County Parents - December 2010

GIFT GUIDE

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M A R C H 2 0 10 • F R E E

TOYS & GAMES FOR KIDS

PAGE 7

DECEMBER 2010 • FREE

Holiday Gift Guide

For Kids

TOY & GAMES Keeping the

KIDS

Calm

Holidays During the

Tis the Season for

CRAFTING Ridge Runners PAGE

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS FAMILY CRAFTS Making the Grade PAGE

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Calendar of Events PAGE

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Maryland’s Premier Ice Skating & Hockey Facility

SKATING FUN FOR EVERYONE! Learn to Skate Classes Forming Now! • Public Skating - Bring the Family!

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Cool Tunes. Good Friends. Hot Food. Fast Ice! THE COOL PLACE TO CHILL

1300 Governors Court • Abingdon, MD • (410) 612-1000

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CONTENTS D ECEMBER 2010

FEATURE 11

Keeping Kids Calm During the Holiday Season BY

D ENISE Y EARIAN

PAGE

7

GIFT GUIDE 7

PAGE

DEPARTMENTS 5

14

Noodles Cool Kids: Ridge Runners; Community Connections: Mason-Dixon Community Services BY

S TACEY A LATZAS

Reading Corner H ARFORD C OUNTY P UBLIC L IBRARY BY

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Toys & Games for Kids

11

Healthy Family

PAGE

Preventing the Flu An Ounce of Prevention Is Worth a Pound of Treatment

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Family Fun Guide Family Crafts: ‘Tis the Season for Crafting BY

D ENISE M ORRISON Y EARIAN

Calendar of Events

25

Making the Grade Building Blocks for High School BY

S TACEY A LATZAS

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PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

Contact Us: Mail: Delta Graphics & Communications P.O. Box 1666 Bel Air, MD 21014

Slide into Holiday Fun! Slide into the fun of things this month by using this issue to find a fun event, family craft or great gift idea.

Phone: 410-893-1511 Fax: 410-893-2727 Email: delta@aboutdelta.com Web site: www.CountyParents.com Advertising: Peter Fernandez, ext. 107, peterf@aboutdelta.com Editorial: Joan Fernandez, ext. 105, joanf@aboutdelta.com Contributing Writers Stacey Alatzas Denise Morrison Yearian Calendar/Resource listings: Visit www.CountyParents.com to submit events via an online form in the Calendar section, fax 410-893-2727 or mail to Delta Graphics, Inc., P.O. Box 1666, Bel Air, MD 21014 County Parents is published monthly by Delta Graphics & Communications. Copyright © 2010 Delta Graphics, Inc. All rights reserved. County Parents is distributed free of charge in family-friendly locations as well as direct mailed.

Submissions and Letters to the Editor are welcome. We reserve the right to edit, reject or to comment editorially on all material submitted. Unsolicited material cannot under any circumstances obligate this publication to claims for charges. Enclose a SASE for any material to be returned.

Each month, in our Show ‘n Tell section, we feature product reviews from Parents’ Choice Foundation, the nation’s oldest non-profit guide to quality children’s media and toys. In this issue, we’ve gleaned some of their recent award winners and put together a Gift Guide of Toys and Games for Kids. There are a dozen choices most priced $25 or less for all ages.

In Tis the Season for Crafting there are three simple and fun festive crafts that kids (adults) of all ages can enjoy. Plus, a brief and interesting history on the creation of Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer!

So in the midst of all the holiday excitement, do you find your kids bouncing off the walls or being prone to meltdowns? Check out some Tips for Keeping Kids Calm during the Holiday Season. While much is common sense, such as maintaining a schedule and planning ahead, it helps to think about these pointers now.

Our calendar is stuffed full of affordable, festive events for the season. Use the holiday season as a time for a special outing, such as to a local play, live nativity or an open house at a historic locale.

Don’t forget to SAVE THE DATE for the 5th annual Noon Year’s Eve Celebration held from 10:30 – 12:30 at the Bel Air Athletic Club. There’s entertainment and light refreshments along with the highlight of the day — a “snowball drop” at noon.

The event has sold-out early in past years and so make your reservations now by calling 410-838-2670.

County Parents reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason.

Distribution of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services herein. Although every effort is taken to ensure accuracy of published material, Delta Graphics, Inc., its principals, employees, or any of the authors presenting information within the County ParentsTM magazine and web site cannot be held responsible for the use or misuse of any information contained herein.

The contents of the magazine and web site are for informational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

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COOL KIDS

Ridge Runner Club BY

S TACEY A LATZAS

O

regon Ridge Nature Center in Cockeysville offers an opportunity for middle school age kids to get in touch with nature and learn about responsibility. The center’s Ridge Runner club provides students ages 13 and older the chance to help the center care for its animals and assist in center festivals and events.

“They help us by doing things like feeding the animals and cleaning tanks,” says the center’s administrative assistant and weekend naturalist Todd Thropp.

Ridge Runners get to work in the Nature Center’s wildlife exhibits. They feed the center’s snakes and fish and help clean the new aquatic turtle exhibit, which

(410) 879-3566

is home to 15 turtles. They adhere to a regular weekly work schedule.

“You definitely see them grow,” says Thropp of the club members who take on these responsibilities.

“Ridgies” also help out at the center’s special events including Primitive Technology Weekend, Maple Sugar Days, the Honey Harvest Festival and Halloween Hike. They also get together for an adventurous field trip every other month.

They’ve gone canoeing at Oregon Ridge Park and taken hikes at other nearby nature centers.

Teens with an interest in nature who’d like to be considered for the Ridge Runners, should contact center director

(410) 838-1114

Courtney Peed at 410-887-1815. Teens must interview with Peed in order to earn a spot with the group. The center signs off on community service hours for students who commit to the program for a year .

It’s up to the individual schools to approve the hours.

The Oregon Ridge Nature Center, which features exhibits explaining the history, wildlife, and natural environment of Oregon Ridge Park, is at 13555 Beaver Dam Road, Cockeysville. For more information, visit www.oregonridge.org..

www.tots2teensdental.com

NEW PATIENTS! Mention County Parents Magazine and receive Toothprints FREE!

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COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Mason-Dixon Community Services BY

Winter Wonderland

by Jill Esbaum

A vibrant tribute to wintertime traditions! Celebrate the snow and cold that make for outdoor adventures of skating and sledding. Feel the warmth of family Holiday gathering behind frost covered windows. Share this wonderful picture book with beginning readers!

