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it's all about enjoying the moments
I think we can all agree that the holiday season comes quicker and quicker each year. Two weeks after school starts, the Halloween and fall decorations have made their way onto the shelves. Then, very soon after that, Christmas decorations hit even before Halloween gets here. I’m all about getting a head start on things, but can we all agree that Halloween deserves its moment to shine?
The candy, the crafts, the decor, the costumes, the class parties and let’s not forget the fun and spooky movie nights for kids of all ages –what is there not to love? Well, there could be a lot. The creepy spiders, the scary scenes, the haunted houses, the dark corners… can be a lot for little ones (and even big kids). So, while your neighbor may be all about the skeletons, you may be all about the pumpkins. Either way, Halloween is a time for fun for all.
My middle son was born nine days before Halloween. On his first Halloween, we dressed him as a mushy little pumpkin and took him and his older brother, a mere 17-month-old,
to one house to experience the “fun” and went promptly home to change diapers. Fast forward a bit, and it was clear that, although born around the holiday, he wanted NOTHING to do with it. He was scared of all things Halloween, and it was hard to get birthday decorations when a 10-foot skeleton met us at the store door. It was then that I realized that a not-so-spooky Halloween was in our future for a while. During the season, I volunteered in his classroom, made cute little snacks and favors and even threw him a not-so-spooky halloween birthday party one year. When it came to trick-or-treating, we went with great friends, which made him feel comfortable and started new traditions of meeting at their house for pizza and photos (Thank you Wendy and David!). We only stayed out as long as he could handle, and costumes were fun, reflecting both his and his brother’s personalities.
Halloween, just like any other holiday, became one of starting new traditions, spending time with friends and allowing the kids
to be themselves all while having fun and attempting to organize the chaos of children. It was one we looked forward to, just as much as the others. Whether you are all things goblins and ghouls or you are more pumpkin patches and hayrides, Halloween is a time to have fun and enjoy the moments before they pass and another one arrives too quickly.
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Elimination Communication: Can You Potty Train Your Infant?
What to Do if Your Child is Cross-Eyed: How to Assess and Treat the Condition
YEARS
Adventures: A Fall Bucket List for Kids
51 KIDS The Next Big Thing: Birding!
52 TWEENS The Smell Test: Body Odor and Your Tween 54 TEENS Is Handwriting Still Important?
parenthacks
We all know that the hardest job you can have is being a parent! The days are definitely long and the years are astonishingly short. Some days you might feel like you’re going through the struggles alone. But, we are here to share some tips and tricks from local parents that can make being a mom or dad a little less stressful!
Tried to time it so they were hungry when we went to dinner by eating at their usual time and/ or minimizing snacks beforehand. Ordered their meal when we ordered our drinks, so it came out first preventing long wait times on food and battling being hangry.
BETSY LANGAN
My husband was the best restaurant entertainer. He always kept them busy (sometimes still does) by coloring/tic tac toe and playing “football” on the table with a folded-up napkin and goals made from sugar packets. APRIL TISHER
What crazy tactics did you use to get your kids to SIT and EAT meals when eating out at a restaurant?
Or... did you throw in the towel and never go out again?
A tube of Plus-Plus blocks, Play-Doh, dinosaurs and sticker books from the Dollar Tree all packed in their own separate minibackpacks so they felt responsible bringing in their own supplies.
KATIE OSTERHOUT
Sticker books, crayons/coloring books, researching the menu beforehand so we could order when we sat down and choosing family friendly restaurants.
STACEY HALL
Always made sure the kiddie menu had chicken fingers.
KAREN KRALOVANEC
CRAZY ABOUT Candy Corn!
BY AMELIA BOWLES
Whether you love it or hate it, there is no doubt that candy corn is a big part of the Halloween tradition. The tri-colored, corn-shaped candy is an icon of all things spooky – but it didn’t start that way. Here’s everything you need to know about candy corn and some fun ways to use it this Halloween!
forks and spoons | in
Where Did It Come From? How Is It Made?
Candy corn was invented in the late 1800s by the Wunderle Candy Company, according to National Geographic. In 1898, Goelitz Confectionary Company, now the Jelly Belly Candy Company, began to produce the candy in large quantities, marketing it as “Chicken Feed.” The candy was meant to appeal to American farmers, who at the time were a large part of the nation’s demographic. Confectionary companies also produced “candy pumpkins, turnips, chestnuts and clover leaves,” according to National Geographic.
According to HowStuffWorks, the list of candy corn ingredients is simple – sugar, water, corn syrup, fondant and marshmallow. Originally, the candy was made by adding food dyes to the sugary mixture and pouring it into corn shaped molds. Each color had to be poured by hand, a difficult and time-consuming process, according to the Smithsonian. Today, this process is done by machines, which you can see in this video from Food Network:
Brach’s, the largest producer of candy corn, sells more than just the traditional candy corn. Their newest pack – Fall Festival – comes with Kettle Corn, Caramel Apple, Cotton Candy, Lemonade Shake-Up, Strawberry Funnel Cake and Lemon-Lime Snowcone. And if that doesn't seem strange enough, previously produced flavors include Fruit Punch, Vanilla Ice Cream, Popcorn, Hot Dog and Hamburger in their Tailgate Pack and Cranberry, Green Bean, Stuffing, Roast Turkey, Apple Pie and Coffee in their Turkey Dinner Pack.
Every year, the U.S. produces
9 BILLION PIECES OF CANDY CORN, according to USA Today, and if you lined them up, they would go around the Earth almost six times!
x 6
The state that consumes the most candy corn is California, followed by Texas and Florida. The state that eats the least candy corn is Alabama, followed by Hawaii and Nebraska, according to the Food Network.
Candy Corn Activities
Then, place three small dots of icing on the top of the Oreo. Put eyes on two of the dots and another piece of candy corn on the third dot for the nose.
CORN STACKING
A great activity to do with the kiddos is stacking the candy corn in a circle, with the white sides pointing in and the yellow sides pointing out. As you stack, you’ll start to see that the candy looks like an ear of corn.
CRAFTY FLOWERS
A non-edible treat is just as fun. Use the festive corn to make crafty flowers. Get a piece of construction paper, green pipe cleaners, orange or yellow buttons, candy corn and glue. Glue the pipe cleaner and button to the paper. The button (the middle of the flower) should be right above the pipe cleaner (the stem). Then glue the candy corn pieces around the button with the white sides touching the button so that they look like petals. Hang up their artwork or give it to a friend or family member as a gift!
The Ultimate At-Home Pumpkin Spiced Latte
BY NICOLE IRVING
If you have been anxiously waiting for your favorite fall drink to make its way onto the menus of your coffee house of choice, the wait is over. They have arrived, and so have those hefty price tags. Have no fear — if you still want to get your daily fix of those amazing pumpkin flavors but would like to have a few dollars left over, we have the ultimate at home pumpkin spice latte recipe for you. This easy recipe is sure to be a favorite and one that you will want to share with friends and family this fall season!
Ingredients
• 2 cups whole milk
• 5 tablespoons organic pumpkin puree
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of pink Himalayan salt
• 1/2 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar
• Extra creamy whipped cream
OPTIONAL: 1 cup whole milk for frothing
Directions
• Combine all ingredients in a 2-quart saucepan on low heat.
• Whisk slowly together until blended. Do not overheat or boil.
• Remove from heat when hot.
• Pour into mugs.
• In a sperate mug, froth 1 cup milk with handheld frother. Add frothed milk if you choose.
• Top with whip cream, cinnamon stick and pumpkin pie spice and enjoy!
• Makes 3-4 cups.
TIP: All ingredient amounts can be changed based on taste preference.
Sip Through the Holidays
BY ASHLEIGH BRAUN
These easy-to-make slow cooker drink recipes will be sure to spice up any holiday party or cold winter day. Slow cooker drinks are the perfect solution when you’re on the go; simply toss in your ingredients, let it simmer and enjoy! Try these recipes to help stay warm and cozy no matter the weather.
HOLIDAY SPICED CIDER
• 3 1/2 cups apple cider
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 cup spiced rum
• 1/2 cup apple liqueur
• 3/4 cup orange juice concentrate
• 1 orange, zested (Save the rest for later to garnish!)
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• O teaspoon ground nutmeg
• O teaspoon ground ginger
• 2 cloves
• 1/2 cup of ground cinnamon
Combine the apple cider, water, orange juice concentrate, spiced rum and apple liqueur in a large slow cooker. Let simmer on low heat for 30 minutes. Monitor to ensure it doesn’t boil. Add nutmeg, cinnamon, lemon, ginger and orange zest. Cover and cook on low, stirring occasionally for 4 hours or until thoroughly heated.
Serve with cinnamon sticks and garnish with orange slices.
Always drink responsibly. Never drink and drive.
SPICED CARAMEL-VANILLA CHAI TEA
• 8 Tazo Vanilla Caramel Chai Tea bags
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups cream
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 1/2 cup caramel syrup
• Pinch of nutmeg
On low heat, place milk and cream in slow cooker until warm.
