Giggle Magazine December/January 2020 by Irving Publications, LLC

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DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020 • Volume 11 • Issue 6 gigglemagazine.com

The Holiday Issue

OUR

BRIGHTEST

GIFT GUIDE YET!

HOLIDAY MOM HACKS ROUND 2!

DIY

SIMPLE, COZY SWEATER VASES HOW TO STOP

HOLIDAY "GIMME" plu

2020 EDUCATION GUIDE PG. 39 GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

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PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Nicole Irving GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Megan Sapelak, Grace Downey VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Shane Irving ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE April Tisher EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Sayeh Farah, Isabella Sorresso WEB EDITOR & SPECIAL EVENTS Amanda Roland

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publisher's letter

a facetime christmas My siblings and I live on two different coasts. My family, along with my parents, are here in Gator country, my brother, along with his family reside in Silicon Valley and my sister and her fiancé near Newport Beach, CA. And, this year, will be the third ever that I am not with both of them during the holidays, and I am quite sad about it really.

MEET OUR

COVER CUTIE!

In the hustle and bustle of life, kids, work and all the things in between, there was always a constant. Around every August, yes August, we would begin to have the conversation among us as to where we were going for Christmas vacation. Up until my parents joined us in Gainesville, it would either be Connecticut, where my parents lived at the time, or Florida, where the five of us were. Connecticut would win every time as there is just something about a white Christmas.

Lib by

Soon our traditions began. Cutting down the tree, decorating the tree, cooking, eating, more cooking, Christmas Eve shopping, more eating… and repeat. Family and friends would join from nearby New York ,and laughter and the smell of my dad's amazing food would fill the rooms while the kids tried to tackle each other under the tree. Ahhh… the memories. But, this year is different. Some of us will be here in Florida and some in California. With so many moving parts and schedules this coming holiday season, it won’t allow for us to all be together under one roof. And, even though I am older and wiser to know that things have to change, it doesn’t change the fact that I don’t like that we will be far apart during such a special time.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

Favorite book: Goodnight, Princess! Favorite holiday movie? Olaf’s Frozen Adventure Favorite holiday tradition? Baking and decorating (and eating!) cookies

However, even though there will be distance, there will still be a connection. In the digital age, we have FaceTime and passed down recipes will be made on both coasts. Handmade stockings of our youth will be filled and placed under the respected tree and the sound of White Christmas playing on the TV in the background of each of our houses will help remind us of what special times we have had together and make the next time we are together during the holidays only that Nicole Irving, Publisher much sweeter. nbirving@irvingpublications.com Like us on Facebook /GIGGLEMAGAZINE

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Cutie photo by Tanya Consaul Photography

Shane and I would drive the 20 some-odd hours to Connecticut, kids and dogs in tow, and live displaced in my parent’s colonial house for two weeks. My sister would join from her Connecticut or Florida apartment, depending on where she was at the time and my brother would arrive after with my sister-in-law. It was never a question of “if you were joining," just when would you get there.

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DEC JAN 2020

happy family • happy community™

●

conception 2 college™ 80 EXPECTING

Labor Induction 82 INFANT

Dressing Baby for Colder Temps

85 TODDLER

Becoming Bilingual

88 EARLY YEARS

8 Books That Teach Kindness 90 KIDS

Gimme, Gimme!

92 TWEENS

The Friendship Game

94 TEENS

Don't Stress the Test

ALACHUA

18 #BOSSMOM Linda Davidson

forks & spoons 20 DELISH Giggle Staff Holiday Recipes

health

60 MAKE IT

Sweater Weather 62 FIX IT

18 Things All Kids Need to Know How to Fix Before Moving Out 64 CLEAN IT

The Secret One-Stop Cleaner

72 HOMESCHOOL CORNER Is the Homeschool Co-op Right for Your Family? 74 FEATURED TEACHER Amy Tanner 76 YOUR SCHOOLS

Start With Hello: The Sandy Hook Promise

happy community 99 CALENDAR

December/January

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Catching Your Child's Illnesses

learn

BRIGHTEST

GIFT GUIDE YET!

HOLIDAY MOM HACKS ROUND 2!

DIY

SIMPLE, COZY SWEATER VASES HOW TO STOP

HOLIDAY "GIMME" plu

2020 EDUCATION GUIDE PG. 39

On the Cover: Holiday Mom Hacks PAGE 16

2020 Education Guide PAGE 39

70 FAMILY LEARNING

Let the Games Begin!

DIY Simple, Cozy Sweater Vases PAGE 60

fe a tu res 27 96

The Holiday Issue

OUR

Our Brightest Gift Guide Yet PAGE 27

67 Come on Gators. Get Up and Go!

53 GET HEALTHY

56 GET PRETTY Hydration Oasis

MAGAZINE

• Volume 11 • Issue 6 DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020 gigglemagazine.com

• Volume 11 • Issue 6 DECEMBER/JANUA RY 2020

16 MOM HACKS 17 Hacks for an Easy Holiday!

Turn Over a New Leaf This New Year

PARENTING

years

HOLIDAY ISSUE | GIFT GUIDE

13 A DAY IN MOM'S LIFE Krystle Williams

happy home

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mom's corner

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Tis the Season: 2019 Gift Guide & Holiday Tid Bits The Virtual Future

How to Stop the Holiday "Gimme" PAGE 90

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mom's corner | a day in a mom's life

NEW FEATURE!

A D AY I N T H E L I F E O F :

Photos courtesy of Krystle Williams

Krystle Williams Krystle Williams is an English teacher at Taizhou University in China. She has lived here part time for six years with her husband Josh, who is also an English teacher; her children Landon (11), Arabella (8) and Gryffen (4); and their cat Ginger. Their other cat, Chaing, and dog Callie, live with Josh’s parents in Florida while they are in China.

MORNING 7:30 a.m. I know, I know. I get up late for a mom of three,

but when each one of my children were little I prayed they wouldn't wake up at the crack of dawn. I’m so thankful to be able to say they don’t. Woo hoo! We all wake up around the same time. Most nights, our youngest quietly climbs into our bed during the early morning hours. If he wakes up before me, he will get me up with a kiss and a “I love you, Momma.” I get up, feed our kitten Ginger and start breakfast. We typically have fresh hard-boiled eggs, hot oatmeal made on the stovetop

and, of course, coffee for me. Josh has left for work by 7:30 a.m. On the days he doesn’t have class first thing in the morning, he will eat breakfast with us and do some work from home. Landon or I make sure we add water to our Berky filtering system since the water is not drinkable from the tap. So thankful for our Berky!

8 a.m. My children are mostly awake and have set the table.

We sit down together with a prayer and enjoy our breakfast while the children tell each other about last night’s dreams, and I catch

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

mom's corner | a day in a mom's life

NEW FEATURE! up on messages and emails from friends and family who’ve messaged me in the night. We are 12 hours ahead of EST so as our American friends and families are settling down for the evening, we are having our breakfast. Once breakfast is finished, I am starting on laundry and doing an exercise routine while my children clean up after breakfast and get dressed. On Thursdays, I get up a little earlier because I have classes and need to be out the door at 9:30 a.m.

9 a.m. Landon and Arabella start on

their independent work for school. We homeschool, but my children do have a tutor for Chinese (most years, it is one of our Chinese students) and a tutor for French. An amazing part of living in another country, is you meet the coolest people. The kid’s French tutor is a young woman from Rwanda who can speak fluent French and English as well as other languages. Gryffen is normally being his typical tornado self by going from room to room running around, singing at the top of his lungs or jumping on our trampoline. He is my most energetic and wild child and wakes up buzzing with energy (hence the small trampoline in the middle of the living room).

11 a.m. Depending on the morning, I

will read to Gryffen or he will do some math with his little number bears and little plastic math cubes. If Landon and Arabella have finished their work, or I know I will be busy in the afternoon, I will start our read-alouds. We all love spending hours reading together. I generally read, but Landon and Arabella will take turn reading also.

AFTERNOON 12:30 p.m. I make a quick lunch of

leftovers or a tray of veggies, fruit and yogurt. We listen to the folk song and the

hymn that we are learning for that month. My children love singing and learning new songs. It quiets down outside as the local Chinese folks take the traditional afternoon nap. The kids do the clean up while I work on my household work or prepare for my classes. Then we finish up schoolwork.

2:30 p.m. We are generally done with all the household chores and schoolwork, so now it is time for fun. We will check the air pollution levels and decide if we should play outside and draw in our nature journals, or do indoor projects like painting, playing with clay, Play-Doh or just play around the house.

4 p.m. The children have French

lessons on Tuesdays. Our good friend from Rwanda, Joyuese, comes over and has a lesson with Landon and Arabella. Gryffen will sometimes participate, but usually he and I will play or read. Sometimes he will play while I prepare for my classes. I teach all day on Thursday, and my husband stays home with the kids and takes over for me.

EVENING 5:30 p.m. Depending on the night,

Josh is typically arriving home after finishing teaching and going to the gym. It’s time to pick up packages, as so many of the goods we use are delivered from online companies to various local shops. Josh usually goes out and collects them each evening. We will all help out and prepare dinner of fresh veggies bought from the farmers sitting on the street corners selling their harvest from the day. If it is a late night, Josh may bring home some Chinese food from one of the local restaurants. We also have some of our students come over several times in the month. They join us for dinner or will make food for us to share. Monday nights we spend with several African students who attend

another nearby college. We share meals together in our home and spend a couple hours talking with them on those nights. It is an amazing experience to share their traditional food, culture and experiences. Since we are all foreigners in a land very different than our own, it is interesting to see so many similarities and differences between each of our cultures.

7:15 p.m. We all clean up after dinner

together. Now, time to get those kids clean. The kids take turns getting in the shower; bathtubs don’t seem to be a thing in China. This has become a lot of fun for them recently. We just moved into a new apartment. In our old apartment, we didn’t have reliable hot water. The hot water was only in the shower, and worst of all, it was limited. It’s all about the simple things, right? There is often a roughhouse game with Daddy to finish off the day. Sometimes Momma will join in if the odds seem a bit unfair one way or the other.

8:15 p.m. It’s time for some reading

for the kiddos in bed and then lights out around 8:30 or 9 p.m. Josh or I will read aloud or they will read independently. Since most apartments are small here, my children all share one room. We have a bunk bed; boys on the bottom and Arabella, and her furry sister Ginger, share the top. There are often little giggles, one or two request for water and a bathroom trip before sleep finds them.

9 p.m. Josh feeds Ginger her dinner,

and thanks to our new apartment and water heater, we can take nice hot showers. Now I have some time with Josh as we catch up and talk about our days. Sometimes we read side by side, read aloud to each other, play video games together or watch an occasional movie if we manage to get the kids to sleep in a reasonable time.

11-ish p.m. Time for bed!

Want to submit a friend (or yourself!) to be featured in A Day in a Mom's Life? Visit gigglemagazine.com to submit now! 14

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

mom's corner | mom hacks

NEW FEATURE!

# momhacks

We all know that the hardest job you can have is being a mom! 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 with you that in the rise of technology and “life hacks,” there are a lot of tools and gadgets out there that can make being a mom a little less stressful!

17 Hacks for an Easy Holiday! Use the

WRIST TAPE DISPENSER!

Genius invention! Don't stress about outdoor lights, hire someone to make your house sparkle!

Visit Sams or Amazon and buy

bulk batteries so your kids have their own stash and don’t steal from the remotes!

Serve everything

buffet style

family potluck

send Santa a note to use his own special

Santa Paper! Use photos instead of gift tags! Two presents in one!

Wrap each kiddo's presents in their own paper so that sorting presents in the morning is easy!

Skip the wrapping paper and boxes all together and use gift bags!

Have the whole family download the

Make big batches of holiday spirits to have available for everyone, instead of making individual drinks Use the

Elfster App

freezer section

to make gift giving easy for

at your grocery store! Frozen pies, appetizers, premade cookies. Save time for the WIN!

Secret Santas

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

SHATTERPROOF ornaments

Make sure to Do a

Tie gift cards onto a mini tree for an awesome gift

Purchase a box of

thank you cards and some stamps for the kid’s stockings!

Egg cartons make a great storage "box" for small tree decorations

Stock up on half off gift wrap and tree trimmings at the

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GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

# bossmom

mom's corner | #bossmom

NEW FEATURE!

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!

Linda Davidson

Her fast paced life doesn’t end after her shift. She is also a caregiver to her parents, a wife to Robert, her husband of 13 years, and mother to 7-year-old twins, Miles and Sophie. She is the ultimate #bossmom and if that weren’t enough to keep one busy, she is currently enrolled in school! “While I love my job, I am also currently in graduate school full-time to become a Family/Acute Care Nurse Practitioner because I want to further my education and have more flexibility in my career and for my family.” Miles and Sophie are the loves of Davidson’s life. “When they placed the twins on my chest that first time, I didn’t know you could love someone as much as I did for them in that moment (and ever since)” she said. Today, they keep Davidson on her toes and are engaged in the arts and sciences with a love for learning. “Sophie is my artistic, very creative one that loves to draw and loves music. Miles loves science and has a mind like an engineer and he enjoys building things with Legos,” Davidson said. “I love watching them grow and becoming independent people…I love their curious minds and their love for learning new things.”

As all #bossmoms know, the art of balancing it all is no small feat. For Davidson, the delicate act of balancing work, family and school comes with time management and planning. “I use the Google calendar app which is linked with my husband so he is able to see my hectic schedule. We plan and put everything on that calendar.” Davidson shares advice for other #bossmoms who are playing that delicate juggling act. “No one can do it all, so I’d advise to know your limits and what to prioritize while being realistic with your time. Knowing how to find a good balance within your life that works for you and your family.” In addition to her work and school schedule, Davidson also makes time for self care. “I also try to make time for myself such as getting a massage monthly, working out, or just some time on my schedule for absolutely nothing, which I usually just relax at home or at a coffee shop. It helps that I have a supportive husband, friends and family.” Davidson also surrounds herself with other #bossmoms who support her and that she can relate with. “I have so many of my friends that are boss moms. It’s something that drives us to be able to be a great role model for our kids while making sure we spend quality time with our family. My best friend Shelley is one of the best boss moms. She is one of the head nurses within her hospice company; has two beautiful girls that are in many extracurricular activities; a husband, two dogs and five cats; while maintaining a positive and happy attitude.”

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 | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

Photos by Robert Davidson Digital Media Services

Registered nurse Linda Davidson says she loves the fast pace of her work in the emergency department. It gives her the opportunity to think quickly on her feet while also helping others. But, her generous nature isn’t limited to just her work shift.

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l forks and spoons | delish

GiggleS taff Holiday Recipes BY GRACE DOWNEY, MEGAN SAPELAK & NICOLE IRVING

From our Giggle family to yours, we have collected some of our staff's secret family recipes and we are spilling the beans just for you! May they bring you joy and full bellies this holiday season. 20

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

forks and spoons | delish

Carmelitas

It wouldn't be the holidays in my family without Carmelitas! Warning: these bars are highly addictive.

GraceDowney GRAPHIC DESIGNER

INGREDIENTS 14 oz of caramels (from individual squares or a block) 1 cup evaporated milk 2 cups flour 2 cups quick oats 1 1/2 cups brown sugar 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup butter (melted) 12 oz. chocolate chips 1 cup pecans (chopped) DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat heat the oven to 350 and fully grease a 9x13 pan with butter. 2. Melt caramels in evaporated milk on a medium to low heat. Once melted, keep on low heat and stir occasionally until ready to pour. 3. For the crust, combine remaining ingredients, except the chocolate chips and pecans, in a large mixing bowl. 4. Press half of the crumbles into the bottom of the greased 9x13 pan and bake in the oven for 10 minutes. 5. Remove from oven and spread on a layer of chocolate chips, followed by a layer of chopped pecans. 6. Carefully and evenly pour the melted caramel, then sprinkle the remaining 1/2 of the crumbles on top. Bake for 15-20 minutes until brown. 7. Chill the pan overnight. Cut into squares and serve. TIP FROM GRACE After chilling overnight, the Carmelitas become somewhat â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;gluedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to the pan. Take your knife and cut around the edges of the pan to help pry it loose. Then flip the entire pan facedown on a large cutting board and tap the bottom until the entire desert falls onto the cutting board. Flip it over and its ready to be cut!