Edible: A Celebration of Local Foods

by Tracey Ryder

An inviting and beautifully photographed book celebrating local foods and the sustainable food systems in the United States. Profiles of farmers, and food artisans who are making a difference!

Seasonal recipes included.

—Courtesy of Harford County Public Library 6

S TACEY A LATZAS

H

oliday time is a great time for kids to learn the value of volunteering at Mason-Dixon Community Services. This organization in Street helps low-income residents with emergency food and energy assistance. Donors are particularly generous during this time of year and community outreach coordinator Theresa Perry says the organization is often in need of young people who can help them sort through all the canned goods and personal care items that get dropped off at their offices.

We have a lot of volunteer opportunities in December and January,” says Perry, “We get a tidal wave of food.”

The John Carroll High School football team helped sort items for the organization this past August and Perry says she often gets help from school and scouting groups. Perry says anyone interested in helping should contact her to set up a time. She says children 12 and under should be accompanied by an adult. Most of the sorting is done at their facility at 708 Highland Road in Street. Anyone interested can call her at 410-452-9025 to set up a time.

Besides the sorting, Perry says she welcomes other types of fundraising projects from young people. She says a Boy Scout troop recently made up little “shopping lists” that included items like “small can of tomato soup” that they passed out to shoppers at local grocery stores and asked if they might purchase the items for families seeking Mason-Dixon Community Services’ help. She says Fountain Green

www.COUNTYPARENTS.com

Elementary School does a mitten drive for them.

“Kids just are so drawn to this,” Perry says.

She says the need for volunteers to help with the sorting extends beyond the holidays. She says they are particularly in need of help in the weeks after Christmas.

“We have a big mountain of stuff to go through.”

She says a little post-holiday volunteering is a good way to start the new year.

“It’s a nice lesson to teach kids,” she says. “They can say, ‘We had a nice Christmas, now we can help someone in January.’”

For more information on Mason-Dixon Community Services, visit www.masondixon.org.

Toys & Games for Kids

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ach month we include product reviews from the Parents’ Choice Foundation, the nation’s oldest nonprofit guide to quality children's media and toys. Parents’ Choice Foundation strives to provide parents with reliable unbiased information about tools to help your children learn, to explore new challenges, to discuss ideas and to pursue dreams. For this year’s gift guide, we’ve selected a few of their recent award winners. Use this as a jumping off point and visit their web site, www.parentschoice.org, for more reviews of books, toys, music, television, software, videogames, websites, and magazines for children and families.

Toys & Games for Kids First Snaps & First Pops The easy-to-manipulate colorful and textured pieces are fun to grab, grip, and pull.

Snapping together and pulling apart help develop manual dexterity. With a little guidance and practice, young testers mastered linking several pieces together.

Mom can then cleverly introduce two games: sorting the shapes by color, and putting all the pieces back into the handy storage container.

Parents’ Choice Silver Honor Ages: 6 months & Up Manufacturer: ALEX Price: $17.99

My Take Along Puppet Theater My Take Along Puppet Theater is a well constructed theater made by Playmobil. The theater houses seven figures and a variety of other props including a sound effect machine that plays four different sounds.

Our testers like how easily the scenes could be changed using cardboard sets. When they are finished, everything fits nicely into the theater which closes up into a carrying case. This helped keep the small pieces together. Other families will enjoy this toy and the imaginative play that it promotes.

Overall, this is an excellent product that will foster imaginary play and creativity.

Parents’ Choice Gold Award Ages: 4 & Up Manufacturer: Playmobil USA, Inc. Price: $49.99

Eco Kit Tyrannosaurus To a child, a 3-D puzzle is not just a puzzle you assemble and display, but a model you can build and re-build and use for imaginative play in between. The kit comes with directions and pieces to construct a Tyrannosaurus (made from environmentallyfriendly materials) in multiple poses. Our testers tried the designs they proposed, then came up with several of their own ideas and set the dinosaur into all kinds of monstrous play scenarios. Children enjoyed the set so much that they talked excitedly of expanding their puzzle collection and building more dinosaurs.

Parents’ Choice Recommended Ages: 6 - 12 yrs.

Manufacturer: iLot 307 Price: $19.99 SUMOKU The game starts with the roll of a die that determines the key number for the entire game. Players collect points by arranging numbered tiles in a crossword style pattern, so that each row and column adds up to a multiple of the key number. Everyone contributes to one common crossword-style pattern in the middle of the playing area. A player who adds to (or links to) an existing

combination scores the existing numbers as well as the newly added ones. This is a strategic play to attempt. The tiles come in six colors, none of which can be repeated in a row or column.

Parents’ Choice Gold Award Ages: 9 & Up Manufacturer: Blue Orange Games Price: $14.99 Itsy Bitsy Spider Poke, poke. Slide. Slide and poke. No, these are not new dance steps. They're the keys to unlock the sheer joy in this 21st century version of the classic nursery rhyme.

Move the spider up the water spout. Tap a

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TOYS & GAMES FOR KIDS Parents’ Choice Gold Award Mobile Apps Ages: 7 & Up Designer: Daren Carstens Developer: Carsten Studios Download Price: $0.99 Platform: iPhone/iPod Touch9 cloud and see the wind blow. Tap the spider to launch an umbrella so the spider can float down as it rains. Tap next time, and the spider gets a parachute. A banana falls onto a slug and it becomes - a zoology lesson. Hop around the screen and uncover the treasures and treats that await. Even Miss Goody Two Shoes creates a little mischief.

Parents’ Choice Gold Award Mobile Apps Ages: 3 - 5 yrs.

Designer: Duck Duck Moose Developer: Duck Duck Moose Platform: iPhone/iPod Touch9 Sums Stacker Deceptively simple, this aptly named game holds contagious appeal for many age groups.There are three stacks of numbers on the screen. At the bottom of each stack is a total and an assortment of numbers sit on top of the three stacks. The goal is to drag the numbers from one stack to another so each stack adds up to its target sum. Start by choosing one of the nine ways to have the numbers displayed: dice, fingers on a hand, a honeycomb, numbers, coins, English words, Spanish words, Roman numerals, or a surprise display. Select the solve or race mode and choose to play at the "easy" or "hard" level.

Toys for Children with Special Needs

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arents’ Choice partnership with Kennedy Krieger Institute ensures that licensed occupational, physical, and recreational therapists test each toy and game in multiple therapy sessions with children who have a variety of special needs. The key below identifies which characteristics are important when considering toys for children with special needs.

For more a more detailed description of the properties and for additional toys visit www.parents-choice.org.

Oball An affordable, well-made, fun toy that aids in teaching basic skills. Infants and toddlers can learn easily, happily, and safely to throw and catch a ball.

