GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP GOOD parent edition
By Linda Ligon, Family & Kids
It is exciting to see your child explore playing a sport. Whether your child has a strong interest or is just trying the sport to see if it is something she enjoys, she will need your support. As you start the season, keep in mind that taking the right approach to being a sports parent can help your child enjoy the new season and use it as an experience to learn and grow.
BE A GOOD ROLE MODEL
• When on the sidelines, always show respect for the coaches, officials, other parents and the athletes. Remember that the officials are human and sometimes make mistakes. Never approach the field to confront the officials and do not yell at them.
• Show support for the sporting organization by offering to be a parent volunteer.
• Remember that it is not your job to reign in parents who are behaving unacceptably. Notify the proper authority in the sports organization or, if necessary, law enforcement, to resolve an issue with unruly, belligerent parents. Confronting an unruly parent directly will just escalate the situation. Avoiding direct confrontation when someone is acting unruly, teaches your child to let the officials handle unacceptable behavior and to not get involved.
TRUST THE COACH’S STRATEGY
Never yell at the coach during the game. There is usually a reason behind the decision made by the coach. The coach needs to be able to do his job without the distraction of constant critique of his strategy. Some types of high-level questions that concern your child, such as those about playing time, are legitimate questions. However, save these for a face-to-face meeting with the coach away from the field. Concerns about bullying or harassment by other players should also be left to a private meeting with the
coach. Tips for a successful meeting include:
• Schedule the meeting for a time that is convenient for both of you.
• Include your child if appropriate, such as if she is old enough to start advocating for herself.
• Act in a professional, respectful manner.
• If your question involves playing time, ask what your child needs to do to improve and be eligible for more playing time.
When it comes to strategy, consider the coach’s decision final and respect it, even if you do not agree. If the coach’s style is not a good match for your child, encourage your child to just do her best this season and consider requesting a different coach next season. However, if a serious issue such as bullying or abuse by other players is not addressed after a meeting with the coach, seek intervention by escalating the issue to higher authorities in the sporting organization. One note: If you suspect your child is being abused by the coach, pull your child from the team and report the incident immediately to the proper authorities in the sporting organization and law enforcement.
DON’T MAKE IT STRESSFUL
Yelling instructions at children or critiquing their performance right after a game only makes the sport seem stressful and unpleasant. Unrealistic goals add pressure and make the experience one that your child will not want to repeat.
• Don’t compare your child to another athlete.
• Remember that your child’s performance on the field is not a reflection on you as a person and that your child does not have to be the star of the team.
• Your goal is to relax, enjoy and to encourage your child to have fun learning and taking part in the new sport.
BY LINDA LIGON, FAMILY & KIDS
An Inside Look ColumbuS riverwaLK
Construction of the Chattahoochee Riverwalk began in 1989. The first part of the Riverwalk was completed on Columbus Day in 1992. Did you know that the city of Columbus was named after Christopher Columbus? Take a look around the Riverwalk for the iconic statue of Christopher Columbus that displays him at different times in his life. Enjoy “The Spirit of the Chattahoochee,” a 6,000-square-foot mural located on the riverbank’s three-tiered retaining wall below the Synovus Center near Woodruff Park. This privately funded work of art features species that are part of the river’s diverse ecosystem as well as elements from the city’s past, such as a riverboat and mill smokestack.
The Riverwalk runs 22 miles, stretching from Fort Moore to Lake Oliver, displaying scenic views of the Chattahoochee River. Hiking, cycling and fishing are common activities visitors can enjoy along the trail. The Dragonfly Trail System connects with the Riverwalk, providing a family-friendly path from neighborhoods in Columbus to the Riverwalk. The Dragonfly trail system also connects with the Fall Line Trace ‘rails’ to trails’ paved trail that extends into north Columbus. Bikes for an excursion on the extensive trail systems in Columbus can be rented at Ride on Bikes, a bicycle shop located on Broadway in Uptown Columbus.
While you are biking or walking the Riverwalk, there are several other attractions for your family to enjoy. The kids will enjoy the playground, the splash pad and watching rafters shoot the rapids on the Chattahoochee River. If you are feeling adventurous, try the Blue Heron Zip Line or a whitewater rafting trip through the longest urban whitewater course in the world. Geocachers can take on the RiverWalk GeoTour, the first of its kind in the world, with thirty-one challenging geocaches with collector game pieces, including three coins.
