From Our Nest - Summer 2014

Connecting parents across the Ozarks SUMMER 2014

Vol. 2 / Issue 2

Beat the Heat 21 FUN ways to cool down

Flying Our Nest

Engaging field trip spots

FREE Magazine

For the Love of Learning Momtrepreneur Susan Mellentine

Smooth Starts

Advice from local guidance office

To homeschool or not?

A mom’s journey, lessons

brought to you by moms in southwest missouri

Enter to win A Gift Certifica

te to

Village Pottery Ca f

É

Advertise Today! from our nest Reach parents across the Ozarks in print and online.

We have affordable rates for every budget and amazing discounts.

For a rate quote, email Advertising Director Kandice McKee at Kandice@FromOurNestMag.com

Call today to find out more!

937.286.9434 www.FromOurNestMag.com www.Facebook.com/FromOurNestMag

Rejoice and live in your skin again!

Handcrafted Soaps Natural Bath & Body Located in the lush, rolling hills of the Missouri Ozarks, Botanica Basics is a small, family farm based business specializing in handcrafted soaps and natural based bath & body products. We design, formulate and create our products in our dedicated 500 sq ft soap studio and lab.

Botanica Basics Handcrafted Soaps, Bath & Body are: Mild and non-stripping; Use phythalate free fragrances; Contain natural glycerin; Contain very minimal synthetic additives.

Our Scentless Planet line is all of the above, plus 100% No Added Fragrances, Colors or Flavors.

417.399.8047

School is just around the corner!

Call today to schedule your photoshoot.

www.botanicabasics.com Ask About Gift Options!

Back to School Special - $50.00

1 hour session - All photos edited & on disc cbarnettdesigns@gmail.com

417.693.0111

2 | Summer 2014 | From our Nest

Enter code: GREATSOAP at checkout to receive 15% off orders over $25.00 (before taxes/shipping)

Sandra Meyer | Master Soap Maker and Cosmetic Formulator

www.fromournestmag.com

Contents Prep to Learn content

Advertising/Editorial Director Kandice McKee kandice@fromournestmag.com

16 Help Beyond the Classroom Local tutoring, enrichment services

18 Featured Advertiser Sylvan Learning Center

19 Pinspiration c r e at i v e

Art Director Stephanie Lindberg stephanie@fromournestmag.com From Our Nest Publications P.O. Box 9641 Springfield, Missouri, 65801 www.FromOurNestMag.com

Our Mission: As a journalist and designer duo juggling careers with motherhood and household management, we hope to be an invaluable resource for fellow parents in southwest Missouri seeking local resources and information from local parents and experts. We aim to promote a tighter sense of community in the Ozarks through educational and entertaining articles in our FREE quarterly magazine.

Submissions: All unsolicited manuscripts must be accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

Written changes may be sent to the advertising, editorial and creative office at P.O. Box 9641, Springfield, Missouri, 65801.

From Our Nest is an independently published quarterly by From Our Nest Publications, LLC, and is distributed free of charge. It is no way affiliated with The Nest website produced by The Knot. To receive complimentary copies of From Our Nest to redistribute at your place of business, please contact us at (937) 286-9434.

Carefully covered books

22 The Dish on Breakfast Early-bird and snooze-button options

O n T h e C o v er Homeschooling Families

06

Momtrepreneur The Adventures of Learning, Susan Mellentine

08 Thrifty Tips

10 20 23

Beat the Heat

12 Fitness Fix

Plan ahead for a smooth start

Tips for an optimal pumping experience

28

Sweepstakes

26 Mrs. White Hearts Art

A mom’s journey, lessons

21 fun ways to cool down

Flying Our Nest Engaging field trip spots

From the Guidance Office

Win a gift certificate to Village Pottery Café

In Every Issue 04 Featured Photographer Amy Holand

04 From Us

Copyright ©2014. All rights reserved.

24 Non-profit

www.fromournestmag.com

ca ref u l ly c ov ere d books

05

No part of this work may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the express written consent of From Our Nest Publications.

Printed in PRC

19

Our favorite summer activities

Columns From your garden to your pantry

Burn the calories, not yourself

13 Forever Family Stranger danger

25 Breastfeeding Support

Printmaking with found objects

10

21 fun ways to beat the Heat

Care to Learn

From our Nest | Summer 2014 | 3

Feat u red photog rapher

F r om U s

Photo Credits: Amy Holand

Summer is a great time for family vacations, cook-outs and just spending time with the kids. Here are a couple things we enjoy doing with our little ones close to home:

Kandice McKee Advertising & Editorial Director

Going to the Creek Mother Nature knew she had to offer southwest Missourians some sort of relief from the suffocating humidity that moves into the region each year. And she did so by giving us an abundance of waterways to cool down in. While my youngest was too little for intimate creek action last year, I’m excited to see how she reacts this year, because it’s guaranteed her older sister will bust out her creek shoes and floaties before the humidity even sets in.

Stephanie Lindberg Art Director

Bubbles & Chalk

06

See how Amy Holand captured Susan Mellentine in action with her children and business, The Adventures of Learning.

Photographer Amy Holand www.amyholandphotography.com www.facebook.com/amyholandphotography Amy is a 2006 graduate of Missouri State University.

Amy holds a Bachelor’s Degree in elementary education and a Master’s Degree in counseling. She is a self taught photographer who specializes in newborn and children’s portraiture. Amy absolutely loves God, her husband and photography!

After the winter snow starts to melt away and the rainy spring days bring out the summer sunshine, I start to see how much my yard and font porch have been affected. My son and I venture out to buy flowers, mulch, top soil, bubbles and side-walk chalk. I get to work outside on my yard while my son is in eye’s view making bubbles and drawing pictures of shapes, robots and anthing else his wild imagination comes up with.

Read more about our favorite summer activities on our blog at www.FromOurNestMag.com.

And follow us on Pinterest at Pinterest.com/FromOurNestMag to view ideas we like to beat the heat.

Would you like to represent your region by producing our future cover?

Submit samples of your work to ArtDirector@FromOurNestMag.com or mail them to From Our Nest, Attn to: Art Director, P.O. Box 9641, Springfield, Missouri, 65801.

4 | Summer 2014 | From our Nest

www.fromournestmag.com

Column | Homeschooling families

By Jackie Wedge

Homeschooling beginnings

T

he negative stereotype of homeschooled kids not being socialized or not having the same opportunities as kids in a public school setting, for the most part, have fallen by the wayside. Children that are homeschooled have the same opportunities as public-schooled kids and can be involved in the same activities, such as prom, sports, music groups, co-ops, field trips, a graduation ceremony and much more.

Considering homeschooling or already are?

If you’re thinking about homeschooling or are a seasoned homeschooler, I would highly recommend you attend the New Homeschooler Information Meeting held at the Library Center on South Campbell Avenue the second Thursday of each month from 6:30 – 8:30pm.

This was the first step I took to finding out more information about homeschooling. I left feeling confident and encouraged.

Topics such as how to get started were discussed, choosing a curriculum, state law requirements and frequently asked questions were answered.

There is no charge to attend. More information can be found by visiting the Southwest Home Education Ministry web-

site at shemonline.org.

Local homeschool programs

The YMCA, Discovery Center, Wonders of Wildlife, Dickerson Park Zoo and the Springfield Conservation Nature Center are just a handful of the local places that offer wonderful programs for homeschooling families.

Each month, my boys attend a program at Wonders of Wildlife and the Springfield www.fromournestmag.com

The choice to homeschool my children was one met with fear, apprehension and uncertainty. While I loved the numerous benefits it had to offer, such as the flexibility, ability to tailor learning to my child’s needs, and keeping Christ at the center of their education (which was a key factor), it was hard for me to rest in my decision. It’s a privilege to live in a region where so many resources for homeschooling families exist. After discussing my fears and concerns with other homeschooling moms, and reaching out to various resources in town, it became an easier choice to say “yes” to. My boys are younger: ages 6, 4 and 2. I’m still learning as I go. However, I can share some resources and advice that has helped me along the way.

