Roanoke Valley Family Magazine December 2019

December 2019 • Volume 8 • Issue 4 • Free

Happy Holidays From Our Family to Yours

Santa vs Single Mom

How a local mom celebrates the season with magic and faith.

Building Communities... Together.

Now Open in Cave Spring 3232 Electric Road, Roanoke

leading off: publisher’s note Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Every year at this time, our family reflects on the year of publication and our work in the community.

We evaluate how we helped the community, how many parents read our pages and how our advertisers benefited by being in our pages.

In general, every year we feel pretty good about what we have done and the impact that we have made. But there is always more ways to help, more parents to guide and new businesses to work with.

For the second straight year, we are helping Roanoke City Schools send a few families in need to see Santa at their Breakfast with Santa fundraising event. To learn more about how you can help Roanoke City Public Schools, please visit https://www.rcps.info/ news/what_s_new/help_the_homeless.

Lastly, as we do every year, we will be purchasing 15 complete Christmas dinners for families in need the week of Christmas. If your family is in need

or you know someone who is, please have them contact josh@virginiafamily. com and we will attempt to help.

We also cap our year off with our biggest event of the year - New Year’s at Noon - presented by Freedom First Credit Union! More information on this great event can be found on page 51, on our website, www.roanoke.family and on our facebook page.

Thanks for your support in 2019, we look forward to 2020 and helping the Roanoke region continue to thrive!

May you and your family have the most wonderful of Holiday Seasons!

“Christmas Gift Suggestions: To your enemy, forgiveness.

To an opponent, tolerance.

To a friend, your heart.

To a customer, service.

To all, charity.

To every child, a good example.

To yourself, respect.”

-Oren Arnold

Anika, Andrea, Evelyn and Josh at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.

The Eagan Family

Andrea, Josh, Anika and Evelyn Proud Members of the Parenting Media Association since 2013! Learn more at www.parentmedia.org.

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C o n t a c t Us: P.O. Box 4484, Roanoke, VA 24015 540-251-1660 www.roanoke.family

Publishers

Josh & Andrea Eagan

josh@virginiafamily.com • Anika and Evelyn’s Parents

Creative Director Tracy Fisher

Read Our Other Publications

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Contributors

Kimberly Emory • Jamie Lober Susan Baldani • Georgianne Vecellio Rachel Levine • Jacqueline Moon • Grace Partin

Connect With Us /growingupinthevalley

tracy@virginiafamily.com • Charlotte and Evelyn’s Mom

Community Relations Director

We welcome reader comments, submissions, and the support of advertisers.

jeanne@virginiafamily.com • Parker and Connor’s Mom

We reserve the right to refuse or edit any materials submitted to us as we deem inappropriate for our audience. Please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope with any submission to be returned. We do not accept responsibility for unsolicited materials.

Jeanne Lawrence

Editor

Jacqueline Moon

jackie@virginiafamily.com • Elijah’s Mom, and Luke and Blair’s Stepmom

Sales Assistants Ani & Evie Eagan

sales@virginiafamily.com • Bauer and Chloe’s Owners

Webmaster

John Morris • COV Designs john@covdesigns.com

Roanoke Valley Family and www.roanoke.family are published by MoFat Publishing. Roanoke Valley Family is published monthly.

The views and the opinions expressed by the writers and advertisers do not necessarily represent those of Roanoke Valley Family, its staff, or its contributors. While multiple businesses, schools, and organizations are represented in our pages, and magazines are often distributed to students according to the policies and procedures of each school district, this is not a publication coordinated or endorsed by any public or private school district, nor is it a publication with any religious or political objectives. As a mass media outlet, it is our oath and responsibility to communicate with due diligence, through our content, the plurality of views and opinions reflected in our audience of Central and Southwest Virginia. Readers are strongly encouraged to verify information with programs and businesses directly. Parents are urged to thoroughly research any decisions involving their children. Copyright 2019 by MoFat Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. All material, including artwork, advertisements, and editorials, may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher.

@roanokefamily

@rvfamilymag

/roanokevalleyfamily

Submit Your Ideas Share your story ideas with us by emailing jackie@virginiafamily.com

© Copyright 2019 Mofat Publishing

On the Cover

Community High offers…

• • • • • • • •

Small class sizes Highly qualified faculty Individualized attention College preparatory environment Unique, student-driven liberal arts curriculum Diverse arts offerings Affordable tuition and needbased financial aid Strong, close-knit community …and much more!

Schedule a visit today!

Channa (13) and Tova (8) of Roanoke, play dreidel in their home. The sisters both love Girl Scouts, going to the library, and playing piano.

Photos by Elizabeth Farnsworth Photography

Community High School of Arts & Academics 302 Campbell Avenue SE Roanoke, VA 24013 info@communityhigh.net (540) 345-1688 www.communityhigh.net

DECEMBER VIRGINIAFAMILY.COM

inside departments

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THE VALLEY News and Notes Things to Do Kids Eat Free

features

32 38

MAKE OUR WORLD A BETTER PLACE 44 Random Acts of Kindness

SANTA CLAUS VS. SINGLE MOM

Three Reasons We Focus on Meaning instead of Make Believing

27

GROWING UP Toddlers Kids Teens

43

FAMILY Holiday Wellness

46

EDUCATED Books Science

the valley News // Local Events // Reviews

the valley: around town

News in the ‘Noke

Roanoke’s Mill Mountain Star turned 70 on November 23! Made with three rows of neon tubing (2,000 feet of it in total), the Star was built in 1949 by the Kinsey Sign Company. Over the years, the Star has come to be synonymous with our area and is still one of the most talked-about and recognizable icons of Virginia.

People from all over the Salem community came together for the common good of its young people last month when members of city council, the school board, and area churches, along with business leaders, school administrators, teachers, and students, all helped christen the brand-new “Salem Bread” Food Pantry.

Brand New Food Pantry 8

Family/December 2019

This new endeavor at Salem High School will help provide food for those in need over the weekends and during breaks.

Salem Area Ecumenical Ministries/Healthy Communities Action Team is partnering with Salem High School to implement the food pantry as a way to support students who may face food insecurity.

The food pantry will increase access to healthy foods that will be a “student-

choice” design where students can shop from a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables and healthy staples and provide feedback. The food pantry is supported by school-based food drives and support from community organizations.

In July 2018, a group of Salem churches, community organizations, businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies received a two-year grant from the Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth to launch a Healthy Communities Action Team to initiate and support student-led food pantries for Salem City Schools.

Last year, SAEM/HCAT was able to implement the “Giving Light” Food Pantry at Andrew Lewis Middle School serving 27 families each week.

New Mom Group in Roanoke Roanoke City Public Schools’ fourth annual Breakfast with Santa is on Saturday, December 7, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. at William Fleming High School. The Breakfast is sponsored by the STAR (Students Take Action in Roanoke) Council, a group of students from Patrick Henry and William Fleming High Schools whose mission is to help our homeless students.

The cost is $7 for adults, $5 for children and RCPS employees, and $20 for a family of four, and 100% of the proceeds will benefit the Help the Homeless Fund. Cash or checks will be accepted.

The event will include musical performances, crafts for kids, and pictures with Santa, as well as a raffle (tickets are $1, and you don’t have to be present to win if you provide a phone number). Raffle prizes include gift certificates for a one-night stay at Mountain Lake Lodge, two rounds of golf at Brookside Par 3 Golf Course, dinner for two at the Hotel Roanoke’s Regency Room, two passes to Kids Square, and more!

The City of Roanoke partnered with the Roanoke Valley Veterans Council to plant trees again this year in honor of Veterans Day. Thanks to a generous donation from Carilion Clinic, Roanoke City parks received and planted five red oak trees on Friday, Nov. 8. The first was planted at Entranceway Park (at the intersection of Williamson Road and Wells Avenue). Two trees were planted at Eureka Park, and two at Highland Park. This was the second year for this project and was initiated by Council Member Bill Bestpitch.

There’s an amazing new moms’ organization in the Roanoke area! It’s called Huddle Up Moms (or HUM), and its mission is to “empower, educate, and support mothers in Southwest Virginia by fueling meaningful connections within our community.”

Their launch party was November 23 at 5 Points Music Sanctuary — the turnout was fantastic and a great time was had by all, but don’t worry if you missed it. HUM is just getting started!

“We began as a group of women who came together for the Southwest Virginia Mom Expo in 2019 with the goal of empowering and educating parents on a range of topics, including exercise, physical therapy, self-advocacy, neurobiology, gynecology, nutrition, and mental health,” the group states on their website, huddleupmoms.org.

Family/December 2019

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The Blue Ridge Academy of Music We Teach The Confidence to Perform Consultation and First Lesson Free!

Route 460 in Blue Ridge • 540-977-2710 • info@blueridgeacademyofmusic.com

blueridgeacademyofmusic.com

the valley: business

Meet Your Neighbor

Christina LoFaro

by Jacqueline Moon

C

hristina owns and operates Thai Massage by Christina, a massage studio in Roanoke that she opened in 2014 after studying the Thai massage technique in both Arlington, Virginia and Thailand.