The colorful hollow O-ball is devoid of unnecessary embellishment.

Bravo, Rhino!

Ages: All Ages Manufacturer: Rhino Toys, Inc. Price: $6.95 Secondary Properties: FM, S

GM - Gross Motor FM - Fine Motor SM - Sensory Motor S - Socialization SP - Sensory Processing C - Communication TS - Thinking Skills VM - Visual/Visual Motor

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TOYS & GAMES FOR KIDS

Stocking Stuffers Hand Tattoos - Animal, Monster, Dino, Robot, Farmyard, and Scary Parents’ Choice Gold Award Ages: 3 & Up Price: $7.95 City Rides 10 Model Building Set Parents’ Choice Approved Ages: 5 & Up Price: $9.99 Giggles Computer Funtime For Baby This lapware is designed as fun and marketed as fun. It does not claim to swathe the under two set in a shroud of brain building exercises. Its promise and its well-executed delivery is this: put your baby on your lap, let her bang on the keyboard and watch what happens.The age-appropriate visual activities change when a child gingerly presses one key, or joyously delivers a palm-wide smack on many.

Ages: 6 months - 2 yrs.

Manufacturer: Leveractive, LLC Price: $24.95 Secondary Properties: SP, VM Secondary Properties: GM

ELEFUN Game The aptly-named Elefun extends its trunk four feet high and blows out 30 colorful "butterflies." Players scramble to catch them with their butterfly nets, or they can pick up those that have fallen to the floor and place them in their nets. Children like the fact that they never have to wait their turn, because everyone plays at once. Best played indoors (unless the outdoor air is very calm), this game offers a physically active alternative to couch-potato play on bad-weather days.

Ages: 3 - 6 yrs.

Manufacturer: Hasbro Games/Milton Bradley Price:$21.99 Primary Properties: GM, FM, SM, VM Secondary Properties: SP

Crayola Model Magic Presto Dots Mega Pack Parents’ Choice Fun Stuff Ages: 5 & Up Price: $6.99 Nerf Curve Pitch Baseball Set Parents’ Choice Fun Stuff Ages: 8 & Up Price: $9.99

Crunch Art Mega Set Parents’ Choice Fun Stuff Ages: 4 & Up Price: $9.9

All reviews are ©2010 Parents’ Choice. Parents’ Choice is the nation’s oldest nonprofit consumer group dedicated to reviewing children’s toys, books, video, software, audio, magazines, television and websites.

The Parents’ Choice Award seal is recognized throughout the country as the premier mark of children’s media that educate, entertain, and instill positive social values. Learn more about Parents’ Choice at www.parents-choice.org.

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DIGITAL EDITION You can read a digital edition of County Parents Magazine.

No additional software needed. Click the “Flipping Page” icon on the web site and use your browser to read the publication.

Get each issue faster than you now can in the rack. And, help us all to “go green” by saving paper.

Visit www.countyparents.com to view.

Bonus Editorial

Look for additional resources and articles not found in the print edition.

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FEATURE

Keeping Kids Calm During the Holiday Season B Y D ENISE Y EARIAN

tency and unfamiliarity. And for youngsters trying to make sense of it all, this can lead to insecurity, over excitability and unwelcome behaviors.

Jennifer Clark, mother of six, found this to be true during a shopping excursion last year.

“It was nearing Christmas and I had Laurel and the twins at the mall,” says the mother of her then 1 ½ and two 4year olds. “I thought we’d get something to eat and then go to the store.”

F

or many families the holidays are accompanied by a long list of events, activities and preparations that can leave them feeling frazzled and fatigued.

And children are no exception. If the season’s clamor and commotion are creating chaos in your home, align your agenda with your child in mind.

“There are a number of reasons why children get keyed up during the holiday season,” says Elementary School Educator Tara Sutton. “First there’s an

underlying air of energy and excitement that children feel but may not totally understand. Second is an altered environment. Trees and other decorations go up and the media promotes must-have toys and holiday specials. Third and most important is a change in routines. Often adults are so busy trying to cram things into their days that they alter their child’s schedules.”

What was once safe and predictable may, for a season, be filled with inconsis-

BUT ONE STORE LED TO ANOTHER. “I knew I was extending Laurel’s afternoon nap, but I was hoping she’d fall asleep in the stroller,” Clark continues.

“Then she started showing signs of discontent and it was a downward spiral from there. In the end, Laurel had this major meltdown and I was angry with myself for not taking her cues.”

“Different ages, temperaments and personalities are all factors that affect how kids deal with routine changes,” says Laura Morris, associate director of a local preschool program. “Parents need to look at what has and hasn’t worked for their child and then align their expectations with that.”

If you know it’s going to be a busy day, keep some rituals, such as mealtime and bedtime routines, intact. Or if one day is hectic return to a normal schedule the next. If possible, brief your kids on upcoming changes and events so they know what to expect.

Michelle Flanagan does this year round, but the holidays present an added challenge. Last December her two preschoolers had a special program at school the same day her husband was out of town, and the morning went amok.

“I let the kids know ahead of time what to expect and planned to get there 45 minutes early. But I had to get my oldest off to school first,” says the mother of

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OVEREXCITEMENT IS NATURAL THIS TIME OF YEAR AND MAY MANIFEST ITSELF IN A VARIETY OF WAYS. “If your child is experiencing an upset stomach, headache, clinginess, regressive behaviors, insomnia or is belligerent take a step back and think about what he’s trying to tell you,” says Sutton. “Then do what you can to keep his world as calm and consistent as possible.”

“When I know we’re going to have a hectic schedule or be up late one evening, I try to allow some down time during the day,” says Clark. “I’ll let the kids watch something calm on TV, look at a book or lay across their beds. Even if they don’t fall asleep, they’re resting.”

“Look at Santa from a distance and talk about what you see,” says Morris. “Use ‘I wonder’ statements: ‘I wonder if it’s kind of scary to sit on someone’s lap you don’t know? What do you think?’ This validates your child’s feelings, encourages dialogue and may help him work through it.”

Perhaps the best way to help your child cope with holiday stress is to spend quality time together. Maintain cuddle time routines, schedule visits to the park and make him an active participant in holiday chores—in the kitchen, while shopping and wrapping presents.

Most important, watch your own stress level. Children look to adults to model behaviors and if parents are uptight, kids are going to pick up on that. Take care of yourself so you have the energy and patience to manage your child. And whatever you do, roll with the punches.