Conservation Nature Center. My oldest son also attends Evangel University’s homeschool PE program weekly and the Creation Science Club monthly.

Co-ops Co-ops provide a way for parents to come together to educate their children (in a class-like environment, to trade subjects that parents can teach or take group field trips). They come in all different sizes and with a variety of topics and goals. Shemonline.org and thehomeschoolmom.com have extensive lists of co-ops, music and sports opportunities, resources for parents, information about what the state’s homeschool laws are and much more!

Thehomeschoolmom.com even has free downloads of different units of study.

Our family’s choice of co-op and education has been Classical Conversations. It’s an international program with several different groups that meet across the Ozarks. Learn more information about this type of edu-

cation by visiting their website linked on the From Our Nest website, www.fromour nestmag.com Educational material

Mardel’s, Christian Publisher’s Outlet and Redeemed Music and Books have a vast array of education materials for homeschool-

ers. Mardel’s has three different sales on their education materials throughout the year. Call the store for those dates. The materials found at Redeemed are at a discounted rate because they have been gently used. CPO offers a 10 percent discount off the retail price for their educational materials, even if an item needs to be special ordered.

Homeschool convention

SHEM hosts its annual convention in Springfield each spring. Plan to be inspired and informed by attending various workshops, so bring a notepad and pen/pencil to take notes for all your wonderful ideas.

Find out more information by visiting shemonline.org.

Above all, have fun!

Remember: Your homeschool experience will never look the same as others. I learned this the hard way. Every family is different, and all kids are different. That is the beauty of homeschooling! Enjoy the flexibility it has to offer. Take advantage of resources in the Ozarks. While some days are overwhelming and test my patience, like my two-year-old crawling on the table while I teach my oldest math, I have to take a deep breath and remember the reason I do it. Then I smile and realize it is worth the crazy, stressful moments. They will get older and I just may miss the chaos.

Jackie Wedge has a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Missouri State University and likes to joke that she attended school to be a stay-at-home mom and homeschool her three boys. She is also involved at her church, where she volunteers and works in the Early Childhood Department. She has a heart for single moms and is the Children’s Program Director for SingleMomzRock. Visit her website, www.hopeineverything.com, dedicated to bringing hope to the hopeless through real life stories, including resources for military families and single moms.

From our Nest | Summer 2014 | 5

By Trysta Herzog

Photo Credits: Amy Holand

M o m t repre n e u r

Nixa mom brings passion, dedication to early learning Momtrepreneur: Susan Mellentine Business name: The Adventures of Learning Business established: Opened Sept. 4, 2012 children: Kaylee, 8, and Dylan, 4

6 | Summer 2014 | From our Nest

After her first child was born, Susan Mellentine had a vision for how she could best prepare her daughter and other young minds for Kindergarten and beyond. Those aspirations grew throughout graduate school where the 36-yearold got a master’s degree in education and with the encouragement and support of her husband of 10 years, Chad, that dream was realized in September 2012 with The Adventures of Learning Early Childhood Education Center servicing Nixa and Springfield. The warm and nurturing environment Susan envisioned is now carried out by a highly committed and passionate staff who promotes physical, emotional, social and intellectual growth to create independence and lifelong learners.

www.fromournestmag.com

What inspired you to open an early learning center?

Ever since we moved to Nixa seven years ago and I was taking my daughter to her school, I had this desire to create an environment that I was looking for as a mom. Not that she was going to a bad place; I just always felt that an early learning center could provide more. My husband and I talked about what we would do if we had our own place, but that seemed to be as far as it went. Once I earned my master’s degree in education, however, that is when my dreams became a reality. With my educational credits, I could be the owner and director of a facility. This made it possible for me to ensure that my vision of blending both what I wanted as a mom and a teacher for my child’s early education would be implemented.

What age groups do you take, and how do parents apply?

We care for infants (6 weeks) up to Pre-K. Our ultimate goal is getting your child ready for Kindergarten but there are a lot of milestones and development along the way.

I strongly encourage parents to come in and meet with me and tour our facility. It is important for parents to find the right fit in what they are looking for and asking the right questions to ensure that the program is one that matches their home environment.

Once a decision has been made and we have space available in the appropriate classroom, the paperwork and a $35 registration fee starts their child’s learning adventure! We do have a wait list, as well, if a spot is not immediately available.

What are questions you recommend parents ask when interviewing daycares?

Oh my! This can change for the individual needs of a child and his or her parents. A child might have special dietary needs and each parent has different priorities, so I encourage all parents to come with questions when touring a facility. Some good general questions to start with are:

• What programs can you offer my child to enrich their growth and development?

• How do you assess my child’s development?

• What is your discipline technique?

• How do you communicate with parents?

• Do you have an open-door policy? Can I come and visit whenever I like?

www.fromournestmag.com

• What are your security/safety policies?

• Are all your teachers first aid/CPR certified?

• What type of meals/snacks do you serve? (ask to see a menu if possible) • Why should I bring my child to your center?

What is your favorite part of the job?

I LOVE children! The fact that I help my kids learn and grow is such a blessing. Not one day is the same, and I love the ability to make a difference. It’s such a hard decision for parents to leave their precious child in another’s care, and I take that responsibility very seriously. It’s an honor and privilege for a parent to instill their trust in myself and my teachers. We love them like our own, and that is the environment I wanted to create.

One specific highlight would have to be hearing all of our students going outside to play and their little voices cheering and giggling because they LOVE to play outside!

There is nothing better than hearing a universal cheer from a class!

Kaylee, 8 Years Old

Being around kids all day, how do you unwind during your downtime?

The best downtime I could have is spending time and cuddling with my family! We like to watch movies or play a game. I just recently received a bike from my husband and look forward to bike rides with my kids, too!

Besides family time, I also enjoy listening to music and going to see musicals and shows, shopping with my daughter, doing anything outside, especially hiking, and unfortunately I have become addicted to Candy Crush!

What advice do you have for other moms starting a business?

It’s tough starting your own business, but it doesn’t feel like work when you’re passionate about what you’re doing. My biggest advice is to surround yourself with those that encourage and motivate you. It is hard work and it takes time; your support system will get you through, whether it’s helping pick up your child at school or painting a room! I couldn’t have done this without the support of my family and friends.

Also, don’t feel guilty if you aren’t spending as much time with your children—make the time that you do have count more with quality time! As a mom, you know exactly what I mean by this!

dylan, 4 Years Old

contact The Adventures of Learning Early Childhood Education Center Call today to find out more!

417.724.3221 1911 Fitz Lane, Nixa

www.adventuresoflearning.com www.facebook.com/theadventuresoflearning

From our Nest | Summer 2014 | 7

Column

| thrifty tips

By Cris Swaters

From your

Garden to your Pantry

cut your grocery budget year-round

Eating fresh, homegrown food year-round is one of the many perks to tending a garden during the warm months of the year. If you’re following along at home, the Thrifty Tip from the Spring issue provided some tips for getting a garden started and now, the most important part, preserving all the yummy goodies.

The simplest way to preserve most foods is with the boiling water method. There are other ways to do it, namely in the oven or with a pressure cooker, but I’ve not tried either of those.

For the sake of clarity, I’ll stick to talking about tomatoes for this tip. The process is fairly similar for other vegetables, like anything pickled, or salsa. You can always check with Google for more directions for the vegetable you want to can.

You only need a few things to get started with canning: Some pint-size jars with lids and rings A large pot that is deep enough to cover your jar with at least one inch of water Another pot to boil and sterilize the lids Tongs to get the hot jars out of the water (you can buy one of these specifically for canning, or you can find something around the house that will work) Funnel Sterile butter knife Some towels

Step 1: Peeling.

Take that horde of tomatoes you’ve got sitting in a bucket and peel them. Get a large pot of water to a boil, and get a separate bowl with ice water. Then take the tip of a sharp knife and cut an X in the bottom of the tomato. You just want to cut the skin; don’t cut too deep. This cut will help you peel the tomato. Place a few tomatoes in the boiling water, and let them boil for no more than 30 seconds. Remove the tomatoes from the boiling water and dunk them in the ice water. Once they’re cool, the skin should peel right off. Repeat this process for all of your tomatoes.

