Giggle Magazine-Tallahassee-August/September 2017

GREATER

TALLAHASSEE'S

PREMIER

PARENTING

MAGAZINE

p

AUG/SEPT 2017 • Volume 4 • Issue 1

lus

DECODING THE GAME KNOWN AS

gaga ball!

GET READY WITH OU R fun-filled GUIDE!

Don't fear TH E

experiment on pg. 32!

5 bake sale recipes that will turn a profit!

EASY DIY the MUST-HAVE KITCHEN backyard GADGET FOR EASY planter pots!

DINNERS gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

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www.gigglemagazinetallahassee.com

Once a stroke begins, there’s no flipping the hourglass. Millions of brain cells die by the minute, speech slurs, muscle control fades and eyesight blurs. How quickly and where you are treated matters. Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare is the only hospital in North Florida designated as a comprehensive stroke center.

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gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

YOUR HOSPITAL FOR STROKE IS

WHEN A STROKE HAPPENS,

TIME IS NOT ON YOUR SIDE.

Learn the signs or see if you are at risk — while you have time.

TMH.ORG/Stroke

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

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gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

For the Krizner family, it’s about

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Nicole Irving CREATIVE DIRECTOR Allison Raber ASSOCIATE DEPUTY EDITOR Colleen McTiernan

kids being kids.

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Emily Purvis, Claire Stortz Vice president of sales Shane Irving Account executives Alicia Jaurequi, Lynnsy Jones

Inspired Inspired toto Grow.

Grow.

production coordinator Alison Walker executive assistant Sayeh Farah

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Ashleigh Braun

Contributing Writers Nicole Irving, Selena Garrison, Trace Ferguson, Colleen McTiernan, Olivia Pitkethly, MA, LMHC, Chris Pregony, Danielle Spano, April Tisher Contributing Photographers Ashley Daniell Photography, Sincerely Gone Photography

PK3-8th Grade • 850-383-1007 • 3-Day and 5-Day Preschool Options Mailing address

headquarters address

5745 SW 75th Street 101 SW 140th Terrace Unit 286 Suite C Gainesville, FL 32608 Jonesville, FL 32669 Gainesville Office: p. 352.505.5821 Tallahassee Office: p. 850.254.9704 Fax: 877.857.5140

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | giggle@irvingpublications.com Giggle Magazine is a registered trademark property of Irving Publications, LLC. All rights reserved.

Giggle Magazine is published by Irving Publications, LLC. © 2017

Irving Publications, LLC reserves the right to edit and/or reject any advertising. Irving Publications, LLC is not responsible for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers. Nothing that appears in Giggle Magazine may be reproduced in any way, without written permission. Opinions expressed by Giggle Magazine writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the publisher’s opinion. Giggle Magazine will consider all never before published outside editorial submissions. Irving Publications, LLC reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates.

ADVERTISING

For more information on advertising with Giggle Magazine, please visit gigglemagazinetallahasse.com or call 850-254-9704.

publisher's letter

balancing act

D on' t f or g e t ! Y ou c a n s ig n u p f or a f r e e s u b s c r ip t io n a t g ig g le m a g a z in e t a ll a h a s s e e .c om !

When my kiddos were little, I raised my hand for everything I could to be as involved as possible at their school. From room mom (for three kids!) to chauffer for field trips, I always helped in any way I could. As my days have gotten busier with work, my hand hasn’t been able to go up as much. Actually, I am not sure it even went up at all this past year…

It is a common theme among today’s busy parents. We constantly have to make choices as to where and when our time can be spent. We end up sacrificing this for that, spreading ourselves thin, and feeling guilty about not being able to attend everything on the calendar. Add to that guilt the puppy dog eyes you get when you just can’t break away for that last-minute field trip.

MEET OUR

COVER CUTIE!

Whether you are a stay-at-home parent, corporate world traveler or business owner, there is nothing more important than being actively involved in your kids’ lives, which includes being present and engaged with their school. But how do busy parents balance it all?

Meet the teacher As soon as you know your who your kiddo’s teachers are, plan a one-on-one with them to learn about any scheduled field trips. You may be able to plan now to chaperone one or two!

Commit to what you can If you can’t commit to room parent duty, see if there is anything little you can do from home or volunteer just for the party helper role.

Look for variety Look for other ways to keep a pulse on what is going on, such as book fairs, dances, recitals and band concerts. These are all great ways to be stay involved in your child’s school life.

Ava

Engage and be present

How old are you?

Be a guest speaker

What is your favorite book?

If your time is super limited, talk to the teacher about being a guest speaker as another way to get involved in your child’s class.

Share a lunch See if your school will allow you to come and eat lunch with your kiddo. Schedule it on your calendar as you would any other important client lunch.

Always remember, everyone has different schedules and availably.

Do what you and your family can do. Don’t compare your world to anyone else’s.

Like us on Facebook

What is your favorite school subject? Math

Softball - I have been playing since I was 3!

Nicole Irving, Publisher nicole@irvingpublications.com

What is your favorite sweet treat? Cupcakes

Good luck! You all have an A+ in my book!

/GIGGLEMAGTALLAHASSEE

"Sisters" by R aina Telgemeier

What is your favorite afterschool activity?

Don’t compare

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Put the phone down and engage with your kiddos when volunteering. Chances are they will want to show you off and show off what they have done.

follow us on Twitter @GIGGLEMAGTALLY

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

Visit us on Pinterest /GIGGLEMAGAZINE

Follow us on Instagram @GIGGLEMAGTALLY

AUG ● SEPT 2017

happy family • happy community™

conception 2 college™ 41 expecting

Forget Me Not 42 infant

Hello, Baby!

23

43 TODDLER

Ready and Able

44 early years

Hands Are for Playing 45 kids

Rub A Dub

46 tweens

Middle School Success

48 teens

Promoting a Healthy Body Image

GREATER

TALLAHASSEE'S

PREMIER

PARENTING

MAGAZINE

GIGGLE MAGAZINE

| GAGA BALL

life

learn

16

8 lifesavers From the Bump to the Pump

34 family learning Start Off On The Right Foot

9 two cents Child Support Basics

35 Featured teacher April Wigsten

10 The parent life "But Mommy said I could!"

12 A day in the life Lauren Shoaf Pace

happy community 50 august/september Calendar

forks & spoons 14 in the kitchen Making Life Easier, One Meal at a Time 16 delish Let Them Eat Cupcakes!

health 24 get healthy Bug Off! 25 get MOVING Fit and Fun

happy home 28 make it DIY Planter Pails 29 fix it Salvaging Old Clothes 30 clean it Making Homework Feel Less Like Work

features 20

Back to School 2017-2018

26

Let's Play Gaga!

32

Science Fair Success!

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Issue 1 AUG/SEPT 2017 • Volume 4 •

SCIENCE FAIR | BACK TO SCHOOL

Family photo by Amber Brogdan Photography. Backpack photo courtesy of manufacturer. Bake sale image by Sincerely Gone Photography.

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lus

DECODING THE GAME KNOWN AS

GAGA BALL!

GET READY WITH OU R FUN-FILLED GUIDE!

DON'T FEAR TH E

Experiment on pg. 34!

5 BAKE SALE RECIPES THAT WILL TURN A PROFIT!

THE MUST-HAVE KITCHEN EASY DIY GADGET FOR EASY BACKYARD DINNERS 1 POTS! | AUGUST/SEP TEMBER 2017 PLANTER GIGGLEMAGAZINETA LLAHASSEE.COM www.gigglemagazineta llahassee.com

Find our cover stories!

Back to School 2017!

PAGE 20 Don't Fear the Science Fair!

PAGE 32 5 Bake Sale Recipes that Will Turn a Profit!

PAGE 16 The Must-Have Kitchen Gadget for Easy Dinners PAGE 14 Quick DIY Planter Pots PAGE 28 Decoding the Game Known as Gaga!

PAGE 26 PHOTO BY ASHLEY DANIELL PHOTOGRAPHY

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

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life | lifesavers

From the Bump to the Pump How Do Working Moms Do It?

BY OLIVIA K. PITKETHLY, MA, MHC

The number of breast-fed babies in Florida continues to rise.

In 2014, 48.7 percent of 6-month-old babies were breastfed, according to the CDC Breastfeeding Report Card.

That is up from 37.5 percent just seven years prior. And 62 percent of mothers with infants are in the workforce. So, how do moms balance breastfeeding with employment?

Fortunately, there is a law for that. It is called the Break Time for Nursing Mothers Law. Under the Fair Labor and Standards Act (FLSA), employers are required to provide reasonable break time for an employee to pump breast milk for one year after their child’s birth. Employers are also required to provide a private place, other than a bathroom, for the mother to pump. Working moms should speak directly to their supervisor about their needs, which may include a place to store breast milk.

If your supervisor is not willing to accommodate you, speak to those higher up, including your company’s human resources division. If you work for a company with fewer than 50 employees, however, you may not be covered by the Break Time for Nursing Mothers requirement of the FLSA.

Megan Atwater was a mother of a preschooler when she found out she was pregnant with twin girls. “Finding a comfortable, safe space was super important to me,” she said. “Feeling like someone was going to walk in or that I would be interrupted caused me anxiety. I started to bring this up with my supervisor before I even went on maternity leave because I know there is a shortage of spaces.”

To ensure safety and comfort, always lock the door before you begin pumping.

If the room or door has a window, close the curtain or cover it with paper. For added security, place a sign on the door requesting privacy while you pump. To make your pumping experience more pleasant, be sure to practice at home first so you can work out any kinks before you get to the office.

u What ypoack! In addition to a breast pump, working moms should s h o u ld remember to pack storage bags, bottles and/or a cooler. Consider wearing two-piece outfits with lightweight shirts that can easily be removed or pulled down to pump. “Have an extra shirt and a blanket just in case you may need it one day,” said Floyd. “You want to be prepared for any oopsies.”

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For additional resources, including area support groups, visit La Leche League’s website at LLLUSA.org.

Ericka Floyd is a first-time mom to a baby boy and can relate to the discomfort.

She finds support and empathy in her co-workers and encourages others to do the same. “Pumping at work can be very uncomfortable, especially when you’re a first-time mom,” she said. “You should open up to your co-workers about your new breastfeeding mom experiences. That way, when it’s time to pump, everyone will understand.”

Atwater said she pumps once every two hours to keep up her supply, even if she has just fed her girls. She said making pumping a priority has been the most challenging task of all. She uses a pumping bra that frees up her hands for typing or making phone calls while she pumps.

