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2nd Annual BABY GUIDE

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5 Ways to... Create a Culture of Wellness The Missing Ingredient to

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JAN/FEB 2015

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Volume 9 Issue 2

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Contents

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

FEATURES

5 6 7 8 10 20

Publisher's Note Family Matters: 5 Ways to Create a Culture of Wellness in Your Family Kids Can Help Parents Get Healthier Family Health: The Missing Ingredient to Better Health for You and Your Child Kids' Health Page The Emotional Side of ADD/ADHD

2nd Annual Baby Guide 11 12 12 13-14 14 14 15 16 16

2nd Annual Baby Guide Contents Exercising While Pregnant Preparing for Baby: Setting Up Your Nursery WVU Dental Health & Pregnancy Study Screening for Newborns That Could Prevent Deaths Are Conventional Crayons Safe? Children's Dental Health Page Is It More Than the Baby Blues? Safe Sleep Guidelines to Prevent SIDS

17 Editor's Baby Picks 18 Having a Baby with Gerd 18-19 Choosing the Right Daycare

THINGS TO DO 21-23 Calendar of Family-friendly events

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

ON THE COVER: 

Cover Photo Contest Finalist Asher Kisamore - age 2 Parents Steelie & Amanda Kisamore of Parsons, WV Photo by: Amanda Kisamore

 Baby Guide Cover: Cover Photo Contest Finalist Stephanie and Leo - age 1 Elkins, WV Photo by: Amanda Kisamore January/February 2015

FAMILY WEST VIRGINIA

Jan/Feb 2015

A MAGAZINE FOR TODAY’S ACTIVE FAMILIES

www.WVFamilyOnline.com A Trusted Family Magazine Since 2006 Publisher - BookCastle Publishing Editor - Carla Cosner Graphics - CozFx Studios

Contributing Writers Linda Carter, Angie Dixon, Gayla Grace, Ruth Hanley, Belinda J. Mooney, Meagan Ruffling

WV Family is a FREE bi-monthly magazine serving families in West Virginia. Our print edition has a circulation of 12,000 copies with more than 450 highly visible distribution points in West Virginia, including libraries, visitor centers, community centers, malls, schools, doctor offices, hospitals, and more. The print edition has over 25,000 readers. WV Family is also online available from anywhere in the state or outside of the state (or country). WVFamilyOnline.com includes: daily posts, articles, resources, and calendar events, an interactive flip-page version, and a pdf version for smart devices. The views expressed by writers and advertisers, do not reflect the views of the publication or staff. Distribution of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of information, products, or services. WV Family reserves the right to edit or reject any materials for any reason. Neither the advertisers nor the publisher will be responsible for misinformation, typographical errors, omissions, etc., herein contained. The articles in WV Family are provided for informational purposes only. For further information, please seek the opinion of the professionals of your choice. Please call or email for deadlines for Ads, Family Calendar, Resource listings, and/or to request a Media kit/Rate sheet for display ad rates or online advertising opportunities. For Writer Guidelines please email for information. WV Family Magazine P.O. Box 107 Buckhannon, WV 26201 PHONE: 304-472-4528 FAX: 304-472-4594 EDITOR: editor@WVFamilyMagazine.com SALES: info@WVFamilyMagazine.com CIRCULATION: carla@WVFamilyMagazine.com ONLINE: www.WVFamilyOnline.com ONLINE CAMP FAIR: http://wvfamilyonline. com/online-camp-fair/

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Published by: Printed by:

(BookCastle Publishing, LLC)

From the publisher



Welcome to our 2015 Annual Family Health issue. We are happy to once again include in this issue our Annual Baby Guide. This is our second year of the Baby Guide. It is a special section in our health issue for expectant parents and new parents. Be sure to check it out on pages 11-18. Also in this issue we are introducing our new series with a focus of parenting Special Needs children. The term "Special Needs" covers a wide range of medical, mental, psychological, or academic needs. Our focus in this issue is on helping children deal with the emotional side of having a special need and what the family and educators can do - see page 20. Although the article deals specifically with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD & ADHD), the suggestions are great for all types of special needs. I also would like to tell you about our new website! We are still at www.WVFamilyOnline.com, but we have updated and upgraded it to better serve our readers' needs. You can now find more articles, tips, news, calendar events, contests & giveaways. Please check it out! Visit often because we will be adding new posts regularly. We know you probably are very busy and can't stop by everyday, so sign up (at our website) to subscribe to a weekly e-Newsletter which will give you a summary of recently added content! We will also be adding more resources, guides & directories, listings, calendar events - make it your Go-to page for family content and resources. Topics you can find on our new website include: parenting, pets, fashion, health & safety, and recipes, in addition to special season events, monthly calendar events, guides and directories. Some of our guides & directories include: Winter Activities Guide, WV Ice-skating Arenas Directory, WV Parks & Museums Directory, Summer Day Trip Guide, and our popular Online Camp Fair! (2015 Summer Camps will be added in March!) SUBSCRIBE to our weekly e-Newsletter (for updates to our latest posts, articles, calendar events, contests, and more) for a chance to win our "Family-Night Package" - see page 19 for details. Simply go to www.WVFamilyOnline.com and enter your email in the "Subscribe" box. There will be a couple extra steps to verify, so please watch for our email. Deadline is Feb. 15, 2015.

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Also on our new website, we added comment boxes and "contact us" links. We would love to hear from you! If you see something in the print edition or online edition that you love, let us know. Or if there is something you would love to see us cover, let us know that too. Or if you just want to say "hey" or "good job" - we would LOVE that! Have a safe, healthy, and happy New Year. -Carla Cosner, Publisher Thanks for reading WV Family!

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January/February 2015

FAMILY WEST VIRGINIA



5 Ways to

A MAGAZINE FOR TODAY’S ACTIVE FAMILIES

Create a Culture of Wellness

Summer Vacation is just around the corner! Advertise your summer camp or program in WV Family Magazine's Annual Summer Camps & Programs Guide and Directory

Coming in Mar/Apr issue!

Family Matters

in Your Family

ccording to the American Psychological Association, children see an average of 40,000 commercials each year that are for unhealthy foods, prompting them to want more of those items when they see them in the stores. On average, 33 percent of children and 41 percent of adolescents consume fast food on any given day. There is a problem with the state of children’s health today. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that childhood obesity has doubled in the last 30 years, with a third of all children and adolescents now considered overweight or obese. Dr. Nimali Fernando, a pediatrician who founded The Doctor Yum Project - a nonprofit organization to help parents and children learn to eat healthier and strive for a healthier lifestyle, says that obesity is only the tip of the iceberg. The other 70 percent of children, many who may be of normal body weight, also suffer from diet-related illnesses, such as chronic constipation, gastroesophageal reflux, anxiety, and difficulties with attention and concentration. Many of these symptoms are directly related to the diet.