Purchasing the jars with lids and rings (assuming you have the other items already in your kitchen) can come with a little bit of sticker shock at first, particularly if you have a lot of canning you want to do. It’s important to remember that you can reuse these jars year after year, and when you think about the cost of a can of tomatoes from the store versus the cost of one mason jar divided up over a few years, you’ll spend significantly less over the long run.

Step 2: Chop.

Cut your tomatoes how you would like them to be in the can. You could cut them in half, in quarters, or dice them.

Step 3: Sterilize.

The easiest way to do this step is in the dishwasher. Put all of your jars in the dishwasher, and run it through one cycle. You want to be sure you keep your jars warm until you fill them so if your dishwasher has a “heated dry” setting, turn it on.

8 | Summer 2014 | From our Nest

www.fromournestmag.com

If you don’t have a dishwasher, you’ll need another large pot. Boil the jars for 15 minutes at a full, rolling boil. You can leave the jars in the hot water for up to an hour until you’re ready to fill them before they’re no longer sterile.

Finally, you need to sterilize the lids. Boil some water in a small pot and turn the heat down then add your lids. Don’t boil the lids. You can use a magnet or a sanitized fork to get the lids out of the water as you need them.

Step 4: Fill ‘Em Up. When you fill your jars with the tomatoes, you want to be sure the rim of the jar stays completely clean. The easiest way to not make a mess is to use a funnel. You can buy one of these fairly cheaply at the store, and it will make your life so much easier.

Don’t fill up the jar too far, otherwise it won’t seal. I leave about one-inch head space between the tomatoes and the rim.

You have to remove any air bubbles from the tomatoes (you should have tomatoes and their juice in your jars at this point) so take the butter knife and run it down the side of the jar and press towards the center of the jar to get out any air bubbles. Do this all the way around the jar.

Finally, place a lid on the jar, and gently screw a ring on it. You don’t want it screwed too tightly or it won’t seal. Repeat until you use all of your tomatoes.

Step 5: Processing.

In your large pot, bring water to a boil. You want enough so that when you have jars in the pot, the water is at least an inch above the tallest jar. Add your jars to the water using tongs. Set a timer for 15 minutes, and let your jars process in the boiling water.

After 15 minutes, remove the jars from the water and place them on a towel on a table or countertop.

reprocess the jar by taking the lid off, removing some of the tomatoes if it’s too full, wiping off the rim and using a new, sanitized lid. You want to be careful with reprocessing because if the jar has been sitting at room temperature for too long, bacteria may have started to form in the tomatoes so they wouldn’t be safe to reprocess and eat a year later. Sometimes the best process if a jar doesn’t seal is to put it in the refrigerator and use in a week.

This is just a taste of all of the possibilities you have with all of your garden goodies to enjoy year-round. I know I learned how to can with the help of the internet (YouTube is seriously the greatest how-to teacher ever) so if you have any questions, Google is always a great resource! Happy canning!

Cris Swaters is the communications coordinator at White River Valley Electric Co-op and a lover of extreme couponing, frugal living, social media and healthy home cooking. Get more tips and healthy eating recipes from Cris at www. purrfectportions.wordpress.com.

Step 6: Sealing.

As the jars cool, they will seal. You’ll probably hear some pops when a jar seals. It’s similar to the sound you hear when you open a new jar from the store. You’ll know a jar is sealed when you press on the center of the lid and it doesn’t pop up and down.

If the jar hasn’t sealed after it has completely cooled, it probably means you filled it too full or the rim of the jar wasn’t clean before you put the lid on. You can try to www.fromournestmag.com

From our Nest | Summer 2014 | 9

To Beat the Heat

1

Freeze toys in blocks of ice (use a small bucket,

plastic storage container or gallon size plastic bag to make the ice block) and have an excavation game outside.

2

Hydration is key. Make fruit cubes for your water by

3

Freeze fruit. Make some banana swirl (thank-you

4

putting berries and/or small pieces of melon in ice cube trays before putting them in the freezer.

Daniel Tiger!) or frozen watermelon balls with a small ice cream scoop.

Want to take it a step further? Make your own

popsicles (with Kool-Aid and toothpicks or full-size popsicle molds and sticks) and/or ice cream. Add whole pieces of fruit to popsicles like in Idea 2, if desired.

Red-hot imagination

10 | Summer 2014 | From our Nest

The kids are free from school — which probably

means

they’re

shouting

that

they’re bored. And hot. And sticky from the humidity (we’re in Missouri, after all).

If you’re fighting to burn up their energy without burning a hole in your wallet, your saving grace may be below (and on our Pinterest board!) with creative ideas to beat the heat.

Have your own creative ways to cool down?

Share them with us on our Facebook page!

Ice is Nice

*

featu re

21 Fun Ways

By Kandice McKee

5

Photo Credit: www.PipAndEbby.com

Let your child pick a book to read, or read a book to/with them.

Do a creative quasi-book report together in the form of a (sock) puppet show (good for learning summarizing), or inspire imagination and creative writing by writing a biography for a main character or sequel to the book!

If you have an older child keen with technology, put together a potential trailer for or scene from the book with iMovie or MovieMaker.

www.fromournestmag.com

Photo Credit: www.UtahCountyMom.com

crafty heat distractions

classically cool 6

A classic for the older kids: have an old-school water balloon fight. Upgrade to Super Soakers, as desired.

7

Sponge balls! If you’re looking for a softer or DIY alternative to

8

14

Paper pinwheels and fans.

15

Cosmic ring toss. Find a firm

16

Glow-in-the-dark hopscotch.

17

Cosmic bowling. Break glow

18

Paint old keys with acrylic paint and make a wind chime with string/yarn/ fishing line and a metal hanger.

19

Make steppingstones for your garden or walk path by using old cereal boxes as a mold, cement, and glass rocks. Unsure of the permanence of cement? Use play-dough or clay.

20

Plant tall sunflowers in the shape of circle. Full-grown, the

the traditional sponge balls, make your own by cutting kitchen sponges into strips, lay them on top of each other, bunch together in the middle, and tie together. Fan out the strips for a ball-look.

Slip and slide. Use a tarp if you don’t have name-brand.

9

Take that same tarp, and instead of sliding on it, spread it out like

10

Did all the fun of the slip-and-slide and/or splash pad on the tarp leave a hole? No problem. Cut large shapes

11

Mix fun with work: Wash your vehicle together! Make it fun with

a blanket and make a splash pad out of it with a sprinkler.

into the tarp, hang it between two trees, grab a couple balls or bean bags, and turn it into a tossing game.

DIY spring mist

lots of splashing and bubbles.

12

Hose

13

A spin-off of the previous and a classic, put a sprinkler under the

www.fromournestmag.com

down

the

trampoline.

Jump. You’re welcome.

trampoline. Jump. Make memories.

Make pinwheels for a wind garden or a fan to cool yourself down. post to serve as the goal. Use glow necklaces/bracelets for night-time rounds of ring toss. You may have to tie a couple together to get glowin-the dark ring to weigh enough to appropriately throw.

Use the same necklaces/bracelets from above, and string a few together to make the rings bigger. Arrange the glow-in-the-dark circles in a hopscotch pattern. necklaces/bracelets into water bottles and set up a bowling lane in your backyard. If you have some lightweight bowlers, put a couple glow bracelets in a blow-up ball for them to bowl with. For daytime fun, skip the glow-in-the-dark aspect and just put some food coloring in the water for some rainbow bowling.

flowers will be server as a roof to a sunflower house, perfect for reading and/or imagining in.

21

Kickball croquet with pool noodles. Cut pool noodles in half

(hotdog style); half of a noodle will make one croquet post. Use garden posts to hold the arc-ed noodles. Find a ball suitable to kick. Enjoy.

From our Nest | Summer 2014 | 11

a d v e r t o r i a l | f i t n e s s FI X

By Glynis Nelson

Heating up your workout: Burn the calories without overheating Summer in the Ozarks brings heat and humidity. Just because the weather is heating up doesn’t mean your fitness routine has to be tabled until cooler temperatures come. With the proper precautions, and some creativity, you can continue working out even when the thermometer soars.