“I found it to be the most helpful and beautiful type of massage,” she said, and so she decided to learn it, master it, and get certified to both practice it and teach the technique to others.

At first, Christina ran her practice in Roanoke’s CrossFit Gym, where she worked with athletes on a daily basis. Through word of mouth, she started gaining clients outside the gym, and soon she opened her own shop downtown.

Christina says the best part of her business is working with people one-on-one, helping them understand their bodies. Before opening her studio, Christina was a graphic designer, and while she still freelances from time to time, Thai massage is her passion.

In her free time, Christina likes to go hiking in the Roanoke and Salem areas with her dog, Zuko. “The hiking trails in the Roanoke area are my favorite part about living here,” she said, “and how close nature and city life are to one another. It’s the perfect size, and it’s beautiful.”

Thai Massage by Christina is located at 401 Highland Ave SE. Stop in, check out the lovely studio, and say hello to your neighbor!

Family/December 2019

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One in seven children won’t be ready to start kindergarten.*

Don’t let your child be the one.

For more information, contact: Smart Beginnings Greater Roanoke sbgr@uwrv.org | (540) 283-2778 smartbeginningsroanoke.org

1310 Grandin Road, Roanoke, VA 24015

grandintheatre.com

®

*The Annie E. Casey Foundation: KIDS COUNT Data Center.

(2010). PALS-K Scores.

Happy Hollidays !

the valley: Educator lifelong readers,” she said. The class spends a lot of time reading together, and Conner also assigns independent reading projects, like book talks.

“The book talks are great because they also help the kids get more comfortable with public speaking and develop their oral language skills.”

Teacher of the Month

Conner Sprinkle C

onner has been teaching for four years now and absolutely loves what she does. Even though the Roanoke College (first-in-class) graduate started out thinking she’d pursue a career as an athletic trainer, it didn’t take long for her to discover her passion for education.

As a fourth-grade teacher at Botetourt County’s Troutville Elementary, Conner’s role is to teach language arts and Virginia studies to her students.

“Even though I hated history in school, I love teaching Virginia studies!” she said, noting that it’s all about how the subject is presented. “I try to make it come alive for them,” said Conner.

For instance, when she teaches about Founding Father and governor of

Virginia Patrick Henry, she dresses up like him in order to make it more real for her students.

Conner also likes transforming her classroom into the setting of her lesson — like a Native American camp. It was a teaching method she used often a couple of years ago, when she was teaching kindergarten, but also thinks is valuable for the older kids. “It’s something unexpected that takes them out of the ordinary and really helps them learn,” she said.

When she teaches language arts, Conner incorporates social studies into those lessons, too, by having her students read historical fiction novels.

One of her biggest goals in that class is to instill a love of reading in the kids. “I want them all to become

But the most important thing about being a teacher, said Conner, is that you’re a constant role model for the kids. She deeply values the relationships she forms with the students, even attending their extracurricular events to help build trust. “That’s the best part about being a teacher — seeing growth and building relationships. To me, every student is like my kid,” she said. “I’m not just there to teach them — I’m there to help them succeed in every way.”

The hardest part — as any Virginia public school teacher of third grade and beyond can attest — is staying on pace for SOL testing. Still, Conner rises to the challenge and brings her subjects to life, ensuring that her students not only pass the SOLs but leave her classroom excited about what they’ve learned and ready to learn more.

Did You Know?

Conner Sprinkle played volleyball for James River High School, and has also coached high school volleyball as an adult.

is proud to sponsor the

TEACHER MONTH of the

The winning teacher receives a $100 gift card from Grand Home Furnishings!

www.grandhomefurnishings.com Valley View | Tanglewood | Christiansburg | Lynchburg Family/December 2019

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the Valley: things to do

DECEMBER

Roanoke City’s Dickens of a Christmas Celebration lasts all December long! On December 6, stop by Market Square to see the city Christmas tree lighting at 6:15 PM. Grab some classic roasted chestnuts and watch the city Christmas Parade on December 13 at 6:30 PM- rain or shine! Then, before jetting off to your family’s

Gingerbread Festival Dec 7 | Salem Library

Matilda

Dec 19-22 | Roanoke Children’s Theatre

Three weekends full of Holiday Magic in Downtown Roanoke this December!

holiday plans, stop by the Taubman Museum on December 20 for the Mini Carnival and Pet Costume Contest at 6:30 PM (Register your furry friend by 5:30 PM to participate!). Every night is free to attend and features classic holiday activities such as carriage rides, vendors, street performances and kids games!

Candy Cane Express Dec 7-8 | Virginia Museum of Transportation

New Years at Noon

Dec 31 | Berglund Civic Center, Roanoke

Jingle Bell Run

Dec 14 | Downtown Roanoke

Meet Roanoke Valley Family Magazine at these events!

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Family/December 2019

Nov. 28 - January 1

Nov. 29 - January 1

December 2

Fashions for Evergreens 2019 Hotel Roanoke

Illuminights 5 PM - 10 PM on select nights | Explore Park, Roanoke

Cirque Dreams Holidaze 7:30 PM | Berglund Performing Arts Theatre, Roanoke

Explore your holiday spirit through a dazzling world of over 500,000 lights.

Journey at your own pace on a walking tour of displays celebrating nature, fantasy, adventure and Christmas traditions. Plus more fun family activities!

Tickets are required. roanokecountyparks.com

Cirque Dreams lights up the 2019 holiday season with its critically acclaimed holiday stage extravaganza, a new cirque show, Broadway musica, and family Christmas spectacular all in one! Hailed

by The New York Daily News as a “delicious confection of charm, sparkle and talent by the sleighload & so full of energy it could end our dependence on oil!” Be amazed by this holiday spectacle with over 300 costumes, 20 acts and 30

From whimsical and outlandish displays to elegant and traditional designs, visitors will be inspired by the glamorous trees and gather ideas from professional decorators!

Fashions for Evergreens celebrates the holidays with a unique tree competition featuring more than 25 professionally designed trees. hotelroanoke.com

artists from every corner of the globe. Witness snowmen, penguins, angels, reindeer, toy soldiers, gingerbread men, ornaments and of course Santa; with soaring acrobatics, gravity defying feats, elaborate production numbers, imaginative costumes, illusions and more.

The show also celebrates the most wonderful time of the year with singers, original music and seasonal favorites all performed in a winter wonderland of amazement.

Tickets start at $37. theberglundcenter.com

Ice Skate & Slide at Elmwood Park Stop by Elmwood Park in Downtown Roanoke for Ice Skating and Ice Sliding!

Monday & Tuesday - Closed Wednesday & Thursday - 4:00PM - 9:00PM Friday - 4:00PM - 10:00PM Saturday - 11:00AM - 10:00PM Sunday - 12:00PM - 7:00PM On days that Roanoke City Schools are out, the rink is open 11:00AM – 10:00PM! Limited hours on Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve. Closed Christmas Day. Skate Admission: $6 Skate Rental: $2 Ice Slide: $3 Combined Skate, Slide and Rental: $10 Season pass available for $75.

Private Rentals are available.

Visit www.ElmwoodOnIce.com for more information.

the Valley: things to do December 4 - 22 The Sound of Music Mill Mountain Theatre, Roanoke Mill Mountain Theatre presents their holiday musical, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic The Sound of Music, on the Trinkle Main Stage this December. Tickets are $15$38. millmountain.org

December 5

Rail Yard Dawgs Home Games

7 PM | Berglund Civic Center, Roanoke Tickets are $11-$22

12/7 - Star Wars Night 12/12 - Thirsty Thursday 12/14 - Teddy Bear Toss 12/21 - Dawgs Fight Cancer 12/31 - New Years Eve* 1/3 - Wine Glass Giveaway 1/10 - Nickelodeon Night *Game Starts at 6:05PM

For more information visit

railyarddawgs.com

Vinton Holiday Parade 6:30 PM | Downtown Vinton Kick off the Holiday season with the seasons first Christmas parade! Tree lighting starts at 6:30 at the Municipal Building then stay for the parade and visit Santa at the Vinton Farmers Market after the parade!!

December 6 Holiday Pops Spectacular 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM| Salem Civic Center Virginia’s Beloved Annual Holiday Event With Over 250 Performers On Stage!

Holiday Pops Spectacular December 7 • 7:30 PM Salem Civic Center

tickets and information at rso.com 16

Family/December 2019

We love Holiday Pops and so do our audiences! Join the RSO Chorus, Virginia Tech Chorus, & the Roanoke Valley Children’s Choir, the RSO and Maestro Wiley as we kick off the Holiday Season!

It’s Virginia’s largest holiday tradition – an unbeatable concert experience at the Salem Civic Center.

Admission is $32-$49. salemciviccenter.com Winter Wonderland 6 PM - 8 PM | Kids Square Children’s Museum, Roanoke Play in the museum that is fully decorated for the holidays, make and take snow, as we celebrate along with the City of Roanoke with Dickens of Christmas!