The Riverwalk connects many historic sites in Columbus. Along the Riverwalk, one can see the previous home of the inventor of Coca-Cola, pharmacist John Stith Pemberton. Another spot is the Golden Park baseball stadium. It first began hosting games in 1926! Did you know that Golden Park Stadium was used in the 1996 Olympics? Golden Park is currently undergoing renovations in preparation for the move of the Atlanta Braves Double-A Club to Columbus in 2025. This move will return professional baseball to Columbus.
Be sure to stop at Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center. Home to alligators, snakes, fish and turtles, this education center offers programming for little learners, including field trips, birthday parties and special events. The National Civil War Naval Museum, which tells the history of the navies of the Civil War, and the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center are also historical points along the Riverwalk.
If you decide to explore the bank of the river, fish or go for a swim, ensure you and everyone with you are wearing a properly fitting personal flotation device (PFD). Actively supervise kids when they are near or in the water and do not underestimate the dangers, such as strong currents, rapids and rocks. Swimming in a river is much different than swimming in a pool. Even an adult swimmer with a PFD can struggle to swim through the rapids and obstacles.
When the Columbus area receives a large amount of rainfall in a short amount of time, the Chattahoochee River can rise quickly and flood the Riverwalk. However, the Riverwalk was intentionally designed to withstand flooding and to help with flood mitigation. This usually occurs a few times a year. When it does, do not approach flooded areas and avoid the Riverwalk if instructed to do so by city officials.
By Linda Ligon, Family & Kids
The transition from infancy to toddlerhood brings some big changes and sometimes can lead to a sudden stretch of challenging behavior. Here are some tips on how to weather the sometimes extreme behavior of toddlerhood.
Your toddler has been going to daycare for months but one morning suddenly screams and will not let go of you at drop-off time. At around 15 to 18 months, your toddler may have increased separation anxiety. Your toddler has developed an awareness that he is a separate person from you and that when you leave him with his caregiver, you are gone, not just in the other room. Create a quick, consistent and caring goodbye routine to help ease the daily transition. Do not linger the goodbye or go back to ‘check on’ your toddler. Your toddler suddenly hates taking a bath. Your toddler, up until now, loved time in the tub but is suddenly terrified. Some toddlers develop a sensory issue after an unpleasant experience in
the tub, such as shampoo getting in their eyes, while others suddenly develop an irrational phobia, such as being sucked down the bathtub drain. Sudden irrational phobias usually ease with some gentle reassurance and patience on your part. Help your toddler associate the tub with a pleasant experience by sitting him in it and letting him get used to it again with no water in it. Add some fun bath toys as a distraction. Over a period of days, gradually increase the amount of water you put in the tub.
Your toddler suddenly refuses to eat. After ruling out medical issues, use a consistent mealtime routine to help deal with a refusal to eat. Many toddlers develop a fear of new foods or develop a preference for certain textures. Continue to offer a variety of foods at regular snack times and mealtimes. It can take many attempts before your toddler outgrows his fear of a new food and tries it. Also, be aware of his preferences for certain textures and perhaps change how the food is served to accommodate it.
HOO knew?
Fun Facts... on Independence Day
. The Liberty Bell in Philadelphia is tapped 13 times every July 4th in honor of the original 13 colonies.
. The Star Spangled Banner became the United States’ national anthem in 1931.
. There have been 27 versions of the U.S. flag. Guidelines for flag etiquette, including rules for the 4th of July, can be found in the U.S. Flag Code.
. John Hancock was the first person to sign the Declaration of Independence on August 2, 1776. Edward Rutledge was the youngest to sign at 26 years old, while Benjamin Franklin was the oldest at 70 years old.
. There are more than 314 million people living in the United States today, but there were just 2.5 million in 1776.
. Americans spend more than $1 billion on fireworks annually and consume approximately 150 million hot dogs every July 4th. Resource:
HOO’s PICKS
Highlight On
For the past year, the Springer Opera House has quietly undertaken a $10.7 million capital campaign, titled ‘Forever Springer’ with the goal of propelling the State Theatre of Georgia into the top ranks of American theatre. The "quiet phase" of the Springer's capital campaign has already exceeded 80% of its goal. It now moves to the public phase to help secure the remainder. The Forever Springer campaign will fund various initiatives intended to serve more citizens, beautify downtown Columbus, preserve the National Historic Landmark, upgrade education facilities, and promote the Springer brand nationwide.