Add eight Tazo Vanilla Caramel Chai Tea bags. Let tea steep until the liquid has turned a light, golden-brown color.
Add caramel syrup, nutmeg and cinnamon sticks.
Cook in slow cooker on low heat for 1–2 hours. Remove cinnamon sticks before serving.
APPLE CRANBERRY SANGRIA
• 1 bottle sweet white wine
• 1 bottle red wine
• 2 cups apple cider
• 2 Honeycrisp apples, sliced into small pieces
• 2 cups cranberry juice
• 2 cups cranberries
• 1/2 cup brandy
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 1/2 cup allspice
• 1/2 cup nutmeg
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
Combine the white wine, red wine, brandy, apple cider, cranberry juice and lemon juice in a large slow cooker. Cook on low.
Add cinnamon sticks, allspice and nutmeg. Let sit and stir occasionally for 2 hours. Shortly before serving, add 1 cup of cranberries and 1 cup of apples.
Serve warm, adding the remaining cranberries and apples to the top of the drink. Garnish with cinnamon sticks.
PERFECT HOLIDAY PUNCH FOR KIDS
• 1 bottle cranberry juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 orange, zested and juiced
• 1 lemon, zested
• 2 cups apple cider
• 3 whole cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon
• Dash of nutmeg
• 1 Granny Smith apple, sliced
SWEET PEPPERMINT HOT CHOCOLATE
• 4 ounces dark chocolate, finely chopped into small pieces
• 4 ounces milk chocolate, finely chopped into small pieces
• 2 cups milk
On low heat, add cranberry juice, honey and cider to slow cooker. Stir until honey is melted through.
Add lemon zest, orange zest and juice to slow cooker. Stir to combine. Add the cloves, nutmeg, apples, cinnamon and cinnamon stick. Simmer in slow cooker for 45 minutes at medium heat. Turn heat to low to keep warm while serving.
Serve warm with whipped cream and garnish with an apple slice.
SPICED MEXICAN HOT CHOCOLATE
• 2 ounces milk chocolate, broken into tiny pieces
• 4 ounces white chocolate, broken into tiny pieces
• 2 ounces dark chocolate, broken into tiny pieces
• 4 cups half and half
• 2 cups milk
• 12-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
• 2 cups half and half
• 5 ounces marshmallow cream
• 1/2 cup peppermint flavored syrup
On low heat, place chocolate pieces in slow cooker, and stir until melted. Add milk, half and half, marshmallow cream and syrup.
Cook on low for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Serve with peppermint sticks — perfect for stirring!
Place all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 3 hours, stirring occasionally until blended well.
Serve warm in mug topped with whipped cream and a blend of white and dark chocolate shavings.
Fall Beauty: Candied Red & Caramel Glam
BY NICOLE IRVING
Navigating Type 1 Diabetes: A Family's Journey
BY NICOLE IRVING
November is National Diabetes Awareness month
World Diabetes Day is November 14
“Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic autoimmune disease. This means that it doesn’t go away. Anyone can be diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at any age, though it usually is diagnosed in childhood or adolescence.
In T1D, the body’s immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Insulin is an essential hormone that helps the body turn food into energy. People living with type 1 diabetes must take insulin by injection or insulin pump to survive.”
*SOURCE: BREAKTHROUGH T1D
According to Beyond Type 1, every year there are 64,000 people diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in the United States.
“By 2040, 2.1 million people are expected to be diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. The disease is growing at a rate of 2.9% per year, versus the population growth of 0.8% per year.”
*SOURCE: BEYOND TYPE 1
Celebrities with T1D: Nick Jonas, Brett Michaels, Vanessa Williams, Lance Bass
“Around 85% of type 1 diabetes diagnosis are in people without a known family history of the condition.”
*SOURCE: BREAKTHROUGH T1D
In May of 2018, our oldest son was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Today, he is a thriving 20-year-old in college, doing his thing and living with an incurable diagnosis. It isn’t always easy, but, with new technology, a team of amazing health care professionals and a little “helicoptering” from his mom, Tyler has come to terms with his diagnosis, and we are confident he will live a very long and amazing life.
I’ve shared our journey with T1D many times over the years. Partly because I think it has become therapeutic for me to work though his diagnosis. As his mom, I feel tremendous guilt for what he had and has to continue to go through (although I know deep down I did not cause his diagnosis). I also tell his story to explain the warning signs and share words of comfort and encouragement to other families managing T1D. It can feel like a very lonely world at times. It takes a village to raise kids, and it takes a small country when one is suffering.
Unlike type 2 diabetes where diet and exercise may reverse the diagnosis, T1D is a life-long journey of being insulin dependent. In laymen’s terms, the pancreas no longer produces insulin to break down sugars in the body. A buildup of those sugars can be deadly. Managing T1D is a 24-hour balancing
it.
A year doesn’t go by when I don’t hear of someone I know, or a celebrity, being impacted by T1D. Just recently, power couple Chrissy Teigen and John Legend shared that their son Miles had been diagnosed. No one has immunity from T1D, and that has been the hardest pill to swallow. T1D can strike anyone at any time. Tyler was days away from his 14th birthday when he was first diagnosed after we got back from a family vacation. We have no family history, there are no genetic markers and there is no current answer as to why his pancreas stopped producing insulin one day – it just did.
So, if you can’t prevent it, what is one to do? Amazing question! The best advice I share with other families, with kids of ALL ages, is to understand and watch for signs and symptoms of T1D and seek immediate help if you suspect that T1D might be cause for concern. If untreated, it can be deadly, and time is always of the essence when the body can’t break down the sugars that it is building up.
While there is no cure, there is hope that with continued advancements in technology, education and medicine, those who live with T1D will continue to have long and fruitful lives like everyone else.
According to JDRF, T1D is identified in children and adults as they show signs of the following symptoms:
Warning Signs of Type 1 Diabetes: !
If you or anyone you know is experiencing any of the above symptoms, please see your doctor right away! Without proper diagnosis and treatment, type 1 diabetes can be fatal.
act of carb counting, administering insulin and understanding the body and what you put in
Children and Febrile Seizures: A Parent's Guide to Understanding
BY TRACY WRIGHT
For parents, especially those of infants, a child contracting a fever can be scary enough. If you add a seizure to that fever, it can be downright terrifying. It’s important for parents to understand seizures that accompany fevers, known as febrile seizures. A seizure is caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. A febrile seizure can occur as a result of the fever that accompanies bacterial or viral infections, especially roseola.
While febrile seizures are rare (fewer than 200,000 cases per year according to the Mayo Clinic), parents should still be aware of this type of pediatric seizure. Although a scary experience, febrile seizures are one of the most common types of seizures in pediatric patients and develop as a result of a fever above 100.4 degrees that accompany infections. Typically, febrile seizures affect children between the ages of 6 months through 5 years with the majority of those occurring between 12-18 months of age.
“Children who are at a higher risk for having febrile seizures include those with a family history and those who have a higher temperature than typical with an illness,” said Jacqueline Michel, D.O., a pediatrician with UF Health Pediatrics. “Once a child has a febrile seizure, they are at a higher risk of having them again in the future.” Once a child is at risk, they could have different types of febrile seizures.
There are two types of febrile seizures: simple seizures and complex seizures. According to the Mayo Clinic, a simple febrile seizure lasts anywhere between a few seconds to 15 minutes and does not occur more than once in a 24-hour period. Generally with simple seizures, a child loses consciousness and experiences twitching that is not isolated to a specific
region of the body. Alternatively, a child can experience a complex seizure. Information from the Mayo Clinic classifies a complex febrile seizure as a seizure that will last more than 15 minutes and can occur multiple times in a 24-hour period. Additionally, a complex febrile seizure is limited to one side of the body.
Although febrile seizures are a frightening experience for parents, there is no significant post-seizure damage. The child will experience some grogginess and have low energy for the next day or so, but should return to their normal, healthy state within a day. Additionally, studies have shown that febrile seizures do not cause brain damage or affect intelligence. However, it is still important that parents or caretakers act immediately, Michel said.
“If a child is having a febrile seizure, it is important to seek immediate medical attention, which often means calling 911
for parents who are not used to caring for children with seizures. It is important to place them onto their side, but do not try to stop the convulsions. Do not place anything in their mouth. Be sure that someone stays with the child at all times,” Michel said.
Children who have already had febrile seizures have a 60% risk of it happening again. There is also a slight increased risk for children who have febrile seizures to develop epilepsy though there is not a high incidence. “As there are many different types of febrile seizures, parents of children who have frequent or more complicated febrile seizures should discuss with their physicians if referral to a specialist is warranted,” Michel said.
If your child is experiencing a febrile seizure, remember to stay calm through the situation and know that, while a frightening experience, you and your child will be okay and they will be back to being a fun-loving child again soon.
The Recovery Position
Move the arm closest to you in a 90 degree angle with the palm facing up adjacent to the head.
Take the opposite arm and move it across the chest, placing the palm of the hand against the cheek. Support the head as you pull the knee furthest from you across the body to turn on the person's side. Lift the chin to clear the airway. Continue to monitor breathing until medical help arrives.
