Family & Kids Magazine Feb. 2022

FEBRUARY 2022

Wise Choices for Moms & Families

CHATTAHOOCHEE VALLEY

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HOO’s PARENTING

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OVERDIAGNOSED or UNDERDIAGNOSED? Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has become one of the most commonly diagnosed mental disorders affecting children. Symptoms of ADHD include an inability to maintain focus, excessive movement and impulsive behavior. ADHD is often first diagnosed when children begin attending school and teachers notice that a student lacks the level of ability, expected for his age group, to focus and sit still.

There are three diagnosis categories for ADHD: inattentive type, hyperactive/compulsive type and a combined type - both inattentive and hyperactive symptoms. There is not a single physical test that can diagnose ADHD. Instead, information is gathered from family members and teachers, and a physical exam is performed to rule out other medical conditions such as vision and hearing issues, which could cause similar symptoms. ADHD is treated with behavioral therapy and medication. Medical research has found that a combination of therapy and medication is best for patients with moderate to severe ADHD. However, for patients under the age of six, the American Association of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends training parents in behavior management first, before medication is tried.

The possibility that ADHD is being overdiagnosed has become a much-debated topic in recent years. Some groups feel that ADHD is overdiagnosed while others hold the opinion that ADHD needs more awareness and may be underdiagnosed. In April 2021, a team of researchers from Sydney, Australia published a new review of data from 334 ADHD studies in “JAMA Network Open.” The review found that the number of ADHD diagnoses and the number of patients being treated with medication are both on the rise. The data reviewed also suggests ADHD is being overdiagnosed and overtreated in children and teens.

The research data reviewed did not specifically identify why ADHD is sometimes overdiagnosed and overtreated, but the research results do identify some possible theories: • Children who are the youngest in their class are more likely to receive a diagnosis of ADHD because they lag behind their peers in behavioral maturity. A few months can make a difference in developmental maturity in elementary, school-aged kids and therefore the behavior may be appropriate for the child’s age and not a symptom of ADHD.

• Undiagnosed conditions, such as sensory processing disorders, may be the cause of some of the ADHD-like symptoms.

• Increased awareness may cause parents and teachers to look specifically for ADHD symptoms, leading to milder cases of ADHD being diagnosed.

• Ineffective parenting strategies or a stressful school environment can worsen ADHD symptoms. The severity of the symptoms is reduced when the child is removed from the environment.

While reviewing the data, the researchers found evidence that for patients with mild ADHD symptoms, the potential harm from medication side effects may outweigh the benefits of the treatment. If your child has mild ADHD symptoms, it may be worth asking the doctor to try a therapy-only treatment before adding medication to your child’s treatment plan.

Though the 2021 review did find evidence of overdiagnosis and overtreatment of ADHD in some patients, experts point out that populations of ADHD patients exist who do not receive the recommended combination of therapy and medication. In a 2016 parent survey, the CDC found that about 23% of children received no treatment, 30% of children with ADHD received only medication and about 15% received only behavioral treatments. If your child is diagnosed with ADHD and you feel that there is a possibility your child is being either overtreated or undertreated, speak with his doctor.

RESOURCE: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ is-adhd-overdiagnosed-and-overtreated https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2778451

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The Scoop!

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Where to Find HOO? Check your local kid-friendly doctors, dentists, attractions, retail shops & restaurants; or see our interactive distro map at: familyandkidsga.com/get-a-copy

TO SUBMIT AD OR EVENT: Tammy Usie, Publisher tammy@familyandkidsga.com 253-212-7270 FamilyAndKidsGA

www.Familyandkidsga.com

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

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HOO’s HUNGRY

CUPID’S CRUNCH MIX

•

Grab the kids to help you make this festive snack mix. it’s great to serve at a party or make into gifts.

DIRECTIONS

Pop popcorn, set aside. Be sure to pick any unpopped kernels out– they aren’t fun to bite into when you don’t expect them!

INGREDIENTS

Melt the candy melts at 30 second intervals in the microwave.

Or you can do a double boiler method (it’ll take longer), stirring frequently.

• 2 bags microwave popcorn or

Toss broken pretzels and M&Ms into the bowl with popcorn.

Then pour 1/2 the melted candy over the top and combine with a rubber spatula. Spread mixture out on a sheet of wax paper.

Drizzle remaining melted candy over the top. Sprinkle the nonpareils, candy bits or sprinkles.

After the chocolate dries/firms up again, break into bits and either store in an airtight container (for about a week) or package it up into treat bags to share!