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

l forks and spoons | delish

Stuffing

This stuffing has been around for generations and is essential for our large family!

Megan Sapelak GRAPHIC DESIGNER

INGREDIENTS 1 loaf of white bread 1 stick of butter or margarine 1 large white or yellow onion 2 stalks celery Salt Pepper Poultry seasoning Seasoning Salt Reduced sodium chicken broth DIRECTIONS 1. Tear up 1 loaf of bread into small pieces. You can dry them out ahead of time by just leaving them uncovered a day ahead or just use them the same day. 2. In a large frying pan, add 1 stick of butter or margarine and sauté 1 large onion and 2 stalks of celery (both cut into small pieces). 3. When onions and celery are tender, pour them along with the butter over the bread. 4. Add salt, pepper, seasoning salt and poultry seasoning. The amount depends on your taste. I like to start with the poultry season and pepper first, then add seasoning salt and regular salt until I think it has enough flavor. 5. Then moisten the stuffing with chicken broth. Again, add as much or as little depending on how moist you want it. It will dry up a little as it cooks, so you might add a little more than you would think. 6. Put into a baking dish and bake at 350 degrees for about 30-45 minutes. You can tell if it's done by touching it with a fork. If it's gooey, it's not done yet.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

forks and spoons | delish

Struffoli DOUGH INGREDIENTS 6 cups flour 2 1 ⁄2 teaspoons baking powder 1 ⁄2 cup sugar 1 lemon rind-grated 1 ⁄2 cup shortening or margarine 8 eggs-slightly beaten 1 ⁄2 teaspoon salt

A sweet treat to share during the holidays, these perfect lemon-zest honey balls known as Struffoli are our

Nicole Irving

favorite Italian Christmas dish.

PUBLISHER

DOUGH DIRECTIONS 1. Sift flour and make a well. To well add eggs, salt, shortening, sugar, baking powder and lemon rind. Mix into a smooth dough. 2. Knead thoroughly and allow to rest one hour covered with a damp cloth. 3. Roll dough into 1 ⁄2 inch diameter "ropes" and cut into 1 ⁄4 inch to 1 ⁄2 inch pieces. Heat deep fryer to 375 degrees. Fry handfuls of struffoli at a time until golden brown. Lift with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Let cool.

Struffoli photo by Patricia Bishop Photography

HONEY MIXTURE INGREDIENTS 1 1 ⁄2 pounds honey 1 tangerine rind-grated 5 tablespoons sugar 1 tablespoon lemon juice Colored confetti sprinkles Powdered sugar Whole pignoli HONEY MIXTURE DIRECTIONS 1. Put honey, sugar and half of the grated tangerine rind into saucepan and bring to boil. Boil until mixture is yellow and clear. 2. Remove from heat. Dip handfuls of struffoli into honey and lift with slotted spoon. 3. With wet hands, place and shape struffoli on a plate. Sprinkle with pignoli, tangerine rind, sprinkles and powdered sugar (add powder last). GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

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8181 NW 39th Ave, Gainesville, FL Hours: Sun-Thurs: 11:00am-10:30pm Fri. & Sat: 11:00am-11:30pm (352) 240-6564 Gatorbtw.com Burgers, Tacos, Wings- Gator BTW is Gainesville’s hottest new fast-casual dining experience. Specializing in the best burgers, tacos and wings in town, they also serve up mouthwatering tenders, fresh salads and delicious milkshakes. And don’t forget their amazing specials, including $3 Burger Mondays, new Taco Tuesdays and kids eat free all weekend long! BTW regulars are obsessed with their huge sauce bar, allowing you to fully customize your meal for that perfect explosion of flavor! Whether you’re just passing through and need a quick bite, or if you’re looking for a place to grab an ice-cold slushie with the kids, BTW is the spot for you. Now with 2 locations! Get ready to Fuel Your Flavor!

GATOR'S DOCKSIDE

3842 W. Newberry Road, Gainesville, FL Hours: 11:00am-Midnight (352) 338-4445 Gatorsdockside.com Family Friendly- Gator’s Dockside is a sports-themed restaurant that offers a fun atmosphere for the entire family! We’re known for our big-screen TVs, great food and friendly service. Our signature wings are flavored with our tasty wings sauces that have made us famous, especially our award-winning Scooter sauce. We use only the freshest, highest quality ingredients in all our menu selections, including burgers, hearty sandwiches, made-from-scratch ribs, entree salads, and desserts. We also have some of the best meal deals in town, like all-you-can-eat wings on Mondays from 5:00pm-11:00pm and 2-for-1 on select house wines and liquors all day, every day. Don't forget kids eat free every Tuesday from 5:30pm-8:30pm. We can’t wait to see you at Gator’s!

MI APA LATIN CAFE

Gainesville Location: 114 SW 34th St. • (352) 376-7020 Alachua Location: 15634 Hwy 441 • (386) 418-0838 Hours: 7:00am-10:00pm Miapalatincafe.com Cuban- “When it comes to authentic Cuban cooking, you cannot go wrong with Mi Apa Latin Cafe,” said Trekbible in their article, Top 8: Restaurants in Gainesville, FL. Mi Apa was also selected Business of the Year in Alachua, yet another accolade. Featuring authentic ingredients and classic recipes, such as Pollo Asado, Vaca Frita, Medianoche sandwiches, and the local favorite, Cafe con Leche, we bring the tastes of Cuba to Gainesville and Alachua. Whether you’re dining in on our sunny patio or picking up your online order, your food will always be hot, fresh, and full of Latin flavor! And our Gainesville location even has drive-thru! And don’t forget kids eat free every Wednesday from 4:00pm-9:00 pm! SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Steaks & Seafood Fine Wines Private Dinning Offsite Events Reservations Recommended

(352) 380-0901 3545 SW 34th Street Gainesville, FL 32608

Embersofflorida.com

THE HOLIDAYS ARE A CELEBRATION OF

FRIENDS AND FAMILY.

Call us to cater the celebration.

352.363.6060

MAPLESTREETBISCUITS.COM GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

www. www.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

350 NW 39TH AVE 350 NW 39TH AVE GAINESVILLE, FL 32609 GAINESVILLE, FL 32609 352-264-8814 352-264-8814 www. keithwatsonevents .com www. keithwatsonevents .com

Tis the Season THE 2019

GIF T GUIDE & HOL IDAY TID BITS

GIF T GU I DE PAGE 28 Babies & Toddlers

PAGE 31 Teens

PAGE 29 Ages 3-7

PAGE 32-33 Adults

PAGE 30 8+ Years & Tweens

HOL I DAY TI D BITS PAGE 35 Peppermint Patty Wreath Dear Santa Top 3 Tips for Keeping Trees Fresh PAGE 36 Elf on the Shelf Best Holiday Movie Picks Crafting a Wood Block Menorah GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

2019

THE GIGGLE M AGA ZINE

GiftGuide

BooginHead Bandana Teether Bib $10, booginhead.com

BABIES & TODDLERS Lullabuddy Speaker $49.50, lullabuddy.com

BooginHead Pacipurse $7.99, booginhead.com

Count with Nursery Rhymes $14.99, calisbooks.com

Boppy Newborn Lounger $33, Target and Amazon

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

Sing the Alphabet $14.99, calisbooks.com

Humpty Dumpty Nursery Rhymes $14.99, calisbooks.com Photos courtesy of manufacturers.

Fridababy 3-in-1 Humidifier + Diffuser + Nightlight $49.99, fridababy.com

FOR THE

Kids My Little Farm $39.99, smartfelttoys.com

AGES 3-7

Oldies, but

goodies!

Hoyle Monkey, May I? $5.99, Amazon

Rock and Gem Surprise $19.99, learningresources.com Latchkits $19.99, kahootz-llc.myshopify.com

Photos courtesy of manufacturers.

# S H O PL LOC A

The Original Waterfuls $14.99, kahootz-llc.myshopify.com

1. City of Love Ballet Dress (Sizes 12m-14) $48 2. Playwright Sweater (Sizes 2-16) $38 3. Old Trusty Chambray Ruffles (Sizes 12m-14) $34 All can be ordered at wildflowersclothing.com/ sarahsuter

Schleich Adventure Tree House $69.99, Amazon

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

THE 2019 GIGGL E M AGA ZI NE

FOR THE

Kids

GiftGuide

8+ YEARS & TWEENS

Orbit: Obstacle AvoidanceDrone $39.99, gpx.com

Oldies, but

goodies!

Spirograph(R) Retro Deluxe $19.99, kahootz-llc.myshopify.com

# S H O PL LOC A Jack and Mary Cashmere Scrunchies 3/$24, jackandmarydesigns.com

Birkenstock Arizona Silver Birko flor Soft Footbed $109.95, thewalkaboutshop.com

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

Loog Pro Electric Guitar $199, Amazon, loogguitars.com

Photos courtesy of manufacturers.

Micro Tetris Arcade $19.99, Amazon

FOR THE

Kids

Photos courtesy of manufacturers.

TEENS

Nugg Beauty Let It Shine Lip Duo $15, nuggbeauty.com

Lilly Pulitzer Squeeze The Day Water Bottle $48, lillypulitzer.com

Key Smart $59.99, getkeysmart.com

Hook & Ring Game - Surf Edition $29.95, thegrommet.com

Lilly Pulitzer 17 month Agenda $30, lillypulitzer.com

SingleNest® Hammock $49.95, eaglesnestoutfittersinc.com Casley Phone Case Prices/Styles vary, getcasely.com

Tyler Wallet $29.99, herschel.com

Use as a

• Water bottle • Infuser • Thermos

16.0z Fressko Denim Flask $39.95, madebyfressko.com

Balance Board by Spooner $54.95, thegrommet.com

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

THE 2019 GIGGL E M AGA ZI NE

FOR THE

Adults

GiftGuide

# S H O PL LOC A

Rebecca MyWorld Charms Bracelet $14, Clasp: $24, Charm:$29 Nespresso Barista Recipe Maker Lang Jewelers $169, nespresso.com

Jane Iredale Limited Edition Come Fly With Me Eye Shadow Kit $59, janeiredale.com

Ethique Body Sampler $16.50, Amazon

Photos courtesy of manufacturers.

The Fishing Caddy From $69.95 to $129 Amazon, Bass Pro Shops, thefishingcaddy.com

NanoSteamer 3-in-1 Iconic Facial Steamer $36.95, puredailycare.com

A magnetic shark repellent band for all ocean sports!

Sharkbanz 2 $84, Amazon Jack and Mary Memory Mittens $50/Adult $40/Child, jackandmarydesigns.com

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

FOR THE

Adults

# S H O PL LOC A

Taste of Italy Sampler 6-Pack $32, Saporito

# S H O PL LOC A

Garden Party Monogram Mug $14, riflepaperco.com

Bourbon and Boweties Earrings $24, Family Jewels and Purse Strings The Original Buddha Board $34.95, buddhaboard.com

Faux Croc Apple Case $78, chicgeeks.com

Photos courtesy of manufacturers.

Triple Link Bar Ring $65, jennahunter.com You Got This Candle $20, paddywax.com

The Anti-Cookbook $14.95, Amazon Lifearound2angels Bath Bombs $26.80/12 pack, lifearound2angels.com

Printfresh Gilded Shoreline Slim Velvet Journal $30, printfresh.com

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

S ummer

BODIES ARE MADE IN WINTER! Give them the gift they have always dreamed of this holiday season!

www.NORTHFLORIDAPLASTICSURGERY.com

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

call to

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY!

DID KNOW? HOLIDAY TID BITS Peppermint Patty Wreath This is one of our all-time favorite holiday wreaths we made for our December/January 2018 issue. Creating felt wreaths is easy, inexpensive and fun for the whole family. All you need is a foam wreath, felt, glue fun and some fun holiday decorations!

TOP 3 TIPS FOR KEEPING TREES FRESH 1

SUPPLIES Foam wreath

4 red felt sheets

4 white felt sheets Pushpins

Hot glue gun

Extra hot glue sticks Gold ribbon

Sharp craft scissors

Holiday candy décor

INSTRUCTIONS Step 1: Create Wreath Cut different sized strips of red and white felt. Wrap felt strips around the wreath in alternating colors and sizes. Secure with pushpins prior to gluing. Once you like the pattern, glue strips to wreath.

Step 2: Create Flowers Use methods listed for the Winter Wonderland wreath. I just used the pop-up blossoms in this wreath, but you can use whatever you like.

Dear Santa,

2 3

Get the base of the tree cut by about an inch so the tree is able to easily take in water. Don’t add anything to the water; straight H20 is all that the tree needs. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Just like us, trees need water to stay at their very best. Letting the water level fall below the base could prevent further water intake.

Step 3: Design Wreath When the flowers are finished, begin laying out your décor and flowers in a pattern you like. Use pushpins to place, then glue to secure. Use gold ribbon or door hanger to hang.

SANTA WAS RECORDED AS RECEIVING APPROXIMATELY 1.7 MILLION LETTERS, 700,000 MORE THAN FROM THE US, FROM CHILDREN IN FR ANCE IN 2012.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

DID KNOW? HOLIDAY TID BITS Our Favorite Holiday Movie Picks! Consumers say they will spend an average of

Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer, 1964 Charlie Brown Christmas, 1965

$1,047.83

It’s A Wonderful Life, 1946

(National Retail Federation)

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, 1989

How the Grinch Stole Christmas, 1967

this holiday season!

Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas, 1977 The Polar Express, 2004 Frosty the Snowman, 1969

ELF ON A SHELF

A Christmas Story, 1980 The Santa Clause, 1994

SINCE DEBUTING IN 2005, MORE THAN 11 MILLION COPIES OF THE BOOK ELF ON A SHELF HAVE BEEN SOLD.

CRAFTING A WOOD BLOCK MENORAH This DIY menorah from our December/January 2017 issue is a wonderful and simple craft for the whole family.

White Christmas, 1954 Home Alone, 1990 ELF, 2003

SUPPLIES

Ten 2-inch wood blocks Drill Paint Paintbrushes Hot glue gun Hanukkah candles Safety goggles *Always supervise kiddos

INSTRUCTIONS

Have a parent drill a hole about a half an inch deep in the center of nine of the blocks; this will be used to hold the candles in place. Be sure to use a drill bit that corresponds to the width of your candles. Remember to wear your safety goggles! Use the paint to decorate each of the blocks as you like. Keep in mind that the block without a hole will be stacked below another block, so the patterns should match. Once the paint has dried, use the hot glue gun to glue one of the drilled blocks on top of the block with no hole; this will create your shamash. After it has dried, glue four blocks on one side and four on the other side of the shamash. Let glue set and then insert candles into the drilled holes.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

November 25, 2019 – January 5, 2020 Make unforgettable holiday memories this season at Gaylord Palms Resort. Enjoy heartwarming visits with Santa, Snow Tubing, Cirque Dreams Unwrapped stage show, Mrs. Claus’ Christmas Traditions, and our signature 9-degree attraction ICE! featuring THE POLAR EXPRESS™.

Stay overnight to experience it all! Tickets and Packages on Sale Now.

ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com | (407) 586-2000 THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s19). PEPSI, PEPSI-COLA and the Pepsi Globe are registered trademarks of PepsiCo, Inc.

KISSIMMEE, FL

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

SPECIAL ADVERTISIN G SEC TIO N

2020

EDUCATION GUIDE Your guide to early childhood education, private schools, charter schools and homeschooling in Alachua County.