GET READY FOR A
Spooktacular Halloween!
Whether your family goes all out or just dabbles in Halloween fun, there's no denying that this holiday can bring enjoyment for everyone. From selecting the perfect costume and candy bucket for trick-or-treating to cozying up with movies and popcorn, Halloween marks the beginning of months filled with family time and celebrations. We've got everything you need for a spooktacular time!
Halloween Safety First: A Guide for Parents and Kids
BY NICOLE IRVING
Halloween can cause a lot of anxiety for both parents and kiddos. Visiting strangers’ homes, speaking to strangers, walking dark streets, having kids roam on their own… danger can lurk around every corner. When you add spooky costumes, masks and lots of people, it can be overwhelming.
Your children’s safety is always top priority, but Halloween brings a whole new level of needing to be extra careful when their safety is at play. Taking a few extra steps can be the key to having a safe and fun night!
Stand Out in a Crowd!
Make sure that your kids, regardless of trickor-treating alone or with you, are visible to cars and others. Use glow sticks, reflectors and mini flashlights to keep them safe.
Buddy System
When sending them out to trick or treat, send them with a buddy. It is always safer to visit homes and a new neighborhood with a buddy.
Stay on the Path
Encourage your children to always stay on the path and sidewalk that you tell them to. Wandering in the dark or wooded areas is not safe. They may want to take a shortcut to a friend’s home, but have them stay on a known pathway.
Wait to Eat
While we never want to think the worst, there have been horrible stories of candy being compromised. It is always best to wait until you can inspect all your kiddo’s candy after collecting, especially if visiting homes and neighborhoods that you aren’t familiar with.
Giggle Tip: To encourage them to wait, give them a few pieces of candy you bought yourself before they leave to quench their sweet tooth!
Meeting Grounds
If your kids are going with friends to trick or treat without you, set up a meeting spot and time so you can check in with them. This will allow them some autonomy but also give you piece of mind they are OK with several check in points.
Track them!
Yup… track them! Even if they are trick-or-treating with you, keep the tracking service on their phones activated at all times. If they don’t have a phone or are too young for one, use tracking devices like an Apple AirTag to place into their costumes. You can never be too safe.
It Takes a Village
If your kids are going to a large neighborhood to trick or treat, connect with your friends who may live in the area to keep an eye on your kids as they pass by and give you updates. It takes a village to keep our kids safe, never feel bad about asking for a watchful eye. Repay the favor!
Don’t Pressure the Fun
If your kiddo isn’t into the Halloween hoopla, don’t pressure them to go out and about. It is OK to sit back and watch from the sidelines and take it slow. Halloween can be an overwhelming time for some, so best to let them be able to express themselves and take cues from them about how they want to celebrate.
9.
10.
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13.
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15.
16.
“Boo” your neighbors
Have candy corn!
Make roasted pumpkin seeds
Make Halloween crafts
Have a bonfire with s’mores
Watch “Hocus Pocus”
Bob for apples
Make footprint ghosts
17. Get new Halloween trick or treat buckets (page 27)
18. Make pumpkin pancakes
19. Tell ghost stories around the bonfire
20. Watch “Beetlejuice”
21. Make homemade pumpkin spice lattes (page 15)
22. Bake sugar cookies in the shapes of ghost and pumpkins
23. Decorate your house for Halloween
24. Pet a black cat
25. Add a Halloween-themed door mat to front door
26. Buy all the candy for trick-or-treaters
27. Watch “Ghostbusters”
28. Do a family and friends costume photo shoot
29. Create a Halloween playlist for car rides
30. Do a Halloween scavenger hunt
31. Go trick-or-treating!
Creepy & Creative: DIY Halloween Crafts for All Ages
Fall means it is time for family traditions, one of which can be creating fun crafts with your little ones. Included here are some fun and easy Halloween crafts that can be tailored to any age and level of parental involvement. Crafting is your chance to have fun and be creative with your little ones, so grab your supplies and have a good time.
Halloween Ghoul Hands
A delicious craft that doubles as a semi-healthy snack, you and your little ones will love making these. Bonus: they can be given out at school to balance out all of the sweet treats kids get.
Supplies
• Disposable food gloves (preferably latex free and without powder for allergies)
• Popped popcorn
• Candy corn and chocolates
• Halloween spider rings
• Ribbon or twist ties
Directions
1. Place candy corn or chocolates on bottom of fingers to make ghoul nails or fingers.
2. Cook popcorn or use already bagged popcorn to stuff gloves.
3. Tie up hands with ribbons.
4. Place spider rings on fingers.
Roll Up Mummies
This craft will require little extra supplies – just make sure you save those empty toilet paper rolls! You can make a spooky mummy or a fun mummy, it is all up to you and your kids!
Supplies:
• Toilet paper rolls
• Black paint or spray paint
• Googly eyes
• First aid gauze
• Craft glue
Directions:
1. Paint toilet paper roll black.
2. After drying, affix splotches of glue around roll.
3. Paste pieces of gauze around the roll.
4. Place googly eyes on roll to make your own mummy!
Mason Jar Halloween Friends
This craft will really light up your Halloween! This is a chance to allow your kids to be creative. There are many options that can be done with this craft like green ghoul, witch, cat or spider.
Supplies:
• 3 mason jars
• Different color paints or spray paint (white, black, orange)
• Different colored construction paper (optional)
• Halloween-colored ribbon
• Tea lights
• Craft glue
Directions:
1. Paint each mason jar a different color (white ghost, black bat and orange pumpkin).
2. Paint on creepy or funny eyes and mouths on each jar.
3. If desired, use your construction paper to make and glue different parts of the monsters to the jars (green stem for the pumpkin or wings for a bat).
4. Tie ribbon around the opening of each jar.
5. Drop a tea light into the jar.
*Crafts should always be done under the supervision of an adult.
by Tanya Consaul Photography
Photo
6 Spooky and Sweet Trick or Treat Totes
BY NICOLE IRVING
As the countdown to Halloween begins, it’s time to get those costumes, candy and accessories ready! One of the stars of the night is the trick or treat tote, and we have found the sweetest and spookiest ones for kids of all ages! Get ready for the perfect night of Halloween fun!
*Children photo by Jimmy Ho
Photography
OUR COMMUNITY GOES
BACK 2 SCHOOL
A big thank you to our Giggle readers for sharing your first day of school photos with us! Wishing you all an amazing school year ahead!
ASHLEY, PRE-K CAYMEN, KINDERGARTEN
ANSLEY, 9TH GRADE EMMA, 7TH GRADE
JAX AND SKYLER, 1ST GRADE
JESSICA, FRESHMAN
Photos submitted by local families.
IVY, 1ST GRADE
SOPHIA, 11TH GRADE
ZIVA, 3RD GRADE
SAWYER, PRE-K
OLIVIA, 11TH GRADE PAISLEY, 2ND GRADE
SANAYA, 1ST GRADE
JAMES, PRE-K
SARINA, VPK
OLIVIA, 7TH GRADE
DALTON, 7TH GRADE
BARON, 4TH GRADE
happy home | crafting with katie
CRAFTING with
Katie
Throw a Potion Party
BY KATIE OSTERHOUT
Fall is finally back! Along with the cooler weather, we finally get to enjoy the fun of Halloween. One of the favorite traditions in our household is an afternoon Potion Party. Join us in making this something your kiddos will never forget - and ask for year after year.
Photos courtesy of Katie Osterhout
What is a Potion Party Exactly?
A Halloween themed sensory play session and a spooky twist on the classic baking soda and vinegar experiment. You’ll want to create a “lab” atmosphere for your little mad scientists or witches. Setting the table is sometimes half the fun. Let them explore what you’ve laid out then mix away, creating their potions!
Containers
Grab some mason jars, plastic bottles, small ramekins, vases, bowls, plastic jars, ceramic mugs, mini buckets, wooden crates and of course squirt bottles filled with vinegar. To make your containers look extra spooky, add Halloween/potion labels. You can order potion stickers online or make your own with black paper and white chalk. Worms wart, lizard toes, bat wings, zombie brains and cobwebs are all names guaranteed to make them laugh.
Supplies
Besides the baking soda and vinegar, some ideas for “ingredients” are plastic bugs, spider rings, expired spices, dried flowers, yard clippings, bread crumbs, beans, seeds, craft moss, potpourri, small rocks, glitter or anything you find lying around.
Round 1 - Fizzy Play
In your mixing containers, add a few drops of food coloring topped with a generous scoop of baking powder. Once vinegar is added from the squirt bottles, they will discover the colors! Keep the baking soda close by so they can scoop in more. We found mini white plastic skulls and black cauldrons at the Dollar Tree that are great for the color reveal. Any type of clear container (tupperware or plastic cup) works great as well.
Round 2 - Spells
For all the larger and hardier ingredients, use a large plastic cauldron or bucket to make spell potions. An assortment of utensils offers extra fun. Some ideas: wooden spoons for stirring, measuring cups, water droppers, chopsticks or even a branch from outside.
If you have the supplies, set out lab coats, safety goggles and gloves. For the witches, bring out hats and give them a witch name for the day.