Christmas Spectacular 4 PM - 8 PM | Prestige Gymnastics, Troutville Not only is Santa the star of our event, and we will be offering FREE PICTURES with him, but we have lots of deals, giveaways, raffles, crafts for the kiddos, snacks, and vendors for parents to shop! This is truly the best kids’ event of the season!

Santa + Trampolines and Gymnastics Fun? What more can we ask for?

December 7 Chip Breakfast With Santa 8:30 AM & 11:30 AM | Hotel Roanoke Join us for our 16th Annual Breakfast with Santa presented by Physicians to Children! Featuring a delicious breakfast buffet, holiday crafts, musical entertainment by Einstein’s Monkey, special appearance

by Joseph the Elf and Nutcracker ballerinas from Southwest Virginia Ballet, raffles, choral performances, and a keepsake photo taken

by Kevin Hurley Photography with...SANTA!!! Please bring a new, unwrapped toy or book to donate to a CHIP child. $45 per adult $25 per child (ages 3-12) Children two and under are free. chiprv.org Gingerbread Festival 10 AM | Salem Public Library It’s the most wonderful time of the year - Gingerbread Festival time! The SalemRoanoke County Chamber is excited to host this holiday favorite for the 13th year!

Arts and Craft vendors, Live Entertainment, Marshmallow Roast, Bounce Houses, Kids Activities, Food Vendors,

and, of course, the main event ... the Gingerbread House Competition!!

Grandin Winterfest 4 PM | Grandin Village, Roanoke Plan for a beer garden, the Bohemian Bar Box with their Prosecco libations, hot chocolate for the kids, artist and craft vendors, games for the kids, a Healing Strides “reindeer” kissing booth, and pictures with Santa.

Grandin will be closed to traffic from Memorial to Westover, and our Village shops and restaurants will be open during the event to give you a jump on your holiday shopping! We can’t wait to kick off the holiday season with you in Grandin Village!

Holiday Ornamnet Decorating 10 AM - 3 PM | The Making Foundation, Roanoke Bring the whole family and make wooden ornaments to commemorate the 2019 holiday season! All materials provided to craft homemade ornaments plus snacks and drinks for the family and all of the holiday music you can handle! Registration is $10. makingfoundation.org

The Nutcracker December 14-15

Berglund Center theberglundcenter.com

December 7-8 Candy Cane Express 10 AM, December 7 and 1 PM December 8 | Virginia Museum of Transportation, Roanoke

Explore Park’s Winter Walk of Lights Explore your holiday spirit through a dazzling world of over 500,000

Come and take your picture with everyone’s favorite Santa! Ride the Diesel Train operated by the Roanoke Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society Enjoy the many exciting exhibits of the museum and the opportunity to visit with the Roanoke Model Engineers Train Club. Write letters to Santa in the Museum and mail them in Railway Post Office Car. Participate in our Scavenger hunt, face painting, games, and activities for kids! VMT.org

December 8

lights. Journey at your own pace on a walking tour of displays celebrating nature, fantasy, adventure and Christmas traditions.

Travel down our half-mile wooded path, and take in the sights and sounds of the season.

The big man in red himself comes to visit on 12/16-19 & 23, or enjoy a classic carriage ride on thursday

Santa’s Candy Cane Hunt 2:30 PM | Preston Park, Roanoke

evenings!

Learn more and purchase tickets at roanokecountyparks.com

Santa has discovered that his sneaky elves have hidden candy canes all across

Date Night Ideas

Cirque Dreams Holidaze December 2 • 7:30 PM Berglund Center theberglundcenter.com

Family/December 2019

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the Valley: things to do Preston Park! Bundle up and uncover as many candy canes as you can before the hungry reindeer find them. After the hunt, visit with Santa and his elf assistant inside while warming up with hot cocoa and cookies. Don’t forget to bring along your camera! Tickets are $10. playroanoke.com Clara’s Tea Party with Southwest Virginia Ballet 3 PM - 4:30 PM | Star City School of Ballet, Roanoke

S D I K B U L C SEVEN TICKETS BOJANGLES KIDS MEALS* KIDS CLUB BAG

$35

ORDER ONLINE OR BY PHONE

WWW.RAILYARDDAWGS.COM

540-266-7343 18

Family/December 2019

Join Clara and other cast members of Southwest Virginia Ballet’s The Nutcracker for a special tea party. Meet the cast, learn about the story, enjoy tea and treats plus photo opportunities.

December 13

Community Sing-A-Long 7:00 PM - 7:30 PM | Taubman Museum, Roanoke Come join the Roanoke Valley Children’s Choir for their 5th Annual Community Sing-A-Long. With your help, join in by singing classic holiday carols to get into the holiday spirit!

Song booklets will be handed out at the door. childrenschoir.com

Kids Christmas Sing-Along 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM | Kids Square Museum, Roanoke Kids Square invites you to join them for a Kids Christmas Sing-Along throughout the evening or play in the beautifully decorated and lit up museum all for only $3 person.

December 14 Jingle Bell Run 8:00 AM | Patrick Henry Hotel, Roanoke Get your jingle on at the MOST FUN & FESTIVE holiday fun-run around – all to battle the #1 cause of disability! The Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bell Run is the original festive race for charity.

It’s where you can strut your stuff in your favorite holiday costume and FEEL GOOD about DOING GOOD. Together, we’ll jingle all the way to a cure – and have a fantastic time every step we take! Get your jingle on and spread the Spirit of Yes: Yes to having fun and celebrating what you love. Yes to living

life to the fullest. Yes to conquering arthritis for good. 100% of your registration fee and fundraising go to a great cause! Registration is $20-$35. jbr.org/roanoke Free Movie: It’s a Wonderful Life 10 AM | Grandin Theatre, Roanoke This year, as part of our Classic Film Series will have again a free screening to the film “ “It’s A Wonderful Life” at The Historic Grandin Theatre. Bring your loved ones and friends to The Grandin and let’s start this Christmas season with a good film!

Salem Crafty Christmas 10 AM - 2 PM | Salem Farmers Market This winter holiday event will take place at the Salem Farmers Market and feature more than 40 crafters selling seasonal items, homemade items, as well as Farmers Market favorites and seasonal wreaths and greenery. salemva.gov

Children’s Holiday Festival 9 AM - 12 PM | Amazement Square Museum, Lynchburg The Children’s Holiday Festival is Amazement Square’s most magical family special event. The magic, twinkle and tradition of this holiday event bring families and friends back year after year to enjoy a pancake breakfast with Santa, holiday crafts, cookie decorating, and more! The whole family is invited to celebrate the holidays and enjoy the magic of the season! In addition to photos with Santa, a pancake breakfast, holiday crafts & cookie decorating, we are excited to unveil the Amazement Square train and will be providing rides in the Education Center. Registration is $25 for kids and $10 for adults with Membership discounts available.

AmazementSquare.org

Downtown Roanoke

Upcoming Events

27 Nov

Elmwood on Ice presented by ValleyStar Credit Union Open November 27 - February 2 - Elmwood Park

Small Business Saturday Sales

Saturday, All Day - Downtown Roanoke

6 Dec

30 Nov

The Roanoke Times Dickens of a Christmas December 6, 13, 20 - Downtown Roanoke

For details, visit DowntownRoanoke.org Family/December 2019

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the Valley: things to do something you’ll want to share with the whole family.

A definite Save-the-date for your Holiday calendar!!

Admission is $20 in advance or $25 At The Door. pulaskitheatre.com

December 31

December 14-15

December 19-22

The Nutcracker Berglund Performing Arts Theatre, Roanoke

Matilda Roanoke Children’s Theatre| Jefferson Center, Roanoke

SVB’s annual production of the Nutcracker is a Roanoke holiday tradition. Featuring a cast of 150 performers that represent over 15 dance schools from the Roanoke Valley and beyond, the ballet continues to delight audiences of all ages year after year. Admission is $15$49. svballet.org

Based on the beloved book

by Roald Dahl, Matilda is the inspiring story of an extraordinary little girl with an unbounded imagination and incredible courage.

She proves that despite the odds and possessing the strength to be yourself, you can do anything you put your mind to! This kid power production will captivate children and adults alike during the holidays.

Unlock the power inside of you! Tickets start at $22. roanokechildrenstheatre.org

December 19 Night Howls 5:30 PM | Mill Mountain Zoo, Roanoke Bundle up and bring your friends to the zoo to hear the wolves howl, the owls hoot and the big cats call!