"Over the years, this community has been incredibly generous to the Springer, and that has allowed us to build Georgia's second-largest theatre audience and one of the nation's most admired children's programs," said Forever Springer campaign co-chair Frank Schley. "Now it's time for the State Theatre of Georgia to take its place among the top tier of American theatre companies. We are very close to our goal but need Springer-lovers everywhere to help us finish strong."
The "PATIO" Theatre Park
The Springer will transform the surface parking lot on the corner of Tenth Street and Second Avenue in Columbus, GA into a beautiful park with an outdoor stage, tree canopies, park benches, and greenspaces. The park will include a fully rigged theatre able to serve as a venue for a variety of outdoor events. The Springer intends to make this event space accessible to members of the community for hosting programs. The Springer calls it the "PATIO," an acronym for Pierce Anderson Theatre In the Outdoors, named in honor of artistic director Paul Pierce and the late Ron Anderson, the beloved founder of the Springer Theatre Academy.
Historic Preservation
The Springer, which is 153 years old, is a working theatre company that produces professional stage entertainment and education programs. However, it is also a fragile National Historic Landmark and the official State Theatre of Georgia. Preserving and protecting this national treasure is a mission that the ‘Forever Springer’ capital campaign will help fund. The campaign also provides for urgent
repairs and upgrades. This restoration funding will allow the theatre's plays and musicals to pay for themselves with profits reinvested in program excellence.
Education
The campaign will help support and expand the Springer’s wide range of education services offered annually:
• The Springer Theatre Academy teaches "Life Skills Through Stage Skills," and is aimed at character-building and leadership development for children. The Forever Springer campaign will provide upgrades to its nine classrooms.
• A program called Theatre for the Very Young serves children ages 0-5 and aims to provide tiny audiences and their parents with an informal, interactive theatre experience. The Forever Springer campaign will allow Theatre for the Very Young shows to be free of charge to all.
• PAIR, the Springer's Professional Arts Integration Resource program, partners with schools and teachers to provide skills that integrate drama, music, dance, and visual art into traditional instruction in science, math, history, reading, and social studies. PAIR will receive expanded and upgraded training spaces, equipment, and instructional materials.
• The Springer's Arts-in-Education program buses school children to the theatre for plays, musicals, and children's events. The Forever Springer campaign will help underwrite the cost of this program so that every school can afford the experience.
"With this Forever Springer campaign, the entire Springer operation will be supercharged, setting the stage for a great leap forward for our theatre, our audiences, and our community," said CEO and executive producer Danielle Varner.
For more on the campaign and how you can donate towards making these initiatives possible, visit springeroperahouse. org/foreverspringer or call 706-2
Dining Deals for Kids
MONDAY
Barberitos
Free kid’s meal with adult entrée after 4pm
Sapo’s
5-8pm: Free kid’s meal with adult entrée
The Office
4-9pm: Kids 12 and under get a free kid’s meal with each adult entrée. Dine in only.
Tuesday
Chicken Salad Chick
Free Little Chick Meal with purchase of adult meal
Denny’s
4-10pm: Up to two free kids entrées with adult entrée for kids 10 and under
Ruby Tuesday
5-10pm: Kids 12 and under eat free with adult entrée
Wednesday
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
Thursday
Tuesday's Street Tacos & Burritos
Free kids meal with adult purchase; dine-in only
Saturday
Denny’s
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
Multiple days
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 $2.79 with dine-in order
The Food Mill
Kids receive half off a breakfast egg and cheese biscuit with the purchase of one full price breakfast item (M-F, 9-11am)
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.
HOO’s HUNGRY
BANANA POPS Peanut Butter &
The magic of one-ingredient banana ice cream is undeniable. Freeze some bananas, give them a turn in the food processor, and presto... easy, dreamy, dairy-free ice cream that you can feel good about eating.
