Giggle Magazine April/May 2022 by Irving Publications, LLC

ALACHUA

COUNTY’S

PREMIER

PARENTING

MAGAZINE

2022

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

APRIL/MAY 2022 Volume 14 • Issue 2 gigglemagazine.com

baby The

issue

NEWBORN SCREENINGS:

WHAT THEY ARE AND WHAT THEY REALLY MEAN THIS YEAR'S

HOTTEST NURSERY TRENDS BABY GEAR

PREMIUM BABY PRODUCTS THAT KEEP BABIES AND PARENTS HAPPY!

CRAFTING WITH KATIE: Hopping into Springtime with Easter Activities

DELICIOUS BRUNCH RECIPES for Mother's Day

PLAYING DRESS-UP: Why it’s Important for Your Child’s Development

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publisher's letter

oh baby... I have shared many times within the pages of Giggle Magazine over the years about how much I loved being pregnant with my three sons and how much I adore babies. Babies are my JAM! Give me a crying baby and I transform into the swaddle queen who can rock and shush a baby to sleep in moments! For years I was overcome with sadness and grief about the fact that my childbearing years were over and that there would be no more bottles, binkies or blankets floating around the house. But alas a new chapter has opened to allow me to quench that baby fix I have been yearning for! Meet Auntie Nickie! Yes, I am the doting aunt to two gorgeous nephews and more babies are on the way. I even claim some second cousins, my godchildren and best friends' offspring as my own. I am easily persuaded to change diapers, bottle feed, rock and bathe any baby that comes within 10 feet of me. Who can resist that newborn baby smell, the tiny toes and fingers, the cooing, and the sweet cries? And now that I am on the other side, with three teen sons, I am also able to witness the

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beauty of their growing relationship with their baby cousins and extended family. They exhibit the same loving and compassionate nature I have, and the whimsical and free playing spirit Shane has. They cuddle, feed and entertain babies with such sweetness it makes my heart skip a beat. To witness those relationships grow has been a wonderful gift, even though the babies aren’t ours to keep. And, if you are reading this and about to welcome your own little bundle into the world soon … Auntie Nickie is here with some words of calming advice (although I am sure you are overloaded already).

the moments, with you in them. Take care of YOU, you are important, and above all, savor every moment of this time. “The days are long, but the years are short.” Take it from someone who knows all too well. Oh, and if you ever need a baby swaddler, bottle feeder, diaper changer or someone to hold that baby … well, you know where to find me!

Enjoy this time. No matter how overwhelming it seems. Welcoming a new baby into your world is a beautiful, daunting, scary, emotional and lifechanging blessing. Every baby, and birth, is different and will never go as planned. Welcome the crazy. Ask for help and support. Trust in your instincts, they are usually correct. Self-advocate for you and your baby, unapologetically. Surround yourself with love and people who you can talk to. You will make mistakes, and it will be OK. Capture

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

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Nicole Irving, Publisher nbirving@irvingpublications.com

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APRIL MAY 2022

™ happy family• happy community

conception 2 college™ EXPECTING

On Bed Rest? Make the Most of It During Your Pregnancy

INFANT

Is This Normal? The Sticky Substance In Your Baby's Diaper TODDLER

One Step Back: Why Toddlers Regress When a New Baby Arrives EARLY YEARS

13 parents' corner 13 #BOSSMOM Misha Blazs 16 #PARENTHACKS How to Kick-Start Labor

forks & spoons 21 DELISH Yummy Mother’s Day Brunch Menu

26 GET HEALTHY Newborn Screenings: What They Are and What They Really Mean

fe a tu res

giggle stamp 36 Premium Baby Products That Keep Babies and Parents Happy!

happy home 38 2 CENTS Family Financial Planning Starts Now 40 HANDY AT HOME Baby Safety: How to Make Your Home a Safe Zone

Rub-a-dub-dub: Alone in the Tub

learn 46 HOMESCHOOL CORNER How Can I Homeschool With a New Baby at Home?

Is Discord a Healthy Hangout or a Dangerous Decision? TEENS

18 for 18 Challenge: Delaying Social Media Use

48 FAMILY LEARNING Get Ready for Baby: How Family Learning Classes Can Help

ALACHUA

50 FEATURED TEACHER Melissa Armstrong 52 YOUR SCHOOLS Meet Jeevan: Our 2022 Spelling Bee Champion

COUNTY’S

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SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

APRIL/MAY 2022 Volume 14 • Issue 2 gigglemagazine.com

baby The

issue

NEWBORN SCREENINGS:

WHAT THEY ARE AND WHAT THEY REALLY MEAN

special needs 66 Adapting to Life-Changing News With Grace

43 CRAFTING WITH KATIE Hopping into Springtime With Easter Activities

happy community 86 CALENDAR April/May 2022

Surviving My Miscarriage: A Mother's Tale One local mother shares her story of surviving a miscarriage and the unexpected toll it took on her.

TWEENS

This Year's Hottest Nursery Trends We have discovered the most precious nursery designs that are perfect for your new arrival!

THIS YEAR'S

HOTTEST NURSERY TRENDS

14 • ISSUE 2 APRIL/MAY 2022 • VOLUME

health

28 GET HEALTHY How to Know Your Baby is Eating Enough and What To Do If They Are Not

KIDS

THE BABY ISSUE

24 DELISH 5 Ways to Use Those Leftover Easter Eggs

Playing Dress-Up: Why It’s Important for Your Child’s Development

GIGGLE MAGAZINE

Bossmom photo by Molliner Photography; Spelling Bee Photo courtesy of Alachua County Public Schools

●

BABY GEAR

PREMIUM BABY PRODUCTS THAT KEEP BABIES AND PARENTS HAPPY! CRAFTING WITH KATIE: Hopping into Springtime with Easter Activities

DELICIOUS BRUNCH RECIPES for Mother's Day

PLAYING DRESS-UP: Why it’s Important for Your Child’s Development

On the Cover: DELICIOUS BRUNCH RECIPES FOR MOTHER'S DAY PAGE 21 NEWBORN SCREENINGS: WHAT THEY ARE AND WHAT THEY REALLY MEAN PAGE 26 THIS YEAR'S HOTTEST NURSERY TRENDS PAGE 54 ...AND MORE!

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# bossmom

parents' corner | #bossmom

As a mom, you quite literally do it all! Between working and making sure your kiddo gets to school with a matching pair of shoes, it proves to be the toughest job anyone could do. Our Giggle moms have shared with us what makes them a #BossMom, and we are all for it!

Misha Blazs Mom to David (18 months) and a baby girl due in June!

Seint offers products that were gentle on my skin and were a great form of self-care for me. I became an artist because I genuinely love the product and wanted to be able to offer busy moms a simple solution to their makeup routine.

to get more independent moving forward. I also love working, but have a very strong desire to stay home with my kids. Learning to balance emotions and lifestyle can be difficult.

What is your most rewarding part of being a mom?

At the moment, nausea. But when I’m not pregnant, I like to workout and have some time to myself before everyone wakes up. It’s a great way for me to go over my plan for the day and start off with a win since I’ll have already accomplished something tough before 7 a.m.

Photo by Molliner Photography

I love getting to watch my son's personality form and having the opportunity to experience such a bonding relationship. It is so fun witnessing my son be curious about the world and try new things for the first time. I find it easy to overlook certain things in life. Watching my son’s reaction to seeing a new animal, hearing a loud car engine, or trying a popsicle for the first time have all been experiences that have helped me slow down and enjoy the little things.

What is the hardest part of being a mom? Where do you work and what do you do? Tell us a bit about it. What are some of your goals with it? I am a self-employed Personal Trainer and Seint Beauty artist. I have worked in the fitness industry for 7 years and worked as a personal trainer for 5 years. I train clients in their homes or on Zoom and offer meal prep as an additional service. My goal for my training business is to open a gym for busy moms. As a Seint Beauty artist, I offer women a color match so the shades they use actually match their skin and undertones and offer practical application tips. I originally started using Seint products after I had my son because brands like MAC, Tarte and Bare Minerals were irritating my skin.

The simultaneous feelings and desires. I’ll simultaneously feel joy and grief at each new stage. My son will learn something new and become more independent and I’ll be excited because it’s great! But it also hits me that he’s not a baby anymore and is only going

What gets you up in the morning?

What makes you laugh? My husband, Austin. We spent a lot of time with my family while we dated and one of my younger sisters (7 years old at the time) would say she always knew where we were because she could hear the lovebirds laughing from the other room. Our marriage has been the same. He’s great.

What has been the biggest life lesson that you have learned being a parent? The biggest lesson I’ve learned being a parent has been that parenting is much less about controlling my child and much more about controlling myself. When my toddler is having a

Are you a #BossMom or do you know one? Do you work hard at home and at work? Giggle Magazine wants to hear your story! Visit Gigglemagazine.com to submit your #BossMom for a chance to be featured in one of our upcoming issues. GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

parents' corner | #bossmom

Misha's

What is your parenting mantra? You have to be present to win.

FAVO RITE S

How do you balance it all? I have a detailed planner to help me balance my work, home and social life. It is so helpful to have everything in one spot and not have to worry I’m going to forget something. That being said, I do set a strict schedule for how much I’ll work because there are certain things that I don’t want to miss. I train most of my clients early in the morning before my son wakes up so I can be the one to get him up and spend time with him for a few hours before I get back to work. I go back to work during his nap and am done by the time he wakes up. This is a great schedule for me because I am able to get a lot done and work without any distractions but also be fully present while I’m with my son.

How do you relate to other #bossmoms? I think most moms are #bossmoms! Being a mom can be super tough and sacrificial, but also so rewarding. I have seen so many women have a crazy amount of motivation to pursue their dreams while having kids. I relate to the struggle of balancing a busy schedule and fitting in time for self-care all while making sure my family is thriving. I have been inspired by so many of the moms I’ve seen and hope that I can one day do that for someone else.

Share a funny parenting story that all parents can relate to: When my son was about 6 months old, we were going to get some pictures done. I was so excited for these pictures because we all had outfits that looked great together and they would be our first family pictures. Well, in all my excitement, I somehow forgot to put pants on my son. When we got to the location and I got him out of his car seat, my heart dropped when I realized I had only put on his button down shirt. I ended up having pants and shoes in his diaper bag, but it wasn’t the outfit I had

MISHA, AUSTIN AND DAVID

so looked forward to. Since then, I triple check his outfit before we leave the house.

What is some advice you have for other #bossmoms trying to balance it all? Don’t feel guilty for prioritizing self-care, asking for help or setting boundaries. Life can be overwhelming on its own without the feeling that we need to hold it together for the entire family. It’s ok to not be ok. It’s ok to need time alone away from the kids. When we take time for ourselves to refill our tank, we are able to offer our best selves.

If you could have any superpower to help parent your kids, what would it be? Time travel. Sometimes I wish I could just jump forward to see how things are going to turn out to see if there is something I could do better now.

What is your go-to meal at home that you cook? Filet mignon, garlic mashed potatoes and green beans are a regular when I’m not pregnant.

What are some fun activities you like to do in your free time? I love to paint, play the piano, go to the beach, play beach volleyball and salsa dance.

What do you do for YOU on a weekly basis? I have a weekly night where I put on a face mask, grab a drink, and relax on the couch with music or The Office playing.

When my toddler is having a meltdown, he doesn’t need me to join his chaos, he needs me to share my calm. By exercising control

over myself, I’m much more likely to recognize the difference between when my child has a need I can meet or simply the need for me to take a step back.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

FAVORITE STARBUCKS DRINK Espresso Con Panna FAVORITE GAINESVILLE RESTAURANT Cilantro Tacos FAVORITE MOVIE Remember the Titans FANTASY DINNER PARTY GUESTS? Terri Savelle Foy, Beyoncé, Simone Biles, Tim Tebow FAVORITE STORE Hobby Lobby GO-TO FRAGRANCE Anything vanilla FAVORITE THING TO EAT? Filet mignon SOUNDTRACK PLAYING IN YOUR HOME? I thank God by Maverick City Music FAVORITE THING TO DO WITH YOUR KIDS? Dance party

Photo by Molliner Photography

meltdown, he doesn’t need me to join his chaos, he needs me to share my calm. By exercising control over myself, I’m much more likely to recognize the difference between when my child has a need I can meet or simply the need for me to take a step back.

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# parenthacks

parents' corner | 13 62480 57A

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 and 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!

How to Kick-Start Labor Those final few days and weeks of pregnancy can be both physically uncomfortable and full of anxiety to meet your new baby! Many families are ready to evict their tiny tenants and have tried all sorts of methods to get the process moving. Giggle parents share with us their trials and tribulations of how they helped get their babies moving! Disclaimer: Please consult your physician before trying any home remedies.

Homemade habanero hot sauce kick-started mine! - SHELLY SCOTT

Lord, I tried literally everything to kick-start labor to avoid being induced at 41 weeks. Walking on uneven sidewalks, all the foods everyone says to try, pumping with a breast pump, sex, chiropractic adjustments, bouncing on an exercise ball, every stretch imaginable. The two days before my induction appointment I alternated drinking an extra large dose of red raspberry leaf tea (which I had been drinking for a couple months) and using clary sage essential oils on my belly. We had sex one last time before we left for the induction appointment. I started having contractions while waiting to be brought back. Unfortunately, they still induced me. I’m honestly not sure any of that contributed to the contractions. Maybe she was just ready.

For both my kids, my wife and I went and had pedicures done. (I opted for no paint on the toenails obviously!) The massage and all they did to our feet I’m sure kickstarted labor because both times, she went into labor hours after. - VICTOR BORRERO

Eating pineapple. - NICOLE DOGDE

Uncontrollable laughter. My husband went inside from the back porch to get a drink refill. While he was inside, the glass sliding door was closed without him knowing it. When he came back, he ran into the glass. That set me into a ball of laughter after seeing his knotted up forehead. I laughed so hard and for so long I ended up going into labor later that night.