This gets wonderfully messy and memorable! Happy potions to you!
Always supervise kiddos.
We’d love to see your creative potions! Share with us and tag creative_household or post #creativehouseholdfl to show off your fun!
What Drives Your Car Insurance Rate?
BY COLE PURVIS
Some form of insurance is required for all drivers – and for good reason. The road can be a dangerous place, so any form of financial protection in the event of an accident is critical. However, many people often find themselves puzzled by the fluctuations in their insurance premiums. Understanding what drives these changes can help you manage your insurance costs more effectively and avoid any unpleasant surprises.
What Influences Our Rates?
There are several elements that tie into the total cost of your insurance rate, and some may surprise you. “Key contributing factors related to car insurance rates are the age of the driver, their driving history — including any at-fault accidents or moving violations within the last three to five years, the type or size of the vehicle, the amount of miles the vehicle is driven on an annual basis and how the vehicle is being used,” said agent Casey Hahn of Florida Farm Bureau Insurance.
As Hahn mentioned, age is a major component that impacts your premium. Younger drivers, particularly those under 25, typically face higher insurance rates because they are statistically more likely to be involved in an auto accident. According to a 2021
study from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drivers between the ages of 16 and 24, despite only making up approximately 11% of all licensed drivers, accounted for about 23% of all motor vehicle accidents. Additional research conducted by the Journal of Safety Research suggests that “teen drivers do not always realize the consequences of their actions because areas of the brain responsible for making well-grounded decisions and judgments are not fully developed until about age 25.”
Keeping Costs to a Minimum
Everyone is a fan of a good deal. While there may not be a simple trick or life hack to immediately reduce our car insurance premiums, there are some factors to keep in mind to find the best rate for you.
“Multi-vehicle discounts, multi-policy discounts, a clean driving record, a good student discount and longevity discounts by sticking with the same carrier are a handful of the ways insureds can help lower their auto insurance costs,” Hahn said.
Good student discounts, in particular, are a savvy way parents and young adults can reduce their car insurance rates. Personally, I was able to lower my premium during my time as a student by working hard and maintaining a high GPA. All that was needed was proof of my academic record — so be sure to save those transcripts!
Look to an Agent for Assistance
With the number of moving parts that affect car insurance premiums, the entire process can feel overwhelming at times. That is why it is so important to consult an insurance agent for any outstanding questions or concerns you have about your policy to make sure you find the unique plan that is best for you.
Eviction Notice: No Bats Allowed
BY COLE PURVIS
Bats are misunderstood. Despite their relatively unsettling appearance and association with all things scary, they contribute greatly to a healthy ecosystem by limiting pests, pollinating plants and dispersing seeds. However, these fascinating creatures can occasionally find their way into buildings and shelter, causing concern for homeowners. If you suspect that bats have taken up residence in your home, it's important to address the situation promptly and safely.
Signs your home may have bats
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission:
1. Noises: in your attic or walls, particularly during the evening or early morning. If you hear scratching, squeaking or fluttering sounds during these times, it could be a sign that bats are present.
2. Droppings: presence. Guano resembles mouse droppings but are often slightly larger and black and dry in appearance. Piles of it are usually found under the main entrances and exits bats use to travel in and out of a building. Keep an eye on these access points to see if you have any guano piled up.
3. Stains and Smells: vents or chimneys. Bats secrete oils and can leave dark streaks on surfaces they frequently encounter. Additionally, the smell of ammonia from accumulated guano alone can be a strong indicator of a bat problem.
4. Visual Sightings: near your home during these times, it is an indicator that they have access indoors.
Removing bats from your home
If you are trying to remove a colony of bats from your home or a building, eviction is the only legal and appropriate method. In the state of Florida, bat evictions are only permitted during a select time of the year outside of their maternity season, which ranges from April 16 to Aug. 14. The most common, efficient way of removing bats from your home is through an exclusion device, which can be purchased online or in stores. A bat exclusion device is a one-way passage that is installed over their access point to your home. This allows bats from indoors to easily exit a house but not return back through.
For any additional support or guidance throughout the process of evicting bats from your home, consult a local pest control service provider. They are equipped with the knowledge and resources to help keep your home clean while protecting our flying friends.
Making Fall Festivals
Fall festivals
As the weather begins to cool and fall decorations abound, Floridians love to get out of the house and enjoy a reprieve from the relentless heat and humidity of summer. Fall festivals provide us with family-friendly activities we can all enjoy. As you start planning your weekends full of festivals, keeping a few specific considerations in mind can help parents of children with disabilities relax and enjoy the festivities, too.
Family-Friendly for YOUR Family
Let’s face it. Not all fall festivals are familyfriendly for every family. For those of us who have children with disabilities, some fall festivals may not be accessible or may even provoke challenges. At the same time, we also have family members who want to see it all. So, what do we do?
Start by considering the needs of each family member. Family members who need assistance or accommodations with mobility, sensory issues, proximity to health equipment and more may find some activities inappropriate or inaccessible.
Family hayrides may not be appropriate for a child with significant physical needs. A haunted house may be overwhelming for a child with severe anxiety. Crowded festivals with music and lights may be overwhelming for some with sensory needs.
How Do I Know?
Learn as much as you can about the setting and activities before attending a fall festival. Are there paved pathways? When will it be the least crowded? What accessibility measures have already been put in place? Many of our community fall festivals have been around for years, so ask others about their experiences. Feel free to contact the event organizers, too. There may be accommodations available that you’re not aware of.
Plan Ahead
As your family prepares to attend the festival, plan ahead. Planning ahead helps when you encounter inevitable accessibility challenges so you can all relax and enjoy your time together. Where will you be able to park? How long will you stay? What will you do if it gets crowded or loud or
offer a unique opportunity each year for everyone to enjoy being outside, seeing arts and crafts and decorating pumpkins.
if you encounter accessibility problems? What special supplies do you need to bring with you?
The Rest of the Family
In an ideal world, everything would be accessible to everyone, and your entire family could participate in the fall festival without barriers. But we know there will be challenges, some due to accessibility and some due to individual needs, that will prevent some family members from enjoying certain aspects of a fall festival. If you have family members who enjoy hayrides, corn mazes and haunted houses that are not readily accessible to the entire family, then plan for those, too. Perhaps some family members can join one of those activities while others enjoy a tasty fall treat.
Enjoyable for All
Fall festivals offer us a unique opportunity each year to enjoy being outside, seeing arts and crafts and decorating pumpkins. As your family gears up for your annual fall favorites, plan ahead and ensure that you make fall festivals enjoyable for everyone.
Family + Fall = Fun!
BY CRYSTAL LADWIG, PH.D.
The start of a new school year brings a mix of excitement and maybe a few nerves. Even for veteran homeschoolers, the first few weeks of a new year take some settling in as we say goodbye to summer leisure and welcome new co-ops, activities, plans and curricula. Now, as we’ve settled into our new routines and look forward to cooler weather, we are blessed in this community to have so many fall family activities that bring a wealth of fun and learning for the whole family.
Fall Lessons are for Everyone!
While we typically think about teaching the seasons only to young children, there are fall activities that are appropriate for all ages and ability levels. As you begin exploring family activities this fall, consider what each family member can gain from the experience. Individualize fall family activities and events so everyone, young and old, is involved while learning.
Art Festivals
There’s nothing quite like a good fall art festival. The cool breeze (hopefully). The smells from food trucks. And, of course, the art! There are countless ways art and craft festivals can be tied into your lessons. Talk with your children about the different types of art, such as painting, photography, origami, woodworking and more. Ask vendors to share how they selected the topic and materials chosen and any interesting tips for budding artists. Examine the artwork and discuss cultural influences and historical imagery. After the festival, your children may enjoy creating their own masterpieces!
Pumpkin Patches
Visit one of the many pumpkin patches in our community. You may select one that brings back fond memories or allocates the funds to a cause or organization you support. Have fun selecting the perfect pumpkin for a jacko-lantern and unleash your family’s creativity. Learn where and how pumpkins are grown and why there are so many sizes. For young scientists and engineers, research “punkin chunkin” and encourage your children to create their own punkin chunkin devices. You may want to buy additional small pumpkins at the local patch for this one.
Encourage Inquisitiveness
Many homeschoolers have an insatiable appetite for “why.” Why do people decorate with scarecrows, pumpkins and other gourds in the fall? Why is everything orange, red and brown? Why are there corn mazes in the fall? Can we make our own maze?
Football
Living in a southern college town, we can’t let the fall go without mentioning football. For diehard fans, there’s nothing better than tailgating with friends and family and enjoying a weekend full of football in person and at home. Include your children in those preparations. They’ll learn valuable life skills in the process!
Whether you have an artist, a scientist or an athlete, our community offers a wealth of opportunities for family fun. So, take a breath, slow down and enjoy the season with your family.
Beyond Football: 6 Fun Thanksgiving Activities for Everyone
BY AMELIA BOWLES
You’ve finished Thanksgiving dinner with the family, packed the leftovers away into the fridge for later and washed the dishes you haven’t seen since last year. Now, you’re wondering what to do and sitting down to watch football isn’t really your cup of tea. Luckily, you’ve read this article and are fully equipped to have an evening full of Thanksgiving and family fun with these six activities.