SPECIAL ADVERTISIN G SEC TIO N

SCHOOL MAP 1. Brentwood School 1111 NW 55th St. Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 373-3222

2. Cornerstone Academy 1520 NW 34th St. Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 378-9337

Alachua

3. Countryside Christian School

2020 EDUCATION GUIDE

10926 NW 39th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 332-1493

4. Education Station & Preschool 13053 NW U.S. Highway 441 Alachua, FL 32615 (352) 335-0026

5. Education Station & Preschool

Gainesville

2411 NW 41st St. Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 335-0026

6. Gainesville Country Day School

Jonesville

Newberry Road

6801 SW 24th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32607 (352) 332-7783

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

8. O2BKids Alachua 14400 NW 152nd Lane Alachua, FL 32615 (386) 201-3315

9. O2BKids Archer Road

R er

3989 SW 37th Blvd. Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 268-9097

10. O2BKids Hunter's Crossing 4929 NW 43rd St. Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 268-9367

11. O2BKids Midtown 1555 NW 23rd Ave. Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 268-9266

Archer

12. O2BKids Supercenter 6680 W Newberry Road Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 268-8833

SPECIAL ADVERTISIN G SEC TIO N

O2BKIDS PRESCHOOL & AFTERSCHOOL Ages: Infants to 13 years Teacher/Student Ratio: Preschool: 1:4 to 1:15 Annual Tuition: Varies depending on program

O2B Kids is passionate about Early Childhood Education and it shows. With 5 locations in Alachua County, our goal is simple – to instill a love of learning in every child. All of our locations are NATIONALLY ACCREDITED with programs for INFANTS to Pre-K and VPK. Our amazing Directors lead our dynamic teachers who deliver quality instruction, daily laughter and loving care to every child. What makes our PRESCHOOL unique is that we incorporate enriching CLASSES into your child’s daily schedule that are INCLUDED in your tuition. Our creative FUNNYDAFFER curriculum focuses on the strengths of each student and ensures that they are ready for a successful ACADEMIC CAREER….and that they have FUN and love learning! Kindergarten teachers love O2B Kids because our students are ready to learn. We make them KINDERGARTEN READY! Our AFTERSCHOOL and SUMMER CAMP programs are awesome! Elementary age children participate in HOMEWORK time, SNACK time, FREE PLAY and FUN enriching activities. ALL school holidays are included in your tuition. Students may come to O2B Kids on their days off from school and hang out with their FRIENDS at no additional cost to you! FIELD TRIPS, snack and transportation from area schools are also included! O2B Kids also offers over 200 weekly classes like karate, dance, gymnastics, cheer, music, science, drama, technology and more! O2B Kids helps busy parents grow happy and successful kids. We enthusiastically participate in the exhilarating journey of developing your child into a respectful, responsible citizen of our world. Visit us at o2bkids.com for more information.

o2bkids.com 1. Supercenter: 6680 W Newberry Road Gainesville, FL 32605, (352) 268-8833; 2. Midtown: 1555 NW 23rd Ave. Gainesville, FL 32605, (352) 268-9266; 3. Hunter's Crossing: 4929 NW 43rd St. Gainesville, FL 32606, (352) 268-9367; 4. Alachua: 14400 NW 152nd Lane Alachua, FL 32615, (386) 201-3315; 5. Archer Road: 3989 SW 37th Blvd. Gainesville, FL 32608, (352) 268-9097

2020 EDUCATION GUIDE

The Science Behind What We Do: 85% to 90% of a person’s brain is wired in the first 5 years of life. Our nationally accredited PRESCHOOL programs are designed to stimulate a child’s sensory, LANGUAGE and cognitive BRAIN functions and provide an incredible foundation for lifelong LEARNING.

SPECIAL ADVERTISIN G SEC TIO N

IMPORTANT EVENTS continuous repeats every

Wednesday Open House

2020 EDUCATION GUIDE

Cornerstone Academy 1520 NW 34th St. Gainesville, FL 32605 9- 11 a.m. cornerstoneacademy.school Open Houses every Wednesday from 9-11 a.m.

january

23 Thursday

27 Monday

Millhopper Montessori School 8505 NW 39th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32606 4:30- 6:30 p.m. millhopper.com

Gainesville Country Day School 6801 SW 24th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32607 8 a.m. gainesvillecountrydayschool.org

Open House

Please join us at our annual Open House and learn how Millhopper Montessori School has been shaping a strong foundation in Gainesville since 1977. Families will have the opportunity to tour the school; talk with our teachers and administration; and observe first-hand our unique blend of 21st century best practices, safe family-style atmosphere and Montessori philosophy... The Millhopper way!

Open Registration

Registration open to the public on January 27, 2019 at 8 a.m. Parents are encouraged to apply online.

february 21 Friday Beast Feast

Countryside Christian School 10926 NW 39th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32606 6- 10 p.m. myccs.net/newsletter/beast-feast/ Come out to Countryside Christian School and enjoy some of the finest wild game recipes you have ever tasted. We will have venison, alligator, wild turkey and more! In addition to the menu, we will have games, special drawings and auctions. Tickets cost $50. All proceeds benefit the Athletic Program.

Giggle Magazine's

2020 EDUCATION DIRECTORY Early Childhood Education A&M 4 Kids INC. 2207 NW 10th St. Gainesville, FL 32609 (352) 271-0301

Abacus Learning Center 5205 SW 91st Drive Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 376-1492 facebook.com/AbacusLearningCenter/

Abiding Savior Lutheran Preschool 9700 W. Newberry Road Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 331-7770 abidingsavior.info

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

A Child’s Dream Gainesville Preschool 4127 NW 34th St. Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 376-8900 achildsdreampreschool.com

A Child's Place 6200 SW Archer Road Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 375-8900 realpages.com/sites/childsplacea/

A Hidden Child’s World 3237 SW 41th Place Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 378-6343 ahiddenchildsworld.com

Angels Christian Academy LLC 1907 SE Hawthorne Road Gainesville, FL 32641 (352) 374-8521

A World of Angels 1119 NW 42nd Ave. Gainesville, FL 32609 (352) 381-0080

Baby Gator Child Development and Research Center 1. Lake Alice 793 Corry Circle Gainesville, FL 32611 (352) 392-2330 2. Newell Drive 1244 Newell Drive Gainesville, FL 32610 (352) 273-8000 3. Diamond Village 305 Diamond Village Road, #17 Gainesville, FL 32603 (352) 294-2243 babygator.ufl.edu

Bhaktivedanta Academy 17414 NW 112th Blvd. Alachua, FL 32615 (386) 462-2866 bhaktischool.org

Brentwood School 1111 NW 55th St. Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 373-3222 gobrentwoodschool.com Specialty: One of Gainesville's oldest and most trusted private schools since 1971. Grades: Age 2 - 5th grade FULL PROFILE ON PAGE 45

Cherry Tree Learning Academy 715 NW 10th St. Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 336-8128

Child’s Delight At Eden Park 1340 NE 39th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32609 (352) 672-6249

B’nai Israel Community Day School 3830 NW 16th Blvd. Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 376-1508 (ext. 110) bnaiisraelcds.org

For more information on education and child care listings in the Alachua County area, visit gigglemagazine.com/educationchildcare/

SPECIAL ADVERTISIN G SEC TIO N

EDUCATION STATION & PRESCHOOL

Education Station & Preschool is a year-round, licensed childcare facility that accepts children ages 6-weeks to 5-years. Locally owned and operated by Gator grads, ES&P has been serving Gainesville-area families since 2010 at their Thornebrook location and is opening a second location at San Felasco Tech City in Alachua in 2020. With full-day or part-time options and extended hours (M-F 6:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.), ES&P is a home-away-fromhome for your little one. Healthy meals and snacks full of fresh fruits and vegetables are prepared on-site with love and served family-style. ES&P's open-door policy, proactive communication and welcoming staff reinforce the family-feel of our school. ES&P's founders utilize their degrees in education to work with their dedicated team of loving and talented teachers, ensuring children have a well-rounded, developmentally appropriate, engaging and enjoyable early childhood learning experience. A professionally prepared curriculum with daily art and music outlines the learning goals for children and helps the teachers individualize their approach to meet the unique needs of your child. Ultimately, our mission is to give children a better early learning experience. We want to work in concert with parents and caregivers to create a welcoming learning environment and build lasting relationships. We want to help raise the children in our care to reach their full potential and to become happy, healthy adults with a lifelong love of learning.

2411 NW

41st

(352) 335-0026 | educationstationandpreschool.com St. Gainesville, FL 32606 | 13053 NW U.S. Highway 441 Alachua, FL 32615

2020 EDUCATION GUIDE

Grades: 6 weeks - Prekindergarten Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:4 to 1:15 Annual Tuition: $7,000- $12,000

2020 EDUCATION GUIDE

SPECIAL ADVERTISIN G SEC TIO N

Cuddly Kids Academy

Granny D’ Learning Center

La Petite Academy

1023 SE 4th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 336-3200 passagemnistries.org

1300 NW 6th St. Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 872-5852

2755 SW Archer Road Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 371-0720 lapetite.com

Education Station & Preschool

21805 W. Newberry Road Newberry, FL 32669 (352) 472-7977

1. 2411 NW 41th St. Gainesville, FL 32606 2. 13053 NW U.S. Highway 441 Alachua, FL 32615 (352) 335-0026 educationstationandpreschool.com Grades: 6 weeks - Prekindergarten Annual Tuition: $7,000- $12,000 FULL PROFILE ON PAGE 43

Early Childhood Enrichment Center 2304 SW 75th St. Gainesville, FL 32607 (352) 332-9032

First Christian Academy 24530 NW 199th Lane High Springs, FL 32643 (386) 454-1641 fcahighsprings.org

First Presbyterian Preschool 106 SW 3rd St. Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 376-1818 1stpc.org/preschool.html

Flowers Montessori 3111 NE 31st Ave. Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 376-4700 flowersmontessori.com

Fumpers Preschool at First United Methodist 419 NW 1st St. Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 372-8523 fumcgnv.org

Gainesville Country Day School 6801 SW 24th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32607 (352) 332-7783 gainesvillecountrydayschool.org Admissions: luci@gainesvillecountrydayschool.org Specialty: Focuses on individualized education and helping students love learning while experiencing success. Grades: 6 weeks - 5th grade Financial Aid: Available FULL PROFILE ON PAGE 47

Greenfield Preschool

Hand N Hand Christian Child Care Center 1936 NW 6th St. Gainesville, FL 32609 (352) 335-9622

Holy Trinity Episcopal School of Gainesville 301 N Main St. Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 377-2290 htesgnv.org

Imagine Learning Center 4840 NW 23rd Ave. Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 371-5450 imaginelearningcenter.com

It’s About Kids 24621 Dr. Karelas Drive Newberry, FL 32669 (352) 472-5437

Just a Blessing Child Care 7510 NW 4th Blvd. Gainesville, FL 32607 (352) 331-3075 justablessingearlylearningcenter.com

Kiddie Academy 6476 SW 75th St. Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 264-7724 kiddieacademy.com

Kidworks 1. Millhopper 3003 NW 53rd Ave. Gainesville, FL 32653 (352) 335-1335 2. Tioga Town Center 120 SW 130th Terrace Newberry, FL 32669 (352) 331-3833 kid-works.com

Kindercare Learning Center 10 SW 75th St. Gainesville, FL 32607 (352) 332-4182

Kristie’s Learning Center 1127 NW 7th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 373-7918

Lee’s Fun to Learn Day Care 123 SE Douglas St. High Springs Florida 32643 (352) 454-5568

Lee’s Preschool and Nursery Center 14017 NW 166th Place Alachua, Florida 32615 (386) 462-2109

Lil’ Scholars Learning Academy 3520 NW 13th St. Gainesville, FL 32609 (352) 519-5552

Little Angels Child Care and Learning Center 13400 Martin Luther King Highway Alachua, FL 32615 (386) 418-2211

Little Foxes Day Care Center 730 SW 5th St. Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 376-4987

Living Springs Academy 23901 NW 212th Ave. High Springs, FL 32643 (386) 454-2777

Love N Care Christian Learning Center Westwood Hills Church Of God 1520 NW 34th St. Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 378-5190

Love-N-Care Preschool 12440 NW US Highway 441 Alachua, FL 32615

Martin-Rochelle Learning Center 13645 FL-45 Archer, FL 32618 (352) 495-9346

Millhopper Montessori School 8505 NW 39th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 375-6773 millhopper.com Admissions: Amilda Clark Grades: Age 2 - 8th grade FULL PROFILE ON PAGE 45

O2BKids o2bkids.com 1. Supercenter: 6680 W Newberry Road Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 268-8833 2. Midtown: 1555 NW 23rd Ave. Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 268-9266 3. Hunter's Crossing: 4929 NW 43rd St. Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 268-9367 4. Alachua: 14400 NW 152nd Lane Alachua, FL 32615 (386) 201-3315 5. Archer Road: 3989 SW 37th Blvd. Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 268-9097 Ages: Infants to 13 years Teacher/Student Ratio: Preschool: 1:4 to 1:15 Annual Tuition: Varies depending on program FULL PROFILE ON PAGE 41

Oak Hall Lower School 7715 SW 14th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 332-1452 oakhall.org

Open Arms Child Development Center 1823 NW 5th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32603 (352) 473-5586 flcgainesville.org/openarms

Persimmon Early Learning Academy 1121 NW 6th St. Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 505-0144 persimmonela.com

Pinewood School 1704 NE 9th St. Gainesville, FL 32609 (352) 372-3343 pinewoodschool.net

Premier Preschool 10 SW 75th St. Gainesville, FL 32607 (352) 519-5300 thepremierpreschool.com

Pumpkin Patch Day Care Center 6105 SE 205th St. Hawthrone, FL 32640 (352) 481-2709

SPECIAL ADVERTISIN G SEC TIO N

MILLHOPPER MONTESSORI SCHOOL Grades: Age 2 - 8th grade Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:6 to 1:13

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

BRENTWOOD SCHOOL Grades: Age 2 - 5th grade Brentwood School offers quality education to children age 2 years through grade five and is one of Gainesvilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest and most trusted private schools since 1971. Reading, writing, math, science and social studies form the core of our curriculum. Specialists in Physical Education, Art, Music, Spanish, Technology and Science Lab round out the curriculum. Brentwood is known for its low ratios and experienced, creative, qualified teachers. This makes our learning environment personal, challenging and individualized to your child's pace and learning style. Two teachers in every classroom allow us to customize instruction to better meet each childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs. Drawing from our university city, Brentwood has a diverse population with families from around the world. Our extended care program is available for those needing extra hours of care. Visit us at www.gobrentwoodschool.com for more information and to schedule a tour to visit Brentwood.

1111 NW 55th St. Gainesville, FL 32605 | (352) 373-3222 | gobrentwoodschool.com

2020 EDUCATION GUIDE

Millhopper Montessori School (MMS) offers an extensive, developmentally appropriate, private educational program for children ages two through eighth grade. The school was founded in 1977 by Christina Miller, who continues to serve as the President/Head of School and one of the teachers on the fourth and fifth grade team. MMS students are provided with opportunities to explore real-world concepts and issues; challenge assumptions; think critically; and acquire skills that they will need to apply throughout their educational and future professional journeys. The low student-teacher ratio; one-to-one and small group instruction by highlycredentialed teachers; and complete Montessori curriculum enables children to have a more self-paced, individualized program. Intrinsic and individualized learning are at the core of the Montessori method, which strives to develop self-discipline and self-confidence. Along with a rigorous STEAM-focused academic program, students' social, emotional and physical needs are supported. MMS is accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools, affiliated with the American Montessori Society and a certified American Montessori Society Pathway School.

