you happen to find yourself in a mompetition: -”My kid is only 12 and is almost an Eagle Scout. Congratulations on your 17-year-old Scout getting his fingerprinting badge!” (For those of you non-Scouters, an Eagle Scout rank is hard to get, takes years, involves a major service project and is usually earned by an 18th birthday.)

-”Yeah, we homeschool using XYZ curriculum, which costs $8,000 per year per kid, and we homeschool for about eight hours a day.

We’re on track for Harvard. You guys don’t seem to do a lot of homeschooling; what curriculum do you use?” (WTH? Just put the kids in private school for the same price and go run a small country or something, lady!)

-”In the last school fundraiser, my kid sold $10,000 of wrapping paper and $5,000 of cookies to the diabetic lady down the road alone. All together, we sold half a million and saved this dang school.

Thanks for writing the check and opting out, though. You must be really busy.”

-”Wow, you really need a gray hair touch-up! When I get wrinkles like yours, I am so going for Botox. And are your boobs supposed 104

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to hang like that? I’m getting a reconstruction when I can save up.”

(Yes, mompetition is also mom-to-mom combat, not just pitting kids against kids.)

-”Shoot, I have to go. It’s time for two-year-old Mitzy to go to her gymnastics competition, five-year-old MooMoo to go to her National Cheer Competition and seven-year-old Marky to go to his National LEGO Robotics high school age competition. What are you guys doing later?”

-“Are you really going to let your kid eat that sucker full of red dye #3,729? You know he will be bouncing off the walls later, right? We only eat organic, even though it’s more expensive. My husband and I decided we wanted the best for our kids so we don’t feed them junk.”

Folks, I’m just happy being me. Maybe that’s because I’ve lived long enough to know what’s important. I realize it has nothing to do with how much stuff my kid sells, whether or not my kid gets into Yale, how much I weigh, where my kid goes to school, what I drive, how few wrinkles I have or what I do for work or fun.

Now, let’s discuss how to handle these obviously insecure people.

There are a few different ways: 1. Smile and ignore the offender.

2. Answer any questions openly and honestly, being as real as possible. The other mom might learn how to behave from you, and thanks to you, might someday form real friendships not based on mutual competition.

3. Play along. This can be quite fun if you are able to keep a straight face. If a mom is complaining about her daughter’s birthday Birkin bag being the wrong color, for instance, you could offer that your four-year-old son has three similar such bags that are available for loan anytime. Wait for the look on her face, which will be priceless.

Happy parenting! And remember, being a mom doesn’t have to be a competitive sport.

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Snapshots

LAYKYN M.

Laykyn M. puckers up for her photo.

LILY D.

Lily D. poses for a photo in her adorable rainbow t-shirt.

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MACKENZIE M.

Mackenzie M. is as cute as a button.

MAURICE P.

Maurice P. had a blast swinging on the swings at the park.

Go to brparents.com and click on the “UPLOAD SNAPSHOTS” button to submit photo(s). All photos must be at least 5MB in size, and photos are chosen at random.

Photos become property of Baton Rouge Parents Magazine.

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