Participants will begin the night indoors enjoying hot cider and cookies while learning about nocturnal animals and the noises they make. Guests will then proceed outdoors for a guided tour of the zoo in the dark to observe the creatures and enjoy spectacular views of the city at night. Members Admission: $9 for children and $12 for adults. NonMembers Admission: $12 for children and $15 for adults. mmzoo.org

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Family/December 2019

December 20

D.I.Y. Tacky Sweater 12:15 PM | Taubman Museum of Art, Roanoke It’s tacky sweater weather and, let’s be real, the tackier the better! In this class all you’ll need to bring is a sweater you would like to adorn with fun elements like felt, tinsel, beads, and other holiday elements! You will have time to choose your design, discuss your idea with the instructor, and then you will spend the rest of the time decorating your sweater! This is a perfect class for anyone who likes DIY, low-stress projects and is the perfect outing for families and friends to do together. Participants are welcome to bring any extra supplies they would like to use, but a wide variety of tools and design elements will be available. Cost is $12, $10 for Members.

December 21 Last Illusion: Trans-Siberian Orchestra Tribute Concert 8 PM | Pulaski Theatre Free Movie: Elf 11:59 PM | Grandin Theatre, Roanoke Come see this fun comedy on the big screen before Christmas Day!

Last Illusion - The Premier Tribute to the Trans-Siberian Orchestra makes it’s return to Pulaski Theatre with “Christmas In The Air”. Last Illusion has proven to be a popular Holiday tradition at the theatre. This magical show of music and light is

New Years at Noon Presented by Freedom First Credit Union 10 AM - 2 PM | Berglund Special Events Center, Roanoke Bounce into the new year with Roanoke Valley Family Magazine! Play games, win prizes, get your face painted, see jugglers and stilt walkers and so much more! Tickets are $10 and children 2 and under are free. Newyearsatnoon.com

January 4

Who Wants to be a Ninja Open House Noon- 3 PM | Prestige Gymnastics, Troutville Time flies when you’re having fun!

Prestige Gymnastics Academy has been in business for 8 years, and we are celebrating by kicking off our NEW program, NinjaZone!

Come out and join us for this FREE Open House! If your kiddo likes to flip off the couch, crawl under the table, and climb up the walls, they are sure to LOVE our Ninja obstacle courses and missions!

Follow and Like Us On:

the valley: kids eat free

can Re a l A me r i or N i nj a Wa r r i pen !

O w o N e s r Cou

Kids Eat Free cheap or

Every Day • Mama Maria’s 11 AM - 2 PM • 3 & under free buffet with paid adult W. Main St., Salem (540) 389-2848 • Golden Corral All Day • 3 & under free buffet with paid adult 1441 Towne Square Blvd., Roanoke (540) 563-8826 IHop 4PM-10PM • 12 & Under All Locations

launchingpadsalem.com 1300 Intervale Drive Salem VA 24153

540-404-9235

fdc 22

Family/December 2019

• Shoney’s All Day • 4 & under, free kids meal with adult entree purchase. Drink not included 2673 Lee Highway, Troutville (540) 992-6400

Monday • Country Cookin’ 4 PM - Close • 10 & under, 2 children per paid adult All Locations in Roanoke (540) 774-0199

• Famous Anthony’s 3 PM - Close • 1 child per paid adult All Locations in Roanoke, Salem, & Vinton (540) 362-1400 • Buffalo Wild Wings 4 PM - 9 PM • 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult All Locations (540) 725-9464 • El Rio Mexican Grill All Day • 10 & under, 1 child per paid adult 4208 Electric Rd., Roanoke (540) 685-4343 • Firehouse Subs All Day • 11 & under, 2 children per paid adult combo,dine in Blacksburg (540) 961-0371 • The Green Goat All Day • 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult 802 Wiley Dr. SW, Roanoke (540) 904-6091

Tuesday • Denny’s 4 PM - 10 PM • 12 & under,

1 child per paid adult All Locations Roanoke & Salem (540) 389-5074 • Macado’s 4 PM - 9 PM • 12 & under, $1 child meal per paid adult All Locations in Roanoke & Salem (540) 776-9884 • McAlister’s Deli 5 PM - Close • 2 children per paid adult 2063 Colonial Ave., Roanoke (540) 204-4407 • Town Center Tap House All Day • 12 & under, 2 children per paid adult 90 Town Center St., Daleville (540) 591-9991 • Firehouse Subs All Day • 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult Colonial Ave, Town Square & Salem only (540) 345-3131

• Pizza Hut 5 PM - Close • 10 & under, free buffet per paid adult 1016 Hershberger Rd., Roanoke (540) 362-3834 • Ruby Tuesday 5 PM - Close • 11 & under, 1 child per paid adult Electric Rd., Roanoke (540) 265-9301 • K&W All Day • 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult Hershberger Rd. Roanoke (540) 563-4977

Wednesday • Dogwood 4 PM - Close • 10 & under, per paid adult 106 E. Lee Ave., Vinton (540) 343-6549 • The Quarter All Day • 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult 19 Salem Ave., Roanoke (540) 342-2990

All Locations Roanoke, Salem, Vinton (540) 362-1400

Sunday • Pizza Den 5 PM - 8:30 PM • 10 & under free buffet per paid adult buffet and drink purchase Salem (540) 389-1111 • Local Roots 5 PM -7 PM • 5 & under eat for free, discount for ages 5-7 per paid adult 1314 Grandin Rd., Roanoke (540) 206-2610 • T.G.I.Fridays All Day • 12 & under 1 with paying adult 4869 Valley View Blvd., Roanoke (540) 362-1475

• Moe’s Southwestern Grill All Day • 1 free per paid adult All Roanoke & Blacksburg locations • Firehouse Subs All Day • 12 and Under 1 free per paid adult Keagy Road, Roanoke 540-204-4471 • Rodeo Grande All Day • 12 and Under 1 free per paid adult Valley View, Roanoke 540-206-2296 • Lew’s Restaurant SW All Day • 12 and Under 2 free per paid adult Walnut Avenue, Roanoke 540-682-5925

• Jimmy V’s Restaurant All Day • 4 & under kids meal only $2.50 3403 Brandon Ave., Roanoke (540) 345-7311

Thursday • The Roanoker 4:30 PM - Close • 10 & under, 2 children per paid adult 2522 Colonial Ave., Roanoke (540) 344-7746 • Jerry’s Family Restaurant 4 PM - Close • 6 & under, 1 child per adult meal purchase 1340 E. Washington Ave., Vinton (540) 343-4400

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23

Escape!

Escape!

Hitting up Riddle Me Roanoke with My Students

by Kimberly Emory

Y

ou may have seen the pictures from acquaintances and friends on Facebook — a group of people holding signs saying “We got out!” or “We escaped!” However, if you’re like me, you had no idea what exactly they had done — other than visited an escape room.

I decided to see for myself. Since I was looking for a reward trip for some of my classes that won a contest during the first part of the school year, I contacted Riddle Me Roanoke at Oak Grove plaza, and they readily agreed to host me, my co-teacher, and fortysome-odd teenagers in several of their rooms.

Since there were about twenty of us at a time, I divided everyone strategically into the three room options and we were each briefed by our game master.

He or she went through the backstory of the particular room we were about to enter and the objective we were to try to achieve by completing many puzzles and deciphering clues throughout the room. We had one hour to solve the puzzles and reach our objective. This was very challenging, but fortunately for us, the game masters were always watching, and when we looked at the cameras and asked for a hint one would appear on the monitor where our countdown clock was showing. When we reached our objective, the screen showed how much time was remaining and how many hints we’d used.

“We offer unlimited hints here because we want the rooms to be fun, not frustrating,” said Marty Davis, coowner of Riddle Me Roanoke.

I went into two different rooms with my students and watched the magic happen. Students were teamed with classmates, but not necessarily ones they were closest to. They jumped right in and worked together on figuring out puzzles, finding clues, and deciding when to ask for hints. I think

24

Family/December 2019

the challenge was what made it fun, and it was amazing to watch them find things and figure out what to do with them. It was a great experience for the students (only a couple of whom had ever done an escape room before) and a bonding time for us as a class, as well. The students were extremely well-behaved and most were very involved in helping the team in their room. After we broke out (only one group out of six did not successfully complete the room in the hour allotted) the game master took a group picture in each room and we all got to sign the wall for that room. I think it was a very rewarding experience for everyone — students and adults.

Riddle Me Roanoke is different than a lot of other escape rooms because they offer non-scary rooms, many designed for ages 12 and up (though for the sake of the youngest participants, it is helpful to have some adults in the room as well). They also keep the rooms private — you only play with your group, and it doesn’t include strangers. They have some more challenging rooms (including a competition room, where you are actually trying to beat the other group) for ages 16 and above only, and even one challenge that is not done in a room, but in downtown Roanoke!

If you are thinking about an out-of-thebox experience for your family, escape rooms are certainly a fun option. If you have never done one before, or have younger teens, I would highly recommend Riddle Me Roanoke. The Davis family is very professional and easy to work with, and they offer a great experience. During the holidays, when everyone is looking for gifts, especially ‘experience’ gifts, a trip to an escape room would be a great idea for a teen, coworker, or family secret Santa. With any luck, you and your own family and friends can post your own “We broke out!” pictures on social media in the near future.