Although pumping at the office may seem intimidating at first, with a little athome preparation and support from your employer, it can easily become a part of your regular workday.

life | two cents

Child Support Basics

BY SELENA GARRISON

When you dreamed of what your family’s life would look like, child support issues were probably not part of that picture. However, many families find themselves in situations where state intervention in the management of child support is needed. If you find yourself in this situation, you may feel overwhelmed and not know where to start. This quick guide will help walk you through the child support process.

In Florida, the Child Support Program is managed by the Department of Revenue.

The purpose of the program is to help children get the financial support they need when it is not being provided by one parent or the other. According to the Department of Revenue, the program’s services include locating parents and assets; establishing paternity; establishing and modifying child support orders; monitoring and taking action to help parents comply with child support orders; receiving and distributing child support payments; and educating and assisting parents and the public. The

Department of Revenue is currently providing child support services to nearly 1 million children in the state of Florida, collecting over a billion dollars in child support each year.

You can apply for child support services if you are the parent or caregiver of a child who needs child support or if you are a parent who is owed unpaid child support.

You will automatically receive services if you have recently applied for or currently receive public assistance from the state.

You might also automatically receive services if you received public assistance or child support services in the past. To apply for services, you can visit your local child support office (757 SW Range St., Suite A, Madison, Florida) or call 1-800622-KIDS (5437) to have an application mailed to you.

Once you have signed up for services and established paternity (if needed), you will likely be asked for your current income information and federal income tax returns for the past three years, a completed financial affidavit, and a completed paternity declaration. After all of the necessary information is received, your case will be started within 21 days.

Once your case has been started, the Child Support Program will help you to establish a child support order, outlining the amount and type of support the non-custodial parent is required to provide for their child(ren).

In Florida, the amount of child support a parent is responsible for paying is outlined in Florida law and depends on the income and assets of both parents, the child and

Establishing Paternity If paternity for the child has not been established, genetic testing will be required. These tests can be scheduled by appointment at a local Child Support office and generally take less than 30 minutes.

A swab is used to collect skin cells from the inside cheek area of the mouth for the mother, the child and the man believed to be the father. The samples are sealed and sent to the genetic testing lab, along with a picture of each person. The lab sends the results to the Child Support office about two weeks after the DNA samples are taken and then they are mailed to the mother and alleged father.

parent’s health insurance, child care costs, and the standard needs of the child (housing, electricity, food, clothing, etc.). Child support obligation also takes into account the number of children requiring support.

While the process of establishing and receiving child support may seem overwhelming, your local Child Support Office will be there to help each step of the way. For information on methods for paying and receiving child support, you can visit FloridaRevenue.com and click on the “Child Support” tab at the top of the page.

TIMESHARING Before determining the amount of child support payments, you have to determine which parent will be the “majority parent” and which will be the “non-majority parent,” unless you plan for equal timesharing. Whoever has the child the majority of overnights is the majority parent. After this determination is made, the child support amount to be paid by the non-majority parent will be calculated based on income. In some cases, the majority parent may still have to pay the non-majority parent due to their respective incomes. * This does not constitute legal advice. If you have questions specific to your situation, contact your attorney.

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

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life | the parent life

“But Mommy said I could!”

Managing Parenting Differences

BY OLIVIA K. PITKETHLY, MA, LMHC

Take a look around your neighborhood, playground or child’s school, and you will see a variety of parenting styles. The “helicopter” parent who monitors every step the child makes, not only knows the names of her friends, but also her friends’ parents, and makes sure the child stays fed and hydrated every hour on the hour. There is also the “free-range” parent who allows the child to run free with minimal supervision, shoes optional, trusting the child will make the right decisions and take care of herself.

These are two extreme examples of parenting, and neither one is right or wrong. But what happens when the helicopter parent and the free-range parent are parenting the same child?

Again, these are extreme examples, but differences in parenting decisions occur in every family. Here are five questions to ask yourself the next time you and your parenting partner are at odds.

 Do you have an audience?

 Where is my partner coming from?

 Is it worth arguing over?

 Am I giving my partner enough credit?

If you find yourself disagreeing with a decision your partner has made, look around to see who is watching or listening. While subtle disagreements are OK for your kids to see, a full discussion of differences can be confusing for a child. Plus, it is almost impossible to have an adult conversation around your children without interruption. Instead, excuse yourselves to a separate room and discuss it privately.

You want the kids to go to bed at 8:30 p.m. Your partner allows them to stay up an hour past their bedtime to finish a movie. Sure, it is not ideal, but it rarely happens, so is it worth addressing?

Probably not. Keep your battles to ones that REALLY matter to both of you.

 Am I being a team player?

You and your partner are on the same parenting team. Work together instead of against each other. For instance, if you and your spouse are disagreeing about healthy eating choices for your kids, figure out a compromise, such as reserving sweet treats for after dinner or a weekly ice cream date as a family. Come together to work on the issues.

I mean this literally. Take a look at your partner’s childhood, how his parents raised him and how these experiences have impacted his own parenting style. Is he making the same decisions his parents would have made, or is he doing something different? Have an open and honest conversation with your partner about your own experiences, too. Deeper understanding of each other will increase your intimacy.

There are plenty of times when I cannot figure out what to do next and my husband takes charge. And let me tell you, he does great. Sometimes he can communicate better with my son than I can, and other times I am more successful. We give each other a high five after a good parenting day, recognizing the other’s hard work along with areas in which we might need a little more practice.

Remember, our kids do not come with a manual on how to be the perfect parent — we are all just winging this parenting thing. So, forgive yourselves, learn from mistakes and do not forget those high fives!

Looking for more resources?

Check out the book "Partnership Parenting: How Men and Women Parent Differently — Why It Helps Your Kids and Can Strengthen Your Marriage" by Kyle Pruett and Marsha Pruett. $11.52, Amazon.com.

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life | a day in the life

Amber Brogdan Photography

a day i n the life of :

Lauren Shoaf Pace Lauren Shoaf Pace is the marketing communications director for Visit Tallahassee. She and her husband, Ray, have two daughters, Shoafie (2.5) and Aly Raines (6 months).

5 a.m. Alarm goes off, I hit snooze.

5:09 a.m. Snooze time runs out,

alarm clock buzzes again (who came up with 9-minute increments?!?) and it is really time to rise and shine. I drag myself out of bed, pull on workout clothes and turn the coffee pot on for my hubby (I’m not a coffee drinker) as I dash out the door.

5:25 a.m. Work out with the Tallahassee FiA (Females in Action) ladies.

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6:15 a.m. After countless stadiums, burpees, pushups, etc., I am officially awake. I hurry home to jump in the shower before the little ones wake up.

6:30 a.m. The craziness that is our

morning begins! Aly Raines (baby) wakes up, and hubby gives her a bottle. Shoafie (toddler) wakes up, I put on cartoons and give her chocolate milk. Then I blow dry my hair, put on makeup and iron clothes.

7 a.m. Hubby fixes breakfast for everyone while I make lunches.

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

7:15 a.m. Get everyone dressed — this can take a while. Shoafie regularly has meltdowns because she wants to wear the same “Paw Patrol” shirt and dirty blue striped socks EVERY DAY. Mean mommy won’t let her, and it turns into an alligator wrestling match to get her dressed.

7:30 a.m. Time to load up! I have my first intellectual conversation of the day (with hubby) RE: who is taking who to day care. Once the car is loaded (kids included), I usually have to run back inside at least once to make sure everything is unplugged or because I forgot a lunch.

7:40 a.m. Finally pull out of the driveway. We are day care bound.

7:45–8ish a.m. Drop off one of the kids and head to work.

Now accepting new patients!

Call our office to schedule an appointment.

8:15 a.m. Arrive at work and bask in the glory of silence, at least for a few minutes (most of my co-workers don’t arrive until closer to 9 a.m.). I am finally able sit still and catch my breath for the first time all morning. I start the day by checking emails, voicemails and having a morning snack (or the other half of the breakfast I started at home).

9 a.m. Review my schedule for the day, then meetings and work begin! No day is the same — some days I am writing content for the website or an industry newsletter, others I am off-site at a photo shoot or hosting visiting media. Any and everything to spread the word about all the reasons to say #iHeartTally!

12 p.m. Noon usually rolls around and I eat at my desk.

• Newborns/Lactation Consultations • School/Sport Physicals • Extended Hours

3 p.m. I am best in the mornings. This is usually the time

when my brain starts slowing down and I resort to finding some type of snack to keep me going (on good days I made it out the door with numerous healthy options).

4:45 p.m. String of text with hubby to determine who is picking up whom.

5 p.m. Dash to the car as fast as I can to ensure I make it to child pickup by 5:30 p.m. SHARP (four out of five days a week I make it on time).

3606 Maclay Blvd, Ste 102, Tallahassee, FL 32312

northfloridapeds.com • (850) 877-1162 DANCE INSTRUCTION FOR BOYS AND GIRLS, AGES 2 - 19

5:30 p.m. Home sweet home. Enjoy a few minutes of

snuggles with my girly girls and then it is time to start dinner — no rest for the weary!

6:15 p.m. Bon appetite — dinner is served!

ARTISTRY

BALLET, JAZZ, CONTEMPORARY, HIP HOP, DANCE ACRO AND MORE

Register for our 2017-2018 Dance Season Today!

6:30 p.m. Bath time fun for the kiddos.

D A N C E|ALLIANCE

6:45–7ish p.m. My favorite time of the day! First I give Aly Raines her nighttime bottle and I rock her to sleep, then I read bedtime stories to Shoafie. Hubby and I alternate reading stories.

Join the Movement!

7:30 p.m. Both kids are snug as bugs in their beds. I clean up the kitchen, prep meal stuff for the next day and squeeze in a load of laundry.

8 p.m. Catch up on any unfinished work and/or extracurricular hot items.

9 p.m. Adult conversation + binge watch an episode of our “pick-of-the-week TV series” (“Bloodlines,” “Bosch,” “Longmire,” “The Americans” …).

10 p.m. Lights out!

Want to submit a friend (or yourself!) to be featured in A Day in the Life? Send your information to Colleen@irvingpublications.com!

Hot Yoga and Barre Classes for adults!

Caroline Carson Photography

6800 Thomasville Road, #104, Tallahassee, FL 32312 Conveniently located next to Hurricane’s in Bradfordville Commons

ArtistryDanceAlliance.com | (850) 688-5921

forks and spoons | in the kitchen

Making Life Easier, One Meal at a Time

BY COLLEEN MCTIERNAN

Say goodbye to your slow cooker and kick your stovetop pressure cooker to the curb. There is a new kitchen appliance in town, and it is a heavyweight! Electric pressure cookers do the work of several appliances all in one handy package, opening up precious space in your kitchen cabinets and cutting down on the time you will have to spend washing dishes once you are done cooking. Sounds almost too good to be true, right?