1/2- 2/3 cup kernels to pop

• 12 oz bag Wilton candy melts (used pink for this recipe) • 2 cups pretzel pieces • 1 – 1 1/2 cups M&Ms • Sprinkles, nonpareils, holiday shaped candies for decoration

Courtesy of thismamaloves.com

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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HOO’s INSPIRED

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Show ts Marriage Your Love Affection Affec Growing complacent about displaying affection isn’t unusual as a marriage is peppered with children, crises, celebrations and day-to-day routines. Nonetheless, simple expressions of love like hand-holding, hugs and kisses, and compliments are an important component to the health of a marriage and the family unit.

“Without intimacy, people can and often do begin to feel isolated, alone, bitter, depressed, used and simply uncared for,” says Amanda Deverich, a licensed marriage and family therapist. “All the happiness that was amplified by the physicality in the early part of the marriage is no longer there to grease the wheels of family life. What remains is grinding drudgery, financial stress and short tempers.”

Affection in the midst of parenthood. Many par-

ents find that affection for each other can get lost in the mind-numbing whirlwind of sleepless nights and the general challenges of new parenthood. “This is a natural phenomenon in the family life cycle as parents devote their energies to the newborn,” Deverich says.

After the initial adjustment period, nurture your relationship to avoid resentment and a sense of neglect. Such feelings can quietly chip away at the positive family dynamic that your kids rely on to feel safe and secure.

Why affection is healthy. “Couples believe affection is simply an inspired by-product of a feeling,” Deverich says. “However, it can be the other way around. Love, connectedness, and caring can be sparked by physical touch.”

While excessive public displays of intimacy can cause discomfort for those around you––including your kids––showing warmth toward one another gives children a sense of well-being, that all is well in their family unit.

“When children see this model behavior where affection is easily expressed, that is a skill set that can translate into other arenas of their life,”says psychiatrist Dr. Bela Sood. “They learn how to be kind and gentle, as well as happy with other people as they watch their own parents.”

When affection doesn’t come naturally. Not everyone was raised in affectionate homes and others simply aren’t wired to display warmth toward others, including the ones they love the most. “Understand the uniqueness and differences in the other person without being judgmental about that,” Sood says.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t work on meeting your spouse’s needs for affection. Recall what attracted the two of you in the first place.

Physical touch and tenderness toward each other can reaffirm your love and create instant connectedness. “We forget that we have control over many things that go on in our lives if we are willing to make that sacrifice,”Sood says. “And why are we willing to make that sacrifice? Because we love that person.”

Affection and intimacy won’t necessarily resolve deeper, underlying issues in a marriage. Seek marital counseling if you find your relationship at a crossroads. For more information, check out ‘The 5 Love Languages’ by Gary Chapman.

’ Ways to Rekindle that Lovin’ Feelin ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Hold hands Hug and kiss Look each other in the eyes Get involved in a hobby together Listen when your spouse talks about his or her interests Flirt with each other

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Laugh together Pen a love note and leave it on your spouse’s pillow Send a flirty text message Email a link to a sweet song to your mate Give your spouse a back rub Offer a sincere compliment

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Help each other around the house and with the kids Call each other during the day just to check in Court each other Tell your kids what you love about your spouse Say “I love you”

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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Free Museum Passes

HOO’s FUN

From Area Libraries

Looking for a fun family outing? The Chattahoochee Valley Libraries have just the thing to get you out of the house and on an adventure! Library card holders get access to free admission passes for Georgia state parks, Zoo Atlanta and multiple museums and education centers in Georgia.

by Lauren Wertz, North Columbus Public Library

GA State Parks & Historic Sites

Go Fish Education Center (Perry, GA)

William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum (Atlanta, GA)

Explore outdoors with a GA State Parks pass! Pass includes free parking for one vehicle at any state park and free admission for two to any historic site operated by GA State Parks.

Learn about Georgia’s diverse aquatic life and their habitats. Go Fish is also a great place to get tips for all things fishing! Pass provides free admission for up to 4 guests.

Zoo Atlanta

Michael C. Carlos Williams Museum

Tour the permanent exhibition, “Absence of Humanity: The Holocaust Years 1933-1945” and learn the history of the Holocaust through artifacts and stories. Pass includes free admission for up to 4 guests.

Patrons must check out the Zoo Atlanta DVD and receive the pass once it is returned. Pass includes free admission for 3 people (Children under 2 are free!). Valid Monday - Friday.

The Chattahoochee Nature Center (Roswell, GA) Connect with nature as you enjoy hiking trails, gardens, and exhibits. The CNC is the perfect place to engage nature lovers of all ages. Pass provides free admission for up to four guests.

(Atlanta, GA)

Explore art galleries and collections from Ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome! Pass includes free admission for up to 6 guests.