INSTRUCTIONS
Cut peeled bananas into coins and put in freezer-safe glass bowl or bag to freeze for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight. Once frozen, break them up and put half of them into your food processor. Pulse the frozen banana pieces, being careful not to overwork your food processor. Once the pieces are small and even, set your food processor to low and keep blending. The banana will look crumbly, then gooey, then like oatmeal. Scrape down the food processor when it seems like the banana is getting stuck. Keep blending until smooth, then add half of the peanut butter. Blend for a few more seconds to aerate the ice cream. Remove the peanut butter and banana ice cream from the food processor and load into a piping bag. Fill half of your popsicle molds, tap them firmly on the counter to remove air bubbles, and transfer them to the freezer. Repeat with the remaining bananas and peanut butter. Let the popsicles freeze overnight to set completely. When the popsicles are frozen, melt the chocolate. Remove the popsicles from the mold by holding molds under warm warter for a few seconds and pull straight out. Don't rock. Dip the popsicles in the melted chocolate and set on a parchment-lined sheet pan to set. Sprinkle with your topping of choice, if desired. Once all of the popsicles have been dipped, place the sheet tray in the freezer for about 10 minutes to set.
INGREDIENTS
• 7 bananas (2lbs, 7 oz, with peels)
• 3/4 cup peanut butter
• 2 1/2 cups dark chocolate chips
HOO’s
learning Ready, Set,
If your child is starting kindergarten in the fall, now is a good time to start preparing. Here are a few tips to help the first few weeks of school go smoothly.
Talk to your child about what her first day at kindergarten will be like. If your child is transitioning from home or a half-day preschool to full day ‘big kid school,’ it will be a drastic change for her. Suddenly, she will have to sit still and listen to the teacher for a good part of the day and learn to manage classwork. Read books with your child about the first day of school and take advantage of the open house day that is held before school starts. At the open house day, your child can meet her teacher and see her classroom. This can help ease any anxiety your child has about her new school.
By Linda Ligon, Family & Kids
During the last few weeks of summer, create a structured daily routine for your child. For example, have mealtimes, bath time and bedtime at approximately the same time each day. Even though it can be hard to convince young kids to go to bed when it is still daylight outside, try to slowly adjust your child’s bedtime to the time she will need to get up on the first day of school. Try darkening your child’s room with blackout shades and have a consistent bedtime routine, such as taking a bath and then reading a story with you.
As part of the new routine, have your child select where she will put her backpack at the end of the day so that she has no trouble finding it each morning. Create a ‘homework’ area that has all the supplies your child will need to complete her homework. Play ‘school’ and let her practice essential kindergarten skills such as writing her letters and numbers. Help her practice following directions by teaching her to do a fun craft. Add to the fun by turning it around and letting your child teach you how to create her favorite drawing or reading you her favorite picture book.
The Battle of PARENTING STYLES
By Linda Ligon, Family & Kids
When it comes to parenting and discipline, no one wants to feel like their kids consider them the ‘bad guy.’ Each parent has an opinion on a parenting style, and it is highly unlikely that yours will exactly align with that of your partner or the other parent. Here are some tips on how to handle possible conflicts in parenting style and avoid one parent always being the ‘bad guy.’
Be very clear about your parenting style.
Discuss with the other parent the values you bring with you from your own family and your childhood that you believe should be part of your parenting style. A significant difference in parenting styles requires developing a compromise. You want to present a ‘united front’ to your child and having this discussion in private helps. Waiting until a particular scenario occurs is not a good idea, especially if it is one that requires quick action, such as a toddler meltdown in public.
It is impossible to foresee every scenario that will require a parenting decision, but discuss ones that are likely to occur. Do we take him outside and let him calm down and then resume the shopping trip or do we just go home and send a strict message that meltdowns do not get you what you want? If he snatches a toy away from another toddler on a playdate, does he go to time out first or do we just say, ‘No, that was not kind’ and show him how to share?
If you do not find a compromise for a certain scenario, you could agree to try one way and then try the other if it does not work. Every child’s personality is different, and staying flexible helps you find the parenting strategies that work best for your child. Sometimes, it may be the other parent’s style that works best.
Be respectful of another’s point of view and be empathetic.
In deeper conversations about parenting style, sensitive topics may come up that involve the other person’s parents and childhood. Listen carefully to what they have to say and try to understand what drives their point of view. This insight can help you better understand their approach when a new parenting challenge arises and you are working together to agree on a new standard to address it.