I curb walked regularly at the end of my first pregnancy. I was 2 weeks late so needless to say it didn’t work. - HEATHER PARKER

I had this recipe on standby to take on my last day of work. I ended up going into labor on my own the day before so I never had to use it but my cousin used this recipe and she went into labor that day! Midwives Brew • 10 ounces apricot juice • 8 ounces lemon verbena tea • 2 tablespoons almond butter • 2 tablespoons castor oil Mix completely in a blender until smooth and eat on an empty stomach. Can also serve over ice. * Recipe courtesy of mommylabornurse.com and claims 85% success rate for spontaneous labor within 24 hours. - BRENNA HOWARD

- HEIDI-JO WEAKLEY

- SHARON GRINDSTAFF

I slipped and fell out of my SUV onto my tailbone at 36 weeks pregnant with my 3rd child. That did the trick. - ROSE PICKENS

I tried it all with my last baby (the only one who was late!) Sex, Mexican food, tons of walking. In the end, it was my mother-in-law's pot roast and hopping out of my husband’s truck in the driveway that did it. - APRIL TISHER

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

Lots of walking and Mexican food! I didn’t try to make it happen that way, it just did! - HEATHER MONTES

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forks and spoons | delish

Yummy

Mother's Day Brunch Menu

Mother’s Day is here and it’s time to celebrate all the beautiful mothers in your life. What better way to honor all that moms do than with a tasty brunch? Pour a mommy drink and eat to your heart’s content with these simple but yummy recipes.

Because every great brunch , right? starts with a

cocktail

P E AC H B E L L I N I Ingredients:

1 cup frozen peaches 2 ounces chilled Champagne 1 ounce Peach Schnapps Fresh peach slice

Directions:

1. Place frozen peaches and Peach Schnapps in a blender and puree until smooth. 2. Pour into Champagne flute and top with Champagne and peach slice garnish.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

forks and spoons | delish

EGG-CELLENT M O T H E R ’ S DAY Q U I C H E Ingredients:

1 refrigerated pie crust 5 eggs ¾ cup half and half (or whole milk) ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon pepper ½ teaspoon garlic powder 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided ½ cup baby spinach ½ cup cherry tomatoes 1 cup cooked bacon pieces (if desired)

Directions:

N O T YO U R M O M M A' S F R E N C H T OA S T Ingredients:

Challah Bread 4 eggs 3 tablespoons milk Powdered sugar Strawberries Blueberries Butter Cinnamon, granulated sugar, vanilla to taste

Directions:

1. Cut challah bread into ½ inch thick pieces and set aside. 2. On a plate, crack eggs, then scramble eggs with a whisk. 3. Add cinnamon, milk and vanilla to the egg mixture to your preferred taste. Mix together until ingredients are well combined and set aside. 4. Melt butter in a frying pan on low to medium-low heat. 5. Once butter is melted, dip challah bread into egg mixture, making sure to cover the entire side of bread. Flip over and cover the other side with the egg mixture. 6. Once fully covered, place bread in the frying pan. Before flipping over, sprinkle the top lightly with sugar. Flip and fry the other side. Remove once brown on both sides. 7. Top with powdered sugar, strawberries and blueberries. Serve with maple syrup and butter.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. 2. Cook bacon in the microwave, then chop into small pieces. 3. W hile bacon is cooking, unroll pie crust and place in a 9” pie plate, crimping the edges. 4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, salt, pepper and garlic powder. 5. Sprinkle spinach, tomatoes, bacon bits and 1 cup of cheese over the pie crust. 6. Pour egg mixture over meat and veggie mixture. Top with remaining ½ cup cheese. 7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the center of the quiche is completely set. 8. A llow the quiche to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

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forks and spoons | delish

5 Ways to Use Those Leftover Easter Eggs BY JULIA BAUER

If you’ve found all the eggs the Easter Bunny hid for your family, you’re probably wondering what to do with the leftovers. A person can only eat so many plain hard-boiled eggs, and the Easter Bunny isn’t going to hop over to collect the ones that haven’t been eaten yet. According to the Mayo Clinic, eggs are a healthy addition to your diet – they’re packed with protein and vitamins, and one egg is only about 75 calories.

Luckily, hard-boiled eggs are a versatile food and can be used for a variety of fun salads. Here are five delicious, easy and customizable ways to use up those leftover Easter eggs:

Egg Salad Egg salad is a quick, easy way to use up hard-boiled eggs. Start by peeling and cutting your eggs. If you prefer a chunkier salad, chop your eggs into bigger pieces. Then, mix the pieces in a bowl with mayonnaise, salt and pepper. From there, you can add anything else you and your kids would enjoy, such as mustard, bacon bits or paprika. Potato Salad For old-fashioned potato

salad, start by boiling four to six potatoes (depending on the size of your family) in a pot with the skin on. Once boiled, peel and chop, and do the same with your leftover eggs. Put these ingredients in a bowl and add mayonnaise and mustard. Season with salt, pepper and onion powder. You can also add chopped onion or bacon bits to the mix.

Cobb Salad A classic Cobb salad calls for

ingredients like hard-boiled eggs, lettuce, chicken and tomatoes. Start washing your preferred lettuce, such as romaine or a leafy green mix. Then, peel and cut your eggs into slices. Prepare and cut the chicken to your liking and chop some tomatoes and onions. Mix this together in a bowl and add a dressing of your choosing. You can also add avocado, cheese and again – bacon bits.

Macaroni Salad This pasta salad is the perfect way to use leftover eggs. To make this, start by cooking some dried macaroni noodles. While this is cooking, peel and chop your eggs into small pieces. When the pasta is done, add the eggs, mayonnaise, sour cream and mustard. Season with salt, pepper, paprika and onion powder. Then, chop some celery, onion and bell pepper, and mix everything together. You can also add avocado and bacon bits. Deviled Eggs This last recipe isn’t a salad, and it won’t call for bacon bits – well, it might. To make deviled eggs, start by peeling your eggs and slice them in half. Remove the yolks, and add them to a bowl with mayonnaise, mustard, salt, pepper, garlic powder and onion powder. Mash up the yolks and mix. Then, scoop a dollop of the mixture into the center of your sliced eggs. Finally, top with bacon bits. 24

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

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health | get healthy

Newborn Screenings:

What They Are and What They Really Mean BY TRACY WRIGHT

The day has finally come—your baby is here. Warmly snuggled in his or her blanket, your newborn is perfect! But there are still some necessary screenings that your doctors and specialists will have to perform to make sure your baby is completely healthy.

red blood cells respectively, and other disorders like cystic fibrosis and spinal muscular atrophy. Secondly, the hospital will test your baby’s heart for any congenital defects by using sensors and a pulse oximeter to determine how much oxygen is in their blood. Finally, two hearing tests are performed to determine if your baby has a hearing problem. An otoacoustic emissions test is performed in the hospital where your “provider places tiny earphones in your baby’s ears and uses special computers to check how your baby responds to sound,” said March of Dimes. “When a baby has normal hearing, an echo is reflected back into the ear canal, which can be measured by the microphone,” said babyfirsttest.org, a service of the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration.

Newborn screenings are necessary to help “identify serious but rare conditions at birth,” said March of Dimes. All babies born in the U.S. get screened but states differ on which types of tests they administer. This may seem scary, but most newborn tests come back perfectly normal. Even if something is found, the earlier it’s identified the better, as many conditions can be treated. Most tests are performed within one to two days of a baby’s birth and can be done in a hospital or birthing center. Parents who opt for home births can either have a certified nurse midwife administer the tests at home or visit a hospital or clinic soon after birth. Parents do not have to ask for these tests to be performed; they are included in the paperwork you sign when you check into the hospital.

Hospitals perform various newborn screening tests checking for a variety of conditions. First, your baby’s blood will be tested by performing a heel prick to collect a sample of blood. Parents can request to hold their baby when this is being done to help comfort them. Results usually come back when the baby is about 5-7 days old. The blood test will check for any number of conditions, which are included on the Health and Human Services’ Recommended Uniform Screening Panel. These conditions include organic acid and amino acid metabolism disorders which affect how babies process food and amino acids, fatty acid oxidation disorders which affect how babies convert food into energy, endocrine and hemoglobin disorders which affect hormones and

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

The auditory brainstem response test is the second hearing test that assesses “the auditory brain stem (the part of the nerve that carries sound from the ear to the brain) and the brain’s response to sound. During this test, miniature earphones are placed in the ear and sounds are played. Band-Aid-like electrodes are placed along the baby’s head to detect the brain’s response to the sounds. If the baby’s brain does not respond consistently to the sounds, there may be a hearing problem,” according to babysfirsttest.org.

Notes:

Parents can request additional screenings if there is a family history of certain types of medical conditions. Talk to your doctor or pediatrician about options for testing or for any questions about newborn screenings. * If any tests have unexpected results, talk with your doctor about next steps.

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health | get healthy

How to Know Your Baby is Eating Enough And What To Do If They Are Not BY MARLENA CARRILLO

Feeding your baby is not an exact science. As a new parent, it’s easy to be scared your instincts aren’t right or you’re missing cues from your newborn. Here’s a guide to knowing when your baby is hungry or full – and what to do if they’re not getting what they need.

What does a full baby look like?

Newborns use gestures and sounds to show how they feel. A full baby is a content one. When they aren’t hungry, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say babies’ hands will relax and their heads will turn away from their food source to indicate they don’t want any more. They will also close their mouths instead of making an expectant pouty face. When newborns get enough to eat each day, they begin to act routinely about five days after birth. If breastfeeding, La Leche League International said large gulps of milk indicate a letdown, which means a flood of milk is coming in and your baby is getting nourished. After five days, newborn stools should be yellow with a grainy texture. During this time, wet diapers will also increase from

around two per day to six or more – check the vertical line on many diapers that change color to indicate dampness.

What does a hungry baby look like?

A hungry newborn is the opposite of a full one. Their hands might clench in frustration, and they might bring their fists to their mouths and open and close their lips, even sucking their thumbs or fingers. Older newborns will begin to cry and make sounds when they’re hungry. Babies will also turn their heads to the bottle or breast when they can see them like a puppy seeking out a treat. Babies who aren’t getting enough to eat will be lacking in energy, which can make them sleep more than usual. They also won’t poop as much; the typical baby will go between three and four times per day. Finally, babies might gain weight slower than usual if they aren’t eating enough. Between 5.5 and 8.5 ounces is the normal weight gain per week for a newborn, according to La Leche League International. Consider your own instincts and observations, too; if you’re breastfeeding and feedings are painful or your baby appears to be latching incorrectly, this can be a good indicator they aren’t getting enough milk.

What do I do if my baby isn’t getting enough to eat?

The Mayo Clinic says consulting your child’s pediatrician or a lactation consultant is a safe choice if you’re concerned about their nutrition. They may also direct you to consider supplements for nutrients your baby might not be getting from milk, especially if you’re breastfeeding. Vitamin D helps babies grow strong bones, and they might not get enough from their natural diets. It’s hard to feed a human who can’t tell you when they’re satisfied. Use these observations and a discussion with your child’s pediatrician to determine if your baby is getting what they need.

According to the CDC,

a clenched fist is a sign that your baby may be hungry.

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A Mother’s Tale BY LINDSEY JOHNSON, MS, MCHES, CF-L1

From the moment I saw that line on the pregnancy test, I was attached. I had planned, hoped, prayed, prepared and had done everything I read that I was supposed to do while I was in the “TTC” or “trying to conceive” phase. I read pregnancy books, parenting books, joined chat groups - you name it, I did it. I wanted a baby more than anything in the world. Months of seeing friends successfully conceive (when I was not) was very challenging. I tried to remind myself that God has a plan and that our baby would come when we were ready. So when that day came, I was over the moon. In the weeks that followed, I spent hours talking and singing to my baby. Although it was too early to be confirmed, I was certain I knew the sex of the baby and had a name picked out and a nursery planned. Around week 6 or 7, I started experiencing some spotting. Although I felt fine and it did not appear to be “new” blood, I went to have things checked at an urgent care center. The doctors assured me it was perfectly normal, just my body adjusting to pregnancy and shedding some old blood that may have been lingering. The nurses suggested that perhaps I had changed soaps or detergent and the new one was bothering me? They instructed me to follow-up with my obstetrician but there was no need to worry. The next day I visited my doctor. She conducted an ultrasound and confirmed that everything looked great! We got the first glimpse of our baby, who appeared to be right on track and had a beautiful steady heartbeat. I breathed a sigh of relief. As the days and weeks passed, I continued to have some occasional spotting but also had other appointments with ultrasound that verified that everything was moving along smoothly. While I was still nervous, I allowed myself to bond with my baby and plan for the future - a future with this precious little one.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

Nobody prepared me for the toll it would take on me. I had no idea it was possible to be that attached to someone I had never even met face to face.

On the morning of a previously scheduled appointment, there was a change and the bleeding became heavy. I knew this was not a good sign. I figured out that if I drank a lot of water, it seemed to dilute. “I’m dehydrated,” I thought to myself. I just need plenty of fluids! I had the answers! But my doctor performed yet another ultrasound. I saw my baby and was so relieved - everything was fine! Until I realized there was no longer a heartbeat. My baby had gone to heaven while still living inside my body. I was dumbfounded, numb, angry, horrifically sad. How could this happen? I was at the very end of my first trimester! I had always heard that once the baby had a heartbeat, your chances of miscarriage were significantly lower. I thought we were in the clear. The doctor presented me with two options: have a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure or let my body pass the “products of pregnancy” on its own. I elected to undergo the procedure - I didn’t think I could bear watching my body expel tissue over the course of a week or so. I left the office and headed straight to the hospital, where we waited for my doctor to join me. In the hours before I was sedated, I began to feel the cramping and knew it had truly begun. I was devastated.

