Family & Kids Magazine January 22 by Hoo Knows

JANUARY 2022

Wise Choices for Moms & Families

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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Hoo’s helpful

Dealing With

Mom-Shaming When your toddler has a meltdown in the grocery store or your preschooler enters into a full-blown debate with you about why she does not want to leave the playground, you may find that other parents have plenty of unsolicited critiques on your management of the situation. Being ‘mom shamed’ when you are fully focused on your child’s needs is a difficult experience. Here are some ways to handle it gracefully and perhaps even discourage the person from judging you again in the future.

First, keep your emotions in check. This is especially true if your child is with you. Kids watch to see how adults react to difficult situations and you do not want to set a bad example by providing an emotional, rude response that you may regret later. Do not let the ‘mom shaming’ comment distract you from your parenting task and either ignore the comment or let the person know you do not need her input. For example, you could say ‘Thanks for the advice but it is not needed’ and then proceed with handling your toddler’s meltdown using the method that you have found works best for your child. Also, do not let ‘mom shaming’ keep you from enforcing the boundaries and limits you have set for your child. You certainly do not want to send the message to your child that boundaries are not that firm after all and having a spectacular meltdown gets her what she wants. Hopefully, a stranger offering unwanted ‘mom shaming’ comments will move along when you ignore her or offer a ‘thanks but no thanks’ comment to turn down her unsolicited advice. If the person does not get the message or is an acquaintance you must interact with again, it may be worth your time to engage with her in a brief conversation if the situation allows. Ask her why she felt she needed to step in and offer the negative comments and provide her with your view of the situation. Maybe the person did not realize you had already given your preschooler the agreed-upon ‘5-minute

warning’ before it was time to leave the playground and go to the school to pick up your older child. By sharing your view, the person may realize that she made a judgment without having all the details about the situation and refrain from offering unwanted critiques in the future. When having a conversation with the person offering the unsolicited critique, consider the possibility that you misinterpreted an attempt to help as a ‘mom shaming’ comment. This is especially true if the person is an acquaintance that you might want to approach for advice or help in the future. Let her know that the parenting technique she critiqued is what you found works best for your child, but you are open to suggestions in another area where you are still working out the best approach. ‘Mom shaming’ feels like a personal attack and can put you immediately on the defense. It can be tempting to find an opportunity in the future to throw a few negative comments back at the parent who criticized you. However, now that you know how hurtful it is to receive negative critiques on your parenting, do not inflict the same harm on someone else, even if it is clear her comments were made with hostile intent. Instead, remember that the other person may feel a need to provide harsh parenting critiques because she is insecure about her parenting style, not because there is something wrong with yours.

The Scoop!

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Win cool prizes, socialize & stay in the know!

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

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HOO’s CRAFTY

HOMEMADE

SNOWGLOBE

A simple and fun winter craft that can be used as a gift from your child or for a sensory calming tool. Courtesy of littlebinsforlittlehands.com

DIRECTIONS 1. Start by gluing your item(s) to the base provided with the snow globe

container. You will want to make sure the item is secured well and the glue is completely dry.

2. Next, fill the globe pretty much all the way with distilled water just

SUPPLIES • Snow globe containers (find in craft stores or Amazon) or use mason jar • 1/2 tsp vegetable glycerin

leaving a little bit of room at the top so you can screw on the base.

• Chunky size glitter in snow colors

3. Next, add the vegetable glycerin to the water followed by the chunky

• Hot glue or watertight adhesive

glitter or regular glitter. Screw on the base and get shaking!

TIP: Glycerin changes the thickness or viscosity of the liquid in the snow globe. The change in thickness will also slow down the glitter! Set up an experiment and test which amounts of glycerin you like best.

• Distilled water • Small waterproof toys

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Hoo’s Tips Winter House Tips

The winter months are a good opportunity to make progress on your checklist of interior home maintenance tasks. These tasks are not very time-consuming and are a good solution to feeling bored on a rainy, cold winter day.