“Every year we do a photo shoot with the kids so we can send out Christmas cards,” says Flanagan. “With four kids and a dog, it’s quite an event. Sometimes I find myself getting upset, but then I remember the holidays are supposed to be fun, so we take a hundred photos and hope for at least one good shot.”

TIPS

THE

Keeping Kids Calm During the Holiday Season from previous page

four. “The girls were overly excited about their concert and one of them threw up in the car. We arrived five minutes before the program began. I sat in the back of the room, couldn’t see a thing and just tried to keep the baby quiet.”

FOR

KEEPING KIDS CALM DURING

Recognize your child’s holiday stress factors—changes in routine and the environment, underlying air of excitement and energy, media hype, parents’ attitudes, duration of the season (i.e. a 12

For some children unfamiliar events, such as visiting Santa, are accompanied by fear and trepidation. If this is the case, do a dry run.

week can seem like an eternity to a child)—and keep things low key until closer to the actual holiday.

Consider how he has handled past situations. Different ages, tempera-

www.COUNTYPARENTS.com

HOLIDAYS

ments and personalities can affect how children deal with changes in routines.

Watch for signs of stress—upset stomach, headache, clinginess, regressive behaviors, insomnia, belligerence or crying—and consider ways to reduce it.

When challenging behaviors occur, stop and think about what your child is telling you: “I’m tired,” “I’m confused,” “I don’t understand why things are different,” “I want attention.”

Plan ahead. Think about how events will impact your child and prepare him ahead of time. Spell out realistic expectations.

If you are going out, bring along items that will make the trip easier: a favorite toy, familiar foods, comfort items, etc.

Monitor your child in social situations. If he’s having a difficult time or is challenging adults, be willing to leave before his behavior spirals out of control.

Plan shopping trips when your child is rested and watch for cues that he’s getting tired. If you need to shop all day,

HELPING KIDS COPE Children, like adults, can get caught up in the anticipation and excitement of the season and may experience post-holiday blues. Following are a few tips to help your child sail into the New Year with smile on his face.

Read together. Share your child’s favorite holiday books with him one last time before boxing them up for next year.

Ponder presents. Have your child line up his new toys and spend time together playing with each one.

If some were given by family or friends who were not present when the gift was opened, take a photo of your child with that toy and send it along with a thank-you note.

Get moving. Take your child to the zoo, a park or for a brisk walk around the neighborhood to get some much-needed exercise.

Creation station. Sort through greeting cards, scraps of wrapping paper, ribbon and cardboard boxes and have a “Creation Station Day.”

WITH

POST-HOLIDAY LETDOWN

Let your child cut, tape and tie holiday materials together.

Start a new project. If your child received a jewelry- or rocketmaking kit, pull out the directions and work on it together.

Choose items for charity.

Make room for new toys by sorting through old toys together and donating them to charity.

Create a holiday scrapbook.

Collect cards, notes, letter and mementos and create a scrapbook that can be added to in years to come.

Have your child draw a picture of his favorite part of the holiday season to include.

Create a new post-holiday tradition. Decide as a family on one thing you will do together the week after Christmas: go bowling, ice skating, play indoor golf or see a movie. Then make it an annual tradition.

Save it for a rainy day. If your child received more toys than what he’ll play with now, suggest putting several away and taking one out on the 25th day of each month that follows.

Have a pre-summer celebration. Remind your child that summer is only 179 days away. Have him don his swimsuit and celebrate with grilled burgers, baked beans and potato salad.

Top it off with an ice cream party.

hire a sitter, swap off with another parent or shop online.

If your child is apprehensive about visiting Santa, do a dry run. Look at Santa from a distance, talk about what you see and shake his hand (only if your child wants to). Talk about his concerns. Use “I wonder” statements: “I wonder if it’s scary to think about sitting on someone’s lap you don’t know.” Validate your child’s concerns and respect his feelings. Consider giving him a choice about visiting Santa.

As much as possible, maintain consistent routines, schedule down time and ensure your child has enough rest and a proper diet to handle additional excitement and stress.

Focus on what is important: Ask yourself what you want your child to take away from the holidays. Eliminate activities and events that are not priorities.

Give your child the attention he needs from you each day. Place it on your to-do list and make it a priority.

Take care of yourself. Get plenty of rest, eat right and relax so you have the energy and patience to manage your child. w w w . C O U N T Y P A R E N T S . c o m | DECEMBER 2010

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HEALTHY FAMILY

Preventing The Flu

An Ounce of Prevention Is Worth a Pound of Treatment

H

ealth officials urge vaccination for all children six months and older, regardless of preexisting conditions and risk for complications from the flu. In previous flu seasons, experts recommended flu vaccines only for those whose medical conditions put them at high risk for complications, including children with asthma, diabetes, heart disease, neurological disorders and those with suppressed immune systems. Pediatricians, however, should continue to make special efforts to vaccinate those at high risk for complications, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

DOES MY CHILD NEED A SINGLESHOT VACCINE OR TWO DOSES? Children 9 years and older will get a single-shot vaccine that combines the seasonal and H1N1 strains.

Children younger than 9 years need a minimum of two doses of 2009 H1N1 vaccine. If they did not receive the H1N1 vaccine during last year’s flu season, they will need two doses of vaccine this year.

Children younger than 9 years who have never received the seasonal flu vaccine before will need two doses.

Children younger than 9 years of age who received the seasonal flu vaccine before the 2009-2010 flu season need only

Display & Demo Liquidation while they last

one dose this year provided they received an H1N1 shot last year and two doses if they did not receive at least one H1N1 shot last year.

Children younger than 9 who received the seasonal flu vaccine last year for the first time but only received one shot, should receive two doses this year.

Children under 9 who received one dose last year and is unclear whether it was H1N1 or the seasonal flu should get two doses this year.

Doses should be given at least four weeks apart.

Children under 6 months of age should not be vaccinated.

Detailed AAP flu vaccination guidelines can be found at:

http://www.healthychildren.org/English/News/pages/ AAP-Issues-Flu-Vaccine-Recommendations.aspx

WHAT ELSE CAN HELP LOWER THE RISK OF MY CHILD GETTING FLU? Good hand hygiene is essential. Teach your child to wash their hands frequently and properly. More information on the importance of hand washing and proper technique can be found at:

http://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthissues/conditions/prevention/Pages/Hand-Washing-A -Powerful-Antidote-to-Illness.aspx continued to page 20

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FAMILY CRAFTS

‘Tis the season for crafting D ENISE M ORRISON Y EARIAN

‘Tis the season to countdown the days and gear up for Christmas. Before the holiday hoopla culminates into a New Year, gather your little elves and participate in these simple and

S TEP

1

Repeat step 1 with both hands.