The Center for Puppetry Arts (Atlanta, GA) Enjoy live puppetry performances, hands-on workshops, and guided tours. Pass provides free admission for up to 4 guests.

The Macon Museum Pass provides free admission for up to 4 guests and includes access to The Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, The Tubman Museum, and The Museum of Arts and Sciences Macon.

Stop by your local library or visit cvlga.org to learn how you can get your free library card today!

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

HOO’s HEALTHY Importance of Pediatric

Clinical Trials

By Nancy McFliker, Marketing Director, IACT Health

Clinical studies are a hot topic in the news as many COVID-19 treatments and vaccines make their way to the FDA for approval. But do you know why they’re so important for all diseases?

Without clinical research studies, no new medications, treatment options, or innovations would exist.

Clinical research shows us the safety, benefits, and effectiveness of new medications and treatments compared to existing treatments.

If the results are good, they are presented to regulatory authorities, like the FDA, in order to obtain a license to market and sell the drug.

While many clinical studies seek to test out new medications and treatments for certain chronic illnesses and diseases, you don’t actually need to have a certain diagnosis to participate in research. Healthy participants provide medical researchers with crucial data that can be used for comparative analysis across multiple studies, so their participation is just as vital.

Clinical trials in children are very important because they help researchers discover the best way to treat children. Children are not just small adults – their bodies work in very different ways, and they often undergo many changes as they grow from infancy towards adolescence and adulthood. Because their bodies work differently, it’s important to create child-specific medicines and treatments instead of just modify-

ing adult doses and therapies. Thus, pediatric clinical trials are essential to develop age-specific therapies. To ensure patient safety, these trials must pass rigorous ethical evaluations and meet important standards before patients may be enrolled.

Typically, the services and diagnostic procedures involved in clinical studies are provided FREE of cost to patients. In many cases, the company conducting the research pays YOU for participating!

If you’re interested in contributing to medical advancements by participating in a clinical study, contact iACT at (706)321-0495 or visit iacthealth.com.

Some local pediatric and maternal studies: • Vaccines for Meningitis, Pneumonia and RSV • Atopic Dermatitis • Cow’s Milk Allergy • Diabetes-Type I and II

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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HOO’s CUTE

CONTEST VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO ENTER YOUR CUTIE: www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

Bryleigh, 2 years Hamilton

Samantha, 9 years Waverly Hall

Phoenix, 14 months Columbus

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HOO’s HEALTHY Benefits of Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding has many potential health benefits for both mom and baby. One important benefit is the extensive boost to the immune system that a newborn receives, beginning with the first feeding.

Newborns have immature immune systems and antibodies passed through breastmilk in the first three months give your newborn protection against bacteria and viruses you have previously been exposed to. Antibodies are a type of protein produced by the body to counteract pathogenic bacteria and viruses.

The thick, rich milk produced during the first few days after birth, called colostrum, has an especially high concentration of antibodies.

The immunity to bacteria and viruses acquired through the antibodies in breastmilk is temporary, but it provides an important health benefit during the first few weeks of a newborn’s life.

There are also important long-term immune system benefits provided by breastfeeding, including a reduced risk of developing asthma, obesity and autoimmune diseases later in life. The connection between these benefits and breastfeeding is well established by research data. Recently, researchers at the University of Birmingham were able to provide more insight into why breastfeeding provides these long-term benefits. During a three-year project, researchers analyzed data from 38 healthy mothers and their babies.

Lab samples were taken at birth and again at

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the age of three weeks. The researchers found that regulatory T cells, a type of immune cell, expand in the first three weeks of life in breastfed babies. It was found that these cells help reduce inflammation and control the baby’s immune response against maternal cells transferred in breastmilk. The number of regulatory T cells in breastfed babies at three weeks of age was twice the number found in babies exclusively fed formula. Also, the researchers found that a greater number of certain types of bacteria support the function of the regulatory T cells in the digestive system of breastfed babies.

The research study both provides additional insight into existing research showing extensive health benefits associated with breastfeeding and provides a basis for further studies on how formula can be improved to provide similar immune system benefits.

RESOURCES: HL Wood, A Acharjee, H Pearce, MN Quraishi, Powell, AE Rossiter, AD Beggs, AK Ewer, P Moss, G Toldi. Breastfeeding promotes early neonatal regulatory T cell expansion and immune tolerance of non‐inherited maternal antigens. Allergy, 2021; DOI: 10.1111/all.14736 https://healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/ breastfeeding/Pages/Breastfeeding-Benefits-Your-Babys-Immune-System.aspx sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/01/210114111912.htm

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Win cool prizes, socialize & stay in the know!

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

HOO’s PICKS

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

A Performance of the Arts for the Arts!