Watch “A Charlie Brown
Thanksgiving”
Filled with fun, laughter and classic Charlie Brown mishaps, this holiday special will put smiles on the whole family’s faces. Settle in with blankets, cozy slippers and pumpkin spice drinks and enjoy an evening of Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the gang. “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” is available for streaming on Apple TV+ or for purchase on DVD and Blu-ray on Amazon and in stores like Walmart and Target.
Make Thanksgiving Desserts
If you haven’t already had enough pie, try making desserts or snacks with fall vibes. Enjoy the classic backyard s’mores or get creative and create a popcorn bar with different flavors and candies. Or try pumpkin and apple pie ice cream with toppings like marshmallows, chocolate syrup or caramel sauce. Get the kids involved with some hands-on helping and bake desserts like pumpkin snickerdoodles, sweet potato pie cookies with marshmallow centers, pumpkin cheesecake bars or swirl brownies with pumpkin spice Oreos.
Create
a Gratitude Jar
Have everyone at the table write down three to five things on pieces of paper or sticky notes that they are thankful for about each person. Then, place them in a jar and take turns reading them out loud, guessing who wrote what. When you’re finished, place the pieces of paper back into the jar. Next time you need a reminder of something good about yourself or someone in your family, take a few papers out of the jar and read them.
Get Some Exercise
If a Turkey Trot 5K isn’t the activity for your family, take a walk or go on a bike ride in your neighborhood or on a beautiful local trail. Play catch in the yard or have a sack race! Burn off some of the calories you just consumed from your Thanksgiving feast, spend some quality time with your kids and give them a way to get all their energy out before bed. Everyone will be sleeping well tonight!
Break Out the Board Games Board games, Thanksgivingthemed Pictionary and charades, card games, etc. are great ways to add a little fun competition and bond with your family. Games will get everyone participating and actively engaged with spending time together and having fun!
Get Out the Christmas Decorations Christmas season has finally arrived! Put on some classic Christmas tunes, get the Christmas decorations from the attic or storage closet and start decking the halls! Take some time to make some homemade decorations with your kids for a hands-on approach.
WHERE DO YOU TEACH? Jupiter High School.
WHAT GRADE/AGE DO YOU TEACH? 9-12
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A TEACHER? 23 years.
WHAT SUBJECT DO YOU TEACH? AICE Travel and Tourism
Rebecca Senecal
Mrs. Senecal is originally from Fort Lauderdale, has a degree in sports management marketing and has been teaching for 23 years. She is married and mom to Chase (23), Chad (20) and Ryan (17).
Why were you inspired to teach?
I always played teacher when I was a little girl. I loved school and, I want more students to enjoy going to school.
What is your favorite part of the school day?
The morning. Even though I get up early, I feel that sometimes when the bell rings it is hurry up and go time.
Do you have a favorite assignment/ project that you typically assign your students?
I love doing interactive activities using slides and social media boards. My favorite is when they plan their own vacation because they really own the project.
How do you wind down from a long day of teaching?
Running. I am an avid runner and run 5 miles/day. It gets my mind straight and helps me plan for the future.
What hobbies do you enjoy?
Do you know a teacher who goes above and beyond for his students? An administrator who is truly devoted to making her school a better place? Giggle Magazine wants to know!
Visit gigglemagazinejupiter.com to submit your favorite educator for a chance for him or her to be featured in one of our upcoming issues.
I like tennis and shopping. I am NOT an artist.
Share a funny teaching moment.
I had a really rowdy 7th period class one year, and I was trying to keep their attention while doing notes. I tripped over a Chromebook cord and fell flat on my face.
If you were a superhero, who would you be?
Wonder Woman… as my husband says. I have three kids and they all played different sports at different times. I needed to fly to pick them up sometimes.
What is your favorite book?
Facebook … not really. Probably "A Light in the Attic." I love stories about history and particularly WWII time. Stories of woman and heroism during WWII mostly.
If you could share 3 pieces of advice to parents about how to make school time amazing, what would it be?
1. Make your student go to school! Absences stress kids out in the long run.
2. Check grades regularly. Don’t wait until end of marking period to ask questions. You are not helicoptering by checking each week. Lots of high school parents are there in elementary and middle school and then give up in high school thinking they are independent. They are sort-of, sometimes.
3. Take your children to travel, a lot. Even if it is to local attractions. Spend time with them. In the end it will build a tight family bond. Even if they seem like they hate it and are bored.
Photo
conception2college
EXPECTING
Pregnancy Bands and Kinesiology Tape: Alleviating Back Pain in Pregnancy
INFANT | 0-1
Elimination Communication: Can You Potty Train Your Infant?
TODDLER | 2-3
What to Do if Your Child is Cross-Eyed: How to Assess and Treat the Condition EARLY YEARS | 4-5 A Fall Bucket List Just For Kids!
KIDS | 6-9 The Next Big Thing: Birding!
TWEENS | 10-13
The Smell Test: Body Odor and Your Tween
TEENS | 14-18 Is Handwriting Still Important?
{ PREGNANCY }
Pregnancy Bands and Kinesiology Tape:
Alleviating Back Pain in Pregnancy
BY AMELIA BOWLES
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), back pain is prevalent in almost 70% of pregnancies. These aches and pains can interfere with your everyday life – and can put more stress on both you and your baby. Fortunately, there are ways to relieve this back pain – including decreasing the amount of pressure put on you by your stomach with pregnancy bands and kinesiology tape.
What Are Pregnancy Bands and Kinesiology Tape?
Pregnancy bands are bands designed to “support the lower back and abdomen during pregnancy,” according to Healthline. They are worn on the lower part of the belly and can help to both compress and slightly lift your stomach to alleviate pain. Kinesiology tape is a flexible tape that is designed to assist muscles in their movement, alleviate pain and lessen swelling, according to Healthline.
Pregnancy Bands
According to Healthline, pregnancy bands have many benefits. Other than alleviating pain, they can assist in activities by providing compression (like a sports bra) and support good posture. Bands range from about $20 to $70 and can be found online and in stores like Walmart, Target and other department stores. Physical therapist and owner of Empower Womens Physical Therapy Payton Williams says, “I like to think of belts as an assistive tool to help
relieve pain and symptoms to allow you to optimize movement during pregnancy.” To avoid becoming too dependent on the band, Healthline says it should not be worn more than two to three hours at once, and abdominal strengthening exercises should be done in conjunction with using the band. Pinnacle Women’s Therapeutics also notes that babies might find the pressure uncomfortable.
Kinesiology Tape
Lady Bird Physical Therapy says that kinesiology tape can assist in pregnancy by “[reducing] short term pain and the need for pain relief, [improving] and [supporting] muscular activity of the taped muscle fibers, [improving] blood flow and lymphatic flow and [providing] some good sensory feedback and a mid-term reminder of body positioning.” It is also a relatively inexpensive option. Pinnacle Women’s Therapeutics mentions some things to watch out for, including skin sensitivities to the adhesive on the tape and many stores carrying only eight-inch strips, which are often not long enough for pregnancy taping. Williams also suggests asking someone to help tape your back instead of taping your belly to help increase movement and alleviate some pain.
How to Kinesiology Tape Your Pregnant Belly
Lady Bird Physical Therapy provides these four steps for taping your belly:
1. Lay on your back and press the small of your back against the floor, tucking your tailbone under your hips.
2. Place a strip under your belly, making sure that this strip does not have any tension. It is meant simply to anchor the other strips and provide additional support.
3. Measure two pieces of tape that are slightly shorter than the distance from the anchor strip to your rib cage, and another two from the anchor strip to the side of your rib cage. Round the corners at the top so it will be less likely to peel off on its own.
4. Place each strip an inch to the left or right of the center of the anchor strip and stretch the tape so it is stretched about 50%, sticking it to your belly as you go. Do the same with the diagonal strips, stretching them about 50%.
How to Prevent Back Pain
While pregnancy bands and kinesiology tape are great ways to alleviate pain, there are also ways that you can help to prevent it in the first place. Mayo Clinic suggests keeping good posture, wearing comfortable and supportive shoes, lifting things with proper form, sleeping on your side, staying active and trying therapies like visiting a chiropractor or acupuncturist may help with pain. Pelvic PT can also be a great way to help prevent back pain as “addressing the root cause is the best course of treatment,” according to Williams. Karen West, owner of West Health Spa, recommends a wholistic approach to your pregnancy journey. Eating a variety of colorful foods provide you with lots of phytonutrients that “are natural anti-inflammatories for the body.” Reducing stress, getting good sleep on a consistent routine, and making time for some regular exercise such as walking can also help you feel more comfortable during your pregnancy, says West.
Elimination Communication: Can You Potty Train Your Infant?
BY TRACY WRIGHT
All parents deal with potty training their children, with the average age of training in the U.S. being between 2 and 3 years old, according to HealthyChildren.org. But many societies around the world embrace infant toilet training, also known as elimination communication (EC), and it has spiked in popularity in the U.S. as well.