What can it do?

What exactly your electric pressure cooker will be capable of doing depends on the brand you use, but just about all of them can cook rice, steam foods, serve as a slow cooker, brown foods and replace a conventional pressure cooker. Others can make oatmeal, baby food, stew and soup. There are definitely a lot of settings to explore, so if you do try introducing an electric pressure cooker to your kitchen retinue, give yourself some time to read the manual and experiment.

Not only do these new pressure cookers replace common appliances, they also cut down the time it takes to cook certain foods. In fact, with certain cookers, rice only takes about nine minutes to cook! And if you have been wary of using a conventional pressure cooker, the electric versions definitely take some of the uncertainty out of the mix. You do not have to watch them as carefully, and they usually have built-in timers so you know when your food is done.

However, they are more costly and can take slightly longer to cook your food than conventional pressure cookers.

What can you cook in it?

From boiled eggs to beans to deliciously tender meats, there is a lot that an electric pressure cooker can bring to the table. Some slow cooker recipes require that you brown your meat prior to placing it in the slow cooker itself.

Now what you thought was a simple, one-pot meal has dirtied more dishes than you were planning. With an electric pressure cooker on hand, you can use the “brown” setting to start cooking your meat and then switch it to the slow cooker or pressure cooker setting. No other appliances required!

Pot Roast & Potatoes

courtesy of T-fal’s Electric Pressure Cooker Recipe Book • 2 pounds beef sirloin tips or chuck roast • 1 leek • ¼ cup olive oil • 1 onion, diced • 2 carrots, diced • 2 garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce • 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes • ½ cup white wine • 2 sprigs fresh thyme • 4 potatoes, peeled and cubed • Kosher salt • Freshly cracked black pepper 1. Lightly season the beef with salt and pepper.

2. Cut the main portion of dark green from the top of the leek and trim the bottom of the root and discard. Cut leek in half lengthwise, wash and thinly slice.

3. Select Brown program. Heat the oil and add the beef. Braise on all sides for about 4 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.

4. In the same oil, add the leek, onion, carrot and garlic. Cook on the Brown program for 3–4 minutes. Add the tomato, meat, wine and thyme.

Close the lid and lock it.

5. Select Pressure Cook program, High – Timer: 30 minutes.

6. Once it is done cooking, release the pressure.

7. Open the lid and add the potatoes. Close lid again.

8. Select Pressure Cook program, High – Timer: 10 minutes.

9. Once it is done cooking, release the pressure again. Open the lid. Serve.

Curious about trying out an electric pressure cooker for yourself? Consider one of the following!

T-fal Electric Pressure Cooker $99.99, Walmart

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Farberware 7-in-1 Programmable Pressure Cooker $59, Walmart and Walmart.com

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

Instant Pot 7-in-1 Pressure Cooker $99.99, Target and Target.com

FSU Childcare & Early Learning Programs High Quality Childcare and Early Learning Programs for Children For additional information please visit our website at

www.childcare.fsu.edu

License # C02LEO260 C02LEO519

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

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forks and spoons | delish

Let Them Eat Cupcakes!

Easy recipes and helpful tips to make your next bake sale a success

BY COLLEEN MCTIERNAN | PHOTOS BY SINCERELY GONE PHOTOGRAPHY

Consider using a 9-inch by 9-inch or 8-inch by 8-inch pan for thicker brownies to prevent the ice pop sticks from tearing holes in them.

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We used Funfetti mix for an additional hint of color in these festive cupcake cones.

Be sure to place all of your tasty treats in baggies to keep them protected from curious little hands.

You can also use Fruity Pebbles for a more authentic Rice Krispies Treat look.

Small wooden chipboards painted with chalkboard paint make great price tags. Display on miniature easels!

Turn the page for recipes! gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

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forks and spoons | delish

Cupcake Cones

M akes A B O U T 2 0 servi n gs • Cake mix (typically requires vegetable oil and eggs) • Flat-bottomed ice cream cones • Chocolate frosting • Vanilla frosting • Sprinkles Preheat oven to temperature indicated in package instructions and prepare cupcake mix. Place cones in muffin tin and fill each cone with about 3 tablespoons of mix.

Bake according to package directions.

Once cooled, decorate with frosting and sprinkles.

Froot Loop Treats

M akes A B O U T 12 servi n gs • 4 tablespoons butter • 8 ounces marshmallows (4 ½ cups) • 5 ½ cups Froot Loops Melt butter and marshmallows together in a large pot until smooth, about 5 minutes. Pour mixture into a bowl with Froot Loops and mix well.

Spread the mixture across a 14-inch by 16inch cookie sheet using a greased spatula. Let set until cooled, then cut into squares.

Brownie Pops

M akes A B O U T 12 servi n gs (D E P E N D I N G O N T H E S IZ E O F YO U R PA N) • Brownie mix (typically requires vegetable oil and eggs) • Cream cheese frosting

• Chocolate frosting • Sprinkles • Ice pop sticks Prepare brownies according to package directions. Once brownies have been baked and cooled, cut them into rectangles.

Insert a wooden popsicle stick into the bottom end of each brownie. Decorate with frosting and sprinkles.

Popcorn Bags M akes 1 5 servi n gs

• Three 3.2-ounce bags microwavable popcorn • 1 package semisweet chocolate chips • 1 package white Wilton Candy Melts • Disposable snack bowls • Clear bags Prepare popcorn according to package directions, then empty each of the bags onto a sheet of parchment paper, discarding any remaining kernels.

Place 1 cup of the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 20 second intervals until smooth. Melt the candy melts according to package directions.

Drizzle the popcorn with the melted chocolate and candy melts. Once hardened, scoop the popcorn into the snack bowls, place bowls into the clear bags and tie the bags closed with ribbon.

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gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

CandyDipped Nilla Wafers M akes 12 servi n gs

• 48 Nilla Wafers • 1 package white Wilton Candy Melts • 1 package red Wilton Candy Melts • 1 package teal Wilton Candy Melts Melt each of the candy melt colors separately according to package directions. Once the melts have become creamy and smooth, dip the Nilla Wafers into the mixture so that they are about halfway covered.

Let the wafers set on wax paper before packaging them in clear bags in sets of fours.

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gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

19

n d a 1 s 2 C 3 B s A

Back to School 2017 – 2018

Make sure both you and your kiddos are ready to head back to class this year with Giggle Magazine’s back-to-school guide. From must-have school gear for the kids to reminiscing about our own school trends, this fun guide will help prepare your whole family for another school year.

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gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

20-17 2018

Guide to the Hidden Costs of School

It is that time of year again, folks. School is in session and it is time to begin the long financial journey of getting these kiddos through another year of school. Beyond the clothes and books, there are many arenas that will be emptying that wallet. So, we wanted to ease you into it as slowly as we could and get you prepared! We have made a list of the common costs associated with the school year and the average amount of money you may spend for each one. Good luck!

Book fairs....................................................................... $10 and up Class birthday party supplies........................................... $10–$40 Class holiday party supplies........................................ $10–$25 Class rings ............................................................................ $200–$500 Club participation fees/dues/supplies ………………… $5–$75 College applications………………………………………………… $30 each and up Costumes for plays....................................................... $10–$50 Field trips (possibly three to four per year).................. $10 and up Grad Bash at Universal Studios Orlando.................... $75 per ticket Laptop……………………………………………………………………... $200–$1500 Letterman jacket………………………………………………… $200 and up Locker adornment……………………………………………………. $10 Mid-year school supply replenishment...................... $5–$40 Musical instrument rental (recorders/ukulele)........... $7–$30 Prom/Homecoming attire, dinner, transportation ....... $100–$1,000 PTA dues................................................................................ $5 and up Safety patrol expenses (belt/Washington D.C. trip)..... $5–$1,000 SAT exam .............................................................................. $46–$60 SAT II exams………………………………………………………. $26 and up School carnivals/car washes............................................. $5–$25 School fundraisers........................................................ $10 and up School lunches (to buy at school)…………………………… $3 each, on average School photo packages................................................ $20–$200 School spirit attire…………………………………………………… $20 and up School supplies………………………………………………….. $25–$200 School T-shirts...................................................................... $5 and up Science fair project materials………………………………. $10–$30 Senior class trip ................................................................... $500 and up Senior photo packages ................................................ $5–$500 Sporting events ………………………………………………………. $5 and up Sports equipment ………………………………………………. $50 and up Sports physical..................................................................... $25 Teacher appreciation/end-of-the-year gifts..………... $5–$30 Teacher holiday gifts........................................................... $15–$50 Valentine’s gifts for friends…………………………………. $10–$25 Yearbook................................................................................ $20–$100 gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

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GIGGLE STAFF SCHOOL PHOTOS

back when...

We've shared our school photos, now we want to see yours! Send your child's first day of school photo for the 2017 school year to Colleen@irvingpublications.com for a chance to be featured in Giggle Magazine!

Allison Raber Kindergarten

Nicole Irving

Kindergarten

Shane Irving

Lynnsy Jones

Alicia Jaurequi

Third Grade

Fourth Grade

Kindergarten

High School Junior

High School Senior

April Tisher

Alison Walker

Trace Ferguson

Sayeh Farah

Colleen McTiernan

Claire Stortz

Preschool

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Emily Purvis

Kindergarten

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

Second Grade

Second Grade

Kindergarten

2.

1.

3.

looking too cool

FOR SCHOOL Make sure your child is ready for the first day of school with these trendy backpacks and cute supplies!

11.

9.

6.

10.

7.

4.

5.

8.

B Snack in the Box, $9.99, Drinkinthebox.com. C Yoobi™ Pretty Paper Clips, 6 Pack in Gold, $2.49, Target and Target.com. D Cat & Jack™ 9.5” Lunch Kit in Crayons, $12.99, Target and Target.com. E DC Comics Batman Water Bottle with Loop, $9.99, Zak.com.

F Trans™ by JanSport Super Cool Backpack in Tropic Gold Multi, $44.99, Target and Target.com. G Dabbawalla Ditty Bag, $10, Dabbawallabags.com. H Dabbawalla Shark Backpack, $42, Dabbawallabags.com. I Yoobi™ Ice Cream Erasers, 3 pack, $2.99, Target and Target.com. J Ziplt Monster Binder Pencil Case, $6.99, Target and Target.com. K Fiskars Sports Kids’ Scissors Blunt or Pointed Tip, $3.99 each, Target and Target.com. L YoobiTM Donut Tape Dispenser with Frosting Stickers, $5.99, Target and Target.com. gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

23

health | get healthy

Bug Off! Finding the right insect repellent for your family

feel or unpleasant odor. The only issue with picaridin is that, unlike DEET, it is relatively new so long-term health risks have not been studied.