Enjoy an evening of the arts on February 13 with your family this month at a collaborative performance of The Youth Orchestra of Greater Columbus (YOGC), Voices of the Valley Children’s Chorus and The Columbus Ballet titled “Dreams for Change.” The show will be at Rainey-McCullers School of the Arts Theater at 4pm.

The event’s repertoire includes pieces from “Swan Lake” and music from “Schindler’s List.” Tickets are $20 and proceeds benefit the three participating local fine arts organizations. Tickets are available online through yogc.org.

“This event is going to be a wonderful celebration of the youth arts in Columbus across multiple disciplines,“ says Christopher Walton, Interim Executive Director of the YOGC. “Our collaboration isn’t simply a concert in which the audiences will enjoy three different ensembles - we’ll be performing together, to include a grand finale involving all three organizations.” Dr. Michelle Folta, Artistic Director of the Voices of the Valley Children’s Chorus, encourages Chattahoochee Valley residents to attend, saying, “You will not regret supporting these young artists for this amazing event.”

Here is an overview of the three fine arts organizations taking part in the fundraising event and audition information for Columbus area youth interested in joining them.

Youth Orchestra of Greater Columbus

The Youth Orchestra of Greater Columbus seeks to provide an opportunity for young instrumentalists to have a high-quality musical experience in an orchestral setting and to foster the discipline necessary to be successful in music. The organization strives to instill a sense of the value music has in every aspect of life. Auditions are held once a year during the summer. String students who have one year of experience playing in a school orchestra or a year of private lessons are eligible to audition for the String Orchestra. Auditions for the Symphony Orchestra are open to wind, brass, percussion and string players who have at least a year of playing experience in a band or orchestra and can play at a high school level. The specific audition requirements are listed at yogc.org. The rehearsals for both ensembles are once a week on Monday nights at the Schwob School of Music.

Voices of the Valley Children’s Chorus

The Voices of the Valley Children’s Chorus strives to inspire young singers to become lifelong learners of music through choral experience and community engagement. Auditions for new members take place in May, August, December and January. There are three ensembles: Prima Voice (a beginner chorus of boys and girls ages 9 and up), Bella Voice (intermediate level for boys and girls ages 9-16) and Solo Voice (a select auditioned group). New members are placed by ability, not age group. More audition specifics are available at voicesofthevalleychorus.org.

Practice is on Monday evenings with an additional Thursday practice once a month for the Bella and Sola Voice ensembles.

The Columbus Ballet

The mission of the Columbus State University Youth Dance Conservatory (YDC) is to prepare students for futures as dancers, engaged citizens, audience members and responsible young men and women. This organization is the official dance school of The Columbus Ballet. The Columbus Ballet strives to provide a distinctive dance experience through a diverse curriculum and a seasonal program that promotes art, education and culture. Audition requirements for The Columbus Ballet are dependent on the production. Dancers in the community ages 7 and up can audition for The Columbus Ballet’s seasonal Nutcracker production. The company dancers of The Columbus Ballet are in the uppermost level of the YDC and make a commitment to perform in additional events outside the normal seasonal productions of The Columbus Ballet.

To register for classes, visit https://columbus.augusoft.net.

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Februar PROVIDED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:

1 Imaginative Images: Music Under 10 Sip & Shop. 5-8pm. $10. Colum- 13 the Dome. 5pm. $8. CCSSC.org or 706649-1477

bus Trade Center; 706-327-4522

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4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2811

Columbus Rapids Indoor Soccer Game. 5:30pm. Columbus Civic Center; 706-653-4460

Artful Babies. 10:30am. RSVP required. Columbus Museum; 706748-2562

River Dragons Hockey Game. 7:30pm. Columbus Civic Center; 706-653-4460

required. Columbus Museum; 706748-2562

7:30pm. $5-$15. Family Theatre; 706431-3752

2pm. North Columbus Library; 706748-2855

required. Columbus Museum; 706748-2562

3 1st Thursday Crafternoons. Teens.

5

11-12

5 Artful Babies. 10:30am. RSVP 11-12 Dear Anne, From Nina.

5 STEAM Saturday: Family Saturday. 12 Mini Makers. 10:30am. RSVP 5

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“Dreams for Change” Benefit Concert. 4pm. $20. Rainey-McCullers School of the Arts Theatre; yogc.org

15 Mini Makers. 10:30am. RSVP required. Columbus Museum; 706748-2562

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Columbus Rapids Indoor Soccer Game. 5:30pm. Columbus Civic Center; 706-653-4460

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Dear Anne, From Nina.