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Spaghetti Squash “Latkes” Ingredients • 1 spaghetti squash, about 1 1/2 lbs, cut in half • 2 Tbsp plus 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil, divided • 1 tsp salt • 1 tsp dried oregano • 1 head garlic • 1 egg • 2 oz low-fat parmesan cheese, grated • 2 Tbsp canola oil, divided

Preparation Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.

Place the squash, cut side up, on a baking sheet. Drizzle 1 Tbsp olive oil over each side and sprinkle evenly with salt and dried oregano.

Wrap the garlic in foil drizzled with the remaining 1 tsp olive oil.

Place next to the squash on the baking sheet.

Bake 45 minutes until the squash is soft and pulls away from the sides easily, and the garlic is soft to the touch as well. Let both cool.

In a medium bowl, whisk the egg, and then add the cheese. Squeeze the soft garlic cloves into the mixture.

Grate the squash with a fork, breaking up any chunks, and add to the cheese-egg mixture, mixing well.

In a large skillet heat 1Tbsp canola oil over medium heat.

Add heaping tablespoonfuls of the squash mixture to the skillet and brown 3-4 minutes on each side. Repeat with remaining canola oil and squash mixture. Drain on paper towels and eat hot or at room temperature.

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Family/December 2019

growing up Baby // Youth // Teen

How to Teach Kids about Emotional Intelligence

by Lesley Butterfield Harrop

28

Family/December 2019

Emotional Intelligence: it’s a buzz phrase right now. You may have heard it a number of places: blogs, talk shows, the news, and documentaries.

Chick-Fil-A has even released a line of kids’ meal toys that center around building emotional intelligence for kids. But this evasive phrase is more than just a fad; it is an important skill for children and adults alike!

What is Emotional Intelligence?

Emotional intelligence is the ability to identify, be aware of, and respond to one’s own feelings and emotions and the skill of navigating interpersonal relationships with compassion and empathy. Emotional intelligence must be taught and modeled for kids. They are like sponges and will soak up these essential skills when they are shown them in everyday situations. Emotional intelligence can also enhance connection, which is a basic human need. Having connected relationships with our children gives way to authentic honesty and vulnerability, which is vital in feeling unconditionally

loved and developing empathy, along with other social skills.

Why Does Emotional Intelligence Matter?

In my work as a community nurse, I examine the area of intersection between nursing and public health, ensuring that community populations have access to education, information, various forms of care, and supportive and protective factors. I often encounter really great parents who are involved and informed in their child’s life, but they still feel like the child doesn’t freely share his or her feelings or emotions with them. They often state, “It’s like pulling teeth to get my child to open up about anything with me.”

Sometimes these kiddos may have challenging behaviors that are puzzling to their parents and problematic to those around them, as they can cause distress at home and school. I do a fair amount of parent training on how to connect with kids in order to lessen

challenging behaviors by increasing emotional intelligence. It may even seem obvious, but I can assure you that it helps any parent to have tips!

When we have open, honest, and connected relationships with our children, they are less likely to turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms as a way to handle difficult feelings. We also want them coming to us with sexually-based questions or things they may be curious about, instead of turning to pornography for answers.

What Can You Do? Create Routines That Foster Connection Have regular family dinners, hold monthly family councils, plan family game nights, and do regular checkins. Kids thrive when routines are implemented. Even better is when those routines are dependable, fun, and help them to know they have a safe and loving home with parents who are there for them.

Designate Safe Places for Processing Emotions We have a Calming Corner in our home, where we do “time-ins” instead of time-outs to manage rough emotions and challenging behaviors.

In the Calm Corner, we have a feeling wheel, an emotion faces chart, sensory items like bubbles to help encourage deep breathing, squeezy balls, mermaid sequin pillows, and coloring pages. This has been a great tool for my kids, but it did take practice and reinforcement.

Encouragement is key! This can easily be modified for toddlers all the way to teens. My preschooler uses the Calm Corner regularly; she has learned that emotions are not scary or bad. They are just feelings that need some extra attention sometimes.

Enhance One-On-One Relationships Having four children of my own, my relationship with each one is different, which is okay! Because I want each of my children to feel safe and secure in his or her relationship with me, I use a variety of tools to make sure that our trust continues to grow and develop. A favorite activity of my son’s is his Sharing Journal, which is essentially just a communication notebook we use to write notes to each other. He writes in it before he goes to bed and I’ll write a message to him while he is at school. He looks forward to these messages and some of our best

conversations have happened in his Sharing Journal.

Conversely, my daughter likes to do “Mommy Minutes” at bedtime, where we set a timer and for ten entire minutes she gets to choose what we do — no questions asked. We’ve played hide-and-seek, painted nails, read books, braided her hair, and sometimes we just sit and talk. These one-on-one activities can be simple and easy and have a BIG impact on fostering trust with your kids!

Teach and Model Ways to Cope This is probably one of the most difficult things to do. Even as adults, we can struggle with healthy ways to manage emotions. We can feel shame, anger, worry, anxiety, sadness, loneliness, and worthlessness. Our kids can and do feel these same emotions. First, it is important to teach that no emotion is bad and kids are not bad for having feelings.

Model this by being open about your own feelings with your kids. Show them how you cope with your own emotions. Tell them, “I am going for a jog, because I am feeling frustrated.”

If you have a child that frequently has outbursts, help her move through those emotions by providing safe ways for her to express what she is feeling. It is also important to not allow your child’s behaviors to affect your emotional peace or reactions.

This models for children that we are responsible for our own emotions and reactions, regardless of the actions of others.

Overall, our connection with our children can really help them to develop emotional intelligence and give them important life skills that they can rely on for health, safety, and well-being.

And that is what life is all about.

Lesley Butterfield Harrop is a community health nurse who strives to raise awareness of and implement traumainformed care across a variety of settings.

Lesley holds an RN-BSN and has over ten years of experience as a nurse in the community setting. She has published several articles related to social issues and is the content-editor at Betrayal Trauma Recovery, www.btr.org. She serves on the Board of Directors for NAMI-Virginia (National Alliance of Mental Illness) among various other leadership positions.

Family/December 2019

29

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Make Our World a Better Place 44 Random Acts of Kindness

by Pam Molnar A few years ago, on a cold December weekday, I chauffeured my children to their after-school activities. We were all tired and hungry after our final pick-up at 6:30, but I told my kids I had to stop at the grocery store. They all grumbled as we got out of the car into the windy parking lot and walked past the Salvation Army bell ringer.

He smiled at us as we passed and said “God bless you� when my son dropped a few coins in the kettle.

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Family/December 2019

On the way out of the store, he blessed us once again as we hurried by him to get to the car. Looking back at him, I told my children we had one more stop to make. Their angry protests quickly changed when I got to the Starbucks on the corner of the mall. They were confused as we purchased a gift card and returned to the grocery store. I handed the card to my oldest child and told her we were giving it to the bell ringer.

Everyone stared as my daughter got out of the car, explained our gift and got back in after a quick hug from the bell ringer. The small act not only warmed up a volunteer on a cold day, but started a random act of kindness tradition in our family.

If you have ever experienced a random act of kindness, you know what joy a simple act can produce. This month, encourage your family to spread that kindness to the people who cross your paths during the holiday season and beyond.

Make Someone’s Day Hand out a refreshing bottle of water to the mail carrier.

Let someone ahead of you in line at the store.

Compliment someone on their hair, clothes, nail polish, or new car.

Ask a friend about their day and let them vent.

Simple Enough for a Child Collect stray carts outside the grocery store and put them back in the corrals.

If you see something out of place at the store, put it back where it goes.

Send a note of appreciation to a coach, teacher, or neighbor.

Smile and say good morning to everyone you see.

Do a chore without being asked.

Bring in a neighbor’s garbage cans or mail on a cold day.

When you receive prize tickets from arcade games, give them to someone else so they can get a bigger prize.

Give up a great parking spot to the person behind you.

Send a silly e-card to a friend and let them know you are thinking of them.

Give another parent a break. Offer to babysit while they catch up on sleep or shopping.

Write a handwritten letter to an older family member.

Show them that they are worth the time.

Share a word of encouragement with a parent who has her hands full.

If you have to run out to the store on a cold or rainy day, ask your neighbor if they need something.

Pull a shy partygoer into the conversation by asking her about herself.

Buy hot cocoa for the Salvation Army bell ringers.

Tape coins to the machines at the laundromat or hand out boxes of detergent.

Place single dollar bills on items at the dollar store – the toy aisle might be the best place.

Pay for the order of the person behind you in the drive-up window, subway station, or toll booth.

Purchase a buy-one-get-one item and share it with a friend.

Share the

Leave a generous tip for a small bill.

Hand out $5 gift cards at the gas station, donut shop, or fast food restaurant.

Buy lunch for the service person or people working at your house.

Pizza goes a long way when there is more than one.

Wealth

Family/December 2019

33

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Play board games with residents at a nursing home.

Collect old towels and blankets for an animal shelter

Help someone load groceries into their car and take their cart back to the corral.

Make twice as much dinner as

your family needs and give it to a neighbor.