Before the procedure, my doctor came in to talk with me. At that moment, she held my hand and prayed with me. This is something I will never forget - just how kind and compassionate she was in my most vulnerable moment. In the weeks that followed, I was surprised at how empty and sad I felt. People offered their versions of condolences - “It’s for the best.” ; “It’s very common.” ; “You’ll get pregnant again.” My rational mind knew there could be truth to those statements, but I was so miserably sad with mourning that I wasn’t ready to hear it. While I knew that miscarriage was common and nature’s way of ensuring the fittest and strongest survive, it didn’t help the emotional trauma I was feeling. Nobody prepared me for the toll it would take on me. I had no idea it was possible to be that attached to someone I had never even met face to face. Other women came out of the woodwork sharing their stories. I didn’t know so many of these people had experienced the same thing. Like me, many of them kept their grief to themselves. After all, it was easy to understand the grief of parents who lost a

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

child after birth but harder to imagine the punch in the gut for a baby that you never got to hold. This baby had been growing inside of me and suddenly I felt empty. Fast forward to today. While the grief is no longer raw, it never goes away. I make note of milestone times. That sweet baby would have turned 17 this April. We would have experienced an entire childhood by now. I still grieve for the loss of life and not getting to watch this child grow and develop. This is what nobody speaks about when they talk about miscarriage - how it can have a lifetime of impact. I debated writing this story because it’s so personal and it still hurts (and I shed a lot of tears at my computer) … but if I could help even one other family struggling with the emotions of loss and knowing that it is acceptable to fully grieve, then it is worth it. Whether a baby is lost the day you know of their existence or any day thereafter, it hurts. The best we can do is celebrate them and live our lives in a way that we hope would make them proud to be our children.

What is a miscarriage? The March of Dimes defines miscarriage as “when a baby dies in the womb before 20 weeks of pregnancy.” Repeat miscarriages are when you have two or more miscarriages in a row.

What causes a miscarriage?

Miscarriages are most commonly caused by circumstances out of our control. The March of Dimes estimates that approximately half of all known miscarriages are caused by a chromosomal abnormality in the fetus. Other potential causes are when a fetus implants in the uterus but stops developing or dies within the uterus for no clear reason. Sometimes it’s a problem with the cervix or uterus of the mother that can cause a miscarriage, such as cervical insufficiency, septate uterus, fibroids or scar tissue in the uterus, such as that caused by Asherman syndrome. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as syphilis and genital herpes as well as other infections like listeriosis can also be the cause of a miscarriage.

How common is it?

Most miscarriages happen within the first trimester (up to 12 weeks) of pregnancy. For this reason, it is possible to miscarry before you even suspect you’re pregnant. Of known pregnancies, the March of Dimes reports that anywhere from 10-15% of pregnancies result in miscarriage. Miscarriage in the early part of the second trimester (weeks 13-19) is less common but still occurs in approximately 1-5% of pregnancies. Most women who miscarry go on to have a successful later pregnancy. Repeat miscarriages happen less frequently at only about 1% of pregnancies and 50-75% of these repeat miscarriages have no known cause. The good news

is that 65% of those with repeat miscarriages go on to later have a successful pregnancy, according to the March of Dimes. If you have repeat pregnancy loss, your doctor may wish to conduct additional testing to determine if there are factors that can be addressed before trying again.

What are the symptoms?

According to the Mayo Clinic, the most common signs and symptoms of a miscarriage are heavy cramping and vaginal bleeding. You may also experience back pain and passing fluid or tissue from the vagina. If you previously had pregnancy symptoms such as breast tenderness or nausea, these may go away.

What are the risk factors?

While there is no way to predict whether you will suffer a miscarriage or not, there are a few factors that could put you at greater risk: 35 years or older History of 2 or more previous miscarriages Behaviors such as smoking, drinking and drug use Harmful chemical exposure Autoimmune disorders, especially lupus and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes Obesity - Having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30+ Hormone problems such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or luteal phase defect Hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism Certain prenatal tests such as chorionic villus sampling or amniocentesis, tests used in some pregnancies to detect genetic fetal abnormalities such as Down syndrome

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

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giggle stamp | baby products

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Premium Baby Products That Keep Babies and Parents Happy!

BY NICOLE IRVING

With so many innovative baby and parenting products available, we understand you may not know what all is out there. At Giggle Magazine, we keep our eyes peeled for some of the latest trends and products so you can find the best items for your family. We like to help make raising a child a little easier and more fun, too!

1. Organic Hemp Bundling Blanket Set By Bundles of Hope $45/set of three, bundlesofhope.cc 2. TruBliss Evi Smart Bassinet $399, Target 3. Sophie the Giraffe $24.99, Nordstrom 4. Magic Years Soft, Crinkle Activity Book with Teether and Strap $12.99, Amazon 5. Wooden Whale Music Box $80, odinparker.com 6. Comotomo 5-ounce Bottle $12.99, Amazon 36

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

giggle stamp | baby products

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7. Baby Dream Machine $109-$119, thebabydreammachine.com 8. Cali’s Books $23.99 and up, calisbooks.com 9. NozeBot Baby Nasal Aspirator $119, drnozebest.com 10. ComfyHug® Hybrid Newborn Baby Carrier $60, boppy.com 11. Apple Fruit Teether $7.99, Target 12. Original Support and Milestones Boppy $45, boppy.com 13. LoveHeld Soft Linen Crib Sheets $79, loveheld.com 14. Roshambo Baby Sunglasses Starting at $20, roshambo.com GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

happy home | 2 cents

Family Financial Planning Starts Now BY LINDSEY JOHNSON, MS, MCHES, CF-L1

For many new parents, one of the first questions you may ask after seeing that positive pregnancy test is “how can we afford this?” Children are expensive and your financial investment often extends a lifetime. So, how can you best prepare for costs associated with raising children?

Baby Showers and … Daddy Diaper Parties? If you’re expecting your first child and someone offers to throw you a baby shower - let them! They genuinely want to celebrate, and it can help alleviate some of the initial financial burden of starting a family. Register for the top expensive necessities (stroller, car seat, possibly even furniture) as well as some lower cost items such as bottles, sheets, blankets, diapers and wipes. While not glamorous and cute, the cost of these items adds up. And if planning ahead, add items that your little one will need a year or two down the road. Items like toddler booster seats, training potties and sippy cups will be here before you know it. Not sure which ones to register for? Ask other moms what they use and read all the reviews. When in doubt, test drive them out at the store first. If this isn’t your first child, you may want to go with a smaller, less formal, celebration. New to the scene - daddy diaper parties! This is a laid-back celebration with friends and family, who bring diapers and wipes to help the family with the abundance of dirty diapers coming their way!

Saving for Childhood Expenses The newborn stage is just the beginning of child expenses. Starting a savings account for your child can help plan for everyone’s financial future. Making monthly deposits can accumulate over time and provide a buffer to help pay for expenses that arise during childhood. Field trips, buying the first car, sports equipment, musical instruments - whatever arises! When your child reaches adulthood, you can turn over the account and let them begin managing their own expenses. Talk to your bank or financial advisor about a savings account that is right for you.

Saving for College College may seem like a long way off but saving now can alleviate financial stress later. Florida Prepaid offers options for prepaying college tuition as well as an option for a 529 savings plan that allows you to save money tax-free for educational expenses. College plans are usually transferable and you can get your money back if your child does not go to college. They are an excellent platform to save money for future expenses. Talk to your financial advisor about the best plan for your family.

Giggle Tip: When people ask what to get them for their birthday, especially when they are little and don’t realize gifts are a “thing,” have them contribute to a college fund or account. Every dollar helps!

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

While considering the costs of raising a family can seem overwhelming at times, take it one step at a time. The most important piece of parenting is loving and caring for your child. Your relationship will mean more than the fanciest stroller or most lavish vacation. QUICK FINANCIAL FACTS

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happy home | handy at home

Baby Safety:

How to Make Your Home a Safe Zone BY DIANE HERNANDEZ

Bringing a baby home is an exciting moment in any parent’s life. The nursery you built finally welcomes a giggling, raspberryblowing bundle of joy. But before the stork arrives, parents must prepare the home to be a safe zone for their baby. Baby proofing should start as soon as possible, according to the International Association for Child Safety. Here’s how to keep curious hands out of places they shouldn’t wander to!

Choking Hazards Crib Safety The International Association for Child Safety recommends keeping pillows and stuffed animals away from a baby’s crib, especially from newborns. This also includes baby bumpers, which could serve as a suffocation hazard. Cribs should be placed in a location where babies cannot pull items such as wall decorations, lamps, monitors and especially cords of any sort into the crib.

Babies love experiencing the world through taste. They reflexively bring items to their mouths, according to the International Association for Child Safety. Because of this reflex, parents should especially look for choking hazards such as home decorations placed on low shelves, coins left out or any other small items within baby’s grasp.

Pools and Bathtubs

Poison

Electrical Outlets Curiosity, as mentioned previously, does literally shock the cat. Cover electrical outlets to keep tiny fingers from prodding the holes. Electrical sockets are dangerous because they push electrical currents and you don’t want your baby on the receiving end. Electrical covers are a simple and inexpensive way to keep your baby safe. Just remember to replace the cover when you are done using the outlet.

Cover Sharp Edges Crawling explorers don’t understand that sharp edges mean trouble. Curious minds are always wandering and attempting to understand what the world holds in store for them. But, as the old saying goes, curiosity sometimes shocks the cat! Always cover those edges to avoid painful experiences and large wailing baby cries.

Parents should not only keep their cleaning supplies out of sight, but they should keep them out of reach. Babies love to explore, and as children get older, they begin to open cabinets out of curiosity. It’s important to keep this in mind and to keep bleach and other poisonous items away. Children could screw off a cap and ingest products. Prevent accidents by keeping such items out of reach.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

Babies can’t quite swim yet, so parents should keep a close eye when a child is in water. According to the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP) as posted on FindAnyAnswers.com, there were 1,093,655 swimming pools in Florida in 2020. If your home has a pool, take the time to place a gate or net around the pool. Safety precautions like these can save lives. Bath time is another safety concern. According to HealthyChildren.org, babies can drown in as little as one to two inches of water and in a matter of seconds. Consider an infant tub with a sling to keep your baby’s face away from the water and never take your eyes off a bathing child.

Parenting can be difficult, but by taking preventive steps, it will be easier to welcome your new baby to your home with peace of mind.

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happy home | crafting with katie

NEW FEATURE!

with Katie Hopping into Springtime With Easter Activities CRAFTING

BY KATIE OSTERHOUT

Spring is here and we’re thrilled to welcome blooming gardens, warmer weather, longer days and all the seersucker we can handle. This also means the Easter bunny will be making its rounds! While you work on filling those baskets, try some of these fun ideas to brighten up your Easter season.

Photos courtesy of Katie Osterhout

School Surprise

Step up the lunchbox game with a few themed surprises. Build an “Easter Egg Sandwich” by punching out an egg shape with a cookie cutter and drawing egg decorations (lines, waves, dots, etc.) on the bread with edible ink markers. You do have to draw with patience since the bread’s surface is uneven, but the outcome is worth it! This also works well on a quesadilla or wrap. Not into food dye? Use packaging as your canvas and add a bunny face to a cheese stick or build a paper Easter basket around your juice box.

Bunny Craft

All you need for this is some cotton balls, googly eyes, pipe cleaners and white and pink paper. Make a white base circle for the head, approximately 6" in diameter. Cut and tape/glue on the white ears. Add pink inside with more paper or you can color/paint the pink. Fold over one ear to give it some personality then glue down those cotton balls. Once the face is covered in cotton, add a pink nose to top off pipe cleaner whiskers. Googly eyes of any size are the final piece to finish up your Easter bunny.

Baby Chick Craft

Crack open this sweet little egg craft made with two 6” paper plates. The chick inside can be made from felt, construction paper or even painted. Use googly eyes, puffy paint or even feathers to decorate the body. Glue the chick to the first (bottom) plate. Cut the second (top) plate in half, creating a “cracked egg” zigzag pattern. Then glue the bottom zigzag half to the chick plate, which will cover the bottom half of your chick. Punch a hole in the top zigzag half and the edge of the bottom plate and use a metal fastener to allow movement of the top half.

Books

The sky is the limit on how many spring and Easter themed books you can find at the library. Order online for an easy pick-up or ask your local branch to guide you in finding titles to fit the season. GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

happy home | crafting with katie

NEW FEATURE! Table Setup

Cottontail Breakfast

This bunny pancake stack is SUPER easy and incredibly adorable. You’ll need a few different sized circles for the head, body and tail, 2 long ovals for the ears and 2 small ovals for the feet. Add banana slices and chocolate chips to the feet and viola! You could try a squirt of whipped cream or a marshmallow for the tail to add more flavors.

Follow Katie on Instagram! creative_household

Hippity Hop

Discovering what the Easter bunny left behind is pretty exciting. Try taking your littles ones down the bunny trail en route to their goodies. Using paper “bunny prints,” lead them from their rooms, all over the house, to their baskets. Take them under tables, over couches and in circles. Foam bunny paw prints can be found at Hobby Lobby or you can print your own and cut them out. Be sure and save them for next year!

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

Salt Painting

Add new textures to watercolor painting with salt-based shapes. Use white glue to draw your shape (Easter eggs, bunny outline, simple shapes or letters, etc.) then cover with table salt similar to how you would glitter. Give it a few minutes to dry before shaking off the excess. Using watercolor paints (go heavy on the water,) dab on the colors and watch it spread along the salt. Tip: this prep can be a little messy so I recommend using a tray or cookie sheet.

Photos courtesy of Katie Osterhout

Pull together your spring decor to set up a festive kids table. Easter themed paper plates and cups can be found all over or just grab anything with pastels and spring prints. Add bunny ears for the kiddos to put on or even leave out a card or a few jelly beans. Try sticking to a color scheme or theme (e.g., bunnies/carrots or baby chicks/flowers) and use “bunny prints” to lead up to the table.

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flcu.org/youth-savings | 800-284-1144 1. Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is effective as of 2/1/2022 and subject to change at any time. Balances $750 and above will earn 0.10% APY. Fees may reduce earnings. $5 share savings account required for membership. One account per qualified youth member. Visit flcu.org for membership eligibility requirements. 2. Online and mobile banking access required. Insured by NCUA

learn | homeschool corner

How Can I Homeschool With a New Baby at Home? BY CRYSTAL LADWIG, PH.D.

You made the decision to homeschool, went to the conferences, bought the curricula, and figured out how to make it work for your family. You even found a local co-op to help provide that much-needed adult interaction and support for your family. Now that you have it all figured out (yeah, right), you have a new baby on the way. It’s a joyous event, and you’re thrilled. But if you’re like many homeschooling parents, you may be wondering how you can keep homeschooling your older kids when you have a new baby at home. Before we go any further, pause and take a deep breath as you remember that you can do this.