BY APRIL TISHER

IR3535 (Insect Repellent 3535) is also relatively new to the U.S., having been developed by Merck in the ‘80s and registered with the EPA in the U.S. in 1999. It is a synthesized plant oil, which allows it to be considered a natural option.

In Florida, we don’t ever have a season that is truly bug free, however, we do have times that are buggier than others. Mosquitoes and ticks are the most popular annoyances, but we are also home to flies, ants, bees and chiggers to name a few. Besides being a nuisance, they can also carry diseases, so it is important to do your best to protect yourself and your children from getting bitten.

You have probably heard the usual advice: avoid going outdoors right before sunrise and at sunset, wear long pants and long sleeves, and use bug spray. There is an array of choices when it comes to buying insect repellent though, so what should you consider when purchasing one? The Environmental Protection Agency recommends that you first consider what exactly you need protection from. For those biting bugs like mosquitos and ticks, you need something with DEET or a similar compound.

DEET has been the most commonly recognized insect repellent since it was developed by the U.S. Army in 1946. It is highly effective at preventing insect bites for a long duration of time (up to eight to 10 hours in some concentrations), but it has an unpleasant smell and is greasy to the touch. When used as directed, it is deemed safe for long-term use by the EPA. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children older than 2 months use a repellent with 10 to 30 percent DEET.

Some sources suggest natural or chemical-free options, such as eucalyptus, lemongrass, tea tree, lemon essential oils or the more well-known citronella. Since these natural options are not registered by the EPA, they are not evaluated for effectiveness in the same way as other products. A Consumer Reports study found that most were not as effective in repelling insects.

Pediatrician Dr. Phalyka Oum stressed that no matter what type of bug spray you are using, good coverage is the key. Only spray the areas not covered with clothing and be sure to wash it off when coming indoors for the day. Of course, as with any topical, some people may experience mild skin reactions after using any form of insect repellent.

Don’t settle for welts and itching being a part of spending time outdoors. There are safe and effective ways to protect against insect bites and the potential diseases they can carry!

Picaridin, also known as icaridin or by the commercial name Bayrepel, was originally developed by Bayer in the ‘80s, but has only been approved for use in the U.S. since 2005. It is as effective in repelling mosquitoes as DEET without the greasy

Bugging out?

If you are worried about sensitive skin and do not want to use traditional repellents, there are other options. Thermacell is a pocket-sized unit that essentially warms up pads soaked in a repellent that will provide protection from mosquitoes and flies for several hours. OFF also makes clip-on fans that can be used to repel mosquitoes for up to 12 hours.

Try one of these insect repellents!

OFF!® FamilyCare Insect Repellent II (Clean Feel)

$14, Avon.com

This formula uses picaridin to create a repellent that is virtually odorless and nongreasy.

$5.99, Target

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

Cutter® Backwoods Insect Repellent (Aerosol) $4.19, Walmart and Walmart.com

With 25 percent DEET, this repellent protects for up to 10 hours.

Photos courtesy of manufacturer.

Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus IR3535® Gentle Breeze™ SPF 30 Lotion This combination sunscreen and insect repellent uses IR3535 and is recommended

by Dr. Oum.

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Non-topical Options

health | get moving

Fit and Fun How to get the Whole Family More Active

BY CHRISTOPHER PREGONY, BS, CSCS

Doing activities as a family is a great way to bring everyone closer while getting the exercise we all desperately need. What you can do for activities largely depends on the age of your kids. As kids get older, the spectrum of activities they can participate in expands immensely. Tired of the same old routine? Here are some fun ideas to get everyone active together that are perfect for warm summer weekends!

Water balloon fight

Remember how fun it was to run around and peg your siblings with water balloons?

Water balloon fights are a great way to get the heart pumping with the family while making memories that will last a lifetime.

Get a few big buckets or coolers, a whole bunch of balloons and let the fun begin!

Waterslide kickball

This is the ultimate in family or neighborhood fun. It does require some set up and supplies, but is well worth it. The four bases are kiddie pools and the base lines are tarps that connect the bases. You will need stakes to hold the tarps down. It requires dish soap to make it extra slippery and, of course, a kickball! All the rules of kickball apply, but you have to jump in the kiddie pool to be considered safe. It is a lot of fun and quite the workout — talk about two birds with one stone!

Fruit picking

There are several farms in the area that allow for picking. Blueberries, strawberries and apples are just a few of the options. It teaches kids where their food comes from and gives the food more value just from the effort it takes to pick. Plus, you will all get a good walk in as you search for the perfect fruits and berries.

Geocaching

Think of this as a high-tech treasure hunt.

Use a GPS receiver and a set of clues or coordinates to find a cache of hidden goodies that other geocachers have left behind. If you take your find home, be sure to bring something else with you to leave behind for future geocachers. This is a great way to put a fun spin on traditional hiking.

Photography

For those of you who have kids that are a little bit older, snapping pictures of nature can be a great activity for kids. It allows them to become more aware of their surroundings and gives them a chance to express their artistic side, all while giving them an excuse to get exploring outdoors. Take your kiddos on a hike to find that perfect photo of the springs, or go for an early morning walk to get pictures of the sunrise. You can get a few disposable cameras or some cheaper digital ones so everyone can participate.

Taking the time to be active as a family should be high on your list of priorities.

These types of activities are sure to build stronger family bonds while helping to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

25

Let's play

GAGA ...and we don't mean music!

BY APRIL TISHER | PHOTOS BY ASHLEY DANIELL PHOTOGRAPHY SPECIAL THANKS TO CAMP FLASTACOWO AND The Florida State University Reservation

A few years ago, my children and their schoolmates suddenly went gaga for something called gaga ball. At the time, I had no idea what gaga ball was, but this game’s popularity has only grown!

E

ric Rodriguez, the coordinator of Camp Flastacowo at the FSU Reservation, said that the camp added a gaga ball pit about four years ago after hearing about it through the American Camp Association. Since the installation, the game has proven incredibly popular with their campers. “In the morning before we start our organized time you have tons of campers in here playing, and then in the afternoon when we’re waiting for late pickups they’re always playing,” said Rodriguez. “It’s definitely one of our favorite field games.” Aside from the camp, you can also play gaga ball at Premier Health & Fitness and various other summer camps and extended day programs around town.

Gaga translated literally is Hebrew for “touch, touch.” The game is believed to

26

have originated in Israel in the ‘70s and was brought to the U.S. by Israeli summer camp instructors. At first glance the game looks a little like dodgeball, though not as rough.

It is played in an octagonal or hexagonal area called the gaga pit. There is no hitting above the waist and the ball is a softer, smaller version of your standard dodgeball.

It is a fast-paced game, and the players get a pretty good workout. It can be played as an individual or team game by players of any skill level or age. It involves running, jumping and striking a single ball with the hands. The winner is the last man standing after all other participants have gotten “out,” which, as in dodgeball, occurs when you are hit by the ball. It does typically need a moderator or referee because the games can get pretty competitive!

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

What You'll Need

From Left to right: Brady, trevor, wyatt, gavin, bryan

GAGA PIT

GAGA BALL

5+ PLAYERS

Ask The Experts "Why do you like gaga ball?"

"Just because it's fun. It really helps kinda with teamwork, and allying up with people. It also helps your legs run."

-Bryan

THE Official rules of gaga ball As taken from Gagaballpit.com As taken from Gagaballpit.com

1 2

Designate a referee (non-player). The referee is the sole authority during play and is responsible for ensuring fair play and settling disputes.

3 4 5

One player tosses the ball up in the air. Players yell "Ga" on the first bounce and "Ga" again on the second bounce, and the ball is then in play.

6 7 8

"I like when I win."

-Gavin

The referee begins play only after all players are standing in the gaga court and have indicated that they are ready to start the game. Many require the players to be touching the gaga pit prior to starting the game.

"It's fun and you get to play with your friends."

-Trevor

Players hit the ball with their hands only and may not carry or throw the ball — it must be punched or hit with a hand or fist.

Only one successive hit is allowed by each player.

Any player who is touched by the ball below the knees (or waist), either directly or by a rebound off the wall, is “out” and must exit the gaga pit. If the ball contacts the player above the waist, the player is still in.

If the ball goes out of the gaga pit, the last player to touch the ball is eliminated.

"I like hitting people with [the ball] or dodging."

-Brady

If a player catches the ball before it bounces, the player who had the last contact with the ball is eliminated.

Once the player hits the ball, he or she must wait until the ball touches someone else before hitting it again (no double touches). Only one successive hit is allowed by each player, until there are only two players left, then up to three successive touches are allowed by a player.

HOW TO WIN:

"It was easy to learn but I liked learning how to play with my brother."

-Wyatt

the winner is the last man standing after all other participants have gotten “out” gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

27

happy home | make it

B e s u re m a k to m in im e a d ra in a u m o f 5 g e h o le s.

Planter Pails by allison raber

Calling all green-thumbed gardeners! Have you been looking for a fun way to brighten up your entryway? Well look no further! These quick do-ityourself hanging planters are the perfect way to complete your garden.

Tips & Tricks

Remember to choose plants that grow out instead of up. Tall plants will have difficulty thriving in this type of planter.

Supplies • 2 metal pails, about 8 inches in diameter • 2 coco liners, sized to fit in your pail • Mini chain, cut into three 8-inch lengths

Choose plants with a strong scent such as lemon thyme or citronella to help serve as a natural mosquito repellent.

• 8 mini S-hooks

Think about where you'd like to place your planters before purchasing any flowers. Select plants that will flourish in the available sunlight or shade.

• Potting soil

• Pliers • Ice pick • Flowers or plants of your choice • 2 shepherd’s hooks • Safety goggles

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gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

Directions Step 1 Using the icepick, punch five holes in the bottom of each metal pail. These will allow any excess water to drain out, helping to prevent waterlogged plants. At equal intervals, use the ice pick to punch three holes around the top of the pail, just under the lip.

Step 2 Place the coco liner in the bottom of the pail and fill the pail about halfway with potting soil. Repot your flower or plant in the pail. Add more soil to the pail until it is just about full.

Step 3 Loop an S-hook through the hole in the top of the pail and attach a chain.

Clamp to secure with the pliers. Repeat for the other two holes. Use a single S-hook to connect the ends of all three chains together and clamp to secure. The pail will hang from this hook.