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

Dr. Fernando offers these tips for creating a culture of wellness.

z Cook together. So many families find cooking to be a chore at the end of the day. Involve the whole family in meal preparation and use that time to connect with your children. Show kids that spending time preparing fresh foods together is a way to take care their bodies. If kids learn to cook from a young age, it gives them confidence and skills essential for leading a healthy life. z Play together. Find physical activities that you enjoy and do these as a family. Revive traditions and build healthy habits by incorporating fun activities like a walk every Sunday after church or a family bike ride after lunch at Grandma’s house. z Be a role model. Kids can learn healthy habits most effectively if their parents model that same behavior. This doesn’t mean parents have to be perfect, but showing that you are working on being healthier can inspire kids to do the same. z Get everyone involved. When a family makes a commitment to be healthy, get everyone to buy in. Draft a family mission statement and include a line about how your family strives to be healthy. Encourage everyone to sign it. Include extended family in your culture of wellness too. z Connect with others. Families are most successful in sustaining healthy habits if they have connections with others who are doing the same. Cook healthy potlucks with family friends, talk to your children’s schools about creating wellness initiatives, and form a walking group with co-workers. Support from peers serves as powerful fuel for your family’s positive health changes.

Free camp listing in our Annual Camp Directory and our Online Camp Fair

“At first it may seem like work to make the transition to a healthier lifestyle,” added Dr. Fernando. “But after a while it will all become second nature and will help solidify great habits in your kids.”

with any size ad. 304-472-4528

About The Doctor Yum Project - The mission of the organization is to raise awareness about the benefits of feeding children healthy foods and encouraging a healthy lifestyle, thereby reducing childhood obesity and diet-related illnesses. Their programs include kids cooking classes, a cooking club, a preschool nutrition program, and more. For more information on The Doctor Yum Project, visit the website at: www.doctoryum.com

(www.WVFamilyOnline.com) info@wvfamilymagazine.com January/February 2015

West Virginia Family Magazine ď Ź www.WVFamilyOnline.com

January/February 2015



Family Health

The Missing Ingredient to Better Health for You and Your Child By Gayla Grace

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

ore exercise. A better diet. We hear it all the time, right? Lack of exercise and obesity seem connected to every conversation we hear regarding our health. But what if we're missing an ingredient to better health? What if we're ignoring a likely component that contributes to weight gain, lethargy, depression, and even ADHD?

to ADHD, but could also be a result of poor sleep or not enough sleep. A study in the Journal of Sleep Research concluded that treating sleep problems in some children might be enough to reduce or possibly eliminate attention and hyperactivity/impulsivity issues.

Adults treated for ADHD could also be sufResearch confirms it--the undeniable value of fering from sleep issues that are contributing It plays a critical this missing ingredient for many of us. What is to their symptoms. It's easier to give a simple it? Adequate sleep. It's imperative that children role in determining diagnosis, however, and medicate a patient for and adults get enough sleep every night. Yet, if we're functioning ADHD than to search deeper for an underlying how often do we choose to ignore the implicacause. If you or your child struggle with ADHD, at our peak! tions of sleep deprivation? How often do we alconsider how the sleep habits in your home low our kids to push back their bedtime hour? might be contributing to the issue. I'll be the first to admit it. When my days get hectic or our son's schedule revs up, sleep is the first to go. Sleep deprivation also contributes to weight gain. Low tolerance for discomfort keeps you from making healthy eating choices. I hear people brag about how little sleep they get. I've read articles It's easier to grab titled, "The Sleepless Elite." Margaret Thatcher, known to sleep whatever requires How Much Sleep Do You Need? four hours a night, once said sleep is "for wimps." It's not surpris- the least amount of Age Sleep Needs ing that we think it's OK to function on as little sleep as possible. effort or a sugarladen, caffeinated Newborns (0-2 months) 12-18 hours If we're considering healthy habits, however, sleep needs to be at drink instead of a Infants (3-11 months) 14-15 hours the top of the list, for us and our children! It plays a critical role in healthier option. Toddlers (1-3 years) 12-14 hours determining if we're functioning at our peak. And the lack of sleep Sugary drinks and Preschoolers (3-5 years) 11-13 hours often goes unrecognized in behavior issues. food make us crave School-age children(5-10 yr) 10-11 hours more sugary items, Teens (10-17 years) 8.5-9.25 hours Sleep deprivation can mirror the symptoms of ADHD, particularly creating a cycle of Adults 7-9 hours in children. Inattentiveness, impulsive behavior, trouble complet- unhealthy choices. *Source: National Sleep Foundation ing tasks, difficulty with organization, and hyperactivity are linked Lack of energy January/February 2015

continued...

from a sleep-deprived state also keeps you from your regular exercise routine. Nuclear pharmacist Donita Wittenberg, who works an all-night shift for a week every month, confirms the changes her body, and specifically her appetite, go through when she is sleep-deprived. "The week I work the night shift I'm hungry all the time, like my body is craving something-sleep--but I eat instead." Wittenberg admits to having a more difficult time controlling what she eats the week she's on the night shift, and says, "I'm thankful it's only one week a month." Research confirms the benefits of adequate sleep when trying to lose weight. A study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine noted that participants in a sleep-deprived group were hungrier and had a smaller amount of fat loss than those getting enough sleep, with the same intake of food. In a University of Chicago Medicine press release, senior author of the study, Plamen Penev, MD, PhD, says, "If your goal is to lose fat, skipping sleep is like poking sticks in your bicycle wheels. Cutting back on sleep, a behavior that is ubiquitous in modern society, appears to compromise efforts to lose fat through dieting. In our study it reduced fat loss by 55 percent." That's a considerable amount on anyone's scale. Sleep deprivation leads to a host of other unhealthy problems. It can contribute to depression, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, slower cognition, forgetfulness, stroke, heart attack, and other debilitating issues. Our bodies need adequate sleep to function as they should.

Weston Ear, Nose, and Throat and Audiology is now located for your convenience at the intersection of Rt. 33 and Interstate 79 John Wyllie, M.D. Phone 304-517-1401 for your appointment Open Mon. -Fri. 8 to 4 456 Suite C Market Place Mall Weston, WV

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Manicures • Pedicures • Acrylic Nail Art • Facials • Makeup Hair Styles & Cuts • Spa Piccola Parties • Boutique • Gift Ideas Remember, you’re only “little” once. Call today to book your party!