Test GFCI Outlets

A GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlet is a type of circuit breaker that is installed in areas that are prone to getting damp. The power to the GFCI outlet is shut off at the GFCI outlet if it detects an electrical fault. Test the GFCI outlets in your home by pressing the ‘Test’ button that is found on the face of the outlet. Confirm that the power to the two plugs in the outlet is cut by plugging a small appliance into the outlet and turning it on. If it does not get any power, the safety feature on the outlet is working properly, and you can go ahead and push the ‘Reset’ button to restore power to the outlet. If the power is not cut when you push the ‘Test’ button, call a professional to repair or replace the outlet. Clean dryer vents

A dryer vent that has become blocked with lint is a fire risk. Dryer vent ducts should be cleaned at

least twice a year. To clean out the duct, shut off the gas (gas dryer) and unplug the dryer. Pull the dryer away from the wall and disconnect the duct. Next, use a brush designed to clean out dryer ducts to remove the lint from the duct and vacuum it out with a shop vacuum. If you notice damage to the duct or the duct is made of foil or plastic instead of rigid metal, it is time to have it replaced by a professional. Clean the area where the vent duct connects to the dryer. Locate the dryer vent on the exterior of your house and clean off any lint. Inspect drain hoses

Busted drain hoses can lead to extensive water damage. Inspect drain hoses for the dishwasher, clothes washer and your ice maker. Replace any hoses with leaks or cracks.

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Hoo’s Tips 2021

CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS

Tax Tips

By Angelina Espinosa,

Certified Return Tax Preparer (CRTP)

As the 2021 year ends, we’ve highlighted a few key issues to watch for in preparation of your tax return.

EDUCATION TAX BENEFITS For 2021, the tuition and fees deduction is gone, but you might benefit from the lifetime learning credit if your income is below $90,000, $180,000 if ‘married filing jointly’ (MFJ), which matches the income limitations for the American opportunity tax credit. Furthermore, COVID-19 emergency financial aid grants under the CARES Act are excluded from gross income, but qualified education expenses paid with these tax-free grants can still be used to claim an education credit. You will need your tuition statements at tax time to claim eligible expenses. There’s also a special rule for student loans discharged in 2021 through 2025.

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Visit our website to get plugged in, join our HOOsLetter list, read our online issue, and enter contests.

Ordinarily, if you choose to claim the standard deduction, you cannot deduct your charitable contributions. Good news though, if you don’t itemize deductions for 2021, you may deduct up to $300 ($600 if MFJ) on your 2021 tax return for cash contributions made to most charitable organizations. Remember to obtain an acknowledgment letter from the charity before filing your return and retain a canceled check or credit card receipt for contributions of cash.

DEPENDENT CARE CREDIT For 2021 only, the child and dependent care credit increased significantly and is fully refundable even if you have no tax liability, so don’t forget to keep track of your work-related child-care expenses. The dollar limit for eligible expenses is $8,000 for one child and $16,000 for two or more qualifying children. If your income is $125,000 or less, you get the maximum 50% credit rate. Otherwise, if your income is more than $125,000, the 50% rate decreases as your income rises. The credit becomes unavailable when your income exceeds $438,000. In addition, you may be eligible to exclude up to $10,500, $5,250 if married filing ‘single,’ of employer-provided dependent care benefits from gross income for 2021. However, you cannot use any childcare expenses paid with these tax-free benefits for the child and dependent care credit. Reference: National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP)

Wise Choices for You & Your Family HOO’s PARENTING

ust a J t i Is

? D O Or is it MO

MORE?