3

Glue hands to the back, upper sides of the foot to create a reindeer head and antlers.

S TEP

S TEP

2

6

Place the hanger over a doorknob.

Draw a three-tiered Christmas tree measuring approx. 17 by 22’’ on the poster board; cut it out.

2

S TEP

Using the numbers 1 through 24, write one number on each of the smooth, flat sides of the peanut butter cups.

4

Punch a hole at the top of the tree. String yarn through the hole and tie in a knot.

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Glue the cups with the number side up onto the Christmas tree.

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Just below the circle, glue two wiggly eyes and a pompom nose then draw a mouth.

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Place your foot over top of the poster board and trace around it. Cut it out.

In the top, center portion of the head, cut a circle that measures approximately 1 ¼-inch in diameter. Make small slits on opposite sides of the circle so the hanger will fit over a door knob.

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Items needed: Brown poster board, Scissors; Pencil, Ruler, Medium wiggly eyes, Medium red pompom, Black marker, Glue gun, low setting.

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fun festive crafts.

DEER OF A DOOR HANGER

Items needed: Green poster board, 22by 28-inch, Pencil, Scissors, Permanent marker, 24 Reese’s miniature peanut butter cups (red and gold foil), 1 Hershey Kiss® (silver foil), Glue gun, low setting, Hole punch, Green yarn.

Glue a Kiss® to the tree top.

Beginning December 1, take off one peanut butter cup each day as you countdown to Christmas. Top off the holiday by indulging in a sweet kiss.

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BY

COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS CALENDAR

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The church mice at Christmas

by Graham Oakley.

The finest Christmas tree

by John and Ann Hassett.

Holly, reindeer, and colored lights: the story of the Christmas symbols

by Edna Barth.

On a large sheet of paper, draw a stocking shape that measures approximately 3 ½-inches wide by 9-inches long. Cut this out to use as a template.

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3

Repeat step 2 with remaining craft foam so you have two identical stockings.

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2

Place stocking template over the craft foam and trace around it. Cut out the foam stocking.

4

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Place small pencil points along the side and bottom edge of one stocking, leaving the top, straight edge unmarked. Marks should be ½-inch from the outer edge and 3/4-inches apart.

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5

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Temporarily paper clip the two stockings together.

6

Use pencil points as guides to punch holes through the two stockings so they can be laced together.

7

Before lacing, glue a candy cane to the top, back section of the bottom stocking. Candy cane curve should face away from the stocking so it creates a hook for the stocking to hang.

8

Clip a long piece of yarn. Thread it through the top, left hole then tie a knot. Sew the stockings together.

When the yarn has been laced to the top, right hole, tie it off in a knot and clip the yarn ends. Remove paper clips.

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STEP

Why Christmas trees aren't perfect

by Richard H. Schneider.

Items needed: Large plain paper or cardboard, Red craft foam, 9- x 12-inch, Pencil, Ruler, Scissors, Paper clips, Hole punch, White yarn, Red and white wrapped peppermint candy, Red and white candy cane, Glue gun, low setting, Black marker.

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The Amazing Christmas Extravaganza

by David Shannon

HOLIDAY BOOTY

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FESTIVE READS

from previous page

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Even though Rudolph was not a member of Santa’s original team, he is the most beloved of all reindeer. The little red-nosed fellow was created in 1939 by Robert L. May, a Montgomery Ward department store employee and copywriter who wrote children’s literature. At his employer’s request, May began creating a holiday tale that would be part of a giveaway coloring book for the store’s youngest patrons. Drawing upon the story of “The Ugly Duckling” and his own childhood underdog experiences, May penned a poem about a misfit reindeer, rejected by Santa’s hoofed community because of his glowing red nose. The story was an instant hit, and in the years to follow the booklet became an annual Montgomery Ward tradition. As the story grew in popularity, so did the demand for licensing. But since May had created the tale while he was a Ward employee, the company retained the copyright. In 1947, however, the author convinced Montgomery Ward president Sewell Avery to relinquish the rights, and “Rudolph” was printed commercially. The following year it appeared as a short cartoon, and in 1949 it was made into a ballad and recorded

by Gene Autry. The legendary tale became a holiday classic in 1964 when it was turned into a television special narrated by Burl Ives.

Family Crafts

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Rudolph Review

Write “Holiday Booty” across the front of the stocking then glue several candies randomly around it.

Fill the pocket with sweet treats and give to someone you love.

Calendar of Events

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16 - 19

31 Noon Year’s Eve Bel Air Athletic Club Bel Air

Of Holiday Brass and Christmas Bon-Bons

The Winter Wonderettes

Susquehanna Symphony Orchestra Bel Air

Milburn Stone Theater Northeast

2010

DECEMBER

3 FRIDAY

HdG First Fridays

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Theme is A Downtown Christmas. Live music, extended store hours, restaurant specials, beer garden, fun and free activities for kids. Annual tree lighting, parade and Santa at 6pm. Downtown Havre de Grace.

FREE.

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The Nutcracker

Ring in the season with a holiday classic and take a magical journey with Clara to the Land of the Sweets. With magnificent scenery, gorgeous costumes, and exquisite dancing, The Nutcracker is a holiday feast for young and old alike. You’ll leave the theater humming Tchaikovsky’s enchanting score – it’s a trip you’ll never forget. Special Youth Matinees on Sat./Sun: All of your favorite ballerinas will be signing autographs. Amoss Center, Bel Air, 443-412-2211, $.

4 SATURDAY

Junior Naturalist: Deer Discovery Look for us at these events!

Visit www.CountyParents.com to search the calendar of events by month and by type of event.

Please call ahead to confirm dates and times on all calendar listings.

$ indicates fee.

Let’s celebrate the season by learning about deer and make an ornament to hang on the tree! Parents do not attend these sessions (for ages 6 – 9). 10:00 – 11:30am, Pre-reg. required. Eden Mill Nature Center, $.

National Players in the Scarlet Letter Hester Prynne is a woman defined by her sin - not the Adultery for which she bears the

punishment of a scarlet red “A” emblazoned on her chest but her silence about the accomplice in the crime. National Players brings Nathaniel Hawthorne’s masterpiece to life with the conflict between emotion and intellect. Harford Community College, Chesapeake Theater, 443-412-2211, $.