If you're determined to set healthy goals for you and your child, focus on your sleep habits in addition to diet and exercise. It takes intentional effort to get the sleep you need as a busy mom with kids who often have busy schedules, but why not try it? Sleep more and as a result, reap the benefits of a healthier household. Gayla Grace is a wife and mom to five children in her blended family. Despite a busy schedule, she tries hard to get adequate sleep!

We offer our new Foundations at Morgantown Dance program for 2-6 year olds and classes in ballet, modern, tap, and more, for children and adults at all levels Spring classes begin January 5

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A Local Animal Shelter Needs Your Help! Contact your local animal shelter to see how you can help!

Morgantown Dance Studio For information or to register call 304-292-3266 or visit us at www.morgantowndance.org

ADOPT, VOLUNTEER, GIVE, NEUTER, SPAY

aDopT mE!

To keep the pet population down, don’t forget to spay or neuter your pets. January/February 2015

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

Dance into intoSpring! Sprng!

Kids’ Health Page

Keeping Your Child Healthy is a Big Job... Let our Sponsors Help!

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, The first years set the stage for healthy habits for the rest of your child’s life. It’s never too early to start.

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

Kids’ Health Tips:

• Good nutrition is essential to good health. Be sure your child is getting a balance diet daily. • Exercise and fitness are more likely to become a habit that lasts for many decades when children engage in fitness/sports when they are young. • A healthy mouth and teeth are an important part of a child’s wellness. Start early with oral health. • Demands or stresses are a part of children’s daily existence. Successfully managing stressful situations or events enhances a child’s ability to cope in the future. • Sleep is critical to your child’s growth & development - it is a time when the body repairs cell, processes information, and rests.

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This message is sponsored by your trusted and award-winning WV Family Magazine, WVU Healthcare Children's Hospital, Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital, Preston Memorial Family Care, and Playworks Child & Adult Therapies. January/February 2015

West Virginia's Trusted Resource for Expectant and New Parents

Baby Guide 2nd Annual

Jan/Feb 2015

Exercising While Pregnant Page 12

Dental Health & Pregnancy Page 13

Setting up the

Nursery Page 12

WV Family Magazine

SAFE SLEEP Preventing SIDS

Page 16

Is It More than the

Baby Blues Page 16

Choosing

Daycare

Page 18

Baby with GERD

Page 18 West Virginia Family Magazine ď Ź www.WVFamilyOnline.com

January/February 2015

Baby Guide 2015 Expecting Parents

Exercising While Pregnant Y

our goal is finally coming closer and closer, you can feel it! Just a few more feet and you will reach the finish line. You’ve been training for a year, and this is the final moment. Your legs are pumping, your feet are pounding the pavement, your breath is hot and straggly, and finally…you wake up and remember that you’re pregnant and you only wish you had the energy to run a marathon!

So What Can You Do?

Don’t lose heart; you can still exercise during your pregnancy. Eating for two may be a way of life, but you don’t have to let that weight just sit, you can get up and move, and feel your heart beat again. Exercising while pregnant has always been a no-no, but recent studies have shown that women who exercise while pregnant have more energy, less pain from normal pregnancy growth, have a better self-image, and have physical relief from it as well. If you were active in running or intense workouts before pregnancy you can still participate in those, just make sure you check with your doctor first and remember that pregnancy is not a time to shoot for a personal best or to work through your pain, it’s a time to keep your body moving. Exercising should be refreshing, not strenuous.

Take It Easy.

If you are like 30% of Americans and don’t exercise except for the

by Laura Carter

walk from your front door to the car, don’t give up before you start. There are some easy things you can do to keep your body moving. The point of exercising while pregnant isn’t to get in shape, but to get healthy and maybe a little flexible. Some great starting out exercises would be water aerobics, walking, yoga, or swimming. Many women find that water activities bring them relief from back pain and pressure since you feel 90% lighter in water.

Start Slow.

Starting out with a 30 minute exercise routine 3-4 times a week is a good start. And if that’s too much, try starting with 5 minute intervals, adding 5 minutes every week. You should be able to carry on a normal conversation while exercising. Doing too much can deplete your body of oxygen and will take oxygen away from your baby. Also remember to drink lots of water. Even if you don’t sweat, your body needs replenished with water during and after your exercise routine. So get up off of the couch, grab some water and start exercising! Keep your level of intensity going and then after you have your precious little baby you can start fulfilling that dream of winning a marathon!

PREPARING FOR BABY: SETTING UP YOUR NURSERY

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

lanning your baby's nursery is the fun part of having a baby. It's a necessary job that you can have fun with and express your own style and creativity. But you will want to make sure you have the essentials in your nursery. Here is a list of suggestions to get you started on planning your nursery. The Room. Choose a room closest to your own, so you can hear the baby easily. Consider the layout of the room, avoid placing the crib next to a window, blinds, and cords. Decide on a theme and coordinate decorations, bedding, and furniture. The Crib. Choose a style of bed that reflects your theme and taste. Shop several different stores and check out sales. Remember to buy only what you can afford. Children's consignment shops, yard sales, and thrifts stores are great places to look for baby furniture. Make sure it meets today's safety standards. Older painted beds may contain lead and may have slats that are too wide for safety.

The Dresser. A dresser is another baby nursery essential. Choose a good and stur12 January/February 2015

by Belinda Mooney

dy dresser to allow for years of use. Many times you can find matching pieces that go with your baby bed. If you are shopping second hand furniture stores you can always refinish or paint the dresser and baby bed to match. Nice, deep drawers are a must in a dresser. The Changing Table. While you can use the baby bed as a changing area, a changing table is very nice if you have the room for it. Changing tables usually come with storage areas underneath where you can place diapers, sheets, or baby clothes. The changing table also has rails to prevent younger babies from rolling off. Your dresser, if it is low enough, can also do double duty as a changing table. The Rocking Chair. A rocking chair is just the thing for late night feedings or rocking your little one to sleep. They are a life saver when trying to calm a cranky or colicky baby. If you can't fit one in the nursery try to find a quiet corner in your house, close to the baby's room, where you can set one. Diaper Stacker. Diaper stackers are a handy esstentials that hang on your wall

to keep the diapers stacked up neatly. They have a split opening down the front allowing for easy access. They allow you do be able to reach your diapers quickly but keep them out of the way. Baby Supply Center. It can be on your dresser or near your baby or changing table. You can use a colorful plastic basket, a line wicker basket, or even a bright bucket that goes with your theme. Place all the baby' supplies - diaper cream, baby wipes, baby powder, and baby oil in this basket. Soothing Nursery Essentials. A nightlight lets you come into the nursery without turning on the overhead light and waking baby. Soft music is very soothing and can help your baby relax. Getting your baby nursery ready for your new little one can be lots of fun. But don't get so caught up in the fun of decorating you forget the essentials. Make sure you have the essentials in place before you bring your baby home. It will give you peace of mind and allow you to enjoy your baby.