If you’re going to exercise outdoors, it’s likely that you’ll have to adjust the time of your workout. Make checking the weather part of your daily routine. Use the hourly forecast to find the coolest part of the day.

Some days that might mean getting up early to beat the heat, on other days, the lower temperatures might be in the evening.

When exercising outdoors, remember that the heat and humidity will put extra stress on your body. Take care to stay hydrated—drink water every 15 minutes, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Dress appropriately— light colors will keep you cooler than darker ones. You might even want to invest in some moisture-wicking clothing to help stay cool.

Remember to ease into your workout, as well. Give your body more time to adjust to the heat by slowly increasing your intensity.

Changing your workout is another option. Instead of planning to do sprint drills, take advantage of the outdoor temperature and engage in some “hot” yoga. Jump in the pool and swim laps. Running during a rain shower is a fun way to get your run in and keep cooler.

To keep your water nice and cold for the duration of your workout, fill a water bottle ¾ of the way and then freeze it while it is partially on its side. Make sure it is on an angle and that the cap end isn’t totally covered with water. Right before heading out, fill the remaining space with cold water.

You can also make an ice towel to help cool off. Wet a washcloth or dish towel, fold it and place it in the freezer for a few hours.

Before your workout, fill a plastic zipper bag with ice cubes and place your frozen towel inside. Then you can reach for your frozen towel as needed for a cool down and simply place it back in the bag to keep it cold.

Another choice for cooling down is a misting fan. These fans can easily be found at discount or sports stores.

If you’re planning on bringing the little one along in the stroller for a workout, make sure he/she stays cool, as well. You can use a frozen gel pack wrapped in a dishtowel to make a wonderful climate control backrest for your little one. It’s squishy so it isn’t uncomfortable to lean against, and because it’s frozen, it’ll keep baby nice and cool for the duration of your workout. Another option is to purchase a clip-on fan for the stroller.

The heat of summer is not the time to push yourself to the limits. Listen to your body— if you experience weakness, headache, dizziness, muscle cramps, rapid heartbeat or nausea or vomiting—STOP. If you aren’t feeling better after resting, drinking water, and getting cooled off, seek medical attention. Make sure you’re familiar with the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Remember that while you can exercise in the heat of summer, you need to do so safely.

Remember, if you’re working out outside, be sure to put plenty of sunblock on you and your baby, as well as a sunhat, if he/she is with you.

Glynis Nelson is the owner of Go Momma Fitness Springfield, which provides fitness classes for moms, such as Momilates, Stroller Moves, and HIIT It. She holds prenatal and postnatal exercise certifications and is certified in group fitness by American Council on Exercise. Glynis resides in Springfield with her husband and four children.

12 | Summer 2014 | From our Nest

www.fromournestmag.com

c o l u m n | f o r e v e r f a m i ly

Photo Provided by: Bobi Spilker

By Bobi Spilker

Stranger Danger Even more complicated for forever families Refreshing my kids about stranger danger safety takes priority as I think about back-to-school activities. Stranger danger is a complicated concept to teach children. After the tragic abduction and slaying of a precious ten-year old in our community, it’s even more important to me.

As my children return to school, I entrust them to the care of others. It’s my duty to teach my kids how to be safer when they aren’t with me; yet I want them to enjoy being kids, as well. I am searching to find the appropriate balance as I talk to them about this.

Our society works to instill respect for adults and authorities into young children.

We teach them to mind elders, speak respectfully and answer to adults, follow instructions, and be helpful and courteous. These very traits can hinder a child’s ability to do what it takes to be safe when it comes to strangers.

Shortly after the tragic abduction and slaying, I was in a store checkout line. The couple behind me were talking to my kids, asking their names, and trying to engage www.fromournestmag.com

them. The checkout person then did the same. I took that opportunity to remind my kids that those people were strangers.

I take this opportunity to ask adult strangers to engage with me, the adult, instead of my kids.

Adding to the complexity, it’s common for children who were adopted to have impaired boundaries with strangers, in the beginning. Scarily, some newly adopted children can walk up to, talk to, hug, ask to be picked up by, and could even leave with a complete stranger. Children cared for in orphanages, as well as domestic and international foster care, had many caregivers.

Some changed on shifts or with rotating placements. All children, even those adopted very young, had bonding breaks prior to joining their forever family.

These early beginnings can cause confusion for the child and has to be resolved by their parents— it’s an un-learning of a survival skill that is unhealthy and no longer necessary. Attachment takes time and is necessary for children to learn that their parents are the ones that will meet their needs and take care of them, not complete strangers. This process is vital and may not be well understood by others.

Everyone can support the attachment process by asking the parents about attachment and resisting the urge to hold kids. Please be mindful when interacting with kids for the first year or two they are home, including providing comfort, food, affection, and special gifts. Initially, it’s important that only the parents meet the child’s needs, to establish the attachment that other families take for granted. This is especially critical for older children coming home and may take longer with them. Eventually, once healthy attachment has taken root, the child’s inner circle of family and close friends will be able to play a more active role in the child’s life. It is worth the wait!

Like so many shocked by the horrific death of that young child, I worry for my children’s safety. I love them with all my heart, and I wish I could keep them safe in a bubble and have their innocence prolonged. That, however, is impossible, nor would it prepare them to live in this world.

So I choose to hug my kids tighter as I empower, teach, and role-play with them safer ways to act in different possible situations.

Always with hope, Bobi

Bobi is blessed with three precious daughters, ages 4 years to 7 years old.

Among other things she is a malaria prevention, social justice and antiracism activist who is on the board of Directors of Adoptive Families of SW Missouri.

She enjoys creating community service educational programs in her community and partnering with communities in her children’s birth counties to support community-identified priorities such as malaria prevention and education, children education & sponsorships, and basic needs of clothing and shoes.

From our Nest | Summer 2014 | 13

Get a JUMP on Summer Learning Loss

1 Subject Assessment, 8 hours of instruction,

$150 OFF: ACT/SAT Prep* (full program only) Offer expires July 5, 2014.

and a Sylvan Workbook for $269* A savings of $238!

Offer expires June 30, 2014.

Purchase 96 hours of instruction, save $200* Offer expires July 31, 2014

Save an additional $29 when you mention this ad in From Our Nest Summer 2014.

(417) 882-0740 1830 E. Independence, Springfield, Missouri 65804 www.springfieldsylvan.com kristensylvan@sbcglobal.net

Comprehensive Sylvan Assessment (3 subjects) Buy 1 Get 1 FREE* Offer expires July 31, 2014. * Not valid with any other coupon or special.

1/2 Page 14 | Summer 2014 | From our Nest

www.fromournestmag.com

16 18 19 20 22

Help beyond the classroom Local tutoring, enrichment services

Featured Advertiser Sylvan Learning Center: Avoiding summer learning loss

Pinspiration Carefully covered books

Flying Our Nest Engaging local field trip spots

The Dish on Breakfast Early-bird and snooze-button options

www.fromournestmag.com

Prep to Learn

School may be out for summer, but that doesn’t mean the learning has to stop! Whether you’re looking to inspire active learning through daytrips to local events and venues or find great resources to help encourage academic success in your student, we’ve got you covered in our Summer never-stop-learning section.

From our Nest | Summer 2014 | 15

featu re

By Kandice McKee

Learning Beyond the Classroom

Local tutoring services offer enrichment, supplemental and assessment instruction Summer may have just begun for most, but it’s never too early to add new tools to your arsenal so your child can succeed in learning.

Whether you’re a public/private schooling family, a homeschooling family, or hybrid of the two, there are local resources available for your student who may need supplemental or enrichment instruction outside the classroom.

Nancy Chappell, an instructor with Kumon Math and Reading of Springfield, says that beginning enrichment opportunities young can yield benefits for years to come.

“A strong foundation early on will allow a child to proceed with confidence when facing new academic and other challenges,” Chappell says.

Academic enrichment can be beneficial at any age and grade level, and local professionals agree that it’s better to be on the offense rather than the defense.