Of Holiday Brass and Christmas Bon-Bons Join the SSO for their ever popular holiday concert featuring trumpeter Kevin Businsky, a C. Milton Wright graduate now playing with the New World Symphony in Miami and Harford County resident Theldon Myer’s Christmas fantasy, People Look East, based on a French Advent carol, originally commissioned by the Baltimore Chamber Orchestra.

Preconcert Lecture: 6:45pm – “Sustaining Music Making for People with Disabilities” with Monika Vasey. Susquehanna Symphony Orchestra, Bel Air High, 7:30pm, Ticket info at http://www.ssorchestra.org, $.

4-5 SAT/SUN

Christmas Open House Features tours of the historic farmhouse decorated for the holidays; Christmas music; cookies and cider; museum store open for shopping. 12:00 – 4:00pm, Steppingstone Museum, FREE.

Mount Harmon Yuletide Manor House Tour The elegant brick Georgian Manor House at Mount Harmon will be decorated for the continues—

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Calendar of Events holidays with festive wreaths and decorative arrangements in the style of Colonial Williamsburg. A holiday greens sale will also be featured. Mount Harmon’s Colonial history will come to life with hearth cooking demonstrations in the Colonial kitchen given by costumed interpreters. 11:00am – 3:00pm, Mount Harmon Plantation, Mount Harmon Plantation, Mount Harmon Plantation, 410275-8819, $.

5 SUNDAY Dog Hike

Dogs - bring your owner to Eden Mill for a guided hike with the naturalist. Get closer to nature from a dog’s perspective. 1 – 3pm, Pre-reg. required. Eden Mill Nature Center, $.

Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Bel Air's Annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting in Shamrock Park, 2:30 – 5:30pm, FREE.

9&

15 THURSDAY

Tiny Wonders

Let us answer their questions on topics of high interest for 2-5 year olds. A former teacher works to cultivate a child’s natural curiosity through stories, music, crafts, move-

ment and dramatic play. 10:00 – 11:30 am, Pre-reg. required. Eden Mill Nature Center, $.

(www.chesapeakecity.com/candlelight.html), $15 day of event. Rain, snow, or shine.

10 FRIDAY

12 SUNDAY

Grafted Families and Orphan Project Music present Orphan Project and Rob Tahan of Ashes Remain in concert to benefit Welcoming Angels, an international orphan hosting program sponsored by America World Adoption Agency. 7:00 – 10:00pm, New Covenant Presbyterian Church, 128 St Mary's Church Rd., Abingdon. Tickets, call 410-91G-RAFT. $.

Come out of the cold and celebrate Christmas in maritime style! Enjoy seasonal food tastings, music, demonstrations, and book signings. 15% discount on all items in Museum Store! Donations appreciated.

10:00am – 8:00pm, HdG Maritime Muesum, $ (under 5, free).

Orphan Project Benefit Concert

11 SATURDAY Santa by the Bay

Ho! Ho! Ho! Come and join Santa for breakfast, singing, crafts and more. Includes buffet breakfast. The Lantern Queen remains docked for this event. Advance tickets required. The Lantern Queen, Havre de Grace, 10:00am – 11:30am, 410-939-1468, $.

Chesapeake City's Candlelight House Tour A self-guided walking tour of private homes, churches, and bed and breakfasts all dressed for the holidays. Enjoy carriage rides, Victorian carolers, refreshments. Ticket price $10 advance

Maritime Christmas

Candlelight Tour of Historic Havre de Grace Tour historic homes and buildings. Enjoy the illuminated streets of Havre de Grace, 4:00 – 8:00 pm, Lock House Museum, 410-9394092, $.

14 TUESDAY

Dads and Kids Craft Night Dads and kids--come to the library for a night of crafts. Make a gift to give mom!

Ages 4 and up. Registration required.

Whiteford HCPL, 6:30pm. FREE.

15 WEDNESDAY

Storytime: Oh, Christmas Tree!

Christmas trees are such wonderful symbols at Christmas time. Come read about Christmas trees and how they brighten up the holiday season. For ages 2-5 w/adult.

Reservations required. Two sessions: 10:30 am or 12:30 pm, Ladew Topiary Gardens, $.

16 THURSDAY

Come Together" ... Beatles Rock Band "Don't Let Me Down" "Come Together" to "Twist and Shout" and play some tunes.

Grades 3-8. Registration required. Fallston HCPL, 6:30-7:45 pm, FREE.

16 - 19 THURS. – SUN. The Winter Wonderettes

The new '60s Christmas musical by Roger Bean. The Marvelous Wonderettes are back as they create a rockin' 60s party to celebrate the holidays with friends and family. Milburn Stone Theater, 1 Seawhawk Drive, North East, 410-287-1037,$

17 FRIDAY

A Christmas Carol This musical interpretation of the Charles Dickens classic reintroduces the entire family to miserly Ebenezer Scrooge and his "humbug” ways. Only after he is visited by a series of spirits does Ebenezer consider the conse-

18

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Calendar of Events quences of his actions and changes his outlook on life. (Recommended for Grades Ages 5+), 5:30pm and 7.30pm, Amoss Center, Bel Air, 443-412-2211, $.

18 SATURDAY

Natural Ornament Workshop Create unique ornaments using found natural material. Refreshments will be offered to fuel your creativity. This program is for all ages but (12 and under with adult.).

Registration is required. Anita C. Leight Estuary Center.

CCA CHRISTMAS HOUSE TOUR Eight homes in the Bel Air area will be decorated in Christmas finery and open to the public to benefit Cancer LifeNet programs at Upper Chesapeake Health, 2:00 – 6:00pm, 410-836-7226, $.

Live Nativity The Christmas story comes to life with live characters and animals. Two performances. 6 pm and 7 pm, Harts Amphitheater, 3203 Turkey Point Road, North East, 410-2872650. FREE

Yu-Gi-Oh Dueling Club Activities include beginning instruction, tournaments,and free play.

Grades 5 and up. Edgewood HCPL, 12:304:30 pm, FREE.

ONGOING Holiday Festival of Trains in Baltimore Celebrate the holiday season at Baltimore's largest holiday display of toy and model train layouts. Weekend train rides and photo opportunities with Santa through Dec. 19; with Frosty the Snowman through Jan. 2 (closed Jan 1). B&O Railroad Museum, Baltimore, 410-752-2490, Admission $.

Tots & Dots Tots & Dots is a teacher led, 45-minute parent-child interactive class. You and your child will have fun as you explore, learn and play together. Our classes are designed with toddlers and preschoolers in mind, but all kids 5 and under are welcome. Mon. and Thurs, 9:30 – 10:15am, Tiddlywinks, 17 North Main Street Bel Air, 443-371-6420, $.