Avoid disagreeing in front of the kids when an unexpected conflict arises.
Some couples use a code word to indicate that a side discussion in private is needed to come up with a compromise. This defeats any effort by kids to ‘divide and conquer’ to get what they want. Use comments such as ‘Let me discuss it with your father first,’ instead of ‘Go ask your father.’ if you feel a house rule that you had agreed on is too strict, do not undermine your spouse in front of the child/ren. Instead, communicate with each other and work together to adjust your child’s house rules and your expectations for your child.
Spend some time alone as a couple.
Parenting can be stressful, and conflicting parenting styles can start to cause rifts in your relationship. Spending time alone can help you reconnect with your partner and prevent large differences in parenting style from causing division and discontentment. Without a strong team bond, it is difficult to present a ‘united front’ when parenting your child. Couples with parenting styles that are very different from each other may benefit from seeing a therapist. A therapist can add an unbiased point of view and provide expert guidance when trying to find a middle ground between two very different parenting styles.
Jul y Events
1 Kids’ Art Studio. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
2 STEAM: Candy Lab. Ages 5-12. 2pm. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805
2 Nature Crafting Series. 11am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782
2 Little Sprouts. 10am. Ages 0-5. $5/family. Columbus Botanical Garden; 706-327-8400
3 Freedom Celebration & Fireworks. 6:30pm. Opelika High School; opelika-al. gov/749/freedom-celebration
4 FreedomFest. 9am-4pm. National Infantry Museum; 706-685-5800
4 July 4th Celebration & Concert. Noon. $7. National Civil War Naval Museum; 706-327-9798
4 4th of July Celebration & Fireworks. 4pm. Phenix City Amp.; calendarcolumbusga.com
4 Independence Day Celebration. 5pm. Behind Duck Samford Stadium, Auburn; auburnalabama.org/4th-of-july
4-5 Free Kids Movie. 11am-3pm. Giant Screen Theatre, National Infantry Museum; 706-685-5800
4-6 Star Spangled Beach Party & Fireworks. 9am-11pm. Callaway Gardens; 855-885-3841
5 Summer Cinema: “Cinderella” (G). 2pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
5 Grannycore Summer: Bingo. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
6 Artful Babies. 1:30am. Ages 6-24mo. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562
6Murder Mystery Dinner Train. 6pm. SAM Shortline, Cordele; 1-877-GA-RAILS
7-12 Free Kids Movie. 11am-3pm. Giant Screen Theatre, National Infantry Museum; 706-685-5800
8 Pony Bead Party. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
8-12 NIM Kids Summer Camp. 8:15am-4:30pm. $200. National Infantry Museum; 706-685-2514
8-12 Summer Camp: Once Upon a Parable. 10am-4pm. Ages 6-12. $175. Family Theatre; 706-431-3752
9 Nature Crafting Series. 11am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782
10 Musical Adventures. 11am. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855
10 Reptiles on the Road. 2pm. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805
10 MAMA B.E.A.R.S. (Part 2) Breastfeeding Support meeting. 12:30pm. Columbus Pediatric Assoc; 706-221-4602
11 Budding Naturalists. 10-11am. $7.18. Columbus Botanical Garden, 706-327-8400
11 Gallery Kids! Noon-2pm. The Do Good Fund Gallery, 12th St. Suite 103; Calendarcolumbusga.com
11 Build a Spaceship with Food! Ages 5-12. 3pm. N. Columbus Library; 706-748-2855
11 LEGOS®. Families. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
12 Movie & Craft. 10:30am. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805
12 Summer Cinema: “Mulan” (G). 2pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
12 Grannycore Summer: Genealogy. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
13 LEGOS®. Families. 3pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855
13 Giraffe Theatre Day. 10am-2pm. RSVP. Columbus Botanical Garden, 706-327-8400
13 Mini Makers. 10:30am. Ages 2-4. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562
13 West Point Lake Dragon Boat Race. 8am. Pyne Road Park, LaGrange; wpldragonboatrace.com
15 Kids’ Art Studio. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
16 Nature Crafting Series. 11am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782