Involve Your Older Kids

One of the best things about homeschooling is how we incorporate learning within everyday activities. That’s true during this time, too. Your older kids learn by watching you taking on additional responsibilities

and experiencing new ways of learning. Involving your older kids in the care of the new baby and in their own educational planning helps them to see the baby as a new member of the family rather than someone who may be taking something away from them. Teach your older kids to

help you care for a new baby. Even little ones can help bathe the baby, get diaper changing supplies, or entertain the baby when you’re busy. Older kids may take on greater responsibility for caring for the baby or other siblings. They may even help to homeschool younger siblings. What a great way to reinforce skills they’ve already learned while also giving back to the family.

Plan Ahead

This is a good time to reflect on your homeschooling strategies and adjust where needed to help kids learn independence. Prepare children to complete their assignments with less of your time needed. Plan ahead so that they have content that they can do independently like self-paced curricula, streaming content, virtual content or apps that read aloud. As you schedule your days, incorporate the baby’s schedule into the homeschool schedule (e.g., do reading lessons while the baby is napping). Avoid schedule conflicts that will only stress you out. You won’t be able to do a science experiment easily when it’s time to nurse the baby!

Adjust Instruction

When the new baby comes home, life will certainly change. Allow your family time to adjust to those changes within your homeschool too. You may focus on only core subjects during the transition time. You may use more audiobooks, visit the library, or engage in homeschool-friendly activities for your older children (e.g., local libraries, Santa Fe College, city tennis programs and other homeschool classes).

Give Yourself a Break!

Perhaps this is the most important step. When a new baby comes home, you’ll be tired, emotional, overjoyed and stressed. Yes, it’s good stress, but it’s stress, nonetheless. Allow yourself to take breaks, even with homeschooling, for short periods to refresh and rejuvenate. You’re worth it!

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

5 Weeks of 50+ Classes Starting June 20th! INDEPENDANCE

352-337-0017 For more info visit independancestudio.com

learn | family learning

Get Ready for Baby

How Family Learning Classes Can Help BY TRACY WRIGHT

You’ve got your crib, cute baby onesies and an ample supply of diapers … so what’s next to get ready for baby? Before you pack that hospital bag, think about taking some helpful family learning classes to get you ready for both childbirth and baby! Thankfully there are many in-person and virtual options for you to learn more about everything from childbirth techniques to infant CPR and everything in between. Childbirth classes are among the most popular classes. These classes typically offer topics such as birthing techniques, what to do if your water breaks, how to time contractions and when to alert your doctor or midwife, pain management strategies, understanding vaginal births and C-section deliveries and births with medical intervention, said the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). Many childbirth classes offered locally will also include a tour of your hospital’s maternity ward and birthing rooms. These classes may be available online or in person over a weekend or a series of weeks. Classes are usually taught by nurses or childbirth educators. Parents can also take classes specifically focused on a birthing method. Some of the more popular methods include Lamaze, Bradley Method and hypnobirthing. Lamaze focuses on concentrated breathing to relax mom during childbirth. “The philosophy behind Lamaze is to make a woman comfortable enough during labor to make her own decisions,” AAFP said. The Bradley Method is a 12-week course specifically designed to result in natural birth and “teaches relaxation methods for the expectant mother, but also includes a heavy focus on training your birthing partner to be more than just a spectator,” according to AAFP. Hypnobirthing is a five-session class that teaches self-hypnosis techniques to help moms deliver their babies calmly, “letting their bodies do the work of childbirth,” AAFP said.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

Beyond childbirth methods, other classes focus on the time after childbirth. Breastfeeding classes are usually offered before childbirth, but many hospitals and health centers will offer postpartum support and lactation consultation for mothers wishing to breastfeed. Newborn care will cover the basics of general care including what to expect immediately after birth, bathing, burping and diapering, umbilical cord and circumcision care, baby sleep tips, soothing techniques, signs of illness and baby safety. Infant CPR and first aid classes give parents lifesaving techniques for baby “including performing CPR, what to do if an infant or child is choking, how to treat wounds and how to care for your child when a sudden illness strikes,” said AAFP. A postpartum care class can also be in order, which “is dedicated to preparing new parents for what they will face in postpartum and [preparing] to have plans, meals, care kits, and support in place for when baby comes,” said Tinybeans.com. If you are adding another baby, some places offer classes for older siblings to prepare them too. A Pennsylvania State University study found that a brief series of classes helps first-time parents “better support each other through the stressful transition to parenthood and create a positive effect on birth outcomes.” “Better support and lower levels of conflict between parents have now been shown to benefit parents' mental health, family r elationships and children's well-being from birth through entry into school," said Mark Feinberg, research professor at the Penn State Bennett Pierce Prevention Research Center for the Promotion of Human Development. However you decide to prepare for this life transition, know that you are not alone. Reach out to other parents, family members, friends and professionals to alleviate anxiety and ask for help. Parenthood is hard - the most important thing is to do your best and give yourself grace as you figure it out!

Resources for Family Learning Classes North Florida Regional Medical Center

Offers virtual classes in childbirth, newborn care, breastfeeding, infant CPR and a virtual maternity ward tour. hcafloridahealthcare.com

UF Health Shands

Offers virtual classes in childbirth, newborn care and breastfeeding. ufhealth.org/childbirth-and-newborn-education

Alachua WIC Program

Offers nutrition education and breastfeeding support. alachua.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/clinical-andnutrition-services/wic

Family Centered Birth Services

Offers childbirth and newborn care classes. familycenteredbirthservices.com

Kids who spend their summer with Mathnasium sure stand out in a crowd. MATHNASIUM

Summer. It’s the time for kids to relax and enjoy some much-needed fun, especially after such a challenging year. But summer is also the ideal time to do something that will give them a huge advantage when school resumes in the fall: Accelerate their math skills with Mathnasium. While most students experience math learning loss over a normal summer, disruptions due to the pandemic have caused many kids to fall behind even more. Mathnasium’s personalized Learning Plans are proven to improve grades and help kids catch up and get ahead in math. With live face-to-face instruction, either in-center or online. And don’t worry — your child will still enjoy their summer. Because we make learning math fun. Ask about our SPECIAL summer offer! M at hnasium of Gainesville (352)519-4369 • mat hnasium.com/ gainesville 5835 SW 75t h St ., Gainesville, FL 32608

learn | featured teacher

Melissa Armstrong Why were you inspired to teach? According to my sister’s best friend, Annie, being a teacher was my destiny. She claims that she knew I would be a teacher when she was three years old. I would come home from kindergarten and require her and my sister to play school with me. Of course, I was the teacher, and they were the students. Apparently, I would teach them everything I had learned at school that day. I have no memory of this.

WHERE DO YOU TEACH? Oak Hall School

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A TEACHER? Since 2001 WHAT SUBJECT DO YOU TEACH? English

What is your favorite part of the school day? I love all of it. If I had to pick just one favorite moment, it would be the drive to school. I’m excited to see my students, looking forward to teaching them something new, watching their minds come alive. The anticipation of another exciting day.

Do you have a favorite assignment that you typically assign your students? 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? School support staff who makes a difference each day? Giggle Magazine wants to know! Visit gigglemagazine.com to submit your favorite educator for a chance for him or her to be featured in one of our upcoming issues.

I love teaching Lois Lowry’s The Giver. The students learn a color-coding technique to annotate the text. They learn to trace the theme of a book through the novel and then compare the theme with the movie version. I dress differently (no spoilers!) for almost the entire unit. My former students will see one of my outfits, stop in and ask randomly, “Are you teaching The Giver right now?” Wink-wink. Current students ask, “How’d they know that?” It’s so fun when we read the part in the book where it gets explained and they figure out why.

How do you wind down after a long day of teaching? I eat dinner with my family. It is a priority and something I cherish. On nights where

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

What do you like to do outside of teaching? I like to do puzzles, play card and board games, read, travel, hike, play video games and listen to contemporary Christian music.

Share a funny teaching moment/day. Something funny happens every day! Today during the fire drill, two girls were giggling and pointing to my shoes. I had apparently found the “prize”- I stepped in bunny poop on the track.

If you were a superhero, who would you be? Who says I’m not a superhero? A few of my students have seen me use my powers when I wasn’t aware they were watching. Melissa Armstrong might very well be my Clark Kent-like cover.

What is your favorite book? This is a particularly difficult question to ask an English teacher. Adult novel: One by Richard Bach Young Adult: Anything by Ruta Sepetys Series: Michael Scott’s The Alchemyst series To teach: The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton or The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald Children’s: The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

What inspires you to keep going on tough days? Faith that I am making a difference, trust that I am answering a calling, hope that I can shine some light into someone else’s darkness, joy in the little moments and love for every child.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers? Teaching is more challenging than it has ever been. Be patient with the teachers in your life. We are working as hard as we can to make tomorrow better for everyone.

Photo courtesy of Melissa Armstrong

WHAT GRADE/AGE DO YOU TEACH? 7th and 9th Grades

As far as inspiration? I was blessed to have lots of terrific teachers, but one teacher in particular really sparked a love of learning in me. She asked tough questions and offered few answers. Ms. Ileana Vila, my government teacher, made me want to learn. I want that for my students - for them to take what they’ve learned and use it to dig for more.

there is no paper grading, I watch TV with my girls. I am the reigning champion of determining the twists in the plot before they have been revealed.

checking Accounts

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osit ile depCAMPUS USA ES1 h mob E it F w O G N NKIN rol App UMS, ILE BA MINIM d Cont r B a O O C N M S D AMPU INE AN h the C E ONL RD wit A FRE C R YOU NAGE CARDS MA DEBIT E U S IS TANT INS

“CAMPUS is part of my winning game plan. Make it part of yours, too!” Steve Spurrier Head Ball Coach, CAMPUS Member

READY, SET, GO! Open an account at campuscu.com/star-powered Call 352-335-9090 and press 5 Curbside Service available at your local CAMPUS Service Center. Visit campuscu.com to find a CAMPUS Service Center in your community.

Membership is open to anyone in Alachua, Clay, Columbia, and Marion counties.2 1. Credit approval and initial $50 opening deposit required. Member must elect to receive eDocuments. 2. Credit approval and initial $5 deposit required. Insured by the NCUA.

learn | your schools

Meet Jeevan: Our 2022 Spelling Bee Champion BY DIANE HERNANDEZ

Jeevan George, her 11-year-old son, began to develop his word bank through this tradition. Each book he read added a few new words to his mental list, opening his mind. Four months ago, Jeevan George’s spelling bee journey began at his elementary school. His older sister Rhianna, a former school spelling bee champion, inspired his decision to sign up for Hidden Oak Elementary School’s competition. And, before he knew it, he won the county spelling bee and will compete at the 78th Annual First Coast Regional Spelling Bee on April 1. If he wins, he’ll advance to the Scripps National Spelling Bee and compete in Washington D.C. “I really like the complexity and how fun it is,” Jeevan George said. “Not just for the competition, but I like meeting new people.” After winning his school spelling bee, Jeevan was given a list of 4,000 words to memorize, his father Jomon George said. While in bed, his mom and sister quizzed the competitor and prepared him for the county competition on February 16.

Jomon George watched his son speak at a podium, decoding each of the judge’s requested words. His son stepped up to the podium each time his turn came at Terwilliger Elementary School’s cafeteria and tried his best, he said. The room was large, but Jeevan George didn’t feel nervous - he considers himself a social person, liking conversation and learning. Jomon George came to the same conclusion while watching his son act calm and collected on stage. “I felt like he was never stressed out,” Jomon George said. “Normally, he doesn’t have stage fear.” Growing up, Jeevan attended a regional Indian ministry and sang and danced to Malayalam Indian songs. His father attributed Jeevan's lack of fear to his social nature and background. To decide the final winner, the judges asked a word that wasn’t on the list of 4,000 words. “Churn,” they asked. Somewhere in Harry Potter, Jeevan George remembered reading “churn.” He spelled out the word, "C-H-U-R-N” and won the competition, bringing home the prize.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

I really like the complexity and how fun it is ... Not just for the competition, but I like meeting new people. Jeevan George started studying a few days per week for the upcoming regional competition after winning at the county spelling bee. He is expected to study the Merriam-Webster online dictionary, the 4,000 words asked at the county spelling bee and the 450 words asked at the school spelling bee for the competition. Winning didn’t matter too much however, Jeevan George said. He competed because he liked talking to the other 34 county competitors. Among those students were schoolchildren of all ages - the eighth graders particularly intimidated Jeevan, but he soon learned they were just like him. “I felt like they probably knew more complex stuff than me,” he said. “But it all depends on how hard you study.” Jeevan is an exceptional speller and works hard to expand his vocabulary. His success is a great accomplishment for Alachua County.

Photos courtesy of Alachua County Public Schools

At the beginning of each month, Bindu Joseph opens the door to her home. In her hands, she carries 40 to 50 fictional books for her three children to consume.

SONSHINE DAY PRESCHOOL

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EMBERS

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

This Year's

Hottest

NURSERY TRENDS BY MARLENA CARRILLO

Welcoming a new baby means it’s time to give them their first taste of their own room. If you need some ideas for a cozy, inviting space for your newest addition, here are some of the top themes new parents are decorating with for their little ones.

CELESTIAL STARSCAPE If you’re looking for nursery themes, look up at the sky! Stars and moons are a big hit for any baby. Star mobiles, fluffy cloud decorations and dangling planets can all be hung in your designated room without taking up any floor space, which leaves ample room for furniture. If you want to specialize the celestial theme, the possibilities are endless: art buffs can make The Starry Night a colorful backdrop; astrology lovers can introduce their baby to constellations and zodiac signs; Star Wars fans can even sneak in a Millennium Falcon or two. Good colors include dark blues, grays, purples and even some gold accents to represent stars. Go easy with the yellow, though – Verywell Mind says yellow can invoke anxiety in babies, causing them to cry more.