Step 4 Place the shepherds hook in your chosen location and hang your planter pail. Water and watch your hanging garden flourish!

happy home | fix it

Salvaging Old Clothes

BY TRACE FERGUSON

We all have old clothes that we don’t wear as much as we used to. Sometimes the clothes are visibly worn down or sometimes they are just no longer in style. Either way, they usually end up collecting dust in the back of our closets. I like to think of this part of the closet as the clothing graveyard; once my clothes go there, they will never see the light of day again. So, what do you do with these longlost clothes? There are two options: fix them or toss them.

Consolidate your neglected clothes in “keep” and “get rid of ” piles. For the clothes that you are keeping, analyze their condition. It is common for worn clothes to have pilling, missing buttons or discoloration. Luckily, most of these problems can be fixed!

PILLED CLOTHING Pilled clothing can be annoying because you cannot lint-roll or pick off the fluff balls without possibly pulling threads. To fix this, take a disposable shaving razor and lay your garment down on a flat surface. Make sure to stretch the pilled area tight with one hand while using the razor to shave off the fluff with the other. Go over all the pilled areas on the clothing until it has no more visible balls of fluff !

MISSING BUTTONS For clothing with missing buttons, you will need some thread that matches the current stitching color on the clothing item.

Hopefully you kept the fallen button, but if not, your local fabric store is sure to have a variety of similar buttons (and hopefully

a 40 percent off coupon as well). With a threaded needle, weave the thread through the button hole(s) in a secure manner and then stitch the button back on its original spot on the garment.

FADED DYE With enough washes, dye in clothing will fade over time. Thankfully, most black clothing is completely salvageable! You can purchase black powder dye from your local craft store to revive your washed-out clothes.

If your garment is made from cotton, linen, silk, rayon or nylon, then it will receive dye well. Unfortunately, 100 percent polyester or spandex clothing will not receive dye well, so you should avoid dying those items. To start the dyeing process, fill a bucket with very hot water. In a separate container, mix more hot water with the appropriate amount of black dye powder according to the package instructions. Mix the powder and water with a utensil that you do not mind staining. Pour the dye in the hot water-filled bucket and then submerge your garment in the mixture for up to an hour. Rinse the garment in warm water and then hang dry.

DISCOLORATION Deodorant stains are also a culprit of discoloration in light and dark clothing alike. There are several remedies that can banish these stains from your clothes. Mix four tablespoons of baking soda and ¼ cup of warm water together until it becomes a paste. Then, rub a good amount of the paste on the stained area and make sure that it absorbs into the fabric. Let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour and then wash like normal. If the stain is still visible after washing, try grinding up three Aspirin pills and mixing them with ½ cup of warm water. Submerge the stained item in the mix and let it sit for two to three hours.

After, wash the garment like normal. Aspirin contains salicylic acid, which is useful for removing stains.

We can tend to give up on clothes that have imperfections or show signs of wear.

Hopefully, these tips will inspire you to revive your old clothes and make them (almost) new again. This will also help extend the life of your wardrobe and save you money on buying new clothes in the future!

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

29

happy home | clean it

Making Homework Feel Less Like Work

BY OLIVIA K. PITKETHLY, MA, LMHC | PHOTO COURTESY OF OLIVIA K. PITHKETHLY, MA, LMHC

Welcome back to school! New teachers, new friends, new activities!

Why not create a new space for your kiddo to continue to enhance his learning experience?

According to “Homework In America,” a 2014 Brown Center Report on American Education, homework for students in grades 3 through twelve takes an average of one hour per night and rarely exceeds two hours per night. I doubt they factored in the time it takes to actually get your child to sit down and complete his homework! Nevertheless, you can help him make his space a little more inviting with these ideas.

THE RIGHT TIME When does your child prefer to do his homework? (I can hear my own children shout “Never!” as I write this.)

Right after school? Before dinner?

After a shower? Recognize the time that your child feels most refreshed and clear-headed and have him tackle his assignments then. Some children may even benefit from breaking up their homework. They can tackle one subject at a time, taking breaks in between to eat dinner, shower, do extracurricular activities, etc.

No-distraction zone Your child should have a designated space free of distractions to complete his homework. The kind of space a child needs may depend on what grade level he is in. Elementary schoolers may need to be in a more central location so parents can easily offer assistance while attending to their own responsibilities, while students in middle or high school may do better with a more secluded space. Make sure the TV, phone and other electronics are out of sight, aside from a computer if needed.

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Giving your child a space of his own can help contribute to homework success!

Exercise in creativity If you want the space to be more inviting, enlist your child’s help. Help him to find his favorite place in the house, whether it is the kitchen table, his room or a sunny spot on the patio. Decorate the area with a splash of his favorite color. If he has chosen a common area in the house, create a mobile homework station for him. Transform a plain plastic filing cabinet on wheels by adding colorful contact paper on the top and funky labels for each drawer. You can also convert a few IKEA spice racks into decorative bookshelves by painting them and arranging them on the wall.

Finding the right supplies Have an ample supply of pens, pencils, erasers, highlighters, markers and paper in the designated homework area. For older children, keep a dictionary and thesaurus handy, especially if the space is free of nonessential electronics. If your child needs to use a tablet or computer, be sure to keep the chargers in an easily accessible space. Pin

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

up a calendar to help your child remember important due dates or test days. Or, if your child would benefit from an even larger visual cue, consider creating your own corkboard calendar. Using ribbon, you can section the board off into a grid pattern with seven rows. Label each row with its corresponding weekday and pin up colorful reminders as needed.

Repurpose old furniture When my son was entering elementary school, I inherited my late grandfather’s old writing desk and chair. I painted the desk in one of his favorite colors, lined the drawers with bright contact paper, changed out the hardware to something more modern and added a seat cushion for support. This way, he had his very own homework spot designed just for him. If you prefer not to disturb any of your current furniture, take a trip to a thrift store or a yard sale and give an old piece an update and a new home.

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Elizabeth@EHRealtyGroup.com EHRealtyGroup.com gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

31

Science Fair Success!

Making the Science Fair More Fun for You and Your Kiddo

BY COLLEEN MCTIERNAN | PHOTOS BY ASHLEY DANIELL PHOTOGRAPHY and Sincerely Gone Photography

Kids are naturally curious and the science fair is a great time to explore topics they would like to learn more about!

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gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

SCIENCE Science fair. Just the thought of these projects can send shivers down some parents’ spines. Although they might seem intimidating for kids and parents alike, the science fair is actually a great time for your kiddo to explore what interests her.

How does the science fair benefit your kiddos?

Aside from teaching the scientific method, science fair projects help your child to become an inquisitive learner and can inspire in her a pattern of asking questions about the world. But, it only really benefits your child if you make her take the lead on her project. Susan Borland, education manager of the Tallahassee Challenger Learning Center, said that parents should facilitate the process, not do the project. “Be there to support, to encourage, to answer questions, to ask questions, to guide the child’s thought process as they are going through this to make them think a little more about what it is they’re doing,” she said.

Of course, the rush for both parent and child really comes in when the project is left to the last minute, so help alleviate some of this unnecessary science fair stress by setting some time aside each day for your child to work on her project. Don’t get too wrapped up in making sure that the project board looks attractive. Ensuring that your child truly understands what her project is about is key. “Style is nice, but the important thing about the science project is the substance,” said Borland.

How can you help your child come up with a science fair project idea that she is really interested in?

Talk to your child about what she is interested in to help her find a topic that sparks her interest. Kids are naturally curious, so there is bound to be some field that she’d like to learn more about. Then, Borland recommends that you go over the scientific process with your child, and turn that topic she expressed interest in into a thought-provoking question. “Then you both have buy-in and you’ll have that enthusiasm,” said Borland. “Then it’s not a drudgery science project, it’s a mom, dad, aunt, uncle, grandma, grandpa and child exploration of something that they already want to know more about.” For instance, if she loves plants, consider testing what type of plant grows fastest or how water type (tap, purified) affects growth. If she likes to skateboard, consider doing a project focusing on force and motion, or if she likes cooking, try designing a project centered around temperatures.

If your child is still struggling to come up with a topic, consider taking her to a museum to see if an exhibit sparks her interest. You may also try watching a scientific documentary or series, like “NOVA,” or taking a trip over to the Challenger Learning Center Downtown Digital Dome Theatre and Planetarium if space excites her.

While science fair projects can seem overwhelming, often even more so for parents than children, remember that it is a time to really let your kids explore, and your attitude about the project will directly affect your child’s.

“If the parent acts like this is problems and drudgery, the child is going to think it’s problems and drudgery,” said Borland. “Even if they’re not at all interested in what the child is doing … model the behavior of enthusiasm you want out of your child.”

Science

Perfect for second to fifth graders!

Experiment

Try piquing your elementary schooler's interest in science before the science fair comes around with this fun project you can do together at home!

DOES LIGHT COLOR AFFECT HOW PLANTS GROW? What you'll need: • Four lamps with full spectrum light bulbs • Clear, blue, green and red cellophane • 4 cardboard boxes • Tape • Box cutter • 4 seedlings • Ruler What to do next: Cut a 4-inch hole in the center of one side of each cardboard box using the box cutter.

Cut out a slightly larger circle from each of the cellophane colors.

Tape the cellophane over the hole.

Place one plant in each of the four boxes and then place each box under a lamp. Leave the lamps on during the day, but be sure to turn them off when you leave the house or go to sleep!

Measure the plant’s growth each day (be sure to water them as directed) for seven days. On the seventh day, check to see if any one plant grew more or less than the others.

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

33

learn | family learning

Start Off On The Right Foot Don't Let Behavior Disrupt The School Year

BY DANIELLE SPANO

It is back to school time, and for parents of children with a history of behavioral or academic issues, this could be a cause for concern. The Florida Department of Education follows a Multi-Tiered System of Supports that helps to identify students in need of academic or behavioral support. Teachers are to regularly assess students to determine early if a student is falling behind or is having social or behavioral difficulties. This positive behavior support provides instruction and intervention based on each student’s need. As a parent, you may know before the school year even begins that your child needs some assistance to make this year a success, and there are steps you can take to help.

Do not wait for the first day of school to begin your school-year routines

A week or two before school starts, make bedtimes and wake up times the same as during the school year to get your child’s internal clock regulated with the school schedule. A 2012 study published by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that sleeping even a half hour more than usual results in a significant improvement in a child’s ability to control their emotions and behavior in school.

Set up a conference with the teacher

If necessary, have a meeting with the teacher alone first to discuss anything sensitive and then have a follow up with your child, as his success depends very heavily on his participation in the solution.