“Elimination communication, also referred to as baby-led potty training, involves using timing, signals, cues and intuition to know when your baby needs to ‘eliminate waste,’” according to BabySparks.com. “Instead of wearing diapers, babies are held over the potty when it’s time to go. While this diaper-free approach may seem unconventional, it actually has a long history of success.”
The history of potty training in the U.S. varies widely. According to PottyGenius.com, by the late 1950s, more than 90% of children were potty trained by 18 months of age. “[Today], the average age [that] toilet training begins in the United States is between 2 and 3 years of age. Most children in the [U.S.] are bowel and bladder trained by 4 years of age,” said HealthyChildren.org.
Experts believe that age has risen because of the rise of popularity of disposable diapers, which keep little ones dry and don’t
motivate them to want to use the toilet. Other factors include convenience and a parent-centered approach to training giving way to a child-centered approach to training (waiting until a child is “ready” to train).
EC attempts to push this age way back. “When babies need to urinate or defecate, their parents hold them, bare-bottomed, over a preferred target [usually a toilet or potty seat]. The parents signal the babies to proceed, and the babies respond,” according to ParentingScience.com.
BabySparks.com reports that parents using EC are instructed to use methods like:
• Timing - what are your child’s peeing and pooping rhythms?
• Signals - this may involve facial cues or body language
• Cueing - parents should communicate “a cue with their baby, such as a whistle or a humming sound, while they’re relieving themselves. This is meant to help babies eventually connect the cue with an appropriate time to go potty.”
• Intuition - no one knows your baby better than you do! By using EC, you can use your instinct to guide you when it’s time for your infant to go.
Some of the benefits of EC are saving money on diapers, whether cloth or disposable; eliminating the impact of diapers on the environment; preventing diaper rashes and the risk of urinary tract infections; and helping make your life more predictable without having to run to do diaper changes.
Cons of EC can include it being extremely time consuming and requiring someone to stay at home full-time with your child. Unless you have an in-home caretaker who is committed to practicing EC, most parents who work away from home will find EC difficult to maintain. Critics also believe that EC is not suitable for children who aren’t developmentally ready to potty train, according to Tinyhood.com.
The site says, “In order to be independent in toileting and bowel and bladder control, children must be able to have good sphincter control, maintain upright sitting on a potty or toilet on their own and understand the association between urge sensation and being able to independently act on it.”
One thing to note is that even if you and your infant are successful at practicing EC, they are not truly potty trained in the traditional sense because “young babies can’t walk, wipe or dress themselves. So, they aren’t ‘trained’ in the sense of being capable of taking independent trips to the toilet,” according to ParentingScience.com.
Like any parenting method, each family and child are different, so EC may or may not be right for you. Consult your pediatrician to discuss different types of potty-training methods and what fits with your family and home life.
{ 2-3 YEARS}
What to Do if Your Child is Cross-Eyed: How to Assess and Treat the Condition
BY TRACY WRIGHT
Between the ages of 1 and 4, some children may develop crossed eyes, or what is clinically known as strabismus. According to Boston Children’s Hospital, about 2% to 4% of children in the U.S. are afflicted with the condition.
Strabismus occurs when the eyes don’t line up properly and can point in different directions. Most children are diagnosed in those three years, and it’s rare that it occurs after 6 years old, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
“When eyes don't line up together, the straight or straighter eye becomes dominant,” according to Nemours KidsHealth. “The vision strength of this eye stays normal because the eye and its connection to the brain are working as they should. The misaligned or weaker eye, though, doesn't focus as it should and its connection to the brain doesn't form correctly.”
NEMOURS REPORTS THAT THERE ARE FOUR TYPES OF STRABISMUS:
• Inward (called esotropia or "cross-eyed")
• Outward (exotropia)
• Up (hypertropia)
• Down (hypotropia)
Causes of strabismus include nearsighted or farsighted vision, premature birth, neurological disorders and Down syndrome, or it may occur for no reason at all, said the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
Strabismus can be obvious in a child or sometimes not at all. Nemours reports that “most kids with strabismus don't complain of eye problems or notice changes in their vision. Usually, it's a family member, teacher, or health care provider who notices that the eyes are not straight. [Vision problems caused by strabismus] can affect reading skills and classroom learning. Younger kids who aren't talking yet may squint a lot and turn or tilt their heads in an attempt to see more clearly.”
A simple eye exam by a pediatrician can assess whether a child is suffering from strabismus, and they may order a full exam from a pediatric ophthalmologist.
TREATMENT FOR STRABISMUS VARIES WITH EACH PATIENT AND CAN INCLUDE:
• Eyeglasses: These can be used in some cases of strabismus especially “if a child's vision is blurry due to nearsightedness or farsightedness [where] they may have to strain to see clearly,” according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
• Patching or eye drops: Patching the stronger eye can help to improve the child’s weaker eye. “Getting a baby or toddler to accept wearing an eye patch can be a challenge. But most kids get used to the patch. Wearing it becomes part of their daily routine, like getting dressed in the morning,” according to Nemours. If the patch is not tolerated, eye drops can mimic this action. Nemours reports that drops “temporarily blur out vision in that eye. This makes the weaker eye work harder so that eye muscles and vision get stronger.”
• Surgery: When strabismus doesn’t respond to the above treatments, the child may be suffering from a severe form of the condition where surgery is needed. “Eye muscle surgery is typically needed to straighten the eyes and prevent vision loss when other interventions don't work,” according to Boston Children’s Hospital. “The surgery involves detaching the muscle or muscles that is causing misalignment and reattaching it or them to a new spot.”
Parents should always consult their pediatrician who can refer them to the correct specialists that can help children who may be suffering from strabismus.
“Strabismus usually can be fixed when found and treated early,” according to Nemours. “If it's not treated, the brain eventually will ignore the visual images of the weaker eye. This change — called amblyopia, or ‘lazy eye’ — can make vision blurry, cause double vision and harm a child's depth perception. These problems can become permanent if they're not treated.”
4-6 YEARS
Autumn Adventures: A Fall Bucket List
for Kids
BY NICOLE IRVING | ILLUSTRATIONS BY ANIBAL RODRIGUEZ
the weather cooling down and the leaves changing color, it is the perfect time to round up the kiddos and have them do their very own fall bucket list. This list combines fun, learning and new experiences to embrace the fall season!
{ 7-9 YEARS }
The Next Big Thing: Birding!
BY NICOLE IRVING
Does your kiddo have a love of all things nature? If they do, this is the perfect age to introduce them to the world of birding. What is birding? Birding is observing birds in their natural habitat and actively pursuing witnessing them, recording how many you see and having a love of the pursuit! While you are trying to find them and see them, you are not hunting them. Birding does not involve touching, harming or capturing the birds. This is a great family activity or activity to encourage them to do on their own in the backyard and in the community.
What you need for beginning birding:
• Binoculars
• Notebook for recording
• Bird species book (area specific or all encompassing)
Birding made simple:
Spend time outside and keep a lookout for birds. Use binoculars to get up close with them. It’s that simple. Record the species of birds you find on your list and see the list grow.
What is not birding:
For a true birder, capturing a bird in a zoo or sanctuary would not count. It must be in their natural environment. But, if you visit a zoo and see a non-zoo bird resident perched on the grounds, that DOES count. To get them started learning about the different species of birds, a zoo like the Palm Beach Zoo is a perfect place to start understanding the bids and begin recognizing them.
Hot Spots:
Northern Palm Beach County is the home to a plethora of birds, so it is a wonderful place to begin their new calling as birders!
• Your own backyard
• Dubois Park
• John D. MacArthur Beach State Park
• Riverbend Park
• Frenchman’s Forest Natural Area
According to Floridabirdingtrail.com there are over 500 native bird species or naturally occurring strays that have been recorded in Florida.
MORE RESOURCES:
Audubon.org
Ontarionature.org
Birdwatchingdaily.com
Some birding tips:
1. Never touch the birds. They are wild and they can harm you, just as much as you can harm them.
2. You will never want to touch or get close to a bird nest!
3. Be very still and quiet. Birds startle easily!
4. You will want to look on the ground, as much as you do in the trees and air! Birds are everywhere!
5. Keep an eye out when you travel. There are different birds all over the state!
MILK CARTON BIRD FEEDER
Hang a bird feeder in your yard to attract neighborhood birds!
MATERIALS:
• Paper milk carton
• Marker
• Box cutter
• Popsicle sticks
• Birdseed
• String
• Acrylic craft paint lead-free and non-toxic
DIRECTIONS:
Head to gigglemagazinejupiter.com to get the directions for the fun craft!
The Smell Test: Body Odor and Your Tween
BY TRACY WRIGHT
As our children transition into “tweenhood,” we notice a variety of changes due to the influx of hormones, including mood changes, body development, hair growth and, of course, body odor. Girls typically begin puberty between the ages of 8 and 13, and boys start when they are between 9 and 14 years old. Puberty causes an increase in new hormones, which can incite the tween’s sweat glands. Sweat alone does not cause body odor — it is the bacteria breaking down the oily sweat found under the arms and in other areas that produce body odor.