WOODLAND GREENERY Nature themes are particularly in for babies this year. Green is a great gender-neutral color and what better way to introduce your babies to nature than in their own homes? Wood-finished cribs and dressers are easy pieces that can be adapted to multiple themes as the baby grows. Woodland creatures are always popular for nurseries, including foxes, squirrels, deer and even little bears. You can even bring in plants to add some live greenery. The University of California says snake plants, African violets and golden bamboo are all safe indoor options to produce oxygen in the baby’s new room.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

FANTASIES AND FAIRYTALES Fictional characters have also been popular recently. Winnie the Pooh, Peter Rabbit and various Disney themes like “Up” and Mickey Mouse have all made an appearance in nursery ideas (and yes, Star Wars can be used here, too). Even without a particular story in mind, your little one’s new room can be a whimsical wonderland without traveling to a kingdom far, far away. Dragons? Unicorns? Fairies? Use your imagination to make these ideas your own. Color choices can be adapted, too: pinks, purples, baby blues and sage green are all possibilities.

MODERN AND MONOCHROME This might surprise you, but a Rated People report on the hottest nursery trends this year found that black was the second most popular color used in nurseries. From painted furniture to bold accent walls, black is another genderneutral choice that can be paired with statement rugs, warm textiles and other patterns to create a classic, sophisticated look you can pair with any decorations you’d like. Other shades like white and gray will be your friend; gold, silver and bronze accents also complement the monochromatic theme.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

JONESVILLE PREPARATORY

ABIDING SAVIOR

PRESCHOOL

COME LEARN

TO ROW.

GAINESVILLE AREA ROWING

NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY!

WEEK 1: June 13 - 17 WEEK 2: June 20 - 24 WEEK 3: June 27 - 31 WEEK 4: July 11 - 15 WEEK 5: July 25 - 29

Rising 6th – 12th grades - $135 per week Sign up for 4 weeks and 5th week is FREE!

Photo by John Moran at johnmoranphoto.com

GAINESVILLE AREA ROWING

352-327-8704 | 151 SE 74th Street www.GainesvilleAreaRowing.com

campinfo@gainesvillearearowing.com

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

Legend Academic Arts Dance Equestrian Gymnastics Martial Arts Medical Mixed Activities Outdoor & Recreational Religious Science Sleepaway Sports

This guide was generated through research of area summer camps. Inclusion in this guide should not be mistaken as an endorsement by Giggle Magazine or Irving Publications, LLC. Every attempt has been made to be comprehensive and accurate. Camp directors are encouraged to send an email to nbirving@ irvingpublications.com with corrections and for possible inclusion in future editions of the Giggle Magazine Summer Camp Guide.

! Due to COVID-19, many camps have had changes and are still making changes daily. Please contact each camp to verify information.

300 Club

Archery Camps

Camp Boggy Creek

3715 NW 12th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 378-2898 300clubswimandtennis.com

24880 NW 16th Ave., Newberry, FL 32669 (352) 472-2388 eastonnewberryarcherycenter.org/camps

30500 Brantley Branch Rd., Eustis, FL 32736 (352) 483-4200 boggycreek.org

Abacus Learning Center

Aquatic Leadership Camp

Camp Crystal Lake

5205 SW 91st Dr., Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 376-1492 abacuslearningcenter.com

1001 NW 31st Dr., Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 334-5067 cityofgainesvilleparks.org

6724 Camp Crystal Rd., Starke, FL 32091 (855) 651-2267 campcrystal.com/summer-camp/

Abiding Savior Lutheran Summer Camp 2022 “The Happiest Place in Gainesville”

Balance 180 Gymnastics Summer Camp

Camp Good News

9700 W. Newberry Rd., Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 331-7770 preschool@abidingsavior.info abidingsavior.info Dates: June 6 through July 28 Ages: 2 to 8 years old Cost: Varies with program choice Summer Camp for preschool and elementary children. Choose from 1/2, 3/4 or full day programs. Open 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Loving Christian environment and great prep for fall preschool program. SEE AD ON PAGE 57

A Child's Academy 3401 NW 34th St., Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 371-3360 achildsacademy.com

Aikido Self Defense Camp 4424 SW 35th Terr., Suite 4 Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 494-7816 sensei@aikidoofgainesville.com aikidoofgainesville.com

Alachua County Public Schools Extended Day Enrichment Program Camp Discovery

6527 NW 18th Dr., Gainesville, FL 32653 (352) 340-1180 balance180.org

Blue Wave After School 1080 SW 11th St., Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 871-3979 bluewaveafterschool.com

B'nai Israel Community Day School

(800) 968-4332 invent.org/camp-invention-connect

Camp Kulaqua 23400 NW 212th Ave., High Springs, FL 32643 (386) 454-1351 campkulaqua.com/kulaqua-s-summer-camp

Boys & Girls Club

Canopy Oak Trails Horseback Riding

1. Northwest: 2661 NW 51st St., Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 373-6639 2. Woodland Park: 331 SE 20th Place, Gainesville, FL 32641 (352) 377-8003 bgcnf.org/alachua

Brentwood School 1111 NW 55th St., Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 373-3222 gobrentwoodschool.com/summer-fun

Cade Museum

See website for camp locations sbac.edu

Alliance Southeast Youth & Kids Camps at Lake Swan

Cameron Dancenter Dance Camps & Summer Intensives

647 State Rd 26, Melrose, FL 32666 (352) 475-2828 lakeswancamp.org/programs/the-alliancesoutheast-youth-kids-camps

1. Ridgeway Village: 5003 NW 34th Blvd., Suite 120, Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 371-0761 2. Haile Village Center: 5211-A SW 91st Terr., Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 335-7785 camerondancenter.com

1315 S. Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 494-7323 apexmartialartsgainesville.com/summercamp.html

Camp Invention: Recharge At-Home Presented by: Hidden Oak Elementary

3830 NW 16th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 376-1508 bnaiisraelcds.org

811 S. Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 371-8001 cademuseum.org/camps

Apex Martial Arts

120 Twin Lakes Rd., Hawthorne, FL 32640 (352) 481-3550 campgoodnewsfl.com

15311 SW 107th St., Archer, FL 32618 (352) 443-9456 facebook.com/CanopyOakTrails/

Capoeira Clubhouse 501 SE 2nd St., Gainesville, FL 32601 (786) 357-7151 capoeiragainesville.com/capoeiraclubhouse

City of Gainesville Adventures in Play Summer Day Camps (352) 334-5067 cityofgainesvilleparks.org

Climate Change Resiliency Program students@cpet.ufl.edu cpet.ufl.edu/students/uf-cpet-summerprograms/

College for Kids at Santa Fe College 3000 NW 83rd St., Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 395-5193 sfcollege.edu/cfk/index

GIGGLE MAGAZINE'S 2022 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

Dance Alive National Ballet/Pofahl Studios

Summer Intensives

June 6 - 9 • July 18 - 22 • July 25 - 29 Master Teachers: Gerard Ebitz New York City Ballet, Miami City Ballet, Zurich Ballet Amy Seawright Hartman: Miami City Ballet, Orlando Ballet, DANB Autumn Morgenstern: Rockette’s, Joffrey, Disney, Project Dance NYC Omoniyi Obioha: Dallas Black Dance Theatre, Vibrations Dance Theatre, DANB Andre Reyes: San Francisco Ballet, Pacific NW Ballet

POFAHL STUDIO

DANB Staff & Guests Special 5 week summer classes June 13 through July 16 provides for beginning through advanced students in classical ballet, jazz, tap, hip-hop, contemporary and pre-ballet. Adult Classes available. Exceptional training

info@dancealive.org or 352-371-2986 www.dancealive.org • Pofahldancestudio.com

MAKE THIS SUMMER

Amazing!

ORANGE Calling all BLOSSOM preschool and elementary children. Come spend an exciting and fun summer with us. At Orange Blossom Prep, we have lined up some amazing activities just for you:

Art • Spanish • Sports • Dance • Games Reading • Learning • and so much more! So what are you waiting for? Sign up today!

(352) 375-8900 | OrangeBlossomPrep.com | OrangeBlossomPrep@Gmail.com 6200 SW Archer Rd., Gainesville, FL 32608

License #C08AL0480 GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

Corks & Colors 3415 W. University Ave., Gainesville, FL 32607 (352) 373-8847 corkscolors.com

Legend Academic Arts Dance Equestrian Gymnastics Martial Arts Medical Mixed Activities Outdoor & Recreational Religious Science Sleepaway Sports

! Due to COVID-19, many camps have had changes and are still making changes daily. Please contact each camp to verify information.

Cub Scout Summer Resident Camp 1453 Baden Powell Rd. Hawthorne, FL 32640 (904) 388-0591 campshands.org

DB Racquet Club 5100 NW 53rd Ave., Gainesville, FL 32653 (352) 377-9580 dbtennis.com

Dream Oaks Camp 16110 Dream Oaks Pl., Bradenton, FL 34212 (941) 746-5659 foundationfordreams.org

Earth Academy Day Camp 3540 E. University Ave., Gainesville, FL 32641 (352) 334-5067 cityofgainesvilleparks.org

Earth Immersion SCUBA Summer Camp for Teens 14026 SW 72nd Terr., Archer, FL 32618 (352) 641-0350 earthimmersion.com

Fear Facers Camp 7400 SW 41st Pl., Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 265-4623 coard.psychiatry.ufl.edu/fear-facer-summercamp

Florida 4-H Gator Adventures Camp 126 Cloverleaf Rd., Lake Placid, FL 33852 (863) 465-4884 florida4h.ifas.ufl.edu/camps

Florida Diabetes Camp PO Box 14136, Gainesville, FL 32604 (352) 334-1321 floridadiabetescamp.org/summer-camps/

Florida Museum of Natural History Family Discovery Camps 3215 Hull Rd., Gainesville, FL 32611 (352) 846-2000 floridamuseum.ufl.edu/kids/summer-camps/

Florida Track Club Junior Champs Kiwanis Challenge Park, 2062 NW 36th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 538-3552 ftcjuniorchamps@yahoo.com floridatrackclub.org

Florida Youth Institute students@cpet.ufl.edu cpet.ufl.edu/students/uf-cpet-summerprograms/-florida-youth-institute

Funworks Action Camp 1311 NW 76th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 332-0555 funworks.com

Gainesville Area Rowing Learn to Row Camp 151 SE 74th St., Gainesville, FL 32641 (352) 327-8704 campinfo@gainesvillearearowing.com gainesvillearearowing.com Dates: June 13-17, 20-24, 27-31 and July 11-15, 25-29 Ages: Rising 6th - 12th Grades Cost: $135 per week Gainesville Area Rowing invites all rising 6th - 12th graders to come out and learn to row this summer! No experience is necessary. Coaches will teach you everything you need to know on and off the water and conclude the week with some racing. This is a great way to get a jump start on fall racing season or just try something new! There are five sessions offered this summer! You can do one, two or all five sessions! SEE AD ON PAGE 57

G.C.D.S. Summer Camp 6801 SW 24th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32607 (352) 332-7783 luci@gainesvillecountrydayschool.org gainesvillecountrydayschool.org Dates: May 23 through July 29 Ages: 4 to 12 years old Cost: $175/Week (12:30 pick up) $220/Week (2:30 pick up) $275/Week (5:30 pick up) Join G.C.D.S. Summer Camp as we play, learn, create, imagine, laugh, and think our way through summer! SEE AD ON PAGE 61

Gainesville Girls Rock Camp 927 NE 7th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 448-5154 facebook.com/gainesvillegirlsrockcamp

Gainesville Youth Chorus' Sing All Summer Workshop 2826 NW 31st Ave., Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 256-7283 gainesvilleyouthchorus.com

Gatorball Summer Camp 3401 NW 143rd St., Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 514-4414 gatorballtraining.com

Gatorland Band Camps 1556 Inner Rd., Gainesville, Florida 32611 (352) 273-3146 ufbands@gmail.com ufbandcamps.com Dates: June 18th-19th, June 19th-25th and July 8th-10th Ages: Middle School and High School Cost: Please visit website Gatorland Band & Instrumental Camps are music learning camps for students to experience the University of Florida campus and our facilities, while learning from our wind and percussion faculty. SEE AD ON PAGE 61

Gator Computing Program students@cpet.ufl.edu cpet.ufl.edu/students/uf-cpet-summerprograms/gator-computing-program/

Gator Sports Camps Baseball, Cheerleading, Golf, Gymnastics, Lacrosse, Softball, Swimming floridagators.com/sports/2015/12/10/_ camps_.aspx

Gator Vet Camp students@cpet.ufl.edu cpet.ufl.edu/students/uf-cpet-summerprograms/

Gator Volleyball Camp floridagators.com/sports/2015/12/10/_ camps_volleyball_.aspx

GenCyber CyberSecurity Camp students@cpet.ufl.edu cpet.ufl.edu/students/uf-cpet-summerprograms/

GIGGLE MAGAZINE'S 2022 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

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Amidst the pandemic, GCDS students continue to thrive socially, emotionally, and G A I N E S V I L L E academically.

C O U N T R Y

D A Y

Visit our website for summer camp information! GCDS

UF BANDS

GAINESVILLECOUNTRYDAYSCHOOL.ORG

Providing a warm, positive and academically enriched environment for your child. • SMALL CLASS SIZES •ACCELERATED CURRICULUM

• NURTURING ENVIRONMENT • EXPERIENCED FACULTY

Early Childhood Enrichment Center

24th Avenue Campus

352.332.9032

352.332.7783

Enrolling children ages 6 weeks - 4 years

Enrolling children ages 4 years old - 5th grade

JORDAN GLEN SCHOOL & SUMMER CAMP Ages: Pre-K through 8th Grade Cost: $350/week $1,200 for four-week session (ask about sibling discount!)

Celebrating 50 years, Jordan Glen is a hidden gem that has produced countless camp alumni that credit it with providing some of the happiest memories of their childhood summers. The camp is situated in SW JORDAN GLEN Gainesville on 20 beautiful acres. Walk around our grounds and it will be apparent why our camp is such a special place. Our camp harkens back to what camps were like before “specialty camps.” Kids enjoy the outdoors - swimming, playing sports (tennis, baseball, soccer, archery...to name a few), and being in nature, while also having ample time to cool off indoors exploring their inner artist, participating in dance and the dramatic arts, and bonding with new and old friends. Jordan Glen Camp has something for everyone. We are advocates of children and childhood. We want our children to enjoy their time spent away from home and to look forward to returning each day.