“What is really important is to help the teacher and the child learn that we are all on the same team,” Kathryn Kvols, author of “Redirecting Children’s Behavior” and president of the International Network for Children and Families, said. Talk about what he can expect from the class and the teacher and what will be expected of him. Use this opportunity to ask probing questions of your child and to help him identify his needs in the learning environment. He

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should express his personal needs, such as sitting closer to the front if he typically gets distracted when sitting toward the back.

He will be much more forthcoming when given the opportunity to be included in his educational planning. Be sure to discuss his learning style. For example, a kinesthetic learner may need to move around. In this case, the teacher can have him pass things out or find ways to accommodate him without disrupting the class. If unknown, talk to the teacher about different learning styles and see which resonates with your child. Understanding how you learn is the first step to better absorbing information.

For instance, linguistic and visual learners, who absorb the information better when seeing the words in writing, may benefit from getting notes from the teacher after a lecture if they do not do well with aural methods. Kvols said that teachers are becoming more accommodating and understand that all students do not learn alike.

Once class is in session, maintain consistency and stay involved

If your peppy pupil is full of energy, have him run around the block or in the backyard to burn off some excess energy before school in the morning. “Some children have an extraordinary need for power, so they end

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

up getting into power struggles a lot at home and school,” said Kvols, who holds degrees in psychology, social work and education. “If we find appropriate ways for that child to feel powerful, then that need dissipates.” In this instance, you could satisfy your child’s need for power at home by letting him lead discussions and asking his opinion and advice about family decisions. At school, the teacher can let him pass out the pencils or help clean up the room to let him feel empowered.

Everyone has a role in your child’s success this school year: the teacher, the student, and you as a parent. It can be a successful year if everyone works together to achieve it!

What is really important is to help the teacher and the child learn that we are all on the same team

n ew e! featur

learn | featured teacher

April Wigsten • SCHOOL: CREATIVE CHILD LEARNING CENTER • GRADE: PRESCHOOL • TEACHING: 4 years Why were you inspired to teach?

Photos courtesy ofApril Wigsten.

Wanting to make a positive impact on a child’s life is what made me want to teach. You never know what a child is going through each day, so I want to be there not only to teach them, but love them and be a good role model.

What is your favorite activity to do with your students?

Writing! I LOVE watching children transition from tracing letters to writing their own name. It is such a great part of my day when my students run up to me and yell, “Ms. April, look I can spell all of my words!” It brings me such joy!

What advice would you give to parents of children starting in your class?

outside one of my student’s yelled, “Ms. April, run there’s a crothuh-croach on the wall!!” She was trying to pronounce cockroach, aka palmetto bug. I laughed so hard at how she told me about the bug! It might have been the cutest/funniest word ever!

Be yourself! At the end of the day I want you to feel like family.

What is your favorite book?

What is your favorite part of the school day?

I love reading to my class, and one of my favorite books is “The Pigeon Needs a Bath” by Mo Willems. By far the best book I have read, and the kids love it, especially if you read it with sarcasm!

Circle time, 100 percent! I love it when we go over topics for the week. By Friday I see so many hands go up ready to answer review questions and the kids are so excited over what we have learned. I love such attentive and curious minds.

How do you wind down from a long day of teaching?

Just about every Tuesday and Thursday my family and I head to La Fiesta for taco night! I am obsessed with sitting outside under the lemon tree and talking about our day. The vibe is so relaxing to me, and I look forward to it every week.

What do you like to do outside of the classroom?

I just picked up a hobby — paddle boarding! It is so much fun and a great workout!

What has been your funniest interaction with a student?

r who goes Do you know a teache his students? r fo above and beyond o is truly devoted An administrator wh a better place? to making her schoolnts to know! Visit Giggle Magazine wa hassee.com to Gigglemagazinetalla educator for a submit your favoriter to be featured in chance for him or heg issues. one of our upcomin

As we all know, if you live in Florida all types of bugs like to come out and explore their surroundings. One day as I was walking gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

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gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

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Let us help you find your new normal. Contact us today.

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conception2college™

l expecting Forget Me Not

l infant | 0-1 Hello, Baby!

l toddler | 2-3 Ready and Able

Hands Are for Playing

l kids | 6-9 Rub A Dub

l tweens | 10-13 Middle School Success

l Teens | 14-18 Promoting a Healthy Body Image

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gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

Photo by Amber Brogdon Photography

l early years | 4-5

c2c | expecting {PREGNANCY}

Forget Me Not

How pregnancy affects more than just your figure!

BY NICOLE IRVING

It has been nine years since I gave birth to my last son, but sometimes I still feel as though I still have “pregnancy brain.” Also called “baby brain,” “mommy brain,” or “momnesia,” pregnancy brain refers to the common issue among expecting and new mothers of having a difficult time recalling of familiar things and feeling very scatterbrained and foggy. Of course, this is nothing to be alarmed about, but in the meantime, you still need to remember important things, like where you parked your car at the grocery store!

According to Scientific American, about 80 percent of new mothers report issues with their memory.

Although more research is still needed to determine what the exact cause of this memory loss is, it is believed that the radical hormonal and biological changes that women undergo during pregnancy are the cause of the common issue.

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Some tips for remembering

percent

 Put things back in the same spot you got them from.

of new mothers report issues with their memory

 Train yourself to put all appointments in your

phone calendar and set alarms for everything!

 If you can, buy prescriptions three months in

In a 2016 study published in Nature Neuroscience, it was concluded that “pregnancy renders substantial changes in brain structure, primarily reductions in gray matter volume in regions subserving social cognition.” On top of that, reductions were also noted in the prefrontal and temporal cortex, which, among other things, play a role in memory. In a follow-up with those women who participated in the study, it was determined that the reductions in gray matter lasted for at least two years after birth. However, a reduction in size does not necessarily indicate a reduction in function, so whether or not this shrinkage is the direct cause of the mental fog associated with pregnancy brain is still unclear.

Although it can set in at any time, pregnancy brain often shows itself during the last trimester when sleep deprivation is at its highest.

Combine that with worrying about the unknown and a long list of to-dos, it is no wonder that it sometimes if feels as if you are losing your mind! Just remember, you are not going crazy — you are creating a new life form, one that takes all your energy to create.

advance so you do not forget to refill them.

 Set your bills on auto-draft so you do not

accidentally skip a month!

 Buy as many birthday cards and gifts ahead of

time, so you will not forget or be late.

 Share your family calendar on your phone so

your significant other can follow along and make sure you do not miss anything important.

 Simplify your world by not over committing

yourself to anything.

 Do not stress the little things.

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

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c2c | infant { 0 -1 year }

Hello, Baby!

What to expect the first 48 hours after delivery

BY COLLEEN MCTIERNAN

After 40 weeks of waiting, you have finally gone into labor.

You know that when you are done pushing or when your C-section is over, the end result will be that beautiful baby boy or girl you have been so anxious to meet. But what happens within the first 48 hours after your baby is born?

With this helpful guide, you will know exactly what to expect after you are done expecting!

For: Mommy

Once your baby arrives, you may think that you are finally done with pushing, but don’t forget about that nutrient-rich placenta that sustained your baby for those nine months! It can actually take 30 minutes to an hour after the birth of your baby to deliver the placenta, said Dr. Kathleen Green, an OB-GYN. Once the placenta has been delivered, the nurses will administer a fundal massage (basically a very vigorous belly rub) every 30 minutes for three to four hours after delivery to ensure that bleeding is at a minimum. “That can be a little bit painful, but that’s just to make sure that that uterus clamps down,” said Dr. Green.

If the birth of your child has resulted in any lacerations, that will be taken care of immediately after delivery. You may also be anemic after delivery, so your provider may give you medication to build your iron stores back up. Do not be too concerned if you are experiencing bleeding. Dr. Green said that after delivery, mothers can expect bleeding akin to the worst menses of their life and some vaginal soreness.

If you have had a C-section, you will be moved to a postoperative room to monitor bleeding, both vaginal and from your incision site. So long as there are no complications, you will be moved to a postpartum recovery room after just a few hours. You will not be able to walk around as soon as with natural birth, but do so as soon as possible to prevent muscle cramping.

Depending on whether this is your first child or not, you can expect to stay in the hospital from 24–48 hours, providing there are no complications. If you have had a C-section, expect to stay in the hospital for closer to 48–72 hours.

For: Baby

After delivery, your baby’s activity, pulse, grimace, appearance and respiration will be assessed to come up with what is called an Apgar score. This will determine whether or not your baby requires medical assistance. If your baby does not require any medical intervention, then she will likely be placed right on your chest for skin-to-skin contact.

After delivery, you will also begin breastfeeding (if you have chosen to do so), which can definitely be painful to begin with. “I think there is a big misconception that breastfeeding, if you’re doing it correctly, doesn’t hurt,” said Dr. Green. “But it really does hurt because you’re still trying to figure it out and baby is still trying to figure it out.” Baby will feed every 30 minutes to an hour in the first couple of weeks of life, so if you are experiencing pain, consider seeing a lactation consultant while you are in the hospital to help teach you about different latching techniques.

When it comes time to change baby’s diaper, expect her first bowl movement to resemble sticky black tar. This is called meconium and is totally normal. Your baby is just disposing of what she ingested while in the womb, such as water and amniotic fluid.

Your baby will also undergo a few tests in her first 48 hours. Under the Florida Newborn Screening Program, newborns are tested for 53 conditions. Once your baby reaches 24 hours, her blood will be drawn for these tests, which screen for cystic fibrosis and sickle cell anemia among many others. Your newborn will also have her hearing tested before leaving the hospital, per the Florida Newborn Hearing Screening Statute. If you have decided to have your baby circumcised, that can also be done before leaving the hospital.

There are so many things that happen after your baby is born, but with a little preparation, you will know what to expect so that you can truly enjoy your first hours with your precious little one. Always talk to your doctor or pediatrician about any medical questions you may have!

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gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

c2c | toddler { 2 - 3 Y ears }

“Kids that go to school every day adjust quicker and have an easier transition than those that go a few days a week”

Ready and Able

- Meredith Carter

When to start preschool

BY DANIELLE SPANO

Preschool readies children for kindergarten with psychological and social skills, but how do you know if your child is ready to start preschool? It may be time for you to go back to work or you may just need a few hours a day to yourself. Regardless of the reason, determining if your toddler is ready can be stressful. Preschool is a big change from home. Your tot will need to adapt to the classroom’s schedule. He will have to take direction from adults other than his parents, share with other children that are not his siblings and make friends on his own. It is a whole new world, so questioning if your child is ready is only natural. Here’s another question … are YOU ready?