Researchers at WVU are trying to determine why young children in West Virginia have a higher rate of cavities than children in the rest of the country. This study will allow us to take steps to improve the oral health of children for generations to come.

For more information or to enroll call 1-877-WV-TEETH (988-3384) or visit our website www.DentalHealthStudy.com This project is sponsored by the National Institutes of Health and is being conducted by the West Virginia University School of Dentistry. The principal investigator is Dr. Daniel W. McNeil, Department of Dental Practice & Rural Health, WVU School of Dentistry. WVU IRB approval is on file. January/February 2015

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

To participate in this study you must:  Be in your first or second trimester of pregnancy  Be healthy enough to have a dental exam  Be willing to participate in follow-up visits What We Do:  Dental screenings for you and your baby (up to 2 years old)  4 in-person visits and 6 phone interviews How You Benefit:  Opportunities to learn more about your oral health  $75 for each in-person visit  $15 for each completed telephone interview  Our team will travel to a location near you

Baby Guide 2015 Health NEWS Center for Oral Health Disparities in Appalachia

WVU Dental Health & Pregnancy Study

POOP COLOR SCREENING FOR NEWBORNS COULD PREVENT DEATHS

Your oral health is important, especially during pregnancy. Pregnancy is a time of many changes, including changes in the mouth. Join us for an opportunity to learn more about your own oral health and the health of your baby.

Paying attention to the color of a newborn’s poop can mean the difference between life and death for babies with the rare liver disorder biliary atresia — the leading cause of liver transplants in children. The disease is almost universally heralded by white or clay-colored stools but is often diagnosed with woeful delays.

Researchers at West Virginia University are trying to understand why children in West Virginia have a higher rate of cavities than children in the rest of the country. The best way for us to understand why cavities form is to provide dental check-ups to moms and their babies, starting from the time of pregnancy and following up with them until their baby has all of his/her teeth.

Now, research from the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center reveals that a stool color screening card given to new parents has already proven to save lives and improve outcomes in Taiwan, could also mitigate the economic toll of the disease in the United States.

We are looking for newly pregnant women who would like to volunteer for a paid research project. If you or anyone you know would like to participate, please contact us. Your help can be the first steps to improving oral health for your child and other children for generations to come. See ad on page 13. For more information or to enroll call 1-877-WV-TEETH (988-3384). We always are glad to answer any questions you may have. This project is sponsored by the NIH and the NIDCR and is being conducted by the West Virginia University School of Dentistry. Principal Investigator Dr. Daniel W. McNeil, Ph.D, Clinical Professor, Dental Practice & Rural Health. WVU IRB approval is on file.

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

Lily's Place

Infant Recovery Center With the epidemic of drug addiction in our nation exploding, Lily's Place serves the tiniest victims of substance abuse - newborn babies. Using proven therapeutic handling methods and the very latest weaning techniques, Lily's Place eases drug-exposed babies from their mother's drugs and gives them the best possible care available. Lily's Place 1320 Seventh Avenue Huntington, WV http://www.lilysplace.org/ 304-523-5459

January/February 2015

Untreated, BA is universally fatal. Babies who undergo liver surgery before 2 months of age have better long-term outcomes, are less likely to die, and less likely to need a liver transplant. That golden two-month window, however, is often missed, experts say, with the average time to diagnosis in the United States standing at 70 days. "A simple stool color card that is handed out or mailed to parents, or even a quick conversation in the pediatrician’s office, can go a long way," says lead author Douglas Mogul, M.D., M.P.H., a pediatric gastroenterologist at Johns Hopkins. In fact, the new report comes on the heels of another BA screening tool — a mobile poop-color app developed by Johns Hopkins and HCB Health. The free app, called PoopMD and available on iTunes and Google Play, uses color recognition software to analyze the color of a baby’s stool. The app provides instant feedback to parents, who have the option of sending the photos to their pediatrician for further evaluation. To see colors of normal and abnormal stool, go to http://hopkinschildrens.org/stool-color-library/

Are Conventional Crayons Safe?

ometimes children do strange things, and eating crayons is one of them. Many parents may wonder about conventional crayons: Are they safe? As part of its Toxic Free Kids initiative, the Children’s Cancer Recovery Foundation (CCRF) urges parents to consider both conventional crayons and alternative options. Crayons contain two elements: wax and pigment. Eating a small bit of crayon is generally harmless, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), but can become dangerous in large quantities if the indigestible wax creates an intestinal blockage. Eating crayons can also present a choking hazard. Most crayons sold in the United States currently are certified non-toxic for children.

Safety Tips:

If your child has a habit of eating non-edible things, watch them while coloring to ensure that he or she does not choke. If your child eats a significant number of crayons and you are concerned: * Call a pediatrician and observe your child for a period of time to ensure that he or she has a regular bowel move ment, or * Call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 for advice. If your child is choking, call 911.

Our children's early artistic experiences should be carefree. The best bet to ensure your child has a safe and toxic-free experience is to follow the tips above. Happy coloring! CCRF - www.ChildrensCancerRecovery.org

Children’s Dental Health Page

Healthy smiles make happy kids To ensure your child has a healthy smile, start dental care early. Stress the importance of dental hygiene and help your child develop good habits that will last them a lifetime!

FAMILY AND IMPLANT DENTISTRY Thomas E. Condron, D.D.S. 234 Court Street Clarksburg, WV 26301

304-623-4984

Quick Tips: • Brush and floss at least two times a day. • Visit your dentist twice a year. • Get fluoride treatments once a year. • Eat a balanced diet.

We Can Make A Difference!

Pediatric & Teenage Dentistry R.E. Day, DDS 3000 Hampton Center, Ste. B Morgantown, WV 304-599-5000

www.dentist4kids.org

546 Route 20 South Rd. Buckhannon, WV

Call 1-87-Smile-Wide

304-472-2774

johnscondemalone.com

SMILE,

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month This message is sponsored by your trusted and award-winning WV Family Magazine, Thomas Condron, DDS, Wilson Martino Dental, Pediatric & Teenage Dentistry, and Drs. Johns, Conde, & Malone.

Baby Guide 2015 Wellness

Is It More Than The Baby Blues?