The new puberty hormones also cause teen sweat to contain different chemicals that are not present during childhood. These new chemicals produce stronger odors when they are broken down. This may explain the “youth locker room effect,” or why body odor is so much more intense at the beginning of puberty and can become less pungent as teens’ bodies adjust to body changes.
Even if a child hasn’t begun puberty, they may still emit body odor due to excessive sweating. For parents, talking about body odor is never an easy conversation to have with your child. A good approach is to explain to your child that as we grow older and more independent, there are hygiene habits that need to be followed regularly. Help to create a routine for your child so that they can effectively battle body odor.
According to Nemours Clinic, some key habits that should be followed include:
Make sure your child is bathing daily. While younger { 10-12 YEARS }
children can go a day or two without a shower or bath, tweens will build up body odor and often not realize it while friends and classmates will inevitably notice. If your child is involved in activities like sports, dance or gymnastics, or sweats excessively, another shower might be in order.
Emphasize how important it is for the child to clean from head to toe, including under the arms, in the groin or pelvic area, and the feet. Take your child shopping to pick out soaps, shampoos and other products they may want.
Ensure that your child is wearing clean underwear, socks and clothes every day. Running from one class to another and sweating during daily activities (especially in warmer climates) means bacteria can stick to their clothes and cause odor.
Watch your child's diet to see if something they eat, such as garlic, onions or spicy food, may be causing or contributing to their body odor.
LET'S TALK DEODORANT
While all of these are recommended healthy hygiene habits, it may be that your tween may still need some form of deodorant to ensure daily body odor is kept at bay. There are different kinds of products available. Deodorants cover up the odor of sweat and bacteria, and antiperspirants actually stop or dry up perspiration. Products aimed at kids and teens work the same way as adult versions, but may have packaging or smells that may be appealing to tweens.
It is important for parents to understand the ingredients in some of these products before purchasing:
• Antiperspirants typically contain ingredients like aluminum chloride or aluminum zirconium to help stop sweat. Antiperspirants and some deodorants may also contain ingredients like phthalates (ingredients that help products stick to your skin) and parabens (preservatives) in deodorant which may interfere with hormones.
• If you prefer that your child has a product free of aluminum and preservatives, there are many high-quality natural deodorants sold in drugstores, online or at health food stores. Popular brands include Tom’s of Maine, Native, Jason and Fresh Kidz deodorants. You may need to try several types of products to see what works best for your child.
If your child’s odor doesn’t improve or worsens despite using an antiperspirant, a deodorant and improving hygiene habits, visit their doctor. Children may have conditions that cause excess perspiration. Your doctor may suggest running tests to confirm other problems like an infection, diabetes or an overactive thyroid.
{ 14-18 YEARS }
Is Handwriting Still Important?
BY CRYSTAL LADWIG, PH.D.
When was the last time you wrote a letter to someone? Some may answer, “never,” while others begin to reflect on days long ago. Our reliance on phones, tablets and computers fundamentally changed how we communicate with others. Yet many argue that there is still a place for good, old-fashioned handwriting.
Increased Learning
As computers became smaller and portable, teachers in middle and high schools and colleges noticed that students were taking notes on their laptops. Research into this practice is not favorable. When students type their notes during discussions, they tend to hear and type while not really attempting to digest the information. The result is a long document summarizing everything teachers say rather than primarily important or salient points. When students study those notes, they often struggle to remember and understand essential elements, or they’re hard to find within the lengthy document.
On the other hand, physically writing notes has been shown to increase learning and memory. Most people can’t write as fast as they hear. So, we tend to paraphrase larger amounts of information into smaller amounts that make sense to us. There’s also something critical about the physical act of writing notes. It forces us to listen, process and physically reproduce content, increasing learning, understanding and retention. Handwritten notes are also easier to use when studying because only the most critical points are included, and they’re already provided in a way that makes sense to the student. Legible and fluent handwriting provides the foundation for this type of notetaking and learning.
Personal and Practical
While technology provides a quick and relatively easy way to communicate, it is not always available or the best approach. Whether you’re writing a thank you note, a birthday wish or a sympathy card, the personal nature of a written message still holds value. At other times, handwriting may be required. Consider the forms we complete at a doctor’s office or how often we sign our names.
What Schools Teach
Florida schools are required to teach handwriting and cursive in elementary grades. First and second graders learn to print letters legibly, while third through fifth graders learn fluent and legible cursive writing. By the time students enter middle school, they are expected to write in both print and cursive as needed. However, outside of notetaking, most assignments allow students to use and submit work that has been typed. In fact, in high school, many teachers require students to submit assignments electronically.
The outcome is mixed. Technology has the potential to help students become better writers, communicate their thoughts and ideas more clearly and make it easier for teachers to provide feedback and grades to students. But it also limits the continued practice and use of those handwriting and cursive skills learned in earlier grades.
How You Can Help
Handwriting is still essential. However, it has become a challenge to maintain those skills as teens mature. Encourage your teen to continue writing. Have them complete forms independently. Give them blank cards to write to grandparents for holidays. Remind them to sign their name anytime it’s appropriate. Consider giving them a journal so they can take advantage of the mental processing that occurs when they physically write. Finally, let them see you writing and write messages to them. They’ll likely think it’s corny, but years from now, those notes will become cherished memories for you both.
Enjoy a bite to eat from some of the best food trucks in South Florida while listening to live music. Don’t forget to bring your folding chairs and blankets!
This event repeats the second Friday of each month.
Sea Turtles of the Palm Beaches
Documentary at LMC
Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. | Sundays at 2:30 p.m. Loggerhead Marinelife Center marinelife.org
Learn about the work Loggerhead Marinelife Center does to protect sea turtles and the ocean’s ecosystems with a 30-minute documentary, “Sea Turtles of the Palm Beaches.”
This event repeats every Saturday and Sunday.
Public Self-Guided Beach Cleanup with LMC
8:30 - 11:30 a.m. | Loggerhead Marinelife Center marinelife.org
Join Loggerhead Marinelife Center (LMC) for its weekly Public Self-Guided Beach Cleanup! Help keep the sand and ocean clean. LMC provides all necessary cleanup materials. This event repeats every Saturday.
West Palm Beach GreenMarket
9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Downtown West Palm Beach Waterfront Commons wpb.org
Named the “Best Farmers Market” in the U.S. by USA TODAY, the West Palm Beach GreenMarket will have 130+ vendors with fresh produce, teas, flowers, plants, homemade specialty items, desserts and more.
This event repeats every Saturday.
Food as Medicine with the American Heart Association
Learn how to make a nutritious grocery list, how to make your meals healthier and the benefits of a heart-healthy diet from Heidi Reever, a nutrition education expert.
This event repeats the second Saturday of each month.
Shop for local produce, artisanal crafts and homemade treats while enjoying live music and being outdoors on the farm.
This event repeats the second Saturday of each month.
Friends of Jupiter Beach Cleanup
8 -10 a.m. | Ocean Cay Park friendsofjupiterbeach.org
Help clean 2.5 miles of beach from the Juno Beach Pier to the southern edge of Carlin Park. Enjoy breakfast, drinks, friends and free prizes after! This event repeats monthly.
Family Friendly Yoga with the American Heart Association
Enjoy outdoor yoga with your friends and family! Yoga mats, water and snacks will be provided. This event repeats the fourth Saturday of each month.
Golf Cart Night in Downtown Abacoa
6 p.m. | Downtown Abacoa | abacoa.com/events
Gather your family and friends, hop on your golf cart and spend the night cruising around downtown with the community. This event repeats the first Friday of each month.
THROUGH THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31
Bedner’s Fall Festival 2024
All day | Bedner's Farm Fresh Market visitfloridafarms.org
Enjoy a pumpkin patch, corn maze, sunflower field, butterfly and ladybug park, tractor rides, food trucks, homemade ice cream and more! Open daily.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2
Rosh Hashanah Begins
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3
Clematis by Night | DeLeon Oktoberfest Band (Bavarian Heritage Music)
7 - 9 p.m.
Downtown West Palm Beach Waterfront Commons wpb.org
Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy live music by the DeLeon Oktoberfest Band at this Clematis by Night.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4
Rosh Hashanah Ends
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4
Swiftie Night
6:30 - 10 p.m. | Gardens Park | pbgfl.com
Calling all Swifties! Celebrate the music and magic of Taylor Swift by making friendship bracelets, singing along to songs and watching some of her most iconic performances.
Kick off fall with a weekend full of craft vendors, live music by tribute bands, food, a corn maze, a petting zoo and costume and pumpkin carving contests!
At the Palm Beach Expos 6th annual Boo Bash, enjoy a silent auction, entertainment, costume contests, games, boo bags and more! All proceeds will go toward Chasin a Dream Foundation.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6
Gardens GreenMarket 23rd
Season Kickoff Celebration
8 a.m. - 1 p.m. | City Hall Municipal Campus pbgfl.com/greenmarket
Get ready for food, live music by Phil Axelband & Friends, vendors, a giveaway and more at the opening of the Gardens GreenMarket opening for its 23rd season!