If your little one has been home with you since birth, the idea of separation might cause some anxiety for both of you. A child that is comfortable away from his parents might seem like an ideal candidate for preschool. Conversely, a child who has not spent much time away from his parents or becomes stressed with separation is also an ideal candidate. The consistency of being dropped off and picked up from school each day combined with being in a caring learning environment will help that child grow out of that angst. Both parent and child need to be preschool ready. A parent’s demeanor at drop-off will transfer to the child.

If mom is crying or hesitant to say goodbye, the child will think there is something to fear. When mom says goodbye with a warm smile and a promise to “see you this afternoon,” the child is more likely to go into class with confidence.

Toddlers typically yearn for independence by the time they are 2 years old. You have most likely heard, “I can do it myself !” over and over (usually followed by a mess, a boo boo or shoes on the wrong feet). Your self-sufficient sweetie will fare well in preschool where he will need to do some things on his own as the teacher assists other classmates. If your youngster relies mostly on your help with daily tasks, then preschool will help him develop those skills. Before you know it, he will surprise you with his newfound independence.

Many children crave more interaction with other kids their age, which is also a common indication that they will do well in preschool. If your child seeks out other children to get involved with when you visit the playground, then he is most likely ready.

A study funded by The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development determined that a child’s academic performance in kindergarten sets the stage for their later academic career and that skills developed in preschool can aid in the transition into kindergarten. Get your child prepared for the transition to preschool by getting him excited. Drive by the school and start referring to it as “your school.” Go to reading time at the library and practice sitting quietly in a group setting.

Ease him in with shorter days at the school so he can get used to going each day. “Kids that go to school every day adjust quicker and have an easier transition than those that go a few days a week,” Meredith Carter, marketing director at The Growing Room, said. Start exposing your child in small doses every day to ensure that he is ready for this exciting new chapter in his life.

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c2c | early years { 4 - 5 years }

Hands Are for Playing

Fostering fine motor skills in young children

BY APRIL TISHER

When parents think of their children attending preschool or kindergarten, they may imagine their child playing with Play-Doh, building with blocks and making intricate pieces of macaroni art — the normal kid stuff we think of young school children doing. The truth is that this child’s play, while vital to the normal growth and development of children, has become less typical.

So what can parents do?

Stacey Cricchio, a pediatric occupational therapist, said she sees children who lack fine motor skills frequently in her line of work. She recommends making a predictable schedule for your child to give her the tolerance and endurance needed to learn these skills. “In the end, fine motor skill development is built upon daily routines and functional skill practice throughout a student’s developmental years,” said Cricchio. Having your child brush and floss her own teeth, put on her own socks and shoes, and button, snap and zip her clothing helps to work the same muscles she needs to write. “Tying shoes is not only functional, but is a great way to access auditory processing skills, sequencing skills, memory skills, strength and even coordination while developing fine motor skills,” said Cricchio. Other specific tasks you can do to help strengthen little hands include locking and unlocking doors, playing in the sand, doing puzzles, sorting coins, lacing toys, stringing beads, and building with blocks.

As a parent, if you have concerns about your child, talk to her preschool or kindergarten teacher. An evaluation can be done to help assess specific needs and tailor activities specifically to your child.

With academics being pushed as early as preschool, incoming kindergarteners often lack the fine motor skills they need. Fine motor skills involve the use of the small muscles in the hands and are often developed through play. They are necessary for such things as holding a pencil, buttoning pants, using scissors, etc. Sometimes it is up to parents to help boost those fine motor skills at home to achieve success in the classroom.

Why do young children lack fine motor skills?

Kindergarten teacher Heather Greist said that with the decrease of play in early school years, many children lack the physical strength needed to reach elementary school milestones that were once taken for granted.

Activities such as hanging on the monkey bars, stringing beads, playing with clay and even swinging, which can all boost a child’s motor skills, are not as popular today as they once were, having fallen to the wayside in the face of electronics. And while educational apps may help children advance academically, they are replacing activities that strengthen fine motor skills.

Gresit said that kindergarten itself has also changed over the years.

While teachers still work hard to incorporate play into teaching the requirements, it is not like it used to be. “The official standards for kindergarteners today don’t focus on fine motor skills,” she said. What kindergartners do in the classroom today looks a lot like what us parents did in first or even second grade. And while 5 year olds can navigate their way around an iPad better than their parents can, they lack the dexterity to legibly write their names with a pencil. They may not be able to open their lunch boxes, color in the lines or cut along a straight line. These are the types of things preschoolers were masters of prior to the age of electronics and the push to teach reading and math at an earlier age. While teachers do their best in the hours they have with their students to work on the continued development of fine motor skills, it is still often up to caregivers to help ensure success.

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Checklist for Fine and Gross Motor Skills Cutting out simple shapes Writing numbers 1–10 independently Writing letters independently Coloring within the lines Holding a pencil correctly Cutting and pasting Drawing basic pictures Opening bags and other containers Using a knife and fork Completing small puzzles *Adapted from Kid Sense Child Development

Hello,

Mama!

You can now get the No. 1 parenting resource in the Greater Tallahassee area delivered to your home!

Giggle Magazine is offering all Leon County readers a free 6-issue (one year) subscription!

SUBSCRIBE ONLINE T O D AY AT Gigglemagazinetallahassee.com

Introducing Giggle Magazine’s newest community feature,

Our Unique Family!

Does your family go bike riding every weekend? Do you do a big family road trip during the summers? Or maybe you like to do family dinners in your treehouse once a week.

Whatever sets your family apart from the crowd, Giggle Magazine wants to hear about it!

Submit your family’s unique story to Colleen@irvingpublications.com

Our bike-riding _______ family

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c2c | kids { 6 - 9 years }

Rub A Dub

When can supervised bathing go down the drain?

BY DANIELLE SPANO

Bathing is a self-care skill that all children need to learn. It is not as simple as telling them to wash behind their ears and calling it a day, as water safety is a big issue. How do we teach our kids to bathe themselves? And once they have learned to wash themselves properly, at what point is it safe to leave them to it?

First things first — safety. The American Academy of Pediatrics warns that young children should not be left alone or in the care of another child while in the bathtub. Furthermore, bathtubs should be fully drained when not in use. Bathtubs can be a waterworks haven in a child’s eyes, and they can seriously hurt themselves if playing around in a slippery tub — drowning can occur in just inches of water. The faucet can be so tempting for little hands, and that water can get hot fast! Prohibit your little one from turning on the water until he can properly understand how to test and adjust the temperature. There are many cognitive and motor skills that children need to safely bathe on their own.

There is more to bathing than meets the eye. It is a precise combination of gross motor skills (like getting in and out of the tub, rinsing off soap and towel drying), fine motor skills (such as holding slippery soap, opening the shampoo bottle and massaging it into the whole head) and sensory processing skills (determining proper water temperature and tolerating water in their face/eyes). There are a lot of steps, and it is a lot for your child to comprehend. The Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning of Vanderbilt University advises that parents provide children with clear and simple instructions

Soaping up Safely 1. Adjust your water heater so the water cannot get hotter than 120 F. 2. Install a shower mat in the tub and a non-slip mat outside to avoid falls.

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with positive and specific encouragement when teaching self-care skills. Katie Kirkpatrick explained that her 8- and 9-year-old daughters have both been bathing independently for a few years. Kirkpatrick began describing step by step what she was doing (covering their eyes to prevent water from getting in and tipping their heads back so the water goes down their backs) once they could understand what she was saying. “The whole thing is a slow process of getting them used to the stages — first you put the soap here, then the water goes here,” she said.

“Anything you teach them that they can accomplish on their own gives them life skills, confidence and independence.” Once they got a hang of the process, Kirkpatrick said she let her girls bathe themselves, although she would periodically check on them and go through the checklist to ensure they did not miss any steps.

The age that unsupervised bathing can begin depends heavily on each child’s abilities and maturity. A 2007 survey published in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine stated the average age that caregivers believe children can bathe without an adult present is roughly 6 ½. According to an article by Annye Rothenberg, Ph.D., author, child/parent psychologist and specialist in childrearing and child development, the typical age children begin washing themselves is 4 and they typically master the skill by 6. Again, this varies from child to child.

Parents should keep track of their child’s development and consult their pediatrician to determine when it is appropriate for their child to start bathing unsupervised.

3. Keep his bathing needs within his reach (nothing on shelves or where they need to climb).

6. Electric appliances should always be kept away from the tub and any other water source.

4. Put bath products in distinct bottles or label them so your child does not confuse the soap with the shampoo.

7. Set the water temperature for your child and show him to always start with cold first and make the water warmer as needed.

5. Keep razors, medications and toiletries out of sight.

8. Place a towel within easy reach of the bathtub.

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c2c | tweens { 1 0 -1 3 years }

Middle School Success

Getting you and your middle schooler prepared for a successful year!

to be riding his bike, take multiple bike rides as a family on the route he will be taking. Show him where to lock up his bike and helmet. If the campus opens before school starts, get a copy of his schedule and practice his route with him. Locate bathrooms, the lunch room and the media center. Download a copy of the school handbook and make sure he understands the rules of the school.

Getting him as prepared as possible is the key to his success.

Middle school is a complex time for kids. Between starting over in a new school, hormones and social stresses, it can be a trying time for anyone. But, with some preparation, you can help your child get acclimated quickly and succeed both academically and socially.

BY NICOLE IRVING

You have done the tours and you have met the teachers. Now, with only a few weeks to go until your kiddo’s first day of middle school, how do we parents make sure the transition from elementary school is a smooth one?

Listen with intent

Do not dismiss your child’s feelings. Going from the top of the ladder in elementary school to having to start at the bottom tier again in a new school can be stressful for anyone. Let your kiddo express himself. Encourage him to be patient and talk about his feelings as much as possible. Try to listen between the lines. Pay attention for high anxiety triggers, sadness and odd behavior. You know your kiddo best, so staying in tune with his personality and behaviors is key.

Encourage participation

Getting involved and staying involved in school activities that he enjoys will help him gain his footing in this new environment, but too many can be overwhelming. Let him pick and choose, but encourage some sort of participation in school-related extracurricular activities to bond with classmates and find a new social circle.

Let his personality shine

If your school has a uniform in place or a dress code, it may be difficult for some middle school kids to find the “fun” in school shopping. However, middle school is a great time to let his personality shine. Take him on his own middle school shopping trip, separate from younger or older siblings. Have him pick out his new backpack, lunch box, pencils (I hear mechanicals are all the rage) and locker décor.