By Ruth Hanley

Post-partum Mood Disorder (PMD) is the number one complication with childbirth, and affects fifteen to twenty percent of new mothers. It can affect women who have had a baby, a miscarriage or stillborn baby, women who are pregnant, or who have stopped breastfeeding. A woman with PMD may feel symptoms other than severe depression. She also may feel symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, or anxiety. Lindsay Bagley, a licensed mental health counselor and masters-level therapist suggests moms ask themselves, “Do I feel like myself? Am I having trouble connecting with my baby?” Post-partum Support International, www.postpartum.net, has a “warm line” available in English or Spanish. New moms can call 1-800-944-4773 to be connected with information, support, and resources on PMD. Trained volunteers, some of whom have gone through PMD themselves, return messages left on their confidential voice mail. Post-partum Support International also links to local websites with area coordinators who connect moms with their local resources. If you are a mom in crisis, or feel you can’t be left alone safely with your baby, you can call the national suicide

prevention hotline at 1-800-273 TALK (8255). Bagley says, “It’s important to get the help that you need for yourself and your baby” She reminds moms they are not alone, PMD is not their fault, and they deserve health and happiness. 5 Resources For Moms With PMD 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Share your feelings with your OB or primary care doctor. Join a local parent/baby group. Find a therapist who fits with your schedule, insurance, and specializes in PMD. Contact PSI’s warm line for information and resources. Talk to supportive friends and family.

SAFE SLEEP:

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Releases Safe Sleep Guidelines to Prevent Infant Death

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

ach year, more than 2,500 infants in the United States die from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), the unexplained, sudden death of an infant under one year old. Researchers are finding that the majority of infant deaths are sleep-related, with nearly 74 percent of deaths in babies younger than four months occurring in bed-sharing situations. Among older infants – those aged four months to 364 days – nearly 59 percent of deaths involve bed-sharing, according to the Journal of Public Health. Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta has released guidelines for parents on how to create a safe sleep environment for their babies in order to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death. Sleep Alone. Infants who share a bed with an older child or adult are at higher risk for injury, suffocation or SIDS.

January/February 2015

Back is Best. Always place your child on his back to sleep. The risk of SIDS is doubled for infants who sleep on their stomachs. Crib Safety. Remove anything from the crib that can block your child’s flow of air, including all stuffed animals, blankets, pillows, crib bumpers, and mobiles. Make sure the crib slats are no more than two and three-eighth inches apart with fixed sides. Do not place your child on a sofa, soft mattress, pillow, or other soft surface to avoid rolling or suffocating between pillows. If you want your infant close to you at night, move his bassinet or crib into your bedroom and place it within arm’s reach. Comfortable Temps. Keep the thermostat set so that it is comfortable for adults who are lightly dressed, usually between 68°F and 72°F and never over 75°F. Instead of using covers in cool weather, dress your baby in a lightweight, one-piece blanket sleeper or sleep sack to help keep him warm. Swaddle Smart. Swaddling is the practice

of wrapping your infant in a blanket or cloth, mimicking the comfort of the womb. If done correctly, swaddling can curb crying and restlessness, and promote longer sleep and regular sleep patterns. Leave space in the blanket for the infant’s hips and legs to move. If done incorrectly, it can put too much pressure on the hips and cause problems like hip dysplasia. Stay Smoke-free. Never allow anyone to smoke near your infant. Exposure to secondhand smoke doubles the risk of SIDS, according to the CDC. Immunize Your Child. The risk of SIDS is substantially lower in infants who are up to date on their necessary immunizations, according to the CDC. Educate Your Sitter. Every parent needs a night out, but before you turn your child over, show your sitter (friend, relative, or teenager) these helpful tips to keep your child safe and secure. For more details on children’s tips for safe sleep, please visit www.choa.org/safesleep.

Baby Guide 2015 Baby Products

BABY Picks: ditor’s E

Kevel Mommy Fly Tie is a device that secures your zipper and expands your waistline for beginning stages of pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Kevel Mommy is functional, practical, and a necessity for all moms to be! $9.99$16.99. www.kevel.com.

The Latest In Innovative And Creative Baby Products Baby Steps to Safety DVD In this video Hunter and Amber, the hosts, guide you through an average home - helping you take Baby Steps to making it safe for babies. In 54 minutes they point out common dangers and remedies, plus provide over 100 great safety tips. Great for parents and also siblings awaiting their new baby brother or sister. A wonderful way to make siblings feel involved - by helping to make the home safe. $8.99 www.allaboutsafetyinc.com.

Handbag Organizer for Moms  A sleek tote-insert that turns your designer handbag into a fashionable diaper bag in seconds. Includes separate compartments, cell phone pocket, changing mat, quick-access key clasp. This insert easily wipes clean. $110. www.lifeinplaycompany.com.

MyDrinky Adjustable Juice Box Holder Easily secures any size juice/milk box or pouch making it easy for kids to drink without causing a mess from squeezing it. Easily adjusts to fit the smallest 4 oz. boxes and pouches up to the larger 8 oz. versions. Unique 2-piece system locks into place, keeping the juice box/pouch from falling out. Dishwasher safe and BPA free. Comes in four fun colors – lime, grape, tangerine and aqua. $9.95, www.Inchbug. com.

Kids No-Spill Bottle Caps Replace original bottle cap of any leading water and juice drink with the Kids No-Spill Bottle Cap and the bottle is ready for nospill drinking. Adaptors for all the leading drink bottles included with each pack of No-Spill Bottle Caps. $6.99/pack, www.snacktrap.com. Ulubulu Baby Bibs 100% silicone bibs, a nontoxic alternative to the various plastic and vinyl bibs on the market. Eleven different animal shaped styles. Wipe clean or dishwasher safe. Rolls up for storage. Does not contain lead, BPA, phthalates, latex, or PVC. Recommended for ages 6 months and up. $9.99. www.ulubulu.com. The Hugaboo Baby Seat This training seat offers unique and comfortable playtime support for babies 3-11 months while they are learning to sit up. Featuring unique leg and back support, the Hugaboo also gives baby the freedom to comfortably observe surroundings, develop sensory motor skills, and spend quality time with the family. Made of supremely soft fleece and featuring fun colors and fabric patterns. $59.99. myhugaboo.com.

Baby B'Air The FAA-approved Baby B'Air Flight Vest is the only safety solution for lap held children while traveling in an airplane. The baby can then be held, fed, and even changed while both parent and child remain securely fastened in their seat. $34.95. www.babybair. com. The Flexi-Fit Toilet Trainer An adjustable toilet training seat, to ensure your child feels secure and comfortable. Adult toilet seats come in many shapes and sizes. However, most toilet training seats have no size adjustments so they can wobble around and make the child feel uncomfortable and insecure. The Flexi-Fit has a unique squeeze flex action and adjustable prongs so that it fits securely on to the toilet seat. Also includes full splash guard below and above the seat. $19.95, www.pourty.com.