Kevin Baker with Club Z! In-home tutoring of Springfield, Mo., says that being “proactive is always better than reactive – and typically much cheaper!”

But that doesn’t mean every academic hurdle should result in a tutor, says Kristen Fisher, center director of Sylvan Learning in Springfield.

“Parents don’t want to ‘jump the gun’ and immediately assume a child needs a tutor the moment the student has difficulty with a skill within a subject,” she says.

“However, waiting until the child’s test scores come back to confirm he/she is a grade level behind isn’t when they should contact a tutor, either.”

Fisher recommends an annual education exam to ensure children are on track educationally. Then, parents can decide if enrichment or supplemental instruction should be the next course of action.

16 | Summer 2014 | From our Nest

www.fromournestmag.com

Supplemental Instruction

Waiting until “crisis mode”, Baker says, often means wider gaps from where the student actually is to where the student should be.

Consequently, more time, effort and money are then needed to help the student reach his/her goals.

Waiting until crisis mode can also inspire feelings of isolation in the student.

“Students who don’t ask for help will continue to be in the dark about the subject matter they are struggling with, thus creating a deep well of unknown, confusing subject matter that builds on itself. That well is very, very difficult to climb out of,” Fisher says.

Or, worse, the student could see tutoring as a punishment for falling behind.

Fisher recommends rewarding tutoring sessions so students can see it as a positive event rather than a negative.

“Reward them for attending without becoming angry each time it is a tutoring day. The rewards don’t have to be anything fancy.

They can simply be an extra 30 minutes before bed or a trip to the local bakery/ice cream shop for a cupcake/ice cream cone. Or even: The parents do their chores.

“Let the student set the reward–within reason–as this places the ownership of the responsibility to earn said award on the student,” she says.

This anxiety from scholarly struggles can also lead to feelings of embarrassment, in both parents and students, though local tutors and center directors are quick to assure that while many do feel this way, they should turn the situation into a positive one.

Fisher warns that “children are very adapt at reading body language,” so if a parent is embarrassed or anxious, the student will know and could adopt the same apprehension.

While the subject can be a “touchy” one, she says, she recommends parents be proactive as possible and “encourage, reward and praise daily.”

All professionals agree that students should see the special, undivided attention as an opportunity.

“A student should be excited, not embarrassed, to know that they have a personal coach helping them with a skill!” Baker says. “Why do professional athletes need personal coaches? To get better! We all need assistance occasionally to get better or to hone a skill.”

Enrichment Instruction

While the majority of the business comes from students seeking supplemental instruction, each tutoring service also provides enrichment opportunities for traditional and homeschooling students.

Once a child is caught up to his/her grade level or wants to build on current academic successes, Chappell says, “There is no substitute for practice in developing mastery of those skills.”

“We have straight A students that come to us to just get better and to deepen their learning,” Baker says.

Fisher says some of Sylvan’s students come in just for study skills help in a quiet environment with an on-task partner.

Homeschooling families, Fisher says, often use Sylvan for assessment purposes since standardized testing isn’t offered at home as it is with public schools, though some also enroll in SAT/ACT preparation programs. www.fromournestmag.com

LOOKING FOR A TUTOR?

Whether you’re looking for supplemental or enrichment instruction, it’s important to find the right tutoring center or service for your family.

Here’s some advice from our local professionals: From Kristen Fisher, center director at Sylvan Learning Center: “Give the student the opportunity to meet the tutor. Make the process about the student. When I meet with my families to discuss the assessment results, I highly recommend to my parents that they bring their student–no matter the age–with them for the conference. This process should be about the student. I want to hear the concerns of the parent, but more importantly, I want to hear the needs of the student.

The more they are involved in the decision to obtain a tutor, the more they are likely to be engaged and motivated. Listen to your child. All children need to learn to make decisions for themselves. Giving them the opportunity to recognize what educational needs they have, will benefit you as a parent emotionally and financially.”

Sylvan Learning Center 1830 E. Independence Ave., Springfield, 882-0740, www.springfieldsylvan.com

From Kevin Baker, owner of Club Z! In-home tutoring of Springfield, Mo.: “Always ask for references, or at least look for reviews on the company website. Are they reputable? Always ask if background checks have been completed, and when? Ask if they (the tutors) are willing to communicate with the school on your behalf, and do they have the legal documents to sign to allow this communication? Is the business a member of any local community outlets that help hold them accountable, such as BBB, Chamber of Commerce, etc.? What will tutoring look like? What tools will they use? The most important question a parent can ask (short of the background check): Can I communicate directly with the tutor following our session so we can discuss progress?”

Club Z! In-home tutoring 903 Denali Dr., Nixa, 714-4880, http://clubztutoring.com/a2z

From Nancy Chappell, instructor at Kumon Math and Reading: “Your student can succeed. However, there is no short cut around longterm practice to build skills. The earlier and longer that practice takes place, the better off a student will be as he or she moves through their academic life. Parents should think about what their goals are for their children in the long run and how making academics a priority on a daily basis fits in with those goals and their current schedule. Parents should also be prepared to share any relevant information on specific issues the child might be having in school.”

Kumon of Springfield 4127 S. Kansas Expy. #112, Springfield, 881-3800 www.kumon.com/springfield-south-mo

From our Nest | Summer 2014 | 17

F eatu red ad

Avoiding

Summer Learning Loss “School’s out, School’s Out No more pencils, No more books…”

(A. Cooper, M. Bruce, D. Dunaway, N. Smith, G. Buxton)

Each year parents schedule their children for yearly dental and medical checkups; why not schedule your child for a yearly educational checkup too? And the summer is a great time to schedule such assessments!

Upon completion of a comprehensive assessment, parents are provided with their child’s grade level equivalency and a list of mastered skills, as well as skills that need continued support.

Sylvan uses such assessments to create a plan specifically designed for each student. Our teachers are certified educators. Instruction is hands-on, creative, and interactive. The lessons adapt to each child’s pace and skill level and instant feedback and recognition are provided. Also, parents can track their child’s daily accomplishments and upcoming skills, while students can engage in interactive learning at home using additional educational activities and resources.

Elementary leads to middle school, middle school to high school and soon parents begin to think about college and students begin to ponder their dreams and goals. Before such dreams as UMKC Med School or Drury’s College of Architecture, high school students and parents must begin the grueling process of college applications and college entrance exams. These exams can make or break acceptance and/ or scholarships.

Beginning the process of college considerations and ACT/SAT prep in the spring of the sophomore year or the fall of the junior year will alleviate the stress and anxiety one often experiences as a senior, leaving time for seniors to enjoy their final year.

What Parents Should Know: Students typically score lower on standardized tests at the beginning of each school year than they did on similar standardized tests at the end of the previous school year (White, 1906; Heyns, 1978; Entwisle & Alexander 1992; Cooper, 1996; Downey et al, 2004).

About two months of grade level math equivalency is lost over the summer (Cooper, 1996).

Research shows that teachers typically spend between 4 to 6 weeks re-teaching material that students have forgotten over the summer (Peters, 2005).

Children lose more than academic knowledge over the summer. Most children—particularly children at high risk of obesity—gain weight more rapidly when they are out of school during summer break (Von Hippel et al, 2007).

Parents consistently cite summer as the most difficult time to ensure that their children have productive things to do (Duffett et al, 2004).

Parents can counteract this by building on the skills gained during the previous school year through weekly educational summer instruction and activities. Such instruction and activities will offer enrichment for children for the upcoming school year and alleviate the stress of back to school assessments. Encourage your children to sign up for a summer reading program at their local library, practice their basic math facts when taking a day trip, play Monopoly, take a walk, make a cake, or read their favorite book to their stuffed animals.

What Parents Should Know & Students Should Do: Take a full practice exam Visit campuses you are interested in Meet with a financial advisor Research scholarship options Allow yourself to enjoy your senior year by doing your college prep homework Sylvan offers an ACT/SAT prep course. We offer a 24 hour, 2-point guaranteed course with a 3 ½ hour practice test. Each course begins 5 to 6 weeks before every upcoming national exam. Our certified educators discuss how to manage your time, how to select the best answer, and how to complete each individual section. Students can utilize our FREE practice test days and receive feedback regarding their scores. Some enrolled students have increased their scores by as many as 6 points.