Give of yourself. Sign up to be an organ, bone marrow, or blood donor.

Attach coupons to items in the grocery store

Offer your seat to someone who needs it more on the bus, train, or waiting area.

Help Your Fellow Human Being Leave a used book at the dentist’s office, coffee shop, or auto repair waiting room.

Say “bless you” when a stranger sneezes.

If a store or restaurant employee has been kind or helpful, be sure to tell their boss.

If you follow a blog, leave a comment and let them know why you enjoy their blog.

Leave a package of baby wipes in a public bathroom changing area.

Clean off a dirty park bench or swing if a bird has been there.

Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three. She is blessed to have been on both the giving and receiving end of random acts of kindness.

Holiday Roads

by Grace Partin

I

n accordance with tradition, every year my family puts up a Christmas tree in our foyer a few weeks after Thanksgiving. The December weeks tend to fly by in a flurry of concerts, caroling, and cooking with little to no time to spare. Christmas tends to take up all of the month, and even some of November, despite my protests against listening to Christmas music on November 1.

In December, my family tends to get wrapped up in various tasks to ensure a perfect holiday spent. From traveling to visit relatives to running to the mall to try and secure some form of gift for each other, the Christmas season rarely gives most people relaxation. I’m no stranger to this rush, living in a house full of procrastinators — including myself. At times, it can be wonderful

to simply sit back and enjoy the wonders of the holidays. Personally, my favorite parts of the holidays are the unique traditions of each family and how much nicer people seem to be.

In my first few Christmas visits to Roanoke, I realized that Roanoke has few white Christmases. Was it really even Christmas? I was spoiled in Ohio, where in the days leading up to and after Christmas break I would play in the snow at school with my friends. Snow days were rare in Akron, and we’d attend school in our snow pants and jumpers. Christmases spent in Ohio were by far some of my most treasured memories. Every year, the Stan Hywet Hall, a massive estate located in Akron, Ohio, lavishly decorates for the Christmas season.

A few weeks before the holiday, my

parents would take us to the estate to visit Santa Claus, enjoy music, admire lights, and burn our tongues with hot chocolate. The gardens of Stan Hywet Hall would be covered with snow, and lights would hang from the old brick archways. We’d often bump into friends from school and neighbors and would chat with them in the bitter cold, trying hard to get as close to the heaters as possible. The chilly weather seemed to draw us closer as a community, and I enjoyed speaking with all of my friends. The traditions that we kept really brought my family closer, sometimes even attracting my grandparents and cousins.

I hope you have a wonderful holiday season this year, whether you plan on celebrating Chanuka, Christmas, or any other holiday!

Family/December 2019

35

Paving the Way for a Lifetime of Success:

Age Appropriate Chores and Rewards for Your Child

by Kimberly Blaker According to H. Stephen Glenn and Jane Nelsen in Raising SelfReliant Children in a Self-Indulgent World, “[a] belief in one’s personal capabilities is an essential building block for successful adulthood.” The best way for children to achieve this sense of capability is to be assigned household responsibilities. Offering children such opportunities makes them feel essential to the family unit and teaches basic skills, acceptance of responsibility, and self-discipline.

Ultimately, it leads to self-esteem and a successful, fulfilling life.

Reward or No Reward?

Whether to compensate and reward children for their work is a difficult question. Conflicting opinions are held by child specialists, which doesn’t help. But one thing is certain: experiencing self-satisfaction from work is important. Even adults receive compensation for their work. In turn, they reward themselves in many ways, from mini shopping sprees and eating out to buying recreational toys and taking expensive vacations.

So your best bet is to take a middleof-the-road approach. Assign your children some responsibilities without

36

Family/December 2019

reward, such as cleaning their rooms and taking care of personal belongings.

This can provide self-satisfaction.

But also offer an allowance or rewards for additional tasks. Children learn valuable lessons from earning, as well. They learn to budget and handle money and come to understand that hard work pays off, just as it does in the adult world. Whether your child receives a reward for a particular task or not, always praise the efforts. This helps to reinforce the intrinsic value of completing a task.

When selecting prizes, choose something your child wouldn’t receive otherwise. If you go to the park several times a week, an extra trip to the park won’t seem like much of a reward. But if you normally go only once a week, an extra visit will be more enticing.

For toddlers and preschoolers, immediate rewards are important.

Offer to go to the ice cream store or park, to play a favorite game together, to invite a friend over, or a fun sticker or favorite treat. You can also purchase prizes that come in a set, such as markers. Then offer one piece of the set for each completed task until your child has earned the complete set.

Elementary children are able to save for bigger rewards. Use a chart and

offer prizes for accumulated stars. But don’t make your child wait more than a week or so for a reward. Otherwise, the reward will lose its motivational value. Rewards for elementary-age children might include additional television or computer time, a trip to the zoo or museum, baking together, having a friend overnight, or a new magazine or Matchbox car.

Older kids are able to accumulate points for longer periods and begin to look toward long-term rewards. A teen could accumulate points for several weeks to earn a concert ticket or trip to the amusement park, a new outfit, or a special privilege such as staying out later or additional phone time.

It’s Not Too Late If your child is beyond preschool or elementary age and you haven’t offered many household responsibilities in the past, don’t despair. While it’s better to start when children are young, introducing chores may be more difficult, but it’s not too late. Make a plan today to set your child on a path toward self-reliance. You’ll both be glad you did as you watch your child reap the benefits of growing into an independent, successful young adult.

Toddlers And Preschoolers They are more capable than we realize. In these early years, children should take on household tasks.

Remember that attention span is short at this age, so keep chores brief when assigning them to little ones unless the chores are especially fun.

Elementary-Age Children

They are more coordinated and capable of performing better quality work.

Fix her breakfast Prepare microwave foods

Middle School And Beyond

Kids this age can learn nearly any task.

During the teen years, introduce new tasks periodically so your adolescent can master all skills.

Clean tubs and toilets Organize the garage, basement,

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Make juice

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Help pack lunches

Frost cakes and cookies

Warm up soup

Set the table

Set up a garage sale Clean the kitchen, refrigerator,

Clean off the dinner table

Rinse dishes

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Load the dishwasher

Empty wastebaskets

Fix dinner

Wash windows

Vacuum (with a small vacuum

Make a grocery list

Clean bathroom sinks

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Grocery shop

Fold laundry

Dust

Run his own bath

Sort dirty clothes

Do laundry and ironing

Pack her suitcase

Put clothes in drawers

Care for younger siblings (with an

Pick up toys

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adult at home)

Stack books Answer the phone

Feed and walk pets Vacuum the car

Get the mail

Take out trash cans

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37

Santa Claus vs Single Mom 3 Reasons We Focus on Meaning Over Make-Believe

by Lesley Butterfield Harrop

38

Family/December 2019

Having been a single mom for the past couple years after being married for the majority of my adult life, I have gained a new perspective on a lot of things that may seem rather ho-hoho-hum to others. Tasks as simple as hiring a home maintenance technician are all of a sudden not so simple.

New requirements have surfaced; I only allow someone I can trust in my home and the person must call ahead. Getting new brakes on my car is another example; I must go to a trustworthy garage, knowing that a single woman can seem to scream, “Overcharge me, please, because I will never suspect it.”

But it was a surprise to me when I suddenly felt . . . different about Santa Claus?!

There are many reasons for the “it’s complicated” relationship I now have with ol’ St. Nick, but don’t judge just yet, because my reasons are as simple as safety, trust, and authenticity.

Safety.

As a single mother, I live alone with my four young children. The very fact that a man dressed up in a red suit is permitted to enter unannounced into our home while we all sleep is, well, disturbing. Think I’m overreacting?

Yes, join the club. For an entire Christmas season, I tried to push away the feelings of discomfort while we decorated our artificial evergreen with hand-me-down Hallmark ornaments.

But, finally, it came upon a midnight clear, and it was evident that I could not normalize this scenario for my kids.

It may seem silly, but really, I am fully aware of my own vulnerabilities as a single mom and so it was necessary for our family in our circumstances.

Trust.

One thing that is important to me as a mother is building and enhancing the connection with my kids. I want them to feel safe and loved in our family no matter what. I did not want them to ever think I would intentionally lie to them. It stood to reason that I

had trouble purposefully perpetuating pretending over focusing on the magic of the season in ways that are based in truth, symbolism, and the true meaning of Christmas.

Authenticity.

My oldest son has autism spectrum disorder, a condition in which sometimes he has trouble distinguishing between reality and make-believe. Because of this, we aim for interactions grounded in reality and based on authenticity. That is not to say creativity and abstract thinking aren’t important — they are vital! We can instill all of these qualities in our kids while paying close attention to the specific needs of kiddos that have special needs.

But before you think I have taken all the fun out of Christmas morning, let me explain how we DO foster hope, magic, giving, and surprise during the holiday season. Unpacking Santa Claus has been a process for me and for my kids. We have really navigated this together, and that journey has been truly memorable. I don’t NOT do Santa, but I don’t DO Santa in the commercial sense either. Instead, we focus on the three areas of meaning, miracles, and magic.