Tooth Fairy Magic with Baby Tooth Album! From their very first to their very last, the loss of each baby tooth is a monumental rite of passage that deserves to be commemorated with the Baby Tooth Album. $14.95. www. babytoothalbum.com. January/February 2015

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

Inchbug Orbit Labels Personalize your child’s baby bottles, sippy cups, or regular drink bottles. Great for daycare or school when your child's drink could be confused with another child's drink. Reusable, dishwasher safe. $12.95 per 4-pack ($13.95 for 3D icon option), www.inchbug. com.

Growing with Grace Written by Joanne Young This is a sweet, uplifting, and educational book for both children and adults. It emphasizes the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual growth of the fetus. It is great for the expecting older brother or sister who wants to know all about what’s growing in mommy’s belly. Makes a great shower gift. Published by Archway, May 2014, 46 pages, $20.99. www.amazon.com or http://bookstore. www.archwaypublishing.com.

Baby Guide 2015 Health & Safety

Naïve Bliss: Having a Baby with GERD By Meagan Ruffing

fter trying for nearly two years to have our son Dylan, my husband and I were elated when he came into this world just two years ago. We had dreamt of the days when our family of two would someday become more than just a household filled with an Iowa boy and East Coast girl who had fallen in love at college. We never knew how much one person could rock our world. My husband and I call it naïve bliss. This living, breathing, walking and talking toddler is now all-consuming in our already busy lives. We had absolutely no idea how hard it would be to care for another human being day and night. When Dylan was three months old, we realized he had GERD (gastro esophageal reflux disease) or simply put, acid reflux. No wonder raising this baby was harder than we thought it would be! The constant crying, never-ending fussiness, and all night pacing with our precious newborn was, as my mom so kindly put it, “not normal.” After months of trying to figure out what was making Dylan so uncomfortable, we finally got him on the right medicine with the help of our pediatrician. We made the transition from sleepless

nights to longer periods of restfulness and traded in our crying fits (and I mean all of our crying fits) for giggling over burps and blown raspberries. Having a slower start at establishing the recommended routine a newborn so desperately needs, the three of us got to know each other better than any of us had quite anticipated. Now two-yearslater, my husband and I reminisce about the days we didn’t shower, brush our teeth, or get out of our pjs. We look back at pictures of our first days home with Dylan and wonder, how did we ever get through it? We share stories and fill-in-the-blanks for each other when our memory fails, reliving foggier times. My husband and I still use the term naïve bliss as an inside joke. Now pregnant with our third miracle, all we can do at this point is look at each other and laugh. Laugh that sleepless nights are on their way. Laugh that there is nothing we can do about it. And laugh that this is our life and we won’t know what it will look like until we get there. Meagan Ruffing is a freelance writer and stay-at-home mom. She is now an avid coffee drinker – thanks to her many sleepless nights and two children.

An Insider's Guide to Choosing the Right Daycare

hoosing a daycare is one of the most important decisions parents make for their infants and toddlers. Your child will spend most of his waking hours there, so it's important to find an environment that is safe and nurturing physically, emotionally, and academically.

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

I've worked in the field of early childhood education for decades. Here are my top eight things to look for when searching for the right childcare.

Convenience

Consider the following: Do the program's hours work for your schedule? Is it near your home or office? How long will it take you to get there if there's an emergency during the day?

Cost

While it's crucial to find a program that fits into your budget, that doesn't mean you should scrimp on quality. If your dream daycare is too costly for you to manage, ask about scholarships. Many communities have programs to help working parents with the cost of childcare.

First Impressions

Drop in unannounced to get a feel for a place. Pay close attention to how you're greeted and what's going on. Is it chaotic? Did you

January/February 2015

By Rachael Moshman

walk right in without anyone noticing you? Do the children look happy and occupied? Notice the teachers: Are they warm and caring? Do they seem to genuinely like children?

Recommendations

Ask other parents and caregivers who currently use the daycare as well as former families about their experiences there. Also check with the local Better Business Bureau. A quick online search never hurts, either.

Cleanliness

Sure, with dozens of small children, it's tough to keep a building clean, but it is imperative to keep everyone healthy. Do you notice any foul smells? Teachers should wear gloves for diapering and wash their hands before and after. Procedures should be in place for sanitizing all equipment and toys throughout the day.

Ratios

The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) recommends a one-to-six ratio for the same age group. The lower the ratio, the more attention your child will receive. The ratio varies depending on the age group. If your daycare is NAEYC-approved, find out the appropriate NAEYC ratio for Continued on page 19.

Continued from page 18.

your child's age. Check the website of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to learn your state's health and safety recommendations.

Turnover

Once you've found the perfect teacher, you want some assurance that she won't leave two weeks after you enroll your child. Find out the program's turnover rate. If teachers frequently leave, they may be unhappy about the way they're treated or about something happening at the school, which is cause for concern.

Policies and Procedures

Confirm the school is up to date on licensing standards by contacting your local department of children and families. Ask to see the school's policy and procedure handbooks. They should have plans in place for dealing with a wide variety of issues from lice outbreaks to power outages. Ask about the center's safety procedures.

WVU Community Music Program* Registration for Spring Term Begins January 5th.

304-293-6946

http://music.wvu.edu/community_ music_program *An accredited program thru the National Association of Schools of Music.

Choosing a daycare doesn't have to be overwhelming. In the end, trust your instincts. Rachael Moshman is a mom, freelance writer and blogger. She lives in Florida with her husband and daughter, plus four cats, one dog and a mannequin named Vivian. Find her at www.rachaelmoshman.com.

For graduation rates, median debt, and other important info, visit our website: www.oicwv.org

Welcoming Jeffry Pilney,

Medical Coding Enrolling Now!

Medical Assistant

Apply Online

Dental Assistant

(304) 366-8142 888-999-1602

Pharmacy Tech.

oicfmt@oicwv.org

1‐866‐321‐4728 www.wvdhhr.org/birth23

*moving *hearing * seeing * learning or *talking like others their age?

Every child deserves a GREAT START!

WV Birth to Three services and supports are provided under Part C of the individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) and administered through the WV Department of Health and Human Resources, Office of Maternal, Child and Family Health.

to our team of surgeons. Wound Care Endoscopy General Surgery To schedule an appointment, call our Physician Center (304) 791-3738.

SUBSCRIBE to our weekly e-newsletter - for a chance to win our "Family-Night Package"

Package includes: "An American Tail" DVD, "Dr. Seuss' Horton Hears A Who!" DVD, "I Can Do That" Card Game, "Go Fish" Card Game, Orville Redenbacher's Popcorn with Pour Over Movie Theater Butter, Assorted Candy Bars, No-spill Bottle Cap Set (see page 17), 2 Anti-spill Snack Cups, Activity book & Project book for parents, "Billy Brown Mouse" Board Book, Children's Book Series "Savvy Cyber Kids at Home", a Fleece Blanket, Coloring Book & Crayons, Puzzle Books. Over $170 Value! Deadline Feb. 15, 2015.