16 Camp Read-A-Long. Families. 2pm. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805
16 Dungeons & Dragons. Families. 6pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782
17 Breastfeeding Support (Part 1). 12:30pm. Columbus Pediatric Assoc; 706-221-4602
18 Sensory Stations Storytime. 10am. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805
18 Hot Air Balloons. Ages 5-12. 3pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855
18 Family Fun Night: DIY Puppets. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
19 Sensory Scavenger Hunt. Ages 4-7. 11am. N. Columbus Library; 706-748-2855
19 Summer Cinema: “Tangled” (PG). 2:00pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
19 Grannycore: Puzzles & Games. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
19-21Disney’s Finding Nemo Jr. Fri 7pm, Sat 11am, Sun 2:30pm. $21-$24. McClure Theatre (Springer); 706-327-3688
20 Family Saturday. 10am-Noon. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562
20 Uno, Dos, Tres Craft! Ages 4-8. 3pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782
22 Pony Bead Party. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
23 Nature Crafting Series. 11am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782
24 Musical Adventures. 11am. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855
24 Road Trip Trivia. 4pm. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805
24 Breastfeeding Support (Part 2). 12:30pm. Columbus Pediatric Assoc; 706-221-4602
26 LEGOS® in the Library. Families. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
26 Movie & Craft. 10:30am. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805
26 Summer Cinema: “Tarzan” (Animated, G). 2pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
26 Summer Olympics. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
26-28 One Act Festival. TBA. Family Theatre; 706-431-3752
26-28Disney’s Finding Nemo Jr. Fri 7pm, Sat 11am, Sun 2:30pm. $21-$24. McClure Theatre (Springer); 706-327-3688
29-Aug1 Intl Friendship Ministries Soccer Camp. 6:30-8:30pm. $25. K-8 grade. Northside Christian Church; ifmga.org
30 Last Lap of Summer. 6pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782
30 Summer Reading Celebration. Families. 2pm. S. Columbus Library; 706-683-8805
31 Seedling Storytime. 10-11am. $7.18. Columbus Botanical Garden, 706-327-8400
Weekly Events
MONDAY
Simple Steps Storytime: Babies & Toddlers. Ages 0-36mo. 10am. Columbus Public Library; 706-243-2813
Simple Steps Stations: Play. Ages 3-5. 10am-Noon. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706243-2782
TUESDAY
Tuesdays at 10. 10am. Ages 4+. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562
Simple Steps Storytime. Babies & Toddlers. Ages 0-24mo. 10am; Preschoolers. Ages 3-5. 11am. North Columbus Library; 706748-2855
Unplug…For Chess’ Sake! Families. 4:30pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-2432782
WEDNESDAY
Gallery Playdate: Ages 6-24 Mo. 10am. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562 (Not 7/3)
Simple Steps Storytime. Preschoolers. Ages 3-5. 10am; Babies & Toddlers. Ages 0-36mo. 11am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782
Discovery Hub. Ages 3-5. 11am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
Kids’ Corner. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706243-2813
Chess at the Library. Ages 9-16. 5pm. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805
THURSDAY
Toddler Tales. 10am. Barnes & Noble Columbus; (706) 653-7880
Simple Steps Storytime: Family. Ages 0-5. 10am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813 (Not 7/4)
Simple Steps Storytime. 10am. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805 (Not 7/4 or 7/18)
Kids Day. 2-4pm. $30. Ages 7+. RSVP. Bare Ware Pottery Studio; 706-571-0507
FRIDAY
Farmstand Friday. 9-Noon. MercyMed Farm, 3820 2nd Ave, Columbus; 706-507-9209
Story Time & Art Making. 10am. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562 (Not 7/5)
Simple Steps Storytime: Rhythm & Rhyme. Ages 0-5. 10am. Columbus Library, 706243-2813
Family Fun Day Friday. 11am. General Admission. National Civil War Naval Museum; 706-327-9798
SATURDAY
Market Days on Broadway. 9am-Noon. 900, 1000 & 1100 blocks of Broadway; uptowncolumbusga.com
Toddler Time. 10am-Noon. $10. Ages 5 and under. Launch Trampoline Park; 706221-8680
Please call ahead to confirm dates, times and age-appropriateness, in case changes were made after the info was obtained.