SPECIAL ADVERTISIN G SEC TIO N

Queen of Peace Catholic Academy

Superior Child Care and Learning Center

10900 SW 24th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32607 (352) 332-8808 qopacademy.org

1645 NW 8th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32641 (352) 372-5523

Santa Fe College Little School 3000 NW 83rd St. Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 395-5597 sfcollege.edu/little-school

2020 EDUCATION GUIDE

Small World Daycare and Learning Center 1214 NW 4th St. Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 376-0917

Smokey Bear Kiddy College 2500 NE 15th St. Gainesville, FL 32609 (352) 792-6404

Sonshine Day Preschool at West Baptist Church 10000 W. Newberry Road Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 333-0017 sonshineday.org

Spirit Of Faith Christian Center Church Gainesville 7510 NW 4th Blvd. Gainesville, FL 32607 (352) 333-3005 facebook.com/FaithAcademySF

St. Anne Early Learning Center 4300 W. Newberry Road, Gainesville, FL 32607 (352) 448-9395 stanneelc.org

Step By Step Childcare And Learning Center 2211 NW 40th Terrace Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 373-6988 stepbysteplearningcenter.com

Stepping Stones Preschool at Trinity United Methodist Church 4000 NW 53rd Ave. Gainesville, FL 32653 (352) 416-3025 trinitygnv.org/steppingstones

Sun Country Sports- West 333 SW 140th Terrace Jonesville, FL 32669 (352) 331-8773 suncountrysports.com

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

The Childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Garden 1497 NW 16th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32605 thechildsgardenpreschool.com

The Kidz House 4232 NW 6th St. Gainesville, FL 32609 (352) 371-6269 thekidzhouse.com

The Rock School 9818 SW 24th Ave., Suite B Gainesville, FL 32607 therocklions.com

Florida Virtual School

One Room School House

800-374-1430 flvs.net

1. Little School (VPK-1) 4180 NE 15th St. Gainesville, FL 32609 (352) 376-4014 2. Big School (2-5) 3930 NE 15th St. Gainesville, FL 32609 (352) 727-4373 orsh.net

Tapestry Of Grace Homeschool Forum tapestryofgrace.com

Charter Schools Alachua Learning Academy 1100 W State Road 235 Alachua, FL 32615 (386) 418-2080 alachualearningacademy.org

Boulware Springs Charter School 1303 NE 23rd Ave. Gainesville, FL 32609 (352) 244-9732 boulwarecharter.com

The Sunshine House

Caring And Sharing Learning School

2530 NW 39th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 376-4765 sunshinehouse.com

1951 SE 4th St. Gainesville, FL 32641 (352) 372-1004 caringandsharingschool.com

Tiny Blessing Learning Center

Expressions Learning Arts Academy

811 NW 4th Place Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 359-6832

5408 SW 13th St. Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 373-5223 expressionsacademy.org

Homeschooling

Florida Siatech

Classical Conversations classicalconversations.com

Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 333-7952 Siatechgainesville.org

Community Christian Homeschoolers

Genesis Preparatory School

cchweb.org

Cornerstone Academy 1520 NW 34th St. Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 378-9337 cornerstoneacademy.school Admissions: Amber Livingston Specialty: Assists parents in providing an excellent classical education and in building godly character founded on a biblical worldview resulting in passionate disciples of Jesus Christ. Grades: K4 - 12th grade Financial Aid: Available Annual Tuition: $7,926 - $8,179 FULL PROFILE ON PAGE 48

7022 NW 10th Place

207 NW 23rd Ave. Gainesville, FL 32609 (352) 379-1188 genesisprepcharter.com

Healthy Learning Academy 13505 W. Newberry Road Newberry, FL 32669 (352) 372-2279 healthylearningacademy.com

Micanopy Area Cooperative School 802 NW Seminary St. Micanopy, FL 32667 (352) 466-0990 macschool.us

Resilience Charter School 1717 NE 9th St., Building A Gainesville, FL 32609 (352) 226-8675 resiliencecharter.org

The Einstein School 5910 SW Archer Road Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 335-4321 emschool.org

Private Schools Bhaktivedanta Academy 17414 NW 112th Blvd. Alachua, FL 32615 (386) 462-2866 bhaktischool.org

Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;nai Israel Community Day School 3830 NW 16th Blvd. Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 376-1508 (ext. 110) bnaiisraelcds.org

Christian Life Academy 1200 SW Archer Road Gainesville, FL 32608 (352) 495-3040

The directory was generated through research of area early childhood education centers, private schools, charter schools and homeschooling. Inclusion in this directory should not be mistaken as an endorsement by Giggle Magazine or Irving Publications, LLC. Every attempt has been made to be comprehensive and accurate. School administrators are encouraged to send an email to nbirving@irvingpublications.com with corrections for possible inclusion in future editions of the Giggle Magazine Education Guide.

SPECIAL ADVERTISIN G SEC TIO N

COUNTRYSIDE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Grades: K3 - 12th grade Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:17 Financial Aid: Available Annual Tuition: $5,500 (additional fees apply; call for preschool pricing)

10926 NW 39th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32606 | (352) 332-1493 | myccs.net

GAINESVILLE COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL G A I N E S V I L L E C O U N T R Y

D A Y

Grades: 6 weeks - 5th grade Teacher/Student Ratio: 1:8 Financial Aid: Available

GCDS is committed to accepting children as they are, with their own backgrounds, experiences, interests, natures, and abilities. Our teachers are dedicated to helping children learn, grow, and find success in coming to school. Our unique curriculum emphasizes active rather than passive learning and activities are designed to encourage independence and creativity. Our curriculum consists of integrated subject matter areas and flexible curricular experiences designed to meet the needs of children of different levels of ability and experience. Our low student to teacher ratio makes it possible to provide a varied and stimulating range of learning experiences for each child. GCDS provides a safe and academically enriched learning environment for all students and strives to meet the needs of each child as they grow and mature.

6801 SW 24th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32607 | (352) 332-7783 | gainesvillecountrydayschool.org

2020 EDUCATION GUIDE

Established in 1974, Countryside Christian School (CCS) is a private Christian school that serves grades K3-12. Our school seeks to train children academically, spiritually, socially and physically in an atmosphere of Christian love and respect for the teachings of Jesus Christ and the Word of God. Our mission is to assist parents in the education of their children by providing a Christ-centered environment that promotes Biblical principles and the pursuit of integrity, moral character, academic excellence and spiritual growth. A rigorous curriculum is offered through the Abeka and ACE curricula along with co-curricular activities and athletics. We are accredited by the National Association of Christian Education and the Florida Council of Private Schools. CCS is a ministry of Countryside Baptist Church.

SPECIAL ADVERTISIN G SEC TIO N

Cornerstone Academy 1520 NW 34th St.

2020 EDUCATION GUIDE

Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 378-9337 cornerstoneacademy.school Admissions: Amber Livingston Specialty: Assists parents in providing an excellent classical education and in building godly character founded on a biblical worldview resulting in passionate disciples of Jesus Christ. Grades: K4 - 12th grade Financial Aid: Available Annual Tuition: $7,926- $8,179 FULL PROFILE ON PAGE 48

6801 SW 24th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32607 (352) 332-7783 gainesvillecountrydayschool.org Admissions: luci@gainesvillecountrydayschool.org Specialty: Focuses on individualized education and helping students love learning while experiencing success. Grades: 6 weeks - 5th grade Financial Aid: Available FULL PROFILE ON PAGE 47

Jordan Glen School Countryside Christian School 10926 NW 39th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 332-1493 myccs.net Admissions: Faith Myers Specialty: Provides a highquality, Christ-centered education. Grades: K3 - 12th grade Financial Aid: Available Annual Tuition: $5,500 (additional fees apply; call for preschool pricing) FULL PROFILE ON PAGE 47

Newberry Christian Community School

Gainesville Country Day School

12425 SW 154th St. Archer, FL 32618 (352) 495-2728 jordanglen.org

Millhopper Montessori School 8505 NW 39th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 375-6773 millhopper.com Admissions: Amilda Clark Grades: Age 2 - 8th grade FULL PROFILE ON PAGE 45

St. Patrick Interparish School

3536 NW 8th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 363-6322 newberryccs.org

550 NE 16th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 376-9878 stpatrickschoolgnv.org

Oak Hall School

The Rock School

1700 SW 75th St. Gainesville, FL 32607 (352) 332-3609 oakhall.org

Passage Christian Academy 5121 E. University Ave. Gainesville, FL 32641 (352) 336-8983 passageministries.org/index.php/ schools/pca-home

Queen of Peace Catholic Academy 10900 SW 24th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32607 (352) 332-8808 qopacademy.org

St. Francis Catholic Academy 4100 NW 115th Terrace Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 376-6545 sfcawolves.org

9818 SW 24th Ave., Suite B Gainesville, FL 32607 therocklions.com

Trilogy School 8700 NW 23rd Ave. Gainesville, FL 32606 (352) 332-8802 Trilogyschool.org

Windsor Christian Academy 918 SE County Road 234 Gainesville, FL 32641 (352) 375-7316 windsorchristian.academy

Z L Sung Adventist Academy 2115 NW 39th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32605 (352) 376-6040 sungadventist.com

CORNERSTONE ACADEMY Grades: K4 - 12th grade Finanial Aid: Available Annual Tuition: $7,926 - $8,179 We are here to assist parents! Finding the right school for your family’s needs is one of the most important decisions you make. Knowing your child attends a school which reinforces your family's Christian values and partners with you in teaching from a Biblical worldview means you can rest assured they are being taught to honor you and to love the Lord. As Cornerstone Academy reaches its 20th year, we have maintained an emphasis of keeping Jesus first in our vision and mission, our approach to instruction and academics, and our student’s participation in sports, performing arts, and clubs. We are fully aware we operate in “loco parentis” (in place of the parents) and count it a pleasure, as well as a serious commitment, to partner with families like yours.

1520 NW 34th St. Gainesville, FL 32605 | (352) 378-9337 | cornerstoneacademy.school

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

Get Connected The doors at The Rock of Gainesville are wide open to people from all backgrounds, regardless of where they are on their spiritual journey. It won’t take you long to discover that we’re more than just a Sunday church. In fact, we’re actually a network of Connect Groups. And, if you’d like to develop authentic and enduring relationships with others, you’ll be glad to know there are opportunities to join a group at any time.

9818 Southwest 24th Avenue, Gainesville, FL, 32607

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

www.therockonline.org

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health | get healthy

Catching Your Child’s Illnesses: What You Should Know BY TRACY WRIGHT

When local mother Brittany Fair’s then four-year-old daughter was sent home from VPK with a high fever, she noticed the dreaded spots on her hands and feet. Fair’s daughter had contracted Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (HFMD) or Coxsackievirus/Enterovirus. Although Fair’s daughter had caught HFMD twice before and Fair had been spared, this time she was not so lucky. “My mouth sores multiplied rapidly and were extremely painful. I had an aching pain throughout my entire body but primarily in my hands and feet,” Fair said. “Overall, it lasted about 12 terrible days. Meanwhile my children, including my youngest who had caught the disease, were recovered in about 3 days.” For Coxsackie virus, adults can manifest similar symptoms of the virus, but they can last longer and those infected may find it harder to bounce back from the illness than their child. HFMD is extremely contagious, and both adults and children can contract the virus multiple times. Fair has also caught the flu, strep throat, norovirus and head lice from her young children.

Fifth disease is also referred to as “slapped cheek syndrome” because of the frequent red rash that appears on the child’s cheeks. Fifth disease can begin in children as nasal congestion, swollen glands, low-grade fever and muscle soreness. The facial rash can spread to the torso, arms, and legs. The virus lasts about two weeks and then clears up on its own. But beware moms and dads—adults who contract this disease may have very different and more serious symptoms. Adults with fifth disease can also develop pain and swelling in their joints. It is more common in women. Some adults with fifth disease may only have painful joints, usually in the hands, feet, or knees, and no other symptoms. The joint pain usually lasts 1 to 3 weeks, but it can last for months or longer. In some cases, fifth disease can cause serious long-term chronic anemia, and pregnant women can also spread the disease to their unborn babies. Adults who have already had chicken pox are typically immune from contracting it again, but for those who haven’t and aren’t immunized, they should know that the common childhood disease of our youth can be extremely serious and can cause

I think the hardest part was being sick while my children are also sick and struggling to take care of them when I'm also suffering. And since the kids get sick first and recover faster, they are generally fully recovered right when I'm hitting the worst of it and I have to force myself throughout the motions of the day while feeling absolutely terrible. - BRITTANY FAIR

“I think the hardest part was being sick while my children are also sick and struggling to take care of them when I'm also suffering. And since the kids get sick first and recover faster, they are generally fully recovered right when I'm hitting the worst of it and I have to force myself throughout the motions of the day while feeling absolutely terrible,” Fair said. “It's easy to feel depressed and defeated during those times and just completely and utterly overwhelmed.” These highly contagious illnesses may seem harmless to children, but they can cause more serious and uncomfortable symptoms for parents and caregivers. Some of the more common conditions that adults can contract include chicken pox (varicella), roseola, mononucleosis, pertussis (whooping cough), and Parvovirus B19 (fifth disease).

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

Whooping cough (pertussis) is a common disease in the United States, with peaks in reported disease every few years and frequent outbreaks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends all adults get a dose of the pertussis vaccine to boost their childhood vaccination and then repeat the booster every 10 to 15 years. Pregnant women should get a booster for every pregnancy. It is especially dangerous for unvaccinated infants. Talk to your health care provider about your entire medical history and what immunizations you may need to help boost your immunity to certain conditions.

How can you prevent the spread of these common viruses and illnesses in your home?

Parents, TAKE NOTE! Did you know that the CDC has a recommended adult vaccination schedule in addition to the typical pediatric recommendations? Talk to your health care provider about which vaccines are right for you. The vaccines you need as an adult are determined by many factors including your age, lifestyle, health condition, and which vaccines you’ve received during your life. As an adult, vaccines are recommended for protection against:

• Handwashing is essential.

• Seasonal influenza (flu)

• Sanitizing your entire home is not necessary.

• Pertussis, also known as whooping cough

Whenever you come into contact with mucus, secretions, vomit or stool, parents should wash their hands well with soap and water. Be sure to scrub for 20 seconds, and don’t miss the spots between your fingers, under your fingernails and under rings. Instead, focus on key areas of high hand traffic such as remote controls, countertops, doorknobs, railings, toys and rooms that have surfaces that are frequently touched, such as the bathroom and sick child’s bedroom. Once your child is well, throw out toothbrushes, wash bedding, clothes and toys in warm water.

Annually, it is recommended that everyone 6 months and older receive a flu vaccine as the best way to reduce the risk of flu.

The Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) vaccine is recommended for women during each pregnancy and once for all adults who have not previously received it. Boosters are recommended for adults as well.

• Tetanus and diphtheria The TD vaccine is recommended every 10 years.

• Shingles The herpes zoster vaccine is recommended for adults 50 years and older.

• Pneumococcal disease Two pneumococcal vaccines are recommended for adults 65 years and older. One or both vaccines may be recommended for adults younger than 65 who have specific health conditions or who smoke cigarettes.

• Meningococcal disease, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, chickenpox, measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) Talk to your health care provider about your potential risks and immunization and medical history.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

Vaccine graphic by Freepik.com

pneumonia, skin infections and meningitis. It’s also one of the most contagious of these diseases. If you’ve never had the disease, you can receive the immunization.

In-home Lice Removal Experts Don’t let your kids bring home more than their new friends this year. • • •

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health | get pretty

Hydration Oasis BY NICOLE IRVING

With cooler temperatures comes dry skin, lips and everything in between. Nourish your skin with these super intense moisturizing treats for soft and healthy skin all winter long!

Glamsquad Take a Tint Lip Balm $18, glamsquad.com

Bliss drench & quench $20/ 1.7 fl oz, blissworld.com

jane iredale LipDrink $17, janeiredale.com

Bliss Lemon & Sage Hand Cream $10, Target & ULTA

Paddywax Hand Cream $15/each, paddywax.com and Amazon

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

L'OrĂŠal Professionnel Source Essentielle Nourishing Mask $48, lorealprofessionnel.com

Nugg Beauty Winter Fix Ornament, hydrating gel face mask $3.99, nuggbeauty.com

Photos courtesy of manufacturers.