7:30pm. $5-$15. Family Theatre; 706431-3752

18-20 Look Forward: The Ruby Bridges Story. Times vary. Springer Opera House; 706-327-3688

Puppy Tales. Families. 2pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

Crafts for a Cause. Families. 2pm.

North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

19 Presidential Flyer. 10am. $30-

Parent & Child Workshop.

2-3:30pm. Ages 5-10. RSVP required.

Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562

lumbus Library; 706-243-2813

19 STEAM Family Saturday. 2pm. N.

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Teen Advisory Group (T.A.G.) Meeting. Teens. 5:30pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

8 Black History Month Trivia. Teens.

6pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706243-2782

9 MOPS of Midland/Columbus. 9:30-

11:30am. Church on the Trail; 706221-8668

10 National Umbrella Day. Fami-

lies. 4:30pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

12 Puppy Tales. Families. 2pm. Co12 Hearts & History Mini Camp.

2-6pm. $10. Ages 5-11. National Infantry Museum; 706-685-2614

12 Uno, Dos, Tres, Craft!. Ages 4-8.

3pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706243-2782

12 Valentine’s Day Dinner Train.

6pm. $15-$110. Sam Shortline; 877-GA-RAILS

12 CSO: Serenade! 7:30pm. RiverCenter; csoga.org or 706-256-3612

13 River Dragons Hockey Game.

1pm. Columbus Civic Center; 706-6534460

$90. Sam Shortline; 877-GA-RAILS Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

19 Schwob School of Music: Kaleidoscope. 7:30pm. RiverCenter; 706256-3612

19-20 Columbus Rapids Indoor Soccer Game. 3:30pm. Columbus Civic Center; 706-653-4460

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Dear Anne, From Nina. 2:30pm. $5-$15. Family Theatre; 706-4313752

22 Academy of St Martin in the Fields with Joshua Bell. 7:30pm. RiverCenter; 706-256-3612

ry Events 23 MOPS of Midland/Columbus.

9:30-11:30am. Church on the Trail; 706-221-8668

25-26

Dear Anne, From Nina.

7:30pm. $5-$15. Family Theatre; 706431-3752

25-27

The Color Purple. Times vary. Springer Opera House; 706-3273688

25-27

Look Forward: The Ruby Bridges Story. Times vary. Springer Opera House; 706-327-3688

26Young

Eagles Day. 8:3011:30am. Ages 8-17. RSVP required.

Columbus Metro Airport; youngeaglesday.org or 706-323-6565

26 Presidential Flyer. 10am. $30$90. Sam Shortline; 877-GA-RAILS

Weekly Events MONDAY

Simple Steps Stations. 10am. Ages 0-5. Columbus Public Library; 706243-2813 (Not 2/21)

TUESDAY

Simple Steps Stations. 10am. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855 Unplug…For Chess’ Sake! Families.

4:30pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706243-2782 Discovery Hub. 10am. Columbus Public Library; 706-243-2813 (Not 2/1)

26 February Family Fun Festival. WEDNESDAY 10am. RSVP required. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562

26Crafts for a Cause. Families. 2pm.

N. Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

26 Puppy Tales. Families. 2pm. Columbus Public Library; 706-243-2813

27 Columbus Toy & Comic Book Show. 11am-4pm. $6. Coca-Cola Space Science Center; 706-649-1477

Simple Steps Stations. Families.

Preschoolers (3-5 yrs.) 10am; Babies (0-24 mo.) 11:15am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782 Kawaii Club. Middle grade learners.

4pm. Columbus Public Library; 706243-2813

THURSDAY

Toddler Tales. 10am. Barnes & Noble, 5555 Whittlesey Blvd; 706-653-7880 Simple Steps Stations. 10am. Ages 0-5yrs. Columbus Public Library; 706243-2813

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LENA Start Class. Noon. Ages 0-36mths. RSVP Required. BigDreamsGA.org or 706-321-6322 (Not 2/ 3) YA All Day. 6th-12th grade students.

4pm. North Columbus Library; 706748-2855 Origami Afternoons. Middle-grade learners. 4pm. Columbus Public Library; 706-243-2813

FRIDAY

YA All Day. Teens. 4pm. Columbus Public Library; 706-243-2811. 2:30pm.

North Columbus Library; 706-7482855 Friday Fun Day: Afterschool Hangout.

K-5th grade students. 2:30pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

SATURDAY

Eye Spy Scavenger Hunt. 8am-4pm. $5 parking. FD Roosevelt State Park; 706-663-4858 Toddler Time. 10am-Noon. Launch Trampoline Park; launchcolumbus. com Please call ahead to confirm event dates, times and age appropriateness, in case changes were made after the info was obtained. For more events, visit our website at: familyandkidsga.com

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HOO’s Fun

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

HOW TO:

IDS K r u o y e Mak Your

VALENTINE

Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples in the heady throes of young love. Deliver sweet somethings to the littlest loves in your life. Here are several ideas to inspire you.