STEAM SUMMER STEAM SUMMER CAMPS CAMPS
May 27-August 02 8am-12pm & 1pm-5pm
Snacks, drinks, and swag will be provided!
We are uniquely designed to spark their interests in a fun-filled environment to learn new skills, play, connect and innovate! 706-600-1126 https://steaminventors.com info@steaminventors com 8342 Veterans Parkway #100 Columbus, GA 31909
HOURS
MON: 8AM-9PM
TUES: 8AM-5:30PM
WED: 8AM-5:30PM
THUR: 8AM-9PM FRI: 8AM-9PM SAT: 8AM-9PM SUN: 8AM-9PM
PLAYGROUND
WALKING TRAIL
PICNIC TABLES PICKLEBALL
VOLLEYBALL GRILLS FIRE PITS AND MORE!
Summer Camps & Activities Guide
Tools for Finding the Perfect Book
By Jeannine Scott, North Columbus Public Library
Selecting the right books to challenge and entertain young readers is a common concern among grown-ups. Fortunately, there are several tools available to help any child find a book they’ll love, regardless of their reading level.
Before discussing these tools, it’s important to note that children should be encouraged to choose their own reading material to find joy in reading. While school standards and assignments have their place, it’s equally important to let young people read for fun, irrespective of the level.
Reading Level Searches
The Chattahoochee Valley Libraries’ new online catalog allows users to search by Lexile Measure or AR level. This system lets users search for a specific level or within a range. Searches can be further narrowed with various limiters, such as publication year and interest level. Interest levels are typically divided between Lower Grades and Middle Grades.
Ebook Platforms
Platforms like eRead Kids, Tumblebooks, Libby, and Hoopla offer free access with a library card. Searching for children’s books on these platforms is straightforward. Some platforms are dedicated solely to children’s materials, while others have a specific ‘kids’ mode’ for easier browsing.
Library Website (cvlga.org)
Our website offers scrolling menus that highlight new and exciting titles, as well as a searchable catalog. By clicking on any individual
title, users can access a summary and links to related items. Librarians recommend starting by searching for a title that the child has enjoyed in the past, then linking to related items to find similar titles, authors, or series.
NoveList Plus
Accessible through cvlga.org, NoveList Plus is a valuable resource for finding the next great read. Users can search by age group or by genres such as “international,” “Disney characters,” or “quest for magical teens.”
Book Bundles
Request a specially-curated book bundle tailored to any reader’s interests. Simply provide the reader’s interests, and librarians will select titles within a specified reading level range, if requested. Book bundles can be conveniently picked up through the curbside service of a CVL branch.
Library Staff
The trained and knowledgeable staff at any CVL branch are always ready to assist during your next library visit.
By utilizing these tools and resources, you can ensure that young readers find books that not only meet their reading levels, but also captivate their interests, fostering a lifelong love of reading. We
HOO’s CRAFTY
DIY BLEACH & GLASS NON-TOX CLEANERS
If you’re trying to get toxic chemicals out of your home, the best place to start is your household cleaners, and two easy switches is making your own homemade bleach alternative and glass cleaner.
DIRECTIONS
BLEACH ALTERNATIVE:
• Pour the warm water into a bucket or sink.
• Add the washing soda, hydrogen peroxide, and essential oil of choice to the water.
• Use a spoon to combine the ingredients.
• Add any whites that need cleaned to the mixture and let them soak for 1 to 3 hours.
• When they’re done soaking, wash them in your washing machine as you normally would.
SUPPLIES
BLEACH ALTERNATIVE
• 2 cups 3% hydrogen peroxide
• 2/3 cup washing soda
• 4 cups warm water
• 10 drops of essential oil
• Make as needed, or store in dark glass bottle, since air and light can break down hydrogen peroxide.
GLASS CLEANER ALTERNATIVE:
• Combine all the ingredients in a glass spray bottle and shake well.
• Shake well before each time to recombine ingredients.
• Spray onto glass surface and wipe clean with an organic cotton unpaper towel.
• The cornstarch helps reduce streaking.
• Works well on windows, mirrors, glass, and stainless steel. Take care if you’re spraying this near a stone countertop or vanity, since vinegar is harsh on natural stone surfaces.