HydroPeptide LipLock Hydrator $42, hydropeptide.com

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happy home | 2 cents

13-watt FLORESCENT LIGHT BULBS CAN LAST

10 times longer

THAN INCANDESCENT BULBS

2. In order to waste less energy, remember to unplug electronics when they’re not being used. According to BC Hydro Power Smart, standby power can account for 10% of an average household’s annual electricity use. 3. If you’re not using your desktop, switch to a laptop computer, as laptops use less electricity. 4. Switch to an ENERGY STAR certified television. According to ENERGY STAR’s website, their televisions are 25% more energy efficient than conventional models.

Turn Over a New Leaf This New Year: Celebrate 'National Cut Your Energy Costs Day’ BY TAYLOR MCLAMB

January 10 marks a national holiday that I think we can all get behind – National Cut Your Energy Costs Day. Most of the electricity powered in the United States is created by using fossil fuels, such as coal and natural gas, which can result in air pollution and contribution to climate change. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, about 40% of the total energy consumed in the Unites States is used to generate electricity, which means every person is making a detrimental impact to our world’s environment and the future of our planet. Drastically reducing your energy costs and using more clean energy sources will not only make your wallet happier – Mother Nature will thank you as well. To make things a little easier, we have compiled a list of easy tips on how to drastically decrease your electrical bill by targeting your house’s energy-draining hotspots.

KITCHEN

1. In the hot summer months, try using your oven less, as the heat from your oven can affect the temperature in your home. 2. Refrigerators and washers are two of the biggest energy-wasting culprits, which is why trading in one of your appliances to a more energy-efficient brand can help you save money. According to Gainesville Regional Utilities, a new ENERGY STAR refrigerator can save you between $35 and $70 a year. 3. When reheating or cooking food, use your microwave more than your oven.

4. When defrosting food, simply put the food in the refrigerator overnight instead of thawing in the oven or under running water. 5. Try meal prepping for the week, which will reduce the amount of time you’ll have to use your oven.

LIVING ROOM

1. For lighting, GRU recommends installing 13-watt compact fluorescent light bulbs, as CFLs use 2/3 less energy to provide the same amount of light as standard incandescent bulbs and can also last 10 times longer.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

5. Turn off the lights when leaving your home, or instead, use natural light from the windows to brighten your room. 6. Control your thermostat. In the winter months, try to avoid blasting the heat. If you’re absolutely freezing, limit the amount of time you increase the heat to when you’re actually home. You can save money by turning the thermostat down when you leave the house.

BATHROOM/LAUNDRY ROOM 1. Try reducing the amount of time you use your dryer by hang drying your clothes on a clothesline.

2. Limit the number of baths you take, as running the bath wastes a large amount of water. Instead, take along a water-proof watch with a timer when you take your daily shower, which will limit the amount of water you waste. 3. Wash your clothes in cold water, which will work just as well as hot water, but without the excess energy used to heat the water. It’s important to remember that while your address might change, the Earth will always be your home, so making small energy-efficient lifestyle changes around your house can quickly make a lasting impact. Think of all the money you’ll be saving, while simultaneously helping the environment. Let’s all start 2020 by living a little greener.

JAN 10TH

NATIONAL CUT YOUR ENERGY COSTS DAY

This country road can take you home.

Anna K. “Cookie” King Lic. Florida Real Est. Broker

352-528-5010 308 NW Main Street, Williston, FL 32696 cookiekingrealestate.com

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

Sweater Weather: happy home | make it

DIY Winter Decor From Old Sweaters BY GRACE DOWNEY

Winter is approaching and we all know what that means... sweater weather! As you pull out your winter clothes, you'll find those sweaters with rips, pulls and stains you couldn't bear to throw away last year. Don't throw those away just yet! Repurpose those ruined sweaters towards dressing up your house decor. Don't have any old sweaters? We took a trip to our local thrift store and bought 4 sweaters for less than $15. Wrapping your plain vases in sweaters takes your winter aesthetic from zero to a hundred in a hot second. Best yet, there is no sewing involved. Grab your scissors, hot glue gun and old sweaters, and get to work fun!

PRETTY IN PINK

Glam up your vase by cutting up a sweater with a unique stitch on the hem. Cut the sweater to the height and circumference of your vase, and hot glue the two sides together. Finish the look by hot gluing some pearls on top.

BRAID MORE

Is your sweater too thin? Cut off a sleeve, pull it on inside-out over your vase and fold the top edge all the way down to the bottom of the vase to add thickness. Then cut three long stripes from the leftover sweater, braid them together and glue to the center of the vase.

COZY UP

The more texture, the better! Cut the bottom of a sweater to the size of your vase and use the bottom hem at the top of the vase, letting the fabric fall loosely around the opening.

THAT'S A WRAP

Trickier than a straight vase, cut out a piece of fabric that will cover your vase, then working from top to bottom, glue the fabric together in small sections while pulling tight.

MORE PEARLS PLEASE

This sweater happened to have pearls sewn onto the sleeves, but you can complete this look by taking a plain white sleeve, stretching it over a vase and gluing pearls on top!

FRINGE

SLEEVE STRETCH

TUCK & GLUE

You can stretch a sweater sleeve over the vase, tuck and glue extra fabric under your vase or cut the sweater to SLEEVE STRETCH the height and leave a cute fringe GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

TUCK & GLUE

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happy home | fix it

18 Things

All Kids Need to Know How to Fix Before Moving Out

Tear out this page to use as a checklist!

BY NICOLE IRVING

The day will come when you will send your children onward to live on their own. You hope that as they walk out the door and into their own home, you have taught them all they need to survive out in the real world. As the first week goes by, you begin to realize a pattern for their constant calls. “How do you change the light bulb?” and “The toilet won’t stop running, what do I do”? Ahh yes, the every day repairs that they should have paid attention to all those years! Silly kids! Here is a list of “fix its” that you can start teaching them now to prepare them for their new adventures into adulthood! Change a flat tire Fix a running toilet Change a light bulb Fix a sprinkler head (we are in Florida after all) Change the air filter in the air conditioner Spackle a hole in the wall and repaint Fill up air in a low tire Sew on a button that has fallen off Unclog a toilet, aka use a plunger Fix the hem on pants Jump-start a dead car battery Clear a clogged drain in the bathroom Reset a blown fuse Clear a clogged garbage disposal Change a broken windshield washer on the car Clearing a paper jam from the printer. No, you don’t just yank! Turn off the main water valve in the house if flooding occurs. Remove the lint from the dryer. 62

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

! Remember to encourage them to NEVER try these on their own and call the professionals • Anything that has to do with electrical rewiring • Removing asbestos or mold • Major plumbing issues • Fixing a Roof

LOVE YOUR LAWN AGAIN!

Win back your weekends and leave the work to us. Imagine a lush, green lawn for your family to play on. Bright, cheery plants welcoming you home each day. More time to spend doing what you love, without the hassle of lawn worries and weeds. You and your family deserve the very best and that’s what we’re here to provide.

(352) 378-5296 11417 NW 59th Ter Gainesville, FL 32653

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

happy home | clean it

The Secret One-Stop Cleaner Baking Soda and White Vinegar Helps Take the Stain Out of Life BY NICOLE IRVING

Shoes

Clean up those white canvas shoes and make them brighter!

1. Combine baking soda and vinegar in a bowl and mix together until you have a good “paste” like solution. 2. Rub paste on shoes where they are dirty or all over for a good all over cleaning. 3. For tough stains, use old toothbrush in circular movements over the stain. 4. Let sit over night. 5. Wipe off with damp washcloth and let dry.

Get rid of both the smell and stain! 1. Blot out as much urine as you can with toilet paper. Flush. 2. Spray white vinegar on the mattress generously. 3. Sprinkle baking soda on top of vinegar, generously. 4. Allow to sit until baking soda becomes “paste” and damp with the vinegar. (A few hours). 5. Vacuum up with a hose. 6. Do the sniff test. If the scent is not gone, repeat until it does.

Spilled salad dressing or dripped butter? Not a problem! 1. Lay shirt/pants out on counter. 2. Sprinkle baking soda on the spot. 3. Spray vinegar on top of baking soda. 4. For heavyset spills, rub paste into stain with finger. 5. Let sit for an hour 6. Place directly into washing machine.

Spilled Wine

Don't cry over spilled wine on your carpet, furniture, or clothing. Baking soda and vinegar will make it good as new!

• Use white vinegar, not apple cider or red wine vinegar • Use in well-ventilated room and turn on fans • Keep out of reach of children and animals

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

Animal Mishaps

Oily Clothes

1. Blot out as much wine as you can first. 2. Spray on white vinegar generously. 3. Sprinkle baking soda on top of vinegar, generously. 4. Allow to sit until baking soda becomes “paste” and damp with the vinegar. (A few hours). 5. Vacuum up with a hose or throw in the wash. 6. Repeat if necessary.

TIPS

Stove/Oven

Tough grease and burnt up buildup is no match for a baking soda and vinegar mix. 1. Make sure to clean up all chucks of old food. 2. Combine baking soda and vinegar in a bowl and mix together until you have a good “paste” like solution. 3. Pour on stove top or on floor of oven. 4. Use ‘non scratch’ sponge to wipe with. 5. Repeat until clean. 6. Wipe away any residue with clean paper towel.

Puppy photo by Torsten on Pexels.com

There are so many cleaning products on the market today that sometimes it is hard to pick and decide if there is a “one stop cleaning product” for all the things that life has in store. From dog pee, spilled wine and greasy counter tops, it would be great if there was a cleaning product that could tackle it all. But, what if there was?! A simple mixture of baking soda and vinegar can help clean many of life’s messy moments. When you mix baking soda and vinegar, a base and an acid, it combines together, safely, and forms a bubbly white paste that is perfect for cleaning!

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giggle stamp | gator gear

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Come On Gators, Get Up and Go!

Must-have Gator Gear for the Family BY GRACE DOWNEY

Top of the World Youth Florida Gators Blue Ace Adjustable Hat dickssportinggoods.com $13.99

Gator Girl Toggle Bracelet Lang Jewelers $160

Whether you're getting ready for a Saturday in the Swamp, a basketball game in the O'Dome or just good ole' school pride, our Gator gear round up will have your whole family repping the UF orange and blue in style.

Ladies University of Florida Striped Unisex Overalls tellumandchop.com $119.99

Franklin Florida Gators Deluxe Uniform Set dickssportinggoods.com $34.99

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

giggle stamp | gator gear Bourbon & Boweties Gator Necklace Family Jewels and Purse Strings $34

NCAA Women's Florida Gators Orange â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Stand Up' V-Neck T-Shirt dickssportinggoods.com $17.50

Collegiate Large Duffle Bag Travel Bag verabradley.com $125

University of Florida Map Tumbler welltolddesign.com $34.50

Come On In, The Water's Fine, University of Florida Hawaiian Shirt tellumandchop.com $64.99 Comes with a back pocket for your drink!

G-III For Her Women's Florida Gators Blue Shuffle Lace V-Neck T-Shirt dickssportinggoods.com $24.49

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Gen2 Toddler Florida Gators Blue Football Dreams T-Shirt dickssportinggoods.com $10.49

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learn | family learning

Let the Games Begin! Activities to Bring the Whole Family Together BY NICOLE IRVING

The holidays are the perfect time to squeeze in as much together time as possible with those distant relatives and even your own children, as schools are closed and sports and activities generally take a break during this time. But, don’t let the days pass and fill them with TV and Video games. Instead, encourage connecting, sharing and playtime for the whole family!

CHARADES Who doesn’t like a good ole fashioned game of charades? Kids of all ages can play this easy game of guessing what your acting out. TIP: Have the kids make up the choices of what to act out. PHOTO MEMORIES How many times do you take photos with a phone or camera and lose them to the digital abyss. This year, lay out instant film cameras with plenty of film, and encourage everyone in the family to take photos during their visit. When they develop, hang them up on a piece of twine with mini clothespin for the whole family to enjoy. Before everyone leaves, give them a photo or two to take home or, leave them and add to it next year! HOLIDAY POPPERS These are a real treat! After dinner, put a popper in between two people. Each person grabs an end of the popper. All at one time, pull them apart. Whoever gets the bigger end, wins the prize inside! Depending on which ones you have, prizes range from whistles to little toy trinkets. THE BAG GAME Fill a bag or pillowcase with classic items, such as an apple, ruler, playing card, wooden spoon, toothbrush, a dollar bill, and the like. Have kiddos reach in and grab one and guess which each item is in the bag. Write them down. Whomever has the most items guessed correctly wins! REINDEER SCAVENGER HUNT Weather permitting; hide miniature reindeers outside around your house/ property. Give everyone a basket and have them go outside to collect all the reindeer. Parents and grandparents join! WHO AM I? This is a great game to play with grandparents! Write the names of celebrities, historical figures, superheroes and others on a Post It Note ®. When it is your turn, stick one on your forehead and ask up to 15 “yes” or “no” questions to guess the person on your note. Questions such as “do I sing”, “do I ride a horse”.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

learn | homeschool corner

Is a Homeschool Co-op Right for Your Family? BY CRYSTAL LADWIG, PH.D.

Socialization is widely considered to be a concern for families as they start home schooling. Alachua County and the surrounding areas are blessed to have an incredible level of support for home schooling, one that many other districts in Florida do not share. Without a doubt, the best source of socialization and support comes from homeschool groups or co-ops. Co-ops take on a wide variety of formats, but they all share a common purpose. They exist to support parents and provide social and educational opportunities to home-schooled students. There is no specific definition of a homeschool co-op. They can be formal groups with by-laws, a website, and a detailed registration process or be as simple as joining a Facebook group. They can serve families in one small area or serve the entire state. They can be faith-based, secular or open to anyone and everyone.

Community Christian Homeschoolers

Founded in 1985, Community Christian Homeschoolers (CCH) is a faith-based homeschool co-op serving families in and around the Gainesville area. Their mission includes providing fellowship, encouragement, and academic enrichment to member families. CCH is a relatively large co-op serving more than 70. Members participate in as many or as few activities as time allows. Some of the more popular activities include Book Bowl, the Homeschooling Hoot newsletter, spelling bee, field trips, science fair, park days and mom’s nights out. Families wanting to learn with each other regularly have the opportunity to join structured educational sub-groups through weekly or biweekly meetings where families learn science, social studies and other topics of interest in a collaborative, multi-age setting. “I like being part of a co-op because it connects my family with other homeschooling families in the community,” said CCH member Rachel Barragan. “I also appreciate that it provides my daughter with an opportunity to participate in activities with other kids.” For more information about CCH, visit cchweb.org.

Gainesville Area Secular Homeschoolers

Gainesville Area Secular Homeschoolers, a Facebook-based homeschool group, started in 2012 and currently has more than 800 members. They describe themselves as “a non-discriminating

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

homeschool support group/co-op in Gainesville.” This is an excellent resource for people wanting to learn more about home schooling in and around Alachua County. Members routinely post articles about home schooling, educational ideas, activities and events in our area, and opportunities specific to home schooling families. Members also share information about park meet-ups and field trip opportunities. Gainesville Area Secular Homeschoolers is one of the best places to learn about homeschool classes, including those offered through Santa Fe College and the Alachua County libraries, as well as countless others provided by local businesses and other home-schoolers.

Florida Parent Educator’s Association

The Florida Parent Educator’s Association (FPEA) is the largest home-school group in Florida, serving tens of thousands of families across the state. FPEA offers support, guidance and information to home-schoolers to help them develop “academic and personal excellence by sharing resources, creating connections, enhancing relationships, and breaking down barriers.” Each Memorial Day weekend, FPEA hosts the largest annual home-schooling conference in the nation. Open to anyone wanting to learn more about home schooling, it includes workshops, training, educational materials, activities for children and countless opportunities for home-schoolers to learn from one another. Membership to FPEA includes a bimonthly magazine, discounts to the annual conference, access to extended field trips throughout the state, and discounts to educational publishers and stores throughout the nation. For more information about FPEA, visit fpea.com. While only three groups were profiled here, there are many others in the Gainesville area and throughout Florida from which to choose. Take the time to learn about each one and find the one that’s right for you. Other home-schooling families are your greatest source of support!