Contact Sylvan today and begin the process of avoiding summer learning loss and alleviating back to school and college prep stress by providing your elementary or middle school student with the latest educational technology, or your senior with a 12 hour ACT/SAT prep guarantee.

18 | Summer 2014 | From our Nest

Sylvan Learning center

417.882.0740 Print our ad on page 14 for amazing savings!

www.fromournestmag.com

P i n s pi rati o n

By Stephanie Lindberg

b ind eL e rg

1. Pick out the paper you like and make sure it’s the right size by placing the open book on the paper, cover-side down. Allow 1-1/2” of extra paper on the top and bottom and about 3” on either side to allow for folding. Make sure you place the paper pretty side face down. If the paper is too large, use your ruler to cut it down to size.

ani

Directions

te p h

With school getting ready to start, it’s time to restock your craft supplies bins as you prepare for those oh-so-fun homework crafts and projects (shoebox diorama, anyone?). So make some extra room in your craft supply bin by busting out some of that old scrapbooking paper for bookcovers that are as individualistic and personalized as you’re kiddo. Don’t have any old scrapbook paper? They’re pretty inexpensive, or you can even use old gift wrap, gift bags, or paper grocery bags.

b y: S

DIY Book Covers

P h o to s

Carefully Covered Books

Materials • • • • •

Scrapbook paper Book Scissors Ruler Pencil

2. Use a pencil and mark the top and bottom edges of the open book onto the paper.

3. Remove the book, fold the 1-1/2” strip at the top and bottom edge, and crease.

Use the pencil marks to help guide you.

4. Lay the open book inside, cover-side down. The top and bottom edge of the book should match up to the top and bottom edge of the paper.

5. Center the book on the paper and mark a 1/4” away from the books left and right side to allow give so the book can close.

6. Fold and crease the extra 3” of paper on the left and right side.

7. Tuck the front and back book covers into the pockets you’ve created in the extra 3” fold.

8. Add labels and stickers to the spine and front cover for added decoration and to title the book.

More DIY Back to School Ideas

Visit our website to get links for these other do-it-yourself holiday crafts.

Follow us on Pinterest For this and other ideas we like, check out our favorite boards at pinterest.com/fromournestmag www.fromournestmag.com

From our Nest | Summer 2014 | 19

Get out and

EXPLORE

School may be out for summer, but that doesn’t mean the learning has to stop, too. While you may not be wielding a teaching degree, you can still help your kids’ minds stay just as active as their bodies this summer at these local activities that double as great field trips during the school year. The best part: Your child will be excited to escape the house and probably won’t even realize they’re learning in the process!

Field Trips with local

SPRINGFIELD

The Creamery Arts Center

NOAH’S ART

The Creamery Arts Center serves an education hub for literary, performance and visual arts for Noah’s Art all ages. From painting and drawing to dance What kid doesn’t like to explore his/her artistic and athleticism to music and improv comedy, creativity? Noah’s Art offers open studio time the Springfield Regional Arts Council sponsors for you to explore the studio and its many dif- a variety of workshops, some of which are held ferent art mediums with your child ages 2 –12 at its headquarters at the Creamery Arts Center. as well as different art classes and summer Staff work with groups from schools, centers camps for children ages 3 –12. And the best and churches to create a field trip, birthday part? Your child is free to discover and grow party or meeting that caters to you. into his/her own type of artist without spilling paint all over your carpet.

Ages: Varies on activity, workshop Cost: Varies Ages: 2–12 years old Website: www.springfieldarts.com/classesCost: $10 for open studio; and-programs classes and camps vary.

Address: 411 N. Sherman Pkwy Website: www.noahs-art.com/springfield Phone: (417) 862-2787 Address: 2742 S. Campbell Ave., 65807 Discovery Center Phone: (417) 889-2779 This interactive, hands-on museum can be great for active minds and active bodies. With an emphasis on science, technology, art, history and culture, the Discovery Center is open for general admission while also offering a variety of classes, workshops and field trips throughout the year.

Photo Credit: Miles Boyer Photography

Ages: All ages welcome, though most workshops have age/grade-level requirements Cost: General admission: Children ages 3–15/$8; Adults ages 16–59/$12. Classes/ workshops vary.

Website: www.discoverycenter.org Address: 438 E. St. Louis St., 65806 Phone: (417) 862-9910

20 | Summer 2014 | FROM OUR NEST

Springfield Conservation Nature Center

In addition to the exercise, solitude and natural observations you and your children can enjoy while walking the three-miles of trails, the Nature Center also hosts a variety of programs and workshops for children inside the Conservation Center. Even without scheduled programs, there are nature exhibits to enjoy inside.

Ages: All ages Cost: Free Website: http://mdc.mo.gov/regions/south west/springfield-conservation-nature-center Address: 4601 S. Nature Way, 65804 Phone: (417) 888-4237 Photo Credit: Wonders of Wildlife

F LY I N G O U R N E S T

By Kandice McKee

WONDERS OF WILDLIFE Wonders of Wildlife While the museum is currently closed for expansion and renovations, WoW continues to run its educational programs for traditional and homeschooled families. Programs include outreach, camps, outdoor skills, and conservation.

www.fromournestmag.com

Dickerson Park Zoo As Simon and Garfunkel say, “Someone told me it’s all happening at the zoo.” With scavenger hunt and activity sheets available on their website to guide your regular visit as well as Animal Encounters visits to daycares and preschools, seasonal and weekend classes from children ages 2 to seventh grade, it really is ‘all happening at the zoo.’ Don’t forget cash to feed the goats and giraffes!

Ages: All ages welcome to the zoo, though classes are age-restricted Cost: General admission: Children ages 3–12/$7; Teens and adults ages 13–59/$10.

Group discounts available. Class costs vary.

Website: www.dickersonparkzoo.org Address: 3043 N. Fort Ave., 65803 Phone: (417) 833-1570

School of Rock Musical fun begins the Little Wing program for toddlers as young as 2, with more programs, like Rookies and Rock 101, and lessons for guitar, bass, drums, piano and vocals available for all ages.

www.fromournestmag.com

Photo Credit: Brandon Alms Photography

Dickerson park zoo

Ages: 2 years old and older Cost: Varies Website: www.springfield.schoolofrock.com Address: 1658 E. Sunshine St., 65804 Phone: (417) 887-7625

Ozark Smallin Civil War Cave From history to hydrology and geology to biology, guided tours at the Smallin Civil War Cave is rich with opportunities. Additional activities ranging from sluice mining to a nature hike and more are optional for groups of 20 or more.

Ages: All ages Cost: General admission varies depending on tour. Children start at $8.95 and adults start at $15.95. For groups of 20 or more: $5/ student; $10/adult (1 teacher free per 20 students, bus driver free); additional activities range from free to $2/student.

Website: www.smallincave.com Address: 3575 N. Smallin Road Phone: (417) 551-4545

Republic Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield Home to the second major Civil War battle, take a self-guided tour of Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield along the five-mile road that has adjoining walking trails to different battle sites and historic houses and cabins. Special on-site programs, such as civil war medicine and a trip to the Ray House, for students are available April 1 to May 30; reservations must be made after Oct. 1. The park also has traveling trunks available for in-class instruction/supplement to the field trip, though these must be reserved ahead of time and picked up and returned to the park.

Ages: All ages Cost: $5/person; $10/car Website: www.nps.gov/wicr Address: 6424 W. Farm Rd. 182 Phone: (417) 732-2662

Branson Butterfly Palace More than butterflies fluttering all around you during your visit to The Butterfly Palace, admission includes unlimited access to a bungee adventure, living rainforest science center, mirror maze and Monarch migration film.