Meaning.

What does Santa symbolize to us? Giftgiving, hope, magic, and wonderment, along with many other amazing things!

We’ve woven in new traditions that honor these values within our holiday celebrations. We know that the idea of Santa really means doing something for someone without letting them know it was you who did it. We look for opportunities to do this for friends, neighbors, and others within our community. We have a Secret Santa tradition in our own family that has become almost as beloved as Christmas morning itself!

Miracles.

If you are religious, focusing on the miracles of the season can be easily

incorporated into holiday celebrations with the reading of scripture or other traditions, like attending midnight mass. When I was young, my mother collected all kinds of Christmas books and would display them in our home at Christmastime. Books like Christmas Oranges, Polar Express, The Velveteen Rabbit, and The Tale of Three Trees were displayed in every room. I’ve carried this tradition on for my own kids, and it is truly full of miraculous joy! Finding and focusing on Christmas miracles can also foster hope and resiliency in kids.

Magic.

My kids know Santa as a fun, pretend character. We actively play makebelieve and engage in Christmas fantasies that involve a time-traveling Santa who must wear a flameretardant suit and is able to visit all the world’s children in just a single night! Kids love mystery and wonder.

You don’t have to take that away just because of a break-up with Santa.

When my younger kids ask about Santa, I of turn the question back to them, saying, “What do you think?”

As kids grow, this kind of magic and mystery can grow with them, instead of being stopped and stifled as soon as they find out that big secret was a sham. We have found that there is something magical about stepping into the winter wonderland of Kris Kringle, Father Christmas, and Sinterklaas.

We read all sorts of Santa stories, we explore the cultural folklore, and we honor timeless traditions that fill our hearts with warmth and joy. The magic is always there, even with a pretend Santa. And kids like presents no matter who they’re from!

Regardless of what your particular family does to celebrate the holidays, it always helps to learn about the traditions of others and to take a look at our own! When we examine why we celebrate the way we do, we can often uncover core family values that have been passed down through generations, just like the stories of St. Nick!

Family/December 2019

39

HOLIDAY TRADITION

ARTISTIC DIRECTOR: PEDRO SZALAY

The

Nutcracker BERGLUND PERFORMING ARTS THEATRE DECEMBER 14, 2019 - 2 & 7 PM DECEMBER 15, 2019 - 3 PM

U Can Dance LLC 540-915-7259 4254 Colonial Avenue Roanoke, VA 24018 info@ucandancellc.com

www.svballet.org Certificate of Recognition Presented to

For your involvement in an improvement initiative to advance the care and services provided at Carilion Clinic.

Thank you.

Star City School of Ballet

Carolyn Chrisman Senior Vice President, Quality Integration and Improvement

Join Us on Campus in 2020!

FREE Bilingual Storytime

Preschool & Kindergarten Information sessions

February 3* April 20 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. *snow date: February 10

February 27* 7:00-8:00 P.M

*Snow Date: March 5

R.S.V.P Victoria@communityschool.net or call 540-563-5036.

R.S.V.P Admissions@communityschool.net or call 540-563-5036.

Open to children ages 3-5.

Enjoy English/Spanish story time, a craft and refreshments.

Putting children at the center of the learning process since 1971. Serving students ages 3 through middle school.

COMMUNITYSCHOOL.NET

A parntership benefitting

Ready for something BIG?

Explore Park has partnered with Center in the Square to create the region's largest holiday light event.

Explore your holiday spirit through a dazzling world of over 500,000 lights. Journey at your own pace on a walking tour of displays celebrating nature, fantasy, adventure and Christmas traditions. Travel down our half-mile wooded path, and take in the sights and sounds of the season.

While you’re here, enjoy nightly marshmallow roasting or shop for artisan crafts at Explore Park’s artisan Christmas market. Choose from additional family activities on select nights. All proceeds go to support the valuable missions of Center in the Square and Explore Park.

ADVANCE TICKETS Now available online: $13 for ages 15 and up $6 for ages 2-14

Admission Rates: Participants Adult (ages 15+) Child (ages 2-14)

Advance Online $13 $6

At the Door $15 $8

Gate tickets add $4 Operating Times: 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM on select days November 29 to January 1 Regular operating Night Children's Santa Shop Open (no adults allowed!)

GROUP NIGHT: 10% Off Advance Bookings of 10 or more APPRECIATION NIGHTS 20% Discount for select groups Carriage Rides Available (extra fee applies) Cookie Decorating Edible Art Night Santa Visits

ExplorePark.org/Illuminights With generous support from:

Shields & Ginny Jarrett

TOWNE SQUARE

Your holiday shopping is made easy at Once Upin a Child where you can get up to 70% off retail prices!

Roanoke

Christiansburg

4092 Electric Rd, Roanoke, VA (540) 774-3639

360 Arbor Drive Christiansburg, VA (540) 382-5045

family.

Health // Safety // Milestones

family: health Fever phobia is fairly common among parents of young children, and even among some adults when they become sick. We worry that something serious is going on. Most often, that’s not the case.

Fever occurs when our body’s internal thermostat (an organ in the brain called the hypothalamus) shifts our body’s normal setpoint upward, indicating that something is out of balance. It can be brought on by a virus, bacterial infection, heat exhaustion, inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, teething, pain, and vaccinations, just to name a few. Symptoms may include: Chills and shivering Headache and muscle aches Sweating Dehydration Loss of appetite Weakness Irritability

Dealing with a Fever Safely & Naturally

by Dr. Dave Hamilton

44

Family/December 2019

While these symptoms are uncomfortable, be comforted knowing that fever is a natural and beneficial response of the immune system. It plays a key role in helping the body fight off infections and can even help strengthen immunity. It typically resolves on its own.

For infants, toddlers and young children, a slight fever will generally go away with attentive care and holistic therapy, as outlined above.

However, for infants younger than two months, fever should be discussed with your family doctor.

If a child is unable to hold eye contact/ seems unresponsive, has

intense neck pain, or has uncontrolled vomiting, seek emergency medical care. Adults should seek emergency care if they become confused, experience abdominal pain, have persistent vomiting, feel intense head or neck pain, or have a seizure.

Children between the ages of six months and five years might experience febrile seizures. The seizure is triggered by a rapid change in temperature. About one-third of children who have one febrile seizure will have another one, most commonly within a year. This is generally not harmful and unlikely to cause long-term damage. If a seizure occurs, loosen tight clothing and gently hold the child on the ground in a safe area to prevent injury.

“Magic” Socks at the First Signs of a Fever Typically done at night before sleep, this therapy can really boost immune function. Wet a pair of thin cotton socks and wring out well. Put wet socks on and cover with a thick pair of wool socks. Snuggle up in bed and allow the body to dry the socks through the night. This can also be done during the day as long as the person is lying down and resting until the socks have thoroughly dried.

Cold “Magic” Towel Remedy that reduces Mild Fever (99-102 degrees) Place a cold, well-wrungout towel on the abdomen and cover it with a wool blanket. Leave it in place for 20 minutes as the body warms up the towel. This will reduce temperature

by one degree or return to normal temperature if the body is ready. If fever is 102-103 degrees, this method can still be beneficial, or try the remedy below.

Spanish Mantel (or Magic Carpet) Remedy for Fever Over 103 Degrees

About the Liquid Fast When fever is over 99 degrees, the child must be on a liquid fast, drinking clear broth, homemade electrolyte replacement drinks, or water, or sucking on ice cubes. Food requires digestion, which generates heat that causes the temperature to rise. The body doesn’t use resources for digestion when fighting a fever, so either your youngster will wind up nauseated as food sits in the gut or the fever will persist much longer than if fasting.

The bottom line is that a fever is the body’s attempt to restore balance.

Since the fever is higher and the child’s discomfort is greater, a fullbody wrap is used.

Wet a sheet in cold water, wring it out well, and wrap it around the body; then, cover in a wool blanket. This will bring the fever down by two degrees, or the fever will break.

The liquid fast should continue until the temp stays below 99 for at least

540.966.3990

six hours. With very high fevers, this could take a few days. At this time, introduce homemade vegetable soup or other foods suggested to you by your holistic practitioner.

The child may lose a pound or two, but fever is gone and appetite has returned, he will regain that weight.

Seek emergency care immediately if you are unable to manage the fever, if an infant has persistently dry diapers, or if a child becomes lethargic or unresponsive. Never hesitate to get help.

The bottom line is that a fever is the body’s attempt to restore balance.

Dr. Dave Hamilton may have other suggestions and strategies for supporting the body through a fever, so be sure to check in with his office.

Schedule an appointment today at Of the Earth Wellness Natural Health to learn more about how you can prevent the cold and flu for your family.

Call 540-585-1788 or email Health@ DrDaveHamilton.com.

228 Commons Parkway Daleville, VA 24083

Bringing Award-winning

lenkortho@gmail.com www.lenkbraces.com

to SouthWest Virginia!