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ORTHOcare GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

learn | featured teacher

Amy Tanner Why were you inspired to teach? I can’t remember ever wanting to be anything other than a teacher! Growing up, all I ever wanted to be was a “mommy.” Next on my very short list was a teacher. My mom recently retired after 34 years of teaching. I grew up in schools helping her and other teachers whenever I could. I’ve been fortunate to know so many amazing educators because of that experience, and I have always aspired to be like them!

What is your favorite part of the school day? AT WHAT SCHOOL DO YOU CURRENTLY WORK? Glen Springs Elementary

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A TEACHER? This is my eighth year teaching in Alachua County. WHAT SUBJECT DO YOU TEACH? All of them! I teach 2nd Grade Full Inclusion, so I am the Primary General Education Teacher for all subjects.

Do you know a teacher who goes above and beyond for his students? An administrator who is truly devoted to making her school a better place? Giggle Magazine wants to know! Visit gigglemagazine.com to submit your favorite educator for a chance for him or her to be featured in one of our upcoming issues.

Do you have a favorite assignment/ project that you typically assign your students? I have some themed activity days that are always a hit! Students love our “Surgery” Days: my classes have done Contraction Surgery, Place Value Surgery, and this year I am planning to add Text Feature Surgery to the list! We transform the classroom into a Hospital and they all get gowns, masks and gloves. We use highlighters that look like syringes and all the learning activities have a medical/surgical theme. They giggle every time I call them “Doctor” and really get into the role.

How do you wind down from a long day of teaching? Ha! I am not sure that I do! People that know me best would probably tell you that I don’t really understand that term. As a mom and teacher, I am constantly on the go and busy. There isn’t a lot of winding down time left over. When I can get it, I like listening to music, catching up on TV shows or crafting.

What do you like to do outside of the classroom? I enjoy spending time with my family. I enjoy quiet days at home, or when we have an

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

Share a funny teaching moment/day. There are entirely too many to choose from! I firmly believe everyone should be required to spend a few days with 5-8 year olds. They are constantly making me laugh! It’s easily the best part of my job.

If you were a superhero, who would you be? I would probably have to go with Black Widow or Wonder Woman!

What is your favorite book? That’s a hard question. I have so many favorite books that I love to share in my classroom. Personally, I enjoy reading mystery/suspense novels. Harlan Coben is an author I like. I also enjoy Utopian and Dystopian Fiction, like the Hunger Games and Divergent Series and, of course I love Harry Potter!

What are you doing for the holiday break? Any fun travels? I am looking forward to taking a break and having some down time to relax with my family! My parents will be visiting, and we may take a trip to Georgia to visit some extended family we don’t get to see as often. My favorite tradition is cutting down our Christmas tree the day after Thanksgiving and putting up our lights! I love decorating for the holidays!

Photos courtesy of Amy Tanner

WHAT GRADE/AGE DO YOU TEACH? I teach in the Project Friends Program, which is Multi-Age (K-2), but teach all our 2nd Graders this year!

Our mornings together, for sure! Every morning I play “Have it All,” by Jason Mraz as our transition song. Students know this means to start cleaning up and getting ready for the day. I believe it’s important to take the time each day to greet every child personally. They choose their preferred greeting: hug, handshake, high five, or fist bump. It’s a routine that helps us all start the day on a positive note. I love it!

opportunity to take a day trip together. We love visiting the museum, aquariums, and recently got a pass for LEGOLAND, so that has been a new adventure! I enjoy making things and like to craft when I can.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

learn | your schools

Start With Hello: The Sandy Hook Promise BY APRIL TISHER

On December 14, 2012, I had just dropped my two elementaryaged children off at school. The upcoming Christmas break, class parties, teachers’ gifts and childhood excitement was consuming my mind. Then, several states away, a 20-year-old man shot and killed 26 people (including 20 students) at a Connecticut elementary school and everything changed. Fellow parents and myself could no longer just drop our children off at school with blind faith that they would be safe, and we wondered how things could ever move forward. Out of the tragedy, the Sandy Hook Promise was started by loved ones of the victims lost at Sandy Hook. According to their website, the non-profit’s goal is to provide programs and practices to schools to help protect children and hopefully prevent the senseless loss of life. This fall, Alachua County Public Schools (ACPS) participated in the Sandy Hook Promise’s Know the Signs programs, which teaches students to be more socially inclusive and connected to each other. This program is free and encourages students in every grade to reach out to those who might otherwise feel alone. The program’s basic principles are designed to empower students, no matter the age, to end social isolation by teaching them three easy steps:

u See Someone Alone:

How to recognize the signs of loneliness and social isolation

v Reach Out and Help:

What students can do to help others feel included

How to break the ice and strike up a conversation Students participated in a Know The Signs assembly focused on their “Start With Hello” program, which according to the Sandy Hook promise website, “teaches youth to minimize social isolation, empathize with others, and create a more inclusive and connected culture. After, students were given stickers saying “Start With Hello” that helped start the conversation at home about the initiative. The intent is to carry over these principles Teachers at Stephen Foster Elementary School wear green in support of mental health.

from school to everyday life. It’s something we can all do to show kindness. Karen Pearson, a Nationally Certified School Counselor at Stephen Foster Elementary School, said that last school year the Alachua County School Board adopted the Start With Hello program as a district wide initiative. Each school met to discuss how they wanted to implement the program to meet the needs of their students, but all schools participate in some way. “I think it was a nice way to kick things off at the beginning of the school year,” Pearson said. Her school had different things planned for each day of the week to introduce the students to the program. For example, during morning announcements students learned how to simply say “hello” in different languages. Students were encouraged to wear green on Wednesday in support of mental health, and green stickers saying “Start With Hello” were given out. Classes created “Hello” posters for display in the hallways, and they even reprogrammed one of the “Easy” buttons to say “Hello” instead. This was located in the front office and anytime kids were coming and going, they could press the button to say “Hello”. “This was a way that non-verbal students, or those who just aren’t overly talkative, felt comfortable being involved.” Pearson said. The following week, the school counselors met to discuss and share ideas on new ways to get involved next year. The Sandy Hook Promise organization hopes that by bringing awareness to mental health issues, gun safety and research through the programs they share, we can prevent more senseless tragedies. If you have questions about your child’s school participation or if you want to get involved, contact your school counselor or visit Sandyhookpromise.org.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

Photos courtesy of Karen Pearson

w Start With Hello:

Students at Stephen Foster Elementary School show how to say "hello" in different languages.

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Becoming Bilingual

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GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

c2c | expecting {PREGNANCY}

Labor Induction: Things You Wish You Knew BY AMANDA ROLAND

When pregnant, most future mothers will have an ideal birthing plan hope against all odds that they will have control over everything that will happen in the delivery room. The reality is that your labor story is going to be unique and most likely nothing like how you planned it to be. Labor Induction is a common way that many mothers bring their babies into the world; however, it is seldom a part of the mother’s idea plan. Being induced can be a complicated and daunting process, so it is best to ask as many questions about it to your doctor and be prepared with an open mind. According to the Mayo Clinic, labor induction is defined as the “stimulation of uterine contractions during pregnancy before labor begins on its own to achieve a vaginal birth.” In other words, it is the process of making your body ready to deliver a baby when your body isn’t quite there yet. Labor induction will look differently for every mom, so here are some things to keep in mind if you have to be induced:

Being Dilated

One thing that some moms-to-be don’t expect from labor induction is the process of being manually dilated. If you are not dilated enough, or not at all, cervical ripening agents will be used to help the “cervix soften and thin out in preparation for labor,” according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). “Medications or devices may be used to soften the cervix so it will stretch (dilate) for labor.” Everyone knows that pain is inevitable with all types of labor, but being manually dilated can be very uncomfortable and painful for many women. Also for new mothers, it can be a scary situation if you are not prepared. Do not be afraid to ask your doctors and nurses questions! That is what they are there for, and voicing your thoughts and concerns can make you feel more comfortable and in the know.

Labor Induction Can Be a Long Process

How long your labor will last all depends on the state of your body when induction began. If your cervix was not ripe at all in the beginning and depending on how your body responds to the

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

medications, it can take hours or even a couple of days for labor to start, according to the Mayo Clinic.

You Can Be Induced Before Your Due Date

Some may think that labor induction will only be a possibility if you are far past your due date and labor hasn’t started. While this is a major factor, it is not always the case. Complications like fetal growth restriction, gestational diabetes, chorioamnionitis (an infection in the uterus) and many other factors can contribute to your doctor’s decision to induce labor before your due date has come, according to the Mayo Clinic. While labor induction may not be a part of your ideal birth plan, trust that your doctors are doing what is best for mommy and baby. It will be exciting to know that once you are induced, you are that much closer to holding your new healthy baby. *Always consult your doctor about your own birthing process and to answer any questions about your induction/birth plan.

GIGGLE MOM TELLS ALL At 41 weeks, Tyler was still pretty comfortable where he was and my body wasn’t showing any signs of labor. So, I went into the delivery room ready to be induced. My induction started when my cervix was not dilated at all and it was a long and tiresome process. In all honesty, I was not fully prepared for the toll that it would have on my body and my birth plan was pretty much thrown out the window when I realized I couldn’t labor in the bath tub as planned, HaHa! Being induced taught me that all babies enter the world on their own terms, a mother will do anything she can to ensure her baby enters happy and healthy and that the human body is amazing!

~ Nicole, EIC Giggle Magazine

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

Dressing Baby for Colder Temps BY JENNIFER JENSEN

Winter brings cooler temperatures, even to our area, and dressing your little one so they stay nice and warm might seem challenging at first. A great rule of thumb for babies and children is to dress them in one more layer of clothing than you would wear in the same conditions, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Make sure to dress both infants and children warmly. Several thin layers work best to keep them dry and warm. Don’t forget about their little hands, feet and heads. Be sure to have mittens, gloves and a hat ready for colder temperatures. If your baby is going to be riding in a car seat, opt for several thin, snug layers rather than a bulky coat. Try long-sleeved bodysuits

and leggings, then layer on warmer bottoms and a sweater. You can also add a thing fleece jacket. A bulky coat can make it hard to safely secure baby in their car seat, not to mention, it might be uncomfortable for them. To keep your baby warm when they are sleeping, the best bet is to use one-piece sleepers, sleep sacks or wearable blankets. Blankets, quilts, pillows, bumpers or any other loose bedding should never be placed where an infant is sleeping, according to the AAP. These are associated with suffocation deaths. Now that your baby is all snuggled up, you might be concerned about them overheating. Not too worry. It’s fairly easy to determine if your baby is getting too hot. Simply touch their neck or ears. If they feel warm or you notice sweating, flushed cheeks, heat rash or rapid breathing, start to remove layers too cool your baby down. You can also try and cool the room down. If your baby is too warm, they might also become restless. And that’s not good for anyone. Just be sure to not overdress them. If you do need to cool baby down, try offering them fluids, move them to a cooler room or dress them in lighter clothing. If your baby’s symptoms do not improve, or if they have a fever, rapid heartbeat, are lethargic or unresponsive, vomiting, or seem dizzy or confused, seek medical treatment. The big thing to remember is that babies cannot regulate their body temperature, so they need your help to avoid extreme hot or cold.

WATCH OUT FOR SIGNS OF OVERHEATING • Feels warm • Sweating • Flushed cheeks • Heat rash • Rapid breathing

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

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c2c | toddler {2-3 YEARS}

Becoming Bilingual:

Teaching Toddlers Another Language BY TRACY WRIGHT

Before Lauren and Jose Soberon even had children, they began having the important discussion of how they should teach their child Spanish. Both from Cuban backgrounds, Jose and Lauren had very different exposure to Spanish while growing up. Jose grew up in the diverse Cuban community of Hialeah, Florida, around Spanish-speaking relatives and spoke both Spanish and English fluently from an early age. Lauren grew up with mostly her non-Spanish speaking relatives in the mostly Caucasian community in Tampa. Although she learned Spanish when she was older, it was certainly not Lauren’s native language. Jose and Lauren wondered how they could expose their future children to Spanish. When navigating the many milestones of toddlerhood—potty training, crib transitions, social anxiety—language development is certainly one of those. For children who may have one or more bilingual parents, they may struggle with how or even if to introduce the second language to their child. The research shows that exposing children to the language earlier yields more benefits. “After consulting with many speech pathologists, pediatricians and psychologists, we were committed to exposing our children to Spanish from the very beginning. The experts we talked to all said that the best way to expose them to Spanish was only speaking Spanish in the home,” Lauren said. Lauren and Jose now have two sons, Gabriel and Sebastian, ages two and four, who are fully fluent in Spanish. When they are at home or with their children, they only speak Spanish. Even when they are speaking to each other in front of the children, they speak Spanish. Now a stay-at-home mother, Lauren was educated in psychology and she also drew on her own expertise to make this decision.

As a psychologist, I would advise parents to strongly consider beginning teaching their children a language before the first developmental window—right around kindergarten—closes. - LAUREN SOBERON

“I know what it was like to have a certain background but not know the language of your heritage, and I did not want that for my children,” Lauren said. “We are a proud Hispanic-American family, and we did not want to have passively bilingual children, rather we wanted them to be fully proficient in speaking and writing Spanish.” During the first five years, a child’s brain is at its most flexible, making this a critical period for learning and growth. 90% of the child’s brain is formed by age 5. That is why it’s never too soon to begin thinking about making these decisions for your child. The First Five Years Fund—an advocacy group for early childhood development—warns that waiting until kindergarten is too late to introduce learning experiences for children, like language development. Lauren says they remained committed to teaching their children Spanish, but it was not without its challenges, especially for her. “It was easier for my husband because that was primarily his native language growing up,” Lauren said. “It was not my native language and was not my nurturing language. My mom was my primary caregiver and she only spoke English. “I struggled at times, and I felt like I was learning the language as much as my children were.” Lauren also said they confronted friends and family who challenged them on their decisions, even Jose’s family who primarily spoke Spanish. They were afraid that perhaps their sons would be discriminated against, something that has not happened at all. “Gainesville is actually a really diverse city with not only Spanish speaking families but other families who speak different languages at home,” Lauren said. “Teachers and friends in the community understand our decision and fully support our choice.” But does only speaking a foreign language at home affect language development of English? Lauren said no, and the research on this topic supports it. Research in sociolinguistics tells us that children learn language from their peers, even from a very young age. NC State linguist Walt Wolfram, for example, has shown that peers start being more important linguistic role models than parents at around the age of four. *Continued on page 86

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

Children’s brains at this age have an amazing ability to absorb a lot of information and can learn languages simultaneously. Since English is the common societal language spoken around Lauren's children outside of the home, their brains are “downloading” both the English and Spanish language. Lauren’s son Gabriel goes to Abiding Savior preschool where only English is spoken, and he is completely fluent and proficient in English. Even Sebastian, who has not entered preschool yet, already has shown a proficiency in English. Soberon is aware that keeping Spanish as the only language at home will be more difficult as her children progress in school and make more friends that only know Dr.English. Pri- But they will keep it as their rule in their household to further reinforce it. Besides the yanka Vyas strong cultural aspect, research from Yale University has shown that being bilingual is good for the brain in general, in everything from multi-tasking to later onset of Alzheimer’s. “As a psychologist, I would advise parents to strongly consider beginning teaching their children a language before the first developmental window—right around kindergarten—closes,” Lauren said. “As a mother, I can say there is never a right time to begin, but it helps to begin when they are younger so it becomes part of your household.”