It is normal for kids to sometimes have days where they are moody or grumpy. Just like adults, kids get tired or feel frustrated about how the day went. However, kids may not yet have the communication skills to express how they feel, which can make it difficult for parents to understand the source of the moody behavior. A team of mental health professionals at the Mayo Clinic, led by Dr. Peter S. Jensen, recognized the challenge parents face when determining if their child’s moody behavior is normal or if it may indicate an underlying mental health disorder. The Mayo Clinic team used their research to compile a list of warning signs of mental health disorders in kids. Here are some of the warning signs of mental health disorders the researchers suggest parents should watch for: Strong feelings of fear that are overwhelming and occur for no reason. These feelings may sometimes have physical symptoms, such as a racing heart or fast breathing. These episodes of sudden intense fear may start to interfere with daily activities. Even though the episode may peak within a few minutes and then abate, your child may worry about the possibility of something triggering another episode. Out-of-control behavior that puts your child or others at risk for harm. If your child is over 8 years of age and still has intense tantrums and an inability to control his anger, there may be an underlying issue, such as ADHD, anxiety, autism, or a sensory processing disorder. Learning disabilities may also lead to strong feelings of frustration. Severe changes in mood that cause problems at school and make it difficult for your child to interact with others. Drastic changes in mood that are frequent or combined with violent, angry behavior may be a warning sign of a mental disorder such as ADHD, anxiety or bipolar disorder. Many mental disorders share the symptom of extreme mood swings but have different treatment plans.

Feeling sad and ‘down’ for two or more weeks. If your child has been feeling sad, seems to lack energy and sleeps a lot, she may be depressed. A child who is depressed may lose interest in the activities she usually enjoys, including spending time with friends. Depression can have long-term consequences on your child’s academic performance in school and her relationships with others. Early treatment can lessen the long-term impacts of depression. Attempts to harm themselves or serious talk about harming themselves. If your child talks about harming herself or others, talk with her to see if she is thinking about suicide. Talking with her about it will not make it more likely for her to try it. Instead, by listening to your child, you validate her feelings and show she can feel safe talking to you about them. Make arrangements for her to get the help she needs from a mental health professional and discuss with her why getting help is a positive step forward and is not a sign of weakness. Call 911 if you feel there is an immediate threat of your child attempting suicide. Trying to lose weight by not eating or by throwing up after eating. If you see your child engaging in abnormal eating behaviors, it is important to get her evaluated and that she receives the help she needs. Eating disorders can lead to serious health issues or even death. Alcohol and substance abuse are sometimes a result of an underlying mental health issue. Resources: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/panic-disorder-when-fear-overwhelms https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article-abstract/128/5/970/30916/Overlooked-and-UnderservedAction-Signs-for?redirectedFrom=fulltext https://childmind.org/article/11-simple-signs-a-child-may-have-a-psychiatric-disorder/

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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HOO knew?

Fun Facts: MOON l l l Did you know there is a tall mountain on the Moon? Well there is and it’s called Mons Huygens. It is nearly 3 miles (4700 meters) tall. That’s just over half the height of Mount Everest at just over 5 miles (8848 meters). l l l l l l l l l l l l l The average distance from the Moon to the Earth is 238,857 miles (384,403 kilometers). If you had to drive from the moon to the Earth at 65 mph, it would take you 3,674 hours to get there, or 153 days driving non-stop 24 hours a day. l l The temperature of the moon changes all the time and goes from -451 degrees Fahrenheit (-233 degrees Celsius) to 253 degrees Fahrenheit (123 degrees Celsius). Wow, one minute you’ll be freezing off your toes, the next minute you’ll be burning up!

The first man to make proper maps of the moon was Galileo. He didn’t invent the telescope but by 1609 he had developed a telescope that could magnify objects up to 20 times. It was with this that he started to study that awesome moon.

l l l l l l l l

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HOO’s PICKS

Highlight On Are you interested in a fun, free and rewarding date night? UGA Extension Columbus has a program for you. The prosperity of families and communities can be strongly influenced by the health and stability of a relationship. Furthermore, the welfare of Georgia’s children can be greatly enhanced when their parents develop healthy relationship skills that result in healthy and stable families.