12425 SW 154th St., Archer, FL 32618 | (352) 495-2728 | jordanglen.org GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

Girl Scout Camp 9583 County Rd. 223, Wildwood, FL 34785 (813) 281-4475 gswcf.org

Girls Place Legend Academic Arts Dance Equestrian Gymnastics Martial Arts Medical Mixed Activities Outdoor & Recreational Religious Science Sleepaway Sports

! Due to COVID-19, many camps have had changes and are still making changes daily. Please contact each camp to verify information.

2101 NW 39th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 373-4475 girlsplace.net

Global Health Institute students@cpet.ufl.edu cpet.ufl.edu/students/uf-cpet-summerprograms/

Haile Equestrian Center 7680 SW 46th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 665-7433 haileequestrian.com/horse-camps

Hippodrome 25 SE 2nd Pl., Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 375-4477 thehipp.org

i9 Sports Camp 4000 SW 122nd St., Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 283-8586 i9sports.com

IndepenDANCE Studio Summer 2022 Dance Class Session 7050 SW Archer Rd., Suite 10 Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 337-0017 independancestudio@gmail.com independancestudio.com Dates: June through August Ages: 6 months through adults Join IndepenDANCE Studio for a full schedule of weekly classes this summer! Inquire today! Family atmosphere, easy online enrollment, Something for Everyone! Hip Hop, Tap, Ballet, Jazz, Acro and more! SEE AD ON PAGE 63

Ironwood Golf Course 2100 NE 39th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32609 (352) 393-8503 ironwoodgolfcourse.org/junior-programs/

Jonesville Preparatory Preschool Summer Art Camp

Makos Aquatic Club of Gainesville

379 NW 136th St., Newberry, FL 32669 (850) 758-1219 www.jonesvilleprep.org Dates: June 13-17, June 20-24, July 18-22, July 25-29 Ages: K-4 through 5th Grade Cost: $200 per child, per week Summer Art Camp: fun daily projects, one big weekly art project, new theme and art each week. 20 campers per week.

P.O. Box 357194, Gainesville, FL 32635 (352) 372-5626 makosaquatics.com

SEE AD ON PAGE 57

Jordan Glen School & Summer Camp 12425 SW 154th St., Archer, FL 32618 (352) 495-2728 info@jordanglen.org www.jordanglen.org Dates: June 6 - July 1 Ages: Pre-K through 8th Grade Cost: $350/week; $1,200 for entire 4-week session (ask about sibling discount!) Non-secular private camp on 20 acres providing an enriching, nurturing and safe experience. SEE AD ON PAGE 61

Kiddie Academy of Gainesville 6476 SW 75th St., Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 264-7724 kiddieacademy.com/academies/gainesvillefl/programs/summer-camp

KidStrong 6020 NW 4th Pl., Suite G, Gainesville, FL 32607 (352) 244-9818 kidstrong.com/gainesvillecamps

La Petite Academy Summer Camp 2755 SW Archer Rd., Gainesville, FL 32608 (888) 330-1458 lapetite.com/educational-programs/ summer-camp/

Madonna's Equestrian Academy 7624 NE 62nd Dr., G ainesville, FL 32609 (352) 222-3266 horsebacklessons.com

Master Builder Camp 3536 NW 8th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 339-5102 masterbuildercamp.com

Mermaid Synchronized Swimming Camp P.O. Box 358081, Gainesville, FL 32635 synchrogainesville.com/try-synchro/

Millhopper Montessori 8505 NW 39th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 375-6773 millhopper.com

Montgomery Presbyterian Center Camp 88 SE 75th St., Starke, FL 32091 (352) 473-4516 montgomerycenter.net/camp/

Oak Hall Summer Program 1700 SW 75th St., Gainesville, FL 32607 (352) 332-3609 oakhallsummerprogram.org

Orange Blossom Prep 6200 SW Archer Rd, Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 375-8900 orangeblossomprep@gmail.com orangeblossomprep.com Dates: May 31 - August 5 Ages: 3 through 10 years old Cost: Varies according to age (free camp t-shirt with registration) Come join the fun at Orange Blossom Prep! We'll have Spanish, arts and crafts, field days, ice cream socials, sports, games, picnics, music, yoga and much more. SEE AD ON PAGE 59

O2B Kids! 7383 SW 17th Rd., Gainesville, FL 32607 (352) 332-5500 o2bkids.com

GIGGLE MAGAZINE'S 2022 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

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BEAT THE HEAT WI TH W IT H ......

SUMMER DANCE CLASSES

INDEPENDANCE

352-337-0017 For mor e i nf o vi s it independancest udio.com GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

Okito America 6900 SW Archer Rd., Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 338-7262 okitoamerica.com

Legend Academic Arts Dance Equestrian Gymnastics Martial Arts Medical Mixed Activities Outdoor & Recreational Religious Science Sleepaway Sports

! Due to COVID-19, many camps have had changes and are still making changes daily. Please contact each camp to verify information.

Play Tennis Gainesville 2022 Junior Summer Camp (352) 559-8860 champion@ustaflorida.com playtennisgainesville.com/event/2022junior-summer-camp/2022-05-31/

Pofahl Studios Summer Dance 1325 NW 2nd St., Gainesville, FL 32601 judy@dancealive.org (352) 371-2986 pofahldancestudio.com Dates: Various classes offered starting June 6 through July 29 Ages: Age varies based on class Cost: Explore dance this summer through our instructive classes which include ballet intensive, summer intensive, and summer workshop. Find out more by visiting www.pofahldancestudio.com/intensive SEE AD ON PAGE 59

Pony Paddock Summer Horse Camp 704 NW 202nd St., Newberry, FL 32669 (386) 853-0615 ponypaddock704@gmail.com ponypaddockatdragonslair.com Dates: Weekly sessions June 6th through July 15th Ages: 7 to 14 years old Cost: $450 Life Lessons through the joys of Horsemanship. Pony Paddock offers weekly summer camp sessions starting June 6th. No experience is necessary. This is the perfect way to start a lifelong obsession at the area's top-ranked riding school. SEE AD ON PAGE 65

Pop Up Theater Camp (We the People Theater Arts Initiative) (352) 363-1294 wethepeopletheater.org

Precollege Scholars students@cpet.ufl.edu cpet.ufl.edu/students/uf-cpet-summer-programs/

Queen of Peace Catholic Academy Camp 10900 SW 24th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32607 (352) 332-8808 jlwilburn@qopacademy.org qopacademy.org Dates: June 6 - July 29 Ages: Must be 4 by September 1st and up through 8th grade. Cost: Varies based on camp WE WELCOME ALL CAMPERS...and offer classes such as Kindergarten Readiness, Robotics, Cade Museum, Art, Dan Cross Basketball, Flag Football, Easton Newberry Archery, Pottery, Speech and Debate, Soccer, Life: I've Got This, Academy Camp Field Trips, and so much more! Weekly Sessions are available. Monday-Friday, 7:30 to 6:00 p.m.

SEE AD ON PAGE 65

Research Explorations students@cpet.ufl.edu cpet.ufl.edu/students/uf-cpet-summerprograms/

Research Immersion in Science and Engineering students@cpet.ufl.edu cpet.ufl.edu/students/uf-cpet-summerprograms/

Saint Francis Catholic Academy 4100 NW 115th Terr., Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 248-0418 sfcawolves.org

Service Learning and Leadership Program students@cpet.ufl.edu cpet.ufl.edu/students/uf-cpet-summerprograms/

Sonshine Day Preschool 10000 W. Newberry Rd. Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 333-0017 sonshineday.org

Star Martial Arts 500 NW 60th St., Suite A Gainesville, FL 32607 (352) 374-4950 star-tkd.com

Student Science Training Program students@cpet.ufl.edu cpet.ufl.edu/students/uf-cpet-summerprograms/

Summer Band at Fort Clarke 9301 NW 23rd Ave., Gainesville, FL 32606 sites.google.com/gm.sbac.edu/ summerband/home

Sun Country Sports Center Camp Sunny Summer Camp 333 SW 140th Terr., Jonesville, FL 32669 (352) 331-8773 office@suncountrysports.com suncountrysports.com/campsunnysummercamp/

Swimming Lessons (352) 334-5067 cityofgainesvilleparks.org

The Academy at the Family Church 2022 SW 122nd St., Gainesville, FL 32607 (352) 642-1290 academyatfamily.com

Traveling Art Camp for Kids 1717-A NE 9th St., Gainesville, FL 32609 (858) 692-7303 travelingartcamp.com/home

Trinity United Methodist Church 4000 NW 53rd Ave., Gainesville, FL 32653 (352) 376-6615 trinitygnv.org

UF Entomology Field Camp 1881 Natural Area Dr., Gainesville, FL 32611 (352) 273-3974 entnemdept.ufl.edu/outreach/ufentomology-field-camp/

St. Patrick Interparish Catholic School 550 NE 16th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 376-9878 spsgnv.org

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UF/IFAS 4-H Camp Cloverleaf

Winshape Camps at Westside Baptist

(863) 465-4884 cloverleaf4-h@ufl.edu florida4h.ifas.ufl.edu/camps/campcloverleaf/summer-camp/

10000 W. Newberry Rd. Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 333-7700 camps.winshape.org/day-camps/gainesville-fl/

UF/IFAS 4-H Camp Timpoochee

YMCA

(850) 897-2224 timpoochee4h@ifas.ufl.edu florida4h.ifas.ufl.edu/camps/camptimpoochee/summer-camps/

University of Florida Summer Media Institute jou.ufl.edu/summermediainstitute/

5201 NW 34th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 374-9622 ncfymca.org

Yopp! Creative Kids Camp 2441 NW 43rd St., Suite 25-A Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 377-6483 doartstudios.com

PONY PADDOCK

Vision Volleyball Club Summer Camp 3200 SW 122nd St., Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 514-3073 visionvolleygainesville@gmail.com visionvolleyballgainesville.com

QUEEN OF PEACE

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

special needs

NEW SECTION!

Adapting to Life-Changing News With Grace BY CRYSTAL LADWIG, PH.D.

that may be needed, as well as emotional support for you, your child and other family members. Before meeting with doctors, write down questions that have come to mind since your last visit. It’s easy to get emotional during these appointments and forget them. When doctors consistently see you prepared, they may plan for extra time to address them.

Some questions you may have include: • What special care will my child need (now and in the future)?

PMA AD

Learning that you’ll be a parent is one of the most joyous events. For most of us, we yearned to become parents long before now. For some of us, pregnancy is filled with excitement and anticipation. For others, those positive emotions can become tempered by news that we didn’t expect or want. When we learn that our baby will be born with a disability, a birth defect or special need, it’s shocking and unexpected. So, what can you do if you receive news like that? There is a classic essay by Emily Kingsley called "Welcome to Holland." If you’ve never read it, please do. It speaks to the emotions of parents as they learn that the thoughts, dreams and plans they had for themselves and for their children may not go quite as planned. Kingsley eloquently teaches us that, although life may not be proceeding as planned, it is still a beautiful life full of joy and excitement. Often, people fear the word “disability.” Lauren Salko is not one of them. Lauren, an elite skier and member of the U.S. Ski Team who happens to have a disability, says that “the societal model of disability is the idea that we are more disabled by society’s views than by our physical limitations themselves.”

Your baby may be born with a disability, but that doesn’t define who they are or who you are. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act, “an individual with a disability is defined as a person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities or a person who has a history or record of such an impairment.” A disability is a characteristic that you should learn about but not let define you. In these first few days and weeks, take time to learn about your child’s diagnosis. Get a second opinion. Many conditions have national organizations providing a wealth of information about the condition, the long-term prognosis, the care and services

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

• Do we have specialists in our area that treat this condition? If not, where are those specialists, and do those cities have supports like a Ronald McDonald house? • If your child will require surgery, ask about the timing, the risks and the typical outcomes. Most doctors will share this information readily, but in the heat of the moment, some of those details may get lost in translation.

When your child is born, ask doctors about Early Steps, Florida’s early intervention program providing services to children from birth through 36 months who have or are at-risk for developmental disabilities or delays. They help you and your child develop the skills and confidence needed to respond to your child’s unique needs. Remember that you must care for yourself, too. You won’t be at your best for your child if you aren’t healthy. Practice selfcare. Find a support group (in person or online). Spend time with friends and loved ones. And try to focus on the beautiful, amazing child you have.

CAMERON DANCENTER

TWINKLE TOES

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

G A I N E S V I L L E C O U N T R Y

D A Y

Amidst the pandemic, GCDS students continue to thrive socially, emotionally, and academically.

GCDS

Providing a warm, positive and academically enriched environment for your child. • SMALL CLASS SIZES • ACCELERATED CURRICULUM

• NURTURING ENVIRONMENT • EXPERIENCED FACULTY

GAINESVILLECOUNTRYDAYSCHOOL.ORG

Early Childhood Enrichment Center

Enrolling children ages 6 weeks - 4 years

352.332.9032

24th Avenue Campus

Enrolling children ages 4 years old - 5th grade

352.332.7783

Celebrating 40 years of educating the children of Gainesville! 68

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conception2college™

EXPECTING On Bed Rest? Make the Most of It During Your Pregnancy

INFANT | 0-1 Is This Normal? The Sticky Substance In Your Baby's Diaper

TODDLER | 2-3 One Step Back: Why Toddlers Regress When a New Baby Arrives

EARLY YEARS | 4-5 Playing Dress-Up: Why It's Important for Your Child's Development

KIDS | 6-9 Rub-a-dub-dub: Alone in the Tub

TWEENS | 10-13 Is Discord a Healthy Hangout or a Dangerous Decision?

TEENS | 14-18 18 For 18 Challenge: Delaying Social Media Use

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

c2c | expecting {PREGNANCY}

On Bed Rest? Make the Most of It During Your Pregnancy BY JULIA BAUER

HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF BED REST #1 Get comfortable

Comfort should be your main priority. According to the American Pregnancy Association, doctors will typically ask you to rest on your side with your knees bent. However, this varies depending on the reason for your bed rest. Make sure to have your favorite pillows and blankets within reach!

#2 Change positions every so often Extended bed rest may lead to aches, pains and lack of blood circulation. Changing positions in bed allows you to move a little and reduces the aches and pains in your joints, according to the American Pregnancy Association.