We welcome information about events of interest to families.

Listings are free and need to be submitted for consideration 6 weeks prior to the first of the month in which they are to appear.

Include date, time, location, telephone and email for questions.

Visit www.CountyParents.com to submit events via an online form in the Calendar section, fax 410-893-2727 or mail to County Parents, P.O. Box 1666, Bel Air, MD 21014

Boredom Buster Day @ Your Library Beat the holiday blues with some game-time fun. Bring your own board games to share or use ours. Other activities will be provided including Wii. Registration required.

Abingdon HCPL, 2:00-4:00 pm. FREE.

Abingdon HCPL 2510 Tollgate Road, Abingdon 410-638-3990 Bel Air HCPL 100 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Bel Air 410-638-3151 Darlington HCPL 1134 Main Street, Darlington 410-638-3750 Eden Mill Nature Center 1617 Eden Mill Road, Pylesville 410-836-3050 Edgewood HCPL 629 Edgewood Road, Edgewood 410-612-1600 Fallston HCPL 1461 Fallston Road, Fallston 410-638-3003 Hart’s Amphitheater 3203 Turkey Point Road, Elkton 410-287-2650 Hays House Museum 324 Kenmore Avenue, Bel Air 410-838-7691

Jerusalem Mill 2813 Jerusalem Road, Kingsville 410-877-3560

Beat the Winter Blues Bingo

29 WEDNESDAY

Aberdeen HCPL 21 Franklin Street, Aberdeen 410-273-5608

Jarrettsville HCPL 3722 Norrisville Road, Jarrettsville 410-692-7887

28 TUESDAY

Liven up your winter with fun games of bingo. Registration required.

Joppa HCPL, 2:00 pm. FREE

ORGANIZATION CONTACTS

Kids Night Tuesdays Kids eat half price with every paying adult 119 S. Main St Bel Air MD 21014 443-371-7993 • darkhorsebelair.com

Joppa HCPL 655 Towne Center Drive, Joppa 410-612-1660 Ladew Topiary Garden 3535 Jarrettsville Pike, Monkton 410- 557-9466 and press 5 Milburn Stone Theatre Cecil College, One Seahawk Drive North East, 410-287-1037

31 DECEMBER Noon Year’s Eve

Families and friends can join in the fun of celebrating the New Year without staying out late. A Countdown to Noon will be the highlight of the day! Pre-registration required. 10:30am – 12:30pm, Bel Air Athletic Club, 410-836-2670, $.

Havre De Grace New Year's Duck Drop And Fireworks Display Celebration of the New Year 2011 featuring annual "Duck Drop" and great fireworks display. Midnight, Havre de Grace Middle School, FREE.

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Preventing the Flu continued from page 14

TREATING CHILDREN

WITH

FLU

How do I know if it is the flu?

The symptoms of the seasonal flu and the H1N1 flu mimic each other. Your child may have a fever (temperature of 100°F or greater), as well as: Headache Sore throat Body aches and extreme fatigue (tiredness) Coughing, sneezing, runny nose Vomiting and diarrhea

How should I treat it?

The flu is caused by a VIRUS and does NOT respond to antibiotics.

Give your child acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) as directed on the bottle for fevers, headache and body aches.

Have your child drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. This is especially important if your child has high fever, vomiting or diarrhea.

What about Antivirals?

Antiviral medicine may help shorten the length and severity of the infection if taken within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms. Antivirals are generally recommended for children at high-risk for complications.

Should I be worried?

Don’t be alarmed.

Most cases of both the H1N1 and the seasonal flu cause mild illness and DO NOT require hospitalization.

The majority of patients recover in three to five days with no problems.

What can I do to stop the flu from spreading?

Keep your child away from others to stop the spread of infection.

At home, keep your child away from other people in the house.

Don’t take your child on airplanes or buses, and do not send your child to school, daycare, church or other public places until your child is without fever and off medications that treat fever, such 20

as Tylenol or Advil, for at least 24 hours.

Other members of the household should also stay home if they begin to develop any fever with cough, sore throat, body aches, runny nose or headache.

Practice Good Hygiene Anyone who is sick and everyone around them should wash their hands frequently with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

DO NOT share eating utensils, drinking glasses, washcloths, towels, beds, pillows, etc. until everyone in the household has been free of symptoms for five days.

COVER YOUR COUGH AND SNEEZE with the crook of your elbow or use a tissue and throw away the tissue immediately.

Use a tissue for a runny nose, then dispose of the tissue in a wastebasket immediately.

After using a tissue, wash your hands with soap and water, or with an alcoholbased hand sanitizer.

When Should I Seek Medical Treatment?

Sometimes it is appropriate to take your child to the doctor. Children most likely to need medical treatment from their doctor for influenza infection are those who are very young or have serious medical conditions (such as asthma,

cancer or lung disease, or who are on dialysis).

If you think your child needs medical treatment, CALL your pediatrician’s office first. Your doctor may want to speak with you over the phone and recommend treatments rather than have you come into the office, where your child can infect other people.

If you go to your doctor’s office, have your child wear a mask and tell the staff immediately that he or she has flulike symptoms so you can be placed in an area away from other patients.

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SYMPTOMS THAT REQUIRE IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ATTENTION INCLUDE: Fast breathing or trouble breathing Bluish skin color Child refusing to drink fluids Child who is not waking up or is not interacting with people as usual A fussy, irritable child refusing to be held Worsening fever and cough Fever with rash

Founded in 1912 as the children's hospital of the Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, the Johns Hopkins Children's Center offers one of the most comprehensive pediatric medical programs in the country, treating more than 90,000 children each year. Hopkins Children’s is consistently ranked among the top children's hospitals in the nation. Hopkins Children’s is Maryland's largest children’s hospital and the only state-designated Trauma Service and Burn Unit for pediatric patients. It has recognized Centers of Excellence in dozens of pediatric subspecialties, including allergy, cardiology, cystic fibrosis, gastroenterology, nephrology, neurology, neurosurgery, oncology, pulmonary, and transplant. For more information, please visit www.hopkinschildrens.org

www.COUNTYPARENTS.com

Children’s Programs Kids Club Preschool Registration for the 2010-2011 School Year Don’t miss your chance to register your 2-, 3- or 4-year old for preschool.

Existing students and their siblings: Thursday, December 9, 8AM-1:30PM New students and their siblings: Members: Thursday, January 6, 8-10AM Non-Members: Tuesday, January 11, 8-10AM For more information please call Nancy Miller, Preschool Director, at 410.838.2670 ext.285.