• Strengthen your connection with each other • Develop a greater appreciation for one another • Spend more quality time together • Deal with differences in healthy ways • Build support for your relationship and family • ELEVATE the quality of your relationship

ELEVATE is eight, 90-minute sessions and a no-cost couple education program based on the seven principles described in the ‘National Extension Relationship and Marriage Education Model.’ ELEVATE blends practical skills with an understanding of the physiology of human interaction to enhance healthy relationship knowledge and skills. Grounded in bestpractices of family life education, two distinct characteristics of ELEVATE are (1) the practical strategies and tools taught and (2) the inclusion of mindfulness practice activities that help couples regulate their heart-brain response to stressful triggers.

You can choose which format works better for you. In-person workshops are available in select counties in Georgia. Virtual workshop options allow participation from the comfort of your own home. Both partners must participate.

ELEVATE provides skills for any couple, married or unmarried, that are interested in improving communication, decreasing stress, and building their relationship to be the best it can be! The objective of the Elevate program is to: • Be more intentional and focused in your relationship • Better manage stress in your life

It “Pays” to Elevate your Relationship: • The more classes you both attend, the more you receive. • Up to $160 of e-gift cards per couple for completing 8 sessions. Up to $85 in e-gift cards for each partner who participates in the research. • That’s $350 total per couple. There will be drawings for incentives throughout the sessions. So, let’s Elevate your relationship to the next level! For further information and to apply, visit ElevateCouplesGeorgia.com. ContactRESOURCES: Rhea Bentleywww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6659987/ at rbentley@uga.edu or 706-653-4200 with any

questions.

FREE and FUN educational workshops for ALL couples: • • • •

Virtual and In-person workshops available. Up to $160 in e-gift cards per couple when both partners complete the program. Up to $95 in e-gift cards for each partner who participates in the research.

Earn up to

350

per couple!

Learn great skills that take your relationship to the next level! *All adult participants must be at least 18 years of age.

Learn more and sign up with code 30901-3 Have questions? Call us at 706-821-2350

ElevateCouplesGeorgia.com Funding for this project was provided by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Grant #90ZB0010. These services are available to all eligible persons, regardless of race, gender, age, disability, or religion.

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ar’s Creating New Ye ST I C K t a h T s n io t Resolu by Kimberly Bla

ker

“The new year stands before us, like a chapter in a book, waiting to be written. We can help write that story by setting goals.” —Melody Beattie

The New Year is a great time to take

inventory, set goals, and take charge of your life. But if you’re like most, making resolutions is much easier than keeping them. Rather than focus on the idea of a new beginning, which can lead to disappointment at the first slip, keep in mind that self-improvement is an ongoing endeavor. Setbacks are not failures; they bring wisdom and insight for future success. Before making a split decision on this year’s resolutions, make a list of goals and changes you’d like to make. Then review your list, and cross off any you don’t feel genuinely devoted to. Maybe you want to resolve to spend more time with your family, quit smoking, or lose weight. You’re more likely to succeed if you feel a strong personal commitment to change rather than just ‘I should change.’ You’ll also be less committed if you are doing it to please a loved one rather than yourself.

Choose one or perhaps two of the resolutions on your list that you feel most committed to. Then choose one or two you feel confident you can do with ease. These last couple can be used as positive reinforcement for the more challenging first choices. Next, make a clear plan for adhering to your resolutions. Put each resolution in writing, and write down the steps to achieve them. Let’s say your resolution requires a routine or schedule such as an exercise routine, a new diet or steps toward completing your education. Create a goal chart, a detailed plan and a checklist to track your progress. Also, post notes in strategic places such as the refrigerator, bathroom mirror or steering wheel as reminders of your resolutions with tips on how to overcome temptation.