Smiles

Family/December 2019

45

education: science

Crystal

Snowflak es Science Experiment

Supplies:

• Add 20+ drops of food coloring if desired.

• Large, hot-water-safe container • 1 cup of boiling water

• Place the snowflake into the borax water so that it is hanging and not touching any of the sides or bottom of the container.

• Pipe cleaners • ¼ cup borax

• Let sit in a warm place overnight, and then remove it from the container to dry.

• String • Pencil or popsicle stick that is longer than the mouth of the container • Food coloring (optional)

Directions:

• Remove your snowflake to the side.

Try this:

Try experimenting with the places you leave the snowflake overnight to see if that changes the crystal shape.

If you leave your snowflake in a dark place, are the crystals bigger?

What happens if you leave it in a warmer place? Or a cooler place?

• Create a snowflake shape by twisting pipe cleaners together.

• Attach your snowflake to the pencil or popsicle stick so that it is able to hang into the container without touching the bottom or sides of the container.

46

Family/December 2019

• Boil the cup of water and transfer it to the container you are using.

• Stir in ¼ cup of borax until it all dissolves. If you are using more than 1 cup of water, add ¼ cup of borax for each cup you are using.

Share your results with us

@Roanoke.Family on Instagram

#RKESCIENCE

What’s happening?

When you heat the water and borax, you are creating a super-saturated solution. Essentially, you put more borax into the water than it could normally hold. This happens because by adding heat, the water molecules move away from one another — creating more room for the borax.

However, when the water cools, that space goes away because the water molecules move closer together. This means that all of the extra borax will fall out of the solution as the water starts to cool. When it does this, the borax needs somewhere to go. Pipe cleaners have lots of places for the borax to stick, so it grows into crystals.

Experiment provided by

Family/December 2019

47

education: books

Rachel’s Reads by: Rachel Levine

Whether we like it or not, winter will be soon upon us! Why not embrace the chilly weather coming our way and make some sweet memories? Grab a cup of hot chocolate, snuggle up with your little ones on the couch, and read some delightful snowy books together.

Make sure to brave the cold weather and swing by a Little Free Library around Roanoke to find copies of Snow

by Uri Shulevitz. Happy winter (and reading) to all!

Snow

by Cynthia Rylant All snowstorms have their own feel and personality. This poetic book celebrates snowstorms in all their wondrous variety. Is the snow coming down lightly in tiny, delicate flakes that barely leave a mark? Or are fat, white flakes swirling through the sky and leaving a thick blanket over everything they touch? Come and treasure these moments of winter beauty.

The Snowy Day

by Ezra Jack Keats

A thick blanket of snow has fallen overnight, and Peter can’t wait to explore the white, snowy world outside. Peter sets out in his deep red snowsuit, ready for adventure. He experiments with making silly tracks in the snow, knocking snow down from tall tree branches, sliding down hills, and making snowmen and snow angels. Fun is everywhere on this wintery day! Read this lovely Caldecott Award-winning tale aloud, and share in Peter’s wonder and joy.

The Big Snow

by Berta and Elmer Hader The geese are migrating south, and winter is approaching. All of the woodland animals are preparing for winter. Some animals are fattening up for hibernation, and others are building up stores of food for the long winter. When a big snow arrives, the animals that are awake have a hard time finding enough to eat, but thankfully, their human neighbors help them out. This sweet story gives families the opportunity to discuss how different animals navigate the cold weather and is also the perfect inspiration for putting out birdseed for your own bird neighbors.

48

Family/December 2019

Snow

by Uri Shulevitz Adults can be grumpy when it comes to snow. We don’t want to deal with snowy roads and school cancelations.

Kids, though — they greet snow with the full enthusiasm it deserves. In Snow, join a young boy and his dog who spot an approaching snowstorm. The grown-ups around them are in denial, but the child and his furry companion see fantastic and wondrous potential in the falling snowflakes.

Join these two friends in a merry dance of winter revelry.

Snowflake Bentley

by Jacqueline Briggs Martin Some individuals have the ability to see the world in such a new way that their viewpoint changes the perspective of the whole world. Willie Bentley was one of those people.

Willie loved snow. He made it his life’s work to photograph individual snowflakes and share their exquisiteness with humanity. Photographing snowflakes was an almost impossible task in the 1800s, and it was only through incredible perseverance that Willie was able to document the unbelievable variety of snowflakes. This marvelous biography will inspire you to look at snow with a keener eye.

Give the

Gift of Swim 540-989-0520 www.aquaticadventuresswimschool.com

Star City Little Library

Need a Book? Take a Book. Have a Book? Leave a Book.

Little Libraries are a great way to spread literacy and entertainment throughout our communities. Every month Roanoke Valley Family will restock the little libraries with great books for your whole family and we welcome your donations as well! Stop by our locations to see what surprises we have in store, and maybe leave a gently used book for someone else to enjoy.

Roanoke Ballet Theatre – 1318 Grandin Rd SW – Roanoke, VA 24015 Launching Pad – 1300 Intervale Dr – Salem, VA 24153 LewisGale Medical Center – 1900 Electric Rd – Salem, VA 24153 Amtrak Station – Downtown Roanoke Kirk Family YMCA Lower Entrance – Downtown Roanoke Roanoke Main Post Office - 419 Rutherord Avenue - Roanoke, VA 24022 Bounce Roanoke - 3424 Orange Avenue - Roanoke, VA 24012 United Way - 325 Campbell Avenue SW - Roanoke, VA 24011 Prestige Gymnastics - 2726 Lee Highway - Troutville, VA 24175 CHIP Roanoke - 1201 3rd Street SW - Roanoke, VA 24016 Family/December 2019

49

La actividad navideña más conocida de Roanoke es Dickens of a Christmas. Por tres viernes consecutivos (6, 13, y el 20 de diciembre), el centro de Roanoke se transforma a un festival de Navidad.

Empieza a las 5:30 p.m. (y a las 6 p.m. el 13 y 20 de diciembre), hay varias actividades familiares incluyendo el encendido del árbol de Navidad (el 6), un desfile navideño (el 13) y una competencia de disfraz de mascota (el 20). Habrá mucha comida a la venta, como café y chocolate caliente, postres, artesanías, y música. Cuando voy con mi familia, nunca perdemos la oportunidad de pasar al Hotel Roanoke para ver los árboles (35 o más) decorados de diferentes temas.

El Significado de la Temporada por Paola Luna DeHart Para mí, esta temporada significa comer pozole, tamales, y abrir regalos. También significa estar lejos de mi familia. Cuando uno está a 2,000 millas de su pueblo, es fácil sentirse sola. Me imagino que muchas familias Latinas de Roanoke suelen sentirse igual. Pero, el ser los únicos miembros de nuestra familia que viven en el Este de los Estados Unidos me ha dado la oportunidad de desarrollar nuevas tradiciones y conocer y crear una nueva familia aquí. Me he esforzado en buscar eventos y actividades en las que puedo llevar a mi niños para pasar tiempo juntos y fortalecer nuestra familia. Me gustaría compartirles algunas actividades del valle que han llegado a ser parte de las celebraciones navideñas de mi familia.

Primeramente, el 23 de Noviembre a las 11 a.m., por la calle de Grandin Road, tuvieron el desfile anual de Grandin Village. El desfile incluyó muchas organizaciones del valle incluyendo iglesias, grupos de baile, y escuelas. Lo más emocionante fue que Santa Claus desfila al final. A mis hijos les encanta asistir (más que nada por los dulces que regalan) y nos gusta ver y saludar a nuestros amigos que participan en el desfile. Otra actividad a la que nunca faltamos es ir a patinar en el parque Elmwood Park. Por $9 (incluye patines y la entrada a la pista de hielo), pueden patinar por el tiempo que quieran. La pista de patinaje se abre al público el 27 de noviembre, de miércoles a Sábados.

De verdad, hay más actividades pero se me esta acabando el espacio para describirlas. Por ejemplo, todas las bibliotecas del valle tienen su propia fiesta. Pero tal vez el acontecimiento más importante de esta temporada es encontrar una oportunidad de ayudar a alguien más. Al reflejar en mi niñez, no puedo recordar ningún juguete específico que recibí. Pero si puedo recordar las veces que mi familia ayudo a alguien que tenía necesidad. No tiene que ser un acto grande. Se puede preparar una comida para compartir o limpiar la nieve de la entrada de la casa de un anciano.

Aun si eres religioso o no, todos admiten que durante el mes de diciembre, todos demuestran ser un poco más bondadosos y serviciales. No pierdan la ocasión de enseñarles a sus hijos el verdadero propósito de esta temporada lo cual es de cuidarnos unos a otros. Ojalá que disfruten mucho sus fiestas, que se diviertan como familia, y encuentren una oportunidad de aligerar la carga de alguien más.

¡Felices Fiestas!

Custom shirts, awards, glassware, mugs, gifts, banners, and more!

Helping create your perfect experience.

50

Family/December 2019

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