Get acclimated

If your middle schooler is riding the bus, see if any of his neighborhood friends will be joining at the bus stop. If he is going

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gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

Troubleshoot 1. Have him practice his locker combination BEFORE school starts.

2. Make sure his bike (if he will be riding) is in tip top shape — helmet included!

3. Know the rules of the school. From dress code to cellphone rules, these will definitely impact your kiddo.

4. Find out how to be involved as a parent.

5. Connect with his teachers. Understand their rules and make sure you are able to get in contact with them if you need.

6. If your child has special needs, either academic or physical, let his teachers and the school administration know as soon as possible. Connecting sooner rather than later will help your child get acclimated and settled into a good pattern early on.

7. Decide if your child is going to be buying his lunch or bringing. If you plan on having your child bring his lunch but he wants to buy, set a schedule or amount limit.

8. Understand the consequences of breaking school rules.

9. Keep him connected to old friends if they will not be attending the same school.

10. Talk about homework time and create a designated study area to help him out.

Helping 2nd through 8th graders overcome tomorrow’s struggles today by developing the following: • Time Management • Improved Test Scores • Reading Comprehension • Organizational Strategies • Proper Study Habits • Listening Skills • Note Taking • Research Strategies • Reduction of Test Anxiety • Concentration & Attention Skills

Our mission is to engage students where they are today, inspire them to be better than yesterday, and prepare them to be their best for tomorrow.

CONTACT US TODAY! LANCE@ENGAGEDACADEMICS.ORG | 850.688.5299 | ENGAGEDACADEMICS.ORG gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

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c2c | teens { 1 4 -1 8 years }

Promoting a Healthy Body Image Helping your teen live a happy and healthy life

BY OLIVIA K PITKETHLY, MA, LMHC

In 2010, the Obama administration launched the Let’s Move! campaign and a task force on childhood obesity to bring awareness to unhealthy patterns of eating and sedentary lifestyles. Since then, schools have provided healthier food choices, started growing fruits and vegetables in their own gardens and are fighting for more recess time.

While schools are working to do their part to promote health and wellness, parents sometimes are at a loss on how to address these issues with their children. Teenagers are in the ego identity stage of development and body image plays a role. If a parent is concerned about their teen’s weight, addressing the issue directly could actually hurt, not help.

In 2016, The American Academy of Pediatrics acknowledged that weight talk, dieting and weight teasing are associated with both eating disorders and obesity. The AAP encourages doctors to discuss healthy habits and lifestyle, not weight loss, with their patients. Conversations between parents and children regarding weight loss are often linked to unhealthy weight control behaviors, binge eating and dieting.

Tracy Brown is a registered dietitian and nutrition therapist who works with both adolescents and adults on obtaining and maintaining a healthy body image. She advised parents to avoid body criticism and to stress the importance of feeling strong, having fun and eating a variety of foods. You might challenge your teen to train for a fun 5K (like a color run or other themed race), praising her progress as you run together. You can also try introducing her to healthy food from different cultures, noting the variety of flavor and spices.

Brown said that nutrient-dense, but not calorie deficient, meals and snacks are ideal (think nuts, protein and vegetables) and to also allow room for “play” food, such as cookies, chips and ice cream. She said that labeling food as “special” or “off limits” may cause your teen to sneak food, which ultimately leads to shame.

“We can teach our kids to listen to and trust their hunger and fullness, provide them with a variety of foods to eat … and show them through our words and actions that it’s not OK to judge a person by their size,” said Brown. Teach your child about mindful eating; no electronics or books at the dinner table. Instead, have her focus on the texture and taste of food, and recognize when her belly is full. “If our goal truly is mentally, emotionally and physically healthy children, we must provide a safe, consistent and nurturing environment around food and their bodies so they can actually grow up to have the bodies they are meant to have, not the one culture tries to dictate all people must be,” she said.

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“Teaching children that there are better or worse bodies to have sets up the potential for a lifetime of body shame and weight prejudice toward themselves and others,” she said. “Scaring people into healthy behaviors is not long-term motivating or empowering for adults. What makes us believe it will work for kids?”

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gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

Red flags for eatingdisordered behavior

Desire to lose weight Desire to cut out food groups

Saying certain foods are unhealthy or bad Changes in mood

Skipping or decreasing meals

Avoiding social activities that involve food or body

Eating in a very preoccupied way, either more or less

Reported bullying or teasing Hiding food

Visit chsfl.org/wish

s k a O Jazz Under the WishUpon Upon a a Wish Star Wish Upon aStar Star CHILDREN'S HOME SOCIETY OF FLORIDA

CHILDREN'S HOME SOCIETY OF FLORIDA CHILDREN'S HOME SOCIETY OF FLORIDA

Friday, October 20, 2017 • 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Goodwood Museum & Gardens (Carriage House) Please join us for a night of “Jazz Under the Oaks” in support of this worthy cause! Our 7th annual Wish Upon a Star event will feature live Jazz musicians, bourbon, oyster, and dessert bars, custom cuisine stations, and can’t miss silent and live auctions. This event benefits Children’s Home Society of Florida helping thousands of children affected by abuse, neglect, and abandonment in our community. Eat, drink, mingle, dance and bid to win some truly awesome items!

Contact Natasha Fischer at natasha.dfischer@chsfl.org or Anna Kay Hutchison at annakay.hutchison@chsfl.org for more information. gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

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community | calendar

August 10 PHOTO COURTESY OF KIDZ BOP.

august | september August 3

August 5

Food Truck Thursdays at Lake Ella

Brickyard Farmers Market

6–9 p.m.

Lake Ella Facebook.com/FoodTruckThursdayTallahassee Enjoy local food trucks and a variety of food with the whole family!

(Event repeats every Thursday)

8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Centre of Tallahassee Open every Saturday, this farmers market features seasonal fruits and vegetables. (Repeats every Saturday) August 5

August 4

Splash and Jam Party “Splash” Family Style Pool Party 7–9 p.m.

“Jam” Teen Party 9 –11 p.m.

Jack McLean Community Center Talgov.com/parks This party is free and fun! There will be a family pool party for the first half of the event. The second half of the event is for teens and will feature food, pool games and music!

August 4– 6

National Twins Days Twinsdays.org 50

Kidtown Readers Story Hour and Craft 11 a.m. – Noon Midtown Reader Midtownreader.com Bring your kiddies out to Midtown Reader for story time and crafts!

(Repeats every Saturday) August 5

Free Summer Movie Series – “Zootopia” 7 –9 p.m.

Jake Gaither Community Center Bring the kids to see “Zooptopia” for free with the family!

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

The Kidz Bop Kids Best Time Ever Tour 6:30–8 p.m.

The Pavilion at the Centre of Tallahassee Tallypavilion.com With kid-friendly versions of pop music hits, all sung by kids, this concert is sure to be a hit for your little ones. Tickets range in price from $25 for a standard ticket to $185 for a VIP Meet and Greet package.

August 11

First day of School for Community Christian School, Trinity Catholic School and North Florida Christian School August 12

Welcome Back to School Event at Midtown Readers Story Hour 11 a.m. – Noon Midtown Reader Midtownreader.com Your children will enjoy stories read aloud, crafts and refreshments at this event.

August 12

Last Bash Before Class at The Red Shed 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

The Red Shed Facebook.com/CountryMarketCraftFair Hosted by Tallahassee Country Market & Craft Fair. Kids can get soaked in the wet zone or enjoy the dry zone with great vendors, bounce houses and more.

August 14

First day of school for Leon County Public Schools and Maclay School August 14

Monday Night Family SK8 Mania at Skate World 4 –8 p.m.

Skateworld1.com Enjoy a family skate night! Admission is $2 and skate rental is $2.

August 15

First day of school for Holy Comforter Episcopal School

fifth graders, this book is about a magical adventure full of friends, family and destiny.

September 9

September 7

7 p.m.

Doak Campbell Stadium Seminoles.com Bring the family out to Doak to cheer on the Noles against the Warhawks in their first home game of the season.

Mommy and Me Class Holy Comforter Episcopal School Hces.org This creative enrichment class is designed for children between the ages of 2–3 years old. Each class is limited to 15 children, so be sure to register in advance.

September 9

Midtown Readers Story Hour and Craft: Grandparents Day 11 a.m. – Noon Midtown Reader Midtownreader.com Midtown reader will have a special grandparents themed craft and story so come on out and bring the kids.

September 9

Capital City Seafood and BarBQue Festival 9 a.m. – 7 p.m Tallahassee Automobile Museum This seafood and barbecue festival is fun for the whole family and will feature food vendors from all over. Tickets should be bought in advance, and prices range from $10 to $25.

August 19

Sundown Summer Concert Series: Roosevelt Collier w/ JB's ZydecoZoo 7–10 p.m.

Cascades Park Tallahasseedowntown.com Explore food and craft vendors or participate in one of the family-friendly activities while listening to local artists perform, all for free!

September 4

Labor Day

September 9

HOLA Tallahassee Festival 4–10 p.m.

Cascades Park Eventbrite.com This family-friendly festival is based around the best of Hispanic and Latin foods, dances, music, arts and more.

September 9

Schools Closed

Bubble Battle World Record at FSU

September 6

1–3 p.m.

Florida State University Evensi.us Take part in the Guinness World Record attempt for simultaneously blowing the most bubbles at one time.

“Tumble and Blue” Reading by Author Cassie Beasley Midtown Reader Midtownreader.com New York Times bestselling author, Cassie Beasley will be at Midtown reader celebrating the launch of her new book, “Tumble and Blue.” Written for third through

Florida State Seminoles vs. ULM Warhawks

September 10

National Grandparents Day Grandparentsday.org September 14

HCES Lecture Series Presented

by Hancock Bank 7 p.m.

Holy Comforter Episcopal School Hces.org Bring the family out to hear Dr. Myron Rolle, neurosurgeon, Rhodes Scholar and former NFL and FSU football player give a talk entitled "The Enlightened Warrior."

September 16

Florida State Seminoles vs.

Miami Hurricanes 8 p.m.

Doak Campbell Stadium Seminoles.com Bring the family out to Doak to cheer on the Noles against the Hurricanes in this ACC faceoff!

September 23

Florida State Seminoles vs. North Carolina Wolfpack Doak Campbell Stadium Seminoles.com Bring the family out to Doak Stadium to cheer on the Noles against the Wolfpack in this ACC faceoff!

September 28

Florida A&M Rattlers vs. North Carolina Central Eagles 7:30 p.m.

Bragg Memorial Stadium Famuathletics.com Bring the family out to the stadium to see the Rattlers faceoff against the Eagles in this Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference game.

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | august/sep tember 2017

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