Harford Dance Center 10-week mini session begins January 24, 2011.

Classes for all ages and skill levels.

For information contact Danielle Ragaglia at 410.893.0022 today.

6 5 8 B O U LTO N S T R E E T | B E L A I R , M D 2 1 0 1 4 | 4 1 0 . 8 3 8. 2 6 7 0 | B e l A i r A t h l e t i c C l u b . c o m CLUB HOURS | MONDAY–FRIDAY, 5:30AM–11PM | SATURDAY, 7AM–7PM | SUNDAY, 8AM–6PM ©Wellbridge 2010

Webelos and Junior After Dark Program

Webelos and Junior After Dark Program This program is a great way to have fun and fulfill requirements toward advancement in this indoor, overnight camping adventure. Webelos and Junior scouts, accompanied by chaperones, will participate in activity time geared toward various activity badges and free time in our pools and BAACyard Clubhouse. The night also includes an evening snack, light breakfast in the morning and a patch for each scout who attends.

Webelos dates: January 15 | February 5 | March 5 Junior dates: January 22 | February 12 | March 19 Please contact Brian Thomas at ext. 245 for more details and to register.

Birthday Parties

BAACSPLASH AND PLAY You choose the activity for the first 30 minutes, either the Treehouse or the Obstacle Challenge.

Then the whole party moves poolside for 60 minutes to enjoy our new Splashpad and pool.

All children return to the Clubhouse to change and complete the party with food and presents in a party room.

LENGTH: 2 hours, 30 minutes RECOMMENDED AGES: 4+

ORIGINAL OBSTACLE CHALLENGE Challenge your friends to race through a 52foot long inflatable obstacle course with a 10 ft. slide for the first 45 minutes. We will celebrate in one of our party rooms for the next 45 minutes with cake and gifts. Lastly, join us in

the Treehouse for the final 45 minutes of your party.

LENGTH: 2 hours, 15 minutes AGES: 4+

X-TREME SPORTS Challenge your friends to race through a 52foot long inflatable obstacle course with a 10 ft. slide for the first 45 minutes. We will celebrate in one of our party rooms for the next 45 minutes with cake and gifts. Lastly, join us in the Treehouse for the final 45 minutes of your party.

LENGTH: 2 hours, 15 minutes AGES: 4+ Call Brian at 410.838.2670 ext. 245 for additional information.

Aquatics

Bel Air Athletic Club Swim School A variety of classes that meets the needs of every age and skill level are offered year round. Group, private and semi-private lessons available.

Swim evaluations available to determine the best level for your child.

Call 410.838.670 or check the BelAirAthleticClub.com for class times and prices.

MAKING THE GRADE

Building Blocks for

High School: Middle School Years BY

S

STACEY ALATZAS

When college-bound students reach the seventh grade, it’s time to start kicking.

of these courses, offering students a tudents with good grades have the savings of both time and money.

That’s the advice Beth Oleszczuk, eighth chance to compete for spots in the Harford County Public Schools grade counselor and chair of the coun- Build the Foundation magnet programs: the Science and Mathematics Academy at Aberdeen “Middle school is the foundation,” seling department at Aberdeen Middle High; the Global Studies says Oleszczuk. “Middle school prepares Program/International Baccalaureate the kids for high school. The better you School, gives her students.

Diploma Program at Edgewood High; do in middle school, the more successful “The better your grades, the more the Natural Resources & Agricultural you’re going to be in high school. There Sciences at North Harford High. They is a direct correlation.” choices you have,” she says. also can spend their high school years “Academics become a lot more specializing in classes at Harford serious in eighth grade,” she says, competitive programs depends upon both Technical High School that will prepare “and some students suffer remorse from those middle school grades and students’ them for careers in such things as nursing, not doing as well as they could in the sixth involvement in extracurricular programs sports medicine and engineering. and seventh grades.” like music, sports and clubs.

The deadline for eighth graders wanting Fallston Middle School counselor Lynn Good grades can also be the key to to apply for these programs next year is Masterson says parents can help their getting the opportunity to take Advanced Dec. 3. Visit the district’s website at middle schoolers get on the right track.

Placement courses in high school. Some www.hcps.org for an application. colleges offer college credits for completion continues— Whether they are accepted into these w w w . C O U N T Y P A R E N T S . c o m | AUGUST 2010 25

Middle School Years from previous page

“It’s very important for parents to work with kids on work habits,” she says. “Their work habits will follow them into high school.” Masterson suggests students establish a good way to keep track of their homework assignments, such as using a planner. They should also be completing their homework on time.

“Homework completion is key in preparing for high school,” she says.

She also advises doing a little career exploration.

Career Exploration “Having some sense of what they’re interested in is helpful,” she says.

When middle and high school students have choices of classes to take or clubs to join, selecting opportunities that fit their career goals can help put them ahead of the curve.

“Not all kids are going to know what they want to do when they grow up,” says Masterson. “But some are going to have strong opinions.”

The University System of Maryland’s Way2GoMaryland program can help middle schoolers and their parents start thinking about the direction they want to take when it comes to choosing what to study and where to attend college. They offer a variety of resources on their website and hold seminars statewide. For more information, visit www.way2gomaryland.org.

Track Progress Parents can also help keep track of their child’s progress by signing up to receive emails every time a teacher updates their child’s grades on the online service Edline.net.

Grade postings on Edline can give parents a heads up when a student is missing assignments or doing poorly on homework.

“It’s easy to get behind,” says Magnolia Middle School counselor Laurie Smith.

“Once you get behind, it can snowball.

Once you have a couple zeros, even if you get As, you’re not going to get rid of those zeros.”

She also urges teachers to use e-mail to contact teachers if they see their child’s grades slipping.

26

“It’s very important for parents to work with kids on work habits. Their work habits will follow them into high school.”

Lynn Masterson, Fallston Middle School counselor “Some teachers stay after school and tutor,” she says. “Don’t wait until the report card comes home.”

Proactive Planning Parents can also use technology to help with homework. If a child forgets to bring home a book he needs for homework, schools often make versions of students’ books available online.

But Smith says it’s even better to be proactive. She says students should check their agendas before heading home at the

www.COUNTYPARENTS.com

end of the day and ask themselves, “Do I have everything I need?”

If they have no written homework due the next day, they ought to use that opportunity to review material for an upcoming test.

“Spend 10 to 15 minutes each night on a subject,” she says. “Don’t wait until the night before a test to start studying.”

Oleszczuk says, “If you can make it through middle school pretty successfully with good grades and good friends then high school is breeze.”