Hunt for Cupid’s treasure. Challenge your kids to a scavenger hunt. Give them clues on a trail of paper hearts or cupid cut-outs. One clue leads to the next until they find a Valentine’s Day surprise. You can search online for great clue ideas.

Attack them with hearts.

On each of the thirteen days leading up to Valentine’s Day, post a heart-shaped note on your kids’ doors after they go to bed with an admired trait of theirs or ways they are kind to others, and by the 14th their door will be festive and full of love!

Send a singing telegram. Video yourself

singing a fun little ditty that will tickle your kid’s heart or make them laugh when you share it with them. Or if you want to really blow their minds, make a TikTok – or better yet, create one together!

Play the Queen of Hearts. Ace V-Day by sending love notes in a pack of red playing cards. Punch holes in the corner of each card. On paper squares, write down 52 reasons why you love or appreciate him. Paste each sentiment in the middle of a playing card. Title the deck “I love you because...” and paste it on the top card. Attach the cards with a c-clip.

Cook a sweet treat together. Get them in the kitchen for some cooking. You can make heart-shaped cinnamon rolls by rolling the cinnamon roll dough from both sides to meet in the middle forming a heart shape. Slice and bake. Or you can make one of our favorites, ‘Cupid Crunch.’ (See recipe on page 5.)

Toy with chemistry.

Put candy conversation hearts to the test.

Gather vinegar, salt water, tap water and bleach (with adult guidance). Place a candy heart in four bowls. Ask your child to hypothesize about what will happen when each liquid is dropped over the candy. Using an eye dropper, test her theory and then discuss.

Get those hearts pumping. Using a poster board, make a grid of nine different exercises (sit-ups, somersaults, jumping jacks, pushups, etc). Players take turns tossing a beanbag (or other item) onto the grid. Then they roll the dice to see how many times they have to do the exercise that their beanbag landed on.

Create a Sweet Tweets jar. Decorate a

mason jar for your child. On slips of paper, write adjectives or short sentences that describe traits you most appreciate, admire and love about him or her, and attach them to each piece of candy.

Schedule one-on-one time. Plan a special outing with your child so you can shower them with your full focus. Some COVID-safe options might be: laying on a blanket at night to stargaze; hiking a new trail; camping in your own backyard; having a movie night with their favorite movie and treats; or even just playing video games together.

Make a craft for or with them. Crafting

is always a fun activity to do with the kids. Set aside time with them to make some Valentine’s decorations, or gifts to give to others. One that we recommend is a ‘Heart-Shaped Bird Seed Treat.’ (Instructions are found on page 22.)

Have a Fancy Dinner. Even if you are just serving mac and cheese, invite them to a dinner date. Everyone dress up, use the fancy dishes, decorate the table and add some candlelight for a special meal with the little loved ones.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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Dining Deals

for Kids

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With deals this good, save the mess and dine out!

MONDAY

Saturday

Barberitos

Denny’s

Free kid’s meal with adult entrée after 4pm

Sapo’s

5-8pm: Free kid’s meal with adult entrée

Zaxby’s

5-8pm: Free kid’s meal with adult entrée

Tuesday

4-10pm: Up to two free kids entrées with adult entrée for kids 10 and under

sunday The Simple Greek

Kids 12 & under get half-off kids bowl with purchase of regular size bowl. Not to be combined

Chicken Salad Chick

MOE’s Southwest Grill

Free Little Chick Meal with purchase of adult meal

Free kid’s meal with purchase of adult entrée

Denny’s

Every day

4-10pm: Up to two free kids entrées with adult entrée for kids 10 and under

Jason’s Deli

5-9pm: Free kid’s meal for kids 12 and under with each adult entrée; dine-in only

Ruby Tuesday

5-10pm: Kids 12 and under eat free with adult entrée

219 On The Lake

5-9pm: Kids eat for $2.19 on kids menu (M-TH)

Bruster’s Ice Cream

Kids under 40” get free baby cone

McAlister’s

Kid’s meals are $1.99 with dine-in order

Wednesday

Newk’s

Applebee’s

O’Charley’s

Half off kid’s meal per adult entrée. Limit: 4 kids to adult

Your Pie

4pm-close: free kid’s meal with adult meal (M-W) Free kid’s meal per adult entrée for kids 10 & under

Kid’s meal $1.99 (pizza, drink & gelato) w/ adult meal

Red Robin

Kid’s meal $1.99 w/ adult meal for kids 11 and under

All locations are Columbus, GA unless noted. Specials are subject to change without notice, so please verify them directly before dining. Send kids deals to Tammy@FamilyAndKidsGA.com.