TIPS FOR TEACHING CHILDREN ANOTHER LANGUAGE Don't misjudge your child’s progress. A child learning two languages may appear as if they have a speech delay, but often that is not the case. A child might say fewer English words than other children, but if you add in the words they know in the second language, the total number of words will probably be more than that of their peers. Expect minor mistakes. It's natural for a child to confuse the word order or use words from both languages in the same sentence. They will quickly learn to separate the languages. Once your household speaks that language, all play and entertainment should remain in that language. That means toys, books, games and television shows should ideally be in the same language. While it may be easier to find those in more common second languages like Spanish or French, a quick Google search finds many types of entertainment in almost all global languages. Disney Plus has announced its new streaming service will be available in Spanish, French and Dutch.

* If you have any questions or concerns about your child and teaching multiple languages, always consult your pediatrician first.

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8 Books That Teach Kindness BY MEGAN SAPELAK AND NICOLE IRVING

“Treat others as you would want to be treated.” The #1 Golden Rule to live by. But, for our children, sometimes being kind can be harder to do than expected. Within minutes, using someone’s favorite crayon when they wanted it can cause feelings to get hurt in a flash. The wonderful thing about children is that they are sponges ready to absorb information at all times. When being kind is a little harder at times, sharing books with them that relate to kindness and acceptance is always a win-win situation. Below is our list of favorite books that teach kindness.

The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig The theme of this book is to accept others regardless of their differences.

Enemy Pie by Derek Munson This book enlightens readers that we must not form opinions about others before getting to know them.

Do Unto Otters: A Book About Manners by Laurie Keller A playful book that uses the golden rule to show how to be a good friend and neighbor.

Have You Filled a Bucket Today? A Guide to Daily Happiness for Kids. By Carol McCloud This book encourages positive behavior by demonstrating how easy it is to perform random acts of kindness in order to uplift others.

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein A classic book that teaches about the power of unconditional love and how rewarding it can be to give to others.

The Last Stop On Market Street by Matt De La Pena An award-winning picture book that teaches the importance of community and finding appreciation in unexpected places.

A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip C. Stead and Erin E. Stead This heart-warming book is centered on helping friends during hardships and times of need.

Horton Hears a Who! by Dr. Suess Another classic book that emphasizes acceptance while also providing a memorable phrase: “A person's a person, no matter how small.”

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Gimme, Gimme! How to Quell the Holiday Wants BY APRIL TISHER

It is easy to say that we won’t get caught up in the craziness of the holidays and give in to the classic "I want" and “give me” requests. Then, before we know it, that time of year is upon us, and it becomes harder to say no to the pressures of creating those perfect holiday memories for our children. First, let’s remember the “give me” holiday syndrome isn’t limited just to our children’s wish list. There are also time demands of parties and gatherings; there are decorations to put up and cookies to bake. There are celebrations at work, home and school. Financial obligations are increased everywhere as well; donations to charities and religious organizations and buying gifts for family, friends, teachers and co-workers. You are asked to send in items for class parties and for luncheons at work. It all begins to add up and you may feel the pressure of the holidays before your child even has a chance to say “give me!” Keep in mind what is truly important to you. You cannot possibly fulfill the requests of everyone around you, including your children, nor should you try. You do not have to say “YES” to every invitation, every donation request or everything your child wants. In fact, by saying no to some things and making a priority out of the most important ones, you will enjoy your holidays that much more and teach your children to be grateful in the process. It is hard to keep our children grounded when the world around them is buzzing. Commercials and advertisements are all around them with the latest and greatest toys and must have items. They see it all and want it all. Set the example for your children by focusing on quality not quantity. By showing them it is ok to say no to things yourself, they won’t feel the same pressure to keep up with what they perceive everyone is doing or getting. When it comes to the actual gift giving part of the holiday, you can also put the brakes on the need for more and more gifts. I learned about the “Four Gift Rule” several years ago from a BBC and Forbes story and instituted it in my own home. If you aren’t familiar with it, the four gifts are: something you want, something you need, something to wear and something to read. I found that this is a great way to keep the lists of my four children in check while still giving in to things they want and need at the same time. The budget you set for these gifts can be customized and tailored to your personal financial situation. Some households buy things throughout the year for each other, and others save the

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

bigger gifts for birthdays and holidays. In those cases you may choose to spend more or less on the items in each category. It also helps to “even out” the number of gifts everyone is opening so that nobody feels overwhelmed or slighted. Taking the focus off the “gift list” and instead putting more emphasis on family time, special traditions, your faith and on giving back to others can enrich your family holidays. Kelly Ping, the Director of Missions at Trinity United Methodist Church and mom to two daughters says she works to keep things in perspective in her own home. Her advice is to “find something, any cause that is important to your family and look for ways to support it.” It can be volunteering together, donating items or money or just educating others about it.” They have a practice where they make a kindness jar, “We sit down as a family and come up with things we can do to help others and write them down and put them in a jar. Then during the holidays we pick them out and institute them.” Things like writing a note of thanks to someone, doing a chore for someone in need or sending in extra supplies for a teacher at their school. Ping reminds me that it’s ok to enjoy giving things to your children. Her family, like many others, save the gift giving for the holidays. “Don’t think you can’t indulge your children’s wish list and still teach them gratefulness.” Finding a balance that works in your home is what matters most. Teaching your children that the holidays aren’t about competing with their peers over gifts and reminding yourself "keeping up with the Joneses" isn’t what makes a happy home.

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

The Friendship Game: Honoring the Old While Making New

So, as parents, how do we the best thing to encourage them to do, no matter where the friendship was formed, is to surround themselves with friends that encourage them, help them, that are kind to them and others and make them a better person. In addition, here are a few ways we can help them be the best friend they can be, while maintaining their independence and self

BY NICOLE IRVING

Navigating friendships is hard at any age, but, when hormones are on the rise, feelings are overflowing and we live in a digital and social age, making, keeping and being the best friend you can while a tween can be especially hard, especially when you have friends from different areas of your life. How can they intertwine all areas and still maintain balance, fun and long lasting friendships? Once in middle school, friendships take on a whole new life of their own. This is a time of self discover and finding out who you are, but also, who do you want to surround your self with. Up until now, many of their friends might have been handed to them. Meaning, they are friends with YOUR friend’s children. Playgroups and social gatherings that you plan and dictate when in elementary school can create an automatic friend group for them. But, what happens when they start to pick their own friends and the “new” friends aren’t friends with the current friends they already have? Someone, most likely your kiddo, is now in the middle. This can cause resentment from older friends, stress for you child and jealousy from the new friends. In addition, a very active social life, coupled with school, sports, family obligations and more, can cause for a very weary and tired tween. If there are any tensions with any friendships, the added exhaustion can lead to a sad and stressed kiddo.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

Encourage them to spend one-on-one time with each friend when possible. This will allow them to continue a friendship without having to feel guilty or torn between two different friends at the same time.

Encourage down time.

Know it is ok if they aren’t included.

Host gatherings for all

Sometime, too much of a good thing, is just that, too much! Friendships are important and sometimes it is hard to say “no” that they can’t come over or they cant’ go there. However, a tired kiddo can become irritable and cranky and not be the best version of themselves or a friend to others. Sometimes, downtime is the best thing for great friendships.

This is a big one. At times, situations arise and our children are left off invite lists, party invites or play dates. Many times this doesn’t mean they aren’t loved by their friends, but maybe outside factors were influenced. Help your child continue their positive feelings toward their friend and encourage their friendship.

When time allows, host a party for all their friends. Summer swim parties, football bbq’s and holiday cookie parties are a great way to get everyone together to grow friendships and allow your kiddo to “host” all their friends in a fun way to continue relationship and allow for other’s to see them be friends with all.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

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

Don't Stress the Test BY APRIL TISHER AND NICOLE IRVING

As entry into the nation’s top universities and colleges have become more and more competitive, students applying for those coveted positions have come out ready to earn their acceptance. Both grade point averages and average standardized test scores have steadily climbed and this year, the average scores for the incoming 2019 freshman class at the University of Florida included a 1330-1460 on the SAT, 29 – 33 on the ACT and a 4.3 - 46 GPA. Although not the only part of the application process, the SAT and ACT are important aspects of the college admissions packet as they help colleges evaluate the students’ readiness for college. Students can opt to take either the ACT or the SAT or both, depending on the requirements of the colleges they are applying to. The ACT exam is scored on a 1-36 point scale. The SAT is made up of two sections with the scoring scale between 200 and 800 for each section. In 2018, the average SAT score for Alachua County Public School students was 1187, well above both state and national averages. During that same year, the average ACPS student earned a composite score of 21.3 on the ACT. A perfect score on the SAT or ACT is no small feat and in Alachua County some of our very own best and brightest high school students did just that. Karen Clarke, the Superintendent of Alachua County Public Schools said “We’re very proud that so many of our students are among the top academic performers in the nation; It’s a tribute to the students and to their teachers and families.” According to Alachua County Public Schools eleven local students earned perfect scores on either the SAT or ACT college entrance exams during the 2018-19 academic year! The students that earned a perfect score on the ACT during the 2018-19 school year were Javier Fernandez-Ambite, Griffin Golde, Thomas Lancer, Natalie Oyenarte, Sterling Reed, Baleigh Sweeney, and Tyler Wycoff of Gainesville High School and Amy Cohen, Jaiwei Ma and Yared Tadesse of Buchholz High School. Alexander Duffaut of Gainesville High School earned a perfect 1600 on the SAT.

HOW TO RAISE THE SCORE

Every child learns and excels differently, that is why the college admissions process is broader than just SAT and ACT scores. A higher score is in the students favor and a quick internet search

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

will return hundreds of prep courses and tips to help improve one’s scores. Your student’s school may additionally offer free SAT reviews for them to take advantages of. PrincetonReview.com offers five simple tips to help improve your score right away:

Work Questions Out of Order-don’t spend too much time on the hard problems

Choose a “Letter of the Day”-meaning pick a letter, such as “c” for example and pick that every time you have no idea what the answer is. There is no penalty for wrong answers on the ACT

Find the wrong answers first and eliminate them-this makes the right answer seem more apparent.

Know the best way to bubble in-work one section at a time circling your answers right in the booklet; then transferring one section at a time to the bubble sheet

Tailor your strategy to each section: English, Math, Science, Reading and Essay

WHAT IF THE PERFECT SCORE DOESN’T COME EASY? Carly Heckathorn, MEd, EdS, a High School Counselor, cautions against the pressure for students to chase the perfect score. “This can cause undue anxiety during an already stressful time. Studying relentlessly does not guarantee a perfect (or even a high) score.” Balance is the key for well rounded students. Knowing a school or program’s specific requirements and ensuring that those standards are met along with extracurricular achievements and relevant experience will help show the admissions team the whole picture of an applicant. It is the goal to admit students with the highest chance of success. The good news, Heckathorn says, is that while “ACT and SAT scores are required for most universities and do play a role in college admissions, admissions are also much more holistic than they used to be.”

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The Virtual

How VR Technology is Changing the Nature of Video Games. BY TRACY WRIGHT

Virtual reality is a term we have heard thrown around for the better part of the last few decades. Whether real or imagined, the concept of entering an environment which we could not otherwise via the wonders of technology, has long been a dream. But now virtual reality (VR) is indeed that—a reality. Virtual reality games are filtering into the video game market at lightning speed—but at what cost (or benefit) to our children?

WHAT IS IT?

Virtual reality gaming describes a new generation of computer games with VR technology that allows players to have a first-person perspective of game action. Imagine the insanely popular game of Fortnite experienced in a wholly immersive experience. Or Lara Croft Go, based off of the widely followed Tomb Raider series where the player has to navigate crumbling ruins and solve obstacle mazes. Participants experience and play the game through a variety of VR gaming devices and accessories, including headsets, sensor-equipped gloves, hand controllers, and other equipment. Virtual reality headsets or multi-projected environments are used to produce realistic images, sounds and other sensations that simulate a user's physical presence in a virtual environment. A person using VR equipment feels as if they are completely immersed in another world—they can look and move around in the artificial environment and interact with virtual features or items. Games can be played on standalone systems, specialized game consoles, or using advanced laptops and PCs that can power the leading VR headsets. Popular options include Oculus Rift, HTC Vive and Lenovo Mirage Solo. Virtual reality games can be played individually or with others online multi-player, online virtual reality games.

Some VR games place players in physical combat environments, while others allow them to experience endeavors like car racing and acrobatic flying. Other VR games challenge players to solve problems, move objects, or explore new places. Five hundred million VR headsets are expected to be sold in the United States by 2025, and games earned 55% of VR software revenue in 2017. Monthly active VR users are up 160% year-over-year on Steam, a PC gaming marketplace, and 76% of children mostly use VR devices to play games.

POTENTIAL DANGERS

As more people begin using more VR technology, especially children and adolescents, parents may worry about the potential dangers of the usage of VR. Unfortunately, there is very little research that has been done into the dangers or addictive characteristics of VR technology. However, we do know the obvious dangers of VR gaming. The first is the danger of the physical surroundings. People playing VR games should always stay seated and stay clear of other people, furniture, stairs, windows and pets. Another danger is the threat of cybersickness which is caused by the conflict between what a person using VR

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

technology is seeing and feeling and what the inner ear is experiencing. Just like seasickness, this type of disturbance can cause nausea, vomiting, headaches, and difficulty in balancing. Younger children may be more at risk as they continue to play even when developing symptoms. While both of these conditions can be physically disturbances, parents can monitor usage to ensure that these situations do not occur. We don’t yet know the long-term visual effects, but short-term effects can cause headaches, sore eyes, and difficulty concentrating on a visual task. Parents are likely more concerned about the developmental effects that VR can have on their children. Again because the technology is so new, very little information is available. However, experts warn that VR gaming may have detrimental effects on the brain, depending on a child’s age and development of their neural circuits. As of right now, researchers have yet to conclusively show that VR has any greater negative impact on child development than television or video games. Most VR technology companies advise that a child be at least 13 before using VR technology. Parents should be warned that children up to age 18 are more affected

Future: Five hundred million

VR headsets are expected to be sold in the United States by 2025.

Graphic from Freepik.com

by these types of experiences and view this VR technology as being more “real.” A University of Zurich study found that children who were younger than 11 years old may lack the "higher-level brain functioning" necessary to remember in the moment that VR isn't real. Parents are advised to follow general safety guidelines and best practices like they would for other media. That means limiting VR game time, ensuring that they are well-rounded with other interests and discussing the VR technology with their children to ensure they understand the fact that this is not “true reality.” Provide enriching experiences outside or in nature. When purchasing VR games, ensure that they are age-appropriate and provide some form of enrichment. Be sure to provide enriching, beneficial and age-appropriate experiences for their virtual excursions.

BENEFITS

Beyond the potential dangers, there are potential benefits that VR games can provide. For example, there are a variety of fitness games that can help people stay fit. A study published in the Journal of Pediatric Psychology showed that VR games can reduce anxiety and be used in pain management for children undergoing painful medical procedures while other research has shown that it can help

children on the autism spectrum learn. A study in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health indicates that children who play VR games which focus on training the brain have better fine motor skills, balance and mobility. VR gaming can help to improve spatial attention in children and can help children translate the skills they learned in educational VR environments to the real world. Scientists have also found that the fast-paced games increase adrenaline and dopamine in the brain which helps maintain and improve brain health. VR gaming can also improve mental flexibility and a child’s ability to quickly switch seamlessly between tasks while facing opposing demands. They also are a great way to reduce stress and depression in children. Beyond playing games, virtual reality technology and gaming has also become an emerging career field for those interested. There are a number of college degree programs which either focus on virtual reality game design or include it in a component of a degree program focused on video game design. These include both traditional four-year universities and online programs. In 2018, the Savannah College

of Art and Design (SCAD) established the country’s first dedicated degree in "immersive reality." The University of Advancing Technology in Arizona offers a Bachelor of Arts degree in Virtual Reality, and Drexel University has a Virtual Reality (VR) and Immersive Media degree program. Education does not have to just begin at the collegiate level. In fact, locally, Loften High School, located in East Gainesville, is home to five professional magnet academies, including one focused on Gaming and Mobile Apps. The Gaming and Mobile App program offers courses that provides knowledge and skills needed to prepare for further education and careers such as a game designer, programmer or developer and includes competency-based applied learning that contributes to the academic knowledge, higher-order reasoning and problem-solving skills, including employability skills. Students in the magnet program work with the same technology and software as today’s design professionals while pursuing traditional art classes in addition to technology-intensive classes.