#3 Read

While you may not be able to physically exercise, you can get some mental exercise by reading. Read baby and parenting books to help prepare you for the exciting times that lie ahead. If you’ve read enough about that, explore other reading options! From reading countless baby books to eating for two, pregnant women put a lot of effort into keeping their baby happy and healthy. Having a healthy pregnancy and healthy baby is important to all soon-to-be moms. To ensure a healthy pregnancy, sometimes doctors prescribe bed rest. Those nine (ten!) months of pregnancy can feel like forever, and being on bed rest may make the time move even slower.

#4 Journal

However, being on bed rest doesn’t have to feel like a lifetime – you can make the most of it!

#5 Listen to podcasts

WHY ARE SOME WOMEN PUT ON BED REST? According to the American Pregnancy Association, it is common for doctors to suggest bed rest to help relieve pregnancy complications. Bed rest may help with maternal high blood pressure, premature labor, fetal development and placenta issues. Doctors may also order bed rest for women who have experienced recurrent pregnancy loss, gestational diabetes, cervical issues or who are expecting multiples. Bed rest reduces stress, limits physical activity and increases placental blood flow. Depending on the severity of pregnancy complications, bed rest can range from routine at-home rest to monitored, full-time rest.

Write down anything from your everyday thoughts to your life goals. You can also keep a diary of your pregnancy experience. Journaling can help you organize your thoughts and put your mind at ease. If you’ve never listened to podcasts before, now’s your chance to give them a try. There are thousands of podcasts out there that discuss just about anything you could ever think of. Look up something you’re interested in and start listening!

#6 Get virtually organized

Go through your camera roll, social media, emails and anything else on your electronics. Create virtual photo albums, organize your files and try to free up storage on your devices. Not only can this be fun, but the future you will thank you for getting virtually organized.

Although it may be difficult, bed rest doesn’t have to be boring. Just remember that your doctor prescribed it to you for a reason: to keep you and your baby happy and healthy. Before you know it, you’ll be back on your feet with a baby on your hip!

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

EDUCATION STATION

c2c | infant { 0 -1 Y E A R S }

Is This Normal? The Sticky Substance in Your Baby’s Diaper BY LINDSEY JOHNSON, MS, MCHES, CF-L1

Poop is a normal part of life. As you transition to life with a newborn, you’ll realize that it becomes a topic of everyday conversation. When did the baby last poop? What did it look like? How did you deal with the latest blowout diaper? One poop you may not be expecting is your baby’s first poop, also known as meconium.

What is meconium? Meconium is a thick, tarry substance that lines your baby’s intestines prior to birth. It is sticky and often green or blacktinged. Babies must excrete meconium from their system and will eventually have regular bowel movements that will be more consistent in texture. If a baby still has meconium present in their system at birth, they will excrete it over the first few days of life. Because this substance is sticky, it can be hard to clean off your baby’s bottom. Since their skin is so sensitive, you’ll want to avoid wiping too harshly. Consider coating your baby’s bottom with diaper cream or Vaseline at diaper changes to make cleanup easier by creating a protective barrier with the skin. While meconium can be difficult during diaper changes, Medical News Today states that it is a sterile substance and typically does not have an odor. What is meconium aspiration syndrome? Meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) is when a newborn ingests a combination of meconium and amniotic fluid at or during the birthing process. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, this occurs in approximately 5-10% of births and is a leading cause of severe illness in infants, occasionally resulting in death. Meconium aspiration syndrome typically occurs when a newborn is stressed, there is a long or difficult delivery, the mother has medical problems or the baby is delivered past their due date. During delivery, there may be a decreased fetal heart rate. After delivery, the baby may express some abnormal sounds while breathing, which the medical team can hear by stethoscope. Meconium may also be visible in the amniotic fluid, cueing staff to check for symptoms. If there is concern, they may also order a chest X-ray or conduct a blood gas analysis. If a baby is diagnosed with MAS, they may be moved to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) while they are treated. Johns Hopkins Medicine states that some babies may be treated with antibiotics for infection, tapping on the chest to loosen secretions and/or using a ventilator to help the baby breathe. Nemours Children’s Health adds that some babies with more severe MAS may also need inhaled nitric oxide, surfactant to help open the airways or potentially even extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), which pumps blood through an artificial lung to oxygenate the blood before returning it to the body. While meconium aspiration syndrome can be severe, Nemours Children’s Health reports that most babies experience a full recovery with little to no long-term side effects. More severe cases may experience longer term breathing issues but this is not the most likely outcome. Meconium is a normal part of your baby’s development. While not the most pleasant substance, your baby will only pass it for the first couple of days until they settle into a more regular stool pattern.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

OUR SERVICES

A PRIVATE EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION SCHOOL

• 6 weeks to age 12

• Open Monday-Friday ORANGE BLOSSOM PREP

The Best Choice in Early Childhood Education! (352) 375-8900

OrangeBlossomPrep.com OrangeBlossomPrep@Gmail.com 6200 SW Archer Rd., Gainesville, FL 32608

HEALTHY STEPS PEDIATRICS

year round

• 6:30 am - 6:00 pm

• Learn and play in a clean, safe and nurturing environment • Nutritious hot mealsbreakfast, lunch, and snacks prepared and provided daily • Bilingual, certified and experienced teaching staff License #C08AL0480

EARLY LEARNING COALITION

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

c2c | toddler {2-3 YEARS}

One Step Back: Why Toddlers Regress When a New Baby Arrives BY MARLENA CARRILLO

When we picture toddlers, all we think about is growth. They grow physically, gain social skills, become potty trained and develop their own personalities. But when a new sibling is added into the equation, some toddlers find themselves reverting to old habits: in this case, baby habits. Maybe they climb into your bed each night even though they’d previously been sleeping on their own. Maybe they have accidents when before they made it to the potty. They could even start asking for pacifiers again or babbling in baby talk when you know they’ve been using words. The good news? This is normal! C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital says older siblings adjusting to the arrival of little ones can regress in the process. This reaction isn’t done to irritate their parents or scorn their new brother or sister. According to UNICEF, reverting to old behaviors is a common response to stress, like a new

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

house or a change in routine. Baby siblings are no exception. In fact, sometimes progress itself can be a stressor – learning to walk comes with the fear of falling, which can make them run back to mom or dad. Think of regressing as taking a pause before making a big jump at the playground – your child is facing a new change, and they need a moment to prepare themselves first. Your child’s instinct when they’re stressed is to find comfort in their parents or guardians. Give them what they need! If they want physical affection, give them the hug they’re looking for. If they tell you how they feel about their new sibling, even if it is nonsensical or resentful, listen to what they tell you. Invalidating your child’s feelings will do nothing but reinforce bad behavior and is a sure way to make them feel even worse about the new baby. Toddlers don’t just regress in response to the stress of a new sibling; sometimes they lash out. Temper tantrums and rule breaking can also be expected. If this happens, focus more on praising your child when they do something good instead of punishing the bad behaviors. Positive associations will be your friend. So, how can you ease the way for your new child’s arrival? Tell your toddler honestly and in simple terms what they can expect. Let them be a part of the process: ask your toddler to help you prepare for the new baby. Most importantly, don’t force them to make new developments just because of their sibling. The Mayo Clinic advises against moving your toddler to a bigger bed to make room for the nursery or expediting potty training to get it out of the way. Let your older child take these steps when they’re ready. Having a new brother or sister is fun and exciting. Taking these steps will help your toddler dip their toes into the realm of siblings – even if they need to act like a baby again first.

Full Time • Part Time • VPK 5205 SW 91st Dr. in Haile Village www.abacuslearningcenter.com ABACUS 352.376.1492

NOW ENROLLING!

––

Serving ages 2-5

KID'S DOC PEDIATRICS

PHYSICAL

BRAIN CHARACTER

KIDSTRONG

c2c | early years {4-6 YEARS}

Playing Dress-Up:

Why It’s Important for Your Child’s Development BY SARAH SEPE

A doctor. A princess. A pop star. These are all things I dressed up as when I was a little girl. There was something so magical about putting on a costume and fully immersing myself into a character. Putting on a sparkly scarf and jeans and truly believing that, one day, I could be the Hannah Montana of my generation.

or other second-hand stores, and allow them to pick out silly hats, sparkly blankets, princess tiaras, scarves and more! Having supplies for your child to play dress-up with is a big way parents can foster a fun play environment. Dr. Laura Froyen, who specializes in human development and family studies, told Healthline what parents should keep around the house for spontaneous dress-up sessions. “You should keep things simple, open ended and accessible,” she said. “Having fewer options will allow for deeper play and using open-ended objects, like play scarves and silks, will allow your child to use them in endless ways, which leads to greater creativity.” Old jewelry, gloves, mittens, scrubs, purses or bags, tutus, shoes and more make for great supplies for dress-up. When you get home, snap some photos to create memories for a lifetime. So go to your local store and bring your child along! After all, you could have the next Hannah Montana or Black Panther in your backseat.

But was it just a game? Was playing dress-up just a way to pass the time? Or was there something deeper to it? Dress-up is a form of imaginative play – a type of play in which children use their imaginations to role-play scenarios they’ve seen, experienced or would like to experience, according to Healthline – and it’s amazing for your child.

BENEFITS OF PLAYING DRESS-UP

All playtime is essential to childhood development skills, because it contributes to the cognitive, physical, social and emotional well-being of children and youth, according to Dr. Jeffrey Goldstein, author of “Play in Children’s Development, Health and Well-Being.”

Encourages thinking and communication skills

However, imaginative play is one of the best play types because it encourages creative thinking and communication skills. According to Healthline, it also helps children practice language development and social skills. There are also physical benefits to playing dress-up; the act of putting on and taking off costumes, the buttons, zippers and snaps on the outfits all help tune their fine motor skills. Dr. Karen Aronian, longtime schoolteacher and founder of Aronian Education design, told Healthline, “Children are stretching their imaginations through different identities and occupations in dress up and practicing their gross and fine motor skills.” Playing dress-up allows children to run wild with their imagination, and parents should promote it! Encouraging imaginative play doesn’t necessarily mean you need to purchase pre-made, expensive costumes. Take your children to Goodwill,

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Practices language skills and helps develop social skills Tunes fine motor skills Promotes creativity and imagination

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c2c | kids { 7- 9 Y E A R S }

Rub-a-dub-dub Alone in the Tub BY LUCILLE LANNIGAN

Most of us can hardly remember the point where our own bath times filled with rubber ducks and bubbles came to a halt, but it might have been mildly confusing or unpleasant as a child. Whether you’re trying to transition first to independent baths or right to showers, the experience can be both exciting and scary. Your child will probably be excited about this newfound independence, but there are a few ground rules to establish to ensure that they are bathing properly and safely. The first question you may have is: how often should my child be bathing? A daily bath or shower routine is not necessary. A study from Harvard Health says that too much bathing can lead to dry, irritated skin and strip the skin of natural protective oils and bacteria. Bathing two or three times a week is appropriate, but there will be days where activity levels are higher or your child is participating in activities that involve dirt, sweat or chlorine, and it is okay to bathe more if needed. Knowing how often will help establish a routine, which is important in transitioning to independent bathing. If able, set up days and times that are designated washing times. If it’s happening on a consistent basis, your child will become more comfortable quicker. Next, you should talk to your child about the importance of washing. Stress how crucial it is to bathe in order to avoid germs and sickness. Explain that it’s something everyone does, and now they can. This could even become a point of excitement for the child who now has a brand new responsibility.

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Teach them the basics. As an adult, washing feels like second nature, but for a child, it may not be so simple. Teach your child which soap, shampoo or conditioner to use and the order in which to use them. Teach them to wash thoroughly, cleaning private areas, behind the ears and under the arms. They may be quick to hop under the water and jump out, but make sure they are spending enough time soaping up. To do this, have your child sing their favorite song while soaping up and rinsing. Keep them safe. Show them how to adjust the temperature on the shower to avoid burns from hot water. A study posted by the American Academy of Pediatrics shows that most child injuries in the shower come from slipping, tripping or falling. To avoid this, place no-slip adhesives on the bottom of the bathtub and bath mats outside of the shower or tub. Finally, make this new responsibility a rewarding experience. You could do this by buying them new shower items like a scented body wash or colorful loofah. Once they’ve completed their first few independent washes, congratulate them after and make sure they know that it’s a huge accomplishment and a big step in growing up.

MILLHOPPER MONTESSORI

HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER

c2c | tweens { 1 0 -1 3 Y E A R S }

Is Discord a Healthy Hangout or a Dangerous Decision? BY LINDSEY JOHNSON, MS, MCHES, CF-L1

Discord, a new app on the scene, has exploded in popularity as a way for teens to connect through an online platform. But with every new social media program, we as parents have to ask whether or not it is safe for our children. What is Discord? “Discord is a free voice, video and text chat app that is used by tens of millions of people ages 13+ to talk and hang out with their communities and friends,” states their official website. Users enter a birthdate when they sign up to verify their age, but like other sites, users can enter any date they want. How are users engaging? Discord is a messaging app that allows users to connect by text, voice and video. One popular use is for gamers to play games virtually and discuss with other players. Discord is also used for school study groups, teams, community organizations and more. Within the app, which can be accessed on a computer or mobile device, there are “servers” that serve as groups. Unlike other social media apps like Facebook or Instagram, there is no general public area for users; you must join individual servers. Servers are typically based on topic. The majority of them are small groups of people known in real life but there are also many large “verified” servers created by companies that could contain strangers. Users can send each other direct messages, which can be either private

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

or in a group chat with up to 10 people. Video and voice messages are not saved, similar to a standard phone or FaceTime call. What are the dangers? The ability to private message other users means that children may be contacted by strangers. According to Defend Young Minds, an advocacy group dedicated to protecting children from the dangers of pornography and sexual exploitation, sexual predators posing as children groom young users through private messaging. There are reports of child pornography, criminal activity, white supremacy and human trafficking happening within this application. Local teen Natalie Rodriguez is a gamer and Discord user. While she thinks it’s a great platform to connect with other gamers and friends, she has experienced the downside of strangers’ messages. “People will trauma dump very quickly,” Rodriguez warns. She has experienced other users contacting her with messages threatening suicide. “It happens often,” she says. Like other social media platforms, Discord is another space for cyberbullies. Defend Young Minds notes that the disappearing audio and video messages creates a lack of evidence of the abuse. Some children will also create a closed server, intentionally excluding others. How can I protect my child? While we can’t fully protect our children from all the evils of the world, there are some steps parents can take to help ensure online safety. Rodriguez advises that parents establish the privacy and safety settings for their children. She recommends only allowing direct messages from friends, not from everyone. While this can’t ensure that their known acquaintances won’t cyberbully, it can limit exposure to unwanted adult content and dangerous predators. It is also important to review these possible dangers with your child and encourage them to report anything unusual to you immediately. Reassure them that they will not be in trouble for reporting it. Learn the app and guide them to what is permitted and check in periodically to ensure there are no surprises. Knowing how to navigate the potential landmines will prepare you both for a safe and successful online experience.