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10
Clematis by Night Slip and the Spinouts (Rockabilly & Rock ‘N’ Roll)
7 - 9 p.m.
Downtown West Palm Beach Waterfront Commons wpb.org
Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy live music by Slip and the Spinouts at this Clematis by Night.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11
Palm City Presbyterian Church Fall Festival
5:30 - 8 p.m.
Palm City Presbyterian Church palmcitypres.org
Enjoy food, trunk-or-treat, games and more at the Palm City Presbyterian Church!
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11
Screen on the Green Encanto (PG)
7 - 9 p.m.
Downtown West Palm Beach Waterfront Commons wpb.org
Watch a free screening of “Encanto” at this month’s Screen on the Green! Don’t forget to bring your blankets and lawn chairs.
SUNSET ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11 - NIGHTFALL ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12 Yom Kippur
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12
West Palm Beach GreenMarket
Master Chef Showcase
9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Downtown West Palm Beach Waterfront Commons wpb.org
Held during the weekly GreenMarket, this bracket-style competition will feature two chefs going head-to-head to advance to the next round of the showcase.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12 - SUNDAY, OCTOBER 13
Buckler’s 34th Annual Fall Craft Fair
10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Expo Center at the South Florida Fairgrounds southfloridafair.com
Shop for handmade goods! Vendors will be selling items including treats, custom decor, jewelry, wood carvings, candles, soaps, art and more.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 14
Indigenous Peoples’ Day
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 17
Clematis by Night
56 Ace (Modern Country Rock)
7 - 9 p.m.
Downtown West Palm Beach Waterfront Commons wpb.org
Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy live music by 56 Ace at this Clematis by Night.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 18
Spooktacular Night At The Park
6 - 9 p.m.
Stuart Memorial Park treasurecoastmom.com
This event will have a trick-or-treat trail, a haunted house, a movie in the park, games, food trucks and more.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 18
Halloween Spooktacular
5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Jupiter Community Center jupiter.fl.us
Celebrate Halloween and enjoy trick-or-treating, a live DJ, carnival games, crafts, character visits, food trucks and more!
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19
PumpkinFest 2024
11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Harbourside Place chasinadream.org
The 8th annual PumpkinFest will have live music, trick-or-treating, a haunted house, a photo booth, a pumpkin patch, over 50 local vendors and more!
Manatee Lagoon is offering a sensoryfriendly atmosphere for guests by adjusting the lighting and sound levels and providing sensory-friendly kits with activities tailored to individual needs.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19
Annual HallowMarine Celebration
10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Loggerhead Marinelife Center marinelife.org
Wear your Halloween costumes and enjoy a day full of sustainable trick-or-treating, interactive discovery shows, scavenger hunts, visits with sea turtle patients and more! You can also participate in the "Unwrap the Waves" monthlong candy wrapper recycling program.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19
Annual Pumpkin Patch Arts and Crafts Festival
9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
JupiterFIRST Church jupiterfirst.org
JupiterFIRST Church is hosting its 4th Annual Pumpkin Patch Arts & Crafts Festival! There will be artists and crafters, a bounce house, pumpkins, face painting, a bake sale and more.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19
COX Science Center Fall
Family Fun Fest
10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
COX Science Center coxsciencecenter.org
At the annual Fall Family Fun Fest, there will be a petting zoo, live entertainment, fallthemed crafts, vendors, the Dinosaur Safari exhibit and more.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 20
Sunday on the Waterfront
The Bridget Kelly Band (Blues)
4 - 7 p.m.
Downtown West Palm Beach Meyer Amphitheatre wpb.org
Enjoy live music by The Bridget Kelly Band at this month’s Sunday on the Waterfront! Bring your blankets and lawn chairs.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24
Clematis by Fright
Nerd Ranger (’80s Cover Band)
7 - 9 p.m.
Downtown West Palm Beach Waterfront Commons wpb.org
This frightful twist on the weekly Clematis by Night series will have “Trick-or-Truck,” with first responders and public works vehicles, hayrides, games, face painting, a costume raffle with prizes and live music by the ’80s cover band Nerd Ranger.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26
Palm Beach Gardens
Annual Fall Festival
4 - 8 p.m.
The Gardens North County District Park pbgfl.com
This safari-themed Halloween event will have live shows, food vendors, "Jungle Gym" inflatables and a Party Animals dance party! Wear your costumes and bring your trick-or-treating bags.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26
Annual Trunk or Treat
Halloween Party
Noon - 5 p.m.
Jupiter Light Lodge jupiterlightlodge.com
Kids can go trunk-or-treating and enjoy bounce houses, games with prizes, balloon animals, food and more!
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26
Halloween Skate and Scooter Contest
2 p.m.
Jupiter Skate Park jupiter.fl.us
Wear your costumes and participate in Jupiter’s skate and scooter contests! The top three winners of each age division and the costume contest winner will receive prizes. Registration is $10 onsite at the Skate Park prior to the event. No masks allowed, and helmets are required.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26
Pumpkin Stroll and Moonlight Concert
6 - 9 p.m.
John D. MacArthur Beach State Park facebook.com/events
Take a stroll on the MacArthur Beach Boardwalk with Jack-o-lanterns created by the community lighting your path! There will be activities with the education team, live music, star and moon gazing and more. Wear comfortable shoes. Carved pumpkin contributions can be dropped off between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 27
Feathers, Fangs, Fur & Fun: Halloween at Busch Wildlife Sanctuary
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Busch Wildlife Sanctuary facebook.com/events
Go trick-or-treating along our nature trails and join the sanctuary for special education programs including Spooky Tiny Tales Story Time, Creepy Conservation Conversation and more.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 31
Clematis by Night
KillBillies (Folk & Root)
7 - 9 p.m.
Downtown West Palm Beach Waterfront Commons wpb.org
Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy live music by the KillBillies at this Clematis by Night.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1 -
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2
Jupiter Golden Jubilee Times vary 48 Ocean Blvd jupitergoldenjubilee.com
This event, benefitting the Golden Retriever rescue of Mid Florida, aims to raise awareness about the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study, a comprehensive canine health study. It is a weekend full of surf, sun and fun and includes a catered picnic, raffles and prizes.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2
Arts and Crafts Fall Festival
9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Village Community Center village-npb.org
Shop for a variety of holiday gifts, decorations and works of art from nearly 100 vendors! All items are handcrafted
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7
Clematis by Night Roots Shakedown (Rock, Roots & Reggae)
7 - 9 p.m.
Downtown West Palm Beach Waterfront Commons wpb.org
Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy live music by Roots Shakedown at this Clematis by Night.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8
Screen on the Green Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (PG)
7 - 9 p.m.
Downtown West Palm Beach Waterfront Commons wpb.org
Watch a free screening of “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” at this month’s Screen on the Green! Don’t forget to bring your blankets and lawn chairs.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9
West Palm Beach
GreenMarket Master Chef Showcase
9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Downtown West Palm Beach Waterfront Commons wpb.org
Held during the weekly GreenMarket, this bracket-style competition will feature two chefs going head-to-head to advance to the next round of the showcase.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9
12th Annual Boca Raton Wine & Food Festival – A Culinary Affair!
6 - 10 p.m.
Sanborn Square Park bocaratonwineandfoodfestival.com
At this annual event, hosted by the Children's Giving Foundation's South Florida, you can enjoy a day of culinary adventures with the Grand Tasting featuring top chefs, the 8th Annual Craft Brew Battle, fine dining and more.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11
Veteran’s Day
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14 Clematis by Night Cover to Cover (Rock)
7 - 9 p.m.
Downtown West Palm Beach Waterfront Commons wpb.org
Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy live music by Cover to Cover at this Clematis by Night.
Manatee Lagoon is offering a sensoryfriendly atmosphere for guests by adjusting the lighting and sound levels and providing sensory-friendly kits with activities tailored to individual needs.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16
Manatee Season Kickoff
11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Manatee Lagoon visitmanateelagoon.com
At this event, celebrate the start of manatee season by raising awareness and learning how to help protect these gentle sea creatures.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16
Campfire for Girls
7 - 10 p.m.
River Center allevents.in
Girls of all ages can participate in Girl Scout traditions, sing songs together, make s'mores and celebrate sisterhood while honoring the women and girls who change the world. You do not have to be a Girl Scout to participate in this event.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17
Sunday on the Waterfront
On the Roxx (Pop & Rock)
4 - 7 p.m.
Downtown West Palm Beach Meyer Amphitheatre wpb.org
Enjoy live music by On the Roxx at this month’s Sunday on the Waterfront! Bring your blankets and lawn chairs.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21
Clematis by Night
Terry Hanck (Blues & R&B)
7 - 9 p.m.
Downtown West Palm Beach Waterfront Commons wpb.org
Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy live music by Terry Hanck at this Clematis by Night.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23
Sculpting of Sandi the Holiday Sand Tree
9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Downtown West Palm Beach Waterfront Commons wpb.org
Watch the sculpting team of Sandi, the world’s only 700-ton holiday sand tree, prepare her for her big lighting debut.