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

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community | calendar

december | january Tree photo by Immortal shots from Pexels.com

DECEMBER 3

Stay and Play 9-11 a.m. Sun Country Sports – West Suncountrysports.com Children 5 and under can enjoy free play time with their parents at Stay and Play. Members pay $11.50 upon entry and non-members pay $14. Adults play for free, and children under 2 get in for half-price. Repeats every Tuesday and Friday. Stay and Play is also offered every Saturday afternoon from 2-4 p.m. DECEMBER 5

free Lang Jewelers and Irving Publications Holiday Party 5-8 p.m. Lang Jewelers Come to Lang Jewelers in the Tioga Town Center for a night of wish-list shopping! There will be drinks, raffles, music and more! DECEMBER 6

Gym Jam 5-7 p.m. Sun Country Sports – West Suncountrysports.com Children 5 years and older have the opportunity to participate in a coach-led warmup and instructed gym time with other students! Entry is $20 for members and $22 for non-members. Repeats every Friday.

DECEMBER 6

Gym Jam Jr.

free Christmas Tree Lighting and Santa Visit

5-6 p.m. Sun Country Sports – West Suncountrysports.com Children ages 3½ to 5 years old can participate in a coach-led warmup and instructed gym time! Entry is $14 for members and $17 for non-members. Repeats the first Friday of every month. DECEMBER 6

Tot Time: Wondrous Weaving 11 a.m. Harn Museum of Art Harn.ufl.edu

6-8 p.m. Downtown Mainstreet Park Cityofalachua.com Gather the whole family and go to Alachua for a night of holiday fun! Enjoy the tree lighting ceremony and a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus! Don’t leave without getting a picture and goody bag from Santa himself! DECEMBER 6

free Light the Village

The Harn offers a wonderful program for parents and children to tour the museum and make art! Each session of Tot Times has a different theme, and it is a great way for your little ones to learn! Children must be 2 to 5 years old. Repeats the first Friday of every month.

5-9 p.m. Haile Village Center facebook.com/LoveHaileVillage Take the whole family to the Haile Village to see it light up! Enjoy hot coco, cookies, live performances and maybe even a Santa sighting. DECEMBER 7

DECEMBER 6

free Frogs and Friends Friday 2-3 p.m. Morningside Nature Center Cityofgainesville.org Hang out with some critters at this free educational event. Children accompanied by an adult can learn about live amphibians and reptiles from a Morningside animal caretaker.

The Season of Hope 5K/15K Run 9 a.m. Gainesville Hawthorne Trail tylershope.org Participate in the Season of Hope Run benefiting the fight against Dystonia and Parkinson’s Disease. You can find more information at tylershope.org!

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

Inspiring Women Leaders

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• Juried show welcoming 120 fine artists and craftsmen •Artist demonstrations both afternoons 1-4 pm •Live music, good food & kids activities in beachfront city park •Free, family & pet friendly

Benefits the Cedar Key Arts Center

ay holid t and all ages e l l a Ab for tion tradi ince 1993 s

Saturday Dec 14, 2019 1:30 & 7:00 P.M. Phillips Center

Meet the dancers after each show in the Fackler Foyer!

General Admission $15

Children under 10 free with new, unwrapped toy or book (while supplies last)

Ticket Information

352-371-0761 | 352-392-ARTS danscompanyofgainesville.org performingarts.ufl.edu

352.543.5400 cedarkeyartsfestival.com | cedarkeyartsfestival@gmail.com

3215 Hull Road on the UF campus www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/butterflies

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community | calendar DECEMBER 7

DECEMBER 7

Holiday at Santa Fe

LifeSouth Operation Santa Delivery

2 & 6 p.m. Santa Fe College Fine Arts Hall Sfcollege.edu Enjoy a family-friendly evening with refreshments, crafts and festive musical performances that’ll put you and your family in the mood for the holidays. Children 13 and up can see the show for $9 per ticket, and adults pay $15. DECEMBER 7

free Feliz Navidad at Tioga Town Center 6-9 p.m. Tioga Town Center tiogatowncenter.com Enjoy music from Elio Piedra at this free family event! Bring the whole family out to enjoy the holidays.

DECEMBER 12

free Harn Museum Nights: Our 352

10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Santa Fe College North Fields Enjoy this fun-filled, free event that the whole family will love! Get a picture with Santa who will be arriving by helicopter! You can give blood at the blood drive or just participate in the free festivities. DECEMBER 7-8

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens Guided Walk 10 a.m. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens Kanapaha.org Spend some time appreciating nature with your friends and family on a guided tour of some beautiful local gardens. Adults are $8 and children ages 1-13 are $4. Repeats the first Saturday of each month. DECEMBER 7

free Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration 6-8 p.m. Historic Thomas Center Historicthomascenter.org The City of Gainesville Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs Department welcomes you and your family to join in celebrating the holidays with Santa Clause and loads of Christmas lights at the Historic Thomas Center. DECEMBER 7

Fall Farm and Cane Festival 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Dudley Farm Historic State Park Floridastateparks.org Dive into the past, and try your hand at grinding sugar cane at this commemorative event. Tour Dudley Farm, listen to music and make crafts with the whole family. Entry is $8 per vehicle. DECEMBER 7

SEC Football Championship Atlanta, GA

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Enjoy a night of crafting, reading and learning at Harn Museum Nights! This event is held once a month, each night having a different theme, and admission is free for the whole family. DECEMBER 12

Craft Festival

UF Health Shands Childbirth Education Class

10 a.m.-5 p.m. Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O'Connell Center oconnellcenter.ufl.edu Visit the annual Craft Festival to experience unique and authentic art! You can support small artists by buying gifts for everyone on your list. DECEMBER 8

DECEMBER 7

6-9 p.m. The Harn Museum Harn.ufl.edu

9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. UF Health Shands Hospital Ufhealth.org Review the birthing process, relaxation techniques, pain management skills, postpartum care and so much more in this educational course. The class is $50, and you can register online at ufhealth.org.

GLAM Craft Show

DECEMBER 13

10 a.m.-5 p.m. First Magnitude Brewing Company Glamcraftshow.com

Candlelight Visits

Pick up some unique Christmas gifts at this artisan craft show that showcases local vendors. You can find something for everyone on your list at the GLAM Craft Show!

Enjoy live music and refreshments at the Historic Haile Homestead at night! You can purchase tickets online at hailehomestead.org, and children under 12 are free!

DECEMBER 8

6-9 p.m. Hailehomestead.org

DECEMBER 14

Kids Day at Dudley Farm

free Country Holiday Night

10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dudley Farm Historic State Park Bring the whole family out to the farm for old fashioned games, crafts, demonstrations and more! Entry is $5 per vehicle. DECEMBER 8

free Annual Homestead Holidays 12-4 p.m. Historic Haile Homestead Hailehomestead.org

6-9 p.m. Tioga Town Center tiogatowncenter.com Bring the whole family out for a yee-holiday event in Tioga Town Center! DECEMBER 14

free Alachua Christmas Parade 2 p.m. Downtown Main Street, Alachua Cityofalachua.com

Stroll through history at this local holiday event. Watch decorated floats make their way down Appreciate the Homestead’s famous “Talking Main Street in Alachua at this free, annual event! Walls” and Victorian finery at this free event, There will even be a visit from Santa Claus that you complete with live music, apple cider and won’t want to miss. holiday decorations. DANSCOMPANY OF GAINESVILLE DECEMBER 11

DECEMBER Resident Company of Cameron Dancenter14

free Storytime at the Zoo

presents

10-10:30 a.m. Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo sfcollege.edu/zoo/index Have storytime with your children day d holi ges et an a at the zoo! Storytime takes place Atrbaadllition for19a9ll3 nce right outside of the zoo’s entrance, si and it is free to participate! Repeats every second Wednesday of the month. Meet the dancers

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

after each show in the Fackler Foyer!

Cinderella presented by Danscompany of Gainesville 1:30 and 7 p.m. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts Danscompanyofgainesville.org

Saturday Danscompany of Gainesville is presenting Dec 14,the2019 classic story of Cinderella, a holiday 1:30 & tradition 7:00 P.M. that started 37 years ago. General Phillips Center

admission is $15!

General Admission $15

Children under 10 free with new, unwrapped toy or book (while supplies last)

Ticket Information

352-371-0761 | 352-392-ARTS danscompanyofgainesville.org

KIDS WITH AUTISM CAN STRUGGLE TO MAKE SENSE OF THE WORLD. The aViation study at Sarkis Clinical Trials is testing an investigational drug that may improve the social communication and interaction skills of 5-to-17 year olds with ‘high-functioning’* autism.

AN OVERVIEW The aViation study (BP30153—Balovaptan) A phase II placebo-controlled study that will investigate the efficacy and safety of Balovaptan in children and adolescents.

* For this study, that means an IQ of at least 70.

352-333-0094 | www.SarkisClinicalTrials.com

GAINESVILLE SOCCER ALLIANCE PROUDLY PRESENTS

THE GSA ACADEMY The most popular & advanced recreational youth soccer league in the area!

AGES 5-12 REGISTRATION

OPENS JAN 1

SPRING 2020 SEASON BEGINS

IN FEBRUARY

FOR BOYS AND GIRLS BORN 2008-2014 SET CURRICULUM DESIGNED BY SENIOR STAFF ALL PRACTICES/GAMES ON WEEKNIGHTS ALL PRACTICES/GAMES @ JONESVILLE PARK PAID, EXPERIENCED COACHES CHANCE TO MAKE ADVANCED ACADEMY ALL-STAR PROGRAM

WANT MORE INFO?

gsaacademydirector@yahoo.com http://gainesvillesoccer.org

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community | calendar DECEMBER 16

DECEMBER 28

Cirque Musica Holiday Wishes

UF vs Long Beach State

7:30 p.m. Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O'Connell Center Cirquemusica.com

Noon Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O'Connell Center floridagators.com

Your whole family will enjoy this spectacular holiday show performed by Cirque Musica! Go to cirquemusica.com to purchase your tickets!

Come out to the O’Connell Center to cheer on the UF Basketball team! DECEMBER 30 - JANUARY 3

DECEMBER 21

free Traditional Holiday Night 6-9 p.m. Tioga Town Center tiogatowncenter.com Listen to Wayne Perry of Waynes World Entertainment at this free event! It’s fun for the whole family, and there will be food vendors.

Circus Camp for Kids 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Gainesvillecircus.com Give your kids something to do during Winter Break. Kiddos ages 5 to 15 will try juggling, flying trapeze, gymnastics and more. The full five-day camp is $240, or it is $50 per day for drop-ins. DECEMBER 31

DECEMBER 21-22

The Nutcracker presented by Dance Alive National Ballet Times Vary Phillips Center for the Performing Arts Performingarts.ufl.edu Enjoy this holiday classic with the whole family! The beautiful dancing, costumes and sets will leave you filled with the spirit of the season. Visit performingarts.ufl.edu for ticket prices.

free Downtown Countdown and New Year’s Eve Celebration 9 p.m. Downtown Gainesville cityofgainesville.org Come out to Bo Diddley Plaza to ring in the new year! Enjoy a free concert before the countdown begins, and get a free noisemaker to welcome 2020!

JANUARY 1

DECEMBER 22

New Year's Day

First day of Hanukkah UF vs Alabama Winter Break for Alachua County

Public Schools

6 p.m. floridagators.com Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O'Connell Center Come out to the O’Connell Center to cheer on the UF Basketball team! JANUARY 11

DECEMBER 25

Christmas Day Parent’s Night Out 6-9 p.m. Sun Country Sports - West Suncountrysports.com Let Sun Country babysit your kiddos! Your children will be all taken care of as they participate in crafts, games, gymnastics and so much more! Children in Kindergarten to 7th grade can participate, and you can find pricing information at suncountrysports.com. Repeats on the fourth Friday of every month.

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free Collectors Day 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Florida Museum of Natural History Floridamuseum.ufl.edu Experience a wide range of unique collections at the museum’s 41st Collector’s Day! Bring out the whole family to this free event for the community.

DECEMBER 27

JANUARY 18

UF vs Auburn 1:30 p.m. Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O'Connell Center floridagators.com Come out to the O’Connell Center to cheer on the UF Basketball team! JANUARY 18-FEBRUARY 2

Hoggetowne Medieval Faire January 18-19, 25-26: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. January 31: 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. February 1-2: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. 3100 NE 39th Ave. Gainesville, FL 32609 Hoggetownefaire.weebly.com Go see the 34th Annual Hoggetowne Medieval Faire! Enjoy dancing, singing, crafts, medieval clothes and more! This event will allow you to travel back in time with the whole family.

JANUARY 20 Martin Luther King Jr. Day JANUARY 25

UF vs Baylor JANUARY 4

DECEMBER 23-JANUARY 6

JANUARY 17 Alachua County Public Schools Student Day Off

JANUARY 14

UF vs Ole Miss 7 p.m. Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O'Connell Center floridagators.com Come out to the O’Connell Center to cheer on the UF Basketball team!

| DECEMBER/JANUARY 2020

8 p.m. Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O'Connell Center floridagators.com Come out to the O’Connell Center to cheer on the UF Basketball team! JANUARY 25

The Phoebe Louise Dooley Foundation Be Hope Gala 6-10 p.m. Legacy Park Multipurpose Center phoebelouisedooley.org Support the Phoebe Louise Dooley Foundation at the Be Hope Gala! You can donate to the foundations at phoebelouisedooley.org. JANUARY 26

13th Annual Souper Fun Sunday 1 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Saint Francis Catholic Academy Gymnasium sfcawolves.org/ This Gainesville tradition is a great event for the whole family! Come out and taste delicious soups from local restaurants all over Gainesville. You can buy your tickets at souperfunsunday.com.

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3rd Annual

DISABILITY RESOURCE EXPO Resources for Infants- Young Adults!

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 1, 2020 11:00 AM - 3:30 PM

FREE EVENT!

Location & Hosted by:

Trinity United Methodist Church 4000 NW 53rd Ave Gainesville, FL 32653

FAMILY FUN TIME ACTIVITIES: STORY TIME & MUSIC WITH AMANDA GARRIGUES · WALLY & THE WHATIFS PRINCESSES WITH ROYAL FOR A REASON · FIRE TRUCK · FREE HANDOUTS OBSTACLE COURSE WITH BALANCE 180 · BEAU THE THERAPY DOG FOOD TRUCKS: CILANTRO TACOS, PDQ & HARVEST THYME CAFE (food is not free) HOPE- HORSES HELPING PEOPLE, INC. · WORKSHOPS AVAILABLE!

plus

For more information, email DisabilityResourceExpo@gmail.com & check out the event on Facebook!

Thank you to our Sponsors!

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Thanks to Sunny Cares Foundation for selecting us to benefit from

Join us UNDER THE BIG TOP for our 2nd annual BE HOPE Gala

We are dedicated volunteers working to BE HOPE through financially supporting

We hope you all had a SCREAMING good time!

families seeking treatment in Gainesville at the University of Florida and funding research specific to pediatric brain tumors.

Please contact us via Facebook to get involved in the BIG event

Please follow us on Facebook or at phoebelouisedooley.org To find out more!

Is "make a difference" one of your 2020 resolutions? Follow these steps to reach your goal!

1. 2.

Learn about the need for local foster and adoptive parents. Visit PartnerFamily.org Call Samantha (our recruitment specialist) to get your questions answered at 352-213-7219.

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