Ages: All ages Cost: $9.95/child 4–12 years old; $15.95/ adult 13–54; group rates available Website: www.thebutterflypalace.com Address: 4106 West Highway 76, 65616 Phone: (417) 332-2231

SW Missouri Alpacas and Kids Perfect for a day in or a day out, the alpacas will come to you! A mobile field trip in which the alpacas can come visit any group of 10 or more children, be it at a residence, school gym/cafeteria or outdoor fields. With additional craft and obstacle course options, you can cater this agricultural-based curriculum mixing with science, art and exercise to your children and goals.

Ages: All ages Cost: Varies; call for a quote Website: www.alpacasandkids.com Address: Marshfield Phone: (417) 893-9436

Kindermusik Kindermusik offers classes that use music as the basis for musical, language, cognitive and physical development.

Ages: 0–7 years old Cost: Varies Website: www.kindermusik.com Photo Provided by: Alpacas and Kids

smallin cave

Photo Credit: Smallin Cave

Ages: All ages welcome, though some educational programs are recommended for pre-kindergarten through six grade.

Cost: Program costs vary Website: www.wondersofwildlife.org Address: 500 W. Sunshine Ave., 65807 Phone: (417) 890-9453

Alpacas and kids From our Nest | Summer 2014 | 21

ThE Dish

o n B r e ak fa s t

By Stephanie Lindberg

Homemade Freezer Breakfast Burritos

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, especially for kids going to school (and moms trying to keep up their metabolism). But for those days that you, or your little, just can’t escape hitting the snooze button again. And again. And, hey, third time’s a charm—again, consider planning ahead so you can still have a well-balanced, energizing start to your and your child’s day!

Ingredients: 20 tortillas 20 TBS shredded cheese 12 large eggs 1 lb. turkey sausage, browned and fat drained

1 bell pepper 1 onion 1 tsp salt 1 tsp pepper

Directions:

Photos by: Stephanie Lindberg

1. Chop the onion and bell pepper.

2. Brown the sausage in a skillet, then drain off the fat. Put in a bowl to the side.

3. Clean out the skillet, and cook the bell pepper and onion together. Add salt and pepper for taste. Put in another bowl to the side.

4. Beat the eggs in a large mixing bowl, and then scramble in the same skillet.

5. Lay out the tortillas on a flat surface, and add a tablespoon of cheese to each. Follow up with adding the pepper and onion, and then add the sausage and egg. I like to add a little Tabasco sauce on top for an extra kick.

6. Fold up each burrito, place in a dish and put in the freezer for one hour.

7. Remove from freezer and individually wrap each burrito in plastic wrap.

Store the burritos in a freezer bag or container.

8. Reheat individual burritos. Remove from plastic wrap, wrap in a paper towel, and heat in the microwave for approximately 2 minutes at medium heat. Heating times may vary depending on your microwave. * I like to add 1/4 cup of milk when mixing the eggs for extra fluffiness.

Waffles with fresh fruit and yogurt

Photos by: Stephanie Lindberg

Likewise, for the days that you have a little extra time in the mornings—you know, those rare occasions where the entire morning routine has flawlessly fallen into sequence—here’s another deliciously healthy breakfast option.

Ingredients

1 cup sliced strawberries (or fruit of your choice) 1 TBS sugar 2 cups creamy vanilla low-fat yogurt 2 TBS honey 4 whole-grain frozen waffles

Directions

Follow us on Pinterest For more recipes and other projects we like, check out our favorite boards at pinterest.com/fromournestmag

22 | Summer 2014 | From our Nest

1. Stir together strawberries and sugar in medium bowl; let stand 30 minutes at room temperature.

2. Spoon yogurt into a bowl; stir in honey.

3. Toast waffles according to package directions. Place 1 waffle on each of 4 plates. Top waffles evenly with yogurt mixture, and strawberries. Serve immediately. www.fromournestmag.com

By Shayne Brock, LPC

c o l u m n | From the Guidance Office

PLAN AHEAD FOR A

Smooth Start!

As the summer days fade away, it will soon be time to put away the pool gear and lemonade stands and prepare for going back to school. Here are some tips to make the transition easier for you and your children.

1

Begin the school-year schedule. Getting back into the school routine can be a challenge for everyone in the family.

To make the switch easier, start early. A few weeks before school starts, begin moving bedtime back to an earlier time. Talk to your child about the fun things your child will learn, the old friends he’ll see and the new friends he’ll make. Try to avoid making plans for big trips right before the start of school. Establish school-day schedules for homework, TV, baths and bedtime as a family. When kids have buy-in with the plan, the more likely they are to adhere to the changes. Attempt to plan play dates with friends from school to re-establish connections that may have been dropped for the summer or to create new ones. Going back to school can be less stressful if there’s a friend by their side.

2

Start a family calendar in a common area where each family member can write down his or her activities. I might even suggest a specific color for each family member to coordinate rides, etc…

3

The “busyness” seems to start almost immediately, so make your plan for the school year while you’re less stressed.

Plan to fill out any school paperwork several days before it’s due. Have the necessary immunization records available for easy reference. Update school emergency contact and health information for the coming year. Mark important dates (such as back-to-school night, parent-teacher www.fromournestmag.com

conferences and school holidays) on the family calendar. Start a folder for school newsletters and other papers so that you can easily find and refer to them, if necessary. I would suggest one folder per child for quick reference. Create a “getready-the-night-before” policy.

Pick clothes for the next day and pack the backpack every evening before bedtime, and you’ll save precious time, and parent’s nerves, in the morning.

4

Go through your children’s closets and sort out everything they’ve outgrown. By reducing the clutter, you will be able to get them dressed quickly. When shopping for school clothes, remember school dress codes. Some schools prohibit short skirts and tank tops for girls and “sagging” (baggy trousers that hang low) for boys. Schools may also have rules regarding printed words or phrases on clothes.

5

Decide if you can give to the school each month as a volunteer and involved parent: in the classroom, on field trips, for fundraising events and on schoolwide committees.

6

Have a set schedule and a place to study at home to assist your child with staying organized and thus leading to being successful at school.

7

Confirm all transportation to and from school well before the first day.

Get the whole family involved with making calendars, setting up study desks, donating old clothes and shopping. Positivity and making the back-toschool transition fun is the key to success!

Shayne Brock, LPC, is a Professional School Counselor in the Nixa School District. She has been in the education and counseling field for 16 years.

From our Nest | Summer 2014 | 23

MNoomm n pry oCfli ut b

By Kandice McKee

Whom does your organization serve?

Morey Mechlin: Care to Learn serves under-resourced public school students in grades K – 12 in the following school districts: Bolivar; Clever; Fordland; Hurley; Logan-Rogersville; Nixa; Ozark; Republic; Sparta; Springfield; Union Star; Willard and OTC. While most students are on free and/or reduced lunch, that isn’t a requirement.

What services do you provide?

Mission statement The mission of Care to Learn is to provide immediate funding to meet emergent needs in the areas of health, hunger and hygiene so that every child may be successful in school.

Care to Learn

417.862.7771

www.CareToLearn.org

411 North Sherman Parkway, Springfield, Mo., 65802

Leadership Doug Pitt – Founder Morey Mechlin – Executive Director Crystal Quade – Director of Chapter Services Heather Trinca – Special Events

MM: Care to Learn provides immediate funding to meet emergent needs in the areas of health, hunger and hygiene. From “Breakfast in the Classroom” to backpacks filled with nutritional food on the weekends; to toothbrushes and toothpaste; to combs, brushes, shampoo and conditioner; to shirts, jeans, underwear, socks and shoes; to eyeglasses and hearing aids; to transportation to doctors’ appointments and prescription drugs, Care to Learn makes certain that students have the resources they need to be successful in school.

How does someone obtain services?

MM: Care to Learn relies on those who know the students’ needs best —the school district employees! Teachers, counselors, nurses, principals, cafeteria workers and school bus drivers see students every day and know who is in need of assistance. They make one call to the Care to Learn liaison in their school district and assistance is immediate and confidential. As Care to Learn founder Doug Pitt says, “We just want kids to be kids.” There is no paperwork or complicated forms to complete.

Do you accept volunteers?

MM: Because of the need for confidentiality, volunteers are not used in the schools, but their help is definitely needed in our fundraising efforts.

What kind of donations do you need/accept?