Make sure your family understands the importance of your resolutions. Family support and their positive reinforcement can be most helpful. If your resolution is something your family has been nagging you about, ask for their encouragement. But explain that pressure and pestering, particularly during setbacks, could undermine your resolve. Determine how each family member can help you to achieve your goal perhaps by taking on additional household chores or through affirmations of your continued success. Adjust your environment to enable success. If eating healthier is your goal, don’t fill the cupboards with junk food for other family members. Find healthy snacks they’re willing to substitute. If you’re trying to quit smoking, avoid people, places and things that remind or tempt you, at least until you have it well under control. Don’t go it alone. If you have a friend with a similar resolution, make a pact. Work together to create a plan, and then make a point to check in with each other regularly for encouragement, praise and support. If you resolve to get more exercise, do it together. Having a commitment and someone to accompany you will go a long way in helping you succeed. Finally, reward yourself, not just once you’ve achieved your goal, but periodically for your success so far. Small, periodic rewards can be motivation enough to keep you strong when you’re ready to throw in the towel. Remember, whatever New Year resolutions you choose, success awaits you if you resolve never to give up trying.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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HOO’s HEALTHY Endometriosis is a condition that can affect any woman who is of reproductive age, anytime from the occurrence of the first period until menopause. This condition occurs when the tissue that makes up the inner lining of the uterus (the endometrium) spreads outside the uterus and continues to act the same as it would during a menstrual cycle. During the monthly menstrual cycle, the endometrium thickens and prepares for pregnancy, then is broken down and passed from the body if pregnancy does not occur. In a patient with endometriosis, it is common for the endometrial tissue to spread to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, outer lining of the uterus and the bladder. It may also spread to the intestines. This tissue can cause inflammation and pain that becomes even more pronounced when the patient is having her period. The pain is often felt in the lower back, pelvis and abdomen. Other common symptoms include heavy periods, bleeding in between periods, frequent urination and diarrhea or constipation. The exact cause of endometriosis is not known, but women who have a family history of endometriosis do seem to be more at risk for developing the condition. Other factors that are associated with an increased risk of developing endometriosis include starting her period early, having heavy

W h a t is : Endometriosis or long menstrual cycles, a history of pelvic infection and low body weight. Early diagnosis and treatment are important since endometriosis is the leading cause of infertility in women. A procedure called a laparoscopy is performed to diagnose endometriosis and to find the location of the endometrial tissue growths. In some cases, the doctor will perform minor surgery to remove the endometrial tissue during this laparoscopy procedure. There is no cure for endometriosis, but it can be treated with hormone therapy, pain relief strategies, a healthy diet and, if needed, minor surgery. Physical therapy can help the pelvic muscles relax and relieve some of the pelvic pain. Make an appointment with your child’s doctor if you suspect she may be experiencing symptoms of endometriosis, even if she just recently had her first period. RESOURCES https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endometriosis/symptoms-causes/ syc-20354656 https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/teens-endometriosis

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January PROVIDED IN PARTNERSHIP

1 First of the Year Hike: East End 11 Macbeth Preview Performance. 21-22 ACE: The Eugene Bullard Loop. 10am-1:30pm. $5 park. F.D. Roosevelt State Park; 706-663-4858

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

1-3 Fantasy in Lights. 6pm. Cal-

laway Gardens, Pine Mountain; 855-923-7299

Happy Birthday Mildred L. Terry Library. Families. All Day. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

8Artful Babies. 10:30am. Colum-

bus Museum; 706-748-2562 ext 6520

8 Puppy Tales. Families. 2pm.

Columbus Public Library; 706-2432813

8 Puppy Tales. Families. 2pm.

North Columbus Library; 706-7482855

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

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

11 Artful Babies. 10:30am. Co-

lumbus Museum; 706-748-2562 ext 6520

10am-Noon. RSVP required. RiverCenter; 706-256-3612

Story. 7:30pm. Springer Opera House; 706-327-3688

meeting. 10:30am. Free. Columbus Public Library Meeting room; lllcolumbusga@gmail.com