Simply go to www.WVFamilyOnline.com and enter your email in the Subscribe box to the right. January/February 2015

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

Do you know a child who is not:

MD, FACS



Kids' Health

Special Needs Series

Left Out, Alone, and Misunderstood: The Emotional Side of Attention Deficit Disorder by Angie Dixon

“Is there something wrong with me?” Jack was five years old and taking his first dose of medication for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). After seeing a child psychologist, a therapist, and a second child psychologist who diagnosed ADHD and prescribed medication, Jack was worried. When his mom said, “No, but you have a problem with paying attention and being still,” Jack nodded. He did have a problem with those things. “This medicine will help with that.” Jack took the medicine and didn’t ask again if there was something wrong with him. But Jack, now 19, and most other kids with ADD or ADHD, often wondered if there was something wrong with him.

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

THE EMOTIONAL SIDE OF ADD IN KIDS

Kids with ADD or ADHD feel different because they are different. They have trouble sitting still. Boundaries are not always their strong suit. They speak when they think of something to say. They focus poorly or not at all. They don’t always complete assignments and they can’t explain why not. They’re sometimes rambunctious and noisy. Kids without the “H” in their ADD are daydreamers. They’re often disconnected from what’s going on around them. In a society where paying attention, following instructions, and behaving according to the rules are valued, ADD kids don’t fit the mold. As they become adults and find their own way, not fitting the mold might be acceptable. It might even be helpful, given how creative people with ADD tend to be. For now, though, not fitting is not a good thing. “I treat a high contingency (thousands) of kids, teens and families in my 90201 practice,” says Dr. Fran Walfish, Beverly Hills psychotherapist, author and expert panelist on We TV. “I have never worked with a child or adolescent with ADD or ADHD who didn’t feel different, deficient or less-than from the other kids. With this come feelings of insecurity, inadequacy, and often a great deal of frustration.” WHAT CAN PARENTS, FAMILIES AND TEACHERS DO TO HELP?

As parents, it’s hard to know how to help kids who feel different because their brains don’t work like everyone else’s. According to Dr. Walfish, “the best thing parents can do to help their kids deal with the feeling of being different and apart is to empathize.” This may be hard for some parents, who want to comfort their children by reassuring them that they’re just like everyone else. “Your child

January/February 2015

knows the truth,” Dr. Walfish says. Instead, say something like, “I can imagine it’s hard being you when you try your best and hardest and things just don’t go the way you hope or wish. That’s hard.” An empathetic teacher can also help kids feel more comfortable, become more involved in class and get to know other kids. Jack, the boy who asked if something was wrong with him because he had to take medication, found a champion in his fourth grade teacher. Mrs. Camp partnered Jack with another boy in the class whom she thought he would like. They started talking and playing together and eventually became best friends. Dr. Walfish says partnering an ADD student with the right other student is an important way teachers can help kids with ADD. Other ways include “seating the child with ADD in the front center or front side away from visual (site) and auditory (hearing) distractions.” Another useful tool for teachers, Dr. Walfish suggests, is a private reward system in which “the impulsive child earns rewards for restraining inappropriate impulses (calling out answers, grabbing neighbors’ pencils, jumping up out of his seat, etc.” HOW CAN KIDS HELP THEMSELVES?

Finding and joining groups of kids like them can help ADD kids immensely, whether that’s a support group for ADD kids or a group such as a martial arts or gymnastics class where having lots of energy is a good thing. Our young friend Jack participated in Tae Kwon Do for about two years, according to his mother, and “He really grew into a confident young man who understood that he is okay just the way he is.” ADD AND THE FAMILY

Dr. Walfish points out that “siblings should not be expected to help or carry any burden of responsibility for their siblings with a disability.” As a family, everyone should be supportive and respectful of each member of the family equally. If one or more of your children has ADD, make sure that the diagnosis doesn’t overwhelm the rest of the family by depriving others of attention. While no one intentionally pays more attention to one child than the others, Dr. Walfish says it can and does happen accidentally. ENJOYING YOUR CHILD

As frustrating and difficult as Attention Deficit Disorder can be for the afflicted child and everyone around him or her, it’s also a remarkable gift. ADD kids are funny and bright. They make amazing connections and say things that no one else would even think of. If you’re fortunate enough to have a remarkable ADD brain in your family, take time to listen and enjoy it, in spite of the difficulties that accompany this kind of energy and this type of brain. Angie Dixon is a writer and photographer living in Little Rock, Arkansas with her husband, two children and a houseful of pets. In the next Special Needs Series: "7 Habits of Highly Effective Parents of Children with Special Needs"

Jan/Feb 2015 Calendar of Events Deadline for the next issue is Feb.2, 2015. The next issue will be on shelves March/April and is our Spring issue with our ANNUAL SUMMER CAMPS & PROGRAMS Directory. For advertising information or to submit your family-friendly calendar event or health event, Please call 304-472-4528 or email: info@wvfamilymagazine.com. Calendar also listed on our calendar page at www.WVFamilyOnline.com ONGOING WVU Community Music Program Morgantown, WV. Spring term registration begins Jan. 5. Group classes and private music lessons, community music events, summer camps, and more. 304-293-6946. http://music.wvu.edu/ community_music_program. Horseback Riding - Open Year Round Mountain Trail Rides 255 Freeland , Davis, WV. Horseback riding in the beautiful mountains of Canaan Valley, WV. 304-866-4652 www.mountaintrailrides.com. Sundays are Family Day at the Morgantown Ice Arena Skating Rink 1001 Mississippi St., Morgantown, WV. Public skate sessions, lessons offered - beginner and advanced, figure skating, ice hockey, locker room parties. 304-296-8356 http://www. boparc.org/ice-arena.html. P.U.R.R. WV Adoption Events are ongoing at various locations around North Central WV. P.U.R.R. WV is a no-kill cat rescue Please go to http://www.purrwv.org/html/events.html for dates and locations. Train Rides at Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad Elkins, WV. Mountain rail adventures any time of the year. Mtn-rail.com or call 866-874-7653.

WV Family Magazine 2015 Scholarship open for submissions through March 1, 2015. For eligibility criteria and submission requirements, go to www.WVFamilyOnline.com. The Wow Factory No appointment necessary. Create your own pottery, glass-fusing, mosiac, and clay. 304-599-2WOW. www.thewowfactory.com. JANUARY National Staying Healthy Month - This is our Family Health edition. You will find many articles and tips for everyone in the family. January is Cervical Cancer Screening Month Remember to take some time out now so you will have time later.