MM: Care to Learn is a fund. In other words, we are not a clothing bank or a food pantry. Our assets are liquid and can be used for a myriad of needs, as stated above. This allows us to be very flexible and serve the students quickly without the overhead of a building.

Therefore, donations of cash, checks and credit card are accepted.

We also encourage people to consider Care to Learn when they want to honor a loved one’s birthday or special event. Care to Learn can also be named in a will or trust.

When and where did your organization begin?

MM: Care to Learn started in Springfield, Missouri in 2007 and now has 13 chapters in the cities named above.

24 | Summer 2014 | From our Nest

www.fromournestmag.com

By Kelly Evans, IBCLC and Becky Cave, RN, MSN, IBCLC

c o l u m n | Breastfeeding support

8

Tips

for an optimal pumping experience Heading back to work or school and still breastfeeding?

With a little bit of planning, you can do this! Find some tips and suggestions below from Greater Ozarks Regional Breastfeeding Coalition so that you can continue to have a successful breastfeeding experience.

Talk with your school advisor or your employer about pumping or nursing on site. The Fair Labor Standards Act requires all employers to allow you to use unpaid break time for expressing your milk in a private, non-bathroom area.

1

Be thinking about where you will pump: a small closet, rarely used office, or locker room will work. Be creative!

If you don’t have a fridge available at work or school, bring a cooler with ice packs to keep your milk fresh.

2

Greater Ozarks Regional Breastfeeding Coalition Founded in January 2013, the Greater Ozarks Regional Breastfeeding Coalition is a collaborative group of lactation professionals, health workers, and interested community members dedicated to promoting, supporting, and protecting breastfeeding in our community. Representatives from Cox Health, MercySpringfield, Jordan Valley Community Health Center and the Springfield-Greene County Health Department work together to improve the health of our community by protecting, promoting and supporting breastfeeding as the normal method of infant nutrition. This is undertaken solely as a public health initiative to achieve optimal health, enhance child development and foster effective parenting. The Coalition plans to accomplish this purpose through education, outreach and advocacy.

Visit the Greater Ozarks Regional Breastfeeding Coalition at health.springfieldmo.gov www.fromournestmag.com

You will need a good breast pump to remove milk effectively. There are a number of pumps on the market. Talk to a breastfeeding professional about which one is best for you and your schedule.

Some double electrics save a lot of time!

Check with your insurance to see if pumps are included in your policy.

3

Be ready! Start pumping 1–2 weeks before returning to work or school.

Pump both breasts at the same time or pump one side while your baby nurses from the other.

When your baby is about a month old (or at least 2 weeks before returning to work or school) get your baby used to taking a bottle by letting someone else offer a bottle of your milk.

You’ll also want at least one practice run of leaving your baby with a caregiver for a few hours.

How much milk do you need to leave with your childcare provider?

• 2 – 4 ounces/bottle for a 6 week old • 4 – 6 ounces/bottle for a 3 month old • 5 – 8 ounces/bottle for a 6 month old

4

Help your child care provider understand breastfeeding. Remind them it is normal for breastmilk to separate with fat rising to the top, and caution to never warm breast milk in the microwave; instead, warm milk with hot water.

Also, nurse your baby just before leaving for school or work, and check to see if there is a place to nurse when you arrive to pick your baby up.

5

6

While you’re away from baby, be sure to pump as often as you would nurse your baby. With a double pump most moms can finish pumping in about 10 – 15 minutes.

To help you pump away from baby, bring your baby’s picture and an article of clothing (sight and smell triggers for milk let-down). While pumping, listen to music or play on your phone, but don’t do work. You need this time to take a break and relax. Stress and frustration can slow your milk production.

7

8

If you are concerned about your milk supply, double-check your pump to make sure it’s working properly. Consider taking an afternoon or day off for a “breast milk vacation” to be with baby and boost supply. If you still feel your production is down, contact a local Lactation Consultant for advice on increasing milk production.

Kelly Evans, IBCLC and Senior Peer Counselor at Springfield-Greene County Health Department WIC Becky Cave, RN, MSN, IBCLC, and Lactation Consultant in the Mercy Springfield NICU From our Nest | Summer 2014 | 25

C o l u m n | Mrs. white hearts art

By Jessica White

Printmaking with found objects Objective: Printmaking Adapted for: Ages 3 and up

One of the greatest things about creating art with children is providing them with opportunities to explore and try new things. In my elementary art room, I love to pique my students’ curiosity and even surprise them a bit. Sometimes I ditch the paintbrushes and give the children everyday objects to create art with.

I can’t help but smile when I see their confused facial expressions when I tell them we’re using paint—but not paintbrushes. Incorporating the use of found objects really helps children think outside-of-the-box. It also helps them to see how things that are usually thrown in the trash can contribute to making art.

Plus, it’s just plain FUN! This project can be altered to almost any age and any subject matter. All you have to do is collect items to dip into paint and stamp or drag onto your paper. Whenever you stamp paint onto paper, you are using a printmaking technique. We chose to create an animal, but you could make an abstract design, as well. Sometimes it’s more exciting to not have a plan and just start putting paint onto paper and see what happens!

Artist: Alexis Black Age: 9 years old Grade: Second grade Parents: Tony and Stephanie Black

Materials: (any color) * Paper Tempera or acrylic paint in any colors (we used black, white and silver) * Found objects such as: plastic lids, pieces of cardboard, Q-tips, corks, * plastic cups, marker caps

Directions:

Artist: Allison Golden Age: 8 years old Grade: Second grade Parents: Vance and Brooke Golden

1. To make an animal, begin with the animal’s body shape. I suggest using a piece of cardboard dipped in one color of paint to stamp lines to make the outside shape of your animal’s body.

2. Look at the found objects you have to work with and decide what shapes you need to use to add the rest of the details. Add eyes, ears, wings, tails, etc., to complete your animal. Don’t forget fur, hair and whiskers.

3. Consider gluing found objects onto your paper, such as buttons for eyes.

Adaptions: To make an abstract design, I suggest choosing one color of paint and one object at a time. Dip object into the paint and start stamping paint onto the paper. Then continue to switch colors and objects as you like. Overlap or connect shapes and colors to see what happens.

I hope that you enjoy this project as much as my second graders did! They created some fantastic animals and had a great time creating these prints.

Jessica White is a K–5 art teacher for the Republic R-III School District. For more art project ideas, visit her blog at www.mrswhite-hearts-art.blogspot.com.

26 | Summer 2014 | From our Nest

Artist: Abagail Dalton Age: 8 years old Grade: Second grade Parents: Michael and Rose Dalton

www.fromournestmag.com

Bef o re Are you are an

expectant mother?

Present this ad for

dents

l

dings

l

Owner / Master Technician

25% OFF

hail damage

l

After

417.569.8079

Justin Hawkins

creases

Call us today for an appointment or visit our website for more information!

(417) 889-7662

10% OFF Bring in this ad for any 3D/4D package sessions

4 730 South National Avenue | Suite C-1 | Springfield, MO www.fromournestmag.com

or toll free (866) 896-7662 www.ultrasona.com

Studies are conducted by registered OB/GYN technologists and overseen by a board-certified MD

Technologists use expert imaging to encourage developmental understanding and a commitment to prenatal health.

From our Nest | Summer 2014 | 27

Enter

To Win

S w eep s ta k e s To enter for the chance to win, “Like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ fromournestmag and then take the survey linked on our page.

A gift certificate TO Village pottery cafÉ

Visit our website www.FromOurNestMag.com

for the official

sweepstakes rules sweepstakes closes on august 31, 2014

2

Lucky Winners will be chosen to each receive gift certificates to

village pottery cafÉ first prize

second prize

Gift Certificate

Gift Certificate

$30

$20

your own

no Studio Fee plus Yummy Food Great for playdates and mom’s day/night out!* 10 percent off purchase

417.732.7272

www.villagepotterycafe.com

www.facebook.com/villagepotterycafe *Check our monthly calender of events on our website

210 North Walnut | Republic, Missouri

fo

ry

ou Pre r d se isc nt t ou his nt A ed D pu rc

ha

se