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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HOO’s CRAFTY

HOMEMADE BIRD FEEDER Show some love to your feathered friends and they will reward you with their “presence” or the kids can use as “presents” for their loved ones.

DIRECTIONS 1. Line a piece of wax paper onto a cookie sheet.

2. Mix bird seed, oatmeal, peanut butter and corn syrup into bowl.

SUPPLIES • 1 c. wild bird seed • 1/3 c. oatmeal

3. Pour two packets of gelatin into a 1/2 cup of boiling water. Stir until dissolved. Stir in bird seed mix. (Add more seeds if mix seems too watery.)

• 1/8 c. peanut butter

4. Spray cooking spray inside cookie cutter and place on wax paper.

• 2 envelopes gelatin

5. Pack the bird seed mixture into the cookie cutter about halfway.

• 1/2 c. water

6. Use straw pieces to punch a hanging hole in the mix for the twine.

• Wax paper

7. Carefully lift the cookie cutter and repeat until mixture is used up.

8. Refrigerate overnight.

9.. Hang your treat in a tree for your feathered friends.

10. Store extra bird treats in a dry, cool place to avoid mold.

• 2 tbsp. corn syrup

• Heart-shaped cookie cutter • Non-stick cooking spray • Natural twine or string • Plastic straws cut 2” high

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

HOO’s HEALTHY Mumps is a viral infection that causes swelling in the salivary glands, which are located near the ears. In some cases, this infection can lead to potentially serious complications. Due to routine vaccinations, mumps is not very common in the United States, but in recent years, outbreaks have occurred, mostly in people who are unvaccinated against the mumps virus.

Mumps is transmitted through direct contact with saliva or by airborne droplets of saliva.

In some cases, a person infected with mumps is asymptomatic (shows no symptoms). If a patient with mumps does show symptoms, they will typically appear two or three weeks after exposure to the mumps virus. Signs and symptoms include the characteristic swelling of the salivary glands that causes the cheeks to puff out, fever, headache, fatigue, pain when chewing or swallowing and muscle aches. Someone with mumps is very contagious for about nine days after symptoms appear.

If you think that you or your child may have mumps, make an appointment to see the doctor. There are treatable conditions, such as a blockage in the salivary glands, that cause mumpslike symptoms and need to be ruled out. When making the

WMhat is: UMPS appointment, let the doctor’s office know about the possible mumps infection so that precautions are taken to avoid exposing other patients. There is not a specific treatment for mumps, and it can take about two weeks to recover from a mumps infection.

Someone who has mumps should get plenty of rest. Use ice packs to soothe swollen salivary glands. Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen, can be used to reduce fever.

Complications due to a mumps infection are uncommon but can have serious consequences. They include inflammation of the tissue covering the brain and spinal cord, deafness, pancreatitis, encephalitis and inflammation of the testicles or the ovaries. The best way to prevent mumps and potentially serious complications is to receive an MMR vaccine. Check with the doctor to see if you or your child is vaccinated against mumps.

RESOURCES: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mumps/symptoms-causes/ syc-20375361 https://www.cdc.gov/mumps/index.html

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family EDUCATION/CARE GUIDE

Point your phone camera here to learn more:

Learn through Physical Activity Physically active lessons have been shown to improve reading, math, and spelling Sign Up Now for Our K-5 After School Program Enroll your child now for our math or reading tutoring sessions!

Our after school program includes tutoring in math and reading!

We pick up from the following schools: Allen, Britt

David, Gentian, Hannan, Johnson, Reese Rd, and Rigdon Rd

Bridging The Gap for Learning and Opportunity

www.BTGLEARNING.COM (762) 208-5048 3709 Gentian Blvd, Suite 7, Columbus, GA 31907

You could reach over 15,000 moms in this space for only $65.

Call 253-212-7270

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com EDUCATION/CARE GUIDE

Math. Reading.

Confidence.

Kumon Math & Reading of Columbus - North 1290 Double Churches Rd., Ste. K Columbus, GA 31904

706.257.6963 kumon.com/columbus-north ©2014 Kumon North America

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

on Sundays

(AKA YOU DON’T HAVE TO COOK)

5555 Whittlesey Blvd • Columbus, GA 6516 Kitten Lake Dr • Midland, GA *One free kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult entrée of $6 or more. Kids must be 12 and under. Cannot be combined with any other offer.