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c2c | teens { 1 4 -1 8 Y E A R S }

18 for 18 Challenge: Delaying Social Media Use BY LINDSEY JOHNSON, MS, MCHES, CF-L1

One Minnesota teen is $1,800 richer thanks to completing the 18 for 18 Challenge his mother created for him. When Sivert Klefsass was just 12 years old, his mother Lorna issued him a challenge: stay off social media until he was 18 years old and she would pay him $1,800. At the age of 12, that seemed like an extraordinary amount of money and he accepted the challenge. While there were times where it was difficult to be excluded from social media outlets, Klefsass says his friends kept him in the loop of what was happening in the cyber world.

How Did This Start?

According to KARE 11 News in Minneapolis, Lorna heard of other mothers challenging their children to stay away from social media until they were 16 years old. She decided to extend it another two years until her son hit legal adulthood. Lorna had seen the damaging effects that social media can have on teens when her daughter struggled with social media, saying that the constant draw was impacting her daughter’s mood and friendships. Seeing an opportunity to help her son avoid the same pitfalls, she offered him a deal that was up to him to accept.

The Impact of Social Media on Teens

Like it or not, social media has become a major part of teen culture. It can be an opportunity for kids to connect outside of school, which was particularly helpful when students were sent home during the pandemic. Social media can also be a way to organize events and keep in touch with team members, clubs and other organizations. But social media is not without its faults. Behind the shield of a screen, some people feel more emboldened to make hurtful comments that they would never say directly to someone’s face. In written form, many comments can be taken out of context and interpreted incorrectly. A research study conducted by Pew Research reports that 45% of teenagers report they are online “almost constantly.” This hyperconnectedness does not provide teens with the time to be fully alone with their inner thoughts and feelings but instead, constantly at the watchful eye of others. They react immediately and this instant feedback also makes it obvious when they are being ignored by others. It also provides ample opportunity for teens to cyberbully or participate in activities that they would not

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

want their parents to know about. The Cyberbullying Research Center reports that 23.2% of study participants have been cyberbullied in the past 30 days. A systematic review of studies published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that cyberbullying victims under the age of 25 are twice as likely to selfharm or demonstrate suicidal behaviors. A multi-institutional study at the University of Texas-Austin and the University of Rochester found that teens who received fewer “likes” on their posts reported stronger feelings of rejection and negative feelings about themselves, tying their feelings of self-worth to the feedback they received online. Dr. Chris Beevers, coauthor of the study and director of the Institute for Mental Health Research at the University of Texas, states that feelings of low selfworth can lead to an increased risk of depression.

Giving Teens a Choice

The genius in Lorna Klefsass’ challenge is that she ultimately left the decision to her son. She provided him an opportunity to make a choice between social media and a cash reward. While it presented occasional challenges, Sivert says he would do it again as he felt the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. But the allure of social media is still there - one of the first things Sivert did on his 18th birthday was set up an Instagram account.

Tips for Trying This at Home: Choose a timeline of your comfort level (months, years, until a certain age) Choose a relevant reward (something that will motivate your child, magnitude of prize should be relevant to the amount of time invested) Frame it as a challenge (adds an element of fun!) Propose options to your child as a choice - ultimately it is up to them to stick with it. When presented as a choice instead of a parental mandate, teens feel empowered to be autonomous. Stick to your promise. If your child reaches their milestone, award them as promised.

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community | calendar

april | may Recurring Events NOW THROUGH THE END OF MAY

free Sweetwater Wetlands Park Wednesday Bird Walks 8:30 a.m. Sweetwater Wetlands Park alachuaaudubon.org Meet Gainesville’s rich and diverse bird community on this immersive 2 to 3 hour guided walking tour! The tour is free and allows guests to view a wide variety of birds from the Purple Gallinule to the Limpkin. This event repeats every Wednesday. NOW THROUGH MAY 3, 2022

free Barnyard Buddies 3 p.m. Morningside Nature Center cityofgainesville.com At the Living History Farm, visitors interact with farm animals and help staff feed them apples, sweet potatoes and melons, all of which can be donated. This event repeats every Wednesday.

Stay and Play 2.0 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Sun Country Sports Center suncountrysports.com Stay and Play 2.0 is a safe and fun environment for kids 5 and under and their parents. Kids will enjoy open play and obstacle courses. This preschool gym offers equipment especially designed for your little ones. This event repeats every Friday.

Mill Creek Farm Retirement Home for Horses 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Mill Creek Farm https://millcreekfarm.org/visitor-information/ Bring 2 carrots to pay for your admission to feed retired horses! This event repeats every Saturday. NOW THROUGH MAY

free Living History Days 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Morningside Nature Center cityofgainesville.com Travel back in time to feel what it was like to live on a farm in the 1870s. Experience a rooster waking you up instead of an iPhone alarm and enjoy nature alongside a few farm animals. This event repeats the first Saturday of the month.

Splash Jam 11 - 11:30 a.m. Sun Country Sports Center suncountrysports.com Come for some extra time in the pool to improve your skills! Available for children ages 3 and up. (West location only). This event repeats every Saturday.

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Ninja Jam 12:15 - 1:10 p.m. Sun Country Sports Center suncountrysports.com Learn the ways of the Ninja. Available for children ages 3 and up. (West location only). This event repeats every Saturday.

Stay and Play 2.0 3:15 - 5:30 p.m. Sun Country Sports Center suncountrysports.com Stay and Play 2.0 is a safe and fun environment for kids 5 and under and their parents. Kids will enjoy open play and obstacle courses. This preschool gym offers equipment especially designed for your little ones. This event repeats every Saturday.

Looking for even more local fun? Visit gigglemagazine.com to browse our online calendar and find your next family adventure!

GRINS & GIGGLES

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community | calendar SATURDAY, APRIL 2

SUNDAY, APRIL 10

Pancakes on the Prairie

Sun Country Dance Theatre Presents Little Red Riding Hood

9 - 11:30 a.m. Tuscawilla Cabin alachuaconservationtrust.org

2:30 p.m. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts facebook.com/SunCountryDanceTheatre

This is your sign to consider eating free pancakes with the Alachua Conservation Trust. Guests can donate a small amount to contribute to conservation efforts.

FRIDAY, APRIL 8

Cade After Dark 21+ 6 - 9 p.m. Cade Museum cademuseum.org

SATURDAY, APRIL 2 - SUNDAY, APRIL 3

Bradford Strawberry Festival 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday Fairgrounds in Starke, FL bradfordcountystrawberryfestival.com

Close your work emails, set aside your textbooks, hire a sitter—the Cade Museum’s Cade After Dark 21+ is a night just for grownups who need a break from adulting. Relive your childhood at the Cade with old school board games and science experiments, get messy with slime, see the exhibits from a whole new perspective (with a drink in your hand!), and more. April's theme is Glow in the Dark!

Join 200 food and craft vendors at the Bradford County Strawberry Festival! The festival includes kids activities, including monster trucks and lots of opportunities to try new food items. SATURDAY, APRIL 2 - SUNDAY, APRIL 3

Thornebrook Spring Arts Festival 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Thornebrook Village facebook.com/Artfestivalthornebrook Stroll through beautiful Thornebrook Village and enjoy arts and crafts vendors! SATURDAY, APRIL 2

Farm to Table Dinner #7 The Living Earth 4 - 9 p.m. Swallowtail Farm swallowtailcsa.com

SATURDAY, APRIL 9

Gainesville Clot Trot 8 a.m. Veterans Memorial Park secure.qgiv.com

SUNDAY, APRIL 3

Spring Charcuterie Class 4 p.m. Langan Acres facebook.com/langanacres/ Learn to make a charcuterie board under Chef Crysta Brown’s instruction! Tickets are $55 per person and include a take home charcuterie board and supplies.

Orange and Blue Game 1 p.m. Ben Hill Griffin Stadium floridagators.com/sports/football/schedule/2022 UF’s Orange and Blue Game is back! This annual spring football game allows fans to experience another game day in the Swamp!

SUNDAY, APRIL 17 Easter Sunday

SATURDAY, APRIL 23

SATURDAY, APRIL 9

2 - 9 p.m. Fox Run tylershope.org

12 - 9 p.m. Swallowtail Farm swallowtailcsa.com Join us for our annual Spring Festival! After a long, hard year of foregoing our annual gatherings, our festivals are back and will be more bounteous and exciting than ever! Live music, food and drink, amazing workshops, vendors and so much more! SUNDAY, APRIL 10

Easter Extravaganza 1 - 4 p.m. Butler Town Center facebook.com/events Don’t have Easter plans? Stop by Butler Plaza to meet the Easter Bunny and Mad Hatter. Guests can enjoy treats from Jeremiah’s Italian Ice and Nothing Bundt Cakes.

Looking for even more local fun? Visit gigglemagazine.com to browse our online calendar and find your next family adventure!

SATURDAY, APRIL 16

Help those suffering from blood disorders through participating in this 5K walk or run.

Swallowtail Farm Annual Spring Festival

The Living Earth is the theme of the seventh dinner. 10% of the proceeds of each dinner will be donated to a local non-profit dedicated to stewarding a cause related to our theme. Each dinner’s menu will also emulate the theme of the evening.

Sun Country Dance Theatre (SCDT) is proud to present its 14th annual Spring Youth Concert, featuring the return of our original story ballet, “Little Red Riding Hood”, to be presented at the Phillips Center for the Performing Arts on Sunday, April 10, 2022, at 2:30 p.m.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

Tyler’s Hope for a Dystonia Cure Crawfish Boil

Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder which forces the body in abnormal postures. Tyler’s Hope Crawfish boil aims to fundraise money toward a cure. Guests listen to live music and enjoy some Cajun-style seafood. SATURDAY, APRIL 23

WestFest 4 - 10 p.m. Lois Forte Park facebook.com/WestFestFl Bring a lawn chair and enjoy a great lineup of musical artists! The event is free and attendees have the option to choose food from various food trucks and beverage vendors! SUNDAY, APRIL 24

Spring GLAM Craft Show 2022 12 - 5 p.m. Cypress & Grove Brewing Co. facebook.com/events Check out eye-catching local artwork at this display! The majority of items displayed will also be on sale!

LYRICS FOR LIFE

community | calendar SUNDAY, MAY 8

FAFO’s Symphony Under The Stars 3 - 9 p.m. Ocala Golf Club eventbrite.com THURSDAY, APRIL 28

GCM Food Festival 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Celebration Pointe eventbrite.com Celebrate local food at GCM’s Food Festival! All you have to bring is your hunger – yum!

SATURDAY, APRIL 30

7th Annual Garden Show and Spring Festival

Pay $20 to watch the Ocala Symphony Orchestra play on Mother’s Day! Expect food vendors, fireworks and fun! SATURDAY, MAY 14

Beekeeping: Honey Extraction & Hive Management 9 a.m. - Noon UF/IFAS Honey Bee Research and Extension Laboratory eventrbite.com Take a class on how to extract honey from bee hives for $20. Participants must register by May 11. Disclaimer – participants will interact with live bees so dress accordingly!

FRIDAY, MAY 20

Sun Country Sports Center Kids Night Out 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Sun Country Sports Center suncountrysports.com/kidsnightout/ Take your kids out for a night out at Sun Country Sports. Here, your children will get to play group games and enjoy a ninja zone and outdoor playground. Pizza is included, and pre-registration is recommended.

SATURDAY, MAY 21

6:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens facebook.com/events/451115846719206/

Festival Latino Downtown Ocala 2 - 9 p.m. eventbrite.com

Come meet with Florida plant, art and craft vendors! At the event, you’ll explore botanical gardens that feature cascading waterfalls and colorful plants. $10 for adult admission, $5 for children 6 to 13 years old.

Enjoy Latin food, live music and art at Ocala’s Latino Festival! If you’re looking to learn more about Latino culture, give it a try! The event has free parking and free cover! FRIDAY, MAY 20

Cade After Dark 21+

THURSDAY, MAY 5 Cinco de Mayo

6 - 9 p.m. Cade Museum cademuseum.org

FRIDAY, MAY 6

Mommy & Me Offspring Fling 6 - 8 p.m. Silver Springs Shores Community Center Drink and eat sweet treats as a live DJ invigorates your night! Expect games and photos at this CandyLand themed dance party! Admission costs $20 per person and all proceeds go to the Marion County Public Education Foundation. SATURDAY, APRIL 30 - SUNDAY, MAY 8

SUNDAY, MAY 22

Goat Yoga 10 a.m. - Noon Beautiful Creatures Animal Ranch eventbrite.com Yoga is an invigorating way to refresh your week. Hang out with baby goats for a very unique experience. Admission is $35.

MONDAY, MAY 30 Memorial Day

Mother’s Day at Kanapaha Botanical Gardens 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens kanapaha.org On Mother’s Day, mothers of all ages get free admission into Kanapaha.

SUNDAY, MAY 8 Mother's Day

FRIDAY, MAY 20 - SUNDAY, MAY 22

JBF Kids’ MEGA Sale Legacy Park Multipurpose Center eventbrite.com Save on maternity items, toys, baby furniture, clothing and strollers at this huge sale in Alachua! The last sale included over 180,000 items!

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | APRIL/MAY 2022

Looking for even more local fun? Visit gigglemagazine.com to browse our online calendar and find your next family adventure!

GAINESVILLE DERM

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SUN COUNTRY

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