January 1 Happy New Year 2015! January 5 Spring term registration begins at WVU community Music Program. See ad on page 19. Janaury 5 Spring classes begin at Morgantown Dance Studio. See ad on page 9. January 16-18 Winter Wonder Weekend North Bend State Park, Cairo, WV. Activities for all ages - games, hikes, contests, arts & crafts, and more. 304-558-2754. www. northbendsp.com January 20 Martin Luther King Jr. Day Observed on the third Monday in January. January 24 Miranda Lambert in Concert Charleston Civic Center Coliseum, Charleston, WV. 7:30 p.m. Go to http://www.charlestonwvciviccenter.com for info and tickets. FEBRUARY February is American Heart Month. It is a good time to remember that heart disease affects men and women alike.

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

Monongalia County Health Department WIC (Women, Infants, and Children Program) 1000 Elmer Prince Drive, Morgantown,, WV. Monday-Friday 8:30-4:30. Evening appointments available. 304-598-5181.

January is "GO" Month - Get Organized.

February is National Children's Dental Health Month. Healthy gums can greatly affect your heart health. See page 15 for children dental health tips. February 1, 2015 Super Bowl Sunday February 2 is Groundhog Day February 2 Deadline to reserve your camp ad in the 2015 Summer Camps & Programs Guide and Directory in the March/April issue of WV Family. Camps advertising in the Mar/Apr issue will also be listed in our Online Camp Fair. Call today! 304-472-4528. February 8 Spring Bridal Extravaganza continued on page 22 January/February 2015

Jan/Feb 2015 Calendar of Events continued.....

Choose Your 2015

WV Mountain Rail Adventure

Early This Year!

pring in West Virginia brings a kaleidoscope of blossoming color to the mountains. The “Mountain State”, known for its blazing autumn canvas, displays as much color and beauty in spring as it does in fall. Crystal clear, bubbling streams cascade down the mountains, dropping over waterfalls of varying depths, to pools alive with native trout. Mountainsides shimmer with colorful spring flowers and native flowering trees. The entire landscape is a pure, wondrous sight for winterweary eyes!

There is no better way to enjoy the awakening of this natural display in Randolph and Pocahontas counties than from a warm and comfortable seat on the New Tygart Flyer, one of several Mountain Rail Adventures offered by the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad. This rail excursion company operates historic steam-driven locomotives and vintage diesel-powered passenger trains that depart the three historic depots of Elkins, Durbin and Cass – April through December. Mountain Rail Adventure excursions take you into the more remote regions of the mountains where even automobiles cannot go. Trips range from day-long excursions into the Monongahela National Forest to shorter sight-seeing trips along the banks of the Greenbrier, Tygarts Valley and Shaver’s Fork rivers. From Cass, consider the two hour Whittaker trip in mid-May on historic cars pulled by the mighty steampowered Shays. Most Mountain Rail excursions include on-board food service options.

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

Cottontail Express The 2015 Mountain Rail season opens with the Cottontail Express on Saturday, April 4. Families, dressed in their Easter finery, travel to Elkins for a 1.5-hour hop down the rails with Peter Cottontail. On board, a cast of characters make merry with games, face painting, and more! The Cottontail Express departs the Elkins Depot 11 am and 1 pm.

Durbin Rocket For the more adventurous, the Durbin Rocket is the signature steamdriven locomotive, just perfect for kids. It departs the Durbin Depot beginning the weekend of April 25-26 and chugs alongside the Greenbrier River. Open and closed cars allow ample opportunity to move about and there’s always something to see and watch. Reservations: 866-874-7653 Online Information & Videos: Mtn-Rail.com Social: #MountainRail

lthough the holidays have come and gone, Christmas 2015 is really just around the corner when it comes to reserving your 2015 POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride that departs for the North Pole from January/February 2015

Elkins November through December. Seats usually sell out by July, and weekends sell out much faster. Reserve your holiday adventure now if you want that perfect holiday date! Reservations: 866-874-7653 Online Information & Videos: Mtn-Rail.com Social: #MountainRail

Meadowbrook Mall, Bridgeport, WV. 11a.m.-3 p.m. One-day, onestop-shopping event for brides. 304.842.5441. http://www.meadowbrookmall.com. Feb 13-15 Annual WV Sports Show Charleston Civic Center, Charleston, WV. the area’s largest indoor displays of new RVs, fifth wheels, Class A, B & C motorhomes, trailers, toy haulers, and pop-ups, along with recreational vehicles, personal water crafts, and ATV’s. http://www.charlestonwvciviccenter.com February 13-15 Sports & Leisure Show Meadowbrook Mall, Bridgeport, WV. Mall hours. Outdoor equipment, recreational vehicles and more will be on display. The event is presented by Creative Promotions. 304.842.5441. http://www.meadowbrookmall.com. February 14 Valentine's Day. Don't forget to tell those who are special in your life just how special they are.

Winter Activities Guide - Go to: http://wvfamilyonline.com/winter-activities-guide/ for great outdoor and indoor activities to help you enjoy family time together during the winter months. February 16 President's Day February 17 Random Acts of Kindness Day February 19-22 Disney on Ice Treasure Trove Charleston Civic Center Coliseum, Charleston, WV. This show full of Disney treasures to remember. Your favorite Disney princesses: Ariel, Belle, Cinderella, Jasmine, Aurora, Tiana, Mulan and, of course, the one who started it all, Snow White. Plus Rapunzel and Flynn, Peter Pan and Tinker Bell, Simba, Nala, Timon, and Pumbaa. And Alice and the Mad Hatter. http://www.charlestonwvciviccenter.com for info and tickets. February 20 Love Your Pet Day A day to love and pamper your pet, after all - pets are good for your health! If you don't have a pet, contact a local animal shelter and volunteer (or adopt). February 22 & 28 Disney's My Son Pinocchio Actor's Guild of Parkersburg, 724

Ice-skate Arenas in WV See our list of at http://wvfamilyonline.com/ice-skating-arenas-in-wv/ Market Str., Parkersburg, WV. This musical retells the classic Disney story from Geppetto’s perspective. 2/22 @ 2:30 p.m. 2/28 @ 9 a.m. http://www.actors-guild.com/guild-builders.html February 25 Spay Day USA This is an annual observance to bring attention to the pet overpopulation problem in the US. According to American Humane Society, 5 million companion animals enter animal shelters nationwide every year. 60% of dogs and 70% of cats from animal shelters are euthanized every year because there is no space in these shelters. Spay or neuter your pet, and donate to help spay and neuter shelters animals who are waiting for a furrever home. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, it is recommended to call ahead. WV Family Magazine is not liable for damages arising out of errors or omissions.

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