10am. Columbus Trade Center, North Hall; fcmardigras@gmail. com

Mini Makers. 10:30am. Ages 2-4. RSVP required. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562 ext 6520

Puppy Tales. Families. 2pm. Columbus Public Library; 706-2432813

Crafts for a Cause: Crochet Hats for Valley Rescue Mission. Families. 2pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

CSO: Respighi, Barber, Berio and Ives. 7:30pm. $20-$39. RiverCenter; 706-256-3612

14 La Leche League monthly 22 Mardi Gras Pop Up Market. 15 15

15 The Great Gatsby Preview Performance. 7:30pm. $39. RiverCenter; 706-256-3612

15-16 A Superhero for All Sea-

sons. Times vary. Springer Opera House; 706-327-3688

18 Mini Makers. 10:30am. Ages 2-4. RSVP required. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562 ext 6520

18-19

Summer: The Donna Summer Musical. 7:30pm. $42$69. RiverCenter; 706-256-3612

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23-24 A Superhero for All Sea-

sons. Times vary. Springer Opera House; 706-327-3688

23 River Dragons Hockey Game. 4:30pm. Columbus Civic Center; 706-653-4460

23 ACE: The Eugene Bullard Story. 2:30pm. Springer Opera House; 706-327-3688

27 La Leche League monthly

meeting. 6:30pm. Free. North Columbus Library; lllcolumbusga@ gmail.com

21-22 River Dragons Hockey 27-28 Game. 7:30pm. Columbus Civic Center; 706-653-4460

The Pout-Pout Fish. 9:30am & 11:30AM. Call for tickets. RiverCenter; 706-256-3612

y events WITH:

27-29 ACE: The Eugene Bullard

Story. 7:30pm. Springer Opera House; 706-327-3688

Unplug…For Chess’ Sake! Families. 4:30pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

28-29 River Dragons Hockey wednesday Game. 7:30pm. Columbus Civic Center; 706-653-4460

29 Young Eagles Day at Flight-

ways Columbus. 8:30-11:30am. Free. Ages 8-17. Columbus Airport; 706-323-6565

29 Crafts for a Cause: Craft for

Valley Rescue Mission’s Women’s Shelter. Families. 2pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

30 ACE: The Eugene Bullard Sto-

ry. 2:30pm. Springer Opera House; 706-327-3688

WEEKLY EVENTS

Simple Steps Stations. Families. Preschoolers (3-5 yrs.) 10am; Babies (0-24 mo.) 11:15am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

thursday

Simple Steps Stations. 10am. Ages 0-5. Columbus Public Library; 706243-2813 Toddler Tales at Barnes & Noble. 11am. 5555 Whittlesey Blvd; 706653-7880 (Not 1/6) Sight Words Support @ Your Library: 30-minute one-on-one practice session. K-3rd grade students. Between 3-5pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

‘YA All Day.’ 6th-12th grade students. 4pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

friday

Friday Fun Day: Afterschool Hangout. K-5th grade students. 2:30pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

saturday

Toddler Time. 10am-Noon. $10. Ages 0-5. Launch Trampoline Park; 706-221-8680 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

Monday

Simple Steps Stations. 10am. Ages 0-5. Columbus Public Library; 706243-2813

tuesday

Simple Steps Stations. 10am. N. Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

2022

HOO’s INSPIRED

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

H ea lt h y Fa m il y Tra d it io n s for the N ew Y ea r The new year is a great time to implement some new, healthy traditions that create meaningful family time and lasting memories. Ditch the high-pressure New Year’s resolutions and try making these traditions a part of your family’s year! By Adrienne Greenwalt of Lean Life Health Coaching, Columbus

Family Meal Have trouble getting everyone together at the dinner table? Try to start a family tradition of having at least one meal a week together where everyone is present, no screens are allowed, and you can truly enjoy each other’s company. A meaningful family meal can just as easily be a weekend breakfast or lunch. Worried about silent meals? Try a few question games to play at the table like: “Would You Rather?” (google it for tons of question ideas) or for older kids, “Thorns and Roses,” where you each pick a good and not-so-good part of your day or week to discuss.