GLASS CLEANER ALTERNATIVE
• 1/4 cup isopropyl alcohol
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch
• 2 cups water
• 10 drops of essential oils
• Spray bottle
of:
HOO’s HEALTHY
Cat scratch fever, also known as cat scratch disease (CSD), is an infection caused by the Bartonella henselae bacteria. This bacterium infects cats when they bite at or scratch at infected fleas. Cats and kittens can carry B. henselae in their mouths and under their claws and spread it to humans when they bite, lick or scratch.
Not every cat is a carrier of the bacteria that causes CSD. Indoor cats that never go outdoors are less likely to carry the B. henselae bacteria. Newly adopted kittens or cats that have had fleas recently are more likely to be carriers of B. henselae and transmit CSD. Many of the cases of CSD occur in children 15 years of age and under and in people with weakened immune systems.
The symptoms of CSD include bumps or cysts under the skin or a rash, swollen, painful lymph nodes, fatigue, muscle aches, joint pain, fever and weight loss. The symptoms of CSD typically start about 10 days after a cat scratch or bite. The treatment for CSD most of the time only involves treating the symptoms. Someone with CSD who has a weakened immune system may be treated with antibiotics
RESOURCES: https://cle.clinic/3X74Sr9
What is: CAT SCRATCH FEVER
to help get rid of the infection. CSD usually goes away on its own without complications within 2 to 8 weeks.
CSD leads to serious complications when it spreads to other organs. People with weakened immune systems are at the most risk for serious complications. The organs that may become affected include the heart, liver, spleen, brain and eyes. If it does not seem like the infected wound is healing and the patient becomes confused, has a high fever, chest pain or shortness of breath, severe headaches or abdominal pain with nausea and vomiting, the patient should go to the ER.
Prevent CSD by keeping your cats indoors and following the veterinarian's instructions for protecting your cats from fleas. Teach your kids to avoid picking up stray cats and to wash their hands after playing with your cat. Also, teach your kids to avoid being bitten or scratched by cats and not to let cats lick wounds they already have.
HOO’s PICKS
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by Kimberly Voltz, Director, Sylvan Learning of Columbus
Summer is in full swing and learning should still be a big part of everyone’s summer plans. Summer should include sunshine, vacation, rest and learning. Academic skills are like other skills. You must use them, or you lose them. Studies show that summer learning loss is real. A child can lose at least two and a half months of learning over the summer.
Do not fear. Sylvan has you covered. With our summer sessions, your child can beat summer learning loss, build skills, and get off to a great start in the new school year. Summer is the prime time for kids to get ahead academically. Time spent with our caring and expert teachers and working on the exact skills your child needs will ensure it is a summer of academic gains.
With summer learning at Sylvan, you can expect that we will create a personalized learning plan focused on exactly what your child needs to learn in order to catch up and get ahead for the next school year. Sylvan will provide individualized, personal support that will help your child grasp concepts. We move at your child’s own pace, so learning is engaging and effective. Sylvan uses exciting themes and activities that help kids have fun. You will quickly see why everyone loves coming to Sylvan!
We have flexible hours that ensure we fit learning around your schedule. Sylvan offers academic help in reading, writing, math, study skills, ACT and SAT test prep and college prep writing. We also offer STEM activities through robotics and engineering.
Each student is assessed to pinpoint their strengths and needs. Using our assessment, we can identify exactly what skills should be on each student’s personal learning plan. Sylvan also combines personal instruction with digital tools. Our teachers are able to focus their energy on guiding, teaching, motivating and encouraging each child in a way that makes learning personal, rewarding and fun.
Results are extremely important. We measure and track the progress each child is making with each lesson. The results are inspiring! All along the way, we communicate with you on a consistent basis. The Sylvan method works. Our students typically see up to three times more growth in their math and reading scores than other students. We are the only tutoring and enrichment company that measures our academic achievement in a systematic manner across our centers.
At Sylvan, we believe, “Education is everything, learning should be personal, great teachers inspire, technology accelerates learning and results matter.” We know you want the best for your child in school and in life. Choosing Sylvan is about giving your child the skills and confidence for success. We are ready to guide and support you through every step of your child’s academic journey.
Get started on your Sylvan journey today. Call us at 706-563-9864 to set up an appointment. We look forward to seeing you!