©2021 Moe’s Franchisor SPV LLC-550344

KIDS EAT FREE

*

HOO’s Fun

Oh Sweet Valentine

FOR MORE HIDDEN PICTURE PUZZLE FUN, VISIT: WWW.HIDDENPICTUREPUZZLES.COM

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family HOO’s HEALTHY

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Taylor, PT, DPT egan , Cert N and M . DN , D . t r Adv T, Ce P ance D , T dR ,n P

Quick Guide to Concussions

us, GA umb Col

By: Jas

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How Physical Therapy Can Help

Concussions are considered a mild traumatic brain injury and is caused by a blow to the head with or without loss of consciousness.

Most commonly, concussions are sustained from sporting events, although, other mechanisms of injury include car accidents and falls. Concussion prevalence varies per sport, but once one concussion is sustained, that particular individual has an increased chance of sustaining another. Common signs of a concussion include nausea, vomiting, headache and dizziness. Other symptoms that are less common include anxiety, depression and neck stiffness/pain. It may be hard to decipher these symptoms amongst youth and young teens, and if not addressed, can start to impact their daily activities. With research in the medical field continually evolving, there have been safety measures and treatment approaches put in place to help individuals recover and return to their full, prior-level of function once a concussion is sustained.

Physical Therapy plays a vital role in concussion recovery, especially when early intervention occurs. A physical therapist can perform in-depth testing to include visual testing, balance testing, vestibular testing and a thorough examination of the neck.

Visual Testing: includes assessing for double vision, difficulty focusing and visual tracking.

Balance Testing: focuses on stability while standing on stable and unstable surfaces and examines a patient’s balance when stationary or on the move.

Treatment plan:

Physical Therapists are able to create an appropriate treatment plan for each individual based off the findings of their assessment. Based off symptom severity and rate of recovery, an individual can work with a Physical

Therapist for several weeks. During that time, treatment will be fine-tuned and progressed as appropriate so all patient goals are achieved and to ensure the individual has returned to their prior level of function to include return to sports.

Pre-Injury to Full Recovery Process: • Education and baseline testing at school. This is typically done before the season starts with Athletic Trainers.

• When a concussion is suspected, they should be immediately removed from play/activity and a sideline assessment should be done.

• They should be referred to a physician within 24–72 hours.

• They will be referred to a Physical Therapist for vestibular, balance, musculoskeletal and/or endurance screening from the physician.

• Post-concussion rehabilitation will be necessary if their symptoms are limiting them from full recovery.

• They will be considered symptom-free when: no symptoms at rest, no symptoms with cognitive or physical exertion, postinjury testing is normal and have no vestibular symptoms.

• A physician will clear them for‘return to play’with no recurrence of symptoms and their neuropsych test is at baseline or better.

If you suspect that someone has sustained a concussion it is highly encouraged to seek medical care immediately. Initially, it is ideal to rest, limit screen time and to have a bland but healthy diet rich in omega 3’s. These activity limitations should not exceed 1-3 days.

Resting for 4+ days can lead to longer resolution of symptoms and to more post-concussive symptoms.

Advance Rehabilitation Columbus’s physical therapists are specialized in the treatment of concussions and a variety of other neurological disorders. If you would like more information on treatment of concussions, call them at 706-507-3794.

RESOURCES: Concussion Management by Upstream Rehab Institute. 2019.

Kontos PHD, A., Sufrinko , A., Sandel , N., Emami , K., & Collins , M. (2019). Sport-related Concussion Clinical Profiles: Clinical Characteristics, Targeted Treatments, and Preliminary Evidence. American College of Sports Medicine , 82–89.

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

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WWW.ADVANCEREHAB.COM

Visit Us At Our Columbus Location 2045 Centre Stone Ct, Suite B Phone (706) 507-3794 Fax (706) 507-3681

PHYSICAL AND OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY SERVICES

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

WAXING • CUSTOMIZABLE FACIALS • CHEMICAL PEELS • DERMAPLANING • BOTOX • FILLER • SKINCARE • WEIGHT LOSS

All Neocutis Skin Care 10% OFF Xeomin $12/Unit

Love Your Lips This Valentines Day

706.221.9665

Lip Filler $750/Syringe Vampire Facial $650/session

6100 Veterans Parkway, Suite 2 | GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE!

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

WE CAN’T WAIT TO MEET YOU! SATU R DAY S 4P M | 6P M & S UNDAYS 9 A M | 1 1 A M W W W. C A S C A D EH I LLS . C O M

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A healthier ColumbUS. with high quality healthcare that’s close to home to help you live the life you want.

From annual exams and immunizations to chronic disease management and pre and postnatal care, we’re here to help you get and stay healthy to take advantage of all life’s possibilities. What’s yours?

To find a doctor call 800.424.DOCS (3627) or visit online at MyStFrancis.com