Cooking Another fun family tradition to add in the new year is also centered in the kitchen. Set aside one evening or afternoon per month to cook and enjoy a meal together as a family. One family member gets to choose a new recipe and you can all discover new flavors and cooking techniques while making lasting memories! Having children help out in the kitchen is a great way to encourage picky eaters to try new foods, and the tradition of spending family time together preparing a delicious, healthy meal makes for lasting memories!

Volunteer Don’t let the “season of gratitude” fade after the holidays! Your family can give back to our community by starting a monthly family volunteer or community service tradition. Have one family member choose an option for service each month; some options include a “trash walk” around your neighborhood or local park where you spend an hour together picking up litter, hosting a neigh-

borhood canned good collection to donate to Feeding the Valley Food Bank, or working together to clear out clutter from your home and donate gently used toys, shoes and clothes to Goodwill or Valley Rescue Mission. Even better? Keep a log of your monthly good deeds somewhere the kids can see it and let them track how much good your family is doing as the year goes on! This is a great way for kids to learn that little steps really can make a big difference, and that they can have a positive impact on their community and the lives of others.

Exercise If you think it’s time to increase the amount of physical activity your family gets, try starting an active and fun family tradition! Plan a day once a week or each month when the whole family gets outdoors together (leaving screens at home) to explore the local community. There are plenty of parks, walking trails and city blocks to explore, and doing it together as a family is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy each other’s company. Have a dog at home? Try out one of the local dog parks and get the whole family in on the fun! Everyone benefits from spending time outdoors and being active together as a family improves everyone’s health without making it feel like a chore. Whether it be in your kitchen, a local park, or in your neighborhood, I hope you can find some space in your new year for these healthy and fun family traditions! Adrienne is a Certified Health Coach, RN, MSN, and mom of three in Columbus. She can be reached at LeanLifeHealthCoaching.com.

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

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Dining Deals

for Kids

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

219 On The Lake

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

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

Bruster’s Ice Cream

Ruby Tuesday

McAlister’s

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

Kids under 40” get free baby cone 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

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

Your Pie

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.

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

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E E T A R S E F I D K ays

on Sund

(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

Healthy kids. Happy moms.

Quality Pediatric Care | 334.664.0463 | preferredmedgroup.com

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family EDUCATION/CARE GUIDE

Learning through physical activity & Sports

Math & Reading Tutoring & Enrichment

Ages

3-11 free academic assessment

You could reach over 15,000 moms in this space for only $65. Call 253-212-7270

Bridging The Gap for Learning and Opportunity

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com EDUCATION/CARE GUIDE

Math. Reading.

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

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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Relish the Season! We Buy and Sell Gently Used Kids’ Stuff

Locally Owned | 2521 Airport Thruway, Columbus, GA 31904 | 706.507.3737 onceuponachildcolumbusga.com Visit us on Facebook or Instagram: onceuponachildcolumbusga

HOO’s HUNGRY

DORITOS CHICKEN CASSEROLE

Skip the dinnertime fuss by putting all your ingredients in one dish, and with something the kids love, chips!

DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. 2. Spread half the crushed chips into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. 3. In a large bowl, stir together the chicken, black beans, corn, 1 cup of the cheese, Ro-tel, green chiles, cream of chicken soup, sour cream and the taco seasoning. 4. Spread the mixture evenly over the chips in pan. 5. Bake for 20 minutes. Spread remaining chips evenly over the top, then sprinkle with the remaining cheese. 6. Bake another 5 to 7 minutes or until the cheese is melted. 7. Garnish with cilantro, optional. Courtesy of dearcrissy.com

INGREDIENTS • 1 (14.5 ounce) package regular Doritos, lightly crushed • 2 ½ to 3 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded and cut into small pieces • 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained • 1 (15.25 ounce) can corn, drained • 8 oz. colby jack cheese, shredded and divided • 1-10 oz. diced tomatoes & green chiles (Ro-tel) • 1- 4 oz. can green chilies • 1- 10.75 oz can condensed cream of chicken • 8 ounces sour cream • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning • Cilantro for garnish, optional

HOO’s CUTE

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

Ella, 4 years Columbus

Tykeria, 10 years Columbus

Scarlet, 1 year Columbus

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

HEAT THINGS UP NEW ORANGE-HARISSA Chicken, Hummus & SaUCE

FREE SIDE OF SIGNATURE FRIES WITH ANY ENTREE Valid through 2/28/22. Not valid for online orders.

1228 Broadway Street, Columbus • 6516 Kitten Lake Drive, Midland

HOO’s PICKS

Highlight On Right in the heart of the Mill District Area of Columbus, Ga, sits Highland Galerie at 3110 2nd Avenue. More than an art gallery, Highland Galerie serves as a purpose-driven gallery focused on bringing art and community together, and more specifically about giving back to that same community. Not only does Highland feature an array of local Columbus artists from young and self-taught to graduates of CSU to professional artists, it intentionally contributes to nonprofit and other organizations and movements for the betterment of the community.

In addition, Highland Galerie was the host this year for the “Home is Where the Art Is” reception. “Home is Where the Art Is,” is a collaborative outreach program between the Bo Bartlett Center, SafeHouse Ministries at Rose Hill United Methodist Church and the Chattahoochee Valley Jail Ministries. The exhibition featured works from artists who attended events at SafeHouse Ministries, and the proceeds from the sales went back to the artists and to the reopening of SafeHouse Ministries, which was unable to continue its operations due to the pandemic.

Two intertwining factors led Dee Dee Tebeau, founder of Highland Galerie, to the gallery’s eventual conception and reality. She was interested in finding a way to support the community, inspired by the work of Truth Springs Academy in the same area. She also had a deep connection to the art world as her grandmother, Mary Passailaigue, was a renowned watercolorist. These two separate factors ended up bringing her to her ‘AHA! Moment’… a gallery honoring her late grandmother’s career while simultaneously supporting the work of local artists and giving back to the neighborhood. Her 25 years of interior design experience sealed the deal even further. She had both the experience and guidance necessary to help people choose special works of art for their unique tastes and homes.

Along with Highland’s philanthropic nature, it is a great place for people to gather for a variety of special workshops and offerings. There are children’s art classes, beginner and advanced adult art classes (including some encaustic work!), along with more unique offerings such as yoga and servant leadership opportunities. The gallery space is also available to rentRESOURCES: and wouldwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6659987/ be perfect for anything from a nighttime party to a small gathering, meeting or daytime luncheon. The gallery is able to host and even connect you with a caterer, security and other rental needs. You can email highlandgalerie@gmail.com to make an appointment or for more information and pricing.

The gallery offers local artists free space to show and sell their art. Each artist agrees to a portion of their sales being donated directly back into the neighborhood’s revitalization efforts. These donations, along with Highland Gallerie profits, support CSU’s Friends of Art, the Highland Housing Initiative, Truth Spring Academy and Mercy Med. Not only is Highland a great way for people in the Columbus area to support local artists, but they can feel good knowing that they are also supporting these incredible organizations in the process.

To keep up-to-date on Highland’s upcoming events and workshops, head to their website contact page and fill out the form with your email and the subject line “Subscribe me to your email list” to make sure you don’t miss anything. You can also follow their Instagram page @highlandgalerie or their Facebook page at Highland Galerie. Visit the gallery in person from 10am-3pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays or call them at 706-289-4879.

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

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